The materials that are used in medicine can have an impact on just about everyone, and they are the focus for the August issue of Materials World. Our feature stories offer three different methods for repairing damaged human tissue or bones - tissue scaffolding, bioresorbable polymers, and ceramic implants. Professor Pankaj Vadgama also gives his opinion on why bio-researchers should focus more on active interfaces to prevent implant rejections by the human body. In other feature stories, we look at the potential for diamond mining exploration projects in northern Canada, as well as the benefits for mining companies that make better use of sustainable development. 

In our news section, Materials World talks to Steve McDanels of NASA about piecing together the materials puzzle created by the Columbia shuttle crash. Warren Richards of the Dalton Nuclear Institute makes the argument for rejuvenating the UK nuclear skills base. And we investigate the use of recycled construction and demolition waste for concrete building blocks.