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Creating room to breathe on the microscale

A new microfluidics technique has been developed to construct microchannels with efficient gas exchange, potentially delivering nearly a third of the oxygen needed by preterm newborns. The design uses both sides of the membrane for gas exchange and is more effective than previous single-sided counterparts.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalBiomicrofluidics·DateJul 3, 2018

Young binge drinkers may have higher heart risks

A new study published in Journal of the American Heart Association found that young adults who frequently binge drink are more likely to have risk factors for cardiovascular disease. The research revealed that young men who reported repeated binge drinking had higher systolic blood pressure and cholesterol levels than non-binge drinker...

Study shows nail treatments do not affect readings of patients' oxygen levels, despite widespread concern

A study published in the European Society of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care suggests that nail treatments do not impact digital pulse oximetry readings. Experimental results found no significant variation in blood oxygen saturation levels, even under different physiological conditions. The findings contradict widespread concern and...

Research reveals concerning childbirth trends

Research reveals a significant rise in postpartum haemorrhage in Victoria, with one in five women experiencing primary blood loss after childbirth. The study highlights the need for improved monitoring and treatment protocols to address this concerning trend.

SourceLa Trobe University·JournalAustralian and New Zealand Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology·DateMay 22, 2018

The mystery of lime-green lizard blood

Researchers have discovered four separate lineages of green-blooded lizards, each with unique evolutionary history. The study suggests that high levels of biliverdin in these lizards may have adaptive value, potentially leading to new approaches to treating human diseases such as malaria.

SourceLouisiana State University·JournalScience Advances·DateMay 16, 2018

Using MRSA's strength against it

Researchers at Michigan State University have identified how MRSA absorbs human fatty acids to resist antimicrobials, providing a new target for developing more effective treatments. By inhibiting the cell membrane's ability to produce lipids, scientists may improve the efficacy of existing antibacterial agents like triclosan.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalJournal of Bacteriology·DateMay 14, 2018

Mosquitoes bite when thirsty, too

Researchers at the University of Cincinnati discovered that female mosquitoes bite not only to get protein but also to quench their thirst during a drought. Dehydration prompted as many as 30 percent of female mosquitoes to seek a blood meal, increasing the risk of disease transmission.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalScientific Reports·DateMay 1, 2018

New blood test found to predict onset of TB up to two years in advance

A new blood test has been developed to predict tuberculosis (TB) development in high-risk individuals, such as those living with active TB, up to two years before its onset. The 'RISK4' signature measures the expression levels of four genes associated with inflammatory responses and shows improved accuracy compared to existing tests.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateApr 6, 2018

Genetic variants linked to type 2 diabetes identified in Chinese populations

Researchers have identified genetic variants associated with type 2 diabetes and blood sugar levels in a large Chinese population study. The findings suggest that these variants can reduce gene activity, leading to elevated blood sugar levels. Further analysis is needed to understand the role of these variants in human insulin secretion.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateApr 5, 2018

Diagnosing breast cancer using red light

The new instrument increases the sensitivity of optical mammography by up to 1000-fold, allowing for earlier detection of breast cancer. This advancement offers a safer and more gentle alternative to traditional X-ray imaging, which is often limited by patient age, weight, or other factors.

SourceOptica·DateMar 23, 2018

Sweet surprise

Researchers studying cavefish found that they can live healthy lives with high blood sugar levels, contrary to what is seen in humans. The fish have insulin resistance but no apparent harm from chronically elevated glucose levels.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalNature·DateMar 21, 2018