Fish oil pills may help teenagers stave off schizophrenia

There may finally be a way to stop people progressing beyond the first signs of schizophrenia – fish oil. When people with early-stage symptoms took omega-3 supplements for three months, they had much lower rates of progression than those who did not, according to one small-scale trial.

People with schizophrenia are usually diagnosed in their teens or 20s, but may experience symptoms for years beforehand, such as minor delusions or paranoid thoughts. Only about a third of people with such symptoms do go on to develop psychosis, however, and antipsychotic drugs can cause nasty side effects, so these are rarely given as a preventative.

Fish oil supplements, which contain polyunsaturated fatty acids like omega-3, may be a benign alternative. These fatty acids may normally help dampen inflammation in the brain and protect neurons from damage, and lower levels in the brain have been implicated in several mental illnesses.

Tests have found that people with schizophrenia have lower levels of these fatty acids in their blood cells, suggesting the same could be true for their brain cells. Fish oil supplements have been investigated as a treatment for adults with schizophrenia, but so far results have been mixed – four trials found no benefit while another four found a small reduction in symptoms.

But a study that gave omega-3 fish oil pills to younger people suggests that what matters is catching the condition in time. The trial followed 81 people aged 13 to 25 with early signs of schizophrenia. Roughly half took fish oil pills and half took placebo tablets for three months. A year later, those given fish oils were less likely to have developed psychosis.

New trajectory

That was seven years ago. The researchers have now followed up 71 of the participants and found that just 10 per cent of those given fish oils went on to develop schizophrenia, compared with 40 per cent of the placebo group. “We may have put them on a different trajectory,” says team member Paul Amminger of the University of Melbourne, Australia.

The results are striking, says David Taylor of the Maudsley Hospital in London. But he cautions that this was a small trial and the results need to be reproduced.

Nigel Barnes of Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust in the UK agrees that the study needs repeating with a larger group, but says that it’s reasonable for people to give fish oils a try. However, he warns that over-the-counter products may not have the right dose of the right fatty acids to be of use.

Amminger says the best approach for those at risk of developing schizophrenia would probably be to combine fish oil supplements with talking therapies.

Source: https://www.newscientist.com/article/2053882-fish-oil-pills-may-help-teenagers-stave-off-schizophrenia/

Party's Has Just Begun for Many Beer Market Tycoons in Asia

Asia - Pacific region is perfectly place to meet the growing demand of the diverse customers.

Asia-Pacific region is perfectly place to meet the growing demand of the diverse customers.

Beer consumption in Asia started, when beer was brewed in the ancient Iraq. Trend that began years’ ago, was further popularized by European colonies in the 19th century. Most breweries during that period were set up under the British rule in India, Dutch dominance in East Indies, China, and Japan. Research analysts at Allied Market Research evaluating the growth rate, consumption volume, share, and size of the beer industry reveal at present beer industry is a rapidly growing sector in the Asia-Pacific region with China pioneering as world’s greatest producer since 2001. Some of the top beer manufacturing nations include China, Vietnam, South Korea, Thailand, and Japan.

Get a Full Detailed Research in Beer Industry at: https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/beer-market

North Korean Beer Brands Hit Chinese Stores

Few North Korean beer brands, that were rarely available in retail outlets in China have been spotted off late. These brands are now up for sale in grocery stores located in the border city. So far distribution and marketing of Korean beer was limited in China. North Korea was China’s largest trading partner. However, these beers are made available in the stores that sell only Korean and different foreign items and ones in the locations witnessing high Korean communities. In a recent incident few grocery stores were seen selling “Taedonggang” beer. But they are available in small quantity and that’s why many are not aware about it.

Indians Welcome Premium Foreign Labels

Of late, beer industry in India is busy welcoming the entry of several foreign labels. This is expected to offer potential consumers a wide range of choices to select from instead of depending of home brands. Among the international labels that have invaded the Indian market is beer giant from Spain “Mahou San Miguel's”, whose entry in the country was highly anticipated. 

Japan’s Fast Food Joint Now Serve Alcohol

Fast food outlets in Japan are now seen serving craft beers with friend chicken. KFC branch located at Takadanobaba has started selling beer after 5 p.m. About 17 beers are on the list. This consists of a wide range of Japanese local craft beers. On request the staff would be glad to whisk his customers a cocktail, including a Colonel’s Hi prepared with Suntory whiskey.

Koreans Get Attracted to Australian Beer Brands

A recent event held at JW Marriot “Australian Craft Beer Masterclass” indicated that Australia is in a good position to launch best quality craft beer in Korea. Australia’s fast growing craft beer industry has the capability to serve the increasing demands of the Korean consumer. There are approximately 300 breweries and over 1,000 beers available in the market. 

Identifying the increasing demands in the industry Allied Market Research has published a report titled “Asia-Pacific Beer Market—Opportunities and Forecasts, 2014–2020”. Study indicates that types such as stronger and light beer would contribute to the sales. Prominent market players such as Anheuser-Busch InBev, United Breweries Group (UB Group), Kirin Holdings Co Ltd. and Carlsberg Group are also covered in the report.

Source: https://blog.alliedmarketresearch.com/party-has-just-begun-for-many-beer-market-tycoons-in-asia-279

Meat’s off the Menu: Exploring Opportunities for Meat Alternatives in China

The Chinese government issued new dietary guidelines recommended by the Health Ministry that aim for a 50 percent reduction in the country’s meat consumption by 2030. China consumes about 30 percent of the world’s meat, including half of its pork, even though average per capita meat consumption is half that of the average American or Australian. China’s guidelines recommend eating 40-75 grams of meat per day, similar to recommendations by the UK Department of Health.

Some commentators pointed out that these guidelines could be instrumental in reducing the country’s greenhouse gas emissions. Globally, the livestock industry produces 14.5 percent of greenhouse gas emissions, totaling more than the global transport sector. If the guidelines are met and China’s meat consumption is reduced by 50 percent, one billion tons of carbon dioxide emissions could be cut. In addition, it would alleviate stress on land and water resources, which would be strained if meat consumption continues to increase at the current rate.

Thirty years ago, the average person in China consumed 13kg of meat a year. This figure has increased to 63kg a year because of increases in disposable income, and is expected to increase by another 30kg by 2030.

While there may be positive effects on the environment, the guidelines’ main aim is to improve public health. Research suggests that reducing meat consumption, in particular red meats such as beef, lamb, and pork, can reduce the risk of bowel cancer and heart diseases. Regardless of the motivations for reducing meat consumption, China is a steadily growing market for meat alternatives. Without stronger regulations, however, the government is unlikely to meet its lofty targets as Chinese consumers have little incentive to dramatically shift their eating habits.

Know about Meat Substitute Industry at: https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/meat-substitute-market

Meat alternatives

In China, consumption of meat and meat alternatives is affected by cultural and religious factors. The ability to eat meat is associated with wealth and prosperity which makes vegetarianism less popular than in the West. However, Buddhist monks, nuns, and strict followers who are expected to abstain from meat, often use tofu and braised gluten to replicate the texture of meat. Tofu is also popularly consumed in many forms across China.

Several meat alternatives could become more popular as the new guidelines work to reduce meat consumption:

Mycoprotein based meat alternatives such as Quorn were developed in the 1960s in anticipation of future food shortages. Made up of fungus extracts, mycoprotein is a versatile, easily flavored food.

Texturized vegetable protein (TVP) is made of dehydrated soy. Once rehydrated, it can be used in a variety of ways, and comes in granule or chunk form. Its versatility makes it easy to recreate a myriad of meat products and dishes.

Tempeh is made of whole fermented soybeans, and has a more grainy texture than tofu. It can be used to emulate fish or ground meats. It is packed with nutrients and easy to prepare.

Seitan is made of processed wheat gluten and can easily be flavored, making it a perfect alternative for a variety of meats. It is more dense and chewy, allowing it to be fried, grilled, or braised. It is also a good source of protein.

Jackfruit is a surprising alternative to meat. In its raw form, it is a healthy and tasty tropical fruit, but after baking it becomes chewy and its texture is similar to chicken or pulled pork. It has a mildly sweet flavor, but can be easily flavored, making it a surprisingly useful alternative to meat.

Source: http://www.chinabusinessreview.com/meats-off-the-menu-exploring-opportunities-for-meat-alternatives-in-china/

Beer Market is Expected to Reach $688.4 Billion, Globally, by 2020

"Geographically, Europe contributes a major portion in the global beer market revenue. Developing economies such as China and India would largely contribute to the growth of this market. The Asia Pacific market should garner a revenue of $202.4 billion by 2020, growing at a CAGR of 7.3% over the forecast period 2015-2020."

According to a new report by Allied Market Research titled, "Beer Market - Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2014 - 2020", the global beer market is expected to garner$688.4 billion by 2020, registering a CAGR of 6% over the forecast period, 2015-2020. The significantly growing consumption in developing regions is largely fueling the market growth.

The types of beer covered in this report are light and strong, of which, strong beer holds a major market share. The largest consumption for strong beer is observed in the Asia Pacific region, especially in India. The market for strong beer is estimated to grow rapidly over the forecast period accounting for a market value of $463.9 billion by 2020, registering a high CAGR of 6.5% during the forecast period. The global increase in the count of female drinkers has considerably supplemented the growth of the beer market. However, stringent government and tax regulations governing the alcoholic beverages industry would restrain the growth of this market.

The market is further segmented into premium, super premium and normal beer category on the basis of pricing, in which normal beer accounts for the largest market share of around 43% of the global beer market. The segment for premium beer is expected to grow at a higher CAGR of 6.4% during the forecast period, as compared to super premium and normal beer. The growth would primarily be driven by the shifting consumer preference towards premium beer due to the high quality, and increasing affordability owing to the rising disposable income.

The categories for beer packaging include canned, bottle and draught beer, of which, canned beer accounts for the largest share, in terms of packaging, followed by bottled beer. The demand for canned beer is high due its easy storage and transportation, and the protection that it offers from the external heat.

The market, based on beer production, is segmented into microbreweries and macro breweries. With a global change in drinking preferences, the demand for microbreweries is considerably increasing, and is anticipated to register a high CAGR of 9.3% over the forecast period, 2015-2020.

Key findings of Beer Market:

• The global beer market is rapidly growing due to increasing disposable incomes and changing lifestyles
• The segment for strong beer accounts for the largest share in the beer market, growing at a CAGR of 6.5% during 2015-2020
• The segment for premium beer would grow at a CAGR of 6.4% during the forecast period
• Europe accounted for the highest revenue generating region in the global beer market
• Asia-Pacific would prove to be one of the most profitable markets, in terms of growth. The market in this region is expected to reach $202.4 billion by the year 2020

The growth of the beer market is supplemented by rising disposable incomes and changing lifestyles in developing nations. Companies are adopting product launch, acquisition and partnership as key strategies to expand their market reach and gain a larger market share. The prominent companies profiled in the report are Anheuser- Busch InBev, SABMiller, Heineken and Carlsberg Group.

Get a free Sample of this Report at: https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/beer-market

The Interactive Whiteboard Market Radically Alters Classroom Teaching

The digital learning environment has revolutionized the definition of traditional classroom teaching. The introduction of innovative learning methods through interactive whiteboards has transformed the way teaching is perceived, and has helped in creating a user-friendly operating system that offers an adaptive learning experience. Interactive whiteboards are an emerging market serving the education, corporate, and government sectors in diverse applications. Product developers and electronics manufacturers are collaborating to release innovative whiteboarding tools to widen the horizon of the market. The emergence of e-learning courses and virtual classrooms has led to a surge in the global interactive whiteboard market. Educational institutions and businesses alike are spoilt for choice, as the market offers a plethora of interactive whiteboards.

Allied Market Research has recently published a report, which is an in-depth analysis of the Interactive Whiteboard Market, its driving factors along with current and future market trends. The study explains that the corporate and education sectors are lucrative prospects for greater consumption in this industry. It also explains the segments in the market, and examines the key players who have an established market presence.

Adaptive whiteboards—redefining classroom learning

The conventional methods of classroom teaching involving textbooks and blackboards are a thing of the past. Implementation of digital learning environments has enhanced the quality of education. The method of transforming any mobile device with an operating system into a collaborative whiteboarding tool benefits both the teacher and student alike. This enables an interactive, fun learning session and permits a hassle-free whiteboarding experience. Developers are focusing on turning interactive whiteboards into the 21st century canvas for the student. There is a larger focus on making these learning environments compatible with different devices that makes its use versatile and omnipresent, whether at home or schools.

The interactive whiteboard market is replete with competitors trying to outdo each other with innovative value additions to their whiteboard models and by improving hardware specifications. One such manufacturer is EXO U, who has recently launched Ormiboard, a first-of-its-kind digital learning environment. It enables teachers to capitalize on their work by moving existing whiteboard content from software such as Smart Notebook and ActivInspire. Teachers and students can access its expanding library of templates, ready-made lessons, activities, games, assignments and exams on an easy-to-use interface. By allowing quick integration of Google Classroom, Google Drive, Dropbox, Evernote and other popular third-party platforms, Ormiboard assists in immediate student teacher engagement.

“In class, Ormiboard incorporates all devices into a single immersive learning environment and empowers teachers to instantly push content and activities to student devices, jump to external content, simultaneously view multiple student sessions on one screen, and select any student’s activity to appear on the front-of-class display,” explains Jim Kirchner, the CEO of EXO U.

Strong market presence in developed nations

Interactive-whiteboard-bThe education sector is one of the main consumers of the interactive whiteboard market. Digital learning environments are the need of the hour with all the advancements in technology. The industry has changed the pedagogical skills employed by teachers, resulting in more enthusiastic teaching with adaptive methods. Developed countries such as the U.K. have the largest consumer market for interactive whiteboards as its education sector is more open to technology penetration in its learning environments. There is greater awareness in the U.K. schools about the rewards of enhanced teaching with the help of interactive whiteboards. This has supplemented the growth of the market in the European region. It is set to gradually spread to other nations as well. Moreover, nations like Japan and Korea are major contributors to the market in terms of manufacturing. This gives the Asia-Pacific region a strong market hold on industry competition.

Read More at :http://www.digitalsignageconnection.com/interactive-whiteboard-market-radically-alters-classroom-teaching

Thanks To Technology, You Might Soon Know Where Your Seafood Actually Comes From

Better traceability in a notoriously opaque seafood industry could save our oceans, experts say.

Millions of people worldwide depend on seafood to survive. An estimated 450 million people get their primary source of food from the ocean, and according to the World Bank, fishing makes up at least 10 percent of the global economy.

But for all its popularity and importance, the seafood industry’s supply chain is notoriously opaque, complex and plagued with problems, including illegal fishing and seafood fraud, which can seriously deplete fish populations and harm marine habitats.

Seafood lovers often have no idea where their fish or shrimp were caught, and even whether or not their snapper was the real McCoy.

Thanks to improved technology, together with the efforts of businesses, nonprofits and governments, however, “ocean-to-table” visibility is fast becoming a reality. And this, experts say, may help save our ailing seas.

Other traceability tools and services have emerged in recent years to help consumers have more insight into the seafood they’re eating. 

Conservation organization Ecotrust, for instance, has launched a traceability software platform called ThisFish that allows fisherman to attach tracking codes to fish they catch. Consumers can then use their smartphone, tablet or computer to read the code, and learn exactly where the fish came from and the people who harvested it. 

FairAgora Asia, a company based in Bangkok, is developing a software platform that monitors and displays social and environmental data on fisheries. North Carolina-based TRUfish is working on a subscription service that offers retailers DNA testing of fish ― a service that could better assure customers of the authenticity of seafood in stores. 

Despite progress in this area, however, traceability in the seafood industry is still in its infancy. Paper-based tracing is still commonplace, and in remote areas where some fishermen work, the internet or even cellphone connection can be hard to come by. 

Some information is “theoretically there but it’s almost impossible to access and difficult to verify,” Timothy Moore, an advisor for the U.S. Agency for International Development, told USA Today. 

Still, it seems change is underway ― and it’s not just in seafood but in the food industry as a whole. 

In 2014, Allied Market Research said the market for food traceability products and technologies would grow to an estimated $14.1 billion by 2019.“Food traceability is becoming a norm for all food producers across the globe as a result of consumer demands and government regulations concerning food safety,” the company wrote. This, experts say, is great news for the world’s oceans ― and for the people who rely on them to survive. Depleted fish stocks, for example, could bounce back if destructive and illegal practices are curbed, Gustavsson of Oceana told the Thomson Reuters Foundation.

“If we do all the right things now,” he said, “in 10 years we will have twice as much fish in the ocean globally.” 

Read More at : http://www.huffingtonpost.in/entry/seafood-traceability-technology_us_57db9fa2e4b04a1497b3960f

Fish Oil Market Supplemented by Diverse Health Benefits

Fish oil is contributive to various nutritive benefits, which is why an increasing number of health enthusiasts are vying for inclusion of Omega 3-rich fish oil in their diets.

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A recent statistic revealed by the National Centre for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) states that fish oil is considered to be the most popular natural product by nearly 7.8% (18.8 million) of adults in America. This is a due to the fact that the fish oil boasts of a variety of nutritional properties, which make it extremely viable in different food, pharmaceutical, pet food, and aquaculture applications. People are showing a greater inclination towards reaping the health benefits of fish oil, as there is growing health awareness in the world populace about it. It has gained popularity as a food supplement in nutritive diets, thus promising optimal health after ingestion. Omega 3 fatty acids that are a main component of fish oil, aid in reduction of risk of heart problems, rheumatoid arthritis, and depression. It also promotes prenatal health, healthy skin, and treats schizophrenia. The impressive medicinal advantages offered by the consumption of fish oil, as well as its usage in aqua feed and pet foods have led to the emergence of its market on a global level.

Allied Market Research has recently conducted an extensive study of the Global Fish Oil Market. It has explored the industry by source species and application types. The major drivers, restraints, opportunities and threat to the market are listed in the report. The study provides a quantitative analysis of the current market and estimations through the forecast period 2014–2020. It lists out the different segments in the industry and the market growth in different regions is depicted with relevant statistics. Fish oil and Omega 3 fatty acids possess huge potential in the market, with its consumption reaching massive levels.

Know the Latest Research in Omega 3 at : https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/omega-3-market

Fish oil extremely popular as an aqua feed 

Fish farming, or aquaculture, is another industry that is growing on a large scale. This has led to an increased demand for aqua feeds such as fishmeal and fish oil. There is greater focus on overall health of not just humans, but animals too. Omega 3 fish oil is a valuable marine ingredient that positively contributes to better health and well-being in animals too. This is one of the main reasons why it is used as an aqua feed. China is one of the largest consumer market for fish oil, since it has higher concentration of aquaculture industry. However, increasing dependency on fishmeal and fish oil as aqua feed has raised sustainability issues, and researchers are trying to find alternatives to fish oil and Omega 3 fatty acids, as this can put a huge pressure on the industry. The highlight is on meeting the needs of aquaculture, without having to compromise on the demand for human food supplements derived from Omega 3.

Genetic damage caused by fructose reversed by Omega 3 consumption

In many Western countries, the population show a greater tendency to depend on unhealthy diets that are heavily sprinkled with fructose. Fructose, a type of sugar, is a common ingredient in many fruits as well as packaged food products. Though many medical researchers consider it better than sucrose, overconsumption of dietary fructose can have potential side-effects in the long run. Excessive ingestion of fructose is associated with rising prevalence of obesity, diabetes mellitus, chronic diarrhea, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. It is known to also have caused abnormal changes in brain gene patterns as well. It increases the incidence of brain disorders, such as Alzheimer’s and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). However, researchers at University of California, LA, have discovered that an Omega 3 fatty acid, known as docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), has the potential to reverse the harmful effects of fructose. It naturally occurs in the brain membranes, but in very limited quantities. Intake of Omega 3 supplements is necessary to fight the risk of brain diseases. The researchers have tested the effects of fructose and DHA in rats, by experimenting with dosages of plain water, fructose water, and DHA. Over time, they reached conclusion that DHA strongly eliminated the adverse effects of fructose.

“DHA changes not just one or two genes; it seems to push the entire gene pattern back to normal, which is remarkable,” said Xia Yang, a senior author of the study and a UCLA assistant professor of integrative biology and physiology. “And we can see why it has such a powerful effect.” Omega 3 strengthens the brain synapses, and it enhances learning and memory. Similar studies are testimony to the fact that there is major market potential to be tapped for fish oil market in pharmaceuticals.

Pet food enriched by fish oil

Apart from serving as functional food, supplements and aqua feeds in aquaculture, fish oil is also widely preferred in pharmaceutical industry. It is a good supplement for pet food too. Not only does it promote good heart health in cats and dogs, but also ensures a shiny, healthy coat, and reduces shedding. It is also known to reduce inflammation caused by allergies in pets. Pet owners are raving about the various advantages of feeding their pets with Omega 3 supplements. This has led to a growth of the fish oil market in the pet food segment.

The world fish oil market sources its main component from different fish, such as anchovies, mackerels, sardines, cod, herring and menhaden, with anchovy being the largest sources. The industry is spread widely over different regions of North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and LAMEA. Major companies involved in this field include Omega Protein Corporation, Colpex International, Copeinca ASA, and FMC Corporation. There is heavy competition in the market, as the key players are focusing on product diversification to attract customers towards their product lines. Companies are vying to acquire related businesses, to expand their customer reach by offering different products. This has helped in creating a dynamic market with major potential for growth. The industry faces certain challenges, such as adverse climatic conditions for breeding fish, and demand–supply gap for Omega 3 fish oil. However, with so many stakeholders involved in the development of this sector, the world fish oil market is expected to overcome these problems and emerge as a smoothly functioning industry.