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For the first time: defibrillator with sternum electrode implanted
A defibrillator with a sternum electrode was implanted for the first time at University Medical Center Göttingen (UMG). The Aurora System provides a gentler alternative to conventional therapies for sudden cardiac arrest, offering new perspectives particularly for specific patient groups.
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Ultrasound as a key tool for brain research
Ultrasound, once primarily used for imaging, is emerging as a precise and non-invasive tool for brain research and therapy. Researchers from the University of Plymouth, Stanford University, and Attune Neurosciences highlight its potential in a new PLOS Biology article, detailing its applications and challenges.
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Simplified approach to securing the surgical field with a plastic device
Robot-assisted heart surgeries traditionally require an assistant to ensure the surgeon has adequate room to maneuver the robotic arms through small incisions. To address this dependency, researchers from Osaka Metropolitan University have developed a surgical field expansion plate that offers surgeons greater independence during procedures.
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Optimized therapy for cruciate ligament injuries through digital simulation
The Fraunhofer Institute for Digital Medicine MEVIS, the University Medical Center Freiburg and Stryker Leibinger GmbH have received an award for their work on a finite element simulation for individual therapy planning for knee injuries. This innovative method enables personalized planning of cruciate ligament operations and could prevent long-term follow-up problems such as osteoarthritis.
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EPFL researchers develop non-invasive neurotechnology to improve spatial memory
EPFL researchers have developed a neurotechnology that uses virtual reality, non-invasive brain stimulation, and fMRI imaging to improve spatial memory without surgery or medication. This method targets the hippocampus to enhance navigation and recall, offering potential for future dementia therapies.
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Robotically assisted laser procedure for spinal surgery
In spinal canal stenosis, bony growths narrow the spinal canal, which often leads to chronic pain or paralysis in patients. Around 111,000 of these operations are performed in Germany every year, with surgery often being the only solution.
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PREFUL MRI as an alternative to conventional lung imaging
The diagnosis and assessment of lung diseases often presents medical professionals with major challenges. Traditional methods such as computed tomography (CT) offer detailed structural images of the lungs, but involve radiation exposure for patients and provide no information on regional lung function.
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Gold nanoparticles for kidney disease detection
Researchers from the University of Texas at Dallas have discovered that gold nanoparticles may offer a more accurate method of detecting kidney disease than traditional blood tests. Their study suggests that X-ray imaging using gold nanoparticles as a contrast agent could improve kidney function assessment and provide crucial insights into nanoparticle-based therapies.
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Handheld 3D photoacoustic scanner could improve disease diagnosis
A research team at University College London (UCL) has developed a new handheld scanner that generates detailed 3D photoacoustic images in just seconds. The device shows potential for clinical use, particularly in diagnosing conditions such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, and arthritis.
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Video support in stroke care: Enhancing early diagnosis
A study led by Chalmers University of Technology, Sweden, demonstrates that real-time video streaming from ambulances to stroke specialists can significantly reduce treatment times for acute stroke patients, improving their chances of recovery. By enabling early diagnosis and direct transport to the optimal hospital, this approach supports faster and more effective stroke care.
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OptoAssays: New light-controlled tests simplify cost-effective diagnostics
A team of researchers from the University of Freiburg and the INM - Leibniz Institute for New Materials has developed a bio-based test procedure that can diagnose complex diseases simply and cheaply. These “OptoAssays” use light control to move biomolecules and read out results without mechanical support - with potential applications in on-site diagnostics.
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Revi neuromodulation: A new approach to UUI treatment
UChicago Medicine recently performed the first implantation of the Revi neuromodulation device in Illinois. This minimally invasive procedure offers a novel treatment option for patients suffering from urinary urgency incontinence (UUI). The Revi device aims to improve bladder control without the side effects or limitations of existing treatments.
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First time in Germany: use of the new mapping catheter
The Heart Center of the University Medical Center Göttingen (UMG) is the first in Germany to use the Optrell mapping catheter - a procedure that makes the treatment of complex cardiac arrhythmias more precise and efficient. The new instrument creates high-resolution “maps” of the heart and makes it easier to identify problematic areas for targeted therapy.
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Two-photon microscope enables faster, less harmful brain imaging
Researchers at the University of California, Davis, have developed a new two-photon fluorescence microscope capable of capturing high-speed images of neural activity with cellular resolution.
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Ultrasound promotes blood vessel growth in damaged tissue
A team of researchers at the University of Rochester has developed a new approach using ultrasound technology to promote the growth of blood vessels in damaged tissue. The method could have significant applications in reconstructive and plastic surgeries, as well as wound healing.
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Diadem: Ultrasound device shows potential for chronic pain treatment
Researchers at the University of Utah have developed Diadem, a noninvasive ultrasound device that targets deep brain regions to potentially alleviate chronic pain. The device could offer a new therapeutic option for patients who do not respond to current treatments.
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3D printed custom implants for the heart
Researchers at the University of Colorado Boulder, in collaboration with the University of Pennsylvania, have developed an advanced 3D printing method to create materials that support human tissue effectively. This new approach could lead to significant improvements in personalized medical implants and tissue repair.
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OCT otoscope enhances ear disease diagnosis
A new portable otoscope, developed by the Caruso Department of Otolaryngology at the University of Southern California, integrates optical coherence tomography (OCT) to provide high-resolution imaging of the tympanic membrane (TM) and middle ear (ME). This advancement offers clinicians a more comprehensive view of ear health, significantly improving diagnostic capabilities and patient outcomes.
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Novel electrical stimulation for the treatment of cancer pain
As part of the international “PAINLESS” project, researchers at the University Medical Center Göttingen (UMG) have developed a non-invasive brain stimulation method for treating pain in cancer patients.
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Robotics Institute Germany: Progress through AI-based robotics
The newly founded Robotics Institute Germany (RIG) has started its work. The aim of the consortium, led by the Technical University of Munich (TUM) and the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), is to establish Germany as the world's leading location for AI-based robotics. The project is being funded by the Federal Ministry of Education and Research with 20 million euros.
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Heart transplants: Improved outcomes with "heart-in-a-box" technology
A recent study from the University of Gothenburg, published in The Lancet, highlights a significant improvement in heart transplant outcomes when donor hearts are preserved using hypothermic oxygenated machine perfusion, commonly known as "heart-in-a-box," compared to the traditional method of cold static storage.
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Smallest free-floating bubbles developed for medical imaging
Researchers at Rice University have created ultrasmall, stable gas-filled protein nanostructures that hold potential for significant advancements in ultrasound imaging and drug delivery.
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New surgical approach for scimitar syndrome: Double-decker technique
A team at Kindai University Hospital's Department of Cardiovascular Surgery has achieved a significant advancement in treating the rare congenital heart defect known as Scimitar Syndrome. Led by Senior Professor Genichi Sakaguchi, the team successfully performed a modified version of the "Double-Decker Technique" on a two-year-old patient.
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Autonomous ultrasound: relieving the burden of everyday medical care
Autonomous robotic ultrasound systems can perform routine examinations and support doctors in the operating room. Prof. Nassir Navab from the Technical University of Munich (TUM) is researching these technologies and demonstrating their potential for everyday medical practice.
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Advanced Neuro Monitoring: PtNRGrid Gets FDA Approval
The FDA has approved a clinical trial to test the effectiveness of the PtNRGrid, a high-resolution brain recording device developed by engineers at the University of California San Diego. This device could significantly improve brain surgeries by providing detailed recordings of brain activity.
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The use of AI in brain cancer diagnosis, monitoring and treatment
New recommendations, published in The Lancet Oncology, provide new guidance for the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in the diagnosis and treatment of brain cancer. The goal is to enable more objective tumor measurements and improve patient care through standardized AI applications.
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Wearable ultrasound patch: Addressing limitations of traditional blood pressure monitoring
Researchers at the University of California San Diego have developed a clinically validated, wearable ultrasound patch for continuous blood pressure monitoring. Published in Nature Biomedical Engineering, this technology offers a noninvasive, reliable alternative to traditional methods, such as arterial lines and blood pressure cuffs, with applications in both clinical and home settings.
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Addressing a growing demand for pediatric care: XR simulator
Hokkaido University researchers in Japan have developed the Simmar+ESTE-SIM, an advanced XR simulator that provides nursing students with realistic, hands-on training in pediatric procedures such as mechanical ventilation and tracheal suctioning.
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Bioelectronic patch: Tackling antibiotic resistance with electrical stimulation
Researchers at the University of Chicago and the University of California San Diego have developed a flexible bioelectronic patch that delivers mild electrical signals to bacteria on the skin. This device presents a noninvasive, drug-free method to reduce the harmful effects of bacterial infections, particularly those resistant to antibiotics.
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Artificial cilia system for real-time airway disease monitoring
Researchers led by Xiaoguang Dong, assistant professor of mechanical engineering at Vanderbilt University, have developed artificial cilia to monitor mucus conditions in human airways.
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AI supports the detection of antibiotic resistance
A pilot study at the University of Zurich is the first to demonstrate the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) in identifying antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Researchers used the GPT-4 model to support the diagnostic process in the laboratory and thus relieve the burden on medical professionals in the fight against increasing antibiotic resistance worldwide.
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AI improves leukemia diagnostics: award for Dresden researchers
Dr. Jan Middeke and Dr. Jan-Niklas Eckardt from Dresden University Hospital have received an award from the German Society for Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine (DGKL) for their work on improving leukaemia diagnostics using artificial intelligence (AI). The award, worth 15,000 euros, recognizes their research into AI-assisted detection of leukaemia in the bone marrow.
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Early detection: machine learning in cardiovascular diagnostics
Researchers at Graz University of Technology have developed a method for the early detection of cardiovascular diseases before symptoms occur. Using a machine learning model that analyzes electric fields, potential diseases can be precisely identified. This technology could improve diagnostics and reduce invasive interventions.
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Sweat-powered finger wrap enables continuous health monitoring
Engineers at the University of California San Diego have developed a sweat-powered finger wrap that monitors vital health biomarkers such as glucose, lactate, vitamin C, and levodopa. This wearable device utilizes sweat from the wearer’s fingertip for both power and health monitoring, making it a convenient and non-invasive tool for personalized health tracking.
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VIRTOSHA: Training in surgery using VR technology
A research team from Bonn University Hospital, Cologne University of Applied Sciences and other partners is working on the VIRTOSHA project, which is developing a virtual reality training environment for surgical procedures.
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AI for the precise characterization of breast cancer stages
A new study by the Paul Scherrer Institute (PSI) and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) shows how artificial intelligence (AI) can improve the categorisation of breast cancer stages.
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Smart pills with AI: Advancing gastrointestinal health monitoring
Researchers at the USC Viterbi School of Engineering have developed advanced ingestible sensors that utilize AI and wearable electronics to provide real-time 3D monitoring of gastrointestinal health. These innovative smart pills can detect stomach gases and track their location within the body, offering potential for early disease detection.
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AI-based mapping of the brain’s choroid plexus
A research team has received approximately one million US dollars from the US National Institutes of Health (NIH) to develop an AI-based method for three-dimensional measurement of the choroid plexus in human brain scans. This project aims to enhance our understanding of these structures, which play a crucial role in brain and spinal cord function.
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Wearable ultrasound patch enables cerebral blood flow monitoring
Engineers at the University of California San Diego have developed a soft, stretchy ultrasound patch for continuous, non-invasive monitoring of cerebral blood flow. This wearable technology offers three-dimensional data, advancing beyond the current clinical standard.
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Monitoring of critical health data with wearable patch
Researchers at McMaster University and the University of Waterloo have developed a pain-free, wearable patch that continuously monitors blood glucose, lactates, and other critical health indicators, sending results to a smartphone. This new wearable device could transform health monitoring and improve patient care.
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AI supports diagnostics during gastroscopies
A Czech-Bavarian research team is developing an artificial intelligence (AI) for gastroscopy to support doctors in the diagnostic process. The "GI-Insight" project is being led by Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg and Charles University in Prague and aims to increase the precision and safety of gastroscopies.
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Digital Twins: Transforming Infant Healthcare with Advanced Metabolic Models
Researchers at University of Galway and Heidelberg University have developed advanced digital baby models to enhance the understanding of infant metabolism and improve healthcare outcomes. These sex-specific, whole-body computational models simulate the metabolic processes of infants, paving the way for personalized medicine and better diagnosis and treatment of early-life medical conditions.
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Supporting nursing staff: AI in long-term care
Inpatient care in Germany is facing major challenges. According to Statista, the number of people in need of care will increase by 50 percent by 2030, while the supply of nursing staff is expected to continue to decrease.
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Rewritable, recyclable ‘smart skin’ monitors biological signals on demand
Penn State researchers have developed an adhesive sensing device that seamlessly attaches to human skin to detect and monitor health. The writable sensors can be removed with tape, allowing new sensors to be patterned onto the device.
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A Step Forward in Glaucoma Diagnosis: 'Smart' Contact Lens
Glaucoma remains a major cause of vision loss, affecting millions worldwide. Traditionally, diagnosing this condition early has been challenging due to the subtle changes in eye pressure that are hard to detect continuously. Researchers have now developed a 'smart' contact lens that could change how we monitor and detect this disease.
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Swallowable sensors advance gastrointestinal health monitoring
Researchers from Heriot-Watt University and the University of Birmingham, along with colleagues from the University of Edinburgh, have introduced an ingestible capsule equipped with sensors to monitor gut movement, potentially improving gastrointestinal diagnostics and treatment.
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WellFeet app: Empowering diabetic patients
Singaporean researchers, led by Nanyang Technological University, Singapore (NTU Singapore), have introduced a mobile application named WellFeet, designed to educate individuals living with diabetes and their caregivers about the disease and assist them in monitoring daily activities, including medication, physical activity, and diet.
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Enhancing cataract surgery in the global south with AI
Researchers from the University Hospital Bonn, the University of Bonn, the Sankara Eye Foundation India, and Microsoft Research India are collaborating to improve cataract surgery outcomes in developing regions. Employing artificial intelligence (AI) for video analysis, their initiative aims to address challenges faced in the Global South.
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New diagnostic software improves analysis of kidney diseases
Researchers at the University Hospital Bonn, in collaboration with the University of Bonn, have developed a computer method to determine whether protein excretion in urine is caused by a few severely damaged or many slightly damaged kidney filters. The innovative findings were published in the journal Kidney International.
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Optical sensor technology aims to improve diabetes glucose monitoring
A new non-invasive glucose monitoring optical sensor, poised to transform diabetes management by providing pain-free glucose level measurements, has been developed by researchers at RMIT University.
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Low-cost biochip for rapid cancer detection developed at UTEP
A team at The University of Texas at El Paso, led by Dr. Xiujun Li, has developed a portable, low-cost device that detects colorectal and prostate cancer in under an hour. Designed for accessibility, this biochip could provide life-saving early detection for patients in rural and underserved areas.
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New tissue-on-chip technology to study viral neuroinflammation
A project, funded by the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA) with an initial $2.4 million grant, aims to model the lung-brain connection and develop new therapeutic drugs to prevent and treat neurological symptoms, such as brain fog, associated with viral infections.
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Investigating gut microbiome in tumor cachexia
The EU-funded "MiCCrobioTAckle" project is set to explore the role of the gut microbiome in cancer-related cachexia and develop new treatment strategies. Coordinated by the Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology (Leibniz-HKI), the project will also provide advanced training for 12 PhD candidates, shaping future leaders in microbiota medicine.
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A faster, easier way to test blood at the bedside with handheld device
Researchers at the University of Colorado Boulder are developing a handheld device that uses sound waves to detect biomarkers from a finger-prick of blood. It delivers highly sensitive results in under 70 minutes, providing a faster and more accessible alternative to traditional lab-based tests. The research was published in Science Advances.
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Mouthwash test for predicting head and neck cancer recurrence
A study by researchers from Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, UC San Diego Health, and other collaborating centers suggests that a simple mouthwash-based test could help predict the recurrence of head and neck cancers.
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Controlling organoid development with the help of DNA microspheres
A research team from Heidelberg University and the Max Planck Institute for Medical Research has developed a new method of molecular engineering. This makes it possible to precisely control organoids and improve their complexity. With the help of DNA microspheres, growth factors can be released in a targeted manner to recreate tissue structures more realistically.
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Superhydrophobic device to model tumor progression
Rice University bioengineers have harnessed the lotus leaf's unique properties to create a cutting-edge platform for culturing cancer cell clusters. This system offers a new approach to studying tumor progression and metastasis, providing essential insights into cancer biology and treatment.
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AI-supported platform improves lung cancer diagnostics
A new AI-based digital platform, developed by a research team at the University Hospital of Cologne, enables rapid and precise analysis of lung cancer tissue sections. The platform, which is based on advanced algorithms, could significantly improve the quality of diagnostics and provide new insights into the treatment of lung cancer.
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Lab-grown 'mini-guts' offer new insights for Crohn’s disease treatments
Researchers at the University of Cambridge have developed lab-grown "mini-guts" to better understand and treat Crohn’s disease, a chronic inflammatory bowel disease affecting millions worldwide. These mini-guts, or organoids, mimic the gut lining's key functions and could pave the way for more personalized and effective treatments.
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New biomarker predicts side effects of tuberculosis therapy
Researchers at the Research Center Borstel, Leibniz Lung Center, have discovered a biomarker that can predict the risk of nerve disease during tuberculosis therapy.
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Cardiovascular research: Generation of endothelial cells from stem cells
Researchers at the University of Bonn and the University Hospital Bonn have developed a cost-effective and efficient method to generate functional endothelial cells from human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs).
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Identifying a high-risk biomarker for gastric cancer recurrence risk
A recent study led by researchers at the Medical University of Vienna has identified the AF1Q gene as a significant biomarker for predicting the risk of gastric cancer relapse. This discovery could enhance personalized treatment strategies and improve survival rates for patients. The study was published in Scientific Reports.
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3D-printed blood vessels offer new hope for heart bypass surgery
Researchers at the University of Edinburgh have developed 3D-printed blood vessels that mimic the properties of human veins. These artificial vessels could significantly improve the outcomes of heart bypass surgeries by reducing complications such as scarring, pain, and infection.
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LED Implant: A new approach to deep-seated cancer treatment
A team of engineers and scientists at the University of Notre Dame has developed a wireless LED device that can be implanted to treat deep-seated cancers. This device, when combined with a light-sensitive dye, not only destroys cancer cells but also activates the immune system to target the cancer. The research findings were published in Photodiagnosis and Photodynamic Therapy.
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Red light as the key to gene activity control
In a new study, the University of Bayreuth has investigated the sensitivity of bacterial systems for controlling gene activity to red light. These research results open up a wide range of possibilities for the biotechnological application of bacteria. The results of the study have been published in Nature Communications.
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Tuberculosis diagnosis in children with modified FFP2 mask
The diagnosis of tuberculosis (TB) in children poses a particular challenge. While adults can often be diagnosed by detecting genetic material in their sputum, this is often not possible in children as they rarely produce sputum.
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First successful birth after vitrification of ovarian tissue in Europe
A team at the University Hospital Bonn (UKB) has established a modern method for the cryopreservation of ovarian tissue known as vitrification. This technique is used to preserve fertility before cancer therapies.
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Heart health: New tool developed to investigate telomere length
A research team from Hannover Medical School (MHH) has developed a new molecular tool to investigate the influence of telomerase on the development of heart muscle cells. This study could have significant implications for the treatment and prevention of heart diseases.
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New findings on short-term cultivated CAR T cells in cancer treatment
Chimeric Antigen Receptor T (CAR T) cells are a breakthrough in immunotherapy, offering hope for blood cancer patients who have exhausted other options. These genetically modified cells are designed to attack cancer cells by recognizing specific antigens. The therapy has shown promise, particularly in treating B-cell leukemias and lymphomas.
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Plasmids in the human intestine: new findings on their use as biomarkers
The Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg has published a study in which an international research team reports on the discovery of a potential biomarker from the human intestine. This plasmid could be used in the future to detect fecal contamination or monitor inflammatory bowel diseases. The results were published in the journal Cell.
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Harnessing light to control cellular dynamics
Researchers led by Rumiana Dimova at the Max Planck Institute for Colloids and Interfaces have developed a technique that uses light to understand and control the inner dynamics of cells. By employing lights of different colors, they can alter the interactions within cellular components, offering a precise and non-invasive method to administer drugs directly into the cells.
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Unveiling the role of sensory neurons in tissue repair
Research from Monash and Osaka Universities highlights the key role sensory neurons play in tissue repair and regeneration, marking a significant advancement for regenerative medicine.
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Bioelectronic mesh for cardiac tissue monitoring
A team of engineers, led by the University of Massachusetts Amherst, has developed a cutting-edge bioelectronic mesh system integrated with graphene sensors to monitor both mechanical movement and electrical signals in lab-grown human cardiac tissue.
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Insights into the development of metastases with miniature laboratories
New developments at the Fraunhofer Institute for Material and Beam Technology IWS and partners enable improved research possibilities for cancer therapy using microphysiological systems.
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Liver cancer treatment: Utilizing magnetic field-guided microrobots
A new medical technique utilizing magnet-guided microrobots for treating liver tumors has been developed by a Canadian research team, offering a potential new approach in oncology.
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Robotic shorts "WalkON" make walking easier and promote mobility
With “WalkON”, the Technical University of Munich (TUM) has developed robotic shorts that support people when walking and jogging by reducing the amount of energy required. The wearable technology, which can increase mobility and quality of life, is intended to benefit older people or people with health problems in particular.
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AI model enhances understanding of hand movements for neuroprosthetics
A research team led by EPFL Professor Alexander Mathis has developed an AI model that provides in-depth insights into hand movements, crucial for advancing neuroprosthetics and rehabilitation technologies.
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New actuator improves finger extension in rehab gloves
Soft rehabilitation gloves have become essential tools in helping patients with hand function-related disabilities regain finger movement. Traditionally, these gloves use soft pneumatic actuators driven by air pressure to facilitate motion. However, most current soft actuators primarily assist in finger bending (flexion) but struggle with enabling finger straightening (extension).
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Mobile patient lifts enhance ICU patient recovery
Discovering new methods to enhance the recovery process for ventilated intensive care unit (ICU) patients is crucial in improving their overall outcomes. A recent study conducted in Tokyo, Japan, sheds light on the efficacy of early mobilization, supported by mobile patient lifts, in facilitating patient recovery.
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Hand prostheses: Artificial intelligence makes gripping more intuitive
A better understanding of muscle activity patterns in the forearm supports a more intuitive and natural control of artificial limbs. This requires a network of 128 sensors and artificial intelligence based techniques.
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GyroTrainer with AI: Individual back training machine
The GyroTrainer is an intelligent training device that resembles a balance board. It uses artificial intelligence to adjust the difficulty level to the individual patient’s current ability.
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3D printable prostheses to restore amputees' finger mobility
A groundbreaking, easy-to-use 3D printable finger prosthesis created by a recent University of Houston graduate could offer amputees a low-cost solution to restore finger functionality.
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Cerebral Palsy: multicomponent exercise improves physical functioning in children and young adults
A new study carried out at the Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences at the University of Jyväskylä, Finland, found that an individually tailored exercise program improves motor function, muscle strength and joint mobility in children and young adults with CP.
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Bidirectional control of prosthetic hands using ultrasonic sensors
Researchers at Fraunhofer are working as part of an EU research project to improve control of prosthetic hands down to individual fingers.
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Sensor and software to promote office staff’s physical activity
TU Dresden researchers have analyzed the mechanics of office chairs and developed a sensor that, in combination with a dedicated software, can in the future help employees move more and more consciously during office work.
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AI-based system will help people after stroke
The joint study by Rytis Maskeliūnas, a researcher at Kaunas University of Technology, Faculty of Informatics (KTU IF), and Lithuanian researchers is focused on creating an artificial intelligence (AI)-based system that aims to facilitate the rehabilitation process.
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Bionic hand: surgical and engineering innovations enable unprecedented control
For the first time, a person with an arm amputation can manipulate each finger of a bionic hand as if it was his own. Thanks to revolutionary surgical and engineering advancements that seamlessly merge humans with machines, this breakthrough offers new hope and possibilities for people with amputations worldwide.
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AI supports rehabilitation after spinal cord injury
An intelligent suit is hoped to significantly improve rehabilitation after a serious spinal cord injury. The AI-supported solution will be developed over the next three years by researchers from Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU) working in collaboration with Heidelberg University and Heidelberg University Hospital.
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Ankle exosuit: more independence for post-stroke wearers
Designed for independent use in community settings, the new exosuit could help stroke survivors improve their gait outside of the lab and during their daily routines.
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Weekly magnetic muscle therapy improves mobility and lean body mass in older adults
A decline in functional mobility, loss of muscle strength and an increase in body fats are often associated with ageing. This trend could potentially be reversed by way of an innovative magnetic muscle therapy pioneered by researchers from the National University of Singapore (NUS).
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Low-cost robotic arm created by students as an alternative to conventional prostheses
A low-cost robotic arm created by students as an alternative to conventional prostheses: The ARM2u biomedical engineering team, from the UPC’s Barcelona School of Industrial Engineering (ETSEIB), is working on new functions for their low-cost 3D-printed transradial prosthesis.
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Physical activity crucial for poststroke recovery
After a stroke, physical activity can be pivotal to successful recovery. People who spend four hours a week exercising after their stroke achieve better functional recovery within six months than those who do not, a University of Gothenburg study shows.
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Kick-off: new Marie Skłodowska-Curie Doctoral Network "ReWIRE"
Through ReWIRE, next-generation scientists will be trained to develop translational breakthrough therapeutic solutions for patients with paralysis caused by traumatic spinal cord injuries.
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3D-printed insoles measure sole pressure directly in the shoe
Researchers at ETH Zurich, Empa and EPFL are developing a 3D-printed insole with integrated sensors that allows the pressure of the sole to be measured in the shoe and thus during any activity.
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Poor balance may indicate changes in brain volume
In a study recently published in Gait & Posture, researchers from the University of Tsukuba have revealed that the volume of the hippocampus is correlated with a measure of balance ability in healthy older people.
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Balance ability predicts cognitive impairment
In a study recently published in BMC Geriatrics, researchers from the University of Tsukuba have revealed a new measure of physical balance that could help to identify individuals who are at risk of developing Alzheimer's disease (AD).
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Mechanical stimulation could be used to prevent falls and strengthen muscles
Mechanical vibrations could help improve our muscles and our balance control, according to research at Aston University. Researchers in the College of Engineering and Physical Sciences have examined the effect of stimulation on muscle spindles which ‘speak’ to the central nervous system to help keep us upright and walk straight.
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Affordable device for fixing broken bones piloted in Gaza, Sri Lanka and Ukraine
Imperial researchers have developed a low-cost, easy-to-manufacture stabiliser for broken bones to help in regions where such devices are expensive or in short supply and people sometimes resort to homemade options.
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Total knee arthroplasty: Faster knee for better walking
Osaka Metropolitan University scientists have revealed that knee extension velocity while seated is a stronger predictor of walking performance than muscle strength in elderly patients after their total knee arthroplasty (TKA) surgery.
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A prosthetic limb that can read my mind
A team at FAU is investigating how intelligent prostheses can be improved. The idea is that interactive artificial intelligence will help the prostheses to recognize human intent better, to register their surroundings and to continue to develop and improve over time.
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Electric bandage promotes faster healing of chronic wounds
Researchers from North Carolina State University and Columbia University have developed a cost-effective bandage that uses an electric field to accelerate the healing of chronic wounds. In animal tests, this electric bandage improved wound healing by 30 percent compared to conventional bandages.
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Smart bandages: Advancing chronic wound treatment
A team of researchers from the Keck School of Medicine of USC and the California Institute of Technology (Caltech) is developing advanced electronic bandages and other tools to improve the monitoring and healing of chronic wounds. These wearable bioelectronic systems, tested in animal models, have the potential to enhance wound care through controlled drug release and electrical stimulation.
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UGRSKIN: artificial skin as a game-changer in burn treatment
The University of Granada (UGR) has pioneered a solution for burn treatment with its artificial skin “UGRSKIN”. Developed by the Tissue Engineering Research Group, this advanced therapy medicinal product (ATMP) has improved the approach to treating severe burns, offering patients new hope and enhanced outcomes.
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Tailored medical adhesives for personalized healing
POSTECH researchers led by Prof. Hyung Joon Cha, alongside colleagues, introduced groundbreaking personalized underwater bio-adhesive patches (CUBAP) derived from mussel adhesive proteins. This discovery, featured in Advanced Materials, improves biomedical adhesives, offering tailored internal healing solutions.
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Antiviral resin destroys COVID-19 from plastic surfaces
Researchers at the University of Jyväskylä in Finland are pioneering the development of antiviral surfaces to mitigate the spread of infectious diseases, particularly focusing on coronaviruses.
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Smart wound sealing with nanoparticles and light soldering
Empa researchers have pioneered a novel soldering process that employs nanoparticles and lasers to gently fuse tissue, ushering in a new era in wound closure.
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Sterilization: how bacteria defend themselves against plasmas
A research team headed by Professor Julia Bandow and Dr. Tim Dirks from the Chair for Applied Microbiology at Ruhr University Bochum, Germany, showed that bacteria that overproduce the heat shock protein Hsp33 can withstand plasma treatment more effectively than others.
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EPA testing shows the power of D-I-Y air filters to trap viruses
There is a low-cost way for you to protect yourself and reduce your risk of respiratory diseases such as flu, RSV, and COVID-19. Build yourself a Corsi-Rosenthal box (CR box) in 30 minutes with just $60 worth of common hardware store supplies.
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Biomaterials: toolbox for the development of bioadhesives
The team of Prof. Dr. Thomas Scheibel, Chair of Biomaterials at the University of Bayreuth, has compiled a current overview of the state of research on protein-based bioadhesives.
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Jasmina Gačanin investigates living biomaterials
Dr. Jasmina Gačanin, postdoctoral researcher at the Max Planck Institute for Polymer Research in the department of Prof. Dr. Tanja Weil, has been appointed as a “Peretti-Schmucker Fellow”.
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Adsorber in blood purification: widely used, no proven benefit
Many hospitals use the adsorber CytoSorb to purify the blood of seriously ill patients in order to trap inflammatory substances and prevent the life-threatening cytokine storm. MHH researchers have now found in a meta-study that the treatment does not reduce mortality and may even cause harm.
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NOVA project: next generation of antimicrobial coating technologies
Researchers develop and test highly efficient, environmentally friendly and stable antimicrobial (antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal) coating technologies in the NOVA project.
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Sensor patch for abdominal surgery
Researchers from Empa and ETH Zurich have developed a plaster with a sensor function to ensure that wounds in the abdomen remain tightly closed after an operation.
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Tissue Engineering: TU Graz revolutionises production of biocompatible microfibres
Using a newly developed method for the efficient and cost-effective production of biocompatible microfibres, the production of autologous skin and organs can be significantly accelerated. Responsible for the development are Carole Planchette and her team from TU Graz.
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Hygiene: monkeypox viruses relatively stable on surfaces
A study conducted by the Department of Molecular and Medical Virology at Ruhr University Bochum, Germany, has shown that temperature is a major factor in this process: at room temperature, a monkeypox virus that is capable of replicating can survive on a stainless steel surface for up to eleven days, and at four degrees Celsius for up to a month.
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Regenerative medicine: cell-specific properties of novel spider silk materials
Materials made of spider silk can be specifically modified or processed in such a way that living cells of a certain type adhere to them, grow and proliferate. This has been discovered by researchers at the University of Bayreuth under the direction of Prof. Dr. Thomas Scheibel.
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Wound dressing reveals infection
A nanocellulose wound dressing that can reveal early signs of infection without interfering with the healing process has been developed by researchers at Linköping University, Sweden.
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‘Smart’ bandages monitor wounds and provide targeted treatment
Most of the time, when someone gets a cut, scrape, burn, or other wound, the body takes care of itself and heals on its own. But this is not always the case. Diabetes can interfere with the healing process and create wounds that will not go away and that could become infected and fester.
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Incubators: method to reduce alcohol absorbed from disinfectants used
Researchers from the University of Tsukuba showed the association between the concentration of evaporated alcohol from alcohol-based disinfectants used for incubators and the amount of alcohol absorbed by premature infants.
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Electrodes grown in the brain – paving the way for future therapies for neurological disorders
The boundaries between biology and technology are becoming blurred. Researchers at Linköping, Lund, and Gothenburg universities in Sweden have successfully grown electrodes in living tissue using the body’s molecules as triggers. The result, published in the journal Science, paves the way for the formation of fully integrated electronic circuits in living organisms.
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New ultrafast water disinfection method is more environmentally friendly
Georgia Institute of Technology researchers have found a way to use small shocks of electricity to disinfect water, reducing energy consumption, cost, and environmental impact.
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Mucus-based gel improves bone graft results, promotes healing
Molecules from mucus can be used to produce synthetic bone graft material and help with the healing of larger bone loss, a new study found.
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Bioresorbable membrane for healing internal and external wounds
Fraunhofer researchers have succeeded in using the bioresorbable silica gel Renacer to produce an electrospun membrane that is neither cytotoxic to cells nor genotoxic.
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Funding to produce biodegradable antiviral and antibacterial materials
A new junior research group at Freie Universität Berlin, which will investigate the production of biodegradable antiviral and antibacterial materials, with one of the goals of synthesis being new alternatives to conventional antibiotics, will receive a total budget of more than 1.8 million euros from the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) over the next five years.
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Treating cornea ulcers with diagnostic light instead of corneal transplantation
Recently, a Korean joint research team from POSTECH-KKU has developed a new tissue adhesive that restores the damaged cornea by simply filling it and exposing it to light.
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