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Coffee may protect against gallstones

A new study published in Journal of Internal Medicine found that coffee consumption is linked to a lower risk of developing symptomatic gallstones. Drinking more than six cups of coffee per day was associated with a 23% reduced risk, while one extra cup per day had a 3% lower risk.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Internal Medicine·DateSep 5, 2019

National trash: Reducing waste produced in US national parks

US National Parks produce a staggering 100 million pounds of trash each year, with managers seeking ways to divert recyclable materials and reduce overall waste. Key findings from recent research include the importance of moral norms and perceived difficulty in influencing visitor behavior.

SourceS.J. & Jessie E. Quinney College of Natural Resources, Utah State University·JournalApplied Environmental Education & Communication·DateJun 25, 2019

Could coffee be the secret to fighting obesity?

Researchers at the University of Nottingham discovered that drinking coffee can stimulate 'brown fat', increasing body heat and burning calories. This could be a key to tackling obesity and diabetes. The study used thermal imaging to trace brown fat reserves and found that caffeine had a direct effect on its functions.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 24, 2019

A cup of joe and you're good to go!

Research from the University of South Australia finds that drinking six or more coffees a day can be detrimental to cardiovascular health, increasing the risk of heart disease. The study suggests that limiting coffee consumption to fewer than six cups a day is essential for maintaining a healthy heart and blood pressure.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateMay 10, 2019

Study finds Wi-Fi location affects online privacy behavior

A study found that Wi-Fi location influences online privacy behavior, with people in public spaces like coffee shops being more cautious when using public Wi-Fi. Participants who had a stronger 'publicness heuristic' tendency disclosed less information and engaged in fewer unethical behaviors when connected to public networks.

Why you love coffee and beer

A genome-wide test suggests that bitter and sweet beverage preferences are related to the psychoactive properties of these beverages, not genetic variations in taste genes. People prefer certain drinks due to their emotional and psychological impact.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalHuman Molecular Genetics·DateMay 2, 2019

Are coffee farms for the birds? Yes and no

Research reveals coffee plantations host nearly as many bird species as forests, with shaded areas providing double the number of forest specialist birds. However, overall bird populations decline, highlighting the need for large primary forest reserves for conservation.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 29, 2019

Espresso yourself: Coffee thoughts leave a latte on the mind

A Monash University study found that exposure to coffee-related cues can trigger cognitive benefits, such as increased alertness and energy levels, in participants from Western cultures. The research used mental construal theory and demonstrated the power of psychological associations in shaping our thinking and behavior.

SourceMonash University·JournalConsciousness and Cognition·DateApr 17, 2019

Birds bug out over coffee

A University of Delaware study found that certain native tree species provide better food resources for insects and attract migratory birds to coffee farms. Shade-grown coffee farms can serve as habitat refuges for wildlife, improving farm productivity and biodiversity.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalBiotropica·DateMar 27, 2019

Daylight savings sees 'sleepy consumers' with a wider variety in their shopping carts

A recent study from the UBC Sauder School of Business found that sleepier consumers tend to buy more diverse types of products to help them stay awake. The study reveals that even after controlling for other factors, sleep-deprived individuals exhibit a greater desire for variety in their shopping choices.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia - Sauder School of Business·JournalJournal of Marketing Research·DateMar 11, 2019

Microbes help make the coffee

Studies show that lactic acid bacteria positively impact coffee fermentation, yielding fruity notes and enhancing flavor. Microbial communities also affect the build-up of fermentation-related metabolites on coffee beans, influencing overall quality.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·DateFeb 1, 2019

A subtle strategy to spend more responsibly

Researchers discovered that couples who pool their finances favor utilitarian purchases that are easier to justify. Individuals using joint bank accounts spent significantly less on hedonic purchases and more on utilitarian products than those spending from separate accounts. This strategy may help people spend money more responsibly.

SourceSociety for Consumer Psychology·JournalJournal of Consumer Psychology·DateDec 20, 2018

Wild coffee plants, Christmas trees and chocolate's tree are surprisingly poorly protected

A new indicator reveals that less than 3% of evaluated species are classified as 'low priority' or 'sufficiently conserved.' Wild coffee plants, Christmas trees, and chocolate's tree are among those in need of protection. The study highlights the urgent need for international conservation targets to meet ambitious goals.

Why we shouldn't like coffee, but we do

A study found that people with a higher sensitivity to bitter caffeine taste drink more coffee due to learned positive reinforcement. Genetic variants play a role in this association, suggesting that our perception of bitter tastes contributes to beverage preferences.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 15, 2018

Cappuccino made with jackfruit seed flour has chocolate aroma

A study conducted in Brazil found that roasted jackfruit seeds can replace between 50% and 75% of cocoa powder in milk and coffee used to make cappuccino without impairing flavor or aroma. The researchers developed an instant powder containing coffee with milk and chocolate, which can be a potential substitute for traditional cappuccino.

'Pinning down' how salty droplets dry

Scientists at Tokyo Metropolitan University have developed a method to pin the edge of drying droplets, creating various geometric patterns. By adding microscopic latex particles to salt solution droplets, they can achieve controlled re-crystallization and form beautiful snowflake-like patterns.

SourceTokyo Metropolitan University·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 22, 2018

Swirling liquids work similarly to bitcoin

Researchers have found that swirling liquids, such as coffee, follow the same mathematical principles as transactions with cryptocurrencies like bitcoin. This discovery may lead to more advanced digital security methods and a deeper understanding of chaotic mixing in nature. The findings also suggest that cryptographic computations can...

SourceStanford University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 23, 2018

Are millennials taking over the supply chain?

Michigan State University research reveals that millennials are driving a shift towards customized, experiential supply chains where customers have more control over the product. This change requires companies to deliver tailored offerings and prioritize greater visibility and social responsibility.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalLogistics & Supply Chain Review·DateApr 16, 2018

The coffee cannabis connection

A Northwestern University study found that coffee consumption decreased endocannabinoid system metabolites, which regulate stress response, cognition, and appetite. The study also suggests coffee may facilitate the excretion of steroids, potentially affecting diseases such as cancers.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJournal of Internal Medicine·DateMar 15, 2018