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Are ultra-processed foods harmful? Experts weigh the evidence

The American Society for Nutrition hosted a live virtual debate on the concept of ultra-processed foods, with leading scientists presenting arguments for and against incorporating it into dietary guidelines. Research suggests that consumption of ultra-processed foods is linked to weight gain and increased risk of chronic diseases.

SourceAmerican Society for Nutrition·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateJun 7, 2022
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Featured research from NUTRITION 2022 LIVE ONLINE

The American Society for Nutrition presents the latest findings on ultra-processed foods, genetic influence on eating habits, and diet quality. Research highlights the risks of ultra-processed foods, the potential impact of genetics on food preferences, and the importance of healthy diets for preventing chronic diseases.

SourceAmerican Society for Nutrition·DateJun 7, 2022

Sizzling sound of deep-frying reveals complex physics

Researchers studied the sizzling sound of deep-frying, finding three types of bubble events: explosion cavity, elongated cavity, and oscillating cavity. These events produced distinct acoustic characteristics, which could lead to future applications like acoustic sensing of aerosol generation.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateJun 7, 2022

Protein supplement helps control Type 2 diabetes

A small protein supplement taken before meals can help people with type 2 diabetes control their blood sugars for two extra hours a day. The study found daily glucose levels were also 0.6 mmol/L lower when taking the supplement.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalBMJ Open Diabetes Research & Care·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMay 26, 2022

New nutrient profiling tools confirm starchy vegetables deliver comparable nutritional value as non-starchy vegetables and whole fruit

A new study challenges the separation of starchy vegetables from non-starchy counterparts in nutrition research. Starchy vegetables, including white potatoes, were found to meet the definitions for high-quality carbohydrates using five separate indices, with some even scoring closer to fruits and non-starchy vegetables than sweets.

SourceThe Alliance for Potato Research and Education (APRE)·JournalFrontiers in Nutrition·DateMay 25, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

UTD researchers deliver new recipe for restaurant, app contracts

A novel contract proposed by UTD researchers could help alleviate key sources of conflict between restaurants and food-delivery platforms. The study found that standard contractual relationships have two key issues: simple revenue sharing and strain on restaurant operations.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Dallas·JournalManagement Science·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 23, 2022
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

How cranberries could improve memory and ward off dementia

A randomized controlled trial found that consuming cranberries for 12 weeks improved participants' memory of everyday events and neural functioning. The study also showed a significant decrease in LDL or 'bad' cholesterol levels, contributing to improved vascular health and brain perfusion.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalFrontiers in Nutrition·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMay 19, 2022

New weight-loss intervention targets instinctive desire to eat

A new weight-loss intervention has been developed to target the instinctive desire to eat, particularly in individuals who struggle with resisting food cues. The Regulation of Cues program trains individuals to use natural hunger cues, reinforces tolerance of cravings, and inhibits urges to eat palatable foods when not physically hungry.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMay 18, 2022

High-fat diet linked to nitric oxide levels, cancer development

Researchers at the Beckman Institute found a direct link between high-fat diets and heightened nitric oxide levels, which can lead to increased risk of inflammation and cancer development. The study used a molecular probe to visualize changes in the tumor microenvironment.

SourceBeckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology·JournalACS Central Science·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 17, 2022

How to avoid eating the world

A new study suggests that a transformative shift in the global food system, focusing on efficiency and reducing animal products, could significantly decrease emissions. However, such changes might lead to increased food prices, affecting vulnerable populations.

SourcePotsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK)·JournalNature Food·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 16, 2022
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Restaurant menu design could impact carbon footprint of dining

A study exploring restaurant menu design found that adding carbon labels and setting default options to low-emission dishes encourages diners to choose more environmentally friendly options. The findings suggest a promising strategy for reducing the carbon footprint of dining, but further research is needed to inform such strategies.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Climate·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 11, 2022

A better diet helps beat depression in young men

A new study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that a healthy Mediterranean diet can significantly improve symptoms of depression in young men. The 12-week randomized control trial showed that nearly all participants stayed with the program and reported positive results.

SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMay 9, 2022

Fluorescent probe for bad cooking oil in the portable platform

Researchers developed a fluorescent molecular probe, BOS, to detect bad cooking oils, improving the detection method for highly sensitive and accurate measurement. The Bad Oil Sensing System (BOSS) is a portable platform that can be used by consumers and the food industry to monitor oil quality.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalSensors and Actuators B Chemical·DateMay 3, 2022
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.

New article outlines the characteristics of a “longevity diet”

A multi-pillar approach to nutrition can help increase lifespan by promoting optimal carbohydrate intake from non-refined sources, low but sufficient protein from plant-based sources, and enough plant-based fats. The 'longevity diet' may also involve intermittent fasting and a 5-day cycle of a fasting or fasting-mimicking diet every 3-...

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalCell·TypeMeta-analysis·DateApr 28, 2022

Living near fast food restaurants in South Asia may increase risk of Type 2 diabetes

A new study published in PLOS Medicine found that living near fast food restaurants increases the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. The research, conducted in Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, linked cross-sectional health data with environment mapping surveys to examine the associations between the density and proximity of healthy and unhea...

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateApr 26, 2022
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.

Being in nature: Good for mind, body and nutrition

A Drexel University study found that individuals with a stronger connection to nature had more varied diets and higher fruit and vegetable consumption. This link could inform health promotion practices and urban planning initiatives.

SourceDrexel University·JournalAmerican Journal of Health Promotion·DateApr 25, 2022

New research shows humans possess surprising nutritional intelligence

A pioneering study led by the University of Bristol found that humans have 'nutritional wisdom,' choosing foods to meet their need for vitamins and minerals. The study suggests that people combine meals in a way that increases exposure to micronutrients, contradicting the long-held view that humans evolved to favor energy-dense foods.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalAppetite·DateApr 24, 2022

Intense exercise while dieting may reduce cravings for fatty food

A study suggests that intense exercise can help rats resist cues for high-fat food pellets, even after a 30-day diet. The researchers found that exercise modulated the rats' willingness to work for these cues, reflecting their craving level.

SourceWashington State University·JournalObesity·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 21, 2022
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.

Greening food preservation nourishes the environment

Cornell scientists have created a biodegradable polymer to extend the shelf life of salad dressings, marinades, and beverages in refrigerators. This innovation uses a bioderived material that interacts with food without migrating into it, reducing waste and environmental impact.

SourceCornell University·JournalFood Packaging and Shelf Life·DateApr 21, 2022

Ubiquitous nutrients suppress appetite and promote movement

A study published in Current Biology found that consuming non-essential amino acids can curb appetite and encourage physical activity in mice. This mechanism is thought to be rooted in evolutionary history, where eating these amino acids promoted the urge to seek out more nutrient-rich food sources.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalCurrent Biology·DateApr 20, 2022

Study: Mediterranean-style diet further linked to reduced risk of preeclampsia in pregnant women of all races

A new study found that following a Mediterranean-style diet can lower the risk of preeclampsia by at least 20% in pregnant women. The research surveyed over 8,000 women and found that racial differences in rates of preeclampsia were more related to socioeconomic factors than genetic or biological ones.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateApr 20, 2022
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Physics models better define what makes pasta al dente

Researchers created a theoretical model to describe the swelling, softening, and elastocapillary adhesion of cooked pasta. The study found that cooking time is directly related to the degree of noodle stickiness.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateApr 13, 2022

Pre-school children’s emotional eating partly shaped by innate food drive - research shows

New research at Aston University found that pre-school children's emotional eating is influenced by their innate food drive and mothers' eating habits. The study suggests that parenting practices, such as using food as a reward or restriction, can contribute to emotional eating in young children.

SourceAston University·JournalJournal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics·TypeObservational study·DateApr 13, 2022
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.

Sharks lose their natural response with prey if not frequently rewarded

Researchers at Flinders University found that sharks can learn to avoid wasting time and energy on inaccessible food sources. The study, published in Animal Behaviour, reveals the decline of shark's natural response to prey when reward frequency is decreased or non-existent.

SourceFlinders University·JournalAnimal Behaviour·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 10, 2022

Long-term follow-up reduces risk of type 2 diabetes

A Norwegian University of Science and Technology study found that long-term follow-up and organized physical activity can reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Participants who engaged in healthier habits and increased activity saw significant improvements over five years.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalBMJ Open·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 7, 2022

Virtual cooking class improves children’s nutrition knowledge

A virtual cooking/nutrition program, Flint Families Cook, demonstrates success in reaching youth from low-income families and improving cooking self-efficacy and nutrition knowledge. The program encourages families to cook healthy meals together at home, using local ingredients.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Nutrition Education and Behavior·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 7, 2022

Not all dietary fiber is created equal: cereal fiber but not fruit or vegetable fibers are linked with lower inflammation

Researchers found that cereal fiber, but not fruit or vegetable fibers, was associated with lower inflammation and cardiovascular disease risk in older adults. The study used data from a large cohort of elderly individuals and confirmed previous associations between dietary fiber and CVD.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateApr 6, 2022
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

How does cancer treatment affect nutrition?

A recent study found that cancer treatment side effects significantly affect patients' and caregivers' eating habits, food preferences, and overall well-being. The research team identified six themes, including managing symptoms, losing taste, and caregiver burden.

SourceDrexel University·JournalNutrients·DateApr 4, 2022

Personalized, in-store nutritional intervention boosts diet quality

A study presented at the American College of Cardiology's Annual Scientific Session found that personalized nutrition education in grocery stores significantly improved DASH diet adherence. Participants who received six one-on-one sessions with a dietitian showed an average increase of 4.7 points on their DASH scores.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·DateApr 3, 2022

Hold the salt: Study reveals how reducing sodium intake can help patients with heart failure

A study of 806 patients with heart failure found that reducing sodium intake improved symptoms such as swelling, fatigue, and coughing. However, it had no effect on rates of death, hospitalization, or emergency department visits. The researchers recommend a lower sodium intake limit for heart failure patients.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalThe Lancet·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateApr 2, 2022
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Avocado meal, a novel fiber source for dogs

Researchers have identified avocado meal as a safe and palatable fiber source for dogs, rivaling industry standards in digestibility and energy intake. The study found that persin levels were undetectable in processed meal, contradicting long-held concerns about avocado toxicity in pets.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Animal Science·DateMar 29, 2022

Colorectal cancer in context: How the food environment affects the gut

A University of Illinois review examines how food deserts, poor diet, and racial disparities affect bile acids, gut microbes, and cancer incidence. The study suggests that Western diets contribute to the development of colorectal cancer, particularly among Black Americans.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalmSystems·DateMar 24, 2022

Can supermarkets coax people into buying healthier food?

Researchers found that increasing availability of healthier options, such as low-fat chips and lower-calorie biscuits, led to significant changes in purchasing behaviors. Removing seasonal chocolates from prominent locations also attenuated the usual increase in confectionery sales.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 24, 2022

Blowing bubbles in dough to bake perfect yeast-free pizza

Researchers develop a method to leaven pizza dough without yeast by dissolving gas into the dough at high pressure. The team fine-tuned the pressure release rate through rheological analysis to create ideal rise, resulting in light and airy pizzas.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateMar 22, 2022
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Plant-based omega-3s may boost heart health, reduce risk of heart disease

A comprehensive literature review found that consuming plant-based alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) rich in walnuts and flaxseeds can lower cardiovascular disease risk by 10% and fatal coronary heart disease risk by 20%. ALA may also benefit heart health when combined with other omega-3s.

SourcePenn State·JournalAdvances in Nutrition·TypeLiterature review·DateMar 22, 2022

Study finds that youth exposed to environmental tobacco smoke experienced significantly lower odds of wheezing when maintaining a higher quality diet

A study of over 7,000 adolescents found that consuming a high-quality diet, such as the Mediterranean diet, was associated with significantly lower wheezing odds among those exposed to environmental tobacco smoke. This suggests that targeted public health interventions focused on improving access to higher quality foods may be effectiv...

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalAnnals of the American Thoracic Society·DateMar 21, 2022

Chef’s kiss: Research shows healthy home cooking equals a healthy mind

Researchers at Edith Cowan University found that a 7-week healthy cooking course improved participants' general health, mental health, and self-perceived mental well-being. Cooking confidence also increased significantly, particularly among women, who reported improved mental health benefits despite no changes in diet quality.

SourceEdith Cowan University·JournalFrontiers in Nutrition·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMar 20, 2022
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Food insecurity linked to cardiometabolic risks in Hispanic/Latino youths

A recent study published in Pediatrics found that Hispanic/Latino youths experiencing food insecurity have poorer HDL-C levels, greater fasting glucose and triglycerides, and a higher risk of metabolic syndrome. The study highlights the need for nutrition policies to address food insecurity among this population.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateMar 17, 2022

World’s vulnerable are being polluted in their own homes as they cook, finds new Surrey study

A new study from the University of Surrey found that three-quarters of kitchens in low-income homes across 12 major global cities are heavily polluted by cooking emissions. The most significant contributors to poor air quality were poor ventilation and fuel choices, with frying food leading to particularly high levels of indoor pollution.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalEnvironment International·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 16, 2022

Trial testing cocoa flavanol supplement shows promise for reducing cardiovascular risk

A randomized, placebo-controlled trial found that a cocoa flavanol supplement reduced cardiovascular death by 27% and total cardiovascular events by 10%. The study also showed no significant effect on cancer risk. Further investigation is warranted to understand the effects of cocoa flavanols on cardiovascular health.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateMar 16, 2022

Excess sugar consumption costs Canada’s health-care system $5 billion each year

A new study by University of Alberta researchers estimates that excessive sugar consumption in Canada results in $5 billion annual healthcare costs due to 16 chronic diseases. Limiting free sugar intake could reduce diabetes prevalence by 27% if Canadians follow the 10% recommendation, and 44.8% if they limit consumption to less than 5...

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalCanadian Journal of Public Health·DateMar 15, 2022
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.

USC experts discover brain differences in young children with binge eating disorder

A USC-led study reveals that children with binge eating disorder show abnormalities in gray matter density compared to unaffected peers, indicating a possible link between the disorder and brain development. The findings suggest that treatment may need to address underlying brain abnormalities.

SourceKeck School of Medicine of USC·JournalPsychiatry Research·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 15, 2022