Add BrightSurf on Google Email

New discovery at heart of healthy cereals

A new discovery by researchers at the University of Queensland reveals that beta glucans in oats actually reduce circulating bile, leading to lower and slower absorption of fat. This finding could lead to ways of boosting the cholesterol-fighting properties of other cereals like wheat.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateDec 5, 2016

E-cigarettes effectively deliver nicotine

E-cigarettes are effective at delivering nicotine, particularly for experienced users. The study found that newer generation e-cigarettes outperform first-generation devices in terms of nicotine delivery. However, the efficacy of e-cigarettes also depends on individual behavior and vaping habits.

SourceR&D at British American Tobacco·JournalAmerican Journal of Health Behavior·DateDec 2, 2016

Gluten-free diet may not reduce intestinal damage in all children with celiac disease

A new study by MassGeneral Hospital for Children-led team found that nearly one in five children with celiac disease sustained persistent intestinal damage despite a gluten-free diet. The study suggests that current guidelines need to be revised to include more aggressive monitoring of mucosal healing in all patients, not just adults.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalJournal of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition·DateNov 30, 2016

Smart patch releases blood thinners as needed

Researchers at North Carolina State University have developed a smart patch that monitors a patient's blood and releases blood-thinning drugs as needed. The patch, made with microneedles containing hyaluronic acid and Heparin, can prevent thrombosis in animal models, offering a more effective treatment than traditional methods.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateNov 28, 2016

Pioneers in IVC filter removal

Interventional radiologists at Rush University Medical Center have developed methods to remove filters that previously couldn't be removed, achieving a 100% retrieval rate. The team uses specialized tools and medical expertise to perform minimally invasive procedures.

SourceRush University Medical Center·JournalJournal of Vascular and Interventional Radiology·DateNov 23, 2016

'Corkscrew' shape of blood flow in heart's upper chamber may signal lower stroke risk

Researchers have created computer models of blood flow through the heart's upper left chamber that may help predict stroke risk. The study found that a corkscrewlike motion helps move blood efficiently through the atrium, whereas an enlarged and diseased heart fails to form this motion, increasing the risk of developing a blood clot.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalAnnals of Biomedical Engineering·DateNov 2, 2016

Iron supplements in the fight against lead

A study led by ETH Zurich researchers found that iron fortification reduces blood lead concentration in children, particularly those with iron deficiency. The trial involved over 450 Moroccan schoolchildren who received iron-fortified biscuits and showed a significant reduction in blood lead levels.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateOct 26, 2016

Ancient burials suggestive of blood feuds

Researchers found atypical burials with signs of violence, challenging traditional theories of witchcraft and blood feuds. The study suggests that violence was used to signal power and prestige, potentially leading to further conflict and biological fitness benefits.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalCurrent Anthropology·DateOct 24, 2016

International study proves old blood is as good as new

A large international study of almost 31,500 patients showed that using older blood for transfusions does not increase the risk of death. The research, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, provides strong evidence that stored blood can be safely used to ensure a stable blood supply.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateOct 24, 2016

Low lead levels in children negatively affect test scores

A new study using data from Rhode Island's lead-abatement program and repeated blood lead level tests found that low reading scores among preschoolers can predict lower scores in subsequent years. The study suggests that lead exposure may contribute to the persistence of gaps in test scores between children from different socioeconomic...

Canine hyperactivity reflected in the blood count

Researchers found significant links between hyperactivity, lower blood phospholipid levels, and a negative correlation with tryptophan metabolites in hyperactive dogs. This study suggests that intestinal health impacts canine behavior and provides new clues for studying behavioral disorders.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalBehavioral and Brain Functions·DateOct 4, 2016

Smarter brains are blood-thirsty brains

A University of Adelaide-led project found that the human brain evolved to become more energetically costly and blood-thirsty, increasing in size by 600% while its metabolic activity grew. This increase is linked to the development of complex thinking and learning abilities.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateAug 30, 2016

A spoonful of fat makes the medicine go down

Researchers at the ARC Centre of Excellence in Convergent Bio-Nano Science have developed a patented technology that allows orally administered drugs to by-pass the liver. This innovation utilizes a natural nano-scale lipid transport system to deliver drugs directly into the bloodstream, increasing absorption rates and efficacy.

SourceTania Ewing and Associates·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateAug 10, 2016

Flexible wearable electronic skin patch offers new way to monitor alcohol levels

Researchers at UC San Diego have developed a flexible wearable sensor that can accurately measure blood alcohol levels from sweat, providing real-time monitoring for doctors and police officers. The device, consisting of a temporary tattoo and portable electronic circuit board, can be worn on the skin and transmit data wirelessly to a ...

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalACS Sensors·DateAug 2, 2016

Blood of King Albert I identified after 80 years

Forensic geneticists confirm that the blood found on the scene in 1934 is indeed that of King Albert I, contradicting conspiracy theories about his death. The study used DNA comparison with two distant relatives to verify the king's identity, providing historical importance and closure.