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University of Exeter


Local focus could help tackle global problems

Researchers argue that 'positive parochialism' can be a foundation for environmental concern and action, highlighting the potential of local focus to address global issues. The study examines the legacy of the Parish Maps project, which promoted local environmentalism and created thousands of maps across the UK and beyond.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalTransactions of the Institute of British Geographers·DateJan 17, 2019

Wild insects 'get old' before they die

Researchers studied wild crickets for ten years and found that those who invested more in reproduction showed signs of aging, including reduced chirping and increased fighting losses. The study suggests that aging may be driven by energy allocation towards reproduction rather than decline, challenging the idea that aging is inevitable.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalEvolution·DateJan 14, 2019

Step forward in understanding human feet

A study by the University of Exeter and the University of Queensland reveals that plantar intrinsic muscles have a minimal impact on supporting the arch of the human foot during walking and running. However, these muscles are crucial for propelling forward motion.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 14, 2019

Climate model uncertainties ripe to be squeezed

New evaluation tools and global climate models will enable a more complete comparison of models to ground-based and satellite measurements. This combination can significantly reduce uncertainties in key aspects of future climate change, according to a study published in Nature Climate Change.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalNature Climate Change·DateJan 7, 2019

Warning over deep-sea 'gold rush'

Scientists recommend measures to prevent environmental damage from seabed mining, including improved monitoring and protection of Marine Protected Areas. They suggest moving towards a circular economy that reduces demand for virgin minerals.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalFrontiers in Marine Science·DateDec 17, 2018

'Hangxiety' higher in shy people

New research shows that shy individuals are more prone to 'hangxiety' - anxiety during a hangover - compared to extroverts. This study found a significant increase in anxiety levels among shy drinkers, suggesting a potential rebound effect after a night of drinking.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalPersonality and Individual Differences·DateDec 6, 2018

Microplastics found in all sea turtle species

A recent study has revealed that all seven species of sea turtles have ingested microplastics, with over 800 synthetic particles detected in just 102 turtles. The study's findings highlight the widespread presence of microplastics in marine ecosystems and raise concerns about their potential impact on turtle health.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateDec 4, 2018

3 percent of children hit daily activity target

A recent study published in Journal of Physical Activity and Health found that only 3.2% of Year Five children (aged nine or ten) met the recommended daily physical activity target of 60 minutes, with even lower levels among girls. This suggests that previous studies may have overestimated the prevalence of children meeting the recomme...

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalJournal of Physical Activity and Health·DateOct 31, 2018

Honeybees at risk from Zika pesticides

A new study suggests up to 13% of US beekeepers are in danger of losing their colonies due to pesticides sprayed to contain the Zika virus. The researchers calculated the percentage of colonies that could be affected by comparing data on bee densities with areas at risk from Zika.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalJournal of Apicultural Research·DateOct 29, 2018

Losing control of gene activity in Alzheimer's disease

A study published in Nature Neuroscience has uncovered a link between gene activity and Alzheimer's disease, identifying genes involved in the pathology of the condition. The research found changes in histone acetylation across the genome, providing a framework for studying histone modification studies in other brain diseases.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateOct 22, 2018

Societies can remain distinct despite migration

A new study by the University of Exeter suggests that acculturation rates are strong enough to maintain cultural traditions in the face of migration, preserving differences between societies. The research found that even low levels of conformist acculturation can help preserve distinct cultural variations.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 17, 2018

Why a 'cuckoo in the nest' can go undetected

Some species are unable to recognize genetic differences between their own offspring and those of intruders, leading to acceptance. Genetic features associated with recognition may have died out due to the disadvantage of being different, making it impossible for parents to reject parasitic offspring.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalCurrent Biology·DateSep 27, 2018

One foot in the grave for pheasants that favor a side

A new study found that young pheasants who strongly favored using their left or right leg to step over a barrier died at a significantly lower rate than those with weaker preferences. The research suggests that favouring one side of the body may bring advantages, but also explains why low levels of 'footedness' exist among pheasants.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 13, 2018