Aging stars stop slowing down as their magnetic field interacts with a wind of particles flowing away from its surface, according to research published in Nature. This discovery challenges previous theories on stellar rotation and has implications for understanding how the Sun influences its local environment, including planets.
A new University of Birmingham study has found that lower levels of antibodies in saliva are associated with an elevated risk of mortality. The research discovered a negative correlation between IgA secretion rate and all-cause mortality rates, with underlying associations to cancer mortality, particularly non-lung cancers.
A new study found reduced grey matter volume in key brain areas of youths with behavioral problems, including the amygdala, insula, and prefrontal cortex. These regions are crucial for decision-making, empathic responses, and emotion regulation.
A five-year trial of progesterone supplements for recurrent miscarriage shows no improvement in outcomes. Despite disappointing results, the PROMISE trial provides valuable insights into potential alternative treatments and highlights the importance of continued research into reducing miscarriage risk.
Researchers have found that a commonly used Type II diabetes medication can effectively clear fatty liver disease from some patients. After a 48-week trial, 4 out of 10 patients showed significant improvement in non-alcoholic steatohepatitis symptoms.
Researchers identified how Salmonella infections trigger thrombosis through inflammation regulation and platelet activation. Thrombosis persisted even after bacteria were cleared from the blood, highlighting a previously unknown pathway involved in sepsis complications.
Researchers have successfully transferred genes from poppies to another species, Arabidopsis thaliana, to prevent self-pollination. This breakthrough could lead to breeding stronger, more resilient crops faster and at lower cost.
A study published in Weather found that fireworks on Guy Fawkes' night can reduce visibility by an average of 25% due to the release of hygroscopic particulate matter. This effect is exacerbated when relative humidity is high, posing significant safety risks for motorist and pedestrian safety.
Researchers identified structural damage between thalamus and primary motor cortex as key barrier for covert awareness and intentional movement in patients with vegetative states. This finding holds promise for development of restorative therapies.
Researchers identified key metabolic changes that occur in patients with myeloma and those at risk of developing the disease. The findings suggest a potential drug target to prevent progression from benign MGUS to cancerous myeloma.
Researchers found evidence of carbonaceous aerosols transported from Asia, deposited in the Arctic over 450 years. They also discovered increased dust levels during warmer periods with strong Arctic Oscillation.
Researchers developed coated silica nanoparticles that can deliver calcium-based compounds and antimicrobials into damaged teeth through microscopic holes. The particles overcome previous aggregation issues, showing promise for restorative treatment of sensitive teeth.
Researchers from the University of Birmingham and NIHR SRMRC investigated the antibacterial activity of acetic acid against key burn wound colonising organisms. They demonstrated that low concentrations of acetic acid can kill bacteria, including those resistant to antibiotics.
A new study reveals that smokers are up to 3.6 times more likely to lose their teeth, with male smokers being the most affected. Quitting smoking can reduce this risk, although it may take over a decade for ex-smokers to regain the same level of dental health as non-smokers.
Researchers at the University of Birmingham found that drinking 500ml of water 30 minutes before main meals led to significant weight loss in obese adults. Participants who preloaded with water lost an average of 1.3kg over 12 weeks, compared to 0.8kg in those who did not.
Scientists discovered that the end of the Snowball Earth period was marked by regular ice advances and retreats, contrary to previous thought. The constant changes were caused by the Earth wobbling on its axis, leading to subtle shifts in climate change.
Researchers found a potential biomarker, limonene, in breath samples of patients with cirrhosis, which gradually dropped after liver transplant. The study aims to develop a non-invasive diagnostic tool for early-stage liver disease diagnosis.
Researchers found that wild bonobos use high-pitched 'peep' calls in various contexts, including positive and negative situations, echoing human infant vocalisations. The study suggests an evolutionary transition from functionally fixed animal vocalisations to human-like communication.
The Sochi Winter Olympics have left a legacy of oversized infrastructure and inflated prices, paid for almost exclusively by the public. The total cost of the Games is $55bn, with sports-related costs alone amounting to $16bn, more than twice the official figure.
Researchers at University of Birmingham discovered how mutated FLT3 genes reprogram blood stem cells, leading to abnormal cell production. The findings provide hope for developing new treatments for acute myeloid leukaemia.
A study by the University of Birmingham found that Chinese children cared for mainly by their grandparents are more than twice as likely to be overweight or obese. Grandparents often indulge and protect their grandkids, leading to unhealthy eating habits and a lack of physical activity.
Researchers developed a smart sensor chip that can detect subtle differences in glycoprotein molecules, improving prostate cancer diagnosis accuracy and reducing false positives. The technology focuses on the carbohydrate part of the molecule, which is essential for detecting disease.
Researchers found that city bats are less likely to cross tree lines in brightly lit areas, especially larger gaps. This barrier effect varies with gap width, with narrower gaps more tolerable than wider ones.
Researchers found significant similarities between oxytocin and alcohol's behavioral effects, including increased aggression and risk-taking. This study highlights the darker side of oxytocin, which can suppress social inhibitors like fear and anxiety, leading to more impulsive decisions.
A study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism found that an enzyme called 11β-HSD1 is increased in muscles of older women, leading to reduced grip strength and insulin resistance. The researchers believe inhibiting this enzyme could hold the key to preventing or reversing muscle wasting associated with aging.
Researchers at the University of Birmingham have found a combination of a cholesterol-lowering drug and a contraceptive steroid to be effective in treating various cancers. The treatment, known as BaP, blocks an enzyme crucial to cancer cell growth and has shown promising results in early stage clinical trials.
A new species of dinosaur, Chilesaurus diegosuarezi, has been discovered in Chile with a mix of characteristics from different groups of dinosaurs. The plant-eating theropod has a small skull and feet similar to long-necked dinosaurs, challenging previous understanding of evolutionary divergence.
A team from the University of Birmingham identified a novel pathway regulating immune cell movement during inflammation. The study shows that beneficial effects are lost in diseases such as diabetes and arthritis, and during normal aging. This discovery may lead to new therapies targeting this pathway.
A new study using brain imaging shows that intentional recall can lead to the suppression of competing memories, altering their accessibility. The research found that remembering dynamically changes which aspects of our past remain available, and this mechanism is not limited to specific memory types.
Researchers at the University of Birmingham have developed a method to genetically engineer immune cells to combat Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC), a third most common cancer in Chinese males. The engineered T-cells use Epstein-Barr virus presence to fight NPC, offering a promising new treatment approach.
Researchers have discovered a new mechanism of antibiotic resistance in bacterial cells, which could help develop solutions to the growing problem of antibiotic resistance. The study found that a mutation in the efflux pump makes it more efficient at pumping antibiotics out of bacterial cells.
Researchers have identified two urinary biomarkers that can predict bladder cancer-specific survival and guide treatment. The study validated the biomarkers in over 400 clinical samples, showing they are independent predictors of cancer prognosis.
A new study has shown that even the lightest fingertip touch can significantly reduce sway in people with balance issues. The research, led by the University of Birmingham, found that this phenomenon is due to a sensory weighting mechanism that combines individual sensory feedback and motion cues from a partner.
Scientists at the University of Birmingham discovered how a rare fungus, Cryptococcus gattii, can infect healthy individuals by exploiting the body's immune response. The fungus triggers a 'division of labour' in its invading cells, allowing it to establish itself and cause life-threatening infections.
A recent study by the University of Birmingham has found a lack of consistency in assessing patient outcomes in clinical trials. This inconsistency can lead to biased and poor-quality data being used to inform policy decisions.
Researchers from the University of Birmingham have re-dated the end of the Greek Bronze Age to 925-1025 BCE, based on radiocarbon analysis of animal bones and plant remains. This new chronology challenges traditional estimates and has implications for our understanding of ancient civilizations in the Mediterranean.
Researchers discovered a mutated regulator that disrupts blood cell production, leading to leukemia. Removing this regulator restored normal function and offers hope for new treatments.
Experts are calling for increased research into brain injury in sportspeople, including children, due to concerns over Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE) and second impact syndrome. The University of Birmingham is running a study to develop better concussion testing and return-to-play guidelines.
The study found that younger people have a more robust immune response to grief, while elderly people are more likely to experience reduced immune function. The researchers suggest that hormonal supplements could be used to help individuals at risk of stress, but highlight the importance of a strong support network in managing grief.
The Stonehenge Hidden Landscapes Project has discovered hundreds of new archaeological features using remote sensing techniques and geophysical surveys. The project has revealed detailed maps of burial mounds, Bronze Age settlements, and Iron Age fields, providing a new understanding of the development of Stonehenge over 11,000 years.
Researchers have identified 871 wild plant species in China with potential to adapt globally important crops, including rice and wheat. These crop wild relatives (CWR) can improve crop tolerance and nutritional qualities.
Scientists at the University of Birmingham have identified 'hotspots' around the globe where crop wild relatives can be conserved to secure future global food resources. The highest concentration of these species is found in the Middle East's Fertile Crescent, threatening their survival due to climate change and conflict.