A study published in Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology found that the incidence of type 1 diabetes among Finnish children increased by 16% during the pandemic. Researchers believe that social isolation and lockdowns rather than SARS-CoV-2 infection may have contributed to this increase.
A study by the University of Helsinki found that non-fearful and sociable cat personalities, as well as clean litterboxes, can decrease litterbox issues. The research identified 34 variables associated with two behavioural traits: house soiling and litterbox fussiness.
Researchers discovered a novel waste removal factor, CDNF, that treats brain haemorrhage by accelerating lesion resolution, reducing brain swelling, and improving functional outcomes. The treatment also alleviates cell stress and promotes scavenging by immune cells, leading to better recovery.
An international team of researchers has successfully read and assembled the whole genome of faba bean, a globally important protein source. The new genome reveals key genes for seed size and provides insights into improving drought and disease resistances, processing quality, and nutritional value.
Researchers analyzed human skeletons from burial mounds to determine if they were horse riders. A set of diagnostic criteria, known as the 'horsemanship syndrome', was used to identify traits indicative of riding activity. At least 24 out of 156 individuals can be classified as possible riders, with five being highly probable riders.
The study reveals that genetic variation is preserved in a highly fragmented population of the Saimaa ringed seal. The unique shape of Lake Saimaa compensates for the detrimental effects of small population size, allowing the species to maintain its adaptive potential.
Researchers at the University of Helsinki identified a new targeted drug, BCL-XL protein inhibitors, effective against erythroid and megakaryoblastic leukemias. However, venetoclax is unlikely to function optimally in these subtypes. The finding contributes to making targeted drug selection more precise.
Research at the University of Helsinki highlights the importance of emergent plants in supporting biodiversity in urban ponds. The study found that vegetation cover can enhance diving beetle diversity in ponds with fish, but not without them.
Scientists developed an automated algorithm using machine learning to identify image content related to illegal wildlife trade in digital spaces. The method uses feature visualization and achieves high accuracy in distinguishing between natural and captive contexts.
Nicotinamide riboside has been found to increase muscle mitochondria, improve gut bacterial composition, and boost NAD+ concentrations in humans. The findings suggest that NR supplementation may be a promising therapeutic option for diseases characterized by muscle mitochondrial dysfunction and/or gut microbiota imbalance.
Private landowners in southern and East African countries conserve hundreds of rhinos by generating revenues from wildlife tourism and trophy hunting. However, rising security costs due to accelerating poaching threaten the long-term viability of private rhino conservation.
A recent study published in Nature has discovered several new disease genes and provided new insights into the effects of known genetic factors on disease. The study highlights an underappreciated complexity in dosage effects of genetic variants, challenging traditional Mendelian inheritance laws.
The FinnGen study has identified over 2,500 genomic regions linked to at least one disease, including previously unknown risk factors for common and rare diseases. The research highlights the power of Finland's unique genetic landscape and population history in driving novel discoveries.
A recent study found that functionally diverse bird communities changed less under climate change than simple ones over the past 50 years. Higher species richness and variety of functional properties were better safeguarded against climate change impacts.
A study of 13 dog breeds found breed differences in cognitive traits like social cognition, problem-solving ability, and inhibitory control. The results suggest that different breeds excel in specific tasks, highlighting the complexity of canine cognition.
Ceramides accumulate in aged muscle, impairing its function and affecting functional capacity in older adults. This finding encourages researchers to develop potential pharmaceutical agents to combat sarcopenia and age-related diseases.
A recent study found that middle-aged individuals with more psychological symptoms are at a higher risk of developing dementia later in life. The study, which included data from over 68,000 Finns, suggests that symptoms of depression, exhaustion, and nervousness can increase the risk of dementia even as early as age 45.
A new genetic test has been developed to identify ovarian cancer patients who benefit from PARP inhibitors, a treatment option with significant improvements in prognosis. The test has been optimized for the Finnish population and is clinically approved, allowing for targeted treatment and reduced adverse effects.
Researchers found that early prenatal alcohol exposure changes gene function and epigenome in placenta and human embryonic stem cells. These changes are associated with altered DNA methylation patterns, particularly in genes linked to nervous system development, such as DPPA4 and FOXP2.
A recent study at the University of Helsinki found that singing-based group rehabilitation can increase communication and speech production in stroke survivors, while also reducing social isolation. The study's results suggest that this type of rehabilitation could be a valuable addition to existing aphasia treatment protocols.
A team of scientists has successfully modeled the transmission of electromagnetic waves in near-Earth space using a cutting-edge computer model. The results reveal that these waves can survive passing through the shock and travel to the other side, with properties almost identical to those in the foreshock region.
Researchers at the University of Helsinki found that distinct hybrid wood ant populations evolved independently towards the same direction, indicating predictable outcomes. The study suggests that hybridization can help species cope with a warming climate by combining temperature ranges from both species.
A global study found that most rodents spreading zoonotic pathogens live near or in human dwellings, exhibit large population fluctuations, and are hunted for meat or fur. These factors contribute to the transmission risk between humans and rodents, particularly in regions such as Europe and South America.
Research suggests that people with depression are less likely to have children, particularly men. The study, which examined over 1.4 million participants in Finland, found a significant association between diagnosed depression and the likelihood of having children, as well as the number of children born.
A new study by University of Helsinki researchers finds that magma floods can form in thick tectonic plates, contradicting the long-held assumption. The research uses geochemical modelling to demonstrate that high-temperature mantle sources can produce magmas with similar trace element compositions as low-pressure conditions.
Researchers at the University of Helsinki have identified a promising drug candidate, TYK2 inhibitor, for preventing type 1 diabetes. The study found that inhibiting TYK2 expression reduces the destruction of pancreatic beta cells, but may also reduce beta cell production in earlier stages.
A study found that fearful cats tend to display excessive grooming and aggression towards humans. Early socialization with humans is crucial in reducing fearfulness and related behavioral issues in cats. The research also discovered a correlation between litterbox issues and aggressive behavior in households with multiple cats.
A unique Stone Age burial site in Finland uncovered a child between 3-10 years old, accompanied by bird feathers from a waterfowl or falcon, as well as dog or wolf hairs. The discovery provides valuable insights into ancient burial habits and the use of soil analysis to trace plant and animal remains.
A study in 28 countries found that young people's climate anxiety can motivate pro-environmental actions, with Finland showing the strongest connection. In Finland, anxiety is linked to environmental activism and influencing others' attitudes.
Researchers developed an AI model that analyzes immune cells to predict which skin cancer patients will benefit from treatments activating the immune system. The study found that patients with more immune cells recognizing skin cancer had better treatment outcomes.
A recent study published in Science Translational Medicine has found that supporting emotional connections between mothers and their premature infants can significantly improve brain development in these babies. The researchers measured the brain network functions of premature infants at term age after receiving either standard care or...
Researchers at the University of Helsinki have identified target genes of the MYC oncogene responsible for its growth-promoting effects. By modifying these genomic binding sites, they slowed down cell growth. This finding has significant implications for developing new cancer treatments.
A study at the University of Helsinki found that people accept human nurses overruling patient autonomy but reject similar decisions made by robots. The researchers suggest that human empathy is required to consider robot-made solutions equally acceptable as those made by humans. The findings imply that machines cannot comprehensively ...
A study at the University of Helsinki found that periodontitis has a particular link with diabetes and accelerates its progression. The research highlights the importance of considering general and oral health as a whole in healthcare to achieve better treatment outcomes.
Two studies identify 22 previously unreported NFKB1 variants linked to immune system dysfunction, including reduced expression of the protein and altered gene expression. The findings suggest targeted inhibition of NFkB signaling pathway components as an attractive therapeutic approach for treating these diseases.
New research estimates the overall disease burden of genetic risk factors on healthy life years lost, prioritizing interventions using genetic information. The study found that common genetic variants for cardio-vascular diseases and Alzheimer’s disease have a substantial population-level impact.
A new method using machine learning corrects damaged DNA and unveils true mutation processes in tumour samples, helping early cancer detection and accurate diagnosis. The tool predicted over 90% of developing cancer processes, offering a significant advancement in cancer patient care.
A study at the University of Helsinki found that brains synchronize in similar ways during cooperative online gaming, leading to better performance and increased empathy. The study used brainwave synchronization measurements to investigate the connection between inter-brain synchronization and game performance.
A new study at the University of Helsinki reveals how the actin cytoskeleton in cells is controlled in an evolutionarily distant Leishmania parasite. The findings provide tools to combat leishmaniasis and trypanosomiasis by exploiting structural differences between parasite and human actins.
A new gene variant, MFGE8, has been discovered that protects against coronary heart disease, with carriers experiencing a one-fifth lower risk. The variant is located in the MFGE8 gene and inhibits the function of lactadherin protein, which affects arterial stiffness.
Scientists found 12 human bone pendants out of 37 samples, which were made from elk and bovine animal bones. The discovery suggests that the use of human bones as a raw material was common in Stone Age cultures.
A Finnish research group developed a wearable device to assess infants' motor abilities during playtime, allowing for accurate tracking of neurological development. The smart jumpsuit enables out-of-the-lab assessments, supporting early clinical diagnostics and therapies.
A study by the University of Helsinki found that dried saliva and fingertip blood samples can reliably measure antibody levels associated with SARS-CoV-2. The results showed high sensitivity and specificity for distinguishing vaccinated individuals from non-exposed groups.
Researchers identified 42 independent virus lineages that arrived in Finland in spring 2020, with four causing two-thirds of the entire epidemic. Most infections were not transmitted further, indicating that early travel restrictions and preventive measures can delay widespread transmission.
A study analyzing long-term monitoring data for 1,478 species in Finland reveals that climate change has led to shifting between 'good', 'ideal', and 'worse' parts of their climatic niches. This impacts biodiversity, with some species benefiting from warmer temperatures while others decline as conditions become too warm.
Researchers from the University of Helsinki used new techniques to observe tree hyraxes in Kenya's Taita Hills, finding that they are social animals with specific habitat preferences. The study estimated a population size of no more than 2,000–4,000 individuals, shedding light on the behavior and conservation of these unique mammals.
Researchers found no general population-level trends supporting the 'boys will be boys' phrase. Instead, girls and boys showed variation in domains such as values, cognitive ability, and grades. The study's results highlight the importance of considering individual domains when assessing gender differences.
A new study reveals that long-term insomnia symptoms can lead to poorer cognitive functioning in retirement age. The Helsinki Health Study found a clear connection between severe insomnia and worse cognitive function among those on statutory pension.
A recent study by the University of Helsinki found that scent detection dogs can accurately identify individuals with a coronavirus infection from skin swabs. The dogs' sensitivity and specificity were 92%, with only small differences in accuracy observed between individual dogs.
Researchers have discovered 'proto-peat', a thin layer of organic matter containing high levels of carbon, in the Arctic. This finding suggests new carbon sinks may be forming as the region warms up.