UK-based biotech company FabRx has announced a study exploring how pharmaceutical 3D printing can automate capsule filling in community pharmacies.Published in the International Journal of Pharmaceutics, the research examines the effectiveness of the M3DIMAKER 1 pharmaceutical 3D printer in producing minoxidil capsules, evaluating its cost, time efficiency, and safety compared to traditional manual methods. According to the team, pharmacists often rely on manual compounding, a process that demands time and carries the risk of human error. By using semi-solid extrusion (SSE) technology, the biotech companys 3D printer simplifies capsule filling, ensuring precise dosing and better consistency.M3DIMAKER 1 pharmaceutical 3D printer with the capsule holder on top of the integrated balance: (A) Full view of the capsule holder- pharmaceutical 3D printer system in a community compounding pharmacy laboratory, (B) Magnified view of the capsule holder within the printer. Image via FabRx.Advanced capsule production with 3D printingOne of the standout features of this approach is the built-in quality control system. The 3D printer, equipped with an analytical balance and pressure sensors, tracks the mass and uniformity of each capsule to meet European Pharmacopeia standards. Stability tests confirmed that capsules remained viable for up to three months under standard storage conditions.Researchers noted significant improvements in cost and efficiency. Producing 2.5 mg minoxidil capsules with the 3D printer was 35% cheaper than traditional methods, while 5 mg capsules saw a 20% cost reduction. Automating the process also cut manual labor by 55%, reducing repetitive tasks and allowing pharmacists to focus on other responsibilities. The total preparation time for treatments dropped by roughly 10%.Beyond cost and time savings, automation brought notable safety benefits. Pharmacists had less direct contact with active pharmaceutical ingredients, lowering the risk of exposure to fine powder particles. With pharma-ink extruded in a controlled environment, contamination risks were reduced, creating a safer workspace.A trial at a community pharmacy in Madrid, Spain, tested the real-world application of this method. Pharmacists used the 3D printer to prepare minoxidil capsules for nine patients. Standard operating procedures were put in place to guide pharmacy staff, and legal assessments confirmed that the process met both Spanish and European pharmaceutical compounding regulations.While 3D printed medications are still rare in clinical settings, the study suggests that this method can introduce new technology into pharmacy workflows without disrupting existing practices. Greater dosing accuracy may also prove useful for medications that require precision, such as chemotherapy and drugs with a narrow therapeutic index.As healthcare systems look toward automation and digital manufacturing, pharmaceutical 3D printing could become a scalable solution for improving efficiency, cutting costs, and ensuring medication safety. Custom formulations tailored to individual patient needs can be produced while maintaining regulatory compliance. As of now, more research will be needed to explore its wider applications and regulatory requirements in different healthcare settings.Dissolution profiles of conventional capsules and capsules prepared with a 3D printer containing 2.5 mg and 5 mg doses of minoxidil. Image via FabRx.Developments in 3D printed medicineBringing pharmaceutical 3D printing into everyday pharmacy operations opens the door for broader applications beyond minoxidil capsules. Back in 2023, Triastek, a Chinese pharmaceutical 3D printing company successfully completed its First-in-Human (FIH) study for T21, a 3D printed drug developed for moderate to severe ulcerative colitis treatment.Imaging results from the study confirm that T21 tablets achieve targeted delivery and controlled release within the colon, ensuring precise therapeutic action. Manufactured using Triasteks Melt Extrusion Deposition (MED) 3D printing technology, the tablets are designed to optimize drug administration and efficacy.Elsewhere, Max Planck Institute for Informatics researchers from Germany, and the University of California at Davis (UC Davis), introduced a new approach to 3D printed pills capable of releasing pharmaceutical drugs at controlled rates.Their study demonstrated how the dissolution speed of these pills can be influenced by their shape, which is precisely designed during the printing process. Unlike traditional drug delivery approaches such as intravenous infusion, this method offers greater control through geometric manipulation. According to the researchers, the technique could have applications beyond pharmaceuticals, including the production of catalytic structures and coarse granular fertilizers.What 3D printing trends should you watch out for in 2025?How is the future of 3D printing shaping up?To stay up to date with the latest 3D printing news, dont forget to subscribe to the 3D Printing Industry newsletter or follow us on Twitter, or like our page on Facebook.While youre here, why not subscribe to our Youtube channel? Featuring discussion, debriefs, video shorts, and webinar replays.Featured image shows M3DIMAKER 1 pharmaceutical 3D printer with the capsule holder on top of the integrated balance: (A) Full view of the capsule holder- pharmaceutical 3D printer system in a community compounding pharmacy laboratory, (B) Magnified view of the capsule holder within the printer. Image via FabRx.Ada ShaikhnagWith a background in journalism, Ada has a keen interest in frontier technology and its application in the wider world. Ada reports on aspects of 3D printing ranging from aerospace and automotive to medical and dental.

Pool Maintenance Tips | Afrah via UnsplashMaintaining the appearance and functionality of your swimming pool doesnt have to be expensive. Follow these tips to keep your pool in pristine condition under a budget:1. Clean the Filters RegularlyPool filters remove debris and contaminants from the water, ensuring safe swimming conditions. Without a proper filtration system, harmful bacteria and algae can turn your pool green and murky.Common pool filters and their cleaning requirements include:Sand Filters: Consider backwashing the sand filters to flush out trapped dust and debris. The water flow must be reversed at least once in four weeks. Experts recommend replacing sand filters every five to seven years.Cartridge Filters: These consist of a single layer of synthetic fiber that traps contaminants when pool water flows through them. You can simply remove the filter and hose it down with higher-than-usual water pressure. Replace the cartridge filter if you notice signs of wear and tear, such as cracks.DE Filters: Like sand filters, diatomaceous earth (DE) filters need regular backwashing to ensure proper functioning.2. Monitor the Waters Chemical LevelsImbalanced chemical levels can lead to adverse health effects, such as skin and eye irritation, burning sensations, and even infections. They can also corrode pool surfaces and lead to cloudy water.A reliable water testing kit will measure:pH levelCalcium hardnessTotal alkalinityFree chlorineYou can use home water testing kits like strips or liquids to test pool water and send it for professional analysis. Consider weekly testing, especially during summer and heavy pool usage. This will not only ensure swimmer safety but also extend the longevity of your pool and its equipment.3. Shock the Pool Lefteris Kallergis via Unsplash Darya Jum via UnsplashShocking the pool refers to the process of adding a concentrated amount of chlorine or a non-chlorine chemical to the pool water. This raises the pools free chlorine level, killing bacteria, algae, and other contaminants.Experts recommend shocking after pool parties or outdoor gatherings. Shocking is also a good idea if the pool water appears cloudy and discolored and releases a strong odor.Follow the manufacturers instructions for your specific pool size and preferred shocking treatment.4. Inspect Pool EquipmentTypes of swimming pool equipment include filters, pumps, heaters, lighting, and chlorine feeders. Regular inspection and maintenance of pool equipment offer numerous benefits, including:Early detection of safety hazards.Prevention of costly repairs.Proper water circulation.Improved overall pool functionality.Consider hiring a dedicated pool cleaning company, such as WaterTex Pools, to save money in the long run. They have the necessary expertise to handle malfunctioning water heaters, faulty wiring, and leaking pipes. Professional maintenance will teach you preventive measures to avoid frequent repairs.5. Dont Overlook the Pool DeckA well-maintained pool deck can alleviate the aesthetic appeal of your outdoor space. Here are some tips to get you started:Repair small cracks immediately to prevent water from seeping in.Pressure wash the pool deck to remove accumulated dirt and debris.Trim nearby plants and trees to avoid slips and falls.Use a sealant to protect concrete surfaces from peeling and flaking.With proper pool deck maintenance, you can ensure the safety of your family and guests.Swimming Pools Leave a comment

SO IL and Coburn, a Colorado office, have been selected to design the Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art (BMoCA), a future iconic facility that will anchor the North Boulder Creative Campus, museum officials shared this week.There were 65 entries to the RFQ, which went out last May. SO IL and Coburn beat out shortlisted firms Tatiana Bilbao ESTUDIO, Johnston Marklee, Sasaki, and Fernanda Canales for the job. Trestle Strategy Group, a local real estate strategy and planning firm, shepherded the solicitation. Now, the winning team will ideate a new purpose-built home for BMoCA, and also a master plan for North Boulder Creative Campus, a new 100,000-square-foot development with live-work, commercial, and retail spaces where the future museum will be sited.Emerald Development is the projects financier. David Dadone, BMoCA executive director, said the project will serve as a beacon for creative exploration, spark dialogue on important contemporary issues, and celebrate the transformative power of art.Jerry Shapins, a local artist and urbanism advocate, drew a concept sketch for the site. (Courtesy BMoCA)At a presentation in November, in describing the design with Coburns Pete Weber, SO IL cofounder Florian Idenburg said the future site plan will prioritize walkability, and at the center of the campus will be a signature joint space for the community. Jing Liu and Idenburg said in a joint statement after winning the competition: We are thrilled to have been selected by BMOCA and Emerald Development to envision a space that fosters creativity, dialogue, and a profound sense of belonging within this dynamic and ever-evolving city.The North Boulder Creative Campus offers an inspiring opportunity to develop a vibrant, inclusive community centered on the arts and collective engagement, Liu and Idenburg added. Nestled at the foot of the majestic Rocky Mountains, this project enables us to craft a truly open and welcoming cultural spaceone that seamlessly connects people, landscape, and architecture.The site is a corner lot at the intersection of Violet Avenue and Broadway Street in North Boulders burgeoning Arts District. (Google Earth)The project goes back to 1995, when the North Boulder Subcommunity Plan was submitted, which called for growth in the industrial area. The North Boulder Creative Campus will play a pivotal role in filling the mission outlined in the long-range plan, BMoCA noted.The campuss anticipated budget is $40 billion. The site where the future campus is destined is an L-shaped plot at the intersection of Violet Avenue and Broadway Street in North Boulders burgeoning Arts District.Construction should begin in 2027.ANwill circle back when more details about the project emerge.

hanohiki - stock.adobe.comNewsUK accused of political foreign cyberattack on US after serving secret snooping order on AppleUS administration asked to kick UK out of 65-year-old UK-USA Five Eyes intelligence sharing agreement after secret order to access encrypted data of Apple usersByDuncan Campbell ,2QQ Ltd, Sussex UniversityPublished: 13 Feb 2025 17:54 An unprecedented letter from the US Congress, released today, accuses the UK of a foreign cyberattack waged through political means. The claim refers to a Home Office secret demand last month (reported by CW here, here and here) that Apple break the security protecting its Advanced Data Protection cloud security system to let British spies into anyones secure files.In a letter to the recently appointed US Director of National Intelligence (DNI) Tulsi Gabbard, Senator Ron Wyden of Colorada and Representative Andy Biggs of Arizona bluntly ask the administration to kick the UK out of the 65-year-old UK-USA signals intelligence sharing agreement, commonly known as Five Eyes if they do not now withdraw the demand to Apple.If the U.K. does not immediately reverse this dangerous effort, we urge you to reevaluate U.S.-U.K. cybersecurity arrangements and programs as well as U.S. intelligence sharing with the U.K, the new DNI is advised.Politically, on other issues, the signatories are on opposed sides of US politics. Wyden is a liberal democrat who has campaigned for healthcare and the environment; Biggs is a loud Trump supporter and a noted organiser of the MAGA squad. Wyden, from Oregon, serves on the Senate Intelligence and Finance Committee; Biggs, from Arizona, chairs the House Judiciary Subcommittee on Crime and Federal Government Surveillance. Their unified complaint against British tactics and conduct is potentially a unique event in the turbulent political period since Donald Trumps accession. Damage to information sharing with USThe letter was also copied to incoming British Ambassador Peter Mandelson. The British Embassy, Home Office and DNI have not made any official comment on the letter at the time of writing.The representatives have asked the DNI to tell Congress if the administration accepts British claims that it can impose gag orders on demands to American companies to provide user data, or to make technical changes to their systems and software. They also demand to know if the Home Office warned the US Government about the January notice, before it was revealed in the press. The British move against Apple also threatens to prejudice recent valuable gains in co-operative information sharing. It took four years for the US and Britain to agree a Data Access Agreement in 2022 that does allow Apple to provide data and files from UK iCloud Accounts, provided that the user has not turned on advanced security. This arrangement was authorised under the CLOUD Act (Clarifying Lawful Overseas Use of Data) and was, according to the Department of Justice, the first agreement of its kind, allowing each countrys investigators to gain better access to vital data to combat serious crime in a way that is consistent with privacy and civil liberties standards.The data flows both aways, allowing US agents automatic access to British controlled data. Under the Data Access Agreement, service providers in one country may respond to qualifying, lawful orders for electronic data issued by the other country, without fear of running afoul of restrictions on cross-border disclosures , the DoJ noted.Home office greedy for everythingAccording to UK academic and industry sources, the recent better level of access to some iCloud data may have caused the Home Office to get impatient and greedy for everything, and to proceed without legally required technical caution. According to reliable industry sources, the recent notice was not first scrutinised by the statutory Technical Advisory Panel (TAP), which includes vetted outside cryptosecurity and computer science experts. If this is correct, then the UK Judicial Commissioner who authorised the Notice to Apple and the Home Secretary may both have been misled, requiring the procedure for issuing the Notice to be reviewed.The representatives reminded DNI Gabbard that at her confirmation hearing she stated that backdoors lead down a dangerous path that can undermine Americans' Fourth Amendment rights and civil liberties, warning later that compulsory mechanisms to bypass encryption or privacy technologies undermines user security, privacy, and trust and poses significant risks of exploitation by malicious actors.We urge you to put those words into action by giving the U.K. an ultimatum, their letter concludes. Back down from this dangerous attack on U.S. cybersecurity or face serious consequences.Beijing could exploit UK 'backdoor'American cryptographers and cryptosecurity experts back the demand and have warned that Beijing would quickly exploit the British order to allow access to encrypted data. The U.S. should pass laws that forbid U.S. companies from installing encryption backdoors at the request of foreign countries, according to Matt Green, a leading cryptographer and professor of computer science at John Hopkins University. This would put companies like Apple in a bind. But it would be a good bind!In The Current Issue:Digging into the CMAs provisional take on AWS and Microsofts hold on UK cloud marketInterview: Digital tech fuels AutoTraders drive into the futureDownload Current IssueSLM series - Cotera: 10 key SLM facts for software engineers(and businesses) CW Developer NetworkWhat to expect from F5 AppWorld 2025 CW Developer NetworkView All Blogs

Over a hundred cyber security experts, companies and civil society groups have signed a letter calling for the Home Secretary, Yvette Cooper to drop demands for Apple to create a back-door that would allow the UK government access to encrypted communications and data stored on Apples iCloud service.The letter follows disclosures this week that the Home Office has issued a secret order to Apple, requiring the company to give the UK access to all encrypted material stored by any Apple users anywhere in world on its cloud servers.The Home Offices intervention has raised alarm bells among members of congress in the US, who have raised concerns that the move will weaken the security and privacy of ordinary American citizens as well as government officials and government agencies that use Apple computers and iPhones for official business.Apple introduced its Advanced Data Protection for iCloud (APD) as an optional security feature in December 2022. It allows users to extend Apples end-to-end encryption from messaging to personal data, including photos, notes and iCloud backups, offering according to Apple, invaluable protection for users private information from threats to data security.Risk to UK data sharing with EURobin Wilton, senior director of the Internet Society, one of the signatories to the letter, said that the Home Offices plans could threaten Britains data protection adequacy status with the EU, potentially disrupting the exchange of data between companies in the UK and the EU.The UK government has insisted not only on accessing Apples data, but insisted on access to it even after it reaches the United States. That raises questions whether the UK can retain its adequacy under GDPR, he told Computer Weekly.In an open letter prepared by the Global Encryption Coalition, a network of civil society groups, businesses and trade associations, cyber security experts warn that the UKs move to create a back-door into peoples personal data jeopardises the security and privacy of millions of people, undermines the UK tech sector and sets a dangerous precedent for global cyber security.The letter has been signed by prominent cyber security experts, including cryptographer Phil Zimmerman, inventor of the email encryption software PGP, Ronald Rivest one of the inventors of the RSA encryption algorithm, cybersecurity author Bruce Schneier, andDavid R. Jefferson, former supercomputer scientist at the US Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory. It remains open for further signatures until 20 February.UK tech industry will suffer reputational damageThe letter warns that the move by the UK government to secretly undermine the security of Apples encrypted storage, creates the risk that Apple and other technology companies may pull their services out of the UK just as the UK government is stressing the role of tech companies in boosting economic growth.For some global companies, they may choose to leave the UK market rather than face the global reputational risks that breaching the security of their products would entail. UK companies will also suffer reputational damage, as foreign investors and consumers will consider whether their products are riddled with secret UK government-mandated security vulnerabilities, it warns.Leaks to the Washington Post revealed that the Home Office issued a Technical Capability Notice (TCN), under Section 253 of the Investigatory Powers Act 2016 requiring Apple to provide access to encrypted data stored by Apple users anywhere in the world on its iCloud service.If the move succeeds, it would mean the worlds second-largest provider of mobile devices would be built on top of a system security flaw, putting all of its users security and privacy at risk, not just in the UK but globally.Risk to UK national securityThe letter warns that government moves against encryption, threaten to undermine the UKs national security.For national security professionals and government employees, access to end-to-end encrypted services allows them to safeguard their personal life. Ensuring the security and privacy of government officials is vital for helping prevent extortion or coercion attempts, which could lead to greater national security damage, it says.According to the letter, the consensus among cybersecurity experts is that there is no way to provide government access to end-to-end encrypted data without breaking end-to-end encryption.It cites Ciaran Martin, former director and founder of the UK governments National Cyber Security Centre, part of GCHQ, who wrote in a 2021 paper that E2EE [end-to-end encryption] must expand, legally unfettered, for the betterment of our digital homeland.Undermining the confidentiality of cloud services would have a harmful impact on people at the greatest risk, including families, survivors of domestic violence, and LGBTQ+ individuals, the letter argues. For these and other groups, the confidentiality guaranteed by end-to-end encryption can be critical in preventing harassment and physical violence, it says.International human rights bodies have recognised the importance of end-to-end encryption to enable people to communicate and express their views safely and securely, the signatories argue. The European Court of Human Rights has confirmed the importance of anonymity in promoting the free flow of ideas and information including protecting people from reprisals for their views.In a landmark case in February 2024, the ECHR found that an order issued by Russia to the messaging app, Telegram, requiring it to disclose technical information including encryption keys breached human rights law.To ensure the national and economic security of the United Kingdon, the Home Office must end its technical capability notice forcing Apple to break its end-to-end encryption, the letter states.Human rights groups that have signed the letter include Article19, Access Now, Digital Rights Ireland, Privacy International and Big Brother Watch.It has also been signed by prominent British academics including Richard Clayton of the University of Cambridge, visiting professor Ian Brown and Peter Sommer of Birmingham City University.Read more about the UK's secret order against AppleA hitherto unknown British organisation which even the government may have forgotten about is about to be drawn into a global technical and financial battle, facing threats from Apple to pull out of the UKTech companies brace after UK demands back door access to Apple cloud

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Key TakeawaysTesla has been aggressively suing its customers and journalists in China who complain about its cars, including a high-profile case where Zhang Yazhou was fined $23,000 after criticizing a brake failure that caused an accident.It has sued over 6 customers in the past, as well as media outlets and bloggers, for reporting malfunctions and negative experiences and won every case.Teslas close relationship with powerful Chinese officials, particularly Li Qiang, has allowed the company to benefit from favorable regulatory conditions.Tesla has been aggressive in protecting and maintaining a positive narrative about its EVs. The word aggressive might sound like an understatement when the situation is that Tesla is literally suing its own customers for complaining about its products.Picture this: Zhang Yazhou, a user of a Tesla Model 3, was sitting in the passenger seat when her father suddenly panicked when he realized that the brakes had stopped working. Unable to control the car, they ended up crashing into a large concrete barrier, but not before plowing into an SUV and a Sedan.Her parents were sent to hospital because of this mishap. Angry with the situation, as anyone would be, Zhang publicly protested against Tesla. As a response, Tesla filed a case for defamation and won. The girl was left to pay a USD 23,000 penalty and a public apology for her criticism.As a consumer, even if I said something wrong, I have the right to comment and criticise. I spoke about my feelings as a user of the car. It has nothing to do with damaging their reputation. ZhangWhile the appeal hasnt concluded yet, only little can be done about it after the final verdict has been drawn.Tesla And China Is Musk Exploiting His Position?It isnt uncommon for auto companies to sue their own customers, in China or anywhere else. But Zhang wasnt the only one to face this kind of response for reporting sudden vehicle malfunctions, quality complaints, or mechanical failures that led to accidents.In the past, the company has not just sued more than 6 customers for giving negative reviews, but it has also sued bloggers and Chinese media outlets for simply writing critically about the company.The Associated Press (AP) was able to determine verdicts of these cases. Tesla has won almost all of these cases not just the ones where they sued the customer, but also prevailed in lawsuits that the customers filed against it.The stats could be seen as an indication of how the company could be leveraging its connections with powerful leaders in Chinas government to limit its accountability and exploit its customers. The court, however, refused any special protection being given to the company.Li Qiang is a core member of Chinas ruling communist party. The first Chinese Tesla factory was built under his surveillance on the outskirts of Chinas financial capital. He also helps make Tesla the very first foreign automaker to be allowed complete control of this venture.Tesla enjoyed lower-than-market loan rates, tax breaks, and several other regulatory benefits that helped Musk position itself quickly in the Chinese market and leverage the countrys huge client base.APs information comes right in time when several experts are saying that Musk is weakening the US systems through his strong alliance with Trump. He recently got into trouble for accessing federal documents, allegedly breaching federal privacy law.Add Techreport to Your Google News Feed Get the latest updates, trends, and insights delivered straight to your fingertips. Subscribe now! Subscribe now Vlad is Tech Report's Executive Editor. With over a decade of experience in tech content, he's passionate about computer hardware, an advocate of online privacy, and strongly believes in the open-source, scarce-money nature of cryptocurrency.When hes not working, hes traveling with his partner and their cat, learning Python, or reading good books. He never owned a PC he did not build. View all articles by Vlad Melnic Our editorial processThe Tech Reporteditorial policyis centered on providing helpful, accurate content that offers real value to our readers. We only work with experienced writers who have specific knowledge in the topics they cover, including latest developments in technology, online privacy, cryptocurrencies, software, and more. Our editorial policy ensures that each topic is researched and curated by our in-house editors. We maintain rigorous journalistic standards, and every article is 100% written byreal authors.

In a nutshell: Honda and Nissan have agreed to end talks of a potential merger that would have led to the creation of the world's third-largest automotive group behind Volkswagen and Toyota, in that order. Unsurprisingly, the two sides couldn't come to terms on the structure of the combined company. Honda and Nissan took seats at the negotiating table in December 2024 to try and hammer out the details of what would have been a roughly $60 billion deal. Nissan's fortunes started taking a turn in early 2018 and many believed a merger between the two Japanese auto giants would have greatly improved their chances at mounting an offensive in the budding EV market.Several strategies were floated during negotiations. At one point, Honda proposed changing the structure of the deal going from a joint holding company where it would appoint the majority of directors and executives, to a plan in which Nissan would be a subsidiary of parent company Honda.Reuters noted several additional factors that could have also factored into the inability to get a deal done, including Nissan's pride and being in denial of its true position in the market. Nissan also has ties with Mitsubishi and Renault, which could have further complicated matters. Honda's subsidiary plan also reportedly rubbed some Nissan executives the wrong way, sources said.Ultimately, both sides agreed that in order to prioritize speedy decision making in the era of electrification, it would be best to cease discussions and terminate the memorandum of understanding signed back in December.Shares in Nissan are up just over four percent on the day as of writing while Honda stock is up close to two percent.Nissan, meanwhile, announced immediate measures to try and turn things around through a restructuring aimed at reducing costs by roughly 400 billion yen in fiscal year 2026. Honda recently opened pre-orders for its Afeela EV in collaboration with Sony, and announced plans to bring back the beloved Prelude as a hybrid.Image credit: TopSphere Media, John Cameron