A Finnish-Brazilian team uncovered evidence of a pre-colonial civilization in the Amazon that domesticated plants for food and used the environment sustainably. The research found that Indigenous peoples protected and cared for trees, including Brazilian nut and palm trees, to maintain their ecosystem.
Dyslexia compromises phoneme processing due to continuous acoustic variation in natural speech, making detection of phonemes challenging for individuals with developmental reading-deficit dyslexia. Neural-level evidence suggests difficulties in categorizing speech sounds, impacting the learning of native language phonemes.
Researchers have developed a novel method to quantify deoxyribonucleotide triphosphates (dNTP) concentrations in small tissue samples, which is useful for studying mitochondrial diseases and cancer. The technique uses DNA polymerase and fluorescent dye, allowing for accurate measurement even in samples with low dNTP concentration.
The largest fish produce more offspring, while smaller competitors gain an advantage when it comes to finding mates. Females tend to be rarer than males at spawning grounds, and early life-history affects female reproduction.
A recent study found that protected areas in Finland do not harbor higher densities of large carnivores than unprotected lands, with wolverine populations declining within some areas. However, the study also suggests that protected areas can support seasonal habitats and prey for these mobile species.
Researchers from the University of Helsinki found that genetic parallelism, a phenomenon where similar changes occur in different populations, is approximately 10-fold higher in the Eastern Pacific compared to the rest of the world. This suggests that the conditions for parallel evolution may be exceptional rather than common.
Researchers at the University of Helsinki developed a technique called 'brainsourcing' to analyse brain activity and determine preferences. The method uses artificial intelligence to classify images or recommend content based on brain activity, achieving reliable labelling results with only 12 volunteers.
A recent study found that climate change can increase the functional diversity of stream microbes, leading to more efficient decomposition and nutrient cycling. In Eurasia, this could result in a 30% growth in functional gene diversity and changes in composition by 2060-2080.
Researchers found that the human brain minimizes cognitive capacity usage when reading, focusing on essential information. By analyzing brain activity, they developed a model to determine word informativeness and predict information gain.
A new investigator-initiated clinical trial in metastatic breast cancer is underway at HUS Comprehensive Cancer Center, testing a combination treatment regimen that targets the MYC oncoprotein. The study aims to find the right dosage for further studies and biomarkers to guide patient selection with improved precision.
A team of scientists has discovered key factors controlling the genome maintenance and replication of KSHV, a virus responsible for lymphatic vascular cancer. The study reveals that two central proteins regulate gene expression on DNA, supporting tumor formation and representing new therapeutic targets.
Researchers from the University of Helsinki have found strong evidence for the presence of exotic quark matter inside the cores of the largest neutron stars in existence. The new results were published in Nature Physics and combined recent findings from theoretical particle and nuclear physics with astrophysical measurements.
A genomic region on chromosome 11 has been identified as associated with fearfulness in dogs, including large breeds like the Great Dane. The study's findings suggest that this region may play a role in both neural development and function, as well as anxiety.
New research suggests nitric acid can boost particle growth in cold climates, forming particles even in highly polluted cities. This mechanism also affects the oxidation characteristics of organic compounds, potentially reducing aerosol formation and contributing to climate warming.
The global wildlife trade encompasses all major branches of life, from fungi to plants and animals, but more attention is given to charismatic species. Research found that even small organisms like sea cucumbers and anemones are traded, with extensive data needed on the trade's consequences.
A new study found that children exposed to maternal antenatal corticosteroid treatment have a higher risk of emotional, behavioral and psychological development disorders than nonexposed children. The study, published in JAMA, suggests that the long-term benefits and harms of this treatment should be carefully weighed.
Researchers report that vitamin B3 niacin boosts energy metabolism and slows disease progression in mitochondrial myopathy patients by increasing NAD+ levels in blood and muscle tissue. The study reveals niacin's therapeutic effect in delaying disease progression, offering a promising treatment option for this progressive muscle disease.
Surgically treated patients fared better than those with functional bracing, showing faster recovery and improved outcomes one year after the injury. However, problems were observed in bracing-treated patients, including 30% requiring reoperation due to fracture union failure.
The Cancer IO project aims to drive creation of a Finnish IO ecosystem and national IO growth strategy, boosting business competitiveness and individualization of care. With 10 million euros funding, the project will support top-level research and development of cancer immunotherapy treatments.
A study published in Nature Communications identified an activating somatic mutation in the mTOR gene as a common cause of chronic GvHD. The mutation was found in 2.2% of chronic GvHD patients but not in healthy blood donors, suggesting a potential target for individualized treatments.
A study identified a rare genetic variant in the ANGPTL7 gene that lowers intraocular pressure and significantly reduces the risk of glaucoma. The findings open up new therapeutic possibilities for treating this eye disease.
A recent study published in the European Respiratory Journal found that smoking by pregnant mothers increases the risk of asthma in their offspring between ages 31 and 46. The risk is higher for those with a history of respiratory symptoms or the RUNX-1 susceptibility gene, highlighting early airway vulnerability.
The study reveals that the Levänluhta population relied on a diverse range of livelihoods, including terrestrial, marine, and freshwater food sources. This diversity allowed them to survive a severe climate disaster in the 540s AD.
A global review highlights broad patterns of environmental pollution's impact on Indigenous groups, primarily through consumption of polluted water and food. Innovative strategies by Indigenous communities aim to limit and abate pollution.
Researchers found that rapid-acting antidepressants share the ability to regulate both synaptic potentiation and reciprocal homeostatic mechanisms, which weaken synaptic strength during sleep. This suggests that slow-wave responses could be a useful measure for determining treatment efficacy and developing novel treatments.
The University of Helsinki has established a new standard procedure for analyzing fine particles in experimental chambers, enabling researchers to better understand the mechanisms associated with fine particle formation and its impact on global warming. This standard will help simulate past and future atmospheric conditions, providing ...
The study demonstrates that genomic information can identify individuals with a lifetime risk of more than 60% of developing cardiovascular diseases and diabetes. Combining genetic risk data with clinical risk calculators improved the accuracy of current risk estimation approaches.
Research at the University of Helsinki reveals that extracellular forces play a significant role in maintaining epithelial cell connections. The study found that mechanical tension activates an intracellular signalling pathway, driving the formation of actomyosin structures.
A University of Helsinki study reveals significant differences in fearfulness among urban and rural dog populations. Socialisation in puppyhood, activity levels, and breed-specific factors all contribute to fearfulness in dogs.
A recent study on fungal diseases in Åland found that roadsides are a primary source of powdery mildew fungi, which can spread efficiently through the air. The researchers used advanced statistical methods to identify complex mechanisms in nature and shed light on how diseases transmit and evolve.
A genetic disorder affecting Airedale Terriers has been discovered and found to be associated with a surfactant deficiency in their lungs. The study identifies the LAMP3 gene as a candidate gene for this disease and suggests a potential link to human newborn respiratory issues.
A new study reveals that clearing acacia-dominated bushland for farming can raise land surface temperatures by up to 1.8°C, comparable to forest clearing. The findings suggest that preserving these ecosystems could mitigate climate change in the region.
Researchers at the University of Helsinki discovered novel loci associated with hip dysplasia and osteoarthritis in German Shepherds, highlighting the hereditary nature and polygenic background of the disorder. The study sheds light on the genetic factors influencing complex diseases and may lead to better treatment options in the future.
A study by University of Helsinki researchers identified a gene variant in the regulatory region of the retina responsible for canine blindness in Miniature Schnauzers. The finding provides valuable insights into retinal biology and offers a new model for understanding related diseases, such as retinitis pigmentosa.
A study of 46 Finnish Leonbergers found that 15% had severe arrhythmia and 15% had milder cardiac changes, with sudden deaths linked to cardiac arrhythmia. The researchers aim to identify the genetic cause of the disorder to develop early diagnostics, breeding programs, and potential drug therapies.
Research by University of Helsinki finds unwanted behavior in 73% of dogs, with significant breed-specific differences. Traits like noise sensitivity and fearfulness are common, while compulsive behaviour and separation anxiety also occur.
Researchers discovered that pre-immunization with common childhood vaccines can boost anti-tumor efficacy when combined with a hybrid viral platform called PeptiCRAd.
Researchers developed nanoparticles containing gliadin to treat celiac disease by restoring immune tolerance. In mouse models, these nanoparticles reduced inflammation and tissue damage, inducing gene expression profiles associated with immune tolerance.
Researchers at the University of Helsinki confirm existence of the Taita mountain dwarf galago, a tiny nocturnal prosimian weighing 100-180 grams. The species is found in relatively cool montane forests and communicates using distinctive calls.
Researchers at University of Helsinki identified tropomodulin as a key player in maintaining the balance between protrusive and contractile actin-filament machineries. The protein's depletion leads to severe problems in cell shape and force production, associated with various cancers.
A meta-analysis of five controlled trials including 471 patients found that vitamin C administration shortened ventilation time by 25% on average, with the effect dependent on the severity of illness. Vitamin C has been shown to have various biochemical effects, including influencing cardiovascular and energy metabolism.
A new smart jumpsuit quantitatively assesses children's spontaneous movement, helping to detect abnormal neurological development. The device provides valuable insights into infant motility, which can be used to support everyday activities and interventions.
Scientists warn that humanity is pushing ecosystems beyond recovery, leading to unquantified insect extinctions. To mitigate this, experts suggest setting aside land for conservation, transforming agricultural practices, and communicating with civil society and policy makers.
Researchers found that trees can adjust their stem radial growth in response to added weight, but this response varies along the stem. The study used a birch mutant that lacks this ability, revealing a key genetic locus involved in the mechanism.
A new mutation in the mt-Cyb gene of a mouse model for GRACILE syndrome drastically speeds up disease progression. The discovery provides a valuable tool for studying mitochondrial diseases and their function.
A study by University of Helsinki professor Jan-Erik Lönnqvist found that self-centred men with disagreeable personality traits are more likely to own high-status cars and break traffic regulations. Conscientious individuals, on the other hand, also prefer high-status cars due to their desire for reliability and quality image.
Researchers from the University of Helsinki, led by Professor Minna Palmroth, have discovered a new auroral form called 'dunes' through citizen science collaboration. The phenomenon is believed to be caused by waves of oxygen atoms glowing due to solar particles, and provides a novel way to investigate upper atmospheric conditions.
A recent study published in BMJ Open found that zinc lozenges did not shorten the duration of common colds, contradicting previous findings. The researchers suggest further research is needed to determine optimal dosage and type of lozenges for effectiveness.
Researchers have discovered ways to boost CAR T-cell therapy, surveying over 500 cancer drugs on its function. SMAC mimetics sensitize cancer cells to CAR T cells, while inhibiting CAR T cell functions could treat adverse effects.
A recent study found that oral infections are not linked to increased risk of death or serious infection after stem cell transplantation. The researchers suggest that conservative dental treatment may be sufficient for patients with asymptomatic dental infections, and radical treatment is only necessary in specific cases.