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Unlocking the therapeutic potential of SLC13 transporters

Researchers reconstituted VcINDY into liposomes to analyze its properties as a transporter, providing insights into the cellular level functionality of SLC13 transporters. This study paves the way for targeting these transporters to combat metabolic disease and obesity.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of General Physiology·DateJun 18, 2014

Overweight + gene mutation = elevated liver values in children

A study found that overweight children with a common gene mutation are more likely to have elevated liver values. The research highlights the importance of healthy lifestyle habits from an early age, particularly for children carrying the risk gene.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalPediatric Obesity·DateJun 17, 2014

Role reversal: Linking a reproductive pathway to obesity

Research has linked kisspeptin signaling to increased weight gain and glucose intolerance in mice lacking the pathway. This study found that reduced metabolism and decreased energy led to excess weight gain, not increased food consumption. The findings have potential for treating human obesity.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJun 17, 2014
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.

Electrical switch during labour could be faulty in overweight women

Research published in Nature Communications reveals a faulty electrical switch in the uterus of overweight women, causing irregular contractions and increasing the risk of caesarean sections. This breakthrough discovery sheds light on the mechanism behind labour complications in overweight women, paving the way for potential treatments.

SourceMonash University·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 17, 2014

Do 'walkable' neighborhoods reduce obesity, diabetes?

Research in southern Ontario found that adults living in more walkable neighborhoods experienced a lower risk of developing diabetes over a 10-year period. The most walkable neighborhoods had the lowest incidence of obesity, overweight and diabetes.

SourceAmerican Diabetes Association·DateJun 17, 2014
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.

Soft-drink tax worth its weight in lost kilos

A soft-drink tax has been found to be an effective way to reduce consumption and lead to significant weight losses. The study estimated that middle-income heavy consumers would lose up to 3.64 kg, making it a cost-effective solution for obesity prevention.

SourceMonash University·JournalHealth Economics·DateJun 16, 2014

Are female hormones playing a key role in obesity epidemic?

Researchers found a correlation between affluence and obesity rates, with women typically having higher levels of obesity than men in developing countries. However, in the Western world, male obesity often exceeds female obesity, suggesting an alternative cause may be at play.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 13, 2014

Scientists closing in on new obesity drug

Researchers develop computer model to speed up search for compound that activates FFA4 protein, a key player in appetite regulation and glucose uptake. The model aims to identify molecules that bind to the protein, potentially leading to a new obesity treatment.

SourceUniversity of Southern Denmark·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateJun 12, 2014
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Weight loss critical to reducing cardiovascular risk in obese OSA patients

A new study from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine reveals that weight loss is the single most important factor for improving cardiovascular health in obese obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) patients. Weight loss alone significantly reduced inflammation, insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, and high blood pressure.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJun 11, 2014

Higher disease activity scores in obese RA patients

A recent EULAR study found that obese patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) have higher disease activity scores than non-obese patients, irrespective of their disease stage. This suggests that treatment to target protocols may result in obese patients being treated more aggressively than non-obese patients.

SourceEuropean Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR)·DateJun 11, 2014
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.

Team finds on-off switch to burning stored fat

Researchers at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio have identified a protein called Grb10 as the on-off switch for converting unhealthy white fat into beige fat, a process that increases energy expenditure and reduces obesity. The finding could lead to the development of novel diabetes and obesity drugs.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio·JournalCell Metabolism·DateJun 5, 2014

Deppression with atypical features associated with obesity

A study associates depression with atypical features, including increased appetite, with obesity. The researchers emphasize the importance of screening for these atypical features in individuals with depression and recommend dietary measures during depressive episodes.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateJun 4, 2014

Weight gain following antidepressant use examined

Researchers found that antidepressants with certain properties contribute less to weight gain than others, which could influence treatment preferences for patients at risk of weight gain. The study analyzed data from a large healthcare system and identified differences in weight gain rates among various antidepressant medications.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateJun 4, 2014
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.

No sign of 'obesity paradox' in obese patients with stroke

Researchers investigated whether obese patients with stroke experienced a 'weight loss paradox', where heavier individuals have better outcomes than expected. The study found no such correlation, contradicting previous hypotheses on the topic. Obesity status did not affect stroke mortality rates in this cohort.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Neurology·DateJun 2, 2014
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.

Eating prunes can help weight loss

A University of Liverpool study found that eating prunes daily improved weight loss by 1.5kg over 12 weeks, while also reducing waist circumference. Prune consumption enhanced feelings of fullness and was well-tolerated despite high doses.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·DateMay 30, 2014
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.

Study shows how common obesity gene contributes to weight gain

A study published in Cell Metabolism reveals that variations in the FTO gene indirectly affect the function of the primary cilium, a hair-like appendage on brain and other cells. This abnormality increases body weight by affecting leptin receptors, leading to increased food intake and obesity.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalCell Metabolism·DateMay 22, 2014

US obesity epidemic making all segments of the nation fatter, study finds

A recent study found that the US obesity epidemic is affecting all segments of the population, with no significant differences in weight gain among groups based on race or education level. The report suggests that environmental factors such as cheap and easily accessible food are driving the increase in obesity rates across the country.

SourceRAND Corporation·DateMay 22, 2014

Review says inexpensive food a key factor in rising obesity

A new review by the American Cancer Society concludes that inexpensive food is a key factor in rising obesity rates in the US. The study finds that Americans are spending less on food than ever before, yet consuming more calories, contributing to the growing obesity epidemic.

SourceAmerican Cancer Society·DateMay 22, 2014
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Blocking pain receptors extends lifespan, boosts metabolism in mice

Researchers have found that blocking a pain receptor in mice extends their lifespan and boosts their metabolism, including an improved insulin response. This discovery provides potential insights into treating obesity and diabetes, as well as improving metabolic health.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalCell·DateMay 22, 2014

Deciphering the role of fat stem cells in obesity and diabetes

Researchers will analyze fat stem cells from obese patients to understand the mechanism underlying excess fat storage and insulin response. The study aims to identify potential therapeutic strategies for treating different groups of obese individuals at varying risk of developing diabetes and other health issues.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·DateMay 21, 2014

Physical activity can protect overweight women from risk for heart disease

A seven-year study of nearly 900 middle-aged overweight women found that physical activity reduced the risk of developing heart disease. Low-to-moderate physical activity was the only lifestyle factor that protected these women from becoming at-risk for heart disease.

SourceAlbert Einstein College of Medicine·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateMay 20, 2014

'Supermodel' mouse reveals mechanisms that regulate metabolism, researchers find

A newly discovered gene called Samd4 plays a critical role in regulating metabolism, with abnormal distribution of fat and diminished insulin responses observed in the lean 'Supermodel' mouse. The study provides new potential avenues for research into diseases such as diabetes and obesity.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 20, 2014

Professor gets $2.5 million MERIT award to study how body breaks down fat

Dr. Timothy J. Bartness, a world-renowned obesity researcher, has been awarded a five-year, $2.5 million MERIT grant to investigate lipolysis and thermogenesis in specialized fat cells. His research aims to understand the bidirectional communication between fat and the brain, which is thought to control body fat breakdown and metabolism.

SourceGeorgia State University·DateMay 20, 2014
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.

Exercise could be key to maintaining metabolically healthy obesity

A new study found that physical activity is the most important factor in slowing the progression from metabolically healthy to at-risk obesity in overweight women. Over seven years, researchers identified a significant reduction in cardiovascular disease risk among those who were physically active.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateMay 20, 2014

Higher BMI is associated with lower mortality risk in patients with severe PH

A study of over 1,100 patients with severe PH found that higher BMI was associated with lower one-year mortality rates, even after adjusting for other factors. The researchers suggest that increased levels of serum lipoproteins in obese individuals may play a role in neutralizing circulating toxins and inflammatory proteins.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·DateMay 19, 2014

Obesity associated with longer hospital stays, higher costs in total knee replacement patients

A recent study found that obesity is associated with longer hospital stays and higher costs for total knee replacement patients, regardless of comorbidities. The study analyzed data from over 8,000 patients and found that every 5-unit increase in BMI beyond 30 kg/m² resulted in higher hospitalization costs and longer hospital stays.

SourceAmerican Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·JournalJournal of Bone and Joint Surgery·DateMay 14, 2014

Texas A&M-led study shows how 'body clock' dysregulation underlies obesity, more

A Texas A&M-led study has found that body clock dysregulation plays a key role in the development of metabolic diseases, including obesity and diabetes. The researchers discovered that overnutrition causes circadian clock dysregulation, leading to pro-inflammatory activity in adipose tissue and worsening insulin resistance.

SourceTexas A&M AgriLife Communications·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateMay 14, 2014
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.

Lots of fruits and vegetables, but lots of high-fat snacks

A study of home food environments found that while fruits and vegetables were plentiful, preparation methods and availability of high-calorie foods contributed to obesity. The study also highlighted the challenges of eating healthy in front of the TV.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Nutrition Education and Behavior·DateMay 6, 2014

Linking vascular inflammation to obesity and atherosclerosis

A study by Changcheng Zhou and colleagues found that IKKβ deficiency in smooth muscle cells decreases vascular inflammation and atherosclerosis, while also blocking fat cell differentiation. This suggests a novel therapeutic target for treating obesity, atherosclerosis, and metabolic disorders.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateMay 6, 2014

Study exposes risk of nutritional deficiencies in obese teens

A new study reveals that severely obese teens are at risk of nutritional deficiencies, particularly low iron and mild anemia, even those who did not undergo weight loss surgery. Researchers found durable weight loss in teens who received gastric bypass surgery, but significant nutritional problems persisted.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·DateMay 4, 2014
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.

Lean patients with fatty liver disease have higher mortality rate

Researchers found that lean patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) had a higher overall mortality rate and were more likely to be male and of lower socioeconomic status. They also showed signs of liver inflammation despite having less body fat and lower levels of liver damage.

SourceDigestive Disease Week·DateMay 4, 2014

Study shows link between sleep apnea and hospital maternal deaths

A comprehensive US study found that pregnant women with sleep apnea are five times more likely to die in the hospital than those without the condition. The researchers also linked sleep apnea to an increased risk of severe medical conditions, including preeclampsia and pulmonary blood clots.

SourceUniversity of South Florida (USF Health)·JournalSLEEP·DateMay 2, 2014

New myeloma-obesity research shows drugs can team with body's defenses

A new study reveals the link between obesity and increased risk of myeloma, a cancer of plasma cells. The researchers found that adiponectin, a protective protein, can be used to suppress fatty acid production in myeloma cells, leading to their demise.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio·JournalLeukemia·DateMay 1, 2014
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.

Study challenges concept of 'healthy' obesity

Researchers found obese patients with no heart disease have greater risk of future disease due to early plaque buildup in the arteries. The study's lead author emphasizes the importance of counseling obese individuals about their risks and providing tips for achieving a healthy weight.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateApr 30, 2014

Information technology can simplify weight-loss efforts; social support still important for success

Research at the University of Missouri-Columbia found that information technology, such as smartphone apps, can aid in weight loss by streamlining tracking and providing visual feedback. Social support, however, remains essential for long-term success, with in-person connections preferred over online networks.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalJournal of Telemedicine and E-Health·DateApr 29, 2014

Studies presented at ACOG Annual Meeting reveal new information about weight and pregnancy

Two studies from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine show that patients are often unaware of proper weight gain during pregnancy, highlighting the importance of improved communication. Additionally, research on prenatal testing for morbidly obese women reveals no increased risk of complications or early delivery.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalObstetrics and Gynecology·DateApr 28, 2014

Today's statin users consume more calories and fat than their predecessors

A new UCLA-led study suggests that people taking statins in the 2009-10 year consumed more calories and fat than those who used statins 10 years earlier. Researchers found a significant increase in caloric intake among statin users, with no similar change among non-statin users.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateApr 25, 2014
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.

Researchers: Obesity can amplify bone and muscle loss

Researchers have identified a new syndrome called osteosarcopenic obesity, which combines the deterioration of bone density and muscle mass with obesity. This can lead to a higher risk of falls and breaking bones, particularly in older women.

SourceFlorida State University·JournalAgeing Research Reviews·DateApr 16, 2014

Vitamin D deficiency contributes to poor mobility among severely obese people

Severely obese individuals with low vitamin D levels exhibited reduced physical functioning and lower activity levels compared to those with healthy vitamin D levels. The study suggests that improving vitamin D status could enhance quality of life and potentially decrease mortality risk in this population.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateApr 15, 2014
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.

Annals of Internal Medicine tip sheet for April 15, 2014

A new delirium severity score helps predict hospital outcomes in patients with delirium. The Confusion Assessment Method (CAM) scoring system is validated for predicting adverse outcomes, including prolonged hospital stay and functional decline. Additionally, a US survey shows that obesity contributes to the dramatic increase in diabet...

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateApr 14, 2014
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.

New ammunition in the fight against type 2 diabetes

A new study by Monash University has shown that gastric banding can lead to remission of diabetes in people who are overweight but not obese. The research, published in The Lancet Diabetes and Endocrinology, found that weight loss surgery significantly improved the condition in over half of participants.

SourceMonash University·JournalThe Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology·DateApr 7, 2014