To help bolster existing efforts and spur new research ideas, the U of M Healthy Weight Research Center maintains a lending library of research equipment, software, and protocols. This cost and time-saving resource is available to support healthy weight research being conducted by faculty and students at the University of Minnesota.
The current inventory of equipment includes:
- Dell Laptops (13 each)
- Wireless headsets (3 each)
- Nasco food models and other food amount estimation aids
- Portable precision electronic food scale (OHAUS SP601 Scout Pro)
- Research Grade Skinfold Calipers (12 each)
- Tanita Body Composition Analyzers (5 each Model TBF-300A, 2 each TBF 400) for measuring % body fat, fat free mass and body water via bioelectrical impedance analysis
- Digital Scales (4 each Tanita Model BWB-800, 2 each Seca Model 882)
- PEA POD Infant Body Composition Assessment System
- Portable Stadiometers (7 each Shorr; 2 each Seca Model 217)
- Actigraph Activity Monitors (203 each; 121 model GT3XP-BLTE, 82 GT9X) used to obtain objective measures of physical activity for research purposes.
- Calibration Weights
- Gulick Waist Circumference Tape Measures (2 each)
- Sphygmomanometer (1 automated Omron Model HEM-907XL)
- Polar Heart Rate Monitors (2 each)
- Portable Privacy Screens (6 each)
- Reebok Aerobic Steps (4 each)
The equipment is available at no cost on a first come, first serve basis. Staffing costs are the investigator’s responsibility.
Researchers are required to reserve the equipment in advance. Student use is allowed if a faculty advisor agrees to take responsibility for the terms of the equipment loan agreement.
To reserve equipment, contact the U of M HWRC at hwrc@umn.edu.
Sample Measurement Protocols
The following are a variety of sample measurement protocols for use with U of M HWRC research equipment, including weight, anthropometry, blood pressure, accelerometery, and 24-hour dietary recalls.
- Physical Measures Protocol
- Accelerometry Protocol GT1M
- Accelerometry Protocol GT3X & GT3X+
- Accelerometer Log
- Sample Diet Recall Procedures
The HWRC may be able to provide training on measurement protocols and quality control protocols, depending on the specific request.
For more information, contact the U of M HWRC at hwrc@umn.edu.