Dinosaurs Brains, Head Injuries, Sleep
Stay curious and informed with this month's science newsletter featuring 15 cutting-edge research papers.
Learn how exercise can benefit the brain, uncover ancient dinosaur secrets, and find out if antidepressants really relieve pain.
Gain insights into the global burden of diabetes, the connections between eye and heart health, and the impacts of climate change on disease-carrying mosquitoes.
Plus, crucial findings on perinatal depression, marine mammals afflicted by bird flu, and questionable infant formula claims.
Written for a college student audience (like me), this newsletter makes complex academic research easily understandable through clear summaries.
So, delve in and empower yourself with fascinating science that matters in our world today.
Estimated reading time: 12 minutes
1: Non-occupational Physical Activity: Your Secret Weapon against Heart Disease, Cancer, and Premature Death
Read the original paper: Non-occupational physical activity and risk of cardiovascular disease, cancer and mortality outcomes: a dose–response meta-analysis of large prospective studies
Publisher / Publication: British Medical Journal
Authors: Leandro Garcia, Matthew Pearce, Ali Abbas, Alexander Mok, Tessa Strain
Published: February 28th, 2023
Worried about your health? Here's some exciting news: a recent study conducted by a team of dedicated researchers reveals the incredible benefits of non-occupational physical activity. In simpler terms, this means any exercise you engage in outside of work.
The study, which analyzed a staggering amount of data from over 30 million individuals, sought to uncover the relationship between physical activity and chronic diseases, such as heart disease, cancer, and mortality rates. The findings were nothing short of groundbreaking.
Higher levels of physical activity were found to significantly reduce the risk of developing these life-threatening conditions. Even better, the researchers discovered that even small increases in exercise can yield substantial protection against a range of chronic diseases.
But how much exercise is enough? The study identified that the greatest differences in risk occur between sedentary individuals and those who engage in just 150 minutes per week of moderate-to-vigorous aerobic physical activity. Yes, you read that correctly. A mere 150 minutes of exercise per week can significantly enhance your health and well-being.
Interestingly, the study also found that the benefits of physical activity tend to plateau after a certain point. Once you surpass 150 minutes per week, the additional differences in risk become relatively small and uncertain. Therefore, it's important to strike a balance and not overexert yourself.
The impact of physical activity on mortality rates was particularly notable. If all inactive individuals had achieved the recommended 150 minutes of exercise per week, an astonishing 15.7% of premature deaths could have been prevented.
In conclusion, this ground-breaking research affirms the importance of regular physical activity in combating heart disease, cancer, and premature death. The good news is that incorporating exercise into your daily routine doesn't have to be complicated or time-consuming. Simple activities like walking, cycling, or dancing can make a world of difference and have a profound impact on your health.
So, let this study serve as a gentle nudge to step away from the couch and embrace the empowering benefits of non-occupational physical activity. Your body will thank you, and you'll be well on your way to a healthier, happier life.
2: The Power of Exercise: A Key to Improving Mental Wellbeing
Read the original paper: Effectiveness of physical activity interventions for improving depression, anxiety and distress: an overview of systematic reviews
Publisher / Publication: British Medical Journal
Authors: Ben Singh, Timothy Olds, Rachel Curtis, Dorothea Dumuid, Rosa Virgara
Published: February 16th, 2023
Do you ever feel stressed, anxious, or overwhelmed? Well, we have some good news for you! A group of researchers conducted an in-depth analysis of several studies to find out if physical activity can help ease symptoms of depression, anxiety, and psychological distress in adults like you and me.
They scoured twelve different databases and reviewed a whopping 1039 trials involving a staggering 128,119 participants. These trials aimed to increase physical activity among people like us and assessed the impact on mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, and distress.
The researchers found that physical activity had a significant positive effect on mental health symptoms across various populations. Whether you're a generally healthy individual or someone with a mental health disorder or chronic illness, engaging in physical activity can make a real difference. The positive effects were particularly pronounced in people with depression, HIV, and kidney disease, as well as pregnant and postpartum women.
Interestingly, not all physical activity had the same impact. The researchers discovered that higher intensity activities resulted in greater improvements in mental wellbeing. So, if you're up for a challenge, consider engaging in more vigorous exercises to obtain the most significant benefits.
However, it's essential to note that the duration of physical activity interventions played a role in their effectiveness. Shorter interventions seemed to yield better outcomes than longer ones.
In conclusion, physical activity should be prioritized as a fundamental part of managing depression, anxiety, and psychological distress. It's a powerful tool that can positively impact our mental wellbeing across the board. So, if you're feeling down or overwhelmed, consider lacing up your shoes and getting active. Remember, exercise not only helps keep your body fit but also supports your mental health in numerous ways.
3: Seasonal Variation in Human Sleep: Insights from a Sleep Clinic Study
Read the original paper: Seasonality of human sleep: Polysomnographic data of a neuropsychiatric sleep clinic
Publisher / Publication: Frontiers
Authors: Aileen Seidler, Katy Sarah Weihrich, Frederik Bes, Jan de Zeeuw, Dieter Kunz
Published: February 17th, 2023
Do you feel like your sleep patterns change depending on the season? Well, you might be onto something. A group of researchers conducted a study to examine how the seasons affect our sleep, using data from a sleep clinic. They wanted to explore whether there are long-term effects on sleep caused by the different seasons.
The study involved 292 patients with neuropsychiatric sleep disturbances, who underwent three nights of polysomnography in 2019. The researchers analyzed measurements of the second nights of each month over the course of the year.
The patients were instructed to sleep "as usual," maintaining their usual sleep timings, with no alarm clocks allowed. However, individuals who were taking medication known to affect sleep, or had excessively long REM-sleep latency or technical issues were excluded from the analysis.
Out of the final sample of 188 patients, the most common sleep-related diagnoses were insomnia, depression, and sleep-related breathing disorders. Here's what the researchers found:
1. Total sleep time was slightly longer during winter compared to summer, but the difference was not significant.
2. REM-sleep latency was shorter in autumn compared to spring.
3. REM-sleep duration was longer in winter compared to spring, constituting about 5% of total sleep time.
4. Slow-wave sleep, an important stage of deep sleep, remained stable from winter to summer, but decreased by 30-50 minutes during autumn.
These findings suggest that there is a seasonal variation in the architecture of sleep, even for individuals living in urban environments with sleep disturbances. If these results hold true for healthy individuals, it could indicate the need to adjust our sleep habits according to the different seasons.
Understanding how our sleep is influenced by the seasons can help us better manage our sleep patterns throughout the year. So, next time you experience changes in your sleep, consider the potential impact of the seasons on your restful nights.
4: How Being Physically Active Can Benefit Your Brain as You Age: Insights from a 30-Year Study on the 1946 British Birth Cohort
Read the original paper: Timing of physical activity across adulthood on later-life cognition: 30 years follow-up in the 1946 British birth cohort
Publisher / Publication: British Medical Journal
Authors: Sarah-Naomi James, Yu-Jie Chiou, Nasri Fatih, Louisa P Needham, Jonathan M Schott
Published: February 21st, 2023
Staying physically active throughout your adulthood could have a positive impact on your cognitive function later in life, according to a 30-year research study on the 1946 British Birth Cohort. The researchers examined the timing, frequency, and maintenance of physical activity over three decades to understand the relationship between exercise and later-life cognition.
The study followed 1,417 participants, half of whom were female, from the age of 36 to 69. Their engagement in leisure time physical activity was recorded five times over this period, and they were grouped into three categories: not active, moderately active (1-4 times/month), and most active (5 or more times/month). At the age of 69, the participants' cognitive function was evaluated using tests for cognitive state, verbal memory, and processing speed.
The results revealed that individuals who remained physically active at any point during their adulthood had higher cognitive function at age 69. This positive impact was observed consistently across different age groups and was similar for both moderate and high levels of physical activity. Furthermore, maintaining physical activity over time showed the strongest association with later-life cognitive function, indicating a dose-response relationship.
While the researchers controlled for childhood cognition, childhood socioeconomic status, and education, these factors only partially explained the connection between physical activity and cognitive function. The results remained significant even after considering cardiovascular and mental health factors, as well as the presence of the APOE-E4 gene related to Alzheimer's disease. This highlights the importance of education in understanding the lifelong benefits of physical activity on brain health.
In conclusion, this study suggests that engaging in physical activity at any stage of adulthood can enhance cognitive function later in life. However, sustained and continuous physical activity yields the most beneficial outcomes. The findings underscore the role of education in influencing the long-term impact of exercise on brain health and emphasize the need to prioritize physical activity for healthy aging.
5: Antidepressants for Pain: What Does the Science Say?
Read the original paper: Efficacy, safety, and tolerability of antidepressants for pain in adults: overview of systematic reviews
Publisher / Publication: British Medical Journal
Authors: Giovanni E Ferreira, Christina Abdel-Shaheed, Martin Underwood, Nanna B Finnerup, Richard O Day
Published: February 1st, 2023
Do antidepressants really help with pain relief? That is the question that the researchers set out to answer in this comprehensive overview of systematic reviews. They collected data from various sources to assess the efficacy, safety, and tolerability of antidepressants for pain in adults.
The researchers analyzed 26 reviews that included over 25,000 participants and covered 22 different pain conditions. They found that there is not enough high-certainty evidence to support the use of antidepressants for pain relief in any condition. However, they did identify 11 comparisons where antidepressants were found to be efficacious, with moderate certainty evidence in four cases: back pain, postoperative pain, neuropathic pain, and fibromyalgia.
Specifically, the researchers discovered that serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) were effective in these four pain conditions. SNRIs were associated with significant reductions in pain compared to placebo.
For the remaining 31 comparisons, antidepressants were either found to be inefficacious or the evidence was inconclusive. This suggests that prescribing antidepressants for pain conditions needs to be approached more cautiously and on an individual basis.
Overall, this research challenges the widespread belief that antidepressants are a one-size-fits-all solution for pain relief. The findings highlight the need for a more nuanced approach, considering factors such as the specific pain condition and the potential side effects of antidepressants.
This overview of systematic reviews provides valuable insights into the use of antidepressants for pain relief, but further studies are needed to establish clearer guidelines for their use. Patients and healthcare professionals should carefully weigh the potential benefits and risks of using antidepressants for pain management.
6: Modified Skulls but Conservative Brains? Unravelling the Ancient Secrets of Spinosauridae Dinosaurs
Read the original paper: Modified skulls but conservative brains? The palaeoneurology and endocranial anatomy of baryonychine dinosaurs (Theropoda: Spinosauridae)
Publisher / Publication: Wiley
Authors: Chris Tijani Barker, Darren Naish, Jacob Trend, Lysanne Veerle Michels, Lawrence Witmer
Published: February 13th, 2023
DOI: 10.1111/joa.13837
Have you ever wondered what dinosaurs were really like? A team of researchers has delved into the mysterious world of the baryonychine dinosaurs, a unique group that includes the famous Baryonyx walkeri. By using advanced scanning technology, these scientists have managed to reconstruct the brain structure of these ancient creatures and unlock some fascinating insights.
One of the key findings is that despite their unique physical features, such as their modified skulls, these dinosaurs actually had conservative brains. The researchers have discovered that the neuroanatomy of baryonychines, including Baryonyx walkeri and Ceratosuchops inferodios, closely resembles that of other early theropods. This suggests that the transition from land-dwelling meat-eating ancestors to semi-aquatic "generalists" did not require significant changes to the brain and sensory systems.
But what does this mean for the behaviour and abilities of these dinosaurs? Well, it turns out that baryonychines were likely quite sophisticated in their actions and interactions with the environment. They possessed certain neurosensory capabilities, such as low-frequency hearing and average olfaction, which suited their semi-aquatic lifestyle. However, the researchers have also identified a potential difference in the gaze stabilisation mechanisms between baryonychines and their close relatives, the spinosaurines. This may have affected their ability to focus and track prey, particularly in water.
Intriguingly, the research has shown that our understanding of these dinosaurs' brains aligns with what we know about their overall ecology. For instance, the study indicates that baryonychines were not particularly skilled at hearing or smelling, but they were adept at swift head movements. This suggests that they may have hunted small and agile prey like fish, relying on their quick reflexes. These findings shed light on the intricate relationship between structure and behaviour in ancient creatures.
So, next time you see a dinosaur skeleton in a museum or watch a Jurassic Park movie, remember that there is more to these fascinating creatures than meets the eye. The research on baryonychine dinosaurs helps us uncover the hidden complexities of their brains and showcases how these ancient beings adapted to their environment in surprising ways.
7: Sleep Patterns and Heart Health: Exploring the Link
Read the original paper: Sleep Irregularity and Subclinical Markers of Cardiovascular Disease: The Multi‐Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis
Publisher / Publication: Journal of the American Heart Association
Authors: Kelsie M. Full, Tianyi Huang, Neomi A. Shah, Matthew A. Allison, Erin D. Michos
Published: February 15th, 2023
Sleep patterns can have a significant impact on our cardiovascular health, according to researchers from the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis. In their study, they used a method called actigraphy to measure sleep duration and timing regularity in a diverse group of participants. They then looked at markers of early-stage heart disease, such as calcium build-up in the arteries and thickness of the carotid artery wall.
The results were striking. Participants with irregular sleep duration, meaning their sleep varied by more than two hours each night, were more likely to show signs of high calcium burdens in their arteries. This is concerning because high levels of calcium are associated with an increased risk of heart disease. Irregular sleep timing, where the onset of sleep differed by more than an hour, was also linked to higher levels of calcium in the arteries.
But it's not all bad news. These associations remained even after the researchers took into account common risk factors for heart disease such as age, gender, and other aspects of sleep quality. This suggests that sleep regularity could be an independent risk factor for early-stage heart disease, and therefore something we should pay attention to.
The implications of these findings are significant. Sleep irregularity, particularly in terms of duration, may be a key factor in the development of heart disease. By taking steps to improve sleep regularity, such as going to bed and waking up at consistent times, individuals may be able to reduce their risk of heart disease. This is an important message for everyone, as we all experience fluctuations in our sleep patterns from time to time.
While more research is needed to fully understand the relationship between sleep and heart health, the researchers believe that addressing sleep irregularity could be a potential strategy for reducing the risk of early-stage heart disease. So, next time you find yourself struggling with erratic sleep patterns, remember that improving your sleep regularity could have long-term benefits for your heart health.
8: New research shows early brain changes can predict long-term symptoms after a mild head injury
Read the original paper: Acute thalamic connectivity precedes chronic post-concussive symptoms in mild traumatic brain injury
Publisher / Publication: Brain
Authors: Rebecca E Woodrow, Stefan Winzeck, Andrea I Luppi, Isaac R Kelleher-Unger, Lennart R B Spindler
Published: February 22nd, 2023
Concussions, even mild ones, can leave people with ongoing symptoms that are difficult to predict or treat. But a recent study has shed light on a potential clue for identifying those at risk of long-term issues.
Researchers investigated the brains of 108 patients with mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) and 76 healthy individuals. Surprisingly, they discovered that changes in the connections within a part of the brain called the thalamus could predict the development of persistent symptoms.
Despite no visible physical damage, patients with mTBI displayed excessive connectivity in their thalamus soon after the injury. This abnormality was specific to certain regions of the thalamus, marking it as an early indicator of future problems.
As if that wasn't fascinating enough, the researchers also found that these connectivity changes were linked to particular symptoms.
Emotional issues were tied to alterations in connections to regions influenced by serotonin, while cognitive problems were associated with changes in connections to regions affected by noradrenaline.
The study's findings offer hope for both patients and healthcare professionals. By identifying these early changes in the brain, doctors can better identify individuals who are at risk of developing long-term symptoms following a mild head injury. This could lead to more personalised treatment approaches and the development of new therapies.
Ultimately, this research contributes to our understanding of the brain and how it can be affected by mild trauma, paving the way for improved care and outcomes for those affected.
9: Exercise as a Treatment for Depression: Examining the Evidence
Read the original paper: Exercise as medicine for depressive symptoms? A systematic review and meta-analysis with meta-regression
Publisher / Publication: British Medical Journal
Authors: Andreas Heissel, Darlene Heinen, Luisa Leonie Brokmeier, Nora Skarabis, Maria Kangas
Published: February 1st, 2023
Are you feeling down and struggling with depression? Researchers have conducted a thorough review and analysis to determine if exercise can truly be a form of medicine for depressive symptoms. They looked at various studies that compared exercise interventions with non-active control groups. The goal was to estimate how effective exercise is in reducing depressive symptoms and whether it has any additional benefits.
The researchers searched multiple databases, including Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, PubMed, MEDLINE, Embase, SPORTDiscus, PsycINFO, Scopus, and Web of Science, without any language restrictions. They focused on randomised controlled trials involving individuals aged 18 years or older who had either been diagnosed with major depressive disorder or showed symptoms above a specific threshold according to validated screening measures. The exercise interventions included both aerobic and resistance exercises, and they were compared to control groups that did not engage in any exercise.
The results of the meta-analysis included 41 studies with a total of 2264 participants. The findings were quite promising, showing significant effects in favor of exercise interventions. In fact, the researchers found that exercise had a large effect in reducing depressive symptoms (standardised mean difference = -0.946). This corresponds to an impressive number needed to treat of only 2 individuals.
Interestingly, the positive effects of exercise were consistently observed across different subgroups. Those with major depressive disorder experienced large benefits, as did participants in supervised exercise interventions. Even when the analysis focused only on studies with low risk of bias, moderate effects were still found.
Based on these findings, it can be concluded that exercise is an effective treatment option for individuals struggling with depression or depressive symptoms. To maximize the benefits, supervised and group exercise with moderate intensity and aerobic regimes are recommended. However, it is important to note that the small sample sizes of many trials and differences in research methods should be taken into account when interpreting the results.
In summary, if you are dealing with depression, engaging in regular exercise can make a real difference. The evidence supports the use of exercise as an evidence-based treatment option that can positively impact your mental well-being. So why not give it a try and incorporate exercise into your routine?
10: Sex-Specific Reproductive Factors Increase Heart Disease Risk in Women: A Groundbreaking Study
Read the original paper: Sex‐Specific Reproductive Factors Augment Cardiovascular Disease Risk in Women: A Mendelian Randomization Study
Publisher / Publication: Journal of the American Heart Association
Authors: Maddalena Ardissino, Eric A. W. Slob, Paul Carter, Tormod Rogne, Joanna Girling
Published: February 27th, 2023
Have you ever wondered how factors like age at first birth, number of live births, age at menarche (first period), and age at menopause impact a woman's risk of developing cardiovascular disease? Well, researchers have conducted a pioneering study using a method called Mendelian randomization to delve into this important question.
Observational studies have hinted at a link between reproductive factors and heart disease in women. However, these studies are prone to errors caused by other influencing factors. In order to overcome these limitations, the researchers employed Mendelian randomization, a technique that allows for more accurate causal inference.
By analyzing specific genetic markers associated with different reproductive factors, the researchers found compelling evidence that connects these factors to cardiovascular disease in women.
For instance, the study showed that an earlier age at first birth can increase the risk of coronary artery disease, heart failure, and stroke. The increased risk was partially explained by factors such as body mass index, type 2 diabetes, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels.
Likewise, a higher number of live births was found to be associated with an increased risk of atrial fibrillation, heart failure, ischemic stroke, and stroke. These findings highlight the potential impact that reproductive choices may have on a woman's heart health.
Furthermore, the researchers discovered that an earlier age at menarche also raised the risk of coronary artery disease and heart failure. These associations were partly mediated by body mass index, indicating that body weight plays a role in the relationship between early menstruation and heart disease.
Overall, this groundbreaking study lends support to the idea that reproductive factors can significantly influence a woman's risk of developing cardiovascular disease. Importantly, the researchers have identified several modifiable factors that could be targeted through clinical interventions.
Understanding these connections is essential for healthcare providers and policymakers to develop strategies and interventions to promote heart health in women. By addressing reproductive factors and their potential mediators, we can strive towards reducing the burden of heart disease in women.
11: Rapid Range Shifts in African Anopheles Mosquitoes: How Climate Change is Affecting Disease-Carrying Insects
Read the original paper: Rapid range shifts in African Anopheles mosquitoes over the last century
Publisher / Publication: Royal Society
Authors: Colin J. Carlson, Ellen Bannon, Emily Mendenhall, Timothy Newfield, Shweta Bansal
Published: February 15th, 2023
As the climate warms, many tropical species, including mosquitoes that spread diseases, are moving to higher latitudes and elevations. While these shifts are typically predicted for the future, our researchers have gathered one of the most extensive datasets ever compiled by medical entomologists to track the actual movements of African malaria mosquito vectors (known as Anopheles spp.) from 1898 to 2016. Through a straightforward analysis, the researchers found that these mosquito species have been gaining an average of 6.5 meters in elevation each year, and their southern geographic limits have been shifting polewards at a rate of 4.7 kilometers annually. These movements align with the speed at which the local climate has been changing and could help explain the recent emergence of malaria transmission in new areas.
It is crucial to confirm that climate change is indeed causing these shifts and to explore similar patterns in other disease-carrying insects. By doing so, we can better understand the impacts of climate change on the spread of infectious diseases and devise effective strategies to combat them. As college students, you might wonder why this research matters to you. Well, imagine if tropical diseases like malaria, dengue fever, or Zika virus became prevalent in areas where they were previously rare or nonexistent. That could mean a higher risk of contracting these diseases and a greater burden on public health systems.
The findings reported in this research raise awareness of the ongoing changes in the geographical distribution of disease-carrying mosquitoes due to climate change. By investigating which factors are driving these shifts and their potential consequences, researchers aim to contribute to the development of proactive and efficient strategies to mitigate the impact of climate change on human health. This knowledge helps us understand how the world around us is evolving and empowers us to take action towards safeguarding our wellbeing. Combined efforts from scientists, policymakers, and individuals like you can make a significant difference in tackling the challenges posed by climate change and its associated risks to public health.
12: GWAS reveals links between eye health and heart health
Read the original paper: GWAS on retinal vasculometry phenotypes
Publisher / Publication: PLOS Genetics
Authors: Xiaofan Jiang, Pirro G. Hysi, Anthony P. Khawaja, Omar A. Mahroo, Zihe Xu
Published: February 9th, 2023
The eyes are not just the windows to the soul, but also to our overall health. Recent research conducted by a team of scientists delved into the intricate network of blood vessels within the eye, known as the retinal vasculature, and its connection to our cardiovascular system. By analysing the genetic makeup of individuals and their retinal vasculature, the researchers uncovered fascinating findings that shed light on the physiology of both our eyes and our hearts.
Through the use of sophisticated imaging techniques, the scientists examined various aspects of the retinal blood vessels, such as their shape, twists, and width. This exploration led to 119 regions of our genetic code being identified as potentially linked to these vascular characteristics. Among these regions, the strongest association was found with a specific genetic variant, known as rs35131825, which demonstrated a remarkable connection to arteriolar tortuosity.
Beyond these genetic revelations, the researchers made a groundbreaking discovery regarding the interactions between arteriolar tortuosity and our blood pressure. Their analyses revealed a causal relationship, indicating that specific factors contributing to the twists and turns of our retinal arterioles actually influence our diastolic blood pressure. This finding is significant because it challenges the conventional wisdom that high blood pressure causes changes in blood vessel structure. Instead, it suggests that our retinal arterioles play an active role in regulating our cardiovascular health.
By unravelling these intricate connections between our eyes and our hearts, the researchers have opened up new avenues for understanding and potentially managing our overall health. These findings present a compelling case for further exploration and research into retinal vasculature, offering the potential to develop novel strategies for diagnosing and treating cardiovascular conditions.
In summary, our eyes offer more than just vision, they provide valuable insights into the inner workings of our bodies. This research brings us one step closer to fully understanding the remarkable interconnectedness of our physiological systems and highlights the importance of prioritising eye health as an indicator of our overall well-being.
13: First Mass Die-Off of Marine Mammals in South America Linked to Deadly Bird Flu
Read the original paper: First Mass Mortality of Marine Mammals Caused by Highly Pathogenic Influenza Virus (H5N1) in South America
Publisher / Publication: bioRxiv
Authors: Victor Gamarra-Toledo, Pablo Plaza, Giancarlo Inga, Roberto Gutierrez, Oscar Garcia-Tello
Published: February 10th, 2023
In a groundbreaking discovery, researchers have uncovered the alarming truth behind the first ever massive extinction event among marine mammals in South America. It appears that highly pathogenic influenza virus (H5N1), notorious for its deadly impact on birds, is to blame for this unfortunate incident.
The unexpected arrival of this lethal virus has had a devastating effect on Peru's sea lions, leading to a global concern for the well-being of marine life. The researchers believe that the virus may have found its way to the sea lions through close contact with infected wild birds. Although not completely ruling it out, they have yet to confirm direct transmission among the sea lion population.
This discovery highlights the critical interconnections between different species in our natural world, demonstrating how pathogens can travel across various animal groups. It serves as a poignant reminder of the delicate balance we must strive to maintain in order to protect our ecosystem.
Understanding the transmission pathways of diseases is crucial in preventing further outbreaks and safeguarding the health of both human and animal populations. This investigation into the H5N1 virus sheds light on the intricate ways in which diseases can spread across species boundaries, serving as a wake-up call for heightened surveillance and preventive measures.
By delving into the heartbreaking consequences of this mass mortality event, researchers aim to raise awareness among policymakers, environmentalists, and individuals alike. It is an urgent call to action, urging us to take responsibility for the well-being of our marine mammal friends and the delicate ecological web in which they exist. This incident serves as a reminder that the threats facing our environment not only impact distant lands and exotic creatures but also have the potential to reach our shores.
As we grapple with the ramifications of the first-ever marine mammal extinction event caused by H5N1, we must collectively confront the reality of our shared vulnerability. Only through increased collaboration, research, and environmental stewardship can we hope to mitigate future outbreaks and preserve the biodiversity of our planet.
14: Are Infant Formula Claims Too Good to be True? A Global Survey Explores the Facts
Read the original paper: Health and nutrition claims for infant formula: international cross sectional survey
Publisher / Publication: British Medical Journal
Authors: Ka Yan Cheung, Loukia Petrou, Bartosz Helfer, Erika Porubayeva, Elena Dolgikh
Published: February 15th, 2023
Attention, college students! Have you ever wondered about the health and nutrition claims made by companies selling infant formula? Well, a group of researchers conducted a comprehensive international survey to uncover the truth. They explored websites from 15 different countries, looking at the claims made by both companies targeting the general public and those targeting healthcare professionals.
Here's what they found: a whopping 757 infant formula products, each with an average of two claims. The most common claims focused on brain and eye development, a healthy immune system, and overall growth and development. Interestingly, there were 41 different groups of ingredients linked to these claims, but many claims were made without specifying which ingredient was responsible.
So, what evidence supports these claims? The researchers discovered that only 26% of the products provided a scientific reference to back up their assertions. Among the references cited, clinical trials and reviews were the most frequent. Alarmingly, a significant number of the referenced clinical trials were not registered, meaning their findings may not be reliable. Furthermore, analyses of these studies were often biased, casting doubt on the validity of the claims made.
In conclusion, the majority of infant formula products appear to make health and nutrition claims. However, many of these claims lack solid scientific evidence to support them. The researchers also noted that various ingredients were associated with similar effects, whilst some claims were repeated for the same ingredient type. This raises concerns about the accuracy and reliability of the claims being made.
As college students, it's important for us to question and critically evaluate the claims we encounter. The findings of this survey remind us to approach health and nutrition claims with caution, seeking reliable evidence before accepting them as fact. It's essential to stay informed and make well-informed choices, not only for ourselves but also for the health of infants and their families worldwide.
That’s it for this month.
Thanks for reading.
See you in April.
Claudia Brady.