Limiting Childhood Sugar Can Reduce Diabetes and Hypertension
A study has revealed that controlling sugar intake in infancy can significantly reduce the risk of chronic illnesses, such as diabetes and high blood pressure, later in life. Researchers analysing historical data from World War II’s sugar rationing in the United Kingdom found that limited sugar consumption in childhood led to healthier adult outcomes, emphasising the importance of diet in the early stages of life.
Economist Dr Tadeja Gracner from the University of Southern California led the research, published in Science.org. As per the report, the team explored the long-term effects of rationed sugar intake by reviewing health records of over 60,000 UK Biobank participants born from 1951 to 1956. The team then reportedly divided the participants into two groups, one experienced sugar rationing in early childhood, while the other grew up after the restrictions were lifted in 1953. Findings showed that those who had limited sugar intake as children were less likely to develop type 2 diabetes or hypertension later in life. The risk of diabetes was reduced by 38 percent, while hypertension risk dropped by 21 percent for those who grew up during sugar rationing, according to Science News.
First 1,000 Days Are Critical for Long-Term Health
Sue-Ellen Anderson-Haynes, a registered dietitian and spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, told the publication that the first 1,000 days of life – starting from conception – play a crucial role in long-term health outcomes. Nutrient intake during this period can shape the development of a child’s body and brain. “The food a mother consumes directly influences fetal development,” she said in a statement.
The Challenge of Avoiding Added Sugars
Limiting sugar in children’s diets can be challenging, given the prevalence of added sugars in processed foods. The study notes that educating parents about nutritional choices, along with clearer food labelling, could empower families to make healthier choices. Moreover, the research further laid emphasises that occasional sugar treats aren’t harmful, but reducing regular sugar intake from an early age could be a simple way to promote better health over a lifetime.
For the latest tech news and reviews, follow Gadgets 360 on X, Facebook, WhatsApp, Threads and Google News. For the latest videos on gadgets and tech, subscribe to our YouTube channel. If you want to know everything about top influencers, follow our in-house Who’sThat360 on Instagram and YouTube.
Efforts to improve data centre efficiency have led mathematicians at Virginia Tech to develop a novel method of data storage and retrieval. According to reports, the researchers have utilised algebraic geometry to tackle issues arising from high energy consumption in data centres, which is impacting global climate goals. This breakthrough was detailed in IEEE BITS, where the team presented a fresh approach to managing the growing volume of data generated by individuals and corporations.
Innovative Use of Algebraic Structures
As per a report by Phys.org, tt was explained by Gretchen Matthews, professor of mathematics at Virginia Tech and director of the Southwest Virginia node of the Commonwealth Cyber Initiative, that conventional methods of data replication often result in duplicating vast quantities of information. As reported, Matthews noted that smarter alternatives could significantly reduce such redundancy. Hiram Lopez, assistant professor of mathematics, added that the new method employs algebraic structures to fragment data and distribute it across servers positioned in close proximity. This ensures that, in the event of server failure, the missing data can be recovered through neighbouring servers without extensive energy use.
Mathematics Behind the Solution
The use of special polynomials for data storage was highlighted as a significant advancement. Although polynomials have been linked to data storage since the 1960s, recent developments have made them more practical for applications like localised data recovery. Matthews pointed out in IEEE BITS that these structures offer an efficient and reliable way to manage data, addressing issues related to storage and retrieval energy demands.
Addressing Rising Power Consumption
The method arrives at a critical time, as energy demand across the United States continues to rise, driven by the increasing number of data centres. Matthews emphasised in the publication that sustainable improvements in existing systems could play a vital role in managing energy consumption.
For the latest tech news and reviews, follow Gadgets 360 on X, Facebook, WhatsApp, Threads and Google News. For the latest videos on gadgets and tech, subscribe to our YouTube channel. If you want to know everything about top influencers, follow our in-house Who’sThat360 on Instagram and YouTube.
Related Stories
Research published in Physical Review Fluids has revealed the intricate dynamics between raindrops and leaves, shedding light on how plants withstand the force of falling water. The study, titled “Resonance and Damping in Drop-Cantilever Interactions,” highlights the mechanics that protect leaves and suggests innovative applications for agriculture and renewable energy. Using high-speed imaging, researchers observed the interaction between water droplets and a plastic beam, which simulated the structural behavior of leaves.
According to Professor Sunghwan Jung, from Cornell University’s Department of Biological and Environmental Engineering, in a statement, the droplet and beam move in opposing directions upon impact. This counteraction reduces vibration, offering protection to the plant. The findings align with unexplained discrepancies previously noted by scientists, which the team analysed by examining the natural frequency alignment of the beam and droplet.
Insights into Plant Adaptation
Lead author Crystal Fowler, a doctoral candidate in biological engineering, stated that the study confirmed increased damping when the droplet’s natural frequency matched the beam’s. This phenomenon resulted in a faster reduction of vibrations, potentially reducing stress on plant leaves and contributing to their longevity. The findings may also enhance understanding of water flow through forest canopies and plant morphological evolution.
Potential for Renewable Energy Applications
The research team proposed that the principles observed could extend to renewable energy. Professor Jung suggested piezoelectric materials could replace the beam to harness energy from rain-induced vibrations.
This paper marks a significant milestone for Fowler, a member of the Navajo Nation. Reflecting on her experience, she expressed enthusiasm for exploring biological engineering and its broader implications. The study not only provides a glimpse into plant resilience but also opens avenues for innovative technology inspired by natural processes.
For the latest tech news and reviews, follow Gadgets 360 on X, Facebook, WhatsApp, Threads and Google News. For the latest videos on gadgets and tech, subscribe to our YouTube channel. If you want to know everything about top influencers, follow our in-house Who’sThat360 on Instagram and YouTube.
-
Sports2 years ago‘Storybook stuff’: Inside the night Bryce Harper sent the Phillies to the World Series
-
Sports9 months agoStory injured on diving stop, exits Red Sox game
-
Sports1 year agoGame 1 of WS least-watched in recorded history
-
Sports2 years agoMLB Rank 2023: Ranking baseball’s top 100 players
-
Sports3 years ago
Team Europe easily wins 4th straight Laver Cup
-
Environment2 years agoJapan and South Korea have a lot at stake in a free and open South China Sea
-
Environment2 years agoGame-changing Lectric XPedition launched as affordable electric cargo bike
-
Business2 years agoBank of England’s extraordinary response to government policy is almost unthinkable | Ed Conway