A new research paper by Andrew Futter, Professor of International Politics at the University of Leicester, warns of a 'Third Nuclear Age' due to advancements in nuclear weapons technology. The 'Third Nuclear Age' could fundamentally change the rules on nuclear order and stability, posing significant risks to global security.
A new study found a clear link between brisk walking and longer telomere length, indicating slower biological aging. Researchers estimate that a lifetime of brisk walking could lead to the equivalent of 16 years younger biological age by midlife.
A study of isotopes found in bird samples reveals long-term patterns in the short-tailed albatross' foraging behaviour, which disappeared after hunting. The research suggests this hyper-specialised foraging could re-emerge as populations recover, highlighting the need for close monitoring.
A new study by University of Leicester researchers reveals Neptune's atmospheric temperatures have dropped by roughly 8 degrees Celsius between 2003 and 2018, with unexpected stratospheric warming at the south pole. The cause of these changes is currently unknown, but may be related to seasonal variations in atmospheric chemistry.
A study published in Ophthalmology identified the genetic spectrum behind foveal hypoplasia, a rare condition affecting vision development. The research combined data from over 900 cases across the globe and revealed relationships between genetic defects and the degree of arrested foveal development.
The new Stoneygate Centre for Excellence in Empathic Healthcare will develop and deliver empathy-focused training for medical students and professionals across the UK. This unique Centre will make empathy an integral part of all aspects of medical training, aiming to improve patient care and practitioner resilience.
Research reveals stark inequalities in long-term health outcomes for Black and South Asian women with a history of gestational diabetes. The study found that these women are up to three times more likely to develop certain health conditions, including type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
Researchers have described a pioneering chemical technique that can degrade proteins implicated in cancer, potentially increasing the potency and selectivity of new and existing drugs. This technique, known as proteolysis targeting chimeras (PROTACs), targets specific structures within cancerous cells to reduce harmful side effects.
Researchers at the University of Leicester identified striking similarities between grasshopper mandibles and mammal teeth, enabling accurate predictions of their diets. The study used 3D imaging techniques to map the shape of grasshoppers' mouthparts, revealing differences linked to diet, such as steeper slopes for carnivorous species.
Dr Henrik Melin, a researcher at the University of Leicester, has been awarded the third-ever Webb Fellowship to study the atmospheres of giant planets using the James Webb Space Telescope. He aims to understand the mechanisms driving powerful aurorae on these planets and address the 'energy crisis' in their upper atmospheres.
Mathematicians at the University of Leicester have developed a new mathematical model that could greatly increase the efficiency of pest control. The model uses field data and computer simulations to predict the distribution of slugs in arable fields, accounting for individual creature movements.
Researchers at the University of Leicester have discovered a new mechanism driving Saturn's massive aurorae, which are fueled by swirling winds in its upper atmosphere. This discovery answers one of NASA's Cassini mission mysteries and highlights the complex interactions between atmospheric weather and aurora creation.
A strong association exists between COVID-19 deaths and obesity in Black, South Asian, and other ethnic minority groups. The risk of death increases with BMI levels, highlighting the need for tailored plans to protect these individuals.
Researchers discovered a complex relationship between Jupiter's magnetic field, volcanic activity on its moon Io, and the planet's powerful aurorae. The study revealed an electromagnetic 'tug-of-war' lights up aurorae in Jupiter's upper atmosphere.
A new 'Goldilocks Zone' has been discovered in the Earth's crust, allowing critical metals like gold, copper, and tellurium to pass upwards. This finding sheds light on planetary cycles of metals and could enable more targeted mineral exploration, reducing environmental impact.
A new report warns that current pathways to net zero climate targets in the UK are flawed and may lead to losses in biodiversity, human wellbeing, and cultural knowledge. The study recommends a more inclusive approach to landscape management, involving experts from diverse fields, to achieve sustainable futures.
Researchers at the University of Leicester have partnered with BHP to identify new areas for nickel and copper deposits critical to the electric vehicle (EV) revolution. The project aims to challenge current understanding of the nickel mineral system, potentially opening up new exploration search space globally.
Archaeologists have unearthed a rare Roman mosaic and surrounding villa complex beneath a farmer's field in Rutland, UK. The discovery provides fresh perspectives on Roman era attitudes towards classical literature and the individual who commissioned the mosaic.
Mathematicians analysed global COVID-19 data to identify two constants that drastically change a country's rate of infection. Social stress is key to understanding the multi-wave dynamics of COVID-19 outbreaks.
A new study suggests that the tectonic opening of Southern Ocean seaways led to a sudden cooling event 34 million years ago, contributing to the formation of Antarctic ice sheets. High-resolution simulations showed that this event caused a dramatic drop in coastal temperatures and initiated the Earth's transition into an Icehouse world.
Researchers have discovered a promising new treatment and vaccine for Alzheimer's disease by targeting the toxic form of amyloid beta protein. Both the antibody-based treatment and the protein-based vaccine reduced Alzheimer's symptoms in mouse models, offering hope for potential transformation in patient lives.
A new study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that a psoriasis medicine worsened symptoms in patients with severe asthma. The trial tested risankizumab, an injectable treatment for psoriasis, and showed it did not improve asthma symptoms, but rather made them worse.
Jupiter's banded pattern extends deep beneath the clouds, and the appearance of its belts and zones inverts near the base of the water clouds. The planet's microwave emissions reveal a transition zone between five and 10 bars, where the zones become bright and the belts dark.
Researchers at the University of Leicester created novel body-maps of hallucinations, documenting feelings and sensations in the body during psychosis. These maps revealed recurrent concentrations of feelings like pain, heat, or tension in specific body areas.
Researchers identified a new family of marine megaphages with genomes over 650 kb in length, which could impact biogeochemical cycling. These 'megaphages', found in the English Channel, are distantly related to human gut phages and represent a new family in the marine environment.
Researchers have identified a new method for clearing senescent cells using an antibody treatment, which could transform treatments for ageing and related conditions. The treatment targets specific membrane markers on senescent cells, effectively eliminating them and slowing age-related degeneration.
Researchers have discovered a 1 million-year-old hippo tooth at Westbury Cave in Somerset, which reveals that the animal roamed Britain much earlier than thought. The fossil belongs to an extinct species of hippo called Hippopotamus antiquus, which was larger and more reliant on aquatic habitats than its living relative.
New research from the University of Leicester shows that macroplastics travel much slower through river systems than previously believed, remaining in place for significant periods. The study suggests existing estimates of riverine plastic flux to the ocean may have been overestimated, highlighting the need for further research.
A leading criminologist argues that the UK's Misuse of Drugs Act is outdated and unfairly discriminates against certain populations. Research by independent charity Release shows racial disparities in drug-related arrests and possession, highlighting the need for reform.
Astronomers create most-detailed map yet of Jupiter's upper atmosphere, confirming aurorae as responsible for planet-wide heating. Researchers use data from the Keck Observatory to reveal unprecedented detail in temperature maps, shedding light on long-standing puzzle.
Researchers at the University of Leicester have developed a new method to recycle electric vehicle batteries using ultrasonic waves, which separates valuable materials from electrodes more efficiently. The technique recovers around 80% of original material in a purer state than current methods, making it faster and greener.
Researchers John Schwabe and Daniel Panne have been awarded £3.89 million to investigate gene regulation, with a focus on histone deacetylase complexes and DNA folding. The study aims to understand how genes are regulated and its potential in treating diseases such as cancer and Alzheimer's.
University of Leicester academics developed a pioneering device to help doctors and nurses communicate clearly whilst wearing PPE. The MedicCom uses a throat microphone to amplify sound, enabling patients to better hear medical staff caring for them.
Researchers estimate that restoring all global agricultural peatlands could cut 500 million tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions, equivalent to one per cent of global GHG emissions. Raising peatland water levels could allow farmers to reduce climate impact while extending soil usage.
The global human population is projected to lead to food and water shortages, pollution, poverty and social tension. A new mathematical model suggests that intrinsic factors, such as Turing instability, may drive heterogeneous population distribution, regardless of geographical heterogeneity.
Patients with kidney failure who cycled during dialysis showed improved heart health, including reduced scarring and stiffness of major blood vessels. The study found significant savings in healthcare costs, potentially benefiting the NHS.
A study analyzing UK Biobank data found that deprivation is the primary driver of Covid-19 disparities among minority ethnic groups. Reducing material deprivation could play a pivotal role in decreasing these disparities and improving health outcomes.
Researchers have developed an AI system to analyze DNA-sequenced mesotheliomas, revealing similar evolutionary paths that predict aggressiveness and possible therapy. This breakthrough could lead to improved patient outcomes for those with this aggressive form of cancer.
A new study of UK Biobank participants found slow walkers have over twice the risk of contracting a severe version of COVID-19 and are almost four times more likely to die from the virus. The analysis examined body mass index (BMI) and self-reported walking pace with the risk of contracting severe COVID-19 and COVID-19 mortality.
Research at the University of Leicester found that two-thirds of children use multiple screens simultaneously, leading to reduced physical activity, higher BMI, and less sleep. The study also identified a strong correlation between screen use and poor self-esteem.
Researchers at the University of Leicester are developing a new approach using virtual clinical trials to predict patient responses and optimize therapy efficacy for lung diseases. This innovative approach has the potential to reduce costs and speed up the development process by identifying which drugs are most likely to succeed.
A new study published in The Lancet found that patients with type 2 diabetes treated with Semaglutide achieved significant weight loss and improved blood glucose control. Two-thirds of patients lost at least 5% of their body weight, while over a quarter lost more than 15%.
Researchers found that swirlonic super particles move with constant velocity, proportional to applied force, violating Newton's Law. This phenomenon has practical applications in artificial intelligence, space data, and robotics, particularly in self-assembly.
Researchers at the University of Leicester are helping community groups in Rio de Janeiro's favelas develop digital storytelling skills through a virtual tourism platform called Lockdown Stories. The project aims to empower individuals and communities within the favelas, reducing their isolation and increasing access to global audiences.
A new study by University of Leicester neuroscientists argues that the way humans store memories is key to our superior intelligence. Contrary to long-held beliefs, the same group of neurons stores all memories, enabling abstract thinking and cognitive abilities unique to humans.
A new study demonstrates that pooling treatment recommendations from multiple prescribers using the 'wisdom of crowds' concept can improve decisions on antibiotic prescribing and reduce overuse. Using international survey data, researchers found that groups of three or more prescribers showed significant benefits in guideline compliance.
Researchers discovered that positive and negative ions in RTILs form neutral pairs or clusters, but emerge as charged particles due to thermal fluctuations, sustaining conductivity. This 'relay race' of charges is similar to crystalline semiconductors, offering potential for new applications in supercapacitors, fuel cells, and batteries.
Researchers discovered 139 new genetic differences affecting lung health and COPD risk, showing both smokers and non-smokers can develop the disease. These findings could lead to new treatments for COPD, impacting global health.
A new asthma pill has shown promising results in reducing airway muscle and inflammation, potentially leading to improved symptoms and reduced attacks. The investigational drug, Fevipiprant, may also reduce the need for oral steroids, a common treatment for severe asthma.
Researchers in Leicester are investigating the use of antibiotics to treat certain types of severe asthma, a condition affecting 1 in 20 people with asthma. The study aims to identify patients with specific subtypes of severe asthma and test new oral treatments, including doxycycline and dexpramipexole.