Research Tool Patents and Free-Libre Biotechnology: A Unified Perspective.

This paper proposes a unified conceptual framework to analyse the multiple role and consequences of patents in the case of biotechnology research tools. We argue that the knowledge/information and independent/complementary nature of research tools define heterogeneous frameworks in which the patent system plays different roles. In particular, using the analogy with the free-libre open source movement in software, we show that patents can promote open innovation by ensuring the freedom of some pieces of knowledge. A strong conclusion of the paper is therefore that, against common belief, an adequate use of the patent system may contribute to preserving freedom of access to upstream research tools within a framework that we call free-libre biotechnology.Intellectual property rights, sequential innovation, open source, life science, collective invention.

User needs assessment for geospatial information to improve fire management In the Amazonia region.

The SERVIR-Amazonia Hub will present a user needs assessment for geospatial information to improve environmental decision-making in the Amazonia region in the thematic area of fire. The user needs assessment describes the issues around fire in Amazonia (covering Brazil, Peru, Colombia, Ecuador, Suriname, Guyane) and the potential impacts timely, accurate and robust geospatial information can have on improved management of fires. The user needs assessment comprises of 1) a survey of existing geospatial tools, datasets, and applications to improve fire management; 2) a summary of user consultation workshops to identify issues around fire and geospatial information needs in the region; and 3) stakeholder maps and information flows for specific geospatial services such as early warning fire detection and fire risk indexes. The presentation will summarize the user needs assessment and identify critical information needs for stakeholders in the Amazonia region. SERVIR-Amazonia Hub is part of a global development initiative, known as SERVIR Global, heading jointly by the United States National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and the United States Agency for International Development USAID, since 2005. In partnership with leading regional organizations worldwide, SERVIR helps developing countries use information provided by Earth observing satellites and geospatial technologies. SERVIR empowers decision-makers with tools, products, and services to act locally on climate-sensitive issues such as disasters, agriculture, water, fire, and ecosystems and land use. SERVIR-Amazonia implementation is led by CIAT, together with Hub partner institutions, traduced as a USAID funded program

Evaluating the Impact of Computerized Provider Order Entry on Medical Students Training at Bedside: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Objective: To evaluate the impact of computerized provider order entry (CPOE) at the bedside on medical students training. Materials and Methods We conducted a randomized cross-controlled educational trial on medical students during two clerkship rotations in three departments, assessing the impact of the use of CPOE on their ability to place adequate monitoring and therapeutic orders using a written test before and after each rotation. Students’ satisfaction with their practice and the order placement system was surveyed. A multivariate mixed model was used to take individual students and chief resident (CR) effects into account. Factorial analysis was applied on the satisfaction questionnaire to identify dimensions, and scores were compared on these dimensions. Results: Thirty-six students show no better progress (beginning and final test means = 69.87 and 80.98 points out of 176 for the control group, 64.60 and 78.11 for the CPOE group, p = 0.556) during their rotation in either group, even after adjusting for each student and CR, but show a better satisfaction with patient care and greater involvement in the medical team in the CPOE group (p = 0.035*). Both groups have a favorable opinion regarding CPOE as an educational tool, especially because of the order reviewing by the supervisor. Conclusion: This is the first randomized controlled trial assessing the performance of CPOE in both the progress in prescriptions ability and satisfaction of the students. The absence of effect on the medical skills must be weighted by the small time scale and low sample size. However, students are more satisfied when using CPOE rather than usual training

Research tool patents and free-libre biotechnology: A suggested unified framework

International audienceThis paper proposes a unified conceptual framework to analyze the multiple role and consequences of patents in the case of biotechnology research tools. We argue that the knowledge/information and independent/complementary nature of research tools define heterogeneous frameworks in which the patent system plays different roles. In particular, using the analogy with the free-libre open source movement in software, we show that patents can promote open innovation by ensuring the freedom of some pieces of knowledge. A strong conclusion of the paper is therefore that, against common belief, an adequate use of the patent system may contribute to preserving freedom of access to upstream research tools within a framework that we call free-libre biotechnology

Unpleasant Memories on the Web in Employment Relations : a Ricoeurian Approach

Cybervetting has become common practice in personnel decision-making processes of organizations. While it represents a quick and inexpensive way of obtaining additional information on employees and applicants, it gives rise to a variety of legal and ethical concerns. To limit companies’ access to personal information, a right to be forgotten has been introduced by the European jurisprudence. By discussing the notion of forgetting from the perspective of French hermeneutic philosopher Paul Ricoeur, the present article demonstrates that both, companies and employees, would be harmed if access to online information on applicants and current employees would be denied. Consistent with a Humanistic Management approach that promotes human dignity and flourishing in the workplace, this article proposes guidance for the responsible handling of unpleasant online memories in personnel decision-making processes, thereby following Ricoeur’s notion of forgetting as “kept in reserve”. Enabling applicants and employees to take a qualified stand on their past is more beneficial to both sides than a right to be forgotten that is questionable in several respects