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University of Leicester


One foot from the grave!

Archaeologists from the University of Leicester found King Richard III remains just inches below Victorian foundations, narrowly avoiding destruction. The team used DNA extracted from a descendant to verify the identity of the remains.

Discrimination from one's manager really bites

A study by University of Leicester researchers found that discrimination from managers has the largest impact on anxiety, depression, and emotional exhaustion among mental health workers. Meanwhile, discrimination from patients' visitors causes more distress than from patients themselves.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalJournal of Business Ethics·DateOct 3, 2012

Prehistoric builders reveal trade secrets

A fossilized graptolite has provided evidence that early organisms developed specialized roles and cooperated to construct their homes, much like modern builders. The ancient animals displayed complex structures, including slender branches and hourglasses, indicating an elaborate division of labor.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalGeological Magazine·DateOct 2, 2012

Addressing the need for microscopic speed

Researchers have developed a digital microscope that creates high-resolution images at fast speeds, enabling scientists to study biological processes like cell activity in greater detail. The new device uses a programmable micromirror system to reject unwanted light and improve image quality.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 24, 2012

Women 'never the right age' in hedge fund

A new study reveals that women in hedge funds struggle with 'adulting' due to societal expectations of maturity and work-life balance. Women face problems at every stage of adult life, from getting hired to balancing work and parenthood, whereas men are given more opportunities to settle into corporate life.

Scientists find gold-plated fossil solution

Researchers at the University of Leicester have discovered a method to safely remove gold plating from fossils without damaging them. This innovative technique uses industrial electro-plating and polishing methods with liquid salts called 'ionic liquids', which are environmentally friendly and cost-effective.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalPalaeontologia Electronica·DateMay 22, 2012

Scientists make stunning inner space observations

Researchers have made a groundbreaking observation of cellular architecture using high-powered microscopes, revealing the structure of microtubules during gamete formation. The findings could impact the treatment of diseases caused by misregulation of microtubule structures, including Down syndrome and cancer.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMay 1, 2012

Genetic similarity promotes cooperation -- new study

Researchers from the University of Leicester discovered a new mechanism for cooperation in simple organisms, where individuals prefer those who resemble themselves. This 'similarity discrimination' effect can evolve quickly and powerfully in many social encounters, solving the long-standing puzzle of natural selection.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalJournal of Theoretical Biology·DateApr 18, 2012

Diabetes risk from sitting around

A University of Leicester study found that long periods of sitting increase the risk of type 2 diabetes in women, with higher levels of insulin and inflammatory chemicals detected in sedentary individuals. The research highlights the importance of reducing sitting time for women to prevent chronic disease.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateMar 2, 2012