The University of Leicester and Leicester City Council are leading a £2.4 million project to develop green traffic management systems in European cities and towns. The three-year project aims to improve road congestion and urban environments using space and information technologies.
A leading cancer researcher highlights high levels of doctor-patient trust and confidence within the NHS. Closer clinical relationships between physicians and patients are crucial for coping with treatment and diagnosis. However, cost-cutting measures risk eroding this trust if not carefully implemented.
Researchers at the University of Leicester have discovered a link between inositol phosphate signalling and histone deacetylase enzymes, which play a key role in regulating gene expression. This finding has significant implications for the therapeutic intervention of certain types of cancer.
Researchers from the University of Leicester and UCLA have made a major breakthrough in developing targeted drugs to lower 'bad' cholesterol levels. By targeting the enzyme IDOL, scientists aim to increase LDL receptor production, thereby lowering circulating cholesterol levels in humans.
A University of Leicester study has fundamentally altered our understanding of lung growth, suggesting that new air sacs continue to form until adulthood. Researchers used magnetic resonance scans and breathing tests to find minimal difference in alveoli size across age groups.
A new study found that global warming increases the growth rate of parasites in fish, leading to altered host behavior and potentially devastating effects on fish reproduction. The research also suggests that parasites can manipulate host behavior to seek out warmer temperatures.
Researchers have identified new ways to target and kill the malaria parasite in human bloodstreams, which could lead to the development of new anti-malarial drugs. The discovery provides a promising avenue for combating the disease, but also highlights the need for continued efforts to address growing resistance to current treatments.
A new study from the University of Leicester reveals that cervical smear tests can cause stress, anxiety, and pain in women, leading to unsatisfactory experiences. The research highlights the need for healthcare professionals to tailor their approach to individual women's needs and concerns.
A study co-authored by University of Leicester expert identifies key genetic mechanisms controlling blood pressure, including two microRNAs that regulate renin hormone production. This breakthrough could lead to innovative new treatments for high blood pressure.
A University of Leicester study found that individuals with extreme antisocial personality are more likely to join gangs. Gangs provide a sense of belonging and acceptance for these individuals, who struggle with social connections due to their behavior.
A new study suggests that migrant South Asians should be classified as obese with a BMI between 23-28 kg/m2, indicating a higher risk of developing diabetes and cardiovascular disease. The conventional definition of obesity may need to be lowered for this population to detect equivalent levels of cardiovascular risk.
A British team has discovered over 100 fortified farms and villages with castle-like structures in Libya's south-western desert, uncovering new evidence of a lost civilization. The Garamantes were highly civilized, living in large-scale fortified settlements, predominantly as oasis farmers.
A new study suggests EU biofuels could be just as bad for the environment as traditional petrol, due to higher-than-thought CO2 emissions from oil palm plantations. The research reveals that expanding palm oil production can increase emissions by up to 60%.
Researchers from the University of Leicester are working with Kenyan partners to develop demonstration projects for an ecologically sustainable source of flowers grown at Lake Naivasha. The project aims to reduce water use, improve ecosystem health, and increase access to clean water for local communities.
A new gene, LRP1, has been identified as the cause of fatal abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs). Researchers found that this gene is specific to AAA and not linked to other cardiovascular diseases. The discovery paves the way for new methods to treat AAAs.
The University of Leicester has established an Advanced Structural Dynamics Evaluation Centre (ASDEC) with £1.07 million funding, enabling the analysis of product design, parts, and components in the automotive, aerospace, and space industries. The centre will provide cost-effective system-level models to predict optimal design solutio...
A new theory suggests that high-speed collisions between planets and asteroids near supermassive black holes create microscopic dust clouds. This process blocks harmful radiation, creating a more hospitable environment for life in the galaxy's central region.
Researchers have discovered that meteorite impacts can produce rapid ground-hugging currents of gas and debris similar to pyroclastic density currents from explosive volcanoes. The study found that ash and dust particles stick together in a way identical to volcanic eruptions, leading to the formation of accretionary lapilli.
A small fossil fragment at London's Natural History Museum has been identified as part of the world's largest toothed pterosaur, reaching a wingspan of up to 7 meters. The discovery provides insight into patterns of evolution among extinct groups and sheds light on why some species achieved giant sizes.
Geologists are sounding the alarm on metal shortages, citing a surge in demand for metals in consumer products. The inexorable increase in production and usage of metals such as copper, nickel, and neodymium is putting pressure on supply chains.
Neuroscientists at the University of Leicester discovered a protein called lipocalin-2 that helps regulate dendritic spine formation and maturation, reducing future anxiety associated with stressful events. The study found that mice without this protein were more anxious and had stronger memories of stressful events.
Researchers have uncovered a well-preserved example of a massive landslide triggered by a volcanic eruption on Tenerife. The study provides insights into the long-term effects of such events on hazardous pyroclastic dispersal, with potential implications for tsunami risk assessment and global preparedness.
The study found that many people believe cancer is curable, while others hold misconceptions about its causes and treatment options. Research suggests a need for education on the effects of diet and obesity on cancer development.
Researchers have identified 16 new genetic variants associated with lung function, shedding light on the molecular basis of lung diseases like COPD. The discovery could lead to targeted treatments and improved patient care.
Research by Dr Jane Pilcher at the University of Leicester found that brands and logos are highly important to some children, shaped by family culture and peer influences. However, Dr Pilcher emphasizes that childhood remains distinct from adolescence, with parents exerting control over their children's consumption.
The University of Leicester has developed a hi-tech facility using cutting-edge technologies to detect diseases without invasive procedures. The Diagnostics Development Unit uses breath analysis, imaging systems, and ultrasound technology to identify conditions such as sepsis, cancer, and asthma.
The new guideline recommends using ambulatory blood pressure monitoring to diagnose high blood pressure, which may lead to a significant reduction in the number of people misdiagnosed with hypertension. The approach is expected to be cost-effective and save money by targeting treatment at those who need it.
A new study found that parents of nut-allergy sufferers often encounter hostility and scepticism from friends, family, and even restaurant staff, making it difficult to find safe environments for their children. The research highlights the need for better public education about the dangers of nut allergy.
A study published in Psychological Medicine found that psychiatrists are not regularly monitoring patients for metabolic complications associated with antipsychotic medication. The researchers reviewed over 300,000 individuals across five countries and found that only half of patients had blood pressure and triglyceride checks conducted.
The University of Leicester has developed a test to measure the force used during a stabbing using a broken bottle. The study provides a basic classification for the presenting end of a glass bottle and illustrates how much force is required to create injuries.
A University of Leicester geography lecturer will investigate transnational solidarity activism with a Leverhulme Trust award. The project aims to provoke debate about the value of this type of activism in understanding and informing current and future movements.
A new study by the University of Leicester found that GPs struggle to identify people in the early stages of dementia, resulting in both missed cases and misidentifications. The research analyzed 15,277 patients with cognitive disorders, identifying a significant number of false positives.
A growing interest in 'chav' culture is being studied among middle-class gay men, revealing complex consumer patterns and challenging traditional notions of gay identity. The research also raises questions about the potential impact on working-class homosexual men.
A comprehensive quality improvement programme implemented in 103 Michigan ICUs reduced central line bloodstream infections to a record low. The programme's success was attributed to its community-driven approach and emphasis on storytelling, hard data, and checklists.
Researchers have discovered a potential therapeutic strategy for Huntington's disease by targeting an enzyme in the brain. The study, published in Current Biology and Cell, found that inhibiting this enzyme can slow down neurodegeneration and improve symptoms.
Research reveals that individuals with significant mental ill health experience higher than expected mortality rates following acute coronary events such as heart attacks. The study found that these patients receive inferior care, including fewer life-saving interventions and lower rates of essential coronary care procedures.
A new study by the University of Leicester found that being able to see a preferred GP reduces emergency hospital admissions. The research, led by Dr John Bankart, discovered that patients who reported having continuity of care were less likely to be admitted to hospital.
Scientists analyzed aphid movements and found they wander randomly, with some individuals moving very little or a lot. This discovery challenges the long-held idea of Lévy flights in animal behavior.
A UK survey found that adults with autism were rarely aware they had the condition, with prevalence higher in males and lower educated individuals. The study suggests that changes in diagnosis methods may be responsible for recent increases in reported cases.
A team of neuroscientists has discovered a critical 'chemical pathway' in the brain that triggers our response to stress. The study found that increasing production of a protein called neuropsin in the amygdala leads to increased activity and vulnerability to stress.
A new injection has been developed to limit the devastating consequences of heart attacks and strokes, with potential applications in transplant surgery. The injection targets a key enzyme responsible for inflammation, neutralizing its effects and significantly reducing tissue damage.
Researchers have discovered a remarkable 525-million-year-old fossil of a 'feathered helmet from beyond the clouds,' offering insights into ancient biology and evolution. The find belongs to a group called pterobranch hemichordates, related to starfish and sea urchins.
A new report by University of Leicester historian Dr. Kim Price draws parallels between past and present medical negligence, warning that the UK's Coalition Government reforms may undermine patient trust. The paper argues that similar policies in the late 19th century led to widespread neglect and poor health outcomes.
A large-scale study led by the University of Leicester has discovered 13 new genes that increase the risk of heart attacks. The research, known as CARDIoGRAM, involved over 140,000 participants and 167 clinicians from around the world.
A new non-surgical post-mortem technique uses minimally invasive targeted coronary angiography to determine the cause of death in up to 80% of cases. The technique is inexpensive, easy to use, and applicable to natural and unnatural deaths, offering a potential permanent change in autopsy practice.
A new blood pressure measurement device using CASP has been developed to provide more accurate readings than current methods. The device, invented by scientists at the University of Leicester and HealthSTATS International, measures pressure close to the heart, leading to better treatment decisions and patient outcomes.
Scientists have used rare Martian meteorite samples to reveal that a collision on Mars caused water to flow near the planet's surface. The research found veins created during an impact, which suggests that buried ice melted and deposited minerals such as clay and serpentine.
A new study has identified DUO1, a genetic hierarchy that governs sperm cell production and fertility in flowering plants. The research found that DUO1 acts as a master switch to ensure twin fertile sperm cells are made in each pollen grain.
Researchers at University of Leicester introduce the Anthropocene, a geological epoch marked by significant human impact on the environment. The studies highlight effects of population growth, megacities, and fossil fuel use on global warming, sea level rise, and biodiversity.
Scientists have solved the long-standing problem of pterosaur head crests by discovering a female fossil with an egg, showing females were crestless and males used crests to intimidate rivals. The discovery uses hip size and crest development to sex pterosaurs.