Astronomers have identified the edge of the Milky Way's star-forming disc for the first time, finding that most star formation happens within 40,000 light-years of the Galactic Center. This discovery uses a new approach combining star ages with galaxy simulations to pinpoint the boundary.
Researchers have developed a new framework to classify patients into distinct cellular biological subtypes, providing a unified way to tackle heterogeneity. The study identifies three consensus transcriptomic subtypes of sepsis, with implications for treatment.
Researchers at the University of Malta discovered that COVID-19 causes long-term muscle weakness by depleting the ACE2 receptor. This finding paves the way for therapeutic approaches to mitigate chronically disabling complications. The study used fruit flies to curb down ACE2 levels, inducing fatigue and diminished mobility.
A study published in Neurobiology of Aging journal reveals that switching off the SCFD1 gene in fruit flies triggers ALS symptoms, mirroring patient development. The discovery holds promise for developing new therapies targeting a broad spectrum of ALS patients.
A team of researchers from the University of Malta identified three high-risk gene variants associated with familial osteoporosis through whole genome sequencing. These variants were tested in a large case-control collection and found to be linked to bone mass and reduced protein function.
Scientists have reported the discovery of freshened groundwater offshore the Maltese Islands, which may constitute a new source of potable water. The study suggests that this offshore groundwater body is isolated and not actively recharged, posing sustainability concerns for its exploitation.
Researchers from the University of Malta applied genomics to identify genetic variants causing pregnancy-induced diabetes, highlighting the disorder's genetic heterogeneity. The study provides new insights into the aetiology of complex traits and reinforces precision medicine research.
Native Mediterranean species have been found to prey on the invasive Pacific red lionfish and silver-cheeked toadfish, suggesting direct human management measures are needed to control their populations. The study documents native predators for both species, including loggerhead turtles and dolphinfish.
Researchers found that manual workers are twice as likely to develop ALS, with close to two-thirds of patients reporting a blue-collar job. The study also discovered that jobs involving sustained physical exertion, such as construction and carpentry, were associated with a higher risk of bulbar-onset ALS.
The Global Harmonization Initiative aims to establish a legislative framework for recognized food safety professionals, promoting formal requirements for education, registration, and professional bodies. This move seeks to enhance food safety practices globally by setting standards for roles in managing food safety.
A landmark study reveals that airborne particulate matter is contaminated with tobacco smoke-driven particulates, with Nicotelline identified as a suitable marker. The study shows a ubiquitous presence of Nicotelline even at low concentrations, with geographical variability linked to population density and tobacco use prevalence.
A recent study published in Microplastics and Nanoplastics journal concludes that marine litter in coastal systems has remained constant since 2019, with some components showing a decrease. The steady state scenario raises questions about the transfer of plastic litter to remote areas or degradation into smaller fragments.
Researchers have discovered that Maltese patients with ALS do not have flaws in the C9orf72, SOD1, TARDBP, and FUS genes, which are common in European ALS cases. Instead, a higher percentage of Maltese patients without a family history of ALS have harmful DNA mutations in rarely damaged genes.
A recent study led by the University of Malta discovered that groundwater flow can create large gullies along Canterbury's coastline, New Zealand, with some forming in under a week. The gullies are a significant coastal hazard, leading to agricultural land loss and posing risks to local communities.
A new study identified Gemin3 as a molecular 'bridge' between genes causing amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a neurodegenerative disease. The research holds promise for developing treatments effective for a broad range of ALS patients.
The BioSA project aims to create a more attractive option for filling defects in load-bearing areas with biodegradable metals. The team is working on designing an implant that corrodes at a controlled rate, reducing the need for second surgical interventions.
Scientists from GEOMAR and University of Malta are collaborating on a three-year project to develop a best practice guide for detecting, characterizing, and monitoring offshore aquifers. The goal is to assess the sustainability of using these aquifers as an alternative source of freshwater in coastal regions.
The FLASC prototype is a world-first offshore renewable energy TLP with integrated energy storage. It stores energy generated by wind turbines, solar PV, and other sources using pressurised seawater and compressed air.
An international team of geoscientists has discovered an extensive buried mass of material on the seafloor, thought to have been eroded by the Zanclean flood. The mass covers an area equivalent to the island of Crete and is up to 900m thick in places.
Researchers found that chemicals extracted from prickly pear and brown seaweed improve cellular and animal models of neurodegenerative proteinopathies. The study suggests these substances may target pathways affected by multiple neurodegenerative conditions.
A new study by the University of Malta and CNRS/Université de Montpellier reveals a faulty cellular machine cutting and pasting genetic instructions for motor neuron disease. The research suggests that ALS and SMA are related disorders with a shared mechanism that could lead to common treatments.
Scientists uncover fragile alliance between SMN protein and Gemins that leads to SMA. Disrupting this balance causes catastrophic consequences, including death in flies and muscle weakness.
Researchers at University of Malta develop a mathematical model to explain the unusual behavior of auxetic materials, which grow wider when stretched. The model has potential applications in biomedicine, catalysis, and smart materials for healthcare and beyond.