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University of Exeter


Air pollution increases river-flows

A study published in Nature Geoscience found that air pollution, specifically aerosols, increases river flows in the northern hemisphere. The research reveals a significant impact of solar dimming on enhanced river flows over regions in heavily industrialised areas.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalNature Geoscience·DateOct 5, 2014

Study shows sharks have personalities

Researchers found that individual sharks possess social personalities, determining how they interact with group mates in the wild. The study revealed that socially well-connected individuals remained connected under different habitats, while less social individuals camouflaged alone.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalBehavioral Ecology and Sociobiology·DateOct 1, 2014

Burnt out birds suggest hard work could be bad for your health

A recent study on a cooperative bird species found that dominant birds, who work harder and take on more responsibilities, experience weakened antioxidant protection after a breeding season. This suggests that unequal sharing of workloads in societies may leave the hardest-working individuals at risk of poor health and accelerated ageing.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalFunctional Ecology·DateSep 2, 2014

Indoor mold poses health risk to asthma sufferers

A new study published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology has found that indoor mold can lead to breathing problems and increase the likelihood of developing asthma. The research highlights the importance of adequate heating, ventilation, and home maintenance to reduce mold growth and its effects on health.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateAug 28, 2014

New study charts the global invasion of crop pests

A new study led by the University of Exeter warns that many global crop-producing countries will be overwhelmed by pests within the next 30 years if current trends continue. The research identifies the most invasive pest species, including fungi and nematodes, which are expected to spread rapidly due to climate change.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalGlobal Ecology and Biogeography·DateAug 27, 2014

Self-deceived individuals deceive others better

A study by Newcastle University and the University of Exeter found that self-deceived individuals are viewed as more talented by their colleagues and are more likely to get promotions. This can lead to overestimation of others' abilities, increased risk-taking, and potentially disastrous consequences for organizations.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 27, 2014

Link between vitamin D and dementia risk confirmed

A recent study published in the medical journal Neurology has confirmed a substantial link between vitamin D deficiency and an increased risk of dementia and Alzheimer's disease in older adults. The research found that participants with severe vitamin D deficiency were more than twice as likely to develop dementia and Alzheimer's disease.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalNeurology·DateAug 6, 2014

Problem drinking in midlife doubles chance of memory problems in later life

A study published in the American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry indicates that middle-aged adults with a history of problem drinking are more than twice as likely to suffer from severe memory impairment in later life. The research highlights the link between harmful patterns of alcohol consumption and problems with memory, which may ...

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalAmerican Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry·DateJul 29, 2014

Recreational football reduces high blood pressure in mature women

A study of 41 untrained women aged 35-50 with mild high blood pressure found a significant reduction in blood pressure and body fat percentage after 15 weeks of football training. The researchers also found that women like playing football even if they have no previous experience, leading to the creation of their own football club.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalScandinavian Journal of Medicine and Science in Sports·DateJun 19, 2014

Earth's breathable atmosphere a result of continents taking control of the carbon cycle

A research group from the University of Exeter has discovered a possible mechanism behind Earth's rising oxygen concentration. The team suggests that as continents grew, chemical processes on land took over controlling CO2 levels, leading to increased phosphate availability in oceans and ultimately, oxygen production.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 9, 2014

Doctors raise blood pressure in patients

A systematic review found that doctors' recorded blood pressure levels are 7/4mmHg higher than those taken by nurses. This phenomenon, known as the 'white coat effect,' can lead to unnecessary medication and anxiety for patients. The study suggests that using other healthcare professionals to take blood pressure readings could help red...

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalBritish Journal of General Practice·DateMar 25, 2014