The game, developed by Cambridge sociologists and stem cell scientists, aims to provide a flavor of the lives and labor behind biotechnological advances. Players must balance competing demands, grow cells, and navigate the scientific career ladder while managing relationships and reputation.
Researchers developed time-resolved magnetic laminography technique to visualize magnetic state in three dimensions. This allows for understanding of complex magnetization patterns and behavior, crucial for next-generation data storage and processing.
A new study found that blue tits and great tits learn to avoid toxic foods by watching others' reactions, potentially increasing their survival rate. The birds can decrease the likelihood of bad experiences by observing others' behavior.
Researchers at the University of Cambridge discovered that random gene pulsing plays a key role in establishing spatial structures during biofilm development. This process allows for the distribution of cell states within a population, enabling the formation of complex patterns.
Researchers have uncovered the articulated Neanderthal skeleton of Shanidar Z, which offers unparalleled opportunities to investigate mortuary practices using modern technologies. The find suggests that Neanderthals conducted funerary rites with flowers, challenging previous assumptions about their cultural sophistication.
The researchers create a device that uses surface acoustic waves and industry-compatible fabrication processes to transport individual electrons one by one, recombining them with holes to produce single photons.
A new study found that higher genetic testosterone levels increase the risk of type 2 diabetes by 37% in women and reduce it by 14% in men. Similarly, higher testosterone levels increase the risk of breast and endometrial cancers in women and prostate cancer in men.
When provided with a reliable shrimp dinner, cuttlefish eat fewer crabs during the day, showcasing selective foraging behavior. They adapt quickly to changes in their environment by leveraging past experiences and adjusting their strategy accordingly.
Researchers at University of Cambridge discovered that sand dunes interact with and repel each other as they move, with turbulent swirls controlling the distance between them. The study used a unique experimental facility to observe long-term behavior, challenging existing theories on dune interaction.
Research published in PNAS reveals that brain networks 'come online' during adolescence, allowing teenagers to develop complex adult social skills. However, this process may also increase the risk of mental illness.
Researchers find that bumetanide reduces symptoms of autism by decreasing GABA to glutamate ratio, improving brain function and social communication. The treatment has been shown to be safe and effective in reducing symptoms in children as young as three years old.
A new study suggests that attitudes towards altitude sickness began to form over 200 years ago, with British explorers fueling distrust towards Himalayan peoples. The early 19th-century writings of British surveyors and travellers reveal a complex web of exploitation and competition between Europeans and locals.
A new study using bumblebees found that the sweetest nectar is not always the best; too much sugar slows them down. The researchers discovered that bees prefer nectars with lower sugar concentrations, which are easier to drink and vomit back up.
A new study found that river flow is reduced by an average of 25% within five years and 40% by 25 years after planting trees, with some rivers disappearing completely in a decade. The type of land where trees are planted determines the impact on local water availability.
A systematic review of existing literature found that leaving school and getting a job leads to a decrease in physical activity, while becoming a mother is linked to increased weight gain. As young adults transition into adulthood, they tend to put on weight due to changes in diet and lifestyle habits.
Regular police patrols on platforms reduced reported crime and disorder by 21% in some of London's most crime-ridden stations. The experiment found that the presence of patrolling officers had a minimal impact on crime, with 97% of the measured effect occurring when officers were absent.
A new study reveals that autistic mothers experience higher rates of post-natal depression, with 60% reporting difficulties in coping with domestic responsibilities and creating social opportunities. Despite challenges, many reported prioritizing their child's needs and seeking help when needed.
Researchers tested whether contaminating a fake rubber hand could help people with obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) overcome their contamination fears. The 'rubber hand illusion' technique showed promise in reducing disgust and anxiety levels, paving the way for new treatment options.
A major international study has identified over 350 DNA 'errors' that increase breast cancer risk, providing the most detailed picture yet of how differences in our DNA put some women at greater risk. The researchers found that 191 genes are likely target genes for these variants.
Researchers suggest that Norse hunters over-exploited walrus populations for their tusks, leading to a decline in the animal's population and making it harder for the communities to survive. This finding sheds new light on the mysterious disappearance of Greenland's Norse colonies in the 15th century.
Researchers harness cyber security techniques to give control to those targeted, without resorting to censorship. Algorithms can identify potential hate speech and provide a score for its likelihood, allowing users to view or delete unseen content.
Research from the University of Cambridge found that people living in deprived areas are more likely to be admitted to hospital, with manual workers and those with low educational attainment at highest risk. The study suggests that addressing environmental deprivation is crucial for reducing hospitalization rates.
Researchers at the University of Cambridge have discovered how aquatic larvae of net-winged midges create super-strong suction organs, enabling them to move around on rocks in turbulent water. This study aims to inspire the development of bio-inspired suction cups with improved industrial applications.
Research found that mothers' positive emotions strengthen brain connectivity with their babies', enabling efficient information sharing. This neural connection is crucial for learning and development, particularly in infants of depressed mothers.
Logging in tropical forests depletes vital nutrients, hindering recovery and limiting growth, as found in a new study published in Global Change Biology. The researchers discovered that multiple cycles of logging and regrowth irreversibly remove phosphorus from the forest system.
The study found that while water vapour is common in exoplanet atmospheres, its amounts are surprisingly lower than expected. The results also suggest a depletion of oxygen relative to other elements and provide clues into how these exoplanets may have formed without substantial accretion of ice.
A study published in Nature Medicine reveals a potential 'liquid health check' that uses proteins in blood to predict disease risk and improve preventative medicine. The technique, involving large-scale measurement of proteins, has shown promise for identifying health states and conditions, such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
Researchers use drones to observe fracture formation on Greenland Ice Sheet, finding that meltwater causes formation of new fractures and expansion of dormant ones. The study shows how these chain reactions can trigger catastrophic lake drainages, with significant effects on the ice sheet's instability.
Researchers have identified two brain networks that interact to increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors. These networks involve alterations in structure, function, or biochemistry that lead to excessive negative thoughts and difficulties regulating emotions.
A rat study found that older mothers' male offspring are more likely to develop heart problems due to changes in placental development and function. The placenta plays a crucial role in supporting fetal growth, but older mothers' placentas show detrimental effects on male fetuses.
Scientists identified a protein in fruit flies that can target mitochondria to reverse disease-causing mutations. This discovery may provide clues about treating human mitochondrial diseases, which currently have no cure. Researchers used three-parent flies to study the influence of nuclear DNA on mitochondrial genome competition.
Research finds Galapagos finches' antipredator behavior sustained through generations after threat gone, affecting survival. Urbanization weakens fear response to humans
Researchers from the University of Cambridge found that wind-driven ventilation can increase room ventilation rates by up to 40% compared to temperature-driven ventilation. The study's results suggest that designing buildings with natural ventilation principles can help reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.
The 'Half Earth' conservation proposal aims to spare 50% of the planet for nature, but its impact on human populations is significant. A study estimates that over 1 billion people would be directly affected, primarily in middle-income countries and wealthy nations.
Research reveals an invisible world of organic molecules in freshwater ecosystems that contribute to greenhouse gas emissions. Climate change could increase the diversity of these molecules by 1.5-2.7 times, leading to higher emissions.
Visualizing heat flow in bamboo reveals its natural structure and thermal properties, enabling the development of sustainable and energy-efficient buildings. The study aims to reduce carbon emissions by using renewable materials like bamboo, which can help mitigate climate change.
Scientists at Cambridge discovered that perovskite materials can be more efficient when their chemical compositions are less ordered, simplifying production processes and lowering costs. This is achieved by creating areas with different compositions that trap energized charge carriers, improving solar cell efficiency.
Research from the University of Cambridge suggests that GP practices can effectively manage mild to moderate mental health issues, reducing stigma and waiting times. Specialist treatment remains more cost-effective in the long term, but GPs can provide just as effective care.
A new study by University of Cambridge researchers confirms the 'weekend effect' in hospital mortality, which is attributed to junior doctors' tendency to admit lower-risk patients on weekends. Senior doctors' admitting patterns remain unchanged on weekends and weekdays.
Researchers have identified a molecule called TET1 that enables adult liver cells to regenerate. The discovery provides a potential target for drugs to treat chronic liver diseases, where regeneration is impaired.
Researchers found that switching to dry powder inhalers from metered-dose inhalers could reduce carbon emissions by 58 tonnes annually, while also cutting drug costs. This switch could save the equivalent of 150-400kg of CO2 annually per individual.
A new study by the University of Cambridge found that people with a higher genetic likelihood of autism are more likely to experience childhood maltreatment, self-harm, and suicidal thoughts. The study suggests that individuals with a high number of autistic traits may be vulnerable to adverse outcomes without adequate support.
A study reveals that protected areas worldwide are not reducing anthropogenic pressure on natural habitats, with chronic underfunding and local community disengagement identified as key factors. Satellite data analysis found increases in human encroachment in over 90% of global regions, particularly in the tropics.
Research from the University of Cambridge found an association between increased BMI and significant reductions in cortical thickness, as well as poorer performance at tests measuring executive function. The study used data from 2,700 children aged 9-11 years and controlled for various factors, including age, sex, and parental education.
The study uses low-temperature scanning electron microscopy to image the nanoscale architecture of tree cell walls in their living state. It reveals that macrofibril structures with a diameter exceeding 10 nanometres are common across all trees studied, providing new insights into wood's mechanical properties.
A study found that local people in Nepal's Himalayan regions have mixed views on snow leopard conservation, with some valuing the species' cultural significance and others fearing its impact on livestock. Conservation efforts that benefit both humans and snow leopards are crucial for their coexistence.
Researchers at the University of Cambridge have successfully developed an artificial leaf that can directly produce syngas, a widely-used gas currently made from fossil fuels, in a sustainable way. The device uses sunlight, carbon dioxide, and water to produce clean gas without releasing additional carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.
A recent study by researchers at the University of Cambridge and University of Strathclyde found that highly-targeted messaging campaigns can effectively dissuade young gamers from getting involved in cybercrime. The campaigns were associated with a sharper and longer-term reduction in attack numbers.
A study found that UK restaurants with in-store menu labelling offer healthier food options, with an average of 45% less fat and 60% less salt. This could encourage restaurants to improve their nutritional quality and benefit public health.
Researchers from the University of Cambridge have identified a promising replacement for toxic greenhouse gases used in refrigerators and air conditioners. The device, based on layers of oxygen and metallic elements PST, displays the largest electrocaloric effects yet observed in a body large enough for cooling applications.