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Air Pollution Obscures Mental Clarity and Complicates Daily Activities

A recent study has highlighted how short-term exposure to particulate matter (PM) air pollution can significantly impair people’s ability to process emotions and maintain focus during tasks, making routine grocery shopping more challenging. The research, which was conducted by scientists from the Universities of Birmingham and Manchester, involved exposing participants to either high levels of PM using candle smoke or to clean air, with cognitive tests administered both before and four hours post-exposure. These tests evaluated a range of mental functions, including working memory, selective attention, emotion recognition, psychomotor speed, and sustained attention.

The findings, published in ‘Nature Communications’ on 6 February, reveal that selective attention and the ability to recognise emotions are particularly susceptible to the effects of air pollution. Intriguingly, these impairments occurred regardless of whether participants inhaled through their noses or mouths, pointing to the pervasive impact of PM exposure on mental capabilities. The study suggests that inflammation triggered by pollution exposure could be the underlying cause of these cognitive deficits. However, it was noted that while selective attention and emotion recognition were affected, working memory appeared to be more resilient to the effects of short-term PM exposure.

Dr Thomas Faherty and Professor Francis Pope, both from the University of Birmingham, provided insights into the broader implications of their findings. Dr Faherty emphasised the immediate negative impact of PM exposure on brain functions essential for everyday tasks, such as shopping. Professor Pope highlighted the broader societal and economic consequences, pointing out that poor air quality not only hampers intellectual development and worker productivity but also has significant implications in a world that increasingly relies on cognitive excellence.

The ability to focus selectively is crucial for tasks such as shopping, where it is necessary to prioritise certain items while ignoring others and resisting impulse purchases. Working memory plays a vital role in functions that require both the processing and storage of information simultaneously, which is essential for multitasking activities like planning schedules or managing several conversations simultaneously. Furthermore, socio-emotional cognition, which entails the detection and interpretation of one’s own and others’ emotions, is key to engaging in socially acceptable behaviour. These cognitive skills, though distinct, collaborate to facilitate successful task completion in various life and work scenarios.

This study is pioneering in its approach to experimentally manipulating the inhalation routes of PM, offering new insights into how different exposure pathways may influence cognitive functions. The researchers emphasised the need for continued investigation into the long-term effects of air pollution and the development of protective measures against its harmful impacts on brain health.

Globally, air pollution remains a primary environmental hazard, significantly contributing to premature mortality. The adverse effects of poor air quality on the cardiovascular and respiratory systems are well-documented, with emerging research linking it to neurodegenerative conditions like multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer’s disease, and Parkinson’s disease. According to the World Health Organization, PM2.5, a particulate matter, is notably detrimental to human health, with an estimated 4.2 million deaths in 2015 attributed to this pollutant alone.

This research underscores the urgency for stricter air quality regulations and public health measures to mitigate the harmful effects of pollution on cognitive health, particularly in heavily polluted urban environments. It also calls for further studies to explore the long-term impacts of air pollution on particularly vulnerable populations, such as children and older adults, ensuring that future generations are protected from these detrimental health effects.

More information: Thomas Faherty et al, Acute particulate matter exposure diminishes executive cognitive functioning after four hours regardless of inhalation pathway, Nature Communications. DOI: 10.1038/s41467-025-56508-3

Journal information: Nature Communications Provided by University of Birmingham

Studies Indicate That Banning Flavoured E-cigarettes Reduces Vaping but Increases Smoking Among Young Adults

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In recent years, the surge in vaping has marked it as a prevalent alternative to traditional smoking. Flavoured e-cigarettes, particularly favoured by young adults, have seen such an increase in popularity that various states have imposed measures like flavour bans and taxes specifically targeting these products, aiming to curtail their use among teenagers.

A recent collaboration between researchers from the University of Missouri and the Yale School of Public Health has shed light on the consequences of these state-level interventions on flavoured e-cigarettes in the United States. The study reveals that while such restrictions have successfully reduced vaping rates among young adults, they have concurrently led to an uptick in traditional cigarette smoking in those states, in contrast to states without such measures.

The research highlights the complex nature of public health policies and their potential to trigger unforeseen outcomes. Michael Pesko, a professor of economics at Mizzou’s College of Arts and Science, emphasises the importance of recognising that well-meaning policies can sometimes lead to adverse effects in the realm of public health. According to Pesko, although the intent behind flavoured e-cigarette restrictions is to decrease tobacco use, the actual outcome has been a significant shift back to more harmful traditional cigarettes. He likened this to navigating a ship clear of a storm only to enter a whirlpool, illustrating the counterproductive nature of such policies from a public health standpoint.

Pesko advocates for public health strategies that focus on reducing tobacco-related disease and death as a feasible and vital policy objective. He suggests that policies should transition individuals from more harmful tobacco products to less harmful ones. However, the current restrictions on e-cigarette flavours seem to be pushing individuals towards more hazardous tobacco options.

The study also examined the situation in Maryland, where the policy exempted menthol-flavoured e-cigarettes from the flavour ban. This approach resulted in decreased rates of both vaping and smoking, suggesting that a more nuanced regulatory strategy could be more effective in addressing public health issues.

More information: Michael Pesko et al, Flavored E-Cigarette Sales Restrictions and Young Adult Tobacco Use, JAMA Health Forum. DOI: 10.1001/jamahealthforum.2024.4594

Journal information: JAMA Health Forum Provided by University of Missouri-Columbia

Research Identifies New Connection between Dietary Habits, Depression, and Alzheimer’s Disease

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Recent research from Edith Cowan University (ECU) has illuminated the potential impact of diet on the risk factors for both depression and Alzheimer’s disease (AD). The study indicates that depressive symptoms might not only predict the onset of AD but also respond to the early signs of memory decline. Dr Samantha Gardener, a researcher at ECU, highlighted how maintaining healthy dietary patterns could mitigate the adverse effects depressive symptoms have on changes in AD-related blood-based biomarkers, which are biological molecules in the blood used to track the progression of the disease.

The research contributes valuable insights into the complex interactions between diet, depressive symptoms, and AD-related biomarkers. Dr. Gardener explained that dietary factors influence brain health through inflammation, oxidative stress, vascular function, neuroplasticity, and the gut-brain axis. These pathways potentially affect neurotransmitter systems and neuronal functions, subsequently impacting mood and cognitive functions. The findings underscore the significant role that diet may play in managing and potentially preventing mental health and neurodegenerative conditions.

Particularly noteworthy is the comparison between the Mediterranean diet and the typical Western diet. The Mediterranean diet, rich in plant foods, olive oil, whole grains, and a moderate intake of red wine, is associated with lower risks of stroke, depression, cognitive impairments, and AD. In contrast, a Western diet, characterized by high amounts of processed foods and sugars, is linked to accelerated decline in brain function. Dr. Gardener emphasized the richness of the Mediterranean diet in antioxidants, flavonoids, and healthy fatty acids, which are essential for reducing brain inflammation and oxidative stress and crucial for learning and memory.

Despite the promising observational studies, Dr. Gardener stressed the importance of conducting randomized controlled trials. These trials are essential to explore the specific effects of dietary interventions on depression and dementia due to AD, providing more definitive evidence on the effectiveness of targeted nutritional interventions in managing these conditions.

Globally, Alzheimer’s disease is a significant public health issue, affecting approximately 50 million people, with projections suggesting an increase to 152 million by 2050. The financial impact of AD and other dementia-related conditions is enormous, estimated at $909 billion annually, which is about 1% of the global gross domestic product. In Australia alone, around $3.7 billion is spent annually on the diagnosis, treatment, and care of individuals with dementia, highlighting the economic burden of these conditions.

Dr. Gardener pointed out that delaying the onset of AD could significantly reduce its prevalence and public health impact. Research has identified 14 modifiable risk factors that account for around 45% of dementia cases worldwide, five of which can be positively influenced by a healthy diet, including hypertension, obesity, alcohol intake, and depression. She concluded that addressing these risk factors, enhancing physical activity, and ensuring sufficient sleep could potentially prevent nearly 45% of dementia cases, underscoring the profound potential of lifestyle interventions in public health.

More information: Samantha Gardener et al, The moderating effect of diet on the relationship between depressive symptoms and Alzheimer’s disease-related blood-based biomarkers, Neurobiology of Aging. DOI: 10.1016/j.neurobiolaging.2025.01.003

Journal information: Neurobiology of Aging Provided by Edith Cowan University

Stay Active, Age Gracefully: Recommending Exercise for the Elderly as a Formula for Healthful Ageing

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Physical activity has immense benefits for older adults, playing a pivotal role in enhancing longevity and overall health. This is highlighted in a review article published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal, which provides a comprehensive summary of the substantial evidence supporting the critical role physical activity has in mitigating or diminishing the impacts of various diseases.

As Canada’s demographic ages, with projections showing at least one in five individuals aged 65 or older by 2025 and those over 85 expected to triple in the next two decades, the importance of physical activity becomes even more pronounced. However, despite these figures, a significant portion of the population does not exercise enough to meet the Canadian Physical Activity Guidelines. Over 80% of older adults fail to adhere to these recommendations, highlighting a gap in health maintenance during older age.

Dr. Jane Thornton, an associate professor at the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, and a director at the International Olympic Committee, emphasizes that physical activity is crucial for maintaining or improving functional independence. This is particularly true for older adults who are frail or at a higher risk of falls. Regular physical activity in the later years is linked to enhanced cognitive functions, better mental health, and improved quality of life.

The significance of physical activity is further supported by a 2023 meta-analysis of several extensive studies, which found that engaging in 150 minutes of moderate exercise weekly can reduce the risk of death from all causes by 31%. Physical activity is a vital component in healthy ageing. It can assist in the prevention or alleviation of more than 30 chronic conditions, including heart diseases, type 2 diabetes, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, osteoporosis, and mental health conditions such as depression, dementia, and cancer.

The advantages of staying active extend beyond disease prevention. They include protection against premature death, fall prevention through enhanced muscle strength and balance, improved bone density and joint health, better cognitive functioning, and an enhanced ability to engage in daily activities that boost the quality of life.

Recognizing the importance of tailored exercise prescriptions, especially for those with chronic health conditions or reduced mobility, the World Health Organization recommends 150–300 minutes of moderate-to-intense physical activity per week for adults, including the elderly. Dr Samir Sinha, a professor of medicine at the University of Toronto and director at the National Institute on Ageing, suggests that physical activity prescriptions for older adults should gradually increase activity levels and incorporate resistance training as a key element.

The WHO’s “5As” framework provides clinicians with a structured approach to promoting patient physical activity. Physical activity levels should also be recorded in patient records as vital signs that should be monitored over time.

In conclusion, physical activity should not be overlooked as a health intervention. It is essential in the healthcare delivery for older adults. The presence of age, frailty, or functional impairments should not deter physical activity but should instead be seen as crucial indicators for its prescription. By increasing their activity levels, older adults can extend their lifespan and improve the quality of their later years.

More information: Jane Thornton et al, Move more, age well: prescribing physical activity for older adults, Canadian Medical Association Journal. DOI: 10.1503/cmaj.231336

Journal information: Canadian Medical Association Journal

Research Establishes Connection Between Mental Well-being and Psychological Resilience in Elderly Women After Hip Fractures

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Recent investigations aimed at identifying factors linked to better recovery outcomes for elderly adults post-hip fracture have highlighted the role of mental health and psychological resilience. Published in the Journals of Gerontology: Series A, the study “Better Mental Health and Fewer Depressive Symptoms are Associated with Greater Psychological Resilience After Hip Fracture” suggests that improving overall mental health can significantly enhance the recovery prospects for older women following hip fractures.

Hip fractures pose a considerable health challenge, accounting for over 300,000 emergency room admissions among elderly individuals annually, alongside more than half a million hip replacement operations. Approximately 25 per cent of these patients need long-term care within a year of their fall.

The study involved a cohort of 129 women aged 65 and above who had recently undergone surgery to repair hip fractures. These participants were also part of a clinical trial that explored the effects of testosterone supplementation and exercise on hip fracture recovery, led by Ellen F. Binder, MD, of Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri. The research examined various factors, including educational background, cognitive function, mental health, and depressive symptoms, to assess their impact on psychological resilience. The results indicated that participants with lower scores on the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS) and higher scores on the Global Mental Health Score (PROMIS-GMH) demonstrated significantly greater resilience.

Sarah D. Berry, MD, MPH, an associate scientist at the Hinda and Arthur Marcus Institute for Aging Research and co-author of the study, emphasised the importance of comprehensive care strategies incorporating mental health support into rehabilitation programs for elderly adults recovering from hip fractures. She noted that addressing overall mental health during the recovery phase is critical. By focusing on the reduction of depressive symptoms and the enhancement of mental well-being, there is a potential to significantly boost psychological resilience and, consequently, maximise the recovery potential for older adults.

More information: Sarah D. Berry et al, Better mental health and fewer depressive symptoms are associated with greater psychological resilience after hip fracture, The Journals of Gerontology Series A. DOI: 10.1093/gerona/glaf008

Journal information: The Journals of Gerontology Series A Provided by Hebrew SeniorLife Hinda and Arthur Marcus Institute for Aging Research

Postponed REM Sleep May Indicate Early Alzheimer’s Disease

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Recent scientific discoveries have illustrated that the quality and quantity of our sleep may play a crucial role in our susceptibility to developing Alzheimer’s disease. A new study has revealed that individuals who experience extended delays before entering the dream phase of sleep, known as rapid eye movement (REM) sleep, might be exhibiting an early indicator of the disease.

Three stages of non-REM sleep precede REM sleep, each deeper than the last. These stages collectively take around 90 minutes or more to cycle through, with variations depending on a person’s age. A typical night might include four to five cycles of these stages. It has been observed that older adults often require more time to reach the REM stage.

During REM sleep, the brain actively processes and stores memories, particularly those with emotional significance, into long-term memory storage. According to Yue Leng, PhD, an associate professor at the UCSF Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, a delay in reaching REM sleep can interfere with this memory consolidation. Dr Leng, also affiliated with the UCSF Weill Institute for Neurosciences, explains that a disruption in REM sleep can elevate stress hormone cortisol levels, which may harm the hippocampus, an area of the brain essential for memory consolidation.

Dr Leng is the senior author of a study published on January 27 in Alzheimer’s and Dementia: The Journal of the Alzheimer’s Association, which examined 128 individuals with an average age of 70. The participants were recruited from the neurology unit at the China-Japan Friendship Hospital in Beijing, and their group included individuals with Alzheimer’s, those with mild cognitive impairment—a common precursor to Alzheimer’s—and others with normal mental functions.

For the study, participants spent a night in a clinic, where their brainwave activity, eye movements, heart rate, and respiration were monitored. Although fitness trackers can collect some of this data, the precision achieved in a clinical setting is unmatched.

The researchers categorized the participants according to their REM sleep timing into early and delayed groups. The early group entered REM sleep less than 98 minutes after falling asleep, whereas the delayed group took more than 193 minutes. Notably, those in the delayed REM sleep group not only had higher levels of amyloid and tau—proteins associated with Alzheimer’s—but also showed significantly lower levels of a healthy protein called brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which is known to decrease in Alzheimer’s patients.

These findings have significant implications, as they suggest that interventions targeting sleep patterns may alter the progression of Alzheimer’s disease. Dr. Leng highlights the potential of medications like melatonin, which has been shown to enhance REM sleep and reduce amyloid and tau accumulation in animal studies. Other pharmaceuticals designed to treat insomnia by inhibiting chemicals that suppress REM sleep have also demonstrated promise in decreasing levels of these harmful proteins.

Dr. Dantao Peng, MD, another senior author from the Department of Neurology at the China-Japan Friendship Hospital, advises individuals concerned about their risk of Alzheimer’s to cultivate sleep habits that promote an efficient transition from light to REM sleep. This includes managing conditions like sleep apnea and avoiding excessive alcohol consumption, which can disrupt the sleep cycle. Additionally, Dr. Peng suggests that patients using certain antidepressants and sedatives known to reduce REM sleep should consult their physicians if they have concerns about Alzheimer’s disease. This proactive approach in addressing sleep-related issues could be a pivotal step in the management and potentially the prevention of Alzheimer’s disease, signalling a new frontier in our understanding of the relationship between sleep health and neurodegenerative diseases.

More information: Yue Leng et al, Association of rapid eye movement sleep latency with multimodal biomarkers of Alzheimer’s disease, Alzheimer’s and Dementia: The Journal of the Alzheimer’s Association. DOI: 10.1002/alz.14495

Journal information: Alzheimer’s and Dementia: The Journal of the Alzheimer’s Association Provided by University of California – San Francisco

Scientists Discover Unexpected Connection to Stroke Risk

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Divorce can profoundly affect children’s mental health, with new research from The University of Texas at Arlington suggesting these impacts might extend much longer than previously believed, potentially leading to severe health issues decades later. In a recent study published in the journal PLoS One, Associate Professor Philip Baiden found that Americans aged 65 and older who had experienced their parents’ divorce as children were more likely to suffer a stroke compared to their peers whose parents had not divorced. The study noted a significant difference in stroke incidence: one in nine for those with divorced parents versus one in 15 for those whose parents stayed together.

Dr. Baiden, along with colleagues from Tyndale University and the University of Toronto, conducted the research, which pointed to an increased stroke risk even after accounting for common risk factors such as smoking, physical inactivity, obesity, diabetes, depression, income, and education. He suggests that the trauma of parental divorce might lead to prolonged exposure to stress hormones, adversely affecting brain health over time. This research utilized data from over 13,000 older Americans who participated in the 2022 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance Survey, selectively excluding individuals who had experienced physical or sexual abuse as children to isolate the effects of divorce.

The study also highlighted the specific cohort’s social context; the youngest individuals surveyed were born in 1957, more than a decade before the advent of no-fault divorce laws in 1969. Dr Baiden noted that this group likely faced more significant social stigma related to divorce from their communities and peers compared to later generations who experienced parental divorce when it became more socially acceptable.

Despite its limitations, the study underscores the critical link between childhood experiences and long-term health outcomes, particularly the profound and enduring effects of strokes. Dr. Baiden pointed out that about half of all stroke cases are fatal, and survivors often suffer significant impairments such as reduced mobility and cognitive decline, which can strip them of their independence. Moreover, strokes impose a heavy financial toll, with their direct and indirect costs in the U.S. alone surpassing $56 billion annually.

As a seasoned researcher of adverse childhood experiences and social determinants of health, Dr. Baiden views this study as a significant contribution to understanding the long-term impacts of childhood trauma on adult brain health. He plans to explore further how childhood conditions like poverty, stress, and sleep disorders may intersect with stroke risk, as well as the specific biological mechanisms through which divorce might contribute to this risk.

An unexpected finding of the study was the higher incidence of strokes among males who experienced childhood divorce, compared to females—despite the general trend of higher stroke rates in women. This anomaly adds another layer of complexity to the issue and is something Dr. Baiden intends to investigate further in future research.

More information: Philip Baiden et al, Parental divorce’s long shadow: Elevated stroke risk among older Americans, PLOS One. DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0316580

Journal information: PLOS One Provided by University of Texas at Arlington

Psychological Wellness and Exercise: Creating a Positive Feedback Loop

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In a compelling study conducted at the Gerontology Research Center and the Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences at the University of Jyväskylä in Finland, researchers found that many individuals aged between 60 and 88 either sustained or even enhanced their physical activity levels during the COVID-19 pandemic restrictions. A key observation was that those who exhibited higher positive affectivity tended to maintain or increase their physical activity consistently. Notably, this correlation was stronger among individuals around 60 than those over 70, as explained by Tiina Savikangas, a postdoctoral researcher.

Despite Finland not enforcing a curfew, older adults faced more stringent restrictions than younger, working-age people. Savikangas suggests that this disparity in restriction severity reduced the influence of positive mental well-being on physical activity among older adults. This points to how social policies and age impact lifestyle behaviours during public health crises.

Past studies have consistently linked physical activity with enhanced mental well-being. However, this recent study posits that mental well-being could also significantly contribute to fostering a physically active lifestyle. Essentially, there is a mutually beneficial cycle where mental well-being and physical activity positively reinforce each other. Savikangas emphasizes, “Mental well-being is an important resource for physical activity,” suggesting that individuals with strong mental health are better equipped to remain active even in exceptional circumstances.

The research further revealed that experiencing depressive symptoms during the pandemic was associated with reduced physical activity levels and a greater tendency to decrease such activities, especially among participants over 70. This finding highlights that different aspects of mental well-being may influence physical activity to varying degrees across various age groups. It underscores the importance of considering age-specific strategies in public health interventions to maintain physical activity.

Savikangas stresses the critical role of supporting mental well-being to promote a physically active lifestyle, particularly during societal emergencies. She advocates not only for strategies aimed at reducing depressive symptoms but also for efforts to strengthen the positive aspects of mental health. The study also concluded that when depressive symptoms were accounted for, there was no significant link between general negative emotions and physical activity. This suggests that depressive symptoms, which can include a broader array of issues such as insomnia and loss of appetite, are a more comprehensive risk factor for reduced physical activity than negative affectivity alone. This insight reinforces the complex relationship between mental health and physical activity, advocating for a holistic approach to health during times of crisis.

More information: Tiina Savikangas et al, The associations of positive and negative mental well-being with physical activity during the COVID-19 across late adulthood, BMC Public Health. DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-20803-3

Journal information: BMC Public Health Provided by University of Jyväskylä – Jyväskylän yliopisto

Unravelling the Mysteries of Our Biological Clock: How Research Bridges Key Aging Theories

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Researchers at the University of California San Diego School of Medicine have recently published groundbreaking results that shine a new light on the age-old question of what triggers ageing at a molecular level. Their findings, which appear in Nature Aging, reveal an unprecedented link between two widely accepted theories of ageing: random genetic mutations and predictable epigenetic modifications. Traditionally, the scientific community has used epigenetic modifications as the epigenetic clock theory as a reliable, quantitative benchmark for biological ageing. This theory posits that ageing occurs due to the accumulation of epigenetic modifications—minor changes to the chemical composition of DNA that affect gene expression without altering the DNA sequence itself.

However, the new insights from the study suggest that the ageing process is more complex than previously understood. Trey Ideker, PhD, a professor at the UC San Diego School of Medicine and the UC San Diego Jacobs School of Engineering and co-corresponding author of the study, commented on the implications of these findings for anti-ageing strategies. He noted that many leading research institutions and companies are investing in reversing the epigenetic clock to mitigate the effects of ageing. However, Ideker suggested that these approaches might only address the symptoms of ageing rather than tackle its underlying causes. He proposed that if genetic mutations are indeed triggering epigenetic changes, this could fundamentally change how we approach anti-ageing efforts.

The scientific community has long debated the mechanisms behind ageing, focusing primarily on two theories. The somatic mutation theory suggests that ageing results from accumulating random mutations—permanent changes to the DNA sequence. In contrast, the epigenetic clock theory suggests ageing occurs due to the build-up of epigenetic modifications. Unlike mutations, some epigenetic changes can be reversed. Epigenetic modifications are more straightforward to quantify than random mutations because they occur at specific sites on the genome, making them a popular method for scientists to determine the “biological age” of cells.

Researchers analyzed data from 9,331 patients catalogued in the Cancer Genome Atlas and the Pan-Cancer Analysis of Whole Genomes to explore this area further. They discovered a predictable correlation between genetic mutations and changes in DNA methylation, a type of epigenetic modification. The team found that a single mutation could trigger a cascade of epigenetic changes across the genome, not just at the mutation site. Using this relationship, they were able to make similar predictions about age using either mutations or epigenetic modifications.

Zane Koch, the study’s first author and a Ph.D. candidate in bioinformatics at UC San Diego, underscored the significance of these findings. “Epigenetic clocks have been around for years, but we’re only now beginning to understand why they tick,” he said. Koch’s research demonstrates for the first time that epigenetic changes are intricately and predictably tied to random genetic mutations, providing new insights into the fundamental nature of ageing.

The authors note that further research is needed to fully understand the relationship between somatic mutations and epigenetic changes in ageing. However, the study’s findings provide a significant breakthrough in our understanding of the ageing process and have important implications for developing new therapies to prevent or reverse ageing. Steven Cummings, M.D., co-corresponding author and executive director of the San Francisco Coordinating Center at UC San Francisco, added, “If somatic mutations are the fundamental driver of ageing and epigenetic changes simply track this process, it’s going to be a lot harder to reverse aging than we previously thought.” This suggests a shift from viewing ageing as a programmed process to one largely influenced by random, cumulative changes.

More information: Zane Koch et al, Somatic mutation as an explanation for epigenetic aging, Nature Aging. DOI: 10.1038/s43587-024-00794-x

Journal information: Nature Aging Provided by University of California – San Diego

Climate Shift Tied to Higher Likelihood of Salmonella Incidents

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Recent research from the University of Surrey has underscored the effects of climate change on the spread of Salmonella, building on prior findings that weather changes are catalysing the dissemination of severe diarrhoeal diseases.

The investigation, conducted by the University’s School of Veterinary Medicine, delved into the influence of various weather conditions on the transmission of Salmonella—a primary culprit behind foodborne illnesses in Europe, responsible for roughly one-third of such outbreaks.

Salmonella, a bacterial species notorious for causing food poisoning, thrives in the intestines of both animals and humans. It poses a risk of contaminating food through improper cooking or handling practices. The infection it triggers can lead to diarrhoea, fever, and abdominal cramps, with a higher incidence in regions lacking adequate sanitation and hygiene measures.

Published in the Journal of Infection, this study analysed data from the UK Health Security Agency detailing confirmed Salmonella cases in England and Wales from 2000 to 2016, juxtaposed with meteorological data from the Met Office for the same period. Researchers examined 14 distinct weather variables, offering a comprehensive view that considers the collective influence of these factors on Salmonella outbreaks. This approach allowed for a detailed assessment of the risks associated with salmonellosis based on local weather conditions in the days leading up to an outbreak.

The findings pointed to several key weather conditions linked to an uptick in Salmonella cases, regardless of geographic location. These included warmer temperatures (above 10 degrees Celsius), relative humidity, dewpoint temperatures ranging from 7 to 10 degrees Celsius, and prolonged daylight hours exceeding 12 to 15 hours. The relevance of these factors was further corroborated through data analysis from the Netherlands.

Dr Gianni Lo Iacono, Senior Lecturer in Biostatistics and Epidemiology at the University of Surrey, commented on the research’s implications: “The model employed for data analysis shows promise, as the results were consistent across England, Wales, and, independently, in the Netherlands, indicating its potential applicability in other European and high-income countries. This could pave the way for gaining new insights into Salmonella incidences and exploring its impact in diverse climatic and socio-economic settings, such as tropical countries.”

Dr Laura Gonzalez Villeta, the lead author and a university researcher, emphasised the significance of the study: “This research highlights the crucial role that weather conditions play in Salmonella outbreaks. It provides a valuable predictive tool that could aid in forecasting future risks and shaping targeted interventions, especially in the face of ongoing climate change.”

More information: Laura Gonzalez Villeta et al, Identifying key weather factors influencing human salmonellosis: A conditional incidence analysis in England, Wales, and the Netherlands, Journal of Infection. DOI: 10.1016/j.jinf.2025.106410

Journal information: Journal of Infection Provided by University of Surrey

Senior Citizens in England Report Increased Happiness Since Before the COVID Pandemic, According to Recent National Research

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The psychological state and well-being of older individuals in England have undergone significant transformations since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. This revelation comes from a comprehensive study that monitored the experiences of over 3,999 individuals aged 50 and above across 11 years, findings of which were published today in the peer-reviewed journal Aging and Mental Health. Spearheaded by a team from University College London (UCL), this research was supported by the National Institute of Ageing, a consortium of UK government departments coordinated by the National Institute for Health Research and the UKRI Economic and Social Research Council. This project extensively used data from the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing (ELSA) gathered between 2012 and 2023.

The study’s results were enlightening, particularly in the context of psychological well-being, as it charted a significant decline across several metrics in the latter half of 2020. Specific figures showed a 4% decrease in happiness, a 4% reduction in positive well-being, and a 7% drop in life satisfaction. However, a notable recovery was observed in the subsequent years (2021-2023), where metrics such as eudemonic well-being—which gauges the worthwhileness of one’s life—rebounded impressively, surpassing pre-pandemic levels. This pattern was similarly reflected in life satisfaction scores.

The types of well-being evaluated in the study include affective well-being (happiness), eudemonic well-being, and evaluative well-being (life satisfaction). However, the situation regarding depression is somewhat more intricate. During the pandemic, depression rates in older adults rose sharply from 11.4% to 27.2%. Although these figures dropped post-pandemic, they remained elevated at 14.9%, suggesting lingering psychological impacts. This sustained increase in depression rates could be attributed to ongoing pressures on the health service, which may have deterred or prevented individuals from seeking necessary psychological support.

Professor Paola Zaninotto, the study’s lead author and a Professor of Medical and Social Statistics at UCL’s Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, highlighted the profound effects of the pandemic on the well-being of older individuals in England. Despite the initial decline during the pandemic and a rise in depression cases, older adults have exhibited a noteworthy improvement in their overall happiness, life satisfaction, and sense of purpose compared to the pre-pandemic era. Professor Zaninotto suggests that these changes might be linked to a renewed appreciation for social connections, meaningful activities, and increased psychological resilience following adversity. The enhanced health security achieved through widespread vaccinations was also crucial in this positive shift.

The study also underscored significant differences based on age and socioeconomic status, indicating the need for tailored support policies to mitigate pandemics’ immediate and prolonged effects on older adults’ well-being. Notably, individuals in their 50s reported lower levels of positive well-being than older groups before the pandemic—an observation aligns with prior research suggesting that happiness tends to increase with age, particularly into the late 60s and early 70s. The challenges unique to the 50s demographic, such as financial responsibilities, caregiving roles, and work pressures, likely contribute to this trend. During the pandemic, while their happiness levels did not decline significantly, possibly due to already low well-being levels, they experienced more significant increases in depressive symptoms. However, this group also demonstrated considerable recovery post-pandemic, highlighting their resilience or adaptive capabilities.

Conversely, individuals over 75 experienced less improvement in depression and positive well-being post-pandemic, potentially due to more persistent vulnerabilities. This group might have engaged in less social interaction, faced more health limitations, or found it more challenging to adapt psychologically to the prolonged pandemic conditions.

The research also revealed that depression levels were consistently higher among less affluent individuals. However, during the pandemic, the more affluent participants experienced more significant declines in psychological well-being, possibly due to disruptions in their habitual lifestyles, such as travel, socialising, and dining out.

In conclusion, while the study pointed out a partial reduction in depression rates post-pandemic, it emphasised the ongoing need for mental health support, particularly for those most impacted. Professor Zaninotto’s team calls for policies that address both the immediate and long-term effects of the pandemic on mental health, highlighting the critical need for tailored support measures to manage these impacts on the older population comprehensively. The study’s strengths lie in its large, representative sample and robust methodology, which provided a consistent trajectory of well-being changes, reaffirming the interplay between positive psychological well-being, age, and socioeconomic status. However, it also faced limitations, including constraints on assessment protocols during the pandemic, which prevented using multi-item measures, potentially limiting the capture of positive psychology’s full complexity and nuances.

More information: Paola Zaninotto et al, Recovery of psychological wellbeing following the COVID-19 pandemic: a longitudinal analysis of the English longitudinal study of ageing, Aging & Mental Health. DOI: 10.1080/13607863.2025.2450260

Journal information: Aging & Mental Health Provided by Taylor & Francis Group

Extensive Research on Cannabis Reveals Effects on Working Memory

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A recent study published in JAMA Network Open investigates the effects of both recent and long-term cannabis use on brain function during cognitive tasks, focusing mainly on over 1,000 young adults aged between 22 and 36. Utilizing advanced brain imaging technology, the study meticulously recorded participants’ brain activity as they engaged in various cognitive challenges. The results showed a significant reduction in brain activity in 63% of heavy lifetime cannabis users and 68% of recent users during tasks that assess working memory. This decline in cerebral function was directly linked to poorer performance in working memory tasks, which are crucial for tasks such as following instructions or solving problems in one’s head.

The increasing global prevalence of cannabis use underscores the importance of such studies. According to Joshua Gowin, PhD, the lead author and an assistant professor of radiology at the University of Colorado School of Medicine, understanding the effects of cannabis is essential for enabling people to make informed decisions regarding its use. By comprehensively examining the impact of cannabis on various cognitive functions, the study aims to provide a balanced perspective on both the potential benefits and risks associated with cannabis consumption.

Participants in the study were categorized based on their cannabis usage: heavy users (over 1,000 times), moderate users (10 to 999 times), and non-users (less than 10 times). The researchers assessed the neural responses of these individuals using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). At the same time, they performed seven cognitive tasks designed to test functions such as working memory, emotional response, and motor skills. The study found that cannabis has a statistically significant effect on brain function during working memory tasks, suggesting the observed impacts are unlikely to be coincidental. This effect was prevalent in recent and longtime users, although it was less significant in other cognitive tasks.

Dr. Gowin emphasized the rigorous standards employed in their research, mainly using false discovery rate (FDR) correction to minimize the risk of false positives across all seven cognitive tests. While some tasks indicated potential cognitive impairments, only the working memory tasks showed a statistically significant impact. This points to the need for a nuanced understanding of how different mental functions are affected by cannabis use.

Significantly, the study highlighted that heavy cannabis use tends to suppress activity in critical brain regions such as the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, dorsomedial prefrontal cortex, and anterior insula, which are involved in key cognitive processes, including decision-making, memory, attention, and emotional regulation. However, Dr Gowin also noted that abstaining from cannabis before performing cognitive tasks could improve performance, advising that users need to be aware of their consumption patterns as sudden cessation could also disrupt cognitive function.

Dr Gowin concluded by advocating for further research to explore the direct impact of cannabis on brain function, the duration of these effects, and their implications across different age groups. He stressed the importance of extensive, long-term studies to deepen our understanding of the long-term effects of cannabis on cognitive health, thus paving the way for more informed public health policies and individual choices regarding cannabis use.

More information: Joshua Gowin et al, Brain Function Outcomes of Recent and Lifetime Cannabis Use, JAMA Network Open. DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2024.57069

Journal information: JAMA Network Open Provided by University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus