Spinning Apes, Soaring Temps, Shrooms for Anorexia
Welcome to this month's edition of Briefly Science, your go-to newsletter for quick summaries of the latest academic research.
In this issue, we explore fascinating new findings on topics ranging from understanding primate behaviour to potential treatments for challenging health conditions.
Learn how apes reach altered mental states through spinning, and gain insights into the promise of psilocybin therapy for anorexia.
I also also look at research on heat-related deaths in Europe, the links between nitrites/nitrates and diabetes, and the impact of green spaces on urban wellbeing.
Let's dive in and uncover 15 compelling research stories.
Read time: approx. 13 minutes.
1: Great Apes: Discovering Altered Mental States through Spinning
Read the original paper: Great apes reach momentary altered mental states by spinning
Publisher / Publication: Springerlink
Authors: Adriano R. Lameira, Marcus Perlman
Published: January 1st, 2023
Humans have long been known for their ability to intentionally induce altered states of mind. However, the extent to which these practices have influenced the evolution of the human mind is still up for debate.
While humans often rely on psychoactive substances to achieve altered states, it remains uncertain whether our pre-human ancestors had access to similar methods.
Additionally, studying nonhuman great apes in captivity has proven challenging due to ethical reasons.
To overcome this roadblock, researchers turned to publicly available YouTube data and discovered that apes engage in rope spinning during solitary play.
Through this spinning activity, the apes achieved speeds that altered their perception of self and reality in a way comparable to transcendent experiences in humans, like Sufi whirling.
The researchers also found that the number of revolutions the apes spun correlated with behavioural signs of dizziness. Hence, spinning serves as a self-sufficient means for changing body-mind responsiveness in hominids.
This intriguing finding suggests a shared inclination for altered states of mind between humans and great apes, opening doors for further comparative research into the mechanisms, functions, and adaptive value of these states during human evolution.
By shedding light on the potential origins of our capacity for altered mental states, this research carries profound implications for our understanding of the human mind and its development over time.
2: An In-depth Look at the Cure for HIV-1 Through Stem Cell Transplantation
Read the full paper: In-depth virological and immunological characterization of HIV-1 cure after CCR5Δ32/Δ32 allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation
Publisher / Publication: Nature Medicine
Authors: Björn-Erik Ole Jensen, Elena Knops, Leon Cords, Nadine Lübke, Maria Salgado
Published: January 1st, 2023
In recent years, there has been fascinating scientific progress in the quest for a cure for HIV-1, the virus responsible for AIDS. Two patients have already shown promising results after receiving a type of stem cell transplant called CCR5Δ32/Δ32 hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). This research paper delves into a detailed exploration of one such case, following a 53-year-old man who achieved long-term remission after this innovative treatment.
The patient had undergone the HSCT procedure to treat acute myeloid leukemia, a form of blood cancer. Over a period of 9 years, the researchers closely monitored him to understand the immunological and virological aspects of his cure. While small traces of HIV-1 DNA were occasionally detected in his T cell subsets and tissue samples, extensive testing indicated the absence of replication-competent virus.
Interestingly, the patient's immune system exhibited low levels of activation, and his HIV-1-specific immune responses declined over time, signalling a lack of ongoing viral antigen production.
After four years of ceasing antiretroviral therapy, the absence of viral rebound and the absence of any signs indicating the persistence of HIV-1 antigens provide strong evidence for a successful cure through CCR5Δ32/Δ32 HSCT.
Through this breakthrough research, we gain insight into the potential for stem cell transplantation as a cure for HIV-1.
The findings discovered here shed light on the complex interplay between the virus, the immune system, and innovative medical interventions. Understanding these mechanisms brings us one step closer to combatting this global health issue.
This case serves as a reminder of the importance of ongoing research and the search for innovative treatments.
The knowledge gained from this study may pave the way for advancements in treating not only HIV-1 but also other challenging diseases.
3: The Link Between Nitrites and Nitrates in Food and Water and Type 2 Diabetes Risk
Read the full paper: Dietary exposure to nitrites and nitrates in association with type 2 diabetes risk: Results from the NutriNet-Santé population-based cohort study
Publisher / Publication: PLOS Medicine
Authors: Bernard Srour, Eloi Chazelas, Nathalie Druesne-Pecollo, Younes Esseddik, Fabien Szabo de Edelenyi
Published: January 17th, 2023
Do you know that nitrites and nitrates, commonly found in water, soil, and certain foods, could be associated with an increased risk of type 2 diabetes?
In a recent large-scale study, researchers examined the potential effects of these compounds on diabetes development.
Nitrites and nitrates can occur naturally in the environment but are also used as additives in processed meats to extend their shelf life and prevent bacterial growth.
While previous experiments have shown mixed results, there is a lack of solid evidence from epidemiological and clinical studies.
To fill this gap, the researchers analysed data from the NutriNet-Santé cohort study in France involving over 100,000 adults.
The study participants reported their nitrite and nitrate intake through dietary records, which were then compared to a comprehensive food composition database.
The researchers took into account various factors that could contribute to type 2 diabetes, such as age, lifestyle, medical history, and nutrition.
Over a median follow-up period of 7.3 years, the study identified 969 new cases of type 2 diabetes.
The results revealed that both total nitrite intake and nitrites from food and water were associated with an increased risk of diabetes. Specifically, individuals with higher consumption of nitrites from food additives, especially sodium nitrite, faced a higher risk compared to those with lower or no intake.
This research highlights the potential harmful effects of nitrites and nitrates on type 2 diabetes risk. However, it is essential to note that the study focused on associations and does not prove causation.
Further investigation is necessary to better understand the precise mechanisms and potential interactions with other risk factors.
These findings have broader implications for public health and dietary guidelines.
While nitrites and nitrates play a role in preserving processed meats, it is crucial to balance potential benefits against the increased risk of type 2 diabetes. Raising awareness about these connections can empower individuals to make informed choices about their dietary habits and potentially reduce their diabetes risk.
In conclusion, this study sheds light on the relationship between dietary exposure to nitrites and nitrates and the risk of type 2 diabetes. It emphasises the importance of considering the sources of these compounds, such as food additives, and raises important questions about their impact on public health.
Further research is needed to confirm these findings and to guide recommendations for healthy eating habits.
4: Site-specific Encoding of Light-responsive Functions into Antibody Fragments
Read the full paper: Site-specific encoding of photoactivity and photoreactivity into antibody fragments
Publisher / Publication: Nature Chemical Biology
Authors: Thomas Bridge, Udo Wegmann, Jason C. Crack, Kate Orman, Saher A. Shaikh
Published: January 1st, 2023
Have you ever wondered how scientists are able to design biomolecules that can carry out multiple functions when exposed to light?
Well, a group of researchers recently tackled this challenging task.
They focused on an antibody fragment called 7D12, which targets a protein called epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). The researchers successfully incorporated two light-responsive properties into 7D12: photoactivity and photoreactivity.
To achieve this, the scientists strategically introduced two different light-responsive molecules, photocaged tyrosine (pcY) and p-benzoyl-Ê-phenylalanine (Bpa), into 7D12.
By incorporating Bpa at a specific location in 7D12, they ensured that it did not affect the antibody fragment's affinity for EGFR under normal conditions. However, when exposed to 365-nm light, this modified 7D12 formed a covalent bond with EGFR, but only in an antigen-specific manner.
To further enhance the light-responsiveness of 7D12, the researchers developed a method to incorporate both pcY and Bpa at two different locations within the antibody fragment. They discovered that in the absence of light, this modified 7D12 did not bind to EGFR. However, once irradiated with 365-nm light, it exhibited two crucial functions: specific binding to EGFR and the formation of a covalent bond with the protein.
In addition to their experimental success, the researchers also devised a general method for incorporating nonnatural light-responsive molecules into proteins produced in live cells.
This breakthrough paves the way for engineering antibody fragments that are both responsive to light and capable of carrying out specific functions.
Overall, this study provides valuable insights into how scientists can design biomolecules that respond to light, opening up new possibilities for various applications.
Understanding and manipulating light-responsive properties in proteins can have profound implications in fields such as medicine and biotechnology, offering exciting opportunities for targeted therapies and advanced research tools.
5: A Non-Invasive Test for Unraveling a Common Cause of High Blood Pressure
Read the full paper: [ 11 C]metomidate PET-CT versus adrenal vein sampling for diagnosing surgically curable primary aldosteronism: a prospective, within-patient trial
Publisher / Publication: Nature Chemical Biology
Authors: Xilin Wu, Russell Senanayake, Emily Goodchild, Waiel A. Bashari, Jackie Salsbury
Published: January 1st, 2023
Did you know that a type of high blood pressure called primary aldosteronism (PA) can be cured or dramatically improved through surgery?
Surprisingly, less than 1% of patients with PA are offered this opportunity due to the invasive nature of the standard pre-surgical investigation.
To improve this situation, a group of researchers conducted a study comparing a non-invasive test called [11C]metomidate positron emission tomography computed tomography (MTO) scanning with the current method called adrenal vein sampling (AVS).
The study involved 143 patients with PA, and its main goal was to determine which test could better predict the success of surgery in treating PA and resolving hypertension.
Out of the 128 patients who reached the 6- to 9-month follow-up, 61% had surgery and 39% were managed medically. Remarkably, 77 out of 78 patients who underwent surgery achieved the desired surgical outcome for PA.
Now, let's get to the results. The accuracy of MTO in predicting the biochemical and clinical success after the surgery was 72.7% and 65.4%, respectively.
On the other hand, AVS showed accuracies of 63.6% and 61.5% for the same criteria.
Although MTO did not prove to be significantly better, the differences fell within the predetermined margin for non-inferiority, meaning it was still a viable alternative to AVS.
Safety is always a concern in medical procedures, but rest assured, out of 24 serious adverse events during the study, none were related to either MTO or AVS, and 22 were completely resolved.
The researchers concluded that MTO provides a non-invasive way to diagnose unilateral PA, bringing hope for a less invasive and more accessible solution for patients suffering from this condition.
Understanding the causes and treatments of high blood pressure is crucial, especially since it affects so many people.
This research brings us one step closer to improving the lives of those with primary aldosteronism, offering a potential game-changer in the medical field.
Let's hope that further studies and advancements continue to pave the way for better diagnostic methods and treatments.
6: Title: Why Does Skin Cancer Incidence Differ Between Singapore and the UK?
Read the full paper: Somatic mutations in facial skin from countries of contrasting skin cancer risk
Publisher / Publication: Nature Genetics
Authors: Charlotte King, Joanna C. Fowler, Irina Abnizova, Roshan K. Sood, Michael W. J. Hall
Published: January 1st, 2023
Skin cancer, specifically keratinocyte cancer, is much less common in Singapore than in the UK, despite Singapore receiving higher levels of ultraviolet (UV) radiation.
To investigate this disparity, researchers compared the mutational landscape of aging facial skin between the two countries.
The study found that aging facial skin from the UK had a significantly higher mutational burden compared to Singapore. Moreover, the mutational patterns in the UK were indicative of UV radiation damage, while Singaporean skin exhibited mutations resulting from intrinsic biological processes.
These findings were consistent with the characteristics of keratinocyte cancers observed in both high-incidence and low-incidence populations.
The research indicated that aging skin in countries with higher skin cancer rates displayed features similar to cancerous tissue, which were absent in low-risk countries.
The discrepancies in skin cancer incidence may be attributed to variations in genetic factors that confer UV protection.
In practical terms, this research highlights the underlying reasons for the differing rates of skin cancer between Singapore and the UK.
The study suggests that the distinct mutational spectra and patterns of selection in ageing facial skin contribute to the discrepancy in cancer occurrence. By shedding light on the mutational landscape of skin, this study offers valuable insights into the mechanisms by which skin cancer develops and diverges in different populations.
Understanding the factors that influence skin cancer risk is crucial in developing effective prevention and treatment strategies. By unraveling the genetic aspects related to cancer incidence, researchers can contribute to the improvement of public health policies and educational initiatives targeting skin cancer prevention.
Ultimately, this research provides a deeper understanding of the complex interplay between genetic factors and skin cancer risk, paving the way for personalized approaches to skin cancer prevention and treatment.
7: Closing the Loop: How Automated Insulin Delivery is Changing the Game for Adults with Type 2 Diabetes
Read the full paper: Fully automated closed-loop insulin delivery in adults with type 2 diabetes: an open-label, single-center, randomized crossover trial
Publisher / Publication: Nature Medicine
Authors: Aideen B. Daly, Charlotte K. Boughton, Munachiso Nwokolo, Sara Hartnell, Malgorzata E. Wilinska
Published: January 1st, 2023
Living with type 2 diabetes can be a constant struggle, but recent research is shedding light on a groundbreaking development that may bring new hope to millions of individuals.
A team of dedicated researchers conducted a study to explore the potential benefits of a fully automated closed-loop insulin delivery system for adults with type 2 diabetes.
This innovative approach eliminates the need for manual meal bolusing, simplifying daily life and potentially improving glucose control.
The study involved 26 adults with type 2 diabetes, carefully selected to represent a diverse population.
They underwent two consecutive 8-week periods, comparing the effects of the CamAPS HX fully closed-loop app with standard insulin therapy and a masked glucose sensor. Each participant experienced both treatment methods, with a washout period in between.
The researchers focused on the primary goal of evaluating the proportion of time individuals spent within the target glucose range of 3.9 to 10.0 mmol l−1.
The results were striking.
Participants using the closed-loop system spent an impressive 66.3% of their time within the desired range, compared to just 32.3% in the control group. This substantial mean difference of 35.3 percentage points points to the clear potential of automated insulin delivery.
However, it is also essential to consider the other end of the spectrum. Participants in the closed-loop group experienced a lower proportion of time with high glucose levels (above 10.0 mmol l−1), showcasing the system's ability to prevent dangerous spikes.
In contrast, the control group had a significantly higher percentage (67.0%) of time spent above the target range.
This difference of −35.2 percentage points sheds light on the potential for improved glucose management through automated insulin delivery.
These findings have substantial implications for individuals living with type 2 diabetes, as well as healthcare professionals and researchers working towards improved treatment options.
Although further research is needed to validate and refine these results, the promise of fully automated closed-loop insulin delivery is undeniable. By simplifying daily management and offering the potential for better glucose control, this innovation may transform the lives of countless individuals battling type 2 diabetes.
8: Understanding the Shared Neural Causes of Multiple Mental Health Disorders
Read the full paper: A shared neural basis underlying psychiatric comorbidity
Publisher / Publication: Nature Medicine
Authors: Chao Xie, Shitong Xiang, Chun Shen, Xuerui Peng, Jujiao Kang
Published: January 1st, 2023
Have you ever wondered why some people experience different mental health issues at the same time?
A group of researchers has been investigating this phenomenon and they have made some interesting discoveries.
They believe that there might be a common factor in the brain that underlies the presence of multiple psychiatric disorders.
In their study, the researchers used advanced brain scanning techniques to analyse the brains of a large group of individuals from their teenage years to early adulthood.
They found evidence suggesting that this common factor in the brain is related to a delay in the development of a specific part called the prefrontal cortex.
This delay seems to have a genetic basis and is responsible for causing difficulties in executive functions, which are important cognitive processes like decision-making and self-control.
The researchers also found that this common factor in the brain was consistent across different age groups, from preadolescence to early adulthood. Moreover, they discovered that it could be observed even when the individuals were not performing any specific tasks, highlighting its relevance during resting periods.
They confirmed their findings by studying two different clinical samples of individuals with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and by comparing their results with other large-scale projects.
By pinpointing this shared neural basis, the researchers hope to pave the way for developing new treatments and interventions for individuals dealing with multiple mental health disorders.
This study brings together various pieces of evidence from behavioral observations, brain imaging, and genetic studies to provide a clearer picture of the underlying causes of psychiatric comorbidity.
So next time you come across someone who might be juggling multiple mental health issues, remember that there could be a common neural basis behind their struggles.
Understanding this shared factor brings us closer to finding effective ways to support and treat individuals dealing with complex mental health challenges.
9: Hormone Replacement Therapy and Cognitive Health in Women at Risk of Alzheimer's Disease
Read the full paper: Hormone replacement therapy is associated with improved cognition and larger brain volumes in at-risk APOE4 women: results from the European Prevention of Alzheimer’s Disease (EPAD) cohort
Publisher / Publication: Alzheimer's Research & Therapy
Authors: Rasha N. M. Saleh, Michael Hornberger, Craig W. Ritchie, Anne Marie Minihane
Published: January 9th, 2023
Did you know that women are at a higher risk of developing dementia compared to men?
One reason behind this gender difference is the decline of estrogen during menopause, which accelerates brain changes that contribute to Alzheimer's disease.
However, the use of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) to prevent cognitive decline has shown mixed results.
In this study, researchers investigated the effects of HRT on cognition and brain volumes in women with a specific genetic risk factor for Alzheimer's disease (APOE4 genotype).
The researchers analysed data from a large cohort of participants and used various cognitive tests and brain imaging techniques to assess the impact of HRT.
They found that women with the APOE4 genotype who used HRT had better performance on tests measuring delayed memory compared to those who did not use HRT or did not have the APOE4 risk gene.
Additionally, the APOE4 HRT users had larger volumes in key brain regions associated with memory, the entorhinal and amygdala.
Interestingly, the researchers also found that starting HRT at an earlier age was associated with larger volumes in the hippocampus, another important brain region for memory, but only in women with the APOE4 genotype.
These findings suggest that HRT may have a positive effect on cognitive function and brain structure in women at risk of Alzheimer's disease, specifically those with the APOE4 genotype.
However, it is important to note that more research is needed to establish causality and confirm these results.
The researchers emphasize the need for a well-designed clinical trial that includes participants with different genetic backgrounds to further investigate the potential benefits of HRT in this high-risk population.
Understanding the impact of HRT on cognitive health is crucial, as it may provide a targeted strategy to reduce the risk of Alzheimer's disease in women who are genetically predisposed.
Continued research in this area has the potential to contribute to improved preventive measures and personalised interventions for brain health in at-risk populations.
10: Understanding the Factors Influencing Sperm Donor Recruitment: A Comparison of Denmark and the USA
Read the full paper: An analysis of the outcome of 11 712 men applying to be sperm donors in Denmark and the USA
Publisher / Publication: Oxford Academic
Authors: Allan A Pacey, Guido Pennings, Edgar Mocanu, Janne Rothmar, Anja Pinborg
Published: January 9th, 2023
Have you ever wondered about the process of recruiting sperm donors and how it works in practice?
A recent research paper analysed the outcome of 11,712 men applying to be sperm donors in Denmark and the USA, shedding light on some interesting findings.
The study explored whether the country of recruitment or the initial identity-release choice of applicants had any influence on the outcome of donor recruitment.
The researchers discovered that more men were accepted as sperm donors in Denmark compared to the USA.
Additionally, they found that those who chose to release their identity to their donor offspring were more frequently accepted as donors than those who did not.
These findings highlight the importance of understanding the factors that impact donor recruitment.
Examining the anonymised records of all donor applicants, the researchers observed that only a small percentage (3.79%) of applicants were accepted as donors and had their samples frozen and released for use.
Interestingly, this acceptance rate was higher in Denmark (6.53%) than in the USA (1.03%).
Furthermore, donors who opted for ID release at the outset had a higher chance of being accepted (4.70%) compared to those who did not (3.15%).
Throughout the recruitment process, many potential donors were lost due to various reasons, such as withdrawal, failure to respond, or not meeting eligibility criteria. These losses accounted for over half of the candidates.
Health issues and screening test failures also contributed to losing potential donors. At each stage, there were significant differences between the countries and the initial identity choice of the donor.
The study also noted that some donors changed their ID release preferences during the recruitment process.
While there were no country differences in the frequency of this occurrence, it was more common for donors to shift from non-ID release to ID release. However, movements in both directions occurred in both countries.
Understanding the reasons behind the loss of potential donors can help develop more efficient recruitment pathways for interested donors and sperm banks. This could increase the number of donors recruited or reduce the financial burden on recipients of donor sperm.
Ultimately, the findings from this research contribute to the broader pursuit of supporting individuals and couples who require assisted reproductive treatments.
11: Why Humans Can Understand the Gestures of Great Apes: Insights from a Fascinating Study
Read the full paper: Towards a great ape dictionary: Inexperienced humans understand common nonhuman ape gestures
Publisher / Publication: PLOS Biology
Authors: Kirsty E. Graham, Catherine Hobaiter
Published: January 24th, 2023
Have you ever wondered how humans and nonhuman apes communicate, especially through gestures?
This intriguing research delves into the similarities and differences between human and great ape communication.
We know that apes have an extensive repertoire of gestures that they use to convey their intentions and desires. Surprisingly, one species seems to be missing from this gesture-filled communication system: us humans.
This raises an interesting question: Where did the ape gestures go in human communication?
To explore this puzzle, researchers set out to investigate whether humans could still comprehend and recognise ape gestures.
They devised a clever online game in which over 5,000 people participated.
The game involved watching videos of chimpanzees and bonobos performing various gestures, and participants had to guess the meaning behind these actions.
The results revealed something fascinating: humans seem to have retained the ability to understand ape gestures, possibly due to our shared evolutionary history.
This understanding extends across different types of gestures and their respective meanings.
Interestingly, the researchers also discovered that knowing the context in which the gestures were performed only slightly improved humans' success in deciphering their meaning.
This suggests that our comprehension of ape gestures might be deeply rooted in our cognition, rather than reliant solely on the surrounding circumstances.
What makes this study truly remarkable is that, for the first time, researchers have revealed that adult humans can access a part of the great ape gestural repertoire.
This opens a window into the ancestral system of gestures that our ape relatives still utilise today.
It showcases a profound evolutionary continuity between their communication and our own.
By shedding light on our ability to understand and connect with the gestures of great apes, this research broadens our perspective on the complex world of nonhuman communication.
It emphasises the significance of our shared roots and highlights the remarkable similarities that exist between our own gestures and those of our ape cousins.
12: Psilocybin Therapy for Anorexia Nervosa: Exploring a Promising Treatment Option
Read the full paper: Psilocybin therapy for females with anorexia nervosa: a phase 1, open-label feasibility study
Publisher / Publication: Nature Medicine
Authors: Stephanie Knatz Peck, Samantha Shao, Tessa Gruen, Kevin Yang, Alexandra Babakanian
Published: January 1st, 2023
Anorexia nervosa (AN) is a life-threatening illness that lacks effective treatments and approved medications.
This has pushed researchers to explore new approaches to improve outcomes for those suffering from this condition.
In a recent study, researchers investigated the use of psilocybin therapy as a potential solution.
Psilocybin, a compound found in certain mushrooms, was administered to 10 adult females who met the diagnostic criteria for AN or were in partial remission.
The main goal of this study was to assess the safety, tolerability, and feasibility of psilocybin therapy in combination with psychological support.
The researchers closely monitored any adverse events or clinically significant changes in the participants' electrocardiogram results, vital signs, laboratory tests, and suicidality indicators.
Encouragingly, no clinically significant changes were observed in the participants' electrocardiogram, vital signs, or suicidality. While two participants did experience asymptomatic hypoglycemia, this resolved within 24 hours, and no other major changes in laboratory values were noted. All reported adverse events were mild and temporary in nature.
Qualitative feedback from the participants revealed that the treatment was generally acceptable.
These findings provide promising insights into the safety, tolerability, and acceptance of psilocybin therapy for females with AN.
Considering the physical dangers and challenges of engagement with current treatment options, this research offers hope for improved outcomes and further investigation.
It is important to note that this study was a phase 1 feasibility study, and more research is needed to fully understand the long-term effects and potential benefits of psilocybin therapy for AN. Nonetheless, these initial results indicate a significant step forward in the search for innovative treatments for this debilitating illness.
13: Heat-related Deaths in Europe: A Wake-up Call for Action
Read the full paper: Heat-related mortality in Europe during the summer of 2022
Publisher / Publication: Nature Medicine
Authors: Joan Ballester, Marcos Quijal-Zamorano, Raúl Fernando Méndez Turrubiates, Ferran Pegenaute, François R. Herrmann
Published: January 1st, 2023
During the scorching summer of 2022, Europe experienced the hottest season ever recorded, resulting in a concerning number of excess deaths.
A team of researchers investigated the impact of extreme heat on mortality rates across the continent, shedding light on the urgent need for adaptation strategies and protective measures.
By analysing a comprehensive mortality database encompassing over 543 million people from 35 European countries, the researchers found a staggering estimate of 61,672 heat-related deaths between May 30th and September 4th, 2022. Italy, Spain, and Germany bore the heaviest burden, with the highest numbers of deaths attributed to summer heat.
With regards to mortality rates relative to the population, the study revealed that Italy, Greece, Spain, and Portugal faced the greatest challenges. Women appeared to be more vulnerable, accounting for 56% more heat-related deaths than men.
Among specific age groups, men between 0 and 64 years old and 65 and 79 years old experienced higher rates, while women aged 80 and above were particularly affected.
These findings emphasise the critical need to reevaluate and reinforce existing heat surveillance platforms, prevention plans, and long-term adaptation strategies.
The consequences of extreme heat extend beyond statistical figures, impacting communities and individuals in very tangible ways. The devastating loss of life that Europe experienced during the summer of 2022 serves as an urgent call to action, demanding the attention of policymakers, public health officials, and society as a whole.
It is imperative that we prioritise the implementation of measures to protect the most vulnerable populations from the detrimental effects of heatwaves.
This research underscores the significance of heat-related mortality as a pressing issue affecting our societies.
Let us not wait for tragedy to strike again before we take action.
Together, we can make a difference in safeguarding lives during extreme weather events.
14: The Impact of Nature Exposure on Mental and Physical Health in Urban Environments: Insights from Finland
Read the full paper: Cross-sectional associations of different types of nature exposure with psychotropic, antihypertensive and asthma medication
Publisher / Publication: British Medical Journal
Authors: Anu W Turunen, Jaana Halonen, Kalevi Korpela, Ann Ojala, Tytti Pasanen
Published: January 5th, 2023
Can spending time in nature improve our mental and physical well-being?
A recent study conducted in Finland sought to answer this question by exploring the relationship between exposure to green and blue spaces and the use of psychotropic, antihypertensive, and asthma medications.
The researchers conducted a survey in the Helsinki Capital Region, gathering data from over 7,000 participants.
Contrary to popular belief, the researchers did not find a direct association between the amount of green and blue spaces surrounding people's homes and medication use.
However, an interesting discovery emerged - the frequency of visits to green spaces had a significant impact.
Those who visited green spaces three to four times a week or more had lower odds of using psychotropic, antihypertensive, and asthma medications.
It is important to note that this association was not affected by the view of green and blue spaces from home or the overall amount of green and blue spaces in the neighbourhood.
The researchers also considered factors such as health behaviour, air pollution, noise, and socioeconomic status in their analysis.
While the exact reasons behind this association are not yet understood, the findings highlight the potential benefits of spending time in nature on our mental and physical health.
The researchers speculate that engaging with green spaces may have positive effects on overall well-being, reducing the need for certain medications.
This research provides valuable insights into the role of nature exposure in urban environments, shedding light on a topic that is increasingly relevant in our modern lives.
As college students, many of us are familiar with the stresses of city living and the impacts it can have on our health. Taking the time to explore nearby green spaces may offer a simple yet effective way to promote our well-being.
It's important to remember, however, that these findings do not suggest that green spaces alone can replace medication or serve as a cure-all. Instead, they indicate that incorporating regular visits to nature into our routines may positively contribute to our mental and physical health.
So, next time you feel the weight of the world on your shoulders, consider taking a stroll in a nearby park. It might just be the nature-based therapy you didn't know you needed.
15: The Impact of Sugary Drinks on Childhood Obesity Rates in England
Read the full paper: Associations between trajectories of obesity prevalence in English primary school children and the UK soft drinks industry levy: An interrupted time series analysis of surveillance data
Publisher / Publication: PLOS Medicine
Authors: Nina T. Rogers, Steven Cummins, Hannah Forde, Catrin P. Jones, Oliver Mytton
Published: January 26th, 2023
Childhood obesity is a significant health concern in England, particularly in areas with higher levels of deprivation. One major contributing factor is the consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs), which are the primary source of added sugars in children's diets.
Previous research has shown a clear link between SSB consumption and obesity in children.
To address this issue, the UK implemented a two-tier soft drinks industry levy (SDIL) in 2018 to encourage the reformulation of SSBs.
In this study, the researchers analysed surveillance data to examine the impact of the SDIL on childhood obesity rates.
The data included measurements of over 1 million children aged 4 to 5 years and 10 to 11 years from English primary schools.
Using interrupted time series analysis, the researchers compared obesity prevalence before and after the implementation of the SDIL, taking into account temporal variations.
The findings revealed some interesting trends.
Among 10 to 11-year-old girls, there was a significant decrease in obesity prevalence after the implementation of the SDIL, particularly in the most deprived areas. However, there was no change in obesity rates among 10 to 11-year-old boys, except in the least deprived areas, where there was a slight increase.
In reception-aged children (4 to 5 years old), there were no significant changes in obesity prevalence for both boys and girls.
While these findings highlight the potential positive impact of the SDIL on childhood obesity rates, it's important to note that additional strategies beyond SSB taxation will be necessary to effectively reduce obesity prevalence, especially among older boys and younger children.
The researchers acknowledge the limitations of their study, including the use of school-based measures of socioeconomic disadvantage and potential confounding factors.
Overall, this research provides valuable insights into the associations between the UK SDIL and childhood obesity rates.
The findings suggest that the SDIL may have contributed to a decrease in obesity prevalence among certain groups, particularly girls in deprived areas.
Moving forward, it will be crucial to explore additional interventions to tackle this complex public health issue and to reduce obesity rates in all children.
That’s it for this month.
Thanks for reading.
See you in March.
Claudia Brady.