In 2020, the AATB Physicians Council formed a standing Panel on COVID-19 to provide ongoing surveillance of the emerging pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2.

In June of this year, the World Health Organization (WHO) certified Belize as malaria-free, joining 41 other countries and one territory certified as such. This certification was the culmination of over 70 years of efforts to stamp out the disease in Belize.

The proposed amendments to revise the AATB Bylaws in several key areas, which were officially presented to the entire membership for voting on October 2, were approved by a majority vote when the ballot concluded on October 31. An updated copy of the AATB Bylaws can be viewed on the AATB website.

AATB emailed a Member Satisfaction Survey through Survey Monkey to all AATB Members on Wednesday, November 1. If you did not receive the survey, please check your spam. The results of this brief survey will help us identify the needs and preferences of our members and the changes we could implement to remain adaptive and enhance the member experience. Individuals who complete the survey and leave their name and email address will be entered into a drawing to win one (1) of five (5) gift cards. The survey closes Wednesday, November 22. If you have questions or problems accessing the survey, please email davisa@aatb.org.

Quality is the heartbeat of progress, and at AATB, we're passionate about setting the gold standard for quality in tissue banking and transplantation. Join us this week as we spotlight our commitment to excellence, ensuring the safety and quality of donated tissue for those in need. Quality isn't just a goal for us; it's our mission! Let's work together to make the world a better place, one life-saving transplant at a time.

Phys.org
Scientists have found a way to measure and visualize osmotic pressure, providing insights on how problems with cell pressure can contribute to disease.

News-Medical.Net
Study results found that melanin nanoparticles helped reduce inflammation and encourage wound healing in mice and human skin explants.

National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences
Tissue chips mimic human organ systems and can help scientists determine if treatments from new clinical studies could be safe and effective in humans.

Interesting Engineering
Some species of shark have skin with natural antibacterial properties, which could decrease the risk of wound infection by prohibiting bacteria growth.

Science News
A new study suggests that runners may use so much energy during marathons that their bodies tap into myelin for energy.

Interested in the significance of clots, Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVTs), and Pulmonary Embolisms (PEs) within the realm of organ and tissue donation? Join us on November 10 for an insightful webinar in the FREE Donation & Death Investigation Webinar Series, titled "Clots, DVTs, and PEs: How They Impact Donation." We'll explore the conditions and scenarios that necessitate a closer look at these vascular issues, delve into various surgical options for addressing them, touch upon the meticulous preparation of grafts, and provide real-world examples of how these factors impact the donation process. Register now and secure your virtual seat. The 2023 Donation & Death Investigation Webinar Series includes seven webinar presentations, all FREE and designed to enhance your understanding of the complex relationship between these two fields. Register now for our upcoming webinar or the entire series.

Curious about the rise in Sodium Nitrite suicides? Join us for an exploration of self-inflicted Sodium Nitrite Toxicity in three Michigan counties on November 15, titled 'The "Suicide by Salt" Epidemic.' Discover the alarming trend of sodium nitrite as a method of suicide, driven by its easy accessibility in the United States. Delve into the dark world of sodium nitrite ingestion, an odorless, white, water-soluble crystalline powder capable of inducing severe methemoglobinemia – a condition where hemoglobin loses its ability to transport vital oxygen throughout the body.  Register now and secure your virtual seat.

In “Deviations, Devices, and Drugs: A Regulatory Roadmap for Human Tissue Reporting,” we'll explore the evolving landscape of tissue banking, and where opportunity meets innovation in regenerative medicine. The tissue banking industry is experiencing a transformative 'era of opportunity,' and understanding the regulatory framework is crucial. Join us on December 6 as we navigate the complex regulatory pathways and requirements for adverse outcomes reporting for human tissue products. Whether it's Section 361 HCT/P, Section 351 HCT/P, or medical devices, this webinar will clarify the path ahead. Don't miss out on this essential regulatory roadmap. Register now and secure your virtual seat.

Columbia, South Carolina: The Tissue Recovery Services Educator (TRS EDU) is responsible for creating and facilitating training and professional development of the Tissue Recovery Staff. Assists the TR Manager in developing and promoting the growth of the tissue recovery program, provides professional recommendations of tissue donor recovery staff, and all matters of recovery and determination of suitability of musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, and skin donors.

Little Rock, Arkansas: The primary duty of the Tissue Recovery Coordinator I (TRC I) is to assist in the aseptic recovery of human tissue for transplantation and to do so in accordance with ARORA's policies and procedures for such tissue recoveries. Must achieve the primary objectives of (1) maximizing donation, (2) providing the utmost care and concern for the deceased, and (3) fostering a learning atmosphere through education and communication of donation information.

Silver Spring, Maryland: The incumbent serves as the Division Director of the Division of Human Tissue (DHT) within the Office of Cellular Therapy and Human Tissue CMC (OCTHT) under the Office of Therapeutic Products (OTP) and manages daily operations of the Division. This position reports to the Director of OCTHT.