Tuesday 28 June 2016

New Imaging Technologies in Biopsy Devices to improve Cancer Diagnosis


Technological Advancements lead to design of potential diagnostic tool for a range of non-invasive tumor characterization and biopsy procedures in diagnosis of various types of cancer

Biopsy is a medical procedure that involves surgical removal of a sample of tissue or cells from an organ to detect abnormal growth of a tissue which includes identifying cancerous cells, lesions, tumor or mass. The procedure is done to determine the presence or progression of a disease—often to diagnose cancer or any inflammatory condition. Biopsy is usually recommended when initial tests suggest an area of tissue is not normal. It is an important diagnostic procedure when no obvious cause of abnormality is detected; most often, biopsies help determine the best therapy for an illness. Surgeons, interventional cardiologists, radiologists, and healthcare providers use different types of biopsy procedures depending on the condition and the organ tissue under review, such as the lungs, liver, and kidney. Almost all types of biopsies involve the application of a sharp tool such as needle to remove a small portion of suspicious tissue.



Advanced imaging technology augments the reliability of biopsy devices in prostate cancer

Often, conventional devices are preferably supplemented with advanced imaging technologies such as MRI-guided biopsy, stereotactic-guided biopsy, magnetic resonance-guided ultrasound biopsy, and CT scan, to enhance the accuracy of the biopsy procedure and make it minimally invasive. Prostate cancer has become a disturbing public health concern in many industrialized countries and is one of the most common cancer diseases found among men. Oncologists and scientists assert that imaging of prostate-specific membrane antigen leads to highly accurate detection of tumor and its removal in biopsy procedure. The significance of prostate-specific molecular imaging technology was revealed by the researchers at recently concluded conference 2016 Annual Meeting of the Society of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging (SNMMI) at California. Positron emission tomography (PET) and computed tomography (CT) are proven technologies used to find the physiological function and structure of recurrent prostate cancer. Recent findings confirm that prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA)-PET/CT significantly increases the accuracy of results in biopsy. Though it is yet to become a standard in biopsy guidance, researchers confer that it has emerged as a promising tool for a range of non-invasive tumor characterization and biopsy procedures.

Innovative devices make biopsy less painful and minimally invasive in esophageal & breast cancer

Technological advancements in the imaging technologies used in conjunction with various biopsy devices have made biopsy less painful and invasive. The application of advanced imaging technology helps in avoiding the under- and over treatment of prostate cancer impossible through conventional magnetic resonance-guided ultrasound biopsy. Biomechanical modeling, along with extensive insights on TRUS appearance of tumors, has emerged as a far accurate method when compared to MR-guided prostate biopsy; the method increases the visibility of prostate lesions, enabling the radiologist and clinicians to accurately target prostate lesions.



Various device innovations have helped the interventional radiologists to obtain a tissue sample from the deep parts of a patient’s body and increased the accuracy of final diagnosis. Researchers have invented a new brush technology to be used with traditional biopsy to increase the detection of high-grade dysplasia and/or early esophageal adenocarcinoma in patients suffering from certain types of esophageal cancer. Known as wide area transepithelial sampling (WATS), this is more reliable and accurate than 4-quadrant forceps biopsy used in diagnosis of high-grade dysplasia or early-stage cancer. WATS is used in conjunction with standard biopsy protocol and utilizes a brush technology to scrape suspicious tissue, which is then processed by radiologists; however, researchers caution WATS can only supplement, not replace, standard biopsy protocols. Technological enhancements in the devices to perform biopsy procedure have led to increasing comfort for patients and making it less painful & time-consuming. Recent design of a cutting edge technology in Ohio has enabled patients to be more comfortable when undergoing breast biopsy. The new affirm breast biopsy guidance system installed in Images Mammography Center located at Trinity Health System, allows patients to sit upright while undergoing the biopsy procedure; clinicians confirm that the process is comfortable and takes only about five minutes. Needle biopsy or tru-cut core biopsy is preferred to open biopsy that includes fine needle aspiration in the initial stages to identify a breast lump.

Market Potential

Analysts at Allied Market Research tracking the technological trends and recent dynamics in cancer diagnostics devices segment expect the biopsy device market to occupy a significant share worldwide. As per a recent report, titled “World Biopsy Devices Market - Opportunities and Forecasts, 2014—2022”, the world biopsy devices market generated $1,621 million in 2015 and is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 5.5% from 2016 to 2022. Increasing incidences of cancer such as breast, prostate, and lung, along with significant technological advancements are factors that boost the growth of the biopsy devices market across regions. However, high cost and unawareness for the diagnosis of chronic diseases coupled with lack of technical expertise are factors that hinder the adoption of advanced biopsy devices across the developing countries. Companies and manufacturers actively develop cost-effective biopsy devices to significantly lower the overall cost of advanced procedures, creating more growth opportunities in the market. 

Monday 27 June 2016

Coherence in Existing Portfolios Bring Chemical Manufacturers Economic Gains

Companies operating in the specialty chemicals market would be seen improving their product quality as well as organizational efficiency.

Tata Strategic Management, changed opinions of eminent industry leaders when it announced that the specialty chemicals market will generate $25 billion in 2014. Officials at the company reveal that the industry will cross $100 billion by 2024 in India. Today, the demand in the specialty chemicals market is driven by the recent improvements in local consumption, say research analysts at Allied Market Research. Industry experts gauging the size and share, trends, growth and demands in the Specialty chemicals market outline that softening of trade activities in China has improved the market performance in several Asian countries, including India.

Researchers highlight that world specialty chemicals is projected to generate about $233.5 billion by 2020. Moreover, the specialty chemicals market is expected to register a CAGR of 5.4% during the assessment period. Ink additives, which has emerged by the fastest growing category is projected to register a CAGR of 5.8% between 2014 – 2020.

Watch What One of India’s Prominent Market Player Says!



Demand for Specialty Chemicals in Food Grows

The food chemical segment observed an increased demand between 2009 – 2013. During the assessment period, the sector had generated about $29.94 billion to $36.45 billion, according to a 2014 study by Leatherhead. The growth value of which is more apparent in the hydrocolloids segment, is projected to be over 10% annually. Other categories of the specialty food chemicals have also performed over the past five to six ears.
In addition, the annual growth observed with the flavor and emulsifier industry is projected to be between 5% to 10% per year highlights Jonathan Thomas at Leatherhead Food Research. Another key market driver for food chemicals is associated with the expansion of the processed food industry in less explored market. The food & beverage sector in the regions including North America and Europe is mature. So manufacturers active in the specialty chemicals market are seen exploring new markets.


Courtesy: acs.org

Water Treatment Chemical Prices On Constant Rise
Association of Metropolitan Water Agencies had conducted a survey on the utilities of drinking water in 2008. The study was carried out to understand the specifies of the water, chemicals such as their price changes. The chemicals that showed an increase in price included phosphoric acid, caustic soda, and flurosilicic acid. While phosphoric acid showed an average increase of 80% from 25 utilities, the phosphoric acid showed about 223% increase from 12 utilities.
In addition, 41 utilities reported using fluoride. The global market of water treatment chemicals was valued at about $11,006.6 million in 2013. Industry leaders at Allied Market Research estimate the sector to garner $18,824.0 million by 2020 and register a CAGR of 7.6% from 2014 to 2020. The surfactant sector is believed to be the fastest growing industry, registering a CAGR of 8.6% during the forecast period. Besides this, LAMEA is one of the fastest growing regions that is growing a CAGR of 9.3% during the assessment period. This will create new opportunities for specialty chemicals market in the region.



Courtesy: #watertreatment

Big Brands Strengthen Competitive Landscape in Construction Chemical Category

Big Brands have now identified the huge potential of establishing their construction chemicals plants in the Asian countries. In a recent incident, BASF has inaugurated its sixth construction, chemical factory in India. With the new unit, the company hopes to serve the growing need for high quality products, particularly in the eastern part of India. Commenting on the recent development Christian Mombaur, the senior vice president, at BASF Asia -Pacific construction chemicals said “Asia-Pacific is one of the fastest growing markets globally, and India is a strategic growth engine of this market. Mombaur explained “The Kharagpur plant will help us better serve the growing demand for durable and energy efficient.” Officials at Tata Strategic Management outline that the construction chemicals sector in India is projected to generate approximately Rs. 7,000 Crore by 2019. 
Another company based in Switzerland, called Clariant has established a new production unit for preparing water – based pigment in Mexico. Nuberg made headlines when it won $76 million project in the United Arab Emirates from a chemical factory of the Saif Al Khaili Group. In a statement, the United Arab Emirates company outlines The $76 million project envisions to set up a 150 TPD Chlor Alkali / Caustic Chlorine plant in Khalifa Industrial Zone Abu Dhabi (KIZAD), UAE, which will produce caustic soda and other chlorine derivatives such as Caustic Soda, Chlorine, Sodium Hypochlorite and Hydrochloric Acid." Echoing his sentiments Louai Kasem, chief operating officer at Emirates Chemical Factory said "We are delighted to have Nuberg on board... Nuberg will definitely add value to our endeavour with its excellent turnkey project engineering capabilities and quality services coupled with highly competitive costs.”

Green Oilfield Chemicals Are Trending

New manufacturing plants are being opened to support the industry’s efforts to manufacture green products. Huge investments are made on technical centers to develop products that are especially based on stabilized alkali metal platform. SiGNa Chemistry has made a bold move in this direction by inaugurating its new plant that produces materials uses for a wide range of improved oil recovery activities throughout North America. This fast – developing start-up is said to be nearing its plant capacity and is planning on setting up a second manufacturing unit. Earlier, Dorf Ketal had made a huge investment in a United States based make of oilfield chemical, Flowchem. The acquisition of Flowchem includes 2 blending units in the United States, thus offering Dorf Ketal an opportunity to strengthen its hold in the oil and gas upstream industry. Commenting on the acquisition David Johnson, the president of the Dorf Ketal Oilfield Chemicals said “Flowchem’s portfolio of oilfield production and drilling products will be combined with Dorf Ketal’s products currently servicing offshore fields in Brazil to improve capabilities of both entities.”



Considering significant changes in the different segment it becomes evident that improving the productivity and organizational efficiency would top the list of many companies in 2016. 

Friday 17 June 2016

Hydrogel Dressing Market Receives Injectable Gels for Tissue Regeneration

As per a published article in the online journal Nature Materials, a research team at UCLA Henry Samueli School of Engineering and Applied Science has developed injectable hydrogels for rapid tissue regeneration. Earlier attempts of using hydrogel dressing along similar lines were futile as the rate of gel degradation exceeded the rate of tissue regeneration. This limitation was overcome with microporous scaffolds, that were constructed using annealed micro gel components. Constituent elements of these components, as well as their physical structure, are easily modified through microfluidic fabrication. It was observed that these scaffolds, when injected in the wounds, sped-up cell migration and initiated rapid tissue regeneration. 

"Achieving a biomaterial that promotes rapid regeneration while maintaining structural support has been a holy grail in the field of tissue engineering," said Dino Di Carlo, professor of bioengineering and co-principal investigator. "Our team has achieved this in an injectable form by combining tailored material chemistry and microfluidic fabrication of uniform spherical building blocks, each about the width of a human hair."

“Our technology is beautifully simple, as it utilizes any available chemistry to generate tiny gels that can be assembled into a large unit, leaving behind a path for cellular infiltration,” continues Segura, associate professor of chemical and biomolecular engineering and another co-principal investigator on the project.

Future applications of the hydrogel dressing market is being envisioned in complete wound management – right from treating deep and surgical lacerations to diabetic eruptions and all degrees of burns.

Hydrogel dressing market and biomedical engineering applications

Hydrogels are essentially hydrated polymers, which largely comprise of water molecules (about 90%) in a gel base. Hydrogel dressings date back to as early as the 1950s, when they were first introduced for wound care. Amorphous hydrogels, are provided in different forms for its medical applications. The freely flowing fluid form comes packed in tubes, sachets, or spray bottles. The same biomaterial is easily impregnated onto a clean absorbable surface, which is then used to gauge the wounds. A thin fiber mesh smeared with a layer of amorphous hydrogel comes in customizable sizes and with adhesive borders that lock on to surrounding healthy cells. What is more likeable about hydrogel dressing, is that they do not get unfortunately displaced or contaminated. The fact that they are translucent helps continuous assessment of progress in healing, without having to interfere with it.

It is important to understand the role of hydrogel dressings in tissue engineering and the overall mechanism. Speaking in terms of the latest invention by the UCLA research team, the microporous gel scaffold allows newer cells to grow into its interstitial voids. The process continues until gap created by missing tissues is entirely filled with new and healthy tissues. According to the research team, the microporous gel facilitates cell growth apart from protecting them.

Hydrogel dressings in wound care market

Certain wounds do not heal over time, as anticipated through automatic biological processes. Such complex wounds have a higher chance of getting infected, or house hazards of future complications. Therapeutic intervention is considered for getting rid of the wound. Surgical procedures available to treat such wounds usually compromise life of surrounding tissues that are not damaged. In most cases, apart from being highly uncomfortable, they are painful too. Patient surveys report that out of all available options, hydrogel dressings are far more cost-effective than others on the same list, and more comfortable too. 

Hydrogel dressings available at wound management market platforms are designed to retain moisture at the surface. They regulated the exchange of fluids between wound surface and its own internal structure. Instant effect of the dressing is to soothe the area and lessen pain. This assists the healthy tissues to separate from necrotic tissues and eschar through autolytic debridement. During their course of mechanism, they loosen slough and eventually absorb the exudates. This effectively eliminates any chances of infection induced from foreign particulates and the risks of maceration. The cleansing of space creates an ideal environment for wound bed preparation. The films are usually used to cover, or cap, the wound surfaces. Remember the quick and painful extraction of bandages, or gauges that caused a searing pain and at times, caused additional damage or irritation? Well, removing hydrogel bandages is nothing similar to that. In fact, the process is as soothing as it was when the film was first applied. 

To view the report, visit at: https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/US-hydrogel-dressing-market

Market prospects for Hydrogel dressing

Hydrogel dressing market offer cost-effective interventions for diabetic and pressure ulcers. Regenerative medicine has advanced to a great extent in recent times. Clinical research results demonstrate that bioactive hydrogels have the ability to be modified structurally to encourage partial skin regeneration. Hydrogels further, could be possibly used as the next-gen skin alternative in treating partial or deep burns. With the ever rising population falling victim to type 2 diabetes and large incidences of burns registered each year, there would be no slowing of demand for advanced wound care at healthcare facilities. 

The hydrogel dressing market offerings will explore new avenues of demand and eventually its global market size would swell, effectively capturing a huge share of wound care industry. As per the findings of a report published by Allied Market Research, the U.S. hydrogel dressing market is estimated to generate revenue worth $258 million by the end of 2022. The net CAGR during 2016 to 2022 is forecast to be 7.0%. Business stakeholders in order to identify their profit prospects in different verticals of the industry keep a close eye on the current portfolio offerings. This helps them channelize their R&D activities and plan future market strategies.

Wednesday 8 June 2016

Advancing Towards a ‘Greener’ Refrigerated Display Cases (RDC) Market

Recent EPA proposal holds potential to turn, both the environment and economy, greener for vendors in refrigerated display cases market.

In March 2016, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) stepped forward with its proposed rulemaking to prohibit sundry hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) in multiple applications, such as stationary refrigeration, foam blowing, and fire suppression. Under the Significant New Alternatives Policy (SNAP) program, EPA strongly recommended the transition deadline for respective companies to be 2021. Refrigerated display cases market in this backdrop shall witness a paradigm shift in manufacturing technology of point-of-sale equipment and its consumption behavior. 

The call for such a policy might have arrived now, but was definitely calling for a settled dialogue since long. Environmental concerns of regulating authorities compulsorily implies corporate responsibility too. In order to keep up with their commitments, market players exhibit the willingness to opt for a sustainable course of action. Their focus lies on reducing greenhouse emissions from their products, while they produce energy-efficient on-deck cooling equipment as well as cooling boxes. 

Industrial Outlook for Green RDCs


Panasonic Corporation announced a 100% acquisition of Hussmann Corporation’s assets in April 2016. The company religiously endorses its gamut of energy-efficient and environment-friendly refrigerated display cases for supermarkets and convenience stores. It considers RDCs as one of its key product offerings in the food distribution solutions segment across the Asia-Pacific, concurrently establishing its position in regional markets. Hussmann’s strength lies in the advanced network of installation, maintenance and service sites in the U.S., Mexico and New Zealand markets. This shall mark the global expansion of businesses for the duo, where consumers can expect fresh developments in regulatory-compliant equipment. 

Hydrocarbon and carbon technology is gaining popularity in the industrial scenario over the fluorocarbon alternatives. Manufacturing companies have an array of natural refrigerants to choose from for their refrigerated display cases available at retail outlets for the market. Developers of eco-friendly refrigerants have a key role in deciding trends among the RDC end users per se. Among the vendors, testing procedures are rigorously carried out for prompt market launches, ensuring at the same time greater utility cycle and a clear level of safety for the coolants. 

Refrigerated Display Cases Market Drivers 


Targeting the significant surge in global consumption of refrigerated display cases over recent past, analysts at Allied Market Research predict a steady market growth. A dynamic mindset of consumer population stands at the origin of all drivers. A spread of consumable delights has a visual appeal unmatched by printed menus and suggestive images. When the entire menu is available for all to see, people make selections based on the aesthetic appeal of the offerings. Fresh eating is now a lifestyle choice for a population which prefers regular diners, offering quick bites. 

RDCs add freedom and flexibility for stores and their counter offerings that tend to change in along with local climate. Variable daily demands and customer inflow, added to their tendency of grabbing on to ‘convenient consumables’ while on a packed routine, calls for a subtle balance between what to prepare and post pare. Industries USP lies within the fact that preparations on display are mostly cooked and not processed. This directly entails the joy of choosing from locally sourced ingredients and flavors, traditional or specialty spreads, and specifically no chemical preservatives or additives. Although there is a limitation with short shelf life for hand cooked items, it definitely not attracts raised brows from governmental organizations regarding its residual effects. 

Distribution Verticals and Route Impediments


Commercial kitchens, shops, supermarkets, convenience stores, and other likewise outlets fall at the end of all distribution channels. The end usage segments have their distinct requirements for product design and type. Manufacturers address these issues with horizontal, vertical, or hybrid display cases. Depending upon individual operating environment, on-field testing is a requisite with regard to the difference in ambient temperatures. Installation and services of RDC equipment is performed by company-assigned professionals. Commercial refrigerated display cases and their compressor design is also influenced by mandates from regulatory authorities. 

Talking of regulatory frameworks, environmental organizations do realize the potential natural refrigerants hold for the RDC market. Apart from slight differences in safe rulings for newly developed cooling gases, novice RDC technologies are up for industrial adoption. What businesses need the most at present, is a set global standard, optimistic organizational response and accreditations, and attract greater interest from policy makers. 

Thursday 2 June 2016

Protection Becomes Important as Many Fall Prey to Zika Virus

For an effective result, application of practical techniques and repellents can help users protect themselves this year, overseas and at their home. 



Outdoor stores in Nashville were seen telling their customers that mosquito repellent were not available in the state. Why? Outbreak of Zika virus in 2016 is majorly responsible for the shortage of insect repellents outlines research analysts at Allied Market Research. Analysts analyzing the share and the size of the sector add due to virus scare suppliers are sending the product down south. First baby with Zika was born in New Jersey. As per the CDC, approximately 591 cases have been identified in the United States till date. What else is keeping the future of the mosquito repellent industry bright besides this no cure disease? 


Natural Variation Sounds Better


Several testing groups identified that natural repellents promise the best protection. They unveiled that their oils are not only less harsh on human nose, but also effective in protecting against swarms and swarms of mosquitos. Above all, the term natural definitely sounds better for buyers. It took close to five years for Fit Organic to develop a product that was effective against mosquitos carrying the virus. This proprietary formula is safe for both children and pregnant woman. Another product called Citronella Outdoor Sticks are the most sought after repellent rendered contemporary. Scientific testing reveals that these sticks are highly effective in keeping the mosquitoes away. 


Wednesday 1 June 2016

Intense Regime Preferred Over Layering Claim Skin–Care Experts

Each skin types require specific care regime. Be it fine lines, acne or wrinkles, trends in the skin-care industry have something new to offer.


Skin care market, Skin care, cosmetics, skin care brands,  facial


By far the vital lifestyle measure that dermatologists encourage in their patients worldwide is to practice an excellent skin protection regime. From wearing sunscreen to applying anti-aging creams to reducing those fine lines, investing on a fairness cream without question is definitely in vogue. As discussed in my previous article cosmetic brands including Proctor & Gamble, Biotique and Oriflame are busy making their presence felt globally. Researchers at Allied Market Research weighing upon the growth, size and share outline that skin care products are now being made available for all budget and income groups. Decent budget concealers, night cream, under eye cream, body lotion, etc. are not hard to find these days. So what are the major trends being passed on to trusted customers who better fit the budget?

Investing in Just Few Drops Transforms Essential Oil Market Future



Increasing demand for both fragrances in cosmetics and spa and relaxation uses is likely to fuel the need for essential oil over the next five to six year.  

Essential Oils Market, natural additives

Essential oil is extracted using distillation process. The oil is preferred for characteristic odor of a particular plant or source from which it is obtained. Applications of the oil has a rich history and was used for treating skin diseases and cancer. Besides leaving its effect as pseudoscience in wellness industry, they are popular as an alternative medicine. Aromatherapy is a popular form of alternative medicine known to have healing effects ascribed to compounds present in plant extracts. Few oils are even claimed to offer an uplifting effect on our mind. Research analysts at Allied Market Research assessing growth, size and share of the sector highlight that sources such as orange, eucalyptus, peppermint and corm mint remain the most favorite ones. 

Beat Your Mood with Few Drops


Perfume industry, Aroma
The spa and relaxation alchemy is highly dependent on the industry. Another biggest consumer of these oils is the perfume market, which is valued at $46 billion. The sector banks on sources such as orange, lemon, lime, rose and clover leaf among others. Recently a Cork -based enterprise shows it has this flourishing segment in its sights. The Irish Rose Essential Oil Company, commented on use of rose oils as a popular ingredient by saying “Rose oil is virtually indispensable as an ingredient in perfume and it is known in the trade as ‘liquid gold’ because of the vast quantity of roses that must be distilled to produce a few drops of oil.” Pioneer of this enterprise de Lacey explained “The perfume market is growing but the production of rose oil is falling so it is a valuable and sought-after crop.” In addition, for many healthy cooking begins with an essential oil added to the recipe to enjoy an all – natural living. These oils serve as a wonderful antibacterial options for various homemade cleaning recipes too. Simply add oils to the laundry routine, sanitize kitchen and mold in your bathroom to make your home smell clean. You would no longer need scary fumes.