Two UCD researchers, Dr Alan Seltzer and Dr Seungkuk Ahn, receive €4M ERC Starting Grants for their groundbreaking research projects on groundwater and skin biology. The funding will support the development of new tools and models to better understand and predict critical resource management.
A four-country study explores the effectiveness of a digital health coaching program in reducing gestational diabetes incidence and improving maternal and child health. The Bump2Baby & Me+ program uses a smartphone coaching platform to support women at risk, with results expected in 2028.
A UCD study evaluates 43 studies on financial habits and mental illness, revealing significant gaps in current research. Objective financial data is rarely used, and traditional statistical methods dominate the field.
Two UCD research projects, REVOLVER and PanAsia, have secured funding of €2.5 million each under the ERC Advanced Grant programme. The projects will explore the potential of RNA molecules in medicine and investigate the cultural networks that shaped Southeast Asia's decolonisation.
Researchers at UCD and international collaborators developed a guide to translate theoretical ideas into practical devices for quantum enhanced sensing technologies. Critical quantum sensing uses a quantum system's tipping point as a measurement tool, amplifying tiny signals.
Researchers found that older adults' brains process balance information significantly slower than younger people's, taking almost 50% longer to process this information. This results in a substantial 'processing delay', requiring older individuals to actively maintain their balance.
A new study published in the British Journal of Nutrition found that following a Planetary Health Diet during pregnancy can lead to higher intakes of essential nutrients like folate, iron, calcium, and dietary fibre. The researchers suggest that adhering to this diet may support both human health and environmental sustainability.
A digital visualization and decision support tool has been proven to reduce the risk of anastomotic leaks in bowel surgery by 40%. The study analyzed nine randomized controlled trials involving 4754 patients, providing clear evidence for its benefits.
A grave in northern Serbia contains the remains of over 77 individuals, mostly women and children, who suffered violent deaths including bludgeoning and stabbing. Genetic analysis revealed that most victims were not related, suggesting a deliberate targeting of these groups.
A new study published in Acta Obstetricia et Gynecologica Scandinavica has found that the majority of pregnant women in Ireland are not consuming excessive amounts of alcohol during pregnancy. The study used urine tests to detect ethyl glucuronide, a metabolite of alcohol, and found only 0.4% of samples tested positive for the substance.
Researchers developed and validated AI models to predict trauma patients' need for blood transfusions using pre-hospital data. The models achieved high predictive accuracy, identifying patients at risk of haemorrhagic shock more accurately than traditional risk classification.
A new Perspective article explores the role of biofilms in health during long-duration spaceflight and how this research can reshape our understanding of microbial communities on Earth. The study highlights the importance of biofilms in enabling human and plant health, particularly in space-based environments.
An observational study of 168 second-time mothers found that breastfeeding for at least 12 months was associated with a lower risk of depression and anxiety later in life. The longer women breastfed, the greater the protective effect against depression and anxiety.
A large study has demonstrated the significant benefits of lifestyle interventions in reducing the risk of gestational diabetes. Physical activity-based interventions, such as walking and strength training, were found to be the most effective in preventing gestational diabetes, with no adverse effects observed.
An international team of astronomers has detected a supernova at an unprecedented cosmic distance using the James Webb Space Telescope. The event, occurring when the universe was only about 730 million years old, provides a direct look at the final moments of a massive star from the era of reionisation.
Researchers explore how European identity develops across childhood, adolescence and young adulthood, with potential positive impacts on society. The GENERATION EU project aims to build a comprehensive model for psychology and peacebuilding, generating new data and tools.
A new paper proposes an Aviation Sustainability Index to assess investments in cleaner technologies, helping investors distinguish between modest improvements and game-changing solutions. The approach aims to accelerate real progress toward decarbonization by rewarding companies willing to take calculated risks on breakthrough technolo...
A team of astronomers observed a mysterious repeating gamma-ray burst outside the Milky Way galaxy, lasting about a day, which is 100 to 1000 times longer than most GRBs. The discovery challenges known scenarios and may be caused by an intermediate mass black hole or an unusual star being destroyed.
The UCD researchers will explore a range of research topics, including the evolution of infectious diseases in livestock and sustainable solutions for environmental and industrial sectors. The grants support excellent research across diverse fields and are estimated to create over 3,000 jobs.
A new book examines the complexities of British-Irish relationships, exploring novel concepts to navigate national identities, cohesion, and fragmentation. The research aims to strengthen existing partnerships and build new ones as the two islands' political futures become increasingly entangled.
New research published in the BMJ journal reveals that glycerol in 'slushies' can cause illness in children. The study found that 21 young children across the UK and Ireland became sick after consuming slush ice drinks, leading to guidance for parents on consumption limits.
The €3 million FORSEE project, led by University College Dublin, aims to broaden the concept of AI success beyond technological efficiency and provide insights on sustainability, labor, and economic impact. The project will offer broadened awareness of AI risks and opportunities through research grounded in social sciences.
Five University College Dublin academics receive €2 million each for projects on Law, Philosophy, Biomechanical Engineering, and Information and Communication Studies. The grants aim to establish independent research teams and develop promising scientific ideas.
The EVEREST project, funded by the EU, aims to standardize methods for isolating and characterizing extracellular vesicles. This could lead to non-invasive diagnostics and personalized therapies for complex diseases like cancer and cardiovascular conditions.
A UCD researcher has received an ERC Synergy Grant to develop innovative x-ray technology for tissue biopsies, enabling detailed visualization of cellular changes in whole tissues. The project aims to advance understanding of diseases and provide new ways to diagnose and treat various conditions.
A study by neurodivergent researchers has revealed that psychiatrists who are unaware they're autistic may misdiagnose patients. Recognizing one's autism improves therapeutic relationships with autistic patients, but some assessors remain unaware due to lack of disclosure.
A €1.3 million consortium aims to rapidly deploy technology and develop new knowledge to end the Mpox outbreak in DRC and surrounding countries. The project will expand a trial exploring Mpox vaccination effectiveness in additional African countries.
Scientists have successfully produced a Majorana fermion, a theoretical particle first proposed in 1937, using quantum interference in a nano-scale electronic circuit. This breakthrough has significant implications for the development of topological quantum computers.
Two UCD researchers receive ERC Starting Grants to launch projects on microplastic toxicity and TBI biomechanics, promising breakthroughs in toxicology and public health.
A research study by UCD and McGill University in collaboration with NASA found that spaceflight profoundly alters the gut microbiome, leading to immune and metabolic dysfunction. The study offers new insights into how these changes may affect astronaut health during extended missions.
A new Irish clinical trial challenges long-held assumptions about the mechanisms of action for GLP-1 therapy used in obesity treatment. The study found that increased metabolic activity is a significant contributor to weight loss, with patients who had lower metabolic activity before treatment benefiting most from it.
Researchers in Ireland have identified a critical threshold of IgG antibodies for protection against COVID-19. This finding suggests that individuals with IgG antibody levels above this threshold are likely to be immune to all SARS-CoV-2 variants, providing a valuable tool for monitoring and managing the pandemic.
A team led by Professor Emma Teeling is exploring the genetic and biochemical factors behind bats' ability to live longer and resist diseases. The project aims to deepen our knowledge of how bats stay healthy, potentially paving the way for future therapeutics.
A team of researchers, led by UCD's Dr. Claire Harnett, has won a prestigious ERC Synergy grant to explore ways to predict and mitigate the hazards of unexpected volcanic eruptions. The project aims to advance knowledge of volcanic processes and integrate multiple scientific disciplines.
A University College Dublin researcher has received a European Research Council Proof of Concept grant to investigate the disruptive power of macromolecular crowding in cell culture systems. The project aims to develop novel approaches for regenerative medicine by accelerating tissue development and improving therapeutic potential.
A global study of 1,700 cardiac arrest patients found that maintaining slightly elevated CO2 levels did not improve neurological or functional outcomes. The study suggests that doctors can continue standard practice without worrying about missing out on improved results.
New research on homelessness in Ireland reveals a significant increase in emergency accommodation usage since 2015. The study highlights the need for improved mental health support, effective harm reduction programs, and better strategies for frequent ED attenders.
A team of scientists achieved a record-breaking 36.83km wireless broadband transmission from a ship to shore off the Irish Aran Islands using proprietary SeaFi technology. The new record surpasses the previous 2018 world record set by the same team, enabling private networks in ports and coastal areas for maritime businesses.
Researchers have identified a potential therapeutic target and developed a unique delivery system to treat osteosarcoma, a bone cancer primarily affecting children and adolescents. The novel combination of gene therapy and chemotherapy may improve treatment outcomes and aid in the repair of damaged bones during chemotherapy.
A new study by Imperial College London and University College Dublin researchers has found that the ion channel TRPV4 plays a crucial role in translating mechanical signals from fetal movements into healthy skeleton development. This discovery may lead to future treatments for abnormalities of pediatric skeletal development.
Researchers have developed a novel type of analogue quantum computer that can tackle hard physics problems beyond current digital capabilities. The new Quantum Simulator architecture uses hybrid metal-semiconductor components to simulate quantum materials and behaviors.