A systematic review of research on gender-affirming hormone therapy among transgender people found that the therapy reduces depressive symptoms and psychological distress. The study analyzed data from 46 relevant journal articles and identified inconsistent findings across other areas, warranting further investigation.
A new study suggests that limiting global warming to 1.5°C could save five times more people from dangerous heat than if warming reaches 2.7°C by 2100. Currently, over 60 million people already live outside the 'climate niche' where humans have thrived.
New research shows that the Montreal Protocol is delaying the first ice-free Arctic summer by up to 15 years. The treaty's regulation of ozone-depleting substances has slowed global warming and preserved the ozone layer.
A new study shows public acceptance of phage therapy is moderately high and can be increased through education. The study found that describing phage therapy in a more positive light increases its acceptance, while exposure to information about antibiotic resistance also plays a role.
Researchers at the University of Exeter have captured the structure of a commonly used phage, filamentous phages, which will enable the development of new biotechnology applications. The new insights gained from this research will help improve phage display and other uses in drug discovery.
Researchers have developed a method to rapidly assess the persistence of entire ecological networks and detect extinction risk. By examining interactions between species, scientists can identify patterns and make 'big picture' conclusions about ecosystem health.
Experts warn that fungal disease in crops could lead to unprecedented challenges in food production, causing losses equivalent to enough food for millions of people. The increasing prevalence of fungal infections is due to rising temperatures and the development of resistance to antifungals.
A recent study found concerning levels of anxiety among female farmers in England and Wales, with factors including financial pressures, workload, and isolation contributing to moderate to severe anxiety. The research also highlights the need for greater support and social connections to improve mental health in this group.
Climate change could cause a 20-40% reduction in twilight zone life by the end of the century. The study predicts that life in the twilight zone could be severely depleted within 150 years, with no recovery for thousands of years.
Fungal spores found in dung indicate large animals went extinct in two waves in the Colombian Andes, with major impacts on ecosystems. The study reveals that megafauna existed for thousands of years before disappearing and reappearing again, highlighting the sensitivity of habitats to local herbivore declines.
A recent study by University of Exeter researchers found that the Bank of England's media coverage plays a significant role in reinforcing accountability. The study analyzed 13,986 articles from major news outlets and discovered that media coverage levels are strongly linked to parliamentary hearings and speeches by central bankers. Th...
Despite a parasite killing most males, female monarch butterflies still find mates about 1.5 times on average, suggesting high reproductive success throughout the year round. Uninfected females produce healthy male offspring, allowing the parasite to be transmitted in rare populations.
A study by the University of Exeter and Bayer AG found that pollinators produce a conserved family of cytochrome P450 enzymes to tackle alkaloid toxins in plants. These enzymes allow bees to safely consume nectar and pollen from toxic plants, shedding light on insect tolerance mechanisms.
A nationwide UK research study has diagnosed around 5,500 children with severe developmental disorders, identifying the genetic cause of their condition. The Deciphering Developmental Disorders study used genomic sequencing technology to provide diagnoses for families from across the UK and Ireland.
The UK government's introduction of a 45% levy on renewable energy profits may undermine investor confidence and deter low-carbon generators from developing in the country. This could potentially hinder the UK's ability to meet its 2050 emission targets, according to Dr Catherine Caine from the University of Exeter Law School.
A new study in Scotland reveals that stakeholders have diverse and nuanced views on potential lynx reintroduction, with disagreements over sheep farming and ecosystem management. The research highlights the need for a participatory approach to discuss the issue.
A recent study by the University of Exeter has confirmed the widespread trading of critically endangered European eels in international markets. The research found that about 40% of North American unagi samples contained European eel, suggesting a significant role for illegal trade in their supply chain.
A new study from the University of Exeter finds that a vegan diet rich in mycoprotein can support muscle growth during resistance training to the same extent as an omnivorous diet. The study shows comparable increases in muscle mass and strength in response to both diets.
A new study by the University of Exeter found that microplastic pollution reduces energy production in microscopic creatures like Paramecium bursaria. The microorganisms rely on algae for energy through photosynthesis, but severe contamination can lead to a 50% decline in net photosynthesis.
A new study found that working for a big company or in an HR role does not lower the likelihood of showing unconscious bias against disabled people at work. Despite large firms' efforts to address EDI and unconscious bias through training, levels of implicit bias remain roughly the same across different sized companies.
Scientists have identified clouds made from silicate particles on a distant planet using NASA's James Webb Space Telescope. The team discovered an atmosphere constantly rising and mixing, bringing hotter material up and pushing colder material down.
A new study found that coronavirus lockdowns led to increased emotional and behavioral difficulties in children, particularly those with families experiencing co-habitation issues. Caregivers in Turkey reported higher levels of worry about COVID-19 infection, yet showed lower family co-existence difficulties.
Human activities are causing rapid changes to the ocean soundscape, harming invertebrates through cellular and ecosystem-level impacts. The study highlights the sensitivity of various invertebrates to underwater sound and emphasizes the need for urgent research and mitigation strategies.
A new study by Dr Stuart Fox found that childhood volunteering increases interest in politics and attachment to community, leading to a greater propensity to view voting as a civic duty. However, the effect was limited, with most children from disengaged households already likely to vote in adulthood.
Restoration of Brazil's dry forests and savannas can sequester up to 1.5 billion tonnes of carbon in the long term, while conservation is essential to meet its 2030 climate goal. The new study suggests a focus on these biomes could be more cost-effective than restoration.
Researchers found that a simple 19th century Secchi disk is effective in monitoring phytoplankton abundance, providing valuable long-term data on ocean changes. The tool's continued use supports scientists studying climate change, ecosystem health, and water quality.
A new study by the University of Exeter and the University of Bristol Law School suggests that governments should empower citizens to shape marine environmental decisions. The researchers propose a new definition of marine citizenship, recognizing rights as well as responsibilities, to create transformative change for sustainability.
A new study reveals that whooper swans thrive in UK nature reserves, with survival rates significantly higher and population growth up to 6% annually. This could lead to a doubling of the species' wintering population in the UK by 2030.
A study by the University of Exeter found that flamingos form groups based on their individual personalities, with birds of similar traits spending more time together. This complex social behavior could help improve the welfare of captive flocks and provide insights into the evolution of bird societies.
Research says Syria's peacebuilding efforts must tackle the root causes of its failed state, including lack of inclusive governance and social contracts. The study also highlights the devastating impact of state failure on citizens, with widespread displacement, poverty, and food insecurity.
A new study of rhesus macaques found that older female macaques have fewer friends, reducing their ability to transmit knowledge outside their social circles. This decline in cohesion and connection has significant consequences for network structure, potentially affecting information transmission and cooperation.
A comprehensive review of 68 trials found that school-based programs are more effective in preventing dating and relationship violence than gender-based violence. Long-term programs with simple, straightforward approaches work best to reduce the global issue of youth violence.
A growing use of blockchain in global supply chains creates a 'regulatory gap' for resolving disputes, according to new research. The study suggests that firms using blockchain feel left to their own devices when solving disagreements and conflicts, highlighting the need for appropriate mechanisms.
Researchers warn of significant risks to ocean ecosystems and cetaceans from commercial-scale deep seabed mining. The study highlights the need for urgent research to assess potential impacts on cetaceans, which are highly sensitive to sound and already facing multiple stressors like climate change.
A new study finds that the hen harrier debate has become increasingly polarized, with a few high-profile individuals and organizations dominating the discussion. The research suggests that allowing new voices to participate could help unlock the entrenched conflict.
A new study by the University of Exeter found that a small red-eyed damselfly from Europe has established itself in the UK without harming native species. Most native dragonflies and damselflies were either found more often or unchanged in areas colonized by the newcomer.
A new study found that killer whale mothers pay a high price for raising their sons, with each living son cutting their annual breeding likelihood in half. This lifelong burden on mothers has significant implications for the future viability of the southern resident killer whale population, which is critically endangered.
A new project led by the University of Exeter will assess climate change impacts on Cayman Islands sea turtles, including rising temperatures, storminess, and sea-level rise. The team will develop ways to protect turtles and improve coastal management.
Research found that experiencing three or more concussions is linked with worsened brain function in later life. Participants who reported multiple concussions showed significant cognitive decline, particularly in attention and complex task completion.
A new study by University of Exeter researchers found that inefficient risk assessment and digital forensic analysis processes are causing police tensions and slowing down investigations. The study highlights the need for updated understanding of risk and prioritization to address growing demand for digital forensics.
A new study found that consuming dietary nitrate from beetroot juice significantly increases muscle force while exercising. The researchers discovered a 7% increase in muscle torque production, providing the best evidence to date on the mechanisms behind why dietary nitrate improves human muscle performance.
Researchers found that pheasants are more likely to be killed by predators on unfamiliar ground, with 40% of the birds meeting their demise. The study suggests that experience within an area plays a critical role in determining survival rates.
A new study found that sunrise and sunset trigger significant boosts in people's feelings of awe, improving mood and positive social behavior. Participants were willing to pay a premium to experience these phenomena, highlighting their potential value in boosting wellbeing.
A reading project that pairs school-age children with older adults has been found to boost wellbeing among both groups. The Silver Stories programme built relationships between generations and helped children develop social skills and confidence, while also fighting loneliness for listeners.
Research by Nicole Bolleyer and colleagues found that parties formed by existing parliamentarians are more likely to dissolve. Parties with social organization roots are less likely to dissolve early or late in their life cycle. The study analyzed data on 204 political parties in 22 democracies between 1968 and 2016.
A major new analysis of former British special advisers' career paths shows that most transition to corporate lobbying and policy advocacy roles. However, few register with official lobbying registers, and public service careers have declined significantly over the past three decades.
A fungus infecting salamanders has evolved to contain multiple copies of jumping genes, which contribute to its increased virulence. The 'copy and paste' mechanism allows the fungus to amplify skin-destruction genes, making it more deadly.
A new study by Dr. Urenmisan Afinotan from the University of Exeter Law School reveals that weak penalties and loopholes in Nigeria's legislation are failing to deter gas flaring in the Niger Delta, despite efforts since the 1960s. The study highlights the need for stronger regulations to mitigate climate change.
A new study reveals that Chinese Communist Party zero-covid volunteers have suffered from stress and anxiety due to the pressure of enforcing policies. The researchers found an increasingly pressurized grassroots infrastructure, with volunteers facing high workloads and hierarchical chains of command.
A new study examines the dual nature of skateboarding as both a polluting and sustainable activity. Skateboarders often navigate grey spaces with heavy air pollution, yet they also bring eco-friendly innovations like bamboo boards and hemp clothing to the sport.