PharmaVigilant announced a four-week launch for an electronic data capture (EDC) system to support a phase 1-2 oncology trial sponsored by Threshold Pharmaceuticals. The process included 50 case report forms (CRF) and 6 different CRF books. “We chose PharmaVigilant based upon their track record, positive references, and straight-forward cost structure.” said Stew Kroll, Threshold’s VP of biostatistics and clinical operations. “We are impressed with the timeframe PharmaVigilant was able to launch the EDC system for our trial given the sophisticated database design. The process was seamless from the kick-off meeting to launch, and PharmaVigilant stayed on time and on budget, despite some database design changes along the way.” Here’s a release.

The Fitch financial rating service downgraded Merck credit to “negative,” citing flat or dropping revenues that will not immediately replace drugs about to lose patent protection, “with the worst effect on revenues in 2010, and lessened impacts in 2012 and 2013.” Here’s a wire service note with a bit more information.

Research and Markets will resell a statistical book from Wiley. “Classical and Adaptive Clinical Trial Designs Using ExpDesign Studio” is available on its website. The book includes 100 design methods that have been used in the software.

Jeffrey Ubben left the board of Omnicare. The Kentucky contract research firm said Ubben’s investment company had reduced its stake but did not say whether anyone would be appointed to fill his seat.

Google has a million businesses using its Apps services, which include simple, secured online presentations, databases and spreadsheets. In a stark departure from the company’s policy, Google actually charges for it—but at a fraction of the price of full-featured desktop software from Microsoft or SAP. Here’s a Business Week story. Companies using Google Apps, according to the magazine, include Disney and Genentech. The article says the IDC research firm estimates that technology spending across the economy will fall 1 percent in 2009.

Contract research organization Averion reported quarterly financial numbers. Revenues doubled, to $18 million. The Southborough, Mass. company remains unprofitable, but its quarterly loss was cut in half.  Said Markus Weissbach, CEO: “As illustrated by the recent opening of our Czech office, we are increasing our global footprint in order to better meet the needs of our clients. We are continuing to evaluate other opportunities to increase the scope of our existing geographic and therapeutic capabilities in emerging regions of the world.” Here’s a release.

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