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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

Starch discovery reaps benefits for brewing, baking and milling industries

Research has clarified how starch granules form in wheat seeds, unlocking diverse potential benefits for various industries. The discovery of the enzyme PHS1 crucial for B-type granule initiation offers opportunities to create variations in starch for different food and industrial applications.

SourceJohn Innes Centre·JournalThe Plant Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 25, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

How sensory neurons impact the gut

A new study reveals that the receptor PIEZO2 in sensory neurons plays a crucial role in controlling gut motility and transit time. This finding has significant implications for understanding gastrointestinal disorders and developing therapeutic applications.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalCell·DateAug 3, 2023

Doctors warn of looming threat to America’s surgical research

A team of UVA Health experts warns that surgeon-scientists are struggling to obtain research funding, which could lead to a decline in innovations for patients. The researchers found that internal medicine trainees are six times more likely to secure R01 grants and career development awards.

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·DateJul 13, 2023

Light-activated molecular machines get cells ‘talking’

Rice University scientists use light-activated molecular machines to trigger intercellular calcium signals, revealing a powerful new strategy for controlling cellular activity. The technology could lead to improved treatments for people with heart problems, digestive issues, and more.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Nanotechnology·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 10, 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.

Unraveling the connections between the brain and gut

MIT engineers have developed a new technology to probe the connections between the brain and gut, using fibers embedded with sensors and light sources. The researchers demonstrated that they can control neural circuits connecting the gut and brain in mice, inducing feelings of fullness or reward-seeking behavior.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateJun 22, 2023

Fish farms can become biogas producers

A University of Gothenburg study reveals that fish farm waste can be converted into biogas, reducing waste and generating nutrients for plants. The biogas can power the aquaponic farm, making it a sustainable energy source.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalAquacultural Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 20, 2023

Chemical found in common sweetener damages DNA

A new study by North Carolina State University researchers finds that sucralose-6-acetate, a chemical formed when we digest sucralose, is genotoxic and breaks up DNA. The chemical is also present in trace amounts in the sweetener itself, posing potential health risks.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalJournal of Toxicology and Environmental Health Part B·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 31, 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.

Microplastics are harming gut health

A study by McGill University found that microplastic pollution alters the gut microbiomes of seabirds, increasing pathogens and antibiotic-resistant microbes. The research warns humans to be wary of microplastics in their environment and food, as they can also impact human health.

SourceMcGill University·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 24, 2023

Magnetic stimulation may improve the pain, nausea of diabetic gastroparesis

Researchers have developed a non-invasive magnetic stimulation therapy called ThorS-MagNT that targets hyperactive nerves in the midback, potentially reducing debilitating symptoms of diabetic gastroparesis. In a pilot study, patients experienced significant improvements in nausea and vomiting, allowing them to enjoy meals again.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·DateMay 16, 2023

Scientists discover microbes in the Alps and Arctic that can digest plastic at low temperatures

Researchers have identified microorganisms in the Alpine and Arctic regions capable of degrading biodegradable plastics at 15°C, including polyethylene, polyester-polyurethane, and polybutylene adipate terephthalate. The discovery could reduce costs and environmental burden associated with enzymatic recycling processes.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Microbiology·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 10, 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.

Capsule captures first look inside digestion in healthy people

A team of researchers used a capsule to collect data on digestion and microorganisms in the upper intestine, revealing nearly 2,000 metabolites and associations between diet and metabolite levels. The study provides new insights into human gut metabolism and microbiome interactions.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 10, 2023

Fecal beads to act at the core of the intestinal microbiota

A UNIGE team has developed small beads encapsulating fecal bacteria for treating a serious intestinal infection. The technology overcomes obstacles in current treatments, allowing for easier and more comfortable administration.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalInternational Journal of Pharmaceutics·TypeNews article·DateMay 9, 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.

How diet quality affects the gut microbiota to promote health

A new study from the University of Illinois found that following the Dietary Guidelines for Americans promotes a diverse gut microbiota composition. The researchers analyzed data from the American Gut Project and discovered that individuals with higher diet quality had a greater abundance of beneficial bacteria involved in fiber metabo...

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Nutrition·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 4, 2023

Ingestible “electroceutical” capsule stimulates hunger-regulating hormone

Researchers at MIT developed an ingestible capsule that delivers electrical stimulation to the stomach, boosting ghrelin production and potentially alleviating nausea and appetite loss. The device uses a grooved surface to create a drier environment for electrodes to contact stomach tissue.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience Robotics·DateApr 26, 2023

Study finds significant variation in anatomy of human guts

A new study has discovered significant variation in the anatomy of the human digestive system, with pronounced differences found between healthy individuals. This finding has implications for understanding the role of digestive tract anatomy in affecting human health and providing potential insights into medical diagnoses.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalPeerJ·TypeObservational study·DateApr 24, 2023
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.

Technology to protect bioactive compounds from food during digestion

Researchers have developed a novel technology for nanoencapsulation of bioactive compounds, specifically anthocyanin, using pectin and lysozyme. The methodology ensures slow release of the compound, allowing it to survive gut bacteria and digestive enzymes.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalInternational Journal of Biological Macromolecules·DateMar 28, 2023

COVID-19 infections raise risk of long-term gastrointestinal problems

Researchers found that COVID-19 infections are linked to an increased risk of developing liver problems, acute pancreatitis, and other GI disorders. The study analyzed over 14 million medical records and estimated that SARS-CoV-2 infections have contributed to over 6 million new cases of GI disorders in the US.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalNature Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 7, 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.

Tiny worm plays a big role in learning whether Parkinson’s really starts in the gut

A tiny worm called C. elegans is enabling scientists to explore the emerging theory that Parkinson’s disease starts in the gut, where a sticky protein causes neurons to die. The worms have a digestive tract and neurotransmitters similar to humans, making them a great model for studying cognitive problems associated with Parkinson's.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·DateFeb 28, 2023

Vibrating capsule doubles the ability for constipation sufferers to poop without drugs

A vibrating capsule designed to stimulate the colon has been shown to double the number of complete spontaneous bowel movements in adults with debilitating chronic constipation. The device, which is not a drug and works directly in the colon, showed significant improvement in symptoms such as straining and stool consistency.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalGastroenterology·DateFeb 21, 2023

Food coloring nanoparticles may affect human gut

Researchers at Cornell University have discovered that metal oxide nanoparticles commonly used as food coloring and anti-caking agents can damage parts of the human intestine. The study, led by Elad Tako, found negative effects on key digestive proteins in chickens injected with the nanoparticles.

SourceCornell University·JournalAntioxidants·DateFeb 15, 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.

UCalgary researchers develop new imaging technique for clearer picture of “brain in the gut”

Researchers have designed a novel imaging and experimental preparation system to record the activity of the enteric nervous system in mice, providing new insights into the complex processes of digestion and waste elimination. The findings suggest that physical distention of the gut controls how the entire neural network is coordinated.

SourceUniversity of Calgary·JournalThe Journal of Physiology·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 15, 2023

Ingestible sensor could help doctors pinpoint GI difficulties

Engineers at MIT and Caltech have developed an ingestible sensor that can track its location as it moves through the digestive tract, revealing where slowdowns in digestion may occur. The sensor uses a magnetic field produced by an electromagnetic coil outside the body to calculate its position.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Electronics·DateFeb 13, 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.

Some guts are better than others at harvesting energy

Research found that approximately 40% of Danish population has gut microbes that extract more energy from food, leading to a higher risk of obesity. This composition of gut microbes is also associated with faster digestion and greater nutrient extraction.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalMicrobiome·DateDec 25, 2022

Oat biscuit best for busy NHS staff tea breaks, finds study

A recent study by BMJ Group found that oat biscuits are the best option for healthcare workers during tea breaks. The research ranked biscuit varieties based on nutritional content, crunchiness, and durability after dunking, with oat biscuits emerging as the top choice.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·TypeNews article·DateDec 19, 2022

Antiviral defense regulates intestinal function and overall gut health

Researchers discovered that RNA interference, a viral defence mechanism, also prevents overproduction of body's own proteins in intestinal cells, promoting ER quality control. This interplay is crucial for maintaining protein balance and overall intestinal health.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalNature Cell Biology·TypeObservational study·DateDec 7, 2022

Study links genetic variant to digestive disturbances in patients with Chagas disease

Researchers identified a genetic variant linked to digestive disturbances in patients with Chagas megaesophagus, a disorder characterized by esophageal dilation and loss of motility. The study suggests that increased interferon-gamma production leads to mitochondrial dysfunction, contributing to the development of the disease.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalBiomedicines·DateDec 5, 2022
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.

Why steamed hay can lead to protein deficiency in horses

Steaming hay kills harmful microorganisms, but damages proteins making them less digestible for horses. This can lead to impaired muscle development and nutrient deficiencies, affecting growth and coat health. Horses can be enriched with protein-rich feedstuffs to mitigate this risk.

SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·JournalAnimals·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 28, 2022

Human evolution wasn’t just the sheet music, but how it was played

A team of Duke researchers identified a group of human DNA sequences regulating genes that seem to have evolved rapidly after our family line split from that of the chimpanzees. These changes were fine-tuned over time and appear in brain development, digestion and immunity.

SourceDuke University·JournalCell·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 23, 2022

Believe it or ‘nut’, almonds can help you cut calories

A new study from the University of South Australia found that eating 30-50 grams of almonds can help people cut back on kilojoules consumed each day. This leads to a reduced energy intake by 300 kilojoules, mostly coming from junk food.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalEuropean Journal of Nutrition·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 20, 2022

Dig in: Sand serves up a possible cure for obesity

Researchers from University of South Australia found that porous silica can prevent fats and carbohydrates from being adsorbed in the body. Engineered particles of purified sand are designed to soak up digestive enzymes, fats, and sugars within the gastrointestinal tract.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalPharmaceutics·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 23, 2022
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.

Snacking on almonds boosts gut health

Researchers at King's College London found that eating almonds increases butyrate production, promoting gut health and potentially alleviating constipation. The study also showed improved nutrient intake and a positive impact on the gut microbiome.

SourceKing's College London·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateOct 20, 2022

Alterations to gut mucous may trigger ulcerative colitis

Scientists discover that increased levels of enzyme alpha 1-6 fucosyltransferase (FUT8) in the colon may lead to ulcerative colitis by altering mucous layer properties, making it more permeable and sticky. Researchers believe this allows bacteria to reach epithelial cells, triggering inflammation.

SourceCenter for Genomic Regulation·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 18, 2022

Tracking down satiety mechanisms in the stomach

Researchers at Leibniz-Institut für Lebensmittel-Systembiologie an der TU München discovered that casein digestion produces peptides with a satiating effect, stimulating gastric acid secretion via bitter receptors. This mechanism may help regulate food intake and maintain a healthy body weight.

SourceLeibniz-Institut für Lebensmittel-Systembiologie an der TU München·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 11, 2022
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.

Microbial enzymes are the key to pectin digestion in leaf beetles

The study found that microbial enzymes are essential for the digestion of pectin in leaf beetles, allowing them to access nutrient-rich plant cells. The researchers also discovered that leaf beetle species acquire these enzymes through horizontal gene transfer from other microbes.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 7, 2022

More than a gut feeling

Research reveals that gut flow velocity directly affects nutrient absorption and bacterial levels, with optimal conditions for each. The study suggests the gut adjusts its flow speed to regulate these processes in response to meal intake or fasting, potentially preventing diseases such as chronic fatigue and poor nutrient absorption.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Dynamics and Self-Organization·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateSep 26, 2022
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 processing technique could make potatoes healthier

A new processing technique could make potatoes healthier by slowing starch digestion and reducing blood sugar spikes. The approach blocks certain digestive enzymes from reaching potato starch as quickly, leading to a more controlled release of dietary glucose.

SourceAmerican Society for Nutrition·DateJun 14, 2022

Issue cover image a new study points to evolutionary causes and ecological consequences of the absence of a digestive enzyme in birds

A new study reveals that birds lost the ability to digest trehalose, a non-reducing disaccharide found in common food sources, likely due to evolutionary divergence from their common ancestor. This loss has significant ecological implications, including reduced access to energy-rich foods and potential adaptations by other species.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalPhysiological and Biochemical Zoology·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 3, 2022
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.

Double agents: How stomach stem cells change allegiance upon injury

A molecular switch, p57, enables stomach stem cells to change allegiance from normal digestion to injury response, potentially leading to new treatments for gastric pathologies. The study's findings suggest that p57 is a key regulator of reserve stem cell state in gastric chief cells.

SourceIMBA- Institute of Molecular Biotechnology of the Austrian Academy of Sciences·JournalCell Stem Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 5, 2022

Eating prunes may help protect against bone loss in older women

Prunes have been found to help prevent or delay bone loss in postmenopausal women by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress. This is due to their potential to alter the gut microbiome, which can lead to lower levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines and markers of oxidative damage.

SourcePenn State·JournalAdvances in Nutrition·TypeMeta-analysis·DateFeb 9, 2022
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.

New review suggests coffee consumption can stimulate digestion

A new review suggests that moderate coffee consumption can stimulate digestive processes and help movement through the colon. The study also found a possible association between coffee consumption and reduced risk of gallstones and certain liver diseases. However, further research is needed to confirm these findings.

SourceKaizo·JournalNutrients·TypeLiterature review·DateJan 18, 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

Healthier tapioca starch is on the way

Researchers at RIKEN have developed a healthier form of tapioca starch by suppressing multiple genes that increase its resistance to digestion. The resulting starch is composed of longer chains with fewer branches, making it harder to digest and potentially improving intestinal function and blood sugar control.

SourceRIKEN·JournalPlant Molecular Biology·DateDec 16, 2021
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.

High-oil corn packs punch for pigs

Research from the University of Illinois found that high-oil corn has greater amino acid and energy digestibility than conventional corn, with increased phosphorus and fiber content. This could save producers money by reducing supplement needs.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalAnimal Feed Science and Technology·DateOct 12, 2021