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Sugars may have helped fuel the evolution of the human brain: new research

A four-million-year study modelled the glucose needs of humans and their ancestors, finding natural sugars supplied energy for growing brains before cooking made starch-rich foods easier to digest. The research suggests earliest hominins were highly reliant on carbohydrate-rich foods, particularly fruit.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalScience·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 6, 2026

Is your diet driving up your cholesterol? That may depend on your genes

Researchers found that genetic factors play a role in how individuals respond to a low-carb, high-fat diet, with those at higher risk experiencing greater increases in LDL cholesterol. The study suggests personalized dietary guidance based on genetic profiles could help identify who may experience adverse responses to certain diets.

SourceAmerican Society for Nutrition·DateJul 27, 2026

Evolutionary history shapes plant carbon storage strategies worldwide

A global study found that plant evolutionary history plays a stronger role in shaping nonstructural carbohydrate (NSC) storage than current environmental conditions. NSC variability is organ-specific, with leaf NSCs increasing toward higher latitudes and stem and root NSCs declining.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateJul 14, 2026
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Recent study reveals how bacteria capture a rare type of sugar molecule

A recent study identified a new type of β-1,2-glucan-binding protein in bacteria, which binds cyclic β-1,2-glucans and has implications for understanding bacterial interactions with these complex molecules. The discovery opens up new avenues for developing biological pesticides to protect crops from pathogens.

SourceTokyo University of Science·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 29, 2026

New study reveals ‘transition state’ mechanism behind sugar transport into cells

Scientists at Stockholm University and SciLifeLab have uncovered a crucial missing link in how sugar transporters move nutrients into cells. Their study reveals that these transport proteins rely on a previously uncharacterized intermediate state, similar to the 'transition state' in enzyme catalysis.

SourceStockholm University·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 8, 2026

Mediterranean diet may boost mitochondrial signals linked to heart and brain health

Researchers found that people following a Mediterranean-style diet have higher levels of humanin and SHMOOSE, which are linked to protection against cardiovascular disease and neurodegeneration. The study suggests that specific components of the Mediterranean diet may directly influence mitochondrial biology.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalFrontiers in Nutrition·TypeObservational study·DateMar 23, 2026

Dynamic gel helps scientists grow organs more reliably in the lab

Scientists at UCSF created a new material that enables more predictable organoid growth, allowing for better study of disease and potential tissue replacement. The dynamic gel, invented by Zev Gartner, mimics the body's soft environment and enables precise 3D printing of stem cells.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalNature Materials·DateMar 10, 2026
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Sugar comforts newborn babies during painful procedures

A new Cochrane review found that sucrose can effectively reduce pain in newborn babies during painful procedures like venepuncture. The study examined 29 clinical trials involving over 2,700 babies and showed that a small amount of sucrose given before the procedure significantly reduces pain when combined with non-nutritive sucking.

SourceCochrane·JournalCochrane Database of Systematic Reviews·TypeSystematic review·DateMar 3, 2026

How expectations about artificial sweeteners may affect their taste

Researchers found that people's expectations about sugar content alter their enjoyment of beverages containing artificial sweeteners. By manipulating participants' expectations, the study shows how the brain's reward system responds to sweet flavors, with increased activation in the dopaminergic midbrain.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·JournalJNeurosci·DateMar 2, 2026

Healthy versions of low-carb and low-fat diets linked to better cardiovascular and metabolic health

A new study found that versions of both diet patterns emphasizing healthy foods are associated with a lower risk of coronary heart disease. The study suggests that focusing on overall diet quality may offer flexibility for individuals to choose eating patterns that align with their preferences while still supporting heart health.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateFeb 11, 2026

Low-carb and low-fat diets associated with lower heart disease risk if rich in high-quality, plant-based foods, low in animal products

A new study finds that the quality of macronutrients matters more than their quantity for heart health, with diets rich in whole grains, fruits, and vegetables associated with a lower risk of coronary heart disease. The study also found improved cardiovascular biomarkers in healthy versions of low-carb and low-fat diets.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 11, 2026

Too many saturated fats may be more harmful than too many refined carbohydrates

A recent study published in the Journal of Nutrition found that higher fat diets were more harmful than high-carbohydrate diets, even when fiber supplementation was added. Mice on high-fat and ketogenic diets experienced weight gain, liver damage, and other negative health effects, while those on a high-carbohydrate diet did not.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Nutrition·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 10, 2026
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Scientists boost cell "powerhouses" to burn more calories

Researchers develop experimental drugs that encourage mitochondria in cells to work harder and burn more calories. The findings offer a framework for designing safe and effective weight-loss treatments with potential benefits for metabolic health and neurodegenerative diseases.

SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·JournalChemical Science·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 24, 2025

Seal milk more refined than breast milk

Researchers at the University of Gothenburg discovered that grey seal milk contains approximately 33% more sugar molecules than breast milk, including unique and powerful compounds against disease-causing bacteria. These findings could lead to improved infant formula and potential applications in human health.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalNature Communications·TypeContent analysis·DateNov 25, 2025

Fat or carbs? The neural mechanism underlying food choices revealed

Research found that high-fat and high-carbohydrate diets are controlled by separate neural pathways in the brain. Neuropeptide Y neurons activate AMPK-regulated corticotropin-releasing hormone neurons to promote high-carb intake, while inhibiting melanocortin 4 receptor neurons to increase high-fat intake.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalMetabolism·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 22, 2025
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.

Gut check: Glycemic control, not body weight, may sway how we choose what to eat

Researchers found that measures of glycemic control were more closely linked to changes in food preferences than body weight status. Participants who had fasting glucose and HbA1C at the high end of normal were less likely to prefer flavors paired with nutrients, even if they had a healthy BMI.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalPhysiology & Behavior·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 25, 2025
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.

Common sugar substitute shown to impair brain cells, boost stroke risk

A new study suggests that erythritol, commonly used in low-carb products, can alter the function of brain microvascular endothelial cells, leading to increased risk of stroke. The sugar substitute was found to constrict blood vessels and reduce the production of natural clot-busting compounds.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalJournal of Applied Physiology·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 14, 2025

Reusing sunflower seed flour can make bread more protein-packed and rich in antioxidants

Researchers found that adding partially defatted sunflower seed flour (SF) to bread increased its protein and fiber content. SF also boosted antioxidant levels and showed inhibitory activity against digestive enzymes, promoting health benefits. However, high proportions of SF compromised sensory characteristics.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalACS Food Science & Technology·DateJul 7, 2025
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.

"Fluorescence ON in cancer cells only" – Diagnosing cancer with light

A novel fluorescent probe, SLY, has been developed to precisely identify hepatocellular carcinoma tissue using sialylated glycans on the cell surface. The probe outperforms conventional methods by clearly distinguishing tumor margins within liver tissues.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJul 6, 2025

Using blue light to fight drug-resistant infections

University of Oklahoma researchers create bioactive sugars to develop novel antibiotics against multi-drug-resistant infections in cancer patients. By using abundant, inexpensive, iron or metal-free, non-toxic blue light, the team can more easily and rapidly synthesize these important carbohydrates.

SourceUniversity of Oklahoma·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 22, 2025
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.

Carb restriction offers relief from calorie counting, according to study

A new study by the University of Surrey found that restricting carbohydrates can lead to improvements in metabolic markers and better handling of high-fat meals. This approach may be more sustainable than extreme calorie restriction, reducing hunger and increasing energy burning.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalEuropean Journal of Nutrition·DateApr 8, 2025

Eavesdropping on organs: Immune system controls blood sugar levels

Researchers discover immune cells regulate blood sugar levels by stimulating glucagon production in the pancreas. This complex neuroimmune-hormonal circuit reveals a new way the body maintains stable glucose levels, especially during periods of low energy.

SourceChampalimaud Centre for the Unknown·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 16, 2025

Smoke from megafires puts orchard trees at risk

Research at UC Davis found that megafire smoke can lower energy reserves in orchard trees and cut nut production by half, affecting plants for months after the fire. The study suggests that trees are vulnerable to smoke like humans, impacting agricultural and natural environments.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalNature Plants·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 2, 2024

Is a low-carb diet a nutritious diet? Yes, new study shows

A new study in Frontiers in Nutrition found that well-constructed low-carb eating patterns can meet and sometimes exceed nutrient needs. The study assessed three different 7-day low-carb meal plans, which safely exceeded nutrient needs for vitamins A to K, thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, folate, and vitamins B6 and B12.

SourceSimply Good Foods USA, Inc·JournalFrontiers in Nutrition·DateSep 4, 2024
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

Unveiling GlycoRNA: New study proves they do exist

A team led by Harvard's Ryan Flynn has discovered the mechanism of how RNA is chemically linked to N-glycans, proving the existence of glycoRNAs. This finding broadens the scope of known glycoconjugates and opens new avenues for research into glycoRNA biology.

SourceHarvard University·JournalCell·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 21, 2024

Should you eat more dietary fiber? New study says it depends.

A new Cornell University study found that dietary fiber recommendations should be tailored to each person's unique gut microbiome. The research identified two types of resistant starch and found that individuals may respond differently to these foods, with some benefiting from increased fiber intake and others experiencing no effect.

SourceCornell University·JournalGut Microbes·DateJun 25, 2024

Mirror-image chemicals may revolutionize drug delivery

Scientists have created mirror-image cyclodextrins in the laboratory, which could make it easier to formulate and deliver complex medications. These discoveries may also lead to improved treatment of cardiovascular diseases caused by atherosclerotic plaques.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·JournalNature Synthesis·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 18, 2024
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.

Treatment for blindness-causing retinal detachment using viscous seaweed

A team of scientists from Pohang University of Science & Technology developed an artificial vitreous body based on alginate to treat retinal detachment. The hydrogel maintains vision post-surgery and regulates fluid dynamics within the eye, preventing recurrence and air bubble formation.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalBiomaterials·DateMar 25, 2024

Asparagus and orchids are more similar than you think

A team of University of Copenhagen researchers has created a large reference catalogue of plant cell wall compositions from 287 species, representing the entire plant kingdom. The study reveals that carbohydrate composition is more closely related to a plant's family history than its habitat and growth form.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalPlant Cell & Environment·DateJan 30, 2024

Low-carbohydrate diets emphasizing healthy, plant-based sources associated with slower long-term weight gain

A new study led by Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health found that low-carbohydrate diets rich in plant-based proteins and fats, along with healthy carbohydrates, are linked to slower long-term weight gain. Diets high in animal proteins and unhealthy carbohydrates, on the other hand, are associated with greater weight gain.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeObservational study·DateDec 27, 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.

Low-carbohydrate diet macronutrient quality and weight change

A study of 123,000 individuals found that low-carbohydrate diets emphasizing whole grains and plant-based foods are associated with slower weight gain in the long term. Low-carb diets relying on animal-sourced proteins and refined carbohydrates result in faster weight gain.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateDec 27, 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.

Synthesis of a glycan hairpin

A collaborative work led by CIC bioGUNE successfully designed and synthesized a carbohydrate sequence capable of folding into a stable secondary structure. The glycans were generated using an automated synthesizer, which rapidly prepared the scaffold, revealing potential new properties for sugars in medicine, catalysis, or nanotechnology.

SourceCIC bioGUNE·JournalNature Chemistry·DateJul 3, 2023

Striking gold with black, brown and red rice

International researchers have identified nutrient-rich black rice varieties with improved agronomic traits, including shorter stem length and early maturity. These findings provide important resources for crop bioengineers to improve pigmented rice for human health and sustainable agriculture.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNature Food·DateJun 5, 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.

Eat right, live longer: could a moderate protein diet be the coveted elixir of youth?

A recent study published in GeroScience found that a moderate-protein diet (25% and 35%) improved metabolic health in both young and middle-aged mice. The researchers also observed reduced blood glucose concentrations and lipid levels in liver and plasma. A balanced diet with moderate protein intake may promote metabolic health in huma...

SourceWaseda University·JournalGeroScience·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 31, 2023

Breath test can monitor metabolism at home - study

Researchers at Anglia Ruskin University found that a portable breath test can detect changes in metabolism in response to diet. The study used the Lumen device to monitor metabolic fuel use at home and showed that it could detect acute changes in carbohydrate use, but was not sensitive on a day-to-day basis.

SourceAnglia Ruskin University·JournalJournal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition·DateApr 26, 2023

Researchers cultivate microalgae for biofuel production

The study analyzed the growth and productivity of Botryococcus terribilis under different cultivation systems. Stress increased the production of lipids and hydrocarbons by 49% and 29%, respectively, while proteins decreased. The microalgae's metabolites have potential applications in biofuel synthesis, cosmetics, and food.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalBiomass Conversion and Biorefinery·DateApr 19, 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.

Join us at #DiscoverBMB 2023 for the latest molecular life sciences research

The American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology annual meeting will explore cutting-edge approaches in biochemistry and molecular biology. Leading experts will discuss the latest discoveries and advancements in fields such as AI, RNA regulation, and carbohydrates in health and disease.

SourceAmerican Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·DateMar 7, 2023
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.

Bloating common issue among Americans, study reports

A new study published in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology found that nearly 1 in 7 Americans experience bloating on a weekly basis. Women were more than twice as likely as men to report feeling bloated, and lifestyle changes, such as exercise and dietary modifications, can help manage symptoms.

SourceCedars-Sinai Medical Center·JournalClinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology·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

Effects of low-carbohydrate dietary intervention on A1C

A 6-month randomized clinical trial found that a low-carbohydrate diet intervention resulted in larger reductions in hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) levels compared to usual diet among adults with elevated untreated HbA1c. The study suggests that this dietary approach may be useful for preventing and treating type 2 diabetes.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateOct 26, 2022

At risk for diabetes? Cut the carbs, says new study

Researchers at Tulane University have discovered that following a low-carbohydrate diet can lead to reduced hemoglobin A1c levels and improved fasting glucose levels among individuals with unmedicated diabetes and prediabetes. The study suggests that a low-carb diet may be a useful approach for preventing and treating Type 2 diabetes.

SourceTulane University·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateOct 26, 2022
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.

COVID-19: New energy for flagging immune cells

Researchers found that COVID-19 patients produce fewer ketone bodies than influenza patients, leading to reduced immune function. A ketogenic diet or administering ketone bodies revived immune cells in diseased mice, improving virus elimination and lung damage.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalNature·DateJul 28, 2022