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Does touch affect flavor? Study finds that how a container feels can affect taste

A recent study published in Journal of Consumer Research found that the feel of a container can significantly impact consumer perceptions of taste and quality. Low autotelics, those who tend to avoid touching products, were more negatively affected by flimsy cups, while high autotelics showed no significant difference.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateMar 17, 2008

Coffee drinking related to reduced risk of liver cancer

A meta-analysis of 11 studies on coffee consumption and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) found a 41% reduction in HCC risk among coffee drinkers. The study suggests that compounds in coffee may act as blocking agents, reducing carcinogenic detoxification and liver disease risk.

SourceWiley·JournalHepatology·DateAug 1, 2007

Some forest birds can survive in agricultural countryside with limited habitat conservation

A recent study by Stanford University researchers found that tropical forest birds can thrive in coffee plantations with minimal restoration, highlighting the importance of preserving remnant trees and riparian corridors. The study suggests that humans and birds may coexist successfully if farmers leave small reserves of native forest.

SourceStanford University·JournalConservation Biology·DateMay 24, 2007

From plastic bag to railway sleeper

Researchers have developed plastic railway sleepers made from waste polystyrene and polyethylene, which can last for centuries compared to wood or concrete sleepers. These biodegradable sleepers also provide a cost-effective solution for Network Rail's goal of using 23% recycled material by 2012.

SourceSociety of Chemical Industry·JournalChemistry & Industry·DateMay 7, 2007

Fizzy drinks increase risk of pancreatic cancer

A new study from Karolinska Institutet found that consuming fizzy drinks and sugary foods significantly increases the risk of developing pancreatic cancer. The study followed almost 80,000 healthy individuals over eight years, discovering that those who drank high-sugar beverages regularly had a 90% higher risk of developing the disease.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateNov 8, 2006

Coffee intake linked to lower diabetes risk

A study of 28,812 postmenopausal women found that those who drank more than six cups of coffee per day had a 22% reduced risk of type 2 diabetes, while decaf drinkers saw a 33% decrease. Other minerals and nutrients in coffee may contribute to its beneficial effects.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateJun 26, 2006

News tips for Tuesday, November 9, 2004

Researchers found that testosterone therapy improves blood flow to the heart muscle in men with CAD, while behavioral factors such as exercise rates and obesity trends are closely monitored. Additionally, studies suggest 'flight socks' can reduce deep-vein leg clots during long air travel, offering a promising solution for at-risk indi...

It's better in the shade

Scientists Mas and Dietsch examined publicly available criteria for shade-grown coffee certification programs, finding that some distinguish farms with beneficial levels of shade for biodiversity conservation. The study suggests setting specific realistic conservation goals based on habitat use and forest fragment protection.

SourceEcological Society of America·JournalEcological Applications·DateJun 29, 2004

Coffee addicts at reduced risk of type 2 diabetes?

A large study of over 17,000 Dutch adults found that those who drank seven or more cups of coffee a day were 50% less likely to develop type-2 diabetes. The study suggests that components of coffee other than caffeine may be beneficial for glucose metabolism, but long-term effects are unknown.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateNov 7, 2002

A look at development, rural trends, birds

Researchers at the University of Michigan found that low-density exurban development increased by 2000 to occupy nearly 10 times the area of urbanized land, while agricultural land use decreased in some areas. Special planning can help minimize environmental impact through designs that deliver public benefits like clean water and nativ...

Coffee may help prevent cavities

New study suggests that coffee's antibacterial properties, particularly trigonelline, may reduce S. mutans colonization and prevent tooth decay. Roasted coffee samples showed higher inhibitory activity than green unroasted beans.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateMar 6, 2002