This is a bitter pill to swallow. Many cocoa products in the US contain concerning levels of toxic heavy metals, a new study from George Washington University warns. Many cocoa products in the US contain worrisome levels of lead and cadmium, a new study from George Washington University warns. Picture Partners – stock.adobe.com Researchers analyzed 72 cocoa-based foods — including dark chocolate, often praised as a heart-healthy treat — over eight years. They found that 43% of the products contained an amount of lead that tops recommendations, while 35% exceeded cadmium limits. Surprisingly, organic-labeled products had higher levels of lead and cadmium than non-organic products, the researchers said. Contamination can come from soil or occur during manufacturing. A single serving of these cocoa items may not pose significant health risks, but several servings might. Leigh Frame, director of integrative medicine at GW, led the testing of 72 cocoa-based products. The George Washingto...
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New 3D embryo imaging method may improve IVF outcomes: study
About 2.5% of US births — nearly 92,000 — were from IVF in 2022. When IVF patients create several embryos, it can be difficult to determine which ones have the best chance of resulting in birth.
Now, scientists in China say their 3D model of blastocysts — embryos that are around 5 or 6 days old — can provide previously unknown details about cell features that have been associated with successful pregnancies.
“This study shows that the 3D shape of the blastocyst’s inner cell mass, its position, and how the surrounding cells are arranged can be important indicators of success, which we didn’t know before,” said lead study author Dr. Bo Huang, an embryologist at the Reproductive Medicine Center of Tongji Hospital in China.
Researchers say they have developed a 3D imaging model of early-stage embryos that may make it easier for women to get pregnant through in vitro fertilization. Seventyfour – stock.adobe.com
In IVF, eggs are collected from a woman and combined with sperm in a lab to create embryos, which are placed into the uterus.
About 2.5% of US births — nearly 92,000 — were from IVF in 2022. Getty Images/iStockphoto
Patients can get their embryos tested for genetic abnormalities before transfer. The success rate is 60% to 65% for genetically healthy embryos. These odds diminish when the woman is older or has uterus conditions that make it difficult for an embryo to implant.
This new study included women younger than 40 with a thick uterine lining and no more than one failed embryo transfer. Using EmbryoScope+, technology that can monitor the development of embryos, researchers took detailed images of 2,141 blastocysts.
They compared their model with fluorescence imaging of the blastocysts and found it was 90% accurate.
“Traditionally, the quality of blastocysts is assessed using 2D methods that lack depth and comprehensive indicators,” Huang explained. “Although some 3D methods exist, they aren’t practical or safe for clinical use. This study bridges that gap by introducing a clinically applicable 3D evaluation method and reveals previously unrecognized … features of blastocysts.”
Huang’s research, published in the journal Human Reproduction, was presented Monday in Amsterdam at the annual meeting of the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE).
He said the ultimate goal is to make this technology a standard in IVF, bringing new hope to patients.
Scientists in China say their 3D model of blastocysts — embryos that are around 5 or 6 days old — can yield previously unknown details about cell features that have been associated with successful pregnancies. Andriy Bezuglov – stock.adobe.com
Dr. Anis Feki, chair-elect of ESHRE, said Huang’s model “shows great promise,” but further research is needed.
“This method could potentially enhance IVF outcomes, but its clinical application should be approached with careful consideration,” Feki added.
In our fast-paced modern world, having the ability to calm the mind is invaluable. By learning to control the breath and withdraw the senses with the practice of Tummo breathing you can tap into an inner stillness. Those who regularly practice Tummo often report feeling more centered, present, and in tune with themselves. Also known as “Inner Fire” meditation, Tummo helps ignite inner “heat,” burning away mental fog while energizing both body and mind. Our contributor Bayu Prihandito, Life Coach, and RYT 200 Yoga Teacher, says, “What we call the “inner fire” Tummo meditation, is known to increase mental clarity, focus, and reduce stress. With practice and patience, you can experience a heightened sense of peace from the ability to manage your emotions more effectively.” With roots tracing back centuries in Tibetan Buddhism, Tummo uses focused breathing and visualization to unlock deep states of relaxation and mental clarity. This Tibetan meditation technique is...
This is a bitter pill to swallow. Many cocoa products in the US contain concerning levels of toxic heavy metals, a new study from George Washington University warns. Many cocoa products in the US contain worrisome levels of lead and cadmium, a new study from George Washington University warns. Picture Partners – stock.adobe.com Researchers analyzed 72 cocoa-based foods — including dark chocolate, often praised as a heart-healthy treat — over eight years. They found that 43% of the products contained an amount of lead that tops recommendations, while 35% exceeded cadmium limits. Surprisingly, organic-labeled products had higher levels of lead and cadmium than non-organic products, the researchers said. Contamination can come from soil or occur during manufacturing. A single serving of these cocoa items may not pose significant health risks, but several servings might. Leigh Frame, director of integrative medicine at GW, led the testing of 72 cocoa-based products. The George Washingto...
English actor, Hugh Bonneville, is best known for his character as Robert Crawley in the hit period-drama called Downton Abbey . During one of his interviews with BBC One TV in August 2020, his fans were confused and created a controversy on social media as the star looked “unrecognizable” and had lost a lot of body weight. So, what led to this incredible Hugh Bonneville weight loss? From his diet plan and workout routine to other secrets — find everything you need to know about how he lost 16 pounds and slimmed down during the pandemic. Who Is Hugh Bonneville? Born on 10th November 1963 in Paddington (London, United Kingdom), Hugh Bonneville is a renowned and classically trained English actor who is renowned for his role as Robert Crawley, 7th Earl of Grantham, in the popular TV series named Downton Abbey . His performance and acting skills in this period drama got him several nominations such as one Golden Globe nomination, two Primetime Emmy Award nominations, and three Screen...
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