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The University of Lincoln has clinched the top spot on The Guardian's 2024 list for pharmacy and pharmacology studies. This marks a significant advancement from its second-place position in the 2023 rankings, where Ulster University had secured the leading position. Interestingly, Ulster has moved down to claim the second spot this year. Forty universities were assessed using eight criteria, which encompass student satisfaction with teaching, the effectiveness of feedback from instructors, student-to-staff ratio, expenditure per student (excluding academic staff costs), and the average UCAS scores of entrants under 21. Also included were the effectiveness of teaching methods, the proportion of students securing graduate-level employment or pursuing further studies within 15 months of graduation, and the percentage of first-year students progressing into their second year. Among the 40 universities in the ranking list, the University of Lincoln achieved a perfect score of 100 out of 100, followed by Ulster (96.2), Portsmouth (87.9), Leeds (86.3), Glasgow (85.7), Sunderland (84.3), St George's (84.3), Aberdeen (81.3), UCL (81), and Queen's, Belfast (80.1).

John Dawson, the founder and former CEO of Alliance Pharma, has donated £5million to the University of Sunderland towards the creation of a new drug research centre. The donation - the biggest in the university's history - will create the John Dawson Drug Discovery and Development Research Institute to improve health and wellbeing of millions of people worldwide. The new centre has been named after the pharmaceutical entrepreneur and Sunderland graduate who, alongside wife Sam, has provided the funding. He and Sam were on Thursday (April 20) joined by specially invited guests from across the region's health, education, and business communities, to launch the Institute housed in the University's Sciences Complex. Unveiling a plaque inside the building, John said: "It's an absolute honour and privilege to be able to launch the new Drug Discovery and Development Research Institute at the University of Sunderland today. "It's been wonderful to be back on the campus and see the incredible developments that have taken place since I studied pharmacy here more than 50 years ago. "I was immediately impressed at what has been achieved in that intervening half-century and I've been delighted to assist the University continue its development, particularly in the health arena. "I hope the launch of this institute will mark the next phase in the University's evolution and I'm very much looking forward to working with the team as they bring their projects to fruition."

In a bid to amplify the role of pharmacists in clinical services and vaccination programs, the Pharmacists' Defence Association (PDA) has embarked on a groundbreaking collaboration with Aston University. This initiative, funded by Innovate UK Business Connect, aims to explore the feasibility and impact of integrating additional healthcare interventions within community pharmacies. "The Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) research project represents an exciting opportunity to advance the role of pharmacists in patient care," remarked Alison Jones, Director of Policy at PDA. "This project will be an important part of that evolution, supporting individual pharmacists to have more opportunities to practice and so develop more fulfilling careers." Led by the PDA and Aston University, the project will commence imminently, focusing on the Priory Community Pharmacy in Dudley.

Researchers at McGill University and the University of Pennsylvania have discovered that a widely used anti-diabetic drug can boost the immune system and increase the potency of vaccines and cancer treatments. Their findings will be published June 3 in the journal Nature. The discovery was made by Dr. Russell Jones, an assistant professor at McGill's Goodman Cancer Centre and the Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Yongwon Choi, PhD, professor of pathology and laboratory medicine, and postdoctoral fellow Erika Pearce, PhD, of the University of Pennsylvania. They discovered that the widely prescribed diabetes treatment metformin increases the efficiency of the immune system's T-cells, which in turn makes cancer and virus-fighting vaccines more effective.

he Pharmacy Schools Council (PhSC) has elected Professor Katie Maddock as the organisation's new chair. Prior to becoming head of school at Keele University, Professor Maddock had been MPharm course director and associate dean for education for the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, responsible for developing the clinical teaching at Keele. Before joining Keele University, she taught clinical pharmacy and pharmacy practice at Aston University. Her research interests lie in pharmacy education, particularly the use of technology in teaching, clinical therapeutics, augmented reality simulation and interprofessional education. She was also awarded a principal fellowship of the Higher Education Academy in November 2020. Having worked in hospital pharmacy, Professor Maddock is acutely aware of the pressures that Covid-19 has placed on healthcare, as well as the importance of retaining and building upon the positive changes to patient care and pharmacy practice that were developed in response to the pandemic.

Scientists Katalin Kariko and Drew Weissman from Hungary and the United States respectively won the 2023 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine for discoveries enabling the development of mRNA COVID-19 vaccines, the award-giving body said on Monday. The prize, among the most prestigious in the scientific world, is selected by the Nobel Assembly of Sweden's Karolinska Institute medical university and also comes with 11 million Swedish crowns (about £823,500). "The 2023 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine has been awarded to Katalin Karikó and Drew Weissman for their discoveries concerning nucleoside base modifications that enabled the development of effective mRNA vaccines against COVID-19," the body said. Kariko was senior vice president and head of RNA protein replacement at BioNTech until 2022 and has since acted as an adviser to the company. She is also a professor at the University of Szeged in Hungary and adjunct professor at the University of Pennsylvania's Perelman School of Medicine. Weissman is professor in vaccine research at the Perelman School.

The Royal Pharmaceutical Society (RPS) has appointed Professor Parastou Donyai as chief scientist. She will take up the role in June. Parastou is a pharmacist with a PhD in pharmacy. She also has a postgraduate diploma in Psychological Research Methods as well as a degree in Psychology. She is currently a professor of Social & Cognitive Pharmacy at the University of Reading and her research examines the psychology of medication use, discontinuation and decision-making processes. Prior to this, Parastou also spent more than five years as a senior lecturer in Pharmacy Practice at Kingston University and St. George's University of London. Her longstanding research interest includes continuing professional development in pharmacy. Commenting on her appointment, Parastou said: "It is a real privilege for me to be the Royal Pharmaceutical Society's next chief scientist. "As a pharmacist, scientist and academic, I look forward to working with the Royal Pharmaceutical Society's members and key stakeholders to uphold the value of science across the breadth of our profession."

In a bid to bolster the educational experience for undergraduate pharmacy students across London, Kingston University has embarked on a groundbreaking project in collaboration with University College London and King's College London. This initiative, fueled by a substantial £1.5 million investment from National Health Services England (NHSE), aims to elevate the quality and consistency of pharmacy placements throughout the capital for new pharmacy entrants. The project is designed to address the evolving standards set forth by the General Pharmaceutical Council (GphC), ensuring that newly-trained pharmacists are well-prepared to meet the demands of their profession. By standardizing and expanding pharmacy placements, the three universities seek to provide students with a comprehensive and diverse range of "experiential learning opportunities".

The Galien Foundation recently announced the winners of the 2024 Prix Galien UK Awards, with the University of Oxford receiving accolades for its groundbreaking contributions to public sector innovation through the PRINCIPLE and PANORAMIC Trials. These trials, spearheaded by Oxford's team of experts, have set a new standard for scientific innovation aimed at improving global health outcomes. Led by University of Oxford, the PRINCIPLE and PANORAMIC Trials epitomize a remarkable collaboration aimed at combating the COVID-19 pandemic.

Tynor Mallet Finger Splint Mallet finger Specially design to correct the mallet finger deformity. Designed to support the dip joint in hyper- extension, while permitting unrestricted movement of the PIP joint. Sleek and convenient. Customizable dorsiflexion. Comfortable cushioning. One universal size. Tynor Mallet Finger Splint Features Coated aluminum body Malleable can be bent and customized Strong, provides rigid immobilization Light weight Ergonomic design Highly practical design to maintain the requisite hyper extension of DIP joint Well ventilated and comfortable Sleek and simple -Better compliance Easy application and removal. Ethafoam lining High cushioning Enhanced comfort Easy to clean and maintain. Inbuilt Hook loop fasteners Close fitting and excellent grip Easy application and removal. Tynor Mallet Finger Splint Measurements Length of Fingers Size Chart - Size Inches CM Universal Below 2-4 Below 5-10

Tynor Pattelar Support Patellar support is designed to lift the patella and alleviate symptoms of pain, inflammation and discomfort associated with knee degeneration, without restricting circulation. Anatomically shaped Pad Enhanced Propioception Skin-friendly materials Customized compression. Tynor Pattelar Support Features Anatomical pad design Lifts and positions the patella properly Optimal compression of the patellar tendon Ensures strong grip of the product Silicon material of pad. Absorbs all the vibrations around the patella and the patellar tendon. Provides comfortable compression to the patellar tendon. Support the patella. Nodular surface Propioception Provides good massage Enhances blood circulation to the area Enhances healing Reverse buckle design One size fits all Provides customized compression Easy to wear. Tynor Pattelar Support Measurements Size Chart - Size Inches CM Universal 12 to 20 30 to 50

The General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) has announced the names of five new members who will be joining its governing Council over the next two years. The new council members are: Professor Dianne Ford, Pro Vice-Chancellor of the Faculty of Health and Life Sciences at Northumbria University. Gareth Powell, a chartered accountant and a Non-Executive Director on the Board of the Port of Milford Haven, the UK's largest energy port. Adeyemi (Ade) Williams MBE, Superintendent Pharmacist and Director of the M J Williams Pharmacy and lead Pharmacist at the Bedminster Pharmacy, Bristol. Tim Jaggard, Deputy Chief Executive and Chief Financial Officer at University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust. Dr Raliat Onatade, Chief Pharmacist and Director of Medicines and Pharmacy for North-East London Integrated Care System. Professor Ford, Powell and Williams will begin their terms on 1 April 2024, replacing Jo Kember, Mark Hammond and Arun Midha.

Researchers from King's College London and the University of Helsinki have identified a link between periodontitis (gum disease) and cryptogenic ischemic stroke, which causes a blockage in the blood vessel supplying blood to a region of the brain. The findings, recently published in the Journal of Dental Research, emphasise severe gum disease as a risk factor for young-onset stroke, particularly in patients with no other identifiable risk factors. Dr. Susanna Paju, Periodontology Specialist from the University of Helsinki, led the study in collaboration with Dr. Svetislav Zaric, Clinical Lecturer in Periodontology from King's College London. Dr. Zaric explains the implications of their research: "Stroke remains the second leading cause of death globally. Strikingly, the incidence and prevalence of ischemic stroke have been increasing in the younger population during past decades," she said. "Periodontitis, which involves deep inflammation of the gums due to bacteria under the gumline, can lead to systemic effects as bacteria enter the bloodstream and affect other parts of the body," she added.

Tynor Wrist Brace with Double Lock is designed with a double lock that will make it simple to apply and remove. Its double lock feature gives rigid support to the wrist. It partially keeps the wrist immobilized. It can easily adjust the compression around the affected area as per the desire. It provides the warming feel to the injured area to allay the local pain and inflammation. It has a high modulus of elasticity which works for a long time, even if use this on a regularl basis. It has striped elastic webbing which is of high quality material. This double lock wrist brace is strong, rigid and comfortable to wear. Its material is porous in nature which keeps the affected area air ventilated. It can adjust the compression pressure according to the will. Its double hook loop locking system is easy to apply and remove as well as comes with universal sizing. This wrist brace provides strength and support to the wrist and keep the wrist protected against the further injury or damage. Tynor Wrist Brace with Double Lock Wrist brace with double lock is designed to support, protect and partially immobilize the wrist. It compresses the area and retain the body heat to allay local pain and inflammation. Extra grip. Extra porous Controlled compression. Easy application. Tynor Wrist Brace with Double Lock Features High quality, striped elastic webbing Strong and durable Porous and comfortable High modulus of elasticity- Retains shape and size for a long time. Excellent compressive strength, better support Hook loop Double locking Easy to apply and remove Ensures optimal compression Better fitting and universal sizing. Tynor Elbow Support Elbow support provides firm compression, warmth & support to the forearm and the elbow joint, to allay pain inflammation and stiffness, generally associated with old age, arthritis, sports injury etc. Light weight Four way stretch Freely breathable Soft and comfortable Tynor Elbow Support Features Anatom

International day for persons with disabilities on 3rd December - Note on schemes for the welfare of persons with disabilities and concessions available to them. The Government of India is committed for the realization of full participation, protection of rights, and equal opportunities to all including persons with disabilities. India is a country where most of the population lives in the rural areas and accessing the health and rehabilitation services has always been a challenge. In a Backgrounder issued yesterday, a brief summary of the major steps initiated by the Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment in this direction were given. Following is the Background Note on the legislative and Institutional framework along with the major schemes of the Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment for the welfare of the People with Disabilities (PwDs). The Note also contains information on facilities and concessions available to PwDs under other central schemes which are being run by other Union Ministries. OFFER ON INTERNATIONAL DISABILITY DAY Wheelchair @ 4499 INR Tricycle @ 6500 INR Legislative Framework: There are four important legislations dealing on disabilities issues- The Persons with Disabilities (Equal Opportunities, Protection of Rights and Full Participation) Act, 1995, has laid the foundation of recognition of rights for Persons with Disabilities and has facilitated development of specific programmes for their education, rehabilitation, employment, non-discrimination and social security. The Rehabilitation Council of India Act, 1992 regulates and monitors training of rehabilitation professionals and personnel. The National Trust for the welfare of Persons with Autism, Cerebral Palsy, Mental Retardation and Multiple Disabilities Act, 1999, aims at enabling and empowering persons with disabilities to live independently as fully as possible in their community. Mental Health Act, 1987, address to the specific needs of persons with ment

Thigh Support Applications Mild support to quadriceps and hamstrings. Relieves inflammation and stiffness. Firm compression and therapeutic warmth. Psychological support to geriatric patients. Sports injury, sprains and strains. Post-surgical rehabilitation. Burn care. Thigh Support Features Strong Compression. Four way stretch. Dermophillic. Durable. Breathable and comfortable. Thigh Support Measurements Measure circumference around mid thigh - approximately 6 inches above knee. Size Chart - Size Inches CM Small 14.8 to 17.2 37 to 43 Medium 17.2 to 19.6 43 to 49 Large 19.6 to 22.0 49 to 55

Tynor R O M Knee Brace Prefabricated, custom adjusted R.O.M. Knee Brace controls and restrict flexion/extension of the knee joint through a multi-point joint fixation system to allow a range of motion or immobilization to the knee. Universal design allows it to be used on quite a big range of population and for a multiple orthopedic problems associated with knee joint. Immobilization at any angle Controlled motion between any two angles Quick and easy application and removal. Tynor R O M Knee Brace Features R.O.M. Dial 0 to 120 degree flexion. 0 to 60 degree hyper extention Locking at any angle or motion between any two angles possible Interval of 10 to15 degrees Pleasurable locking, using easy pull mechanism Neoprene Liner with Silicone Coating Enhanced product grip Less slippage of product High cushioning coefficient and more comfort Less discomfort of tight straps Ergonomic Design Light in weight Bilateral symmetrical Improved patient compliance Easy removal and application Universal design, one size fits all Straps with Reverse Buckle Mechanism Enhanced grip Easy to wear Controlled tightening.

Tynor Wrist Brace with Thumb is created to reinforce, prevent and partially immobilize the wrist and the palm. This wrist brace allows natural and free activity of the fingers. It keeps the affected area compact and maintains the body heat to lessen the local pain inflammation. Its has high quality striped elastic webbing which provides high modulus of elasticity which gives the comfortable feel. It is made from the strong, durable, porous and a comfortable material which remains for a long time. This Wrist Brace provides excellent compressive strength and support to the wrist. Its Hook loop closures allow easy application and removal. It fits comfortably around the wrist and comes in universal sizing. It also has an anatomical thumb opening which fastens the healing process. It keeps the thumb in relaxed and comfortable position. Its extra porous material allows the proper ventilation to the affected skin. Tynor Wrist Brace with Thumb Wrist brace with thumb is designed to support, protect and partially immobilize the wrist and the palm while allowing free and natural movement of the fingers. It compresses the area and retains the body heat to allay local pain and inflammation. Extra grip. Extra porous Controlled compression. Anatomical thumb placement. Tynor Wrist Brace with Thumb Features High quality , striped elastic webbing Strong and durable Porous and comfortable High modulus of elasticity- Retains shape and size for a long time. Excellent compressive strength, better support Hook loop closures Easy to apply and remove Ensures optimal compression Better fitting and universal sizing. Anatomical thumb opening Better pain relief and healing. Thumb in abduction remains relaxed, no fatigue Improves comfort Allows free and natural movement of the thumb and fingers. Tynor Tennis Elbow Support Tennis Elbow Support is designed to help provide relief from generalized pain and tenderness in the forearm and elbow caused by repetitiv

The Department of Pharmacy at the University of Huddersfield is working to include environmental sustainability principles into the pharmacy degree curriculum to support the cause. It has also urged other pharmacy educators to follow suit after the Royal Pharmaceutical Society (RPS) issued a declaration of climate and ecological emergency, last month. Playing a key role in 'greening' the University's MPharm curriculum, Dr Alison Astles, subject leader in pharmacy and member of the University's Pharmaceutical Policy and Practice Research Centre said: "Mitigating climate impact will need everyone to deliver change, and our future pharmacists have to be prepared to lead that change as part of their duty to the patient."

The Pharmacists' Defence Association (PDA) has raised the issue faced by the pharmacy students on returning to in-person assessments while urging the universities to take an empathetic approach in transition of online to in-person exams. It was highlighted by the association that many student members were apprehensive about the return to in-person assessments. This is due to their continuing worry of Covid-19 transmissions and anxiety caused by changing exam formats and procedures. However, with the ease of Covid restrictions, now pharmacy schools are able to decide how exams are conducted but the PDA believes that they should communicate the process to students in advance. "A return to normal university life is considered to be beneficial to student health and well-being. In-person exams are an important part of preparing for students' future trainee assessment examinations, GPhC accreditation for pharmacy schools, and ensuring the integrity of exam results. As future healthcare professionals, face-to-face interaction is also an integral part of the role," said the PDA.