Researchers uncovered evidence of state monitoring of migrant gossip in multiple languages, with churches aiming to have 'eyes everywhere'. The average person would hear multiple languages daily, and records kept by churches reveal the voices of regular people.
A new study from the University of Leeds reveals that uncollected waste and open burning of plastic waste are major contributors to the plastic pollution crisis. The research estimates that 52 million tonnes of plastic products entered the environment in 2020, with over two-thirds of it coming from uncollected rubbish.
Researchers from the University of Leeds and international partners have created an oil-free super-lubricant from potato proteins, achieving near zero friction. The material uses natural protein building blocks with a lower carbon footprint, opening doors for sustainable biomedical applications and low-calorie foods.
A new study by the University of Leeds has found that British Muslims faced significant challenges accessing palliative care services during the COVID-19 pandemic. The research highlighted the need for culturally aware healthcare policies and greater inclusion of minority groups in decision-making processes to address these inequities.
Experts predict EEG technology will enhance cognitive performance, detect learning disabilities, and provide real-time diagnosis of brain abnormalities. The technology may also enable reading dreams and memories, with personal portable devices potentially available in a generation.
A new AI algorithm assesses immune cells in early-stage bowel cancer tumours to predict recurrence risk. The CD3 Score test has been shown to reliably identify high-risk cancers that are more likely to recur within five years of surgery, enabling clinicians to make informed decisions about chemotherapy treatment.
Researchers have developed a complex algorithm to choreograph the movement of two robotic arms, ensuring a clear space between them and maintaining a consistent magnetic field. This innovative system uses two robotic arms to steer magnetic medical devices, such as vine robots, with precise control and accuracy.
Researchers have determined the structure of molecules within an Alzheimer's disease brain for the first time using cryo-electron tomography and fluorescence microscopy. This study revealed the molecular structure of tau protein and its arrangement with amyloid plaques, providing new insights into the pathology of the disease.
Long-distance travel has a substantial carbon footprint, with journeys over 50 miles accounting for 70% of emissions. Research suggests targeting long-distance travel may be more effective than current efforts to reduce emissions. Changing behavior and policy can maximize reductions in carbon emissions from passenger travel.
A new study led by the University of Leeds found that children who are not considered 'school ready' by their teachers are more than twice as likely to become persistently absent. The researchers analyzed data from 62,598 children aged 5-13 and found that 67% of persistent absentees were considered 'not school ready'.
Human-induced global warming has risen to 1.19 °C over the past decade, with the remaining carbon budget estimated to be around 200 gigatonnes, down from 300-900 gigatonnes in 2020. The report highlights the need for rapid emission reductions and resilient societies to mitigate climate change.
Researchers at the University of Leeds identified a surge in rare autoimmune cases linked to MDA5 autoimmunity, affecting mainly white men and women. The condition, characterized by skin rashes, pneumonia, and interstitial lung disease, has proven fatal in some cases.
A study led by University of Leeds found that children behind in development at age 4-5 were almost three times as likely to have been out of education, employment, or training at age 16-17. Early intervention by schools is crucial to reduce disadvantage in later life.
A University of Leeds academic argues that changes to word definitions are causing 'hermeneutical disarmament', leaving people without specific words to describe useful concepts. This phenomenon is particularly concerning when it affects specific phenomena like emotional abuse and women's work.
A new study predicts climate change will lead to an overall decrease in areas suitable for malaria transmission from 2025 onwards. The research used several climatic and hydrological models to create a more in-depth picture of malaria-friendly conditions on the African continent.
Researchers developed a falls prediction model called eFalls that uses primary care electronic health record data to predict patients' risk of falling within the next 12 months. The tool has been shown promising results in testing and could help identify people at risk who can benefit from specialist assessments and interventions.
A forgotten poem by CS Lewis has been uncovered in Special Collections, revealing details of friendships between fantasy writers and medievalists at the University of Leeds. The poem praises the Gordons, a married couple who were close friends with JRR Tolkien and medievalist scholars.
The study found that staffing considerations such as stable and consistent staff, sufficient staff for family-like relationships, supporting staff, and key staff leading by example improve quality of care. Care homes with experienced care staff and higher staff-to-bed ratios are more likely to receive positive CQC ratings.
Research highlights the association between iron deficiency and obesity in children and adolescents, with potential links to inflammation and brain function. The study's findings underscore the importance of addressing micronutrient deficiencies in childhood growth and development.
A study by researchers at the University of Leeds found that changes to fibre composition and yarn spinning system significantly reduce microfibre release. Current product specifications do not include these details, making it challenging for brands to make informed choices about garment sustainability.
A new study has found that replacing sugar with artificial and natural sweeteners in foods does not make people hungrier, but may help reduce blood sugar levels. The trial involved 53 adult men and women with overweight or obesity and found no differences in appetite or endocrine responses compared to sugar.
The University of Leeds says Africa needs significant investment in scientific infrastructure and science careers to adapt to climate change. Gaps in understanding the science behind tropical weather systems hinder African weather forecasting, leaving half the population without early warnings.
A new study found that socially prescribed creative play enhances parents' social networks, creative parenting approaches, and mental health, while improving children's developmental milestones and skills. Parents who participated in the programme reported better wellbeing and connections with others.
Researchers have developed a nanosurgical tool that enables them to study individual living cancer cells in real-time, allowing for vital understanding of how they react to treatment and change over time. This breakthrough could lead to more effective cancer medication, particularly for glioblastoma, the deadliest form of brain tumour.
Research published in Science found that 21% of rivers worldwide showed significant alterations in seasonal water levels due to climate change. This threatens freshwater biodiversity and water security as river flow seasonality weakens.
A major new study reveals that heart attack survivors are at high risk of developing further serious health conditions, including heart failure, kidney disease, and depression. The research found that up to a third of patients developed heart or kidney failure, and 38% died within nine years.
Over the last three decades, approximately 11,000 sq miles of Greenland's ice sheet have melted, equivalent to about 1.6% of its total ice cover. This has led to a significant increase in vegetation growth, with dense wetland areas forming in previously icy regions.
The study found that decarbonising the industrial sector is technically possible with a mix of high and low-maturity technologies. Established carbon capture and storage technologies can save nearly 85% of emissions, while electric technologies can theoretically reduce emissions by 40-100%.
A rare disorder causing extra fingers and toes has been identified through research led by the University of Leeds, linked to a genetic mutation in the MAX gene. The study found a molecule that could potentially treat neurological symptoms associated with the condition.
A four-week intervention of resonant breathing, tracked using a heart rate variability app and chest strap monitor, significantly improved symptoms among 13 Long Covid patients. Participants reported reduced symptoms, better sleep, and improved physical functioning.
Researchers have discovered nitrogen-bearing biorelevant molecules, including amino acids and nucleobases, in the Winchcombe meteorite. These findings suggest that the meteorite may have delivered crucial organic molecules to early Earth, potentially influencing the origin of life.
A major research study argues that diversifying away from maize and switching to crops like cassava, millet, and sorghum will improve nutrition security in sub-Saharan Africa. The study highlights the need for policymakers to prioritize nutritional quality in agricultural policy.
A phase III trial has found that personalised treatment for chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) can improve survival and remission rates. The trial showed that individualising therapy based on regular blood tests significantly improved progression-free and overall survival in patients with previously untreated CLL.
Scientists tracking Cadman Glacier's rapid retreat highlight the importance of long-term monitoring of Antarctica's polar regions. The glacier's ice shelf thinned due to warmer ocean waters, leading to a 28% increase in ice discharge over 13 months.
A new study found that attending early childhood education and care during the pandemic had sustained benefits for youngsters' development, particularly for children from disadvantaged backgrounds. The study discovered that toddlers who spent more time in childcare produced more new words and understood more new words than their peers.
Researchers found that honeybees' cluster behavior is a survival strategy against cold temperatures, not insulation. The study suggests that beekeepers should reconsider their hives' design and materials to reduce heat loss.
A novel aqueous lubricant technology has been developed at the University of Leeds, providing a longer-lasting solution for people with dry mouth conditions. The substance, composed of microgel and hydrogel, binds strongly to the surface of the mouth, reducing desorption and offering up to five times more effective relief.
Research by University of Leeds scientists has found evidence that massive Be stars may exist in triple systems, challenging current theories on their formation. The discovery could have significant impacts on our understanding of black holes, neutron stars, and gravitational wave sources.
Scientists have developed an AI system that accurately maps the surface area and outline of giant icebergs in one-hundredth of a second. This technology surpasses manual interpretation methods, which can take several minutes to delineate an iceberg's outline, and offers insights into their impact on the polar environment.
A new study by researchers at the University of Leeds found that Amazon deforestation causes land surfaces up to 100km away to get warmer. The study analyzed satellite data from 2001 to 2020 and found that regions with more local and regional deforestation warmed by an average of 4.4°C.
The ATLANTIS trial found that amitriptyline significantly improved IBS symptoms, with participants taking the medication reporting a bigger improvement in symptom scores after six months. The medication was well-tolerated and showed no significant impact on anxiety or depression scores.
A team of researchers from the University of Leeds is studying how social class influences TV shows and their reception by audiences. The study will consider the backgrounds of producers, talent, and crew members, as well as how shows represent class and are understood by viewers.
Over 71 of Antarctica's 162 ice shelves have reduced in volume over the past 25 years, with a net release of 7.5 trillion tonnes of meltwater into the oceans. The western side of Antarctica experienced significant ice loss, while the eastern side remained relatively stable.
A new study found that hybrid closed-loop technology significantly improved maternal blood sugars in pregnant women with type 1 diabetes. Women who used the technology spent more time within the target range for pregnancy blood sugar levels, gained less weight, and had fewer complications.
Researchers have identified a massive solar storm 14,300 years ago in ancient tree rings, which could be catastrophic for modern technological society. The study warns of the importance of understanding such storms to protect global communications and energy infrastructure.
Research by the University of Leeds found that fathers who engage in interactive activities with their children, such as reading and playing, have a positive impact on their educational achievement. The study suggests that even small changes in father-child interaction can have lasting benefits for children's learning.
A team of geo-scientists identified a melting ice sheet as the trigger for a major climate-change event over 8,000 years ago. The research found that rapid ice-sheet retreat from the Hudson Bay Ice Saddle caused significant changes to ocean currents and global rainfall patterns.
A study by the University of Leeds found that South American forests lost their ability to absorb carbon from the atmosphere during an extreme El Niño event in 2015-2016. This suggests that tropical forests may no longer be able to mitigate climate change, but conservation efforts can still protect them.
Atrial fibrillation patients in the UK are now 50% less likely to die from heart attacks and strokes than at the start of the millennium. The study revealed significant health inequalities, with socioeconomically deprived patients facing a higher risk of mortality.
Scientists have found that dust storms in Alaska can cause ice formation in clouds, which could add to or help cool the planet. The particles from these storms contain more biological material than those from desert environments, making them effective at forming ice crystals.