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Durham University


Expert predicts 'Monsoon Britain'

Climate change is predicted to increase flooding in the UK, with periods of high rainfall and river flow patterns lasting several decades. The current perception of flood risk has been lower than in previous centuries, making it difficult to prepare for the increased frequency and intensity of floods.

SourceDurham University·JournalGeography Journal·DateMay 6, 2008

Why the dating game is taken at face value

A study of 700 participants found that young men and women look for complete opposites when it comes to relationships, with men preferring open women and women preferring men with potential for long-term relationships. Facial features such as squarer jaws and smaller eyes are associated with masculinity.

SourceDurham University·JournalEvolution and Human Behavior·DateApr 8, 2008

Supercomputer could throw light on 'mysterious' dark energy

Researchers used supercomputing power to simulate the early Universe and identify potential methods for measuring dark energy. The study's findings will help design a proposed satellite mission called SPACE, which aims to unveil the nature of dark energy and its role in the Universe's accelerating expansion.

SourceDurham University·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateJan 10, 2008

Rapid analysis could cut health risks of volcanic ash

A new, rapid and cheap way of estimating the potential risk posed to human health by volcanic ash has been devised. The technique uses state-of-the-art laser technology to analyze the grain size of samples from around the world, allowing emergency response teams to quickly measure the potential risk without high-tech equipment.

SourceDurham University·JournalJournal of Environmental Monitoring·DateOct 10, 2007

Color contrast is 'seen' by the brain early doors

A new study confirms that colour contrast is first detected by the primary visual cortex at the back of the brain. The brain processes colour contrast earlier than previously thought, making it a significant contribution to understanding how the brain functions.

SourceDurham University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 7, 2007

Daddies' girls choose men just like their fathers

A study published in Evolution and Human Behaviour found that women who had positive relationships with their fathers were more likely to select partners who resembled them. The research used facial measurements to investigate the relationship between fathers' facial features and the faces of attractive partners.

SourceDurham University·JournalEvolution and Human Behavior·DateJun 12, 2007

Pig study forces rethink of Pacific colonisation

Scientists analyzed DNA and tooth shape in modern and ancient pigs to contradict longstanding ideas about Pacific colonist origins. The research suggests that ancient humans may have traveled between islands before reaching New Guinea and eventually landing on Hawaii and French Polynesia.

SourceDurham University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 12, 2007