Researchers from the University of Copenhagen have identified a specific mechanism that protects our cells from natural DNA errors — an ‘enemy within’ — which could permanently damage our genetic code and lead to diseases such as cancer. The study has just been published in Nature Cell Biology. Continue reading “Cell mechanism delays and repairs DNA damage that can lead to cancer”
The Viking invasion was not as massive as the Anglo-Saxon one
Recent research indicates that the invaders who had the worst impact on England were the Anglo-Saxons, rather than the Vikings, as it is widely thought. Continue reading “The Viking invasion was not as massive as the Anglo-Saxon one”
Smoking and alcohol: Double trouble for the brain?
Along with many other harmful health consequences, smoking tobacco causes chemical changes, oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain. Excessive alcohol use can have similar effects. Surprisingly, however, very few studies have examined the combined impact of smoking and alcohol on the brain. Now, researchers reporting in ACS Chemical Neuroscience have shown that in rats, the joint use of tobacco and alcohol could increase neural damage in particular brain regions. Continue reading “Smoking and alcohol: Double trouble for the brain?”
The unexpected creates reward when listening to music
If you love it when a musician strikes that unexpected but perfect chord, you are not alone. New research shows the musically unexpected activates the reward centre of our brains, and makes us learn about the music as we listen. Continue reading “The unexpected creates reward when listening to music”
Evidence of violence and martial readiness in Minoan Crete
Just how peace loving were the Minoans? Why did they not leave behind images of wars, battles and walls despite their contacts with other eastern peoples who were their contemporaries and who used such representations? Were the inhabitants of Minoan Crete perhaps ‟flower children” living among the lilies and passing their time with bullfights and festivities in meadows and olive groves? Continue reading “Evidence of violence and martial readiness in Minoan Crete”
New research casts doubt on cause of Angkor’s collapse
New University of Sydney research has revealed the ancient Cambodian city of Angkor underwent a gradual decline in occupation rather than an abrupt collapse. Continue reading “New research casts doubt on cause of Angkor’s collapse”
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