Researchers from Monash University and The University of Woollongong have developed salt-based liquids that improve the performance of artificial muscles by thousands of times.

Australian researchers have created salt-based liquids that improve the performance of artificial muscle by thousands of times. [ + ]

A proposed name change for artificial heart developer MicroMedical Industries has gained the backing of nearly all its shareholders. [ + ]

Ambri has launched a corporate re-branding campaign as it prepares to launch testing of its SensiDx point-of-care diagnostic system in Australian hospitals. [ + ]

The Australian National Genomic Information Service (ANGIS) is in hiring mode, thanks to a small injection of fresh funds. [ + ]

Vision Systems has moved to calm jittery investors following last week's $94 million purchase of UK biochemical manufacturer Novocastra Laboratories. [ + ]

Plant biotechnologists in Australia are concerned that implementation of a full cost recovery scheme for the Office of the Gene Technology Regulator will make the cost of developing new GM crop varieties too expensive for small biotechnology companies and public research institutions to consider. [ + ]

Monash University has officially launched the first stage of construction for its on-campus Science, Technology, Research and Innovation Precinct (STRIP), even though the first building is already well on its way up. [ + ]

Chemeq has announced that it has received its first regulatory approval for sale of its veterinary drug CHEMEQ polymeric antimicrobial in South Africa. [ + ]

The new US-based CEO of bioseparations specialist Gradipore has wasted no time in making his mark on the company, announcing changes to its management structure during a visit to Australia. [ + ]

A Western Australian government survey of public and industry views has revealed strongly-polarised views about the costs and benefits of introducing genetically modified crops, says Agriculture Minister Kim Chance. [ + ]

Neurosciences Victoria (NSV) and Schering at the end of June announced that they had entered into a three year research collaboration focusing on drug discovery and target evaluation for neurodegenerative diseases. [ + ]

Examining more than 3 billion molecules to determine which ones might treat a particular disease sounds like a lifetime's work, but the Anthrax Research Project (ARP) wrapped up just such a massive screening in 24 days. Of the nearly 3.6 billion molecules analysed, the project identified more than 376,000 as candidates for treating the anthrax bacterium, which would render it ineffective as a weapon. [ + ]

Like something out of the movie Star Wars, start-up Actuality Systems this week uncloaked a 3-D computer display capable of turning flat computer-generated images into what look like solid objects. [ + ]

Mining magnate Joseph Gutnick has relinquished his stake in Autogen in a move that allows the gene discovery company a more complete biotech focus. [ + ]