3-D printed guide helps regrow complex nerves after injury

 

This is a 3-D printed nerve regeneration pathway implanted in a rat helped to improve walking in 10 to 12 weeks after implantation. Credit: University of Minnesota College of Science and Engineering A national team of researchers has developed a first-of-its-kind, 3D-printed guide that helps regrow both the sensory and motor functions of complex nerves after injury. The groundbreaking research has the potential to help more than 200,000 people annually who experience nerve injuries or disease. Collaborators on the project are from the University of Minnesota, Virginia Tech, University of Maryland, Princeton University, and Johns Hopkins University. Nerve regeneration is a complex process. Because of this complexity, regrowth of nerves after injury or disease is very rare, according to the Mayo Clinic. Nerve damage is often permanent. Advanced 3D printing methods may now be the solution. In a new study, published today in the journal Advanced Functional Materials, researchers used a combination of 3D imaging and 3D printing techniques to create a custom silicone guide implanted with biochemical cues to help nerve regeneration. The guide's effectiveness was tested in the lab using rats. To achieve their results, researchers used a 3D scanner to reverse engineer the structure of a rat's sciatic nerve. They then used a specialized, custom-built 3D printer to print a guide for regeneration. Incorporated into the guide were 3D-printed chemical cues to promote both motor and sensory nerve regeneration. The guide was then implanted into the rat by surgically grafting it to the cut ends of the nerve. Within about 10 to 12 weeks, the rat's ability to walk again was improved. "This represents an important proof of concept of the 3D printing of custom nerve guides for the regeneration of complex nerve injuries," said University of Minnesota mechanical engineering professor Michael McAlpine, the study's lead researcher. "Someday we hope that we could have a 3D scanner and printer right at the hospital to create custom nerve guides right on site to restore nerve function." Scanning and printing takes about an hour, but the body needs several weeks to regrow the nerves. McAlpine said previous studies have shown regrowth of linear nerves, but this is the first time a study has shown the creation of a custom guide for regrowth of a complex nerve like the Y-shaped sciatic nerve that has both sensory and motor branches. "The exciting next step would be to implant these guides in humans rather than rats," McAlpine said. In cases where a nerve is unavailable for scanning, McAlpine said there could someday be a "library" of scanned nerves from other people or cadavers that hospitals could use to create closely matched 3D-printed guides for patients. In addition to McAlpine, major contributors to the research team include Blake N. Johnson, Virginia Tech; Xiaofeng Jia, University of Maryland and Johns Hopkins University; and Karen Z. Lancaster, Esteban Engel, and Lynn W. Enquist, Princeton University. This research was funded by grants from the National Institutes of Health, the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, the Maryland Stem Cell Research Fund, and the Grand Challenges Program at Princeton University. To read more about the study entitled "3D Printed Anatomical Nerve Regeneration Pathways," visit the Advanced Functional Materials website. Story Source: The above post is reprinted from materials provided by University of Minnesota. Note: Materials may be edited for content and length. Journal Reference: Blake N. Johnson, Karen Z. Lancaster, Gehua Zhen, Junyun He, Maneesh K. Gupta, Yong Lin Kong, Esteban A. Engel, Kellin D. Krick, Alex Ju, Fanben Meng, Lynn W. Enquist, Xiaofeng Jia, Michael C. McAlpine. 3D Printed Anatomical Nerve Regeneration Pathways. Advanced Functional Materials, 2015; DOI: 10.1002/adfm.201501760

Strawberry banana milkshake

 

Dietitian's tip: For this milkshake, you can substitute 1 cup of sliced fresh peaches in place of the strawberries for an equally tasty treat. Serves 2 Ingredients 6 frozen strawberries, chopped 1 medium banana 1/2 cup soy milk 1 cup fat-free vanilla frozen yogurt 2 fresh strawberries, sliced Directions In a blender, combine the frozen strawberries, banana, soy milk and frozen yogurt. Blend until smooth. Pour into tall, frosty glasses and garnish each with fresh strawberry slices. Serve immediately.   Nutritional analysis per serving Serving size :1 cup Total fat 1 g Calories 183 Protein 6 g Cholesterol 0 mg Total carbohydrate 40 g Dietary fiber 8 g Monounsaturated fat 0 g Saturated fat trace Trans fat 0 g Sodium 117 mg Sugars 17 g   Mayo Clinic Healthy Weight Pyramid Servings DASH Eating Plan Servings Diabetes Meal Plan Choices   http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/recipes/strawberry-banana-milkshake/rcp-20049717

In pictures: Concept cars of the 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show

 

Concept cars of the 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show (Credit: Chris Weiss/Gizmag)

Image Gallery (108 images)

Gizmag has been busy bouncing around the numerous halls of the Frankfurt Motor Show for the past couple of days. During that time, we've seen concept cars of every shape, size and style – electrics and hybrids, shape shifters, autonomous commuters, motorcycle-cum-go karts and many more. If these concepts are any indication, the near future of car design will be very interesting.

With so many intriguing concepts on display, we're loath to choose a favorite. However, if pressed, we'd probably have to go with the Mercedes-Benz Concept IAA.

Not only is this concept cut from the same dazzling show-car cloth as this year'sF 015, but it features something we didn't see coming: a shape-shifting body kit that cuts the drag coefficient to 0.19, down around Volkswagen XL1 territory (0.186).

Another Frankfurt highlight sure to be on everyone's best of list, Porsche'sMission E shows a very clear vision of how Porsche's design and drive technology could evolve in the future. It packages a race-derived, high-voltage 600-hp powertrain inside a freshly styled body defined by matrix LED headlights and swooping, arched fenders.

It's a fun departure from Porsche's usual gently reworked 911 styling and successfully manages to be both completely new and distinctly Porsche.

Usually we can take or leave Vision Gran Turismo concepts. It's cool that automakers take the time to build these video game cars into life-size machines, but many of them belong as much to the science fiction gaming genre as to the racing one. Bugatti's Vision Gran Turismo is more than just a wild video game car, however; it's a rare opportunity to watch Bugatti design evolve before our eyes.

"Bugatti Vision Gran Turismo is the first stage on a new journey that Bugatti is embarking on following the successful completion of its Veyron chapter, and which will culminate in the unveiling of the next Bugatti super sports car in the not too distant future," explains Bugatti president Wolfgang Dürheimer.

We suspect that features like the narrow headlamps and rear-end shape might make the move over to production, with drastic aero components like the cow-catching splitter and huge fin left behind.

There are plenty more Frankfurt design highlights to be found, so head to ourphoto gallery and get your fill of freshly baked concept cars.

 

http://www.gizmag.com/2015-frankfurt-motor-show-concepts/39437

Clear skies over the United States

 

 

On Sept. 17, 2015, NASA astronaut Scott Kelly captured images and video from the International Space Station during an early morning flyover of the United States. Sharing with his social media followers, Kelly wrote, "Clear skies over much of the USA today. #GoodMorning from @Space_Station! #YearInSpace."

Tuesday, Sept. 15 marked the midpoint of the one-year mission to the space station for Kelly and Russian cosmonaut Mikhail Kornienko. The average International Space Station expedition lasts four to six months. Research enabled by the one-year mission will help scientists better understand how the human body reacts and adapts to long-duration spaceflight. This knowledge is critical as NASA looks toward human missions deeper into the solar system, including to and from Mars, which could last 500 days or longer.

Image Credit: NASA

Last Updated: Sep. 18, 2015

Editor: Sarah Loff

 

http://www.nasa.gov/image-feature/clear-skies-over-the-united-states

Os 7 Hábitos Obrigatórios da Inteligência Emocional

 

Imagem de Equanimity Executive É cada vez mais factual que a inteligência emocional é um fator importante para o nosso sucesso e felicidade, não só no trabalho, mas também nas nossas relações e em todas as áreas das nossas vidas. O que define as pessoas emocionalmente inteligentes? Aqui estão sete hábitos que as pessoas com alto IE têm.   1. Elas focam-se no positivo. Apesar de não ignorarem as más notícias, as pessoas emocionalmente inteligentes tomam uma decisão consciente de não perder muito tempo e energia com os problemas. Em vez disso, elas olham para o que há de positivo numa situação e procuram soluções para o problema. Essas pessoas concentram-se no que são capazes de fazer e naquilo que está sobre o seu controle.   2. Elas rodeiam-se de pessoas positivas. As pessoas com alta inteligência emocional não gastam tempo a ouvir queixas dos outros e tendem a evitar pessoas negativas. Elas têm noção que as pessoas negativas são um dreno de energia e não estão dispostos a deixar que os outros esgotem a sua vitalidade. Porque essas pessoas olham sempre para as soluções e para o lado positivo de cada situação, as pessoas negativas aprendem rapidamente que a evitar os emocionalmente inteligentes.   3. Elas estabelecem limites e são assertivas quando necessário. Apesar da sua natureza amigável e aberta poder fazer parecer que são ingénuos, as pessoas com alto IE são capazes de estabelecer limites e afirmar-se quando necessário. Elas demonstram cordialidade e consideração, mas ao mesmo tempo permanecem firmes. Não fazem inimigos desnecessários. As suas respostas às situações em que pode existir conflito são medidas, não inflamadas, e geridas de forma adequada. Elas pensam antes de falar e dão tempo para se acalmarem, caso as suas emoções se sobressaltem. As pessoas com alto IE valorizam o seu tempo e sabem quando precisam de dizer não. Você pode identificar estas pessoas pelo seu sorriso, porque riem muito, e pela sua capacidade de atrair outras pessoas positivas. O seu calor, abertura e atitude solidária leva a que os outros as considerem mais confiáveis.   4. Elas pensam em frente e esquecem o passado. As pessoas com alto IE vivem ocupadas a pensar nas possibilidades do futuro em vez de perderem o seu tempo a martirizar sobre as coisas que deram errado no passado. Elas aprendem a partir das falhas do passado e aplicam essas lições nas acções do futuro. Nunca vêem o fracasso como permanente ou uma reflexão pessoal de si mesmos.   5. Elas procuram maneiras de tornar a vida mais divertida, feliz e interessante. Se é no seu local de trabalho, em casa ou com amigos, as pessoas com alto IE sabem o que os torna felizes e procuram oportunidades para expandir o prazer. Elas sentem prazer e satisfação com a felicidade e realização dos outros, e fazem tudo o que podem para alegrar o dia de alguém.   6. Elas gasta a sua energia de forma sábia. Não só conseguem seguir em frente de forma sábia quando as coisas correm mal no passado, como também conseguem ultrapassar envolvimentos conflituosos com outras pessoas. As pessoas emocionalmente inteligentes em vez de se prenderem à raiva sobre a maneira como são tratadas pelos outros, olham para o incidente e criam uma consciência para que não aconteça novamente. o seu lema é: “É uma vergonha para ti se me enganares uma vez, é uma vergonha para mim se me enganares duas vezes.” Embora consigam seguir em frente e perdoar, elas não esquecem e não são susceptíveis de serem apanhadas novamente no mesmo conjunto de circunstâncias.   7. Elas aprendem continuamente e crescem rumo à independência. As pessoas emocionalmente inteligentes são aprendizes para toda a vida, estão em constante crescimento, evolução, abertas a novas ideias, e sempre dispostos a aprender com os outros. Sendo pensadores críticos, elas estão abertas a mudar de ideias caso alguém lhes apresente constatações que se ajustam melhor à realidade. Não só estão abertos às ideias dos outros, e a reunir novas informações constantemente, como confia em si e no seu próprio julgamento para tomar a melhor decisão para todos. 7 Habits of Highly Emotionally Intelligente People   http://mexxer.pt/os-7-habitos-obrigatorios-da-inteligencia-emocional/

Nanoelectronics could get a boost from carbon research

 

A carbyne strand forms in laser-melted graphite. Carbyne is found in astrophysical bodies and has the potential to be used in nanoelectronic devices and superhard materials. Credit: Image by Liam Krauss/LLNL The smallest of electronics could one day have the ability to turn on and off on an atomic scale. Lawrence Livermore scientists have investigated a way to create linear chains of carbon atoms from laser-melted graphite. The material, called carbyne, could have a number of novel properties, including the ability to adjust the amount of electrical current traveling through a circuit, depending on the user's needs. Carbyne is the subject of intense research because of its presence in astrophysical bodies, as well as its potential use in nanoelectronic devices and superhard materials. Its linear shape gives it unique electrical properties that are sensitive to stretching and bending, and it is 40 times stiffer than diamond. It also was found in the Murchison and Allende meteorites and could be an ingredient of interstellar dust. Using computer simulations, LLNL scientist Nir Goldman and colleague Christopher Cannella (an undergraduate summer researcher from Caltech) initially intended to study the properties of liquid carbon as it evaporates, after being formed by shining a laser beam on the surface of graphite. The laser can heat the graphite surface to a few thousands of degrees, which then forms a fairly volatile droplet. To their surprise, as the liquid droplet evaporated and cooled in their simulations, it formed bundles of linear chains of carbon atoms. "There's been a lot of speculation about how to make carbyne and how stable it is," Goldman said. "We showed that laser melting of graphite is one viable avenue for its synthesis. If you regulate carbyne synthesis in a controlled way, it could have applications as a new material for a number of different research areas, including as a tunable semiconductor or even for hydrogen storage. "Our method shows that carbyne can be formed easily in the laboratory or otherwise. The process also could occur in astrophysical bodies or in the interstellar medium, where carbon containing material can be exposed to relatively high temperatures and carbon can liquefy." Goldman's study and computational models allow for direct comparison with experiments and can help determine parameters for synthesis of carbon-based materials with potentially exotic properties. "Our simulations indicate a possible mechanism for carbyne fiber synthesis that confirms previous experimental observation of its formation," Goldman said. "These results help determine one set of thermodynamic conditions for its synthesis and could account for its detection in meteorites resulting from high-pressure conditions due to impact."   Story Source: The above post is reprinted from materials provided by DOE/Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory. Note: Materials may be edited for content and length. http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2015/09/150917135304.htm

Alzheimer's: Dealing with family conflict

 

Alzheimer's disease can cause stress for families. Work through family conflicts together so that you can focus on what's important. By Mayo Clinic Staff When a loved one is diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease, the effects on the family can be overwhelming. The reality that someone you care for has Alzheimer's can trigger a range of emotions — including anger, fear, frustration and sadness. Conflicts are common as family members struggle to deal with the changes. To minimize conflict, address the issues together. Share responsibility When figuring out how you're loved one will be cared for, consider each family member's preferences, resources and abilities. Some might provide hands-on care, either in their own homes or in your loved one's home. Others might be more comfortable with respite care, household chores or errands. You and your family might also choose someone to handle financial or legal issues. Meet regularly To stay on top of your loved one's care, plan regular family meetings. Include everyone who's part of the caregiving team, including family friends and other close contacts. You might also share email updates with the entire family, or send updates through social media resources. During family meetings, discuss each person's caregiving responsibilities and challenges — and make changes as needed. Be open to compromise and possibilities you hadn't considered on your own. If your family meetings tend to turn into arguments, consider asking a counselor, social worker, mediator or other professional to moderate. Next Sept. 05, 2015 References See more In-depth Página 2 Be honest To help diffuse any tension, talk about your feelings in an open, constructive manner. If you're feeling stressed or overwhelmed, say so — and then work together to brainstorm more effective ways to share the burden of your loved one's care. Again, work with a professional if needed. Be careful to express your feelings without blaming or shaming anyone else. Use "I" statements, such as "I'm having trouble juggling my own schedule with all of dad's appointments." Keep an open mind as you listen to other family members share their thoughts and feelings. Don't criticize There are many "right" ways to provide care. Respect each caregiver's abilities, style and values. Be especially supportive of family members responsible for daily, hands-on care. Consider counseling If you're concerned that the stress of Alzheimer's will tear your family apart, seek help. You might join a support group for Alzheimer's caregivers, seek family counseling or ask for advice from your care team. Remember, working through conflicts together can help you move on to more important things — caring for your loved one and enjoying your time together as much as possible. Sep. 05, 2015 References See more In-depth http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/caregivers/in-depth/alzheimers/art-20047365/

Alzheimer's prevention: Does it exist?

 

Are there any proven Alzheimer's prevention strategies? Answers from Glenn Smith, Ph.D. According to a statement from the National Institutes of Health (NIH), a number of factors could play a role in whether you develop Alzheimer's disease. However, more research is needed before modification of any of these factors can be proved to prevent Alzheimer's disease. The NIH report was developed by an independent panel of health professionals and public representatives who reviewed the most current research on Alzheimer's prevention. The panel found that studies to date have varied too much in size, scope, criteria and definitions to compare results and draw reliable conclusions. Although more research is needed to definitively prove which Alzheimer's prevention strategies are effective, some possible strategies that promote good overall health include: Avoiding smoking Eating a balanced diet rich in vegetables, fruits and lean protein, particularly protein sources containing omega-3 fatty acids Being physically and socially active Taking care of your mental health Using thinking (cognitive) skills, such as memory skills References See more Expert Answers   http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/alzheimers-disease/expert-answers/alzheimers-prevention/faq-20058140

Depression and anxiety: Exercise eases symptoms

 

Depression symptoms often improve with exercise. Here are some realistic tips to help you get started and stay motivated By Mayo Clinic Staff When you have anxiety or depression, exercise often seems like the last thing you want to do. But once you get motivated, exercise can make a big difference. Exercise helps prevent and improve a number of health problems, including high blood pressure, diabetes and arthritis. Research on anxiety, depression and exercise shows that the psychological and physical benefits of exercise can also help reduce anxiety and improve mood. The links between anxiety, depression and exercise aren't entirely clear — but working out and other forms of physical activity can definitely ease symptoms of anxiety or depression and make you feel better. Exercise may also help keep anxiety and depression from coming back once you're feeling better. How does exercise help depression and anxiety? Regular exercise probably helps ease depression in a number of ways, which may include: Releasing feel-good brain chemicals that may ease depression (neurotransmitters, endorphins and endocannabinoids) Reducing immune system chemicals that can worsen depression Increasing body temperature, which may have calming effects Regular exercise has many psychological and emotional benefits, too. It can help you: Gain confidence. Meeting exercise goals or challenges, even small ones, can boost your self-confidence. Getting in shape can also make you feel better about your appearance. Take your mind off worries. Exercise is a distraction that can get you away from the cycle of negative thoughts that feed anxiety and depression. Get more social interaction. Exercise and physical activity may give you the chance to meet or socialize with others. Just exchanging a friendly smile or greeting as you walk around your neighborhood can help your mood. Cope in a healthy way. Doing something positive to manage anxiety or depression is a healthy coping strategy. Trying to feel better by drinking alcohol, dwelling on how badly you feel, or hoping anxiety or depression will go away on its own can lead to worsening symptoms. Is a structured exercise program the only option? Some research shows that physical activity such as regular walking — not just formal exercise programs — may help improve mood. Physical activity and exercise are not the same thing, but both are beneficial to your health. Physical activity is any activity that contracts muscles and expends energy and can include work or household or leisure activities. Exercise is a planned, structured and repetitive body movement done to improve or maintain physical fitness. The word "exercise" may make you think of running laps around the gym. But exercise includes a wide range of activities that boost your activity level to help you feel better. Certainly running, lifting weights, playing basketball and other fitness activities that get your heart pumping can help. But so can physical activity such as gardening, washing your car, walking around the block or engaging in other less intense activities. Any physical activity that gets you off the couch and moving can help improve your mood. You don't have to do all your exercise or other physical activity at once. Broaden how you think of exercise and find ways to add small amounts of physical activity throughout your day. For example, take the stairs instead of the elevator. Park a little farther away from work to fit in a short walk. Or, if you live close to your job, consider biking to work. Next   http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/depression/in-depth/depression-and-exercise/art-20046495

Flores fractais de Silvia Cordedda

 

por Zupi A arte fractal é uma modalidade criativa que vem na esteira de outros métodos envolvendo algoritmos de computador. A partir de cálculos matemáticos, os softwares que geram fractais atuam como dispositivos de visualização dos mais diversos objetos. Apesar de ter conhecido o método apenas no início de 2012, a italiana Silvia Cordedda já demonstra grande desenvoltura com esse tipo de criação digital. Em especial, adoramos sua série de flores 3D – leves, delicadas, intrincadas e quase espirituais. Veja algumas a seguir: + postado em 13/11/2012 | 14:40 PM Informações Silvia Cordedda   http://www.zupi.com.br/flores-fractais-de-silvia-cordedda/