A Swedish study found that adolescents with sleep disturbance or short sleep duration are less likely to succeed academically. The research suggests that sleep may play a crucial role for adolescents' performance at school, with around 30% of participants reporting regular sleep problems.
Researchers have identified key genetic changes responsible for rabbit domestication, including modifications to brain and nervous system development. The study shows that small changes in many genes led to the inhibition of the strong flight response in domestic rabbits.
A global analysis of honeybee genome variation reveals high levels of genetic diversity and suggests the species originated from Asia. The study also identifies specific mutations linked to adaptation to climate and pathogens, providing new insights into evolution and genetic adaptation.
A large-scale study by Uppsala University researchers reveals that genetics and lifestyle factors play a crucial role in protein levels, enabling the use of more effective biomarkers. The study analyzed 92 protein biomarkers in 1,000 healthy individuals, finding that hereditary factors contribute to over 75% of proteins.
Researchers at Uppsala University discovered that Upsalite, a highly porous magnesium carbonate, can improve the solubility and bioavailability of poorly soluble drugs. By using Upsalite, about 40% of newly marketed drugs with poor solubility may have their therapeutic efficacy enhanced.
A study published in Science found that crows select mates with similar plumage colors due to genetic factors. The researchers identified a specific genomic region responsible for coloration and visual perception, suggesting a possible evolutionary mechanism behind species separation.
The number of battle-related deaths remained relatively stable over the past decade, with 33 active conflicts causing at least 25 casualties in 2013. The deadliest conflict was Syria, accounting for 40% of the total estimated 38,000 casualties in 2012.
A new study from Uppsala University found that elderly carriers of the FTO gene have higher ghrelin levels and lower leptin levels, making them more prone to weight gain. The study suggests that this genetic variant may facilitate weight gain by shifting the endocrine balance towards hunger hormone ghrelin.
A new study by Uppsala University reveals that high levels of PCBs in the blood significantly increase the risk of dying among smokers and former smokers. For non-smokers, no elevated risk was found after eight years.
A comprehensive study of lake water composition reveals its strong connection with environmental factors, such as climate and hydrology. The research found that the chemical diversity of dissolved organic matter in lakes varies significantly depending on these factors.
A recent study published in Nature Genetics found a correlation between the loss of the Y chromosome in blood cells and both a shorter life span and higher mortality from cancer in other organs. Men who had lost the Y chromosome in a large proportion of their blood cells had a lower survival rate, irrespective of cause of death.
A genomic study of eleven Stone-Age human remains from Scandinavia found that expanding farmers assimilated local hunter-gatherers, while hunter-gatherers had lower genetic diversity. The study provides insights into the demographic history of Stone-Age humans and the impact of agriculture on European population structure.
A study of over 800 Swedish teenagers found no significant differences in fantasy content or attitudes towards pornography between boys and girls. However, the most sexually experienced adolescents showed a perception that both boys and girls are equally interested in sex.
A study published in Current Biology found that lactase persistence variants were at medium frequencies among the Khoe people, but very low or absent among San hunter-gatherers. The research suggests that pastoralist practices were brought to southern Africa by a small group of migrants from eastern Africa.
Researchers at Uppsala University have developed a paper filter that can remove virus particles with efficiency matching the best industrial filters. The filter uses 100% high purity cellulose nanofibers directly derived from nature, overcoming previous limitations in virus removal.
A new gel coating has been developed to promote bone growth on implants, allowing for improved integration and reduced rejection. The coating, made from a protein that encourages bone formation, can be released slowly in response to calcium ions, stimulating bone growth on the implant.
Researchers at Uppsala University discovered a new type of cell communication that suppresses blood vessel formation and delays tumour growth. Fluctuating levels of the molecule NRP1 can inhibit VEGF signals, leading to delayed tumour growth and potentially complete inhibition if trans communication occurs early in tumour development.
A study of 39 young adults found that consuming polyunsaturated fat resulted in less body fat and more muscle mass than consuming saturated fat. This is significant for preventing obesity-related disorders like type-2 diabetes, as it suggests that a diet rich in unsaturated fats may help regulate fat distribution.
Researchers at Uppsala University have challenged the established model for gene regulation by directly measuring transcription factor concentrations in living cells. They found small but significant differences between measurements, opening up new possibilities for understanding gene regulation.
The €85 million ENABLE project aims to develop novel antibiotics against Gram-negative bacteria, addressing a growing epidemic of resistance. The public-private partnership will create an anti-bacterial drug discovery platform and deliver at least one new candidate into Phase 2 clinical trials by 2019.
Fossil evidence reveals the step-by-step assembly of the face during the evolutionary transition from jawless to jawed vertebrates. The Romundina skull shows primitive and modern features, shedding light on the origin of the jawed vertebrate face.
A new statistical model has been developed to isolate ancient DNA from fossils contaminated with modern-day DNA. This method allows for the recovery of complete mitochondrial genomes from Neandertal and anatomically modern human bones, enabling scientists to study these individuals in detail.
A new study published in Molecular Biology and Evolution found that calcium absorption was not the primary reason for the evolution of milk tolerance in Europeans. The researchers discovered that fermented milk products, such as yoghurt and cheese, played a significant role in the rapid emergence of lactase persistence.
Research at Uppsala University found that rare mitochondrial genes are associated with better survival and reproductive outcomes in a common beetle species. The study suggests that these genetic variations play a crucial role in maintaining genetic diversity.
International team uncovers first record of dinosaurs from Saudi Arabia, featuring a sauropod and carnivorous theropod species. The discovery sheds light on the region's rare dinosaur fossil record.
A new study from Uppsala University reveals that one night of sleep deprivation can increase morning blood concentrations of NSE and S-100B in healthy young men. These molecules are typically found in the brain and may indicate a loss of brain tissue. The findings suggest that good sleep is crucial for maintaining brain health.
Research found smoking changes genes associated with health problems like cancer and diabetes. Epigenetic modifications are likely caused by tobacco combustion, not substances in the tobacco.
A new study by Uppsala University reveals a strong association between high levels of perfluorinated compounds and the development of diabetes. High levels of perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA) and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) were found to be linked to increased diabetes risk in elderly men and women.
Researchers identify diverse genetic risk factors for osteosarcoma in dogs, including known human cancer genes and novel findings. The study sheds light on the disease's mechanisms and potential connections to human bone cancer.
Scientists have discovered that seed material from Moringa trees can bind to impurities in water, allowing for more efficient purification. The study found that clusters of material produced with the protein are more tightly packed than those formed with conventional flocculating agents, making it easier to separate and treat waste water.
A new model from Uppsala University predicts how bacteria can rapidly adapt to environmental changes through smart regulation of gene expression. The study shows the ultimate limit for bacterial protein level adjustments in response to changing environments.
A recent study by Uppsala University researchers mapped nearly 90,000 ERVs from 60 host genomes, revealing a host reservoir for one group of retroviruses with rampant host switching throughout history. This finding adds credence to the possibility that many additional retroviruses may remain to be discovered in vertebrate species.
Bacteria and other organisms use proteins to quickly adapt to changing environments by regulating gene expression. A new study reveals how transcription factors bind to DNA and glide along the spiral path in search of binding sites.
Researchers from Uppsala University use PET scanning to visualize elevated levels of NK1 receptors in painful tissue, shedding light on the underlying mechanisms of chronic tennis elbow. The study provides a promising diagnostic method for localizing and diagnosing soft tissue pain.
Researchers studied bird's eye primrose populations in alvar grasslands on Öland Island to investigate how grazing and pollinators impact plant characteristics. Grazing pressure and pollination intensity determine the reproductive success of short vs. tall morphs, leading to changes in genetic composition over time.
Researchers from Uppsala University used a 3D model to study the subsurface of Ardnamurchan volcano and found that it had a single elongate magma chamber. This challenges the long-held theory of three successive magma chambers, which has been widely studied by geology students and experts.
Researchers at Uppsala University found that combining two test methods can provide better asthma diagnosis. The combination of exhaled nitric oxide and blood eosinophil counts increases the likelihood of individuals reporting asthma symptoms or attacks.
Uppsala University researchers develop a novel magnesium carbonate material called Upsalite, exhibiting exceptional surface area and water absorption properties. This breakthrough enables more efficient control of environmental moisture in various industries, including electronics and drug formulation.
Researchers at Uppsala University have identified the ribosome as a key player in prion diseases, such as mad cow disease and Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease. The discovery suggests that antiprion medicines targeting the ribosome's protein folding activity may be effective in treating these fatal neurodegenerative diseases.
A study using ant experiments and mathematical modeling reveals flexible resource management and characteristic responses by group-living animals. The findings suggest a regime of chaos offers more options for groups than following environmental cycles.
A new study reveals that all children with Crohn's disease have a common enterovirus in their intestines, suggesting an important connection between the virus and the chronic inflammatory intestinal disorder. The findings could pave the way for a better understanding of the disease's cause.
A large study using a new genetic method found that overweight is associated with an increased risk of heart failure. The study, which included nearly 200,000 subjects, also confirmed that obesity leads to higher insulin values and increased inflammation markers.
Scientists have discovered miraculously preserved musculature in 380 million-year-old fossil fishes from north-west Australia. This finding helps understand the evolution of neck and abdominal muscles in ancient vertebrates.
Living cells process information via signalling molecules and use negative feedback to reduce noise, with almost half of regulatory molecules regulating their own expression through biochemical reactions.
A study by Uppsala University researchers found that community-based activities in rural Vietnam reduced neonatal mortality rates to half those in control communes, with a significant increase in antenatal care attendance. The interventions were implemented over three years and showed promising results for reducing neonatal deaths.
Researchers at Uppsala University discovered that a curled path in curling stones is caused by microscopic scratches on the ice sheet produced by the stone's roughness. This scratch-guiding mechanism generates sideway force necessary for curling.
A novel gene associated with canine atopic dermatitis has been identified by researchers. The gene encodes a protein called plakophilin 2, which is crucial for the formation and proper functioning of the skin structure. This finding opens new possibilities in understanding the disease mechanism leading to atopic dermatitis.
Researchers at Uppsala University found that green algae can produce hydrogen gas directly from sunlight, with up to 80% of the energy absorbed by Photosystem II going into production. This discovery changes the view on hydrogen production in green algae and offers hope for efficient renewable energy source.
A large-scale study identified seven new gene loci linked to obesity, showing a significant overlap with genetic mechanisms causing milder forms of overweight. The research included over 260,000 participants and demonstrated that extreme obesity shares similar genetic factors as normal or slightly elevated BMI.
The Museum of Evolution at Uppsala University is digitizing Carl Thunberg's Japanese plants, made available for the world to study. The project will simplify access for researchers and promote democracy in botanical studies.