A team at KU Leuven has developed a TFT-based microprocessor that can be produced in two foundries, showcasing the potential of a 'foundry' business model for flexible electronics. The research demonstrates feasibility and paves the way for innovation in thin-film technology.
The James Webb Space Telescope reveals the presence of water vapour, sulfur dioxide, and silicate sand clouds in the atmosphere of WASP-107b. The discovery sheds light on the dynamic atmosphere and potential temperature variations that enable these cloud formations.
Researchers at KU Leuven have developed a new model of human extraembryonic mesoderm cells, which closely resemble their natural counterparts in early embryos. This breakthrough enables scientists to study processes previously inaccessible during development.
A study of 22 million patients found that those with autoimmune disorders have a substantially higher risk of developing cardiovascular disease. The excess risk is similar to that of type 2 diabetes and affects the entire cardiovascular disease spectrum.
Researchers uncover mechanism behind aspergillosis in critically ill patients with severe influenza or Covid-19, doubling mortality rate. The study found that immune cells and white blood cells are compromised, leading to fungal growth in respiratory tract and lungs.
A study reveals an epigenetic switch that restricts early embryo cells from differentiating into certain tissue lineages. The research identifies PRC2 as a key regulator of gene expression in embryonic development, allowing for better control of stem cell specialization and blastoid formation.
Researchers at KU Leuven and UHasselt have created a 3D model with human dental stem cells that can produce enamel components, paving the way for biological dental enamel repair. This natural alternative has the potential to reduce risk of tooth necrosis and improve patient outcomes.
A recent study by KU Leuven and The Francis Crick Institute analyzed 2,658 tumor samples and found that 21% exhibited double mutations in both maternal and paternal DNA copies. This discovery sheds new light on the origin of mutations and their role in cancer development.
Researchers discovered that a large cavity in the discs surrounding evolved binary stars could be evidence of planet formation. The presence of heavy elements on the surface of dying stars suggests that dust particles rich in these elements were trapped by planets, supporting this hypothesis.
Researchers have developed an assay that uses specific immune-biomarkers to monitor patient survival chances and effectiveness of ovarian cancer treatments. The 'sFIS' assay will enable targeted therapy for each patient, improving treatment outcomes.
Researchers at KU Leuven developed an ultrapotent inhibitor of the dengue virus, effective against all known variants. The antiviral molecule is also suitable for prevention purposes and has shown promising results in mouse tests, with a low dose being extremely effective.
Scientists at KU Leuven developed a method to multiply coconut trees faster and store them more efficiently, preserving genetic diversity and meeting the demand for coconuts. The technique allows thousands of new specimens with the same genetic profile to be obtained, offering potential for coconut plantations worldwide.
A new study reveals that deforestation and population growth have greatly increased landslide risk in the Kivu Rift, leading to thousands of fatalities each year. The research, conducted over six decades, shows that smallholder agriculture and mining activities also contribute to landslides.
Researchers at KU Leuven found that certain antibiotics can effectively target melanoma cells' mitochondria, which are vulnerable to specific classes of antibiotics. This suggests that these antibiotics may be repurposed as anti-melanoma agents to buy time for immunotherapy.
The study reveals that the pituitary gland in mice ages as a result of chronic inflammation, which can potentially be slowed down or partially repaired. The researchers found that stem cells in the ageing pituitary gland retain their regenerative capacity when taken out of an inflammatory environment.
Researchers at KU Leuven developed a 3D printing technique for advanced diagnostic tests that can detect various biomarkers, including allergies and cancer. The new tests are quick, affordable, and easy to use, offering opportunities for cheaper diagnosis in both developed and developing countries.
A new study suggests that expanding solar and wind power across the region could alleviate disagreements between Ethiopia, Sudan, and Egypt over Africa's largest hydropower plant. Integrating GERD operation with solar and wind power would provide regional win-win situations, benefiting all countries involved.
An international team found a strong genetic link between the shape of our face and brain, with 76 overlapping locations. However, this connection does not predict behavioral traits or risk of conditions like Alzheimer's disease.
Researchers at KU Leuven have developed an experimental hearing implant that can register brain waves to measure hearing quality. This innovation enables smart hearing aids with objective, user-independent assessments and potentially automates self-adjustments.
A study published in Neuron reveals that the brain learns from subconscious visual stimuli through the activation of dopamine-producing cells. The discovery has significant implications for developing targeted therapies for conditions like Parkinson's disease and improving brain plasticity in situations such as trauma or ageing.
Research found that green tea supplements can reduce facial dysmorphology in children with Down syndrome, especially when administered during the first three years of life. The study also suggests that high doses may disrupt facial and bone development, highlighting the need for further research and caution.
Researchers at KU Leuven and Seoul National University create method to stimulate immune system cells to repair damaged tissues, offering new potential treatment for inflammatory bowel disease. The technique involves targeting specific macrophage cells with liposomes containing a substance that triggers tissue regeneration.
The FAROS project aims to develop surgical robots with non-visual sensing capabilities, including tactile and auditory sensors, to master complex tasks autonomously. This new concept enables surgeon-like autonomous behavior with physical and cognitive intelligence.
KU Leuven researchers discovered a biological mechanism connecting food antigens to mast cell activation and digestive intolerance in people with IBS. The study found that certain foods like gluten, wheat, and soy can trigger local immune reactions in the gut, leading to abdominal pain.
KU Leuven researchers Christine Desmedt, Tias Guns, Simon Kuhn, and Lukas Van Oudenhove have been awarded ERC Consolidator Grants. Their projects focus on breast cancer, optimisation software, reactors for sustainable chemical industry, and the impact of gut bacteria on emotions.
A KU Leuven vaccine candidate, RegaVax, has shown promise in protecting against Covid-19 and yellow fever in hamsters and monkeys. The vaccine works after a single dose and offers long-lasting immunity to Covid-19.
Researchers at KU Leuven developed a technique that uses brainwaves to determine within one second whom you're listening to. The system separates sound signals and links them to brainwaves, allowing for faster identification of the desired speaker.
Sertraline's anti-cancer activity is attributed to its ability to inhibit the production of serine and glycine, two amino acids that stimulate cancer cell growth. The substance has shown promise in inhibiting breast cancer cell growth when used in combination with other therapies.
A large-scale study found Congolese fishermen face declining fish stocks, poor safety conditions, and lack of enforcement, prompting calls for improved regulations and security measures. The researchers conducted 1018 interviews with stakeholders, revealing the need for adapted fisheries management to ensure sustainability.
A new study found that hydroxychloroquine had no effect on reducing SARS-CoV-2 virus levels in infected hamsters. In contrast, a high dose of favipiravir significantly reduced viral loads and prevented infection. Researchers are cautiously optimistic about the potential of favipiravir as a COVID-19 treatment.
Researchers observed stellar winds around cool red giant stars using ALMA Observatory, finding disk-shaped, spiral, and cone-like structures. The team concludes that companions or exoplanets influence the shape of stellar winds and planetary nebulae.
Scientists discovered that a specific brain pathway is crucial for motivation but not for reward-driven learning. The research may lead to more precise interventions and effective therapies for psychiatric disorders.
International trade can compensate for regional food shortages and reduce hunger due to climate change. Eliminating protectionist measures and barriers to trade can relieve these differences.
A study of over 2,800 breast cancer patients found that those who were overweight or obese had poorer outcomes when treated with docetaxel. The researchers believe this is due to the fat in their bodies absorbing part of the drug before it can reach the tumor.
Researchers at KU Leuven have created a self-consistent simulation of solar flares, allowing them to calculate the energy conversion efficiency. This breakthrough enables the prediction of key aspects of space weather phenomena, including the Northern Lights.
A new study maps the potential for 'solar-wind-water' strategies in West Africa, finding that flexibly dispatched hydropower can increase renewable power generation by over 30%. Hydropower plants can support solar and wind energy, reducing CO2 emissions and environmental impact
Researchers at KU Leuven discovered that Neuromedin U allows the brain to recall negative memories and learn from past experiences. The protein acts as a signalling molecule enabling neurons to communicate with each other, leading to the association of unpleasant stimuli with future avoidance.
Researchers identified two distinct protein shapes associated with Parkinson's disease, multiple system atrophy, and dementia with Lewy bodies. The discovery may lead to improved diagnosis and treatment of these age-related conditions.
Researchers at KU Leuven developed an online tool that maps threats to tropical dry forests in Peru and Ecuador, advising local governments on forest restoration and conservation. The tool uses tree species traits to predict resilience and identify most-at-risk areas.
Researchers at KU Leuven exposed a security flaw in Intel processors, revealing a vulnerability in SGX enclaves that can be exploited for sensitive information. The 'Load Value Injection' attack allows attackers to inject data into software programs, compromising passwords and other personal data.
A new study by KU Leuven and Harvard University found that specific nutrients can inform stem cells which type of cell they should become. Fatty acids signal to stem cells to develop into bone-forming cells when blood vessels are present, while cartilage is formed without them.
An interdisciplinary team from KU Leuven has mapped out the technological and economic viability of replacing petroleum with wood in the chemical industry. The research suggests that a biorefinery using wood can produce chemicals with lower CO2 emissions, making it a more sustainable alternative.
A recent study by KU Leuven researchers has discovered a link between a defective ATP13A2 gene and cell death in Parkinson's disease. The study found that the gene plays a crucial role in transporting polyamines, essential molecules supporting various cellular functions.
A KU Leuven study found that oxytocin significantly reduced repetitive behavior and improved attachment in men with autism. The treatment showed long-term effects up to a year after administration.
Researchers at KU Leuven developed a new antibacterial strategy that prevents bacterial cooperation, reducing the emergence of resistance. Non-resistant bacteria outnumber resistant ones, making it harder for them to spread.
Researchers have successfully used copper-based nanomaterials to eliminate tumour cells in mice, combining with immunotherapy for long-lasting immune effects. The breakthrough offers a novel approach to treating lung and colon cancers without the use of chemotherapy.
Researchers have discovered that freestanding gold clusters of twenty atoms take on a pyramidal shape with a triangular ground plane and additional triangles. The study reveals the cluster's unusual electronic structure, which is similar to noble gas atoms or aromatic molecules, making them less reactive.
Research found that yeasts in nectar can stimulate the growth of bee colonies by boosting their health, despite altering the nutritional value of nectar. The presence of yeasts also had a positive effect on bee colony fitness and productivity.
Researchers discovered a way to stop the process that allows TB bacillus to infect and hijack blood stem cells using an anti-arthritis drug, Tocilizumab. The study found that this transformation can be halted by administering the drug.
KU Leuven researchers have developed a method to measure snow depth using satellites, enabling the study of inaccessible areas like the Himalayas. The findings reveal significant snow volumes in European and North American mountain ranges.