Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Red is good -- the brain uses color to help us choose what to eat

A study by SISSA researchers found that our brains use color to guide food choices, with red foods being perceived as more calorie-dense. The visual system's trichromatic nature and evolutionary history support this preference.

SourceInternational School of Advanced Studies (SISSA)·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 14, 2016

Inherited taste perceptions may explain why some people eat too much salt

A study found that individuals with a gene variant that enhances bitter taste perception were nearly twice as likely to consume excessive sodium. This genetic variation also influenced food choices, but not sugar or alcohol intake. The research may help people make better food choices tailored to their individual preferences.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateNov 13, 2016

College students with food allergies find big challenges in staying safe

A study by the American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology found that most colleges lack integrated systems to support students with food allergies. The study's lead author, Ruchi Gupta, MD, notes that these students value feeling secure and willing to work with school officials to create education around their needs.

SourceAmerican College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology·DateNov 11, 2016
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Why do seabirds eat plastic? The answer stinks

Researchers discovered that marine plastic debris emits a sulfurous compound, dimethyl sulfide, which attracts seabirds with keen sense of smell. This olfactory cue tricks birds into eating plastic, making them more likely to consume it than other species.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalScience Advances·DateNov 9, 2016

Television cooking shows overlook safe food handling practices

A new study found that television cooking shows rarely model proper food safety measures, with only 4 out of 39 episodes showing compliance with recommendations. The study highlights the need for food safety training and education on these programs to reduce the incidence of foodborne illness.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Nutrition Education and Behavior·DateNov 8, 2016
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.

How your diet can influence your environmental impact

A study published in Frontiers in Nutrition found that adopting a plant-based diet can significantly decrease the environmental impact and phosphorus footprint, with a potential reduction of 72% in phosphorus fertilizer requirements. This change has a moderate effect on reducing phosphorus excreted by the environment.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Nutrition·DateNov 3, 2016

Healthy recipes and effective social marketing campaign improve eating habits

The Food Hero program, launched by Oregon State University, uses a combination of clear messaging, kid-friendly recipes, and community engagement to encourage healthy eating among low-income families. The initiative has shown promising results, with over 36% of tested recipes receiving the 'kid-approved' rating.

SourceOregon State University·JournalNutrients·DateNov 3, 2016

Soda tax falls flat

A new study by Cornell University economist John Cawley found that the Berkeley soda tax resulted in price increases of less than expected, indicating consumer sensitivity. The study also showed that proximity to untaxed rival stores affects the pass-through of taxes to consumers.

SourceCornell University·JournalJournal of Policy Analysis and Management·DateNov 3, 2016
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.

Intestinal cells 'remodel' in response to a fatty meal

When we eat fatty foods, our body's response is coordinated between digestive organs, nervous system, and gut microbes. Intestinal cells undergo interior remodeling in response to fat influx, including changes in nuclear shape and gene activation.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateNov 2, 2016

Cooking temperature may hold clues to heart disease rates, scientists say

Food cooked at high temperatures may contain toxic chemicals that raise the risk of heart disease. Researchers found that traditional South Asian cooking methods can lead to the formation of trans-fatty acids and other toxins, which are linked to higher heart disease rates in some communities.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalNutrition Journal·DateNov 2, 2016

Delayed gratification associated with fast food frequency

A new study published in Preventive Medicine found that people who can delay immediate gratification are less likely to eat at fast food establishments. The research suggests that assessing an individual's ability to wait for a larger sum of money may help prevent unhealthy behaviors and improve healthy food choices.

SourceAmerican Cancer Society·JournalPreventive Medicine·DateOct 31, 2016

Study: Toss eggs onto salads to increase Vitamin E absorption

A study by Purdue University found that adding whole eggs to a salad increases Vitamin E absorption, particularly when consuming vegetables high in fat. This research supports the idea of combining foods to improve nutrition value and absorption.

SourcePurdue University·JournalJournal of Nutrition·DateOct 25, 2016
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.

Focusing on pleasure of eating makes people choose smaller portions

A study published in the Journal of Marketing Research found that people will choose smaller portions of food when they are enticed by the multisensory pleasure of taste, smell, and texture. This approach can lead to positive outcomes for consumer satisfaction and health, while also benefiting profits in the food industry.

SourceINSEAD·JournalJournal of Marketing Research·DateOct 21, 2016

Fast-food calorie labeling unlikely to encourage healthy eating, finds NYU study

A new NYU study found that only a small fraction of fast-food consumers make healthy choices due to current calorie labeling. The researchers recommend improving labeling to boost the odds of diners making healthy choices, including making calorie information more visible and providing average daily recommended intake.

SourceNew York University·JournalJournal of Public Policy & Marketing·DateOct 20, 2016
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.

Mizzou collaboration develops treatment for canine megaesophagus

Researchers at Mizzou have identified a defect in the lower esophageal sphincter as a potential cause of megaesophagus, a devastating disease in dogs. A new treatment approach uses video fluoroscopic swallow studies and therapies like Botox to improve symptoms and quality of life for affected dogs.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·DateOct 18, 2016

Who are you calling a good liberal?

A recent study by Jacob Neiheisel found that liberal branding can affect election outcomes, with stronger influence on down-ballot races. The researcher analyzed campaign ads and survey data from the 2004 US presidential election, revealing that name-calling has a role in shaping voters' attitudes towards candidates.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalPolitical Research Quarterly·DateOct 12, 2016

Smarter lunchrooms innovators

A new study from Cornell Center for Behavioral Economics in Child Nutrition Programs finds that career development opportunities are crucial for food service directors to adopt healthier lunchroom changes. Food service directors who participate in professional organizations and trainings are more likely to be aware of the Smarter Lunch...

SourceCornell Food & Brand Lab·JournalEvaluation and Program Planning·DateOct 12, 2016

Jellyfish help scientists to fight food fraud

A new study by the University of Southampton uses jellyfish to track marine animals' movements and locations, providing a powerful tool against food fraud. The research can also be used to maintain healthy sustainable fish stocks and ensure consumer confidence in marine eco-labelling.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalMethods in Ecology and Evolution·DateOct 12, 2016
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.

Study finds new approach to block binge eating

A new therapeutic target has been identified for the treatment of compulsive binge eating, targeting the brain receptor TAAR1. Activation of this receptor shows promise in reducing maladaptive feeding behaviors and blocking addiction-like behavior to junk food.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalNeuropsychopharmacology·DateOct 6, 2016

Healthy rewards points can promote healthy foods in restaurants

A study found that rewards points encourage healthy food selection by appealing to future choices, leading to more salad sales and a returning customer base. Rewards points counteract impulsive desires for indulgent food, promoting long-term health goals.

SourceCornell Food & Brand Lab·JournalCornell Hospitality Quarterly·DateOct 3, 2016

Healthy Eating standards still not fully adopted among YMCA after-school programs

A recent study found that none of the 20 YMCA-operated after-school programs in South Carolina met all five Healthy Eating standards. The programs served fruits and vegetables on a greater number of days, but were deficient in serving whole grains, water, and limiting sugar-sweetened beverages.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Nutrition Education and Behavior·DateSep 8, 2016
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.

Diagnosing and managing food allergies: A guide for physicians

A new review provides a comprehensive guide for diagnosing and managing food allergies in children and adults. The study highlights the importance of clinical history, diagnostic testing, and supervised oral food challenges to accurately diagnose and treat food allergies.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateSep 6, 2016

Babies chew on subtle social, cultural cues at mealtime

One-year-olds expect people from different cultural backgrounds to have varying food preferences unless they belong to the same group. This study highlights infants' sensitivity to subtle social cues and their ability to think in sophisticated ways about these differences.

SourceCornell University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 2, 2016
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.

Folic acid fortified food linked to decline in congenital heart defects

A Canadian study found folic acid fortified food reduced rates of congenital heart defects, with significant declines in conotruncal and coarctation of the aorta defects but no impact on chromosomally associated defects. The findings are applicable to the US population due to similar implementation timelines.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateAug 29, 2016
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.

Lack of fresh food choices linked to signs of early heart disease

A new study by the American Heart Association reveals that limited access to nearby stores selling fresh food may increase residents' risk of developing signs of early heart disease. The research found that healthy food stores within one mile of their home significantly reduced or slowed the progression of coronary artery calcium buildup.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateAug 15, 2016

The healthiest eaters are the most culturally 'fit'

A recent study by Cynthia Levine suggests that people who fit better with their culture have healthier eating habits. In the US, independent behavior predicts a healthy diet, while in Japan, interdependence is linked to healthier eating.

SourceSociety for Personality and Social Psychology·JournalPersonality and Social Psychology Bulletin·DateAug 10, 2016

Report: People buy most of their junk food at the supermarket

A study found that nearly half of US adults consume sugar-sweetened beverages daily, and two-thirds eat discretionary foods like cookies and candy. Despite supermarket access, these unhealthy choices persist, suggesting a need to address junk food marketing and nutrition education.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalEuropean Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateAug 9, 2016
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.

Diet designed to lower blood pressure also reduces risk of kidney disease

A study published in American Journal of Kidney Diseases found that following a DASH-style diet can lower the risk of developing chronic kidney disease over two decades. The diet, which emphasizes whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and low-fat dairy, was also shown to reduce blood pressure and cardiovascular disease risk.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Kidney Diseases·DateAug 9, 2016

Eat Mediterranean: Your brain will reap the benefit

A Mediterranean diet has been shown to improve cognitive function and slow down cognitive decline. The diet's focus on plant-based foods, low dairy intake, and olive oil as a primary source of fat may contribute to its benefits.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Nutrition·DateAug 9, 2016

Ketone drink gives competitive cyclists a boost by altering their metabolism

A ketone drink developed for soldiers improved endurance performance in highly trained cyclists, enabling them to cover an additional 400 meters. The supplement works by temporarily switching the primary source of cellular energy from glucose or fat to ketones, reducing lactic acid production and muscle fatigue.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Metabolism·DateJul 27, 2016
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Why Americans waste so much food

A recent study found that only 53% of Americans are aware of food waste being a problem, despite its negative environmental impacts. The study identified practical benefits such as reduced risk of foodborne illness, but also feelings of guilt and misconceptions about the importance of food waste.

SourceOhio State University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 21, 2016

Grandpa's obesity affects the health of his grandchildren

A study has found that a father's metabolic health can be passed to his children and grandchildren, increasing their risk of developing metabolic disease. The research discovered that obese fathers are putting their sons at risk of developing fatty liver disease and pre-diabetic symptoms.

SourceGarvan Institute of Medical Research·JournalMolecular Metabolism·DateJul 18, 2016
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 nudging can help us to eat in a healthier way

A review of existing research concludes that manipulating food product order or proximity can positively impact food choices. Healthy food nudging is promising, with 16 out of 18 studies showing a positive impact. The review suggests using placement of products to promote healthier options, such as vegetables being placed first in line.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalBritish Journal Of Nutrition·DateJul 13, 2016

Western-style diet linked to state-dependent memory inhibition

Researchers found that a Western diet impairs the ability to inhibit memories of palatable foods, making it harder to resist treats even when full. This link between dietary habits and brain function could explain why some people develop persistent desires for snacks leading to obesity.

SourceSociety for the Study of Ingestive Behavior·DateJul 12, 2016

Why artificial sweeteners can increase appetite

A new study reveals that artificial sweeteners can stimulate appetite by integrating sweetness with energy content in the brain, leading to increased food consumption. Researchers found that chronic exposure to sucralose increased the animal's motivation to eat more food, even when they had enough calories.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalCell Metabolism·DateJul 12, 2016
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.

Help at hand for people watching their weight

Researchers from the University of Sydney have developed a portable and easy-to-use method to help people estimate portion size using only their hands. The 'finger width' method was found to be more accurate than household measures, with 80% of food sizes assessed within 25% of their true weight.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalJournal of Nutritional Science·DateJul 12, 2016

Your diet plan isn't working? New Baylor research explains why

A study by Baylor University finds that successful dieters focus on adding healthy foods they enjoy, rather than restricting themselves from favorite treats. This approach helps individuals with high self-control achieve their health goals.

SourceBaylor University·JournalPsychology and Marketing·DateJul 12, 2016

A recipe for friendship: Similar food

A study published in the Journal of Consumer Psychology found that eating the same food as a companion increases sense of closeness and trust. This strategy can be applied to various social situations, such as first dates or business negotiations, and may even influence marketing effectiveness.

SourceSociety for Consumer Psychology·JournalJournal of Consumer Psychology·DateJul 8, 2016

Children make poor dietary choices following unhealthy foods ads

Research from McMaster University found that children who watched unhealthy food and beverage ads consumed significantly more calories than those who did not watch ads. The study suggests that targeted advertising of unhealthy foods can have a lasting impact on children's dietary preferences.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalObesity Reviews·DateJul 5, 2016
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.

Pasta is not fattening, quite the opposite

A study from I.R.C.C.S. Neuromed in Italy found that pasta consumption is linked to a reduced likelihood of obesity, rather than an increase in body weight. The research examined over 23,000 participants and found that moderate pasta consumption contributes to a healthy body mass index.

SourceIstituto Neurologico Mediterraneo Neuromed I.R.C.C.S.·JournalNutrition and Diabetes·DateJul 4, 2016

Cravings for high-calorie foods may be switched off in the brain by new supplement

A new study suggests that a powdered food supplement, based on a molecule produced by bacteria in the gut, can reduce cravings for high-calorie foods like chocolate and pizza. The supplement, called inulin-propionate ester, releases more propionate than other fiber supplements, which signals to the brain to reduce appetite.

SourceImperial College London·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateJul 1, 2016