A global study of 161,981 participants across 40 countries reveals that air pollution, social inequality, and weak democratic institutions accelerate aging. BBAGs, a novel measure of accelerated aging, show that exposure to toxic air, political instability, and economic inequality can age you several years faster.
The new microscope allows researchers to map and quantify the mechanical properties of biological tissues without interfering with them, enabling real-time monitoring. This breakthrough technology has far-reaching implications for fields such as inflammation, cancer, developmental biology, and biomedical materials.
Researchers assess ligament maturation and movement impact on scoliotic conditions, providing new insights into the structural hallmarks of embryonic spinal ligaments. The study aims to identify potential connections between embryonic movement and spinal deformities in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis.
A new study reveals a five-fold increase in computer vision papers linked to surveillance patents, highlighting the rise of obfuscating language that normalises surveillance. The top institutions producing surveillance are Microsoft, Carnegie Mellon University, and MIT.
Researchers have discovered the gene SLC35F2, which allows queuosine to enter cells, a micronutrient vital for health but previously unknown. This breakthrough opens doors to potential therapies for various diseases, including cancer and neurological disorders.
Researchers using the James Webb Telescope have discovered silicate clouds in the atmosphere of exoplanet YSES-1-c, which is thought to be linked to the planet's relative youth. The findings offer new insights into planetary formation and atmospheric processes, shedding light on how our own solar system may have formed.
A new study found that heatwaves can increase disease burden by up to 13 times, driven by complex interactions between temperature attributes and baseline temperatures. This knowledge is crucial for predicting the impact of heatwaves on disease spread and highlights the need for more detailed models.
A global clinical trial led by Irish cancer specialist Prof. Patrick Forde shows that immunotherapy with chemotherapy before lung cancer surgery reduces the risk of cancer returning and improves long-term survival. The study found that patients who received immunotherapy plus chemotherapy had improved outcomes compared to those who rec...
A new study analyzing ancient genomes from seven individuals in present-day Honduras provides insights into the genetic origins of the Classic Maya people and their population expansion or decline during the rise and fall of their civilization. The research contributes to our understanding of human history, population dynamics, and env...
A rare form of childhood brain cancer called Diffuse Midline Glioma (DMG) hijacks gene control machinery to fuel its growth. A specific gene-silencing complex, CBX4/PCGF4-cPRC1, is essential for tumour growth and could be a promising drug target.
A new study reveals a strong correlation between sediment changes and global cooling in the Northern Hemisphere 3.6 million years ago. The findings suggest profound changes in deep water currents occurred at this time, impacting Atlantic Ocean heat and salt distribution and ice-sheet expansion.
Researchers found that phospholipids in ascites fluid disrupt immune cell function, particularly NK cells, leading to impaired anti-tumor activity. Blocking these lipids can restore NK cell activity, providing a promising therapeutic target.
The BNT162b2 vaccine not only targets the COVID-19 virus but also helps reduce and control innate inflammation to other bacterial and fungal pathogens. By reprogramming innate immune cells, the vaccine reduces pro-inflammatory mediators, providing potential benefits beyond its primary target.
Researchers at Trinity College Dublin have found that the brain forms memories of cold experiences and uses them to control metabolism. The discovery may lead to new treatments for conditions such as obesity and cancer, which are influenced by thermoregulation and metabolism.
A new systematic review found that viewing art can improve eudemonic wellbeing and boost personal growth. The benefits were observed in various locations, including museums, galleries, clinics, and hospitals, as well as through virtual reality.
PET-based glitter microplastics promote calcium carbonate crystallisation in seawater, altering natural biomineralisation processes in marine organisms. The study's findings suggest that glitter microplastics can degrade rapidly, releasing smaller fragments that are easily ingested by marine life.
A recent study published in Science Advances found that oral contraceptive use in women is associated with changes in steroid hormone levels, while smoking in men is linked to altered levels of nearly every steroid hormone measured. The study also discovered a link between decreased androgens and various diseases in aging men.
A new gamified mobile health app, More Stamina, has been shown to effectively manage MS-related fatigue by helping users track their daily activities and energy expenditure. The study found that the app facilitated conversations between MS patients and their families, improving understanding and support.
A new study reveals that climate change is having a severe impact on adolescent mental health in southern Madagascar, with high levels of anxiety, depression, and sense of hopelessness reported. The research highlights the need for mental health supports to be built into climate adaptation efforts to help young people facing an uncerta...
Researchers at Trinity College Dublin have discovered a biomarker panel that can accurately identify patients at risk of developing pancreatic cancer, offering new hope for early detection and improved treatment. The study uses a combination of blood and fluid analysis to distinguish between low- and high-risk patients.
A new blood test has shown promise in improving the accuracy of Alzheimer's Disease diagnosis, with results comparable to established CSF biomarkers. The study found that measuring plasma p-tau217 was over 90% accurate, potentially replacing invasive diagnostic methods for up to half of patients.
A new dataset of nearly 4,000 nearby supernovae has revealed a surprising diversity in the explosive transients of white dwarf stars, with multiple exotic ways they can blow up. These discoveries have implications for measuring distances in the Universe and understanding dark energy.
Sheep have been an integral part of human livelihoods for over 11,000 years, providing meat, milk, and clothing. Genetic analyses reveal that early farmers deliberately selected their flocks for desirable traits, such as coat colour, demonstrating a significant impact on animal biology.
A team of scientists discovered polar bear sebum's anti-icing properties, making it harder for ice to stick. The study sheds light on polar bear ecology and may lead to sustainable anti-ice surface coatings.
A new study from Trinity College Dublin reveals that regular dog walking is associated with improved mobility, reduced fear of falling, and a lower likelihood of unexplained falls. The study, based on TILDA data, highlights the potential benefits of this simple activity for older adults.
A landmark survey has imaged exocomet belts around 74 nearby stars, revealing their structure and location. The study provides new insights into the evolution of planetary systems, including the existence of large, undetectable planets that affect the distribution of pebbles in these systems.
A groundbreaking study finds evidence of female political and social empowerment in ancient Britain, where land was inherited through the female line. This system, known as matrilocality, was found to be widespread across Iron Age Britain, with dominant matrilines established before 400 BC.
Researchers from Trinity College Dublin have developed 'Malteser-like' molecules that can be governed to produce predictable and desirable self-assembly structures. These molecules hold promise for applications in highly sensitive sensors, next-gen targeted drug delivery agents, and luminescence-based monitoring.
A new study reveals a direct link between structural inequality and changes in brain structure and connectivity associated with aging and dementia. Higher levels of inequality are linked to reduced brain volume and disrupted connectivity, especially in temporo-posterior and cerebellar regions essential for memory and cognitive function.
A recent study from Trinity researchers uncovers the mechanisms behind COVID-19 disease severity, highlighting the critical role of low-density neutrophils. The findings suggest that lingering immune abnormalities after recovery could contribute to long-term health effects or complications.
A new whole-genome study challenges the long-held belief that Armenians are descendants of Phrygian settlers from the Balkans. Instead, researchers found a genetic input into the region from Neolithic Levantine farmers, suggesting a large-scale post-Early Bronze Age migration wave across the Middle East.
A new framework describes the balance between automatic responses and goal-directed control in habit formation. This imbalance can lead to everyday action slips and compulsive behaviors. The research provides a 'playbook' for behavior change, including strategies like implementation intentions and clinical interventions.
New research links ancient Jomon hunter-gatherer genetic signature to higher body mass index (BMI) among individuals in modern Japan. The study found strong support for the tripartite ancestry model, suggesting a significant influence of Jomon ancestry on BMI across populations.
Testicular cancer is a highly treatable condition with high survival rates when detected early, but patients with the highest-risk disease face a lower prognosis. New genetic changes have been identified using whole genome sequencing, offering potential new treatment strategies.
A new study has identified ten priorities for future research on reducing and stopping psychiatric medication, covering topics such as safely reducing/stopping medication and providing support to individuals undergoing discontinuation. The findings highlight the value of co-production and address gaps in the existing evidence base.
Scientists have discovered multiple instances of genetic interbreeding between Denisovans and modern humans, shaping early human history. Denisovan genes confer advantages in distinct environments, such as tolerance to low oxygen conditions and heightened immunity.
Research shows that power systems with higher weather-dependent renewable energy sources (WD-RESs) tend to have reduced blackout intensities in the US. High WD-RES penetration does not worsen the weather vulnerability of power systems, even during extreme weather events.
Professor Ruth Britto and her international team will develop new algorithmic methods with applications in mathematics, particle physics, and gravity. They aim to tackle longstanding computational bottlenecks and push the boundaries of numerous areas of theoretical physics.
Researchers identify interleukin-17A as a key regulator of fat storage, carrying implications for addressing obesity and preventing wasting. The discovery highlights the interaction between the immune system and circadian rhythms, which may hold therapeutic potential for metabolic disorders.
Geneticists deciphered aurochs prehistory by analysing 38 ancient genomes from Siberia to Britain. The study highlights diverse wild forms and the impact of climate change and domestication on their evolution.
Researchers found Itaconate stimulates immune cells to produce anti-viral proteins called interferons by blocking an enzyme called SDH, offering a potential therapy for autoimmune and infectious diseases.
A new study evaluated the efficacy of a combined hearing and vision rehabilitation intervention for people with dementia living at home. The SENSE-Cog trial showed significant improvements in quality of life in the short term, but further research is needed to understand its long-term impact.
Researchers have identified a key metabolic feature of human tissue-resident NK cells in the lung that enables them to rapidly respond to increased glucose levels. This unique adaptation could be a major target for future therapies in lung diseases, including cancer and infections.
A new citizen science study has found that a person's subjective impression of their own memory problems is strongly linked to modifiable risk factors for dementia. The research used a smartphone app to gather data from 3,327 people and found a stronger association between subjective memory impairment and risk factors such as depressio...
Researchers describe the existence of the paradoxical Mpemba effect within quantum systems, bridging Aristotle's observations and modern-day understanding. The discovery opens doors to 'cool' implications for thermodynamic frameworks and applications in quantum technologies.
SEARCH aims to accelerate healthcare innovation by generating FAIRified synthetic data for use in AI/ML models, enabling large-scale data collaborations while preserving privacy and compliance. The hub will deliver reliable methodologies for synthetic data generation, significantly increasing the availability of interoperable datasets.
Research from Trinity College Dublin found that lower sustained attention in adolescence can predict a larger increase in cigarette and cannabis use by age 23. The study suggests using early biomarkers like sustained attention to identify vulnerable adolescents and guide targeted interventions.
Researchers propose a better understanding of inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis, identifying an early pathogenic macrophage cell/gene signature that shapes the inflammatory environment. This discovery offers a unique opportunity for early diagnosis and therapeutic intervention, potentially leading to improved patient outcomes.
Scientists from Trinity College Dublin have developed a gene therapy that protects retinal ganglion cells and improves their function in animal models of glaucoma. The therapy has also been shown to increase oxygen consumption and ATP production in human retinal cells, indicating enhanced cell performance.
A strong belief in own academic ability can help low-income children achieve success despite poverty. Research highlights the importance of addressing emotional and behavioural issues and strategies that foster belief in abilities.