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News sites continue to stigmatize people’s weight, study suggests

A new study published in the Journal of Health Communication found that news sites, especially UK and US sources, continue to use stigmatizing images when reporting on obesity. The research highlights the need for news media to be mindful of the images included in health news articles.

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalJournal of Health Communication·DateDec 14, 2023
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.

Nearly 40% of Type 2 diabetes patients stop taking their second-line medication

A Northwestern University study found that nearly two-thirds of patients discontinue or change their medication within a year, highlighting the need for better understanding of barriers to treatment adherence. The high discontinuation rate for GLP-1 RAs may be due to gastrointestinal side effects.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalThe American Journal of Managed Care·DateDec 12, 2023

Fat flies live longer on a diet at any age

Researchers found that switching fruit flies to a low-calorie diet extends their lifespan, even in old age. This study suggests that obese humans may benefit from reducing calorie intake in old age, as it can dramatically change their metabolisms and extend their lives.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 12, 2023
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Healthy plant-based diet reduces diabetes risk by 24 per cent

A plant-based diet has been shown to reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes by 24%, with benefits attributed to improved metabolism and liver function. Additionally, healthy eating patterns were found to improve organ function, particularly in individuals with genetic predispositions or other risk factors.

SourceMedical University of Vienna·JournalDiabetes & Metabolism·DateDec 11, 2023

Prenatal exposure to GLP-1 receptor agonists and other second-line antidiabetics may not pose greater risk to infants than insulin

A new study found no increased risk of major congenital malformations in infants exposed to second-line non-insulin antidiabetic medications during pregnancy compared to those treated with insulin. The study examined over 3.5 million pregnancies and provided reassurance on the safety of these medications for fetuses.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateDec 11, 2023

Specific genetic variant may help prevent obesity

Researchers at Weill Cornell Medicine discovered a genetic variant in the GIP receptor that may help individuals resist obesity. The variant enhances insulin release and glucose metabolism, allowing mice with the variant to process sugar more efficiently and stay leaner.

SourceWeill Cornell Medicine·JournalMolecular Metabolism·DateDec 7, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Being overweight hampers body’s immune response to SARS-CoV-2

Research found that being overweight hampers the body's immune response to SARS-CoV-2 infection, leading to reduced antibody levels and activity. However, vaccination offered protection against COVID-19. The study suggests personalized recommendations for overweight individuals to ensure better COVID-19 management.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalClinical & Translational Immunology·DateDec 3, 2023
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Chaperoning fat storage: the molecular basis of adiposity

A study by researchers from Osaka University found that HSP47, a collagen-specific molecular chaperone, is significantly expressed in fat tissue and correlates with body fat levels. High or low HSP47 expression was linked to high or low body fat levels in both humans and mice.

SourceOsaka University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 27, 2023

I eat what you eat

A study at the University of Bonn found that primary school children are more likely to choose unhealthy snacks when buying with friends or classmates. Conversely, they opted for healthier choices when purchasing alone. This highlights the importance of understanding how social factors influence children's purchasing decisions.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalAppetite·DateNov 23, 2023

Canadians’ feelings about the causes of obesity are often harmful to self-esteem, new Concordia study shows

A Concordia University study found that Canadians of all sizes hold negative attitudes towards individuals with overweight and obesity, often internalizing these feelings and blaming their own behavior. The study also showed that females are more likely to report weight bias internalization than males.

SourceConcordia University·JournalBMC Public Health·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 22, 2023
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.

Germany: Sugar tax could save as much as 16 billion euros

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.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalPLOS Medicine·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 21, 2023

Liver cancer rates increase in each successive generation of Mexican Americans, study finds

A study by the Keck School of Medicine of USC found that liver cancer risk increases with each successive generation of Mexican Americans, particularly among men. The research analyzed data from over 30,000 participants and found third-generation Mexicans to be 66% more likely to develop liver cancer than first-generation individuals.

SourceKeck School of Medicine of USC·JournalCancer·TypeMeta-analysis·DateNov 20, 2023

Trend report: High blood pressure increasing in low-income adults; diabetes and obesity on the rise in higher-income adults

A study of over 20,000 middle-aged US adults found lower income status linked to increased hypertension risk. Higher-income adults faced rising rates of diabetes and obesity. Targeted public health initiatives are needed to address growing cardiovascular mortality among middle-aged adults.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeNews article·DateNov 20, 2023
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.

Study: People with obesity burn less energy during day

Researchers discovered that individuals with obesity expel more energy at night compared to those with a healthy weight. During the day, people with obesity have higher insulin levels, indicating their body is working harder to process glucose.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalObesity·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 15, 2023

7 countries, 1.3 million lives lost – the devastating impact of tobacco revealed

A new study funded by Cancer Research UK reveals that smoking tobacco causes 20.8 million years of life loss each year, with four preventable risk factors contributing to over 30 million years of life lost annually. The study suggests that action on a global scale could save millions of lives from preventable cancers.

SourceCancer Research UK·JournalEClinicalMedicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 15, 2023

Semaglutide delivers 20 percent reduction in major adverse cardiovascular events in patients with obesity but no history of diabetes

A 20% reduction in major adverse cardiovascular events has been observed for patients with obesity but no history of diabetes taking semaglutide. This study marks a significant milestone, demonstrating the cardiovascular benefits of semaglutide beyond its weight loss effects.

SourcePennington Biomedical Research Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateNov 13, 2023
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

International clinical trial finds that semaglutide reduced cardiovascular events by 20% in adults with overweight or obesity who don’t have diabetes

A recent clinical trial found that semaglutide significantly reduced cardiovascular events in adults with overweight or obesity who do not have diabetes. The medication was shown to lower the risk of death from cardiovascular causes, nonfatal heart attacks, and strokes by 20% compared to placebo.

SourceCleveland Clinic·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateNov 11, 2023

Understanding the role of GIP in managing diabetes and obesity

Researchers from Helmholtz Munich discovered that GIP decreases body weight by interacting with specific inhibitory neurons in the brain, offering a revolutionary approach to patients worldwide. The study reveals the underlying molecular mechanisms of GIPR:GLP-1R co-agonists and their potential as next-generation anti-obesity drugs.

SourceHelmholtz Munich (Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH))·JournalNature Metabolism·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 9, 2023
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.

Obesity linked to neurodegeneration through insulin resistance

Researchers found that a high-sugar diet causes insulin resistance in the brain, reducing its ability to remove neuronal debris and increasing the risk of neurodegenerative diseases. This study provides insight into how obesity-inducing diets contribute to disease risk.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeObservational study·DateNov 7, 2023

AGA does not endorse all patients stopping popular diabetes and weight loss drugs prior to endoscopy

The American Gastroenterological Association suggests a balanced approach when treating patients on GLP-1 RAs undergoing endoscopic procedures. AGA recommends proceeding with the procedure as planned for patients who followed standard pre-procedure fasting instructions and do not have symptoms suggesting retained gastric contents.

SourceAmerican Gastroenterological Association·JournalClinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology·TypeSystematic review·DateNov 7, 2023
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.

Patients more likely to lose weight if physicians offer advice using optimistic tone

A study found that physicians who presented treatments for obesity as good news and an opportunity were more successful in helping patients lose weight. Patients who received counseling with a positive and optimistic tone had significantly higher weight loss outcomes compared to those who received neutral or negative advice.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeNews article·DateNov 6, 2023
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.

Women face greater risk of obesity in low- and middle-income countries

A recent meta-analysis found that women in low- and middle-income countries are disproportionately affected by obesity, with risks ranging from 2-3 times higher than men. This disparity is most pronounced in the Sub-Saharan region, where women are up to 10 times more likely to have obesity.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateNov 1, 2023

University of Cincinnati study: Strawberry consumption may reduce dementia risk for middle-aged individuals

A recent study published in Nutrients found that daily strawberry consumption can improve cognitive performance and reduce depressive symptoms in middle-aged adults. The research, led by Professor Robert Krikorian, suggests that strawberries contain antioxidants and micronutrients that may help mitigate the risk of dementia.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalNutrients·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateNov 1, 2023

New research links high salt consumption to risk of Type 2 diabetes

A new study from Tulane University found that frequent salt consumption is associated with a higher risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. The study surveyed over 400,000 adults and found participants who regularly added salt had a 13% to 39% increased risk of developing the disease compared to those who never or rarely used salt.

SourceTulane University·JournalMayo Clinic Proceedings·DateNov 1, 2023

What happens when cats get fat? Scientists weigh in

Researchers found that as cats gained weight, their gastrointestinal transit time decreased, reducing nutrient extraction. The study also revealed changes in gut microbial composition, with an increase in Bifidobacterium and a decrease in Collinsella, opposite to what has been seen in overweight humans.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Animal Science·TypeObservational study·DateNov 1, 2023
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.

Epigenetic signature for obesity found in study of twins

Researchers found an epigenetic signature in cheek cells of obese twins that differs from their thinner siblings, suggesting a susceptibility to obesity may be written into molecular processes. The discovery could lead to a simple cheek swab test for an obesity biomarker and enable earlier prevention methods.

SourceWashington State University·JournalEpigenetics·DateNov 1, 2023

High insulin levels directly linked to pancreatic cancer

Researchers at University of British Columbia find a direct link between high insulin levels and pancreatic cancer, highlighting the importance of keeping insulin levels within a healthy range. The study suggests that excessive insulin overstimulates pancreatic acinar cells, leading to inflammation and precancerous cell development.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalCell Metabolism·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 31, 2023

New publication reveals surprising insights into dog sterilization, obesity

A recent scientific publication found that sterilized dogs of different sizes exhibit varying levels of obesity, with small breeds at highest risk and giant breeds at lowest. The study also discovered that the optimal time for spaying/neutering differs by breed size, with young large breeds facing a higher risk of obesity.

SourceMorris Animal Foundation·JournalJournal of the American Veterinary Medical Association·DateOct 17, 2023
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.

Study reveals health impact of eating disorders

A new UK study finds that people with eating disorders are 2.11 times more likely to report physical multimorbidity. Anxiety, insomnia, and perceived stress are key influencers in this relationship.

SourceAnglia Ruskin University·JournalEating and Weight Disorders - Studies on Anorexia Bulimia and Obesity·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 17, 2023

Tirzepatide trial shows additional 21.1% weight loss following intensive lifestyle intervention

A phase 3 clinical trial demonstrated tirzepatide's effectiveness in achieving an additional 21.1% weight loss after intensive lifestyle intervention in adults with obesity or overweight comorbidities. Participants who received tirzepatide achieved a total mean weight loss of 26.6%, compared to 3.8% for those on placebo.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalNature Medicine·DateOct 17, 2023

Special probes improve ultrasound imaging in obese patients

A recent clinical study at the University of Leipzig Medical Center found that ultrasound scans of the liver and kidneys were significantly lower in quality in obese patients. Modern probes with matrix technology improve image quality by achieving greater penetration depth into tissue.

SourceUniversität Leipzig·JournalScientific Reports·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateOct 16, 2023

Can’t stop binging on fries and BBQ?

Buck Institute researchers discover that advanced glycation end products (AGEs) in processed foods increase hunger and test willpower, contributing to overeating and obesity. By understanding the biochemical signaling pathway behind AGEs, scientists may develop strategies to limit their accumulation and promote healthy eating.

SourceBuck Institute for Research on Aging·JournaleLife·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 15, 2023

New study links intestinal glycan modifications to obesity and inflammation

Research at Chiba University discovered that N-acetylglucosamine 6-O-sulfation of mucin glycans prevents obesity and inflammation in a murine model. The findings suggest that enhancing sulfation may improve the barrier function of epithelial tissues, providing relief against intestinal inflammation.

SourceChiba University·JournalJCI Insight·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 11, 2023
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.

Risk for dementia varies by ethnicity, study finds

A new study analyzing English primary care records found that hypertension, obesity, diabetes, and low HDL cholesterol confer a higher risk of dementia in South Asian and Black people compared to White individuals. The results suggest tailored dementia prevention efforts should be targeted towards minority ethnic groups.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateOct 11, 2023

Maternal obesity predicts heart disease risk better than pregnancy complications

A new study found that pre-pregnancy obesity is a primary driver of future cardiovascular disease risk, rather than pregnancy complications. The research followed 4,216 individuals from early pregnancy to postpartum and found those with overweight or obese BMI had a higher risk of developing hypertensive disorders during pregnancy.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalCirculation Research·DateOct 10, 2023

How plant-derived nutrients can affect the gut and brain

Research suggests that high-dose dietary prebiotics can reduce reward-related brain activation in response to high-calorie food stimuli. The study found a shift in the composition of the gut bacteria, which may underlie the altered brain response towards high-calorie food cues.

SourceUniversität Leipzig·JournalGut·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateOct 10, 2023

Obesity leads to a complex inflammatory response inside fat tissue

Researchers discovered five types of macrophages in fat tissue, with one subtype promoting inflammation and another quelling it. The findings challenge the long-held assumption that pro-inflammatory macrophages are solely responsible for obesity-related inflammation.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJCI Insight·DateOct 10, 2023
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.

Obesity, high blood pressure, and lipid imbalance trigger a progressive loss of energy generation capacity in the heart

A study published in Diabetes Care found that obesity, hypertension, and dyslipidemia alter cardiac energy production by interfering with metabolic substrate uptake. The research reveals early changes in apparently healthy middle-aged individuals, highlighting the importance of identifying mechanisms involved in heart disease onset.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares Carlos III (F.S.P.)·JournalDiabetes Care·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateOct 3, 2023
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.

Metabolically healthy obesity: fact or fiction?

Studies show that people with metabolically healthy obesity (MHO) have a 50% increased risk of coronary heart disease, despite not exhibiting metabolic complications. This raises questions about the validity of the MHO concept.

SourceDiabetologia·DateOct 3, 2023

Globally, consumption of sugary drinks increased at least 16% since 1990

A new study published in Nature Communications found that global sugary drink consumption increased by at least 16% since 1990, with the highest intakes observed in Latin America and Sub-Saharan Africa. The study also reveals significant regional differences and correlations between sugary drink intake and socio-economic status.

SourceTufts University·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 3, 2023