A new study suggests that listening to pleasant music can improve visual awareness in stroke patients with impaired visual neglect. The study found that patients could identify coloured shapes and red lights more accurately while listening to their preferred music compared to silence or music they did not like.
Researchers found that installing UV C lights can reduce TB transmission, including drug-resistant strains. The study showed a 35-45% reduction in infection rates when UVC lights were used.
Researchers tracked viscosity changes in live cancer cells using a new Photodynamic Therapy drug. The results show that increased stickiness contributes to cell death, but also slows down the treatment's effect.
Researchers discovered that mosquitoes use proteins called LRIM1 and APL1C to detect and destroy malaria parasites. The study found that 80-90% of parasites are killed, but only a few manage to evade detection, allowing the disease to be transmitted to humans.
Researchers identified 49 genes involved in cell-to-cell signalling in the brains of schizophrenia patients compared to controls, supporting the theory that faulty signalling is involved in the disease. The findings could lead to new ways of diagnosing and treating the condition.
Researchers have detailed the molecular structure of Clostridium difficile's protective 'jacket', a surface layer that helps the pathogen colonize human gut cells and cause illness. Understanding this structure could lead to new treatments, including targeted drugs and vaccines, to combat the deadly superbug.
Researchers discovered how meningitis bacteria use a protein to disguise themselves as human cells, evading the immune system. This finding could lead to improved vaccines against meningitis B, which accounts for most UK cases. The bacterial protein can be modified to generate a stronger immune response.
A new HIV rapid test is being developed with a potential cost of $2, aiming to measure CD4+ T-cells in a person's blood without electronics or mechanical parts. The test would enable patients to find out if they need antiretroviral therapy within minutes.
A survey in a Yorkshire village found that people are less aware of past changes in local bird populations, indicating 'generational amnesia.' The study's results suggest that wildlife knowledge is not being passed on from older to younger people.
A new laser-based technique has unraveled some of the inner workings of photosynthesis by capturing instantaneous images of energy transport between electrons in molecules. This allows scientists to gain a deeper understanding of the complex mechanisms involved, which is crucial for harnessing this process as an alternative energy source.
Researchers have visualized the molecular structure of the LtaS enzyme, a key player in MRSA's growth and spread. The team hopes to develop a new antibiotic targeting this enzyme to combat the superbug.
Researchers capture images of bleeding inside heart muscle after heart attack using MRI scans, finding correlation between bleeding and extent of heart damage. Patients with larger heart attacks show more significant bleeding and poorer recovery chances.
A new study reveals three genetic variations that increase the risk of severe obesity in children, with potential for early intervention and prevention. The gene variants may account for up to half of all cases of adult and child obesity.
Researchers have developed a new technique to mobilize specific types of adult stem cells into the bloodstream using new drug combinations. This method aims to accelerate tissue regeneration and repair in cases of heart disease or sports injuries, potentially treating autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis.
A new genetic study has identified variations in 31 genes that increase a child's risk of developing Kawasaki Disease, a rare and severe childhood disorder. The findings will enable scientists to develop more effective treatments by revealing new targets for therapy.
Researchers have created a family tree of 2,000 protea plant species, revealing that two regions – South Western Australia and the Cape Floristic Region – are experiencing accelerated speciation rates. This surge is linked to climate change approximately 10-20 million years ago, which led to hotter, drier conditions and vegetation fires.
Bacteria's tiny magnetic crystals act as a navigational compass, guiding them through sediment to optimal feeding grounds. The discovery challenges previous research and provides fresh insights into evolution and biomagnetism.
A genome-wide association study found that a mutation near the MTNR1B gene is associated with increased average blood sugar levels and a higher risk of type 2 diabetes. The researchers suggest that treating sleep problems could partly tackle diabetes and high blood sugar levels.
A new study found that a bacterial pathogen disables the tomato plant's intruder alarm system by deactivating cell surface receptors, allowing the bacteria to spread rapidly without resistance. Understanding this mechanism could lead to new ways of tackling plant diseases without pesticides.
UK scientists claim ancient Earth never froze completely during the Cryogenian Period due to carbon dioxide's insulating effect. This contradicts the Snowball Earth hypothesis, which suggests a fully frozen planet.
Women exposed to hairspray at work during pregnancy have more than double the risk of having a son with hypospadias, according to a new Imperial College London study. Taking folic acid supplements in the first three months of pregnancy may reduce this risk by 36%.
A new method for tracing zinc pollution in the atmosphere has been developed, which can identify the source of the pollution. This breakthrough could improve pollution monitoring and inform national and international strategies to reduce zinc pollution.
A large waist can significantly increase mortality risk by up to 34% in men and 24% in women. The study suggests doctors should measure waistlines as part of standard health checks.
A new UK study found that black and south Asian people are less likely to benefit from doctors' interventions to reduce their blood pressure. The study, which looked at over 8,800 patients with high blood pressure, found significant differences in treatment outcomes between white, black, and south Asian groups.
Researchers have uncovered the mechanism by which specialized activator proteins kickstart the RNA polymerase machine, allowing genes to be activated at specific times. This process is crucial for protein production and bacterial adaptation, making it a potential target for developing novel antibacterial compounds.
A new blood test has been shown to identify patients at risk of developing active tuberculosis (TB) with greater precision than the traditional skin test. The ELISpot blood test can pinpoint those who need preventative treatment, reducing unnecessary treatments and associated risks.
Researchers have visualized the structure of a protein called Microbacterium hydantoin permease, which helps bacteria take up specific molecules from their surroundings. The study reveals how the protein opens and closes to allow molecules across the membrane, with implications for understanding human cell function.
A recently introduced polio vaccine is four times more effective at protecting children than previous vaccines, offering a potential path to eliminating type 1 polio in Nigeria. However, many more children need to be immunised against polio if the virus is to be eliminated.
Scientists have solved the debate about the origin of a 3 billion-year-old rock fragment using a new X-ray technique, revealing it formed in the Earth's mantle at high temperatures. This discovery provides clues about the Earth's early history and internal processes, opening up new avenues for research on the planet's evolution.
Researchers at Imperial College London have discovered a bacteria cell's 'stressosome', a large molecule that responds to external stress and danger. The stressosomes trigger a cascade of signals within the cell, producing over 150 proteins that enable the cell to adapt and survive.
A new experiment simulates predicted rainfall patterns and assesses the effect of diverse plant species on ecosystem responses. The study focuses on how changes in plant diversity modify key functions such as water processing, nutrient cycling, and carbon storage under changing climate conditions.
Scientists have developed a new imaging technique that enables the identification of proteins in cells by analyzing their energy flow. This technique, known as coherent two-dimensional infrared spectroscopy (2DIR), has been successfully tested in laboratory experiments and holds promise for improving protein analysis and discovery.
A study by Imperial College London found that captive breeding of a rare species of toad introduced the deadly chytrid fungus to wild populations in Mallorca, highlighting the risks of reintroduction programs and the need for biosecure facilities. Despite the infection, some infected populations appear to be thriving.
A new type of drug targets CB2 receptors to alleviate pain in human sensory nerves without affecting the brain. This research offers a promising alternative to opioids, which can have serious side effects such as dependency and nausea.
Researchers used lab-based experimental ecosystems to model relationship between nutrients and biodiversity, finding that precise relationship depends on species present. The study's results show that low levels of nutrients can lead to high levels of biodiversity.
A recent study has uncovered the mechanism by which Salmonella enterica serovar Senftenberg attaches to salad leaves, causing contamination and health risk. The bacteria use their long stringy appendages called flagella to bind to the leaves, and understanding this process is crucial for developing new methods of prevention.
Research reveals cosmic dust originates from Koronis asteroids, with analysis matching mineralogy and chemistry to chondrite meteorite samples. The study provides new insights into the earliest history of our solar system.
A new observational study describes the world's weather patterns and climate influences by revealing four distinct atmospheric circulation cells. The cells create temperature and wind distribution in the mid-latitudes, including the UK, Europe, and US, which was previously not fully understood.
Researchers have found that warfarin reduces scarring on the liver caused by Hepatitis C, which can lead to cirrhosis and liver failure. The study is now embarking on a clinical trial to test warfarin as a treatment for people with Hepatitis C.
A new study published in The Lancet Neurology found that a small dose of the drug PBT2 improved cognitive function in early-stage Alzheimer's patients, reducing amyloid-beta levels by approximately 13% compared to placebo. The study suggests that PBT2 may have a significant effect on the underlying pathology of Alzheimer's disease.
Researchers have found a way to limit immune system's response and reduce inflammation in lungs caused by influenza, using CD200R receptor. Mice treated with mimic of CD200 or antibody to stimulate CD200R showed reduced weight loss and inflammation.
Researchers at Imperial College London have discovered the key nerve connections that enable flies to maintain a steady gaze while flying and responding to obstacles. This finding could lead to improvements in technical control systems for autonomous air vehicles.
Researchers emphasize the need to investigate ethnic differences in breast cancer treatment response due to genetic variations. Studies have shown that certain drugs benefit people from specific ethnic groups more than others.
A new consortium aims to tackle healthcare-associated infections like MRSA and Clostridium difficile, exploring molecular makeup, hospital staff habits, and data analysis. The £4.2M project will create nine PhD fellows and develop new tools for detecting and controlling infections.
Researchers found extraterrestrial nucleobases in a Murchison meteorite fragment, suggesting early genetic materials came from space. The discovery supports the idea that life's raw materials are widespread in the cosmos.
A new family tree of all British birds provides clues about which species might be endangered next, with declining populations clustered together on the same branches. The study found a link between closely related birds and chances of population decline, but also noted that geographical area inhabited by species is not a key factor.
A new study by Imperial College London found that people with IBS have a higher number of TRPV1 nerve fibers, which can cause abdominal pain and bloating. The study suggests that blocking this receptor could lead to new therapies for treating IBS symptoms.
A new study reveals that closely related species tend to avoid living together due to intense competition for food and shelter. This separation is crucial for the survival of individual species.
A new study found that lone asylum-seeking children in the UK are more likely to have experienced high levels of war trauma and combat than those with adult carers. The research suggests that foster care can help reduce their suffering and lower post-traumatic stress symptoms.
Scientists have developed a new way to estimate the total number of protein interactions in organisms, revealing that humans have approximately 10 times more protein interactions than fruit flies. This study contradicts previous comparisons based on gene numbers, which suggested that humans and fruit flies are relatively similar.