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University of Cambridge


Study suggests R rate for tracking pandemic should be dropped in favour of ‘nowcasts’

A new study by University of Cambridge researchers proposes abandoning the R rate for tracking pandemics in favor of nowcasts, which forecast daily new cases and deaths based on growth rates. The Harvey-Kattuman model has already proved accurate and effective in predicting COVID-19 waves and spikes worldwide.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalJournal of The Royal Society Interface·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 28, 2021

Fewer than one in 20 people living with HIV in England expected to be unaware of status by 2025

Researchers estimate that by 2025, fewer than one in 20 people living with HIV in England will be unaware of their status. The study suggests that combination prevention strategies, including HIV testing and early treatment, are working effectively in reducing undiagnosed HIV cases. However, gaps persist, particularly among heterosexua...

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalThe Lancet Public Health·TypeObservational study·DateSep 23, 2021

Rates of infectious disease linked to authoritarian attitudes and governance – study

A new study reveals a strong connection between infection rates and strains of authoritarianism in public attitudes and politics. The research found that the more infectious US cities and states had more authoritarian-leaning citizens, with correlations between higher disease rates and conservative voting patterns.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalJournal of Social and Political Psychology·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 21, 2021

Autistic individuals are more likely to be LGBTQ+

A new study from the University of Cambridge suggests that autistic adults are less likely to identify as heterosexual and more likely to experience a diverse range of sexual orientations. The research found no differences in likelihood of contracting STIs or age of first sexual activity between autistic and non-autistic individuals.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalAutism Research·TypeSurvey·DateSep 20, 2021

World first for AI and machine learning to treat COVID-19 patients worldwide

Researchers developed an AI tool using data from hospitals across four continents to predict oxygen needs of hospital Covid patients anywhere in the world. The study achieved high-quality predictions with a sensitivity of 95% and specificity of over 88%, demonstrating the transformative power of federated learning in healthcare.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature Medicine·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 15, 2021

Have we detected dark energy? Cambridge scientists say it’s a possibility

Researchers at the University of Cambridge suggest that unexplained results from the XENON1T experiment could be attributed to dark energy, rather than dark matter. The study proposes a physical model to explain the findings, which may have originated from dark energy particles produced in the Sun's strong magnetic fields.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalPhysical Review D·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 15, 2021

Spread of Delta SARS-CoV-2 variant driven by combination of immune escape and increased infectivity

The Delta variant's ability to evade neutralizing antibodies and its increased infectivity have contributed to its spread, making vaccination and infection control crucial in the post-vaccination era. The variant was found to be more efficient at replicating and spreading than other variants, giving it a selection advantage.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature·TypeObservational study·DateSep 6, 2021

Nano ‘camera’ made using molecular glue allows real-time monitoring of chemical reactions

A team from the University of Cambridge developed a nano 'camera' that harnesses light within semiconductor nanocrystals to induce electron transfer processes, allowing for the real-time monitoring of chemical reactions. The platform can be used to study various molecules and their potential applications in renewable energy.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature Nanotechnology·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 2, 2021

New class of habitable exoplanets represent a big step forward in the search for life

Astronomers have identified a new class of habitable exoplanets dubbed 'Hycean' which are hot and ocean-covered with hydrogen-rich atmospheres, potentially supporting microbial life. These planets offer a wider habitable zone than Earth-like planets, making them promising candidates for finding biosignatures of life.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 25, 2021

Mathematical model predicts best way to build muscle

A mathematical model developed by researchers at the University of Cambridge can predict the optimum exercise regime for building muscle. The model takes into account individual physiology and optimizes exercise regimes based on user input, promising to maximize athletes' potential.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalBiophysical Journal·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 23, 2021

Europe-wide political divide emerging between cities and countryside – study

A new study reveals a deepening geographical fracture in European societies, with rural areas showing lower trust in politics but higher voting rates. The research suggests that mainstream politicians must address feelings of disconnection from politics and provide economic opportunities to re-engage residents of small towns and villages.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalCambridge Journal of Regions Economy and Society·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 17, 2021

Worsening GP shortages in disadvantaged areas likely to widen health inequalities

A study published by the University of Cambridge found significantly fewer full-time equivalent GPs and total direct patient care staff in deprived areas. Despite some compensation due to increased numbers of nurses, the shortage is likely to widen health inequalities, with limited access to care for those who need it most.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalBJGP Open·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 17, 2021

Pollinators: First global risk index for species declines and effects on humanity

A new global risk index highlights the alarming decline of pollinators, which are crucial for food production and ecosystem services. The top causes of pollinator loss include habitat destruction, pesticide use, and climate change, with serious consequences for human populations, particularly in the Global South.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·TypeSystematic review·DateAug 16, 2021

Enabling the next generation of organic solar cells

Researchers at the University of Cambridge have discovered a new way for energy to move in organic materials, allowing for faster conversion of sunlight into electrical power. This fundamental mechanism, called transient exciton delocalization, enables efficient energy transport in organic semiconductors.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 11, 2021

Lab-grown beating heart cells identify potential drug to prevent COVID-19-related heart damage

A team of scientists at the University of Cambridge has developed a lab-grown model of heart cells that mimic the behavior of real heart cells and are vulnerable to SARS-CoV-2 infection. The researchers showed that an experimental peptide drug, DX600, can prevent the virus from entering the heart cells and reduce levels of infection.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalCommunications Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 5, 2021

Scientists reverse age-related memory loss in mice

Researchers at the University of Cambridge and University of Leeds successfully reversed age-related memory loss in mice by manipulating the extracellular matrix of the brain. By restoring the balance of compounds known as chondroitin sulphates, they were able to restore neuroplasticity and alleviate memory deficits.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateJul 22, 2021