Latest Bio Stories
Engineers report new way to make dissolving medical devicesSeptember 12, 2017
Engineers have developed an electronic device that can dissolve through exposure to water molecules in the atmosphere. The work holds promise for biomedical devices that dissolve within the body
How close are we to a real Star Trek-style medical tricorder?August 29, 2017
Two teams were recently awarded the Qualcomm Tricorder X Prize for developing handheld devices that can diagnose a range of diseases and check vital signs without invasive tests – inspired by Star Trek’s medical ‘tricorder’ device. Despina Moschou reports
No battery, no wire, no problem – folding robots move without batteriesAugust 29, 2017
Engineers have created battery-free folding robots that are capable of complex, repeatable movements powered and controlled through a wireless magnetic field</span>, writes Lindsay Brownell
Sticky when wet: ‘tough adhesive’ for wound healing inspired by slugsAugust 1, 2017
Inspired by the glue produced by slugs, a new super-strong, non-toxic 'tough adhesive' binds to biological tissues with a strength comparable to the body's own resilient cartilage, even when wet. Lindsay Brownell reports
Post-stroke patients reach terra firma with exosuit technologyAugust 1, 2017
A soft, wearable robotic suit promotes normal walking in stroke patients, opening new approaches to gait re-training and rehabilitation, writes Benjamin Boettner
Engineering heart valves for the many with capacity for repair and regenerationJuly 17, 2017
Next-generation heart valves, or 'JetValves', developed by biomedical engineers function accurately upon implantation and regenerate into long lasting, heart-like tissue
Problematic pacemakers – how electrical interference can affect medical devicesJuly 4, 2017
Everyday technology can have a dangerous effect on implanted medical devices, with research indicating interference from mobile phones held within 150mm of a pacemaker. Keith Armstrong looks at the problem of electrical interference
NUI Galway student’s stem-cell therapy for arterial obstruction wins major awardJune 20, 2017
Dilip Thomas, who won at the Journal of Wound Care Awards 2017, outlines his research, which used biomaterials to develop a microgel-based cell delivery device for treating critical limb ischemia, a severe obstruction of the arteries
New fibreoptic probe brings endoscopic diagnosis of cancer closer to the clinicJune 1, 2017
In an important step toward endoscopic diagnosis of cancer, engineers have developed a handheld fibre-optic probe that can perform multiple nonlinear imaging techniques without the need for tissue staining
New research findings points a way to better implantable medical devicesMay 23, 2017
A signalling molecule key to the formation of scar tissue surrounding implantable medical devices. Blocking this molecule prevents scar tissue from forming and could extend the lifespan of many types of implantable devices
First-ever autonomously controlled ‘capsule robot’ explores colonMay 8, 2017
New research shows that an 18mm magnetised capsule colonoscope successfully performed intricate manoeuvres inside the colon while guided by an external magnet attached to a robotic arm
The impact of robotic-assisted surgery and engineering on neurosurgeryApril 24, 2017
Advances in engineering and imaging techniques have resulted in a rise in computer- and robotic-assisted surgery. Stuart Campbell discusses key trends on the use of robotics in neurosurgery
Why we must invest and innovate to future-proof Ireland’s medtech successApril 11, 2017
Jonathan Kidd, chair of the Biomedical Engineering Division, outlines why Ireland is a world leader in the biomedical sector and why we must invest in connected health and technology to secure our place at the top
Limpets: a natural example of impact fatigue in a laminated ceramic materialMarch 28, 2017
Prof David Taylor's research reveals that limpets can repair their damaged shells so that they are as strong as the originals. They are still vulnerable to multiple impacts and 'spalling', however - a cause of failure in engineering materials such as concrete
Irish-led researchers develop ‘bioactive’ coating for artificial jointsMarch 14, 2017
The BIOSTEM project has developed biologically active metal implants for improved osseointegration after joint arthroplasty, with the aim of improving the success of joint-replacement surgeries
Engineers create scoliosis brace focusing on comfort, fit and designFebruary 28, 2017
Mechanical engineering students are collaborating with medical experts to create a comfortable brace that fits like a glove for young people with scoliosis
Biomedical engineers harness stomach acid to power tiny sensorsFebruary 28, 2017
Engineers have designed small voltaic cells that are sustained by acidic stomach fluids and can generate power to run sensors or drug-delivery devices that can reside in the gastrointestinal tract for extended periods
Potential for new smart knee device to cut down on knee surgery recovery timeJanuary 31, 2017
A new 'smart' knee device, developed by researchers at Tyndall National Institute, could improve and accelerate recovery time from knee surgery. They explain the process involved
Maximise networking opportunities to get ahead in biomedical engineeringJanuary 17, 2017
Dr Deasún Ó Conchúir explains why the Engineers Ireland Biomedical Engineering Division is relaunching its lecture series, to maximise networking opportunities while also acknowledging the work that is being done in this field, all around the country
Bioengineers develop a 20-cent, hand-powered, ultra-low-cost blood centrifugeJanuary 17, 2017
Bioengineers have developed an ultra-low-cost, human-powered blood centrifuge for detecting diseases like malaria, HIV and tuberculosis. This low-cost version will enable precise diagnosis and treatment in poor, off-grid regions where these diseases are most prevalent