A team of scientists from the University of Leicester has discovered a new species of 425-million-year-old fossil, which is the first parasite of its kind to be found intact with its host. The fossil species, named Invavita piratica, is a 'tongue worm' that was previously known only from isolated juvenile specimens.
Researchers discovered that almost two-thirds (64%) modern European men belong to just three young paternal lineages. The study used DNA sequences from the Y chromosomes of 334 men from 17 populations and found a widespread, recent male-specific population expansion during the Bronze Age.
A new study by geneticists from the University of Leicester has identified nearly 80 genes associated with 'morningness' and 'eveningness' in fruit flies. This discovery could lead to better diagnostics and personalized medicine, where individuals receive tailored therapies based on their unique genetic profiles.
A study published in the Journal of Cell Biology suggests that new understanding of cell division can reveal potential targets for cancer therapy. Researchers have identified key steps in cell division and highlighted novel targets that could be inhibited to block cancer cell division.
Researchers mapped regional droughts and land degradation using satellites, revealing improved land conditions across much of West Africa between 1982-2012. Soil moisture observations provided more accurate results than rainfall data, showing the importance of this factor in understanding vegetation dynamics.
A team of scientists proposes using nuclear weapons fallout to mark the beginning of a new geological age, the Anthropocene. The proposal is based on the significant geochemical signatures left by human activities in sediments accumulating across the planet.
Researchers at the University of Leicester and American University of Beirut investigate a Graeco-Roman temple in Lebanon, uncovering valuable information from a site devastated by conflict. The study reveals that even badly damaged sites can provide important historical insights, challenging the notion that they are irreparably lost.
A new study suggests Richard III kept his severe scoliosis hidden until his death in 1485, controlled by the king's body image and posthumous reputation. The treatment of his dead body after the Battle of Bosworth is linked to his later historical and literary reputation as 'Crookback Richard'.
A new study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found a direct link between shorter height and higher risk of coronary heart disease. The research, led by Professor Sir Nilesh Samani, used genetic data to show that every 2.5 inches change in height increased the risk by 13.5%.
A new method applied to European temperature data reveals subtle changes in climate regularity, with time scales longer than a year showing less predictability. The study provides a map visualisation of the entropy results, highlighting the time scales which have changed most.
A study by University of Leicester researchers found that millions of modern Asian men are descended from 11 powerful dynastic leaders who lived up to 4,000 years ago. The genetic link was discovered in the Y chromosomes of over 5,000 Asian men belonging to 127 populations.
Researchers mapped the African continent using satellite data, discovering regions that have received drastically different amounts of rainfall over the past decade. The study found that areas such as the Congo, Nigeria, and Madagascar have become drier, while others like the Sahel zone have become greener due to increased rainfall.
Researchers have discovered that three of King Richard III's injuries had the potential to cause death quickly, including two to the skull and one to the pelvis. The forensic analysis used modern techniques such as CT scans and micro-CT imaging to analyze trauma to the skeleton and determine which wounds might have proved fatal.
Researchers from the University of Leicester and Hungarian Academy of Sciences develop a way to map 'reed die-back' using satellite and aircraft monitoring systems. They found several indices related to the ecological status of reed plants, which can be mapped from specific wavelengths of radiation.
A new satellite imaging concept could significantly reduce search areas for missing boats and planes, potentially reducing search and rescue time. The system uses existing satellites to take images of the seas, enabling more accurate tracking of vessel movements.
Researchers from the University of Leicester used electrophysiology to capture electrical signals from dopamine neurons in the forebrain, revealing that these cells are active when fish swim. The study suggests that dopamine plays a key role in regulating excitability of spinal networks and may contribute to motor side effects of dopam...
The UK-led Beagle 2 Mars Lander has been found on the Martian surface, ending the mystery of its disappearance in 2003. The lander's partial deployment confirms that it successfully touched down on Mars on Christmas Day 2003.
Scientists propose the Anthropocene began with the nuclear age on July 16, 1945. Human-made changes, such as artificial radionuclides and increased carbon emissions, altered the Earth system, leading to a 'Great Acceleration'. The start date marks the historic turning point when humans accessed an enormous new energy source.
A review on Urotensin II has shown its ability to modulate biologic activities in the cardiovascular system, kidneys, and central nervous system. The peptide can constrict and dilate blood vessels, making it a promising candidate for treating various cardiovascular diseases.
A new pilot study found that majority of tweets from an Emergency Medicine Conference accurately reflected the presenter's message, while some misrepresented it and potentially harmed speaker's reputation. The study highlights the need for further assessment on the impact of social media on presentation quality.
A new study published in Nature Geoscience highlights the devastating impacts of peat fires, which can burn for days and weeks, producing severe air quality issues and triggering respiratory problems. The study finds that peat-rich regions will become more susceptible to drying and burning with a changing climate.
Researchers identified nerve cells that produce serotonin, leading to gregarious behavior in locusts. Serotonin also plays a role in regulating mood and behavior in humans, with links to mental disorders like depression and anxiety.
A study published in Diabetes Care found that hypoglycaemia significantly increases the risk of cardiovascular events and mortality in insulin-treated patients with diabetes. The research, led by University of Leicester, showed a ~60% higher risk of cardiovascular events following hypoglycaemia.
A new study has identified key steps for hospitals to improve care for pregnant mums and babies affected by congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH). The report highlights inconsistencies in care delivery, with some areas showing better patient-centered models. Key recommendations include focusing acute care on specialist centers and deve...
A rare 520 million-year-old fossil shaped like a 'squashed bird's nest' has been discovered in China, providing new insights into life in ancient seas. The fossil, Nidelric pugio, is a probable 'chancelloriid', a group of bizarre, balloon-shaped animals with defensive spines.
A team of scientists at the University of Leicester has identified novel markers to detect senescent cells, which are associated with aging. These markers have shown promise in predicting increased survival in certain types of cancer, particularly breast cancer.
International research confirms King Richard III's identity to 99.999% accuracy using DNA and genealogical study. The study also reveals his likely appearance, including almost certainly blue eyes and probably blond hair, as seen in the Arched-Frame Portrait.
A new UK study published in BJPsych found that women with mental illness are significantly less likely to undergo mammography screening for breast cancer. This disparity could account for 90 avoidable deaths per year in the UK, highlighting the need for comparable care and education.
A recent study by University of Leicester researchers found a higher number of fast-food outlets within 500m of inner-city neighbourhoods with high-density non-white ethnic minority groups and socially deprived areas. The study suggests a postcode lottery that increases the risk of developing diabetes or obesity.
A new study found that fast-food outlets within 500m of non-white ethnic minority groups and socially deprived areas are associated with increased risk of Type-2 diabetes and obesity. The research suggests that for every two additional fast-food outlets, one extra diabetes case can be expected.
Researchers have developed a new method to create charged molecules using liquid helium, enabling the creation of stable fullerene dianions. This breakthrough opens up new avenues for chemical research and exploration.
A team of scientists from the University of Leicester has detected a curious signal in the X-ray sky that could be the first direct indication of dark matter. The signal appears to be consistent with the prediction of axions, particles believed to make up a significant portion of the universe's mass.
Researchers discover six unique states of pneumococcus bacteria, which can help develop tailored vaccines. The study found that each state has distinct DNA methylation patterns and alters gene expression, virulence, and disease severity.
A study using morphed images of celebrities found that individual neurons react to subjective perception rather than visual stimuli. This suggests that neurons play a key role in the formation of memory by encoding our thoughts and images.
Researchers at the University of Leicester have developed a breakthrough technique to generate synthetic amino acids and designer proteins, which can be used to develop innovative new protein drugs for cancer and Alzheimer's disease treatment. The discovery opens up new avenues for drug discovery with potentially highly potent drugs an...
Researchers at the University of Leicester have developed a novel electronic system for diagnosing canine lymphoma in its early stages and monitoring remission after chemotherapy. The cLBT test detects biomarkers associated with the disease, offering improved diagnostic capabilities for veterinarians and pet owners.
Scientists have pinpointed two new genetic target genes SUN1 and SUN2 that may lead to developing new treatments for Emery-Dreifuss muscular dystrophy, a devastating condition causing muscle wasting and stiffening. The discovery opens up new possibilities for patients with the disease, who currently have no effective treatment options.
Researchers at the University of Leicester have identified a genetic connection between day-length measurement and seasonal adaptation in flies. The study found that flies exposed to short days become more cold-resistant, reflecting the importance of photoperiodic timing for survival.
Researchers at the University of Leicester have developed an 'electronic nose' that can rapidly detect C. difficile infections by identifying unique chemical fingerprints. This technology holds promise for faster diagnoses and tailored treatment options.
Researchers from the University of Leicester used a novel laser technique to study the structure and internal atomic motion of a small cluster containing an acetylene molecule and a single helium atom. The study found that the helium atom rotates and vibrates almost freely, occupying nearly the entire volume within the cluster.
New findings suggest that a lack of properdin can have major benefits in some situations, while others can be detrimental. The study shows that properdin controls the strength of the immune response by affecting macrophages during infection and inflammation.
An international team of researchers has solved a long-standing debate over the molecular structure of a vital biological chemical, identifying that the ferryl heme in Compound I is not protonated. However, one amino acid side chain is found to be doubly protonated, raising new questions about oxygen activation mechanisms.
Researchers at the University of Leicester discovered that human sweat can corrode brass objects' antimicrobial properties within an hour of contact. This corrosion reduces their effectiveness in killing bacteria and other microorganisms.
A new study published in PeerJ found that fighting off illness rather than the illness itself causes sleep deprivation and affects memory. The research used flies to show that the immune system can cause problems with sleep and memory, even when there is no infection present.
A team of biologists at the University of Leicester has discovered a pair of proteins called DAZ1 and DAZ2 that are essential for making twin sperm cells in plants. The study reveals how these proteins work together with a 'master switch' protein DUO1 to control a gene network that ensures a pair of fertile sperm is produced.
Researchers have created a 3D representation of Richard III's spine, revealing a severe scoliosis with a 'spiral' shape and a pronounced right-sided curve. The model shows how the condition would have affected his appearance, with a short torso and higher right shoulder.
A University of Leicester team has discovered that the entire island was covered in a searing-hot layer of green glass 45 thousand years ago. The volcanic activity on the island provides insights into hazardous eruptions elsewhere, and may help understand undersea currents triggered by earthquakes.
University of Leicester researchers captured stunning images of Saturn's auroras, providing evidence for the theory that Saturn's magnetic tail collapse causes auroral displays. The findings support a similar process on Earth.
A new study in the Journal of the Royal Society of Medicine found that NHS staff's willingness to recommend their organization is influenced by concerns about reliability, clinical care, and management. Staff highlighted structural issues like under-staffing, poorly designed systems, and lack of resources as major concerns.
Research by Dr Klaas Wiersema's team has discovered that Gamma-Ray Bursts behave differently than previously thought, challenging existing theoretical predictions. The study used observations of a GRB to rule out most existing theories and instead found evidence for circular polarisation in visible light.