Inspired by natural cellular structures, researchers at the Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences (Seas), the Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard University, and MIT have developed a new method to 3D print materials with independently tunable macro-and microscale porosity using a ceramic foam ink.

In order to expand its capacities and modernise its packaging line, those responsible for the location of a large biotechnology firm in the Netherlands were looking for a new system to pack vials and pens in different configurations. Automating this small-component packaging task would open up the possibility of increasing efficiency and saving production costs. At the same time, the chosen packaging solution needed to offer a high level of flexibility and precise handling.

Swedish scientists have developed datasets that are able to map the three-dimensional distribution and volume of the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. The visual and quantitative data of this development could become a valuable reference resource for diabetes researchers. The Umeå University researchers are publishing these datasets in the Nature Research journal Scientific Data.

Agilent Technologies expanded its portfolio of instruments for molecular diagnostics with the introduction of the AriaDx Real-Time PCR System.

Mettler Toledo is launching a new series of XPR Analytical and Micro-Analytical Balances designed to free samples from electrostatic charges for exceptional accuracy and right-first-time results. With a strong focus on regulatory compliance, when connected to LabX laboratory software, these balances support data integrity.

Thanks to a laser technique that ejects ultra-tiny droplets of metal, it is now possible to print 3D metal structures, not only simple ‘piles’ of droplets, but complex overhanging structures as well: like a helix of some microns in size, made of pure gold. Using this technique, it will be possible to print new 3D micro components for electronics or photonics.

The founders of Nanoscribe developed a revolutionary high-precision 3D printing method at the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) and quickly become the market leaders in their field. Now, the company won the Baden-Württemberg state prize for young companies.

Working together with external partners, chemists, materials scientists and chemical engineers at FAU have developed an innovative microcell for water electrolysis. They hope to replace standard plate electrodes used to split water into oxygen and hydrogen with compact, nanostructured tubes. They aim to simplify production, increase flexibility of use and avoid the need for expensive precious metals.

The new Cero system from OLS Omni Life Science is a benchtop 3D incubator and bioreactor, suited to culture spheroids, organoids and human tissue specimen.

Phytoplankton form the base of the marine food chain but are difficult for scientists to account for. An independent underwater vehicle designed by NTNU has accomplished this task and could thus provide insights into the declining populations of seabirds.