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Harnessing Thor’s Hammer -- How forensic science is unlocking the mysteries of fatal lightning strikes

Researchers developed a tool to investigate cause of death when skeletonised remains are recovered, providing a breakthrough in forensic lightning pathology. The study identified unique markers of lightning damage deep within the human skeleton, allowing for recognition of lightning strikes even when only dry bone survives.

SourceUniversity of the Witwatersrand·JournalForensic Science International Synergy·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 3, 2021

First 3D-bioprinting of entire active tumor

Researchers at Tel Aviv University successfully printed the first entirely active and viable glioblastoma tumor using a 3D printer. The 3D-bioprinted model includes functional blood vessels that simulate a real tumor, making it a promising tool for predicting treatment efficacy and drug development.

SourceTel-Aviv University·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 18, 2021

NTU Singapore scientists turn aquaculture waste into new biomaterial for tissue repair

The researchers developed a biomaterial made from discarded bullfrog skin and fish scales that acts as a scaffold for bone-forming cells to multiply, leading to the formation of new bone. The biomaterial has shown low risk of triggering an inflammatory response and could be used to assist with bone growth around surgical implants.

SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalMaterials Science and Engineering C·DateMay 27, 2021

Visionary bone damage study

A novel technique using an ancient inorganic salt-based material has been developed to pinpoint and illuminate bone damage, potentially leading to more efficient X-ray diagnostics and treatment. The new method could also be used for advanced applications such as bioimaging and optogenetics.

SourceFlinders University·JournalAggregate·DateApr 7, 2021

Lighting up bone repair

A team at Tokyo Medical and Dental University developed a material that aids in bone healing, allows for clear assessment of bone damage and clarifies probable patient outcomes. The material incorporates a fluorescent molecule, enabling real-time visual analysis and predictions of therapeutic outcomes.

SourceTokyo Medical and Dental University·JournalCommunications Chemistry·DateMar 24, 2021

Fossil growth reveals insights into the climate

Researchers analyzed fossil bones of Panthasaurus maleriensis, an ancestor of modern amphibians, and found phases of rapid and slow growth depending on the climate. The study provides valuable insight into the prehistoric past, with the Indian site showing evidence of both young and adult animals.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalPeerJ·DateSep 8, 2020

3D X-ray reveals secrets from inside bones

Researchers have uncovered a previously unknown substructure in healthy bone tissue using new X-ray techniques, revealing deviations in the orientation of nanocrystals. This discovery has significant implications for understanding bone diseases and developing new biomaterials.

SourceAarhus University·JournalScience Advances·DateJun 15, 2020

Texas A&M lab engineers 3D-functional bone tissues

Researchers at Texas A&M University have developed new biomaterials to advance the field of 3D bioprinting functional tissues. They created a highly printable bioink that can be used to engineer 3D-functional bone tissues, which could potentially create new treatments for patients suffering from arthritis and bone fractures.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateMay 19, 2020

Machine sucks up tiny tissue spheroids and prints them precisely

Researchers at Penn State developed a novel bioprinting technique that uses aspiration-assisted printing to place tiny tissue spheroids in precise locations, enabling the creation of homogeneous and heterocellular tissues. This method has potential applications in regenerative medicine, drug screening, and microphysiological systems.

SourcePenn State·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 6, 2020

A better way to rebuild cartilage

A team of scientists has created a new class of 3D-printed biomaterials that can direct the regeneration of functional tissue in damaged cartilage. The materials are designed to provide cells with the exact cues they need to form tissue organized in the same way as natural cartilage.

Grooves hold promise for sophisticated healing

Researchers at Rice University have created a grooved method to seed 3D-printed scaffolds with living cells, enabling the growth of different tissue types in a single platform. This innovative approach protects cells from heat and shear stresses, allowing for the creation of hard implants that can heal bone, cartilage, or muscle.

SourceRice University·JournalBioprinting·DateFeb 4, 2020

New medication gives mice bigger muscles

Researchers have developed a new group of medicinal products called IASPs that increase muscle and bone mass in mice. The treatment has shown promise in counteracting osteoporosis and improving muscle mass, but its effects on blood cells are still being studied.

SourceAarhus University·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateMar 27, 2019