Mongooses learn lifelong habits from escort animals rather than their genetic parents, according to University of Exeter researchers. This cultural inheritance helps maintain diversity within groups, contradicting expectations that it would lead to uniformity.
The Bumble-BEEHAVE model predicts individual and interacting effects of stressors on bumblebee survival and informs management recommendations. The tool aids in designing field experiments, risk assessments, and assigning bespoke management advice.
A large study found that even small reductions in heart disease risk factors can help reduce frailty and dementia in older adults. Near-ideal cardiovascular risk profiles were associated with better outcomes on multiple factors, including chronic pain, falls, fractures, and dementia.
A new study reveals that ancient communities in South America, particularly the Southern Jê people, played a significant role in expanding the critically endangered Araucaria forests between 1,410 and 900 years ago. The forests, which date back to the time of dinosaurs, were initially established on grasslands and expanded into highlan...
Researchers studied species' characteristics to predict their relocation abilities, finding that some animals are unable to adapt to changing habitats. Climate change will impact 30 of the 62 mammal species in Europe, with many being at greater risk than previously thought.
Researchers found that jackdaws respond to unique calls from fellow colony members and non-colony birds, but not female strangers. The size of the mob is influenced by caller characteristics and sex, highlighting individual bird discrimination.
The study found that good relationships, social engagement, and everyday functioning are linked to better quality of life for people with dementia. Factors such as poor mental or physical health, agitation, and unmet needs are associated with lower quality of life.
Researchers found that beaver dams removed high levels of sediment, nitrogen, and phosphorus from the water, trapping over 100 tonnes of sediment. The study suggests that beavers could mitigate soil loss and pollution in water courses, delivering benefits across whole ecosystems.
Scientists have detected an exoplanet atmosphere free of clouds, marking a pivotal breakthrough in understanding planets beyond our solar system. The 'hot Saturn' WASP-96b's clear sodium signature is the result of its cloud-free atmosphere.
New research suggests that poor countries will experience significant increases in temperature variability due to climate change. The study found that up to 15% more extreme temperature fluctuations are predicted for southern Africa and Amazonia, highlighting the unfair pattern of climate impacts on vulnerable populations.
Astronomers have successfully detected helium in the atmosphere of WASP-107b, a super-Neptune exoplanet. The detection was made using the Hubble Space Telescope and reveals an abundance of helium in the upper atmosphere, extending tens of thousands of kilometres into space.
Researchers found degraded coral reefs are quieter than five years ago, with 40% fewer juvenile fishes attracted compared to healthy reefs. The loss of reef sounds could have devastating consequences for reefs, as fish play critical roles in maintaining their health.
A team of renewable energy experts at the University of Exeter has developed a new method to produce hydrogen from sunlight using a revolutionary photo-electrode. This breakthrough could create a virtually limitless energy source with zero carbon emissions and double the energy density of fossil fuels.
Researchers found a statistical link between long-term PPI use and pneumonia in older adults, highlighting the need for caution. The study analyzed data from medical records and identified over 75,000 patients who received PPIs, suggesting that these medications may not be as safe as previously thought.
Scientists found that warmer springs cause a mismatch between birds' hatching and caterpillar abundance, making it harder for chicks to feed. This affects three bird species: blue tits, great tits, and pied flycatchers, with the biggest mismatch seen among pied flycatchers.
A £1 million toolkit will help cities and developers accurately assess the benefits of green infrastructure, supporting recreation, community events, and wildlife. The project aims to provide a practical decision-making tool for land owners and managers, protecting existing provision and promoting high-quality green space.
A new composite material made with graphene is stronger and more durable than traditional concrete, while also significantly reducing its carbon footprint. The innovation has the potential to modernize the construction industry worldwide.
A new study suggests that exposure to epsilon toxin, produced by the bacterium Clostridium perfringens, may play a role in the development of multiple sclerosis. Antibodies against the toxin were found in 43% of MS patients in the UK, compared to 16% of control group participants.
Research reveals job seekers focus on forming new ties for career advancement, rather than relying on former colleagues. Meanwhile, those considering quitting still value maintaining relationships with friends at work due to concerns about losing social connections upon leaving.
Research by the University of Exeter and the British Trust for Ornithology found that people in crowded urban areas see fewer songbirds but more nuisance birds. In contrast, green and leafy suburbs have up to three and a half times more songbirds and woodpeckers, associated with positive human wellbeing.
Researchers found parallel genetic changes in closely related species, making them vulnerable to viral jumps. This raises concerns about emerging infectious diseases like HIV and SARS coronavirus.
A team of researchers has discovered new evidence for color in Mesozoic fossils, revealing that intricate microstructures created the metallic bronze to golden colors found on ancient butterfly wings. This study extends the evidence for light-scattering structures in insect fossil records by over 130 million years.
Research found droughts halve overall flower numbers, reducing food for bees and other pollinators in chalk grasslands.
Research analysis found unintended weight loss to be the second-highest risk factor for some forms of cancer. The study of 11.5 million patients revealed significant associations with colorectal, lung, pancreatic, and renal cancers, emphasizing the need for streamlined services to investigate non-specific symptoms like weight loss.
Researchers found that geoengineering methods could shift global rainfall patterns, leading to increased fire risk in some regions despite lower global temperatures. The study suggests that the benefits of limiting global warming to 1.5C would be offset by unintended consequences for certain areas.
A two-year scientific study by the University of Exeter and Cefas is tracking Atlantic bluefin tuna movements in UK waters to aid conservation efforts. The study aims to improve knowledge on the species' migration patterns, habitat use, and interactions with fisheries.
A recent study by the University of Exeter reveals that 271 million people visit England's coastal environments each year, with walking being the most popular activity. Additionally, research shows that these 'blue' spaces play a crucial role in supporting physical activity, especially among females and older adults.
A new study suggests climate change could raise food insecurity risk in many countries due to weather extremes, with the worst impact expected in South and East Asia. At 2°C global warming, most developing countries will face increased vulnerability to food insecurity.
New research reveals that dolphins are not only being accidentally caught in fishing nets but may be actively seeking them out for food. The study found that acoustic deterrents were ineffective and may even attracted more dolphins, highlighting the need for effective fish stock management to break the vicious cycle of overfishing.
Archaeologists have discovered evidence of hundreds of villages in unexplored regions of the Amazon, home to diverse communities and agricultural practices. The research provides a wealth of information on the history of the Amazon, revealing that ancient populations had an impact on the environment, challenging previous assumptions.
A team of scientists has found a way to trap the rice blast fungus within a single plant cell, stopping its spread. The breakthrough discovery reveals how the fungus manipulates natural channels to evade the plant's immune system.
A joint study by the University of Exeter and Bayer AG has identified key enzymes in honeybees and bumblebees responsible for their sensitivity to neonicotinoid pesticides. This breakthrough provides valuable tools to screen new pesticides early in development, potentially avoiding costly restrictions on their use.
A study by University of Exeter researchers found a link between the solar cycle and extreme cold winter weather in the UK, Scandinavia, and Asia. During periods of low sunspot activity, Arctic warming and heavy snowfall occurred.
A study by University of Exeter researchers found that older mangrove rivulus fish can jump significantly further than younger ones. The study revealed that age itself was the most closely linked factor to jumping distance, contradicting previous findings.
New research shows that banded mongooses living in large groups adopt specialized diets to avoid fighting over food. This adaptation allows them to reduce competition and maintain group harmony.
Researchers from the University of Exeter use drones to track turtles over large areas, gaining insights into their behavior and movements at sea. The technology also offers cheaper alternatives for gathering information and provides new avenues for anti-poaching efforts.
A large-scale research analysis found that sea bathing doubled the odds of reporting general ear ailments and increased the risk of gastrointestinal illnesses by 29%. The study suggests pollution is still an issue affecting swimmers in high-income countries like the UK.
Researchers recommend routine screening for Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) in offenders to improve medical support and reduce crime. Young people with TBI are at greater risk of early, violent offending due to compromised neurological functions and increased risk of behavioral disorders.
Researchers have found that the Botai horses from Kazakhstan are not the ancestors of modern domesticated breeds but rather the ancestors of wild Przewalski horses. The study also revealed that there are no surviving purely wild horses, and the earliest domestic horses gave rise to feral populations.
A new study shows that innuendo and pointing suspicion in news coverage can significantly increase belief in false facts. Researchers found that even implicit hints at conspiracy theories can lead to increased conspiracy beliefs, while debunking information can only partially reduce these levels.
Wild grey squirrels were more successful at solving complex problems than native red squirrels, with over 90% cracking the difficult task. The study suggests superior behavioural flexibility may have facilitated their dominance in the UK.
New research shows that biodiversity loss can lead to a domino effect of further extinctions, where the removal of one species creates a gap for other species to fill. This can result in simpler ecological communities at greater risk of extinction cascades with potential losses of many species.
Pimavanserin has been found to effectively reduce psychosis symptoms in people with Alzheimer's disease without the damaging effects of other antipsychotics. The research, published in Lancet Neurology, shows a significant improvement in psychotic symptoms without sedation or falls, which are common side-effects of current treatments.
A study by researchers at the University of Exeter found that dominant male pheasants were better at remembering which tunnel was clear. This suggests a link between social dominance and cognitive performance, with top-ranking males performing 40% better than their less dominant peers.
A team of researchers has made a breakthrough in understanding how transcription is terminated, revealing key components and mechanisms involved. The study used gene editing approaches to identify the molecular torpedo that stops RNA polymerase, shedding new light on this fundamental biological process.
Scientists found wild Australian magpies from larger groups showed increased intelligence and produced more offspring. The research suggests that living in complex social groups may drive the evolution of intelligence.
A large-scale trial found that upskilling care home staff to deliver person-centred care, combined with just one hour of social interaction per week, significantly improves quality of life and reduces agitation and aggression in people with dementia. The approach also saves money compared to standard care.
A recent study by the University of Exeter found that 86% of teenagers have traces of Bisphenol A (BPA) in their bodies. Despite a BPA-free diet, participants saw no significant drop in exposure levels, highlighting the need for better labelling of products containing the chemical.
A recent study by University of Exeter researchers has identified three main themes influencing GPs' decisions to leave or remain in direct patient care. The findings highlight concerns about the under-value of general practice within the healthcare system, professional risk in delivering care, and considerations about career options.
A study of European adolescents aged 12-17 found that only vigorous physical activity significantly reduced cardiovascular disease risk factors like BMI and waist size. Poor cardiovascular fitness was linked more closely to future heart problems than moderate activity.