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University of York


Researchers take mathematical route to fighting viruses

Researchers at the University of York and University of Leeds have developed a mathematical model that explains the molecular mechanisms behind virus assembly. The discovery opens up possibilities for the development of anti-viral therapies and could help treat diseases such as HIV, Hepatitis B and C, Norovirus, and the Common Cold.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 24, 2014

Scientists unlock a 'microbial Pompeii'

Researchers discovered a 'microbial Pompeii' in ancient dental calculus, revealing opportunistic pathogens and periodontal disease-causing bacteria. The study also recovered dietary DNA, providing insights into ancient diets and the origins of antibiotic resistance.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalNature Genetics·DateFeb 23, 2014

York scientists' significant step forward in biofuels quest

Researchers at the University of York have discovered a family of enzymes that can degrade difficult-to-digest biomass into its constituent sugars. This breakthrough enables the production of second-generation biofuels from sustainable sources such as waste plant matter, potentially alleviating food price stability concerns and increas...

SourceUniversity of York·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateDec 22, 2013

Researchers uncover origins of cattle farming in China

Research reveals morphological and genetic evidence for cattle management in north-eastern China around 10,000 years ago. The discovery of an ancient cattle jaw with unique wear patterns and genetic signatures suggests that humans may have started domesticating cows in more regions than previously believed.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 8, 2013

Scientists prove Heisenberg's intuition correct

An international team of scientists has provided proof of Heisenberg's error-disturbance relation, describing a reciprocal relation between position accuracy and momentum disturbance. The work has important implications for quantum cryptography and computing, reaffirming the security of quantum-encrypted messages.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateOct 17, 2013

Chimpanzees: Alarm calls with intent?

A study by University of York scientists has found that wild chimpanzees produce alarm calls intentionally to warn others of danger, similar to human language. The research suggests that language may have originated from a multimodal vocal-gestural communication system.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 16, 2013

Little changes -- large effects

Researchers at the University of York found that small chemical changes to dietary flavonoids significantly impact the production of inflammatory mediators. The study demonstrates the importance of a molecule's shape in its recognition by immune cells, paving the way for designing new drugs and immunomodulators.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateAug 30, 2013

Bright birds make good mothers

A three-year study found that female blue tits with brighter UV-reflectant crown feathers fledge more offspring than duller females, experiencing lower levels of stress hormones during arduous periods of chick rearing. This suggests that male choice of mate based on plumage color may be a wise strategy.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalBehavioral Ecology·DateAug 13, 2013

To germinate, or not to germinate, that is the question…

Researchers at the University of York have identified a key regulator gene called SPATULA that controls the expression of five other genes affecting seed germination. The study, using the model plant Arabidopsis, reveals how different varieties respond to environmental stimuli, which could lead to the development of better quality seed...

SourceUniversity of York·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 10, 2013

Why we need to put the fish back into fisheries

A recent study found that traditional fisheries targeting large predators like cod have declined, while shellfish such as prawns and scallops have increased in value. However, this shift is at risk due to disease, species invasions, and climate change, which threaten the long-term sustainability of these ecosystems.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalFish and Fisheries·DateMay 19, 2013