A federal judge in Oakland has signaled his intent to impose sanctions on patent attorney Bill Ramey and his firm, Ramey LLP, for violating a protective order by sharing Netflix Inc.’s confidential information with a litigation funder. The case stems from a patent infringement lawsuit filed by Finnish inventor Lauri Valjakka against Netflix, in which Ramey represented Valjakka.
During a hearing the U.S. District Court indicated that attorneys’ fees would be an appropriate sanction, noting that they would likely be substantial. The dispute centers on Ramey’s disclosure of Netflix’s source code and financial information to AiPi LLC, a litigation funding company, without proper authorization. Netflix contends that these materials, described as the “crown jewels of its business,” were shared in violation of the court’s protective order, which restricts access to sensitive information to authorized individuals only.
At the hearing, Netflix’s attorney, Sarah Piepmeier of Perkins Coie, argued that AiPi had access to the confidential information before Netflix was aware of the funding arrangement. She expressed concern that AiPi’s possession of Netflix’s proprietary data could influence its decisions in future litigation or inspire new lawsuits. Ramey defended his actions, asserting that the protective order allowed him to share the information with “affiliates,” a category he believed included AiPi’s attorneys. He further claimed that no harm had occurred because AiPi’s lawyers assured him they hadn’t used the materials inappropriately.
Judge Tigar expressed skepticism about Ramey’s defense, stating that having individuals affiliated with a litigation funder review Netflix’s source code constituted a situation of harm. He also indicated that he would consider referring Ramey to the California State Bar or another disciplinary body for further review.
This development adds to a series of legal challenges faced by Ramey and his firm. Earlier this year, Judge Tigar denied Ramey’s application for pro hac vice admission in a separate case, CyboEnergy Inc. v. Netflix Inc., ruling that Ramey had been practicing law in California without a state bar license. Additionally, Ramey has faced scrutiny over his firm’s handling of multiple patent cases in California without proper licensure, leading to questions about his compliance with state ethical standards .
The case, Valjakka v. Netflix Inc., continues to unfold, with potential implications for the intersection of patent law, litigation funding, and the protection of confidential business information.
technology
Apple Patent Hints at Future Mac Devices with Gesture Control and Interactive Projection Surfaces
Apple Inc. has been granted a new patent that reveals ambitious plans to revolutionize how users interact with its computing devices. The patent outlines technology that could transform future MacBooks, iMacs, Magic Mouse, and Magic Keyboards by embedding a range of advanced sensors and projection systems. These innovations aim to enable gesture-based control, enhanced spatial awareness, and interactive visual displays projected onto nearby surfaces.
A New Era of Gesture-Driven Input
At the core of the patent is the integration of gesture recognition capabilities that go beyond current trackpads and touch input. According to the document, the proposed system will utilize a combination of position sensors, light sources, and image sensors to determine the precise location and motion of a device such as a mouse or keyboard. These sensors would not only track device movement on a surface but also interpret hand and finger gestures made in the air near the device.
Apple envisions using technologies such as visible and infrared cameras, capacitive sensors, ultrasonic modules, and accelerometers to recognize and interpret three-dimensional gestures. This would allow users to perform tasks by simply moving their hands above or beside the device, offering a touchless control experience. Such an approach could be particularly useful for accessibility, creative applications, or sterile environments where physical contact should be minimized.
Turning Surfaces into Smart Interfaces
One of the most striking features detailed in the patent is the use of miniature projectors embedded within devices like the MacBook or Magic Mouse. These projectors would be capable of casting virtual elements—such as labeled keys, buttons, or other UI elements—onto nearby surfaces. The projected images could then be interacted with through gestures or taps, effectively expanding the device’s interface beyond its physical form.
This concept has the potential to transform an ordinary desk into an extended digital workspace. For instance, a user could have projected function keys beside their MacBook that respond to finger taps or swipes, creating a dynamic, context-sensitive input surface.
Intelligent Feedback and Enhanced Input Detection
Apple’s design also includes the use of haptic feedback components that respond to user gestures. When a user interacts with the projected interface or moves their fingers along sensor-equipped sidewalls, haptic actuators could provide tactile responses to simulate button presses or surface texture changes.
In addition, embedded accelerometers may detect subtle vibrations transmitted through surfaces when users tap or move their fingers. This data could further refine gesture recognition, enabling high-precision input even on non-traditional interaction planes.
Implications for Future Apple Devices
The patent suggests that this technology could be applied across various Apple products, with particular emphasis on peripherals like the Magic Mouse and Keyboard, as well as the MacBook and iMac lines. By transforming passive input devices into intelligent, gesture-aware, and surface-interactive tools, Apple is laying the groundwork for a new user experience paradigm.
While the company has not officially announced any product using this technology, the patent signals Apple’s continued exploration of spatial computing and immersive interfaces. If implemented, this system could mark a significant step toward seamless, intuitive control across both 2D and 3D input environments.
Looking Ahead
This patent complements Apple’s broader efforts in augmented reality, wearable tech, and spatial computing—an area gaining traction with devices like Vision Pro. As Apple moves to unify its ecosystem with richer, more natural user interactions, the concepts in this patent may soon move from paper to product.
Disclaimer: While patents offer a glimpse into future product directions, not all patented technologies make it into commercial products. However, Apple’s consistent investment in gesture-based and sensor-driven innovations makes this development one to watch.
Unilin Technologies Secures European Patent for Groundbreaking Osiris Wood Recycling Technology
Unilin Technologies, the intellectual property division of Unilin, has been awarded European patent EP 4114629 for its pioneering Osiris recycling technology. This patent marks a significant milestone in the company’s mission to foster circular practices in the wood industry and reflects Unilin’s ongoing investment in sustainable innovation.
The patented Osiris system represents the first industrial-scale technology capable of recycling fiberboards—a long-standing challenge in the wood-based panel industry. Historically, the composite structure of fiberboards, which combines wood fibers with adhesives and resins, made them difficult to disassemble and therefore unfit for effective recycling. As a result, these boards typically ended up in landfills or were incinerated, contributing to environmental degradation.
With Osiris, Unilin has developed a scalable and practical solution to this issue. The technology enables the efficient separation of wood fibers from waste fiberboards, which can then be reintegrated with virgin wood to manufacture new fiberboards. This process not only reduces waste but also conserves natural resources by decreasing reliance on fresh wood material.
The Osiris technology is exclusively offered for licensing by Unilin Technologies in partnership with Dieffenbacher, a leading provider of wood-based panel production systems.
“We are proud to receive this patent, which underscores the innovation behind Osiris and the impact it can have on the sustainability of the fiberboard industry,” said a spokesperson from Unilin Technologies. “Our goal is to create real-world solutions that allow manufacturers to reduce their environmental footprint while maintaining high production standards.”
The granting of this European patent further strengthens Unilin’s intellectual property portfolio and opens the door for wider adoption of circular technologies across the board manufacturing sector. With global attention increasingly focused on sustainable production methods, Osiris offers a viable path forward for companies seeking to align with environmental targets without compromising efficiency or quality.
The patented Osiris system represents the first industrial-scale technology capable of recycling fiberboards—a long-standing challenge in the wood-based panel industry. Historically, the composite structure of fiberboards, which combines wood fibers with adhesives and resins, made them difficult to disassemble and therefore unfit for effective recycling. As a result, these boards typically ended up in landfills or were incinerated, contributing to environmental degradation.
With Osiris, Unilin has developed a scalable and practical solution to this issue. The technology enables the efficient separation of wood fibers from waste fiberboards, which can then be reintegrated with virgin wood to manufacture new fiberboards. This process not only reduces waste but also conserves natural resources by decreasing reliance on fresh wood material.
The Osiris technology is exclusively offered for licensing by Unilin Technologies in partnership with Dieffenbacher, a leading provider of wood-based panel production systems.
“We are proud to receive this patent, which underscores the innovation behind Osiris and the impact it can have on the sustainability of the fiberboard industry,” said a spokesperson from Unilin Technologies. “Our goal is to create real-world solutions that allow manufacturers to reduce their environmental footprint while maintaining high production standards.”
The granting of this European patent further strengthens Unilin’s intellectual property portfolio and opens the door for wider adoption of circular technologies across the board manufacturing sector. With global attention increasingly focused on sustainable production methods, Osiris offers a viable path forward for companies seeking to align with environmental targets without compromising efficiency or quality.
Navigating the Genomics Revolution: The Evolving Role of Intellectual Property Protection
More than two decades after the landmark announcement of the Human Genome Project’s completion in 2003, the field of genomics is undergoing a profound transformation. What began as a focus on decoding linear DNA sequences has expanded into a multidisciplinary understanding of the genome’s structural and functional complexity. This includes insights into protein folding, post-translational modifications like glycosylation, and the critical functions of non-coding DNA segments once dismissed as “junk,” such as introns.
In healthcare, personalized medicine, pharmacogenomics, and CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing are transitioning from research to real-world application. Genomic research is also driving the development of disease-resistant crops in agriculture and, in the biotech industry, is converging with artificial intelligence (AI) to accelerate innovations like next-generation sequencing and data interpretation.
This rapid evolution brings renewed focus on how intellectual property (IP) laws can safeguard innovation while keeping pace with scientific complexity. A strategic approach to IP is essential to protect genomics-related breakthroughs across multiple domains.
Patents: The Traditional Tool — and Its Limitations
Utility patents remain a cornerstone of IP strategy in genomics. In the competitive life sciences market, such exclusivity can determine commercial viability. However, the scope of what is patentable, especially in the U.S., is becoming increasingly restrictive.
Key genomic discoveries — like isolated human genes — when naturally occurring, are not patentable under U.S. law. Similarly, diagnostic methods that link biomarkers with disease states often fall outside the scope of patent-eligible subject matter. AI-driven components, such as algorithms used to interpret genomic data, also face hurdles, as abstract ideas and software in isolation typically don’t qualify for patent protection.
Disclosure Challenges in Patent Law
Patents require inventors to fully disclose their invention. This becomes problematic when critical elements of an innovation — like proprietary algorithms or data models — aren’t patentable but are vital to the invention’s function. In such cases, companies may be reluctant to disclose sensitive information that could be exploited by competitors, forcing them to weigh the benefits of limited patent protection against the risk of exposing valuable trade secrets.
Trade Secrets: A Flexible but Fragile Option
When patenting isn’t viable or would reveal too much, trade secrets offer an alternative. This form of protection doesn’t require disclosure and isn’t limited by subject matter rules or duration, as long as the information remains confidential. Genomics-based innovations — such as algorithm development, data modeling, and experimental optimization — are well-suited to trade secret strategies.
However, trade secrets are vulnerable. A single leak — from an employee, partner, or regulatory disclosure — can irreversibly compromise protection. Therefore, robust internal controls, clear access policies, and legal safeguards are essential to maintain secrecy.
Copyright: Protecting the Expression of Genomic Insights
While traditionally associated with creative works, copyright law has found new relevance in the digital era. It now extends to software, source code, and potentially, some aspects of genomics-related data and algorithms. Unlike patents, copyright protects the expression of an idea, not the idea itself — which means competitors can replicate the core concept using different language or methods, provided they don’t copy the exact expression.
For genomics, copyright might apply to algorithmic code, databases, or visualization tools used in analyzing genetic data. However, it is a limited tool that works best in conjunction with other forms of IP protection.
Toward an Integrated IP Strategy for Genomics
As genomics continues to push scientific boundaries, no single form of IP protection is sufficient. A multi-layered approach is often required — combining patents for core inventions, trade secrets for proprietary methods or data, and copyright for software or data presentation.
Careful coordination is essential. Over-disclosure in a patent could undermine trade secret protection, while an overly secretive approach might prevent the grant of a meaningful patent. Developing a clear, strategic IP roadmap that aligns with scientific goals and commercial interests is critical for ensuring innovations are protected without sacrificing competitive advantage.
In healthcare, personalized medicine, pharmacogenomics, and CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing are transitioning from research to real-world application. Genomic research is also driving the development of disease-resistant crops in agriculture and, in the biotech industry, is converging with artificial intelligence (AI) to accelerate innovations like next-generation sequencing and data interpretation.
This rapid evolution brings renewed focus on how intellectual property (IP) laws can safeguard innovation while keeping pace with scientific complexity. A strategic approach to IP is essential to protect genomics-related breakthroughs across multiple domains.
Patents: The Traditional Tool — and Its Limitations
Utility patents remain a cornerstone of IP strategy in genomics. In the competitive life sciences market, such exclusivity can determine commercial viability. However, the scope of what is patentable, especially in the U.S., is becoming increasingly restrictive.
Key genomic discoveries — like isolated human genes — when naturally occurring, are not patentable under U.S. law. Similarly, diagnostic methods that link biomarkers with disease states often fall outside the scope of patent-eligible subject matter. AI-driven components, such as algorithms used to interpret genomic data, also face hurdles, as abstract ideas and software in isolation typically don’t qualify for patent protection.
Disclosure Challenges in Patent Law
Patents require inventors to fully disclose their invention. This becomes problematic when critical elements of an innovation — like proprietary algorithms or data models — aren’t patentable but are vital to the invention’s function. In such cases, companies may be reluctant to disclose sensitive information that could be exploited by competitors, forcing them to weigh the benefits of limited patent protection against the risk of exposing valuable trade secrets.
Trade Secrets: A Flexible but Fragile Option
When patenting isn’t viable or would reveal too much, trade secrets offer an alternative. This form of protection doesn’t require disclosure and isn’t limited by subject matter rules or duration, as long as the information remains confidential. Genomics-based innovations — such as algorithm development, data modeling, and experimental optimization — are well-suited to trade secret strategies.
However, trade secrets are vulnerable. A single leak — from an employee, partner, or regulatory disclosure — can irreversibly compromise protection. Therefore, robust internal controls, clear access policies, and legal safeguards are essential to maintain secrecy.
Copyright: Protecting the Expression of Genomic Insights
While traditionally associated with creative works, copyright law has found new relevance in the digital era. It now extends to software, source code, and potentially, some aspects of genomics-related data and algorithms. Unlike patents, copyright protects the expression of an idea, not the idea itself — which means competitors can replicate the core concept using different language or methods, provided they don’t copy the exact expression.
For genomics, copyright might apply to algorithmic code, databases, or visualization tools used in analyzing genetic data. However, it is a limited tool that works best in conjunction with other forms of IP protection.
Toward an Integrated IP Strategy for Genomics
As genomics continues to push scientific boundaries, no single form of IP protection is sufficient. A multi-layered approach is often required — combining patents for core inventions, trade secrets for proprietary methods or data, and copyright for software or data presentation.
Careful coordination is essential. Over-disclosure in a patent could undermine trade secret protection, while an overly secretive approach might prevent the grant of a meaningful patent. Developing a clear, strategic IP roadmap that aligns with scientific goals and commercial interests is critical for ensuring innovations are protected without sacrificing competitive advantage.
Conduit Pharmaceuticals Receives Additional Patent Approval for Lead Autoimmune Disease Asset
Conduit Pharmaceuticals Inc. (NASDAQ: CDT), a biopharmaceutical company focused on developing treatments for autoimmune and inflammatory diseases, announced today that it has received further patent approval for its lead therapeutic asset targeting autoimmune conditions. The newly granted patent strengthens the company’s intellectual property portfolio and provides added protection for its innovative approach to treating autoimmune diseases such as sarcoidosis and lupus.
The patent, issued by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), covers key methods of use and compositions relating to Conduit’s investigational drug, which is designed to modulate the immune response in patients with chronic autoimmune disorders. According to company officials, the approval not only broadens the existing patent family but also enhances the commercial potential of the lead compound as it advances through clinical development.
“This new patent grant is a major milestone for Conduit Pharmaceuticals, as it secures crucial proprietary rights over our lead autoimmune asset,” said Dr. David Tapolczay, Chief Executive Officer of Conduit Pharmaceuticals. “Our mission is to bring safe and effective treatments to patients suffering from complex autoimmune conditions, and this patent approval is a significant step forward in protecting the innovation that underpins our approach.”
The company’s lead asset, originally acquired from a major pharmaceutical partner, has demonstrated promising results in preclinical and early clinical studies. The drug works by selectively targeting pathways involved in the overactive immune response characteristic of autoimmune diseases, while minimizing systemic immunosuppression.
Conduit Pharmaceuticals has emphasized its strategy of revitalizing underutilized assets from larger pharmaceutical companies and accelerating them through late-stage development. The expanded patent protection ensures a longer runway for exclusivity, which could facilitate future licensing agreements or commercial partnerships.
Industry analysts view the patent approval as a positive development that enhances Conduit’s valuation and strengthens its position in the competitive autoimmune drug market, projected to surpass $150 billion globally by 2030.
The company plans to continue progressing its lead candidate through clinical trials, with additional updates expected later this year regarding regulatory filings and potential Phase 2 study initiations.
For more information, visit www.conduitpharma.com.
Agfa Loses Patent Dispute Against Gucci Over Leather Decoration Method
Printing technology company Agfa has filed a patent infringement lawsuit against luxury fashion house Gucci, alleging unauthorized use of its patented method for decorating natural leather. The legal battle centered on Agfa’s European patent EP 3 388 490, which covers a process for embellishing leather surfaces with decorative images—a technique the company considers vital to its future innovation strategy.
The dispute specifically involved Gucci’s Pikarar Collection, which Agfa claimed employed its patented method without authorization. However, the Local Division of the Unified Patent Court (UPC) in Hamburg dismissed both Agfa’s infringement claim and Gucci’s counterclaim for patent invalidation (Case ID: ACT_561734/2023).
Presiding Judge Sabine Klepsch and her panel deemed both the infringement action and the revocation counterclaim admissible, but ultimately ruled against both parties. The court’s decision was based on a detailed analysis of the patent language, drawing on precedent established in earlier UPC rulings, such as the NanoString vs. 10x Genomics case. The court concluded that the interpretation of certain terms in the patent should differ from their conventional meanings, resulting in a finding of no infringement on Gucci’s part.
This case marks the first time a luxury fashion brand has been involved in litigation before the newly established Unified Patent Court. The ruling offers some relief to the fashion industry, although Agfa still has the option to appeal.
Agfa was represented by a legal team jointly led by Daan de Lange of the Netherlands and Kai Rüting of Germany. The case also marked the first major matter handled by Vossius Brinkhof UPC Litigators, a new collaboration between Dutch and German law firms. Other members of the legal team included Stefan Fickert, Ananda Landwehr, Leonie Dissmann-Fuchs, Elard Schenck zu Schweinsberg, Isabelle Kleinveld, and Alexander de Leeuw. Hans Louis Strijckers managed the case internally for Agfa.
Although the decision did not go in Agfa’s favor, the company’s aggressive defense of its patent portfolio signals its strategic focus on emerging technologies in leather decoration.
The dispute specifically involved Gucci’s Pikarar Collection, which Agfa claimed employed its patented method without authorization. However, the Local Division of the Unified Patent Court (UPC) in Hamburg dismissed both Agfa’s infringement claim and Gucci’s counterclaim for patent invalidation (Case ID: ACT_561734/2023).
Presiding Judge Sabine Klepsch and her panel deemed both the infringement action and the revocation counterclaim admissible, but ultimately ruled against both parties. The court’s decision was based on a detailed analysis of the patent language, drawing on precedent established in earlier UPC rulings, such as the NanoString vs. 10x Genomics case. The court concluded that the interpretation of certain terms in the patent should differ from their conventional meanings, resulting in a finding of no infringement on Gucci’s part.
This case marks the first time a luxury fashion brand has been involved in litigation before the newly established Unified Patent Court. The ruling offers some relief to the fashion industry, although Agfa still has the option to appeal.
Agfa was represented by a legal team jointly led by Daan de Lange of the Netherlands and Kai Rüting of Germany. The case also marked the first major matter handled by Vossius Brinkhof UPC Litigators, a new collaboration between Dutch and German law firms. Other members of the legal team included Stefan Fickert, Ananda Landwehr, Leonie Dissmann-Fuchs, Elard Schenck zu Schweinsberg, Isabelle Kleinveld, and Alexander de Leeuw. Hans Louis Strijckers managed the case internally for Agfa.
Although the decision did not go in Agfa’s favor, the company’s aggressive defense of its patent portfolio signals its strategic focus on emerging technologies in leather decoration.
AI Tools Accelerate Insights in CAR T-Cell Therapy Research for Multiple Myeloma
A research team focused on advancing chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapies has harnessed artificial intelligence tools to streamline data analysis and extract key insights in the field. Their work was highlighted as part of the late-breaking research presented at the 2025 American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) Annual Meeting in Chicago, Illinois.
The investigators explored the evolving landscape of CAR T-cell treatments for multiple myeloma (MM) by leveraging two AI-powered platforms: BiblioEngine, developed by 23Strands, and Cool.AF from Neural Hinge. These tools were used to mine publicly accessible clinical literature, with a focus on manufacturing methods, clinical trial structures, and therapeutic outcomes. The team also conducted a comprehensive review of related patent filings across jurisdictions including the United States, European Union, and India.
By utilizing AI-driven analytics, the researchers efficiently processed large volumes of data and identified emerging trends in how CAR T-cell therapies are developed and applied in real-world clinical settings. The tools enabled detailed comparisons between datasets, shedding light on factors influencing successful patent applications and highlighting the structure of collaborative networks among researchers in the field.
The analysis not only revealed current gaps in MM treatment strategies but also pointed to opportunities for future innovation and patent development. These findings are expected to guide more strategic clinical trial design and support intellectual property planning that avoids overlap with existing patents.
Moreover, the team’s work identified opportunities to foster new research partnerships by mapping the relationships among authors in the field, potentially expanding the collaborative network and accelerating progress in CAR T-cell therapy innovation.
The investigators explored the evolving landscape of CAR T-cell treatments for multiple myeloma (MM) by leveraging two AI-powered platforms: BiblioEngine, developed by 23Strands, and Cool.AF from Neural Hinge. These tools were used to mine publicly accessible clinical literature, with a focus on manufacturing methods, clinical trial structures, and therapeutic outcomes. The team also conducted a comprehensive review of related patent filings across jurisdictions including the United States, European Union, and India.
By utilizing AI-driven analytics, the researchers efficiently processed large volumes of data and identified emerging trends in how CAR T-cell therapies are developed and applied in real-world clinical settings. The tools enabled detailed comparisons between datasets, shedding light on factors influencing successful patent applications and highlighting the structure of collaborative networks among researchers in the field.
The analysis not only revealed current gaps in MM treatment strategies but also pointed to opportunities for future innovation and patent development. These findings are expected to guide more strategic clinical trial design and support intellectual property planning that avoids overlap with existing patents.
Moreover, the team’s work identified opportunities to foster new research partnerships by mapping the relationships among authors in the field, potentially expanding the collaborative network and accelerating progress in CAR T-cell therapy innovation.
Heron Therapeutics Reaches Patent Settlement with Mylan Over Cancer-Related Drugs
Heron Therapeutics, Inc. (NASDAQ: HRTX), a commercial-stage biopharmaceutical firm valued at approximately $324 million, has resolved ongoing patent litigation with Mylan Pharmaceuticals, Inc., a Viatris Inc. subsidiary.
Under the terms of the agreement, Heron has granted Mylan the right to begin selling generic alternatives to both drugs starting June 1, 2032. This resolution ends two separate legal proceedings filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of Delaware, which were initiated in September 2023 and January 2024 after Mylan sought FDA approval for generics ahead of the drugs’ patent expirations in 2035. As part of the agreement, both companies will ask the court to dismiss the lawsuits.
CINVANTI® and APONVIE® are formulations of the active ingredient aprepitant, used to prevent chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting. The deal allows for the possibility of an earlier launch of Mylan’s generics under standard conditions, although the formal market entry date remains set for 2032.
Heron, known for its focus on acute care and oncology-related treatments, continues to show signs of financial health and strategic growth. InvestingPro data shows a solid current ratio of 2.29, indicating strong short-term liquidity. The company has also reported a 13.57% increase in revenue over the last 12 months.
The patent settlement comes on the heels of a strong fourth quarter for Heron. The company reported adjusted earnings of $0.02 per share, outperforming analysts’ expectations of a $0.03 loss. Quarterly revenue reached $40.78 million—above the $37.3 million forecast—and reflected a 19.1% increase year-over-year. A significant contributor was ZYNRELEF, Heron’s pain management therapy, which brought in $8.5 million in Q4, up nearly 49% from the same period last year.
For the full year 2024, Heron posted total revenue of $144.2 million, a 13.6% increase compared to 2023. Looking ahead, the company projects 2025 revenues between $153 million and $163 million, in line with analyst expectations. Additionally, Heron estimates adjusted EBITDA between $0 and $8 million for the year.
In December 2024, the company expanded the label indications for ZYNRELEF and introduced a new vial access needle, further enhancing its product offerings. Heron closed the year with $59.3 million in cash and short-term investments, reinforcing its financial stability as it continues to grow its commercial footprint.
Under the terms of the agreement, Heron has granted Mylan the right to begin selling generic alternatives to both drugs starting June 1, 2032. This resolution ends two separate legal proceedings filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of Delaware, which were initiated in September 2023 and January 2024 after Mylan sought FDA approval for generics ahead of the drugs’ patent expirations in 2035. As part of the agreement, both companies will ask the court to dismiss the lawsuits.
CINVANTI® and APONVIE® are formulations of the active ingredient aprepitant, used to prevent chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting. The deal allows for the possibility of an earlier launch of Mylan’s generics under standard conditions, although the formal market entry date remains set for 2032.
Heron, known for its focus on acute care and oncology-related treatments, continues to show signs of financial health and strategic growth. InvestingPro data shows a solid current ratio of 2.29, indicating strong short-term liquidity. The company has also reported a 13.57% increase in revenue over the last 12 months.
The patent settlement comes on the heels of a strong fourth quarter for Heron. The company reported adjusted earnings of $0.02 per share, outperforming analysts’ expectations of a $0.03 loss. Quarterly revenue reached $40.78 million—above the $37.3 million forecast—and reflected a 19.1% increase year-over-year. A significant contributor was ZYNRELEF, Heron’s pain management therapy, which brought in $8.5 million in Q4, up nearly 49% from the same period last year.
For the full year 2024, Heron posted total revenue of $144.2 million, a 13.6% increase compared to 2023. Looking ahead, the company projects 2025 revenues between $153 million and $163 million, in line with analyst expectations. Additionally, Heron estimates adjusted EBITDA between $0 and $8 million for the year.
In December 2024, the company expanded the label indications for ZYNRELEF and introduced a new vial access needle, further enhancing its product offerings. Heron closed the year with $59.3 million in cash and short-term investments, reinforcing its financial stability as it continues to grow its commercial footprint.
Baidu Explores AI Technology to Decode Animal Communication
Ever wondered what your cat’s meows actually mean? Chinese tech giant Baidu is aiming to bridge the communication gap between humans and animals with the help of artificial intelligence.
The proposed technology would combine data on animal vocalizations, behavioral cues, and bodily responses, then process this information using AI to identify emotional states. These emotional indicators would subsequently be translated into semantic content understandable by humans.
Baidu’s patent describes the project as a step toward “deeper emotional communication and understanding between animals and humans,” potentially making cross-species interaction more accurate and efficient. While the concept has captured public interest, the company has clarified that the system remains in the research phase.
This effort is part of Baidu’s broader strategy to lead in AI innovation. The company has been investing heavily in artificial intelligence since the rise of OpenAI’s ChatGPT in 2022. Baidu recently introduced its advanced AI model, Ernie 4.5 Turbo, claiming it performs at the top tier across industry benchmarks. Despite these advancements, Baidu’s chatbot offerings have faced challenges in gaining widespread user adoption due to intense competition.
Globally, Baidu is not alone in its quest to decode animal language. Projects like CETI (Cetacean Translation Initiative), launched in 2020, are working to interpret the complex communication of sperm whales using AI and statistical models. Meanwhile, the Earth Species Project, founded in 2017 and backed by tech figures like LinkedIn co-founder Reid Hoffman, is also using artificial intelligence to analyze animal communication across various species.
While the dream of talking to animals like a real-life Dr. Dolittle remains a long-term goal, advances like Baidu’s patent hint at a future where technology could help us better understand the emotional and communicative world of animals.
The proposed technology would combine data on animal vocalizations, behavioral cues, and bodily responses, then process this information using AI to identify emotional states. These emotional indicators would subsequently be translated into semantic content understandable by humans.
Baidu’s patent describes the project as a step toward “deeper emotional communication and understanding between animals and humans,” potentially making cross-species interaction more accurate and efficient. While the concept has captured public interest, the company has clarified that the system remains in the research phase.
This effort is part of Baidu’s broader strategy to lead in AI innovation. The company has been investing heavily in artificial intelligence since the rise of OpenAI’s ChatGPT in 2022. Baidu recently introduced its advanced AI model, Ernie 4.5 Turbo, claiming it performs at the top tier across industry benchmarks. Despite these advancements, Baidu’s chatbot offerings have faced challenges in gaining widespread user adoption due to intense competition.
Globally, Baidu is not alone in its quest to decode animal language. Projects like CETI (Cetacean Translation Initiative), launched in 2020, are working to interpret the complex communication of sperm whales using AI and statistical models. Meanwhile, the Earth Species Project, founded in 2017 and backed by tech figures like LinkedIn co-founder Reid Hoffman, is also using artificial intelligence to analyze animal communication across various species.
While the dream of talking to animals like a real-life Dr. Dolittle remains a long-term goal, advances like Baidu’s patent hint at a future where technology could help us better understand the emotional and communicative world of animals.
DCRUST Researcher Secures Patent for Energy-Efficient Clay Cooler
Mukesh Kumar, a research scholar from the Mechanical Engineering Department at Deenbandhu Chhotu Ram University of Science and Technology (DCRUST), Murthal, has developed an innovative clay-based cooler that uses only half the electricity of conventional air coolers. This eco-friendly invention has now been granted a patent by the Central Government’s Patent Office.
The energy-efficient cooler was developed under the guidance of Prof. Amit Sharma, Associate Professor in the same department. The project was recently recognized at the university, where Vice-Chancellor Prof. Prakash Singh honored both Mukesh Kumar and Prof. Sharma for their contribution to sustainable technology.
Prof. Singh highlighted the importance of research in enhancing the academic standing of universities and praised the clay cooler as an initiative aligned with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, especially those focusing on affordable and clean energy solutions.
This innovation not only represents a step forward in green technology but also holds socio-economic promise. By involving traditional potter communities in the production process, it can potentially improve their livelihoods and create new employment opportunities. The biodegradable nature of the cooler ensures it leaves no harmful residue, contributing positively to environmental sustainability.
Describing the project as a blend of innovation and environmental responsibility, Prof. Sharma said the cooler utilizes the natural cooling properties of soil to deliver efficiency and eco-friendliness. He also emphasized its potential to support the government’s Make in India campaign by fostering domestic innovation and production.
The development of the cooler involved extensive testing and experimentation. Mukesh Kumar collected soil samples from various states. After rigorous trials, soil from Sohna, Haryana, was selected as the most suitable material. Despite facing over a hundred failed attempts, Kumar’s persistence paid off with a working model that is both practical and environmentally conscious.
This breakthrough demonstrates how traditional materials, combined with modern engineering, can lead to sustainable solutions with real-world impact.
The energy-efficient cooler was developed under the guidance of Prof. Amit Sharma, Associate Professor in the same department. The project was recently recognized at the university, where Vice-Chancellor Prof. Prakash Singh honored both Mukesh Kumar and Prof. Sharma for their contribution to sustainable technology.
Prof. Singh highlighted the importance of research in enhancing the academic standing of universities and praised the clay cooler as an initiative aligned with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, especially those focusing on affordable and clean energy solutions.
This innovation not only represents a step forward in green technology but also holds socio-economic promise. By involving traditional potter communities in the production process, it can potentially improve their livelihoods and create new employment opportunities. The biodegradable nature of the cooler ensures it leaves no harmful residue, contributing positively to environmental sustainability.
Describing the project as a blend of innovation and environmental responsibility, Prof. Sharma said the cooler utilizes the natural cooling properties of soil to deliver efficiency and eco-friendliness. He also emphasized its potential to support the government’s Make in India campaign by fostering domestic innovation and production.
The development of the cooler involved extensive testing and experimentation. Mukesh Kumar collected soil samples from various states. After rigorous trials, soil from Sohna, Haryana, was selected as the most suitable material. Despite facing over a hundred failed attempts, Kumar’s persistence paid off with a working model that is both practical and environmentally conscious.
This breakthrough demonstrates how traditional materials, combined with modern engineering, can lead to sustainable solutions with real-world impact.