A new study published in BMC Public Health reveals that volunteering is associated with improvements in mental health and increased life satisfaction. Volunteers reported lower levels of depression and enhanced well-being, although the exact mechanisms underlying these benefits are unclear.
A US model of collaborative care for depression has been shown to improve symptoms immediately after treatment. After 12 months, 15% more patients remained improved compared to those who saw their GP alone.
A unique four-point test using clinical variables such as serum albumin levels and white cell count can accurately predict the death risk of patients with C. difficile infections. This method has potential benefits for patients, hospitals, and health services worldwide.
A new analysis found that people across all social standings accumulate harmful chemicals in their bodies. The study shows strong associations between 18 different chemicals and poverty ratings, with individuals from higher incomes having larger amounts of toxicants like mercury and benzophenone-3.
Researchers used mathematical models and lab-based synthetic biology to predict bacterial investment crashes and boom-bust cycles. The study reveals how the diversity of life is maintained and demonstrates that investment decisions can be precisely defined.
A team of researchers discovered that a population of brown trout can survive in highly contaminated waters by changing the expression of their genes. The study found that these fish have developed strategies to detoxify metals and maintain ion balance, allowing them to thrive in environments where other fish would be lethal.
A study published in Animal Behaviour found that ship noise disrupts feeding for common shore crabs, while also heightening their predation risk. The research suggests that the combination of reduced foraging time and increased vulnerability to predators may negatively impact crab growth, fitness, survival, and harvested populations.
A study led by the University of Exeter found that 27% of over-70s with type 2 diabetes achieved better glycaemic control through individualized care alone. Researchers introduced a 'one-size-fits-all' approach for older patients, which proved ineffective due to multiple complications.
Astronomers have analyzed eight 'hot Jupiter' exoplanets using the Hubble Space Telescope, revealing a diverse range of puzzling properties. The team found that winds and clouds play a crucial role in shaping the atmospheric composition of these exotic planets.
A new method developed by researchers at the University of Exeter uses computational social science to measure the aesthetic value of ecosystems. The study found that areas in Cornwall with high levels of photographer activity, such as Kynance Cove and Port Issac, have the highest aesthetic value.
A new study by University of Exeter researchers found that winter feeding of wild blue tits resulted in smaller, lower-weight chicks with lower survival rates. This challenges the long-held assumption that providing extra food during winter benefits bird populations.
A mindfulness-based approach has been shown to reduce symptoms of stress and depression, and promote wellbeing among school children. The study found that 80% of young people continued using the practices after completing the nine-week program.
A study by the University of Exeter found that older male burying beetles invest more in parental care than younger counterparts, as they have less chance of reproducing again. This investment is driven by a desire to reduce the likelihood of female infidelity.
Researchers have found that the rice blast fungus uses two distinct secretion systems to invade plant tissue, shedding light on a devastating crop disease. The discovery is a step towards controlling blast disease, which destroys enough rice to feed 60 million people annually.
Researchers have sequenced the genome of Emiliania huxleyi, a microscopic plankton species that forms the chalky skeletons of the White Cliffs of Dover. The study reveals unexpected features in the algae's genetic code, which may hold secrets to producing nutritional supplements and biofuels.
A new study warns that peer support schemes for people with chronic diseases may have negative effects if not handled sensitively. The research found that mentors can be at risk of emotional entanglement and may need support after the relationship is severed.
A new study found that human activities are increasing the movement of carbon from land to rivers, estuaries, and coastal regions, with a significant fraction stored in aquatic systems. This discovery affects current estimates of carbon storage on land, highlighting the need for accurate assessments of the 'land-ocean aquatic continuum'.
A recent study by the University of Exeter found that localized temperature fluctuations have a significant impact on silver-spotted skipper populations. The research suggests that saving habitats with diverse microclimates is crucial for conserving this species under changing climate conditions.
Researchers found that foster parents have a greater influence on the personalities of fostered offspring than genes inherited from birth parents. In zebra finches, personality traits can be transmitted through behaviour rather than just genetics. This study raises questions about the inheritance of personality in other species.
Researchers at the University of Exeter have developed a vaccine that protects against necrotic enteritis, a severe poultry disease caused by Clostridium perfringens. The vaccine targets the bacterium's NetB toxin, allowing for effective prevention and control of the devastating disease.
New research published in Nature Geoscience reveals how Saturn keeps itself looking young and hot due to gas layers preventing heat from escaping. This unique layering effectively insulates the planet, preventing heat radiating out efficiently.
Research by University of Exeter scientists reveals that hydrogen sulfide gas reduces inflammation and swelling in arthritic joints. The study suggests H2S-based compounds may be effective in treating arthritis without uncomfortable side effects.
New research from the University of Exeter suggests that small fish with aggressive personalities are more likely to win food contests against larger, passive counterparts. The study found that consistently aggressive fish were able to put on weight and survive in resource-scarce environments.
New research shows that stronger antibiotics can speed up the evolution of antibiotic resistance in bacteria, particularly when used alone. This can lead to faster growth and spread of resistant bacteria, making it harder to treat diseases caused by these pathogens.
A team from the University of Exeter has developed a method to make bacteria produce diesel on demand, using special strains of E. coli. The resulting diesel is almost identical to conventional diesel fuel and can be used with current supplies without modification.
Research finds that individuals living in urban areas with green space report less mental distress and higher life satisfaction. The effect is significant even after accounting for income, employment, marital status, physical health, and housing type.
Researchers at the University of Exeter developed a new photoelectric device that converts light into electrical signals using graphene and graphExeter. The ultra-lightweight, flexible device has potential applications in photovoltaic textiles, intelligent windows, and smart materials.
The book reveals how science, socio-political, cultural, and biological factors have shaped our understanding of stress since the late nineteenth century. Professor Mark Jackson's work highlights the link between stress and disease, tracing it back to Hungarian scientist Hans Selye's theories.
A study by Krystal Warmoth found that older adults who categorize themselves as old and frail experience a cycle of decline, leading to reduced physical activity, poor health, and stigmatization. This self-fulfilling prophecy can result in a lower quality of life.
Researchers found that fine particles in air pollution shade corals from sunlight, cooling surrounding waters and reducing growth rates. The study, published in Nature Geoscience, links coral growth to particulate pollution in the atmosphere.
Researchers have fitted satellite transmitters to wild frigatebirds on Ascension Island, providing real-time information on their locations. The data highlight areas used by the birds and show where they may need protection to conserve this iconic species.
A new study suggests that climate change may lead to the extinction of dozens of lizard species within the next 50 years due to rising temperatures. Lizards with viviparous reproduction are particularly vulnerable as changing weather patterns affect their ability to adapt and survive in cold environments.
Researchers found that reducing the population size of one carnivore can cause another similar species to become extinct due to changes in food webs. This highlights the need for an ecosystem-based approach to conservation.
A new model reveals that oxygen-poor toxic conditions in ancient oceans may have delayed the spread of complex life forms. The study shows how bacteria using nitrate in their metabolism controlled the formation of toxic hydrogen-sulphide-rich states.
New research shows that criticism from team members can lead to downward spirals, but external criticism can boost performance by encouraging a 'them and us' mentality. This study offers a method for improving performance following setbacks in both sport and business.
A team of scientists found that conservatives and liberals use different brain regions when making risky decisions, with 82.9% accuracy in predicting party affiliation.
A study by University of Exeter researchers reveals tropical forests' sensitivity to climate change, with significant carbon release expected if climate models are inaccurate. The team found a correlation between year-to-year variations in carbon dioxide concentration and long-term changes in tropical forest carbon storage.
Researchers have discovered that Caribbean coral reefs are facing a significant threat due to reduced rates of carbonate production, leading to erosion and loss of growth potential. The study found that reefs in shallow waters have declined by 60-70% in growth rates compared to historical records.
A UK research team has received funding to investigate potential increases in children with autism, dyslexia, and ADHD. The study will analyze two birth cohorts and examine the extent of shared symptoms between the conditions.
Researchers at the University of Exeter have developed a new genetic sequencing technology to identify novel mutations causing congenital hyperinsulinism. This breakthrough will enable clinicians to make more informed decisions about treatment, reducing the need for invasive procedures.
A study by the University of Exeter found that badgers sleeping in outlying dens were more likely to carry TB, highlighting the importance of behavior in disease transmission. The research could inform measures to manage bovine TB in parts of the UK.
Scientists at the University of Exeter discovered a new way viruses evolve to switch their behavior in response to other viruses infecting a host. This means that even with manipulation, viruses will always adapt to serve their own purposes and cause maximum destruction.
A four-year field study shows BCG vaccination reduces TB infection risk in unvaccinated badger cubs in vaccinated groups and social groups. Vaccination can indirectly protect cubs before they emerge from their setts.
A study examining attitudes towards government responses after extreme weather events found that perceptions of helplessness can lead to a lack of personal action to prevent flooding. The research, led by the University of Exeter, highlights the need for governments to adapt to climate change and invest in flood resilience.
Research found that adolescents spending long periods in sedentary activities are more likely to have low bone mineral content, increasing the risk of osteoporosis. Participating in high-intensity sports like football or running can significantly reduce this threat, especially for girls.
Researchers highlight underestimation of climate change's impact on cultural life, emphasizing importance of considering emotional well-being and community attachment in policy responses. The study shows that ignoring cultural factors can lead to ineffective responses and catastrophic consequences.
A study published in the Proceedings of the Royal Society B found that cooperative family interactions and differing parental feeding patterns are crucial to a family's success. Small to medium-sized broods did best when mothers provided most food, while larger broods thrived with fathers as main feeders.
Research from the University of Exeter found that soccer training significantly lowered blood pressure in middle-aged men with hypertension, improving exercise capacity and reducing body fat. The study suggests that regular soccer training can be a game-changing approach to managing cardiovascular disease risk.
UK scientists found that widely-used agricultural insecticides like neonicotinoids may not be the primary cause of honeybee colony collapse. Researchers repeated a flawed calculation and used a realistic birth rate, revealing the risk of colony collapse under pesticide exposure disappears.
A study by the University of Exeter and York found that male killer whales over 30 are almost 14 times more likely to die within a year after their mother's death. This prolonged menopause allows females to invest in their sons' survival, giving them a significant advantage in passing on their genes.