Designer Jimmy Choo is set to collaborate with New York-based visual artist Rob Pruitt on a new spring-summer 2013 range.
His fashion house will join forces with the contemporary artist on a capsule cruise collection, and the brand is hoping his influence will lead to the creation of some very collectible and uniquely beautiful products, reports femalefirst.co.uk.
"We were captivated by Pruitt's energy, his computer screen use of colour and the festive exuberance of his prints and materials; there were elements in his work that reminded us in subtle ways of the Jimmy Choo design iconography," said Sandra Choi, creative director, Jimmy Choo.
"We sensed that Rob's twist on Jimmy Choo glamour would yield something very collectible and uniquely beautiful," she added.
The collection will feature shoes, small leather accessories and handbags, and it is expected to arrive in Jimmy Choo boutiques and online by November this year.
Saturday, April 14, 2012
Multi-tasking good for brain
Juggling too much technology at once - such as texting or browsing online while watching TV - is said to make you less efficient. But researchers have found that multi-tasking can be good for the brain, Daily Mail reported.
Scientists at the Chinese University of Hong Kong asked 63 people aged between 19 and 28 to find a shape on a computer screen full of similar targets that were changing colour.
In some tests the researchers also played sounds which made the target pop out from the cluttered display. The participants who multi-tasked the most in their everyday lives were more successful at spotting the target than others when the tone was played.
The researchers said that their ability to routinely take in information from different sources meant they had no trouble dealing with the unexpected sound, according to the Mail Friday.
Scientists at the Chinese University of Hong Kong asked 63 people aged between 19 and 28 to find a shape on a computer screen full of similar targets that were changing colour.
In some tests the researchers also played sounds which made the target pop out from the cluttered display. The participants who multi-tasked the most in their everyday lives were more successful at spotting the target than others when the tone was played.
The researchers said that their ability to routinely take in information from different sources meant they had no trouble dealing with the unexpected sound, according to the Mail Friday.
Rihanna to concentrate on film career
Singer Rihanna wants to put her music career on hold so that she can concentrate on acting.
She made her big screen debut in board game-based blockbuster "Battleship" alongside Liam Neeson and Alexander Skarsgard.
She is due to perform at a number of music festivals during summer.
"There are some festivals here and there throughout the year but I want to do some more films before I go back on tour," contactmusic.com quoted her as saying.
Rihanna hasn't decided on her next movie project, but she hopes to try out comedy before returning to action films.
"I don't want to stick to one thing yet. I want to see where I excel. I want to try comedy and probably another action film," said the 24-year-old.
She made her big screen debut in board game-based blockbuster "Battleship" alongside Liam Neeson and Alexander Skarsgard.
She is due to perform at a number of music festivals during summer.
"There are some festivals here and there throughout the year but I want to do some more films before I go back on tour," contactmusic.com quoted her as saying.
Rihanna hasn't decided on her next movie project, but she hopes to try out comedy before returning to action films.
"I don't want to stick to one thing yet. I want to see where I excel. I want to try comedy and probably another action film," said the 24-year-old.
Robert Rodriguez, Frank Miller to start `Sin City' sequel
Director Robert Rodriguez and comics writer Frank Miller have joined forces to start production on a sequel to "Sin City", a project that has been on hold for years but will finally begin shooting in the US. this summer, The Hollywood Reporter said.
The film dubbed "Sin City: A Dame to Kill For", will be financed by AR Films and distributed by Dimension Films, an affiliate of The Weinstein Company.
Rodriguez and Miller will co-direct the sequel, also based on the like-named comics Miller published in the 1990s, as they did the original "Sin City" in 2005.
The story evolves around characters caught up in violence at Basin City, an ominous, corrupt metropolis.
The first "Sin City", with Bruce Willis, Jessica Alba, Benicio Del Toro and Clive Owen headlining a distinguished cast, grossed more than $160 million.
Casting for the sequel will start next week and production is scheduled to kick off this summer at Rodriguez's Troublemaker Studios in Austin, Texas.
"I have wanted to re-team with Frank Miller and return to the world he created since the day we wrapped the original but have felt a duty to the fans to wait until we had something truly exceptional that would meet and exceed what have become epic expectations," the Hispanic filmmaker said.
"'A Dame to Kill For' will certainly be worth the wait," said Rodriguez, the director of "Desperado".
Miller will also share scriptwriting chores with William Monahan.
The film dubbed "Sin City: A Dame to Kill For", will be financed by AR Films and distributed by Dimension Films, an affiliate of The Weinstein Company.
Rodriguez and Miller will co-direct the sequel, also based on the like-named comics Miller published in the 1990s, as they did the original "Sin City" in 2005.
The story evolves around characters caught up in violence at Basin City, an ominous, corrupt metropolis.
The first "Sin City", with Bruce Willis, Jessica Alba, Benicio Del Toro and Clive Owen headlining a distinguished cast, grossed more than $160 million.
Casting for the sequel will start next week and production is scheduled to kick off this summer at Rodriguez's Troublemaker Studios in Austin, Texas.
"I have wanted to re-team with Frank Miller and return to the world he created since the day we wrapped the original but have felt a duty to the fans to wait until we had something truly exceptional that would meet and exceed what have become epic expectations," the Hispanic filmmaker said.
"'A Dame to Kill For' will certainly be worth the wait," said Rodriguez, the director of "Desperado".
Miller will also share scriptwriting chores with William Monahan.
Shakira announces alliance for poor kids' education
Colombian singer Shakira announced on the eve of the Americas Summit here an alliance of foundations to fund quality education for low-income children.
The alliance, which will invest $24 million during the first two years, comprises the superstar's Pies Descalzos foundation, the Colombian culture ministry and several other NGOs.
"It's an alliance specifically for the construction of 13 early-education centres that will benefit 6,200 kids with quality teaching," Shakira said.
The artist, a native of the nearby city of Barranquilla, stressed the importance of the alliance, which is already instructing children under six, "the most important years in human life, the ones that most shape their future", she said.
At that age "the child's brain, cognitive and motor faculties and the ability to form relationships with others begin to develop, so we're convinced that we have to invest in them, the earlier the better", Shakira said.
The 13 educational centers will be built in the Colombian provinces of Bolivar, Cundinamarca, Magdalena, Atlantico and Choco, all with high rates of extreme poverty.
The alliance, which will invest $24 million during the first two years, comprises the superstar's Pies Descalzos foundation, the Colombian culture ministry and several other NGOs.
"It's an alliance specifically for the construction of 13 early-education centres that will benefit 6,200 kids with quality teaching," Shakira said.
The artist, a native of the nearby city of Barranquilla, stressed the importance of the alliance, which is already instructing children under six, "the most important years in human life, the ones that most shape their future", she said.
At that age "the child's brain, cognitive and motor faculties and the ability to form relationships with others begin to develop, so we're convinced that we have to invest in them, the earlier the better", Shakira said.
The 13 educational centers will be built in the Colombian provinces of Bolivar, Cundinamarca, Magdalena, Atlantico and Choco, all with high rates of extreme poverty.
I've a crush on Katy Perry: French model
French model Baptiste Giabiconi says he has a huge crush on singer Katy Perry but claims they are not dating.
The pair have been rumoured to be in a relationship after they were spotted together in Paris, France, in March. However, the 22-year-old model says they are just friends because he is too busy for love at the moment.
"Katy is smart, sexy, beautiful and talented - and she understands me. I have always had a big crush on her ... But Katy and I are just good friends," contactmusic.com quoted Giabiconi as saying.
"I'm single. My main focus now is to finish my album. I'm in rehearsals and working daily, so there is no room to have a relationship at this time," he added.
The pair have been rumoured to be in a relationship after they were spotted together in Paris, France, in March. However, the 22-year-old model says they are just friends because he is too busy for love at the moment.
"Katy is smart, sexy, beautiful and talented - and she understands me. I have always had a big crush on her ... But Katy and I are just good friends," contactmusic.com quoted Giabiconi as saying.
"I'm single. My main focus now is to finish my album. I'm in rehearsals and working daily, so there is no room to have a relationship at this time," he added.
Jessica Alba to spend birthday in White House
Actress Jessica Alba says she plans to spend her 31st birthday at the White House April 28.
The actress, who has two daughters - Honor and Haven - with husband Cash Warren, is heading to Washington for the annual Correspondents' Dinner, but jokes it is really a celebratory bash for her, reports contactmusic.com.
"I'm going to be in Washington D.C on my birthday. I'm going to go for the White House Correspondents' Dinner. They don't know that they're throwing me a big dinner birthday party but they are, secretly," quipped Alba.
The actress, who has two daughters - Honor and Haven - with husband Cash Warren, is heading to Washington for the annual Correspondents' Dinner, but jokes it is really a celebratory bash for her, reports contactmusic.com.
"I'm going to be in Washington D.C on my birthday. I'm going to go for the White House Correspondents' Dinner. They don't know that they're throwing me a big dinner birthday party but they are, secretly," quipped Alba.
Robin Gibb in coma
Bee Gees singer Robin Gibb, who has been battling cancer for the past few years, has gone into coma, following a bout of pneumonia.
The singer's family, including wife Dwina and brother Barry, are keeping a vigil at his bedside at a private hospital here, with doctors thinking he may only have a few days to live, reports thesun.co.uk.
"Our prayers are with Robin. He has kept so positive and always believed he could beat this. Sadly, it looks like he has developed pneumonia, which is very bad in his situation," said a family friend.
"If there is anyone you would put money on pulling through such a dire situation, it would be Robin because he is a fighter. But this is a battle he will struggle to win," the friend added.
Gibb, 62, was part of Bee Gees alongside siblings Maurice and Barry. He was recently thought to be in remission from his cancer, but doctors are now believed to have found a second tumour.
Just last month he said he was excited to be back after his health problems and was keen to create some new work for his fans.
"I can't wait to carry on with my work. I want all my fans to know their love helps me so much," Gibb had said.
The singer's family, including wife Dwina and brother Barry, are keeping a vigil at his bedside at a private hospital here, with doctors thinking he may only have a few days to live, reports thesun.co.uk.
"Our prayers are with Robin. He has kept so positive and always believed he could beat this. Sadly, it looks like he has developed pneumonia, which is very bad in his situation," said a family friend.
"If there is anyone you would put money on pulling through such a dire situation, it would be Robin because he is a fighter. But this is a battle he will struggle to win," the friend added.
Gibb, 62, was part of Bee Gees alongside siblings Maurice and Barry. He was recently thought to be in remission from his cancer, but doctors are now believed to have found a second tumour.
Just last month he said he was excited to be back after his health problems and was keen to create some new work for his fans.
"I can't wait to carry on with my work. I want all my fans to know their love helps me so much," Gibb had said.
Beckham's kids love tipsy mom
Former Spice Girl Victoria Beckham's children love it when she gets tipsy.
Her boys - Brooklyn, Romeo and Cruz - like it when she gets drunk after a couple of glasses of wine in the evening as she then lets them have the rare treat of sleeping with her and their father - ace footballer David Beckham - in the same room, reports thesun.co.uk.
"They cuddle up like little peas in a pod, but only on a non-school night," said Victoria, and hubby David added: "Or when mummy's had a glass of wine."
Perhaps the boys get countless sleepovers in their parents' bedroom when the Beckhams visit their own vineyard in Napa Valley, California.
The boys earn their pocket money there, too, as they help make the plonk by stamping on the grapes.
But it's not without its dangers as Victoria explained: "Last year the boys put on beekeepers' outfits to gather honey. Brooklyn still got stung."
The boys do good when they are in wine-making mode.
"We produce 900 bottles a year which we give to friends and family," she said.
The couple also has a daughter named Harper Seven, who was born last year.
Her boys - Brooklyn, Romeo and Cruz - like it when she gets drunk after a couple of glasses of wine in the evening as she then lets them have the rare treat of sleeping with her and their father - ace footballer David Beckham - in the same room, reports thesun.co.uk.
"They cuddle up like little peas in a pod, but only on a non-school night," said Victoria, and hubby David added: "Or when mummy's had a glass of wine."
Perhaps the boys get countless sleepovers in their parents' bedroom when the Beckhams visit their own vineyard in Napa Valley, California.
The boys earn their pocket money there, too, as they help make the plonk by stamping on the grapes.
But it's not without its dangers as Victoria explained: "Last year the boys put on beekeepers' outfits to gather honey. Brooklyn still got stung."
The boys do good when they are in wine-making mode.
"We produce 900 bottles a year which we give to friends and family," she said.
The couple also has a daughter named Harper Seven, who was born last year.
Eating salad, dreaming burger, Gaga's dieting woes!
Singer Lady Gaga has been opposed to dieting, but she is on a diet herself these days, and seems to be struggling with it.
"Just killed back to back spin classes. Eating a salad dreaming of a cheese burger #PopSingersDontEat #IwasBornThisWay," tweeted Gaga, reports people.com.
The singer caused a stir when she tweeted the message to her 22.7 million followers.
The message drew criticism from twitterati, and even by the National Eating Disorders Association.
A tweet directed to Gaga from the association read: "Huh? This is the same person who recently implored girls to stop dieting?"
"Just killed back to back spin classes. Eating a salad dreaming of a cheese burger #PopSingersDontEat #IwasBornThisWay," tweeted Gaga, reports people.com.
The singer caused a stir when she tweeted the message to her 22.7 million followers.
The message drew criticism from twitterati, and even by the National Eating Disorders Association.
A tweet directed to Gaga from the association read: "Huh? This is the same person who recently implored girls to stop dieting?"
Khloe clueless about Kim, Kanye
Reality TV star Khloe Kardashian says she doesn't know anything about her sister Kim's relationship with rapper Kanye West.
"Honestly, we've known Kanye forever. He's been a great family friend. I love Kanye. I don't know what happens with Kim," Khloe said on a chat show, reports showbizspy.com.
However, she says she feels the two make a good pair.
"I love Kanye. I think they're cute together. I've said that, but, I don't know. You got to get her on the show and ask. Why don't you get them both on the show, ask them together," she said.
"I like Kanye. I think Kim and Kanye have known each other for a long time. I think that they're good friends and they're compatible. I think a friendship is where good relationships stem from," Khloe added.
Kim married basketballer Kris Humphries last year, but their wedding lasted barely 72 days, after which they filed for divorce.
"Honestly, we've known Kanye forever. He's been a great family friend. I love Kanye. I don't know what happens with Kim," Khloe said on a chat show, reports showbizspy.com.
However, she says she feels the two make a good pair.
"I love Kanye. I think they're cute together. I've said that, but, I don't know. You got to get her on the show and ask. Why don't you get them both on the show, ask them together," she said.
"I like Kanye. I think Kim and Kanye have known each other for a long time. I think that they're good friends and they're compatible. I think a friendship is where good relationships stem from," Khloe added.
Kim married basketballer Kris Humphries last year, but their wedding lasted barely 72 days, after which they filed for divorce.
Rihanna laughed at 'Battleship'
Singer Rihanna has revealed she burst out laughing when she first heard about her role in her debut movie "Battleship".
Narrating how she ended up getting a part in the film, she said: "I met with Peter Berg (director) and I didn't really know much about the part when I met him for the first time. I didn't even know the meeting I was going into because my manager was late."
"Peter walked right in and said, 'So, these are the thugs.' And he was pointing at the little demos of the alien characters. There were tonnes of them and pictures all over the room."
"I was dying laughing because I had no idea about what he was talking about," she said.
Rihanna says she didn't even realise that Berg was the director of the film, reports showbizpy.com.
"It wasn't until the end of the meeting that I realised he was the director of the film and what the film was about. But he had me in there, saying 'Yeah, I think you're perfect'," she added.
Narrating how she ended up getting a part in the film, she said: "I met with Peter Berg (director) and I didn't really know much about the part when I met him for the first time. I didn't even know the meeting I was going into because my manager was late."
"Peter walked right in and said, 'So, these are the thugs.' And he was pointing at the little demos of the alien characters. There were tonnes of them and pictures all over the room."
"I was dying laughing because I had no idea about what he was talking about," she said.
Rihanna says she didn't even realise that Berg was the director of the film, reports showbizpy.com.
"It wasn't until the end of the meeting that I realised he was the director of the film and what the film was about. But he had me in there, saying 'Yeah, I think you're perfect'," she added.
Friday, April 13, 2012
Canadian designers make clothes with recycled material
A group of fashion designers in Canada have shown that eye-catching creations can be made using discarded candy wrappers or yarn made from old plastic bottles.
A total of 17 designers showed their lines at the three-day Eco Fashion Week in Vancouver earlier this week.
The show, now in its fourth season, was all about what can be achieved in promoting sustainability in the fashion and clothing sectors, said Xinhua.
Show founder Myriam Laroche said the industry generates massive sales of about $300 billion annually, but is also a heavy polluter and energy consumer.
The designer pointed to the amount of electricity, manpower and water consumption it takes to create the denim for one pair of jeans. The answer was 3.5 litres of water, she said.
"But how many pairs of jeans do you think we produce per year? When I produce my jeans, am I being the most responsible? That's the message we want to give and we want to give the support to the industry to shift and be more responsible," she said.
With a lot of stylish creations at the show made from recycled materials, or purchased from second-hand stores, Laroche said for many people there was still a taboo around wearing someone else's clothes.
"So what I say to the people is, 'Okay, if you buy 10 pieces of new clothes per month, try to buy one second-hand, keep the nine others new and just see how you feel.' And most people say, 'It's not that bad and I save money. Let's try it for another piece,'" she said.
"Sometimes we resist change and we don't want to try new stuff. So I'm just saying, 'Hey, try it.' I guarantee you you won't die. You'll be fine if you try second-hand clothing and it might make you feel good."
Melissa Ferreira, who promotes her day-wear creations through her Adhesif Clothing Company, said she became an eco designer by accident.
With her love for vintage clothing and the abundance of discarded textiles available, she started using such fabrics in place of new materials to create her pieces.
When she first started selling her pieces a decade ago, she said some people questioned why would they buy clothes with recycled material.
"It's sexy to be wearing something vintage. Vintage is all over the map, all the celebrities wear vintage. So really it's definitely become more of a chic, more hip thing to do."
"I think people like it because the pieces end up being one of a kind. It's almost like having something custom made. I think people want that more and more now. They want something more original, more unique and not so generic or mass produced or kind of run of the mill I guess," Ferreira said.
A total of 17 designers showed their lines at the three-day Eco Fashion Week in Vancouver earlier this week.
The show, now in its fourth season, was all about what can be achieved in promoting sustainability in the fashion and clothing sectors, said Xinhua.
Show founder Myriam Laroche said the industry generates massive sales of about $300 billion annually, but is also a heavy polluter and energy consumer.
The designer pointed to the amount of electricity, manpower and water consumption it takes to create the denim for one pair of jeans. The answer was 3.5 litres of water, she said.
"But how many pairs of jeans do you think we produce per year? When I produce my jeans, am I being the most responsible? That's the message we want to give and we want to give the support to the industry to shift and be more responsible," she said.
With a lot of stylish creations at the show made from recycled materials, or purchased from second-hand stores, Laroche said for many people there was still a taboo around wearing someone else's clothes.
"So what I say to the people is, 'Okay, if you buy 10 pieces of new clothes per month, try to buy one second-hand, keep the nine others new and just see how you feel.' And most people say, 'It's not that bad and I save money. Let's try it for another piece,'" she said.
"Sometimes we resist change and we don't want to try new stuff. So I'm just saying, 'Hey, try it.' I guarantee you you won't die. You'll be fine if you try second-hand clothing and it might make you feel good."
Melissa Ferreira, who promotes her day-wear creations through her Adhesif Clothing Company, said she became an eco designer by accident.
With her love for vintage clothing and the abundance of discarded textiles available, she started using such fabrics in place of new materials to create her pieces.
When she first started selling her pieces a decade ago, she said some people questioned why would they buy clothes with recycled material.
"It's sexy to be wearing something vintage. Vintage is all over the map, all the celebrities wear vintage. So really it's definitely become more of a chic, more hip thing to do."
"I think people like it because the pieces end up being one of a kind. It's almost like having something custom made. I think people want that more and more now. They want something more original, more unique and not so generic or mass produced or kind of run of the mill I guess," Ferreira said.
Chemicals in plastics, make-up latest cause of diabetes
Chemicals called phthalates in plastics, cosmetics and toys are the latest reasons why one may have higher chances of developing diabetes, a study reveals.
A study in Sweden has found that people with 'modest' levels of the chemicals in their blood are twice as likely to develop diabetes.
Phthalates are used as a softening agent in plastics but they can be used in cosmetics such as self-tan and perfumes.
The researchers analysed data from 1,000 people aged over 70, of which 114 developed diabetes. After taking into account factors known to cause type 2 diabetes, including obesity and high cholesterol, they found people with higher levels of phthalates were more likely to develop diabetes, the journal Diabetes Care reported.
Monica Lind, associate professor of environmental medicine at the Uppsala University, Sweden, said: "Although our results need to be confirmed in more studies, they do support the hypothesis that certain environmental chemicals can contribute to the development of diabetes," according to a university statement.
"We have done other studies into the effects of phthalates and discovered people exposed to them have a higher risk of obesity. On a study we did last year, we found pesticides and those kinds of substances gave people a higher risk of obesity and osteoporosis," Lind added.
"Those pollutants containing phthalates are making people obese and now we find they could get diabetes. These products need to be tested," Lind said.
"Anyone is exposed to them in many different ways. People can inhale them if they are used in hairspray or air fresheners and food can also be contaminated because of phthalates in the packaging," concluded Lind.
A study in Sweden has found that people with 'modest' levels of the chemicals in their blood are twice as likely to develop diabetes.
Phthalates are used as a softening agent in plastics but they can be used in cosmetics such as self-tan and perfumes.
The researchers analysed data from 1,000 people aged over 70, of which 114 developed diabetes. After taking into account factors known to cause type 2 diabetes, including obesity and high cholesterol, they found people with higher levels of phthalates were more likely to develop diabetes, the journal Diabetes Care reported.
Monica Lind, associate professor of environmental medicine at the Uppsala University, Sweden, said: "Although our results need to be confirmed in more studies, they do support the hypothesis that certain environmental chemicals can contribute to the development of diabetes," according to a university statement.
"We have done other studies into the effects of phthalates and discovered people exposed to them have a higher risk of obesity. On a study we did last year, we found pesticides and those kinds of substances gave people a higher risk of obesity and osteoporosis," Lind added.
"Those pollutants containing phthalates are making people obese and now we find they could get diabetes. These products need to be tested," Lind said.
"Anyone is exposed to them in many different ways. People can inhale them if they are used in hairspray or air fresheners and food can also be contaminated because of phthalates in the packaging," concluded Lind.
Joshua Schulman leaves Choo for Bergdorf Goodman
Former Jimmy Choo executive Joshua Schulman has quit the fashion house to join department store Bergdorf Goodman as its president. He admits he is delighted with his new job.
"I've been a vendor of Bergdorf Goodman and a vendor of the Neiman Marcus Group in my career over the last 20 years. I've always had an enormous appreciation for the culture of Bergdorf Goodman and the Neiman Marcus Group and for their focus on excellence in luxury retail," he told wwd.com.
Bergdorf currently generates $600 million a year, and 40-year-old Joshua, admits his job will be very different to his role at the shoe chain Jimmy Choo.
"I would say they are very different roles. As CEO of Jimmy Choo, the business went from 55 stores in 2007 in 15 countries to 140 stores in 32 countries by the end of 2011. We diversified the brand by adding new categories like fragrance, men's shoes and eye wear," contactmusic.com quoted him as saying.
"I was involved in product development, managing the design process, managing the retail and wholesale businesses and being ultimately responsible for the financial side of the business. There was a very international scope. It was a very different role than being president of Bergdorf Goodman, but I would argue that there is a similar degree of complexity," he added.
"I've been a vendor of Bergdorf Goodman and a vendor of the Neiman Marcus Group in my career over the last 20 years. I've always had an enormous appreciation for the culture of Bergdorf Goodman and the Neiman Marcus Group and for their focus on excellence in luxury retail," he told wwd.com.
Bergdorf currently generates $600 million a year, and 40-year-old Joshua, admits his job will be very different to his role at the shoe chain Jimmy Choo.
"I would say they are very different roles. As CEO of Jimmy Choo, the business went from 55 stores in 2007 in 15 countries to 140 stores in 32 countries by the end of 2011. We diversified the brand by adding new categories like fragrance, men's shoes and eye wear," contactmusic.com quoted him as saying.
"I was involved in product development, managing the design process, managing the retail and wholesale businesses and being ultimately responsible for the financial side of the business. There was a very international scope. It was a very different role than being president of Bergdorf Goodman, but I would argue that there is a similar degree of complexity," he added.
Be nutty for good health
Chomping on nuts leads to higher levels of good cholesterol (Hdl, high-density lipoprotein) and lower levels of C-reactive protein, which can trigger chronic diseases including heart disease, said a new study.
"One of the more interesting findings was the fact that tree nut consumers had lower body weight, as well as lower body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference compared to nonconsumers," said Carol O'Neil, professor at Louisiana State University Agricultural Centre, who led the study.
The study looked at 13,292 men and women (over 19 years) participating in the 1999-2004 National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys (NHANES), the Journal of the American College of Nutrition reported.
Intake was from 24-hour recall data and tree nut consumers were defined as those who consumed a fourth of an ounce daily.
Tree nuts comprise almonds, Brazil nuts, cashews, hazelnuts, macadamias, pecans, pine nuts, pistachios and walnuts, said a university statement.
Nuts were also linked with a five percent lower prevalence of metabolic syndrome, a name for a group of risk factors that occur together and increase the risk for coronary artery disease, stroke and type 2 diabetes.
In addition, tree nut consumers had a lower prevalence of four risk factors for metabolic syndrome: abdominal obesity, high blood pressure, high fasting glucose (blood sugar) levels and low high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol levels.
"One of the more interesting findings was the fact that tree nut consumers had lower body weight, as well as lower body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference compared to nonconsumers," said Carol O'Neil, professor at Louisiana State University Agricultural Centre, who led the study.
The study looked at 13,292 men and women (over 19 years) participating in the 1999-2004 National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys (NHANES), the Journal of the American College of Nutrition reported.
Intake was from 24-hour recall data and tree nut consumers were defined as those who consumed a fourth of an ounce daily.
Tree nuts comprise almonds, Brazil nuts, cashews, hazelnuts, macadamias, pecans, pine nuts, pistachios and walnuts, said a university statement.
Nuts were also linked with a five percent lower prevalence of metabolic syndrome, a name for a group of risk factors that occur together and increase the risk for coronary artery disease, stroke and type 2 diabetes.
In addition, tree nut consumers had a lower prevalence of four risk factors for metabolic syndrome: abdominal obesity, high blood pressure, high fasting glucose (blood sugar) levels and low high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol levels.
Here come smart insulin pumps for diabetic kids
As many as a million children suffer from Type I diabetes in India and painful for them are those insulin jabs. But smart insulin pumps are now changing things for these kids.
"Type 1 diabetes (commonly known as juvenile diabetes) is the most common form of diabetes among children. According to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF), in India, there are about 10 lakh children with Type I diabetes," Neeru Gera, consultant endocrinologist, Max Hospital, Saket here, told IANS.
"The first and foremost advantage of insulin pump therapy is that it could help children get relief from the daily pain of insulin shots," Gera added.
Diabetes is of different types. For instance, Type 2 is found in people who are above 40, while gestational diabetes occurs during pregnancy. Usually diabetic patients have to take insulin injections before a meal.
But an insulin pump brings more flexibility.
Costing between Rs.99,000 and Rs.350,000, the insulin pump comes in the shape of a mechanical device, a little larger than a pager, which can be attached to a belt or a pocket.
It delivers fast-acting insulin into the body via an infusion set - a thin plastic tube ending in a small, flexible plastic cannula (tube) or a very thin needle.
One has to insert the cannula beneath the skin at the infusion site, usually in the abdomen or upper buttocks and insulin is delivered through this infusion set. A patient can keep the infusion set in the same place for two to three days (sometimes more). It can then be moved to a new location.
"With insulin pump therapy, the concept of multiple daily injections hardly exists. The patient only needs to change his or her infusion set a maximum of 12 times per month," Shalini Jaggi, consultant diabetologist, Sri Balaji Action Medical Institute here, told IANS.
When it comes to Type 1 diabetes, children in the age group of 10-14 years are at a higher risk of developing it. Those aged between five and nine years have middle risk and kids of 0-4 years have a lower risk of developing diabetes.
Those suffering from the condition have to follow a strict lifestyle. Parents have to constantly keep a check on the children's diet and exercise.
Insulin pumps have flexible choices, says Anju Virmani, consultant endocrinologist, Max Hospital.
"Pumps give you greater control over insulin delivery, thereby giving you more control over the onset of insulin action. That means you can determine what and when you want to eat, when and for how long you play sports, and even whether or not to skip a snack or meal. In short, you control the insulin. It doesn't control you," Virmani said.
But there are certain precautions that need to be taken.
"An insulin pump is a mechanical device. Any malfunction of the device can have an adverse effect on the patient," said Jaggi.
"Besides, insulin pump therapy uses only faster-acting insulin. Therefore, any interruption in insulin delivery (due to infusion set clogs, leaks, loss of insulin potency, or pump malfunction) may result in hyperglycemia (high blood glucose) within two to four hours. Always carry an emergency kit to supply insulin in case you develop a problem with your pump."
"Type 1 diabetes (commonly known as juvenile diabetes) is the most common form of diabetes among children. According to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF), in India, there are about 10 lakh children with Type I diabetes," Neeru Gera, consultant endocrinologist, Max Hospital, Saket here, told IANS.
"The first and foremost advantage of insulin pump therapy is that it could help children get relief from the daily pain of insulin shots," Gera added.
Diabetes is of different types. For instance, Type 2 is found in people who are above 40, while gestational diabetes occurs during pregnancy. Usually diabetic patients have to take insulin injections before a meal.
But an insulin pump brings more flexibility.
Costing between Rs.99,000 and Rs.350,000, the insulin pump comes in the shape of a mechanical device, a little larger than a pager, which can be attached to a belt or a pocket.
It delivers fast-acting insulin into the body via an infusion set - a thin plastic tube ending in a small, flexible plastic cannula (tube) or a very thin needle.
One has to insert the cannula beneath the skin at the infusion site, usually in the abdomen or upper buttocks and insulin is delivered through this infusion set. A patient can keep the infusion set in the same place for two to three days (sometimes more). It can then be moved to a new location.
"With insulin pump therapy, the concept of multiple daily injections hardly exists. The patient only needs to change his or her infusion set a maximum of 12 times per month," Shalini Jaggi, consultant diabetologist, Sri Balaji Action Medical Institute here, told IANS.
When it comes to Type 1 diabetes, children in the age group of 10-14 years are at a higher risk of developing it. Those aged between five and nine years have middle risk and kids of 0-4 years have a lower risk of developing diabetes.
Those suffering from the condition have to follow a strict lifestyle. Parents have to constantly keep a check on the children's diet and exercise.
Insulin pumps have flexible choices, says Anju Virmani, consultant endocrinologist, Max Hospital.
"Pumps give you greater control over insulin delivery, thereby giving you more control over the onset of insulin action. That means you can determine what and when you want to eat, when and for how long you play sports, and even whether or not to skip a snack or meal. In short, you control the insulin. It doesn't control you," Virmani said.
But there are certain precautions that need to be taken.
"An insulin pump is a mechanical device. Any malfunction of the device can have an adverse effect on the patient," said Jaggi.
"Besides, insulin pump therapy uses only faster-acting insulin. Therefore, any interruption in insulin delivery (due to infusion set clogs, leaks, loss of insulin potency, or pump malfunction) may result in hyperglycemia (high blood glucose) within two to four hours. Always carry an emergency kit to supply insulin in case you develop a problem with your pump."
Almost half of Brazilians overweight
More than 48 percent of Brazilians are overweight and 15.8 percent are obese, according to a study based on 2011 data that was released Tuesday by the health ministry.
The figures testify to a growing problem, since in 2006 overweight people amounted to 42.7 percent of the population while 11.4 percent were obese.
The ministry surveyed 54,144 people in the capitals of Brazil's 27 states.
People are considered overweight who have a Body Mass Index higher than 25 and obese if they have a BMI above 30.
The proportion of overweight men increased from 47.2 percent in 2006 to 52.6 percent last year. The comparable figures among women were 38.5 percent and 44.7 percent, respectively.
Excess weight increases with age.
While the problem affects 29.4 percent of Brazilians between the ages of 18 and 24, the proportion reaches 63 percent in the 35-45 age group.
"There is a trend toward increased weight and obesity in the country. The time has come to turn the game around so we don't catch up with countries like the United States, where more than 20 percent of the population is obese," Health Minister Alexandre Padilha said while presenting the study.
The minister said that among the measures adopted by the government to tackle the problem was an accord signed with the food industry last year to reduce the content of salt and fat in its products.
Padilha cited unhealthy eating habits as one of the factors causing excess weight gain.
Only 20.2 percent of Brazilians consume more than five portions of fruits and vegetables per day as the World Health Organization recommends.
On the more positive side, the proportion of sedentary males in Brazil fell from 16 percent in 2009 to 14.1 percent last year.
The study also showed that the percentage of smokers dropped from 34.8 percent in 1989 to 14.8 percent in 2011.
"The figures show that our ban on smoking in public spaces is contributing effectively to that decline," Padilha said.
The figures testify to a growing problem, since in 2006 overweight people amounted to 42.7 percent of the population while 11.4 percent were obese.
The ministry surveyed 54,144 people in the capitals of Brazil's 27 states.
People are considered overweight who have a Body Mass Index higher than 25 and obese if they have a BMI above 30.
The proportion of overweight men increased from 47.2 percent in 2006 to 52.6 percent last year. The comparable figures among women were 38.5 percent and 44.7 percent, respectively.
Excess weight increases with age.
While the problem affects 29.4 percent of Brazilians between the ages of 18 and 24, the proportion reaches 63 percent in the 35-45 age group.
"There is a trend toward increased weight and obesity in the country. The time has come to turn the game around so we don't catch up with countries like the United States, where more than 20 percent of the population is obese," Health Minister Alexandre Padilha said while presenting the study.
The minister said that among the measures adopted by the government to tackle the problem was an accord signed with the food industry last year to reduce the content of salt and fat in its products.
Padilha cited unhealthy eating habits as one of the factors causing excess weight gain.
Only 20.2 percent of Brazilians consume more than five portions of fruits and vegetables per day as the World Health Organization recommends.
On the more positive side, the proportion of sedentary males in Brazil fell from 16 percent in 2009 to 14.1 percent last year.
The study also showed that the percentage of smokers dropped from 34.8 percent in 1989 to 14.8 percent in 2011.
"The figures show that our ban on smoking in public spaces is contributing effectively to that decline," Padilha said.
Materialistic people ridden with anxiety
People who place high value on wealth and status are more depressed and anxious and less sociable than others, says a new study.
"We found that irrespective of personality, in situations that activate a consumer mindset, people show the same sorts of problematic patterns in wellbeing, including negative affect and social disengagement," says Northwestern University psychologist Galen V. Bodenhausen.
Bodenhausen co-authored the study with Monika A. Bauer, James E. B. Wilkie, and Jung K. Kim, the journal Psychological Science reports.
In two of four experiments, university students were put in a materialistic frame of mind by tasks that exposed them to images of luxury goods or words mobilising consumerist values, according to a Northwestern statement.
Completing questionnaires afterwards, those who looked at the pictures of cars, electronics, and jewellery rated themselves higher in depression and anxiety, less interested in social activities like parties, and more in solitary pursuits than the others.
Those primed to materialism by exposure to certain words evinced more competitiveness and less desire to invest their time in pro-social activities like working for a good cause. The findings have both social and personal implications, says Bodenhausen.
"We found that irrespective of personality, in situations that activate a consumer mindset, people show the same sorts of problematic patterns in wellbeing, including negative affect and social disengagement," says Northwestern University psychologist Galen V. Bodenhausen.
Bodenhausen co-authored the study with Monika A. Bauer, James E. B. Wilkie, and Jung K. Kim, the journal Psychological Science reports.
In two of four experiments, university students were put in a materialistic frame of mind by tasks that exposed them to images of luxury goods or words mobilising consumerist values, according to a Northwestern statement.
Completing questionnaires afterwards, those who looked at the pictures of cars, electronics, and jewellery rated themselves higher in depression and anxiety, less interested in social activities like parties, and more in solitary pursuits than the others.
Those primed to materialism by exposure to certain words evinced more competitiveness and less desire to invest their time in pro-social activities like working for a good cause. The findings have both social and personal implications, says Bodenhausen.
Gaga launches poster contest
Singer Lady Gaga wants budding young artists to create posters on the theme of bravery for her newly launched charity, Born This Way Foundation, which aims to wipe out bullying.
"We are calling on anyone and everyone with the ability to think creatively to come up with a visual representation for the Born This Way Foundation. Most of all, it should give supporters a way to show their dedication to the Foundation," dailystar.co.uk quoted Gaga's mother and BTWF co-founder Cynthia Germanotta as saying.
Gaga and her mother will select their 10 favourite submissions to be semi-finalists and the public will determine the winner in an online vote.
The first prize winner will have their image autographed by Lady Gaga and displayed on the BTWF website.
"We are calling on anyone and everyone with the ability to think creatively to come up with a visual representation for the Born This Way Foundation. Most of all, it should give supporters a way to show their dedication to the Foundation," dailystar.co.uk quoted Gaga's mother and BTWF co-founder Cynthia Germanotta as saying.
Gaga and her mother will select their 10 favourite submissions to be semi-finalists and the public will determine the winner in an online vote.
The first prize winner will have their image autographed by Lady Gaga and displayed on the BTWF website.
Lady Gaga takes driving lessons
Singer Lady Gaga is taking driving lessons and has requested the paparazzi not to come in the way.
It is assumed the car was a birthday gift that she gifted herself, reports starpulse.com.
"Maybe while I'm learning to drive you don't need to sneak up on me and stick your camera in a moving vehicle," she tweeted after an encounter with an overeager photographer Thursday.
Gaga was spotted zipping around the streets of Beverly Hills in a brand-new Audi R8 GT. The car, limited to a production of only 333, can reach speeds of up to 320 km per hour and costs around $200,000.
It is assumed the car was a birthday gift that she gifted herself, reports starpulse.com.
"Maybe while I'm learning to drive you don't need to sneak up on me and stick your camera in a moving vehicle," she tweeted after an encounter with an overeager photographer Thursday.
Gaga was spotted zipping around the streets of Beverly Hills in a brand-new Audi R8 GT. The car, limited to a production of only 333, can reach speeds of up to 320 km per hour and costs around $200,000.
Gaga's gifts boyfriend stray cat
Singer Lady Gaga has presented boyfriend Taylor Kinney a stray cat before going on her world tour.
She thinks it will remind him of her when she is away.
"Taylor loves cats and Gaga wanted to give this stray cat a home. She has already named it Polly," dailystar.co.uk quoted a source as saying.
"She has given the pet to Taylor so he can love it for ever and really cherish it," added the source.
Gaga starts her "Born This Way Ball" tour in South Korea April 27.
She thinks it will remind him of her when she is away.
"Taylor loves cats and Gaga wanted to give this stray cat a home. She has already named it Polly," dailystar.co.uk quoted a source as saying.
"She has given the pet to Taylor so he can love it for ever and really cherish it," added the source.
Gaga starts her "Born This Way Ball" tour in South Korea April 27.
Minaj tired of comparison with Gaga
Singer Nicki Minaj says she is fed up constantly being compared with pop icon Lady Gaga.
"Offend me? No. Irks me? Yeah. It's getting tired now to me. Every female in this game wears wigs," she said.
"First, I'm a rapper and Gaga is a fantastic artist. She's paved her way. She's opened her own lane, but I feel like I have my own lane and we never cross...ever," aceshowbiz.com quoted her as saying.
"Offend me? No. Irks me? Yeah. It's getting tired now to me. Every female in this game wears wigs," she said.
"First, I'm a rapper and Gaga is a fantastic artist. She's paved her way. She's opened her own lane, but I feel like I have my own lane and we never cross...ever," aceshowbiz.com quoted her as saying.
Beyonce writes open letter to Michelle Obama
Singer Beyonce has penned an open letter to the US' First Lady, Michelle Obama, thanking her for fostering a positive environment for black women.
According to femalefirst.co.uk., in the letter whose copy is with GlobalGrind.com, Beyonce wrote Michelle is the ultimate example of a truly strong African American women.
"She is a caring mother, she's a loving wife, while at the same time, she is the First Lady," it said.
"No matter the pressure, and the stress of being under the microscope - she's humble, loving and sincere....She builds and nurtures her family, while also looking out for so many millions in so many ways."
"Michelle, thank you so much for every single thing that u (sic) do for us - I am proud to have my daughter grow up in (a) world where she has people like you to look up to," read the letter.
According to femalefirst.co.uk., in the letter whose copy is with GlobalGrind.com, Beyonce wrote Michelle is the ultimate example of a truly strong African American women.
"She is a caring mother, she's a loving wife, while at the same time, she is the First Lady," it said.
"No matter the pressure, and the stress of being under the microscope - she's humble, loving and sincere....She builds and nurtures her family, while also looking out for so many millions in so many ways."
"Michelle, thank you so much for every single thing that u (sic) do for us - I am proud to have my daughter grow up in (a) world where she has people like you to look up to," read the letter.
Hathaway spent all time in gym for Catwoman
Actress Anne Hathaway has revealed that she spent most of her time in a gym to prepare for her character in "The Dark Knight Rises".
The actress, who is one of the new faces on the cast list of Christopher Nolan's third "Batman" movie, plays Catwoman in it. She said that the director wanted her to be able to do her own stunts in the movie.
"I had to physically transform," contactmusic.com quoted her as saying.
This is the first superhero movie that Hathaway has been a part of.
The actress is currently filming for director Tom Hooper's "Les Miserables".
"The Dark Knight Rises" releases July 20.
The actress, who is one of the new faces on the cast list of Christopher Nolan's third "Batman" movie, plays Catwoman in it. She said that the director wanted her to be able to do her own stunts in the movie.
"I had to physically transform," contactmusic.com quoted her as saying.
This is the first superhero movie that Hathaway has been a part of.
The actress is currently filming for director Tom Hooper's "Les Miserables".
"The Dark Knight Rises" releases July 20.
Rihanna to concentrate on film career
Singer Rihanna wants to put her music career on hold so that she can concentrate on acting.
She made her big screen debut in board game-based blockbuster "Battleship" alongside Liam Neeson and Alexander Skarsgard.
She is due to perform at a number of music festivals during summer.
"There are some festivals here and there throughout the year but I want to do some more films before I go back on tour," contactmusic.com quoted her as saying.
Rihanna hasn't decided on her next movie project, but she hopes to try out comedy before returning to action films.
"I don't want to stick to one thing yet. I want to see where I excel. I want to try comedy and probably another action film," said the 24-year-old.
She made her big screen debut in board game-based blockbuster "Battleship" alongside Liam Neeson and Alexander Skarsgard.
She is due to perform at a number of music festivals during summer.
"There are some festivals here and there throughout the year but I want to do some more films before I go back on tour," contactmusic.com quoted her as saying.
Rihanna hasn't decided on her next movie project, but she hopes to try out comedy before returning to action films.
"I don't want to stick to one thing yet. I want to see where I excel. I want to try comedy and probably another action film," said the 24-year-old.
No profiling or pattern in Shah Rukh detention, says US
Caught on the wrong foot over the detaining of Bollywood star Shah Rukh Khan at a US airport twice, Washington has asserted it was not a case of racial profiling or a pattern.
Suggesting that Khan was not "detained", but "simply delayed", State Department spokesperson Mark Toner told reporters Friday: "I wouldn't necessarily look at this as some sort of pattern but rather two separate incidents."
"Obviously, we've expressed our regret about the incident and recognize that he's a very renowned artist and humanitarian," he said.
Toner also sought to paint the detaining of Khan at New York's White Plains airport Thursday when he arrived to receive the prestigious Chubb fellow award at Yale University as a "delay", saying "he was temporarily delayed before admission" to the US.
However, he dismissed the suggestion that it was racial profiling. "I mean, I think we all know that that's clearly not the case. The fact of the matter is tens of thousands of Muslims travel to and from the United States every day and are not detained or delayed."
The spokesperson was hard put to explain the "reasons for delay" acknowledging that only Khan was not allowed to disembark from the plane when he arrived on a private jet with Nita Ambani, wife of Reliance Industries chairman Mukesh Ambani.
Both the Indian Ministry of External Affairs as well as the Indian Embassy in Washington have expressed their concern over Khan's detention for the second time in less than three years, he said.
In August 2009 too, Khan was detained at New Jersey's Newark airport.
Toner also suggested that to avoid such incidents "travellers can alert - identify their status before they depart via the embassy. And that's one approach or avenue to take."
Meanwhile, Yale University also sought to play down the incident. "As SRK himself would tell you, what is most important in his movies is how they end rather than how they begin," Assistant Secretary George Joseph stated.
"And yesterday, things began in an unfortunate manner, but ended in a way that left everyone happy."
Suggesting that Khan was not "detained", but "simply delayed", State Department spokesperson Mark Toner told reporters Friday: "I wouldn't necessarily look at this as some sort of pattern but rather two separate incidents."
"Obviously, we've expressed our regret about the incident and recognize that he's a very renowned artist and humanitarian," he said.
Toner also sought to paint the detaining of Khan at New York's White Plains airport Thursday when he arrived to receive the prestigious Chubb fellow award at Yale University as a "delay", saying "he was temporarily delayed before admission" to the US.
However, he dismissed the suggestion that it was racial profiling. "I mean, I think we all know that that's clearly not the case. The fact of the matter is tens of thousands of Muslims travel to and from the United States every day and are not detained or delayed."
The spokesperson was hard put to explain the "reasons for delay" acknowledging that only Khan was not allowed to disembark from the plane when he arrived on a private jet with Nita Ambani, wife of Reliance Industries chairman Mukesh Ambani.
Both the Indian Ministry of External Affairs as well as the Indian Embassy in Washington have expressed their concern over Khan's detention for the second time in less than three years, he said.
In August 2009 too, Khan was detained at New Jersey's Newark airport.
Toner also suggested that to avoid such incidents "travellers can alert - identify their status before they depart via the embassy. And that's one approach or avenue to take."
Meanwhile, Yale University also sought to play down the incident. "As SRK himself would tell you, what is most important in his movies is how they end rather than how they begin," Assistant Secretary George Joseph stated.
"And yesterday, things began in an unfortunate manner, but ended in a way that left everyone happy."
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