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Shedding new light on sugars, the “dark matter” of cellular biology

Researchers at Université de Montréal's Department of Chemistry have created a new fluorogenic probe to study interactions between sugars and proteins, which are essential to life. The probe can visualize these interactions using fluorescence, providing a valuable tool for studying biological processes critical to human health.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateNov 14, 2023
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.

Human insulin less temperature-sensitive than previously thought

A new Cochrane review has found that human insulin can be stored at room temperature for up to six months without losing potency. This breakthrough research offers hope to millions of people living with diabetes in low- and middle-income countries, particularly those with limited access to refrigeration or healthcare.

SourceCochrane·JournalCochrane Database of Systematic Reviews·TypeSystematic review·DateNov 2, 2023

Unlocking sugar to generate biofuels and bioproducts

Researchers at Brookhaven National Laboratory engineered enzymes to modify grass plant cell walls, reducing lignin content and making sugars more accessible. This led to up to 30% more sugar collection through fermentation, enabling potential conversion into biofuels like ethanol.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalPlant Biotechnology Journal·DateOct 27, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Intermittent fasting is safe, effective for those with Type 2 diabetes

A new study published in JAMA Network Open found time-restricted eating to be safe and effective for people with Type 2 diabetes, helping them lose weight and control blood sugar levels. Participants who followed the time-restricted eating plan had an easier time sticking to it than those on a calorie-reduced diet.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateOct 27, 2023

Cancer's sweet Achilles heel

A team of researchers at Kyoto University has found that a deficiency in the enzyme B4GALT3 inhibits tumor growth in mice. The study shows that reduced glycosylation on T cell surfaces correlates with increased CD8+ immune cells infiltrating tumors.

SourceKyoto University·JournalFrontiers in Immunology·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 25, 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.

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

Pharmacist-led intervention can improve medication adherence among Latinos with type 2 diabetes

A pharmacist-led intervention has been shown to improve medication adherence among Latinos with type 2 diabetes, leading to significant reductions in blood sugar levels. The study found that patients who interacted with a pharmacist had an average 0.45% reduction in blood sugar, while systolic blood pressure remained unchanged.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeObservational study·DateSep 28, 2023

Two-of-a-kind strike oil

Researchers at Kyoto University have discovered two novel yeast species with high oil-forming potential, which could be used to produce alternative biofuels and reduce CO2 emissions. The study also explores the relationship between climate and microbial ecology in Shiga Prefecture.

SourceKyoto University·JournalINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SYSTEMATIC AND EVOLUTIONARY MICROBIOLOGY·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 25, 2023

Lower risk of haematological cancer after bariatric surgery

Researchers found a 55% reduction in lymphoma risk and a 40% overall reduction in blood cancer risk among bariatric surgery patients. Women with high blood sugar at the start of the study benefited most from the surgery.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalThe Lancet Healthy Longevity·TypeObservational study·DateSep 20, 2023

Improving the properties of sweeteners for enhanced thermal energy storage

Scientists have created a new class of solid-state phase change materials using sugar alcohols, which can store-and-release heat more efficiently. By confining these compounds in covalent organic framework crystals, the researchers were able to suppress supercooling and retrieve thermal energy at higher temperatures.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalMaterials Horizons·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 18, 2023
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.

Prescription for fruits, vegetables linked to better heart health, food security

A new study found that people who received free produce prescriptions experienced increased fruit and vegetable consumption, leading to improved body mass index, blood sugar, and blood pressure levels. This research suggests that produce prescription programs may be an effective way to address food insecurity and promote health.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalCirculation·DateAug 29, 2023
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.

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.

University of Minnesota-led study links long-term artificial sweetener intake to increased body fat adipose tissue volume

A University of Minnesota-led study found that long-term consumption of aspartame and saccharin is associated with increased volumes of visceral, intermuscular, and subcutaneous adipose tissue. The researchers recommend considering alternative approaches to artificial sweeteners due to potential health consequences.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota Medical School·JournalInternational Journal of Obesity·TypeObservational study·DateAug 3, 2023

Potent anti-cancer therapy created using ‘click chemistry’

Researchers at UCL and Stanford University create a three-component anti-cancer therapy using click chemistry, improving cancer-killing efficiency with sialidase enzyme, and exploring potential for next-generation agents.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNature Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 24, 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.

Neurons that track, regulate blood-sugar levels are found

A study published in Diabetes journal has discovered neurons in the brain that can detect and respond to changes in blood sugar levels. This discovery may help doctors reduce blood sugar levels in patients with diabetes by targeting these neurons.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalDiabetes·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 11, 2023

Pathogenic bacteria use a sugar in the intestinal mucus layer to infect the gut, study shows

A new study reveals that pathogenic bacteria fuel their growth by consuming sialic acid, a key component of the protective intestinal mucus layer. The findings suggest a potential treatment target for intestinal bacterial infections and chronic diseases linked to gut bacteria, including IBD and celiac disease.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateJul 3, 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.

A ‘pinch’ of mineral salts helps the noncaloric sweeteners go down

Scientists discover that blending mineral salts can replicate the taste of real sugar in low- and zero-calorie beverages, improving flavor and mouthfeel. The blend reduces lingering sweetness by up to 79% and enhances the sugar-like sensation in various non-caloric alternatives.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateJun 15, 2023

Just add sugar: Research shows common antioxidant can be more beneficial through glycosylation

Researchers have developed methods to produce polyphenolic compounds with improved solubility through microbial fermentation, enabling potential life-saving drugs. The process, called glycosylation, attaches sugar molecules to the compounds, making them more effective in preventing diseases such as cancer and heart disease.

SourceUtah State University·JournalBiotechnology Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 14, 2023
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.

Biodegradable plastic from sugar cane also threatens the environment

Researchers at the University of Gothenburg have discovered that bioplastic made from sugar cane, specifically poly-L-lactide (PLA), can alter the behavior of small perch in fish food. The study found changes in their social interactions, including reduced movement and altered responses to danger.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalScience of The Total Environment·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 1, 2023

A popular compostable plastic doesn’t break down in the ocean

A new study finds that popular compostable plastics like PLA don't biodegrade in marine environments, instead persisting unchanged. The research highlights the need for standardizing tests to see if materials promoted as compostable or biodegradable actually break down in natural environments.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 24, 2023
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.

Very low carbohydrate diets can improve blood pressure, blood sugar levels and weight control compared to diets that only target hypertension

A randomized trial found that very low carbohydrate diets led to greater improvements in systolic blood pressure, glycemic control, and weight compared to the DASH diet. The addition of extra support did not have a statistically significant effect on outcomes.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateMay 23, 2023

The Mediterranean Diet: Good for your health and your hip pocket

A new study from the University of South Australia shows that the Mediterranean diet is not only good for health but also for your weekly budget. Compared to the typical Australian Western diet, the Mediterranean diet costs less, with a family of four saving $28 per week and nearly $1500 per year

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalNutrients·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 23, 2023

Study may explain why high-sugar diets can worsen IBD

A new study suggests that high-sugar diets can exacerbate inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) symptoms by disrupting the colon's lining renewal process. The research found that a high-sugar diet led to impaired cell division and altered metabolic pathways in mice, resulting in faster gut damage.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalCellular and Molecular Gastroenterology and Hepatology·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 22, 2023

Scientists at Wake Forest University School of Medicine discover metabolic sensor may play role in Alzheimer’s disease

A new study reveals that increased sugar intake and elevated blood glucose levels can cause amyloid plaque buildup in the brain, increasing the risk of Alzheimer's disease. Researchers identified a metabolic sensor on neurons linked to this process, suggesting potential therapeutic benefits for diabetic patients.

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·JournalJCI Insight·DateMay 22, 2023

Lesbian, bisexual women more likely to have worse heart health than heterosexual women

A new study found that lesbian and bisexual women are less likely to have ideal cardiovascular health scores compared to heterosexual women. In contrast, gay and bisexual men were more likely to have ideal cardiovascular health scores. The study highlights the need for prevention strategies among sexual minority adults in France.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateMay 17, 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.

Higher blood sugar linked to faster loss of brain power in stroke survivors

A study published in JAMA Network Open found that higher cumulative blood sugar levels after a stroke contribute to faster cognitive decline. Researchers adjusted data for various factors and discovered no association between high blood pressure or cholesterol and accelerated cognitive loss.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 17, 2023

Tiny microbes could brew big benefits for green biomanufacturing

Researchers have engineered bacteria to combine natural enzymatic reactions with the carbene transfer reaction, producing new-to-nature carbon products that can be used in biochemicals and advanced biofuels. This breakthrough could reduce industrial emissions by providing sustainable alternatives to chemical manufacturing processes.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 8, 2023

Packaged foods marketed to kids are significantly higher in sugar and lower in other nutrients than other products, according to Canadian study of almost 6,000 items

A Canadian study of almost 6,000 packaged food items found that those marketed to children are significantly higher in sugar content and lower in essential nutrients. The research highlights the need for healthier options in the market to combat childhood obesity and related health issues.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 3, 2023
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

What makes “junk food” junk?

A new analysis of three decades of US food policies defines junk food based on a combination of product categories, processing, nutrients, and place. The study identifies common criteria used in existing policies, including exemptions for staple foods and favoring products with lower levels of processing and additives.

SourceNew York University·JournalMilbank Quarterly·DateApr 27, 2023

10 popular diets scored for heart-healthy elements; some need improvement

The American Heart Association scientific statement rates how closely popular dietary patterns align with its guidance for heart-healthy eating. The statement evaluates 10 categories of diets, scoring them from 31 to 100 based on their alignment with the guidance, with some diets receiving high scores while others need improvement.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalCirculation·DateApr 27, 2023

New, comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis illustrate the need for nuance in public health guidance related to consumption of sugars

A comprehensive review of 169 clinical trials found that the effect of fructose-containing sugars on adiposity varies among food sources and energy control. High doses of certain sources, like SSBs, lead to increased body weight, while others, such as fruit and honey, show moderate beneficial effects when consumed in moderation.

SourceAmerican Society for Nutrition·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·TypeSystematic review·DateApr 26, 2023

Sugar-sweetened beverages linked with increased risk of premature death for people with type 2 diabetes

A new study found that high consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages was associated with an elevated risk of premature death and incidence of cardiovascular disease among people with type 2 diabetes. Drinking healthier beverages like coffee, tea, and plain water was linked to lower risk of dying prematurely.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalThe BMJ·TypeObservational study·DateApr 19, 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.

Good news! Only a modest reduction in added sugars consumption is needed to achieve the Healthy People 2030 target

A new study published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine found that reducing added sugars consumption by an average of 14 to 57 calories per day is sufficient to meet the Healthy People 2030 target. This represents just less than half of a 12-ounce soft drink, and requires minimal changes to dietary habits.

SourceElsevier·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 13, 2023

Where did the first sugars come from?

Origin-of-life chemists suggest glyoxylate reaction scenario could have yielded simple sugars without drawbacks of formaldehyde-based reactions. The researchers aim to demonstrate this hypothesis in the laboratory and explore potential commercial applications.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalChem·DateApr 13, 2023

Sugar molecule in blood can predict Alzheimer’s disease

Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have discovered that a type of sugar molecule in blood is associated with the level of tau protein, a critical factor in severe dementia. Measuring blood glycan levels can predict Alzheimer's disease risk to 80% accuracy, almost a decade before symptoms appear.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalAlzheimer s & Dementia·DateApr 12, 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.

Limit added sugar to six teaspoons a day to improve health, urge experts

A comprehensive evidence review found significant harmful associations between sugar consumption and 45 outcomes, including diabetes, depression, obesity, and heart disease. Experts recommend reducing added sugar intake to six teaspoons a day and limiting sugar-sweetened drinks.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·TypeSystematic review·DateApr 5, 2023

Researchers discover two subtypes of insulin-producing cells

Two new subtypes of insulin-producing beta cells, ß <sub> HI </sub> and ß <sub> LO </sub>, have been identified with distinct characteristics. The study suggests epigenetic dosage as a driving force behind the decision of ß cells to become these subtypes, offering a new target for potential diabetes treatments.

SourceVan Andel Research Institute·JournalCell Metabolism·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 28, 2023

Tax on sugary drinks helps health during pregnancy

A new study by UC San Francisco found that taxes on sugary drinks lower the risk of gestational diabetes, unhealthy weight gain, and small-for-gestational-age babies. The study analyzed over 5 million pregnant women and found a significant reduction in these health risks.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateMar 28, 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.

Sweets change our brain

A study by Max-Planck-Gesellschaft researchers found that consuming small amounts of high-fat and high-sugar foods regularly rewires the brain, leading to a preference for these types of food.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalCell Metabolism·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 22, 2023

Novel drug makes mice skinny even on sugary, fatty diet

Researchers developed a small-molecule drug that limits magnesium transport into cellular power plants, resulting in skinny, healthy mice. The findings hold significant implications for preventing cardiometabolic diseases like heart attack and stroke, as well as reducing liver cancer risk.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio·JournalCell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 21, 2023

Singapore’s Nutri-Grade labelling influences consumers to make healthier choices, Duke-NUS trial reveals

A trial by researchers at Duke-NUS Medical School found that the Nutri-Grade system encourages consumers to purchase beverages with lower sugar content, especially those with chronic conditions. The study showed a significant increase in purchases of A-rated drinks with 1.5g less sugar per serving.

SourceDuke-NUS Medical School·JournalInternational Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity·DateMar 21, 2023

Losing key type of pancreatic cell may contribute to diabetes

A new study by Weill Cornell Medicine investigators found four distinct types of beta cells in the pancreas, with cluster 1 beta cells producing more insulin than others and appearing better able to metabolize sugar. The loss of these high-functioning beta cells may contribute to type 2 diabetes development.

SourceWeill Cornell Medicine·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateMar 16, 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.