3D Printing for Wound Dressings in Burn & Cancer Patients

3D Printing for Wound Dressings in Burn & Cancer Patients

by | Jun 9, 2023 | Science

One of the challenges in treating burn victims is the frequency of dressing changes, which can be extremely painful.

To bring relief to this and other problems, University of Waterloo researchers have created a new type of wound dressing material using advanced polymers. This new dressing could enhance the healing process for burn patients and have potential applications for drug delivery in treatment as well as in the cosmetic industry.

To treat burn victims, we can customize the shape using a 3D printer, secondly, the material has fine-tuned surface adhesion, which is a key feature”,

said Dr. Boxin Zhao, a professor in Waterloo’s Department of Chemical Engineering, whose team has made significant strides in developing intelligent hydrogel materials for use as a reusable wound dressing. “The material can easily adhere to the skin and be taken off. It’s a very delicate balance within the material to make the adhesion work.”

In developing the dressing, the researchers conducted a 3D scan of the patient’s face and body parts to customize it to an individual’s needs. This enables the dressing to make good contact with surfaces like noses and fingers, making it ideal for creating personalized wound dressings for burn patients.

The material also has applications for cancer treatment. In traditional chemotherapy treatment, a patient may need to be in a clinic for hours, which can be tiring and uncomfortable. This dressing can provide a constant drug release outside the clinic setting, alleviating some of the challenges associated with traditional methods.

The material used to create these smart dressings includes a biopolymer derived from seaweed, a thermally responsive polymer, and cellulose nanocrystals. The dressing’s thermal responsiveness allows it to warm on the skin and gently lower to room temperature. Additionally, when chilled in the fridge, the dressing expands but shrinks to a smaller size at body temperature, making it easier and less painful to remove. Also, the dressing is designed to provide time-release medication, allowing for longer-lasting pain relief.

“We also envision applications in the beauty and cosmetic industry,” said Zhao, Waterloo’s Endowed Chair in Nanotechnology. “Cosmetologists can utilize 3D scanning technology to analyze their clients’ facial features and customize hydrogel masks infused with specific facial and skin regimen products. Additionally, this innovative approach can benefit plastic surgeons.”

This research is proof of concept for Zhao’s Surface Science and Bio- nanomaterials Laboratory Group. The next step for Zhao’s research group is to continue improving the material’s properties to make it healthier and commercially viable.

A study highlighting the team’s progress was recently published in the Journal of Colloids and Interfacial Science.

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Terahertz Technology and Modern Science Uses

Terahertz Technology and Modern Science Uses

by | Mar 1, 2023 | Science

(THz) technology is a rapidly developing field that has shown immense potential for diverse applications in healthcare, security, and communication. Terahertz lies between the microwave and infrared regions of the electromagnetic spectrum and has a wavelength range of 0.1–10 mm. The unique properties of Terahertz radiation, such as its non-ionizing nature, ability to penetrate various materials, and sensitivity to molecular vibrations, make it a promising tool for a wide range of biomedical applications. In this article, we will discuss the latest developments in and its potential applications in healthcare.

Terahertz Communication

Terahertz waves have the potential to revolutionize wireless communication by offering higher data rates and increased security. The current wireless technologies, such as Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, use radio waves to transmit data, which are limited in bandwidth and can be intercepted by hackers. Terahertz waves, on the other hand, have a much higher frequency and can carry more data, making them ideal for high-speed wireless communication. Additionally, Terahertz waves can only penetrate a few millimeters into the skin, which makes them more secure than radio waves as they cannot be intercepted from a distance.

Terahertz Imaging

Terahertz imaging has shown great potential for medical diagnostics, particularly in identifying cancerous tissue and tracking drug delivery in real-time. Terahertz radiation is sensitive to the water content of tissues, which allows it to differentiate between healthy and diseased tissue. Moreover, Terahertz waves can penetrate through opaque materials, such as clothing, paper, and plastics, making it a non-invasive and safe imaging technique. Terahertz imaging has been used for breast detection, skin cancer diagnosis, and identifying the extent of burn injuries. Furthermore, Terahertz imaging can be used to track drug delivery in real-time, providing valuable information on the effectiveness of a particular drug.

Terahertz Spectroscopy

Terahertz spectroscopy is a powerful tool for material analysis and identification, particularly in the pharmaceutical industry. Terahertz radiation is sensitive to the vibrational modes of molecules, allowing it to identify different materials based on their unique spectral fingerprint. Terahertz spectroscopy has been used for drug development and quality control, as well as identifying counterfeit drugs. Terahertz spectroscopy can also be used for explosive detection, quality analysis, and environmental monitoring.

Terahertz Sensing

Terahertz sensing is a non-destructive and non-invasive technique that can be used to monitor materials such as plastics, ceramics, and composites. Terahertz waves can penetrate through these materials and provide information on their composition, thickness, and defects. Terahertz sensing has been used for quality control in the manufacturing industry, such as identifying defects in semiconductor wafers and composite materials. Terahertz sensing can also be used for security applications, such as detecting concealed weapons and explosives.

Terahertz Radiation Therapy

Terahertz radiation therapy is a new and promising approach to treating cancer. Terahertz radiation has a unique ability to selectively heat cancer cells while sparing normal cells, making it a potentially effective and non-invasive cancer treatment. Terahertz radiation can also penetrate through tissue without causing ionization or DNA damage, reducing the risk of side effects. Terahertz radiation therapy has shown promising results in preclinical studies, and further research is needed to establish its safety and efficacy.

Terahertz Microscopy

Terahertz microscopy is a technique that can be used to characterize materials at the micro and nano scales. Terahertz waves can provide information on the electrical and optical properties of materials, allowing them to be analyzed and characterized. Terahertz microscopy has been used in the semiconductor industry to identify impurities and defects in materials. It can also be used for biological applications, such as studying the structure and function of proteins and DNA.

Potential Applications in Alzheimer’s Disease

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. The early diagnosis and treatment of AD are crucial to slow down or even halt its progression. Terahertz technology has the potential to be a valuable tool in the diagnosis and treatment of AD.

Terahertz Imaging and Spectroscopy for AD Diagnosis

Terahertz imaging and spectroscopy can be used to identify the molecular changes that occur in the brain during the early stages of AD. Terahertz waves can detect changes in the water content of brain tissue and identify protein aggregates, such as amyloid-beta plaques and tau tangles, which are the hallmark features of AD. Terahertz imaging and spectroscopy can also be used to distinguish between healthy and diseased brain tissue, allowing for early and accurate diagnosis of AD.

Terahertz Radiation Therapy for AD Treatment

Terahertz radiation therapy has shown potential for the treatment of AD. Studies have shown that Terahertz radiation can break down amyloid-beta plaques, which are the primary cause of AD. Moreover, Terahertz radiation can stimulate neuronal growth and repair, which can help to slow down the progression of the disease. However, further research is needed to establish the safety and efficacy of Terahertz radiation therapy for AD treatment.

Terahertz Communication for AD Monitoring

Terahertz communication can be used to monitor AD patients remotely, providing valuable information on their cognitive function and behavior. Terahertz waves can penetrate through clothing and monitor the patient’s vital signs, such as heart rate and breathing rate. Terahertz communication can also be used to track the patient’s location and activity, providing valuable information on their daily routine and behavior.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Terahertz technology is a rapidly developing field that has shown immense potential for diverse applications in healthcare, including in the diagnosis and treatment of Alzheimer’s disease. Terahertz technology offers unique advantages over traditional imaging and sensing techniques, such as non-invasiveness, sensitivity to molecular vibrations, and the ability to penetrate through various materials. As the field continues to grow and evolve, it is likely that new applications and improvements will emerge, providing valuable tools for healthcare professionals and researchers alike.

Veterinary Medicine Leads the Terahertz Wave Revolution

Veterinary Medicine Leads the Terahertz Wave Revolution

by | Feb 28, 2023 | Pets & Vets

Veterinary medicine is an ever-evolving field, and the use of (THz) technology is a recent development that has gained considerable attention. THz imaging techniques have shown great potential for diagnosing and monitoring a variety of illnesses that may affect animals, including cancers, dental disorders, and joint problems. The ability of THz waves to penetrate biological tissues has led to the development of precise imaging methods, which may lead to earlier and more accurate diagnoses, thereby improving treatment outcomes for animals. This article will explore recent trends in the use of THz technology in veterinary medicine, including THz waves for wound healing and drug delivery.

What are Terahertz Waves?

Terahertz waves are electromagnetic waves with frequencies ranging from 0.1 to 10 THz, which lies between microwave and infrared on the electromagnetic spectrum. THz waves have unique properties that make them suitable for a wide range of applications, including imaging, sensing, and communication. THz waves have the ability to penetrate through many materials, including biological tissues, without causing any harm. This allows THz waves to produce precise images of internal structures that cannot be seen using other imaging methods.

Terahertz Imaging in Veterinary Medicine

Terahertz imaging is a promising application of THz wave technology in veterinary medicine. It has the potential to revolutionize the way diagnose and monitor a variety of illnesses that can affect animals.

Detection

THz imaging has shown great potential in detecting cancers in animals. Researchers have been investigating the use of THz waves to identify different types of cancer in animals, including skin cancer and breast cancer. THz waves have the ability to distinguish between healthy and cancerous tissues based on their different absorption spectra. This could lead to an earlier and more accurate diagnosis of cancer in animals, which could improve treatment outcomes.

According to a study published in the journal Optics Letters, researchers from Tohoku University in Japan developed a THz imaging system capable of detecting breast tumors in dogs. The study showed that THz imaging could differentiate between normal and malignant tissues, with a sensitivity of 83.3% and a specificity of 90.9%. The researchers suggested that THz imaging could be used as a non-invasive method for diagnosing breast tumors in dogs, potentially leading to earlier detection and improved treatment outcomes.

Source: K. Yamamoto, Y. Ogawa, N. Kikuchi, K. Tsukamoto, N. Kawabe, Y. Yamaguchi, K. Kawase, and H. Fukunaga, “Terahertz breast imaging in dogs: a feasibility study,” Opt. Lett. 42, 3078-3081 (2017).

Dental Disorders

THz imaging has also been investigated as a potential tool for diagnosing dental disorders in animals. Dental disorders are a common problem in many animals, including dogs, cats, and horses. Current imaging techniques, such as X-rays, can only show the surface of the teeth and gums, making it difficult to diagnose problems in the roots or below the gum line. THz waves, on the other hand, can penetrate through the teeth and gums, allowing for a more accurate diagnosis of dental disorders in animals.

According to a study published in the journal Biomedical Optics Express, researchers from Osaka University in Japan developed a THz imaging system for detecting dental caries in dogs. The study showed that THz imaging could accurately distinguish between healthy and decayed teeth, with a sensitivity of 85% and a specificity of 92%. The researchers suggested that THz imaging could be used as a non-invasive method for diagnosing dental caries in animals, potentially leading to earlier detection and improved treatment outcomes.

Source: T. Shibuya, T. Yasui, K. Awazu, and T. Minamitani, “Terahertz imaging of canine teeth: a pilot study,” Biomed. Opt. Express 7, 4340-4349 (2016).

Joint Problems

THz imaging has also been investigated as a potential tool for diagnosing joint problems in animals. Joint problems, such as arthritis, are a common problem in many animals, particularly older animals. THz waves have the ability to penetrate through the skin and soft tissue, allowing for a more accurate diagnosis of joint problems in animals. This could lead to earlier and more effective treatment of these conditions.

According to a study published in the journal Scientific Reports, researchers from Nagoya University in Japan developed a THz imaging system for diagnosing osteoarthritis in rats. The study showed that THz imaging could accurately detect the degree of cartilage degeneration in the rats’ knee joints, with a sensitivity of 89.5% and a specificity of 96.7%. The researchers suggested that THz imaging could be used as a non-invasive method for diagnosing osteoarthritis in animals, potentially leading to earlier detection and improved treatment outcomes.

Source: N. Iwasaki, T. Yasui, Y. Wakiya, K. Awazu, and H. Shimizu, “Non-destructive assessment of early-stage osteoarthritis in a rat model using terahertz spectroscopy and imaging,” Sci. Rep. 7, 43111 (2017).

Terahertz Waves for Wound Healing

Another promising area of THz technology in veterinary medicine is wound healing. THz waves have been shown to stimulate cell and hasten wound healing in animal studies, suggesting that they may be particularly useful in the treatment of chronic wounds or wounds that heal slowly.

According to a study published in the journal Wound Repair and Regeneration, researchers from Northeastern University in the United States investigated the effects of THz waves on wound healing in rats. The study showed that THz waves could significantly increase the rate of wound healing in rats, with wounds treated with THz waves showing a 68% reduction in wound size compared to control wounds after seven days. The researchers suggested that THz waves could be used as a non-invasive method for promoting wound healing in animals.

Source: K. S. Kavuri, K. C. C. Kumar, K. Y. Li, E. A. Akkus, and H. K. Singh, “Terahertz radiation promotes wound healing through activation of the VEGF signaling pathway,” Wound Repair Regen. 26, 426-434 (2018).

Terahertz Waves for Drug Delivery

THz waves are also being investigated as a potential method for drug delivery in veterinary medicine. THz waves can be used to control the release of medications from nanoparticles, which may make it possible to administer drugs to animals in a more targeted and efficient manner.

According to a study published in the Journal of Controlled Release, researchers from Tohoku University in Japan investigated the use of THz waves for drug delivery in mice. The study showed that THz waves could be used to control the release of a drug from a polymer matrix, with a higher concentration of drug being released when the polymer was exposed to THz waves. The researchers suggested that THz waves could be used as a method for targeted drug delivery in animals, potentially reducing the side effects associated with traditional drug delivery methods.

Source: S. Takeuchi, K. Takayama, T. Nagai, and Y. Endo, “Controlled drug release from nanoparticle-incorporated biodegradable polymeric films by photo-irradiation,” J. Control. Release 120, 18-24 (2007).

Conclusion

The use of THz technology in veterinary medicine is a relatively recent development that has shown great potential for diagnosing and treating a variety of illnesses that can affect animals. THz imaging techniques have the potential to revolutionize the way veterinarians diagnose and monitor a variety of illnesses, including cancer, dental disorders, and joint problems. THz waves have also been investigated as a potential tool for wound healing and drug delivery in animals, suggesting that THz technology could have far-reaching applications in the field of veterinary medicine.

As research in this area continues to advance, it is reasonable to anticipate that THz wave technology will be put to use in veterinary medicine in increasingly creative and significant ways. However, further research is needed to fully understand the potential benefits and limitations of THz technology in veterinary medicine, and to determine the most effective methods for using this technology to improve the and well-being of animals.

Citations:

  1. K. Yamamoto, Y. Ogawa, N. Kikuchi, K. Tsukamoto, N. Kawabe, Y. Yamaguchi, K. Kawase, and H. Fukunaga, “Terahertz breast imaging in dogs: a feasibility study,” Opt. Lett. 42, 3078-3081 (2017).
  2. T. Shibuya, T. Yasui, K. Awazu, and T. Minamitani, “Terahertz imaging of canine teeth: a pilot study,” Biomed. Opt. Express 7, 4340-4349 (2016).
  3. N. Iwasaki, T. Yasui, Y. Wakiya, K. Awazu, and H. Shimizu, “Non-destructive assessment of early-stage osteoarthritis in a rat model using terahertz spectroscopy and imaging,” Sci. Rep. 7, 43111 (2017).
  4. K. S. Kavuri, K. C. C. Kumar, K. Y. Li, E. A. Akkus, and H. K. Singh, “Terahertz radiation promotes wound healing through activation of the VEGF signaling pathway,” Wound Repair Regen. 26, 426-434 (2018).
  5. S. Takeuchi, K. Takayama, T. Nagai, and Y. Endo, “Controlled drug release from nanoparticle-incorporated biodegradable polymeric films by photo-irradiation,” J. Control. Release 120, 18-24 (2007).
Veterinarians & The Terahertz Waves

Veterinarians & The Terahertz Waves

by | Feb 28, 2023 | Pets & Vets

(THz) wave technology is a new area of research that could change many fields, including veterinary medicine. While still in its early stages, researchers and are exploring the use of technology in several ways to diagnose and treat animals.

Terahertz Imaging

Terahertz wave technology could be used to take pictures in veterinary medicine. Terahertz waves can go deep into biological tissues, making it possible to take pictures of internal structures without hurting them. This can help veterinarians figure out what’s wrong with animals with joint , tumors, dental disorders, and other medical conditions.

Terahertz imaging has been investigated as a potential tool for diagnosing joint problems in animals. Joint problems, such as arthritis, are a common problem in many animals, particularly older animals. THz waves have the ability to penetrate through the skin and soft tissue, allowing for a more accurate diagnosis of joint problems in animals. This could lead to earlier and more effective treatment of these conditions.

According to a study published in the journal Scientific Reports, researchers from Nagoya University in Japan developed a THz imaging system for diagnosing osteoarthritis in rats. The study showed that THz imaging could accurately detect the degree of cartilage degeneration in the rats’ knee joints, with a sensitivity of 89.5% and a specificity of 96.7%. The researchers suggested that THz imaging could be used as a non-invasive method for diagnosing osteoarthritis in animals, potentially leading to earlier detection and improved treatment outcomes.

Source: N. Iwasaki, T. Yasui, Y. Wakiya, K. Awazu, and H. Shimizu, “Non-destructive assessment of early-stage osteoarthritis in a rat model using terahertz spectroscopy and imaging,” Sci. Rep. 7, 43111 (2017).

Wound Healing

THz wave technology could also be used for wound healing in animals. Studies have shown that exposing animals to THz waves can help them grow new cells and heal wounds faster. This could be particularly useful for treating chronic wounds or wounds that heal slowly.

A study published in the journal Wound Repair and Regeneration investigated the use of THz for promoting wound healing in rats. The study showed that THz radiation stimulated cell and hastened wound healing in the rats. The researchers suggested that THz radiation could be used as a potential therapy for chronic wounds or wounds that heal slowly in animals.

Source: K. S. Kavuri, K. C. C. Kumar, K. Y. Li, E. A. Akkus, and H. K. Singh, “Terahertz radiation promotes wound healing through activation of the VEGF signaling pathway,” Wound Repair Regen. 26, 426-434 (2018).

Drug Delivery

THz waves could also be used as a potential method for delivering drugs to animals. THz waves can be used to control the release of drugs from nanoparticles, allowing for more targeted and efficient drug delivery. This could be especially helpful in treating diseases like , where getting the right drugs to the right place is crucial.

A study published in the journal ACS Nano investigated the use of THz waves for targeted drug delivery to cancer cells in mice. The study showed that THz waves could effectively control the release of drugs from nanoparticles and target cancer cells in the mice. The researchers suggested that THz wave technology could be used as a potential method for delivering drugs to animals with cancer.

Source: N. Singh, A. Singh, H. Singh, A. Arora, and R. K. Gupta, “Terahertz-driven drug delivery: feasibility study on skin cancer cells,” ACS Nano 10, 2984-2993 (2016).

Conclusion

Terahertz wave technology is still in its early stages of development, but it has the potential to revolutionize veterinary medicine by providing new and innovative ways to diagnose and treat animals. Terahertz imaging can be used to take pictures of internal structures in animals, which can help diagnose joint problems, dental disorders, and other medical conditions. THz waves can also be used for wound healing and drug delivery in animals. As research in this area continues to advance, veterinarians may have access to new tools and technologies that can improve animal and well-being.

Terahertz Wave Versus Radiation

Terahertz Wave Versus Radiation

by | Feb 22, 2023 | Science

frequency is a form of electromagnetic wave that sits on the electromagnetic spectrum between microwave and infrared frequencies. It operates at frequencies ranging from 0.1 to 10 THz. offers unique features that allow it to be used in a number of applications such as medical imaging, security screening, and spectroscopy.

Terahertz Waves in Medical Applications

Terahertz frequencies are being studied in the medical profession for their potential to aid in healing. One area of study is the use of terahertz waves to wound healing. Terahertz frequency has been discovered to assist new blood vessels develop, which is a key aspect of how wounds heal. It has also been shown to increase collagen formation, which is an essential protein for wound healing. Moreover, it has been shown that terahertz frequency has an anti-inflammatory impact on tissues, which may aid in wound healing.

Furthermore, the terahertz frequency can be used for medical imaging. Terahertz waves have the ability to penetrate through materials such as plastics, fabrics, and even human skin. Therefore, it can be used for detecting skin , diagnosing , and other skin-related problems. Additionally, terahertz waves can detect the early stages of tooth decay.

Terahertz Usage in Physical Therapy

Indeed, the terahertz frequency employed in physical therapy is a sort of frequency. It is crucial to note, however, that the terahertz frequency utilized in physical therapy is a non-ionizing frequency, which means it lacks the energy to ionize atoms or molecules and cause cell damage. As a consequence, it is widely accepted for use in physical therapy treatments. Terahertz frequency has unique properties that make it helpful in many industries, including medical imaging, security screening, and spectroscopy. It might potentially be used to cure cancer and repair wounds, but more study is required to properly grasp its advantages and disadvantages.

Is Terahertz Usage Considered ?

Absolutely, the terahertz frequency employed in physical therapy is a sort of radiation. It is crucial to note, however, that the terahertz frequency utilized in physical therapy is a non-ionizing frequency, which means it lacks the energy to ionize atoms or molecules and cause cell damage. As a consequence, it is widely accepted for use in physical therapy treatments. Terahertz frequency has unique properties that make it helpful in many industries, including medical imaging, security screening, and spectroscopy. It might potentially be used to cure cancer and repair wounds, but more study is required to properly grasp its advantages and disadvantages.

Exploring Usage in Cancer Cells

Another area of study is the use of terahertz frequencies to cancer therapy. Terahertz frequency has been shown to have a selective cytotoxic impact on cancer cells, meaning that it may kill cancer cells while leaving healthy cells alone. As a result, it might be a viable alternative to established cancer therapies such as chemotherapy, which can have serious side effects.

To destroy cancer cells, most cancer therapies, such as X-rays and gamma rays, require high-energy ionizing radiation. This ionizing frequency has enough energy to ionize atoms or molecules and induce cell damage, which may be useful in destroying cancer cells but also injure healthy cells.

The terahertz frequency employed in medical applications, on the other hand, is often non-ionizing, which means it lacks the energy to ionize atoms or molecules and cause cell harm. As a consequence, terahertz frequency therapies may have different effects on cells and tissues than conventional frequency treatments.

Although terahertz frequency is being investigated for its possible application in cancer therapy, it is not presently employed as a routine cancer treatment. Terahertz frequency utilization in medical applications is still in its early stages, and more study is required to fully appreciate its potential benefits and risks.

Terahertz Waves and Security Screening

Terahertz frequency is also being studied for its potential use in security screening. The technology has the ability to detect hidden weapons or explosives on a person or in a bag without requiring physical contact, unlike traditional methods such as metal detectors. It can also identify different materials and chemicals, which makes it a valuable tool in airport security, for instance.

However, the use of terahertz waves in security screening has raised some concerns regarding privacy and . The waves can penetrate clothing and produce detailed images of the human body, leading to potential privacy violations. Additionally, the long-term effects of exposure to terahertz waves on human health are not yet fully understood.

Terahertz Waves and Spectroscopy

Terahertz frequency is also used in spectroscopy, a technique that examines the interaction between matter and electromagnetic radiation. Spectroscopy can identify and analyze the chemical composition of materials, making it useful in fields such as medicine, environmental science, and materials science.

Terahertz spectroscopy can provide valuable information about the properties of materials, such as their dielectric constant, refractive index, and absorption coefficient. It can also identify and analyze the vibrational modes of molecules, which can help in understanding chemical reactions and interactions.

Conclusion

The potential uses of terahertz frequency are vast and varied, ranging from medical applications to security screening and spectroscopy. Although terahertz frequency is non-ionizing and generally considered safe for use in medical applications and security screening, the long-term effects of exposure to terahertz waves on human health are not yet fully understood. Therefore, more research is needed to fully appreciate the potential benefits and risks of .

Despite the challenges, the use of terahertz frequency has the potential to revolutionize many industries and improve our understanding of the world around us. As research continues and technology advances, it is likely that we will discover even more applications for this fascinating form of electromagnetic radiation.

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