Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Research team deciphers enzymatic degradation of sugar from marine alga

A research team has elucidated the complex degradation pathway of the polysaccharide Ulvan from marine algae, revealing the biochemical function of 12 enzymes. The findings have significant implications for future biotechnological applications and improve our understanding of the marine carbon cycle.

Microscopy in the body

Biotechnologists and medical researchers at FAU have developed a miniaturized multi-photon microscope that can be used in endoscopes, illuminating the body's own molecules to enhance imaging. This technology offers high-resolution three-dimensional images of living tissue, supplementing or even making biopsies superfluous.

A prosthetic arm that decodes phantom limb movements

Researchers have developed a prosthetic arm that can detect and replicate phantom limb movements, revolutionizing amputee rehabilitation. The device uses muscle activity generated by mobilization of the phantom limb to achieve precise control, allowing patients to interact with their prostheses without extensive training or surgery.

SourceCNRS·JournalFrontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology·DateNov 29, 2018

Osher Collaborative for Integrative Medicine begins new JACM column partnership

The Osher Collaborative for Integrative Medicine has launched a new quarterly column in JACM, discussing strategies to advance health justice through integrative medicine principles. The inaugural column highlights the need to address bias and discrimination in intrapersonal attitudes and behaviors.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalThe Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine·DateFeb 27, 2018

Biologists taught infusoria to fight poisons

Biologists found a new substance, isocitric acid, with anti-oxidant properties that increased the survival rate of infusoria by 25-31 times compared to untreated cells. The compound also surpassed the effects of ascorbic acid, offering a promising solution for protecting living organisms from various toxic compounds.

SourceLomonosov Moscow State University·JournalPreparative Biochemistry & Biotechnology·DateNov 29, 2017

Reimbursement for integrative health care suggests violation of non-discrimination law

A new study found that health insurance reimbursement for complementary healthcare services is significantly lower than for primary care physicians. The likelihood of reimbursement was 69% lower for acupuncturists, 71% lower for chiropractors, and 62% lower for doctors of naturopathic medicine.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalThe Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine·DateMay 22, 2017

A plastic-eating caterpillar

Researchers have found a way for a caterpillar to break down polyethylene, a common type of plastic. The larvae of the Galleria mellonella moth can digest and chemically transform polyethylene into ethylene glycol, offering a potential solution to managing plastic waste.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateApr 24, 2017

Telestroke guidelines from American Telemedicine Association in Telemedicine & e-Health

The American Telemedicine Association has published new guidelines to improve remote stroke care using telemedicine communication technologies. The guidelines describe the network of audio-visual communication systems and computer systems needed to link an expert stroke team with a remote patient, aiming to rapidly diagnose and treat i...

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalTelemedicine and e-Health·DateApr 19, 2017