A team led by Dr Bill Hughes found that ancestral females in colonies of bees, wasps, and ants were monogamous, supporting the theory of kin selection. This study provides conclusive evidence that kin selection explains the evolution of social insects.
Researchers at Kew Gardens are testing a sensor device that gathers crucial data on air temperature, humidity, and soil moisture to help farmers in Africa make informed decisions about planting and harvesting. The device aims to optimize crop yields, reduce waste, and improve food security for local communities.
Genetic evidence reveals a significant shift in the timeline of human migration into Island Southeast Asia, forcing a reevaluation of existing theories. The research suggests that climate change and sea-level rise drove population expansions across the region, rather than agriculture-driven 'Out of Taiwan' model.
A study by University of Leeds engineers found that roasting energy crops using the torrefaction process can increase their energy content, reducing transportation costs and emissions. Willow emerged as the most favourable crop, retaining 86% of its mass and performing best in terms of energy yield.
Researchers have found that doxycycline, commonly used to treat acne, can prevent tissue damage caused by emphysema. The study suggests that the antibiotic boosts the body's ability to protect against lung damage by increasing VEGF levels.
Researchers found a motor protein, myosin 2, remains structurally identical in turkeys and scallops despite their different physical paths. This suggests the protein's importance in regulating smooth muscle function, potentially holding key to understanding aneurisms in humans.
The DIAMOND consortium aims to address the £70 billion cost of decommissioning UK nuclear sites through research and innovation. The project will also provide training for the next generation of nuclear waste specialists to combat an EU-wide skills gap.
Researchers have uncovered the molecular mechanism behind chloroform's action as a general anaesthetic, revealing its potential to design new anesthetics with reduced harm. Chloroform inhibits TRPC5 calcium ion channels, a key player in pain transmission and brain function.
Researchers at the University of Leeds have increased the operating temperature of a terahertz quantum cascade laser by nearly ten degrees, bringing handheld devices a step closer to reality. This breakthrough could unlock opportunities in fields like industrial process monitoring, atmospheric science, and medicine.
A team of researchers from the University of Leeds has identified a critical weakness in Human Papillomavirus (HPV) that may lead to new treatments for cervical cancer. The E7 protein helps HPV evade the immune system, but it also makes infected cells vulnerable to attack by Natural Killer cells.
A €15 million European Commission-funded project, EDICT, brings together leading experts in membrane proteins to find novel treatments for diseases such as diabetes and heart disease. The research aims to map the structure of proteins to identify compounds that could be developed as new treatments.
Scientists have discovered that ants deliberately spread their offspring with 'royal' genes to avoid detection and maintain an unfair advantage in queen selection. This genetic cheating undermines the notion of egalitarianism in ant societies, revealing a complex web of conflict and cooperation.
According to a study, intuition is a subconscious process that draws on past experiences and external cues to make rapid decisions. The researchers found that intuition plays a crucial role in high-pressure situations, such as avoiding accidents or making swift business decisions.
A £500,000 project will use biotechnology to develop pest-resistant plantains to combat losses of up to half of the crop due to nematode worms. The initiative will also provide a reliable source of nutritious crops for impoverished communities.
Research at the University of Leeds shows that humans follow crowds without realizing it, with just 5% of individuals influencing the group's direction. This study has major implications for directing large crowds in disaster scenarios and organizing pedestrian flow in busy areas.
Engineers at the University of Leeds have developed a new device that uses a specially-woven web to assist weak hearts, increasing internal pressure to improve blood flow. The web-based device eliminates the need for life-long drug therapy and reduces the risk of blood clots.
Researchers at the University of Leeds have made a breakthrough in diagnosing pre-eclampsia, a condition that affects up to 15% of pregnancies. A user-friendly diagnostic kit is being developed to test pregnant women, with potential savings estimated at £500m for the NHS.
A new process developed by the University of Leeds can produce up to 97% pure titanium dioxide, reducing production costs and environmental impact. The innovative method uses less chlorine and recycles waste CO2 and heat, offering a sustainable alternative to current industrial processes.
A study by University of Leeds researchers found that human psychology and automatic pilot can compromise data security. Employees tend to oversimplify risks and fail to consider consequences, leading to errors. To improve security, organisations should design systems with user involvement and implement triggers for critical thinking.
The University of Leeds team has secured a £2 million grant to study the changes in behavior and properties of nano-scale systems within the terahertz region. By examining these systems with terahertz radiation, the researchers aim to develop new nano-scale electronic devices for sensing, imaging, and spectroscopy applications.
A study by Dr Alan Grainger found no convincing evidence for a decline in tropical forests over the past 40 years. Despite local evidence of deforestation, long-term data is plagued by errors and inconsistencies that raise questions about predictions of species extinctions and global climate change.
Scientists at the University of Leeds have identified a previously unknown natural mechanism that activates ion channels through thioredoxin, offering new opportunities for treating inflammatory diseases like rheumatoid arthritis. This breakthrough could lead to the development of innovative therapies.
Scientists have sequenced the genome of moss Physcomitrella patens, which can survive severe dehydration and regrow when watered. The study aims to identify genes controlling these survival tactics and adapt crops for drought-stricken areas.
A new heart test has been developed to detect mild degrees of heart injury, enabling doctors to identify patients most likely to benefit from life-saving treatments. The test, which searches for a specific protein in the blood, could lead to fewer unnecessary hospital admissions and improved diagnosis.
A £1.7 million project led by the University of Leeds seeks to fully sequence the DNA of G. pallida, a parasitic worm attacking potato crops worldwide. The research aims to understand its mechanisms and lead to sustainable management methods.
A new method to convert low-value glycerol from biodiesel production into a hydrogen-rich gas offers a promising solution for the transportation sector. The process, developed by Dr. Valerie Dupont and her team at the University of Leeds, produces a high-value product in demand for fertilisers, food production, and chemical plants.
A recent study by the University of Leeds reveals that porous sandstone can react quickly with injected fluids, making it a potential safe reservoir for carbon dioxide. This reaction is essential if the captured CO2 is not to leak back to the surface, and could provide a long-term solution for tackling climate change.
Engineers are developing new biological cements to repair burst fractures of the spine, a major leap forward in treatment. The novel cement materials mimic the chemical composition of bone and can be injected at the fracture site to stabilize the spine with minimal invasive surgery.
Researchers at the University of Leeds have mapped the 3D structure of T7 endonuclease 1 enzyme, responsible for splitting DNA strands and creating genetically unique offspring. The discovery is expected to shed light on human individuality and viral replication mechanisms.
The University of Leeds is partnering with Dr Tony Marchington's M2 Ventures to offer outsourced research and development in membrane biology to industries. Membrane biology research plays a crucial role in developing pharmaceutical drugs, and the partnership aims to capitalize on this expertise.
Researchers investigating statin effects on heart cells hope to understand disease process better and develop new treatments. The study, led by Dr Sarah Calaghan at the University of Leeds, aims to determine how statins affect caveolae and impact heart behavior.
A new study led by the University of Leeds suggests that extreme climate events did not coincide with Neanderthal extinction, contrary to previous theories. The research provides a more detailed picture of the climate at the time of the Neanderthals' disappearance, suggesting indirect competition with other human groups.
Researchers at the University of Leeds have discovered a naturally occurring protein preventing 57 genes from operating normally in Huntington's sufferers' brains. Cancer drugs targeting this protein could halt its destructive nature.
A team of atmospheric chemists found high concentrations of halogens, including bromine and iodine oxides, which persist throughout the Antarctic winter. These chemicals cause substantial ozone depletion and form tiny particles that can impact local climate.
The University of Leeds is joining forces with leading Chinese scientists in membrane and neurobiology to enhance research outputs and international profiles. The partnership aims to collaborate on studies focusing on ion channels, membrane transporters, and the flow of membranes between cellular compartments.
Researchers have identified a protective role for normal prion proteins in preventing the formation of beta-amyloid plaques in the brain, a hallmark of Alzheimer's disease. High levels of PrPc reduced beta amyloid formation, while low or absent levels allowed it to return.
Researchers warn that global warming is forcing gannets to search further afield for food, leaving their chicks vulnerable to attack. The birds' breeding success is declining as they compensate by flying faster, but their speed limit has been reached.
Researchers at the University of Leeds have discovered a mechanism to prevent cardiac hypertrophy by increasing the levels of REST protein, halting the progression of the fatal heart condition. This finding offers a new approach to treating the cause of heart hypertrophy rather than its symptoms.
University of Leeds scientists have found a link between reduced oxygen in the brain and increased risk of Alzheimer's disease. The research suggests that even after full recovery from stroke, patients may still be vulnerable to the build-up of toxic chemicals that cause the disease.
A team led by Sally Johnson and Clive Upton assesses the BBC Voices project's 700 hours of sound recordings, showcasing diverse regional accents and vocabularies. The study explores how language relates to issues like gender, ethnicity, and media representation.
Researchers at the University of Leeds discovered that leaf-cutting ant larvae can switch development based on environmental stimuli and colony needs. This flexible genetic coding allows colonies to adapt to changing workforce demands.
Researchers have created a building block made almost entirely of recycled glass, metal slag, and other waste products, aiming to revolutionize the construction industry. The 'Bitublock' is estimated to reduce energy consumption by up to 50% and use an estimated 400,000 tonnes of crushed glass annually.
A £9.5 million European Union-funded project will build a self-healing house in Greece with unique walls that contain wireless sensors and can repair cracks using nano polymer particles. The system aims to alert residents straight away if there are any problems, potentially saving lives.
Exercise testing can diagnose chronic conditions and measure treatment responses, according to a new task force report. The findings suggest that clinical exercise testing can be a powerful tool for clinicians to evaluate interventions and improve patient outcomes.
Researchers found that ancient Athenian rowers would have matched up well with modern-day athletes in terms of endurance. The study suggests that ancient Greeks may have had a more efficient way of rowing, or were extremely fit, to power their warships at high speeds.
The online survey aims to learn how people of different nationalities behave while having fun in the sun, and their attitudes to tanning and skin cancer. Researchers have identified four high-risk melanoma genes that increase someone's risk of skin cancer.
A team of scientists led by Dr Tim Wright is studying the Ethiopian rift valley to track the movement of continents. Using satellite radar imaging and other geophysical techniques, they aim to understand how magma moves through the Earth's crust and create a 3D computer model.
Researchers have adapted bacteria in the human gut to produce human growth factors that repair colon cells, reducing inflammation in IBD. The treatment uses a plant sugar called xylan, found in tree bark, to control the release of the medicine.
The discovery of Little Foot, an Australopithecus fossil, has been revised to be around 2.2 million years old, pushing it back from earlier estimates of 3-4 million years. The findings suggest that Little Foot is a distant cousin rather than a direct ancestor of humans.
A University of Leeds study reports a groundbreaking case of déjà vu in a blind individual, challenging traditional theories. The research suggests that déjà experiences are caused by disrupted familiarity areas in the brain, contradicting optical pathway delay theory.