The University of Oxford scientists have developed a dye that can be attached to cancer cells, allowing doctors to identify areas of cancerous tissue during surgery. This technology can help reduce the risk of cancer recurrence by allowing surgeons to remove more cancerous tissue in real-time. Professor Freddie Hamdy, who led the study, explains how the dye works and how it is detected using a special camera during surgery.
Meanwhile, Flow Neuroscience has received approval for wider use in the NHS as a treatment for depression. The headset uses transcranial direct current stimulation to send a weak electric current to the part of the brain responsible for emotional expression. In a recent trial, over 58% of patients saw improvements after using the headset daily for six weeks. CEO Erin Lee discusses how the headset works and why it can be a beneficial alternative to medication for some patients.
The NHS has issued a call for O blood-type donors to schedule appointments across the country due to a ransomware attack affecting major London hospitals. The attack has disrupted the hospitals’ ability to match blood for patients, with O-negative blood being particularly important as it can be given to anyone. Several hospitals in London have declared critical incidents, leading to canceled operations and tests, as well as the inability to conduct blood transfusions following the attack on Synnovis.
In addition to these stories, there are also topics covered on this week’s podcast such as generative AI’s expected prominence at an upcoming Apple conference, YouTube’s new restrictions on gun videos, and the release of a new skateboarding MMO from the creators of Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater. Tune in on Apple, Spotify or your preferred podcast platform to listen
