Medical
Fibre-optic technology could heal wounds faster
A new technique which delivers light deeper into human tissue than previously possible has been developed by researchers at the University of St Andrews and Harvard Medical School. The new method, published in the journal Nature Communications, could help heal wounds faster and treat tumours more efficiently. Through a process called photochemical tissue bonding, light is applied to a wound to stimulate healing.
200W medical power supply is patient contact rated
Power Partners has introduced a 200W medical, patient contact rated AC/DC power supply in a compact 76.2x127 mm (3x5”) footprint. The PMAM200 series features a 90-264VAC input and single outputs of 12, 19 and 24VDC. There is an optional +5VDC standby and a remote on/off available. This series is BF (Body Floating) direct patient contact rated, with Class I and II inputs and is certified to UL/cUL/EN60601-1 3rd Edition.
Wireless sleeve helps recover arm use after a stroke
Scientists at the University of Southampton are to develop and trial a new wearable technology to help people who have had a stroke recover use of their arm and hand. Led by Professor Jane Burridge, the team will create a wireless sleeve, which will provide automatic, intelligent information about muscle movement and strength while patients practice every-day tasks at home.
New method for rapid detection of infection in wounds
A new method for detection of infection in wounds could take physicians less than a minute to complete, rather than the current 24 hours it takes to plate bacteria and leave it to incubate overnight, according to research by the George Washington University’s (GW) Victoria Shanmugam, M.D.
Moving with the power of thought
A group of paralysed patients will soon undergo a revolutionary procedure that could allow them to walk with the power of thought. The key to returning mobility is a tiny, matchstick-sized device called a stentrode. It will be implanted into a blood vessel next to the motor cortex, the brain’s control centre – bypassing the need for complex brain surgery.
Laser-based blood glucose monitor checks for diabetes
A group of researchers, led by Prof. Yuji Matsuura of Tohoku University's Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering, has developed a method of measuring blood glucose using far infrared light, which is both harmless and non-invasive. Diabetes patients traditionally monitor their daily blood glucose levels by using a conventional meter which requires blood sampling from the finger tips.
'Hybrid' nanocrystals aid targeted drug delivery
Researchers have taken a huge step closer to the engineering of nanoscale devices to aid the delivery of life-saving drug treatments. Research co-leader Professor Dayong Jin at UTS said such minute devices have the potential to be engineered to efficiently and more safely deliver drug treatments directly to the location of diseased cells while helping avoid harm to healthy cells that fall victim to toxic drugs administered by conventional means.
A rush of caffeine through the skin
A new bracelet called Joule contains FDA-approved patches that deliver caffeine through the skin, taking away the discomfort after the caffeine rush, while also placing the patch in an area without much fat resistance, allowing the substance to flow faster into the body. The body absorbs each patch (the equivalent of a cup of coffee) over the course of four hours — giving wearers long-lasting alertness without the jitteriness.
HFEA approves 'gene editing' on human embryos
The Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA) has approved a research application from the Francis Crick Institute to use new 'gene editing' techniques on human embryos. The aim of the research, led by Dr Kathy Niakan, a group leader at the Crick, is to understand the genes human embryos need to develop successfully.
Inductive components are suitable for medical applications
SMP Sintermetalle Prometheus has developed components for medical technology applications. These inductive components are used in MRI or Computed Tomography (CT), for example. Designed as filter or mains chokes they are not only compact, low-loss and energy efficient but also exceptionally quiet in operation, essential qualities for these demanding medical technology applications.