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Since 2006 when the link between amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), frontotemporal degeneration and TDP-43 mutations was demonstrated by Arai et al., it has remained a focus in neurological academia. This is for good reason; the research boom around the role of TDP-43 in neurodegeneration has elucidated links between TDP-43, parkinsonism and frontotemporal dementia (FTD). Go Back Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link TDP-43 and Me: the Neurodegenerative Impact of Gene Misplacement in Parkinsonism Last updated: 08/03/26 Published: 06/04/23 Practice and Progress in Neurology Since 2006 when the link between amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), frontotemporal degeneration and TDP-43 mutations was demonstrated by Arai et al., it has remained a focus in neurological academia. This is for good reason; the research boo m around the role of TDP-43 in neurodegeneration has elucidated link s between TDP-43, parkinsonism and frontotemporal dementia (FTD). The link between point mutations, deletions and loss of gene function in PRKN has long been established, but has yet to lead to the development of a targeted therapeutic treatment. PRKN is involved in the tagging of excess or faulty proteins with ubiquitin, which leads to degradation of the proteins in the ubiquitin/proteasome system (UPS)- a system characterised in medical neurology by its potential to cause serious neurological disorders. This places parkinsonism in a domain of neurodegenerative disorders sharing a common root in UPS dysfunction, including Alzheimer’s Disease, multiple sclerosis and Huntington’s Disease. Panda et al. (2022) demonstrated how the dysfunction of the UPS due to PRKN aberration inhibits the breakdown of the damaging TDP-43 aggregates which develop in human brains in response to mutation or stress. In healthy people, autophagic granules would attack and kill off these TDP-43 aggregates as an end result of the UPS , but due to aberrations in PRKN the UPS is inhibited in those afflicted with parkinsonism, causing neurodegeneration. The discovery of how TDP-43 and parkinsonism are linked could lead to the development of a treatment mimicking the organic catalyst of the TDP-43 aggregate breakdown to replicate UPS, reducing TDP-43 aggregate volume and by proxy, inhibiting neurodegeneration. In 2007, research by Esper et al. catalysed recognition of drug-induced Parkinsonism as severely underdiagnosed, with evidence proving even neurologists fail to effectively remember which medications cause parkinsonism. Fast halting of the inciting agent is necessary for the reversal of all parkinsonism symptoms, but in some patients, cognitive symptoms may persist for a time after the medication is stopped. In response to the novel discoveries of Panda et al. (2022), it is likely due to the aggregation of TDP-43. Another possibility is that permanent cognitive symptoms after inciting agent cessation in DIP may be due to large TDP-43 aggregates unable to be destroyed by the UPS. Further research will demonstrate whether TDP-43 aggregates become more resistant to UPS or autophagy through the progression of DIP, whether due to size or other extraneous factors. As of late 2025, findings demonstrate that TDP-43-associated missplicing is common in Parkinson's disease brains, giving more weight to the theory. The implications of such a promising lead in neurotherapeutics for refractory parkinsonism cannot be understated. Surgical therapies have long since remained the industry standard in treating refractory parkinsonism, though this option remains prone to risk since many of those afflicted with parkinsonism are elderly, with drug-induced parkinsonism from treatment with antipsychotics, calcium channel blockers or other medications always heightening the number of the geriatric population requiring care for parkinsonism . Furthermore, the adequate treatment of those with parkinsonism in their youth could inhibit their progression to a refractory disease state in old age. Overall, the future looks very promising for those around the world suffering from all different forms of parkinsonism. Written by Aimee Wilson Related articles: A common diabetes drug treating Parkinson's disease / Lifestyle and PD risk

It’s been found that the species Dicrurus adsimilis (fork-tailed drongos) uses deception by flexible alarm mimicry to target and carry out food-theft attempts. The deceptive tactics of the fork-tailed drongo were studied which includes the use of false alarm calls and mimicked calls. Research was done on 64 wild drongos in the Kalahari Desert and it was found that the drongos spent more than a quarter of their time watching their target species which included southern pied babblers and meerkats Go back Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link Deception by flexible alarm mimicry in an African bird Last updated: 05/11/24 Published: 28/12/22 It’s been found that the species Dicrurus adsimilis (fork-tailed drongos) uses deception by flexible alarm mimicry to target and carry out food-theft attempts. The deceptive tactics of the fork-tailed drongo were studied which includes the use of false alarm calls and mimicked calls. Research was done on 64 wild drongos in the Kalahari Desert and it was found that the drongos spent more than a quarter of their time watching their target species which included southern pied babblers and meerkats. The other species’ would listen to the alarm calls made by drongos and would rush to take cover as they would if it was an alarm call from their species. These alarm calls were beneficial to them as it increased the number of returns from foraging and reduced their vigilance. However, the drongos used this to their advantage and if the target species was to find a large item of food the drongos could produce a false alarm call to make the target species run to cover out of fear which allowed the observing drongo to steal the deserted food. In 42% of cases of false alarms the drongos used a mimicked cry and in another 27% it was a mixture of mimicked and drongo-specific. This could be because target species are more likely to respond to a mimicked alarm call. In the case of babblers, if they heard a mimicked alarm call they would take longer to carry on foraging than with a drongo-specific call. The results show that false alarm calls by drongos work to distract their target but the call should also be frequently changed and not overused for best results. Written by Areebah Khan Related article: Conserving the Californian condor SUMMARISED FROM Flower, T.P., Gribble, M. and Ridley, A.R. (2014) “Deception by flexible alarm mimicry in an African bird,” Science, 344(6183), pp. 513–516.

Step into the intricate field of dentistry and learn about dental tourism, tooth decay, water fluoridation- and more. Dentistry Articles Step into the intricate field of dentistry and learn about dental tourism, tooth decay, water fluoridation- and more. You may also like: Medicine Water fluoridation Diving deep Dental tourism What is 'Turkey teeth'? Tooth decay And how to prevent it COMING SOON

At Scientia News, we provide free help with personal statements for students applying to UK universities. From proofreading and checking to detailed feedback reports, there is a lot of support. We check UCAS personal statements for free! What are UCAS personal statements? For UK-based universities UCAS personal statements are a chance for students to show a UK university why they should be offered a place to study a particular subject there. Academics or more? Whilst academics are important to talk about, it is just as necessary to talk about who you are beyond your grades, too. This is the third mandatory question of the statement. Page and character limited It is critical to note that the statements must not be longer than 1 page: anything beyond this will not be read. The character limit is 4000, with a minimum of 350 characters per question. You can v isit UCAS for more information... Deadline! All statements must be submitted through UCAS by 14th January 2026 at 18:00 (UK time). However, the earlier the better as universities accept students on a rolling deadline. The process of submitting a personal statement: 1. Research university courses interested in 2. Pick a course & answer the 3 statement questions 3. Check and edit statement for approval 4. Submit to your top 5 university choices Note for those that are considering medicine or dentistry: You (normally) will have to choose 1 university out of the 5 where you will do a back up course i.e. something that is not medicine or dentistry. What we offer to you: Proofreading To catch any remaining errors or inconsistencies in draft statements Expert advisors Graduates or current university students will provide personalised advice to highlight your unique qualities, and align your statement with your chosen field of study Goals We'll assist in articulating your passion and long-term goals effectively Feedback Get detailed feedback reports with specific improvement suggestions Guidance Giving example guideline questions for you to answer and include in your statement. This will help to create flow and making adjustments easier. Structure Advice on approaching your introduction, main body paragraphs and ending Examples of universities where some of our volunteers currently attend, or have graduated from: Queen Mary University of London, Imperial College London, Kings College London, University of Liverpool and so on. Fill the form out below and we will contact you* * Alternatively, you can email us at scientianewsorg@gmail.com . Please keep the subject as 'Personal Statement'. * Disclaimer: there must be no plagiarism or use of AI in all statements submitted - we will assume there has been no copying. Scientia News will not be responsible for any plagiarism or AI detection by UCAS, as we only give advice. Email Subject Your message Send Thanks for submitting!

When we think of bacteria, we tend to focus on their pathogenicity and ability to cause diseases such as tuberculosis, which infects around one-quarter of the world’s population. However, whilst bacteria do have the potential to become parasitic, if the trillions of bacterial cells that make up the human microbiome ceased to exist, human health would experience a rapid decline. Go back Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link Why bacteria are essential for human survival Last updated: 03/03/26 Published: 13/04/23 When we think of bacteria, we tend to focus on their pathogenicity and ability to cause diseases such as tuberculosis, which infects around one-quarter of the world’s population. However, whilst bacteria do have the potential to become parasitic, if the trillions of bacterial cells that make up the human microbiome ceased to exist, human health would experience a rapid decline. One reason for this is due to the critical role bacteria play in inducing the immune system against pathogenic threats. Upon viral infection, the interferon (IFN) defence system is initiated where the synthesis of antiviral cytokines is upregulated. Evidence suggests bacteria in the gut are capable of modulating the IFN system. They work by inducing macrophages and plasmacytoid dendritic cells to express type 1 IFN, which in turn primes natural killer cells and prepares cytotoxic CD8+ T cells for action. Erttmann et al (2022) demonstrate that a depletion of the gut microbiota diminishes the cell signalling pathways modulated by these commensal bacteria. This causes a reduction in type 1 IFN production, and thus an impairment in the activation of NK and CD8+ T cells. As a result, the body becomes more susceptible to attack by viral infections and less able to defend itself. In fact, the 2025 Nobel Prize for Physiology or Medicine was awarded to Mary Brunkow, Fred Ramsdell and Shimon Sakaguchi for fundamental work on regulatory T-cells; these cells are linked to the microbiome. It proves that certain gut bacteria upregulate Foxp3 transcription, which prevents the immune system from attacking the body. This highlights just how vital the role bacteria in our microbiome play in providing us with innate immunity against viral pathogens and protecting our health. This also brings attention to our use of antibiotics, and the potential negative effects they may have on the commensal bacteria residing in our body. Erttmann et al (2022) further showed that mice treated with a variety of antibiotics exhibited a major reduction in gut microbiota diversity, thus severely comprising their ability to fight off viral infections. Research like this is important in informing doctors to be sensible in their administration of antibiotics, as well as informing patients to not self-medicate and unnecessarily ingest antibiotics. Ultimately, the commensal bacteria living in our bodies play essential roles in protecting human health, and it is, therefore, vital we take the necessary steps to also protect these remarkable microorganisms in return. Written by Bisma Butt Related article: The rising threat of antibiotic resistance REFERENCES Erttmann, S.F., Swacha, P., Aung, K.M., Brindefalk, B., Jiang, H., Härtlova, A., Uhlin, B.E., Wai, S.N. and Gekara, N.O., 2022. The gut microbiota prime systemic antiviral immunity via the cGAS-STING-IFN-I axis. Immunity, 55(5), pp.847-861. Ganal, S.C., Sanos, S.L., Kallfass, C., Oberle, K., Johner, C., Kirschning, C., Lienenklaus, S., Weiss, S., Staeheli, P., Aichele, P. and Diefenbach, A., 2012. Priming of natural killer cells by nonmucosal mononuclear phagocytes requires instructive signals from commensal microbiota. Immunity, 37(1), pp.171-186.

This page features articles which tackle imminent health problems such as smoking, childhood obesity and depression, and pre-diabetes. Skin disease, Crohn's disease, anaemias, and endometriosis are also explored.  Medicine Articles This page features articles which tackle imminent health problems such as smoking, childhood obesity and depression, and pre-diabetes. Skin disease, Crohn's disease, anaemias, and endometriosis are also explored. You may also like: Dentistry , Biology Interventions for smoking cessation Public smoking health interventions The problem with childhood obesity What is childhood obesity? How many does it affect, and what can we do to tackle this? Pre-diabetes Pre-diabetes is the period before the onset of diabetes Anaemias Anaemia is a blood disease. Article #1 in a series about anaemia. Endometriosis breakthrough The latest breakthrough in endometriosis: the bacterium theory AI in medicinal chemistry How can it help the field? Depression in children And how we can help them Iron-deficiency anaemia Anaemia is a blood disease. Article #2 in a series about anaemia. The power of probiotics And how they are effective Blood: a vital fluid The role and importance of blood Smart bandages What are they and how can they be better than traditional bandages? Why whales don't get cancer Discussing from Peter's Paradox perspective Anaemia of chronic disease The second most-common anaemia. Article #3 in a series about anaemia. Erasing memory Is it possible to wipe your memories clean? Herpes vs. skin disease From foe to ally: a Herpes-based gene therapy treats dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa. Article #3 in a series on Rare diseases. The foremothers of gynaecology An International Women's Month collab with Publett Healthcare serial killers A disturbing reality The gut microbiome Also known as: the microbiota, gut microflora Crohn's disease A summary of the condition Sideroblastic anaemia A problem synthesising haem. Article #4 in a series about anaemia. Next

Elements, compounds, and mixtures make up the building blocks of materials that shape our world. Read on to uncover how atoms, molecules, and reactions are fundamental to life on Earth. Chemistry Articles Elements, compounds, and mixtures make up the building blocks of materials that shape our world. Read on to uncover how atoms, molecules, and reactions are fundamental to life on Earth. You may also like: Medicine , Pharmacology The role of chemistry in medicine Medicinal chemistry and its uses Metal organic frameworks And their potential use in cancer drug delivery The biochemistry of cancer And how integrins can be desirable targets Metal compounds In anti-cancer drugs Female Nobel prize winners What were their contributions? Drug chirality Why is it important? Green chemistry And sustainability for the future Chemistry in space exploration What is its role? Environmental impact of electrical vehicles A chemical perspective From botulism to beauty Botulinum toxins Chemistry of an atomic bomb What is the key process behind these explosions? Vitamins Discussing their importance in the body The story of pigments and dyes The chemistry in an artist's palette Zinc fingers Transcription factors regulating gene expression Emotional chemistry On a molecular basis Nuclear safety The silent protectors Modern-day chemistry And its related challenges The story of the atom The history of the atomic model Nanoparticles A probable treatment for diabetes Exploring food at the molecular level Gastronomy Next

Read articles delving into the universal genetic code: from CRISPR-Cas9 and epigenetics, to AI diagnosis, schizophrenia, and ancestry. Genetics Articles Read articles delving into the universal genetic code: from CRISPR-Cas9 and epigenetics, to AI diagnosis, schizophrenia, and ancestry. You may also like: Biology The CRISPR- CAS9 system Who were the Nobel Prize winners of Chemistry in 2020? What did they discover? Micro-chimerism, and George Floyd's death A Publett collaboration Schizophrenia Complex disease series: the influence of the environment on complex diseases. Article #1 Genetically-engineered bacteria decompose plastic A solution to plastic pollution Gene therapy by rAAVs rAAVs- recombinant adeno-associated viruses An introduction to epigenetics Interactions between genes and the environment Are aliens on Earth? Applications of ancient DNA analysis New horizons in Alzheimer's Reaching new potential in research The Y chromosome unveiled A remarkable discovery Decoding p53 A fundamental tumour supressor protein Epigenetics and queen bees What distinguishes queen bees from worker bees? Genetics of excessive smoking and drinking What are their contribution? SNPs and haplogroups Solving the mystery of ancestry Germline gene therapy A Scientia News Biology and Genetics collaboration Chimeras A genetic phenomenon Unfolding prion diseases What happens when proteins don't fold properly? Article #5 in a series on Rare diseases. Diagnosing genetic diseases with AI The advancements made by AI in diagnosis Breaking down Tay-Sachs A rare inherited disease caused by a missing enzyme. Article #6 in a series on Rare diseases. Genetics of ageing and longevity What genes and transcription factors are involved in these processes? Ehlers-Danlos syndrome How it's caused. Article #7 in a series on Rare diseases. Next

Explore artificial intelligence, a technology that has taken the world by storm. Learn how it is used in fields like agriculture, drug discovery, and outer space. Elsewhere, get to grips with semi-conductor manufacturing, quantum computing, and biotechnology. Technology Articles Explore artificial intelligence, a technology that has taken the world by storm. Learn how it is used in fields like agriculture, drug discovery, and outer space. Elsewhere, get to grips with semi-conductor manufacturing, quantum computing, and biotechnology. You may also like: Maths , Physics , Engineering Fake science websites Ways fake science websites misinform and misguide readers The evolution of artificial intelligence And its greater role in natural language processor technologies Medical biotechnology Technology in the medical sciences Quantum computing What are its applications? Improving agriculture Revolutionising sustainable agriculture through AI AI in drug discovery Using this technology in drug research Digital disinformation With the use of IT cells Digital innovation in rural farming What are the benefits? AI in space What is artificial intelligence used for in outer space? Radiation therapy to treat cancer Revolutionising patient setup in cancer treatment AI: the good, the bad, and the future A Scientia News Biology group collaboration Photonic integration In semiconductor manufacturing Nanomedicine Tiny solutions for big health problems NHS clinical computer scientist Exploring the day-to-day routine in this new field in healthcare Semi-conductor laser technology The recent advancements Code to cure How bioinformatics and technology helped to develop a vaccine for COVID-19 Virtual reality in healthcare Its potential Mauritius's rise as African leader of mobile networks An in-depth look at the rollout of 5G on the island, and the factors enabling this

In today's fast-paced and often overwhelming world, taking care of our mental well-being is more crucial than ever. In this article, we will explore practical strategies that can easily be incorporated into our day-to-day lives, allowing us to establish a solid foundation for our mental well-being and sustain it in the long run. Go Back Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link Empowering your mental health journey with practical strategies Last updated: 22/05/25 Published: 18/05/23 In today's fast-paced and often overwhelming world, taking care of our mental well-being is more crucial than ever. In this article, we will explore practical strategies that can easily be incorporated into our day-to-day lives, allowing us to establish a solid foundation for our mental well-being and sustain it in the long run. 1. Embracing mindfulness Mindfulness is a powerful practice that helps us stay present, cultivate awareness, and manage stress. Imagine starting your day by dedicating a few minutes to mindful breathing or meditation, allowing yourself to set a calm and focused tone for the day. Engage in activities with a mindful mindset, whether it's taking a peaceful walk in nature, relishing a cup of tea, or fully immersing yourself in the present moment. 2. Exercise Physical activity is another essential self-care strategy that not only benefits our physical health but also plays a profound role in nurturing our mental well-being. Find an exercise routine that that brings you joy and that easily fits into your life. Whether it's walking, jogging, yoga, or any other form of movement that resonates with you, the key is to find something you enjoy and can stick to. Even small bursts of exercise throughout the day, like a short walk during your lunch break or opting for the stairs instead of the elevator, can make a significant difference in your overall well-being. 3. Sleep Hygiene Adequate sleep is vital for mental and emotional wellbeing. Establishing good sleep hygiene is crucial. Maintain a consistent sleep schedule by going to bed and waking up at the same time each day. Create a relaxing bedtime routine that signals to your body that it's time to unwind. Consider reading a book, taking a warm bath, or practicing gentle stretches to prepare your mind and body for restful sleep. Ensure your bedroom provides an optimal sleep environment by keeping it dark, quiet, and cool, and minimize exposure to screens before bed. 4. Online mental health platforms In our digital age, online mental health platforms have become invaluable resources for supporting our mental well-being. Platforms like Headspace , Better Help , and Calm offer a range of services, including meditation exercises, therapy sessions with licensed professionals, and stress reduction tools. Exploring these platforms can provide the support and guidance needed on your mental health journey. Self-care apps that can be installed on phones Prioritising self-care is essential for maintaining good mental health. By incorporating these practices into your daily routine, you can nurture your mind, body, and soul. By investing time and energy into yourself, you are fostering a stronger foundation for a happier and healthier life. Written by Viviana Greco Related articles: Physical and mental health / Imposter syndrome in STEM / Mental health in the South Asian community