Latest news with #UniversityofBirmingham
The National
13 hours ago
- Health
- The National
British Army weapons systems causing brain damage in soldiers
According to an investigation by ITV News, thousands of serving British soldiers may be suffering from brain damage due to being exposed to harmful blast waves from weapons used by the army. The MoD's leading expert on Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) confirmed to the broadcaster that repeated exposure to blasts generated by some army weapons can injure the brain and lead to life‑long health conditions. Those most at risk are those who have regularly been exposed to heavy weapons, such as mortars, some shoulder-launched anti-tank weapons, 50-calibre rifles and machine guns, or explosive charges. READ MORE: Scottish policing will be 'seriously affected' by Trump visit, says police body Lt Col James Mitchell told ITV News that previously in early campaigns in Iraq and Afghanistan, it was believed that the main cause of TBI and concussion among British soldiers were large munitions and impact blasts. However, experts now believe that soldiers are suffering from brain injuries due to their own weapons systems. 'Over especially the last five to ten years, we're starting to appreciate the role of what we call low level blasts,' Mitchell explained. He said these low level blasts were predominantly being caused by 'the exposure of our service personnel to blast over-pressure from their own weapons systems'. Mitchell added that while exact figures are not known, 'thousands' of serving personnel have been exposed to harmful blasts. It is believed that the figure is potentially even higher for veterans who may have been affected. Heavy weapons used by British soldiers create explosions which produce a wave of overpressure, which effectively causes a spike in the surrounding air pressure above normal atmospheric levels. (Image: RSA) These blast waves can create a force so strong that it penetrates the skull and transfers energy to the brain which can cause microscopic damage to blood vessels and neurons. Experts believe repeated exposure can overwhelm the brain's ability to heal itself, leading to serious long-term neurological damage. It can be difficult to diagnose as symptoms of blast-related TBI overlap with those of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and can include severe headaches, visual disturbances, sensitivity to noise and light, memory loss, and a sense of personality change. Scientists around the UK are now hoping to explore the potential causes of TBI, with financial support from the MoD. The University of Birmingham has partnered with the MoD as they aim to study mild TBI and estimate what kind of brain damage veterans may have. Professor Lisa Hill, a neuroscientist at the University of Birmingham, explained that when the brain is damaged, it releases biomarkers, biological clues that can help scientists understand what and where the damage is happening. 'If somebody gets injured, it changes the structure and function of the brain, but it also releases chemicals that you wouldn't normally see,' she said. 'So if we can measure things in blood or in their saliva, that can tell us how potentially bad their injury has been and what symptoms they might go on to get.'
Yahoo
a day ago
- Health
- Yahoo
This Common Blood Pressure Drug Extends Lifespan, Slows Aging in Animals
The hypertension drug rilmenidine has been shown to slow down aging in worms, an effect that in humans could hypothetically help us live longer and keep us healthier in our latter years. Previous research has shown rilmenidine mimics the effects of caloric restriction on a cellular level. Reducing available energy while maintaining nutrition within the body has been shown to extend lifespans in several animal models. Whether this translates to human biology, or is a potential risk to our health, is a topic of ongoing debate. Finding ways to achieve the same benefits without the costs of extreme calorie cutting could lead to new ways to improve health in old age. In a study published in 2023, young and old Caenorhabditis elegans worms treated with the drug – which is normally used to treat high blood pressure – lived longer and presented higher measures in a variety of health markers in the same way as restricting calories, as the scientists had hoped. "For the first time, we have been able to show in animals that rilmenidine can increase lifespan," said molecular biogerontologist João Pedro Magalhães, from the University of Birmingham in the UK. "We are now keen to explore if rilmenidine may have other clinical applications." Related: The C. elegans worm is a favorite for studies, because many of its genes have similarities to counterparts in our genome. Yet in spite of these similarities, it is still a rather distant relation to humans. Further tests showed that gene activity associated with caloric restriction could be seen in the kidney and liver tissues of mice treated with rilmenidine. In other words, some of the changes that caloric restriction gives in animals and thought to confer certain health benefits also appear with a hypertension drug that many people already take. Another discovery was that a biological signaling receptor called nish-1 was crucial in the effectiveness of rilmenidine. This particular chemical structure could be targeted in future attempts to improve lifespan and slow down aging. "We found that the lifespan-extending effects of rilmenidine were abolished when nish-1 was deleted," the researchers explained in their paper. "Critically, rescuing the nish-1 receptor reinstated the increase in lifespan upon treatment with rilmenidine." Low-calorie diets are hard to follow and come with a variety of side effects, such as hair thinning, dizziness, and brittle bones. It's early days still, but the thinking is that this hypertension drug could confer the same benefits as a low-calorie diet while being easier on the body. What makes rilmenidine a promising candidate as an anti-aging drug is that it can be taken orally, it's already widely prescribed, and its side effects are rare and relatively mild (they include palpitations, insomnia, and drowsiness in a few cases). There's a long way to go yet in figuring out if rilmenidine would work as an anti-aging drug for actual humans, but the early signs in these worm and mice tests are promising. We now know much more about what rilmenidine can do, and how it operates. "With a global aging population, the benefits of delaying aging, even if slightly, are immense," said Magalhães. The research was published in Aging Cell. An earlier version of this article was published in January 2023. Related News Dopamine Doesn't Work in Our Brains Quite The Way We Thought 5 Questions That Could Reveal a Truth About Your Aging Common Sweetener Could Damage Critical Brain Barrier, Risking Stroke Solve the daily Crossword
ITV News
a day ago
- Health
- ITV News
MoD admits British Army weapons systems are causing brain damage in soldiers
Words by ITV News Assistant Producer Robbie Boyd Thousands of serving troops may be suffering from brain damage after being exposed to harmful blast waves from the British Army's weaponry, an ITV News investigation has revealed. In a landmark admission, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) confirmed that weapons systems used by the army are causing brain damage in soldiers. Speaking to ITV News Science Correspondent Martin Stew, the MoD's lead on Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), acknowledged that repeated exposure to blasts generated by some army weapons can injure the brain and lead to life‑long health conditions. Lt Col James Mitchell said during earlier campaigns in Iraq and Afghanistan, the perception was that large munitions and impact blasts were the primary cause of TBI and concussion among British soldiers. However, that is no longer the case, with TBI and concussion being blamed on the impact on soldiers from their own weapons systems. "Over especially the last five to ten years, we're starting to appreciate the role of what we call low level blasts," he explained. He said these low level blast were predominantly being caused by "the exposure of our service personnel to blast over-pressure from their own weapons systems". Lt Col Mitchell added that while exact figures are not known, 'thousands' of serving personnel have been exposed to harmful blasts, with figures potentially even higher for veterans affected. Most at risk are those who have been repeatedly exposed to heavy weapons, including mortars, some shoulder-launched anti-tank weapons, 50-calibre rifles and machine guns, or explosive charges. Explosions create a wave of 'overpressure', a spike in the surrounding air pressure above normal atmospheric levels caused by a blast wave. It can create a force so strong that it penetrates the skull, and the energy transferred to the brain causes microscopic damage to blood vessels and neurons. Repeated exposure can overwhelm the brain's ability to heal itself, causing serious long-term neurological damage. Symptoms of blast-related TBI overlap with those of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), making it difficult to diagnose. They may include: severe headaches, visual disturbances, sensitivity to noise and light, memory loss and a sense of personality change. Now, scientists around the UK are hoping to explore the potential causes of TBI, with financial support from the MoD. The University of Birmingham is playing a key role in the mild TBI study in partnership with the MoD, which aims to estimate what kind of brain damage veterans have. Professor Lisa Hill is a neuroscientist at the University of Birmingham. She explained that when the brain is damaged, it releases biomarkers, biological clues that can help scientists understand what and where the damage is happening. 'If somebody gets injured, it changes the structure and function of the brain, but it also releases chemicals that you wouldn't normally see,' she said. 'So if we can measure things in blood or in their saliva, that can tell us how potentially bad their injury has been and what symptoms they might go on to get.' But policy changes might need to be made in order to reduce or prevent injuries in the first place. Professor Karen Mullinger, an expert in neuro-imaging at Nottingham University, is working to identify patterns of damage with sophisticated brain scanning technology called OPM MEG. Hugh Keir, a sniper with the Parachute Regiment who fought in Iraq and Afghanistan, now runs the H-Hour podcast which is popular with veterans in the UK and abroad. He volunteered to undergo a trial scan to see if his years of exposure to blast have left a mark. The results showed normal brain activity overall, but there were some signs that may indicate damage. To be certain, Prof Mullinger and her team need to scan many more veterans and controls to build up a database of what "normal" looks like. In time, it is hoped there will be enough data to allow for definitive diagnoses. Professor Mullinger also plans to study soldiers in real time, to see which activities are highest risk. 'We can scan these soldiers before they go and do a training exercise and then immediately after, then we get a baseline which is specific to them,' she said. 'If the 'wire paths' have been damaged by blasts or whatever else it might be, then the function is going to change.' The information collected from these trials could shape policy, such as modifying the most damaging weapons or reducing blast exposure in training exercises.
International Business Times
5 days ago
- Business
- International Business Times
Nejat Immigration Ltd: A Dual-Practice Approach to UK Immigration Law
The UK immigration law sector remains one of the most complex and highly regulated legal fields, requiring law firms to balance strict compliance with the human realities of migration. Nejat Immigration Ltd, an OISC-regulated firm, has adopted a structured yet adaptable approach by operating through two distinct but complementary divisions: An Immigration Law Practice and an Education Consultancy Practice. This dual-department model reflects a strategic response to the intersecting legal and logistical challenges faced by migrants and international students. Regulated Legal Expertise Meets Education Consultancy Under the leadership of Founder and Principal Immigration Lawyer Mohammad Amin Nejat, the firm has positioned itself at the intersection of legal precision and client-centered service. The Immigration Law Practice, regulated by the Office of the Immigration Services Commissioner (OISC), handles a broad spectrum of UK immigration matters from work and business immigration, to family settlement and nationality applications. Meanwhile, the Education Consultancy Practice, accredited by ICEF and led by Parya Kazemi, assists international students with academic placements and visa compliance. This bifurcated structure allows the firm to address two critical aspects of migration: the legal pathways governed by Home Office regulations and the practical challenges of educational transitions. By maintaining clear divisions, Nejat Immigration Ltd ensures that each practice operates within its regulatory framework while upholding consistent ethical standards. Academic Rigor Informing Legal Strategy Mr. Nejat's academic background including a Master's degree from the University of Birmingham, where he studied under noted economists has influenced the firm's analytical approach to immigration law. His coursework in finance, game theory, and moral hazard appears to have shaped a methodical perspective on risk assessment and procedural compliance, which is reflected in the firm's case management strategies. Mr. Nejat's professional background combines legal training with academic distinction, having completed a Master's degree at the University of Birmingham in 2020. He holds a Master's degree with distinction from the University of Birmingham (2020), where his studies were initially supervised by the late Professor Peter J. N. Sinclair, a former tutor to UK Prime Minister David Cameron, and later by Dr. Dimitrios Asteriou. His course in finance, moral hazard, and game theory informed a strategic approach to complex legal and regulatory matters. Compliance as a Core Principle Operating in a heavily scrutinized sector, Nejat Immigration Ltd prioritizes regulatory adherence. Maintaining OISC registration and ICEF accreditation requires rigorous internal protocols, including continuous professional development through memberships such as the Immigration Law Practitioners' Association (ILPA). The firm also conducts weekly reviews of legal updates to ensure alignment with evolving Home Office policies. Staffing decisions further reinforce this compliance-first mindset. The law firm selects team members based on technical competency, ethical diligence, and an understanding of the human dimensions of immigration cases a necessary balance in a field where legal outcomes often have life-altering consequences. Additionally, all employees undergo enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks to verify no criminal record history, as well as drug and alcohol testing, ensuring the highest standards of professional integrity and client trust. Nejat Immigration Ltd operates under strict data protection standards in accordance with UK GDPR and ICO requirements. The firm maintains standard industry protocols for client data security, including secure digital storage systems and controlled access to case files. In line with common practice among regulated immigration firms, the law firm holds Professional Indemnity Insurance with coverage limits of £250,000 per claim. The policy also includes £1,500,000 public liability protection. These insurance arrangements represent typical safeguards adopted by OISC-regulated practices to address professional liability exposures. Conclusion: A Balanced Approach in a High-Stakes Field Nejat Immigration Ltd's dual-practice model demonstrates how specialized divisions can enhance service delivery while maintaining regulatory integrity. By combining legal expertise with strategic consultancy, the firm addresses both the procedural and personal aspects of immigration a nuanced approach that may serve as a case study for balancing compliance with client needs in a demanding legal landscape. As the UK's immigration policies continue to evolve, firms like Nejat Immigration Ltd highlight the importance of adaptability, ethical clarity, and cross-disciplinary expertise in navigating an ever-changing sector. About Nejat Immigration Ltd: The law firm is registered with the United Kingdom Immigration Advice Authority (IAA), holds ILPA membership (No. 9253), and is an ICEF-certified agency. For further details, visit their official channels. Media Contact: Nejat Immigration Ltd OISC Registration No: F202432157 ILPA Member No: 9253 ICEF Certified Agency ITAC#1810 Website:
Novaya Gazeta Europe
16-07-2025
- Business
- Novaya Gazeta Europe
With a pinch of salt. What Trump's decision to send more weapons to Ukraine will mean for the war — Novaya Gazeta Europe
At face value, Donald Trump's announcement about his plans on Russia and Ukraine look like a major policy change. Speaking from the Oval Office on 14 July, where he had been meeting with NATO secretary general Mark Rutte, the US president said he would send 'top-of-the-line-weapons' to help Kyiv and — unless a ceasefire deal is agreed inside a 50-day time limit — the US would impose secondary sanctions on any countries dealing with Russia. David Hastings Dunn Professor of International Politics, University of Birmingham But while this represents a significant departure from Trump's previous approach, it's more of a step back towards the policy approach of his predecessor Joe Biden than the U-turn that some commentators are claiming. For months Russia has stepped up its bombardment of Ukraine, buoyed by the fact that neither the US Congress nor the White House has authorised any new military aid to Kyiv. Moscow would have been aware of this lack of US action and its missile and drone attacks against Ukraine have aimed to run down the stocks of air defence missiles supplied by Biden while paying lip service to the idea of peace negotiations. For Trump the penny appears finally to have dropped as to what was happening. His frustration and disappointment in Putin is what has finally led to him calling this out. According to Trump, Putin 'fooled a lot of people — Clinton, Bush, Obama, Biden — he didn't fool me. At a certain point talk doesn't talk, it's got to be action.' The decision to send new supplies of defensive — and potentially even longer-range offensive missiles — to Ukraine, even if the Europeans pay for them, is an important signal to Russia. But so too is the threat of tariffs of 100% on countries such as India and China that sustain the Russian economy by buying its oil and gas at knockdown prices. What has not changed, however, is the goal of Trump's policy towards the war in Ukraine. The US senate, led by Lindsay Graham, the influential Republican senator for South Carolina, has been itching to pass these secondary sanctions for months. Now that the Trump administration appears to have adopted this plan it is a significant policy instrument to pile the pressure on Russia. The change in Trump's approach may also mean that the €6.9 billion of frozen Russian assets in the US, and €192 billion in Europe, could be released to aid Ukraine, which would provide a ready means to pay for the US arms transfers. What has not changed, however, is the goal of Trump's policy towards the war in Ukraine. While the Biden administration called out the illegality of Putin's unprovoked aggression and called for the restoration of Ukrainian sovereignty, Trump is merely calling for a ceasefire. Trump may say he is 'disappointed' with Putin, but he has not labelled him as the aggressor. In fact at one point he was blaming Ukraine for the invasion. And, significantly, he has not demanded that Russia give up the 20% of Ukraine that it currently illegally occupies. The US president is also silent on what the US would commit to in terms of security and stability for Ukraine after the fighting stops. This is a much bigger question than Ukraine's NATO membership. America's European allies in NATO regard some sort of stability force on Ukrainian territory as necessary to deter any future Russian aggression. Whether or not US troops would be involved, and all the signs are that they would not, some sort of US security back-stop or guarantee is still seen in Europe as key to its success, as would be US logistical and intelligence support for its operation. Another aspect of the change in Trump's policy is the long lead time that Russia has been given to come to the table. A lot of Ukrainian civilians are likely to die during this period if the intense bombardment continues. On the battlefield, 50 days would give the Russians an extended window during a renewed summer offensive to make further territorial gains inside the occupied provinces. So Trump's proposals have to be viewed through the prism of his propensity to set deadlines that are then pushed back multiple times, as with the on-again, off-again tariffs, which have given Trump the nickname Taco — 'Trump always chickens out' — on Wall Street. Trump is seen by many as both inconsistent in his threats and unpredictable as to where policy will eventually settle. Russian senator, Konstantin Kosachev, was certainly taking this view when he told the BBC after Trump's announcement that, 'if this is all Trump had to say about Ukraine today, then so far it's been much ado about nothing'. This sentiment was shared by the Russian stock market which rose 2.7% in the aftermath of Trump's announcement. Analysts had expected much worse, so the long delay in the prospect of anything actually happening was clearly seen as a long way off and potentially subject to change or cancellation. Trump is seen by many as both inconsistent in his threats and unpredictable as to where policy will eventually settle. The fact that Trump told BBC Washington correspondent Gary O'Donoghue that while he was 'disappointed' with Putin, he was 'not done with him', and his clear reluctance to act quickly and decisively in sanctioning Russia, should be seen as an important counterpart to the apparent policy shift. Like so many things with the 47th US president, it's important not to react to the media appearances or the headlines they provoke, without also paying attention to the policy actions of his administration. This article was first published by The Conversation. Views expressed in opinion pieces do not necessarily reflect the position of Novaya Gazeta Europe.
