Friday, December 14, 2012
Big news in science
A small bit of actual research, done at OU, should have a huge effect if it gets proper attention.
Cecil M. Lewis Jr., professor of anthropology... and Raul Tito, OU Research Associate, led the research study that analyzed microbiome data from ancient human fecal samples collected from three different archaeological sites in the Americas, each dating to over 1000 years ago. In addition, the team provided a new analysis of published data from two samples that reflect rare and extraordinary preservation: Otzi the Iceman and a soldier frozen for 93 years on a glacier. “The results support the hypothesis that ancient human gut microbiomes are more similar to those of non-human primates and rural non-western communities than to those of people living a modern lifestyle in the United States,” says Lewis. “From these data, the team concluded that the last 100 years has been a time of major change to the human gut microbiome in cosmopolitan areas.” “Dietary changes, as well as the widespread adoption of various aseptic and antibiotic practices have largely benefited modern humans, but many studies suggest there has been a cost, such as a recent increase in autoimmune related risks and other health states,” states Lewis.Antibiotics unquestionably saved millions of lives. Probably worth the cost in gut bacteria. But it's not at all clear that modern diets are beneficial in any way. = = = = = An even bigger news item: IPCC finally admits that Svensmark is right! This probably won't slow down the Gaians directly. But governments do read the IPCC reports and have used IPCC as the "gold standard". Now that the "gold standard" is backing away from the One True Faith of Gaia, governments may gradually feel more confident to commit small heresies. Most governments are flat broke and ready to quit feeding this vicious priesthood. Now they have some cover from "authorities". ¶ 2:25 AM
