Daily Innovation News

July 18^th 2024

💻 Technology

🇮🇱 Israeli scientists enable paralyzed patient to speak using brain-computer interface

Israeli researchers have developed a speech brain-computer interface that allows paralyzed patients to communicate through imagined syllables. Using depth electrodes implanted in the brain, the system translates thoughts into vocalized speech, offering new hope for individuals unable to speak due to paralysis. This innovative study marks a significant advancement in neuroprosthetics and was published in Neurosurgery.

🇺🇸 US launches world's first AI-powered automated car inspection in Hawaii

The world's first AI-powered automated car inspection system has been launched in Hawaii, using MRI-like technology to perform comprehensive 360° vehicle scans. Already employed by the US military, this technology boosts inspection speed and accuracy, reducing reliance on human technicians. It provides detailed condition reports directly to customers, enhancing trust and transparency in the car service experience.

🌎 Environment

🇺🇸 US engineers create self-watering, self-fertilizing smart soil for sustainable farming

Researchers in the US have developed a new type of soil that can capture water from the air and manage the controlled release of fertilizers. This innovative "smart soil," infused with hydrogel, promotes the growth of larger, healthier plants while reducing water and fertilizer usage. The technology has the potential to revolutionize agriculture, especially in regions facing water scarcity. The study was published in ACS Materials Letters.

🇺🇸 US engineers discover bacteria that break down 'forever chemicals' in water

US researchers have identified bacteria that can cleave the tough carbon-fluorine bonds in certain "forever chemicals" or PFAS. This discovery promises low-cost treatments for contaminated drinking water, leveraging these bacteria's natural abilities. The enzymes responsible could be engineered to target a broader range of PFAS pollutants, enhancing water purification methods. The study was published in Science Advances.

💊Healthcare

🇺🇸 US researchers develop antioxidant strategy to counter COVID-19 effects

Researchers in the US have found that mitochondrially-targeted antioxidants can mitigate the effects of the SARS-CoV-2 virus by preventing mitochondrial dysfunction. This approach not only reduces the virus's impact on multiple organs but also avoids resistance due to viral mutations. The study highlights the potential for using this strategy to treat other viral infections. These findings were published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

🇺🇸 US researchers develop llama-derived nanobodies to neutralize diverse HIV strains

US biologists have created potent nanobodies derived from llama antibodies that can neutralize 96% of HIV-1 strains. These smaller, more agile molecules target hidden sites on the virus, enhancing immune response. This breakthrough offers a promising new method for HIV treatment and prevention, potentially achieving near-total neutralization. The study was published in Advanced Science.

🇯🇵 Japanese scientists develop a 3-minute heart restart system for emergencies

Japanese researchers have developed a system to restart an injured heart within three minutes, aimed at use in emergencies like terrorist attacks. This innovative method, inspired by the fatal 2022 shooting of Shinzo Abe, involves a series of rapid, precise medical procedures to restore blood circulation and prevent brain death. The system could significantly improve survival rates in critical situations.

🇩🇪 German researchers discover potential opioid alternative from marine fungus

German researchers have identified aniquinazolin B, a natural substance from the marine fungus Aspergillus nidulans, as a promising alternative to opioids for pain relief. This compound effectively stimulates opioid receptors but with significantly fewer side effects. This breakthrough could help mitigate the opioid crisis by providing a safer long-term analgesic option.

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