Poor oral health in elite athletes shows no signs of improvement and must be remedied. Experts recommend simple measures like better brushing and flossing can provide marginal performance gains similar to expensive physical therapies.
A new web privacy system, COWL, protects users' data by confining malicious code, allowing flexible web development while improving surfing safety. The system will be freely available for download on October 15th.
A randomized controlled trial found that using StopAdvisor increased the likelihood of quitting among lower-income smokers by 36%. The website was designed to mimic the support provided by NHS stop-smoking advisors and improved quit rates among those with lower socioeconomic status.
A large-scale analysis found statin use associated with a 12% increased risk of type 2 diabetes over four years, as well as an average weight gain of 240g. Genetic variants linked to statin efficacy also showed smaller effects on weight and diabetes risk.
Research from University College London suggests reducing sugar consumption to 3% of total energy intake can significantly reduce tooth decay. Experts recommend policy changes to address the issue, including taxing sugar-rich foods and drinks.
A study of 2,944 UK adults found that those who experienced weight discrimination gained more weight than those who did not, on average gaining 0.95kg while those without discrimination lost 0.71kg over four years. This contradicts the common perception that fat shaming might encourage weight loss.
A new study led by University College London found that 40% of women with severe mental illness have suffered rape or attempted rape in adulthood, compared to 7% of the general population. Women with severe mental illness are also more likely to suffer domestic violence, with 69% reporting childhood abuse and 49% reporting adult abuse.
Researchers from UCL and collaborators aim to determine whether numerous small galaxies or rare quasars produce more ultraviolet light. A forthcoming survey will analyze detailed measurements of a million distant quasars to map the neutral hydrogen gas in the universe, revealing its history.
Researchers at UCL used mathematical modeling to find that life's Last Universal Common Ancestor (LUCA) had a 'leaky' membrane, enabling it to harness energy from its surroundings. This discovery answers two big questions in biology: how cells harvest energy and why bacteria and archaea have different cell membranes.
Researchers have discovered a way to efficiently generate and control currents using the magnetic nature of electrons in semi-conducting materials, which could lead to the development of new electronic devices. This approach, known as spintronics, has the potential to outperform traditional technologies with lower power consumption.
New research finds that weight loss significantly improves physical health markers but is less effective in improving mood and overall wellbeing. Participants who lost at least 5% of their initial body weight were more likely to report depressed mood, even after adjusting for serious health issues.
Researchers at UCL developed an equation to predict happiness based on recent rewards, expectations, and neural activity. The study involved 18,420 participants and found that moment-to-moment happiness reflects not just how well things are going but whether they're better than expected.
A study found that goalkeepers dive in the opposite direction of consecutive penalties aimed in the same direction, exploiting the 'gambler's fallacy'. However, kickers failed to capitalize on this pattern, suggesting they focus on their individual kicks rather than the goalkeeper's previous moves.
A recent UCL study discovered that the human habenula, a tiny part of the brain, tracks expectations about negative events like painful electric shocks. This tiny region suppresses dopamine, driving motivation, and its activation can signal how bad outcomes are expected.
The study found that invertebrate numbers decreased by 45% over a 35-year period, with habitat loss and climate disruption being major contributors. This decline compromises nature's ability to provide essential services such as pollination, pest control, nutrient cycling, and water filtration.
A rare gene variant associated with a threefold risk of bipolar disorder, a two-to-three-fold increased risk of schizophrenia or alcohol dependence, and a threefold risk of developing the condition. The variant is found in approximately one in every 200 people.
Researchers from UCL and the Mayo Clinic argue that labelling people with moderately high blood sugar as pre-diabetic has no health benefits. The term could create significant burdens on healthcare systems without conferring any long-term health benefits.
A study published in Nature Communications found that around half of the genes influencing reading ability also impact mathematics skills. The research suggests a substantial overlap in genetic variants affecting both traits, with complex interactions between genetics and learning environment playing a crucial role.
Researchers at University College London have discovered a way to block the movement of cancer cells by targeting chemical signals that trigger their transformation into an invasive, liquid-like state. This breakthrough could lead to innovative techniques to stop cancer cells from spreading and causing secondary tumours.
Researchers identified an epigenetic signature in blood samples from women with a BRCA1 mutation that increased cancer risk and lower survival rates. The same signature was found in women without the mutation who developed breast cancer, indicating it may predict breast cancer risk several years before diagnosis.
Researchers have identified a critical molecular pathway, the ERK pathway, that determines whether an adult cell can be reprogrammed and aid in limb regeneration. Constantly active ERK pathway may unlock new therapies for human diseases.
An international team of astronomers discovered a clumpy gas stream flowing quickly outward and blocking 90 percent of the X-rays emitted by the supermassive black hole at the center of the galaxy NGC 5548. The researchers believe this activity provides new insights into the interaction of supermassive black holes and their host galaxies.
Researchers have created a new spectrum for 'hot' methane that can be used to detect the molecule at temperatures above Earth's, potentially identifying signs of extraterrestrial life. The model has been tested and verified by reproducing the way in which methane absorbs light on failed stars.
A class of leukemia drug has been found to stimulate immunity against multiple cancer types. Inhibiting the p110δ enzyme helps boost the body's immune system to kill tumor cells.
Researchers create systematic map of pain acuity distribution across body, revealing surprising similarities with touch sensitivity. The study uses lasers to cause pain in healthy volunteers and a rare patient lacking touch sensation, demonstrating that pain acuity does not rely on touch.
A new study from University College London reveals that certain human immune genes, known as APOBEC, can mutate DNA in response to HPV infection, leading to cancer. The research identified specific mutations in the PIK3CA gene, which is a common target for new cancer drugs.
Researchers have developed a new treatment for drug-resistant epilepsy that suppresses seizures 'on demand' with a pill, similar to painkillers. The treatment uses genetic modification of brain cells to make them sensitive to a normally inactive compound, avoiding side effects and permanent brain alterations.
Researchers analyzed nearly 3,000 cod bones from 95 excavations in and around London, identifying a sudden change in the origin of the fish during the early 13th century. This shift indicates the onset of a large-scale import trade, revolutionizing the local fishing industry.
A large UCL survey found that e-cigarette users are 60% more likely to quit smoking than those using willpower alone or over-the-counter nicotine replacement therapies. The study suggests that e-cigarettes could play a positive role in reducing smoking rates, but the strongest evidence remains for NHS stop-smoking services.
Researchers at University College London have identified a measurable quantity that labels distinct phases of quantum systems with boundary phase transitions. This discovery opens up new possibilities for studying phase transitions in quantum physics and may help determine new phases of matter.
A study analyzing Eurovision voting patterns over two decades found that cultural and geographical factors drive support for certain countries' acts, rather than prejudice. The analysis revealed clusters of countries with similar voting behaviors and identified the probability of each country belonging to a particular bloc.
A new UCL study found that children under 14 are more prone to inattentional blindness, failing to notice their environment while focused on simple tasks. This can lead to increased risk of accidents and safety hazards, especially for young children crossing roads or engaging in activities.
The collaboration aims to overcome barriers in delivering antibodies directly into the brain to treat dementia, Alzheimer's disease and other neurological disorders. The project will utilize Nanomerics' Molecular Envelope Technology to develop effective treatments with potential to improve patient adherence and quality of life.
Researchers found that initial support, such as donations or endorsements, significantly increased the likelihood of subsequent successes. These findings suggest that artificial help can catalyse further achievements, supporting the idea that 'success breeds success.'
Researchers will simulate the impact of tsunamis on urban areas, modeling how water channels around clusters of buildings. The facility aims to produce engineering guidelines to mitigate future tsunami impacts. The research has far-reaching implications for building and urban design in tsunami-prone areas.
A new study found that genetic influence on body weight increases from 43% at age 4 to 82% at age 10, with environmental factors playing a lesser role. The research used twin and genomic analyses to demonstrate the rising association with BMI.
Researchers used functional near infra-red spectroscopy to track infant brain development and cognitive function in Africa. The study found similar responses in African and Western infants, enabling the use of a new technique to monitor brain activity from birth.
A team of scientists at UCL and King's College London has developed a technique to restore function to paralyzed muscles using light-activated neurons created from stem cells. The method involves transplanting these motor neurons into injured nerve branches, which can be controlled by adjusting blue light pulses.
The new center aims to develop computational methods to understand how human cognition works and how it becomes disrupted in psychiatric disorders. The centre will combine advanced brain imaging with computational approaches to identify causes of mental health problems and develop personalized treatments.
A new UCL study found that consuming seven or more portions of fruit and vegetables per day significantly reduces the risk of death from any cause, cancer, and heart disease. The research also reveals that vegetables have a stronger protective effect than fruit, with each daily portion reducing overall risk of death by 16%.
Disadvantaged children attending high-quality early childhood programs exhibit improved health outcomes as adults, including lower cardiovascular and metabolic disease risks. These findings support the importance of early intervention in preventing costly adult chronic diseases.
A study analyzing 300 summer Arctic sea ice forecasts found that predictions are accurate when conditions follow the observed downward trend, but less so when they deviate from it. Improving forecasting by incorporating sea ice thickness and concentration data may enhance seasonal predictions.
Researchers at UCL found that pericytes, which control blood flow in capillaries, die around strokes causing lasting brain cell damage. New treatments targeting these cells may help restore normal blood flow and prevent ongoing slow damage after a stroke.
A new study by University College London researchers found that 16-month-old children sleeping less than 10 hours a day consumed an average of 105kcal more per day than those sleeping over 13 hours, contributing to weight gain in early childhood.
Researchers at UCL have created a new antibacterial material using simple dyes and nanogold particles, showing potent bactericidal effects even in total darkness. The innovative surface technology has potential to reduce hospital-acquired infections.
Researchers discovered a specialized mechanism for spatial self-awareness that combines visual cues with body motion, triggering reactions before the conscious brain processes them. This 'visuomotor binding' mechanism is less prone to distractions and may be linked to schizophrenia symptoms and difficulties with prosthetic limbs.
Scientists have successfully fabricated and studied thin films of spin ice, a material known for its unique properties. The researchers found that the normal entropy within these films disappears at about half a degree above absolute zero, restoring the Third Law of Thermodynamics.
Researchers have discovered the mechanism of bacterial type IV secretion, which plays a crucial role in spreading antibiotic resistance. The system, uncovered by scientists at UCL and Birkbeck, differs substantially from other bacterial secretion systems and could lead to new tools for genetic modification.
A new UCL study suggests that more educated consumers in middle- and low-income countries make better food choices that mitigate the negative effects of rising wealth on obesity levels. The study found a 14-19% lower risk of obesity among women with secondary or higher education, compared to those with less education.
Researchers at UCL have developed a new technology that can deliver the AMD drug Avastin via eye drops, potentially replacing painful injections. The system uses nanoparticles to transport the drug across biological barriers and could be customized for different medications.