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SynCardia Systems, LLC has been granted a second patent by the United States Patent and Trademark Office for their fully implantable artificial heart technology, known as SynCardia Emperor. This patent expands the coverage of their innovative designs aimed at eliminating external drive mechanisms by integrating the pumping mechanism within the implanted artificial heart ventricle. The company aims to develop the world's first fully implantable SynCardia Total Artificial Heart (STAH) as an alternative to heart transplantation, showcasing their commitment to advancing technology for heart failure patients globally. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at Beihang University in Beijing, China, focused on dynamic modeling of variable speed left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) coupled to the cardiovascular system. The research aimed to develop a new model that considers the impact of speed variations on LVAD characteristics, providing a more accurate method for predicting LVAD behavior under varying pump speeds. The study concluded that the new model exhibited higher linearity in the work done by the left ventricle and the blood pump, aligning closely with experimental results, making it applicable for proactive control predictions and passive control validations. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted at Bern University Hospital in Switzerland evaluated the hemodynamic performance of arterial and venous cannulae in pediatric extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) circuits under pulsatile and non-pulsatile flow conditions. The research found that pulsatile testing conditions led to more physiological testing conditions and are recommended for ECMO testing. The study concluded that under non-pulsatile conditions, the system exhibited overall higher pressures, resulting in higher support to the patient. The findings were published in the journal Artificial Organs and can be accessed online for further information. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers in Japan have successfully inserted energy-making chloroplasts from algae into hamster cells, allowing the cells to photosynthesize light. This breakthrough challenges the previous belief that combining chloroplasts with animal cells was impossible. The technique could have implications for artificial tissue engineering by providing oxygen and energy through photosynthesis. The team is also exploring the creation of "planimal" cells that could offer the beneficial features of plants to animals, potentially leading to a more sustainable and carbon-neutral society. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at Zhejiang Shuren University conducted a study on the use of alcohols in skin trauma therapy, focusing on the importance of effective wound healing through promoting angiogenesis and collagen deposition. The study found that hydrogel microspheres formed by cross-linking alginate with Zn2+, Fe3+, Cu2+, and Ca2+ ions had significant effects on wound healing, with Zn2+ enhancing antimicrobial activity, Fe3+ and Cu2+ increasing collagen fiber formation, and Zn2+ and Ca2+ promoting capillary development. This research provides valuable insights into potential applications for skin wound treatment. [Extracted from the article]

A patent has been issued for open-loop insulin delivery basal parameters based on insulin delivery records by Insulet Corporation. The device includes a processor, memory, wireless communication device, and artificial pancreas application to determine insulin delivery amounts and adjust basal dosages as needed. This technology aims to provide more accurate and personalized insulin delivery for individuals with Type 1 diabetes, addressing the challenges of manually determining optimal clinical parameters. The patent highlights the importance of updated open loop parameters for users utilizing automated insulin delivery systems. [Extracted from the article]

Research from Houston Methodist Hospital explores the impact of statins on gastrointestinal bleeding events among patients with continuous-flow left ventricular assist devices (CF-LVADs). The study found that there was no significant difference in the incidence of major gastrointestinal bleeding events associated with statin therapy in CF-LVAD patients. Further research is needed to determine if a true association exists between statin use and gastrointestinal bleeding in this patient population. The study highlights the importance of considering factors such as age and baseline creatinine levels in assessing the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding post-CF-LVAD implantation. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from the University of Utah conducted an ex vivo study on the extraction of amiodarone by continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) in critically ill patients with acute renal failure. The study found that amiodarone was heavily extracted by the CRRT circuit, with only 23% remaining in the plasma after 6 hours. This suggests that clinical dosing adjustments may be necessary to achieve therapeutic targets when using amiodarone in patients supported with CRRT. The research was funded by various organizations including the NIH and has been peer-reviewed. [Extracted from the article]

A patent was issued for systems and methods for using biomimetic structures to provide communication in living tissue. The patent aims to address the shortage of organ donors by developing tissue-engineered organs that can replace or assist organs in the body. The technology described in the patent involves creating vascular networks within scaffolds to support the growth and function of tissue-engineered organs, such as livers, lungs, hearts, and kidneys. This innovation has potential applications in organ transplantation, drug testing, and research in the fields of tissue engineering and biomedicine. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at Hannover Medical School in Germany have made advancements in understanding the co-development of the human haematopoietic system and the embryonic heart through the generation of blood-generating heart-forming organoids. These organoids, derived from human pluripotent stem cells, mimic aspects of heart, vasculature, and foregut co-development, and contain haematopoietic progenitor cells with erythro-myeloid and lymphoid potential. This research, supported by Medizinische Hochschule Hannover (MHH), provides a model for studying haematopoiesis in vitro and has been published in Nature Cell Biology. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study from the University of Science in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, explores a new approach to decellularizing small-diameter arteries using low-concentration detergents and physical methods like freezing and thawing. By reducing the concentration of SDS to 0.3%, researchers were able to successfully remove cells from pig arteries without compromising their biomechanical or structural properties. The study found that the acellular samples were non-toxic and promoted cell growth, making them suitable for evaluating physiological processes in blood vessel transplantation. For more information, the full article can be accessed for free at https://doi.org/10.1177/03913988241288369. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from Albert Einstein College of Medicine conducted a study on the impact of mechanical circulatory support (MCS) on in-hospital outcomes among patients with ventricular tachycardia (VT) requiring ablation. The study, based on data from 2019 to 2020, included 14,450 patients, with 6.5% utilizing MCS. The findings indicated that the use of MCS during VT ablation was associated with increased in-hospital mortality, emphasizing the severity of cases requiring such support. The research underscores the importance of careful assessment and optimal usage of MCS to enhance patient outcomes. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted at the High Institute for Research and Education in Transfusion Medicine in Tehran, Iran, explored the development of an in-situ forming autologous fibrin scaffold incorporating Synthetic Teriparatide (TP) for bone regeneration. The research aimed to provide a controlled release of TP for accelerating bone regeneration, utilizing fibrinogen extracted from autologous plasma and thrombin to create the scaffold. The study found that the autologous plasma-derived fibrin scaffolds incorporating TP showed promising results as a bone filler for clinical use, facilitating osteoregeneration. [Extracted from the article]

A patent was issued for a procedure guidance and training apparatus, methods, and systems by Simulated Inanimate Models LLC. The invention focuses on providing remote surgical training and clinical guidance using human-computer interfaces like augmented reality headsets. The system allows for communication between a trainer and trainee during procedures, enhancing surgical training methodologies and reducing distractions for surgeons. The patent details the components and functionalities of the system, emphasizing its potential to revolutionize surgical training practices. [Extracted from the article]

A patent has been issued for methods to create three-dimensional biosynthetic tissue by The Trustees of Indiana University. The patent aims to address challenges in bioprinting by providing a system that enables monitoring of local tissue conditions in real time and manipulation of these conditions to ensure the development of functional tissues and organs. This technology has potential applications in wound infilling, organ regeneration, drug toxicity testing, cancer research, and regenerative medicine. The patent outlines a system that utilizes a fiber embedded with microfluidic channels, ultrasonic transducers, and sensors to create realistic tissue structures. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study from the University of Sao Paulo explores the role of the pancreatic extracellular matrix in supporting bioartificial pancreases for the treatment of Type 1 diabetes mellitus. The research highlights the challenges and potential of tissue engineering in creating functional scaffolds for transplantation, emphasizing the importance of replicating the pancreas's intricate architecture. The study underscores the promising avenue that pancreatic bioengineering represents for T1DM treatment, calling for further research to ensure successful implementation. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study from McGill University explores the potential benefits of adding synthetic enzymes to polyhemoglobin to protect warm ischemic human hepatocytes and cardiomyocytes. The research suggests that this novel solution significantly improves cell viability, growth, and protection against oxidative stress and injury in human hepatocytes and cardiomyocytes. The findings indicate that this approach could be valuable as a pre-transplant cell/organ preservation solution and contribute to the development of blood substitutes. For more information, the full article can be accessed for free at the provided link. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at Zhejiang Shuren University have published a study on exosomal circular RNAs as potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Exosomes containing circRNAs play a crucial role in intercellular communication and can impact HCC progression by regulating cell proliferation, invasion, metastasis, and drug resistance. The study highlights the clinical potential of exosomal circRNAs as non-invasive biomarkers for HCC diagnosis and treatment, offering new perspectives on addressing this global health issue. The research emphasizes the unique role of circRNAs in promoting metastasis and immune escape in HCC. [Extracted from the article]

A patent application by inventor Daniel Bowers for an "Intravascular Artificial Pancreas" has been made available online, aiming to address the challenges faced by patients with insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus. The device is designed to produce insulin through a network of vascular channels and islet chambers, allowing for the exchange of biomolecules and gases. The invention seeks to provide a cellular solution for insulin replacement that could offer tight glucose control without patient input, potentially impacting the organ waiting list and improving patient outcomes. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted in Slovakia examined the use of total artificial hearts as a bridge to transplantation for patients with advanced heart failure. The study found that out of 10 patients who received the artificial heart, 60% were successfully bridged to transplant with a median time of 6.5 months. However, 4 patients died while on the device. The study concluded that while the future of total artificial hearts is uncertain, they remain a viable option for certain patients with advanced heart failure who may not otherwise survive. [Extracted from the article]

A report from Westchester Medical Center in Valhalla, New York discusses the use of the axillary artery for inserting the Impella 5.5 device in patients with cardiogenic shock. The study analyzed data from 75 patients who underwent the procedure and found that the choice of laterality (right or left) and the size of the axillary artery did not significantly impact outcomes or safety. The research concluded that the axillary approach is a viable option for successful support with the Impella 5.5 device. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from Taiyuan University of Technology in China have developed a new 3D bioprinting technology and equipment based on microvalve control. This technology allows for the precise printing of bio-materials with low viscosities, expanding the possibilities for biofabrication. The researchers believe that this technology has great significance for 3D bioprinting in tissue engineering and could lay a solid foundation for the construction of complex artificial organ tissues. The research has been peer-reviewed and published in the journal Biotechnology and Bioengineering. [Extracted from the article]

A patent application by inventor Cuijun Yang has been made available online for an interlocking drug infusion device and artificial pancreas. The device aims to prevent over-infusion of insulin in diabetic patients by using a program module and position detection module to provide driving instructions to the actuator. This interlock mechanism ensures that the device continues to function even in the event of electronic component failure, reducing the risk of hypoglycemia or coma. The invention also includes an elastic member to reset the driving unit and various arrangements for the position detection element. The patent application was filed by Medtrum Technologies Inc. and is part of ongoing efforts to improve diabetes management technology. [Extracted from the article]

According to a preprint abstract from biorxiv.org, researchers have developed synthetic cell-based tissues called lymphBUTs that mimic the structure and function of lymph nodes. These 3D lymphatic tissues have mechanical adaptability, metabolic activity, and hierarchical microstructural organization. The researchers demonstrated that human immune cells can infiltrate and integrate into these synthetic lymph nodes, forming living tissue hybrids. By manipulating the micro-organization and metabolic activity of the lymphBUTs, the researchers were able to expand therapeutic CD8+ T cells with a regulatory phenotype. This study advances synthetic cell engineering towards the creation of 3D tissue structures. However, it is important to note that this preprint has not yet undergone peer review. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers have submitted a patent application for a delivery system called "Delivery System Commissural Alignment Markers" to the US Patent and Trademark Office. The system is designed to deliver a replacement heart valve implant to a native heart valve. It includes an elongate shaft assembly with longitudinal marker elements that can be seen under fluoroscopy, allowing for the alignment of the replacement valve with the native valve. The patent application provides detailed descriptions and examples of the system's components and methods. The assignee of the patent is Boston Scientific Scimed Inc. [Extracted from the article]

This article discusses a patent application for a stent delivery device with a secondary visual indicator to ensure proper positioning of a replacement heart valve implant. The device includes a primary visual indicator visible under fluoroscopy and a secondary visual indicator visible when the imaging device is aligned with a reference plane associated with the native valve annulus. The article highlights the advancements in healthcare technology, specifically in the field of artificial hearts, and mentions Boston Scientific Scimed Inc. as a key player in this industry. It is a valuable resource for library patrons conducting research on biomedical engineering and artificial organs. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by the National Institute of Technology in Rourkela, India, has provided new insights into the development of artificial pancreas technology. The study focused on the importance of collecting data from multiple sources, such as continuous glucose sensors, insulin dosage information, meal quantity and time, and physical activity data, in order to accurately estimate insulin doses. The researchers developed a generative adversarial network (GAN) based architecture that can generate glucose, physical activity, and meal information data for individual patients. The study found that this architecture selection approach led to better synthetic data generation and improved forecasting accuracy. [Extracted from the article]

A new report from New York Medical College discusses the use of the Organ Care System (OCS) in preserving donor hearts for transplantation. The OCS reduces the time that the heart is without blood flow, potentially increasing the number of viable organs available for transplantation. The study found that the use of OCS allowed for longer preservation times and increased distances traveled for heart retrieval. The outcomes for patients who received hearts preserved with OCS were comparable to those who received hearts preserved using conventional cold storage techniques. The research suggests that OCS could expand the donor pool without negatively affecting outcomes. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by the Guangdong Academy of Science in Guangzhou, China, explores the challenges of repairing critical-size bone defects and the need for biomaterials that promote osteogenesis, vascularization, and neurogenesis. The researchers developed a novel organic-inorganic composite material using 3D printing, which showed enhanced hydrophilicity, mineralization ability, compressive strength, and elastic modulus. The material also exhibited good cytocompatibility and effectively promoted osteogenesis, angiogenesis, and neurogenesis in vitro. In vivo experiments demonstrated that the material effectively repaired cranium defects and promoted the secretion of proteins related to bone regeneration and neurovascular formation. The study suggests that this composite material could be used in bone tissue engineering and presents a new concept for neurovascularized bone repair. [Extracted from the article]

A new report from Asahi Kasei Corporation in Tokyo, Japan explores the impact of the inner surface of hollow fibers on the blood compatibility of hemodialyzers. The researchers used scanning probe microscope/atomic force microscopy (SPM/AFM) to examine the swelling and flexible layers on the inner surfaces of the fibers. They found that a vitamin E-coated polysulfone (PS) membrane showed improved blood compatibility compared to other materials. However, further clinical trials are needed to confirm these findings. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study from the University of Toronto highlights the challenges and outcomes of using left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) in pediatric patients with end-stage heart failure. The study found that there are limited LVAD options for children of different body sizes, with smaller patients experiencing higher rates of VAD-related stroke. However, the use of the HeartMate 3 (HM3) device has expanded to smaller patients, although they may be at a higher risk of infections, renal dysfunction, bleeding, and stroke. The study emphasizes the need for size-stratified analyses and device development to better serve the pediatric population. [Extracted from the article]

A patent application has been submitted for a method of identifying peptide therapeutics to treat various conditions. The method involves generating a DNA library of sequences encoding peptides, introducing these sequences into assay cells, applying selection pressure to identify cells with desired phenotypes, and sequencing the DNA to identify the peptides responsible. The method aims to address the limited efficacy of small molecule drugs and the need for new approaches to identify peptide-based therapeutics. The patent application provides detailed steps and variations of the method, as well as potential applications and compositions involving the identified peptides. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by the Medical University of Vienna in Austria explored the use of cold atmospheric plasma (CAP) therapy as a potential treatment for pediatric cannula infections in Berlin Heart EXCOR patients. The study found that CAP therapy was safe and effective in treating one pediatric patient with cannula exit-site wound healing disorders, resulting in visible improvements in wound staging, reduction in bacterial load, and inflammatory parameters. However, further research is needed to investigate this therapy in more detail. The study was published in the journal Artificial Organs and has undergone peer-review. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from Dalian University of Technology in Liaoning, China have developed a new strategy for designing 4D-printed scaffolds that can undergo programmable transformations for vascular reconstruction. Inspired by the curling behavior of leaves, the researchers created scaffolds that can transform from 2D to 3D structures and adapt to the local geometry of blood vessels. The scaffolds were printed using a combination of polycaprolactone and methacrylate gelatin/alginate hydrogel, and demonstrated the ability to support the adhesion, proliferation, and orientation of endothelial cells. This innovative biomimetic design strategy opens up new possibilities for the development of intelligent biomaterials in regenerative medicine. [Extracted from the article]