ANTIMICROBIAL RESISTANCE CONTRIBUTES TO MILLIONS OF CHILD DEATHS
A recent study presented at the European Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases (ESCMID) revealed that antimicrobial resistance (AMR) contributed to 3 million child deaths in 2022. Southeast Asia and Africa accounted for nearly half of these deaths, often due to improper use of antibiotics. Researchers analyzed data from 83 countries using the WHO’s AWaRe classification system to examine AMR-related deaths among children. The study found increased use of broad-spectrum antibiotics (Watch and Reserve) in low- and middle-income countries, particularly in regions facing rising AMR and bacterial infections. In Southeast Asia, 69% of pediatric AMR deaths were linked to these antibiotics, with 80% in Africa. While these antibiotics are necessary to combat resistant infections, their overuse worsens resistance, leading to higher mortality rates. Experts urge urgent global action, improved AMR surveillance, and enhanced antimicrobial stewardship programs to reduce resistance and prevent further deaths. (CIDRAP)
CT SCANS LINKED TO THOUSANDS OF FUTURE CANCERS IN US
A study published in JAMA Internal Medicine estimated that 103,000 future cancers in the U.S. could be linked to computed tomography (CT) scans conducted in 2023. This figure represents about 5% of all cancer diagnoses annually and places CT scans alongside alcohol and obesity as significant cancer risk factors. The highest cancer risks were associated with abdomen and pelvis CT scans, with lung and colon cancers being the most common outcomes. The study’s authors emphasized the need for judicious use of CT scans, stressing that while the benefits often outweigh the risks, especially in life-saving situations, the rise in CT scan usage over the past decade (35%) is concerning. Experts caution that while the estimates are based on the best available models, there’s considerable uncertainty. They recommend balancing CT scan use with alternatives like ultrasounds or MRIs and educating clinicians and patients about the risks and benefits. (Ars Technica)
RAMAKRISHNAN EXAMINES AGING DEATH AND THE LIMITS OF LONGEVITY
Venkatraman Ramakrishnan, a Nobel Prize-winning scientist, is renowned for his work on the ribosome’s structure and cellular aging processes. In his recent book, Why We Die, he explores the biology of aging and death, asserting that death is not programmed by genes but results from the failure of critical systems in the body. He argues that evolution prioritizes the survival and reproduction of individuals, not their lifespan, which leads to aging. Ramakrishnan also highlights that aging is not simply wear and tear but a balance between resource allocation for survival and reproduction. He cautions against pseudoscientific anti-aging claims, emphasizing the long-standing obstacles to achieving extreme longevity. Using model organisms like worms has provided key insights into aging, but findings can’t always be directly applied to humans. Lastly, Ramakrishnan warns of the social and ethical implications of pursuing immortality, stressing that extreme longevity could lead to societal stagnation and diminish the value of life’s fleeting nature. (Wired)
LOWRY’S 1951 PAPER STILL MOST CITED IN SCIENCE
The most highly cited paper in scientific literature is a 1951 publication in the Journal of Biological Chemistry by Oliver Lowry, which describes an assay to measure protein concentration. This paper has been cited over 350,000 times. It remains at the top of the citation list, followed by papers on biological techniques, artificial intelligence (AI), research software, and statistical methods. The number of citations required to be in the top 100 has increased from 12,000 in 2014 to more than 30,000 today. Newer papers, including a 2015 Microsoft AI paper and several from the 1980s and 1990s on density functional theory (DFT), are rapidly rising in citations. These trends may be driven by increasing research volumes and the greater visibility of papers on digital platforms. While Lowry’s paper remains a symbol of citation norms, there is speculation that newer works, such as those on DFT and AI, could soon surpass it in citations. (Nature)
CHINA TO ACCESS HALF A MILLION UK GP RECORDS
Chinese researchers are set to gain access to half a million UK GP records, despite concerns from UK intelligence agencies over the potential misuse of health data by the Chinese government. UK Biobank, which houses extensive medical data, has approved the transfer of patient records to support scientific research. While the data is anonymized before sharing, experts warn that anonymization may be broken, potentially allowing for identification. China has been expanding its bio-data collection to enhance its biotech sector, raising concerns about espionage. The UK government maintains that data access is carefully regulated, with security and privacy considered. Despite these assurances, critics argue for greater transparency, especially in light of China’s 2017 intelligence law requiring cooperation with state surveillance. UK Biobank’s practices have been audited, and while some researchers have objected, patient consent remains a key part of the process. The issue highlights the tension between scientific research and geopolitical concerns over data security. (The Guardian)
CANNABIS USE LINKED TO INCREASED DEMENTIA RISK IN OLDER ADULTS
A large Canadian study published in JAMA Neurology found that middle-aged and older adults who sought hospital or emergency room care for cannabis use were nearly twice as likely to develop dementia within five years compared to the general population. The study, which analyzed medical records of 6 million people in Ontario between 2008 and 2021, revealed that 5% of those with cannabis-related medical visits were diagnosed with dementia, compared to 1.3% in the general population. The risk was also 23% higher for cannabis users compared to those seeking care for other reasons. However, the study does not establish causation and does not specify the amount of cannabis use. Experts suggest further research is needed, as cannabis could either contribute to cognitive decline or be used as self-medication by those already experiencing symptoms. This study adds to growing concerns about the effects of regular cannabis use on brain health, particularly in older adults. (New York Times)
DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY MAY SLOW COGNITIVE DECLINE IN OLDER ADULTS
A recent study challenges the notion that digital technology, such as smartphones and tablets, contributes to dementia, finding instead that older adults who regularly use these devices experience lower rates of cognitive decline. Analyzing 57 studies involving over 400,000 people, researchers found no evidence supporting the “digital dementia” hypothesis. While it’s unclear whether technology prevents mental decline or if cognitively healthier individuals are more likely to use it, the study suggests digital tools may benefit the aging brain. The researchers propose that digital devices encourage complex activities, boost social connections, and offer compensatory benefits, such as reminders and GPS, all of which support cognitive health. Experts agree that using technology actively and mentally stimulating, rather than passively, is beneficial for brain function. This study shifts the conversation, suggesting that digital devices may help preserve cognitive function, challenging the idea that they contribute to cognitive decline in older adults. (The Guardian)
Thanks for reading. Let’s be careful out there.
WORDS: The Biology Guy.