New research map highlights huge variation in ADHD services across the UK, with only 12 dedicated services providing full NICE-recommended treatment. The study found patchy provision of dedicated ADHD services and disparity in service labelling, affecting service users and healthcare workers.
A new study by University of Exeter researchers suggests that higher-end normal blood platelet counts may be indicative of an increased risk of cancer, particularly in older males. The research found a significant correlation between high platelet levels and the development of lung and colorectal cancers.
A new study suggests that mammalian immune cells may be less effective at detecting and responding to microorganisms from other planets, potentially posing a threat to space missions. The researchers tested the immune response of mice to peptides containing amino acids rare on Earth but common on meteorites.
Researchers discovered 67% of examined sharks contained microplastics and man-made fibers, emphasizing the widespread nature of plastic pollution. The study highlights potential sources of microplastic contamination, including fishing lines and textile waste.
A new study found that police officers are at a higher risk of traumatic brain injuries (TBI) than the general public, with 38.9% reporting a TBI resulting in loss of consciousness. Officers with a history of TBI also experienced higher levels of post-concussion symptoms and mental health issues, including depression and PTSD.
A recent study by the University of Exeter reveals that Extinction Rebellion activists are more likely to be new to protesting, with 10% of participants being first-time demonstrators. The research also shows that these protesters are predominantly middle-class and highly educated individuals, with a strong presence from southern England.
New research shows road verges can provide vital food and shelter for bees, butterflies, and hoverflies. By mowing less, limiting street lighting, and reducing pollution, managers can create 'corridors' to aid pollinator conservation.
Researchers argue that international tests like PISA have forced schools to adopt narrow curricula and pedagogies, leading to a lack of scientific literacy. The study calls for a shift towards more inclusive and engaging science education, with a focus on the environment and health.
A new study reveals that coconut oil production threatens more species per ton produced than palm or other vegetable oils, with 20 threatened species affected per million tons. The research highlights the difficulties of conscientious consumption due to a lack of objective guidance on environmental impacts.
Scientists have discovered a revolutionary method to transfer and amplify pure spin current using thin layers of antiferromagnetic NiO. This breakthrough could lead to significant advancements in high-speed, energy-efficient data technology.
Thermophones enable creation of fully controlled arrays from thin metal films attached to wires, paving the way for new sound technologies including home cinema systems. Researchers demonstrate improved sound control and richer sound fields compared to traditional arrays.
A new technique developed by University of Exeter scientists allows users to predict which antibiotics are effective against bacteria in minutes. The method works by examining fluorescent qualities of antibiotics taken up by bacteria, revealing that the antibiotic has infiltrated the membrane and could be effective.
Researchers successfully measured the spin-orbit alignment for the first time in a directly-imaged planetary system. The study reveals that the Beta Pictoris system is as well-aligned as our own solar system, favoring planet-planet scattering as the cause of orbit obliquities.
A new study finds that environmental destruction may make pandemics more likely and less manageable. Ecosystems naturally restrain disease transfer, but degradation compromises water security and increases disease transmission.
A study by the University of Exeter found that managers who thought gender bias no longer existed were more likely to recommend higher salaries for men and undervalue female staff. The research suggests that holding this belief constitutes a critical risk factor for perpetuating issues of gender bias.
A new study found that seasonal growth and destruction of sea ice enhances marine life, drawing down carbon from the atmosphere and storing it in the deep ocean. This process could provide a critical resource for developing future climate change models.
A study found that digital literacy tips improved people's ability to discern between mainstream and false news headlines by 26.5% in the US and 17.5% in India. Regular reinforcement is needed for these lessons to be effective.
Researchers developed a pioneering production method for heterostructure devices based on 2D materials, forming sharp heterointerfaces through mechanical abrasion. The technique enables the creation of various functional devices with superior performance to existing methods.
A recent study reveals that ancient farmers' use of charcoal to fertilize the soil created a unique ecosystem in the Amazon, boosting biodiversity and supporting plant diversity. The 'dark earth' technique has left a lasting legacy in the region's mature forests.
A recent study published in Climate and Atmospheric Science reveals that half of the world's population is exposed to increasing air pollution. The research highlights that air pollution constitutes a major threat to public health, with an estimated four million deaths annually attributed to outdoor air pollution.
A new genetic risk score has been found to be effective in diagnosing type 1 diabetes in Indians, even in its current form based on European data. Genetic differences between Indian and European populations suggest that the test could be further improved to enhance outcomes.
Researchers found that Trinidadian guppies use a unique strategy to evade pike cichlid attacks by turning their irises black, drawing attention to their head rather than body. Larger guppies were better at escaping using this method, potentially due to increased size allowing them to reverse the negative effect of reduced agility.
Researchers found that many plant pathogens can specialise on particular temperatures or host plants, but also have wide temperature or host ranges. This study provides key insights into the co-evolution between pathogens and their hosts, allowing scientists to better understand where and when pathogens could strike next.
The study found that airborne dust can cool down the hotter dayside but also warm the night side, effectively widening the planet's habitable zone. This process is a negative climate feedback, postponing the loss of water and making the planet more habitable.
A new study suggests replacing GDP with Gross Ecosystem Product (GEP) can provide decision-makers with clear and compelling evidence of the value of nature. The study, conducted in China's Qinghai province, found that GEP was greater than GDP in the year 2000.
Research highlights the growing threat of fungal crop diseases, outstripping bacterial and viral diseases in severity and scale. The University of Exeter consortium has merged expertise to emphasize the need for new fungicides and robust agricultural systems to address this challenge.
Researchers found that pinker flamingos are more aggressive when competing for food in confined spaces. In contrast, birds fed outdoors with space to roam spend less time displaying aggression and double their foraging time.
The discovery of well-preserved ancient skeletons in Belize has provided new insights into the introduction of maize as a key part of people's diets in Central America. The study shows that maize became a major food source around 4,700 years ago, with its consumption increasing over time and eventually becoming a staple crop.
A team of experts has conducted a review study on the impact of land-use changes, such as deforestation and urbanization, on the behavior of animals and the risk of disease transmission to humans. The study reveals that there are significant gaps in understanding how these factors affect the spread of diseases from mammals to humans.
Research by the University of Exeter suggests that climate change could lead to sudden changes in British vegetation, particularly in regions with warmer and wetter conditions. This increase in plant growth is expected due to factors such as CO2 fertilization, but soil drying out can also cause rapid decreases in vegetation productivity.
A global study involving over 46,000 participants found that younger people report greater feelings of loneliness than older adults. The study also revealed cultural differences in loneliness levels, with individuals in collectivist societies experiencing lower levels of loneliness.
A new study found that training bystanders to intervene in domestic violence and abuse can significantly increase their confidence and likelihood of taking action. After receiving the training, 81% of participants reported being more likely to intervene, with this number rising to 89% four months later.
Researchers have uncovered thousands of ancient animal bones at three sites in Ethiopia, showing early Muslim communities ate a diverse and sophisticated diet, including luxury goods from around the Red Sea. The discovery provides new insights into halal butchery practices and the spread of Islam in Africa.
Researchers from the University of Exeter's Living Systems Institute use light to monitor individual molecule structure and properties in real-time. The team temporarily bridges molecules together, allowing for crucial insight into their dynamics.
Researchers tracked pine martens in Wales, finding they settled more rapidly when released near neighbors. This behavior allows for efficient territory creation, influencing their mobile range of approximately 9.5 km2. The presence of pine martens also affects grey squirrels' behavior, forcing them to alter their ranging patterns.
Researchers found that pingers significantly reduced harbour porpoise detection, with a 37% decrease near active devices, while having no impact on long-term use or feeding grounds. The study suggests an effective solution to reduce bycatch in gill-net fisheries.
Research reveals bedrock composition limits vegetation productivity in Southwest China's karst region, influencing soil formation and water retention. The study provides a crucial tool for optimising land use and assessing ecosystem resilience to climate change.
Researchers have developed a test to identify lobster hybrids resulting from crossbreeding between European and American lobsters, posing a potential threat to conservation efforts. The study highlights the importance of genetics in distinguishing hybrid lobsters that may spread unwanted genes across native populations.
Research shows people would follow new guidelines on taking antibiotics, but those who believe they know more than scientists may resist changes. The study suggests reforms should be made sparingly to avoid undermining future compliance
A study finds temperate and tropical dry forests harbor unique tree evolutionary diversity, exceeding that of rainforests. Researchers highlight the need for conservation efforts in these often-overlooked ecosystems.
Scientists have discovered that Thermus thermophilus can produce two types of type IV pili: one specialized for movement and the other for genetic exchange. This finding could lead to the development of new antimicrobial drugs targeting specific mechanisms.
Research found that gardeners report better general health, psychological wellbeing, and physical activity levels compared to non-gardeners. Access to private gardens and outdoor spaces also showed significant benefits for mental health.
A study of over 12,000 patients found that those with abnormally small red blood cells had a higher risk of cancer. The research suggests that microcytosis could be an early indicator of various cancers.
A study by researchers at the University of Exeter found that captive otters tend to play with stones more when they are hungry. The behavior is thought to be linked to excitement for food, rather than practice for foraging skills.
Research led by University of Exeter found that people with aphantasia are more likely to work in scientific and mathematical industries, while those with hyperphantasia excel in creative professions. The study also showed benefits of aphantasia for assimilating complex information and leading teams.
Historical examples of sustainable and unsustainable fishing practices reveal common 'recipes for failure' that offer warnings for modern-day ocean management. Successful societies achieved balance between economic growth, social equity, and sustainability by managing resources fairly and responding to change.
Research reveals unsustainable levels of soil erosion in the UK, with 16% of arable land showing erosion above 'tolerable' levels. Soil management practices and legislation are under scrutiny for their impact on soil fertility and ecosystem services.
A five-year study reveals that flamingos consistently spend time with specific close 'friends', forming complex social bonds, including 'married' couples and same-sex friendships. Flamingos' long-lasting friendships are stable over years, suggesting they play a crucial role in survival.
A recent study by Professor Michael Schrader and his team has explored the impact of peroxisome alterations on disease. The researchers found that defects in peroxisomal dynamics and division can lead to metabolic disorders, including developmental and neurological abnormalities.
The discovery reveals that early human inhabitants of the Amazon tamed wild plants to grow manioc, squash and maize, creating 4,700 'forest islands' in northern Bolivia. This study confirms South West Amazonia as a center of plant domestication around 11,000 years ago.