Published in last 50 years
Articles published on Benchtop Testing
- New
- Research Article
- 10.1007/s00604-025-07631-x
- Oct 30, 2025
- Mikrochimica acta
- Preeti Singh + 6 more
Thedevelopment of an assay is presentedfor an aptamer-based flexible sensor aimed at the non-invasive detection of C-reactive protein in sweat that is passively perspired. CRP is a well-preserved plasma protein and a homopentameric acute-phase inflammatory protein crucial to the body's inflammatory responses. A significant advancement in this platform is the incorporation of aptamers, which provide notable benefits compared to conventional antibodies in biosensor applications. Incorporating aptamers enables the flexible sensor to deliver accurate and ongoing monitoring capabilities, converting cytokine binding into quantifiable electrical signals. The device's features render it especially effective for monitoring dynamic fluctuations in inflammatory biomarkers. This study presents the benchtop validation of a novel aptamer-based sensor designed to detect CRP in phosphate buffer solution(PBS) and human sweat. The dynamic range of CRP was established between 0.5 and 8.0ng/mL, exhibiting a sensitivity of 0.22ng/mL, while the limit of quantification (LOQ) was determined to be 0.65ng/mL. Studies on cocktails have confirmed that the sensor showed no significant interference from biomarkers such as TNF-α, IL6, and IL8 for the CRP sensor. The evaluation of the flexible sensor demonstrated its capability to detect biomarkers in human sweat samples with impressive accuracy in approximately 3min of incubation. The limits of detection and quantification were 1.20ng/mL and 3.60ng/mL, respectively. The sensing mechanism of the flexible sensor indicates that the interaction between the biomarker and the aptamer on the electrode surface modifies the electrical characteristics of the interface. This alteration generally results in a more conductive pathway, attributed to conformational changes in the aptamer, which facilitate an increased transfer of electrons between the electrode and the solution, ultimately resulting in a reduced impedance reading.
- Research Article
- 10.1371/journal.pone.0333109
- Oct 6, 2025
- PLOS One
- Jonas A Pologe + 4 more
BackgroundAlmost since its introduction, pulse oximetry has been plagued by inaccuracy associated with pigmentation, whether from fingernail polishes or melanin. The presence of melanin in the optical path of a pulse oximetry sensor has been shown to artifactually increase oxygen saturation measurements which can result, clinically, in occult hypoxemia and misdiagnoses.MethodsThis report describes the theoretical basis for this inaccuracy and presents results from both a benchtop study and a clinical study testing the effects of pigmentation on conventional LED-based pulse oximetry compared to laser-based pulse oximetry. The clinical portion of this study was performed on 18 consenting participants, nine darkly pigmented and nine lightly pigmented, to assess the ability of laser-based pulse oximetry to eliminate this dangerous pigmentation bias. The clinical study directly compared oxygen saturation readings on laser-based pulse oximeters to readings performed on two different LED-based pulse oximeters. All measurements were compared to invasive reference laboratory measurements performed on arterial blood samples. We hypothesized that monochromatic light sources used in laser-based pulse oximetry would make this new technology insensitive to pigmentation bias.ResultsThe clinical portion of this study showed significantly greater (p < 0.001) measurement error (variance) for the two LED-based pulse oximeters (5.48 and 5.47) compared to laser-based pulse oximetry (3.54), when analyzed for all participants. The bias differences in oxygen saturation measurements by the LED-based pulse oximeters, when made on lightly versus darkly pigmented participants compared to invasive reference measurements, accounts for most of the increase in measurement error.ConclusionsBy combining theoretical development, experimental benchtop testing, and a clinical study, this research explains and demonstrates that the wide spectral bandwidth of LEDs is the root cause of pigmentation bias in commercially available LED-based pulse oximetry and validates the ability of narrow-band laser-based pulse oximetry to eliminate this pigmentation bias.
- Research Article
- 10.1088/1361-6382/ae0087
- Sep 30, 2025
- Classical and Quantum Gravity
- A Mitchell + 9 more
Abstract Homodyne quadrature interferometers (HoQIs) are compact, low noise and high dynamic range displacement sensors designed for use in gravitational wave observatories. Their lower noise compared to the displacement sensors used at present makes them valuable for improving the seismic isolation in current and future detectors. This paper outlines the progression of this sensor from initial production and benchtop tests to in-vacuum static performance and installation in a gravitational wave detector prototype facility. A detailed design description is outlined, including the full signal and optical chain required for implementation in detectors. The measured in-vacuum static performance indicates a noise floor of 3– 4 × 10 − 13 m Hz − 1 at 10 Hz. Three HoQIs were installed on the beamsplitter suspension at the Albert Einstein Institute 10 m gravitational wave detector prototype. They measured motion of the intermediate mass across the entire bandwidth measured and showed minimal non-linearities and a good robustness to motion in unmeasured degrees of freedom, both important for practical use in dynamic systems such as seismic isolation.
- Research Article
- 10.1097/grf.0000000000000954
- Sep 1, 2025
- Clinical obstetrics and gynecology
- Yair J Blumenfeld + 3 more
Fetal lower urinary tract obstruction (LUTO) is a severe malformation that is associated with significant neonatal and pediatric morbidity and mortality risk. Existing fetal shunts aimed at bypassing the obstruction and improving neonatal survival have significant limitations, primarily shunt dislodgement. Repeat in-utero invasive shunt replacement procedures are associated with maternal, fetal, and obstetric risks, highlighting a clinical need for a novel fetal shunt with improved performance. We used a biodesign approach to develop and validate a novel fetal shunt, the Vortex shunt, which can potentially reduce dislodgement and improve both neonatal and maternal outcomes. In this review, we will discuss our approach to assessing the clinical need, the initial prototyping and benchtop testing, and animal feasibility studies of the Vortex shunt. We will also discuss existing challenges and opportunities for innovation in the fetal medicine and surgery space, and how biodesign methodology can inform novel instrument development in high-impact small market areas.
- Research Article
- 10.1177/19386400251363023
- Aug 20, 2025
- Foot & ankle specialist
- Travis R Flick + 3 more
This study aimed to evaluate the stability of bimalleolar ankle fracture fixation techniques (bicortical and unicortical lag screw) in simulated progressive rehabilitation with a walking boot. Five matched pairs of lower extremities underwent simulated bimalleolar ankle fracture and were randomly assigned into these 2 repair groups. Each specimen was tested under an axial compression cyclic load test for 10000 cycles at a rate of 1 Hz while the ankle was held in 30° inclination. Radiographic assessments (screw attached lengths [length from screw head to far cortex], fracture gap, and joint clear space [medial, superior, and lateral]) by 3 examiners were performed at 0th, 5000th, and 10000th cycles. Three repeated measurements by each examiner. The overall level of intra-rater reliability for all 3 raters and all measurements were found to be within "moderate" to "excellent" agreement. For radiographic screw loosening and fracture displacement, evaluation found that at no time point did either the bicortical group or the unicortical group meet the minimal threshold of clinical failure which defined as 2-mm of screw displacement or 2-mm of fracture displacement. Both bicortical and traditional unicortical lag screw fixation techniques provide equivalent stability for medial malleolar fractures in a bimalleolar ankle fracture during simulated progressive rehabilitation with a walking boot. This could potentially have clinical benefits in patient care with earlier return to function, prevention of stiffness and loss of range of motion, and decreased muscle atrophy during the postoperative rehabilitation period.Level of Evidence: Level V: bench top testing.
- Research Article
- 10.1109/tbme.2025.3600562
- Aug 19, 2025
- IEEE transactions on bio-medical engineering
- Run Ze Gao + 7 more
Due to volume fluctuations, bony prominences contacting prosthetic sockets are susceptible to skin breakdown due to constant pressure and shear stresses from lateral and vertical displacements throughout gait. A low-profile unloading cushion that can be controlled with a millisecond response to dynamically provide localized socket fit at the fibular head may offer stress relief during gait. The study presents a low-profile (<0.5 mm thick) dynamic fluidic cushion that can provide targeted cushioning during gait to mitigate high contact pressures at bony prominences while minimizing duration of pressure and shear. The proof-of-concept study comprised benchtop testing using a residual limb model. The dynamic cushion effectively unloaded high pressure caused by the body weights only during the stance phase at the fibular head for up to 80 kg by mitigating and redistributing contact pressures away from the fibular head to the immediately surrounding soft tissues. Results demonstrated that the fibular head peak contact pressure could be reduced by as much as 94% (98 to 6 kPa) with a response time of 250 milliseconds in benchtop tests, fast enough to turn on during stance and off during swing. The proposed dynamic fluidic cushion has the potential to offer unloading during gait to prevent skin damage at pressure-sensitive spots, notably benefiting individuals with complex limb geometries. We introduce a new method with the potential to be integrated into prosthetist workflows to locally adjust socket fit (e.g., at the fibular head) using elastomer sheets and a handheld heat press.
- Research Article
- 10.1007/s11548-025-03494-y
- Aug 15, 2025
- International journal of computer assisted radiology and surgery
- Colton Barr + 13 more
NousNav is a low-cost, open-source neuronavigation platform built to address the high costs and resource limitations that hinder access to advanced neurosurgical technologies in low-resource settings. The low-cost and accessibility of the system is made possible using consumer-grade optical tracking and open-source software packages. This study aims to assess the performance of these core enabling technologies by quantifying their spatial accuracy and comparing it to a commercial gold standard. A series of experiments were conducted to evaluate the capabilities of the selected hardware and registration infrastructure utilized in NousNav. Each component was tested both in a simulated bench-top environment and clinically across four brain tumor resection cases. The Optitrack Duo tracker used by NousNav was found to have a mean localization error of 0.8mm (SD 0.4mm). In bench-top phantom testing, NousNav had an average target registration error of 5.0mm (SD 2.3mm) following patient registration. Clinical evaluations revealed a mean distance of 4.2mm (SD 1.5mm) between points reported by NousNav versus those obtained using a commercial neuronavigation system. These experiments highlight the role of baseline camera tracking performance, tracked instrument calibration, and patient positioning on the spatial performance of NousNav. They also provide an essential benchmark assessment of the system to help inform future clinical use-cases and direct ongoing system development.
- Research Article
- 10.1115/1.4069291
- Aug 2, 2025
- Journal of Medical Devices
- Md Ashiquzzaman + 1 more
Abstract Rehabilitation robots have become an increasingly important tool in the gait training of individuals suffering from mobility impairments. In the paper, the authors present a novel rehabilitation robot system, namely RailBot-Rehab, with the objective of enabling users to play an active role in self-initiated and self-controlled overground gait training. Unlike the exoskeleton-assisted treadmill walking in traditional robot-based rehabilitation (e.g., Lokomat movement training), the RailBot-Rehab interacts with its user through a forward-facing, hinged and sensorized pelvic bracket, allowing him/her to walk freely without worrying about falls. Further, through the real-time measurement of interaction force, the RailBot-Rehab is capable of generating the desired assistance/resistance force associated with the prescribed therapy. The design of the RailBot-Rehab system is described in detail in this paper. A mobile platform, powered by a new belt-based self-actuated linear drive, generates the sliding motion and supports the human interface. The human interface incorporates a forward-facing pelvic bracket, providing flexible connection to the user's lightweight lower-limb harness to accommodate the natural vertical movement during walking. A feedback controller is developed to regulate the interaction force through the commanded motor efforts. A prototype of the robot was constructed and tested. Benchtop testing showed that the system generates smooth sliding motion and robust control performance under different loading conditions, and preliminary human testing demonstrated the robot's capability of providing the desired assistive and resistive forces during the interaction with the human user.
- Research Article
- 10.1016/j.medengphy.2025.104374
- Aug 1, 2025
- Medical engineering & physics
- Leilei Ma + 9 more
A coronary atherectomy system with a novel burr design for two-phase operation.
- Research Article
- 10.1161/res.137.suppl_1.fri023
- Aug 1, 2025
- Circulation Research
- Tanmay Mukherjee + 4 more
Introduction: Impaired left ventricular (LV) relaxation, a consequence of left ventricular diastolic dysfunction (LVDD), is a common sequela of cardiometabolic diseases. While separate endeavors have been devoted to studying the mechanical and metabolic mechanisms of diastolic function, the physiological link across mechano-metabolic cues governing relaxation remains understudied. Herein, we present a platform for measuring mechano-metabolic indices of diastolic function in mice through in-vivo echocardiography, followed by ex-vivo benchtop testing of mechanics and energetics. Methods: Male, 8-10-week-old wild-type mice were used. Early transmitral flow to mitral annular tissue velocity ratio (E/e’), measured by Doppler imaging, was used to assess LV relaxation. The LV free wall (LVFW) was harvested from the mice and immediately placed in PBS at 1°C. Mechanical testing was performed to measure stiffness (n = 4). Additionally, energetics were quantified by homogenizing 10 mg of LVFW tissue using buffer A and analyzing the supernatant ATP concentration (n = 4). Results: A bias in passive stresses towards the circumferential direction, in comparison to the longitudinal direction, was noted at various stages of equibiaxial stretching (Fig. 1A). A similar anisotropic behavior was confirmed via LVFW stiffness (Fig. 1B). A consistent spread in E and e’ was maintained in all mice, evidenced via similar standard deviation (Fig. 1C). Baseline diastolic function was established using the E/e’ ratio (Fig. 1D), and the average basal ATP levels in mice was measured as 1.75 ± 0.58 nmol (Fig. 1E). Conclusion: The integration between in-vivo echocardiography and ex-vivo mechanical testing and metabolic assays was established in mice. This platform will enable us to determine the relationship between mechanical and metabolic alterations in LVDD, thereby optimizing patient-specific therapies based on these integrated measures of diastolic function.
- Research Article
- 10.11648/j.js.20251304.14
- Jul 30, 2025
- Journal of Surgery
- Madeleine Jayme + 6 more
Background: Electrosurgery has evolved significantly since its inception, with advancements in generator technology improving safety and efficacy. This study evaluates the performance and usability of the Dualto Energy System, a new multi-modal surgical energy platform combining core electrosurgery with enhanced monopolar, advanced bipolar, and ultrasonic capabilities. Methods: Benchtop testing assessed vessel sealing strength and thermal spread of Dualto compared to existing electrosurgical generators (GEN11 and MEGEN1) using various energy modalities and devices. Waveform and energy analysis was used to confirm electrical isolation of Dualto generators in expanded configuration. Preclinical studies evaluated hemostasis, thermal damage, and tissue healing in acute and chronic animal models. Surveys were conducted with surgeons, nurses, and biomedical technicians to assess usability and perceived benefits. An acquisition cost calculator was developed to estimate potential cost savings associated with Dualto implementation. Results: Benchtop testing demonstrated non-inferior vessel burst pressure for Dualto compared to GEN11. Thermal spread was comparable between generators, with slight increases observed in specific Dualto monopolar modes. Waveform analysis confirmed electrical isolation of Dualto generators. Dualto exhibited significantly faster frequency lock and transection speeds for ultrasonic devices. Preclinical studies demonstrated non-inferior hemostasis and thermal damage profiles for Dualto in both single and expanded configurations. Chronic preclinical studies met success criteria for hemostasis and tissue healing. HCP survey results indicated positive user perceptions regarding Dualto usability, efficiency, and potential cost savings. The cost calculator projected potential annual savings through reduced operating room time and maintenance. Conclusion: The Dualto Energy System demonstrates comparable or improved performance across multiple energy modalities compared to existing systems. Its modular design, combined with positive user feedback and potential cost savings, suggests that Dualto will be a useful addition to surgical energy technology in the operating room.
- Research Article
- 10.1115/1.4068970
- Jul 16, 2025
- Journal of Medical Devices
- Kaitlyn G Calabresi + 11 more
Abstract Bubble continuous positive airway pressure (bCPAP) is a minimally invasive respiratory support for neonates experiencing respiratory distress syndrome (RDS). It exerts continuous, oscillatory air pressure to encourage lung function and development. Neonates' movement may cause disconnections at the nasal interface. These disconnections are characterized by the cessation of bubbling at the bCPAP respiratory circuit output and frequently go unnoticed until hypoxia develops. Common Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) bCPAP systems lack a built-in alarm or accessory device to monitor for disconnections. As a result, nursing personnel must exercise extreme caution utilizing current bCPAP procedure. If a neonate is disconnected, it may go unnoticed for 4 h or more, depending on nurse availability and rounding schedules. To solve this issue, we propose a novel vibration-based detection apparatus to augment existing bCPAP systems that immediately alert clinicians on the cessation of bubbling in the bCPAP water canister. Our independent monitoring system can assure staff that neonates will not develop hypoxia-related complications due to bCPAP failure. Preliminary benchtop testing with a model bCPAP system indicates that the monitor is effective in detecting bubbling cessation under simulated bCPAP operation conditions, in the pressure range of 5–10 cmH2O. The monitor detected disconnections in an average of 4.22 s across all setting trials, minimizing the time to intervention. While this study was limited to benchtop testing, our initial findings indicate that an accessory bubbling monitor allows for early detection of bCPAP disconnections with future utility in the NICU.
- Research Article
- 10.1177/09544119251351193
- Jul 1, 2025
- Proceedings of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers. Part H, Journal of engineering in medicine
- Vinícius Oliveira Dos Santos + 7 more
Degradation of implants by fretting-corrosion is the main source of released metal ions and debris, leading to adverse tissue reactions. Cemented stems have two interfaces that could be degraded: stem-cement and stem-head. This study aimed to identify which interface suffers the most severe degradation and, for this reason, is potentially more harmful to the human body. For this purpose, six pairs of stems and femoral heads made of stainless steel were divided into two groups according to the interface to be evaluated: I (stem-cement) and II (stem-head). The implants of both groups were subjected to a fretting-corrosion test, applying cyclic loading in corrosive environment for five million cycles. Fretting-corrosion mechanism was evaluated using electrochemical tests, optical microscopy, SEM/EDS analysis, and ions and particles analysis. The fretting current of the stem-cement interfaces was greater than that of the stem-head interfaces. SEM analysis showed the occurrence of corrosion and wear mechanisms, which are found in many published cases of retrieval analyses, indicating that there is a correlation between the mechanisms identified in benchtop test and those in retrieved stems. The amount of particles released in both interfaces was similar to that identified in retrieval analyses. For the stem-cement interface, the amount of particles released was higher than that associated with the stem-head interface. The stem-cement interface resulted in a greater release of ions than the stem-head interface. This reinforces the hypothesis that stem degradation at the stem-cement interface could be more harmful to the human body than that at the stem-head interface.
- Research Article
- 10.3390/act14070327
- Jul 1, 2025
- Actuators
- Xiancheng Gu + 3 more
An active rotor with trailing edge flaps (TEFs) is an effective method for helicopter vibration elimination. The nonlinear hysteresis of piezoelectric actuators used to drive TEFs can adversely affect helicopter vibration control performance. In this paper, a hysteresis modeling and compensation study is performed for piezoelectric actuators used in TEFs. Firstly, the hysteresis characteristics of a rhombic frame actuator with input voltages at different frequencies are investigated by bench-top tests. Subsequently, the Bouc–Wen model is adopted to establish the hysteresis model of the piezoelectric actuator, with its parameters identified through the particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm. Experimental results demonstrate that the proposed model is capable of accurately capturing the hysteresis phenomenon of the piezoelectric actuator within the frequency range of 10–60 Hz. Finally, a compound control regime is established by integrating inverse Bouc–Wen model control with fuzzy PID feedback control. The experimental results indicate that the developed compound control regime can significantly suppress the piezoelectric actuator hysteresis of TEFs within the frequency bandwidth of 10–60 Hz, which lays the foundation for improving the vibration control performance of the active rotor with TEFs in the future.
- Research Article
- 10.2514/1.c038380
- Jul 1, 2025
- Journal of Aircraft
- Se Hoon Chang + 6 more
In this work, the natural vibrational characteristics of Smart Twisting Active Rotor (STAR) II blades are examined while assessing the accuracy of the structural properties obtained using the digitally replicated model constructed based on the x-ray computed tomography (CT) scan images of the blade. The frequencies measured using various test setups established at the German Aerospace Center (DLR) are exploited for the study. The frequency measurements include the blades installed in a hover test rig at nonrotating or rotating conditions along with a bench-top test of the blade mounted vertically with clamping at the root. Detailed three-dimensional (3D) finite element (FE) models created using MSC.NASTRAN are used to verify the present analysis. The comparison results indicate good agreements for the section centroidal offsets and nonrotating frequencies of a cantilevered blade with an airfoil section. Systematic parameter studies are conducted to investigate structural dynamic aspects of the blades, which include structural load paths over the blade arm region, anisotropic couplings of composites, pitch control stiffnesses, external equipment, and flap bending stiffnesses of the blade. The impact of modeling parameters on the free vibration characteristics of the blades is discussed, and some important findings resulting from the present investigation are summarized.
- Research Article
- 10.1126/scirobotics.adt1591
- Jun 25, 2025
- Science robotics
- Jack R Williams + 7 more
Although the field of wearable robotic exoskeletons is rapidly expanding, there are several barriers to entry that discourage many from pursuing research in this area, ultimately hindering growth. Chief among these is the lengthy and costly development process to get an exoskeleton from conception to implementation and the necessity for a broad set of expertise. In addition, many exoskeletons are designed for a specific utility and are confined to the laboratory environment, limiting the flexibility of the designed system to adapt to answer new questions and explore new domains. To address these barriers, we present OpenExo, an open-source modular untethered exoskeleton framework that provides access to all aspects of the design process, including software, electronics, hardware, and control schemes. To demonstrate the utility of this exoskeleton framework, we performed benchtop and experimental validation testing with the system across multiple configurations, including hip-only incline assistance, ankle-only indoor and outdoor assistance, hip-and-ankle load carriage assistance, and elbow-only weightlifting assistance. All aspects of the software architecture, electrical components, hip and Bowden-cable transmission designs, and control schemes are freely available for other researchers to access, use, and modify when looking to address research questions in the field of wearable exoskeletons. Our hope is that OpenExo will accelerate the development and testing of new exoskeleton designs and control schemes while simultaneously encouraging others, including those who would have been turned away from entering the field, to explore new and unique research questions.
- Research Article
- 10.62311/nesx/rphcrefra2
- Jun 23, 2025
- International Journal of Academic and Industrial Research Innovations(IJAIRI)
- Murali Krishna Pasupuleti
This study proposes the development and evaluation of bio-inspired soft robotic actuators tailored for minimally invasive surgery (MIS). The aim is to improve the precision, flexibility, and safety of surgical interventions by mimicking the mechanical adaptability of biological tissues. Through experimental design, finite element modeling, and predictive analysis, the performance of these actuators is quantified in terms of force output, deformation response, and compliance. Data collected from bench-top testing and simulation are statistically analyzed to evaluate the design efficacy. The results indicate significant enhancements in the dexterity and compliance of the actuators compared to rigid counterparts, thereby supporting their viability in MIS applications. Keywords: Keywords: Soft robotics, bio-inspired design, minimally invasive surgery, soft actuators, surgical innovation, predictive modeling
- Research Article
- 10.1071/ep24447
- Jun 19, 2025
- Australian Energy Producers Journal
- A Shapoval
Presented on 28 May 2025: Session 12 The decommissioning of wells, particularly in response to the rising environmental and economic challenges, has become an urgent priority globally. In Queensland, Australia, the decommissioning of wells associated with underground coal gasification (UCG) presents unique risks due to the shallow coal formations and potential groundwater contamination. This study explores the efficacy of bentonite as an alternative abandonment material. We present field trials from the Bloodwood Creek UCG facility, involving the abandonment of three wells with bentonite as a primary sealing material. In addition, benchtop tests were completed to evaluate bentonite’s hydration compatibility with field water samples. The outcomes suggest the necessity for specific laboratory testing procedures tailored to bentonite’s unique properties, highlighting its capacity for rehydration and potential sealing capability post-failure. These findings contribute empirical data towards optimising well abandonment methods that address both environmental sustainability and economic feasibility. To access the Oral Presentation click the link on the right. To read the full paper click here
- Research Article
- 10.1093/jas/skaf170.060
- Jun 17, 2025
- Journal of Animal Science
- Matthew B Wheeler
Abstract Evaluating bovine embryos for transfer and successful pregnancy has been challenging since the inception of embryo transfer in cattle over six decades ago. Despite thousands of publications on bovine embryo evaluation, no consensus or gold standard for assessing their developmental potential in vivo exists. This challenge extends beyond embryos to gametes. Various microscopic techniques [e.g., differential interference contrast, electron, fluorescent, time-lapse, and artificial intelligence (AI)-based microscopy and non-microscopic methodologies (including genomics, transcriptomics, epigenomics, proteomics, metabolomics, and nuclear magnetic resonance)] have been explored to supplant and surpass morphological evaluation. Many research tools that accurately determine embryo quality and viability are invasive, costly, labor-intensive, and time-consuming, making them impractical for field use. Future research should focus on creating field-friendly, simple benchtop tests based on existing findings, particularly from omics-based methodologies. Time-lapse monitoring and AI-based automated image analysis could provide accurate embryo evaluations. Further research is needed to develop economically viable options for field applications. Recent work has explored potential uses of nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) imaging, label-free microscopy, especially holographic techniques like gradient light interference microscopy (GLIM), spatial light interference microscopy (SLIM) and multiphoton holographic microscopy in in vitro fertilization (IVF) labs. The ideal embryo evaluation tool should be accurate, objective, non-invasive, affordable, and simple for widespread adoption by facilities worldwide. It’s unlikely that transcriptomics, proteomics, or metabolomics can be directly used for field evaluations. However, biomarkers identified through these methods could guide the development of simple, affordable benchtop techniques for in-field use. Further research into advanced microscopy and AI-based automated image processing may lead to affordable, widely adoptable methods. The next generation of microscopy, capable of providing objective markers for gamete and embryo quality, is on the horizon. My journey in embryo biology, and especially embryo evaluation, has not been linear. I started college, studying wildlife and fisheries biology. As an undergraduate, I was fortunate to meet Professor Gary B. Anderson at the University of California-Davis in the early 1970s. He was exploring this new field of embryo transfer in cattle. This meeting profoundly changed my life and career trajectory. I completed my MS degree studying twinning in beef cattle using embryo transfer. I went from California to study for a doctorate in physiology and biophysics exploring bovine IVF at Colorado State University under Professor George E. Seidel, Jr. These two great scientists, mentors, and dear friends provided the foundation for my career of over 40 years studying embryo biology in not only cattle but mice, rats, rabbits, swine, horses, sheep, goats, frogs, white-tailed deer and various other species. Great mentors have a profound and lasting impact on their students. I am an example of having had great support and collaborations with many mentors throughout my career.
- Research Article
- 10.3390/biomimetics10060395
- Jun 12, 2025
- Biomimetics (Basel, Switzerland)
- Nicholas J Iglesias + 9 more
Achieving the appropriate primary stability for immediate or early loading in areas with low-density bone, such as the posterior maxilla, is challenging. A three-dimensional (3D) stabilization implant design featuring a tapered body with continuous cutting flutes along the length of the external thread form, with a combination of curved and linear geometric surfaces on the thread's crest, has the capacity to enhance early biomechanical and osseointegration outcomes compared to implants with traditional buttressed thread profiles. Commercially available implants with a buttress thread design (TP), and an experimental implant that incorporated the 3D stabilization trimmed-thread design (TP 3DS) were used in this study. Six osteotomies were surgically created in the ilium of adult sheep (N = 14). Osteotomy sites were randomized to receive either the TP or TP 3DS implant to reduce site bias. Subjects were allowed to heal for either 3 or 12 weeks (N = 7 sheep/time point), after which samples were collected en bloc (including the implants and surrounding bone) and implants were either subjected to bench-top biomechanical testing (e.g., lateral loading), histological/histomorphometric analysis, or nanoindentation testing. Both implant designs yielded high insertion torque (ITV ≥ 30 N⋅cm) and implant stability quotient (ISQ ≥ 70) values, indicative of high primary stability. Qualitative histomorphological analysis revealed that the TP 3DS group exhibited a continuous bone-implant interface along the threaded region, in contrast to the TP group at the early, 3-week, healing time point. Furthermore, TP 3DS's cutting flutes along the entire length of the implant permitted the distribution of autologous bone chips within the healing chambers. Histological evaluation at 12 weeks revealed an increase in woven bone containing a greater presence of lacunae within the healing chambers in both groups, consistent with an intramembranous-like healing pattern and absence of bone dieback. The TP 3DS macrogeometry yielded a ~66% increase in average lateral load during pushout testing at baseline (T = 0 weeks, p = 0.036) and significantly higher bone-to-implant contact (BIC) values at 3 weeks post-implantation (p = 0.006), relative to the traditional TP implant. In a low-density (Type IV) bone model, the TP 3DS implant demonstrated improved performance compared to the conventional TP, as evidenced by an increase in baseline lateral loading capacity and increased BIC during the early stages of osseointegration. These findings indicate that the modified implant configuration of the TP 3DS facilitates more favorable biomechanical integration and may promote more rapid and stable bone anchorage under compromised bone quality conditions. Therefore, such improvements could have important clinical implications for the success and longevity of dental implants placed in regions with low bone density.