Sydney (LabNews Media LLC) – The brain reacts differently depending on the predictability of an event: In case of surprises, it directs energy towards absorbing as much sensory information from the environment as possible. In case of expected events, on the other hand, it saves energy by processing less deeply. This is shown by a study from the University of Sydney, published in the journal The Journal of Neuroscience. The researchers, led by Dr. Reuben Rideaux and doctoral student Ziyue Hu, used EEG measurements, pupil reactions, and behavioral tasks to investigate how the brain handles predictable and surprising visual stimuli. "In a predictable event, the brain thinks: 'I already know what this is, I don't need to process it carefully,'" explains Rideaux. "In unexpected events, on the other hand, it's like a software update: the brain wants to update its internal model of the world and therefore dedicates energy to collecting as much information as possible from the environment." The study shows that... 

Basel (LabNews Media LLC) – Researchers at the University of Basel have developed a modular nanorobot that self-assembles and can perform various tasks. The system consists of a magnetically driven propulsion module and an interchangeable payload capsule, connected via a DNA-based "Velcro" system. The team led by Prof. Cornelia Palivan and Dr. Voichita Mihali successfully tested the nanorobot by loading it with enzymes that produce an anti-cancer agent in living cells. In experiments with HeLa cells, cell viability could be reduced to 16 percent within 72 hours. The modules can be magnetically recovered, separated, reloaded, and reused after use. "Previous nanorobots are mostly designed for a single task. Our modular system, on the other hand, can be adapted to different applications," explains Cornelia Palivan. The payload capsule can be equipped with enzymes, active agents, or other bioactive substances as needed. Through additional... 

Beijing (LabNews Media LLC) – A research team from Tsinghua University in Beijing has developed CAR T-cells that can achieve long-lasting remission in rheumatoid arthritis with a single infusion. The cells not only bind the inflammatory factor TNF but also actively absorb and break it down. The novel TNFR1TIF-CAR T-cells recognize soluble TNF and internalize it via receptor-mediated endocytosis. In human TNF-transgenic mice, a single intravenous administration without prior lymphodepletion led to a sustained reduction in TNF levels to near physiological values and a lasting remission of arthritis – comparable to repeated high-dose administrations of the anti-TNF antibody Adalimumab. The cells expanded robustly and persisted in the peripheral blood of immunocompetent animals for over a year. Their expansion was strictly TNF-dependent. Over an observation period of twelve months, no impairment of endogenous T-cell homeostasis, organ function, or antibacterial immunity was observed. A pharmacological safety switch (anti-Thy1.1 antibody) enabled… 

Salt Lake City (LabNews Media LLC) – A new AI method based on quantum mechanics principles can derive more precise prognoses and therapy recommendations for cancer patients from complex molecular data, even in small patient groups. This is shown by a study from the University of Utah published in the journal APL Quantum. The team led by Orly Alter developed algorithms based on the quantum mechanical concepts of superposition and entanglement. These so-called “multitensor comparative spectral decompositions” break down multiple layers of molecular data – including tumor and blood DNA as well as tumor RNA – into coherent patterns. When applied to neuroblastoma data from 71 patients, the researchers were able to derive new predictors of children's life expectancy that surpassed conventional biomarkers. The predictions were successfully validated in independent patient groups. Furthermore, they provided interpretable insights into disease mechanisms and potential targets for new therapies. "It's about much more than just a…