Stroke: 7% of UK patients present within necessary time window

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Shire: merger paying off, despite pipeline problems

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Oxford GlycoSciences: Vevesca paves the way

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ICI: a sporting chance

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Multiple sclerosis: more trials in the UK

The long-running debate over reimbursement of the beta-interferon class is set to enter a new stage. NICE and the pharma companies will conduct a long-term trial with a view to establishing, once and for all, the benefits this treatment confers, and whether they justify the huge cost. The outcome could be positive for pharma companies, but a final decision will be years away.

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Norwich Union: online boost for UK commercial brokers

The project, known as CMLP, should cut the costs associated with policy issuing significantly. It may also improve Norwich Union's relations with its brokers, which have been somewhat strained over the last couple of years. If successful, it is likely to lead other UK insurers to develop their own platforms - bad news for insurance eBusiness vendors.

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Diabetes: maternal smoking is a risk factor

The data shows that maternal smoking during pregnancy is a risk factor for the development of early onset diabetes in offspring. Independently, cigarette smoking as a young adult can also increase the risk of subsequent diabetes. Given the huge economic impact of diabetes, it's clear that governments must do more to deter people from smoking.

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GW Pharma: more cannabis spray trials

GW is in a unique position. Although cannabis use is illegal in the UK, the company has the right to grow the drug for use in clinical trials. If the latest trials are successful, up to 40% of cancer patients may be able to benefit from the therapy. Strong trial results would leave GW in a position to gain approval for its product as early as 2004.

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John Lewis: merging dotcoms

Given that the main reason John Lewis bought Buy.com was to gain its technology, the move is hardly unexpected. It should strengthen John Lewis's online brand and increase Johnlewis.com's site traffic - both sensible objectives. However, Johnlewis.com's limited range of technology products will drive away some of Buy.com's customers.

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Are new multiple sclerosis treatments about to rock the market?

Multiple sclerosis is a chronic and unpredictable disorder, with debilitating physical and mental symptoms. However, there are few approved treatments - and most of the ones that do exist are largely confined to speeding recovery from acute attacks of the disorder or to managing symptoms. Will new pipeline MS drugs steal the market leaders' hold?

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