biomedical sciences research institute - Research - University of Ulster

Within this work both short-term and longer-term clinical trials are being used to evaluate the uptake and healthbenefits of these potentially bioactive wholegrain components. Of particular interest is the role and potential of themicronutrient betaine within the wholegrain. The structure of this project allows findings to be communicated tocereal producers / processors, aiding the production of foods rich in protective wholegrain components, as well ashealth professionals, helping to support current European nutritional guidelines and health-claim legislation.As part of this work, Dr Price has developed expertise in conducting human intervention trials as well as inspecialised laboratory techniques determining clinical risk markers for health. Particular analysis of interest includesinflammation status, oxidative stress as well as micronutrient and phytochemical status. Her work has also involveddietary nutritional assessment as well as the determination of bone mineral density.Other research interests include the phenolic and antioxidant activity of foods including cereals and fruit juices, andDr Price has been involved with a project with Agri-Food & Biosciences Institute (AFBI), Belfast, assessing the effectsof processing on these parameters. In addition Dr Price continues to be involved in FUSION projects and mentorsstudents in the area of product development and functional foods.Dr Price is a Member of The Nutrition Society, UK.Publication:Price RK, Welch RW, Lee-Manion AM, Bradbury I, Strain JJ. Total phenolics and antioxidant potential in plasma andurine of humans after consumption of wheat bran; Cereal Chemistry, 18: 152-157, 2008Dr Barbara Stewart-KnoxSenior Lecturer in Biomedical SciencesContact Details:T: +44 (0)28 70324781b.knox@ulster.ac.ukDr Stewart-Knox has an interest in the following research themes:• Food choice, psycho-social and sensory determinants• Nutrient mediated psychological functions• Food product development related consumer issues• Attitudes toward infant feeding• Health promotion issues.However, Dr Stewart-Knox’s main research interest is the psycho-social aspects of food.NICHE conducts research into a range of food-related consumer issues and psychological functions using a rangeof methodologies both quantitative and qualitative in the following areas:• Pre- and post-launch food product evaluation• Determinants of food choice:Attitudes toward food related issuesSensory perceptions of food.• Investigation into food/nutrient mediated psychological functions:Affective88