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3D printed corneas marked a breakthrough in ophthalmology

 

“At the Newcastle University, United Kingdom, researchers have been successful in creating the first human corneas combining stem cells & 3D printer technology.”

 

A paper publication has discussed about viable proof of concept about creating a “bio-ink” by combining stem cells of a healthy human donor with collagen and alginate which is further forced-out or extruded through a 3D printer shaped like an actual human cornea. The stem cells are then nurtured into these printed corneas.

 

A professor at the Newcastle University said;

 

“Research teams and scientists in the healthcare around the world are now chasing the bio-ink which is ideal to make this process feasible. The concept has been rooted in earlier researches and medical practice of keeping the cells alive at room temperature inside a likewise hydrogel. But now, the bio-ink containing stem cells allow printing of the tissues without growing the cells in isolation.”

 

The first successful 3D printed cornea came with quite a buzz and excitement which literally expands the scope of ophthalmology, allowing unlimited application in refractive and corneal surgeries. And like always, there’ve been scepticism over the work due to previous manufacturing of synthetic corneas used for human eye transplantation.

 

However, surgical application of these corneas in the actual eyes hasn’t brought satisfying results. That said, even doctors say they’ve yet to completely understand the corneal structural makeup through various methods and predict the occurrence of ectasia post-refractive eye surgery.

 

Catering to the appropriate shape and size of the artificial cornea is indeed praiseworthy and an achievement after years of tireless research and laboratory work. But, will the structure be able to adjust to the human eye and allow smooth suture to pass through without cheese wiring out of it is yet to be seen.

 

Further research and arguments are on essential fluids and nutrients to the eye health and if they’re able to circulate to the eye while maintaining the intraocular pressure. Further queries have been on optical clarity and if these artificial corneas wouldn’t distort the real-time image quality, normal function of the eye and intraocular pressure measurements.

 

Other concerns are on longevity of the artificial corneas and their ability to survive the test of time without degrading, pulling away or even melting from the surrounding eye wall or tissue. Human cornea, much like the entire body is an engineering masterpiece and the more research is being done on its performance and overall functions, the harder it gets while opening doors for many hidden secrets and achievements a human mind is unwilling to accept immediately.

 

Although, creation of 3D printed corneas has proven ground-breaking and a first successful step is replacing the natural cornea post-surgery, there’s a dire need for producing a much more sophisticated and near real version than current.

 

 

For the treatment of anterior corneal scars and certain narrowing anomalies such as keratoconus, the corneal stromal transplant also known as anterior lamellar transplant) is significant. Custom printing of the tissue is indeed a development beyond anything in the ever expanding field of ophthalmology.

Source: http://www.moorfields.ae

5 Tips for Summer Driving Safety

If you live in Dubai? You know that when it comes to the weather, anything other than dry, hot sunny days is something of a rarity. But does it mean that since we're used to of this so we shouldn't be ready to hit the road and have safe summer drive?

As we all know, driving in hot weather conditions sometimes turns up challenging and risky to the health as well as the safety of not only drivers and passengers but for passers-by as well. Therefore, we've come up with some useful summer driving safety tips to help you stay safe on the roads this summer. So let's dive in;

Have a Cool Car

The very first yet quite obvious tip here is; don’t get into an already baking hot car. This will give you the best chance of a relaxing drive. So how to cool your car down? Just park it in the shade, open the doors and windows. If not that, you can just run the air conditioner for a few minutes before sitting in the car.

This way, you'll be able to avoid getting messed up by the head before the journey. Keep in mind that you've got to save the fuel as well. So ensure that you turn the air conditioner off when you find the car at desired temperate.

Top up the Fluid Levels

In summer, car engines mostly get hot - things often get worse when you're in the standstill traffic. Therefore, make sure that the coolant is always topped up. Also turn the engine off in heavy traffic so that it will help save the fuel. In dry sunny weather, windscreens get dirty and will surely amplify the sun glare. Therefore, try to have enough windscreen washer fluid to help maintain a clear view in the sun.

Be Hydrated

In the hot summer, it's essential to be adequately hydrated especially when you're stuck in the traffic jams. Therefore, have plenty of cold water before you go out on longer journeys. And if you have to carry the passengers or having your family in the car, have enough water for you and all the passengers.

How About Summer Allergies?

Did you know there are millions of people that suffer from hay fever across the world and this condition can be very problematic when you're driving?

For instance; you're driving at 70mph and continually sneezing due to hay fever. And don't rely upon tablets as they have side effects like blurred vision and drowsiness. This way, you won't be able to drive safely. So make sure that you're checking the labels on medication before taking them in case you're planning on driving shortly afterwards

Check Car Tires

When is the last time you checked the tire pressure? Checking the tire pressure regularly is very important to have a safe drive especially in the summer. Also, check the tread depth as it has a significant impact upon traction. If you think that tires need to be replaced, you can consider buying the high-quality premium Goodyear tyres Dubai.

Summary

Do you want to learn more about some really effective summer driving tips? Just check out the article now

Source: http://orangeauto.ae