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.
Research by the University of Exeter and the Game and Wildlife Conservation Trust has discovered that UK chalk-stream salmon are genetically unique. The study found distinct differences between chalk and non-chalk salmon, but little genetic differentiation within chalk-stream populations.
Scientists have identified a key role for protein MIRO1 in attaching peroxisomes to molecular motors, enabling movement and membrane dynamics in human cells. This discovery has provided new insights into the molecular mechanisms determining peroxisome number and shape.
Research conducted by the University of Exeter and University of Strathclyde found that people with prosthetic arms are less affected by the size-weight illusion. The study compared perception in amputees using prosthetics with those using their natural hands, finding a significant difference in illusion strength.
A new study warns of long-lasting consequences from seabed mining, which could destroy deep-sea ecosystems and affect marine life globally. The research highlights the need for precautions and alternative approaches to mitigate potential harm.
A new study published in Nature has reduced the uncertainty around climate sensitivity by 60%, offering a more accurate picture of long-term climate change. The research team analyzed year-on-year global temperature fluctuations to derive a measure of climate sensitivity, revealing a range of 2.8+/-0.6°C.
A new study by the University of Exeter found that regular surfers and bodyboarders are three times more likely to have antibiotic-resistant E. coli in their guts than non-surfers. The researchers discovered that surfers swallow ten times more seawater, increasing their risk of ingesting bacteria that can survive antibiotic treatment.
Research at the University of Exeter found that obese individuals' fat tissue becomes distressed, scarred, and inflamed, leading to reduced energy storage and increased inflammation. This scarring can make weight loss more difficult and increase the risk of obesity-related health complications.
Researchers aim to enhance qualitative techniques like interviews and focus groups to improve conservation research. The special issue provides a checklist for scientists to follow and encourages collaboration across disciplines.
Researchers have developed a new technique to study nanodomains, which drive physiological processes in the body and are linked to diseases like heart disease. This breakthrough allows for high-quality imaging of signalling stations in human cells.
Researchers have identified 'sleeper cells' that can survive antibiotics and lie in a dormant state. These cells can evade detection using traditional methods, making them a significant public health concern.
Research on rhesus macaques suggests that some individuals are more likely to remain socially isolated due to a combination of genetic predisposition and environmental influences. This phenomenon is linked to reduced life expectancy in various species, including humans, who are experiencing an increasing epidemic of social isolation.
A new study reveals that human societies have evolved in predictable ways, becoming more complex over time despite surface differences. The Seshat database captures this trend, showing a single dimension of complexity that structures global variation in social organisation.
A global survey found that 91% of entangled marine turtles were dead, with serious wounds from entanglement and maiming. The study highlights the risk of plastic pollution to marine turtles, particularly young hatchlings and juveniles.
A large-scale international study has identified 25 genetic loci associated with exceptional longevity in 389,166 UK biobank participants. The study found that genes involved in senescence and inflammation play a significant role in determining human lifespan.
Research published in the Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology found that over 40% of type 1 diabetes cases occur after age 30, and many adults are initially misdiagnosed with type 2. Type 1 diabetes requires insulin treatment to control blood sugar levels, while type 2 can often be managed with diet and medication.
Research by the University of Exeter Business School found that empowering workers can have a negative impact on their day-to-day performance, especially for routine and structured tasks. However, it can be effective when used for creative tasks, motivating employees to work harder and be more proactive.
A new instrument called CaPASOS will be used to measure CO2 levels in the air and surface of the ocean in remote regions. This will provide valuable data on carbon dioxide uptake by the ocean and its impact on climate change.
A study found that trees and green space are associated with a decrease in people admitted to hospital with asthma. In the most polluted urban areas, trees had a strong association with fewer emergency asthma cases.
A major research project, HELIX, found that some climate impacts are unavoidable, while others can still be mitigated. Global warming of 1.5°C to 2°C could lead to sea level rise of 0.5m, affecting 2.5 million people in Bangladesh, and increased flood risk in parts of Asia, Europe, and America.
Artificially cooling the planet through geoengineering could have devastating effects on regions prone to storms or droughts, a new study shows. The researchers warn that targeting one hemisphere for geoengineering could lead to increased likelihood of natural disasters in other parts of the world.
A new study reveals that female mongooses evict rivals to reduce reproductive competition and increase pup survival rates. This behavior also leads to the creation of new social groups and reduced chances of successful breeding for evicted females.
The report reveals that global CO2 emissions from all human activities reached 41 billion tonnes in 2017, following a projected rise in burning fossil fuels. This delay is attributed mainly to China's growing coal use, reversing previous decreases since 2013.
A team of researchers from the University of Exeter has identified methods to predict the environmental and social cost of resourcing new deposits of rare earth minerals. The study proposes a 'Fairtrade' model for ethically and sustainably resourcing raw materials, crucial in the manufacturing of next-generation technologies.
Ayahuasca users reported lower problematic alcohol use and higher general wellbeing compared to LSD or magic mushrooms users. The study found that ayahuasca's acute effects lasted six hours and were most strongly felt one hour after consumption.
Researchers have discovered a way to rejuvenate inactive senescent cells, reversing telomere shortening and restoring cell division. This breakthrough could lead to therapies that promote healthy aging without degenerative effects.
Green turtles breed in Cyprus and forage in Lake Bardawil, a new important feeding ground discovered using stable isotope ratios and satellite tracking. The study found that 82% of female turtles show high consistency in their isotope ratios, indicating they return to the same places.
A nanoscale optical 'abacus' has been developed using pulses of light to perform arithmetic computations. The innovative device can carry out basic functions such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division using picosecond light pulses.
Researchers discover new technique to transform ambient heat into motion in nanoscale devices, revolutionizing data storage and sensors. The innovation uses a specific type of gear called a ratchet made from artificial spin ice material, which enables the conversion of thermal energy into directed rotation.
A new study reveals that protected areas of tropical forest are reducing carbon emissions by a third, and slowing the rate of global warming. The research found that these protected areas prevent the release of three times as much carbon into the atmosphere as the UK emits each year.
A recent study by scientists at the University of Exeter found that mixing diverse microorganisms from different sources can increase productivity and stability in microbial communities. This phenomenon was observed when methane-producing communities were combined, leading to a higher biogas yield.
New research found that male killer whales are three times more likely to die in years with scarce food and when they are not at the centre of their social group. The study highlights the importance of social bonds for male killer whales, particularly during times of scarcity.
A new study by the University of Exeter found thousands of social media accounts celebrating extreme thinness, featuring selfies with protruding bones. The research suggests that these platforms are encouraging eating disorders and promoting unhealthy body image among young women.
Astronomers have discovered a new insight into how planets form, using high-powered telescopes to target the star V1247 Orionis. The team found a dust-trapping vortex that could protect sites of planet formation, allowing dust particles to clump together and grow.
A new study by the University of Exeter suggests that Quorn protein may be as effective as animal-based proteins in building muscle. The research compared Mycoprotein, a fungi-based protein source found in Quorn foods, to milk protein and found equivalent bioavailability.
Ancient South Americans discovered how to manipulate wild rice, leading to the growth of bigger rice crops with larger grains. The research, led by Professor Jose Iriarte, sheds light on the importance of wetlands and tropical forests in providing food for early human settlers.
A new study by the University of Exeter found that assessments of heroism and daring often focus on traditionally masculine behavior. However, when less stereotypical criteria are used, women and men rate themselves as equally likely to take risks. The research also highlights the importance of considering gender differences in risk-ta...