A new study published in BMC Evolutionary Biology reveals that grey squirrels turned black due to interbreeding with fox squirrels. The faulty pigment gene was identified as identical to one found in the closely related fox squirrel species native to North America.
A new study found that regularised migrants still face issues with work conditions and opportunities, with many trapped between formal and informal labour markets. The research highlights the importance of labour markets in creating spaces for undocumented workers to live and work.
A new study by Anglia Ruskin University reveals that brain activity synchronises between patients and therapists during music therapy sessions. The breakthrough uses brain hyperscanning to track subtle changes in emotional processing, offering a more precise understanding of the therapeutic impact.
A new study published in Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety found that cigarette butts contain a bioplastic filter that harms plants, reducing germination success and shoot length of clover and grass by significant margins. The filters' chemical composition is believed to be the primary cause of damage.
A study of 177 people found that 14% had a diagnosis of autism and 28% reached the cut off point, highlighting a high number of potentially undiagnosed individuals. The research suggests adapting consultation processes in gender identity clinics to screen for autism spectrum disorders.
A new study published in Contemporary Clinical Trials found that treadmill exercise reduced period pain by 6% after four weeks and 22% after seven months. Women who participated in the supervised aerobic training regime also reported improved quality of life and daily functioning, but not increased sleep quality.
A new study published in Body Image found that perfectionism is related to breast size dissatisfaction among childless women. In contrast, motherhood appears to boost body image and reduce breast size dissatisfaction, particularly among women with multiple children.
Researchers found that a pregnant woman's sense of personal space expands only during the third trimester of pregnancy. This expansion is believed to be an adjustment made by the brain to protect the vulnerable abdomen from daily interactions.
A new study published in the Journal of Mental Health found that people are almost twice as likely to correctly identify signs of postnatal depression in women than in men. The research involved 406 British adults and found that participants were less likely to say there was something wrong with the male, compared to the female.
Researchers at Anglia Ruskin University are developing a wearable sensor to monitor respiratory rate in new-born babies, especially in poor areas where access to healthcare is limited. The innovative technology aims to provide faster and more accurate identification of health conditions in new-borns, potentially saving lives.
A study by Anglia Ruskin University found that people with autism lack the 'full body illusion', a test simulating an out-of-body experience. This is linked to a smaller peripersonal space, defining the boundaries of self, which may explain social difficulties and impaired empathy.
A new study has found that 58% of people displaced following the civil war in Sri Lanka have suffered from mental health problems. The research, led by Dr Shannon Doherty at Anglia Ruskin University, also highlights the significant unmet mental health needs in the region.
A study published in Sex Education found that LGBT+ teachers who taught during the era of Section 28 were more likely to experience anxiety, depression, and self-censorship due to their sexuality. In contrast, post-2003 teachers reported higher levels of openness and inclusivity in their professional lives.
A new study published in Body Image found that higher interoceptive awareness, as measured through mindfulness practices, is associated with more positive body image. The research suggests that individuals who can better tune into their internal bodily signals are less likely to experience negative self-image.
A new study published in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition found that a low FODMAP diet reduces exercise-related gastrointestinal symptoms and improves perceived ability to exercise. The research involved a group of healthy recreational exercisers who followed two eating plans with varying FODMAP content.
Research from Anglia Ruskin University found that calibrated smartphone cameras can significantly improve accuracy in eye examinations. The study used three smartphones and compared results to clinician diagnoses, highlighting the importance of camera calibration for telemedicine and AI applications.
A recent study published in the Fire Safety Journal found that commonly-used emollients can increase fabric flammability, posing a hidden fire risk. The research, conducted by Anglia Ruskin University, tested various emollients and found that even paraffin-free products can ignite fabrics quickly.
A new study found that microplastics reduce mussels' ability to attach themselves, potentially threatening their survival and the stability of ocean ecosystems. Mussels produce fewer byssal threads, which are essential for attachment, after exposure to non-biodegradable microplastics.
A recent study by Anglia Ruskin University found that many women are shocked to discover the amount of plastic in commonly-used disposable menstrual products. The research suggests that raising awareness is key to changing behavior and encouraging the adoption of more sustainable alternatives, such as organic pads and reusable cloth pads.
A review paper found that pregnant military spouses report increased depressive symptoms during pregnancy and partner deployment, attributed to social isolation and stress. Specialised support for military spouses may reduce anxiety during deployments.
A study published in Sexual Medicine found that sexual activity improves wellbeing in older adults, with both sexes experiencing benefits. For older women, activities like kissing and fondling are more closely linked to enjoyment of life, while intercourse is more important for men.
A new study has discovered high levels of microplastic contamination in the Falkland Islands and Ascension Island, with some areas showing comparable levels to those around the UK. The research highlights the need for standardized monitoring methods to address this growing environmental concern.
Researchers transformed a Martian sunrise photo into a two-minute piece of music, with quiet harmonies and brighter sounds created by the sun disk. The work showcases image sonification's potential in analyzing planet surfaces and atmospheres, as well as health science applications.
A new study by Anglia Ruskin University finds that around one in three LGB individuals who are bullied at school will experience similar bullying in the workplace. The study also examines the impact on job satisfaction and mental health, finding a negative association between bullying and job satisfaction.
Scientists have found a drug combination that can halt the progression of fibrosis, a condition responsible for almost half of all deaths. The study, published in European Urology, tested a combination of phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors and selective oestrogen receptor modulators on cells and animals.
A new study published in Nature journal Scientific Data highlights the role of citizen scientists in tracking the spread of invasive species. The UK Ladybird Survey mapped 48,510 observations of the harlequin ladybird over a decade, showing its rapid spread across England and Wales.
Researchers link vocal repertoire to brain region size in primates, finding a positive correlation between cortical association areas and vocal complexity. The study reveals the importance of specific brain regions in controlling vocal production, providing insight into human speech evolution.
A study published in Clinical Nutrition found that heavy drinking causes uncontrolled iron absorption, leading to health issues like heart attacks and liver disease. Iron loading was significantly higher in drinkers than non-drinkers, predicting increased mortality rates.
A new study by Anglia Ruskin University finds that watching short films set in natural environments can improve body appreciation, while urban settings have no effect. This suggests a potential low-cost solution for promoting healthier body image, especially for those with limited access to real natural environments.
A PLOS ONE study found that listening to an aggressive conversation nearby increases a person's comfortable interpersonal space by up to 2.5 seconds
A recent study found that South Asian diabetics in the UK face cultural and social barriers to improved awareness and self-help, including language difficulties, dietary knowledge gaps, and social pressures. The research highlights the need for ethnically-tailored programs and solutions tailored to different demographics.
A study published in the British Journal of Ophthalmology reveals that around half of vision impairment in Western Europe is preventable. The UK has a relatively low prevalence of blindness, but higher rates of moderate to severe vision impairment compared to some non-EU countries.
New research finds that high workloads and targets lead to psychological stress, demotivation, and reduced initiative among healthcare staff. This exposes healthcare services to major risk of staff shortage and inoperability during disasters.
A study by Anglia Ruskin University found that millennials who feel confident in their ability to solve social problems and feel valued are more likely to consider becoming social entrepreneurs. Empathy is not enough, but self-efficacy and social worth play a strong role in translating into social entrepreneurial intentions.
New research finds that a Bitcoin crash would likely only affect other cryptocurrencies, while traditional assets remain unaffected. The study reveals significant price spillovers between cryptocurrencies and other financial assets.
Introduced 'alien' honeybees are competing with native bees for resources, posing a threat to the survival of plants that rely on specific pollinators. This is particularly concerning in arid environments where super-generalist honeybees visit up to 55% of available plant species.
A new study by Anglia Ruskin University found that people with diabetes are twice as likely to develop cataract as the general population. The relative risk is highest among individuals aged between 45 and 54, who are up to 5.7 times more likely to be diagnosed with cataract than their healthy counterparts.
A new study found that geese reduce their metabolic rate to cope with winter by lowering their heart rate and body temperature. By doing so, they can conserve energy in the harsh cold conditions.
A review of 18 studies found that group walking improves physical activity and quality of life. Walking in groups also boosts life satisfaction and social connectedness, helping individuals meet the World Health Organisation's recommended 150 minutes of moderate aerobic physical activity per week.
New research by Anglia Ruskin University reveals that exposure to natural environments improves body appreciation and promotes respect for the body, reducing rigid ideals around appearance.
Research by Anglia Ruskin University reveals female fiddler crabs prioritize accelerating courtship displays over constant or slowing ones. The findings suggest that females value males' quality based on their ability to perform demanding activities, conserving energy until necessary.
Research from Anglia Ruskin University found that women dissatisfied with their breast size are less likely to perform regular self-examinations for breast cancer. Greater breast size dissatisfaction also leads to lower confidence in detecting changes and delayed medical consultations.
A team of researchers is mapping areas at risk from liquefaction, a devastating form of seismic phenomenon caused by earthquakes. The LIQUEFACT project aims to assess community resilience to liquefaction-induced disasters, producing a framework for building vulnerability evaluation and mitigation strategies.
Research at Anglia Ruskin University and Stockholm University links sensitivity to heartbeats with generosity. Participants in a game showed higher generosity when better at detecting heartbeats.
Research by Anglia Ruskin University shows that right-handed baseball players who bat left but throw right-handed have a surprising advantage in career success and hitting performance. This biomechanical advantage provides a longer lever to hit the ball, increasing their chances of becoming top hitters.