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University of Cambridge


Keeping track of reality

A structural variation in the paracingulate sulcus (PCS) may explain why some people are better at distinguishing real events from imagined ones. Adults with an absent PCS were significantly less accurate on memory tasks, despite their own confidence in their memory abilities.

Scientists play ping-pong with single electrons

Researchers at Cambridge University have developed a technique to transfer quantum information by controlling individual electrons in Gallium Arsenide. This innovation has the potential to enable faster and more efficient processing in quantum computers, addressing complex problems beyond classical computers' capabilities.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature·DateSep 21, 2011

Strength in numbers

Modern humans arriving from Africa swarmed the region with over ten times the population of Neanderthals, leading to their sudden disappearance. The incoming group's superior hunting technologies, social contacts, and complex behavioural patterns allowed them to outcompete Neanderthals for resources.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalScience·DateJul 28, 2011

Biomarker for autism discovered

Researchers at the University of Cambridge identified a biomarker for autism in siblings of individuals with autism, showing reduced brain activity to emotional facial expressions. This finding provides an opportunity to investigate genes linked to autism and sheds light on why some family members are more affected than others.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalTranslational Psychiatry·DateJul 12, 2011

Important step in the next generation of computing

Researchers at the University of Cambridge have developed a new, more efficient way of generating spin current using collective motion of spins called spin waves. This breakthrough addresses a major obstacle in spintronics, a technology that could radically change computing with high-speed, high-density and low-power consumption.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature Materials·DateJul 3, 2011

Betting on good luck and 4-leaf clovers

Research at the University of Cambridge found a connection between impulsivity and superstitious rituals in problem gamblers. The study suggests that high impulsivity can predispose individuals to complex distortions, including superstitions, that contribute to problem gambling.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalPsychological Medicine·DateJun 29, 2011

New strain of MRSA discovered

A new strain of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) has been discovered in both human and dairy cow populations. The genetic makeup of the new strain differs from previous strains, making current molecular tests ineffective in detecting it.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·DateJun 3, 2011

Chemistry curbs spreading of carbon dioxide

A new study from the University of Cambridge shows that simple chemical reactions can delay or prevent CO2 from spreading in deep saline rock formations. The findings have implications for carbon sequestration methods and may enable engineers to manipulate reaction strength to enhance storage.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalPhysical Review E·DateMay 6, 2011

Female-to-male transsexual people have more autistic traits

A new study from the University of Cambridge has found that female-to-male transsexual people have a higher number of autistic traits. The research used the Autism Spectrum Quotient (AQ) test and compared AQ scores across five groups, finding that transmen had higher average scores than typical females, males, and transwomen.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalJournal of Autism and Developmental Disorders·DateMay 5, 2011

You are what your mother ate

Poor diet during pregnancy increases offspring's vulnerability to aging effects, leading to increased risk of type 2 diabetes and age-related diseases. The study reveals a novel mechanism by which maternal diet interacts with epigenetics to influence gene expression in offspring throughout life.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 7, 2011

Happy children make happy adults

A new study found that teenagers rated positively by their teachers had higher levels of well-being later in life, including higher work satisfaction and more frequent social activities. Happy children were also less likely to develop mental disorders throughout their lives.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalThe Journal of Positive Psychology·DateFeb 25, 2011

Extra testosterone reduces your empathy

A new study from University of Cambridge found that testosterone administration negatively affects women's ability to mind read, an indication of empathy. The effects are predicted by a fetal marker of prenatal testosterone, the 2D:4D ratio.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 9, 2011

GM chickens that don't transmit bird flu developed

Researchers have successfully developed genetically modified chickens that do not transmit avian influenza virus to other chickens, potentially stopping bird flu outbreaks within poultry flocks. This genetic modification has the potential to reduce the risk of bird flu epidemics leading to new flu virus epidemics in humans.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalScience·DateJan 13, 2011

New revelations in ammonia synthesis

Scientists at the University of Cambridge have made breakthroughs in the Haber-Bosch process, aiming to produce fertilizers more efficiently while reducing energy consumption. Their innovative approach uses single-crystal iron samples and ultra-high vacuum conditions to achieve significant improvements.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 17, 2010

Breakthrough in cancer vaccine research

Researchers at the University of Cambridge have discovered that a type of stromal cell found in many cancers expresses fibroblast activation protein alpha, which suppresses the immune response. Destroying these cells allows the immune system to control tumours, paving the way for improved immunological therapies.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalScience·DateNov 4, 2010

Mindfulness meditation increases well-being in adolescent boys

A new study by University of Cambridge researchers found that mindfulness training increased well-being in 155 adolescent boys. The four-week program improved feelings of happiness and contentment while also enhancing resilience and stress management skills. The benefits were particularly noticeable in students who struggled with anxiety.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalThe Journal of Positive Psychology·DateSep 1, 2010