A systematic review identified approaches to tackle loneliness and social isolation during the pandemic, including robotic dogs, mindfulness, and Tai Chi. The studies showed that these interventions could be effective even with social distancing measures in place.
Scientists at the University of Cambridge have developed a method to communicate with a cloud of 100,000 nuclear quantum bits and sense their behavior using light and an electron. This technique enables the detection of a single quantum bit in the dense cloud with high precision.
A University of Cambridge study found that the fit of a face mask is more important than its material in providing protection against COVID-19. The researchers discovered that even high-performance masks can perform no better than cloth masks if not fitted properly, highlighting the critical role of proper seal in ensuring effectiveness.
A study by the University of Cambridge gathered insights from digital services and experts worldwide to understand the impact of the pandemic on mental health. The findings paint a bleak picture, with millions of people experiencing increased anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts.
A new study by researchers at the University of Cambridge and Royal Holloway found that children who experience certain behavioral challenges, such as hyperactivity and anxiety, are more likely to develop poor mental health in adolescence. The study also showed that children from less affluent backgrounds are more likely to experience ...
Optical systems can combine light by multiplying wave functions instead of adding them, allowing for the solution of nonlinear problems. The authors suggest guiding system trajectories towards solutions by temporarily changing coupling strengths.
Researchers have discovered a new form of magnetism in magnetic graphene, which could help understand superconductivity. The material's unique properties allow it to remain magnetic even when becoming a conductor under high pressure.
Researchers at the University of Cambridge have developed a new method called Multi-Organoid Patterning and Fusion (MOrPF) to grow miniature versions of organs. The technique enables faster assembly of organoids into airway tubes with uninterrupted passageways, retaining their shape even in the absence of external support.
Researchers observed SARS-CoV-2 mutating in a patient with compromised immune system treated with convalescent plasma. The virus developed key mutations similar to the new UK variant, making it more infectious on cells.
A new study reveals climate change has altered habitats, driving growth of forest habitat favored by bats. This created a suitable environment for many bat species to harbor more types of bat-borne coronavirus, including SARS-CoV-2.
A global team of experts has identified critical areas of focus for biological security, including the role of climate change and social media in detecting emerging pathogens. The list includes major questions on custom DNA synthesis, threats from invasive alien species, and regulation of neurochemistry.
Research at the University of Cambridge found that teaching children to empathise with others significantly improves their creative abilities. The study used a set of engineering design thinking tools to foster empathy in pupils aged 13-14. As a result, creativity scores increased by up to 78% among those who received the intervention.
A University of Cambridge study finds significant evidence of workplace discrimination against disabled teachers, with barriers to career progression and a lack of accommodations. The research highlights the need to recruit more disabled people into teaching, citing their skills, knowledge, and empathy as assets.
A new study of hundreds of human remains in medieval Cambridge reveals that social inequality was 'recorded on the bones' of its residents. The research found that working people had a higher risk of injury compared to those in religious institutions.
Analysis of 33,000 graves reveals a change in Western European burial practices from regionally specific grave goods to standardized, unfurnished burials between the 6th-8th centuries AD. This shift indicates a well-connected Europe with regular contact and exchange of ideas across vast areas.
Researchers from the University of Cambridge have discovered a fossil of the earliest starfish-like animal, Cantabrigiaster fezouataensis, which has features in common with both sea lilies and modern-day starfish. The exceptionally preserved fossil is a missing link for scientists trying to piece together its early evolutionary history.
A new study suggests that low-carbon policies can be balanced to benefit local firms and lower-income families. The researchers found that five policy types had a negative impact on distributional consequences, while others could boost innovation and pave the way for a fairer transition to zero carbon.
Researchers say successive UK governments' approach to obesity policies has been destined to fail. Despite decades of efforts, obesity prevalence in England has not decreased, and inequalities persist.
Researchers have developed a DNA test to identify secondary infections in COVID-19 patients with severe cases, who are at double the risk of developing pneumonia on ventilation. The test allows for faster diagnosis and targeted antibiotic treatment within hours, reducing unnecessary use of antibiotics.
A team of researchers used machine learning to predict how proteins change shape and developed a new approach to study disordered proteins. They found that a key protein implicated in Alzheimer's disease becomes less toxic when it adopts a highly disordered shape.
Researchers found that persistently high insulin levels from mid-childhood are linked with a higher chance of developing psychosis in adulthood. In contrast, an increase in BMI around puberty was linked with a higher chance of depression in adulthood, particularly in girls.
Seventy experts argue that misunderstandings around attachment research are hampering its accurate implementation in family courts. The group outlines three principles from attachment research to guide decision-making, including the child's need for familiar caregivers and the benefits of networks of familiar relationships.
A systematic review of 136 randomised controlled trials found that mindfulness reduces anxiety, depression and stress in most community settings, but with no significant benefit in over one in 20 trials. The findings suggest that individual results may vary depending on factors such as implementation, setting and target group.
A new advanced computing technique enables doctors to take fewer, more accurate tumour biopsies by combining computed tomography (CT) scans with ultrasound images. This method captures the patchwork of different cancer cell types within a tumour, critical for selecting the best treatment.
New research suggests that weathering of rocks at Earth's surface may be weaker in removing greenhouse gases from the atmosphere than previously estimated. The team found an additional source of sodium in river waters across the globe, not from weathered silicate rocks as assumed, but from very old clays being eroded in river catchments.
New research from the University of Cambridge found that patients treated with dexamethasone had a lower chance of favourable recovery at six months compared to those receiving a placebo. The trial enrolled 748 patients with chronic subdural haematoma and showed that fewer patients in the dexamethasone group required repeat surgery.
A team from the University of Cambridge has created an affordable solution for assessing the proper fit of N95 and similar sealing masks, utilizing a simple home aroma diffuser and large plastic bag. This setup can perform similarly to commercial qualitative fit-testing solutions without the high costs associated with them.
Tiny components within cells, such as lysosomes, drive the movement of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), a key organelle responsible for protein production. This discovery has significant implications for understanding and treating neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson's and Alzheimer's.
Researchers found that apathy can signal cognitive decline in people with frontotemporal dementia, even decades before other symptoms appear. The study used brain scans and memory tests to track changes in apathy over time and found that it predicted cognitive problems in individuals with a genetic mutation.
A study by University of Cambridge researchers suggests remdesivir is highly effective against SARS-CoV-2, particularly in patients with impaired immune systems. The drug significantly improves symptoms and virus levels in a patient with XLA, a rare genetic condition that affects antibody production.
A new statistical approach called Ecosystem Accounting allows governments and banks to calculate the worth of natural dividends, including fish stocks and carbon sinks. This shift aims to create a more inclusive wealth measurement that accounts for health, skills, and community value.
A no-deal Brexit may lead to exclusion of the UK from 24 European Reference Networks, which provide specialized care for patients with rare diseases. The networks have improved patient outcomes and collaboration among experts; their removal could diminish access to clinical trials and funding.
In a groundbreaking study, gene therapy injection in one eye significantly improved vision in both eyes, with 78% of patients experiencing significant visual improvement. The treatment has shown promise in treating Leber hereditary optic neuropathy (LHON), a blinding condition affecting approximately 1 in 30,000 people.
New lipid residue analyses reveal a dominance of animal products in ancient ceramic vessels from rural and urban settlements of the Indus Civilisation. The study identifies a predominance of non-ruminant animal fats, contradicting previous assumptions about the region's diet.
Researchers from the University of Cambridge discovered a hidden symmetry in quantum systems that allows entangled particles to remain linked despite noise. This finding could lead to the development of ultra-powerful quantum computers by preserving quantum effects in noisy environments.
A new study from the University of Cambridge found a significant increase in depression symptoms among children during the first UK lockdown. The study, which followed 168 children over time, showed that even small increases in emotional problems and anxiety were observed.
A study by University of Cambridge researchers found specific cell functions reactivated in the gut of children with Crohn's Disease. The research provides insight into fundamental molecular mechanisms of human gut development and may lead to childhood-specific treatments.
New research suggests that dolutegravir, a widely used 'wonder drug' for HIV treatment, may not be as effective in patients with resistant strains of the virus. The study found that individuals with efavirenz-resistant mutations were less likely to achieve viral suppression when treated with dolutegravir.
Astronomers have detected fast-moving carbon monoxide gas flowing away from a young, low-mass star, which may provide insight into how our own solar system evolved. The gas is thought to be produced from icy comets being vaporised in the star's asteroid belt.
Researchers at the University of Cambridge found that domperidone, an anti-nausea medication, can significantly reduce how much volunteers look away from disgusting images. The study suggests that stabilizing the stomach's electrical signals may be a key cause of disgust avoidance.
New research from the University of Cambridge shows that targeting the education of the world's poorest children and marginalized girls can significantly improve the attainment of all young people. The study found that interventions like CAMFED's bursaries for disadvantaged girls lead to notable academic improvements, including improve...
New research reveals significant racial disparities in murder victimisation rates, with Black people facing over five times the risk of White British people. Researchers call for more accurate crime data to inform policing strategies and promote fact-informed dialogue with communities.
A new computer vision app developed by University of Cambridge engineers allows easier monitoring of blood glucose levels in people with diabetes. The app uses a smartphone camera to read glucose meter data, eliminating the need for manual input or internet connectivity.
A new study found that noradrenaline helps us adapt to uncertain situations by allowing rapid learning and adjusting our behavior. In contrast, Propranolol blocks the action of noradrenaline, making people more reliant on past experiences in the face of uncertainty.
Research finds no direct link between early language environment and literacy skills at age 11, but suggests identifying 'learning pathways' during primary school can help teachers devise personalized strategies to support children who fell behind. The study used data from over 7,000 children to map out the interdependencies between ea...
A recent study found that mammals, birds, and amphibians have lost an average of 18% of their natural habitat range due to land use changes and climate change. The loss could increase to 23% by 2100 in a worst-case scenario.
Scientists have used gene therapy to regenerate damaged nerve fibers in the eye, potentially leading to new treatments for glaucoma. The technique stimulated regeneration and protected retinal neurons from cell death, offering hope for protecting vision loss.
Researchers uncovered the SARS-CoV-2 genome's 'origami' structure, revealing long-distance RNA interactions critical for replication. This discovery could lead to targeted therapeutics and inform new treatments for COVID-19.
A team of researchers has identified a mechanism to target amyloid-beta, a disordered protein involved in Alzheimer's disease. By designing drugs that bind to the protein in its disordered state, they hope to reduce toxic cluster formation and develop new treatments.
A study in mice confirmed in human samples shows that the brain is protected against infection by immune cells from the gut. The meninges form an impermeable barrier preventing immune cells from entering the brain, but plasma cells secrete antibodies to defend the perimeter of the brain.