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10 Jul 2024 — 4 min read

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Mind-Controlled Prosthetic Leg:

MIT researchers have developed a mind-controlled prosthetic leg aimed at restoring natural walking for amputees. The innovation involves the Agonist-Antagonist Myoneural Interface (AMI), a system that stitches together muscles in the residual limb to maintain the signaling between muscles and the brain. This muscle system is connected to a robotic leg, enhancing the responsiveness and control of the prosthetic.
A study published in Nature Medicine found that participants using this setup increased their walking speed by 41%, achieving speeds similar to non-amputees. These participants also navigated stairs, slopes, and obstacles 32% to 43% faster than those using standard prosthetic legs. The AMI system allows for natural muscle movements, reduces pain, preserves muscle mass, and improves overall comfort with the bionic limb. The interface amplifies nerve signals from the remaining muscles, enabling wearers to control the prosthesis with their thoughts and natural reflexes.
The clinical trial involved 14 participants with below-knee amputations, seven of whom underwent surgery to link pairs of muscles in their residual limbs. This technique aims to recreate natural muscle movements, resulting in a more natural gait. This development in prosthetic technology offers amputees a potentially more natural and efficient way to walk.

Goldman Sachs To Acquire Majority Stake In TAIT:

Goldman Sachs Alternatives' private equity division is acquiring a majority stake in TAIT, the engineering firm known for designing the stage for Taylor Swift's Eras Tour. This acquisition involves Goldman Sachs Asset Management's alternative investment platform purchasing the stake from affiliates of Providence Equity Partners. Although the financial terms were not disclosed, Bloomberg News had earlier reported that TAIT was exploring a sale valued at approximately $1.3 billion.
TAIT, which designs and builds sets for major live events, will continue to be led by its current management team, who will also retain significant shareholdings. The company has an impressive portfolio, having worked on stages for Rihanna's Super Bowl Halftime Show, Beyoncé's Renaissance World Tour in 2023, and Swift's Reputation Tour in 2018. The acquisition by Goldman Sachs Alternatives aims to bolster TAIT's capabilities and expand its market reach.

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