Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Queen Mary University of London


Scientists discover mechanisms of shape-shifting sea cucumbers

Researchers from Queen Mary University of London have discovered the mechanism behind shape-shifting sea cucumbers' ability to rapidly change their stiffness. This unique property is controlled by a protein-rich interfibrillar matrix that can be altered by the nervous system, making it useful for developing novel biomaterials.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 3, 2016

'Born to be bad' or 'born to be benign' -- testing cells for esophageal cancer risk

A new study by Queen Mary University of London found that certain Barrett's Oesophagus cells can be identified as 'born to be benign' or 'bad', allowing for early detection and prevention of oesophageal cancer. The test uses genetic analysis of individual cells, predicting future risk regardless of time since abnormal cell appearance.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 19, 2016

Lost hormone is found in starfish

Researchers discovered a lost hormone in starfish that is linked to human sexual maturity and evolution. The study found that the evolutionary history of the hormone gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) is written in the genes of the starfish, with two GnRH-like hormones found in both humans and fruit flies.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 28, 2016

London bee tracking project begins

A London bee tracking project has begun, releasing 500 tagged bees to study their behavior and interactions with flowers in urban gardens. The project aims to understand the bees' preferred patches and favourite flowers, rewarding participants with prizes for identifying the most flowers visited by individual bees.

Can computers do magic?

Computer scientists at Queen Mary University of London have developed systems to analyze human perceptual quirks and predict audience responses, enabling magicians to create new tricks. These computational models can be used in various areas of magic, including stage illusions, optical illusions, and close-up magic.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateJun 10, 2016

Save urban bees

A new project aims to mobilize the public to help local urban bees by planting bee-friendly flowers and tracking their movements. The London Pollinator Project encourages Londoners to plant flowers that are rich in nectar and pollen, such as English lavender and spiked speedwell, to support the ailing urban bee population.