Latest news with #PavelDanilyuk
IOL News
6 days ago
- Business
- IOL News
Artificial blood breakthrough: Japanese scientists develop universal solution for all blood types
Artificial blood isn't just theoretical anymore, it's real, and its potential is astonishing. Image: Imagine a world where blood shortages no longer cost lives. A world where emergencies in rural South African clinics or busy city hospitals aren't derailed by the lack of compatible blood for transfusions. Thanks to revolutionary research by Japanese scientists, this future may be closer than we think. A critical breakthrough in healthcare is unfolding: the development of artificial blood. This innovation, led by Hiromi Sakai and his team at Japan's Nara Medical University, has the potential to save millions of lives globally by addressing one of the most pressing challenges in healthcare, blood shortages. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Ad Loading The blood supply crisis Blood transfusions are essential in healthcare, saving lives during surgeries, childbirth, trauma, and the treatment of severe illnesses. Yet, maintaining an adequate blood supply is a constant challenge, especially in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) like South Africa. The demand for O-negative blood, the universal donor type, is particularly high. This blood type can be used in emergencies for patients of any blood group, but its supply is often insufficient. The short shelf life of donated red blood cells makes the situation even more difficult, as they can only be kept for 42 days under refrigeration. The introduction of artificial blood could be a game-changer in ensuring that no patient is turned away due to a lack of compatible blood. A team of scientists in Japan have created artificial blood Image: Pavel Danilyuk/pexels The science behind artificial blood Artificial blood isn't just theoretical anymore; it's real, and its potential is astonishing. According to "Tokyo Weekender", Sakai's team has developed artificial red blood cells by extracting haemoglobin (the iron-rich protein that transports oxygen in the bloodstream) from expired donor blood. Here's how it works: Haemoglobin extraction: Haemoglobin is isolated from expired blood donations, ensuring no waste. Encapsulation: The haemoglobin is encased in a protective shell, creating stable, virus-free artificial red blood cells. Universal compatibility: Because these synthetic cells lack blood type markers, they're compatible with all blood groups; no cross-matching is required. The benefits don't stop there. Unlike donated blood, which requires refrigeration and has a short lifespan, artificial blood can reportedly be stored for up to two years at room temperature and five years when refrigerated. This could transform emergency response systems in remote areas where accessing fresh blood supplies is a logistical nightmare. Early trials have already demonstrated the potential of artificial blood. In 2022, Sakai's team conducted small-scale studies with 12 healthy male volunteers aged 20 to 50. The participants received intravenous injections of haemoglobin vesicles, which mimic the oxygen-carrying function of natural red blood cells. Mild side effects: A few participants reported mild symptoms, but no serious adverse effects were observed. Stable vital signs: There were no significant changes in blood pressure or other vital signs, indicating promising safety levels. Building on this success, the trials have entered a second phase as of March this year, with larger doses (100 to 400 millilitres) being administered to volunteers. If no significant side effects are observed, the research will shift to evaluating the efficacy and safety of artificial blood for practical use. The goal is to make this life-saving innovation widely available by 2030. Early trials have already demonstrated the potential of artificial blood. Image: Ivan Samkov/pexels
Borneo Post
28-05-2025
- Business
- Borneo Post
Sarawak's online sellers record RM8 mln gross sales in Q1 2025
Photo for illustration purposes only. — Photo by Pavel Danilyuk/Pexels KUCHING (May 28): Online sellers in Sarawak generated RM8 million in gross sales in the first quarter of 2025, said Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan. The International Trade, Industry and Investment Minister said in March 2025, Miri's top online seller Cosfume by Cosmo Online Cosmetics (M) Sdn Bhd recorded over RM540,000 in monthly sales. 'Leading product categories included lifestyle, electronic gadgets, fashion, and collectibles,' he said in his ministerial winding up speech at the State Legislative Assembly (DUN) here today. Awang Tengah also told the august House his ministry facilitates promotions through national and international expos. 'Our programme assisted over 1,200 micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and generated more than RM34 million in revenue. 'These programmes are Showcase Usahawan Sarawak, Sabah International Food Expo, Satu Daerah Satu Industri, and FHA Food & Beverage 2025,' he said. The Sarawak Trade and Tourism Office in Singapore (Statos) had finalised six trade distribution agreements between Singapore and Sarawak, securing RM63.5 million in sales across services, food, and beverages, as well as RM7.5 million in agricultural investments. 'In October 2025, my ministry, in collaboration with Statos, will host the Sarawak Mega Fair 2025 in Singapore to support SMEs in expanding globally, leveraging Singapore strategic position as a regional trade hub. 'This event aims to promote international trade, investment and tourism between Sarawak, Singapore and beyond,' he said. In addition, he said the Sarawak Trade and Tourism Office in Brunei (Statob), which began operations in October 2024, has been actively collaborating with Brunei counterparts and beyond. Other programmes organised by the Ministry of International Trade, Industry and Investment include investment, trade grants and export compliance seminars in Kuching, Miri, Sibu, and Bintulu in collaboration with the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (Mida), Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (Matrade), SME Corp Malaysia, and Shopee. 'These seminars tailored to each city's business sector, enhanced business networks, awareness of funding opportunities and strategic growth, which benefited over 260 participants in compliance and international expansion,' Awang Tengah added. Awang Tengah Ali Hasan lead online sellers
IOL News
22-05-2025
- Health
- IOL News
Seeing clearly: how our screen-obsessed lives are fueling the myopia epidemic in children
The message is clear: small changes in daily habits can lead to big improvements in eye health. Image: Pavel Danilyuk /pexels In recent years, myopia, commonly known as short-sightedness, has become a growing global concern. This condition, which affects a person's ability to see distant objects clearly, is now considered an epidemic that is expected to impact nearly half of the world's population by 2050. The rise in myopia cases is closely tied to modern lifestyles, particularly the increased use of screens, reduced outdoor activities, and urbanised living. In South Africa, while statistics on myopia are limited, anecdotal evidence suggests the trend mirrors what's happening globally. Understanding the causes, risks, and solutions is vital for parents, educators, and healthcare providers to address this growing issue. Why is myopia on the rise? According to global studies, myopia currently affects between 25% and 33% of the world's population. The World Health Organisation (WHO) predicts this could rise to 50% by 2050. Lifestyle changes, particularly in urban environments, play a significant role. Excessive screen time and near-work activities Children today are spending more time on tasks that require close focus, such as reading, gaming, and using smartphones or tablets. These activities often take place indoors, away from natural light, which is essential for eye health. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Next Stay Close ✕ Teach children to maintain a safe distance from screens and books while using proper lighting. Image: Kampus Production /pexels Lack of outdoor time Research shows that spending more than 14 hours a week outdoors reduces the risk of developing myopia by about 30%. However, many children in South Africa, particularly in urban areas, spend the majority of their time indoors, whether at school, doing homework, or engaging with screens. Genetics and family history Dr Ed Anderson, president of the South African Society for Cataract and Refractive Surgery (SASCRS), explains that myopia is often hereditary. 'If one or both parents are short-sighted, the likelihood of their children developing myopia is significantly higher.' The impact of myopia on children Myopia often develops during childhood and can worsen until a person's early 20s. For school-aged children, poor vision can have a profound impact on their education, social development, and overall quality of life. Dr Helga Abrahamse-Pillay, president of the South African Society for Paediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus (SASPOS), highlights how myopia can hinder a child's ability to learn. 'A child struggling to see the board, follow sports activities, or recognise distant objects may face challenges not only in their academic performance but also in their behavioural and social interactions.' Eye tests, performed by optometrists or ophthalmologists, can determine the extent of the condition and recommend appropriate corrective measures. Image: Pavel Danilyuk/pexels Parents and teachers in South Africa are encouraged to be vigilant for signs of myopia, which may include: Holding books or devices very close to the face. Sitting too close to the television. Squinting or straining to see distant objects. Rubbing the eyes frequently. Disinterest in schoolwork, often mistaken for behavioural issues. Diagnosing and managing myopia Early detection is key to managing myopia effectively. Eye tests, performed by optometrists or ophthalmologists, can determine the extent of the condition and recommend appropriate corrective measures. Common treatments for myopia Spectacles: Glasses remain the most common and effective way to correct myopia in both children and adults. Contact lenses: For older children and adults, contact lenses may be a more practical option, particularly for those with active lifestyles. Lifestyle changes: Encouraging children to spend more time outdoors and limiting screen time can help slow the progression of myopia. Advanced treatments some cases, treatments such as orthokeratology (specialised contact lenses worn overnight to reshape the cornea) or low-dose atropine eye drops may be recommended. During Myopia Awareness Week, from May 23 to 29, the Ophthalmological Society of South Africa (OSSA), in collaboration with SASPOS and SASCRS, is working to shine a spotlight on this issue. The campaign aims to educate South Africans about the risks of myopia and the importance of early intervention. Anderson stresses the importance of routine eye exams, 'Even if your child shows no obvious symptoms, regular eye check-ups are crucial. Early diagnosis can prevent further deterioration and allow for effective treatment.' What can parents and educators do? As the prevalence of myopia grows, proactive steps are essential to protect children's vision: Encourage outdoor play: Aim for at least two hours of outdoor activity daily to reduce the risk of myopia. Limit screen time: Set boundaries for screen use, including regular breaks during homework or gaming. Schedule routine eye tests: Ensure children visit an optometrist annually, especially if there is a family history of myopia. Promote healthy habits: Teach children to maintain a safe distance from screens and books while using proper lighting. While the myopia epidemic is a global challenge, it is deeply rooted in lifestyle factors that can be addressed. The message is clear: small changes in daily habits can lead to big improvements in eye health. Myopia may be on the rise, but with awareness and action, it is a challenge that can be managed effectively.
