The latest Business updates from the science industry


by Gwyneth Astles Nano probes uncover cellular responses to pressure


A ground-breaking technique is enabling researchers to map the adaptive responses of the cellular ‘skeleton’ to external stress. By administering a ‘nano-poke’ to living cells and observing subsequent changes in the intra-cellular environment, scientists gain insight into how entire cells react to external mechanical pressure.


Led by a team from the National Institute for Materials Science in Tsukuba, Japan, the researchers employ atomic force microscopy, utilising nanoscale probes with tips mere billionths of a meter in size. This method allows for the measurement and mapping of force distribution across the cellular surface and within the cell. Machine learning aids in the analysis and modelling of the measured forces, while fi xing and staining techniques unveil the impact of force distortion on the cell’s internal structures, including microtubules and actin fi laments comprising its ‘skeleton.’


Jun Nakanishi, a corresponding author and leader of the Mechanobiology Group, emphasises that cells are smart materials


adapting to various stimuli, and understanding these adaptations is crucial for addressing ailments like diabetes, Parkinson’s, heart attacks, and cancer.


The study [1] unveils that tensional and compressional forces distribute across actin fi bres and microtubules, akin to the poles and ropes of a camping tent. Disabling the force-bearing function of actin fi bres reveals the involvement of the nucleus in counterbalancing external forces, shedding light on the nucleus’s role in cellular stress response.


Comparing healthy and cancerous cells, the research team notes cancer cells’ resilience to external compression and reduced likelihood of activating cell death in response. These distinct responses in cancer cells may pave the way for a diagnostic tool based on cellular mechanics, offering a new approach to differentiate healthy and cancerous cells.


While current cancer diagnosis relies on cell size, shape, and structure, these features sometimes fall short in distinguishing between healthy and diseased cells. The study’s fi ndings propose a novel method of assessing cell conditions by measuring force distribution, potentially enhancing diagnostic accuracy.


More information online: ilmt.co/PL/nmom and ilmt.co/PL/KYJe


1. Published in the journal Science and Technology of Advanced Materials.


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Indian pharma facility joins WEF’s Global Lighthouse


grown from 16 to 153 lighthouses since its inception, represents a collaborative effort between WEF and McKinsey & Company, with an independent panel of experts designating factories and value chains for inclusion.


The ACG team with WEF team


ACG, a global leader in integrated solutions for the pharmaceutical industry, has achieved a signifi cant milestone by joining the prestigious Global Lighthouse Network (GLN) of the World Economic Forum (WEF). The WEF’s GLN comprises manufacturers showcasing leadership in using Fourth Industrial Revolution technologies to revolutionise factories, value chains, and business models, resulting in compelling fi nancial and operational returns. The GLN, which has


ACG’s capsule manufacturing facility in Pithampur, India, underwent a robust audit of over 25 use cases, demonstrating excellence in technology-enabled operations. This recognition places ACG among the 153 lighthouses in the GLN, showcasing exponential growth in the network. The certifi cation not only refl ects the manufacturing of superior quality products but also underscores the transformation of operations, setting new benchmarks for timely production. ACG’s Pithampur factory has exemplifi ed accelerated deployment of GenAI, addressing the evolving skill sets of manufacturing employees through a remarkable Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) and policy interfacing with Gen AI.


Karan Singh, Managing Director of ACG Group, expressed pride in the team’s commitment to digital transformation over the past six years. He highlighted ACG’s dedication to deploying Industry 4.0 technologies to enhance productivity, transform operations, and ultimately make high-quality capsules more accessible globally.


The Pithampur factory, known for its accolades, including LEED Gold certifi cation in 2014, incorporates green features that promote


sustainability. Balajikasiram Sundararajan, Chief Digital Offi cer at ACG Group, provided insights into the enterprise-wide digital transformation program, ‘Build the Future’. The program focuses on transforming operations, building smart connected products, enhancing customer experience, and developing digital-led business models.


Sundararajan emphasised that ACG has actively developed and implemented state-of-the-art solutions powered by digital technologies, ranging from Industrial IoT and machine learning to cloud computing and digital twins. These solutions have enabled ACG to better serve its global customer base, solving critical customer-centric business problems.


Kiva Allgood, Head of the Centre for Advanced Manufacturing and Supply Chains at the WEF, praised the GLN for exemplifying the power of digital transformation. The lighthouses within the GLN strategically weave innovation throughout their expansive network, sculpting both a sustainable future and an era of transformative and lasting change.


More information online: ilmt.co/PL/pKyX 61765pr@reply-direct.com


Global calibration leader expands reach with strategic acquisitions


Calibration services global leader Trescal has announced strategic acquisitions across multiple countries. Lumadae and ACCI in Brazil, Q&Q in South Korea, SP Metrology System in Thailand, and A.A. Jansson in the United States have joined Trescal’s network. These acquisitions, totalling €12 million in sales and 200 employees, strengthen Trescal’s presence and capabilities.


In South Korea, Q&Q, with €3.7 million in revenue, positions Trescal as the leader in the Busan region. This acquisition enhances technical offerings, particularly in gas and liquid fl ow calibration.


SP Metrology System, generating €1.3 million in sales near Bangkok, brings a broad scope of 19 domains, including dimensional, chemical, and time and frequency calibration. Its client portfolio in the food and beverage sector complements Trescal Thailand’s capabilities.


In Brazil, ACCI and Lumadae, contributing €5 million in combined revenue, enhance Trescal Brazil’s liquid fl ow calibration and repair offerings in Sao Paulo. Their accreditations in density and liquid fl ow cater to chemical, energy, and water supply sectors.


A.A. Jansson, based in Michigan and generating €2 million in sales, specialises in dimensional calibrations, notably for gage blocks. Its expertise includes resurfacing gage blocks before calibration in a controlled environment.


Guillaume Caroit, Trescal CEO, expressed excitement about the 100th acquisition milestone, emphasising the company’s commitment to balancing market exposure across geographies and industries.


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