Researchers at University of York and British Museum discovered traces of opiates in a sealed vessel dating back to Late Bronze Age. The presence of opiate alkaloids suggests that the vessel may have been used for medicinal or ceremonial purposes.
A study published in eBioMedicine found that the absence of four particular genes in the Leishmania infantum parasite makes it less susceptible to miltefosine, an oral drug used to treat visceral leishmaniasis. This discovery could lead to a new prognostic test to predict treatment outcomes and tailor medicines accordingly.
Moths have been found to carry pollen from various plant species, including crops such as peas and soybean, suggesting they may play an important ecological role in pollination. This discovery highlights the potential benefits of moths to plants and agricultural systems, potentially preventing inbreeding among plants.
Researchers found that varenicline, a medication used to help cigarette smokers quit, had no effect on shisha smokers. Shisha smoking poses similar health risks as cigarette smoking due to inhalation of large volumes of tobacco and charcoal smoke.
A new study reveals that humans may have cultivated plants as far back as 4,800 years ago in Southern Brazil. The analysis of ancient human remains found teeth and bones rich in carbohydrates, suggesting a diet rich in cultivated yams and sweet potatoes.
Researchers have determined the DNA code of the opium poppy genome, unlocking key steps in how the plant evolved to produce vital medicines. The discovery may lead to improved yields and disease resistance, securing a reliable supply of effective pain relief medications.
Researchers uncover evidence of prehistoric embalming process in ancient Egyptian mummy dating back to 3700-3500 BC. The 'recipe' contained antibacterial agents used in similar proportions as later Egyptian embalmers, revealing a wider geographical use of these balms.
Researchers discovered a crucial gene that regulates seed germination based on light conditions, enhancing plant survival. The MFT gene helps seeds decide whether to germinate, allowing them to thrive in optimal environments.
A new study by the University of York found that dilute concentrations of Prozac make female starlings less attractive to males during courtship. The researchers discovered increased male aggression towards females receiving the medication, leading to a higher risk of mate failure and population decline.
A new study reveals that the aye-aye's large eyes, big ears, and thin bony finger evolved to produce a high bite force, similar to squirrels. The research shows how lifestyle and ecology can influence species' physical traits, overriding ancestry.
A study by the University of York suggests that small-scale fishing vessels are underutilized and need support to ensure sustainable fisheries in England. The researchers argue that a length-based definition of scale is flawed, as it doesn't account for fishing capacity.
Researchers found that microclimates, or sheltered pockets of cooler and more variable conditions, can provide alternative habitats for many climate-sensitive species. These refugia have reduced the probability of extinctions of certain butterfly species by up to 63%.
A study by the University of York found that over 40% of pregnant women in Pakistan are exposed to secondhand smoke, resulting in approximately 17,000 still births annually. This exposure increases the risk of stillbirth, congenital malformations, and respiratory illnesses.
An international study has identified 22 pressing research questions surrounding chemical risks in the environment in Europe, focusing on human health and environmental impacts. The study aims to inform policy decisions and guide scientific research efforts.
A three-year study by researchers at BioArCh, the University of York, suggests that ceramic vessels were used by early hunter-gatherer ancestors to store and process fish, with an association remaining stable even after climate warming. The study reveals new insights into prehistoric food processing habits during the post-glacial period.
A new study reveals that Chile's sugar tax led to a significant decrease in the purchase volume of sugary soft drinks, particularly among high socioeconomic groups. However, the reduction was statistically insignificant for low-income groups, suggesting that further evaluations are needed to address socioeconomic inequalities.
A new web-based 'Outcome Feedback' technology has been found to reduce the probability of NHS patients with depression deteriorating during psychological treatment by 74%. The study involved over 2,000 mental health patients across multiple NHS Trusts in England.
Researchers at the University of York have developed a quantum-based method to distribute secure information along communication lines, potentially preventing serious security breaches. By using a detector-independent design, they reduced vulnerabilities in current systems and enabled secure information exchange across the internet.
A study by researchers at the University of York found that smiling images are more easily matched to other images of the same person and distinguished from similar-looking identities. The team's research suggests replacing neutral expressions with open mouth smiles can improve face matching accuracy.
The study found that whale sharks congregate at specific locations with unique characteristics, such as steep slopes and upwelling of plankton and krill. These areas provide ideal conditions for the filter-feeding sharks to search for food in deep water and warm shallows.
An international team of academics reveals that turn-taking behaviour, a hallmark of human conversation, is remarkably widespread across the animal kingdom. The study proposes a new comparative framework for future research on turn-taking behaviour, which may shed light on the evolution of language.
A study published in Scientific Reports found microfossils of fish and plant remains in a Mesolithic skeleton, providing evidence of a varied diet that included both aquatic and terrestrial food sources. The discovery sheds light on the lifestyle of early people in the Mediterranean region during this period.
A new study reveals that students from poorly performing schools who match top A Level grades do better on medical degrees. This research calls for relaxing medical school entry criteria to increase access and diversity.
Researchers at the University of York found that individuals with 'detail focus', a trait linked to autism, led to realistic cave drawings across Europe. They argued that drugs were unlikely behind this art movement.
The study reveals that bone's mineral crystals have a hierarchical structure integrated into the larger-scale skeleton, with 12 levels of hierarchy. The combination of mineral and protein forms continuous networks to provide strength essential for functional bones. This breakthrough builds on previous studies and sheds light on the uni...
Researchers have found evidence that acupuncture could be an effective treatment for dental anxiety, reducing anxiety scores by eight points in patients. While more research is needed to confirm the findings, early indications suggest that acupuncture may be a promising option for tackling this common condition.
New research from the University of York suggests that highly mobile eyebrows may have enabled humans to express nuanced emotions, establish large social networks, and form social bonds. The study contributes to ongoing debates about the evolution of brow ridges in human ancestors.
Researchers found that patients are 5% more likely to miss an appointment in the week after clocks go forward compared to the previous week. Missed appointments represent a significant financial issue for the NHS and have a negative impact on patient care.
New research reveals Neanderthal healthcare was widespread and effective, with a focus on caring for injured peers. Despite severe injuries, individuals remained part of the group, highlighting the social significance of healthcare in Neanderthal society.
Scientists have demonstrated that a specific pattern of brain activity, known as sleep spindles, supports the reactivation process during sleep. By analyzing brain signals associated with reactivated memories, researchers were able to decode their content in real-time.
Researchers found that adult dogs were more likely to interact with speakers using 'dog-speak' containing dog-related words, suggesting improved social bonding. The study used naturalistic interactions between humans and dogs to test the effectiveness of this communication style.
Researchers have discovered that bonobo and chimpanzee gestures share multiple meanings, with many gestures having similar functions across the two species. The study, published in PLOS Biology, defines the meaning of each bonobo gesture by analyzing reactions and satisfaction levels.
New research reveals that global fossil fuel emissions of hydrocarbons, particularly ethane and propane, have been significantly underestimated. These pollutants are harmful in large cities, forming ozone that directly links to increased mortality. The study calls for further investigation into methane emissions from natural gas sources.
Researchers found that Scottish hospitals experienced a slower reduction in inpatient deaths, with 0.3% of patients dying in elective admissions and 6% in emergency admissions, compared to 0.1% and 4% in England. The study's authors call for further investigation into the reasons behind these differences.
A study of ancient insects has provided new insights into future biofuel production. The firebrats' unique digestive system has revealed the presence of lytic polysaccharide monooxygenases (LPMOs), a new class of enzyme that efficiently digests cellulose. This discovery could lead to the development of sustainable low-carbon fuels.
Researchers discovered a set of enzymes from fungi capable of breaking down xylans, a major component of wood. These enzymes may unlock sustainable conversion of wood into valuable commodities like biofuels.
Researchers at the University of York have identified a potential link between altered sugar chains and enhanced bone formation in stem cells. By treating cells with a chemical that modifies sugar chains, they found improved bone growth processes, which could pave the way for new osteoporosis treatments.
Researchers found that varied burning regimes increase the variety of bird and mammal species in wet savannas, allowing geographically rare birds to coexist with more common species. This study suggests that fire can be an effective tool for promoting biodiversity in conservation areas.
A 5000-year study of Amboseli National Park in Kenya reveals rapid environmental changes caused by human activities, including the arrival of Massai people and the ivory trade. The findings highlight the need to manage national park boundaries more strictly to keep pace with climate change.
Scientists at the University of York have developed a new method called hyperthermophilic composting that kills bacteria carrying antibiotic resistance genes. This process can reduce the spread of these genes in agricultural environments, making organic fertilizers safer for use.
A major study found a significant increase in the number of X-rays given to patients when dentists were paid on a 'fee-for-service' basis, compared to fixed salaries. This increase was most pronounced when patients were exempt from charges.
Researchers uncovered the origins of domesticated turkeys in ancient Mexico, finding they were valued for their cultural significance rather than just for meat. The study suggests a thriving turkey trade along Mesoamerica's expanding trade routes.
Despite previous mixed conclusions, a large-scale study by University of York researchers found no evidence to support the theory that violent video games make players more violent. The team tested over 3,000 participants with varying levels of gaming realism, including 'ragdoll physics', and discovered no priming effect on aggression.
Researchers have developed a new way to magnetise molecules found naturally in the human body, paving the way for low-cost MRI technology. This method could enable doctors to personalize life-saving medical treatments and allow real-time imaging.
Researchers directly observed microbial activity in Antarctic and Arctic snow, revealing metabolically active bacteria that remain active in compressed ice. This discovery could lower estimated CO2 levels before human impact, expanding the search for habitable planets.
Scientists at the University of York have developed a technology that can trap over 850 million tonnes of unwanted carbon dioxide in the atmosphere using North Sea water and recycled metal. This process uses low-energy processes and environmentally friendly tools, making it highly scalable and sustainable.
In a concerning study, nearly 500 Bangladeshi children aged 9-12 tested positive for recent second-hand smoke exposure. The results reveal alarming rates of SHS exposure among Bangladeshi children, with 95% showing evidence of biochemically validated exposure.
Young people's ability to perform well at two popular video games is linked to high levels of intelligence, according to researchers at the University of York. The study found a correlation between skill at certain online games of strategy and intelligence, similar to traditional strategy games like chess.
Researchers at the University of York found that sleep helps us use our memory in a flexible and adaptable manner by strengthening both old and new versions of an experience. This process allows for the adaptive updating of memories, but can also lead to distortions if incorrect information is incorporated.
Researchers discovered a new route to ultra-low-power transistors using graphene-based composite materials, achieving fine electrical control over the electron's spin. The discovery has the potential to lead to much-needed low-energy consumption electronics.