

- Like
- Digg
- Del
- Tumblr
- VKontakte
- Buffer
- Love This
- Odnoklassniki
- Meneame
- Blogger
- Amazon
- Yahoo Mail
- Gmail
- AOL
- Newsvine
- HackerNews
- Evernote
- MySpace
- Mail.ru
- Viadeo
- Line
- Comments
- Yummly
- SMS
- Viber
- Telegram
- Subscribe
- Skype
- Facebook Messenger
- Kakao
- LiveJournal
- Yammer
- Edgar
- Fintel
- Mix
- Instapaper
- Copy Link
A significant milestone was achieved in the tech industry as a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between a China-based energy firm and a real estate developer in Kuala Lumpur. The agreement paves the way for the establishment of an advanced manufacturing facility in Malaysia.
Situated in Kulim, Kedah, this state-of-the-art plant represents a substantial investment of up to US$ 422.3 million. It will serve as a hub for the production of cutting-edge cylindrical lithium-ion batteries, specifically designed for power tools and electric two-wheelers.
Additionally, this project has the potential to create 600 high-quality job opportunities, fostering local economic growth and enhancing the employment sector. The successful realization of this endeavour will also contribute to the development of an International Cylindrical Battery Industrial Park in Malaysia.
The Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) highlighted the importance of battery manufacturers in unlocking the full potential of electric vehicles (EVs). The establishment of an advanced manufacturing facility in Kulim, Kedah, dedicated to the production of cylindrical lithium-ion batteries demonstrates Malaysia’s commitment to this goal. Collaborations with industry leaders will drive innovation, improve battery performance, and make significant contributions to the global shift towards sustainable mobility.
This Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) is expected to greatly stimulate local economic growth, generate employment opportunities, and enhance the skills of local workers, consequently supporting the development of local support, research and development, and associated industries.
The Malaysian government is committed to fostering an environment conducive to the success of global innovative enterprises, enabling mutually beneficial and win-win collaborations. The government extends its sincere wishes for fruitful outcomes that surpass expectations.
The signing of the MOU represents a significant step forward for the battery manufacturer’s project in Malaysia, addressing the company’s need to expand the production capacity of cylindrical batteries to cater to the growing demand from electric two-wheeler and power tool manufacturers in Malaysia and Southeast Asia.
Leveraging its domestic manufacturing strengths and expertise, the company’s Malaysian facility will continuously pursue technological advancements. Its goal is to become an advanced manufacturing and digitally driven smart battery factory of global significance. This will not only boost the company’s presence in international markets for electric two-wheelers and power tools but also enhance its overall competitiveness in the battery manufacturing sector. Simultaneously, it will expedite the company’s overseas expansion efforts and contribute to Malaysia’s economic development.
The Chief Executive Officer of the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA), welcomed the establishment of advanced manufacturing facilities in Malaysia, expressing MIDA’s commitment to attracting high-quality investments that bolster the electric vehicle (EV) supply chain and ecosystem in the country. He expressed optimism regarding the increasing popularity and mainstream adoption of EVs, particularly driven by the rising demand for sustainable transportation in the ASEAN region.
MIDA actively initiates measures to position Malaysia as the preferred sustainable investment destination and a key player in the global value chain, with a specific focus on becoming a preferred technology partner for EVs. These efforts are aligned with the National Investment Aspirations (NIA) and the New Investment Policy (NIP). Assuring continued support, MIDA will facilitate the successful implementation of projects and future expansions in Malaysia by companies involved in the EV sector.
From 2018 to 2022, the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) has given its approval for 54 projects with a total investment of RM 22 billion, focusing on the electric vehicle (EV) industry and its associated ecosystems. These investments cover various areas such as EV assembly, manufacturing of EV parts and components, and the production of charging components.


- Like
- Digg
- Del
- Tumblr
- VKontakte
- Buffer
- Love This
- Odnoklassniki
- Meneame
- Blogger
- Amazon
- Yahoo Mail
- Gmail
- AOL
- Newsvine
- HackerNews
- Evernote
- MySpace
- Mail.ru
- Viadeo
- Line
- Comments
- Yummly
- SMS
- Viber
- Telegram
- Subscribe
- Skype
- Facebook Messenger
- Kakao
- LiveJournal
- Yammer
- Edgar
- Fintel
- Mix
- Instapaper
- Copy Link
Minister for Trade and Industry Gan Kim Yong recently participated in the APEC Ministers Responsible for Trade (MRT) Meeting in Detroit, Michigan. With the theme “Creating a Resilient and Sustainable Future for All,” the APEC MRT meeting was hosted by the U.S., APEC 2023 Chair, and was attended by Trade Ministers and Senior Officials from the 21 APEC economies.
Minister Gan made three suggestions to ensure that the World Trade Organisation (WTO) responds more effectively to the challenges nowadays. First, restoring a fully functioning and effective Dispute Settlement System. Second, updating the WTO’s rulebook to address emerging issues on digital trade and environmental sustainability. Third, improving the WTO’s decision-making process.
In today’s interconnected world, digital trade is critical for facilitating frictionless transactions, improving market access, and supporting economic progress. It increases efficiency, creativity, and global connectivity while decreasing barriers and expenses while environmental sustainability is critical for protecting the planet’s resources and combating climate change.
Hence, countries can achieve a healthy balance between economic development and environmental stewardship by integrating digital trade and environmental sustainability, assuring a profitable and sustainable future for future generations.
In addition, Minister Gan spoke on Singapore’s commitment to transition to a green economy. He highlighted that Singapore remained steadfast in securing greener sources of energy, investing in new technologies, strengthening businesses’ capabilities, and upskilling the workforce. The Minister added that Singapore would continue to look towards new trade architectures, such as Green Economy Agreements, to harness green growth opportunities for the people.
One year, after Leaders launched the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity (IPEF) in May 2022, Ministers from the 14 IPEF partner countries, announced the substantial conclusion of negotiations on an IPEF Supply Chain Agreement.
This is the first multi-country arrangement to strengthen the resilience and connectivity of supply chains through collective and individual actions. Three coordination bodies will be established to advance cooperation among IPEF countries:
- A Supply Chain Council that will develop sector-specific action plans to strengthen resilience in critical sectors and key goods;
- A Crisis Response Network to facilitate emergency communications and coordination between governments during supply chain disruptions; and
- A tripartite Labour Rights Advisory Board that will help promote labour rights in IPEF countries’ supply chains.
The Ministers also introduced a regional hydrogen initiative to encourage the widespread deployment of low-carbon and renewable hydrogen and its derivatives in the Indo-Pacific region, by drawing upon expertise from both the public and private sectors.
According to Minister Gan, Singapore joins other IPEF partners in welcoming an innovative Supply Chain Agreement that will enhance the individual and collective efforts to strengthen the resilience and connectivity of the supply chains.
This will also put the nation in a stronger place to anticipate and respond to any future disruptions to these supply chains. Singapore looks forward to the early operationalisation of the Agreement, as well as further progress being made on the negotiations on the other IPEF pillars. Singapore welcomes the introduction of the hydrogen initiative among interested IPEF partners, to capitalise on the promise of growth in this area and support the respective green economies.
To support these efforts, Minister Gan announced that Singapore will offer capacity-building programmes on topics relevant to each of the four IPEF pillars, such as trade and business development, supply chain management, clean energy and emission reduction, and anti-corruption.
The programmes are organised by Singapore government agencies including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA), Infocomm Media Development Agency (IMDA), Maritime Port Authority (MPA), Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore (IRAS), Tax Academy, and the Corrupt Practices Investigation Bureau (CPIB), as well as with other IPEF partners like Japan.
- Like
- Digg
- Del
- Tumblr
- VKontakte
- Buffer
- Love This
- Odnoklassniki
- Meneame
- Blogger
- Amazon
- Yahoo Mail
- Gmail
- AOL
- Newsvine
- HackerNews
- Evernote
- MySpace
- Mail.ru
- Viadeo
- Line
- Comments
- Yummly
- SMS
- Viber
- Telegram
- Subscribe
- Skype
- Facebook Messenger
- Kakao
- LiveJournal
- Yammer
- Edgar
- Fintel
- Mix
- Instapaper
- Copy Link
Da Nang, a central city in Vietnam, stands out as a frontrunner in digital transformation, with a significant proportion of its population embracing electronic accounts on public service portals. 43% of Da Nang’s population aged 18 and above own electronic accounts, indicating a strong presence of digital engagement in the city.
Digital transformation is a collective effort involving various entities, including government agencies, businesses, and residents. In 2022, the digital economy played a significant role in the overall economic landscape of the city, contributing to 17% of Da Nang’s Gross Regional Domestic Product (GRDP).
According to Nguyen Quang Thanh, the Director of the Department of Information and Communications in Da Nang, the city’s digital transformation is inspired by the development of e-government and smart urban areas. He emphasised that data plays a pivotal role in generating new values for the city.
Since 2020, Da Nang has embarked on a comprehensive effort to build a robust database that encompasses various sources of information. Including comprehensive records of citizens, businesses, household registrations, officials, employees, and administrative procedures.
Local authorities and agencies have built 560 public service databases. In addition, free wifi stations are now available in the city. To further enhance connectivity and digital accessibility, the city has established free WiFi stations across various locations. These WiFi stations provide residents and visitors with convenient and reliable internet access, contributing to the city’s digital infrastructure.
Moreover, Da Nang has invested in the Internet of Things (IoT) infrastructure to expand its data sources and capabilities. Key IoT initiatives include the implementation of a security and order centre, a smart traffic centre, and a water and air environment monitoring centre. These facilities collect and analyse data to monitor and manage public safety, traffic flow, and environmental conditions in real-time, enabling more informed decision-making and enhancing the overall quality of life in the city.
According to Thanh, the availability of data has significantly improved the management capabilities of state agencies in Da Nang. The utilisation of data has facilitated more efficient work processes, enhanced the supervision of public service provision, and enabled effective monitoring of traffic flow as well as water and air quality.
In addition to leveraging data, the city has embraced digital assistants to enhance the delivery of administrative procedures and public services. These digital assistants include chatbots and voicebots that automatically provide instructions and guidance to residents regarding administrative processes and various public services.
The Da Nang smart city mobile platform provides more than 30 smart services and utilities for communities. In the city, every citizen is provided with an electronic account, which offers them access to the available database. This system requires citizens to register for an electronic account only once, granting them access to a wide range of digital services and information. As of now, approximately 260,000 citizens in Da Nang have successfully registered for electronic accounts. This number represents over 43% of the population aged 18 and older.
The region has achieved significant progress in digitising document handling processes, with over 78% of documents being handled online, 1.5 times higher than the national average.
The administration of Da Nang has witnessed numerous agencies actively embracing digital technology in their operations and service delivery. The Ngu Hanh Son Medical Centre has introduced a digital health certificate system. This initiative aims to facilitate the process for individuals applying for a driving license by providing them with a digital health certificate.
Meanwhile, the Department of Transport has introduced QR codes for bus tickets, offering commuters an efficient and contactless way to access public transportation. It has also implemented online payment options. The Department of Information and Communications has added rainfall and flood maps to Da Nang Smart City App for residents to access and follow.
- Like
- Digg
- Del
- Tumblr
- VKontakte
- Buffer
- Love This
- Odnoklassniki
- Meneame
- Blogger
- Amazon
- Yahoo Mail
- Gmail
- AOL
- Newsvine
- HackerNews
- Evernote
- MySpace
- Mail.ru
- Viadeo
- Line
- Comments
- Yummly
- SMS
- Viber
- Telegram
- Subscribe
- Skype
- Facebook Messenger
- Kakao
- LiveJournal
- Yammer
- Edgar
- Fintel
- Mix
- Instapaper
- Copy Link
Malaysia remains an attractive investment destination, as it attracted a significant amount of RM71.4 billion in approved investments during the first quarter of 2023 (Q1 2023), indicating that Malaysia continues to be favoured by investors and highlights its value as a preferred investment location.
A total of 1,265 projects were approved during this period, and it is expected that these projects will create 23,977 new job opportunities across various sectors such as manufacturing, services, and primary industries.
Malaysia’s investment landscape attracts more foreign direct investments (FDI) than domestic direct investments (DDI). FDI contributed RM37.5 billion, accounting for 52.5% of the total approved investments. DDI accounted for RM33.9 billion, making up 47.5% of the total approved investments. This reflects the renewed confidence of domestic investors in Malaysia’s economic progress and prospects.
During the first quarter of 2023 (Q1 2023), the services sector in Malaysia outperformed all other sectors in terms of approved investments. It recorded an impressive amount of RM53.6 billion, accounting for 75.1% of the total approved investments. This represents a year-on-year growth of 226.8% compared to the figure of RM16.4 billion in Q1 2022. The RM53.6 billion investment is associated with 1,058 approved projects, expected to create 12,051 new job opportunities.
Within the services sector, the information and communications sub-sector stood out prominently, attracting approved investments valued at RM24.9 billion, representing a significant share of 46.5%. The real estate sub-sector followed closely, securing RM15.5 billion (28.9%), while distributive trade accounted for RM6.7 billion (12.5%). Financial services received RM2.2 billion (4.1%), and support services attracted RM1.8 billion (3.4%) in approved investments. These figures highlight the strength and attractiveness of the services sector in Malaysia’s investment landscape.
The Malaysian government’s focus on green investment has been evident through the approval of several projects in the field of green technology and renewable energy initiatives. These projects demonstrate the commitment to sustainability and highlight the diverse and promising opportunities within the services sector.
By supporting and promoting green technology, Malaysia is positioning itself as a hub for sustainable development and attracting investments in renewable energy. This emphasis on green investment aligns with global efforts to transition to a low-carbon economy and addresses environmental challenges such as climate change.
During the first quarter of 2023 (Q1 2023), Malaysia continued to attract a substantial level of investments in the manufacturing sector. The approved investments in this sector amounted to RM15.6 billion, which accounted for 21.8% of the total approved investments during the period.
The commitment to the manufacturing sector was demonstrated through the approval of 192 manufacturing projects, which are expected to create over 11,900 new job opportunities. These projects signify Malaysia’s dedication to fostering industrial growth and expanding employment prospects.
Within the manufacturing sector, a significant portion of the approved investments was allocated to key industries. The transport equipment industry took the lead with RM4.4 billion (28.2%), followed by machinery and equipment with RM2.6 billion (16.6%). Basic metal products accounted for RM2.3 billion (14.7%), while electrical and electronics (E&E) received RM2.1 billion (13.2%). Non-metallic mineral products attracted RM1.6 billion (10.3%). Collectively, these industries contributed to 83.1% of the total approved investments in the manufacturing sector.
The manufacturing sector in Malaysia secured approval for several innovative, high value-added and high-technology projects. This showcases the serious intent of the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) to use investments to drive technological advancement, redefine industry standards, and sustainably fuel future economic growth.
By encouraging investments in advanced manufacturing and promoting technology-driven projects, Malaysia aims to enhance its industrial capabilities, elevate its competitive position, and support long-term economic development.
Malaysia’s commitment to technological advancement in the manufacturing sector underscores its goal of attracting global investments and fostering innovation. By embracing cutting-edge technologies, Malaysia positions itself as a hub for high-value, high-tech ventures with immense growth potential.
This focus drives economic diversification, enhances productivity, and promotes competitiveness. By creating an ecosystem conducive to innovation, Malaysia aims to attract both foreign and domestic investments, drive economic growth, and establish itself as a leader in high-tech manufacturing.
In Q1 2023, Malaysia’s primary sector attracted investments worth RM2.2 billion. Although the amount is relatively modest, these investments have the potential to bring positive economic impact. In the Mining Sub-sector, RM2.1 billion was approved for mining projects, showcasing Malaysia’s ability to extract and use valuable minerals from its resource-rich landscape. Meanwhile, the plantation and commodities sub-sector received investments of RM65.1 million, reflecting efforts to improve productivity and sustainability in agricultural practices.
While the contribution of the primary sector may be smaller compared to services and manufacturing, these investments lay the foundation for future growth and innovation.
Malaysia’s investment landscape presents bright prospects with a pipeline of proposed investments and lead projects overseen by MIDA. The pipeline includes 878 projects amounting to RM35.9 billion, while lead projects are valued at RM150.4 billion.
The manufacturing sector dominates with 78.8% (RM28.3 billion) of the pipeline projects, while the services sector accounts for 21.2% (RM7.6 billion), showcasing a diverse investment portfolio. These figures reflect confidence in Malaysia’s potential and highlight ongoing interest from businesses and investors.
- Like
- Digg
- Del
- Tumblr
- VKontakte
- Buffer
- Love This
- Odnoklassniki
- Meneame
- Blogger
- Amazon
- Yahoo Mail
- Gmail
- AOL
- Newsvine
- HackerNews
- Evernote
- MySpace
- Mail.ru
- Viadeo
- Line
- Comments
- Yummly
- SMS
- Viber
- Telegram
- Subscribe
- Skype
- Facebook Messenger
- Kakao
- LiveJournal
- Yammer
- Edgar
- Fintel
- Mix
- Instapaper
- Copy Link
The rate of unhappiness, anxiety, fear, loneliness, and lack of purpose among Americans has reached alarming levels, adversely impacting both, their mental and physical well-being. These issues have far-reaching implications, resulting in various adverse outcomes. Furthermore, many individuals cannot access mental health services through conventional channels.
Researchers at the University of Wisconsin–Madison’s Center for Healthy Minds are working to deal with these complex issues and enhance human well-being. They are conducting experiments to discover solutions that utilise Artificial Intelligence (AI) in delivering personalised well-being content through individuals’ mobile devices as and when required.
“We are optimist to support individuals’ well-being on mobile phones that are sensitive to what they feel and easy to engage with themselves,” explained Christy Wilson-Mendenhall, Co-investigator on the new, two-year project, which is set to launch this year.
The research received a US$3 million donation from the Defence Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) to support its goal of exploring and developing technologies that could potentially enhance the delivery of algorithm-based micro-supports in the future. The support of the programme will be delivered through a version of the Healthy Minds programme, currently used in the Healthy Minds Program smartphone app.
The project will start with a multi-phase study involving human participants to forecast their temporal emotional states. Specifically, the study will focus on moments when individuals experience feelings of distraction, loneliness, self-criticism, or unfulfillment, as these are instances in which they may potentially derive advantages from micro-support.
This initial phase will be valuable input for creating machine learning tools and algorithms for the upcoming platform. The researchers aim to refine their micro-support framework and content by conducting tests involving diverse participants. These tests will evaluate the micro-supports’ relevance, timeliness, and potential helpfulness to users.
Ultimately, the objective is to develop a platform capable of delivering micro-supports triggered by an algorithmic mechanism. In practical implementation, the application will collect participant data in real-time through an “experience sampling” process.
This sampling method will involve participants creating short videos responding to encouragement, such as “I am feeling…”. By doing this, the application will capture their current emotional state. Additionally, the app will passively gather mobile data, such as the participants’ geolocation information and activity patterns.
Afterwards, researchers will collect and analyse the data to assess the user’s well-being, per the four pillars of the Healthy Minds well-being framework: awareness, connection, insight and purpose. Researchers will analyse the data to assess users’ well-being in terms of the four pillars of the Healthy Minds well-being framework: awareness, connection, insight and purpose.
Awareness emphasises cultivating mindfulness and developing an ability to observe and acknowledge one’s experiences without judgment. Connection fosters a sense of community, reduces loneliness, and contributes to overall well-being.
Insight focuses on developing self-reflection skills and questioning and reframing negative or unhelpful thinking patterns. It allows individuals to develop resilience and make positive life changes. While purpose gives individuals a sense of direction, enhances their overall well-being, and helps them navigate challenges.
The findings from this analysis will guide the provision of concise “in-the-moment” well-being practices designed to actively involve users in fostering positive behaviours throughout the day. These micro-supports will be designed to be effortless, enabling users to fully immerse themselves in their daily activities while still benefiting from the practices.
Davidson believes that these micro-supports delivered at the right time and place may impact well-being.
- Like
- Digg
- Del
- Tumblr
- VKontakte
- Buffer
- Love This
- Odnoklassniki
- Meneame
- Blogger
- Amazon
- Yahoo Mail
- Gmail
- AOL
- Newsvine
- HackerNews
- Evernote
- MySpace
- Mail.ru
- Viadeo
- Line
- Comments
- Yummly
- SMS
- Viber
- Telegram
- Subscribe
- Skype
- Facebook Messenger
- Kakao
- LiveJournal
- Yammer
- Edgar
- Fintel
- Mix
- Instapaper
- Copy Link
Since it started working in 2021, the Chengdu Heavy Industry Fund, an investment fund for big industrialisation projects in Chengdu province, has signed more than 12 billion yuan (S$2.4 billion) in contracts, which have led to investments of more than 100 billion yuan (S$20 billion).
The total size of the parent-child fund group is more than 80 billion yuan (S$16 billion). There are 14 authoritative lists in the equity investment industry, such as Science and Investment, and the contribution of the industry and the effect of brands are becoming more and more noticeable.
Recently, the honourable title “Advanced Collective in Investment Promotion in Sichuan Province” was given to Chengdu Heavy Industry Fund, which was the only industry fund in the province.
The Chengdu Heavy Industry Fund recognises the important role that chain-owner enterprises and high-energy level projects play in driving industrial growth. The fund gives priority to industry attention because it knows a lot about big industrialisation projects that involve big investments, a lot of industrial energy, and a lot of technology.
It takes advantage of the main chain industry’s tendency to group together and uses a strategy in which investment and hiring are linked to help big development projects.
The Chengdu Heavy Industry Fund gives top priority to setting up a method for bringing in new investors and hiring people. By using the fixed-increase method, it was able to help local businesses cut costs and get out of the secondary market. This set a pattern for future self-circulating investments.
The fund took advantage of the chance for central-local cooperation in the digital economy and this investment not only gave better results but also helped bring in economic base projects and helped Chengdu’s digital economy grow.
The fund also set up assistance for the digital economy industry, which helps build Chengdu into a smart city and makes it easier to bring more digital transformation resources to the city.
The fund focuses on key economic ecosystems, especially in areas like carbon neutrality, where it can make a big difference. It uses the province’s resources, like lithium mines and hydropower, to set up business chains that are green and low in carbon. Its main goal is to build production and research and development bases for Southwest power batteries and serve as a model for regional cooperation.
The fund works with banking institutions to invest in projects like the Chengdu Intelligent Computing Centre. It uses an east-to-west growth plan to spread the overall development of artificial intelligence (AI) in the Chengdu-Chongqing economic circle.
The main idea behind the fund is to lead chain masters and bring together chain owners. It focuses on building industrial ecology circles and strengthening key industry chains. It also encourages integration and co-development between groups upstream and downstream and between the left and right banks.
Also, the fund tackles shortcomings in the power battery manufacturing line and establishes a strategic layout for the new energy industry system by engaging with upstream and downstream firms in the project’s industrial chain. This display of “industry + park + fund” ecological collaboration is a key component of their efforts.
To attract money, the Chengdu Heavy Industry Fund takes a holistic approach, with a particular emphasis on digital technologies. By bringing together “chain owners + leading talents + industrial funds + intermediaries + public platforms,” the fund builds an industrial ecosystem that acts as a map for potential investors.
Sub-funds are formed through collaborations with financial institutions, large-scale investment groups, industry guidance funds, and well-known industrial businesses, boosting investment collaboration. Collaborations leveraging diverse resources such as state ministries, central enterprises, and others, is one successful example.
- Like
- Digg
- Del
- Tumblr
- VKontakte
- Buffer
- Love This
- Odnoklassniki
- Meneame
- Blogger
- Amazon
- Yahoo Mail
- Gmail
- AOL
- Newsvine
- HackerNews
- Evernote
- MySpace
- Mail.ru
- Viadeo
- Line
- Comments
- Yummly
- SMS
- Viber
- Telegram
- Subscribe
- Skype
- Facebook Messenger
- Kakao
- LiveJournal
- Yammer
- Edgar
- Fintel
- Mix
- Instapaper
- Copy Link
Associate Professor Jaydee Cabral, a researcher from the Department of Microbiology and Immunology at Otago University, is creating a project focused on developing 3D-printed nipple areolar complexes specifically designed for breast cancer patients. The objective of this innovative research is to support individuals who have had a mastectomy (breast-conserving surgery), helping them regain a sense of self-confidence.
Despite significant advancements in mastectomy procedures, there is still a prevailing gap in clinical solutions to effectively replace the nipple area that can be lost during surgery. This absence of suitable options has been a persistent challenge for breast cancer patients seeking aesthetic restoration and psychological well-being after mastectomy. The absence of a clinically available replacement for the nipple area has left many patients with limited choices and compromised body image and self-confidence outcomes.
By utilising the advanced 3D printing technology, Professor Cabral and her team were able to create customisable and highly accurate nipple areolar complexes that closely mimic the natural appearance and texture of the breast of the patient.
“My research resides at the interface of chemistry, microbiology, and bioengineering to develop novel medical devices for various biomedical applications and I would love to bring students into this global phenomenon,” Professor Cabral said.
This 3D bio print technique technology utilises a specialised bioprinter capable of creating a gel-based environment that is conducive to cell growth and serves as a scaffold system. The gel provides a cell-friendly structure where the cells can organise themselves into more intricate living structures.
The technique involves using water-loving polymers with a soft texture suitable for the extrusion of 3D printing. These polymers provide a cell-friendly environment, allowing cells to grow into complex living structures. The process involves carefully extruding the polymers using a bioprinter, layer by layer, to create the desired three-dimensional object.
Once the printing is finished, UV light solidifies the structure into a more rigid form. UV light enhances the molecular bonds within the material, strengthening it and enabling seamless integration with surrounding tissues.
Dr Cabral’s research expertise lies in developing 3D bio-printed vasculature, specifically focusing on the intricate network of blood vessels. The creation of thicker tissue poses unique challenges compared to thinner tissue due to the increased risk of inadequate oxygen levels and limited nutrient supply, which can result in tissue necrosis.
A recipient of the Royal Society of New Zealand’s Catalyst Seed Fund, she said that this research is important because there is currently nothing clinically available to replace the nipple area that can be lost during a mastectomy.
Consequently, there is a growing need for innovative research and development efforts to bridge this gap and provide breast cancer patients with reconstructive alternatives that can restore the natural appearance of the nipple area.
The 3D bioprinting approach holds great potential in revolutionising innovations, particularly in the field of regenerative medicine and tissue engineering. It represents a significant advancement in reconstructive surgery for breast cancer patients.
Dr Cabral is optimistic that her innovation in addressing the challenge of vascularisation for thicker tissue, such as creating 3D bio-printed vasculature, will create opportunities which could lead to other remarkable advancements in tissue engineering in the future.
- Like
- Digg
- Del
- Tumblr
- VKontakte
- Buffer
- Love This
- Odnoklassniki
- Meneame
- Blogger
- Amazon
- Yahoo Mail
- Gmail
- AOL
- Newsvine
- HackerNews
- Evernote
- MySpace
- Mail.ru
- Viadeo
- Line
- Comments
- Yummly
- SMS
- Viber
- Telegram
- Subscribe
- Skype
- Facebook Messenger
- Kakao
- LiveJournal
- Yammer
- Edgar
- Fintel
- Mix
- Instapaper
- Copy Link
In our interconnected and globally integrated world, the emergence of various pathogens is just a plane or ship journey away, and their impact can be substantial on both local and global economies. In light of this issue, Professor of Data Science, Alex Gavryushkin, is co-leading the new research exploring the algorithm to respond to a biosecurity outbreak swiftly and effectively.
Associate Professor Gavryushkin said that agriculture is vital for Aotearoa New Zealand’s economy and is the basis of global exports. The agricultural sector produces 40% of New Zealand’s exports. Agriculture is the backbone of rural economies, providing employment opportunities for farmers and farmworkers and supporting industries such as agribusinesses, equipment manufacturers, and food processing companies.
However, agriculture is not only limited as a significant source of employment in several rural areas. Its performance also influences the success of urban areas and many secondary industries which depend on it, increasing economic well-being and sustainability, influencing their growth, infrastructure development, and quality of life.
As we can see, agriculture brings a significant impact on New Zealand itself. People must take it seriously to prevent highly contagious viral infections such as foot and mouth disease (FMD). If agriculture were to be affected by such an outbreak, it could potentially throw the national economy into a recession, causing losses upward of NZ$16 billion.
Professor Gavryushkin strongly emphasises the significance of making highly accurate predictions regarding the potential spread of an outbreak. This accuracy is crucial in facilitating policymakers to foster their decision-making processes and implement effective measures to mitigate and control the outbreak’s impact.
By utilising advanced algorithms capable of dynamically updating results in real time, the research seeks to provide policymakers with up-to-date and reliable information about the evolving nature of the outbreak.
It includes predicting the areas at the highest risk of transmission and identifying potential hotspots, enabling policymakers to allocate resources strategically and implement targeted interventions to limit the spread of the disease
This research has the potential to significantly enhance the ability to respond swiftly and effectively to outbreaks, thereby safeguarding communities and facilitating a more efficient and proactive approach to public health management.
Afterwards, he is embarking on collaborating with the University of Auckland’s Dr Remco Bouckaert and partners from Massey University and the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) for doing research in terms of developing a new type of algorithm to improve outbreak response by providing more precision and accurate results.
The objective of the research is to create algorithms that can dynamically update results in real-time, eliminating the need to restart computations from the beginning when large volumes of new data are received. Instead, the algorithms will revise previous calculations and adjust predictions as necessary.
The current algorithm system presents policymakers with only one scenario, based on it being statistically the most probable. Its transmission tracing lacks the ability to effectively handle the continuous influx of new data, which is common during an ongoing outbreak when the transmission tree rapidly expands in size.
According to Associate Professor Gavryushkin, establishing a solid infrastructure for biosecurity algorithms will greatly enhance their ability to proactively address potential issues in the future. By conducting intricate and time-intensive pre-computations well in advance, including prior to outbreaks and concurrently with them, they can significantly mitigate challenges that may arise down the line. This proactive approach ensures that comprehensive preparations are in place, enabling a more efficient and effective response to biosecurity threats.