A block puzzle for the aspiring radiologist: Neil Fraser, a software engineer at Google, used volumetric MRI data of a brain scan to create a 3D wooden block puzzle.
First bioprinters available for life science research: Building artificial tissue replacements cell by cell has been the subject of science fiction writers for years. Now it’s one step closer to reality: Organovo of San Diego, Calif., partnered with Invetech of Melbourne, Australia, to develop printers that can layer three-dimensional structures out of various cell types.
Device helps adjust artificial legs for a more natural gait: The Compas from Orthocare Innovations of Oklahoma City is a wireless device that attaches to a prosthetic leg and constantly monitors its movement, sending data back to a computer for software analysis. The novel leg prosthesis-fitting technology helps automate a process that is currently very much a manual affair.
Microsoft seeks patents on EMG human-computer controllers: Microsoft applied for a couple of patents that seek exclusive rights to use electromyography as an input modality to control computers, consumer gadgets, and — hopefully — assistive devices for disabled folks. The system uses EMG sensors on the forearm and other parts of the body to detect and transmit motor unit action potentials.
A weekly roundup of new developments in medical technology, by MedGadget.com.