Researchers observe evidence of a 'hot cocoon' material enveloping a relativistic jet escaping a dying star, providing insight into the earliest moments of a supernova. The discovery was made using a coordinated approach with space- and ground-based observatories.
Researchers at the University of Leicester have developed a method to optimize arc welding and additive manufacturing processes, improving efficiency and reducing costs. By tracking melt pool behavior using X-ray imaging, they discovered that controlling flow and surface tension can improve weld quality and properties.
A new study has found a genetic factor on chromosome 6 that increases the risk of spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD), a rare and atypical form of heart attack primarily affecting young to middle-aged women. The genetic variant, known as rs9349379, is also associated with a small protective effect from classic heart attacks.
Scientists identified a six-seven year cycle of spectacular disturbances at Jupiter's equator, where clouds vanish completely allowing deeper viewing into the planet's atmosphere. The researchers expect to see another event soon, possibly as early as next year, with implications for NASA's Juno mission.
Researchers found that Saturn's iconic rings are losing ice particles at a maximum rate, draining an Olympic-sized pool in half an hour. The entire ring system is expected to vanish in 300-100 million years.
Modern broiler chickens are a defining feature of the Anthropocene, shaped by human biology and consumption. The rapid evolution of these chickens reflects a biosphere dominated by human activity.
A mathematical model developed by international researchers predicts that temperature-dependent phages can affect the spread of melioidosis in Southeast Asia. The study reveals opportunities for disease control, including rescheduling work on rice fields and using protective gear during high-risk periods.
A team of scientists from the University of Leicester has explored the long-standing mystery of mass extinctions, revealing that abrupt transitions can occur due to 'ghost attractors' and 'crawl-bys'. This knowledge could help predict upcoming ecological catastrophes and inform efficient management.
Researchers at the University of Leicester conducted longitudinal ultrasound studies on mice with vascular disease to track disease progression. The study showed that ultrasound imaging can detect early changes in blood vessel function that may serve as a marker for detection of disease.
A study found that 12 weeks of aerobic and strength-based exercise reduces symptoms and levels of fatigue in patients with chronic kidney disease. Exercise also improves blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetic control, making it a beneficial treatment option for patients with CKD.
A new study by the University of Leicester found that larger muscles can compensate for poor muscle quality in Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) patients, improving physical function and strength. The research suggests that muscle size is a more important factor than muscle quality in maintaining good physical performance.
Scientists at the University of Leicester have identified a protein that allows bacteria to detect amino acids in their surroundings, regulating their metabolism and sensing nutrient availability. This discovery could lead to new insights into how bacteria function and inform the development of drugs and antibiotics.
Research reveals that routine screening and genetic testing can identify up to 30% of relatives with an underlying genetic predisposition to developing life-threatening aortic diseases. This could lead to earlier detection and potentially save lives.
Researchers have discovered a complex and previously unknown phenomenon in Jupiter's upper atmosphere. The discovery reveals that the planet's magnetic equator is surprisingly simple, but its ionosphere between the equator and pole is very complex.
Researchers from the University of Leicester played a key role in discovering the origin of 'ghost particles' - high-energy neutrinos and cosmic rays. A global network helped identify a known blazar as the source of these particles, providing new insights into the universe's most distant energy sources.
Scientists have uncovered a new species of chancelloriid, an ancient group of spiny tube-shaped animals that lived during the Cambrian Period. The discovery provides fresh insights into the evolution of early animals, with the fossil resembling modern sponges in pattern of body growth.
Researchers at the University of Leicester developed a new method to determine the effectiveness of the Men B vaccine against various meningococcal strains. The approach directly tests blood samples from patients with meningococcal disease, allowing for more accurate assessments of vaccine protection.
A new study published in Biological Reviews analyzed over 300 statements about pterosaur diets and found that most are based on inferences drawn from modern organisms or fossil environments. This lack of reliable evidence has led to a wide range of proposed diets, with some groups showing strong agreement while others remain uncertain.
An international team, led by the University of Leicester, is using satellite data and UAVs to monitor land use, food and water security at the banks of the Ganges Basin. The project aims to optimize agriculture practices in the region and address climate change-induced threats to crop yield and production.
Scientists have quantified sea temperatures in ancient oceans using fossil data and climate models. The research reveals high-latitude seas were around 20-25°C, similar to recent greenhouse climates.
Researchers have developed a 'risk score' to identify vulnerable older people in hospitals, enabling hospitals to provide more holistic care and improve outcomes. The 'Hospital Frailty Risk Score' was able to identify older people at increased risk of harms, longer stays, and readmission.
Researchers at the University of Leicester have found that antimicrobial therapy can prevent sepsis and life-threatening disease in people suffering from pneumonia. By targeting specific immune cells, this treatment can abort the phase of intracellular replication that protects bacteria from antibiotics.
The Midlands Regional Cryo-Electron Microscope (Cryo-EM) Facility brings cutting-edge research technologies to the region. The £6M facility will enable scientists to study bio-molecules in exquisite detail, leading to a better understanding of disease processes and how to address them.
Researchers have found that nitric oxide regulates neuron function by modulating a signalling step at the synapse, changing the position of the complexin protein within a synapse. This regulation can help understand neurological conditions and potentially lead to new treatments for neurodegenerative diseases.
Researchers developed a new healthcare model to address both cardiovascular and non-cardiovascular comorbidities in heart failure patients. The study found that non-cardiovascular conditions had a greater burden on patients' quality of life, highlighting the need for an individualized treatment approach.
Researchers followed decomposing carcasses to better understand fossil formation, revealing incomplete remains and distorted life histories. This study helps create accurate pictures of ancient animals and ecosystems.
A study by University of Leicester researchers has identified distinct biological variations in lung tissue samples that can help differentiate between mild and moderate/severe asthma. The findings may lead to the development of targeted treatments for specific subtypes of asthma, improving patient care.
Patients with non-dialysis chronic kidney disease (CKD) who performed combined exercise showed greater increases in muscle mass and strength compared to those doing aerobic exercise alone. The study found that combining both modes of exercise led to significant health benefits, including increased cardiorespiratory fitness.
Research found South Asian people are less likely to need a pacemaker for bradycardia compared to white Europeans, despite higher incidence of coronary artery disease and stroke in South Asians. The study suggests genetic differences may explain the disparity in heart condition susceptibility between ethnic groups.
A mathematical theory explains how temperature increases in granular gases despite a decrease in total energy. The 'heating by cooling' effect has been observed in various natural systems, including interstellar dust and planetary rings.
Research led by the Universities of Leicester and Edinburgh reveals that surface ozone levels are detrimental to human health, with increasing levels in East Asia. The study analyzed data from over 4,800 monitoring stations worldwide, showing a decrease in ozone levels in Europe and North America but an increase in East Asia.
Researchers from the University of Leicester have discovered a unique 450-million-year-old fossil of a mysterious creature with soft body parts preserved. The discovery provides new insights into the life of the Ordovician period and expands our understanding of the planet's ancient world.
A global reference section for the Anthropocene might be searched for in areas between 1952 to 1955 based on nuclear testing and fossil fuel burning signals. Continuous annually layered strata, such as those found in oxygen-starved seas, lakes, glacial ice, corals, and trees with seasonal growth rings, provide the best geological archive.
A study led by University of Leicester scientist Dr. Leigh Fletcher found that massive northern storms on Saturn can disrupt its equatorial atmospheric patterns, similar to those seen on Earth. The research reveals a link between distant events in a planet's climate system, known as teleconnection.
The discovery of a large defensive ditch at Ebbsfleet, Kent suggests that the site was once a Roman base used to protect Caesar's fleet. The team believes the first landing took place in Pegwell Bay, matching Caesar's own account and consistent with topography clues.
Recent research from the University of Leicester suggests that frequent feedback between formal appraisals and good prior planning and communication of standards can make performance appraisals successful and appreciated by employees. This synergistic relationship shows that feedback has a greater effect when standard setting is good.
Researchers have developed a new platform for assessing anti-cancer drug efficacy in lung cancer, reducing attrition rates and increasing success of drugs. The 'explants' approach involves analyzing tumor tissue samples taken from patients immediately after surgery, providing patient-relevant data.
Scientists have developed a theory explaining how animals adjust their movement patterns in response to environmental cues such as food, predators and mating partners. The research reveals the complex interplay between an animal's force, drag, and behavioral response to environmental signals.
Academics uncover extensive and undocumented rock art deep inside Puerto Rico's Mona Island cave systems, featuring human, animal, and meandering designs. The team's multi-method characterization of the materials and practices reveals pre-Columbian artwork with dating and insights into artistic choices.
Researchers have identified a new gene linked to idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), a debilitating lung disease. The discovery suggests targeting a specific biological pathway may lead to new treatments for IPF.
Researchers from University of Leicester and KU Leuven found that information flow accounts for emergence of small-world networks in complex systems. These structures arise spontaneously in neuronal and social networks, and are characterized by short-cuts and hierarchical organization.
Astronomers have discovered the most luminous nova ever seen in a nearby galaxy, using data from the Swift satellite observatory. The study provides insights into white dwarf eruptions, including the possibility of a supernova explosion in the future.
Human activities have significantly impacted the planet, changing global climate, sea levels and biosphere. The Anthropocene Working Group proposes formalizing this new epoch to acknowledge these changes.
A study led by the University of Leicester discovered that a small number of human ancestors thousands of years ago transmitted ancient strains of the virus to individuals today. Most integrated HHV-6 genomes are intact and may be able to reactivate as viruses.
A study published in European Heart Journal found that middle-aged individuals who report slow walking pace are twice as likely to die from heart disease compared to brisk walkers. Habitual walking pace is also linked to exercise tolerance and physical fitness.
Researchers have developed a new algorithm that allows AI to collect error reports and correct them immediately, without affecting existing skills. This enables robots to learn from their mistakes and spread new knowledge amongst themselves.
New research from the University of Leicester suggests that greater access to higher education was a predominant factor in the 2016 EU referendum outcome. An increase of 3% in British adults accessing higher education could have reversed the result, while a decrease in turnout in England and Wales may also have changed the outcome.
Research from the University of Leicester and EarthSense reveals associations between air pollution and type 2 diabetes in a large cross-sectional study. Demographic factors largely explained the association, but the study suggests continued research into potential long-term exposure factors.
The University of Leicester has developed a non-destructive X-ray technique that can analyze artifacts of any shape or texture, providing high-quality phase information without causing damage. This technique has the potential to eliminate the need for destructive sampling and provide vital context information for museum collections.
A team of scientists is using a combination of satellite and ground data to identify monkey populations that have declined through hunting. This approach combines indicators such as human activity zones, mosquito-derived DNA, animal sound recordings, and detections of other species found when monkeys are present.