A new study estimates that around 4.2 million people die within 30 days of surgery globally, with half of these deaths occurring in low- and middle-income countries. The researchers project that expanding surgical services to address unmet need would add another 1.9 million post-operative deaths annually.
A new study at the University of Birmingham reveals that when retrieving memories, the human brain focuses on the core meaning first and then recalls specific details. This reversed reconstruction process challenges our understanding of how memories are formed and retrieved.
Scientists have found two biomarkers that can be used to identify patients at risk of atrial fibrillation, a heart rhythm disturbance affecting 1.6 million people in the UK. The biomarkers include brain natriuretic peptide and fibroblast growth factor-23.
Researchers have discovered a mechanism that enables flowering plants to 'remember' changes in their environment, triggering flowering in response to stress or seasonal changes. The PRC2 complex, containing the VRN2 protein, detects environmental signals and becomes stable under challenging conditions.
The University of Birmingham has developed an innovative eye drop treatment that rapidly reduces sight-threatening scarring to the surface of the eye. This novel treatment, which consists of a fluid gel loaded with a natural wound-healing protein called Decorin, shows promise in promoting scarless healing and improving corneal transpar...
Researchers at the University of Birmingham have discovered a protein fragment called ?N-JARID2 that regulates skin cell differentiation. The finding holds promise for developing new gene therapies for psoriasis and other skin conditions caused by hyper-proliferation of skin cells.
A study published in Nature Human Behaviour found that people access memories 'forward' by recalling older information first and skipping episodic blocks. The researchers also discovered that memory replay does not occur at a constant speed but changes flexibly during recall.
A study by the University of Birmingham found that regular weighing at home and simple tips to curb excess eating and drinking can prevent people from gaining weight over Christmas. Participants who weighed themselves daily and followed weight management tips lost an average of 0.49kg compared to those in the comparison group.
A systematic review of research has concluded that visual inspection alone is not sufficient to diagnose skin cancer accurately. Key findings include the limited effectiveness of smartphone applications in detecting melanomas and the potential benefits of dermoscopy and teledermatology.
A recent study has discovered over 6,000 antibiotic resistance genes in bacteria that inhabit the human gut, revealing a vast and previously unknown diversity of resistant genes. The researchers used a novel method to identify these genes by comparing their three-dimensional structures to proteins produced by gut bacteria.
The UK has seen a significant drop in twin stillbirth rates from 11 to six per thousand total births between 2013 and 2016. This decline is attributed to increased recognition of fetal risks in identical twins and improvements in clinical guidelines and in-utero treatments.
A new study published in The Lancet found that standard chemotherapy with cisplatin is more effective than cetuximab in treating HPV-positive throat cancer. Patients who received cisplatin had a significantly higher two-year overall survival rate and lower cancer recurrence rates compared to those on cetuximab.
Scientists at the University of Birmingham have identified critical mutations that feed through to genes controlling cell identity and behavior in acute myeloid leukaemia, paving the way for personalized treatment. The research could lead to a different drug being given to treat each form of AML, increasing survival rates for blood can...
A new study found that 11.7% of children with tonsils removed had sufficient sore throats to justify surgery, while many others who needed the procedure were not having it done. The study suggests that tonsillectomies are often unnecessary and cost the NHS £36.9m annually.
New research reveals that shallow near-shore environments were crucial for the evolution of early fish species around 480 million years ago. The study, published in Science, identifies these fragile seashores as the 'cradle of evolution' where primitive fish first appeared and diversified.
A new study reveals that urban farmers in African cities are unknowingly spreading disease by irrigating vegetables with wastewater rich in virulent human pathogens. The risk of spreading bacteria and antimicrobial resistance among humans and animals is high, posing a significant health threat to millions of people.
New research reveals identical brain mechanisms trigger memories during both sleep and wakefulness, suggesting a crucial role for sleep in stabilizing memories. The study provides further evidence of the beneficial effects of sleep on memory formation and offers insights into how memories are formed.
A team of researchers, led by Professor Davide Calebiro, will investigate the function of G protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) to develop new therapies for diseases like heart failure and diabetes. They will use innovative microscopy methods to directly visualize individual receptors in living cells.
Researchers analyzed 8.9 billion tweets to track the origin and spread of new words in American English, revealing 5 key regions: West Coast, Northeast, Mid Atlantic, Deep South, and Gulf Coast. African American English was a major source of lexical innovation.
The University of Birmingham will conduct world-class research into a common heart condition in disadvantaged populations worldwide. The goal is to prevent and treat atrial fibrillation, which increases stroke risk five times.
A new study reveals that getting smaller was crucial for mammalian evolution, reducing jaw stresses while maintaining feeding power. The research used CT scans and computer simulations to analyze fossil skulls and lower jaws, providing a new explanation for the mammalian jaw's unique structure.
Researchers at University of Birmingham have discovered a new high-capacity sodium-ion battery that can rival lithium-based rechargeable batteries. The breakthrough, published in Journal of the American Chemical Society, could lead to more sustainable and affordable electric vehicles.
A new study suggests that Functional Family Therapy (FFT), a widely used treatment for troubled young people, may not be as effective as claimed. The review of existing research found mixed quality evidence and high rates of reoffending with FFT.
A new study suggests that Democrats' greater inclusiveness and willingness to integrate members of other groups into their party may have weakened party cohesion, ultimately leading to Hillary Clinton's election defeat. Republicans, on the other hand, displayed solidarity only with their own group, enabling them to act as a single entity.
A new study published in Scientific Reports suggests that severe trauma from war, torture, and natural disasters may not necessarily lead to posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in refugees. However, those who struggle to control their memories are more likely to exhibit symptoms of PTSD.
Researchers have made significant progress in developing eye drops to treat age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a leading cause of blindness. The eye drops use cell-penetrating peptides to deliver therapeutic drugs to the retina, offering a convenient and potentially cost-effective alternative to injections.
A new study reveals that warming streams and rivers can significantly increase greenhouse gas emissions, particularly in agricultural lowland areas. The research highlights the need for land management strategies to reduce sediment rich in organic matter content and decrease groundwater abstraction.
A University of Birmingham study found that GPs have improved diagnosis and treatment of atrial fibrillation, preventing 7,000 strokes annually. The proportion of patients prescribed anticoagulants increased from 35% to 75% between 2000 and 2016.
The University of Birmingham report forecasts a five-fold increase in global cooling appliance demand to 14 billion by 2050, driven by growing population and urbanization. To meet this demand sustainably, the report emphasizes the need for a system-led approach, harnessing waste resources and adopting novel technologies.
Skin cancer app studies reveal flaws in technology, including failure to recognize rare cancers and scaly areas. Researchers urge caution when using these apps until adequate validation is achieved.
Researchers highlight tragic case of baby Noah's death due to vitamin D deficiency and advocate for simplified guidance, mandatory monitoring, and food fortification. Current UK recommendations are deemed outdated and overly complex, putting dark-skinned individuals at risk.
Researchers found that people with resolved atrial fibrillation are nearly as likely to experience a stroke as those with ongoing atrial fibrillation. The study suggests that patients with atrial fibrillation should continue treatment even after their heart rhythm appears to have returned to normal.
A six-year study by the University of Birmingham has found that analyzing spinal fluid from patients with MS at diagnosis can predict future disease progression. The research identified a distinct immune response, characterized by an unusual antibody ratio, which may indicate early trigger and risk of disability.
Researchers at the University of Birmingham have identified a unique type of immune cell that can combat viral infections. These unconventional V-delta-2 lymphocytes are present at birth and increase in numbers during viral infections, becoming licensed to kill and accessing tissues to detect and destroy virally infected target cells.
Research found that higher aerobic fitness levels are directly related to lower incidence of 'tip-of-the-tongue' states, a common language failure in older adults. Regular exercise was shown to improve language skills and reduce negative consequences for older adults.
Researchers at the University of Birmingham have discovered a unique mechanism driving the spread of Cryptococcosis, a rare and deadly fungal infection. The 'division of labour' process relies on extracellular vesicles to coordinate behavior between individual fungal cells.
Researchers at the University of Birmingham have discovered a way for plants to 'hedge their bets' by germinating seeds at different times, reducing variability in agriculture. By understanding this process, farmers may be able to increase potential yields and address agronomic challenges.
Research finds drained fertile peatlands and irrigated organic soils boost nitrous oxide emission significantly. Conservation of fens and swamps is crucial to reduce climate change impact.
Research found that women with PCOS are two to three times more likely to develop non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, regardless of their weight. High testosterone levels also increase the risk, even in normal-weight women.
Atrial fibrillation affects millions worldwide, increasing risk of stroke and heart failure. A new study finds Apixaban and VKAs safe for treatment during catheter ablation procedures, with a significant improvement in cognitive function. The results will reassure clinicians that continuous Apixaban is an effective alternative to VKAs.
Researchers found that regular exercise can slow down muscle mass loss, body fat, cholesterol levels, and immune system decline with age. The study of amateur cyclists aged 55-79 showed no signs of aging in their muscles, bodies, or immune systems.
A new study reveals that primitive air-breathing fish, such as the South American lungfish, exhibit similar mechanisms controlling the heart as mammals. These mechanisms include a periodic breathing pattern and respiratory sinus arrhythmia (RSA), which enables the fish to maximize oxygen uptake during air-breathing bouts.
Researchers have developed a new method to estimate ancient atmospheric water content based on fossil plant leaf waxes, which can help predict future climate changes. By studying the chemistry of these compounds in soils and sediments, scientists can reconstruct past climates and test their understanding of global warming.
Researchers found that patients with regularly monitored blood pressure at home had significantly lower blood pressure after 12 months compared to those managed in the clinic. The use of telemonitoring also showed promise for faster and more efficient blood pressure reduction.
Researchers have pinpointed a single genetic code variation in African Salmonella that enables its virulence, contributing to devastating bloodstream infections. The discovery has implications for understanding and combating this dangerous strain of bacteria.
Researchers found higher levels of leisure-time physical activity linked to lower diabetes risk in Chinese adults with impaired fasting glucose. A 12-25% reduction in diabetes risk was observed with increased physical activity levels, highlighting the urgent need for promoting physical activity as a strategy for diabetes prevention.
Patients in low income nations are more likely to develop surgical infections and are infected with bacteria resistant to medicines. The study found a significant link between antibiotic use and infection, highlighting an urgent need to tackle surgical infection globally.
A new scanning technology could almost halve the number of liver biopsies carried out on people with fatty liver disease. The study used digital image scanning to diagnose liver disease and found it to be superior to other tests in grading disease severity and excluding patients at increased risk.
A new study found that school-based healthy lifestyle interventions did not lead to significant changes in pupils' weight. The WAVES study intervention aimed to support children in keeping their weight at a healthy level by promoting physical activity and healthy eating.
Researchers recommend changes to international guidelines to collect more patient-reported outcomes, improving understanding of treatment impacts on patients' health and quality of life. The updated guidance aims to facilitate high-quality data analysis and reporting, ultimately enhancing patient-centered care.