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New tech will detect infant breathing problems

Researchers at Anglia Ruskin University are developing a wearable sensor to monitor respiratory rate in new-born babies, especially in poor areas where access to healthcare is limited. The innovative technology aims to provide faster and more accurate identification of health conditions in new-borns, potentially saving lives.

Mindfulness could promote positive body image

A new study published in Body Image found that higher interoceptive awareness, as measured through mindfulness practices, is associated with more positive body image. The research suggests that individuals who can better tune into their internal bodily signals are less likely to experience negative self-image.

SourceAnglia Ruskin University·JournalBody Image·DateFeb 28, 2019

Air pollution increases ER visits for breathing problems

A study of air pollution and respiratory emergency room visits found associations between ozone, fine particulate pollution, and increased ER visits for asthma, COPD, and pneumonia, varying by age group and pollutant level. The study suggests that protecting vulnerable populations from air pollution is crucial.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateJan 17, 2019

Superhero science: Ant-Man and the Wasp

Researchers Max Mikel-Stites and Anne Staples investigated Ant-Man's microscale respiration, finding that superhero suits contain a combination of air pumps, compressors, and molecular filters to breathe while insect-sized. Their study could lead to new microfluidic technologies with potential consumer benefits.

Nasal delivery of weight-loss hormone eases breathing problems in sleeping mice

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have successfully delivered the weight-loss hormone leptin through the nose to obese mice, alleviating breathing problems during sleep. The study suggests that nasal delivery may overcome leptin resistance and provide a new treatment option for obstructive sleep apnea.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateNov 7, 2018

Nose breathing enhances memory consolidation

A recent study published in JNeurosci found that nose breathing enhances memory consolidation. Researchers compared the effects of nose and mouth breathing during a one-hour consolidation period after participants were exposed to various odors. Nose breathers showed increased odor recognition, suggesting that nose breathing may facilit...

Ricocheting radio waves monitor the tiniest movements in a room

A new motion-sensing technology uses radio waves to detect a person's presence and location anywhere inside a room, even beyond the sensor's line of sight. The system works by analyzing patterns created by radio waves bouncing around the room, allowing it to distinguish between different scenarios and locate objects or people in space.

SourceDuke University·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 6, 2018

Fight, flight, or freeze

Researchers found that coordinated brain activity between the amygdala, prefrontal cortex, and olfactory system is linked to freeze behavior in mice. The study suggests that rhythmic breathing can help regulate emotional states and provides potential avenues for anxiety-reducing therapies.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 20, 2018

Study points to risk of future sleep breathing problems in college football players

A recent study suggests that college-age football linemen may be at higher risk for sleep-disordered breathing due to their physical conditioning. The study compared data from football linemen and track athletes, finding that the linemen had significantly larger necks and increased risk for sleep apnea despite having less body fat.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina at Charlotte·JournalJournal of Sport Rehabilitation·DateFeb 21, 2018

Nearly one in three pugs has an abnormal gait

A Swedish study found that nearly one-third of pugs have abnormal gait, associated with breathing problems, incontinence, and neurological disorders. The prevalence of gait abnormalities was higher than previously thought, suggesting a more significant health issue.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalVeterinary Record·DateFeb 5, 2018