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Weight-loss drugs, revisited

About 42% of U.S. adults are considered clinically obese due to increased risk of health conditions such as diabetes and heart disease. New weight-loss drugs like Wegovy (semaglutide) show promise in safely aiding weight loss, but long-term side effects and sustainability remain concerns.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateOct 20, 2021
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.

Lifetime excess weight linked to subclinical heart injury

A study of 9,739 adults found that those with stable overweight and obesity had elevated cardiac troponin I levels, a marker of subclinical heart injury. Long-standing obesity is associated with injurious effects on cardiac health before symptoms occur.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Internal Medicine·DateOct 20, 2021

Key protein linked to appetite and obesity in mice

A recent study from the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University identified a crucial protein linked to increased appetite and obesity in mice. The researchers found that mice lacking this protein, XRN1, exhibited leptin resistance, leading to insatiable hunger and weight gain.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournaliScience·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 15, 2021
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

USC researchers find that interrupting a high-fat, high-calorie diet with regular cycles of a fasting-mimicking diet helps mice live a longer, healthier life

Researchers found that regular cycles of a fasting-mimicking diet in mice helped counteract the negative effects of a high-fat, high-calorie diet. The study suggests that this diet may have potential as 'medicine' to prevent obesity and heart disease.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalNature Metabolism·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 14, 2021

Obesity in four out of ten adults with COVID-19 in intensive care

A study by University of Gothenburg found that people with obesity were overrepresented among adults in Sweden receiving intensive care for COVID-19, with a 50% increase in mortality risk compared to normal-weight individuals. Obesity also boosted the risk of ICU stays lasting more than 14 days.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateOct 14, 2021

Americans are eating more ultra-processed foods

An 18-year study found a significant increase in ultra-processed food consumption among US adults, contributing to obesity and chronic diseases. The study recommends policies to reduce ultra-processed food intake, such as revised dietary guidelines and taxes.

SourceNew York University·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateOct 14, 2021
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.

Obese pigs help us understand human obesity

The study provides a unique genomic blueprint for understanding the complex mechanisms linking obesity with comorbidities like type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. The Ossabaw pig's genome is highly relevant to humans, making it an ideal model for studying human obesity.

SourceTechnical University of Denmark·JournaliScience·DateOct 14, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Higher fasting ‘hunger hormone’ levels from healthy diet may improve heart health and metabolism

A clinical trial found that a green Mediterranean diet rich in leafy greens like Mankai and green tea can elevate fasting ghrelin levels, reducing belly fat and improving insulin sensitivity. This approach may also have additional cardiometabolic benefits.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateOct 13, 2021

Unraveling the mystery of why we overeat

Researchers from The Stuber Lab discovered that certain neurons in the brain light up in obese mice, preventing signals that indicate satiety. The study found that these neurons communicate with regions involved in depression and motivation, suggesting a link between eating disorders and addiction.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalNeuron·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 12, 2021

Research review shows intermittent fasting works for weight loss, health changes

A review of 25 studies on intermittent fasting found that all forms produced mild to moderate weight loss, similar to traditional calorie-restrictive diets. Intermittent fasting regimens also showed benefits in decreasing blood pressure and insulin resistance, and improving appetite regulation.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalAnnual Review of Nutrition·TypeMeta-analysis·DateOct 12, 2021

Rye a better choice than wheat for weight loss

Researchers found that eating high-fibre whole grain rye products resulted in greater weight loss and body fat reduction compared to refined wheat alternatives. The study, involving 242 participants, suggests that rye's unique fibre content may contribute to its weight-loss benefits.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalClinical Nutrition·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateOct 12, 2021
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.

New biomarker for severe COVID-19

Scientists at Karolinska Institutet have discovered a carbohydrate called mannose as a biomarker for severe COVID-19 disease severity. The study found that glycolysis and glutaminolysis play a crucial role in SARS-CoV-2's spread and growth, providing potential new therapeutic strategies.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalMolecular & Cellular Proteomics·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 5, 2021

Ketone supplement might be a novel therapeutic for boosting brain function in obesity

A new study found that ketone supplements enhanced blood flow to the brain and improved aspects of cognitive function, such as working memory and processing speed, in adults with obesity. This suggests that ketone supplements may be a novel therapeutic strategy for protecting and improving brain health in people with obesity.

SourceThe Physiological Society·JournalThe Journal of Physiology·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 4, 2021

International experts develop Clinical Care Pathway in response to NASH epidemic

A multidisciplinary taskforce developed a Clinical Care Pathway for NAFLD/NASH, outlining practical guidance from screening to patient care management. The pathway aims to provide efficient, safe, and value-based care for patients with NAFLD and NASH, highlighting the importance of early interventions and shared decision-making.

SourceAmerican Gastroenterological Association·JournalGastroenterology·DateOct 1, 2021
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.

Scientists discover 14 genes that cause obesity

Researchers at the University of Virginia Health System have identified 14 genes that can cause and three that can prevent weight gain, offering a promising lead in developing new treatments for obesity. The findings were made using a worm model of obesity and automation to test hundreds of genes.

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateOct 1, 2021

Review concludes managing weight and preventing obesity in people with type 1 diabetes is a difficult but not impossible balance

A new review concludes that people with type 1 diabetes can manage their weight, but more research is needed to understand the specific needs of this patient group. The review explores strategies such as nutrition education, adjunct therapies like metformin and GLP-1 receptor agonists, and obesity surgery.

SourceDiabetologia·JournalThe Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology·DateSep 30, 2021
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.

New finding offers promise in researching depression together with obesity

Problem-solving therapy led to short-term changes in the amygdala, a key region for emotion regulation, in individuals with comorbid depression and obesity. The study suggests that neural target changes at two months predicted improved behavioral outcomes after 12 months.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 28, 2021

In tightly controlled study, low-carb diet improves cardiometabolic risk profile

A new study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that a low-carb diet with high saturated fat levels produced better cardiovascular and metabolic profiles than a low-fat diet. The low-carb diet improved blood lipid profiles, increased adiponectin, and reduced lipoprotein(a), a risk factor for heart disease.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 28, 2021
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.

Glyscend Therapeutics announces initiation of phase 1 clinical trial on the heels of preclinical data presented at EASD 2021 on the metabolic benefits of its oral polymer-based duodenal exclusion therapy

Glyscend Therapeutics has initiated a phase 1 clinical trial in Australia investigating an oral polymer therapy that improves glucose homeostasis with weight loss in nonclinical models. The therapy targets mechanisms underlying bariatric surgery and aims to replicate its benefits without the need for surgery.

SourceGlyscend Inc·DateSep 28, 2021

Study of nearly 3 million people finds ‘healthy’ obese people more likely to develop heart failure than those of normal weight—but are not at greater risk of heart attack or stroke

Researchers analyzed data from nearly 3 million adults and found that those with 'metabolically healthy obesity' had a higher risk of developing heart failure and atrial fibrillation. However, they were not at increased risk for heart attacks, strokes, or cardiovascular deaths.

SourceDiabetologia·JournalDiabetes Obesity and Metabolism·DateSep 27, 2021
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.

Eating less fat may save your hair

A recent study published in Nature found that a high-fat diet or genetic obesity can deplete hair follicle stem cells, leading to hair thinning and loss. The researchers discovered that inflammation signals block hair follicle regeneration, ultimately resulting in loss of hair follicles.

SourceTokyo Medical and Dental University·JournalNature·DateSep 21, 2021

Meeting sleep recommendations could lead to smarter snacking

A new study suggests that failing to meet sleep recommendations can lead to higher intake of non-meal calories, including carbohydrates, added sugar, fats, and caffeine. Adults who don't get enough sleep tend to make poorer snacking choices, such as reaching for salty snacks and sweets.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 20, 2021

An X-ray of the vending machines

A study by the University of the Basque Country analyzed the nutritional profile and level of processing of food products sold in vending machines. The results show that 48.6% of the products were classified as low-quality, while 73.8% were ultra-processed.

SourceUniversity of the Basque Country·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·DateSep 20, 2021
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

More intensive and personalized strategies may be needed for weight loss

Researchers found that modest weight loss was achieved through financial incentives and environmental changes, but participants felt more guidance would have helped. The study suggests that ongoing support and personalized coaching could lead to better weight loss outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Nursing·JournalJAMA·DateSep 15, 2021

Changes to workplace cafeteria menus nudge workers to consume fewer calories

A study at 19 workplace cafeterias found that reducing portion sizes and replacing high-calorie food with lower-calorie options led to a 4.8% reduction in calories purchased per day. This simple intervention could contribute towards tackling obesity, particularly in deprived areas where access to healthy foods is limited.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalPLOS Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 14, 2021

Scientists claim that overeating is not the primary cause of obesity

The energy balance model fails to explain the biological causes of weight gain, whereas the carbohydrate-insulin model identifies excessive consumption of rapidly digestible carbohydrates as a key contributor to obesity. This perspective argues for a shift in focus from calorie restriction to dietary pattern change.

SourceAmerican Society for Nutrition·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateSep 13, 2021
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

Gut microbes are key to health benefit delivered by hops compound

A new study by Oregon State University finds that xanthohumol improves glucose metabolism in mice only when the gut microbiota is present. The researchers discovered that three specific bacteria, Akkermansia muciniphila, Parabacteroides goldsteinii and Alistipes finegoldii, are responsible for XN's health benefits.

SourceOregon State University·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 10, 2021

Potential indicator for obesity risk detected during sleep

A recent study published in Scientific Reports found that individuals with inflexible metabolisms exhibit higher carbohydrate oxidation rates at night, indicating a reduced ability to burn fat during sleep. This discovery has the potential for practical use in disease prevention and early intervention.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalNature·DateSep 8, 2021
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.

Black and Mexican American adults develop diabetes at a younger age

A new study found that non-Hispanic Black and Mexican American adults are diagnosed with type 2 diabetes at an average age of 46-47 years old, four to seven years earlier than non-Hispanic white adults. Preventive measures such as nutrition counseling and physical-activity programs can prevent or delay the onset of diabetes.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateSep 7, 2021

Study identifies potential target for treating systemic inflammation in obesity

Researchers have found that blocking DHPS, an enzyme necessary for activating elF5A, can reduce inflammation and improve glucose control in mice. The study suggests macrophages play a key role in inflammation in obesity, and targeting this pathway may be a promising approach to treating the condition.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalCell Metabolism·DateSep 7, 2021
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.

Young adults at highest risk of weight gain

A new study found that young adults aged 18 to 24 are four times more likely to become overweight or develop obesity over the next 10 years than those aged 65 to 74. The study suggests that age is the most important sociodemographic factor for BMI change, and that targeted interventions for young adults may be necessary to prevent obes...

SourceUniversity College London·JournalThe Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 3, 2021

Avocados change belly fat distribution in women, controlled study finds

A controlled trial found that consuming an avocado daily for 12 weeks reduced visceral abdominal fat and the ratio of visceral to subcutaneous fat in female participants. The benefits were primarily seen in females, with no impact on glucose tolerance or male participants.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalJournal of Nutrition·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 3, 2021

Decades after toxic exposure, 9/11 first responders may still lower their risk of lung injury

A new study from NYU Langone Health found that losing weight and managing excess body fat can significantly reduce the risk of lung disease in firefighters exposed to toxic substances on 9/11. The study analyzed 20 years of data from over 5,700 first responders and identified five key factors that predict lung disease.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateSep 2, 2021

Researchers discover connection between brain’s opioid system and eating behavior

A recent study discovered a connection between the brain's opioid system and food craving triggered by external stimuli. The researchers found that individuals with fewer opioid receptors were more likely to overeat in response to appetizing food, suggesting the opioid system as a potential target for anti-obesity drugs.

SourceUniversity of Turku·JournalTranslational Psychiatry·TypeImaging analysis·DateSep 2, 2021
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.

Older people with abdominal fat and weak muscles are more likely to develop mobility problems

A Brazilian-UK study found that older individuals with both abdominal fat and muscle weakness experience a significant loss of gait speed over eight years. This decline can lead to difficulty walking and increased risk of falls, impacting independence. Researchers urge health workers to measure abdominal fat and muscle strength to pred...

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalAge and Ageing·DateAug 31, 2021
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.

Common pesticide may contribute to global obesity crisis

A study led by McMaster University scientists found that chlorpyrifos slows down the burning of calories in brown adipose tissue of mice, leading to weight gain and obesity. This process, known as diet-induced thermogenesis, is critical for regulating calorie storage and metabolism.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 27, 2021

Rehabilitation exercises improve knee health in osteoarthritis

A study published in Current Rheumatology Reviews found that rehabilitation exercises significantly improved functional strength and reduced weight in knee osteoarthritis patients. The researchers also noted an increase in exercise adherence among the rehabilitation group compared to the control group.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalCurrent Rheumatology Reviews·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 26, 2021

USPSTF lowers recommended screening age for type 2 diabetes

The USPSTF has lowered the recommended starting age of screening for type 2 diabetes from 40 to 35. Screening is now recommended for adults with prediabetes or type 2 diabetes, particularly those aged 35-70 who are overweight or obese. This recommendation aims to detect and treat these conditions earlier.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateAug 24, 2021
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.

Weight gain isn’t inevitable when you start college

A new study from the University of Georgia found that college students who were physically active before starting university remained so, while those with low motivation to exercise gained significant weight. The researchers recommend teaching children the importance of exercise and healthy eating habits.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalJournal of American College Health·DateAug 24, 2021