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Laser light, a dye and a nonsurgical implant could help overcome obesity

Researchers have developed a new implant that reduces ghrelin levels and body weight gain by half when exposed to laser light, offering a minimally invasive treatment option for obese patients. The implant uses a laser-activated dye to kill cells producing the 'hunger hormone'.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateApr 6, 2022
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.

What’s the skinny on those pandemic pounds?

A large US survey found that adults gained weight during the COVID-19 pandemic due to changes in behavior such as increased snacking and alcohol intake. The analysis of more than 3.5 million adults also showed a 3% increase in obesity prevalence, with significant changes in exercise participation, sleep duration, and cigarette smoking.

SourceElsevier·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 4, 2022

Appetite genes control how children grow

Researchers at the University of Bergen found that genes linked to extreme obesity, appetite, and energy consumption regulate child growth. The study, published in Nature Metabolism, provides insight into mechanisms controlling appetite and energy metabolism early in life, potentially leading to better treatment for obesity.

SourceThe University of Bergen·JournalNature Metabolism·DateMar 21, 2022

Discovery could lead to fewer side effects from a diabetes treatment

A new discovery could lead to modified thiazolidinediones with fewer side effects, benefiting more patients with diabetes. Activating only PPARγ2 eliminates the risk of weight gain while maintaining anti-diabetic effects.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalGenes & Development·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMar 11, 2022

Which promote greater metabolic health, almonds or potatoes? Rigorous, randomized trial weighs in

A rigorous randomized controlled trial found that adding a 300-calorie serving of French fries to one's diet daily for a month did not result in differential weight gain or biomarker changes compared to an isocaloric daily serving of almonds. The study measured body composition, blood sugar, and insulin levels, finding no clinically si...

SourceThe Alliance for Potato Research and Education (APRE)·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMar 7, 2022

Challenges with a novel approach to managing overweight and obesity

A new randomized controlled trial found that making small changes to caloric intake and physical activity levels did not prevent long-term weight gain better than monitoring alone. Researchers observed reduced weight at 3, 6, 12, and 15 months but no significant difference by 24 months.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateMar 7, 2022
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

New work examines importance of early life factors in pubertal development

A nationwide multi-cohort study found that male children who gained weight or grew faster in the first five years of life entered puberty at a younger age. Female children with faster weight gains during infancy and early childhood also started their periods earlier, suggesting sex-specific associations between early growth and puberta...

SourceHarvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateFeb 23, 2022

Middle-aged men see weight gain as inevitable

A new study reveals that middle-aged men perceive weight gain as an inevitable consequence of family and career commitments. The research found that these men experience low self-worth and despondency, despite awareness of health risks, due to a lack of education on nutrition and lifestyle factors.

SourceAnglia Ruskin University·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 16, 2022

Weight gain in pregnancy may be linked to later growth patterns in daughters

A new study from the University of Texas at Austin found that rapid weight gain in pregnant women during the first and final months may lead to higher body mass index measurements, larger waist circumferences, and higher body fat percentages in their daughters by age 14. Researchers connected patterns of weight change in pregnancy to p...

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalObesity·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 9, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Connection to racial identity may boost body image in Black youth

A new Penn State study found that Black youth with high BMIs reported fewer weight concerns when they had a strong sense of racial identity. Fathers also played a role in shaping their daughters' body image, particularly when involved in teaching about Black culture. The findings suggest that services promoting youth racial identity an...

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Research on Adolescence·TypeObservational study·DateJan 25, 2022

Chewing to stay slim: how to savor your food better and dodge weight gain, too!

A recent study published in Scientific Reports found that chewing food thoroughly increases energy expenditure through diet-induced thermogenesis (DIT), which helps prevent obesity. The study involved participants who chewed liquid food for varying durations, revealing that prolonged chewing and tasting increased DIT, gas exchange, pro...

SourceWaseda University·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 12, 2022

Association of gestational weight gain with infant illness, death

A large US-based study found that optimal gestational weight gain ranges associated with lower infant illness and death risks exist for different maternal weight categories. The study used birth data to identify these ranges and provide insights into the relationship between maternal weight gain and infant health outcomes.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateDec 30, 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.

One in five future thyroid cancers linked to excess weight

A study by University of New South Wales has found that one in five future thyroid cancers in Australia is attributable to current levels of overweight and obesity. The prevalence of obesity has doubled in the last two decades, with 75% of Australian men and 60% of women being overweight or obese.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalInternational Journal of Cancer·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 8, 2021

Sweet! How glycogen is linked to heat generation in fat cells

A recent study by the University of California - San Diego team discovered that glycogen regulates and promotes fat metabolism, helping to balance energy intake and expenditure. The research suggests modulating glycogen metabolism in fat cells could provide new approaches for weight loss and improved metabolic health.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature·DateOct 27, 2021

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

Researchers simulate an acute decline in exercise, as many experienced during COVID19 lockdowns, to study its metabolic consequences

A team of researchers simulated the loss of physical activity during COVID19 lockdowns to study its effects on metabolism. They found that mice's energy sources shifted based on their diet composition after a sharp decline in exercise, leading to weight gain.

SourceBen-Gurion University of the Negev·JournalPhysiological Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 6, 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.

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

Study identifies mechanism by which nicotine withdrawal increases junk food consumption

A University of Minnesota Medical School study found that nicotine withdrawal can lead to overeating high-calorie foods, possibly linked to the brain's opioid system. This connection may hinder smoking cessation and increase the risk of relapse, emphasizing the need for better understanding the factors driving cravings for unhealthy food.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota Medical School·JournalDrug and Alcohol Dependence·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 23, 2021

Is your child a fussy eater?

A systematic review of 80 health industry studies found that pressuring children to eat negatively influences fussy eating, while a more relaxed parenting style and family meals reduce the likelihood. Researchers recommend positive parenting and involving kids in meal preparation to help them overcome picky eating habits.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·TypeSystematic review·DateSep 20, 2021

Clinicians say there is limited clinical guidance for how to help people lose weight after pregnancy

A new study reveals that few recommendations exist for postpartum weight loss, with a focus on diet and exercise. Researchers emphasize the importance of supporting individuals with excessive weight gain or retention during pregnancy and the postpartum period to prevent obesity-related chronic diseases.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·TypeLiterature review·DateSep 14, 2021
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.

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

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

Young children gained weight during the pandemic

A Kaiser Permanente study of nearly 200,000 children found that those aged 5-11 gained more weight during the pandemic than teenagers. The result was a significant increase in overweight and obese children, highlighting the need for health-focused interventions to prevent long-term consequences.

SourceKaiser Permanente·JournalJAMA·DateAug 27, 2021

Probiotics prove effective in treating antibiotics-induced dysbiosis in mice

A study by Kazan Federal University found that probiotics administered to antibiotic-treated mice improved behavior, reduced oxidative stress, and restored gut microbiota diversity. The researchers demonstrated a strong link between the gut microbiota and brain functioning, with potential therapeutic benefits for treating dysbiosis-rel...

SourceKazan Federal University·JournalLife·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateAug 26, 2021
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Maternal obesity linked to higher risk of colorectal cancer in adult offspring

Research at UTHealth School of Public Health in Houston found that infants born to obese mothers have a heightened risk of developing colorectal cancer later in life. The study also linked timing and magnitude of maternal weight gain during pregnancy, as well as birth weight, to increased risk of the disease.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at Houston·JournalGut·DateAug 26, 2021

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

Association of maternal prenatal weight, brain development of offspring

Higher maternal weight during pregnancy may be associated with poorer offspring brain development into adolescence. The observational study found a positive correlation between maternal weight and brain development in offspring, suggesting potential long-term effects on cognitive function.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateAug 19, 2021

Dieting: Villain or scapegoat?

Research suggests that dieting is a consequence of an unhealthy food environment, rather than the cause of weight loss problems. Experts recommend refocusing concerns on changing the food environment to curb dieting and related issues.

SourceDrexel University·JournalPhysiology & Behavior·DateAug 17, 2021

Metabolism changes with age, just not when you might think

A new study reveals that metabolism peaks in infancy, followed by a gradual decline until age 60, with the biggest slowdown after 90. The research suggests that tissue metabolism is changing over time, contradicting previous assumptions about lifestyle and body composition.

SourceDuke University·JournalScience·TypeMeta-analysis·DateAug 12, 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.

Starting the day off with chocolate could have unexpected benefits

Researchers discovered that consuming concentrated chocolate in the morning can aid in burning fat and decreasing blood sugar levels. The study also found that eating chocolate at different times of day can influence hunger, appetite, microbiota composition, sleep, and metabolism.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateJun 24, 2021

Sugar overload may be a recipe for long-term problems

A new study suggests that consuming high amounts of sugar from childhood can lead to significant weight gain, persistent hyperactivity, and learning impairments. Reducing sugar intake has been shown to prevent these issues, supporting World Health Organization recommendations.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalFrontiers in Neuroscience·DateJun 7, 2021

App helps pregnant women to a healthy lifestyle

The HealthyMoms app has been shown to improve a pregnant woman's diet and physical activity, leading to healthier weight gain. Women with overweight or obesity who used the app gained an average of 1.7 kg less weight than those in the control group.

SourceLinköping University·JournalJMIR mhealth and uhealth·DateJun 2, 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.

Built environments don't play expected role in weight gain

A recent study by the University of Washington found that living in a more densely populated neighborhood is associated with lower body weight and less obesity. However, proximity to fast-food restaurants or supermarkets did not have a significant impact on weight gain.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalInternational Journal of Obesity·DateMay 24, 2021

Scientists identify source of weight gain from antipsychotics

Researchers discovered that a gene called melanocortin 4 (Mc4r) plays a key role in weight gain associated with risperidone. A new drug approved for genetic obesity treatment, when combined with risperidone, prevents weight gain while maintaining therapeutic effect.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateMay 13, 2021

A simple exercise goal protects against unhealthy weight gain

Research shows that physically active individuals who reach 100 PAI points per week have a lower risk of excessive weight gain. The study, which tracked over 85,000 healthy Norwegians for 20 years, found that maintaining at least 100 PAI points per week can help prevent unhealthy weight gain.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalThe Lancet Regional Health - Europe·DateApr 28, 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.

Is a calorie a calorie? Not always, when it comes to almonds

Researchers found that almonds contain approximately 20% unabsorbed calories after digestion, which can result in reduced energy absorption and potential weight loss. This finding could alleviate concerns about nuts contributing to weight gain, allowing for healthier snacking options.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalMayo Clinic Proceedings·DateApr 12, 2021

Positive self-image and self-esteem protects against weight gain in adolescence

A new study from the University of Bergen found that positive self-image and self-esteem protect against weight gain in adolescence. The study, which followed 1225 Norwegian adolescents over two years, revealed that body dissatisfaction and a desire to change one's body can impair self-rated health and self-esteem.

SourceThe University of Bergen·JournalBMC Public Health·DateMar 24, 2021

Sleep disturbances may contribute to weight gain in menopause

Research suggests that sleep disturbances during menopause may contribute to changes in the body that increase the risk of weight gain and related diseases. The study found that poor sleep reduced fat utilization, increasing the likelihood of fat storage and subsequent weight gain.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·DateMar 20, 2021

HIV research: Increased weight gain with TAF medication

A large multicenter cohort study found that individuals switching to TAF therapy gained significantly more weight (1.7 kg) compared to those staying on TDF therapy (0.7 kg). The study also noted a negative development in lipid metabolism with an overall increase in blood lipid levels.

SourceInselspital, Bern University Hospital·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateMar 15, 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.

Early PDA closure may improve outcomes in preterm infants

The study found that early PDA closure in extremely low birth weight infants with moderate to large PDA improved respiratory status, facilitated faster weaning off supplemental oxygen and ventilator support, and promoted normal weight gain. Delayed PDA closure and pulmonary hypertension were associated with worse respiratory outcomes.

SourceLe Bonheur Children's Hospital·DateFeb 26, 2021

Store fat or burn it? Targeting a single protein flips the switch

A recent study suggests that targeting a specific protein called eIF4E can reduce weight gain in mice fed a high-fat diet. The researchers found that these mice stored less fat and had improved liver health compared to their counterparts. Additionally, the modified mice showed enhanced lipid metabolism, allowing them to burn more fat.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalNature Metabolism·DateFeb 18, 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.

Anorexia patients tolerate rapid weight gain with meal-based behavioral support

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine found that a majority of anorexia patients tolerated and met their weight gain goals on a rapid weight gain plan, with 70% reaching a healthy BMI. The study suggests that meal-based nutritional approaches can be well-tolerated and achieve weight restoration in a majority of patients.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalInternational Journal of Eating Disorders·DateDec 3, 2020

Drug attenuates weight gain in animals fed a high-fat diet

A new drug, originally developed to treat bacterial infections, has shown the capacity to increase cell energy expenditure and reduce weight gain in mice fed a high-fat diet. The treatment works by reprogramming white adipose tissue cells to behave like brown adipose tissue, burning calories to generate heat.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·DateDec 2, 2020
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.

Reward-related brain region predicts childhood weight gain

A study using MRI found a positive association between nucleus accumbens cellular density and waist circumference in childhood. Higher cellular density predicted greater increases in waist circumference over time, linking unhealthy eating to obesity.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 12, 2020

Weight gainers more likely to underestimate their true body size

A new study found that people with obesity who gain weight tend to perceive their body size as smaller than it actually is. Despite improvements in accuracy over time for those maintaining a stable weight, the degree of body image distortion remained significant in weight gainers.

SourceEuropean Association for the Study of Obesity·DateSep 3, 2020
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.