Picts, Cultured Meat, Fungal Diseases
Welcome to this month's issue of Briefly Science!
In this newsletter, you'll discover the latest findings from academic research on topics ranging from environmental science to public health. From cultured meat's impact on the planet to the benefits of minimum alcohol pricing, these summaries make complex studies accessible.
Get this month's selection of thought-provoking research and expand your scientific knowledge.
Whether you just read one or devour them all, we hope you'll come away with new perspectives. Set aside around 8 minutes and dive into another glimpse of modern science in progress.
1: The Environmental Impact of Cultured Meat: Assessing the Journey from Farm to Plate
Read the original paper: Environmental impacts of cultured meat: A cradle-to-gate life cycle assessment
Publisher / Publication: bioRxiv
Authors: Derrick Risner, Yoonbin Kim, Cuong Nguyen, Justin B. Siegel, Edward S. Spang
Published: April 21st, 2023
Have you ever wondered about the environmental consequences of our meat consumption? Well, a group of researchers recently conducted a groundbreaking study to shed light on this issue. They focused on a hot topic in the food industry - cultured meat, also known as animal cell-based meat (ACBM). The researchers aimed to understand the potential environmental impact of ACBM production, which holds promise as an environmentally conscious alternative to traditional livestock farming.
To carry out their analysis, the researchers evaluated the entire life cycle of ACBM production - from the creation of the meat in a lab to its delivery to consumers. They discovered that although ACBM production is currently at a small scale and not financially profitable, companies are eager to expand and industrialize its production in the near future.
The study used updated data from recent assessments of ACBM and examined the manufacturing process of a key component called Essential 8™. By considering the requirements for ACBM growth and the processing of growth medium components, the researchers analysed various scenarios to assess the environmental impact of near-term ACBM production.
The findings of this study are eye-opening. If ACBM production utilizes a highly refined growth medium, the environmental impact is projected to be significantly higher than traditional beef production. In fact, the results suggest that ACBM production could lead to environmental consequences many times greater than those caused by the average beef production process.
This research provides valuable insights into the potential implications of transitioning to cultured meat. As you reflect on this study, you might question the broader sustainability of our current meat consumption habits. Perhaps contemplating the environmental impact of alternative protein sources will inspire you to consider more environmentally friendly dietary choices in the future.
2: Assessing the Impact of Affordable Alcohol Pricing on Health in Scotland
Read the original paper: Evaluating the impact of alcohol minimum unit pricing on deaths and hospitalisations in Scotland: a controlled interrupted time series study
Publisher / Publication: The Lancet
Authors: Grant M A Wyper, Daniel F Mackay, Catriona Fraser, Jim Lewsey, Mark Robinson
Published: April 22nd, 2023
Since May 2018, Scotland has implemented a minimum unit pricing (MUP) policy which sets a minimum price for each alcoholic drink sold. This study aims to evaluate the effects of this policy on alcohol-related deaths and hospitalisations.
To conduct the research, the scientists analyzed data on deaths and hospitalisations directly caused by alcohol consumption. They compared the trends before and after the implementation of the MUP policy in Scotland, using data from England as a control group where the policy was not implemented.
The findings of the study reveal that MUP in Scotland resulted in a significant reduction of 13.4% in deaths caused entirely by alcohol. Hospitalizations related to alcohol consumption also decreased by 4.1%. These improvements were primarily observed in chronic conditions such as alcoholic liver disease.
What is particularly noteworthy is that the positive effects of the MUP policy were most prominent in the socioeconomically deprived groups in Scotland. This indicates that the policy effectively addresses the inequality in health damage caused by alcohol within disadvantaged communities.
Overall, the research demonstrates that the implementation of affordable alcohol pricing through MUP has led to significant reductions in alcohol-related deaths and hospitalisations in Scotland. These findings highlight the potential benefits of such policies in combating the harmful effects of alcohol on individuals and society.
This study was funded by the Scottish Government.
3: The Impact of Air Pollution on Dementia: Uncovering the Alarming Connection
Read the original paper: Ambient air pollution and clinical dementia: systematic review and meta-analysis
Publisher / Publication: British Medical Journal
Authors: Elissa H Wilker, Marwa Osman, Marc G Weisskopf
Published: April 5th, 2023
Are you aware that the air we breathe might be affecting our cognitive health? A group of researchers conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to explore the link between air pollutants and the risk of developing dementia. They embarked on a comprehensive search of multiple databases, scrutinizing studies that followed adults over time and examined the impact of specific air pollutants on clinical dementia. The researchers focused on pollutants regulated by the US Environmental Protection Agency, as well as factors associated with traffic pollution.
After meticulously selecting and analyzing 51 relevant studies, the researchers made some profoundly concerning discoveries. Although many of the studies had some flaws, several indicators pointed towards a higher risk of dementia among individuals exposed to air pollution. Notably, an association between particulate matter and dementia emerged from the meta-analysis of 14 research papers.
The implications of the findings are significant for society as a whole. The fact that air pollution is so pervasive in our daily lives should give us pause. We all breathe the same air, and this research raises important questions about the long-term consequences of our polluted environment on our cognitive well-being.
It is crucial to reflect on these findings and consider the potential consequences for our own lives and the lives of our loved ones. How can we protect ourselves from the harmful effects of air pollution? What changes can we make on an individual and societal level to reduce our exposure to these toxic substances? These are pressing questions that demand our attention.
To fully comprehend the magnitude of the problem, we must acknowledge that air pollution is not limited to specific regions or populations. It affects us all, regardless of our background or location. By confronting this issue head-on and seeking solutions, we have the opportunity to protect our cognitive health and future generations from the debilitating effects of dementia.
The fight against air pollution requires collective action. It necessitates collaboration among government bodies, industry leaders, healthcare professionals, and everyday citizens. Let us raise awareness, demand change, and work towards creating a healthier and cleaner environment. Only through our combined efforts can we hope to tackle this problem and safeguard our cognitive abilities for years to come.
4: The Impact of Sugar on Your Health: What Do We Really Know?
Read the original paper: Dietary sugar consumption and health: umbrella review
Publisher / Publication: British Medical Journal
Authors: Yin Huang, Zeyu Chen, Bo Chen, Jinze Li, Xiang Yuan
Published: April 5th, 2023
How does dietary sugar consumption affect your health? Researchers conducted a comprehensive review of existing studies to find out. They looked at the evidence, potential biases, and validity of numerous studies on the topic. The results were eye-opening.
The study involved analyzing 73 meta-analyses and 83 health outcomes from over 8,600 articles. These included various types of studies, such as randomized controlled trials, cohort studies, case-control studies, and cross-sectional studies. The focus was on evaluating the effects of dietary sugar consumption on health outcomes in individuals without any acute or chronic diseases.
What did the research discover? Several harmful associations were found between dietary sugar consumption and various health conditions. These included 18 endocrine/metabolic outcomes, 10 cardiovascular outcomes, seven cancer outcomes, and 10 other outcomes related to neuropsychiatric, dental, hepatic, osteal, and allergic issues.
Specifically, the study found that a high intake of dietary sugar, especially from sugar-sweetened beverages, was associated with increased body weight and ectopic fatty accumulation. Furthermore, consuming sugar-sweetened beverages was linked to a higher risk of gout, coronary heart disease, and overall mortality.
The research also highlighted the potential dangers of fructose consumption. Higher fructose intake was found to be associated with an increased risk of pancreatic cancer.
Based on the findings, the researchers recommended reducing the consumption of free sugars or added sugars to less than 25 grams per day (around 6 teaspoons) and limiting the intake of sugar-sweetened beverages to less than one serving per week (around 200-355 milliliters per week). These measures are crucial for minimizing the negative impact of sugar on health, particularly in relation to cardiometabolic diseases.
In conclusion, this study underscores the harmful effects of excessive sugar consumption on your well-being, particularly in relation to cardiovascular and metabolic conditions. It offers clear suggestions for individuals to reduce their sugar intake to protect their health. It's time to take a closer look at your sugar consumption and make informed choices for a healthier future.
5: The Limitations of Large Animals' Travel Speeds: A Study on Heat Dissipation Capacities
Read the original paper: The travel speeds of large animals are limited by their heat-dissipation capacities
Publisher / Publication: PLOS Biology
Authors: Alexander Dyer, Ulrich Brose, Emilio Berti, Benjamin Rosenbaum, Myriam R. Hirt
Published: April 18th, 2023
Movement is essential for animals to survive in fragmented landscapes, especially with increasing fragmentation in the Anthropocene era. To make accurate predictions about the movement capabilities of various species, researchers need mechanical models that consider traits and locomotion in a biologically realistic way. While we may assume that larger animals can travel greater distances, studies have shown that the maximum speeds of larger species are actually limited. This limitation applies not only to their overall speed but also to their travel speeds, and the cause lies in their heat-dissipation capacities.
By considering fundamental biophysical constraints associated with energy utilisation and heat dissipation, the researchers develop a model that explains the relationship between animal body mass and aerobic travel speeds. They find that larger animals, due to their lower metabolic energy cost of locomotion, require more time to dissipate metabolic heat, resulting in limitations to their travel speeds. Using an extensive dataset of animal travel speeds encompassing 532 species, the researchers demonstrate that this allometric heat-dissipation model accurately captures the hump-shaped trends in travel speed with body mass across flying, running, and swimming animals.
This study reveals that larger animals are more restricted in their movement capacities than previously thought. They must reduce their travel speeds to avoid overheating during extended locomotion bouts, as they are unable to dissipate metabolic heat efficiently. Consequently, the highest travel speeds are achieved by animals of intermediate body mass. This mechanistic understanding of animal travel speed can be applied to various species, even when specific biological details are unknown, allowing for more realistic predictions of biodiversity dynamics in fragmented landscapes.
As college students, we can relate to the importance of movement in our daily lives. Just like animals, we need to navigate our environment efficiently to survive and thrive. Understanding the limitations of large animals' travel speeds provides valuable insights into how different species adapt and interact with their surroundings. This knowledge can help us better comprehend the impact of human activities on biodiversity and make informed decisions to protect our natural ecosystems.
6: Beverage Choices and Health: What College Students with Type 2 Diabetes Should Know
Read the original paper: Beverage consumption and mortality among adults with type 2 diabetes: prospective cohort study
Publisher / Publication: British Medical Journal
Authors: Le Ma, Yang Hu, Derrick J Alperet, Gang Liu, Vasanti Malik
Published: April 19th, 2023
Are you a college student with type 2 diabetes? The beverages you choose to drink could have a big impact on your health and well-being. A new research paper investigated how different drinks relate to mortality and cardiovascular disease (CVD) outcomes among adults like you. The study followed over 15,000 men and women with type 2 diabetes for an average of 18.5 years to gather its findings.
Here's what the researchers discovered: sugar sweetened beverages (SSBs) were associated with a higher risk of all cause mortality and CVD incidence and mortality, meaning they significantly increased the chances of premature death or cardiovascular disease. On the other hand, coffee, tea, plain water, and low-fat milk were found to have inverse associations with all cause mortality. In simpler terms, choosing these healthy drinks was linked to a lower risk of dying early or developing cardiovascular diseases.
Notably, the study also pointed to the benefits of making smart beverage swaps. Replacing SSBs with artificially sweetened beverages was linked to lower all cause mortality and CVD mortality. Similarly, replacing SSBs, artificially sweetened beverages, fruit juice, or full-fat milk with coffee, tea, or plain water consistently showed lower risks of premature death.
The results highlight the potential impact of your beverage choices on managing your risk of cardiovascular diseases and early mortality, which is crucial for students like you with type 2 diabetes. Opting for drinks like coffee, tea, plain water, and low-fat milk could significantly improve your chances of leading a healthier and longer life.
It's important to remember that this research offers valuable insights, but it doesn't mean you have to completely cut out certain beverages from your diet. Instead, use this information to make informed choices and incorporate healthier options. By being mindful of what you drink, you can take control of your health and reduce the risks associated with type 2 diabetes.
So, next time you reach for a drink, consider the implications it may have on your health. Choose wisely and take a step towards a healthier future!
7: Impact of ultrasound in late pregnancy on undiagnosed breech presentation and baby's health: A study
Read the original paper: Impact of point-of-care ultrasound and routine third trimester ultrasound on undiagnosed breech presentation and perinatal outcomes: An observational multicentre cohort study
Publisher / Publication: PLOS Medicine
Authors: Samantha Knights, Smriti Prasad, Erkan Kalafat, Anahita Dadali, Pam Sizer
Published: April 6th, 2023
Knowing the position of a baby in the womb during the last stages of pregnancy is crucial for proper care.
A group of researchers wanted to find out if using ultrasound scans in late pregnancy can help detect babies in breech position (when the baby's bottom is poised to come out first instead of the head) and improve outcomes for both mother and baby.
They compared two different types of ultrasound scans: one done routinely in the third trimester, and another called point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS), which is done on an as-needed basis.
The researchers gathered information from two hospitals and analyzed the data of pregnant women who received either the routine scan or POCUS.
They excluded women with certain conditions or who had a planned caesarean section for a breech presentation.
Undiagnosed breech presentation meant either women who were already in labor or had their water broken and later found out about the breech position, or women who discovered their baby was in breech position before going into labor.
The main goal was to determine the percentage of undiagnosed breech presentations among all full-term pregnancies. They also looked at other factors like the type of delivery, gestational age at birth, baby's weight, emergency caesarean section rate, and any adverse outcomes for the baby.
The results showed that both routine scans and POCUS reduced the number of undiagnosed breech presentations.
Additionally, the researchers found that babies in breech position who were detected earlier had a lower risk of complications at birth.
Overall, this study suggests that ultrasound scans in late pregnancy can help detect breech presentation, which in turn may lead to better outcomes for both mother and baby.
8: Genomic Surveillance Reveals a Global Threat to Wheat from a Highly Contagious Fungal Disease
Read the original paper: Genomic surveillance uncovers a pandemic clonal lineage of the wheat blast fungus
Publisher / Publication: PLOS Biology
Authors: Sergio M. Latorre, Vincent M. Were, Andrew J. Foster, Thorsten Langner, Angus Malmgren
Published: April 11th, 2023
Wheat, a staple food for millions, is facing a pandemic from a devastating fungal disease known as wheat blast. This insidious menace has rapidly spread to Asia and Africa, originating from South America. New findings from the latest research shed light on the nature of this alarming situation, offering crucial insights for managing its impact.
By studying the genetic makeup of the wheat blast fungus, the researchers have discovered a single, widespread lineage responsible for the outbreak. Remarkably, this lineage emerged within the last decade, with separate introductions to Asia and Africa. The investigation uncovered a sliver of hope: the Rmg8 gene can provide resistance against this aggressive invader, along with certain strobilurin fungicides that prove effective in combating it.
The findings also raise concern about the potential for the pandemic clone to develop resistance to fungicides and interbreed with fungal strains from Africa. These factors demand immediate attention and reinforce the urgent need for monitoring the spread of wheat blast beyond South America. Additionally, this research lays the foundation for guiding proactive strategies in wheat breeding programs to cultivate resistant varieties.
Understanding this complex problem is crucial to anyone who values the global food supply and our daily sustenance. Picture the endless fields of golden wheat waving in the wind, upon which countless lives depend. Now, imagine these fields under threat, as a deadly fungus infiltrates the crops, causing devastation and compromising our food security. This danger is not a distant possibility, but a present reality that we must address urgently.
To protect our food source and safeguard millions from hunger, we must marshal our collective knowledge, resources, and expertise. Enhanced genomic surveillance can help us track the unpredictable spread of wheat blast, enabling rapid response measures and targeted breeding efforts to counteract this escalating threat. It is in our hands to fortify our future by staying ahead of this relentless adversary.
As individuals, we can support this critical endeavour by advocating for increased research funding, engaging in sustainable agricultural practices, and staying informed about the progress being made. By working together, we can win this battle and secure a resilient wheat supply for all, preserving our platefuls of nourishing bread and wholesome cereal for generations to come.
9: Exploring the Ancestry of the Picts: Unraveling the Genetic Connections between Ancient and Modern People of the UK
Read the original paper: Imputed genomes and haplotype-based analyses of the Picts of early medieval Scotland reveal fine-scale relatedness between Iron Age, early medieval and the modern people of the UK
Publisher / Publication: PLOS Genetics
Authors: Adeline Morez, Kate Britton, Gordon Noble, Torsten Günther, Anders Götherström
Published: April 27th, 2023
Have you ever wondered about the mysterious origin and ancestry of the Picts – the early medieval inhabitants of Scotland? In this thought-provoking research, scientists dive deep into the Picts' genetic makeup and shed light on their fascinating connections with Iron Age, early medieval, and modern inhabitants of the United Kingdom.
The Picts, known for their enigmatic symbols and inscriptions, have captured the curiosity of historians for centuries. By studying high-quality genomic data from Pictish remains dating back to the 5th-7th century, the researchers compare them with over 8,300 previously analyzed ancient and modern genomes. Through this analysis, they uncover striking insights into the Picts' biological relationships with other cultural groups in Britain.
Interestingly, the study reveals distinct genetic differences between the Picts residing in Orkney and those inhabiting the mainland. Furthermore, when exploring similarities in genetic material that has been inherited over generations, the researchers find remarkable connections between present-day people in western Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, and Northumbria, illuminating their shared genetic heritage with the Picts. However, less genetic affinity is observed with the rest of England, the Orkney islands, and eastern Scotland, where the political centers of the Pictish kingdom once thrived.
The research brings to light the enduring genetic continuity of the Orcadian Picts in Orkney for approximately two thousand years, with substantial shared ancestry across modern Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, and the Orkney islands. Additionally, by examining mitochondrial DNA diversity in a Pictish burial site at Lundin Links, they uncover intriguing details about the social organization of the Picts, suggesting the absence of direct female ancestors.
By painting a vivid genetic portrait of the Picts, this study bridges the gap between ancient and modern populations in the UK and offers fresh perspectives on their fascinating history. It deepens our understanding of the Picts' heritage and sheds light on the intricate tapestry of genetic connections that shape the British Isles.
10: The Carbon Footprint of Surgical Operations: Identifying the Culprits
Read the original paper: The carbon footprint of products used in five common surgical operations: identifying contributing products and processes
Publisher / Publication: Journal of the Royal Society of Medicine
Authors: Chantelle Rizan, Robert Lillywhite, Malcom Reed, Mahmood F Bhutta
Published: April 13th, 2023
Are you curious about how certain surgical procedures impact the environment? Well, a team of researchers has conducted a study to find out the carbon footprint of products used in five common surgical operations. They wanted to determine the biggest contributors to carbon emissions and find ways to reduce them.
The researchers focused on the products used in the five most frequently performed surgical procedures in the National Health System in England. They observed 6-10 operations of each type across three sites within one NHS Foundation Trust. The aim was to get an accurate picture of the carbon emissions associated with these operations.
So, what did they find? The results showed that the carbon footprint varied across the different operations. For example, carpal tunnel decompression had a mean average carbon footprint of 12.0 kg CO2e (carbon dioxide equivalents), while knee arthroplasty had a much higher footprint of 85.5 kg CO2e.
Interestingly, the researchers found that a small percentage of product types were responsible for a large portion of the overall carbon footprint. In fact, 23% of the product types accounted for at least 80% of the emissions. The products that made the greatest contributions varied for each operation, such as single-use hand drapes for carpal tunnel decompression and bone cement mix for knee arthroplasty.
The researchers also looked at the processes involved in these operations and found that the production of single-use items was the biggest contributor to the carbon footprint. Other factors included decontamination of reusables, waste disposal of single-use items, production of packaging, and linen laundering.
To reduce the carbon footprint of these operations, the researchers suggest focusing on the products that have the greatest impact. This could involve reducing the use of single-use items and switching to reusables, as well as finding ways to optimize processes for decontamination and waste disposal.
By making these changes, the carbon footprint of these surgical operations could be reduced by 23% to 42%. This research highlights the need for changes in practice and policy to achieve more sustainable healthcare.
So, next time you or someone you know is going in for surgery, remember that the choices made in the operating room can have an impact on the environment. It's time to think about how we can make surgical procedures more eco-friendly.
11: Research Paper Title: Soccer Heading and Its Immediate Impact on Brain Function and Communication with Muscles
Read the original paper: Soccer heading immediately alters brain function and brain-muscle communication
Publisher / Publication: Frontiers
Authors: Johnny V. V. Parr, Liis Uiga, Ben Marshall, Greg Wood
Published: April 20th, 2023
Ever wondered if playing soccer and repeatedly heading the ball can affect your brain and body? Well, a group of researchers set out to investigate exactly that. They found that even a short session of heading can lead to negative effects on cognitive performance and movement control, and they wanted to uncover the scientific mechanisms behind these immediate impairments.
To delve into this issue further, the researchers conducted an experiment involving sixty soccer players. Half of the participants were subjected to a brief period of soccer heading, while the other half engaged in a virtual reality (VR) simulation where they headed virtual soccer balls. Cognitive performance was assessed using the King-Devick test, and the researchers also employed electromyography (EMG), electroencephalography (EEG), and corticomuscular coherence (CMC) measurements to examine brain function and communication with muscles during a force precision task.
The results were intriguing. Surprisingly, the group that participated in the VR simulation experienced an improvement in cognitive performance, while the heading group showed no change. Both groups demonstrated better force control after the task, but the VR group exhibited higher activity in frontal theta and global alpha and beta waves during the task, unlike the heading group. However, contrary to expectations, the heading group displayed elevated CMC, indicating enhanced communication between the brain and muscles.
These findings shed light on the immediate effects of soccer heading. It appears that even a short session can impair cognitive function and disrupt efficient neural processes related to motor skill proficiency. Furthermore, the researchers observed corticomuscular hyperconnectivity in the heading group, suggesting that the brain and muscles may be overcompensating for the task, potentially leading to an inefficient allocation of neuromuscular resources.
This study provides valuable insights into the mechanisms underlying the impairments experienced after just a brief period of repetitive soccer heading. Its implications extend beyond the sports field, raising important questions about the potential risks associated with this popular activity. As we navigate the world of sports, these findings remind us to consider the possible impact of our actions on our bodies and brains.
12: Efficacy and Safety of Acoziborole in Treating African Sleeping Sickness: A Breakthrough Study
Read the original paper: Efficacy and safety of acoziborole in patients with human African trypanosomiasis caused by Trypanosoma brucei gambiense : a multicentre, open-label, single-arm, phase 2/3 trial
Publisher / Publication: The Lancet
Authors: Victor Kande Betu Kumeso, Wilfried Mutombo Kalonji, Sandra Rembry, Olaf Valverde Mordt, Digas Ngolo Tete
Published: April 1st, 2023
A group of researchers conducted a groundbreaking study to investigate the effectiveness and safety of acoziborole in treating a parasitic disease called African sleeping sickness, caused by the protozoan parasite Trypanosoma brucei gambiense. This disease typically affects individuals in the late stages of infection and requires hospitalization for treatment. The current recommended treatment, fexinidazole, also mandates hospital admission, posing challenges in resource-constrained areas.
To tackle this issue, the researchers sought to evaluate the efficacy and safety of acoziborole in adult and adolescent patients with gambiense African sleeping sickness. The study involved ten hospitals in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Guinea, with participants aged 15 years or older. Eligible patients demonstrated a certain level of physical ability, compliance with study requirements, and willingness to be admitted to the hospital during treatment.
Acoziborole, administered orally as a single 960 mg dose, showed remarkable results. Among the 208 enrolled patients, including those in the late stages of the disease, the treatment success rate at 18 months was an impressive 95.2%. Moreover, all patients with early-stage or intermediate-stage disease completed the follow-up visits, displaying a promising outcome.
The research also included a comparative analysis with the previous standard treatment, nifurtimox-eflornithine combination therapy (NECT). This analysis revealed a similar success rate for acoziborole, further affirming its potential as an effective treatment option.
In terms of safety, acoziborole demonstrated a favourable profile. Most adverse events reported were mild or moderate in severity, with pyrexia (fever) and asthenia (weakness) being the most common. Moreover, no deaths were attributed to the treatment.
The results of this study highlight the significant potential of acoziborole in contributing to the World Health Organization's aim of eliminating African sleeping sickness transmission by 2030. The research was generously supported by various funding sources, including the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and UK Aid.
In conclusion, this breakthrough study signifies a major step forward in combating African sleeping sickness. The efficacy and safety of acoziborole provide hope for patients and healthcare providers alike, offering a vital solution and bringing us closer to achieving the goal of eradicating this debilitating disease.