Elevated heavy metal levels in rivers can lead to higher antibiotic resistance levels, according to research by Newcastle University and the Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi. The study found that metal pollution increases antibiotic resistance gene abundances, affecting resident bacteria.
Researchers have found that Bronze Age daggers were used to process animal carcasses, including slaughtering livestock and butchering carcasses. The discovery was made using a new method that extracted organic residues from the daggers, revealing micro-residues of collagen and associated bone, muscle, and tendon fibres.
Scientists have developed Community Distribution Models (CDMs) to predict upland vegetation communities from published data at a national scale. The approach uses publicly available and open-access NVC records and environmental data, with models based on random forests being the most accurate.
Researchers have found a group of deep-sea bacteria that stick to plastic, allowing them to 'hitchhike' across the ocean and potentially enhancing microbial connectivity. These bacteria were discovered in the North-East Atlantic and include strains previously isolated from shipwrecks and extreme environments.
Scientists at Newcastle University have identified a mechanism by which exercise reduces bowel cancer risk. Physical activity releases the protein interleukin-6 (IL-6), which helps repair damaged cells and slow tumour growth. This finding supports previous evidence that more exercise is better for reducing cancer risk.
Researchers have discovered the structure of C.difficile's protective armor, a chain-mail like layer that prevents molecules from entering the cell. This discovery opens the possibility of designing specific drugs to target the armor and kill the cell.
Researchers developed a new model to predict storm damage, allowing for effective resource allocation and reduction in societal consequences. The framework can be applied to various infrastructure systems and weather events, promoting better preparedness and response.
Using ancient and historical DNA can assess population genetic patterns and inform conservation actions. The study reveals that a/hDNA can be compared with contemporary data to set baselines for intra-species genetic diversity and estimate changes in effective population size.
A cloud-based repository called CellRepo has been launched to track and organize digital data from engineered microorganisms. The database uses cell barcodes to monitor and track organisms, enabling faster tracing of lab origins and design details.
Newcastle University researchers argue that cities can use local policies and incentives to encourage the adoption of electric vehicles. The authors highlight the importance of balancing demand pull-ins with technology push-ins to overcome barriers and enablers. Cities' own fleets, procurement systems, and fiscal powers can also help s...
A £5.6m joint investment will drive cutting-edge research into smart homes, connected devices, remote monitoring, and health models for older adults to live independently. The deal aims to create new jobs, skills, and tech start-ups in the region.
A pioneering test called AMBLor has been developed to predict the spread or return of skin cancer. By analyzing primary tumor biopsies, the test identifies patients at low risk of disease progression, providing them with more accurate information and personalized prognosis.
Scientists at Newcastle University have discovered a new genetic mechanism that causes severe forms of male infertility. The study found that new mutations occurring during reproduction play a significant role in this condition. This breakthrough could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for infertile couples.
A team of archaeologists and geneticists analyzed DNA from 35 individuals buried in a Neolithic tomb, revealing a single extended family with 27 close relatives. The research provides new insights into kinship and burial practices in Neolithic times.
A new process has been identified to accelerate the use of low-cost materials, transforming the energy sector with potential to replace silicone-based solar panels. The dynamic dimeric copper complexes offer a novel combination of fast charge transport and efficient redox mechanisms.
A new study has found that increasing temperatures and heavy rainfall reduce the prevalence of Varroa mite disease in UK honey bee colonies, while heavy wind reduces its severity. Climate change is predicted to impact the risk of European foulbrood disease, with a hot spot identified in the South West England.
Researchers at Newcastle University have found that increased levels of ceramides and alpha-synuclein protein in extracellular vesicles could help diagnose Lewy body dementia and test treatment effectiveness. The findings may lead to a more accurate diagnosis for the over 100,000 people affected by the disease.
Researchers have developed new qPCR assays to quantify the transmission of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) using water and wastewater samples. These methods provide a more exact way to determine AMR by measuring DNA in wastewater samples.
Researchers have discovered that estimated pulse wave velocity is an effective tool to refine risk stratification of hospitalized patients with Covid-19. The study found that the addition of ePWV to clinical predictive markers improved prognostic value for in-hospital mortality.
A new study by Newcastle University researchers has developed dynamic DNA data structures that can store and retrieve information in an ordered way. The study presents an in vitro implementation of a stack data structure using DNA polymers, which stores and retrieves information in a last-in-first-out order.
Researchers have discovered that dendrimer tentacles can avoid detection by the complement system, part of our immune system. This could lead to developing a new system for delivering drugs into the body without triggering an immune response.
A new study by Newcastle University and the Met Office predicts a significant increase in slow-moving intense rainstorms across Europe by the end of the century, potentially leading to devastating flooding. The research estimates that these storms could be 14 times more frequent, with increased rainfall accumulations and flash flood risk.
A new model developed by Newcastle University's researchers tracks the vertical movement of algae-covered microplastic particles, identifying processes that underpin their trajectories. The study shows that particle properties and algal population dynamics determine the movement of microplastics below the ocean surface.
A study by Newcastle University highlights the difficulties people with smell and taste disorders face in accessing treatment. The research found that only around 20% of patients reported an improvement in symptoms following treatment, while over 60% suffered from anxiety or depression.
Domestic burning of wood and dung fuels in Neolithic homes would have exceeded modern internationally-agreed standards for indoor air quality, exposing inhabitants to unsafe levels of particulates. The study suggests that chronic exposure to PM2.5 could be linked to bone lesions found in the remains of Çatalhöyük's inhabitants.
The Biological Engineering: Wastewater Innovation at Scale (BEWISe) facility, launched by Newcastle University and Northumbrian Water, will host researchers to explore new low-carbon alternatives for sewage treatment. This £1.2 million EPSRC-funded facility operates with a quadrillion microbes, enabling experimentation with different t...
A group of patients with neurological disease have been found to lack a critical cell process called autophagy. This discovery challenges the understanding that humans cannot survive if their cells completely fail to carry out autophagy, and may have important implications for research and therapies in neurodegeneration and cancer.
Researchers have identified a genetic marker in tumours from patients with high-risk neuroblastoma that can predict poorer prognosis and respond to targeted treatment. This breakthrough may lead to personalized treatment options for children with high-risk disease.
A new study by Newcastle University highlights the risk of dolphins and porpoises being caught in small-scale (artisanal) fisheries, particularly in low- and middle-income regions around the tropics and sub-tropics. The study's findings emphasize the need for international collaboration and cooperation to address this threat and balanc...
Researchers discovered a genetic link between the HLA-DRB1*04:01 gene and reduced severity of COVID-19. The study found that individuals with this gene are three times more likely to remain asymptomatic compared to those without, suggesting potential protection against severe illness.
Researchers at Newcastle University have discovered new nutrient exchanges between algae and bacteria using advanced SIMS technique. The study shows that long-term carbon transfers occur between microalgae and bacteria, impacting microbial community functioning.
Researchers at Newcastle University discovered that tiny pieces of genetic material, miR-424-5p, increase in early stages of heart disease in type 1 diabetes patients. This biomarker has the potential to define additional therapeutic options to help patients with type 1 diabetes.
Marine scientists call on EU to adopt a two-step approach to reduce bycatch levels, involving quantitative management objectives and monitoring programmes. The experts recommend using electronic monitoring systems and regular formal assessments of small cetacean populations.
Researchers found that most top-rated fertility apps mismanage and misuse user data, compromising reproductive health and rights. The study calls for stricter categorization of these apps to protect women's intimate information from exploitation.
Researchers found high levels of antimicrobial resistance in water from the Hua Krabue canal, but low levels in aquaculture ponds. The study highlights the urgent need to improve urban sanitation in Thailand's coastal region. Safely managed sanitation is crucial for combatting antibiotic resistance.
Researchers found that warming temperatures intensify future rainfall extremes, with largest increases to short thunderstorms causing dangerous flash flooding. This study highlights the urgent need for climate change adaptation measures as heavier short-term rainfall increases flash flood risks globally.
Research reveals that coral reefs in the Maldives get more than 70% of their predator's diet from offshore resources. The findings highlight the importance of understanding food web dynamics to predict impacts of climate change on marine ecosystems.
Life expectancy at birth in the UK slowed significantly around 2011 compared to other EU countries, while years of good health decreased. The decline is attributed to austerity measures, increased mortality rates from seasonal influenza and extreme temperatures.
Researchers at Newcastle University and James Cook University have created a comprehensive database of coral spawning information, spanning over 40 years. The Coral Spawning Database (CSD) provides insights into environmental cues influencing spawning timing, such as temperature and daylight patterns.
Researchers found strong links between auditory cortex information in humans and primates, suggesting an evolutionary process dating back at least 25 million years. The study provides new insights into the origins of human language and memory, highlighting a previously unseen ancestral brain highway system.
A new study finds that even a modest sea level rise would place 100 airports below mean sea level by 2100, posing a significant risk to global passenger and freight movements. The researchers ranked airports at risk from sea level rise, with some in Asia and Europe topping the list.
Research reveals that aerosol-generating procedures like fillings and root canal treatment can spray aerosol particles large distances, contaminating areas up to 5 meters away. The study found that dental suction decreases contamination, making it a suitable time to clean surgeries after procedures.
Researchers have identified biological patterns that predict relapse in medulloblastoma, a common childhood brain cancer. The study allows for personalized treatment approaches to be taken, improving outcomes for affected children.
A recent study published in Conservation Letters reveals that conservation efforts have prevented the global extinction of at least 28 bird and mammal species since 1993. The species include the Puerto Rican Amazon, Przewalski's Horse, and Iberian Lynx, among others.
Researchers at Newcastle University propose a new theory that links hearing loss to dementia, suggesting that the auditory system's impact on brain function may trigger Alzheimer's disease. The study identifies key aspects of this connection, including memory centers and cognitive impairment.
A clinical trial by Newcastle University found that levothyroxine does not improve cardiac function in patients who have had a heart attack and are suffering from mild or subclinical hypothyroidism. The treatment, which is commonly recommended for these patients, may actually be of no benefit.
Researchers at Newcastle University have developed a new type of organic LED that enables faster data transfer speeds, reaching 2.2 Mb/s. This breakthrough could enable the integration of portable and wearable organic biosensors into visible light communication links.
Researchers at Newcastle University have discovered a new technique that can improve the function of 'marginal' kidneys, increasing urine production and improving blood flow to damaged cells. The treatment uses a type of stem cell called MultiStem to deliver anti-inflammatory molecules.
A portable testing lab that fits into a suitcase has been developed by Newcastle University experts to detect waterborne hazards. The lab enables quick and affordable screening of millions of bacteria in a single water sample, providing critical data for public health officials to identify and deal with local hazards.
Research from Newcastle University reveals that aspirin can significantly reduce the risk of bowel cancer in people with Lynch syndrome. The study found that taking two aspirins a day for two years reduced colon cancer by half, with protection lasting over 10 years.