The firms Science and Public Relations will officially merge today. As Science has exponentially increased its contracts with Public Relations over the past 30 years, this comes as little surprise to investors. It is rumored that Universities will soon end their "independence" to create a megaconglomerate: Science-PR-University Inc.
Billy Tauzin, CEO of the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America, expressed optimism, saying, "Hey, when Science, PR, and Universities team up on a project, the results can be incredible. When the three firms aligned for the Paxil in Kids campaign, that was amazing. There was obvious synergy that was able to take what was, frankly, a mediocre product, and really slap some lipstick on that pig."
Of what do I speak? In the parallel universe known as reality, Aubrey Blumsohn has detailed what seems to be a rather odious merger of science and public relations. It involves a an "independent" academic researcher, Procter & Gamble, and much more. His post is well worth reading.
I saw this a while ago and thought it might interest people.
ReplyDeleteAlthough the Xendos trial involved the use of orlistat in the form of the prescription drug Xenical, it's not hard to imagine that similar benefits could result from the use of Alli.
Like Xenical, Alli is most effective when combined with lifestyle changes, including a low-fat diet and regular exercise.
Unlike many weight-loss medications, which act on the central nervous system to suppress appetite, Alli works in the gastrointestinal tract, where it blocks the absorption of fat. The drug interferes with the activity of lipase, a digestive enzyme that breaks down fat obtained from food sources.
By preventing lipase from doing its job, Alli blocks the absorption of roughly 25 percent of dietary fat. The unabsorbed fat is excreted from the body.
As a result, some Alli users may experience unpleasant side effects, including flatulence, abdominal cramping and oily stools. For an unfortunate few, diarrhea and fecal urgency can be a problem.
These side effects are most likely to occur early in the course of treatment, and they are intensified whenever high-fat foods are eaten. To prevent or minimize gastrointestinal distress, folks taking Alli should limit their fat consumption to 15 grams or less at every meal.
Best keep away from those burgers, fries and pizzas... anal leakage anyone?