Latest news with #Kaneka
Wales Online
10-07-2025
- Health
- Wales Online
'Overlooked' vitamin could be key to combating fatigue and boosting energy
'Overlooked' vitamin could be key to combating fatigue and boosting energy Despite its benefits, nearly 80% of people have never heard of it according to new research The nutrient powers cells and reduces oxidative stress (Image: Getty ) Many people are interested in nutrition. Lifestyle modifications, including nutrition, can fundamentally affect the risk of developing chronic diseases such as cardiovascular, metabolic, and neurological diseases. Following a balanced diet, alongside regular exercise and making healthy life choices, can make a significant difference to overall well-being. Up until now, most of the interest has been in macronutrients (energy, carbohydrates, protein, and fibre) and micronutrients (vitamins and minerals). Yet there is growing interest in another 'fascinating' nutritional compound known as ubiquinol. Yet many do not even know what ubiquinol is. Data from a real-world research study commissioned by Kaneka Ubiquinol - the bioavailable form of Co-Enzyme Q10 (CoQ10), which offers help for couples struggling to conceive, revealed that 80% were not sure what ubiquinol was. Three-quarters (74%) had never heard of ubiquinol, 62% disagreed with the statement that they understood what ubiquinol does, and 64% did not know if ubiquinol could play a role in their health. Further data highlighted that: Just over three-quarters (76%) did not know the difference between coenzyme Q10 and ubiquinol. Just under three-quarters (72%) were unsure whether ubiquinol or ubiquinone was more bioavailable. As we age, the body's capacity to transform CoQ10 into ubiquinol diminishes, which may make ubiquinol-rich foods and supplements helpful for older adults. Additionally, some medications such as statins, along with lifestyle elements like sun exposure, can influence CoQ10 and ubiquinol levels. Article continues below Over the years, the body's capacity to transform CoQ10 into ubiquinol diminishes What is ubiquinol? Public health nutritionist and part of the Kaneka Ubiquinol (the bioavailable form of Co-Enzyme Q10 - CoQ10) expert hub, Dr Emma Derbyshire, says: "Ubiquinol is a vitamin-like substance that acts as a powerful antioxidant, playing a key role in the production of cellular energy needed by human cells and organs. "Just as a lamp is powered by electricity or a car by electricity or petrol, human cells and organs are powered by cellular energy. Some of us may have heard of coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), but many of us are unaware that there are two forms of this nutrient – ubiquinol and ubiquinone." Ubiquinol is the active and bioavailable form of CoQ10. Other forms of CoQ10, such as ubiquinone, need to be converted to ubiquinol before they can be used by the human body. Ubiquinol is sometimes referred to as 'fully loaded' CoQ10 as it contains extra electrons compared to ubiquinone. Ubiquinol's oral bioavailability has been reported to be greater than that of ubiquinone in healthy adults. Kaneka Ubiquinol is three to five times better absorbed than conventional CoQ10. Studies suggest that taking ubiquinol can help reduce fatigue How can ubiquinol improve health? The vitamin-like substance is found in every cell of the body, with particularly high concentrations in the heart. It's essential for energy production and acts as an antioxidant. Ubiquinol consumption has increasingly been linked to several vital health essentials, including: 1. Reinforcing fertility Public health nutritionist, Dr Emma Derbyshire who headed a new research review published in the journal of Gynaecology and Women's Health Research, explains: "After reviewing 17 trials we found that Ubiquinol appears to contribute to improvements in female egg quality, fertilisation, markers of sperm quality, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) symptoms and hormone levels." 2. Reduction of oxidative stress Ubiquinol contains extra electrons that can neutralise free radicals, which can damage human cells and contribute to oxidative stress. Free radicals can be generated by exposure to tobacco smoke, fried foods, alcohol and air pollutants. Oxidative stress happens when there's a mismatch between the generation of free radicals and the body's capacity to counteract them with antioxidants. Ubiquinol, a potent antioxidant, is crucial in reestablishing this equilibrium. It functions by neutralising free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can harm cells and lead to a range of health issues. Speak to a GP if you have any health concerns, especially regarding tiredness 3. Cellular energy production Ubiquinol is found in every cell of the human body. It is needed for 95% of cellular energy production, which includes the production of the energy molecule adenosine triphosphate (ATP). Ubiquinol is a key player in the mitochondria, which are the powerhouses of the cell. It helps mitochondria produce energy more efficiently. 4. Offsetting fatigue Studies suggest that taking ubiquinol can help reduce fatigue, particularly in instances of mild fatigue and fatigue caused by exercise. Research has indicated that ubiquinol may enhance the function of the autonomic nervous system, which is responsible for controlling bodily functions such as heart rate and breathing, and it can also boost cognitive abilities that might be impacted by fatigue. Other research has looked at ubiquinol's ability to help offset fatigue. In the study of 20 adults (mean age 44 years) experiencing fatigue in daily life, taking 150mg ubiquinol daily over four weeks was found to significantly relieve feelings of mild fatigue. Ongoing studies are needed, but these are interesting findings that make sense given ubiquinol's ability to power human cells. Where isubiquinol Ubiquinol can be found in certain foods, such as oily fish, turkey, poultry, citrus fruits, nuts and seeds, such as pistachio nuts, peanuts, and sesame seeds, but you need to consume a fair amount of these foods to obtain sufficient amounts. It can also be found in supplement form, such as Kaneka Ubiquinol. Article continues below "Ubiquinol is certainly a substance that we will be hearing much more about in the future, particularly in relation to reinforcement of fertility, active lifestyles and healthy ageing", reports Dr Emma Derbyshire, Public Health Nutritionist. It is, however, always useful to consult your healthcare provider before taking any formulations. Ubiquinol is typically regarded as safe for most adults when used as directed, and it has minimal side effects. However, it may interact with certain medications, including blood thinners and medications for blood pressure. It is best to speak with a healthcare professional before beginning any new supplements, such as ubiquinol, particularly if you have pre-existing health issues or are on other medications. This information is intended for general knowledge and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional prior to starting any new supplement routine.
Globe and Mail
02-06-2025
- Automotive
- Globe and Mail
Polyimide Films & Tapes Market Size and Key Insights – 2025, Growth Scenario with Top Key Players, Upcoming Business Opportunities till 2030
The Polyimide Films & Tapes market is expanding rapidly, driven by rising demand in electronics, automotive, and aerospace sectors due to their excellent thermal and chemical resistance. Key players like DuPont, Kaneka, and Toray are leading innovations, shaping a competitive and technology-driven landscape. The polyimide films & tapes market was estimated at USD 1.38 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 2.31 billion by 2030, at a CAGR of 9.0% from 2025 to 2030. The market research report covers critical elements such as market dynamics, competitive environments, polyimide films & tapes market growth opportunities, challenges, and regional differences. Flexible solar panels, flexible solar displays, and flexible sensors are some of the new technologies in which polyimide films are finding applications. The demand for polyimide films & tapes has surged due to these advances. Download PDF Brochure: Flexible printed circuits segment to dominate the polyimide films & tapes market Flexible printed circuits are widely used in the automotive and electronics industries. Due to the challenging nature of polyimide films, FPCs are dependable and robust enough to survive mechanical stress and environmental conditions. This toughness is especially useful in applications where the FPC may be twisted repeatedly or where the product is exposed to extreme conditions. Due to their wide operating temperature range, polyimide films can be used in high- and low-temperature situations. This characteristic is essential in applications where the FPC may encounter a wide range of operating circumstances. Electronics is projected to be the fastest-growing end-use industry segment of the polyimide films market Based on the end-use industry, the electronics segment is anticipated to grow at the highest CAGR during the forecast period. Polyimide films are utilized as cable wraps and harness tapes to shield cables and electronics in challenging conditions. They ensure the durability and dependability of electrical systems by providing excellent resistance to heat, chemicals, and abrasion. Flexible heaters made from polyimide films can be found in heated blankets, medical equipment, and car seats, among other things. They are suited for these heating elements due to their outstanding thermal resistance and electrical insulation qualities. Asia Pacific accounted for the largest share of the polyimide films & tapes market The Asia Pacific region accounted for the largest share of the polyimide films & tapes market in 2024. Automotive, electrical, and aerospace industries are growing in countries such as China, India, Japan, and South Korea, contributing to the high demand for polyimide films in this region. There is also a high demand for consumer electronics products due to innovation, price deflation, and rising household incomes, thereby contributing to the growth of the polyimide films & tapes market in this region. Polyimide Films & Tapes Companies Some of the key players in the market include PI Advanced Materials Co., Ltd. (South Korea), DuPont (US), Kaneka Corporation (Japan), Taimide Tech. Inc. (Taiwan), Ube Industries Ltd. (Japan), 3M Company (US), Kolon Industries Inc. (South Korea), Arakawa Chemical Industries Inc. (Japan), Shinmax Technology Ltd. (Taiwan), and Flexcon Company, Inc. (US). PI Advanced Materials Co., Ltd. The production of polyimide films & tapes is an area of expertise of PI Advanced Materials Co., Ltd. These films possess chemical resistance, thermal stability, and electrical insulation. They are utilized in many industries, including aerospace, automotive, and electronics, among others. The polyimide tapes produced by the company have robust adhesive capabilities and tolerance to high temperatures. They are essential for applications such as wire harness wrapping, powder coating, and circuit board masking. In June 2023, Arkema acquired 54.07% of PI Advanced Material Co., Ltd.'s share for developing high-performance materials used in electronics and other sectors. DuPont DuPont has pioneered the creation of novel materials that are essential to many different sectors. The company's mission has continually focused on science-based solutions over the years. The company manufactures polyimide films used in various end-use industries such as electronics, aerospace, and automotive. In May 2022, DuPont announced the expansion of the production of Kapton polyimide films and Pyralux flexible circuit materials at the Circleville (US) manufacturing site. Kaneka Corporation Kaneka Corporation operates in various business segments such as material, health care, and nutrition. Japan is the primary market of Kaneka Corporation. It also has a regional presence in Asia, North America, Europe, and others. In November 2020, Kaneka Corporation launched a super heat-resistant polyimide film called 'PixeoTM1IB' for high-speed, high-frequency 5G. The management of 5G millimeter wave zones, which can realize high-speed communications, can be made feasible with this product. About MarketsandMarkets™ MarketsandMarkets™ has been recognized as one of America's best management consulting firms by Forbes, as per their recent report. MarketsandMarkets™ is a blue ocean alternative in growth consulting and program management, leveraging a man-machine offering to drive supernormal growth for progressive organizations in the B2B space. We have the widest lens on emerging technologies, making us proficient in co-creating supernormal growth for clients. Earlier this year, we made a formal transformation into one of America's best management consulting firms as per a survey conducted by Forbes. The B2B economy is witnessing the emergence of $25 trillion of new revenue streams that are substituting existing revenue streams in this decade alone. We work with clients on growth programs, helping them monetize this $25 trillion opportunity through our service lines – TAM Expansion, Go-to-Market (GTM) Strategy to Execution, Market Share Gain, Account Enablement, and Thought Leadership Marketing. Built on the 'GIVE Growth' principle, we work with several Forbes Global 2000 B2B companies – helping them stay relevant in a disruptive ecosystem. Our insights and strategies are molded by our industry experts, cutting-edge AI-powered Market Intelligence Cloud, and years of research. The KnowledgeStore™ (our Market Intelligence Cloud) integrates our research, facilitates an analysis of interconnections through a set of applications, helping clients look at the entire ecosystem and understand the revenue shifts happening in their industry.
Yahoo
04-03-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Synthetic hair marketed toward Black women contains carcinogens and lead, report finds
Ingredients that can cause cancer were found in 10 synthetic hair products used in braids, extensions and other hairstyles popular with Black women, including artificial hair from popular brands such as Magic Fingers, Sensationnel and Shake-N-Go, according to a Consumer Reports study published Thursday. Lead, which can cause serious health and developmental problems, was also found in nine of the 10 packs of synthetic hair surveyed, including one package of braiding hair that exceeded the maximum allowed dose of lead by more than 600%, according to the study. Consumer Reports used California's maximum allowable dosage level, describing it as the 'most protective available in the U.S.,' because there are no federal limits on lead in synthetic braiding hair. Synthetic hair has long been a staple in protective hairstyles for Black women — like braids, locs and twists. These styles can be worn for weeks at a time, protecting the hair from breakage, exposure to the elements or day-to-day heat styling. This translates to longer exposure to the chemicals, Consumer Reports said. Synthetic hair is commonly found at neighborhood beauty supply stores and online. Consumer Reports researchers assessed braiding hair from 10 companies, many of which use synthetic hair made from Kanekalon, a material produced by the Kaneka brand, according to Consumer Reports. Kaneka did not immediately respond to NBC News' request for comment, but told Consumer Reports, 'Kaneka only manufactures the Kanekalon fibers that are used in various hair products, such as synthetic hair braids and wigs, and does not produce any of the final products.' The braiding hair companies themselves dye and style the Kanekalon, Kaneka added. The company also told Consumer Reports it would need more information to properly analyze the complaint. Sensationnel, Magic Fingers and other products contain benzene, known to be a cancer-causing ingredient, according to the study. The chemical likely causes acute myeloid leukemia, according to the American Cancer Society. Consumer Reports also found methylene chloride, which the EPA says can lead to liver and lung cancer after chronic exposure. No level of methylene chloride is permitted in cosmetics by the Food and Drug Administration. 'There is no safe level of exposure to lead or benzene,' Alexa Friedman, a senior scientist for the Environmental Working Group, a research and advocacy health organization, said. 'When possible, exposure to either chemical should be avoided as they are associated with serious health effects.' Nine of the 10 products tested also contained lead, the report found. Lead can cause a number of developmental disabilities in children, as well as reproductive issues in adults, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 'There are no federal limits on the amount of lead in synthetic braiding products,' Friedman said. 'Lead is not permitted to be intentionally added to cosmetic products in the US but may be present as a contamination of certain ingredients.' Magic Fingers, Sensationnel and Shake-n-Go did not immediately respond to NBC News' requests for comment. Magic Fingers told Consumer Reports that its customers 'can count on us for braids and extensions that meet their highest expectations for fashion and performance.' Sensationnel told Consumer Reports, 'We unequivocally stand by the safety of Sensationnel products.' 'While most of these products are below the FDA standard for lead contamination in cosmetics, when possible exposure to lead should be avoided,' Friedman said. Both Magic Fingers and Sensationnel did not agree with the methodology used to test the products, saying it was not representative of consumers' use of the products. Consumer Reports tested 10 artificial braiding hair products and a total of 20 samples, blind-coding them and sending them to a laboratory for heavy metal analysis. Shake-n-Go did not respond to Consumer Reports' request for comment. In 2022, companies that make chemical hair relaxers, which straighten hair, were sued in a class-action lawsuit by hundreds of Black people who said the products led to uterine cancer. Several wide-scale studies have been published in recent years showing heightened rates of cancer, infertility and other illnesses among women who use chemical hair relaxers, which are generally marketed to Black women. Friedman said the Consumer Reports study highlights an 'alarming trend' of toxic products being marketed toward Black women, which the organization tracks. 'On average, women use 12 personal care products a day, which can expose people to mixtures of harmful chemicals,' Friedman said in a statement, 'And studies show that repeated exposure to mixtures of chemicals can pose far greater health risks than exposure to a single ingredient.' EWG tested more than 4,000 products marketed toward Black women and found that most of them were at least moderately, if not highly, hazardous to human health. EWG has developed a database, Skin Deep, where consumers can look up beauty products and see whether they're classified as low, moderately or highly hazardous by the group. 'Everyone deserves access to safe products,' Friedman said. 'Manufacturers should prioritize safety for consumers.' This article was originally published on
NBC News
03-03-2025
- Health
- NBC News
Synthetic hair marketed toward Black women contains carcinogens and lead, report finds
Ingredients that can cause cancer were found in 10 synthetic hair products used in braids, extensions and other hairstyles popular with Black women, including artificial hair from popular brands such as Magic Fingers, Sensationnel and Shake-N-Go, according to a Consumer Reports study published Thursday. Lead, which can cause serious health and developmental problems, was also found in nine of the 10 packs of synthetic hair surveyed, including one package of braiding hair that exceeded the maximum allowed dose of lead by more than 600%, according to the study. Consumer Reports used California's maximum allowable dosage level, describing it as the 'most protective available in the U.S.,' because there are no federal limits on lead in synthetic braiding hair. Synthetic hair has long been a staple in protective hairstyles for Black women — like braids, locs and twists. These styles can be worn for weeks at a time, protecting the hair from breakage, exposure to the elements or day-to-day heat styling. This translates to longer exposure to the chemicals, Consumer Reports said. Synthetic hair is commonly found at neighborhood beauty supply stores and online. Consumer Reports researchers assessed braiding hair from 10 companies, many of which use synthetic hair made from Kanekalon, a material produced by the Kaneka brand, according to Consumer Reports. Kaneka did not immediately respond to NBC News' request for comment, but told Consumer Reports, 'Kaneka only manufactures the Kanekalon fibers that are used in various hair products, such as synthetic hair braids and wigs, and does not produce any of the final products.' The braiding hair companies themselves dye and style the Kanekalon, Kaneka added. The company also told Consumer Reports it would need more information to properly analyze the complaint. Sensationnel, Magic Fingers and other products contain benzene, known to be a cancer-causing ingredient, according to the study. The chemical likely causes acute myeloid leukemia, according to the American Cancer Society. Consumer Reports also found methylene chloride, which the EPA says can lead to liver and lung cancer after chronic exposure. No level of methylene chloride is permitted in cosmetics by the Food and Drug Administration. 'There is no safe level of exposure to lead or benzene,' Alexa Friedman, a senior scientist for the Environmental Working Group, a research and advocacy health organization, said. 'When possible, exposure to either chemical should be avoided as they are associated with serious health effects.' Nine of the 10 products tested also contained lead, the report found. Lead can cause a number of developmental disabilities in children, as well as reproductive issues in adults, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 'There are no federal limits on the amount of lead in synthetic braiding products,' Friedman said. 'Lead is not permitted to be intentionally added to cosmetic products in the US but may be present as a contamination of certain ingredients.' Magic Fingers, Sensationnel and Shake-n-Go did not immediately respond to NBC News' requests for comment. Magic Fingers told Consumer Reports that its customers 'can count on us for braids and extensions that meet their highest expectations for fashion and performance.' Sensationnel told Consumer Reports, 'We unequivocally stand by the safety of Sensationnel products.' 'While most of these products are below the FDA standard for lead contamination in cosmetics, when possible exposure to lead should be avoided,' Friedman said. Both Magic Fingers and Sensationnel did not agree with the methodology used to test the products, saying it was not representative of consumers' use of the products. Consumer Reports tested 10 artificial braiding hair products and a total of 20 samples, blind-coding them and sending them to a laboratory for heavy metal analysis. Shake-n-Go did not respond to Consumer Reports' request for comment. In 2022, companies that make chemical hair relaxers, which straighten hair, were sued in a class-action lawsuit by hundreds of Black people who said the products led to uterine cancer. Several wide-scale studies have been published in recent years showing heightened rates of cancer, infertility and other illnesses among women who use chemical hair relaxers, which are generally marketed to Black women. Friedman said the Consumer Reports study highlights an 'alarming trend' of toxic products being marketed toward Black women, which the organization tracks. 'On average, women use 12 personal care products a day, which can expose people to mixtures of harmful chemicals,' Friedman said in a statement, 'And studies show that repeated exposure to mixtures of chemicals can pose far greater health risks than exposure to a single ingredient.' EWG tested more than 4,000 products marketed toward Black women and found that most of them were at least moderately, if not highly, hazardous to human health. EWG has developed a database, Skin Deep, where consumers can look up beauty products and see whether they're classified as low, moderately or highly hazardous by the group. 'Everyone deserves access to safe products,' Friedman said. 'Manufacturers should prioritize safety for consumers.'
