Here in Ohio, scientists, inventors and even students have made great strides in the fields of science, technology and medicine. Scientists at Ohio State University in Columbus, say they've grown a nearly complete human brain... in a lab!
They say it's the size of a pencil eraser and has 99-percent of the genes in a fully developed fetal brain. Researchers hope it will help them find a cure for Alzheimer's and autism - and help them better understand PTSD and brain injuries. The brain was engineered from adult human skin cells and grown in a dish for 15 weeks.
In Cleveland, renovations are underway on a new facility at Case Western University that will provide space for anyone - especially students, professors and alumni, to tinker and create.
The project is one of the largest university-based innovation centers in the world. The innovation lab is called 'think box' and its part of the school of engineering. The facility will be equipped with 3D printers, wood and metal shops and more tools that help concepts become reality. Renovations on phase one are expected to be done soon, but some really cool projects have already been developed by researchers. Projects include an eye clinic alinement tool that uses a customizable smartphone case that helps to document eye conditions without the use of expensive equipment. A senior at case western even invented a fuel injection method to improve the efficiency of aircraft jet engines.
As you can see, we have a lot going on in terms of innovation here in the buckeye state. Maybe we'll see the next great invention from one of you!
Instructional Links
Website Article: Easy Sciecne for Kids, Human Brain
http://easyscienceforkids.com/all-about-your-amazing-brain/
Website Article & Image: Scientist: Most complete human brain model to date is a ‘brain changer’
https://news.osu.edu/news/2015/08/18/human-brain-model/
Website: Case Western Reserve Unviersity, think[box]
http://engineering.case.edu/thinkbox/
Website Wiki: Makerspaces in Schools and Libraries
https://youthserviceslibrarianship.wikispaces.com/Makerspaces