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ABC-ANZORS 2024 – Melbourne

ABC-ANZORS 2024: Where Biomechanics meets biology in orthopaedics

November 30th – December 4th 2024 | Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne

From November 30th to December 4th, Swinburne University of Technology in Melbourne played host to the ABC-ANZORS 2024 Conference, a groundbreaking event that marked the inaugural Combined Scientific Meeting of the Australian and New Zealand Society of Biomechanics (ANZSB) and the Australian and New Zealand Orthopaedic Research Society (ANZORS). 

This year’s theme, “Biomechanics Meets Biology in Orthopaedics,” highlighted the convergence of diverse disciplines and the latest innovations in orthopaedic and musculoskeletal research. The conference brought together clinicians, engineers, biologists, human movement scientists, and researchers from across Australia and New Zealand to explore new frontiers in the field. 

Innovative Themes and Groundbreaking Research

ABC-ANZORS 2024 featured dynamic sessions that showcased the breadth and depth of musculoskeletal research, including: 

Clinical Biomechanics & Orthopaedics 
Sports & Injury 
Medical Imaging 
Musculoskeletal Modelling & Simulation 
Sensors, Wearables, and Emerging Technologies 
Locomotion and Human Movement 
Musculoskeletal Biology & Engineering 
Orthopaedic Biomechanics 

These thematic sessions provided a rich platform for collaboration and knowledge exchange, addressing both fundamental and applied aspects of biomechanics and biology in orthopaedics. 

Highlighting Exceptional Contributions

The conference was a proud moment for our team, with outstanding presentations by members showcasing their pioneering research: 

  • Maxence Lavaill: Spatial tracking of the shoulder bones using optical motion capture and 3D ultrasound: a simulation and cadaveric study.
  • Saulo Martelli: Onlay-Grammont hybrid design increases humeral implant stiffness but not fracture load in reverse shoulder arthroplasty.
  • Wolbert van den Hoorn: Neural drive to the deltoid segments in healthy shoulders.
  • Natalia Mühl Castoldi: Experimental-computational platform to study cortical bone remodelling .
  • Corinna Modiz: Analysis of bone mineralisation using discrete and continuous models of bone remodelling.
  • Natali Uribe: A parametric finite-element model of the femur spanning the entire adulthood.
  • Simon Heinrich (Visitor from FAU): Optimal control simulation of full hand flexion movements exploiting optical marker tracking. 

Our poster presenters, François Bruyer-Montéléone and Maggie-May Hornigold, also contributed valuable insights to the conference. 

A Keynote to remember

Dr. Bart Bolsterlee’s keynote, “Quantitative magnetic resonance imaging to study skeletal muscle during childhood development”, captivated the audience, exemplifying the intersection of biomechanics and imaging in understanding musculoskeletal function and development. 

Community and Connection

Social events like the Welcome Reception, Women’s Breakfast, and the ANZSB Student and EMCR Night provided opportunities to build connections and celebrate the community’s achievements. The Networking Afternoon at Abbotsford Convent and the Conference Dinner were perfect moments to reflect on a week of inspiration and collaboration. 

Looking Forward

ABC-ANZORS 2024 was an inspiring event, underscoring the value of multidisciplinary collaboration in advancing biomechanics and orthopaedic research. We thank the organisers and participants for their incredible efforts and look forward to the next chapter. 

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FDA/TGA Approval: Dr. Pather

Workshop on FDA and TGA Approval with Dr. Sha Pather Empowers Students to Navigate Regulatory Pathways

November 7 | 2024

On Thursday, 11th November, an invaluable workshop on FDA and TGA regulatory approval, led by Dr. Sha Pather of Akunah (COO), took place, equipping students and researchers with critical insights into the regulatory landscape for medical devices. This workshop provided a detailed overview of the requirements and strategies needed to bring medical devices from research to market—an essential skillset for anyone seeking to commercialise medical technology. 

Understanding the Importance of Regulatory Approval 

Dr. Pather highlighted that understanding the regulatory landscape isn’t just a technical requirement; it’s essential for anyone aiming to connect research with industry, commercialise new technologies, or streamline the translation of academic research into practical solutions. The complexities of regulatory processes, often seen as daunting, can present significant hurdles in device development. Dr. Pather underscored the importance of having a clear roadmap, which not only aids in the commercial viability of medical innovations but also enhances student readiness for industry roles where this knowledge is increasingly valued. 

Regulatory Approval as a Risk Management Process

Central to the workshop was the emphasis on regulatory approval as a sophisticated process of risk management. Dr. Pather discussed how regulatory bodies such as the FDA and TGA prioritise the balance of safety and efficacy with inherent device risks. This process doesn’t simply validate the product’s safety but also lays the groundwork for a safe design process, forming the core justification needed for regulatory success. Notably, regulatory approval does not imply absolute safety; instead, it demonstrates that a device is safe enough relative to its potential risks. 

The Nuances of Regulatory Strategy: More than Just a Checklist

In a compelling analogy, Dr. Pather described regulatory approval as less of a “checklist” and more of a “dance”—a nuanced balancing act requiring strategic planning and careful risk assessment. He advised against seeking a “quick fix” approach to meeting regulatory requirements and instead encouraged a thoughtful, long-term perspective. Interestingly, Dr. Pather noted that obtaining approval from international bodies such as the FDA can sometimes be a strategic first step before seeking TGA approval in Australia, as overseas authorisation can streamline the domestic process. 

Key Elements of a Regulatory Pathway: Device Indication, Equivalence, and Classification 

The workshop also explored three key components of regulatory submission: 

  1. Indication for Use: The intended function, conditions, and patient population for a medical device are critical to determining the regulatory pathway. This foundational step ensures a precise alignment of the device’s purpose with regulatory expectations. 
  1. Equivalent Devices: Reviewing comparable devices in the market can inform the regulatory process, as devices that achieve similar outcomes, even with different technologies, provide valuable benchmarks. 
  1. Device Classification: Each medical device falls into a risk-based classification system. Using tools like the TGA’s device classification questionnaire, developers can identify the classification and specific requirements for their device early in the process. 

Navigating the Regulatory Pathway: Practical Tools and Resources

Dr. Pather provided guidance on the sequential steps for obtaining approval, from pre-submission planning to leveraging available resources. He pointed participants toward valuable tools, including the TGA device classification tool and external platforms such as Greenlight Guru (Podcast and Website), Easy Medical Device (European Podcast) and Medical Device Academy (Website and YouTube) which offer further guidance on navigating international regulatory standards. 

By understanding and applying these foundational principles, participants left with a clearer path forward and a strategic framework for approaching regulatory challenges. This workshop aimed at bridging academia and industry, succeeded in equipping attendees with a practical toolkit for future careers in medical technology and innovation. With Sha’s expertise as Akunah local start-up company COO, the Centre provided its thanks for an expert training opportunity and looks forward to new collaborative opportunities in the future.

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Information Resilience PhD School 2024

DIve into data science at the Information Resilience PhD School 2024

29 October 2024 – 31 October 2024 

Amine Lagzouli, a dedicated PhD candidate, recently attended the Information Resilience PhD School 2024 at the University of Queensland hosted by fellow ARC Training Centre, the ARC Centre for Information Resilience (CIRES). The annual event, held from October 29–31, brought together PhD students from across Australia to explore the latest advancements in data science and resilience. Over the 2.5-day program, Amine engaged in hands-on activities, networked with experts, and gained insights into AI and data-driven research practices that will shape his future career. 

Hands-On Learning and Presentation Opportunities 

Amine’s experience at the PhD School included a variety of interactive activities designed to deepen his knowledge and showcase his research: 

  • 3-Minute Thesis (3MT) Presentation – Amine challenged himself to present his complex research in just three minutes, sharpening his ability to communicate intricate ideas with clarity. 
  • Poster Presentation – He participated in a poster session, sharing his findings and discussing methodologies with peers and mentors, opening doors for collaborative insights. 
  • Collaborative Group Sessions – Through interdisciplinary group work, Amine exchanged ideas with other PhD students, gaining new perspectives and forging connections across different research areas. 

Workshops and Expert Panels 

Throughout the event, Amine attended workshops and panels led by prominent academics and industry professionals. These sessions covered critical topics in AI and data resilience, such as: 

  • Data Quality in the Age of AI – A keynote by Professor Felix Naumann from the Hasso Plattner Institute (Germany) delved into the essential role of data quality in AI-driven research. 
  • Industry Engagement and Entrepreneurship – Amine joined panels featuring industry leaders who shared advice on collaboration, innovation, and the importance of entrepreneurial thinking for PhD students pursuing industry careers. 
  • Advanced Technical Tutorials – He explored tutorials on large language models (LLMs), machine learning workflows, and data-centric AI applications, providing practical insights for his research. 

Networking and Industry Connections 

Networking was a highlight for Amine, who engaged in meaningful discussions with both peers and experts. He connected with other PhD students and senior researchers, exchanging insights on AI and advanced data methodologies. Panels featuring leaders from top R&D sectors allowed Amine to gain first-hand knowledge of industry challenges and applications, bridging the gap between research and real-world problem-solving. 

Insights from Esteemed Guest Speakers 

Amine benefited from sessions with esteemed guest speakers, including Professor Felix Naumann and Professor Lina Yao of CSIRO. Their presentations provided an in-depth look at next-generation data science practices, including AI-driven personalisation and the importance of data transparency. These talks offered Amine a comprehensive view of the current trends and critical skills needed in a data-driven world. 

Building a Foundation for Future Success 

Amine’s involvement in the Information Resilience PhD School was a significant milestone in his academic journey, equipping him with advanced knowledge, new connections, and inspiration to further his work in data science and AI. His experience underscores his commitment to leveraging technology to address complex, real-world challenges, and highlights the value of collaborative events like this in fostering innovation and professional growth. This opportunity has laid a strong foundation for Amine’s future endeavours, preparing him to make impactful contributions to data resilience and AI research. As an ARC Training Centre, we aim to continue collaborating with our Partner Organisation (University of Queensland and sister Centre’s to ensure our students obtain world-class training to become leaders in the medical AI fields. We thank Centre Manager Ms Kate Aldridge for making this training possible and look forward to future school events. 

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Innovations Unveiled at BIOTech Futures Finals

Inspiring Innovations Unveiled at BIOTech Futures Finals 2024

University of Sydney | October 14, 2024

Sydney University was abuzz with excitement as the BIOTech Futures Finals kicked off with an inspiring and thought-provoking morning. The event began with an Acknowledgement of Country from Dr. Jiao-Jiao Li, followed by a warm welcome from Prof. Hala Zreiqat AM, setting the tone for an engaging day. Provost and Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Annamarie Jagose, continued the positive momentum with her opening address, welcoming all participants to the prestigious event. 

Keynote Highlights: Revolutionising Medicine Through Innovation

The highlight of the morning was a powerful keynote from Prof. Matthew L. Becker of Duke University. His presentation, “How New Materials and Additive Manufacturing are Changing Medicine,” explored the challenges and incredible potential of 3D-printed medical implants. A striking statistic—fewer than 133 FDA-approved 3D-printed parts are currently available for human use, most of them made from metal—set the stage for his deeper dive into why scaling additive manufacturing in medicine remains a challenge. 

According to Prof. Becker, the key barriers include the lack of patient-specific solutions, the absence of optimal materials, the need for validated design rules, and the industry’s low tolerance for risk. However, despite these obstacles, the future remains bright. Prof. Becker encouraged the audience to embrace rapid iteration, urging them to “fail fast” and learn quickly. He cited biotech heart stents as an example of innovations perfected through multiple iterations, motivating the next generation to push boundaries. His memorable quote resonated throughout the day: 

                                      “If you aren’t uncomfortable, you will never grow, because that’s where the best innovations come from.” 

Student Showcase: Tomorrow’s Innovators

The BIOTech Futures Finals provided an exciting platform for some of Australia’s most talented young minds. Teams from Earnshaw State College and Queensland Academy for Science, Mathematics, and Technology (SMT) presented groundbreaking projects that addressed pressing global challenges. 

Earnshaw State College introduced ‘Statavac’, an innovative device designed to remove volatile marine debris such as Styrofoam and microplastics from beaches. By using static electricity and a low-powered vacuum pump, this eco-friendly solution bridges the gap between DIY cleanup methods and large-scale industrial products. The project’s affordability and sustainability were highlights, and the team has future plans to scale up and possibly make the design open source. 

Meanwhile, Queensland Academy for Science, Mathematics and Technology (QASMT)  presented Serum Switch, a user-friendly database designed to ease the transition from using Foetal Bovine Serum (FBS) to more ethical alternatives in research labs. The platform provides comprehensive information on cost, availability, and success rates, giving researchers the tools to make serum-free research more accessible and financially viable. Their innovative approach drew attention for its potential to revolutionize ethical research practices.

Celebrating Success: Runner-Up Honours for QASMT

After a day filled with inspiring presentations and hands-on workshops, QASMT was named Overall Runner-Up at the BIOTech Futures Finals. Their Serum Switch project impressed judges with its practicality and potential for widespread application, securing them a well-deserved accolade. Both teams performed exceptionally, showcasing not only technical skills but also creativity and a passion for solving real-world problems. 

In addition to the student presentations, attendees had the chance to participate in the Handheld Centrifuge workshop and hear from renowned experts. Standout presentations included “Towards a Sustainable Ocean Future” by Dr. Lucy Buxton and “The Journey of Building Two Global AI Tech Companies” by Dr. Don Perugini, which added further depth to the event. 

Shaping the Future of Science and Technology

The BIOTech Futures Finals was more than just a competition—it was a celebration of the next generation of innovators. The passion, creativity, and determination of these students demonstrate that the future of science and technology is in capable hands. Huge congratulations to all participants, especially Queensland Academy for SMT for being named Overall Runner-Up! With exciting times ahead, these students are paving the way for tomorrow’s breakthroughs in biotech and sustainability. 

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2024 QLD BIOTech Futures Challenge

2024 Queensland BIOTech Futures Challenge Symposium Showcases Young Innovators

Brisbane, 3rd October 2024 

The Queensland BIOTech Futures Challenge Symposium, a landmark event dedicated to fostering the next generation of leaders in biotechnology and STEM, wrapped up with resounding success. Hosted by the Training Centre for Joint Biomechanics at the Queensland University of Technology (QUT)this year’s challenge brought together 14 exceptional teams, comprised of more than 45 students from 12 schools across the state, including metro areas and regional hubs like Emerald. With support from dedicated mentors in both academia and industry, these talented students showcased innovative solutions to some of the pressing issues in biotechnology and beyond.

Inspiring Innovation in Biotechnology 

The 2024 event was the largest yet, with participants from 12 schools across Queensland: Earnshaw State College, Chancellor State College, Mansfield State High School, Queensland Academy for Science Mathematics and Technology (QASMT), Brisbane Girls Grammar School, Emerald State High School, Assisi Catholic College, Rochedale State High School, Mt Gravatt State High School, Mango Hill State Secondary College, Corinda State High School, and Wavell State High School.  

Students from these schools worked under the expert guidance of leading mentors from academia and industry across 6 weeks to select a real-world problem and to innovate, design and prototype their solution in several academic discipline areas from medicine, biology, and engineering. Our expert mentors, including Dr Victoria Camilieri-Asch, Dr Natalia M Castoldi, Alba Cisneros, Minne Dekker, A/Prof Devakar Epari, Luke Hipwood, Dr Adi Idris, Hamid Reza Jarrah, Finja Joerg, Brooke Lundon, A/Prof Saulo Martelli, Lin Li Yeoh, Dr Fernanda Zamboni, Dr Max Lavaill and Francois Bruyer-Monteleone, played a pivotal role in helping students tackle cutting-edge biotech projects, empowering them to explore creative solutions and present their work culmination in a 3-minute pitch at the QLD symposium. 

Celebrating the best in biotech

The Symposium began with a dynamic student poster display on The Cube at 2:30 p.m., where attendees had the opportunity to network and engage with the students about their cutting-edge research. Distinguished Professor Christopher Barner-Kowollik officially welcomed the crowd at 4:15 p.m., followed by a competition overview presented by Centre Director Professor Yuantong Gu. The students then took the stage to deliver their presentations, impressing the audience with their research, creativity, and technical expertise. Joining the event was also a rising star of the QUT community, Mr Sameel Deoji, an Assistant Producer at channel 7 who is currently studying a Bachelor of Business (Management) and a Bachelor of Communications (Journalism) as our Master of Ceremonies who energised the crowd. 

The event featured a special Q&A session, where mentors provided valuable feedback and insights to the students. Special thanks were given to the event’s guest judges: Professor Shaun Gregory, Dr Naomi Paxton, and Dr Marco Branni. Their expertise and insights were invaluable in evaluating the students’ presentations. A heartfelt thank you also goes to the event’s MC, Sameel Deoji, for skillfully guiding the proceedings throughout the day.

The symposium culminated in the Awards Ceremony, where the best teams were recognised for their outstanding achievements. Awards included Best Poster and Short Answer Questions, Best Presentation, Overall Runner-Up, and the prestigious Overall Winner award. 

After a very close race to determine the best presentation and prototype from a range of solutions to environmental issues, novel drug delivery, spinal disease, skin cancer and wound gel technology 2 teams clearly emerged as the winners: 

  • Winner: Statavac – Earnshaw State High School, with a novel vacuum cleaner attachment that uses static electricity to suck-up Styrofoam from our beaches, and  
  • Runner-Up: ‘Serum Switch’ – Queensland Academy of Science, Mathematics and Technology (QASMT) a database designed to promote alternate sources of Bovine Foetal Bovine Serum’ for researchers around the world. 

Mt Gravatt State High School was also awarded Best Presentation, while Earnshaw State College also won Best Poster and Short Answer Question. 

The top teams will now advance to the National BIOTech Futures Competition in Sydney, where they’ll have the chance to compete against the brightest young minds from across the country.  

Congratulations to both teams and their mentors, we wish you the best of luck for your participation in the National finals at the University of Sydney on Monday the 14th of October! 

Looking to the Future of STEM

The support and contributions from everyone involved made this year’s Queensland BIOTech Futures Challenge Symposium an outstanding success, fostering a promising future for STEM in Queensland. 

The BIOTech Futures Challenge continues to serve as a key initiative for engaging young minds, promoting innovation, and driving interest in STEM careers. The Queensland BIOTech Futures Committee looks forward to witnessing the continued success of these students as they progress through the National Competition and into their future careers. We would like to recognise and thank the University of Sydney’s Prof Hala Zreiqat and the national organisational committee for their support to run the QLD chapter and look forward to the 2025 competition to inspire the next generation.  

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HDR Placement Program – Materialise

HDR Placement Program – Materialise: Training Future Leaders in Orthopaedic Innovation

The Training Centre for Joint Biomechanics is proud to celebrate the recent completion of the HDR placement program by Centre PhD students Mr. François Bruyer-Montéléone and Mr. Hamid Reza Jarrah. Hosted by our valued industry partner, Materialise, this immersive experience provided François and Hamid with advanced training and hands-on exposure in the fields of 3D printing and digital manufacturing for healthcare applications, particularly in orthopaedics.  

The Training Centre for Joint Biomechanics’ placement program provides exceptional opportunities for hands-on experience with real-world MedTech experience. Throughout the program, François and Hamid engaged in a variety of high-impact activities, benefiting from Materialise’s deep expertise in healthcare technologies. Materialise, a global leader in 3D printing and digital manufacturing, works closely with hospitals and clinics specialising in orthopaedics, cranio-maxillofacial surgery, cardiovascular surgery, and radiology to create patient-specific solutions. 

Guided by Michael Mathews, General Manager of Materialise Medical ANZ, along with 3D technology ambassador Monica Russell and Medical Application Engineer Divya Dayal, François and Hamid gained invaluable insights through: 

  • Clinical Engineering Shadowing: Working with engineers using Mimics software, they observed the practical applications of cranio-maxillofacial (CMF) solutions and learned how pre-operative plans for complex procedures like osteotomies are developed and implemented. 
  • Comprehensive Product Line Training: They acquired knowledge in product design and clinical applications while exploring MedTech business models and marketing strategies to understand the financial and strategic aspects of healthcare innovations. 
  • Skill Development: The program provided essential training in business case management, pre-operative planning software, and real-world engineering practices, coupled with soft skills crucial for industry success. 

The Training Centre for Joint Biomechanics is dedicated to empowering future leaders in orthopaedic technology, and we are thrilled to see how François and Hamid’s experiences with Materialise will enrich their contributions to healthcare and innovation. 

Congratulations to François and Hamid on their achievements during this transformative placement experience! 

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Materialise 3D Printing in Hospitals Forum

Materialise 3D Printing in Hospitals Forum: A Milestone for Medtech in Australia

1-2 August 2024, Brisbane Australia

On August 1, 2024, Materialise, with the assistance of the Queensland University of Technology (QUT), hosted the inaugural 3D Printing in Hospitals Forum Australia, a landmark event showcasing the potential of 3D printing technology in the healthcare sector. This event attracted a diverse group of healthcare professionals, researchers, and industry leaders dedicated to discussing challenges, solutions, and opportunities in the realm of medical 3D printing. 

The forum featured a rich program of sessions focused on critical topics, including major obstacles faced in the implementation of 3D printing in hospitals, strategies for managing regulatory compliance, and the integration of 3D printing across various medical specialties and departments. Participants engaged in vibrant discussions aimed at advancing the adoption of 3D printing and digital technologies at the point of care. 

Expert Speakers Share Insights

Among the distinguished speakers were renowned experts in the field, including: 

Dr. Michael Wagels, a Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon at Princess Alexandra Hospital, who highlighted advancements in complex reconstructive surgery and the translational aspects of tissue engineering. 

Ishaque Khan, Director of Clinical Technology at Hunter New England Health District, who shared insights on quality improvement and sustainability programs in health technology. 

Dr. Masako Dunn, Head and Neck Cancer Research and Innovation Manager at Chris O’Brien Lifehouse, discussed the multidisciplinary approach to cranio-maxillofacial surgery. 

Professors Jonathan Clarke and Stefanie Feih, who brought attention to the integration of research and clinical practice in head and neck cancer reconstruction and advanced design technologies, respectively. 

Dr. Ashish Gupta, an orthopaedic surgeon and CEO of Akunah, provided a glimpse into ‘Future Innovation in 3D Technology for Clinical Applications.’ 

These experts contributed their extensive knowledge and experience, addressing the current landscape and future possibilities for 3D printing in medical applications. 

A Commitment to Innovation

The event was made possible through the collaboration of the ARC Training Centre for Joint Biomechanics and industry partner Materialise, reflecting a shared commitment to fostering innovation in the medtech sector. Many thanks were extended to the organising team, including Monica Russell, Michael Mathews, and Susan Ong, as well as the AusPac Materialise team. 

As the forum concluded, attendees left with renewed inspiration and determination to drive advancements in 3D printing technology within their practices. The event established a foundation for a vibrant network of Point of Care Centres dedicated to delivering personalised healthcare solutions across Australia. 

Looking Ahead

The success of the 3D Printing in Hospitals Forum marks a significant step forward for the medtech industry in Australia. With the growing emphasis on innovation and collaboration, the future holds promising possibilities for enhancing patient care through 3D printing and digital technologies. Participants and organizers alike are optimistic about the ongoing evolution of these transformative technologies, paving the way for more effective and personalised treatment options in the healthcare system. 

Here’s to a bright future of an established network of innovative Point of Care Centres for impactful, personalised healthcare solutions in Australia! 

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University of Twente Delegation

University of Twente Delegation visits ARC Training centre for joint biomechanics

The ARC Training Centre for Joint Biomechanics recently welcomed a delegation of 30 enthusiastic physics students and professors from the University of Twente, a prominent public technical university located in Enschede, Netherlands. The visit underscored a shared commitment to collaborative learning and innovative research in the fields of biomechanics and physics.

Insights into Innovative Research

The delegation was greeted by Prof. Peter Pivonka, the program lead for Program 1, who provided a comprehensive overview of In Silico Upper Extremity Modelling and Simulation. His presentation highlighted the program’s ambitious goals, ongoing projects, and major achievements to date, which left a lasting impression on the visiting group. The advanced lab facilities at QUT, particularly those dedicated to biomechanical engineering and physics, captivated the students and faculty alike, as they explored the cutting-edge technology utilized in research. 

Following this, Prof. Graham Kerr, the program lead for Program 4, showcased exciting developments in In Vivo Assessment of Upper Limb Movements, Physiology, and Rehabilitation. His discussion focused on the program’s objectives, projects, and significant milestones. The delegation also toured the GAIT Lab at QUT’s Kelvin Grove campus, gaining deeper insights into the innovative research being conducted in biomechanics and rehabilitation.

Engaging Learning experiences

A highlight of the visit was an inspiring tour of The Cube, recognized as one of the world’s largest digital interactive learning and display spaces. With 48 multi-touch screens spanning two storeys, The Cube offers a unique platform for communicating STEM concepts and engaging the public in scientific research. Delegates experienced firsthand how this innovative space enhances digital learning experiences. 

Additionally, the visit included a stop at the Central Analytical Research Facility (CARF), organised by the Centre for Agriculture and the Bioeconomy, Faculty of Science, School of Chemistry and Physics. This facility exemplifies QUT’s commitment to advanced research and innovation, showcasing the state-of-the-art analytical techniques employed to support groundbreaking scientific discoveries.

Future Collaborations on the Horizon

The visit concluded with a mutual hope for future collaborations between QUT and the University of Twente. The exchange of ideas and expertise between the two institutions has the potential to drive significant advancements in physics, biomechanics, and rehabilitation. We are excited about the possibilities that lie ahead. Together, we can push the boundaries of innovation and discovery, contributing to the advancement of both fields. 

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Trailblazing at ESB 2024

Trailblazing at ESB 2024: Breakthroughs in Biomechanics Shine in Edinburgh!

29th Congress of the European Society of Biomechanics 

30 June – 3 July 2024, Edinburgh, Scotland

We are excited to highlight the remarkable achievements of our research team who recently made a significant impact at the 2024 European Society of Biomechanics (ESB) Congress in Edinburgh, Scotland.

Spotlight on our Presenters:

Dr. Maxence Lavaill delivered a thought-provoking presentation titled “Novel Geodesic Model for the Computation of Muscle Paths in Musculoskeletal Models.” His innovative model offers fresh insight into muscle path computation, promising to impact both healthy and pathological conditions.

Mr. François Bruyer-Montéléone captivated the audience with his research on “Beyond Bone Shapes: Unveiling the potential of Statistical Pose Models in Shoulder Analysis.” His groundbreaking work utilises statistical models to deepen our understanding of shoulder biomechanics.

Dr. Natalia Mühl Castoldi presented her study on “Cortical Bone Density Distribution Using a Discrete BMU Remodelling Model.” Her research enhances our comprehension of bone density and remodelling processes, contributing significantly to bone health.

Conference Highlights:

ESBiomech 2024 focused on “Biomechanics from Research to Practice,” emphasising the critical dialogue and collaboration between biomechanics experts and clinical professionals. The scientific program featured keynote speakers, podium and poster sessions, and showcased the latest developments across all branches of biomechanics.

Our team engaged deeply in the rich scientific agenda and participated in various traditional ESB sessions and activities, including interactive and mentoring sessions, student activities, and networking events. These sessions provided invaluable opportunities for knowledge exchange and collaboration.

Our team attended the session on Musculoskeletal Biomechanics II: Upper Extremity, chaired by Angela Elizabeth Kedgley and Sara Checa Esteban. They also participated in the Musculoskeletal Biomechanics III: Musculoskeletal Modelling Whole Body I, chaired by Darshan Sunil Shah and Bryce Adrian Killen. These sessions provided a rich platform for knowledge exchange and collaboration.

Looking Ahead:

At our Centre, we are actively developing a highly sophisticated model of the shoulder. Musculoskeletal modelling plays a pivotal role in understanding both healthy and pathological shoulder function. By improving upper limb orthopaedics and biomechanics, we aim to enhance patient outcomes and quality of life.

We are excited about the future and the continued impact of our research. We extend our gratitude to our dedicated team for their exceptional contributions and enthusiasm. Together, we push the boundaries of biomechanics research and practice.

We look forward to the next opportunities for collaboration and discovery. Thank you for celebrating our achievements with us!

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Insights from ISEK 2024

Insights from ISEK 2024: Advancements in Upper Limb Research

26 – 29 June 2024 | Nagoya, Japan 

The International Society of Electrophysiology & Kinesiology (ISEK) Conference held from June 26 to 29, 2024, served as a significant platform for the Centre’s Program 4 team, dedicated to In Vivo Assessment of Upper Limb Movements, Physiology, and Rehabilitation. The delegation made a notable impact, showcasing groundbreaking research that highlights advancements in understanding upper limb movements and rehabilitation techniques. 

Highlighting Groundbreaking Research

Dr. Wolbert van den Hoorn presented his influential work on Motor Neuron Synergies of the Deltoid Muscle, which uncovers hidden patterns and synergies in human movement. His research offers valuable insights into the mechanisms underlying upper limb functionality, paving the way for improved rehabilitation strategies. 

The program’s PhD students also made significant contributions, demonstrating their research excellence at the conference. Yuyao (Amy) Ma, based at The University of Queensland, was recognised as the runner-up for the Best HDR Presentation award, a testament to her impactful research and presentation skills.

PhD Student Contributions

The conference featured impressive poster presentations from two other PhD students: 

Mr. Giacomo Nardese focused on Deltoid Muscle and Cortical Complexity. His task-based analysis revealed intricate cortical patterns essential for tailoring rehabilitation interventions to individual needs. 

Mr. Arthur Fabre presented a poster on A Standardised Inertial Measurement Units-based Method for Upper Limb and Shoulder Kinematics Assessment. His research emphasises the importance of precise assessment techniques in understanding upper limb dynamics. 

Celebrating Achievements

The success of the delegation at ISEK 2024 not only highlights the innovative research being conducted within Program 4 but also underscores the commitment to advancing knowledge in biomechanics and rehabilitation. The program’s emphasis on collaboration and excellence continues to inspire its members to push the boundaries of research and clinical practice. 

“We are incredibly proud of our team’s achievements at ISEK 2024,” said a representative from the Centre. “Their hard work and dedication to understanding upper limb physiology will undoubtedly contribute to significant advancements in rehabilitation techniques.” 

As the delegates return from Nagoya, they bring back valuable insights and connections that will further enrich their ongoing research and collaboration efforts, reinforcing the Centre’s position at the forefront of biomechanics and rehabilitation science.