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What's in a Patent?

Jun 04, 2009

The Supreme Court says that it'll look into Bilski v. Doll, says Science Insider. Bernard Bilski and Rand Warsaw's patent application for a business model was rejected -- the model was for "hedging bets in the commodities market" -- because the invention wasn't concrete enough. Hans Sauer, a patent counsel for the Biotechnology Industry Organization, says that though the decision isn't directly tied to biotech, it may still have an effect if the Supreme Court tightens the definition of what is patentable.

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The Scan

US Booster Eligibility Decision

The US CDC director recommends that people at high risk of developing COVID-19 due to their jobs also be eligible for COVID-19 boosters, in addition to those 65 years old and older or with underlying medical conditions.

Arizona Bill Before Judge

The Arizona Daily Star reports that a judge is weighing whether a new Arizona law restricting abortion due to genetic conditions is a ban or a restriction.

Additional Genes

Wales is rolling out new genetic testing service for cancer patients, according to BBC News.

Science Papers Examine State of Human Genomic Research, Single-Cell Protein Quantification

In Science this week: a number of editorials and policy reports discuss advances in human genomic research, and more.