Tag Archives: youthful

The World’s Oldest Person Had a Youthful Microbiome and an “Extraordinary Genome.”

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Painted alongside scientist Manel Esterer, Maria Blagnas Morela contributed to research aimed at uncovering her secrets of longevity

Manel Esterler

From January 17, 2023, to August 19, 2024, Maria Blañas Morera from Spain was formally recognized as the oldest person in the world until her passing at the age of 117 years and 168 days. To investigate the secrets behind her remarkable longevity, a team of researchers explored her genetics, microbiome, and lifestyle.

When Morera was 116, the researchers gathered samples of her blood, saliva, and stool for genetic analysis. “Her genome was exceptional, enriched with variants known to extend lifespans in other species such as dogs, worms, and flies,” noted team member Manel Esterler at the Josep Carreras Leukemia Research Institute in Barcelona, Spain.

Showing no signs of dementia, Morera also possessed numerous genetic variants that helped maintain low blood lipid levels, protecting her heart and cognitive functions, according to Esteller. “Simultaneously, she lacked genetic mutations linked to conditions such as cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, or metabolic disorders.”

The researchers discovered that her lipid metabolism was one of the most efficient recorded. “Her lipid profile was remarkable, with very low cholesterol,” Esterer mentioned. “This efficiency was tied to her modest diet and genetic traits that enabled the rapid metabolism of damaged molecules.”

Esteller noted that Morela abstained from alcohol and smoking and adhered to a Mediterranean diet comprising vegetables, fruits, legumes, and olive oil, along with three servings of sugar-free yogurt daily.

Further assessments indicated that Morela maintained a robust immune system typically seen in younger individuals, alongside a gut microbiota characteristic of much younger people.

One of the most “astonishing” findings was a high concentration of Actinobacteriota bacteria in her gut, including well-known probiotics like Bifidobacteria. This abundance typically declines with age but tends to increase among centenarians and supercentenarians, offering various anti-aging benefits, such as reducing inflammation.

The researchers believe that her yogurt intake may have continually replenished her levels of Bifidobacteria. “This may suggest that dietary interventions can be linked to prolonged lifespan by influencing gut microbiota, along with preventing obesity and other health issues,” Esterer added.

Lastly, scientists examined whether there was a significant difference between Morela’s biological age and her chronological age by constructing an epigenetic clock based on her DNA methylation. This process involves adding or removing chemical tags that regulate gene expression. “Her biological age appeared 23 years younger than her actual age, contributing significantly to her longevity,” remarked Esterer.

Previous studies indicate that supercentenarians may carry genetic mutations associated with various medical conditions, such as Alzheimer’s disease and cardiovascular issues. Nevertheless, they somehow manage to overcome these obstacles and attain extraordinary lifespans. “There are limited studies on supercentenarians, and many only focus on one aspect, like microbiomes,” explained Esteller. “Our research demonstrates that overcoming such maladies is a blend of advantageous genetics and other elements, including beneficial gut microbiota, delayed biological aging indicated by a youthful epigenome, and lifestyle factors such as avoiding smoking, alcohol, and maintaining a low-fat diet.”

Richard Farragher from the University of Brighton in the UK acknowledged that the study highlights the plethora of assessments available to longevity researchers, cautioning that a case study of one individual could risk being perceived as a scientific “So-So Story.”

He explains that there are two key reasons behind the survival of extremely long-lived individuals: “First, there’s something extraordinary about them, perhaps genetically, and second, survival biases due to their fortunate circumstances,” said Farragher.

If luck plays a role, he asserts that to substantiate her longevity, Morela belonged to a family with a history of long lifespans that wasn’t documented in the study.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

“Fresh Beginnings at 60: Sharing My Old Diary Online and Discovering My Youthful Secrets Went Viral”

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Etsy Lerner may not view herself as a TikTok star, but the New York Times labels her as one, even calling her an influencer. To her, it signifies payment and illicit goods — all she possesses is a free pen. “I genuinely do it for myself,” she states, “and for those who follow me.”

Lerner is 64 years young. She spent over two decades as a literary agent, representing authors like Patti Smith and Temple Grandin. A non-fiction writer, she is the author of her debut novels, “The Shred Sisters” and “Love Letter to Loneliness.” However, her TikTok presence is noteworthy, boasting 1.5 million followers! There, she shares videos reading from a diary chronicling her chaotic 20s.

“I don’t know who you love, who loves you, what you do for your job, what your purpose is,” she expresses in one post. “This morning I stumbled upon a line in my journal. In my 20s, I wrote: ‘I feel like I don’t know who I am.'”

Lerner shares posts while in a dressing gown and without makeup. Initially, she ventured into BookTok to support authors, but as her new novel was approaching release, she started filming herself on camera, despite not initially gaining followers. “A friend advised me to embrace it like my own TV channel… so I thought, ‘I’ll read from an old diary.'”

She has kept journals since the age of 11, inspired by Anne Frank’s “The Diary of a Young Girl.” “I penned my first poem there, trying to understand myself…” Although her journal from ages 12 to 18 was lost when her car was stolen, she has roughly 30 volumes from her 20s safely stored away in her attic.

“My journals are incredibly melancholic. They discuss loneliness, the search for love and friendship, and the quest for identity,” she reflects.

Lerner describes herself as a “slow bloomer.” Accepted into Columbia’s MFA Poetry Program at 26, she entered the publishing world in her late 20s, a time when most editorial assistants were fresh college graduates. “I didn’t experience love until I was 30 and lacked any significant relationships… I lost much of my teens and endured depression through most of my 20s.”




“It’s all about connecting and trying to communicate,” … Betsy Lerner captured in New Haven, Connecticut.
Photo: Nicole Frapie/Guardian

At 15, her parents took her to a psychiatrist, which led to a diagnosis of bipolar disorder. “I resisted accepting that I had this condition. I fought against it for a long time,” she admits. Her 2003 memoir, Food and Loathing, recounts her relationship with weight, food, and depression, detailing one instance in her late 20s when she found herself standing on a bridge over the Hudson River.

A breakthrough occurred at 30 when she connected with a psychopharmacologist who could prescribe the right dosage of lithium (they have collaborated for 35 years). She also got married.

Writing in her journal became less frequent. While she initially wrote at night in bed, “I wasn’t feeling so sad and lonely anymore,” she reflects.

Over the years, Lerner says, “I was instinctively drawn to strength.” Currently, she prioritizes stability above all else.

She had no intentions of writing a novel. Nevertheless, in 2019, she faced “the tragic loss of four” individuals: her mother, two teenagers, Ruby and Hart Campbell, who were tragically killed by a drunk driver, and her best friend, author George Hodgman, who died by suicide. “I still grapple with the idea of grieving everyone, all the time,” she shares.

Following these losses, she began writing “Shred Sisters.” The novel serves as a means for her and her two sisters to care for one another while navigating their grief. She has also written another novel and continues to share insights from her diary as long as inspiration strikes. “It’s all about connecting and communicating,” she affirms.

“There’s a constant flow of comments from young adults in their 20s who resonate with my struggles. That connection motivates me immensely. I feel aligned with these young individuals.”


Shred Sisters is published by Verve Books. To support the Guardian, please order a copy from the Guardian Bookshop. Shipping fees may apply.


Tell me: Did your life take a new turn after turning 60?

Source: www.theguardian.com

Webb successfully captures images of several massive exoplanets orbiting two youthful stars

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Astronomers using Near-infrared camera (NIRCAM) NASA/ESA/CSA James Webb Space Telescope equipped and captured corona graphic images of the HR 8799 and 51 Eridani Planetary Systems. These observations revealed HR 8799 and four known gas giants around 51 Eridani. They also revealed that all HR 8799 planets are carbon dioxide-rich.

This Webb/Nircam image shows the multiplanet system HR 8799. Image credits: NASA/ESA/CSA/STSCI/W. BALMER, JHU/L. PUEYO, STSCI/M. PERRIN, STSCI.

HR 8799 is a star from 30 million years ago, about 129 light years away from the Pegasus constellation.

Hosts large chip disks and four supergipers: HR 8799b, c, d, and e.

Unlike most exoplanet discoveries inferred from data analysis, these planets are seen directly via ground telescopes.

“We have shown that the atmosphere of these planets has quite a lot of heavy elements, such as carbon, oxygen and iron.

“Given what we know about the stars, it's likely that it indicates that they were formed through Core landing this is an exciting conclusion for the planet we can see firsthand. ”

The planets within HR 8799 are still hot from the formation of the turbulent, ejecting a large amount of infrared rays that provide valuable data about how scientists formed.

Giant planets can take shape in two ways. Like giants in the solar system, by slowly building heavy elements that attract gas, or the particles of gas rapidly merge into giant objects from a cooling disk of a young star made of the same kind of material as the stars.

The first process is called core accretion and the second is called disk instability.

Knowing which formation models are more common can provide clues to scientists distinguish the types of planets they have found in other systems.

“Our hope in this type of study is to understand our own solar system, life and ourselves, in comparison to other exoplanet systems.

“We want to take photos of other solar systems and see how they look similar or different from us.”

“From there we can feel how strange or normal our solar system is.”

This Webb/Nircam image shows the 51 Eridani system. Image credits: NASA/ESA/CSA/STSCI/W. BALMER, JHU/L. PUEYO, STSCI/M. PERRIN, STSCI.

51 Eridanus is located approximately 97 light years from Earth in the constellation of Eridanus.

51 If called ERI, C ERIDANI, or HD 29391, the star is only 20 million years old and by astronomy standards it is merely a toddler.

Host one giant planet, 51 Eridani B. It orbits the star at a distance of approximately 13 AU (astronomical units), equivalent to that of Saturn and Uranus in the solar system.

Images of HR 8799 and 51 rib ticks were made possible by Webb's Nircam Coronagraph.

This technique allowed astronomers to look for infrared rays emitted by planets at wavelengths absorbed by a particular gas.

They discovered that the four HR 8799 planets contain more heavy elements than previously thought.

“There is other evidence suggesting these four HR 8799 planets formed using this bottom-up approach,” says Dr. Laurent Puueyo, an astronomer at the Institute of Space Telescope Science.

“How common is this on planets we don't know yet?

“We knew that Webb could measure the colour of outer planets in a directly imaged system,” added Dr. Remi Somer of the Institute of Space Telescope Science.

“We waited for 10 years to ensure that the finely tuned operations of the telescope had access to the inner planet.”

“We now have results and we can do some interesting science.”

Survey results It was published in Astronomy Journal.

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William O. Balmer et al. 2025. JWST-TST High Contrast: Living on the Wedge, or Nircam Bar Coronagraph reveals CO2 HR 8799 and 51 ERI extracts atmosphere. AJ 169, 209; doi:10.3847/1538-3881/ADB1C6

Source: www.sci.news

The “Aging Atlas”: A Tool to Help Maintain Youthful Muscles

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Do you notice your muscles becoming more rigid and harder to manage as you age? A new ‘Atlas of Aging’ has been developed to explain why this happens and to provide potential treatments to prevent it. Additionally, it may lead to legal action.

Focusing on the effects of natural aging, this atlas delves into the intricate changes that occur in muscle tissue at the cellular and molecular levels as we grow older. It also highlights how our muscles actively combat the aging process, potentially aiding in the development of new treatments to enhance the aging body.

As we age, our muscles can weaken, making everyday activities like standing and walking more challenging. However, the underlying causes of this decline are not fully understood. Frailty can lead to an increased risk of falls, reduced mobility, and loss of independence.

Lead author, Dr. Sarah Teichman from the Wellcome Sanger Institute, states that these insights into healthy skeletal muscle aging are empowering researchers worldwide to explore various strategies to combat inflammation, promote muscle regeneration, maintain neural connections, and more.

Longevity expert Andrew Steele emphasizes the importance of understanding the cellular changes that contribute to the loss of physical strength as we age. He underscores the potential of this research to develop therapeutic interventions that support healthier aging in future generations.

The creation of the atlas of aging muscle involved utilizing advanced imaging and single-cell sequencing techniques to analyze skeletal muscle samples from 17 adult donors aged between 20 and 75. The findings shed light on gene activity related to protein production and revealed how muscle fibers age at different rates.

Age-related loss of primary fast-twitch muscle fibers is mitigated by the body’s ability to enhance the properties of remaining fibers and rebuild connections between weakened nerves and aging muscles. This understanding can potentially inform strategies to maintain strength and independence as we grow older.

To learn more about the experts involved in this research, Dr. Andrew Steele, a scientist, author, and presenter, has authored “Ageless: The new science of growing older without getting older.” Combining his background in physics with biology, Steele’s work focuses on deciphering human DNA at the Francis Crick Institute in London.

Read more:

  • What happens to my body as I get older?
  • 9 simple science-backed changes to reverse your biological age
  • Groundbreaking discovery of anti-aging cells could help people stay young for longer

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Revolutionary Anti-Aging Neurotechnology: The innovative device designed to maintain youthful brain function

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Living a healthier life can be achieved in many ways. Simple activities like daily walks, healthy eating, and brain-boosting puzzles like Sudoku can keep your mind and body active. For a unique approach, consider trying neuromodulation, which involves sending electric shocks to the brain.

Neuromodulation is an innovative method that uses a stimulator placed on the head to deliver electrical shocks directly to the nervous system. This non-invasive technique offers numerous health benefits and has gained traction as a cutting-edge technology for enhancing well-being.

The concept of neuromodulation has been around for some time, but companies like Parasin and gamma core have reignited interest in recent years. These companies claim to improve mental performance and overall health with their devices that can be used conveniently at home.

Research from reputable institutions like UCL, Harvard University, and University College London supports the effectiveness of neuromodulation. Even tech entrepreneurs like Brian Johnson have shown interest in this technology.

What is neuromodulation and how does it work?

Neuromodulation is a technique that alters neural activity by delivering electrical signals to specific areas. Imagine it as a dimmer switch that can increase or decrease nerve or brain activity. This method can excite or inhibit nerves to alleviate pain and modify neural patterns associated with various conditions like epilepsy and Parkinson’s disease.

Companies like Parasym use “auricular vagal neuromodulation therapy” to deliver electrical signals through the ear to target the vagus nerve, which plays a crucial role in connecting the brain, heart, and digestive system.

How technology can slow aging

Neuromodulation can help slow down the aging process by combating chronic inflammation, enhancing cognitive function, and improving cardiovascular health. Research shows promising results in addressing age-related issues like Alzheimer’s disease and heart conditions.

While neuromodulation offers benefits like improved heart rate variability and reduced fatigue and depression, it remains in the early stages of development. Safety concerns and experimental results underscore the need for further research and validation.

Is neuromodulation safe?

Neuromodulation has evolved since its inception in the 1960s, with modern devices providing safer options for users. Implantable devices offer more effective treatment but come with higher risks, including infections and other complications.

Non-invasive wearable devices like those from Parasym are considered safer, with minor side effects like skin irritation being the main concern. These devices require consistent use to deliver optimal results, making them a more accessible but less durable alternative to implantable devices.

While neuromodulation technology shows promise in improving health and well-being, users should weigh the benefits against the costs and potential risks before investing in these innovative devices.

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Can naked mole rats hold the secret to their youthful appearance?

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Learn from the mole rat

Feedback is promising a bonanza of new pharmaceutical, medical and lifestyle product launches that propose boosting hyaluronic acid levels for everyone. Hyaluronic acid is a substance recently found to provide some protection to naked mole rat cells from inflammation and early death.

Marketers who specialize in mass inflammation cannot afford to miss this situation. Journal of Experimental BiologyFeeling grateful for hyaluronic acid. Under the heading is “Anti-aging secrets from underground burrowing rodents” says the magazine. “Most cells live within a blanket of molecules and minerals called the extracellular matrix. In naked mole rats, this blanket is woven from a thicker fabric. Naked mole rats produce the heavier, larger molecule hyaluronic acid, which is the backbone of this extracellular matrix.

“This extra padding protects cells from inflammation and premature death, as shown by Andrei Seruanov and Vera Gorbunova's team at the University of Rochester in the US.”

The report ends with this almost poetic wink. “The fountain of youth may be embodied in the heavy hyaluronic acid of the naked mole rat, a nearly blind rodent with many wrinkles and yellowed teeth.”

Anarchist Cookbook Tips

Books can pose dangers in unexpected ways.

Feedback reminds you to be careful when using anarchist cookbook. If you don't cook your anarchist to the right temperature, you can run into problems.

similarly shredded vegan chef. Not shredding your vegan chef properly can cause pain.

If your hobby is astrophysics, this warning applies to: Whole Earth Cookbook.

encounter after death

After Mallard's gay necrophilia became known to the world 20 years ago, many more reports of “Davian behavior” entered the public record. A quick update here.

This topic received a lot of attention in 2003 when Dutch ornithologist Keith Moeliker won an award. Ig Nobel Prize His now famous paper “The First Case of Homosexual Necrophilia in Mallard Ducks” Anas Platyrhynchus”. Mr. Mauliker talked about two ducks that encountered the Davian bird. The necrotic behavior is called “Davian” here because American ornithologist Robert W. Dickman published a paper in 1960. This is because he gave the necrotic act a new name: “Davian.''Ground squirrel's “Davian behavioral complex”” was published. mammal journal.

Michal Řeřicha and his colleagues at the Czech University of Life Sciences in Prague have published a report documenting a practice among ladybugs (known in some areas as ladybugs). The title of the report is scary.Mating of nonnative ladybirds with dead conspecifics is influenced by sexual fasting in males and time since death in females”.

This comes just three years after a report on necrophilia at sea by Amber Lee D. Kincaid and colleagues at the Mote Marine Institute in Florida:Necrosis of a bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) near Sarasota, Florida.”.

High-profile, hard-hitting reports sometimes take a literary turn, like a 2015 paper about South American snakes.The sexual appeal of corpse brides: unusual mating behavior of Helicops carinicaudus (Dipsadidae)”, by Raíssa Siqueira and colleagues at the University of São Paulo, Brazil. They write: “We observed a young male mating with a headless female by fully inserting her hemipenis. Specimens were collected, dissected and measured.”

Literary works influence other literary works, as evidenced by a 2020 paper by Marco Colombo and Emiliano Mori of the University of Siena in Italy. the title is”The 'corpse bride' strikes again: first report on Davian behavior in Eurasian badgers”.

Delightful yet scary title

Some medical papers have very intriguing and frightening titles. For those who like horror novels, the title will almost make you want to skip reading the study itself.

Why avoid a complete study? Because when a person's imagination is overstimulated, it can conjure up strange things. By comparison, the actual details you can go and see for yourself may seem mundane, dull, and even relatively boring. Reading them can lead to literary disappointment and dissatisfaction, and in some cases even death of curiosity.

For example, consider a paper written by a medical team in Chiba, Japan. For non-experts, this book describes how doctors solve accidental jigsaw puzzles, puzzles made of strange parts from a person's digestive system. Please read the title of the paper carefully.Risk factors for unintentional partial resection in endoscopic mucosal resection for colorectal polyps larger than 10 mm”.

In feedback, if you find an unexpected title for a published scientific report, please submit it. Please include a full citation and link to the paper. Send to: “Very scary title” feedback.

Mark Abrahams hosted the Ig Nobel Prize ceremony and co-founded the magazine Annals of Improbable Research. Previously, he was working on unusual uses of computers.his website is impossible.com.

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Source: www.newscientist.com