Ultrasound patch
Engineers have designed a small ultrasound imaging device for continuous imaging of the body. The stamp-sized device sticks to the skin and produces continuous ultrasound images of the internal organs (Science, 2022, 377, 517).
Pan-coronavirus vaccine
Researchers at the UK’s Francis Crick Institute have shown that a specific area of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein is a promising target for a pan-coronavirus vaccine that could offer some protection against new virus variants, common colds, and help prepare for future pandemics.
Phage therapy for IBD
Researchers have developed a therapy that can target the bacteria behind inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) without damaging friendly gut bugs. The therapy is based on a combination of bacteria-killing viruses called phages.
Nanotube boost for batteries
Two battery manufacturers in China are to ramp up production of graphene nanotube dispersions. The graphene nanotubes will allow them to use fast-charging, increase energy density and reduce costs in the mass production of Li-ion battery cells, according to the company that developed the nanotechnology, OCSiAl, headquartered in Luxembourg.
Li sweat sensor
Researchers have invented a tiny fingertip sensor capable of measuring lithium levels in sweat in as little as 30 seconds, according to research presented at the Fall 2022 meeting of the American Chemical Society.
Simpler peptide synthesis
Australian researchers have developed a new way to synthesise bicyclic peptides, which they claim is more reliable and more accessible than current methods. It could help future research into drug treatments for a range of diseases, including cancer and viral and bacterial infections.
Antibody for malaria
A monoclonal antibody administered under the skin of healthy adults protected them against malaria in a small study carried out in the US. The researchers are hopeful that injecting antibodies into people may not only stop infection but also limit transfer of the parasite to others, via mosquitoes.
Edible wind turbine
A new composite resin for making wind turbine blades can be recycled into new blades, countertops, vehicle parts and even confectionary, researchers reported at the ACS Fall 2022 meeting in Chicago. Most old turbine blades currently end up in landfill, although some progress has been made in recycling them into lower value materials.
Drug for lupus
Researchers have revealed a new experimental medicine that could offer hope for sufferers of the autoimmune disease lupus. Affecting 5m people worldwide, symptoms include rashes, fatigue and organ deterioration that can lead to death. While there is no cure, current treatments can help disease management.