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University of Exeter


Stem cells shed new light on how the human embryo forms

A new study using stem cell-based models has revealed how early embryo cells decide between contributing to the foetus or to the supporting yolk sac. Understanding this decision is crucial for infertility treatment using in vitro fertilized (IVF) embryos, as producing the right number of yolk sac forming cells may be critical.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalCell Stem Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 31, 2024

Keir Starmer’s reputation as “Mr Rules” reflects the growing “juridifcation” of politics, study shows

A recent study by experts suggests that Keir Starmer's emphasis on probity and competency in politics is symptomatic of the 'juridification' of politics. This trend prioritizes rules, norms, and procedures over values-based politics, leading to a reliance on law and administration to address public policy issues.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalBritish Politics·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMay 16, 2024

Access to gardens and citizen science helps encourage conservation among children, study shows

A new study by University of Exeter researchers found that access to gardens and citizen science projects can encourage pro-conservation behavior among pupils. These experiences foster a positive attitude towards environmental safeguarding and can inspire students to pursue botanical careers or spend more time gardening.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalJournal of Biological Education·TypeLiterature review·DateMay 15, 2024

Areas with more illegal market opportunities more likely to be targeted by organised crime, study shows

A new study found that communities with higher-than-average illegal market opportunities are more likely to be targeted by organised crime groups. Organised crime offenders tend to move into areas with similar socio-demographic profiles and target urban communities with higher levels of criminal activity.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalTrends in Organized Crime·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 9, 2024

Physical activity in nature helps prevent several diseases, including depression and type 2 diabetes

Research from the University of Exeter found that physical activity in natural environments can prevent six non-communicable diseases, including depression and type 2 diabetes. The study estimated that nature-based physical activity prevented 12,763 cases of disease in England annually, saving £108.7m in healthcare costs.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalEnvironment International·DateApr 25, 2024

International balance of power determined by Chinese control over emerging technologies, study shows

A new study by the University of Exeter finds that China's growing use of emerging technologies in civilian and military domains has escalated its stakes as a threat and near-peer competitor to the US. Western states have responded with diplomatic efforts, bans, and restrictions to undermine China's power.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalChinese Political Science Review·TypeObservational study·DateApr 22, 2024

European Court of Human Rights is “backsliding” on legal protections for asylum seekers, study says

A new study by Dr. Ben Hudson from the University of Exeter Law School criticizes the European Court of Human Rights for reversing its principles on protecting asylum seekers. The research finds that the court has become uncertain about what makes an applicant 'sufficiently vulnerable' to receive special protection.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalInternational Journal of Law in Context·DateApr 22, 2024

AI helps to detect invasive Asian hornets

Researchers have developed VespAI, an automated system that attracts hornets to a monitoring station and captures standardized images using an overhead camera. The system uses AI algorithm to identify the species with almost perfect accuracy, allowing authorities to mount a rapid response.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalCommunications Biology·DateApr 3, 2024

Children with language disorders may fall victims to false friends, study warns

A study by the University of Exeter warns that children with language disorders are susceptible to making false friends due to a lack of awareness about peers' motives and thoughts. Children consider peers as friends because they play with them, without fully understanding what constitutes a good or bad friend.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalInternational Journal of Language & Communication Disorders·TypeObservational study·DateMar 22, 2024

Truth and reconciliation: New study finds people less likely to acknowledge war crimes on social media

A new study has found that people are less likely to acknowledge war crimes on social media, citing fear of being stereotyped and judged. The research suggests that social media can be a barrier to post-conflict reconciliation, particularly when it comes to discussing the legacy of war.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalJournal of Intervention and Statebuilding·TypeObservational study·DateMar 20, 2024

Explicit socioemotional learning can have a key role in PE lessons, study says

Researchers found that explicitly teaching socioemotional skills in PE lessons can have a key role in supporting students' communication skills, handling stress and accepting failure. This approach can be integrated into everyday teaching to ensure young adolescents enjoy positive outcomes linked to wellbeing and academic success.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalPastoral Care in Education·TypeObservational study·DateMar 13, 2024

Loss of nature costs more than previously estimated

Researchers propose a new method for calculating biodiversity conservation costs, which considers the increase in monetary value of nature over time. This approach aims to make biodiversity loss and nature conservation more visible in political decision-making, potentially increasing the likelihood of projects passing a cost-benefit test.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalScience·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 7, 2024

Understanding genetic risk could save sight and predict multiple sclerosis earlier in young people

Researchers have developed a genetic risk tool that combines genetic factors with demographic information to improve MS risk prediction in young people presenting with optic neuritis. The study shows that this approach can help identify patients at high risk of MS, potentially enabling earlier treatment and improving long-term health.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalNature Communications·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 28, 2024

Spaces to make-do and mend would bring new life into high streets, study says

A new study by the University of Exeter suggests that incorporating spaces for repairing and remaking clothes in shopping centers can promote sustainable fashion practices. Participants who took part in workshops reported engaging in more environmentally-oriented behaviors, such as buying fewer items and sourcing clothes ethically.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalSustainability·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 14, 2024

Influence of voting advice web tools is limited during elections with authoritarian candidates, study shows

A new study published in Electoral Studies found that voting advice applications have short-term effects on voter attitudes and choices in competitive authoritarian regimes. However, these effects are relatively small and dissipate within two months, limiting their practical value in such contexts.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalElectoral Studies·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 5, 2024

Strong European backing for Ukraine leaves “little space” for exploitation of pro-Russian politics, study shows

A new study shows widespread European backing for Ukraine, with solid supporters in Germany, France, and Spain, and staunch supporters in the UK, Eastern European nations, Finland, and Sweden. However, opinions are mixed on NATO's approach and Ukraine's membership, reflecting differing perceptions of involvement in the Russia-Ukraine c...

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalInternational Affairs·TypeSurvey·DateJan 31, 2024