Monogamy evolved as a mating strategy
Social monogamy emerged as a mating strategy due to male competition for resources. Males with limited access to food rely on monogamy to increase reproductive success.
University of Cambridge
Cost of Arctic methane release could be 'size of global economy' warn experts
Researchers warn of an 'economic time-bomb' in the Arctic due to thawing permafrost, which could trigger catastrophic climate change with a global cost of $60 trillion. The release of methane from the East Siberian Sea alone would have a mean global impact of this value.
Want to stick with your diet? Better have someone hide the chocolate
A study published in Neuron found that precommitment, or restricting access to tempting options, is a more effective self-control strategy than willpower. This approach can help individuals avoid unhealthy choices and achieve their weight loss goals.
Literacy, not income, key to improving public health in India
New research shows that literacy is a stronger predictor of poor public health than low average income in India. A high literacy rate enables populations to access healthcare and engage with public health programs.
Molecular 'sieves' harness ultraviolet irradiation for greener power generation
Researchers at the University of Cambridge have developed a new method to create highly permeable and selective membranes for molecular-level separation, using ultraviolet irradiation. The process increases the density of the membrane surface, allowing for improved separation of molecules with varying sizes.
People can 'beat' guilt detection tests by suppressing incriminating memories
New research by psychologists at the universities of Kent, Magdeburg and Cambridge has shown that some people can intentionally suppress unwanted memories and control their brain activity, thereby abolishing brain activity related to remembering. This finding has major implications for brain activity guilt detection tests.
Molecular trigger for Alzheimer's disease identified
Scientists at Cambridge's Department of Chemistry have mapped the pathway that generates 'aberrant' forms of proteins, which are at the root of neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer's. The breakthrough opens up possibilities for a new generation of targeted drugs and earlier diagnosis of neurological disorders.
SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 20, 2013
Movement of pyrrole molecules defy 'classical' physics
Researchers found that pyrrole molecule movement is affected by quantum laws, changing the energy landscape and impacting the whole molecule. The study's results suggest that 'zero-point energy' plays a crucial role in the molecule's diffusion on metal surfaces.
Resurgence of endangered deer in Patagonian 'Eden' highlights conservation success
Conservation efforts by the Chilean government and researchers from Cambridge have allowed Huemul deer to return to natural habitats in Bernardo O'Higgins National Park. The population has stabilized and begun to increase after controlling cattle farming and poaching, providing a model for future biodiversity conservation.
Roads could help rather than harm the environment, say experts
A global plan for road building is proposed to reduce environmental damage by concentrating roads in suitable areas. Properly planned roads can improve farming, increase farm profits, and enhance food security, helping to feed the growing global population.
Laser-like photons signal major step towards quantum 'Internet'
Researchers at Cambridge University have successfully generated high-quality photons identical to lasers from solid-state devices, a major breakthrough towards quantum networking. This achievement brings us closer to realizing a quantum internet, where distributed networks can share highly coherent and programmable photonic interconnects.
Hope for threatened Tasmanian devils
Scientists have discovered a way to revive genetic diversity in Tasmanian devils, allowing them to develop a vaccine against the deadly devil facial tumour disease (DFTD). The vaccine aims to boost the devils' immune system and give them a fighting chance against the contagious cancer.
SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 11, 2013
Digital records could expose intimate details and personality traits of millions
A new study published in PNAS shows that automated analysis of Facebook Likes can accurately predict personal details such as race, age, and sexual orientation. The researchers analyzed a dataset of over 58,000 US Facebook users and found accuracy rates of up to 95% for distinguishing between African-American and Caucasian Americans. H...
SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 11, 2013
How birds of different feathers flock together
Researchers at the University of Cambridge and Exeter discovered that bird flocks are determined by social relationships between individuals within species, not just species differences. The study found that birds prefer to fly close to members of their own species and that dominant rooks take the lead in mixed-species flocks.
Feeding limbs and nervous system of one of Earth's earliest animals discovered
Researchers reveal extraordinary fossil find of fuxianhuiid arthropod with legs used to shovel sediment into the mouth, shedding light on one of Earth's earliest evolutionary examples of complex animal life. The discovery also features the oldest known post-cephalic nervous system, dating back 520 million years.
New tool in the fight against tropical diseases
A novel screening method using genetically engineered baker's yeast identifies chemical compounds that target disease-causing parasites without harming human hosts. The approach has shown promise in identifying potential anti-parasitic compounds with high sensitivity, reducing costs, and increasing reproducibility.
Pain from the brain
Researchers found abnormal brain activity in individuals with psychogenic disease, which is caused by emotional or mental stresses. The study suggests that understanding these underlying mechanisms could lead to better treatment options and improved patient outcomes.
Get your brain fit
Professor Barbara Sahakian emphasizes the importance of prioritizing mental health, citing one in four adults suffering from a mental disorder. She advocates for regular monitoring and early detection through innovation and technology to promote prevention and effective treatment.
Monogamous birds read partner's food desires
Researchers found that male Eurasian Jays can share food with their female partner according to her current desire, suggesting a 'state-attribution' ability. This behavior is crucial for species living in long-term relationships and may improve mate bonding.
SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 4, 2013
Research suggests meerkat predator-scanning behaviour is altruistic
Research suggests that meerkat predator-scanning behaviour is driven by a desire to protect the group rather than personal safety. When young pups are present, adult meerkats exhibit increased vigilance and sentinel behaviour, indicating a strong sense of cooperation and altruism.
3D microchip created
Researchers at the University of Cambridge have developed a new type of microchip that allows information to travel in three dimensions. The innovation uses spintronic technology and enables additional storage capacity on chips by spreading data across multiple layers.
Scientists discover how epigenetic information could be inherited
Research reveals mechanism of epigenetic reprogramming and how it may affect gene expression, potentially leading to disease susceptibility in offspring. The study found that some methylation marks can escape reprogramming and be passed on to offspring.
Experts believe plain packaging of tobacco products would cut smoking
A study suggests that plain packaging of tobacco products could lead to a decline in smoking rates, with estimates indicating a reduction of one percentage point among adults and three percentage points among children. The researchers relied on the expertise of international tobacco control specialists to predict the impact of generic ...
Monkeys stressed from longer foraging times
In endangered Mexican howler monkeys, habitat disturbance leads to increased 'travel time' foraging and high levels of stress hormones. Researchers found that fruit is a crucial component of their natural diet, and lack of fruit availability forces them to spend more time seeking out nutritious foliage.
'Quadruple helix' DNA discovered in human cells
A team of scientists has discovered quadruple helix DNA structures in human cells, which may be a new target for cancer treatment. The discovery was made using fluorescent biomarkers and shows clear links between quadruplexes and DNA replication.
People with low risk for cocaine dependence have differently shaped brain to those with addiction
Research found that individuals with low risk of cocaine dependence have an abnormally large frontal lobe, associated with self-control. This region is smaller in those who develop addiction. The study suggests that certain personality traits and brain structure can predict addiction risk.
Mathematical breakthrough sets out rules for more effective teleportation
Researchers from the University of Cambridge and collaborators have developed a new protocol that 'recycles' entanglement to increase the efficiency of quantum connections. The breakthrough enables the teleportation of multiple qubits simultaneously, paving the way for advances in quantum computing.
Schizophrenia linked to social inequality
A study published in Schizophrenia Bulletin found that higher rates of schizophrenia are associated with increased deprivation, population density, and inequality in urban neighborhoods. The research suggests that more equal societies may experience lower rates of serious mental illness.
New study sheds light on how Salmonella spreads in the body
Research by University of Cambridge scientists has identified a new mechanism used by Salmonella to spread in the body, which could lead to improved treatments and vaccinations. The study found that bacteria must escape from infected cells to disseminate, but this process is hindered when an active Phox system is present.
The dance of quantum tornadoes
Researchers at University of Cambridge create hundreds of tiny twisters on chip using quantum mechanics, controlling electron movement and light interaction to form 'polariton'. This enables precise measurement of motion and surface irregularities with sensitivity.
New patient-friendly way to make stem cells for fight against heart disease
Scientists at the University of Cambridge have developed a way to create induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells from a routine blood sample. This method could lead to new treatments for cardiovascular diseases by using patients' own cells to repair damaged tissue.
Scientists identify depression and anxiety biomarker in youths
Researchers discovered a cognitive biomarker in young adolescents at high risk of developing depression and anxiety. The test can help initiate early intervention, which has proven to be an effective way to combat mental illness.
A tenth of quirky creature's active genes are foreign
Researchers discovered that up to ten percent of the active genes of bdelloid rotifers, a species that has survived 80 million years without sex, are foreign. These acquired genes play a crucial role in the organism's ability to survive desiccation.
Awareness could eliminate inequalities in cancer diagnoses
A new study by the University of Cambridge reveals substantial inequalities in cancer stage at diagnosis, which can impact survival. The research highlights the importance of awareness campaigns to improve early diagnosis for specific patient groups, including those living in poorer neighborhoods or with different tumour sub-types.
New MS drug proves effective where others have failed
A new MS drug, alemtuzumab, has been shown to significantly reduce the number of attacks and disease activity in patients who have already failed to respond to other treatments. The study also found that alemtuzumab improved disability outcomes, with most patients experiencing an improvement in their condition.
Surprising solution to fly eye mystery
Research reveals fly photoreceptors physically contract in response to light, generating electrical responses faster than previously thought. The study provides a new concept in cellular signalling and suggests potential therapeutic targets for various diseases.
Therapy over the phone as effective as face-to-face
A new study found that phone therapy is just as effective as in-person therapy for people with mild to moderate depression and anxiety. The research from the University of Cambridge also showed that providing talking therapies over the phone can save the NHS money, with a cost per session 36.2% lower.
Traumatic childhood may increase the risk of drug addiction
Research from the University of Cambridge suggests that a traumatic upbringing during childhood is linked to impulsive and compulsive personality traits, increasing the risk of drug dependence. The study examined 50 adults with cocaine dependence and their biological siblings, finding a direct relationship between traumatic childhoods ...
Scientists produce H2 for fuel cells using an inexpensive catalyst under real-world conditions
Researchers at the University of Cambridge have developed a cheap catalyst that produces hydrogen efficiently in water, paving the way for green hydrogen production. The breakthrough could enable the development of sustainable energy solutions.
Research raises doubts about whether modern humans and Neanderthals interbred
A study by researchers at the University of Cambridge suggests that common ancestry, not hybridisation, better explains the average 1-4 per cent DNA shared between Eurasians and Neanderthals. Genetic evidence shows that Africans have almost none of the Neanderthal genome.
SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 13, 2012
1.5 million years of climate history revealed after scientists solve mystery of the deep
Researchers have successfully reconstructed ancient climate change records over the last 1.5 million years by separating ocean temperatures from changes in global ice volume. This new dataset provides a more accurate picture of the Earth's climate system, shedding light on major shifts in climate patterns.
Delirium increases the risk of developing new dementia 8-fold in older patients
A study published in the journal Brain found that episodes of delirium increase the risk of developing new dementia eight-fold in older patients. Delirium also worsens the severity of dementia and accelerates cognitive decline in those already diagnosed with dementia.
Cuckoo tricks to beat the neighborhood watch
Researchers found that female common cuckoos with alternate color morphs, such as bright rufous, are more likely to slip past host defences and lay undetected. The study suggests that social learning plays a key role in the evolution of mimicry in cuckoo species.
Aesop's Fable unlocks how we think
Researchers compared Eurasian Jays with local school children using three tasks of varying complexity, revealing that children learn cause-and-effect relationships in a different way than birds. The study found that while the birds struggled to understand the mechanism, the children focused on simple cause-effect relationships.
Scientists create artificial mother of pearl
Researchers at the University of Cambridge have successfully synthesized a material with a similar structure, mechanical behavior, and optical appearance to natural nacre, also known as mother of pearl. The new coating has potential applications in coating applications due to its cheap ingredients and ability to be easily automated.
New light shed on explosive solar activity
Researchers identify plasma upflows traveling at 20 km per second, suggesting 'impulsive heating' as possible cause. The study provides new insights into understanding extreme space storms and their impact on satellite communications and power grids.
Avian flu viruses which are transmissible between humans could evolve in nature
Researchers from the University of Cambridge found that avian H5N1 influenza viruses could potentially acquire mutations necessary for airborne transmission in nature. The study suggests that with as few as five mutations, or four mutations plus reassortment, these viruses can become airborne transmissible between mammals and humans.
Pitcher plant uses rain drops to capture prey
Researchers discovered a novel trapping mechanism in Nepenthes gracilis pitcher plants, where heavy rain acts as a springboard to catch insects. The unique mechanism involves a thin film of water on the wettable rim, causing insects to slip and fall into the digestive fluid.
Blowing in the wind: How hidden flower features are crucial for bees
Researchers at University of Cambridge discovered that conical cells on plant petals provide crucial grip for bees, increasing pollinator preference. The study reveals that these cells help bees land on flowers even in windy conditions.
Scientists identify protein that stimulates brown fat to burn calories
Researchers at the University of Cambridge have identified a protein called BMP8B that regulates brown fat activation in both brain and body tissues. Activating this protein may help support weight loss programs and prevent metabolic rate decrease.