Monthly Archives: June 2024

Beans and Chickpeas Enhance Diet Quality Among American Adults, Study Finds

This study fills a crucial gap in our understanding, providing comprehensive data on how increasing bean consumption affects nutrient intake and overall diet quality within the typical American diet. The findings of this research are significant, shedding light on the impact of incorporating more beans into this dietary pattern on the intake of essential nutrients and overall diet quality.

With a robust data source from the US National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey spanning from 2001 to 2018, this analysis focused on the effects of adding one or two servings of canned and dried beans to the diets of adults aged 19 years and older, categorised into younger adults (19-50 years) and older adults (51 years and older). The beans studied included kidney beans, black beans, chickpeas, and pinto beans.

When beans were integrated into the typical American diet, there were notable increases in the intake of several critical nutrients such as dietary fibre, potassium, magnesium, iron, folate, and choline. Specifically, incorporating one serving of beans and two servings daily significantly improved overall diet quality across all adult age groups. This improvement in diet quality, as assessed using the Healthy Eating Index-2015 scores, was approximately 15-16% higher with one additional serving of beans and 19-20% higher with two servings compared to the typical American diet pattern.

Dietary patterns that include a substantial amount of beans are associated with significantly better diet quality scores and increased consumption of nutrients essential for public health. This study suggests that promoting higher consumption of canned and dry beans in dietary guidelines could lead to significant health benefits for younger adults and older age groups.

More information: Yanni Papanikolaou et al, Adding more beans to the US typical dietary pattern can lead to greater intake of shortfall nutrients and a higher diet quality in younger and older adults, Maturitas. DOI: 10.1016/j.maturitas.2024.108012

Journal information: Maturitas Provided by The Ginger Network

Scientists Introduce Groundbreaking Method to Address Age-Related Vision Decline

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Cirrus Therapeutics, University of Bristol, and London’s Global University Institute of Ophthalmology Unveil Groundbreaking Treatment for Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)

In a landmark study featured on the cover of Science Translational Medicine, researchers have identified a revolutionary treatment for age-related macular degeneration (AMD), the primary cause of vision loss in older adults worldwide.

AMD can profoundly impact vision, initially causing blurred vision or a central black spot that can progress to complete central vision loss. Currently affecting approximately 200 million people globally, this number is expected to reach 288 million by 2040 due to ageing populations and environmental factors. The exact causes of AMD are complex, involving a combination of ageing, lifestyle, and environmental factors.

The team’s breakthrough involves boosting levels of a specific protein, IRAK-M, in retinal cells, which has shown significant promise in protecting against retinal degeneration associated with AMD. Dr Andrew Dick, Head of the Academic Unit of Ophthalmology at the University of Bristol and Director of UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, as well as co-founder and Chief Scientific Advisor of Cirrus Therapeutics, described this discovery as a pathway-agnostic approach to AMD treatment, offering a comprehensive therapeutic option for millions suffering from this debilitating condition.

Dr Jian Liu, lead author and senior research scientist at the University of Bristol’s Academic Unit of Ophthalmology, highlighted the age-related decline of IRAK-M levels as a critical marker in AMD progression, signalling a potential avenue for early diagnosis and intervention.

This innovative approach marks a departure from traditional treatments that target single pathways in AMD pathophysiology. Dr Ying Kai Chan, co-founder and Chief Executive Officer of Cirrus Therapeutics emphasised that their novel method addresses multiple AMD pathways and represents the most compelling and evidence-based strategy available today.

Cirrus Therapeutics, which emerged from the University of Bristol to focus on therapies stemming from this discovery, is poised to advance treatments for AMD.

More information: Jian Liu et al, Replenishing IRAK-M expression in retinal pigment epithelium attenuates outer retinal degeneration, Science Translational Medicine. DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.adi4125

Journal information: Science Translational Medicine Provided by Thinkubator Media

UBC’s New Oral Insulin Drops Provide Relief for Diabetes Patients

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Diabetes prevalence continues to rise, affecting approximately 11.7 million Canadians living with diabetes or at risk of developing it. At the University of British Columbia (UBC), researchers have pioneered a groundbreaking method of drug delivery aimed at transforming how diabetes patients manage their condition and maintain overall health.

Led by Dr. Shyh-Dar Li at the Li Lab, the team has developed oral insulin drops as a pain-free alternative to conventional insulin injections. Administered under the tongue, these drops are designed for rapid and efficient absorption into the body. This innovation holds significant promise in alleviating the burden of frequent injections for diabetes patients.

A formulation combining insulin with a novel cell-penetrating peptide (CPP) derived from fish byproducts is central to this advancement. This peptide plays a crucial role in facilitating the transport of insulin across biological barriers and into the bloodstream intact. Unlike oral insulin in pill form, which can be degraded in the stomach, the peptide-guided delivery system ensures insulin’s swift availability in the bloodstream.

Dr. Li, a professor in UBC’s faculty of pharmaceutical sciences, explains the importance of the CPP: “Insulin is a complex molecule that faces challenges in oral delivery due to its vulnerability and size. The CPP acts as a guide, creating pathways that allow insulin to navigate through barriers and reach its target effectively.” Pre-clinical studies have demonstrated that insulin combined with the CPP achieves efficient bloodstream delivery, compared to insulin alone, which remains localised in the oral cavity.

Recent publications in the Journal of Controlled Release highlight two versions of the CPP, marking significant progress towards commercialisation. In collaboration with various partners, the UBC team is actively seeking more partnerships to license this technology, aiming to bring this needle-free insulin delivery method to market.

For individuals without diabetes, insulin is naturally secreted by the pancreas to regulate blood glucose levels after meals. In contrast, diabetes patients lack sufficient insulin production and must supplement it externally. Failure to control glucose levels can lead to severe complications such as eye, kidney, and nerve damage, underscoring the critical need for effective insulin delivery methods.

Traditional insulin administration via injections remains the fastest way to introduce insulin into the bloodstream. However, this necessitates multiple injections daily, posing challenges to patients’ quality of life and adherence to treatment regimens. Over time, inconsistent insulin administration can lead to debilitating consequences, including limb amputations.

Reflecting on the team’s journey towards needle-free alternatives over the past three years, Dr Li notes: “We explored nasal sprays before settling on oral drops for their simplicity and convenience. Our goal is to offer diabetes patients a new option that enhances medication adherence and helps regulate blood glucose levels for long-term health.”

While an inhalable insulin product, Exubera, briefly entered the market in 2006 before withdrawal, Dr. Li aims to achieve rapid, pain-free insulin delivery without significant side effects. This needle-free technology reduces the risk of cross-contamination and needle-related infections and addresses concerns surrounding the safe disposal of contaminated needles.

UBC’s development of oral insulin drops represents a significant advancement in diabetes care, offering hope for improved management and enhanced quality of life for millions of patients globally. As research continues and partnerships evolve, the prospect of bringing this innovation to fruition not only underscores its potential to redefine diabetes treatment paradigms but also ignites a sense of excitement about the future of diabetes care, making it easier and safer for patients to manage their health effectively.

More information: Jiamin Wu et al, Systemic delivery of proteins using novel peptides via the sublingual route, Journal of Controlled Release. DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2024.02.042

Journal information: Journal of Controlled Release Provided by The University of British Columbia

Heat’s Impact on Ageing Populations: Projections, Vulnerabilities, and Policy Implications in the Context of Climate Change

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A Nature Communications paper suggests that up to 246 million older adults globally could face dangerous acute heat exposure by 2050, particularly in Asia and Africa. The study’s findings are crucial for informing regional heat risk assessments and public health decision-making. An interactive visualization dashboard illustrates current and projected demographic shifts and heat-related risks across countries worldwide.

The world’s population is rapidly ageing, with the number of people aged over 60 set to double to nearly 2.1 billion by 2050. This demographic shift is especially pronounced in lower- and middle-income countries, where extreme weather events driven by climate change pose significant risks. The vulnerability of older adults to increasingly frequent and intense heatwaves threatens their physical health, particularly as they are more susceptible to heat-related illnesses and exacerbated health conditions, highlighting the urgent need for climate adaptation planning and policy interventions.

While extensive research has explored the individual health impacts of extreme heat on older adults, less attention has been paid to population-level heat exposure. Giacomo Falchetta led a team of international researchers, including experts from the Euro-Mediterranean Center on Climate Change, Boston University, and the Ca’ Foscari University of Venice, who quantified chronic and acute heat exposures across different age groups globally.

“By 2050, over 23% of the global population aged over 69 could be living in climates where acute heat exposure exceeds the critical threshold of 37.5°C, compared to 14% in 2020,” commented Giacomo Falchetta, a researcher at CMCC and Ca’ Foscari University of Venice. The study also predicts an additional 177 to 246 million older adults may face dangerous acute heat exposure by mid-century. “Asia and Africa are expected to bear the brunt of these effects, with potentially the least capacity to adapt,” added Deborah Carr, Professor of Sociology at Boston University and co-author of the study.

The researchers underscored that regions experiencing an ageing population and increasing heat exposure will likely experience heightened demands for social and healthcare services. The projected increase in heat-related risks could potentially strain healthcare services, necessitating innovative policy interventions and a proactive approach to climate adaptation planning. These findings are critical for informing health assessments and climate adaptation planning in vulnerable regions across the globe.

More information: Giacomo Falchetta et al, Global projections of heat exposure of older adults, Nature Communications. DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-47197-5

Journal information: Nature Communications Provided by CMCC Foundation

Essential Nutrients Linked to Slower Brain Aging: A Study

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Scientists have long focused on understanding the brain to promote healthier ageing, yet preventing cognitive decline remains a challenging frontier. While risk factors for accelerated brain ageing are well-documented, strategies to mitigate cognitive decline through nutrition have been less explored until recent advancements. A pioneering study published in Nature Publishing Group Aging by researchers from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s Center for Brain, Biology and Behavior and the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign has illuminated how specific nutrients may profoundly influence brain health as individuals age.

Under the leadership of Aron Barbey, this study took a novel approach, fusing cutting-edge techniques from neuroscience and nutritional science. The team’s focus was on identifying a unique nutrient profile that could enhance cognitive performance. The study involved 100 cognitively healthy adults aged 65-75, who underwent a comprehensive range of assessments, including demographic data collection, physical measurements, and activity evaluations. Blood plasma, cognitive tests, and MRI scans were then analysed for nutrient biomarkers following a fasting period.

The findings revealed two distinct patterns of brain ageing: accelerated and slower-than-expected. Participants exhibiting slower brain ageing displayed a specific nutrient profile characterised by beneficial fatty acids (such as vaccenic and gondoic acids), antioxidants (like cis-lutein and zeaxanthin), vitamin E variants, and choline. These nutrients are notably prominent in the Mediterranean diet, which has previously shown associations with improved brain health.

Aron Barbey, the Mildred Francis Thompson Professor of Psychology, underscored the study’s significance in advancing nutritional research on brain ageing: “We investigated specific nutrient biomarkers known for their potential health benefits, aligning with extensive research on the Mediterranean Diet’s positive impacts. Our findings identify promising nutrient biomarker patterns linked to cognitive performance and brain health.”

Unlike previous studies reliant on food frequency questionnaires, susceptible to recall biases, this study stands out for its integration of brain imaging, blood biomarkers, and validated cognitive assessments. Barbey emphasised the study’s holistic approach, which moves beyond traditional cognitive tests to explore brain structure, function, and metabolism through diet and nutrition.

Looking ahead, the researchers are eager to delve deeper into the role of the identified nutrient profile in supporting healthy brain ageing. Barbey outlined plans for randomised controlled trials to isolate specific nutrients associated with cognitive function and brain health. These trials could potentially pave the way for targeted nutraceutical interventions, offering a hopeful future for brain health research.

Moreover, Barbey is co-editing a forthcoming unique collection for the Journal of Nutrition titled “Nutrition and the Brain — Exploring Pathways to Optimal Brain Health Through Nutrition,” inviting contributions that will further illuminate the nexus between nutrition and cognitive function.

This study represents a significant leap forward in our understanding of how nutrition influences cognitive performance and brain health as individuals age. By integrating sophisticated methodologies from neuroscience and nutritional science, the research identifies promising nutrient biomarker patterns and underscores the potential for targeted nutritional strategies to support healthy brain ageing. As research progresses, these insights hold promise for informing future interventions aimed at enhancing brain health and cognitive function through dietary approaches, highlighting the importance of our work in this field.

More information: Christopher E. Zwilling et al, Investigating nutrient biomarkers of healthy brain aging: a multimodal brain imaging study, European Journal of Nutrition. DOI: 10.1038/s41514-024-00150-8

Journal information: Nature Aging Provided by University of Nebraska–Lincoln

Housing Discrimination Linked to Gaps in Colon Cancer Care

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A recent study conducted across 196 cities has shed light on the enduring impact of historical housing discrimination on colon cancer treatment. Led by S.M. Qasim Hussaini, M.D., from the University of Alabama at Birmingham, in collaboration with colleagues from the American Cancer Society and Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, the findings, published in the journal JCO Oncology Practice, reveal a concerning correlation between past discriminatory housing practices and present-day disparities in colon cancer care.

The study delves into the legacy of the Home Owners’ Loan Corporation (HOLC), a federally sponsored initiative in the 1930s that used racial criteria to determine mortgage loan eligibility. Areas with high Black, immigrant, or minority populations were designated as hazardous for lending, perpetuating systemic disinvestment and socioeconomic inequalities. This discriminatory mapping led to disparities in access to health-promoting resources such as green spaces and healthy foods, particularly in redlined neighbourhoods.

Hussaini and his team analysed data from the National Cancer Database, sourced from 149,917 newly diagnosed colon cancer patients between 2007 and 2017, to assess the impact of historical redlining on contemporary colon cancer care. By correlating patients’ residential locations with HOLC mapping areas, the researchers found that individuals residing in previously redlined areas (HOLC D) were more likely to face advanced-stage diagnosis, delayed treatment, and poorer survival outcomes.

The study highlights stark contrasts between residents of HOLC D areas and those in areas deemed more favourable for mortgage lending (HOLC A). Those in HOLC D areas were significantly more likely to be diagnosed with late-stage colon cancer and less likely to receive guideline-concordant care, including surgery, lymph node evaluation, and chemotherapy. Moreover, residents in HOLC D areas experienced longer wait times for adjuvant chemotherapy, which is crucial for preventing cancer recurrence.

Statistical models revealed a notable excess risk of death for colon cancer patients in HOLC C and HOLC D areas, even after adjusting for cancer stage at diagnosis. These findings underscore the pervasive impact of historical housing discrimination on present-day health outcomes, highlighting the urgent need for addressing systemic inequalities in access to quality cancer care.

This groundbreaking study expands our understanding of the intersection between institutional racism and healthcare disparities, providing valuable insights into the enduring effects of past discriminatory practices on contemporary health outcomes. By elucidating the link between historical redlining and disparities in colon cancer treatment, the research underscores the imperative of promoting health equity and addressing systemic injustices within healthcare systems.

The findings have significant implications for healthcare policy and practice, calling for targeted interventions to mitigate disparities in colon cancer care and improve outcomes for underserved communities. By acknowledging and addressing the legacy of housing discrimination, healthcare providers and policymakers can work towards creating more equitable and accessible healthcare systems, ensuring that all individuals receive the quality care they deserve, regardless of their residential history.

This study powerfully reminds us of the long-lasting impact of historical injustices on present-day health outcomes, emphasising the importance of addressing structural inequalities in healthcare to achieve health equity for all.

More information: S.M. Qasim Hussaini, et al, Association of Historical Housing Discrimination and Colon Cancer Treatment and Outcomes in the United States, JCO Oncology Practice. DOI: 10.1200/OP.23.00426

Journal information: JCO Oncology Practice Provided by The University of Alabama at Birmingham

Nutrient Overload Accelerates Aging in Animals

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The accelerated ageing of populations underscores the urgency of comprehending the molecular mechanisms underlying ageing. The mTOR protein complex, a pivotal player in numerous bodily processes, particularly in metabolism, has garnered attention for its role in this context.

Recent research on animal models reveals a significant correlation between slight increases in mTOR activity and premature ageing, resulting in a potential reduction in lifespan by up to 20%. This finding sheds light on the connection between mTOR, metabolism, and the onset or exacerbation of ageing-related diseases, particularly in individuals with elevated body mass index, indicative of obesity and inflammation. Furthermore, it elucidates why calorie restriction, a dietary intervention linked to increased animal longevity, may promote healthy ageing by modulating genes that interact with mTOR.

Lead author Alejo Efeyan, from the Metabolism and Cell Signalling Group at the National Cancer Research Centre (CNIO), introduces a novel research tool to explore the interplay between nutrient levels and organ ageing. Published in Nature Aging, the study, with Ana Ortega-Molina as the first author, also involves researchers from various esteemed institutions.

The study unveils a mechanism by which mTOR activity is manipulated through a protein-based system that deceives mTOR regarding nutrient availability within cells. This manipulation triggers cellular dysfunction upon maturity in animals, leading to manifestations of ageing such as dermal thinning and organ damage, notably in the pancreas, liver, and kidneys. Immune responses intended for repair are overwhelmed, exacerbating inflammation and further compromising organ function.

By effectively blocking the immune response responsible for inflammation, researchers observed significant improvements in organ damage, pointing to promising therapeutic avenues for mitigating age-related health decline.

The study’s findings directly translate to human ageing, as evidenced by striking parallels observed in naturally ageing mice. Notably, lysosomal activity, crucial for cellular waste management, diminishes both in naturally aged animals and those with manipulated mTOR activity. This direct correlation underscores the practical relevance of mTOR modulation in the context of ageing and provides valuable insights into potential interventions to ameliorate age-related health decline in humans.

More information: Ana Ortega-Molina et al, A mild increase in nutrient signaling to mTORC1 in mice leads to parenchymal damage, myeloid inflammation and shortened lifespan, Nature Aging. DOI: 10.1038/s43587-024-00635-x

Journal information: Nature Aging Provided by Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas – CNIO

Utilizing Videoconferencing to Encourage Physical Activity among Older Adults: Transforming Health Education into Practical Application

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The ubiquity of videoconferencing software in businesses and educational institutions, catalysed by the COVID-19 pandemic, has unveiled its potential for broader applications. A research team led by Osaka Metropolitan University (OMU) has delved into harnessing this transformative technology to enhance the well-being of elderly residents in rural areas.

Under the guidance of OMU’s Associate Professor Kazuki Uemura from the Graduate School of Rehabilitation Science, a 12-week health education initiative was orchestrated via the videoconferencing platform Zoom. The primary objective was to foster active participation among older adults, transforming health education into an interactive and engaging experience. Meanwhile, a control group received a comparable 12-week program via email, featuring passive learning through attached PDF files containing health instructions.

Evaluation of the participants, both pre-and post-intervention, followed by a 36-week follow-up, revealed promising outcomes. The videoconferencing cohort exhibited a propensity to adhere to health advice, coupled with noticeable enhancements in their physical activity levels, contrasting with the sedentary tendencies observed in the control group.

“This study unveils a novel paradigm for health education that transcends geographical barriers, prioritising sustainable behavioural modifications,” proposed Professor Uemura. “By expanding the scope of implementation and conducting further validation, our aspiration is to democratise such health initiatives, ensuring inclusivity and accessibility for all.”

More information: Kazuki Uemura et al, Active Learning Through Video Conferencing to Maintain Physical Activity Among Older Adults: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial, Journal of Aging and Physical Activity. DOI: 10.1123/japa.2023-0180

Journal information: Journal of Aging and Physical Activity Provided by Osaka Metropolitan University

Adopting Heart-Healthy Habits: A Potential Solution for Reversing Accelerated Cellular Ageing

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Recent research published in the Journal of the American Heart Association illuminates the promising potential of prioritising heart health and adopting heart-healthy lifestyle practices. Led by Dr Jiantao Ma from Tufts University, the study suggests that regardless of chronological age, adhering to heart-healthy behaviours and effectively managing heart disease risk factors could contribute to a younger biological age and reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, and mortality from heart-related conditions. These findings inspire, encouraging further exploration into the intricate relationship between heart health, DNA methylation, and healthy ageing.

The investigation focused on whether DNA methylation, a process regulating gene expression, could serve as a mechanism through which cardiovascular health factors influence cellular ageing and mortality risk. Analysing data from over 5,600 adults enrolled in the Framingham Heart Study, researchers utilised the American Heart Association’s Life’s Essential 8 tool to assess cardiovascular health comprehensively. This tool evaluates various behavioural and clinical measures, providing insights into cardiovascular well-being.

Significant findings emerged from the analysis, indicating that each improvement in Life’s Essential 8 score was associated with a notable reduction in the risk of cardiovascular disease, cardiovascular mortality, and all-cause mortality. Interestingly, among individuals genetically predisposed to accelerated biological ageing, adherence to heart-healthy behaviours demonstrated a heightened impact on outcomes, potentially mediated by DNA methylation.

Approximately 20% of the association between Life’s Essential 8 scores and cardiovascular outcomes was attributed to the influence of cardiovascular health factors on DNA methylation. This figure rose to almost 40% for individuals at higher genetic risk. Dr Ma emphasised the importance of prioritising heart health and the eight essential factors the American Heart Association outlined to promote healthy ageing and prevent cardiovascular disease.

Co-author Dr. Randi Foraker underscores the significance of the findings, highlighting DNA methylation’s role as a potential mediator between modifiable risk factors and cardiovascular disease. The study provides not just insights, but actionable strategies for healthy aging and the mitigation of cardiovascular risks. This emphasis on practical implications empowers individuals interested in cardiovascular health and healthy ageing, giving them the tools to take control of their health.

While the study’s retrospective nature and participants’ predominantly European ancestry pose limitations, ongoing efforts to broaden research inclusion aim to explore the relationship between cardiovascular risk factors and DNA methylation across diverse racial and ethnic groups. The findings underscore the urgent need to address cardiovascular risk factors and promote heart-healthy lifestyles to combat the global burden of heart disease and stroke.

More information: Madeleine Carbonneau et al, Epigenetic Age Mediates the Association of Life’s Essential 8 With Cardiovascular Disease and Mortality, Journal of the American Heart Association. DOI: 10.1161/JAHA.123.032743

Journal information: Journal of the American Heart Association Provided by American Heart Association

A wild bird gestures “after you”

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A small bird species, the Japanese tit (Parus minor), uses wing movements as a gesture to convey the message “after you,” according to new research at the University of Tokyo. When a mating pair arrives at their nest box with food, they wait outside on perches. One will often flutter its wings toward the other, seemingly indicating the latter to enter first. This discovery challenges the belief that gestural communication is mainly observed in humans and great apes, significantly enhancing our understanding of visual communication in birds.

Gestures such as a thumbs up, waving goodbye, or pointing to a book on a shelf are fundamental aspects of human communication. Previously, these gestures were considered exclusive to humans until studies on great apes like chimpanzees and bonobos showed they also use body movements to communicate non-verbally. Recent studies on other species, including ravens and fish, have demonstrated that they employ simple gestures to indicate objects or express interest, known as deictic gesturing. However, symbolic gestures that involve more complex cognitive skills, like extending an open hand to signal “after you,” were believed to be absent in animals other than humans.

Researchers at the University of Tokyo were thus astonished to find concrete evidence of symbolic gesture usage by the Japanese tit. Associate Professor Toshitaka Suzuki from the University of Tokyo shared that after studying these birds for over 17 years, focusing on their diverse vocalizations and use of syntactic rules to combine different calls, the team initiated research into their use of physical gestures. During the spring, Japanese tits pair up and build their nests inside tree cavities. Suzuki and his colleague, Norimasa Sugita, observed 16 parent birds (eight pairs) in nest boxes. They noticed that while delivering food to their nestlings, the birds would perch nearby, and one would flutter their wings at the other. Detailed analysis of over 320 nest visits revealed that this wing-fluttering gesture encouraged the recipient to enter the nest box first, establishing a sequential order similar to the polite human gesture of “after you.”

Suzuki explained that the gesture’s significance was more apparent than anticipated. It occurred exclusively when a mate was present, and almost invariably, the mate entered the nest box first after seeing the gesture. The gesture was more frequently performed by female birds, leading to the male entering the nest box subsequently, regardless of who arrived first. If the female did not flutter her wings, she generally entered before the male.

The researchers assert that this behaviour meets the criteria for being considered a symbolic gesture as it only occurs in the presence of a mate, ceases once the mate has entered the nest box, and prompts entry without physical contact. Moreover, the wing-fluttering “after you” gesture targets the mate rather than the nest box, distinguishing it from a deictic gesture that indicates the position of an object.

Suzuki further hypothesized that just as bipedalism in humans might have facilitated gestural communication by freeing the hands, perching frees birds’ wings, potentially enabling gestural communication. The team aims to continue exploring how birds communicate through gestures and vocalizations. This research not only helps decode the complex world of animal communication but also provides insights into the origins and evolution of human language.

More information: Toshitaka N. Suzuki et al, The ‘after you’ gesture in a bird, Current Biology. DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2024.01.030

Journal information: Current Biology Provided by The University of Tokyo

New research emphasises the advantages of touch on mental and physical well-being

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The soothing sensation of a hug or a gentle touch is a familiar experience. But can touch truly improve our well-being, and does the source and manner of touch matter? To address these questions, a team of seasoned researchers from the Social Brain Lab at the Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience and the University Hospital Essen conducted a meticulous analysis of touch intervention studies, bringing their unique expertise to the field.

The impact of touch on mental and physical health is significant. It’s a straightforward question to pose but more complex to answer. Individual studies concentrate on specific scenarios and sometimes present conflicting conclusions. A more precise answer emerges by amalgamating all these studies in a large-scale analysis: touch markedly enhances physical and mental well-being. This includes reductions in pain, anxiety, depression, and stress in adults. Interestingly, those with physical or mental health issues—who are most in need of support—derive even more significant benefits from touch than healthy adults. “This is particularly pertinent considering how often touch interventions are disregarded,” notes Packheiser, the lead author.

Professor Keysers, director of the Social Brain Lab, highlights a crucial aspect of their study: “We aimed to leverage the hundreds of individual studies to determine which type of touch is most effective. What if you don’t have a friend or partner nearby to hug you? Would touch from a stranger or even a machine also be beneficial? And how often?” The study conclusively shows that while touch can be optimized, the most significant factors are only sometimes those we might anticipate.

Interestingly, the individual delivering the touch, the manner of touch, and the duration do not significantly impact its effectiveness. A prolonged massage by a therapist could be as beneficial as a brief hug from a friend. However, the frequency of the intervention plays a critical role. A frequently offered quick hug could be more impactful than a massage if administered more often.

The subsequent inquiry focused on whether the touch intervention needs to be human. The findings reveal that interventions using objects or robots can be just as effective in enhancing physical well-being. “There are many individuals in need of wellbeing improvements, possibly due to loneliness or clinical conditions. These results suggest that a touch-robot, or even a simple weighted blanket, has the potential to assist these individuals,” explains Michon, the last author. However, the effectiveness of robot and object interventions is lesser for mental wellbeing. Disorders like anxiety and depression might require a human touch, possibly indicating the importance of an emotional component associated with touch, Michon suggests.

The researchers also expressed curiosity about human-to-animal contact, although studies in this area still need to be completed. “It would be beneficial to explore whether an animal’s or pet’s touch could enhance wellbeing and if they benefit from it too. Unfortunately, there are not enough studies, or adequately controlled ones, to draw any broad conclusions on these topics,” Michon adds.

When examining the effects of touch on newborns, the team discovered that newborns benefit significantly from touch. However, the identity of the person administering the touch matters more: the benefits are more significant when provided by a parent rather than a healthcare worker. “This finding could be impactful,” says Packheiser. “In some countries, death rates from premature births are high, and knowing that a baby benefits more from the touch of their own parent provides another readily implementable form of support for the baby’s health.”

The need for more studies made it challenging to conclude children and teenagers. “Large-scale studies like this not only help us draw more general conclusions but also pinpoint where research is lacking,” Michon points out. “We hope our findings will guide future research to explore lesser-known areas, including animal touch, touch across different ages, and specific clinical settings, like in patients with autism, another group that has not been extensively studied.”

More information: Julian Packheiser et al, A systematic review and multivariate meta-analysis of the physical and mental health benefits of touch interventions, Nature Human Behaviour. DOI: 10.1038/s41562-024-01841-8

Journal information: Nature Human Behaviour Provided by Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience

Research indicates that natural compounds found in soy and other plants decrease the recurrence of breast cancer and enhance survival rates

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Isoflavones from soy and other plant-derived compounds might significantly reduce the likelihood of breast cancer recurrence or death, suggesting a new meta-analysis co-led by researchers from the Johns Hopkins Kimmel Cancer Center. The findings were detailed in the January 10 publication of the journal JNCI Cancer Spectrum.

A team of researchers from Australia, Denmark, England, Norway, and the U.S. examined 22 observational studies examining the effects of dietary intake of soybeans, lignans (found in various plants, including seeds and nuts), vegetables from the cabbage family, and green tea. These studies focused on how phytonutrients from these sources affect the recurrence of breast cancer and overall mortality. The analysis included different studies focusing on these dietary components, including 11 on soy isoflavones, three on cruciferous vegetables, two on green tea, three on lignans, and three on enterolactone, a by-product formed when lignans are metabolised in the gut.

The analysis highlighted that soy isoflavones are linked to a 26% decrease in the risk of breast cancer recurrence. This finding came from a subset of six studies involving 11,837 women, particularly noticeable among post-menopausal survivors. The most substantial reduction in risk was observed at an intake of 60 milligrams per day, equivalent to two to three servings daily. Although soy consumption also showed a decrease in mortality risk by 12%, this finding was not statistically significant and was primarily observed at lower doses of 20-40 mg per day.

Another notable discovery from this meta-analysis was regarding enterolactone, a compound derived from the digestion of lignans, which are abundant in many plants, including flaxseeds, cashew nuts, broccoli, and brussels sprouts. Enterolactone was associated with a 28% lower risk of breast cancer-specific mortality and a 31% reduction in mortality from all causes, with a 35% decrease in all-cause mortality expressly noted in post-menopausal women. Due to individual differences in gut microbiomes, which affect the metabolism of lignans, it is challenging to determine an effective dietary dose of lignans based on these outcomes.

Lead author Diana van Die, PhD, from the NICM Health Research Institute at Western Sydney University in Australia, stated that these findings were classified as ‘probable,’ indicating robust research evidence supporting their validity.

The review also uncovered some suggestive results, such as the potential impact of green tea consumption on reducing the risk of breast cancer recurrence by 44% in women diagnosed with stage I or II breast cancer, mainly from consuming three to five cups daily. Moreover, pre-diagnosis intake of lignans showed a non-significant 34% reduction in cancer-specific mortality and a 19% decrease in mortality from all causes among post-menopausal women. However, an increased risk of mortality was suggested in pre-menopausal women. These effects appear to depend on the hormonal environment and require further investigation.

The role of cruciferous vegetables in influencing breast cancer outcomes was less clear, possibly affected by the generally low intake levels in the studies reviewed.

The investigators also explored whether the timing of consuming these foods and phytonutrients, either before or after a breast cancer diagnosis, influenced the outcomes. However, the evidence was inconclusive. Notably, all studies on green tea and lignans assessed intake before diagnosis, whereas soy studies considered pre- and post-diagnosis intake.

Senior study author Channing Paller, M.D., emphasised the importance of not viewing these foods and phytonutrients as alternatives to conventional medical or surgical treatment for breast cancer. The research underlines the need for more in-depth studies to ascertain the most effective dosages of these compounds and whether their benefits are comparable when initiated post-diagnosis, as opposed to being part of a lifelong dietary practice.

This area of research continues to evolve, emphasising understanding how best to incorporate these natural compounds into dietary practices for those diagnosed with breast cancer and determining their exact role and efficacy in cancer prevention and treatment.

More information: M Diana van Die et al, Phytonutrients and outcomes following breast cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies, JNCI Cancer Spectrum. DOI: 10.1093/jncics/pkad104

Journal information: JNCI Cancer Spectrum Provided by Johns Hopkins Medicine