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University of Nottingham


Diet could combat adverse side-effects of quinine

Researchers at the University of Nottingham found that individuals with high tryptophan levels experience fewer quinine side effects. The study suggests that dietary changes could potentially alleviate toxic effects of quinine treatment, improving its effectiveness and reducing risk of adverse reactions.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalJournal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy·DateSep 11, 2012

Imprisoned molecules 'quantum rattle' in their cages

Researchers have created a 'nanolaboratory' inside a hollow spherical C60 Buckminsterfullerene molecule, allowing them to study the quantum mechanical principles governing the motion of imprisoned hydrogen and water molecules. The experiments revealed wave-like behavior and 'quantum rattling' of the guest molecules within the C60.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 20, 2012

New bacteria-resistant materials discovered

Scientists at the University of Nottingham have developed new polymers resistant to bacterial attachment, reducing biofilm formation and infection rates. The breakthrough could lead to a significant reduction in hospital infections and medical device failures, with initial results showing up to 96.7% reduction in bacteria.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateAug 13, 2012

Road-mapping the Asian brain

The University of Nottingham is developing a detailed picture of the Asian brain through a two-year project. The resulting road-map will help doctors in Asia diagnose age-related diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's at an earlier stage, improving treatment outcomes.

Translating cultures

The project aims to improve professional translators and mediators in navigating cultural differences and minimizing misunderstandings. Experts investigate the impact of language, body language, and cultural variables on mediation processes.

Genetic markers hope for new brain tumor treatments

Researchers at the University of Nottingham have discovered three sets of genetic markers that could improve diagnosis and treatment outcomes for children with a rare type of brain tumor. The study found distinct genetic signatures for each sub-type of tumor, which may lead to more effective tools for predicting patient outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalThe Lancet Oncology·DateJun 15, 2012

Fighting bacteria's strength in numbers

Scientists at the University of Nottingham have proven a long-held theory about bacterial communication by showing that quorum sensing's effectiveness depends on bacterial population density. This discovery can inform research into disrupting QS and stopping toxin production in pathogenic organisms like Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 17, 2012

Using math to feed the world

Researchers at University of Nottingham use math to study gibberellin hormone affecting plant growth, identifying key interactions between feedback loops. This work aims to improve crop varieties and address global food security concerns.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 17, 2012

Recruitment starts on MS hookworm trial

Academics at the University of Nottingham are recruiting patients with relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis to test the effect of a low dose of the helminth parasite Necator americanus on their immune system. The study aims to prove that hookworms can reduce MS symptoms and prevent relapses.

Immortal worms defy aging

Planarian worms, a species of flatworm, have been found to maintain telomere length indefinitely, allowing them to regenerate tissues and cells without aging. This discovery sheds light on the mechanisms underlying their immortality and may shed new insights into alleviating aging in human cells.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 27, 2012

Slamming the brakes on the malaria life cycle

Researchers have discovered a vital player in the sexual phase of the malaria parasite's reproduction that could prove an effective target for new treatments. The new protein, CDC20, plays a crucial role in cell division and the development of male sex cells, essential for parasite transmission between humans and mosquitoes.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateFeb 23, 2012

Family history -- a significant way to improve cardiovascular disease risk assessment

A new study by University of Nottingham researchers found that systematically collecting family medical history is a significant tool in helping GPs spot patients at high risk of heart disease. The study identified an additional five percent of patients who would benefit from prevention measures, highlighting the potential for low-cost...

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateFeb 22, 2012

The mathematics of a heart beat could save lives

Scientists at the University of Nottingham developed a mathematical model of calcium activity in atrial heart cells, improving our understanding of heart disease and stroke. The model provides clinically relevant insights into sub-cellular calcium signals, allowing for new treatments for conditions like atrial fibrillation.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 17, 2012

Reducing salt in crisps without affecting the taste

Researchers at the University of Nottingham have discovered a way to accelerate salt delivery to the tongue, allowing for significant salt reduction in snack foods while maintaining flavor. This breakthrough has the potential to tackle high salt intake, linked to health issues like high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalFood & Function·DateFeb 17, 2012

Nano-enabled nasal spray for osteoporosis

A nano-enabled intranasal formulation of teriparatide is being developed to treat osteoporosis, with the potential to provide easier administration and enhance efficacy. The project combines Critical Pharmaceuticals' nanotechnology expertise with the University of Nottingham's world-leading research capabilities.

Improving crops from the roots up

Scientists at the University of Nottingham have successfully altered root growth in plants by controlling a key regulatory protein, WRKY23. This breakthrough could lead to improved crop yields and resistance to parasites under varying environmental conditions.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 24, 2012