A new study finds that mycorrhizal fungi store up to 36% of yearly global fossil fuel emissions' carbon, equivalent to roughly 13 gigatons. This vast underground network is essential to both storing carbon and global biodiversity.
A new study suggests that moths are visiting just as many plants as bees and play a crucial role in supporting urban plant communities. However, their more complex life cycle and specific plant requirements make them less resilient to urbanization pressure.
Scientists have discovered that quasars are ignited by galaxies crashing together, a process that drives gas towards supermassive black holes and releases extraordinary amounts of energy. This finding provides a significant step forward in understanding how these powerful objects are triggered and fuelled.
The University of Sheffield suggests policymakers offer financial incentives to encourage sustainable gardening practices, promoting greener gardens and boosting community health. Well-planted gardens provide habitats for wildlife, improve air quality, and reduce energy bills.
Astronomers have observed an extremely rare and aspherical Fast Blue Optical Transient (FBOT) explosion 180 million light years away. The explosion, similar to a flat disc shape, challenges scientists' current understanding of stellar explosions.
Researchers at the University of Sheffield have developed a new ultrasound method to measure tissue tension, which can indicate abnormal tissue, scarring, and cancer. This breakthrough technique uses sound waves to detect forces within soft tissue, enabling earlier disease diagnosis and potentially improving healthcare outcomes.
Researchers at the University of Sheffield's Institute of Translational Neuroscience have discovered a novel way to block the transportation of mutant RNA and toxic repeat proteins that lead to the death of nerve cells in most common forms of motor neurone disease (MND) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD). Using a peptide, they found tha...
A new ring system has been found around the Pluto-sized dwarf planet Quaoar, which orbits beyond Neptune. The discovery is remarkable because it lies at a distance of over seven planetary radii from its parent body, posing a challenge to existing theories of ring formation.
The study found that nearly 17% of bird eggs fail to hatch, with endangered species experiencing even higher failure rates. Conservationists can support the recovery of threatened bird species by understanding how different practices affect hatching rates.
A systematic review of 70 research papers found that exposure to gambling advertising increases intentions to gamble and gambling activity, leading to greater risk of harm. The study also showed that restrictions could particularly benefit children and young people, as well as adults already vulnerable to gambling-related harms.
Researchers found a protein called Rac1 that triggers milk production in breast cells when lactation stops and the breast returns to its pre-pregnancy state. This process involves cell death and autophagy, but can be reversed upon suckling, providing a fail-safe mechanism for mammalian survival.
New research from the University of Sheffield reveals genetically modifying rice to reduce stomata can make it more salt-resistant and survive in environments with high salt levels. This adaptation could help tackle food insecurity caused by climate change.
A recent study found that less than four in 100 men who applied to be sperm donors completed the process, with over half withdrawing before samples were released. The research, published in Human Reproduction, also showed that nearly a fifth of applicants were rejected due to health issues or genetic diseases.
Research finds public perception of data use is shaped by social inequalities and concerns about potential harm or corporate profit. Experts highlight need for public sector review of data-driven systems to address these issues.
Scientists have made a groundbreaking discovery about the role of 'junk' DNA in neurological disorders such as Motor Neurone Disease and Alzheimer's. The research found that breaks in this type of DNA can lead to oxidative genomic damage, which can accelerate aging and disease progression.
Researchers have discovered a new protein called MAIA, which is crucial for human fertilization. The protein helps draw sperm into the egg cytoplasm, paving the way for novel ways to treat infertility.
Researchers at the University of Sheffield have proposed a novel origin for Jupiter-like planets around massive stars. Massive stars can capture or steal planets from other stars in densely populated stellar nurseries, a process known as a 'planetary heist'.
A new study from the University of Sheffield suggests that giving antibiotics to those at high risk of developing a life-threatening heart infection significantly reduces their risk. Current UK guidelines against routine use of antibiotics for these patients may be putting them at unnecessary extra risk.
New research finds junk food advertising restrictions have prevented 94,867 fewer obesity cases, 2,857 fewer diabetes cases, and 1,915 fewer cardiovascular disease cases. The policy is estimated to save the NHS £218 million over its lifetime.
Researchers developed Direct Air Capture technology to remove carbon dioxide from the air using special rail cars attached to trains. The technology harnesses sustainable energy generated during braking to capture significant quantities of CO2, making it commercially viable and attractive.
Researchers identified specific genetic signals in people with severe coronavirus infection using machine learning. They found that more than 1,000 genes linked to the development of severe COVID-19 cases account for three-quarters of the genetic drivers for severe illness.
A new study has found that robotic surgery reduces the chance of readmission by half and reveals a four-fold reduction in blood clots compared to open surgery. Patients also experience increased physical activity, stamina, and quality of life.
A new study by the University of Sheffield suggests that adding rock dust to UK agricultural soils could remove between 6 and 30 million tonnes of carbon dioxide annually by 2050. The approach offers a cost-effective alternative to other carbon removal options, with estimated costs falling to £100 per tonne by 2050.
Researchers have discovered how fungus blocks and bursts blood vessels in the brain, allowing microbes to spread and cause meningitis. The study identifies a simple yet effective method that microbes use to escape the immune system and enter the brain.
Researchers at the University of Sheffield have identified a unique bacterial phosphatase, PafA, that can efficiently release phosphate from its organic forms. This discovery has potential to help reduce the consumption of phosphate chemical fertilisers and promote sustainable agriculture.
A phase two randomised placebo controlled trial showed giving patients nintedanib, as well as chemotherapy before surgery or radiotherapy, significantly increased overall survival rates at one, two and five years. Nintedanib blocks different proteins from sending signals to cancer cells to grow, causing the cancer cells to die.
Research from the University of Sheffield and University of Glasgow found that lockdown restrictions led to an increase in drinking at home, particularly among those living alone. The study suggests that these new habits should be closely monitored as restrictions ease, with potential long-term consequences for health.
A new machine learning model, RefMap, has identified 690 genetic risk factors for motor neurone disease, a five-fold increase from previous estimates. This discovery could lead to the development of new treatments and personalized medicine for patients with MND.
Researchers have discovered that heart disease causes early brain dysfunction, leading to reduced blood flow and increased risk of dementia. A combination of heart disease and a genetic predisposition for Alzheimer's Disease also trebles the amount of beta-amyloid protein in the brain.
A new study from the University of Sheffield found that city centres will lose £3 billion in annual spending as people work from home more frequently, affecting the hospitality and retail industries. The shift towards working from home is expected to be permanent, with significant consequences for businesses in suburban areas.
Recent advances in radiocarbon knowledge have improved our understanding of climate processes, solar activity, geophysics, and the carbon cycle. Researchers developed a more detailed record of atmospheric radiocarbon extending back 55,000 years, helping to understand Earth's past and project future changes.
Researchers revealed that β-lactam antibiotics like penicillin kill MRSA by forming small holes in the cell wall, which gradually enlarge and lead to bacterial death. This discovery provides new avenues for treatment developments against antibiotic-resistant superbugs.
A new study from the University of Sheffield reveals that vitamin D supplements do not reduce the severity of IBS symptoms or improve quality of life. Despite correcting deficiencies in those with poor vitamin D status, high-dose vitamin D supplementation did not alleviate symptoms.
Scientists have discovered the potential progenitor of the domestic watermelon, the Kordofan melon, which has more disease-resistant genes. The study could help breed more disease-resistant watermelons in the future.
Grasses can incorporate DNA from other species into their genomes through lateral gene transfer, giving them an evolutionary advantage. This process may allow crops to adapt to new environments quicker and be more resistant to climate change.
A new study highlights the need for healthcare professionals to facilitate connections between patients and their relatives during the COVID-19 pandemic. The research makes important recommendations for end-of-life care, including prioritising video and telephone calls, providing regular updates, and facilitating in-person goodbyes.
Researchers found that the Parkinon's gene PINK1 impairs the process of generating dopamine-producing neurons in the brain throughout adulthood. This discovery has significant implications for the future treatment of Parkinson's patients who develop the illness due to PINK1 defect or similar gene defects.
University of Sheffield researchers develop novel natural language processing methods to make supplier information accessible to NHS staff, reducing future shortages during national crises. The platform will provide real-time risk ratings and diversify the NHS supply base.
A new study will investigate a new way of reducing dental anxiety in children using Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). The study aims to improve oral health and save NHS costs by providing specially developed CBT resources for children, parents, and dental professionals.
Researchers found that legume trees can alter their soils' microbiome to increase access to nutrients and support surrounding tree growth. This process involves accelerating mineral weathering processes, releasing vital nutrients for the trees.
Researchers found higher than expected genetic changes in a group of 100 MND patients, suggesting routine genetic testing may be beneficial. The study recommends genetic testing for all MND patients, regardless of family history, to improve disease subclassification and tailored treatments.
Researchers found that nurses and females are most likely to experience psychological distress during the Covid-19 pandemic. The study also showed that health care workers who faced stigma experienced greater distress.
Researchers have secured a £1.6 million grant to develop M102, a potential breakthrough in treating motor neuron disease (MND). The drug's neuroprotective properties were discovered by the University of Sheffield's Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), which will now advance its translational development.
Researchers used a non-invasive imaging technique to measure mitochondrial function in patients with MND, finding phosphocreatine levels depleted and inorganic phosphates elevated. This technique could help assess the effectiveness of treatments for MND.
Researchers found that osteoporosis drug denosumab can protect patients from osteolysis, reduce the need for re-operations and decrease the health burden of this disease. This could lead to a significant reduction in the number of repeat hip replacement operations.
Local Authorities and the Voluntary and Community Sector are best placed to support the response to the Covid-19 crisis locally. Thousands of volunteers have helped their neighbours stay fed, safe, and connected, and will continue to play a central role during the festive period and into next year.
Researchers at the University of Sheffield discovered a genetic risk factor for MND in non-coding DNA that can be targeted by SynCav1, potentially halting or preventing disease progression. The study built on patient data from Project MinE and could lead to personalized medicine for MND patients.
A £1 million international project is working to create an affordable insect-based porridge using mopane worms, a traditional delicacy in Zimbabwe. The initiative aims to improve the health and nutritional status of primary school children in some of the country's poorest communities.
Researchers found that slower-moving bacteria outcompete faster-moving cells in densely packed groups, allowing them to spread across surfaces. This discovery sheds light on how bacteria spread within the body during infections.
A new consortium, Accelerating Research and Innovation for Advanced Therapies (ARDAT), aims to develop standardized models for predicting ATMP immunogenicity in humans. The €25.5 million project will also build understanding of ATMP drug metabolism within a host.