Reprogramming of immune cells shown to fight off melanoma
A new method of modifying our immune system has been demonstrated in a study published in Advanced Science, which could help treat skin cancer.
University of Bristol
Timely study on rising groundwater offers hope for drought-stricken East Africa
Researchers found increasing water storage in recent decades, despite declining long rains season, which points to a potential silver lining for climate adaptation. Groundwater may support increasingly food and water insecure rural populations in the Horn of Africa drylands.
Eco-labels on menu options prompt diners to make more sustainable choices, new research finds
Researchers found that adding eco-friendly ratings on menu items increased the likelihood of diners choosing more sustainable options. The study showed a significant increase in sustainable food choices, particularly among those already motivated to act sustainably.
Seaweed-based battery powers confidence in sustainable energy storage
Researchers have developed a strong seaweed-based separator to prevent dendrite growth in sodium-metal batteries, increasing storage capacity and efficiency. The breakthrough paves the way for greener and more efficient energy storage systems, reducing reliance on scarce materials like lithium.
Jurassic ichthyosaurs divided food resources to co-exist, researchers find
Early Jurassic ichthyosaur juveniles showed predatory specializations, with physical differences in their snouts indicating distinct diets. The study used CT scans and biomechanical testing to confirm that the slender-snouted ichthyosaurs had a quick but weak bite, while the broad-snouted ichthyosaurs had a slow but powerful bite.
SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalJournal of Anatomy·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 3, 2022
Stone spheres could be from Ancient Greek board game
Archaeologists from the University of Bristol have found a pattern in the distribution of ancient stone spheres across the Aegean and Mediterranean. The spheres fit two major clusters, suggesting they were used as counters for a board game. This discovery provides new insights into social interaction in the Bronze Age Aegean.
SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalJournal of Archaeological Science Reports·TypeObservational study·DateSep 30, 2022
Dead fish breathes new life into the evolutionary origin of fins and limbs
A fossil discovery has revealed that ancient fish possessed paired fins, challenging the current understanding of vertebrate fin evolution. The findings suggest that these fins first evolved as a continuous head-to-tail precursor, which later differentiated into pectoral and pelvic fins.
Armored worm reveals the ancestry of three major animal groups
A 518-million-year-old fossilized worm named Wufengella has shed light on the evolution of three major animal groups: brachiopods, phoronids, and bryozoans. The discovery reveals that these ancient animals shared a common ancestor with segmented worms.
New research shows U.S. Republican politicians increasingly spread news on social media from untrustworthy sources
A study analyzing millions of tweets reveals that Republican Congress members share more links to untrustworthy sources, compared to their European counterparts. This trend is particularly concerning given the upcoming US midterm elections and the role of social media in shaping public perceptions.
No evidence that dehorning black rhinos negatively impacts the species’ reproduction or survival, study finds
A study by the University of Bristol and Namibian Ministry found no statistically significant differences in population growth factors between dehorned and horned black rhinos. The research suggests that dehorning is not a hindrance to black rhino reproduction or survival, reassuring its use as an anti-poaching deterrent.
SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalEuropean Journal of Wildlife Research·TypeObservational study·DateSep 21, 2022
Pioneering research using bacteria brings scientists a step closer to creating artificial cells with lifelike functionality
Researchers have developed a method to build complex synthetic cells using living bacteria, capable of producing energy-rich molecules and synthesizing RNA and proteins. The protocells' inherited bacterial components remained active, enabling the construction of self-sustainable ATP production systems.
Insects struggle to adjust to extreme temperatures making them vulnerable to climate change, study finds
Researchers found that insects have a weak ability to acclimate to high temperatures, with only small compensations of 10-15°C. Juvenile insects show greater resilience, but this may be limited to specific critical periods. The study highlights the need for further research on insect responses to climate change.
Earliest land animals had fewer skull bones than fish – restricting their evolution, scientists find
Researchers discovered that tetrapods had more complex connections between skull bones than fish, limiting their evolution for millions of years. This complexity resulted in a single, consolidated skull unit, whereas fish ancestors had multiple distinct sections.
SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalScience Advances·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 9, 2022
Neolithic culinary traditions uncovered
Scientists have uncovered evidence of cereal cooking, dairy products and meat-based dishes in ancient pots from Scottish crannogs. Cereal biomarkers were detected in one-third of pots, providing the earliest biomolecular evidence for cereals in absorbed pottery residues.
Pioneering mathematical formula paves way for exciting advances in health, energy, and food industry
The new equation developed by University of Bristol scientists can be used to model accurately particle motion through porous materials like biological tissues, polymers, rocks, and sponges. This could lead to exciting advances in medical procedures, natural gas extraction, and plastic packaging production.
Study calls for change in guidance about eating fish during pregnancy
A study analyzing over 4,131 pregnant mothers found that the essential nutrients in fish can protect against mercury content and that frequency of fish consumption is a more important factor than type. The researchers argue for revising current advice warning pregnant women not to eat certain types of fish.
Dolphins form largest alliance network outside humans, study finds
Male bottlenose dolphins in Shark Bay form complex alliances to increase access to females and reproductive success. Their multi-level alliance network, the largest outside humans, shows cooperative relationships can emerge without unique human features.
SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 29, 2022
Sexual enjoyment following childbirth is not altered by different delivery methods, research suggests
A new study found no difference in sexual enjoyment between women who gave birth via caesarean section and those who delivered vaginally. However, women who had a caesarean section were more likely to report sex-related pain at later stages postpartum.
SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalBJOG An International Journal of Obstetrics & Gynaecology·TypeObservational study·DateAug 22, 2022
Scientists relieved to discover ‘curious’ creature with no anus is not earliest human ancestor
Scientists have discovered that Saccorhytus, a microscopic creature thought to be an early human ancestor, is actually part of a different family tree. The analysis revealed complex spines around its mouth and a lack of anus, indicating it is an ecdysoszoan, a group containing arthropods and nematodes.
Weird and wonderful world of fungi shaped by evolutionary bursts, study finds
Scientists at the University of Bristol discovered that fungal diversity stems from evolutionary increases in multicellular complexity. The study found that fungal disparity has evolved episodically through time, with greater morphological variety emerging after the emergence of multicellular fungi and complex fruiting bodies.
SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 15, 2022
Increase in non-COVID-19 respiratory infections predicted this winter
A new study published in The Lancet Regional Health – Europe found that over 55% of respiratory disease hospitalisations during the pandemic's peak were caused by non-SARS-CoV-2 infections. Non-COVID-19 respiratory infections are expected to increase this winter, posing a significant burden on healthcare systems.
Robot helps reveal how ants pass on knowledge
Scientists created a robot that mimics rock ants' one-to-one tuition to understand teaching methods. The study found the robot successfully taught route to an apprentice ant, which then learned and led others, revealing key elements of teaching in these ants.
SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·TypeObservational study·DateAug 9, 2022
Volcanic super eruptions are millions of years in the making – followed by swift surge, scientists find
Scientists have discovered that volcanic super eruptions occur when huge accumulations of magma deep in the Earth's crust move rapidly to the surface, disrupting pre-existing rock. This process takes place over millions of years, but the magma disrupts the crust and then erupts in just a few decades.
New research could lead to simple blood test for brain tumours
Researchers at University of Bristol developed mathematical models to assess biomarkers for detecting glioblastomas, a type of brain cancer. The study found that lowering the current biomarker threshold could lead to earlier detection using blood tests.
Researchers reveal how an insect-eating plant uses rain energy to power its traps
The Slender Pitcher Plant's springboard trapping mechanism is powered by extrinsically sourced energy from falling raindrops. The unique geometry of the plant's tubular pitcher wall and hanging lid maximizes impact energy transmission into downward movement.
New DNA repair-kit successfully fixes hereditary disease in patient-derived cells
A new DNA repair-kit successfully fixed genetic mutations causing Steroid Resistant Nephrotic Syndrome (SRNS) in patient-derived kidney cells. The kit, developed by University of Bristol scientists, uses a modified baculovirus to deliver larger DNA pieces and build them into human genomes.
Famine and disease drove the evolution of lactose tolerance in Europe
A new study finds that famine and disease, not increased milk consumption, led to the evolution of lactose tolerance in European populations. Prehistoric people consumed milk extensively, but it wasn't until around 1,000 BC that the genetic trait for lactase persistence became common.
Concerns about effects of fertility treatment on children’s development are unwarranted, large study suggests
A large study suggests that differences in growth, weight, and body fat levels among children conceived through fertility treatment are small and not apparent by late adolescence. The study found minimal health implications from these differences.
SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalJournal of the American Medical Association·TypeObservational study·DateJul 26, 2022
Feeding dogs raw meat associated with increased presence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria
Two studies found that dogs fed on a diet of raw meat were more likely to excrete antibiotic-resistant E. coli in their faeces. The research suggests that not feeding raw meat to dogs may help reduce the circulation of critically important antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalJournal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy·TypeObservational study·DateJul 20, 2022
Environmental stability on Earth allowed marine biodiversity to flourish
A new model reconstructs marine animal diversity from 550 million years ago to present, revealing long-term stability and development of biodiversity hotspots. The findings support the idea that ecosystems can support high levels of diversity, but regions hosting hotspots may be close to their limit.
People from low socioeconomic backgrounds could reduce chronic kidney disease risk with regular exercise, study suggests
A study published in The American Journal of Medicine found that regular physical activity can substantially reduce the risk of chronic kidney disease in individuals from lower socioeconomic backgrounds. Participants with higher levels of fitness showed a significantly lower risk of developing the disease, even among those with low soc...
SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalThe American Journal of Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateJul 12, 2022
Habitat shifts affect brain structure in Amazonian butterflies, according to study
Scientists at the University of Bristol found that habitat differences in Amazonian rainforests predict changes in brain structure, particularly in areas processing visual information. The study used 160 samples across 16 species and highlights the importance of visual ecology in shaping entire animal communities.
Plankton will store more carbon as Earth’s climate warms – but storage beyond the end of the century is uncertain
Researchers predict plankton will store more carbon in the coming century due to climate warming. However, uncertainty remains for storage beyond the end of the century, which could impact future climate change.
SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateJul 11, 2022
Motherhood is equal to partner absence as a cause of economic disadvantage in single mothers
New research by Professor Susan Harkness reveals that motherhood earning penalties have a significant impact on the economic wellbeing of single mothers. The study found that labour market penalties, cost of partner absence and child-related increases in financial needs combine to negatively affect single mothers' income.
Infectivity of airborne SARS-CoV-2 could decrease by 90% within 20 minutes of exhalation, new laboratory study finds
A laboratory study published in PNAS found that SARS-CoV-2 virus can lose 90% of its infectivity when in aerosol particles within 20 minutes. The loss is strongly dependent on low relative humidity and pH, with a decrease in airborne infectivity observed at levels below 50%.
SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 29, 2022
Knee replacement surgery decreased after NHS policies on patient’s weight were introduced, worsening health inequalities, study finds
New research reveals NHS weight policies are associated with a decline in knee replacement surgery rates, disproportionately affecting less affluent groups. The study found that regions introducing BMI-based policies saw a decrease in surgery, potentially worsening health inequalities.
Shrimps and worms among first animals to recover after largest mass extinction
A new study reveals that bottom burrowing animals were among the first to recover after the end-Permian mass extinction. The research, led by Dr. Xueqian Feng, used ancient sea bed burrows and trails to reconstruct the recovery stages of various animal groups.
“Brain bleeds” in babies first year can lead to long-term sight problems, study finds
Severe brain bleeds in babies have been linked to long-term sight problems, according to a new study. Researchers analyzed data from 32 children who experienced Grade 3 or 4 intraventricular haemorrhage and found that those with more severe bleeding had worse visual outcomes.
SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalDevelopmental Medicine & Child Neurology·TypeObservational study·DateJun 24, 2022
Triassic revolution: Animals grew back faster and smarter after mass extinction
After the Permian mass extinction, life on land and in oceans experienced a 'Triassic revolution' with rapid adaptation and evolution of animals. Animals grew back faster and smarter, with predators becoming meaner and prey adapting new survival strategies.
SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalFrontiers in Earth Science·TypeObservational study·DateJun 20, 2022
Pioneering study shows climate played crucial role in changing location of ancient coral reefs
A pioneering study shows that climate change was the primary driver of the location of ancient coral reefs, which once extended far beyond the tropics. The researchers used habitat modeling and reconstructions of past climates to predict the distribution of suitable environments for coral reefs over the last 250 million years.
Moth wing-inspired sound absorbing wallpaper in sight after breakthrough
Researchers at the University of Bristol have discovered that moth wing scales can absorb up to 87% of incoming sound energy, even when placed on an artificial surface. This finding has huge implications for building acoustics and travel industries, with potential applications for ultrathin sound absorbing panels.
SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society A Mathematical Physical and Engineering Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 14, 2022
Novel host cell pathway hijacked during COVID-19 infection uncovered by Bristol researchers
A team of scientists from the University of Bristol has identified a host cell pathway hijacked by SARS-CoV-2, allowing it to penetrate human cells. The study found that removing a protein complex called ESCPE-1 blocks COVID-19 infection by around 50%.
SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateJun 14, 2022
Study shows people ‘right size’ portions of high-calorie foods
Researchers found people moderate portion sizes of energy-rich meals, indicating a degree of nutritional intelligence. Participants ate smaller portions of high-energy density meals than those with lower energy content.
Exotic tree plantations can disturb local wildlife, researchers find
Research finds that exotic tree plantations can affect the biodiversity of dung beetles and other insects in neighboring Amazonian forests. The study highlights the importance of considering the proximity to such plantations when restoring tropical forest ecosystems.
SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalForest Ecology and Management·TypeObservational study·DateJun 7, 2022
Breakthrough paves way for photonic sensing at the ultimate quantum limit
A team of physicists has developed a way to perform high precision measurements without relying on special entangled states of light. The breakthrough uses ring resonators, which can be mass manufactured using standard processes, and enables the creation of chip-scale photonic sensors operating at the quantum limit.
Scientists use robots to reveal how predatory fish cope with unpredictable prey
Researchers studied how predators adapt to unpredictable prey by using robotic prey that can flee in different directions. They found that predators can neutralize the benefits of unpredictability by adjusting their own behavior, and that this adaptation is crucial for prey survival.
SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 6, 2022
The right moisturiser for children with eczema is the one that they like to use, study finds
A study has found that there is no single best moisturiser for children with eczema, highlighting the importance of patient education and choice. The trial, funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research, compared four types of moisturisers and found that reactions were common regardless of type.
SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalThe Lancet Child & Adolescent Health·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMay 23, 2022
Study shows children’s physical activity levels fell below national guidelines in wake of pandemic
New research shows that by the end of 2021, only a third of UK children met the national recommended physical activity guidelines. The study found that on average, 10-11-year-olds took part in just 56 minutes of moderate to vigorous intensity physical activity during weekdays.
SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalInternational Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity·DateMay 15, 2022
Research shows future super cyclones would expose vastly greater numbers of people in most vulnerable parts of the world to extreme flooding
A new study reveals that future super cyclones will disproportionately affect populations in South Asia, particularly India, with increased exposure to extreme flooding. If greenhouse gas emissions continue at current levels, over 250% of India's population may experience flooding exceeding 1 meter by 2050.
Scientists identify the most extreme heatwaves ever recorded globally
A new study reveals the most intense heatwaves ever recorded globally, exposing some extreme weather events that went largely underreported in the past. The research uses climate models to project an increase in heatwave intensity in line with rising global temperatures.