A study found that ordering takeaway meals is a popular self-gifting option for both rewarding good days and consoling bad days. The research suggests that this may be due to the convenience of taking away daily cooking duties, while also providing a indulgent treat.
Apple iPhone 17 Pro
Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.
Researchers found that gut microbes in Asian elephants digest pectin, reducing bitter compounds and giving Black Ivory coffee its smooth flavor. This process may lead to new methods for processing coffee beans, exploring animal-microbiome interactions in food fermentation.
A case report warns that heavy energy drink consumption may pose a serious stroke risk due to high caffeine and sugar content. The study highlights the potential cardiovascular risks associated with energy drinks and proposes increased regulation of sales and advertising campaigns to protect public health.
A recent study found that over 70% of pregnant women consume alcohol-free or low-alcohol drinks, primarily for safety reasons. However, many feel there is a need for clearer information and support on the suitability of these alternatives during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
A new study reveals that both sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) and low- or non-sugar-sweetened beverages (LNSSBs) are significantly associated with a higher risk of developing metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). Replacing either beverage with water significantly reduces MASLD risk.
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.
A team of food scientists discovered a natural way to significantly extend the shelf life of sugarcane juice from three days to 14 days by adding microwave-dried extracts of mint and coriander. The herbal extracts, extracted using novel microwave-assisted technique, slowed microbial growth and prevented spoilage.
Researchers developed a fermentation method using unripe fruit beans, producing high-quality beverages comparable to those made from ripe fruits. The process, known as self-induced anaerobic fermentation, adds value to the product while minimizing its defects, making it attractive to domestic and foreign markets.
Researchers found that compounds inhibiting bitter taste receptors, such as (R)-(-)-carvone, can reduce the bitter aftertaste of artificial sweeteners like saccharin and acesulfame K. This discovery has potential applications in food products to enhance palatability.
A new study has coined the term 'scrumping' to describe great apes' fondness for eating ripe, fermented fruit from the forest floor. The researchers suggest that this behavior may have played a significant role in the evolution of human alcohol tolerance.
A clinical trial found that women experience stronger subjective effects of acute alcohol intake, such as drunkenness and sedation, compared to men. The study adjusted doses to achieve identical blood alcohol concentrations for both sexes, revealing that women's effects were more intense.
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.
Research by Christian Schubert and Scott Lafontaine reveals rice's brewing benefits, including improved flavor profiles and shorter fermentation times. The study highlights the potential of rice to enhance nonalcoholic beer quality, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional brewing methods.
A study published in the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics found that 19% of packaged foods and beverages sold in the US contain synthetic food dyes. Synthetic dyes are particularly prevalent in products marketed to children, with confectionery and sugar-sweetened beverages being the top categories.
Researchers found PFAS in 95% of tested beers, with highest levels and most diverse mix near the Cape Fear River Basin in North Carolina. The study highlights the need for water treatment upgrades at brewing facilities as regulations on PFAS exposure change.
Researchers created an Experimental Beverage Marketplace to analyze the impact of taxes on sugar-sweetened beverage consumption. The study found that participants purchased significantly less of these drinks when a tax was applied, replicating standard economic principles.
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.
A team of physicists at the University of Pennsylvania has discovered that pouring water from a height creates a stronger mixing effect, increasing extraction efficiency in pour-over coffee. By optimizing flow rates and pour heights, they found that more coffee grounds can be used without diminishing overall quality.
Following the introduction of warning labels in 2020, Mexico substantially reformed food and non-alcoholic drink products to be healthier. The reformulation resulted in a significant reduction of excessive calories, fats, salts, sugars, sweeteners, and caffeine content in these products.
A significant association between high sugar-sweetened beverage intake and oral cavity cancer was found in this study involving nonsmoking women. The findings suggest a low baseline risk of oral cavity cancer in these women, highlighting the need for further research to validate the impact of this association.
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.
Researchers found that brewing tea can adsorb significant amounts of toxic heavy metals like lead and cadmium from drinking water. The study revealed that steeping time played the most significant role in removing metal ions, with longer steeping times resulting in more effective filtering.
A new study by Oregon State University researchers found that certain groups of consumers are open to drinking smoke-impacted wines. The study suggests potential tools for making these wines viable for the market through blending and targeted labeling and marketing strategies.
Researchers identified a potential mechanism linking sugary beverage consumption to diabetes risk through alterations in the gut microbiome and blood metabolites. High sugar-sweetened beverage intake was associated with changes in bacterial species that produce short-chain fatty acids, negatively impacting glucose metabolism.
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.
A cohort study found city-level sugar-sweetened beverage taxes associated with reduced mean body mass index (BMI) among adults. These associations were seen in demographic subgroups, including young adults who consumed the most SSBs.
A McGill University-led study found patterns between triggers and symptoms of anaphylaxis, revealing a strong link between tree nuts and throat tightness. The research also suggests that drinking alcohol may increase the risk of severe reactions to nut allergies.
Researchers have discovered 11 probable kokumi compounds in sparkling wines, which may contribute to their rich, full-bodied taste. The study identified these compounds through a combination of computer simulations and wine tastings, paving the way for further investigation into the molecular basis of kokumi sensation in wines.
GoPro HERO13 Black
GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.
Researchers found a 28% decline in social acceptability of drinking sugar-sweetened beverages, with attitudes changing after tax increases and media attention. The shift in social norms has major implications for public health efforts.
A new method to enhance pea protein solubility, combining heat treatment and guarana extract, offers potential as an ingredient in plant-based beverages. The approach improves emulsion stability and vitamin D3 preservation.
A new study reveals that researchers in tobacco, ultra-processed food, and alcohol sectors are frequently targeted with intimidation tactics. Public discreditation is the most common method used by corporations or their proxies to undermine and discredit advocates and researchers who provide evidence to policymakers.
A study analyzing social media posts found fast food restaurants and sugar sweetened beverages are the most common, with millions of mentions reaching billions of users. The research argues that normalizing unhealthy eating in the digital environment contributes to obesity challenges worldwide.
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.
Researchers identified key compounds that distinguish beer from wine aromas, enabling the creation of more flavorful, non-alcoholic substitutes. Stronger fruity aromas made drinks smell more like wine, while scented compounds played a bigger role in beer versus wine-like aroma perception.
A new study from the University of Washington found that lower-income households decreased their purchases of sweetened beverages by nearly 50%, while higher-income households reduced purchases by 18%. The tax was implemented in four U.S. cities and resulted in a significant decline in consumption among lower-income households.
Researchers will examine cognitive and psychomotor functions to compare effects of CBD on driving performance between men and women. The five-year study aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the substance's influence.
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.
A recent study by Washington State University researchers found that women are more inclined to purchase wine with labels featuring feminine gender cues. The study's lead author noted that winemakers may want to pay attention to the perceptions of this understudied group, which represents 59% of U.S. wine consumers.
Researchers have successfully fermented fruit juices, including apple and passion fruit, using a SCOBY to create kombucha-like beverages with boosted antioxidant levels. The resulting drinks showed promise as an alternative to traditional kombucha, with the apple juice variant ranking high in taste testing.
A study found that despite a decline in TV ads during kids' shows, children under 12 still see over 1,000 food-related ads annually, mostly for unhealthy products. The exposure primarily comes from watching shows with lower child-audience shares.
A study found that most TV ads seen by children are still for unhealthy products, highlighting the need for better government regulations. Exposure to such ads remained substantial even after a decrease in children's programming time.
Scientists create efficient method to extract and store curcumin in soy milk, extending shelf life and improving nutritional value. The breakthrough could lead to increased availability of bioavailable curcumin, a potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compound.
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.
A survey study estimates that 15.6 million US adults consume at least one potentially hepatotoxic botanical product within the past 30 days. Turmeric is the most commonly reported botanical, followed by green tea, ashwagandha, Garcinia cambogia, red yeast rice, and black cohosh products.
A study found that city-level sugar-sweetened beverage taxes are associated with lower body mass index percentile among youth. Policymakers may consider implementing such taxes to prevent or reduce youth overweight and obesity, ultimately reducing chronic disease risk, particularly among children under 12.
Researchers used 2D infrared spectroscopy to investigate milk protein structures and dynamics in coffee beverages. The study found that milk proteins remained intact, retaining their original properties, even when exposed to caffeine and coffee grounds.
A study in Seattle found a small but significant reduction in body mass index (BMI) among children living in areas with a sweetened beverage tax compared to nontaxed areas. The results support the effectiveness of such taxes as a policy for improving children's BMI, building on existing US studies.
A Japanese research team analyzed oxygen and nitrogen stable isotope ratios in nitrate to differentiate between sake breweries. The study found a distinct N isotope signature across various types of sake within a single brewery, which could be used as a marker for authentication.
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.
A new study suggests rice malt can yield robust fermentations in gluten-free, all-malt beer and styles with high adjunct inclusions. Malted long-grain rice shows the most promise as a competitor to malted barley for sugar content and brewing qualities.
Kombucha brewers can now optimize their brews with science. The team discovered that silicone bags expose SCOBYs to more oxygen, speeding up brewing time and reducing ethanol levels. Additionally, using glucose as the SCOBY food source creates a kombucha with more gluconic acid and minimal ethanol.
A new study found that physical activity levels are insufficient to counter the increased risk of cardiovascular disease associated with consuming sugar-sweetened beverages. Even moderate consumption can lead to higher cardiovascular disease risk, emphasizing the need to limit these drinks' omnipresence in the food environment.
A longitudinal study found that higher consumption of tea, processed meats, and food prepared outside the home is associated with increased levels of PFAS in the body over time. This suggests potential solutions for protecting the public from these harmful chemicals.
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.
A study of over 80,000 children found that high fish and vegetable intakes early in life are associated with a lower risk of inflammatory bowel disease. High sugar beverage intake, on the other hand, was linked to a higher risk.
Nationwide sugar-sweetened beverage taxes could significantly reduce SSB purchases and improve public health outcomes. Studies in select US cities showed substantial price increases associated with tax implementations resulted in consistent declines in SSB sales.
A randomized controlled trial found that significant price discounts on healthful foods like vegetables and zero-calorie beverages lead to increased consumption of these items. The study suggests that subsidies or modifications to the Farm Bill could promote healthier dietary intake behaviors.
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.
A simulation study suggests that a soft drink tax in Germany would reduce sugar consumption and illness rates, including type 2 diabetes, resulting in significant financial savings. The estimated economic benefits of introducing such a tax range from 9.5 billion to 16 billion euros over the next two decades.
A tiered tax system incentivizes companies to reduce sugar content, leading to a significant reduction in sugar intake and medical costs. The study predicts that such a tax could prevent over 244,000 cases of type 2 diabetes and save €16.0 billion.
A longitudinal study found that nine-to-10-year-old children who drink daily caffeinated soda are twice as likely to try alcohol within a year. Daily caffeine intake is associated with low working memory and high impulsivity, recognized risk factors for substance use disorders.
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.
A recent study suggests that higher intake of ultraprocessed foods, particularly those with artificial sweeteners, may be associated with an increased risk of depression. The exact mechanism is unknown, but researchers believe that artificial sweeteners could play a role in the development of depression.
New research from The George Institute for Global Health suggests applying Google's nutrition advertising policy in the US market could reduce products eligible for online marketing to children, leading to significant health gains. Only 18% of products would be allowed under this policy.
A study of 98,000 postmenopausal women found that daily consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages was associated with a higher incidence of liver cancer. The findings suggest a potential link between these beverages and chronic liver disease mortality.
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.
Exposure to plastic particles from microwaved baby food containers can be deadly, with up to 75% of cultured kidney cells dying after two days. The University of Nebraska-Lincoln study found that polypropylene containers release 1,000 times more nanoplastics than microplastics.
Researchers analyzed Twitter posts about the Philadelphia beverage tax before and after its implementation, finding a shift from anger to acceptance. The study's findings highlight the potential of social media data to influence public opinion and provide valuable insights for health policy makers.
Researchers from Spain used high-power ultrasound technology to treat Monastrell grapes, resulting in improved color and sensory profile of the rosé. The study found that sonication enhanced the extraction of volatile compounds, such as terpenes, which improve aroma.
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.
Research shows that households participating in both WIC and SNAP consume high amounts of sugar-sweetened beverages. Mothers with young children who rely on these programs drank SSBs 8.7 times/week, compared to 4.5 times/week for those not participating in either program.
Scientists discover that blending mineral salts can replicate the taste of real sugar in low- and zero-calorie beverages, improving flavor and mouthfeel. The blend reduces lingering sweetness by up to 79% and enhances the sugar-like sensation in various non-caloric alternatives.
A recent study found that pre-teen girls who drank 100% fruit juice had long-term positive dietary benefits and met Dietary Guideline recommendations for whole fruit. The study also showed racial differences in fruit consumption, with black girls consuming more 100% juice throughout adolescence.
A study published in PLOS ONE found that food-insecure US teens tend to consume sugary drinks and junk foods when experiencing emotional distress. The research suggests a link between food insecurity and unhealthy eating habits among adolescents.
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.