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Newcastle University


First synthetic model of bacteria outer membrane

Researchers created a synthetic model of E. coli's outer membrane, providing unprecedented access to its structure and dynamics. The model was used to test how antibiotic molecules can cross the critical barrier, which is highly impermeable to incoming molecules.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateNov 6, 2015

From starving chicks come fat birds

A Newcastle University study found that stressed baby starlings grow into fat and greedy adults, changing their eating behavior as a result. The research showed that chicks that faced greater competition for food as juveniles tend to overeat when presented with freely available food.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalAnimal Behaviour·DateNov 6, 2015

Earthquake baseline set to inform future fracking

A new study published in Marine and Petroleum Geology has established a national baseline for earthquakes caused by human activity in the UK. Since 1999, an average of at least three onshore earthquakes per year with local magnitude greater than or equal to 1.5 have been linked to anthropogenic activities.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalMarine and Petroleum Geology·DateSep 8, 2015

Action spectrum of sun skin damage documented

Researchers have documented the full spectrum of UV radiation-induced DNA damage in human skin cells, allowing manufacturers to develop targeted sunscreen products. The study's findings reveal that prolonged sun exposure leads to an accumulation of damaging free radicals, causing skin aging and potentially initiating skin cancers.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalJournal of Investigative Dermatology·DateJun 26, 2015

Ice-loss moves the Earth 250 miles down

Researchers have discovered that the upward motion of Antarctica's crust is occurring at a rate of 15mm per year, much faster than previously thought. The land is rising due to the melting of glaciers and the subsequent reduction in weight on the Earth's crust.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalEarth and Planetary Science Letters·DateMay 11, 2014

Whitefly confused by cacophony of smells

Biologists at Newcastle University use 'confusion effect' to temporarily disorient whiteflies, reducing their ability to feed on tomato plants. The study suggests a potential new method for sustainable pest control, using harmless plant volatiles to give plants time to defend themselves.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalAgronomy for Sustainable Development·DateApr 28, 2014

Fresh faced: Looking younger for longer

Researchers have identified a potent antioxidant called Tiron that provides complete protection against UVA radiation and oxidative stress, offering potential benefits for anti-aging and sun-damaged skin. The study suggests that Tiron could be used to develop new skincare products or supplements, but further testing is needed.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateJan 10, 2014

Whales feel the (sun)burn!

Researchers found that some whale species darken their skin with UV exposure, accumulating DNA damage, similar to humans. Fin whales, however, were resistant to sun damage, offering insights into evolutionary adaptations to counteract UV radiation.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 30, 2013

Grazing slugs hinder grassland restoration

Research shows that selective grazing by slugs can prevent key grassland species from taking hold and reduce overall plant diversity. The team found that some of the most ecologically important species, such as red clover, are particularly tasty to slugs, which may hinder restoration efforts.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalAnnals of Botany·DateJul 11, 2013

Global cooling as significant as global warming

A global cooling event, similar to recent global warming, occurred 116 million years ago, causing a marine ecosystem crisis and reducing atmospheric CO2 levels. This study highlights the link between global climate and internal earth processes, demonstrating that large-scale changes can have severe consequences for marine life.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalNature Geoscience·DateJun 16, 2013

Exploring art at a stroke

The 'Repentir' smart phone and iPad app uses computer vision algorithms to reveal the multiple hidden stages of a painting. Users can explore the artist's creative process by rubbing away layers or scrolling through sequence images.

Secrets of bacterial slime revealed

Researchers discovered a molecular switch regulating biofilm formation, which could help identify new antibiotics and prevent biofilms from forming. The study sheds light on how bacteria shield themselves in a slimy protective layer to evade attacks.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateApr 12, 2013

Vitamin D proven to boost energy -- from within the cells

A study from Newcastle University found that vitamin D supplements improve muscle efficiency in patients with severe deficiency, leading to reduced fatigue and improved mitochondrial oxidative function. The research suggests a link between vitamin D and mitochondrial function, potentially offering a new way to boost energy levels.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalJournal of Endocrinology·DateApr 5, 2013

Eliminating rare diseases

The EU has announced €38 million funding for research into rare diseases, aiming to develop new diagnostics and treatments through global data sharing. Advances in DNA sequencing have brought personalized treatments closer, but scientists now need to collate data to identify genetic causes of diseases.

How the kilogram has put on weight

Researchers at Newcastle University used X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS) to analyze the build-up of hydrocarbons on replica kilograms, finding that a suntan could help remove contamination and bring prototype weights back to their ideal mass. The study highlights the significance of maintaining precise measurements in internatio...

SourceNewcastle University·JournalMetrologia·DateJan 6, 2013

New understanding of Antarctic's weight-loss

A new study using Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment (GRACE) satellite data has re-calibrated the scales to more accurately calculate ice mass loss. The research found that Antarctica overall is contributing less to sea-level rise than previously thought, with West Antarctica losing mass at an accelerated rate.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalNature·DateOct 21, 2012

Power in the palm of your hands

The Digits sensor allows users to control devices remotely using hand gestures, eliminating the need for external hardware. Researchers have made significant breakthroughs in understanding human hand movements and developing a system that can accurately track and interpret finger joints, wrist orientation, and other key points.

Scientists discover how the brain ages

Researchers at Newcastle University have found that brain cells follow the same molecular pathway as senescent fibroblasts, leading to cell damage and age-related diseases. This discovery opens new possibilities for understanding and treating conditions like dementia and motor neuron disease.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalAging Cell·DateSep 12, 2012

Picking the pig with the perfect pins

Researchers at Newcastle University used biomechanical motion capture to analyze pigs' gait and identify those at risk of becoming lame. The study aims to develop a farmer-friendly system to predict leg problems and reduce lameness, improving health and welfare on UK farms.

How active is your child really?

Children aged 8-10 years spent an average of just 4% of their day engaging in moderate to vigorous physical activity, falling short of the daily recommended amount. This early disparity highlights the need for interventions to encourage primary school children to become more physically active.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 20, 2012

Virtual sailing gives competitors the edge

New research reveals that simulating weather and water conditions before a race can predict a yacht's behavior with accuracy, giving sailors a competitive advantage. The study uses virtual simulation to model resistance on the hull, comparing results with physical tests.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalInternational Journal of Small Craft Technology·DateJun 13, 2012

Keeping older drivers on the road

Researchers at Newcastle University are using a mobile laboratory car called DriveLAB to develop new technologies to support older drivers. The team is investigating in-vehicle systems that can help keep people driving safely into their 70s, 80s, and beyond.

Hazy shades of life on early Earth

A new study reveals that the Earth's early atmosphere periodically transitioned between a hydrocarbon-rich state and a haze-free environment due to microbial activity. This 'see-sawing' phenomenon had a profound impact on the climate system, with evidence suggesting a significant role in regulating atmospheric oxygen levels.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalNature Geoscience·DateMar 18, 2012