An independent review of Labour's record in office reveals that both major political parties have overstated their claims and counter-claims on education. The report praises Labour's policy on further education and Education Maintenance Allowance, while accepting that New Labour prioritized education spending.
Researchers at the University of Manchester have created elementary magnetic moments in graphene and controlled their switching. This breakthrough has significant implications for spintronics, enabling active devices with improved performance.
Researchers at The University of Manchester used X-ray experiments to reveal new insights into the evolution of plumage and preservation of feathers in ancient birds. They found chemical traces of original 'dinobird' and dilute pigments, shedding light on the bird's plumage pattern.
Scientists have discovered that cartilage cells have a functioning body clock that can be reset by imposing an artificial rhythm, which could lead to new treatments for osteoarthritis. The research found that older mice had weaker body clocks, and that resetting the clock may alleviate symptoms.
Researchers found tiny bubbles of ancient water in Australian quartz grains with different argon isotope ratios than today. This suggests that the energy from the Sun was not enough to freeze all water on Earth until 2.5 billion years ago, leading to the first ice age.
Researchers have found conclusive proof that Ancient Egyptians used meteorites to create symbolic accessories. The evidence comes from a prehistoric iron bead discovered in Egypt, which was dated to around 3350-3600BC. Analysis of the bead's composition confirms its meteorite origins.
Researchers discovered a new gene associated with congenital heart disease, specifically atrial septal defect (ASD), which may help improve genetic counselling and understanding of normal development. The study involved over 2,000 patients and found a strong association between the Msx1 gene and risk of ASD.
The discovery reveals a fundamental interest in understanding the electronic properties of graphene and its potential applications. The researchers have created multiple clones of Dirac fermions, mimicking massless relativistic particles, and produced an intricate pattern known as the Hofstadter butterfly.
Scientists have discovered ancient pockets of water that contain abundant chemicals known to support life, similar to those found on Mars. The study's findings may force us to rethink which parts of our planet are fit for life, and could reveal clues about how microbes evolve in isolation.
Researchers discovered that organic compounds from pollution and forest emissions can increase cloud droplets, making clouds brighter and affecting climate. This effect is significant enough to counteract the uncertainty in pollution's impact on clouds.
Researchers from the University of Manchester have found that babies born with abnormal fetal growth are at a higher risk of developing Autism Spectrum Disorder. The study analyzed data from over 40,000 child health records in Sweden and found that larger or smaller babies were more susceptible to autism.
Researchers have developed a new class of ultra-sensitive photovoltaic devices using graphene and transition metal dichalcogenides. The devices can potentially be used as ultrasensitive photodetectors or very efficient solar cells, generating electricity from sunlight absorbed by exposed walls.
University of Manchester scientists discover sting jets in storms, shedding light on violent windstorms like the Great Storm of 1987 and January 2012 gusts. Their findings provide added knowledge for forecasters.
Researchers at the University of Manchester have developed a graphene-based transistor with bistable characteristics, which can rapidly switch between two electronic states. This technology has potential applications in medical imaging and security screening, as well as enabling the creation of new architectures for electronic components.
Researchers used high-quality video imaging to investigate why a particular cancer drug is effective at killing cells. The study found that the drug creates a cluster of protein molecules on one side of the cell, making it easier for natural killer cells to kill it.
Researchers have discovered two hot spots in the outer atmosphere of Betelgeuse, a cool red supergiant. The hot spots are separated by half the visual diameter of the star and have temperatures of around 4,000-5,000 Kelvin, much higher than expected.
Scientists have discovered 14 new genes associated with childhood arthritis, which could lead to more effective treatments and improved outcomes. The study's findings may also enable clinicians to identify children who require specific therapy earlier, ultimately reducing the impact of the disease on their quality of life.
Researchers from the University of Manchester found that early access to cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) significantly reduced the risk of developing a full-blown psychotic illness. CBT was shown to reduce the risk by more than half at six, 12, and 18-24 months after treatment started.
Researchers at the University of Manchester found that wearing a knee brace improves symptoms, function, and muscle strength in patients with patellofemoral osteoarthritis. The study's findings have enormous potential for treating this common joint condition effectively and reducing reliance on painkillers.
Researchers found high numbers of HPV type 53 in normal cervical smears from HIV positive women, but not in cervical cancers. This sub-type may inhibit progression to cervical cancer, potentially providing a simple biological therapy for prevention.
A 370-million-year-old fossil fish with paired anal fins has been found, providing a unique window into the evolution of vertebrates. The discovery sheds light on the developmental experimentation that led to the formation of paired appendages in early vertebrates.
Researchers at the University of Manchester have made a breakthrough in developing an effective treatment for neurodegenerative diseases. They identified the molecular structure of the enzyme kynurenine 3-monooxygense (KMO) and discovered a compound that can inhibit its activity.
Researchers discovered that different wasp genotypes influence aphid behavior, including whether they die on the plant or elsewhere. The study sheds light on how genetic variation can manipulate host species.
The study found that 37% of parents and step-parents who killed their children had some form of mental illness, with mood disorders being the most common diagnosis. Additionally, fathers were more likely to kill their children than mothers, and were more likely to use violent methods of killing.
Researchers at University of Manchester develop graphene-based membranes with high selectivity for gases and organic liquids, targeting applications in power stations, fuel cells, food packaging, and human disease detection.
A monkey study by the University of Manchester and Liverpool has found that middle-ranking macaques experience high levels of social stress due to conflicts with both lower- and higher-ranking individuals. The research suggests a possible application to human hierarchies, particularly in workplace settings.
The Integrated Approaches to Food Allergen and Allergy Risk Management (iFAAM) project will develop a standardized management process for companies involved in food manufacturing. New risk models will predict who is likely to suffer severe reactions, while tools to measure allergens will support efficient labeling and monitoring.
Researchers found a link between lifestyle factors and an increased risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis, with smoking, obesity, and diabetes being key contributors. The study also identified reduced risks associated with moderate alcohol consumption and higher social class.
A new software tool, COCPIT, will aid healthcare professionals in identifying at-risk patients and investigating data quality issues. By analyzing patient journeys and electronic health records, the tool aims to improve patient care and public health by reducing hospital admissions for conditions like strokes.
A team of international researchers has created an instruction manual for the human genome, providing a framework to understand the relationship between genetic makeup and lifestyle. The model explains how individual biological parts operate differently within each person, paving the way for tailored treatments in personalized medicine.
Researchers at the University of Manchester identified the method by which cells regulate integrin recycling, allowing precise control over cell movement. Syndecan-4 plays a critical role in regulating this process, responding to subtle changes in the cell's surroundings.
Scientists have developed a web-like scaffold coated with long-sugar molecules that enhances stem-cell cultures and encourages the formation of neuronal cell types. The results, published in the Journal of Biological Chemistry, are promising for treating diseases such as Alzheimer's and diabetes.
Researchers at the University of Manchester have identified a molecular basis for tissue-specific immune regulation in eye and kidney diseases. A common genetic alteration in complement factor H (CFH) is associated with AMD, while a different mutation is linked to rare kidney disease aHUS.
A new gene, SMARCE1, has been identified as responsible for causing spinal meningioma, an inherited form of tumor. The discovery was made using next-generation sequencing technology and could lead to better testing, treatment, and care for patients.
The University of Manchester has published the first-ever basic training package for using fruit flies in research, particularly in cancer and Alzheimer's disease studies. The package was developed by Dr Andreas Prokop and aims to educate scientists about the benefits of using Drosophila flies.
Researchers found a pulsar, PSR B0943+10, that changes its behavior between two extreme states: one dominated by X-ray pulses and the other by highly organized radio pulses. The team used simultaneous observations with the XMM-Newton satellite and two radio telescopes to reveal this unique behavior.
Scientists discovered that weight loss plays a crucial role in fighting off intestinal worms by hijacking their natural feeding pathways. This triggers the immune system to expel the worms more effectively.
Researchers developed a virtual heart model to investigate atrial fibrillation, revealing electrical heterogeneity and fibre structure as key factors in the condition's initiation. The study provides new insights into the complex mechanisms underlying AF, paving the way for potential treatments.
Researchers have developed a graphene plasmonics device that can detect even trace amounts of substances in minutes, revolutionizing drug testing for athletes and detecting viruses. The breakthrough uses artificial materials with topological darkness to achieve high sensitivity.
Scientists at the University of Manchester have discovered that reactive oxygen species (ROS) play a crucial role in tadpole tail regeneration, which could lead to new therapies for human tissue repair. The team found that manipulating ROS levels may be essential to initiate and sustain regeneration processes.
The machine, inspired by natural ribosomes, can synthesize complex molecules in a synthetic process, with potential applications in pharmaceuticals and other industries. While still inefficient compared to natural ribosomes, the machine's development marks an important step towards more efficient manufacturing processes.
Scientists at the University of Manchester have developed a camera that takes powerful three-dimensional colour X-ray images, enabling rapid detection of contraband, corrosion, and cancer. The technology uses hyperspectral imaging to identify chemicals and compounds within large objects, reducing scanning time by minutes.
Scientists found complex games like chess and Go are hard for humans to master, leading to irrational decision-making. The research has implications for financial markets, where equilibrium theory often fails to predict market behavior accurately.
Scientists have discovered a vital interplay between transport machinery and integrin receptors that ensures proteins are transported to the correct area of the cell. This understanding could lead to better diagnosis for cancer patients as it reveals how cells become disorganized in early stages of the disease.
Researchers at the University of Manchester have discovered a protein that enables cancer cells to resist MEK inhibitors, a common treatment for melanoma. By targeting this protein, SMURF2, with a combination of MEK inhibitors and reduced doses, sensitivity to the drug can be significantly increased.
A small stroke, known as a silent stroke, can cause Parkinson's disease by killing dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra. The study found inflammation and brain damage following the stroke, leading to neurodegeneration and potential onset of Parkinson's disease.
Researchers have identified previously unseen anatomy preserved in fossils using synchrotron-based imaging techniques. The study reveals that a 50 million-year-old lizard skin contains teeth, changing the understanding of this fossil animal.
Scientists have created a way to convert naturally occurring fatty acids found in soap and ice cream into ready-to-use fuel and household chemicals. This breakthrough in synthetic biology has the potential to create renewable energy from sustainable sources.
Douglas Kell, a University of Manchester professor, was elected a Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) for his work in quantitative and systems biology and analytical biotechnology. He is one of fewer than 50 UK scientists to hold this honor, and will receive an official certificate and pin at the AA...
A €26.4 million European public-private partnership, led by the University of Manchester and GlaxoSmithKline, aims to create sustainable pharmaceuticals manufacturing processes using biotechnology. The CHEM21 project will establish a European research hub to develop training packages and provide information on green chemistry.