A team of UA researchers can already “farm” on the red planet with a fully functional prototype greenhouse that produces sweet potatoes and strawberries.
“So, I’ve got to figure out a way to grow three years’ worth of food here — on a planet where nothing grows,” says Mark Watney, the botanist who ends up stranded on the red planet in Ridley Scott’s new film, “The Martian.” (more…)
COLUMBUS, Ohio – New research suggests that there could be health hazards associated with consuming excessive amounts of beta-carotene.
This antioxidant is a naturally occurring pigment that gives color to foods such as carrots, sweet potatoes and certain greens. It also converts to vitamin A, and foods and supplements are the only sources for this essential nutrient.
But scientists at Ohio State University have found that certain molecules that derive from beta-carotene have an opposite effect in the body: They actually block some actions of vitamin A, which is critical to human vision, bone and skin health, metabolism and immune function. (more…)
