Researchers used zebrafish to study leprosy's impact on nerve cells, finding bacteria trigger a toxic response in macrophages that destroy myelin sheath. The disease may share characteristics with conditions like multiple sclerosis and tuberculosis.
A new domestic abuse policing strategy has found that an inexpensive two-day course in behaviour management for first offenders resulted in 35% fewer men reoffending against their partner. The CARA programme prevented significant harm to victims, hundreds of prison days, and saved thousands of pounds.
A team of international archaeologists has re-examined a c. 8,500-year-old by-product from metal smelting and found conclusive evidence of an incidental copper firing event. The discovery provides new insights into the origins of metallurgy in the Near East.
Researchers at University of Cambridge and Natural History Museum analyze 450 anatomical characteristics to place Chilesaurus in dinosaur family tree. The study reveals Chilesaurus fills a large gap between two major dinosaur groups, with implications for understanding the origins of Ornithischia.
Researchers discovered a new species of brittle star, Teleosaster creasyi, preserved in a 275-million-year-old fossilized meadow in Western Australia. The species shows evidence of evolution before the Permian-Triassic extinction event, which wiped out over 90% of marine life.
A new study suggests a European stockfish trade existed for 1,000 years, with cod bones from Haithabu providing evidence of fish caught in northern Norway being consumed on mainland Europe. The findings support the idea that traded fish played a significant role in knitting the European continent together economically.
Research by University of Cambridge suggests that external features cannot accurately predict breathing difficulties in pugs, French bulldogs and bulldogs. Breeders should focus on breeding for open nostrils and avoiding dogs with short muzzles, wide faces and thick necks to reduce the risk of Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome.
Researchers from the University of Cambridge found that celebrity Twitter accounts with over 10 million followers exhibit bot-like behavior, retweeting at similar rates as automated accounts. In contrast, smaller accounts are more likely to be bots, which spend less time engaging with human content.
The study reveals that communities with strong co-operation largely belonged to the same archaeological culture, providing a novel method for independent evaluation of the archaeological record. The researchers used modularity analysis on a comprehensive database of copper artefacts from the Balkans, dated from 6200 BC to 3200 BC.
Researchers developed an algorithm that identifies the most influential people in social networks, known as 'hubs', and targeting them can effectively isolate a contagion. The approach shows promising results in controlling diseases like parasitic worm infections by treating fewer households.
A team of researchers from the University of Cambridge and the US has demonstrated a non-toxic alternative to lead for use in next-generation solar cells, using bismuth oxyiodide. The material shows comparable performance to current silicon-based solar cells, with efficiencies up to 22%.
A new research group at the University of Cambridge aims to improve care for patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI) in low- and middle-income countries. The group will focus on preventing, investigating, treating, and improving outcomes for head-injured patients in these regions.
A recent study published in BMJ Open found that negative media coverage and personal experiences of statin side effects are significant barriers to adherence among stroke survivors. The research highlights the need for open dialogue between patients and healthcare professionals to address concerns and improve medication adherence.
A study led by the University of Cambridge identified sixteen common genetic variants linked to muscle strength, revealing biological insights into complex traits. The findings suggest that genetic variation in genes related to muscle function may influence differences in strength in the general population.
Scientists from the University of Cambridge and Tokyo Institute of Technology found that rangeomorphs, some of the first large organisms, grew up to two meters tall by changing their body shape to extract nutrients. This adaptation allowed them to thrive in a changing ocean environment.
A team of architects and chemists from the University of Cambridge has designed super-stretchy and strong fibres almost entirely composed of water. The new method improves upon earlier methods of making synthetic spider silk without high-energy procedures or extensive use of harmful solvents.
Researchers at the University of Cambridge have developed a new statistical model to estimate kidney function in cancer patients, improving chemotherapy dosing accuracy. The model reduces errors from over 20% to 11.7% compared to existing methods.
Astronomers found that the fastest-moving stars in the Milky Way originated in the Large Magellanic Cloud, a dwarf galaxy in orbit around our own. Computer simulations and data analysis showed that these stars were ejected from their original home at incredible speeds.
Researchers at the University of Cambridge have successfully grown artificial bile ducts in a lab and transplanted them into mice, offering new hope for treating liver diseases. The artificial bile ducts, known as biliary organoids, were grown using cell transplantation and tissue engineering technology.
A 'brain training' game developed by researchers at the University of Cambridge improved memory in patients with mild cognitive impairment by 40% through episodic memory tests. The app's engaging gameplay and individualization also boosted motivation and confidence.
Researchers developed a new technique combining seismic noise interferometry with geophysical measurements to predict volcanic eruptions. By analyzing the speed of energy traveling through a volcano and correlating it with rock deformation, they found a strong correlation between bulging, shrinking, and impending eruptions.
Researchers at the University of Cambridge have designed antibodies to stop the production of protein deposits linked to Alzheimer's disease. The antibodies, developed using computer-based methods, were tested in test tubes and nematode worms, showing almost complete elimination of toxic pathogens.
Researchers used mathematical modelling to understand new ways of combating maize lethal necrosis, an emerging disease affecting food security in sub-Saharan Africa. The study found that a combination of crop rotation, clean seed, and insect control is the best way to prevent loss of maize crop.
A large-scale study of women carrying faults in cancer genes found that family history, gene position, and precise mutation type impact cancer risk. Estimates provide more confidence for counselling and clinical management.
A new study suggests that human embryo mortality rates are exaggerated, with many more embryos surviving than previously claimed. In vitro embryos also show poor survival rates, which may reflect the natural situation or be due to artificial environments.
A new study found that genetic variants on chromosome 3 are associated with better performance on the 'Reading the Mind in the Eyes' Test, which measures cognitive empathy. Women tend to score higher than men, and variations in the gene LRRN1 are linked to increased volume of the brain region involved in this skill.
A study published in Cell found that exposure to common aldehydes can break down DNA repair mechanisms, increasing cancer risk. People with faulty BRCA2 genes are particularly sensitive to this damage, as these chemicals trigger the degradation of BRCA2 protein.
The AI system uses machine learning techniques to estimate pain levels in sheep based on five distinct facial expressions. It can detect conditions such as foot rot and mastitis with high accuracy, enabling early treatment and pain relief.
Scientists at the University of Cambridge have identified a plant protein crucial for communication with fungi, enabling mutually beneficial symbiosis. The study found that a transporter molecule helps plants signal to fungi, promoting nutrient exchange and improving crop yields.
Researchers found that people are more interested in learning about the work of physically attractive and competent-looking scientists. However, attractiveness did not affect perceived competence or quality of research, with competent individuals often being considered less skilled.
Research found that Sherpas have evolved to produce more efficient red blood cells and nitric oxide levels, allowing them to adapt to low oxygen environments. This study could lead to new ways of treating hypoxia in ICU patients, who often experience life-threatening complications due to lack of oxygen.
A new paper suggests investing in utility-scale electricity storage, carbon capture, and solar power can reduce energy costs while reducing emissions. These technologies provide flexibility in the energy system and can help economies by creating new industries.
Women living in deprived areas are over 60% more likely to have anxiety than those in richer areas. Men's anxiety levels remain relatively stable regardless of their socioeconomic status. This study highlights the importance of considering gender when addressing mental health disparities.
A new study published in Nature Genetics has identified 389 genetic signals linked to the timing of puberty, including associations with an increased risk of breast, ovary, and endometrial cancers in women, and prostate cancer in men. The research also suggests that earlier puberty timing may have negative effects on later health.
Scientists discovered a caterpillar can break down polyethylene, a tough plastic found in shopping bags. The wax worm's saliva contains an enzyme that degrades the chemical bonds in the plastic, reducing its mass by 92mg after 12 hours.
A leading conservationist warns that failing to celebrate conservation successes can lead to complacency and reversal of progress. Recent examples of species recoveries, such as the Brazilian golden lion tamarins and giant pandas, demonstrate positive shifting baselines in nature's recovery through conservation.
Researchers tested Asian elephants' body awareness, finding they stepped off a mat to pass a stick to an experimenter 42 times on average, significantly more often than during a control test. This demonstrates their understanding of their bodies as obstacles, similar to young children's understanding at around two years old.
Scientists at the University of Cambridge have successfully grown miniature functional models of the womb lining in culture, providing a major step forward in understanding the changes that occur during the menstrual cycle and early pregnancy. The findings may lead to new insights into endometriosis and fertility treatments.
Researchers have designed a porous material inspired by leaf veins that improves rechargeable battery performance and gas sensing. The material enhances the charge and discharge process, reducing stresses and increasing battery life by up to 25 times.
A survey of over 2,000 people in the UK and USA found that one in six support life-sustaining interventions, while more than twice as many prefer measures to enable peaceful death. The study highlights challenges faced by healthcare providers and legislators regarding end-of-life care.
Researchers from the University of Cambridge and beyond develop a new type of material that uses rotatable molecules to emit light faster than ever before. This breakthrough could lead to more power-efficient, brighter, and longer-lasting TVs, smartphones, and room lights.
A new study from the University of Cambridge found that teacher encouragement has a significant influence on university access for students from disadvantaged backgrounds. On average, rates of entry into post-16 education were eight percentage points higher in students who received encouragement compared to those who did not. The effec...
A genome-wide analysis identified 30 known risk variants, accounting for 6.5% of the inherited component of risk. The variants are common and have small effects on risk, with women carrying multiple variants still having a low lifetime risk of 2.8%.
A new study from the University of Cambridge and Natural History Museum proposes a major overhaul of the traditional dinosaur classification system. The researchers conclude that Ornithischia and Theropoda should be grouped together under the name Ornithoscelida, with dinosaurs potentially originating in the northern hemisphere.
Researchers from University of Cambridge find that ordinary people left homesteads to become nomadic herdsmen or took up arms with tribes. Meanwhile, some Huns adopted settled agriculture, enjoying a more stable lifestyle.
Researchers found that maternal immune activation alters the activity of multiple genes and pathways in the fetus's brain, including those important for autism development. This effect may be similar to known biology behind conditions like autism.
Scientists have determined the first 3D structures of intact mammalian genomes from individual cells, showing how chromosomes fold together inside cell nuclei. This knowledge can help study gene interactions, regulation, and development, with potential applications in understanding diseases.
A team of scientists at the University of Cambridge has developed a way to use solar power to generate hydrogen from biomass. The technology relies on a simple photocatalytic conversion process, converting biomass into gaseous hydrogen that can be used for power.
A new oral Ebola vaccine has shown effectiveness in a chimpanzee trial, offering hope for conserving wild ape populations threatened by diseases like Ebola and anthrax. However, the closure of captive chimpanzee facilities due to changing laws may hinder further research and development.
The robber fly has exceptional vision thanks to a unique arrangement of lenses, enabling it to spot prey over half a metre away in under half a second. Its 'lock-on' strategy allows it to adapt mid-air and catch its prey with precision, making it a potential model for drone design.