Welcome back to the latest edition of PRISM - SCISOC's very own fortnightly newsletter column! Buckle up as we'll take you on a thrilling ride on this week's edition with an enthralling segment about developments within Sacroma research, as well as an interesting take on the effects of gym supplements. As always, we hope you enjoy the newest instalment of PRISM and wish you a great week ahead!

SCISOC Volunteering Immersion Program
Are you interested in exciting volunteering roles that provide genuine and honest care and attention to underprivileged communities? Looking to develop your communication and team-building skills and spice up your resume?

LOOK NO FURTHER!! Apply to Scisoc Volunteering Immersion Program through the following link https://forms.gle/vYpFZS5tradMx6Ne8 !!

Applications close on the 19th of June!

The Volunteering Immersion Program is a student-led initiative organised by SCISOC Philanthropy that strives to work with well-known non-profit organisations that raise awareness of various societal issues and allow for diverse volunteering opportunities, further reflecting the proactive and kindhearted culture established in the hearts of all UNSW students. You’ll work together with like-minded individuals to not only provide genuine assistance to underprivileged communities, but also develop both your personal and professional skills.

Second semester's here!

Welcome to the second semester! We hope everyone’s holidays were rejuvenating and that we’re all keen to tackle the new term after a well deserved break. Though it’s still early in the term, it’s always good to make a rough plan for the next semester in order to mitigate any stress from an unsustainable workload. However, if you do find yourself in distress at any time throughout the term, remind yourself that life does take us all for a ride sometimes and that it’s never too late to reach for help. Support is abundant all around so reach for it if you need :)

SCISOC has a lot of fun and exciting events planned for this year! Wanna keep up to date with them? Check out our socials for all kinds of events and information! Make sure to follow us to get notifications and avoid getting FOMO :)

Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/unswscisoc/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@unswscisoc?lang=en

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/unswscisoc/

New Research on diagnosing Sarcoma Patients!

Sarcoma is the general term for a broad group of cancers and is defined as a disease in which malignant cancer cells occur in the bone and soft tissues of the body, such as connective tissue, muscle, and fat. With more than 70 different types of Sarcoma, it is a complex and rare disease that is hard to diagnose, and with which there is no one clear way of treatment. Generally not much is known about what causes sarcoma, and because of this it can be incredibly difficult to diagnose, or identify factors that may increase an individual's risk of developing the disease. As with most cancers things such as a family history, or exposure to carcinogens and radiation may increase risk, but other than this, little is known.

Due to the nature of Sarcoma as a cancer that can occur in a wide range of places in the body, symptoms can vary depending on the type of tumour and its location within the body. Often the only symptom may be a painless lump that may begin to cause other issues as it gets larger, such as pain, restriction of movement, or difficulty breathing, depending on where in the body it is and what organs it is nearby. Diagnosing Sarcoma is incredibly important, because when found early, surgeries and other treatments are incredibly effective at removing the cancer, however, once it has metastasised (Spread to other parts of the body) and spread to other areas of the body, then treatments become increasingly less effective at curing the disease and efforts turn towards attempting to control it.

Due to the complexity of sarcoma, doctors have trouble identifying the cancer which could lead to misdiagnosising patients. That is why the Australia and New Zealand Sarcoma Association (ANZSA) has dedicated extensive research to aid in giving proper diagnosis to patients. Dr. Mandy Ballinger and Dr. David Thomas have led a ground-breaking, Australian-based study which can help in early detection of cancer and help in improving the survival rate for patients. In their research, they generated a comprehensive map of how the inheritance of genes may be an impaction for families affected by sarcoma.

The study has identified distinct biological pathways where genetic mutations increase the inherited risk for developing sarcoma through alterations of telomere biology (end of a chromosome) and mitotic function (duplication of cells). To date, the focus of cancer genetics has primarily been on epithelial malignancies (cancer that begins in the cell that lines with an organ), with the aim of identifying distinct pathways that contribute to cancer susceptibility in different types of tumours. However, sarcomas, which are uncommon malignancies originating from embryonic mesoderm (one of the three germinal layers that appears in embryonic development), have received relatively less attention in terms of understanding their genetic underpinnings.

To shed light on pathways specific to mesenchymal cancers like sarcomas, they conducted comprehensive whole-genome germline sequencing on a cohort consisting of 1644 sporadic sarcoma cases and 3205 healthy elderly individuals as controls. Employing a design that emphasizes extreme disease phenotypes, they employed a combination of analysing the burden of rare genetic variants and conducting ontologic analysis to identify pathways that are particularly relevant to sarcomas. Through this approach, they discovered two pathways that are distinctively associated with sarcoma development and are involved in mitotic and telomere functions. Specifically, they found that variants present in genes related to the centrosome are linked to the development of malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors and gastrointestinal stromal tumors. Furthermore, they observed that heritable defects in the shelterin complex, which is involved in protecting telomeres, are associated with an increased susceptibility to sarcomas as well as melanoma and thyroid cancers.

These research findings highlight the importance of heritable defects in the biological processes of mitosis and telomere maintenance in influencing the risk of developing sarcomas. By uncovering these sarcoma-specific pathways, they contribute to a deeper understanding of the genetic factors that contribute to the development of mesenchymal cancers and provide potential targets for further research and therapeutic interventions.

Gym Supplements Fact or Cap

Trenbolone Acetate (Tren)

Tren makes sex feel better.

BOTH

As Trenbolone boosts testosterone, androgen and nitric oxide levels, blood flow around the penis will increase and positively affect the size and erection quality. This often can make the sexual experience better for the individual, but this is only temporary. However, the opposite can also happen for some users.Reduced libido and weakened erections can occur as Tren indirectly increases the prolactin levels.

Tren can instantly increase their strength.

FACT

Although the strength increase is not instant, many new anabolic steroid users have been able to increase their bench by 50 kgs within the first month of using trenobole. Although this is positive growth, body builders should be cautious while lifting during their first few cycles to allow their muscles and tendons to adapt. Otherwise rapid increases in heavy lifting can cause injuries such as hernias, torn muscles and ruptured tendons.

Creatine

Creatine will stun growth in teenagers.

CAP

Taking Creatine supplements can increase the growth in teenagers as it reduces myostatin (a hormone that slows the growth process). Many studies have been conducted analysing 9-12 year olds in the US, of which findings conclude that adolescents whose diet included a high amount of creatine are taller than those who consume lesser dietary creatine. It was also found that for every 0.1 grams of creatine consumed per day height was increased by 0.6cm.

Creatine just fills your muscles with water.

CAP

Although creatine causes an increase in water retention, it does not only inflate your muscles with water,creatine will increase energy and hence promotes muscle growth and weight loss. This retention of water due to the supplementing of creatine is short term and typically resolves after a few weeks of stopping, but this will result in muscles looking smaller but also leaner.

Protein Powder

Protein powder damages your kidney.

CAP

Rest assured, protein powder is generally safe for individuals with healthy kidneys when consumed in moderation. Extensive scientific research has not shown any adverse effects. However, those with pre-existing kidney conditions should consult a healthcare professional before using protein powder.

Protein powder can be beneficial for hair, skin, and nails.

FACT

Protein plays a crucial role in maintaining the strength, structure, and overall health of hair, skin, and nails. Adequate protein intake, which can be supported by protein powder, is essential for promoting hair growth, enhancing skin elasticity, and strengthening nails. Including protein powder in your diet can contribute to the health and vitality of your hair, skin, and nails.

Pre-workout

Pre-workout is addictive.

CAP

Pre-workout is not addictive in itself, ingredients that make up certain pre-workouts however can be addicting. For example, caffeine, commonly found in pre-workout can create a habit if used excessively over a long time. It's essential to use pre-workout supplements responsibly, follow recommended doses, and take breaks to avoid becoming dependent.

Dry scooping increases the effects of pre-workout.

CAP

For those of you who love to dry-scoop pre-workout like a beast…sorry to burst your bubble. Dry scooping pre-workout has shown no evidence of a performance boost compared to taking pre-workout normally. Perhaps there is a psychological/placebo effect, but in the end, pre-workout will be equally as effective if mixed with an appropriate amount of liquid first.

UNSW Science Society is proud to announce our continued partnership with GradReady through 2023. GradReady provides GAMSAT Preparation courses for anyone looking to pursue Medicine after they graduate.
This process starts earlier than you think, so if you’re studying medical science or just have that passion, check out what they have to offer!