Researchers at the University of Queensland have identified the first henipavirus in North America. 

A global team of scientists has made a groundbreaking discovery of a new skeletal tissue known as “lipocartilage,” offering immense potential for regenerative medicine and tissue engineering.   

Among the researchers contributing to this work is Dr. Richard Prince, an assistant professor at East Tennessee State University with a Ph.D. in biomedical engineering.  

Published in Science, the study reveals that lipocartilage, found in the ears, nose and throat of mammals, is composed of fat-filled cells called lipochondrocytes. These cells provide super-stable internal support, allowing the tissue to remain both soft and elastic – similar to the qualities of bubble wrap.  

Patients with suspected tuberculosis (TB) require special precautions in healthcare facilities, and cases of TB have been rising in the US over the past several years. These precautions include isolating persons with suspected TB in patient rooms with specialized air handling known as airborne infection isolation rooms.

To improve our ability to assess patients for potential TB infections, we developed a TB risk scoring tool by reviewing past patient data. This tool was then integrated into the electronic health record with the label “TB or Not TB.”

The tool helps clinicians assess, once their TB workup is complete and apparently negative, whether infection control precautions can be discontinued, ensuring accurate decisions for TB isolation, alleviating workload and improving patient experience.

The tool has been validated and is now in use at all MGB sites.