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This new Hubble image showcases a remarkable variety of objects at different distances from us, extending back over halfway to the edge of the observable…
Researchers from Warwick Medical School and University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust used a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) based method to…
One strategy for addressing the world's energy crisis is to stop wasting so much energy when producing and using it, which can happen in coal-fired power…
Photodynamic tumour therapy (PDT) is a promising minimal-invasive method in the treatment of cancer. PDT is based on a method for the treatment of cancer with light in combination with a so-called photosensitizer.
In contrast to traditional photosensitisers, the chlorine compounds developed at and patented by the University of Bremen show amphiphilic (both hydrophilic and lipophilic) properties. The combination of lipophilic and non-ionic hydrophilic structure parts enables both good transport properties via the bloodstream and increased accumulation in the tumour tissue.
Due to the synthesis of the novel photosenitisers, exceedingly suitable candidates as active substances have been formed with the potential to improve the photodynamic therapy and its effectiveness. Moreover, the chemical process for the production of these compounds has been improved, enabling for the first time the clinical use of the structurally challenging photosensitisers in an economic way.
Initial experiments to verify the effectiveness have been carried out in vitro. The next step will be the verification in the animal model. We are looking for partner companies interested in the further development of the active substance using the patent.
University of Bremen developed a ceramic coating which comprises a special microstructure based on chemically inert oxide nanoparticles. Furthermore, the ceramic surface has a biofunctional effect due to a lysozyme which adheres to it. This results in a high grade of strength and resistance and has an extremely effective antimicrobial effect.
The new material provides effective surface protection from an environmental and health perspective against abrasion, corrosion and bacterial deposition. It is therefore suitable for use in processes involving the handling and processing of foodstuffs. It offers an alternative to the use of biocides and antibiotics in combating biofilms, and even prevents their formation altogether.
In addition to the antimicrobial effect, the surface provides all the advantages of a ceramic coating: strength, mechanical resilience and chemical inertia. By protecting the surface, this ultimately prolongs the service life of the systems, reduces the amount of cleaning required, and leads to cost-savings. Furthermore, the use of the body’s own lysozymes means that the surface is also suitable for coating implants for preventing contamination during operation.
Laboratory tests were carried out successfully to check the activity of the lysozymes immobilized on the ceramic surface. For that purpose, a continuous flow system was developed in which harsh ambient conditions were simulated using a supply of model microorganisms and aggressive ingredients. The micro-moulding method is universally applicable on a diverse range of surfaces and geometries. The surface must be adjusted and further developed for the relevant application.
Miami could know as early as 2020 how high sea levels will rise into the next century, according to a team of researchers including Florida International…