A recent study found that roads can extend the impact zone for western chimpanzees by an average of 17.2 km from major roads and 5.4 km from minor roads. This results in a significant decrease in population density, with the species facing mounting pressure from infrastructure expansion.
Researchers found that dance impacts health in key areas, including sense of identity, belonging, and self-worth. They call for more collaboration with dancers and co-research with participants to better capture the benefits of dance on its own terms.
A study found that parents prioritize atmosphere and teacher approach over academic standards when selecting a special school for their child. High-quality inclusive education provision means a sense of belonging, social acceptance, and individualized curriculum. Only a minority reported experiencing 'hard choice' due to limited options.
Researchers argue that improving policy analysis methods can lead to better decisions, particularly for transformative policies like climate change. A new framework focuses on evaluating risks, opportunities, and resilience, rather than just costs and benefits.
A new study found that global light pollution has increased significantly over the past 25 years, with the true increase potentially being much higher. The study, led by the University of Exeter, reveals that the transition to solid-state LED technology has masked the impact of light pollution in many regions.
A new study by Dr Mathilde Pavis from the University of Exeter Law School proposes reforming performers' rights to include copyright over their performances. This would provide better protection against unauthorized deepfakes and simplify the structure of intellectual property law.
Researchers discovered elevated mercury levels before and during the Paleocene-Eocene Thermal Maximum (PETM), a 150,000-year period of extreme warming. The study suggests that 'tipping points' in the Earth's system triggered the release of additional carbon reservoirs, driving unprecedented high temperatures.
A recent study published in the European Journal of International Security found that men and supporters of the Conservative Party are more likely to support the use of nuclear weapons. The study analyzed data from the new UK Security Survey and found that those who voted to leave the EU and endorsed superior military power worldwide w...
The University of Exeter has developed a virtual safe space tool called BEE-STEWARD to test different land management techniques for bumblebee survival. The tool provides a computer simulation of bumblebee colony survival in a given landscape, allowing researchers and farmers to predict the impact of their decisions.
A new study found that being overweight causes depression, with a link between higher BMI and poorer mental health outcomes. The research suggests that both physical and social factors play a role in this relationship, indicating that obesity can have a significant impact on mental wellbeing.
Two new molecules have been found to prevent skin aging after being exposed to ultraviolet light, generating minute amounts of hydrogen sulfide to correct energy production and usage in skin cells. This could pave the way for a new way to protect deeper layers of skin using these compounds.
Research suggests climate change will increase disease pressure in some regions and reduce it in others. Model projections indicate that rising temperatures will boost yields in temperate areas while having little effect on tropical regions.
Researchers conducted a new trial to adapt Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DPT) for people with frequent Bipolar mood swings. The study aimed to evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of this adapted therapy, finding that it has demand from individuals with Bipolar disorder.
Scientists have identified nearly 300 gene variations that influence reproductive lifespan in women. Manipulating key genes in mice extended their reproductive lifespan, providing insights into the biology of reproductive ageing.
A new study found that plastic pollution is ingested by juvenile sea turtles, leading them to accumulate in highly polluted areas like the Great Pacific Garbage Patch. The research team examined 121 sea turtles from five species and found that 86% of loggerheads and 83% of greens contained plastic.
The first research to be simultaneously co-published in an academic journal and on Instagram showcases the meaning and aesthetic value of Mohammed Racim's work, challenging his depiction as backward-looking. Professor William Gallois' research uses high-quality images to present Racim's artistic style, previously under-recorded.
Researchers have identified five new plant species in Bolivia's Bolivian Andes, expanding the genus Jacquemontia. The study highlights the importance of classifying and conserving these species, which are highly vulnerable to threats like invasive species and habitat destruction.
A clinical trial found pimavanserin significantly improves sustained symptom benefit and reduces relapse rate in people with dementia-related psychosis. The treatment also showed fewer serious side effects compared to other antipsychotics.
Researchers at the University of Exeter have developed a novel method to measure bacterial acidity, which could help reduce antimicrobial resistance. The study found that certain bacteria can survive antibiotic treatment by maintaining an acidic pH, and the team is working on developing new antibiotics that target these persisters.
Researchers found menopause in two distinct killer whale ecotypes, with striking similarities between them. The study suggests that the evolutionary benefits of grandmothering may be a key factor in the development of menopause.
A new evidence review finds that commonly used household products increase the risk of asthma due to volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted by paints, cleaning products, and more. The study suggests labelling these products with health warnings and advising people to ventilate their homes while using them.
A new study found that Red Dead Redemption 2 players were able to identify 10 of 15 American animals in a multiple-choice quiz, with those who completed the game's main storyline performing best. The game's high level of detail and realistic animal behavior also taught players about animal behaviour and ecology.
Researchers at the University of Exeter discovered that ancient ostrich eggshells from Bundu Farm site reveal evidence of extreme climate change in Southern Africa 250,000 to 350,000 years ago. The findings support other fossil animal bones and suggest a shift from wetland and grassland to arid environments after 200,000 years.
A new study by A. Burcu Bayram and Catarina Thomson found that international aid institutions should not be worried about the impact of populism on global development cooperation. Those wanting to convince the public about foreign aid should focus on transparent communication and local partnerships.
Researchers studied six species of amphibian at Slimbridge Wetland Centre during COVID-19 lockdowns and partial reopenings. Amphibian activity varied depending on the number of visitors, with some species more visible when there were fewer people around.
Environmental education provision needs significant support and investment to address the complex issues of the climate emergency. Experts argue that governments must direct more funding to education innovation, making environmental education a cornerstone for social and environmental changes.
Research from University of Exeter found that light pollution impacts moths' ability to see flower colours, while birds' vision is improved by artificial lighting. The study highlights the need for a nuanced approach to lighting, especially for nocturnal species like moths.
A seabird colony on Ascension Island creates a 'halo' of depleted fish stocks, with reduced flying fish numbers detected up to 90 miles from the island. The study provides rare evidence for Ashmole's halo, a pattern of prey depletion first proposed 60 years ago.
Male jackdaws don't provide consolation to their mate after a traumatic experience, focusing on self-preservation instead. Researchers found that males decrease their nest visits and time with the female after an attack, suggesting they prioritize their own safety over comforting their partner.
Researchers found significant regional variation in vaccine hesitancy linked to lower vaccine uptake rates. Public health officials can use this data to inform targeted interventions and improve vaccine coverage.
Research shows that migratory birds disperse seeds to warmer latitudes, which can be counterproductive for plant adaptation to climate change. The study suggests that only a few species of migratory birds have the potential to help plants move to cooler latitudes and adapt to changing conditions.
A new study on banded mongooses found that providing extra food to mothers created initial size disparities among pups. However, the well-fed mothers then provided more care to smaller pups, reducing these differences and promoting fairness in pup survival.
A new device at the University of Exeter allows for more precise sorting and analysis of individual human cells based on their response to stimuli. This innovation has the potential to improve personalized medicine by detecting which drugs are likely to work for specific patients, reducing unnecessary side effects.
Researchers found that individuals with childhood trauma experienced a stronger desire for morphine and felt more euphoric after taking the opioid drug. In contrast, those without childhood trauma were more likely to dislike the effects and feel dizzy or nauseous.
Researchers have developed a new method to control scrambled light in optical fibres, allowing for high-resolution imaging of individual cells. This technology has the potential to guide biopsy needles and identify diseased cells within the body.
A new study found that religious participation increases social trust among both millennials and older adults, with those attending church more likely to donate to charity. The research also shows that younger generations can benefit from intergenerational interactions with their elders, who tend to have more social capital.
Research reveals distinctive micropillars within the carapace of a flower beetle enhance its strength and toughness while optimizing its brightly colored appearance. The study's findings have potential applications in developing new, effective bio-inspired materials.
A new study by the University of Exeter and Queensland has found that herring gull eggs contain up to six types of phthalate, potentially causing oxidative stress in chicks. The research suggests that mothers pass on phthalates and products of lipid damage through their eggs.
A large-scale survey found that both Europeans and Australians are highly concerned about the human health impact of marine plastic pollution, ranking it as a top threat. The study suggests a need for more research into the potential impacts on human health to inform policy and decision-making.
A new study using drone footage reveals that killer whales have complex social structures, favoring interactions with specific individuals of the same sex and similar age. Younger whales and females play a central role in these groups, while older whales become less socially connected.
The COVID-19 pandemic exposed weaknesses in England and Wales' marriage laws, with couples facing uncertainty about their ability to marry. Researchers found that the rules governing marriages struck a balance between legal events and social gatherings, but failed to please anyone.
Researchers developed a new framework to establish safe thresholds for antimicrobial release into the environment, addressing the global health threat of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. The framework provides guidance on risk assessment and could inform policy to reduce antimicrobial levels in water systems, helping to mitigate resistance.
A large-scale brain epigenetics study has identified 84 new genes linked to dementia, providing new insights into the disease. The study found that epigenetic changes in the brain can be consistently distinguished from those without the disease, with over 70% accuracy.
Research reveals people with hyperphantasia have a stronger connection between the visual network and the prefrontal cortices, linked to decision-making and attention. This contrasts with aphantasics, who have lower ability to recognize faces and perform autobiographical memory tasks
Researchers found that natural selection can counteract sexual selection's effects on females, leading to better-offspring survival rates. By reducing the advantages of exaggerated male traits, predation drives evolutionary changes favoring less masculinized bodies and improved female reproductive capabilities.
A new study published in Molecular Psychiatry found that people whose sleep pattern goes against their natural body clock are more likely to have depression and lower levels of wellbeing. Being genetically programmed to be an early riser is protective against major depression, and improves wellbeing.
Archaeologists have discovered that ancient chickens lived significantly longer than modern fowl due to their sacred status. Researchers used a new method based on the tarsometatarsal spur to estimate ages and found that over 50% of Iron Age bones were from birds aged over two years.
Historical carbon emissions from cultivated northern peatlands are estimated to be around 72 billion tons over 850-2010. The study reveals that only about half of the emitted carbon was compensated by natural peatland carbon absorption.
A study by University of Exeter researchers found a 40% decline in patients admitted with heart attacks and a 30-40% decrease in use of cardiology services during the pandemic. However, there has been an increase in home-based rehabilitation options, suggesting a need for more evidence-based programs to be rolled out.
A new study reveals that winds play a crucial role in driving changes in ocean circulation patterns, particularly in the sub-polar North Atlantic. The study's findings suggest that future climate change may alter annual AMOC variability in this region.