NETWORKS

ISSUE 1
T h e S c i e n c e E n g i n e e r i n g & Te c h n o l o g y M a g a z i n e

6 W
NT I
ER
ICINE
20
D
V E ME
10

A T I
R
E NE
R EG
D
AN
LS
EL
C
EM
ST
E’
G
AN
CH
AL
NT
ME
ON
VIR
EN
E TO
RABL
T I G E R S ‘ H I G H LY V U L N E

Encouraging
innovation and
investment.
We are here to help businesses invest, grow and
expand throughout County Durham.
That’s why we’re driving forward the development of
NETPark and NETPark Net – to ensure that the perfect
environment is in place to help science and technology
companies grow and flourish.
To find out more about how we can help your
business grow in County Durham, visit:
www.wherebusinessgrows.com
or call us on: 0191 370 8680
where business grows
FOREWORD
NETWorks reports on the very latest science and technology news, putting
discoveries and advances in the context of everyday life – showcasing the
scientific excellence of County Durham and the North East.
I heard a piece on radio recently where someone remarked that we’ve moved from ‘I think,
therefore I am’ to ‘I consume, therefore I am’.
Like many soundbites it’s a bit of a generalisation, but there’s no doubting that there are
environmental issues surrounding a consumer-driven economy.
Many of us aren’t really cut out for the ‘Good Life’ – for a Tom and Barbara return to the
pursuit of self-sufficiency. We need our ‘fix’ of gadgets, we really mean to walk to the shops,
but it’s raining and the car’s just a step away. And the economy needs us to want the latest
products, doesn’t it?
So, as we’re not likely to give up the car, or our hankering for HD or ipads, we need to invest
in educating people about more sustainable ways of producing, using, and disposing of the
results of our technological advances.
That’s one of the major themes we’re examining in this issue of NETWorks. We look at
sustainability intitiatives that Durham County Council is pursuing; and we highlight Solar Flair
10, the national photovoltaics conference that, in conjunction with the Electronics, Sensors
and Photonics Knowledge Transfer Network, took place recently in County Durham.
With some of the planets truly innovative photovoltaic (PV) technology on show, the event
offered a great opportunity for delegates to learn how to get involved in the solar power
supply chain in a sector where business can contribute to a more sustainable world and
make profits.
We also look at our very own Project C - a programme of activities and events from 2010 to
2012 designed to communicate with the regional community and to heighten awareness of,
and enthusiasm for, the ground-breaking work undertaken by companies based at NETPark.
You can read about developments at NETPark, about world-class university research and
about how innovative companies in County Durham and throughout the north east are
discovering smarter processes and more efficient products.
Read on, and like me you might find that ‘I consume in a sustainable way, therefore I am’ is a
more appropriate aphorism for the times in which we live.
Stewart Watkins
Managing Director, County Durham Development Company (CDDC)
CDDC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Durham County Council, encourages innovation and
strategic investment in the County and is driving the development of the North East Technology
Park (NETPark) and the virtual innovation environment NETPark Net.
NETWorks is published by Distinctive Publishing Ltd, Aidan House,
Sunderland Road, Gateshead, Tyne and Wear NE8 3HU
Telephone 0191 4788300
Managing Director John Neilson
Creative Director Martin Williamson
For all enquiries including editorial, subscription and
advertising please contact Distinctive Publishing.
With thanks to all our contributors.
 T
O JEC
PR
R
O

T
Where brilliant

EC
NN
N E T PA R K C O
ideas grow.
THE .
07
CONTENTS
06. NEWS & EVENTS...NOT TO BE MISSED
07. THE NETPARK CONNECTOR PROJECT
08. SOLAR PV - YOUR QUESTIONS, ANSWERED
09. FROM SCIENCE 2 BUSINESS...AS EASY AS ABC
10. DEVELOPMENT OF LOW CARBON PLANT UNDER WAY
11. NEW OFFSHORE WIND TURBINE FOUNDATION DESIGN
22

12. NE FIRMS CAPITALISE ON SOLAR POTENTIAL

. ST

15. INVESTING IN INNOVATION

EM C

16. APPROVAL GIVEN FOR ONSHORE TEST RIGS

17. FIRST SWITCH EV CARS HIT THE ROAD IN NE ENGLAND
ELLS AND REGENE

18. MAJOR BREAKTHROUGH ON OFFSHORE WIND DEVELOPMENT

19. SCIENTISTS HELP SHAPE A GREEN FUTURE FOR EGYPT
21. FAMILY FOOD SUPPORT INSPIRES SOFTWARE SUCCESS
22. STEM CELLS AND REGENERATIVE MEDICINE
23. BRINGING SCIENCE TO LIFE
24. SUPPORTING SCIENCE AND HEALTHCARE COMPANIES
25. DRIVING INNOVATION IN HEALTHCARE AND WELLBEING
R AT

26. ‘EASI’ ACCESS TO NATIONAL CLIENTS

IVE

27. THE KING’S FUND RESPONSE TO THE SPENDING REVIEW

ME

28. ROOM TO GROW AT NETPARK The NETPark Incubator doesn’t just provide space to work, it provides a total-support
DI

29. IMPROVING THE WAY IN WHICH BREAST CANCER IS DETECTED environment in which science and technology businesses can develop and grow.
C
IN

31. €2M SECURED FOR POINT OF NEED DIAGNOSTICS

If your business is based on the research, design and development of new
E

32. EXPLOSIVE RESEARCH CASTS NEW LIGHT ON SUPERNOVAS

technologies, and displays the potential and ambition for growth through
33. IMPROVED TESTING METHOD FOR AUTISM
34. TEST COULD PROVIDE ADVANCED WARNING OF EARTHQUAKES
innovation, then why not join us? If you have a product to develop, we’ll help you
35. THAT’S YOUR LOT! turn it into a business.
36. RECRUITMENT COMPANY SUPPORTS BUSINESS EXPANSION To find out more, visit us at:
37.
38.
BREAKING THAT AWKWARD SILENCE
TIGERS AND POLAR BEARS ‘HIGHLY VULNERABLE’
www.NorthEastTechnologyPark.com
39. CASTING LIGHT ON A DISTANT GALAXY Or contact us at:
32. EXPLOSI The NETPark Incubator, Thomas Wright Way, Sedgefield, County Durham TS21 3FD
VE
RE e-mail: netpark@wherebusinessgrows.com
S
NETPark enquiries: +44 (0)1740 625180
EA
RC
H
CA

NETPark is developed by:

STS NEW LIG

INCUBATOR
HT
O
N

where business grows

S

UP
ER
NO
VA S
 NEWS & EVENTS...
NOT TO BE MISSED
2009 CARBON EMISSIONS FALL SMALLER THAN EXPECTED
An analysis of 2009 emissions data issued in the journal Nature
Geoscience shows that carbon emissions fell in 2009 due to the
recession.
However, at 1.3% the figure is below the projected level.
Industrialised nations saw big falls in emissions - but major
developing countries saw a continued rise.
NUCLEAR “BATTERIES” FOR COMMERCIAL TANKERS?
New designs that could deliver safer, cleaner and commercially
viable forms of propulsion for the global merchant fleet are
high on the agenda. A consortium which brings together British,
American and Greek interests is to look at the possibilities of small
modular reactors (SMRs).
The Strategic Research Group at Lloyd’s Register, Hyperion
Power Generation Inc., British designer BMT Nigel Gee, and
Greek ship operator Enterprises Shipping and Trading SA are to
lead the research into nuclear propulsion, which they believe
is technically feasible and could drastically reduce the CO2
emissions caused by commercial shipping.
SCOTLAND PUBLISHES ITS LOW CARBON ECONOMIC STRATEGY
November saw the launch of the Scottish Government’s plans
to utilise Scotland’s natural resources in a way that will ensure
economic growth, cut emissions and secure an estimated 60,000
new green jobs.
The low-carbon economy strategy is built around the
development of low carbon goods, processes and services in
NETPARK NET CLINIC SCHEDULE 2011 – FIRST QUARTER
DATE SESSION EXPERT COMPANY TOPIC
25th Jan 2011 Joanna Berry & Paul Watson Inkspot Cloud Computing – benefits to your company?
1 Feb 2011
st
Nick Edgar IP Group Access to Equity Finance
8 Feb 2011
th
Martin Vinsome UDL IP advice for your business
22nd Feb 2011 Sean Robson Nimis Tendering for opportunities and winning contracts
8th Mar 2011 Esteban Chaparro Centre for Process Industries Commercialising your high-tech opportunities
22nd Mar 2011 Bruce Watson Northumbria University Design expertise for high growth businesses
THE SCIENCE ENGINEERING & TECHNOLOGY MAGAZINE
rapidly expanding markets. It aims to focus public sector support
on low-carbon industries whilst forging new private sector and
international partnerships.
EUROPEAN COMMISSION RELEASES ENERGY STRATEGY TO 2020
November proved a popular month for energy strategies as
the European Commission (EC) presented its energy strategy
towards 2020, naming five top priorities, including creating a
pan-European integrated energy market and maintaining
European leadership in energy research and development.
“Energy 2020, A strategy for competitive, sustainable and secure
energy” sets the agenda for an EU energy summit to take place
next February.
SOLAR PV NEEDS A STABLE FRAMEWORK
In a response to ‘Energy 2020’, the European Photovoltaic
Industry Association (EPIA) says all necessary national support
instruments for renewable energy including solar photovoltaics
(PV) must be preserved.
LOW-CARBON ENERGY CAN MEET NEEDS BY 2050
The Risø Energy Report 9 lists a wide range of energy
technologies in the market with low or no emissions of
greenhouse gases, describing how several of these will be made
commercially available in the next decades.
The report predicts that, taken as a whole, energy sources with
low or no carbon emissions could easily cover the global energy
supply in 2050.
THE NETPARK
CONNECTOR PROJECT
Project C (C for Commercialisation, Collaboration and and a full and varied social programme to give students a
Communities), aims to embed innovation in local communities genuine experience of life in a university.
using NETPark - the North East Technology Park at Sedgefield - as a n A forensics project where students are challenged to analyse a
focus to build partnerships between the community, education, and crime scene using cutting-edge techniques.
businesses. The project is a joint initiative between Durham University
n A renewable energy project for students to explore developing
and the County Durham Development Company and is funded
technologies.
until at least the end of March 2012 to raise aspirations and increase
awareness of opportunities in science, engineering and technology.
COMMUNITIES PROGRAMMES
There are also opportunities for community groups, including family
SCHOOLS AND EXTENDED SCHOOLS PROGRAMME
and adult learners, to become involved in the NETPark Connector
In partnership with local schools and colleges, the project team has
activities. One-off special events such as NETPark’s summer
developed science and innovation workshops andactivities suitable
‘Brainwave’ event, evening ‘Appliance of Science’ workshops and
for KS3, 4 and post-16 students that can be delivered in schools.
holiday family science activities form part of the project. Science
These activities aim to engage pupils and enhance learning and
and books are being investigated in local libraries whilst a science-
include after-school science club sessions and workshops on topics
art project and workshops aiming to support parents/guardians in
including DNA, forensics, smart materials and electronics, as well as
supporting their children’s learning are in development.
business planning, transferrable skills development and invention
workshops.
LOOKING TO GET INVOLVED?
Special themed days can be run in school, at NETPark or at Durham
University including innovation days for foundation science students The project team are keen to develop partnerships with businesses
and ‘amazing materials’ days for KS3. and individuals, developing new projects and giving students and
community groups the opportunity to understand the contribution
Current school projects include: that local organisations are making in the commercialisation of
science and technology products and services.
n Full on futures, student-researched and organised science careers
events. As part of our drive to raise aspirations of young people across
n A science careers filming project to support Kinetick, NETPark’s County Durham to encourage their innovative flair and to support
website linking pupils with industry to address real business their entrepreneurial ambition, we are currently looking to recruit
challenges. volunteers to act as mentors to student groups, to be a judge in
our Business Planning Competition or to support STEM enrichment
n School science festivals for local communities.
activities in schools and colleges. If you are keen to share your
n Recharging the Earth, in collaboration with Sanyo in which students
knowledge, passion and experience to challenge young people,
develop materials to raise awareness of the science behind
to help raise their aspirations and to encourage their innovative
batteries and battery recycling, to encourage sustainable living and
flair and entrepreneurial ambition, we would welcome your
emphasize the potential of science to inform sustainable living.
involvement.
n A business planning competition primarily for Key Stage 4 students.
Please contact Lorraine Coghill on 0191 334 2331
n Scientists@work, a practical and competition-based project
- l.s.coghill@durham.ac.uk.
bringing teams of secondary (Year 12) or FE students into direct
contact with a working scientist.
n Summer schools/residential events providing unique opportunities
for students to benefit from innovative and challenging courses
7

SOLAR PV - YOUR
QUESTIONS, ANSWERED
A typical domestic Solar PV system could generate an income
of about £850 annually. For an initial layout of between £6-
10,000 payback could be achieved within 7 – 12 years.
Solar Photovoltaics (PV) work? They convert the energy
contained within the sun’s rays into DC electricity. The strength
of a PV cell is measured in kilowatt peak (kWp) - that’s the
amount of energy the cell generates in full sunlight. The greater
the intensity of light, the greater the level of electrical charge
generated.
What are the costs? A typical domestic solar PV systems costs
between £5000 - £7000 per kW. Most domestic systems range
from 1-2kW, therefore the cost should be in the range of £5000
- £14,000 fully installed. A roof integrated system will cost more
than panels placed on top of the roof, however if your roof
needs replacing this could provide a great opportunity to install
an integrated solar system.
What are the savings? The government have recently
introduced the Feed in Tariff. The scheme requires energy
suppliers to make regular payments to householders and
communities who generate their own electricity from
renewable technologies, it will benefit the generator in 3 ways:
1. Generation tariff – a set rate paid by the energy supplier for
each unit (or kWh) of electricity you generate and once you
join you will continue on the same tariff for 25 years in the case
of solar electricity (PV). This could mean a system is paid for in
10 years but continues at a higher rate for the remaining 15.
THE SCIENCE ENGINEERING & TECHNOLOGY MAGAZINE
2. Export tariff – you will receive a further 3p/kWh from your
energy supplier for each unit you export back to the electricity
grid. The export rate is the same for all technologies.
3. Energy bill savings – you will be making savings on your
electricity bills, because generating electricity to power your
appliances means you don’t have to buy as much electricity
from your energy supplier. The amount you save will vary
depending how much of the electricity you use on site.
Stand alone systems or grid connected? In some areas there
may not be an option to connect to the grid. In such cases a
Solar PV will generate electricity straight in to your building or via
a battery system. Even if you are off - grid, you will still be eligible
to receive a generation tariff at the rate 29.3p/kWh. If your
system is not fitted directly to a building but electricity generated
is wired back to the building to be used on site, then you will be
eligible to receive the tariff rate (see www.est.org.uk).
Is your roof strong enough? Solar panels are not particularly
heavy, however the roof must be strong enough to take their
weight, especially if the panel is placed on top of existing tiles.
If in doubt, ask a construction expert or an installer. They can
also be installed on a garage roof or the ground.
How do I find an installer? In all cases, installers should be
Microgeneration Certification Scheme certified installers
(information overleaf), otherwise you will not be able to claim
the Feed in Tariff. As in all situations ensure you secure at least
three quotes.
FROM SCIENCE 2 BUSINESS
...AS EASY AS ABC
An innovative project looking into potential bio-mass materials The North East of England Process Industry Cluster’s Technical
is close to conclusion, and Teesside University’s Science 2 Manager, Mark Lewis, explains, ‘The range covers key bulk
Business (S2B) Hub is keen to spread the word about the future chemicals such as ethylene and ammonia which provide
of low carbon manufacturing in the region. fertilisers and base materials for everyday living in the UK.
But it also looks at speciality chemicals such as styrene and
The Assessing Biomass to Chemicals (ABC) Project, sponsored
propylene glycol which also have an important job to do in
by DEFRA and DECC through the Renewable Materials LINK
meeting specific needs of society.’
Programme, is assessing the commercially sound conversion of
biomass to chemicals. Eight representative industrial chemical The consortium considered sources likely to be plentiful,
products have been investigated to assess methods of competitively priced and not competing for use of agricultural
producing chemicals sustainably. land needed to supply the food chain. Its ultimate aim is to
achieve a practical understanding about which industrial
The conversion of biomass to chemicals is vital to the future of
chemicals could be manufactured most cost-effectively from
many industries, as developing ways of reducing the usage of
the biomass types under examination.
fossil fuels in chemical production becomes more critical.
With the source bio-material defined, the project is looking
The S2B Hub’s Project Manager, Dr Roy Huzzard, understands
at possible manufacturing routes. It is also addressing two
the importance of such projects. He said, ‘Innovation doesn’t
fundamentally different processing principles – thermochemistry
just happen! Science using companies from the North East
and fermentation – which offer potential and justify
must be made aware of excellent collaborative projects like
examination. It expects to have a listing of possible routings and
this, so they have the knowledge and confidence to make a
an insight into associated costs in the near future.
start. That’s where we come in. S2B helps create projects and
innovative solutions to help businesses meet the economic and Finally, the project will investigate future scenarios to assess and
technological challenges that lie ahead.’ optimise when a cross-over might be economically attractive
from oil-based manufacturing.
Teesside University, led by Professor Maria Olea, alongside
the universities of Newcastle and Surrey have drawn on the Find out more about the Science 2 Business Hub and their work
expertise of seven front-line industrial partners – AkzoNobel, with companies in the North East, visit www.tees.ac.uk/s2b.
GrowHow, Scott Bader, Jacobs Engineering, Graphite
Resources, Link2Energy together with recent member Invista, to
explore a wide range of possible bio-mass material. Wood chip,
municipal waste and cereal/cereal waste have been identified
as most suited to its needs.
9

DEVELOPMENT OF LOW
CARBON PLANT UNDER WAY
Work has started on a unique new low-carbon technology that
generates electricity using waste heat from industrial sites in
North East England.
The DRD Power project will be demonstrated at the Huntsman
Pigments site at Greatham, Hartlepool, using hot water from
the plant to generate up to 200kW electricity - saving between
600 and 750 tonnes of CO2 per year.
Stuart Johnson, Site Development Manager at Huntsman
said: “We are very pleased to host the trial of this cutting-
edge technology on our site. It demonstrates our continuing
commitment to develop sustainable, energy efficient
manufacturing and to reducing our impact on the
environment.”
The Organic Rankine Cycle (ORC) unit will use waste water
from the plant to heat a fluid with a lower boiling point, and
the resulting pressure drives a generator. The unit is capable
of recovering low-grade heat (between 90-130°C) generated
by the process industries which is currently emitted to the
atmosphere.
This £1m project is due to be operational by March 2011 and
has received £248,000 investment from One North East through
the Tees Valley Industrial Programme.
THE SCIENCE ENGINEERING & TECHNOLOGY MAGAZINE
As well as being used for waste heat recovery at process
plants, the ORC technology could be used at industrial sites
including refineries, petrochemical complexes, steel works,
cement works, paper mills and as part of biomass, CHP and
waste-to-energy plants.
Ian Williams, Director of Business and Industry at One North
East, said: “The technology that DRD Power is developing is
highly innovative, has the potential to be applied in a range
of other areas and will clearly increase the efficiency of plant
operations, leading to lower carbon emissions and lower
energy costs.
“Should this pilot prove successful, the ORC unit will be of great
interest to businesses throughout the region, allowing North
East England to gain a competitive advantage and to further
strengthen our reputation as a centre of innovation and a
leader in developing the low carbon economy.”
* The Tees Valley Industrial Programme (TVIP) is a £60m investment over
the next two years from One North East and the Department for Business,
Innovation and Skills (BIS) to support
NEW OFFSHORE WIND
TURBINE FOUNDATION DESIGN
A proposed novel
It is anticipated that the market for offshore turbines will design of wind
significantly outstrip the current manufacturing capacity. tower foundation,
A consortium of companies from the Northern Way region fabricated from
are examining a new and innovative fabrication process for flat plate. This multi-
offshore wind turbine foundations which has the potential to facetted approach
allow the necessary production capacity to be met. to fabrication has the
potential to meet the
Several foundation concepts are being considered for the
increasing capacity
next generation of offshore turbines, including monopiles,
for wind farms at a
tripods and braced jacket structures. All are manufactured
reduced cost.
from tubular steel sections. Typically, these are fabricated by
rolling thick plate and welding longitudinally to produce cans
Each segment of the multi-
and then joining the sections together with circumferential
faceted foundation could
welds. Rolling thick plate (>100mm) requires heavy rolls
be in excess of 10 metres
and hence high capital investment, limiting the number
in length, whereas using
of facilities capable of carrying out the process. It is also a
conventional manufacturing
time consuming operation and the length of each ring is
methods each ring is 3-4m
restricted by the width of the rolls and plates, commonly
long. Consequently, the new
to 3-4 metres. The novel multi-faceted design proposed
design reduces the number
in this work is fabricated from strips of flat plate welded
of circumferential welds
together longitudinally, hence eliminating the rolling step.
necessary to be made on-site.
This allows sub-assemblies of greater than 10m in length to be
manufactured, reducing the number of circumferential welds
necessary in the foundation. This approach is enabled through
the use of rapid, thick-section welding techniques for the
longitudinal seams.
Geotechnical and structural aspects of the proposed design Modelling of the fatigue
concept have been considered to determine whether the stresses within a 10 sided
foundations will be fit for purpose. Preliminary results have foundation design.
demonstrated that a multi-faceted design can be developed
with equivalent section properties to the circular design,
albeit with a thicker wall. Detailed calculations have shown
satisfactory performance in the Ultimate Limit State and
Serviceability Limit State. Initial results show suitable fatigue
performance and further analysis is being carried out to look
at this aspect in detail. Increased wave load, fabrication A joint in a potential 10
tolerance and weld location have been highlighted as sided foundation design.
important factors in the structural assessment of multi-faceted The joint was made using
foundations. the high speed reduced
pressure electron beam
The entire production route is currently being examined in
(RPEB) welding process.
terms of performance, logistics and economics, in order to
determine the viability of the novel multi-faceted approach.
The FabFound project is a collaboration between TWI, RCID
at Newcastle University, SEtech, Parsons Brinkerhoff, McNulty A schematic representation
Offshore Construction, Vattenfall Wind Power, Scottish Power of a welding bay for
Renewables and Clipper Windpower Marine. The work is producing the longitudinal
supported by the Northern Wind Innovation Programme. seams within the multi-
faceted design.
11
 Conference speakers Phil Crosby and Dr Joseph Boisvert
NE FIRMS CAPITALISE
ON SOLAR POTENTIAL
MORE THAN 80 representatives from businesses and public
sector organisations flocked to a national photovoltaic (PV)
conference to explore opportunities to capitalise on a fast
growing renewable energy sector.
Representatives from businesses across the region and the
UK, attended the Solar Flair 10 conference organised by the
County Durham Development Company (CDDC) at Lumley
Castle, Chester-le-Street to hear from world leading speakers
about key changes and advancements in the industry.
Industry expert Phil Crosby of the Square Kilometre Array
Telescope Project said there are real opportunities for the North
East to benefit from the solar energy revolution. Mr Crosby,
one of 17 speakers at Solar Flair, said that the North East could,
and already is, playing a key role in a number of projects in this
growing sector.
The CA Group is one North East business that looks set to
capitalise on the opportunities the sector presents. The Bishop
THE SCIENCE ENGINEERING & TECHNOLOGY MAGAZINE
Auckland-based metal roofing and cladding manufacturer has
started to design and deliver PV systems into large-roof buildings.
Commercial director, Brian Watson believes that there are real
commercial opportunities in developing PV products.
He said: “The largest PV installation on a roof in the UK so far is
100kV and we have talked about doing it 28 times bigger.
“We see real potential in PV. The North East is well situated
to take advantage of the opportunities presented by PV, on
existing building stock and some of the opportunities that are
likely to come up in the North East.”
Another business that has already tapped into photovoltaics
is Romag Ltd. Kevin Webster, managing director, was one of
the speakers at the event. He said there has been a real step
change in the business since the Government introduced its
feed-in tariff, but that the region needs a simple, open and
transparent business support system, to help it take advantage
of the opportunities that exist.
Mr Webster, said: “There is a lot of scope for the North East in this CDDC’s managing director Stewart Watkins said: “The
sector. conference brought together leaders on the frontline of the
solar energy revolution, and presented a unique opportunity for
“This is an industry that will be here for a long time to come.
us to profile the North East, and its businesses to national and
There needs to be investment in businesses in this sector that
international audience.
have a long term future here in the North East.”
“There are vast opportunities that exist in this sector, that this
The event was attended by representatives from the Centre
region is well placed to take advantage of, and showcasing
for Renewable Energy at Durham University, London South
the facilities and infrastructure we benefit from in this corner
Bank University, and the Electronics, Sensors and Photonics
of the country will go some way towards positioning County
Knowledge Transfer Network (ESP-KTN).
Durham and North East England as a location of choice for
The event, which was organised by CDDC on behalf of the businesses in this sector in the future.”
event’s financial backer ESP-KTN, came as the Government
Alongside Mr Watkins, other speakers at the event included
stepped up its drive to channel more solar-generated power
representatives from the UK’s national flagship printable
into the national grid. Speakers at the event explored how
electronics facility PETEC, based at NETPark, County Durham,
government incentives could present fresh opportunities for the
Romag plc, Devereux Architects and Spectrolab Boeing,
sector, as well as examining how solar power could be used
among others.
in sectors such as construction, space technology and power
generation. For more information please visit www.solarflair10.com.
13
 INVESTING
IN INNOVATION
Northstar’s professional venture capital team backs ambitious
companies with strong prospects throughout the North East of
England. Northstar’s three funds represent a vital boost for both
talented individuals that want to move ahead with new ideas and
existing businesses looking to achieve their full potential:
£15m Finance For Business North East Proof of Concept Fund –
supporting innovative technology projects with investments of
between £20k and £100k.
£20m Finance for Business North East Accelerator Fund – investing
between £100k and £500k in early stage high potential enterprises.
£2.4m Finance for Business North East Creative Content Fund
– investing between £50K and £250k in commercial creative
opportunities.
The Finance for Business Proof of Concept and Accelerator funds
are backed by the European Investment Bank, the European
Regional Development Fund and One North East. The Finance
for Business North East Creative Content Fund is funded by the
European Regional Development Fund.
CASE STUDY: SENSELOGIX
SenseLogix has developed pioneering energy saving solutions
which aim to save organisations money. The company retrofits its
system into existing electrical infrastructure in offices and schools
to lower carbon emissions and increase operational efficiency.
The system also provides user level information to help engage
energy users and improve user behaviour.
SensLogix has recently secured a £1M investment round,
including a contribution from Northstar Ventures, which backed
the company on behalf of the Finance for Business North East
Accelerator Fund. The investment will help SenseLogix progress
its innovative product line and realise its commercial potential.
Reducing energy in the built environment is an expanding focus
area for organisations, making SenseLogix a perfect fit for the
aim of the Accelerator Fund which has been set up to help
companies invest in their future growth plans and succeed.
Creating a boost for north east manufacturing, SenseLogix
has engaged with Connor Solutions, an electronic services
provider based in Houghton le Spring, who will manufacture
components for a range of intelligent products that will monitor
and save electrical waste. As part of its expansion drive,
operations will be managed in-house from SenseLogix’s new
premises in Newton Aycliffe.
This year, SenseLogix won an award at the Innovation &
Sustainability Awards for ‘Best Innovation in Green Products
or Services’ and also announced a product partnership with
Marshall Tufflex, a leading provider of cable management
products.
CASE STUDY: REINNERVATE
Earlier this year, Northstar led an investment round which saw
Reinnervate Limited receive over £1.6m of funding.
Reinnervate, a spin-out biotechnology company, emanated
from research conducted at Durham University. It develops
new and innovative ways to manage the growth and function
of cultured cells. Its technologies have multiple applications
and are particularly relevant to the control of stem cell
differentiation and engineering tissues in in-vitro cell culture.
Northstar has supported the company throughout its growth
with investments in 2008 and 2009 through its Co-Investment
Fund. Further investment through the Finance for Business
North East Accelerator Fund has helped progress the launch of
alvetex®, a unique scaffold which enables cell culture to grow
in 3-dimensions in the lab. 3D cell cultures are more akin to the
way cells grow in tissues in the human body than conventional
2D cell culture technologies where cells grow in flat sheets. The
use of alvetex® derived 3D cell cultures is expected to provide
greater insight into how cells behave in the body in response
to external factors (such as drug candidates) than is currently
possible with existing technologies.
Reinnervate has also announced the appointment of Durham
based Classic Industries Europe for the commercial assembly
and packaging of alvetex® plates.
Reinnervate will manufacture alvetex® at its new purpose-built
research and production facility at NETPark near Sedgefield.
The final product will be assembled by Classic Industries
Europe at its production facility in nearby Barnard Castle, then
blister packed and sterilised in preparation for distribution and
sale. Reinnervate has already begun discussions with major
distributors of cell culture products in the UK and overseas to sell
alvetex®.
Northstar’s new funds provide an exciting opportunity for
ambitious north east enterprises to access the development
capital they need to get started and grow. Northstar’s
experienced and approachable team are always keen to hear
from innovative and creative entrepreneurs looking to develop
their businesses and succeed. Please contact:
Northstar Ventures - Maybrook House, 27-35 Grainger Street,
Newcastle Upon Tyne, NE1 5JE.
Tel 0191 229 2770
enquiries@northstarventures.co.uk
www.northstarventures.co.uk
15
 FIRST SWITCH EV CARS HIT THE
ROAD IN NORTH EAST ENGLAND

APPROVAL GIVEN FOR

North East England’s unique Switch EV electric vehicle placed to be involved in these trails to help the market to
demonstration project was officially launched at Nissan’s test better understand the technology and will use the trial to
track on Wearside. analyse usage patterns, energy consumption and vehicle
performance.”

ONSHORE TEST RIGS

Thirty-five new vehicles made by North East companies are
being made available to organisations, individuals and car The project has developed alongside the Plugged in Places
clubs across the region. They include the Nissan LEAF, the Avid scheme, which will see 1,300 charging points installed across
CUE-V, the Liberty E-Range, and the Smith Electric Vehicles the North East over the next three years.
Edison Minibus and Taxis.
Drivers trialling cars will also benefit from the North East’s
North East renewables test centre Narec has been granted taken offshore. It will be the largest of its type in the world
Switch EV is one of eight projects running in the UK, supported ‘Charge Your Car’ scheme, which will issue personal electronic
planning permission for three new onshore test rigs to be built and expands on Narec’s existing blade testing capability
by the Technology Strategy Board’s £25m Ultra Low Carbon tags for charge posts all around the region, accessing free
in Blyth, Northumberland. developed over the past five years. The new facility is jointly
Vehicle’s Demonstrator Programme in partnership with the parking whilst charging. The website www.chargeyourcar.org.
funded by the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills
The county council gave approval for: Department for Transport (DfT). The investment allows the uk will provide information.
and the Department for Energy and Climate Change
demonstration and development of new vehicle platforms and
n Project Nautilus, a 3MW drive train test rig, will allow Narec to (£11.5m) and Regional Development Agency One North The Charge Your Car service is the first of its kind in the UK and
components to stimulate the electric vehicle market.
perform certification activities and reliability and East (£3.5m). since it went live in October has attracted large amounts of
performance appraisal of new marine devices. Based The first organisation to take the CUE-V on trial was Narec, the interest.
n Project Fujin will be the world’s largest offshore wind drive
around the existing dry docks, there will be no comparable National Renewable Energy Centre for the UK and six of its
train test facility rated at 15MW. It will test whole power Dr Colin Herron, Manufacturing and Productivity Manager at
open-access R&D facilities elsewhere in the world. The employees will trial the vehicle over the next six months, using a
systems under realistic conditions. One North East, said: “This is the beginning of a new era of low-
project is supported by the Government, One North East solar PV charging canopy at its their head office in Blyth.
carbon transport in the UK. From now on, electric vehicles will
and the European Regional Development Fund 2007-13. Funding for the build of a major offshore wind turbine
Narec’s Director of Electrical Networks, Alex Neumann, said: become an increasingly common sight and we are proud that
component and drive train testing rig has the support of the
n A new 100m blade test facility to accelerate the “Electric vehicles are set to play an important role in both North East companies are flying the flag for this dynamic new
Energy Technologies Institute (ETI) and One North East.
development of new blade designs before they are our transport and power systems of the future. Narec is well industry.”

17
THE SCIENCE ENGINEERING & TECHNOLOGY MAGAZINE

MAJOR BREAKTHROUGH ON
OFFSHORE WIND DEVELOPMENT
European governments have signalled the next stage in the
development of offshore wind.
A Memorandum of Understanding has been signed by ten
European ministers from countries bordering the North Sea.
The Memorandum covers an agreement to develop an
offshore electricity grid enabling interconnection between
continental, offshore and British energy resources.
Among those welcoming the decision is RenewableUK, the UK
’s leading renewable energy trade association.
Dr Gordon Edge, RenewableUK’s Director of policy said: “Large
scale interconnection with our European neighbours is vital if
THE SCIENCE ENGINEERING & TECHNOLOGY MAGAZINE
we are to connect up our massive offshore wind potential and
integrate it into European Markets.
“The agreement is a vital first step forward in agreeing the rules
of the game without which investment cannot happen.”
The ministers from nine EU member states and Norway have
agreed to start working on regulatory and technical issues,
as evidence suggests that sourcing electricity from a wider
European geographical pool of generators can increase use of
renewable electricity and drive down cost to the consumer.
SCIENTISTS HELP SHAPE A
GREEN FUTURE FOR EGYPT
Experts from the North East are helping to develop a Green
Code to ensure the sustainability of buildings in Egypt.
In addition, a model has been developed to assist architects
and other consultants with the issue of sustainable design in
Egypt. The ‘Sustainable Design Process Model’ has been based
Northumbria University’s Sustainable Cities Research Institute
on work by award-winning international architectural practice
is working with the Housing and Building National Research
Devereux Architects, who have been collaborating with
Centre in Cairo to develop the ratings system.
Northumbria in the development.
The Green Pyramid Rating System will measure the sustainability
Professor Greenwood said: “In effect, we have designed a
of buildings using indicators including carbon use, indoor air
process model which will offer guidance to built environment
quality, heat loss and materials.
consultants in Egypt on how to build sustainably and this will
Professor Dave Greenwood, Associate Dean (Research) in cross-reference with the Green Pyramid Rating System
the School of the Built and Natural Environment and Director
“A key challenge for architects across the world is to ensure
of the Sustainable Cities Research Institute, said: “Winning the
that buildings designed now and in the future are the most
contract to help develop Egypt’s sustainability rating system is
energy-efficient while still meeting the needs of the people who
a real coup for the University and is very impactful. Not only will
occupy them. It’s an accolade that Northumbria University
it become that country’s standard rating system but other Arab
is at the cutting edge of this agenda and engaged in such
League countries could adopt the same standard.“
impactful work.’’
19
 FAMILY FOOD
SUPPORT INSPIRES
SOFTWARE SUCCESS
A North East entrepreneur has secured funding to turn the – which helps budding entrepreneurs develop their software
software he created to help a family member’s battle with businesses before presenting their ideas to a panel of investors
an eating disorder into the UK’s first and only online diet – with connecting him to the sources of funding he needed to
programme not aimed at dieters. turn his idea into a business.
Newcastle-based Paul Dayan is now working full time on “Software Ventures is like a writer going to an agent rather
preparing PlanMyFood, an online service helping people with than a publisher with their book. If a publisher gets your book
medical conditions like diabetes, irregular cholesterol and through the post unsolicited the chances are they’ll just ignore
eating disorders monitor their diet. it no matter how good it is – but if the book comes to them from
someone they know only brings them the best products, they
PlanMyFood came about when Paul, who has worked in
know it’s something worth looking at,” he said.
software for over 30 years, designed a software programme to
help a family member battling an eating disorder monitor their He was also supported by Software City’s Intelligence Service
calorific intake. which provides rapid market research to help new software
businesses better understand their market, customers and
Paul used his software skills to develop a small desktop
competitors in as little as 48 hours.
programme, before realising that the software he had
designed had commercial potential. Bernie Callaghan, Sunderland Software City’s Chief Executive
Officer, said: “Sunderland Software City is all about taking the
“It just occurred to me that all the existing online diet services
best software ideas in the North East and giving the people
were aimed at slimmers, I’d come up with something
behind them the support to turn those ideas into profit-making
completely new” he said.
products.
“Nothing out there was aimed at people who need to manage
“Paul has come up with a unique and ground-breaking piece
their diet but aren’t trying to lose weight. Not just people with
of software, not to mention one which could have a huge
medical conditions, but sports people following a specific
impact on the quality of life of a lot of people, and we’re
nutrition programme or parents making sure their children are
delighted to have been able to help him get his business off
eating healthily.”
the ground”.
PlanMyFood could eventually bring together up to 100,000
For more information about Sunderland Software City visit
foods to show users what nutrition they are getting from the
www.sunderlandsoftwarecity.com, get in touch on info@
meals they eat compared to the nutrition they need, and as
sunderlandsoftwarecity.com or 0845 872 8575 or follow @
well as allowing then to track and set targets for things like their
sunsoftcity on Twitter.
blood pressure, glucose and cholesterol levels.
Sunderland Software City initiative is benefiting from over £6.5m
Paul has now secured Proof of Concept funding to develop
of European Union investment from the ERDF Competitiveness
the software, with a view to the site being up and running by
Programme 2007-13, secured through regional development
summer 2011.
agency One North East. The ERDF Programme is bringing over
He was supported by Sunderland Software City, the regional £300m into the North East to support innovation, enterprise and
initiative supporting the growth of the software industry in the business support across the region.
North East, and credits their Software Ventures programme

21
 TOP RIGHT: Researchers from the Newcastle
Cancer Centre at the Northern Institute for
Cancer Research demonstrating strawberry
DNA extraction at the Big Bang North East

BOTTOM RIGHT: Metro Centre shoppers

examine stem cells down microscopes

MAIN: Brain Awareness week 2010, credit

Raoul Dixon / North News & Pictures Ltd

BRINGING
SCIENCE TO LIFE
Newcastle Biomedicine prides itself on both its academic
excellence and the impact of its science on the health and
wealth of the region.
As an Academic – NHS Partnership between Newcastle
University and the Newcastle Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust,
embracing other academic institutions and NHS Hospitals
across the North-East, we are proud of the work that we do with
wider stakeholders to make a difference. Below are just three
examples of the kind of activities we are involved in.
CANCER RESEARCH
Over the last twelve months, Researchers at the Newcastle
Cancer Centre at the Northern Institute for Cancer Research
The event took place at the MetroCentre. Shoppers were
offered the chance to discover more about stem cells as
they passed by. A variety of activities and exhibits, including
microscopes and a stem cell jigsaw, were used to explain what
stem cells are, how they’re being used in research and why
people use them. Scientists from NESCI guided people through
the exhibits to answer questions about their research and life as
a scientist.
Past events have taken place at different locations in the North
East, to reflect the fact that NESCI is a regional collaboration
that involves Durham University, Newcastle University and local
NHS Trusts. Each Weekend has had a slightly different focus
to reflect cutting-edge issues in the field at the time – from
cytoplasmic hybrids (“cybrids”) to stem cell tourism – and

STEM CELLS AND

have been out en masse to help raise awareness of their reflect the broad range of research done in the region.
ground breaking work in the fight against cancer.
In early December 2010, the Centre hosted its first ever Cancer BRAIN AWARENESS

REGENERATIVE MEDICINE
Given their unique regenerative abilities, stem cells offer new
potential for treating diseases such as diabetes, heart disease
and cancer.
Conventional treatments for patients have been based on either
surgery or drug therapy, treating conditions and illnesses that
result largely from ageing. Stem cell science can help doctors
predict and prevent illnesses long before they occur and the
North East is rapidly becoming a world leader in the field.
Durham and Newcastle Universities have come together with
their related NHS Trusts and a range of other partners to form
the North East England Stem Cell Institute (NESCI). Their work
looks at a range of stem cell types and scientists and clinicians
are working together on developments that can be used in a
real-life medical setting to transform lives.
Spin-out companies have already been created to develop
the technologies and these are attracting industrial partners.
These facilities will put the North East at the forefront of
stem cell science nationally and internationally in stem
cell biology and regenerative medicine, human genetics,
reproductive medicine, drug discovery and biopharmaceutical
bioprocessing.
Large elements of the work are built upon the success
of the International Centre for Life, in Newcastle, which
has brought together different disciplines of scientists and
clinicians with ethicists, social scientists, public educators and
commercialisation agents.
Research Practical Course giving AS level students from across
the North East the opportunity to go “behind the scenes”
and experience what life as a cancer researcher is really like.
The Institute of Neuroscience is committed to bringing the
excitement of brain science into the wider community.
Whether it is hosting public lectures and innovative art
Students took part in four workshops across the day learning
exhibits or running workshops for schoolchildren, we aim to
about the polymerase chain reaction and electrophoresis,
communicate our research in fun and interesting ways to
western blotting, tissue culture, survival assays, data analysis,
diverse audiences throughout the year.
the theory of DNA damage and repair, PARP inhibitors, drug
design & synthesis and ethics surrounding cancer research. A major event in our public engagement calendar comes in
March when we celebrate Brain Awareness Week. Each year
From demonstrating DNA extraction using strawberries at
we develop different activities to mark this global campaign
community events, to opening up the Newcastle Cancer
to increase public awareness about the progress and benefits
Centre to the public through a series of Lab Tours, the Research
of brain research. In 2009 we organised a site-specific art
Team are committed to building and developing a strong link
installation at Tynemouth Station and a symposium looking at
with the region in which it’s based.
the effects of plants on the brain; while 2010 saw a “science
meets dance” workshop inspired by research into bird
STEM CELLS behaviour and an interactive exhibit on new technologies,
including the opportunity for participants to control computer
NESCI, the regional stem cell initiative, staged another of its
games using only the electrical signals from their brains.
regular Stem Cell Weekends in October in collaboration with
the Centre for Life. www.ncl.ac.uk/biomedicine

23
THE SCIENCE ENGINEERING & TECHNOLOGY MAGAZINE

SUPPORTING SCIENCE AND
HEALTHCARE COMPANIES
Science and healthcare companies across the region can now
access specialist marketing services from a new business that
set up in March of this year specifically to support the sector.
Horizonworks Marketing was established by Samantha
Davidson, ex marketing manager with over 12 years experience
working in strategic marketing and senior management roles
for both public and private companies including Dickinson
Dees, Northumbria University and the Centre of Excellence for
Life Sciences (Cels).
Following her time at Cels, Samantha saw a gap in the market
to provide science and healthcare companies with strategic
marketing support. These sectors are highly specialised
and a deep understanding of the challenges involved
with commercialising science and dealing with complex
technological issues and commercial sensitivities is paramount.
Horizonworks Marketing delivers a wide range of marketing
services to healthcare and science based companies
including carrying out a free ‘marketing healthcheck’ to
assess the marketing needs of a business, creating marketing
strategies, brand development plans, marketing materials
and implementing PR, sales campaigns and online marketing
campaigns.
Based on the experience the team has gained in working
with science and technology driven companies, one of the
key areas where an injection of resource is required is sales
and marketing. Many companies, especially in this economic
climate, are looking to reduce their overheads but maintain
a strong presence in very competitive markets. Horizonworks
Marketing’s solution is to provide these businesses with an
outsourced marketing department offering.
The advantage to businesses of outsourcing their marketing
department is that they will have access to highly qualified
marketing professionals who have had the experience in
managing a marketing department and have the know-how
to make marketing a success and achieve the desired results.
It’s a great option for start up’s, university spin outs and small
businesses as it’s a risk free option that reduces capital costs for
a business.
THE SCIENCE ENGINEERING & TECHNOLOGY MAGAZINE
Samantha Davison - Managing Director
Some of Horizonworks Marketing’s current clients include
regeNer8, the translational centre for regenerative medicine
which brings together the work of the North of England’s
top scientists with UK and international industry to advance
the development of tools and technologies to accelerate
therapies through to clinic. Horizonworks Marketing has been
appointed via Cels Business Services Ltd (CBSL) to deliver the
marketing for regeNer8.
They also provide marketing strategy, PR and campaign
management for leading assistive technology provider
Easibathe/Easiaccess, who work exclusively within the
adaptation on the delivery of daily living aids and adaptations
for bathing and access solutions.
Another client within the sector that they have acquired
via business partner Strategies to Solutions, is Northumbria
University’s Nurture Programme which is run by the School for
Design Research and offers SME’s, based in the North East of
England, access to skills and expertise to develop innovative
solutions for the healthcare and wellbeing market.
Horizonworks Marketing is also strategic marketing partner
to Newcastle Science City and offers a range of marketing
services to NSC’s start-up companies and existing SME’s from
the science sector across Newcastle.
The company has recently recruited Gaia Hudson as marketing
account manager and is moving to a new city centre office at
the end of December.
Samantha Davidson, Managing Director at Horizonworks
Marketing, said: “The North East’s science and healthcare
sector is booming and it’s exciting to work with individuals and
companies who are developing ground breaking science and
cutting edge technologies.”
If you would like to discuss how Horizonworks Marketing could
help your business, or if you want a free Marketing Healthcheck
contact us on 0191 269 6919 or by email
info@horizonworks-marketing.co.uk
DRIVING INNOVATION IN
HEALTHCARE AND WELLBEING
THROUGH DESIGN
Research conducted by the NHS and independent
organisations, has indicated that on average in the UK only 2
out of every 100 innovative healthcare related ideas go on to
reach the market. Many fail due to a lack of external support
through what can be a challenging journey. Northumbria
University, led by its Centre for Design Research is aiming to
boost those statistics in the North East.
Building on its design, healthcare and technology innovation
and development expertise, Northumbria University is delivering
the unique Nurture Programme, an integrated service to North
East based SME’s seeking to develop healthcare products and
services.
Nurture is providing £1.6m of design led support, funded by
One North East and the European Regional Development Fund
(ERDF) over 3 years, to work with regional businesses seeking
to develop products and services for the Healthcare and
Wellbeing market.
The programme offers North East based busiensses access
to a unique, integrated design led service to encourage the
development of innovative new product ideas and then
provide access to the mix of necessary skills to design, develop,
and ultimately manufacture and market successful Healthcare
and Wellbeing products.
Nurture provides a complete programme of design and
development services, offering North East businesses a clear
and practical development route from initial research and user
needs capture through to the development of market-ready
products and services.
Our key services are;
n Due Diligence/Feasibility and innovation modeling (including products and services for the Healthcare and Wellbeing sector,
an initial review of any intellectual property opportunities we can help.
and development of a strategy to inform the design of the
product or service)
n Design Research and Investigation (including access to users
and healthcare professionals)
n User-Centred Healthcare Concept Development
n Product Development (Mechanical, Electrical and Software)
n Rapid Prototype Development (to quickly validate product
concepts)
n Clinical Testing (in collaboration with regional partners)
n End User Testing (Clinical/Focus Groups)
n Bridging support to Manufacture and Distribution
Northumbria’s overarching aim is to support North East
businesses grow through innovation and the development of
commerically succesful Healthcare products and services that
provide high value to the end user.
Bruce Watson, Enterprise Development Manager for the School
of Design said: “In the current economic climate, companies
R&D plans and budgets are often the first area to suffer.
Northumbria University’s Nurture Programme aims to ensure that
the pipeline of new innovative healthcare and wellbeing ideas
remains flowing in the North East. Through the HTDP, SMEs will be
able to access key design and development skills coupled with
funding support to ensure that they remain at the forefront of
their sector”.
Northumbria’s Nurture Programme is open to all SME businesses
in the North East looking to develop ideas for the Healthcare
and Wellbeing market. The programme will offer a range of
product development services and ensure that these are
accessible through funded support provided by One North East
and the European Regional Development Fund.
If you are a North East based business looking to develop
For more information contact Bruce Watson on 0191 243 7063
or bruce.watson@northumbria .ac.uk
25
 ‘EASI’ ACCESS TO
NATIONAL CLIENTS
Dunston based Easiaccess has opened a new warehousing
facility in Doncaster this month as part of its growth plan to
increase market share across the UK.
The UK’s leading access solutions provider chose the heart
of the metropolitan area for its second home over a number
of other locations across the UK. Excellent transport links and
connectivity to southern parts of the UK were key factors in
choosing this location.
Easibathe already services clients in the Doncaster area
including East Riding of Yorkshire Council, Leeds City Council
and Mansfield District Council. This new facility will help support
clients in this region more efficiently as well as help drive new
business in the southern regions of the UK.
Easiaccess is an award winning company, which provides
environmentally friendly access solutions, from small threshold
ramps to large metal ramps, to Local Authorities, Councils,
housing associations and individuals. They are the only provider
in the UK to provide access solutions that are 100% recyclable
and have the UK’s largest purpose built assessment area to
enable customers to trial the products.
Winner of the 2008 North East Small Business of the Year for
Tyneside & Northumberland, Easiaccess already works with
Newcastle City Council, Housing Hartlepool, Gateshead
Council and South Tyneside Homes in the North East. A recent
project was providing Newcastle City Library with a hoist system
in the opening of their new facility in the City Centre last year.
The company has also recently won a contract worth over £1m
with Your Homes Newcastle for the installation and provision of
specialist temporary ramps and hoist bathing equipment to its
Newcastle based properties.
THE SCIENCE ENGINEERING & TECHNOLOGY MAGAZINE
L to R: Martin Cook and Mark Buckley
Mark Buckley, Business Development Manager at Easiaccess,
comments: “We are delighted to be opening up a new facility
in Doncaster. It will help open up so many doors for us in the
South Yorkshire region and beyond as well as broaden our
customer base and visibility across the UK.
Martin Cook, Managing Director at Easiaccess, said: “Our
move to Doncaster is part of a strategic move to offer extensive
coverage of our products across the UK and ultimately provide
our customers with a more efficient service before and after
installation.
We pride ourselves on having a dedicated team of experts that
provide an exceptional service and having the highest quality
access products for the adaptation sector in the UK. Our move
to Doncaster demonstrates that despite tough economic
conditions, we are still going from strength to strength and are
committed to delivering a first class service to our National
clients,” he adds.
Over the last 3 years, Easiaccess has seen an approximate
40% increase in turnover year on year. The Doncaster facility is
projected to represent an additional 20% of total business for
Easiaccess over the next year, highlighting it’s an integral move
for the company.
Easiaccess has a sister company, Easibathe, which specialises
in special needs bathing and hoist equipment.
For further information on Easiaccess and Easibathe visit
www.easi-access.co.uk and www.easibathe.com
THE KING’S FUND RESPONSE
TO THE COMPREHENSIVE
SPENDING REVIEW
‘Compared to other departmental budgets the NHS settlement
is a generous one. But, while the increase in health spending
meets the pledge to protect the NHS budget, an increase of
0.1 per cent a year in real terms will soon be swallowed up by
cost pressures such as incremental pay drift and the increase
in VAT. The net result will be a reduction in the NHS’s purchasing
power.
‘This places even greater emphasis on finding the £20 billion in
productivity gains targeted by the NHS’s Chief Executive – the
status of this has moved from an ambition to a commitment.
Our work has highlighted opportunities to improve efficiency
at every level of the health system. Delivering on this represents
the biggest financial challenge the NHS has ever faced but it is
imperative if it is to maintain quality and avoid cutting services.
‘The £1 billion increase in grant funding for social care could
provide some respite for hard-pressed local services and
buys time while the Dilnot Commission works on a long-term
funding solution. But this money is not ring-fenced so there is no
guarantee it will be spent on social care.
‘Used wisely, the additional £1 billion from the NHS budget
to break down the barriers between health and social care
provides a real opportunity to improve service delivery and
save money by, for example, reducing the length of time
patients spend in hospital. Again though, with the ring fence
on local authority grant funding having been removed, and
local government funding slashed overall, it remains to be seen
whether this translates into increased funding for social care
services.
‘The commitment to ring-fence funding for public health
makes good on the commitment made by the Conservative
Party in opposition. There is no detail though about how much
funding will be provided, or where it will come from – this will
presumably follow in the public health White Paper due to be
published later this year.’
27

ROOM TO GROW
AT NETPARK
The rapid expansion of the North East’s premier science park
is set to continue apace after approval was given for two more
buildings, capable of housing 120 staff.
And the latest phase of development at the North East
Technology Park (NETPark) will further enhance its growing
reputation as an international hub for groundbreaking science
and technology.
Plans for the buildings, providing mixed office, laboratory
and production space at NETPark in Sedgefield, have been
approved by Durham County Council’s planning committee.
County Durham Development Company, which is responsible
for developing, managing and promoting NETPark on behalf
of Durham County Council, plans to expand the scope of the
science park to not only cater for fledgling companies, but
also to encourage growing firms and major investors to locate
there.
The expansion is part of NETPark’s Grow-on Space project,
which comprises three new buildings on the site, to ensure
there are suitable premises available to companies which have
developed at its Incubator facilty and are ready to expand.
The Grow-on Space scheme has already born fruit with the
successful expansion of Kromek at NETPark from the Incubator
into the first of the three new state-of-the-art facilities.
THE SCIENCE ENGINEERING & TECHNOLOGY MAGAZINE
An architect’s impression of one of the
new buildings planned for NETPark
Kromek, which produces cutting edge imaging technology
for the security, medical and industrial sectors was the first
occupant of NETPark’s Incubator. It grew so quickly that much
larger premises were needed relatively quickly.
Stewart Watkins, Managing Director of CDDC, said: “Kromek’s
growth at NETPark is proof not only of the strength of its
products, but also of the potential NETPark has as a place
where science and technology companies can access the
right support and facilities to blossom.
“We want to replicate Kromek’s success with other companies.
To do that we must ensure we have the capacity at NETPark to
support them – that means having the right premises.”
All three buildings are being developed with funding from
Durham County Council, which invested £4m, £5m from the
European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) 2007-13 and a
further £1m from One North East’s Single Programme.
This project is part financed by the European Union’s ERDF Competitiveness programme 2007-13,
securing £0.22m of ERDF investment through the Regional Development Agency One North East. The
ERDF programme is bringing over £250m into the North East to support innovation, enterprise and
business support across the region. This project has received funding from Durham County Council
through County Durham Development Company.
Kromek’s new HQ at NETPark
IMPROVING THE WAY
IN WHICH BREAST
CANCER IS DETECTED
NETPark-based x-ray technology specialists Kromek have Dr. Stephen Glick, Professor of Radiology at UMASS,
announced that the company has secured a four-year commented:
contract with the University of Massachusetts Medical School
“UMASS is one of the world’s few research groups investigating
(UMASS), to develop an advanced system for breast cancer
the use of x-ray CT imagers for use in breast cancer detection
detection and diagnosis. The contract, which has been
and diagnosis. It was therefore essential that we selected
funded via $4m from the US National Institute for Health (NIH),
the most innovative and cutting-edge partners to join the
is worth approximately $1.5m to Kromek, and represents
programme.
one of very few scientific programmes, globally, with the
potential to dramatically improve the way in which breast “The modality we are using, which combines photon counting
cancer is detected and subsequently treated. Although x-ray and cone-beam CT imaging, holds unique promise for the
mammography has saved many lives and is considered the medical imaging market. We are looking forward to working
imaging mode of choice for early detection of breast cancer,
together with Kromek and NOVA towards a solution that could
one of its limitations is that the recorded image represents a change the way breast cancer detection is carried out for
three-dimensional (3D) object in a two-dimensional (2D) plane, many years to come.”
meaning varied tissue structures e.g. normal breast tissue
versus tumour tissue, can be difficult to distinguish. Rising incidence of breast cancer in industrialised as well as
developing nations is a principal factor influencing growth
Kromek and NOVA possess a unique technological answer to in the mammography market. One of the key drivers for
the challenge of achieving better resolutions of breast tissue, growth in the market would be an introduction of digital
without increasing doses of radiation for patients. and new modalities in the mammography market. The US
mammography equipment market is forecast to be worth
Chief Executive Arnab Basu said “We are extremely excited
$585m per annum by 2015. The contract lends further weight
by this contract’s potential to significantly advance clinical
to Kromek’s presence in the medical imaging market, following
diagnostics, in the field of breast cancer detection, and
the announcement earlier this month about our work with
potentially way beyond. The programme is at an early stage,
Siemens on CT imaging development in Germany and the US.
but to be working with UMASS on behalf of the NIH is proof of
the unique technological advantages Kromek and NOVA offer,
and the contribution we can make to improved detection
systems in the medical field.”
29
 €2M SECURED FOR POINT
OF NEED DIAGNOSTICS
Enterprise Europe Network North East (EEN) has helped to
secure grant finance totalling €2m for a local SME, Selective
Antibodies Ltd. It will be used to further extend the capabilities of
their innovative platform technology for the detection of small
molecules, to a portable, hand held detection device.
ABOUT SELECTIVE ANTIBODIES
The UK based diagnostics company have developed a new
platform technology that promises to overcome the key
technological problems central to the production of high
performance, point of need systems, for the detection of small
target molecules. These can include; medicaments, natural
and unnatural toxins (such as fungal toxins and pesticides),
forensically important substances and those of importance to
the environmental, food, beverage and water industries.
The aim of Selective Antibodies has been to bring the clear
advantages of speed, simplicity, convenience and precision
of immunodiagnostic systems (as seen so clearly in the home
pregnancy test) to the rapid, reliable detection of low molecular
weight substances – for which there is a potentially massive
market. The company has successfully achieved and opened
up a wealth of new opportunities.
HOW EEN HELPED TO SECURE FUNDING
Selective Antibodies requested assistance to secure grant
finance in order to further the research and development of their
detection platform technology.
Working closely with Selective Antibodies to fully understand
their technology, business strategy and objectives, the EEN team
identified appropriate regional, national and European funding
sources. EEN then helped to create an engagement model
that would support Selective Antibodies with EU Framework
Programme funding (FP7).
With EEN’s help, a strong proposal that aimed to develop a
portable, real time device was composed for an FP7 submission.
EEN provided assistance in; the shaping of the project, formation
of the budget, building the consortium of partners and final
VALUE CREATED
EEN North East helped Selective Antibodies Ltd to:
n Secure €2m finance from EU FP7 finance and £100K from GRD
n Move the technology platform towards revenue
generation stage
n Secure grant finance which lowered risk for potential investors
n Safeguard 4 jobs
submission of the proposal. The project was awarded an
overall grant of €3.2m, of which, Selective Antibodies was
awarded €1.2m. Furthermore, EEN helped Selective Antibodies
to strategically integrate into another EU FP7 nanotechnology-
based consortium, which involves 21 partners and received
€21m, of which, €680k was awarded to Selective Antibodies Ltd.
Professor Self, CEO of Selective Antibodies Ltd, said “The
professionalism, knowledge and clear focus of the EEN team
has been outstanding during this whole process and has been
critical in our competing successfully to bring these highly
competitive awards into the North East of England”.
.
EEN SERVICES
Enterprise Europe Network North East of England provide
bespoke, hands on assistance in developing R&D proposals
for businesses, to successfully secure funding from public and
private sources including EU Framework Programme Seven,
central government and local public bodies.
For more information about Enterprise Europe Network North
East visit www.een-northeast.co.uk
31
 EXPLOSIVE RESEARCH CASTS
NEW LIGHT ON SUPERNOVAS
A team of Canadian physicists have mimicked a supernova
-- an explosion of a star -- in miniature.
The scientists from the University of Toronto and Rutgers
University had been looking at a type of supernova where the
detonation starts with a flame ball.
Stephen Morris, a University of Toronto physics professor, said:
“We created a smaller version of this process by triggering a
special chemical reaction in a closed container that generates
similar plumes and vortex rings.
THE SCIENCE ENGINEERING & TECHNOLOGY MAGAZINE
“It is extremely difficult to observe the inside of a real exploding
star light years away so this experiment is an important window
into the complex fluid motions that accompany such an event.
The study of such explosions in stars is crucial to understanding
the size and evolution of the universe.”
The work was funded by the Natural Sciences and Engineering
Research Council of Canada.
IMPROVED TESTING
METHOD FOR AUTISM
American researchers at the University of Utah and the Lead author Nicholas Lange, Associate Professor of Psychiatry
Harvard-affiliated McLean Hospital say they have developed at Harvard Medical School and director of the Neurostatistics
the best test for autism to date. Laboratory at McLean, said: “This is not yet ready for prime time
use in the clinic yet, but the findings are the most promising thus
Able to detect the disorder in with 94 per cent accuracy, the
far.”
test uses MRI scanning to measure deviations in brain circuitry.
Senior author Janet Lainhart, MD, Principal Investigator of the
The researchers believe it could one day replace the
research at the University of Utah, said: “We have new ways to
subjective test now used to identify the disorder and lead to
discover more about the biological basis of autism and how to
a better understanding of autism and better treatment and
improve the lives of individuals with the disorder.”
management.
33

TEST COULD PROVIDE ADVANCED
WARNING OF EARTHQUAKES
Spanish university researchers have come up with ways of
better predicting earthquakes.
The team from the Universidad Pablo de Olavide (UPO) and
the Universidad de Sevilla found patterns of behaviour that
occur before earthquakes on the Iberian peninsula.
Francisco Martínez Álvarez, co-author of the study and a senior
lecturer at the UPO, said: “Using mathematical techniques,
we have found patterns when medium-large earthquakes
happen, that is, earthquakes greater than 4.4 on the Richter
scale.”
THE SCIENCE ENGINEERING & TECHNOLOGY MAGAZINE
The research, published by the journal Expert Systems with
Applications, is based on data compiled by the Instituto
Geográfico Nacional on 4,017 earthquakes between 3 and 7
on the Richter scale that occurred on the Iberian Peninsula and
in the surrounding waters between 1978 and 2007.
The team says it can now forecast medium to large seismic
movements when such circumstances coincide.
Martinez Alvarez said: “The results are promising, although
I doubt we will ever be able to say that we are capable of
forecasting an earthquake 100% accurately.”
THAT’S
YOUR LOT!
The planet can not sustain any further expansion in the number
of industrialised fisheries, according to research study led by
University of British Columbia researchers.
Also involving the National Geographic Society, the study
reveals that fisheries expanded at a rate of one million sq.
kilometres per year from the 1950s to the end of the 1970s. The
rate of expansion more than tripled in the 1980s and early 1990s
-- to roughly the size of Brazil’s Amazon rain forest every year.
According to the study, the expansion of fisheries between
1950 and 2005 started from the coastal waters off the North
Atlantic and Northwest Pacific and stretched southwards
into the Southern Hemisphere at a rate of almost one degree
latitude per year. It was accompanied by a five-fold increase
in catch, from 19 million tonnes in 1950, to a peak of 90 million
tonnes in the late 1980s, and dropping to 87 million tonnes in
2005, according to the study.
Wilf Swartz, a PhD student at UBC Fisheries Centre and lead
author of the study, said: “The decline of spatial expansion
since the mid-1990s is not a reflection of successful conservation
efforts but rather an indication that we’ve simply run out of
room to expand fisheries.
Daniel Pauly, co-author and principal investigator of the Sea
Around Us Project at UBC Fisheries Centre, said: “While many
people still view fisheries as a romantic, localized activity
pursued by rugged individuals, the reality is that for decades
now, numerous fisheries are corporate operations that take a
mostly no-fish-left-behind approach to our oceans until there’s
nowhere left to go.”
35

RECRUITMENT COMPANY
SUPPORTS BUSINESS EXPANSION
North-East recruitment company TechConsult UK has been
called in to help a Teesside business which has embarked on a
dramatic expansion plan.
TechConsult UK Ltd, based at The Wilton Centre near Redcar,
Teesside, has been appointed to work with Stockton-based
TAS Engineering as it seeks to double its workforce. The
arrangement happened after Recruitment Consultant Daniel
Hanafin, from TechConsult UK, met representatives of TAS
Engineering at a networking event.
TAS Engineering, which provides specialist solutions in electrical,
instrument, control, automation and safety engineering, was
recently acquired by American company GSE Systems and
plans to expand from 30 employees to as many as sixty in
the next three years. TAS employs highly skilled and qualified
technical and design staff in electrical, instrumentation, control
and automation engineering.
TechConsult UK has already placed one employee with the
company and TAS Engineering is considering a number of other
skilled workers on the recruitment company’s book as it seeks to
fill a number of technical and engineering posts.
THE SCIENCE ENGINEERING & TECHNOLOGY MAGAZINE
TechConsult UK, which operates within the offshore, fabrication
and maintenance, process, shipbuilding, and civil engineering
industries, has been able to draw on its large database of
skilled workers from all over the UK, many from the North-East,
as well as some from abroad.
Daniel Hanafin said: “We are delighted to be working with TAS
Engineering as it expands. We have many skilled people on our
books and know that they will be able to help the company to
expand in the months and years to come.”
TechConsult UK Managing Director Steve Guest said: “Projects
like this are exactly what TechConsult UK is all about. We
specialise in giving companies access to the kind of skilled
people that they need.”
Kristine Grey, Sales and Marketing Manager for TAS Engineering,
said: “We chose TechConsult UK because of the level of service
that they provide.”
BREAKING THAT
AWKWARD SILENCE
It’s that awkward moment that we all know. There you are,
sitting in a bar with on a first date and you do not know what to
say. Well, worry no more because now your bar mat can break
the ice for you.
A group of computer scientists from Newcastle University have
developed a way of using an interactive bar surface and
camera-based technology which means specially-designed
mats can communicate.
When the mats are placed on the bar they ‘chat’ to each
other in the form of text messages - the words scrolling across
the surface like television news bulletins. The aim is that what
they say will prompt conversation between those at the table.
The mats were developed by PhD students from the university’s
Culture Lab with the system being built by Tom Bartindale and
Jack Weeden.
Tom said: “The idea is that the mats gain a personality when
placed on the bar - some are funny, some are naughty, some
are scared of other mats and some are out to talk to everyone.
“This is a twist on meeting new people in a public space. I think
most of us feel quite self-conscious and uncomfortable about
starting a conversation with a stranger so what our mat does is
make that first move and also provides a talking point.”
Tom says the group first came up with the idea while they were
sat in a bar in Germany.
He said: “We were looking around at all these isolated groups
and started thinking about how we could get them talking to
each other. The interactive beer mats started off as a bit of
fun and then we realised their potential for bringing people
together.”
The technology works by using cameras to sense the positions
of traditional beer mats that have been printed with markers on
their underside.
The conversation starters have been drawn from phrases
including humorous chat up lines, serious questions and light-
hearted banter. When a drink mat is removed, other mats will
comment on this, and encourage conversation with new “un-
known” mats.
Tom said: “In general, technology tends to kill conversation
and trigger quite anti-social behaviour – we bury ourselves in
our text messaging, iPods or computer screens and never even
look up to see who’s standing next to us.
“The focus of our work is to use technology to encourage
interaction and relationships. We want these very public text
messages to break the ice and make people laugh.”
37
 TIGERS AND POLAR BEARS
‘HIGHLY VULNERABLE TO
ENVIRONMENTAL CHANGE’
Large predators are much more vulnerable than smaller
species to environmental changes, such as over-hunting and
habitat loss, because they have to work so hard to find their
next meal, according to a new study.
Scientists, including those in the North East, matched studies
of predator populations to the abundance of their prey and
found that the largest species, such as lions, tigers or polar
bears, had much greater declines in population due to
diminishing food supplies than smaller species, such as weasels
or badgers.
The review of studies of eleven species of carnivores by
researchers from Durham University and the Zoological Society
of London was published in the Royal Society journal Biology
Letters.
Dr Phillip Stephens, from the School of Biological and
Biomedical Sciences, Durham University, said: “We found that
the largest species exhibited a five to six fold greater decrease
in relative abundance in response to a decrease in their prey.
THE SCIENCE ENGINEERING & TECHNOLOGY MAGAZINE
“It’s hard work being a large predator roaming and hunting
across extensive areas to find food. The apparent vulnerability
of tigers and polar bears to reductions in the availability of
prey may be linked to the energetic costs of being a large
carnivore.”
The research has implications for the conservation of large
carnivore species, which seem to be especially vulnerable to
environmental threats and changes in the abundance of prey.
Dr Chris Carbone, Senior Research Fellow, Institute of Zoology,
the Zoological Society of London, said: “This study helps us
to understand why large carnivores are particularly sensitive
to environmental disturbance and why the protection and
conservation of their habitat and, in particular, of their prey, are
so important to global initiatives to save large carnivores in the
wild.”
CASTING LIGHT ON
A DISTANT GALAXY
North East scientists have helped confirm that a recently-
discovered distant galaxy is the most remote object in the
Universe ever observed.
The galaxy, which was first spotted by the Hubble space
telescope, was seen as it would have appeared 600 million
years after the Big Bang, according to research published in
the journal Nature.
That was when the Universe, which is 13.7 billion years old,
was only four per cent of its present age, according to the
European team of astronomers led for the UK by scientists
from the Universities of Durham and Bristol, working with the UK
Astronomy Technology Centre.
Using the European Southern Observatory’s Very Large
Telescope, the team measured the distance to the remote
galaxy by analysing its faint glow, the first confirmed
observations of a galaxy whose light is difficult to see because
of a hydrogen fog that filled the Universe at the time.
Matt Lehnert, of the Observatoire de Paris, lead author of the
paper reporting the results, said: “We have confirmed that a
galaxy spotted earlier using Hubble is the most remote object
identified so far in the Universe.”
Confirming the distances to such faint and remote objects
is a huge challenge that currently can only reliably be done
using spectroscopy from very large ground-based telescopes.
The difficulty is that by the time the young galaxies’ brilliant
light reaches Earth it appears very faint and falls mostly in the
infrared part of the spectrum.
Co-author of the paper, Simon Morris, from Durham University,
said: “These observations are clearly at the cutting-edge of
what is possible with current instrumentation.”
39