Research reveals more than two thirds of central and northern Europe were once covered by trees, now down to a third. New forest initiatives may mitigate habitat change using ecological approaches and traditional farming practices.
A study by University of Plymouth researchers shows that marine organisms can break down a single plastic carrier bag into 1.75 million microscopic fragments. The presence of a biofilm accelerates the process, suggesting that marine life may be contributing to the spread of microplastics.
A €1.9 million research project will explore the complex roles played by marine planktonic fungi, known as mycoplankton, in the cycling of carbon in the sea. The MYCO-CARB project will use innovative approaches to assess active mycoplankton diversity and abundance across various ecosystems.
A new tool to support organisations and practitioners achieve person-centred care has been developed. The Person Centred Coordinated Care Organisational Tool (P3C-OCT) helps guide implementation and assess effectiveness of the approach.
Grey seal pups from Welsh colonies were more likely to dive in shallower water than males, reaching the seabed more frequently and having greater feeding opportunities. The study provides insights into the initial foraging behaviour of grey seal pups around the UK, crucial for future protection of their habitat.
Researchers found high levels of lead and cadmium in 139 and 134 cases, respectively, on drinking glass products, including tumblers, beer and wine glasses. The study highlights the need for safer alternatives and greater industry awareness of toxic substances used to decorate glassware.
Researchers analyzed archaeological and environmental data from 10,000-15,000 years ago to understand human responses to rapid climate shifts. They found that communities with socio-ecological continuity thrived in a warmer world, while those with disrupted settlements struggled to adapt.
A study by the University of Plymouth found that oysters exposed to expected future levels of ocean acidification and warming do not lose their sensory qualities. This has potentially positive implications for global food supply, as seafood represents a significant portion of animal protein intake.
A study led by the University of Plymouth found that people with strong psychopathic traits are more likely to generate harmful actions with greater physical power to save a larger group. This suggests that psychopathic traits could be beneficial in certain circumstances, leading to a more vigorous response for the 'greater good'.
Researchers have identified two species of diving beetles in European streams, challenging long-held assumptions about a single common species. The new species, Meladema lepidoptera, is found only in Corsica and Sardinia, with genetic data suggesting it diverged from the other species around 1.5 million years ago.
A research team led by Dr. Claudia Barros aims to understand the cellular changes leading to glioblastoma brain tumor development. Using a Drosophila fruit fly model, they visualize cancer stem cells and identify early molecular changes.
Scientists have developed a computer model that uses past wave observations and beach assessments to forecast coastal erosion and/or accretion over the coming year. The new tool provides a traffic light system based on storm severity, highlighting the level of action required to protect particular beaches.
A new report suggests that public pressure can lead to policy changes on plastic pollution, such as levies on single-use plastic bags and bans on microbeads. However, experts argue that a more comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach is needed to address the root causes of the problem.
A new technique allows investigators to analyze individual user behavior from network traffic metadata, reducing the reliance on IP addresses and enhancing cyber security. The approach achieved average recognition rates of 90% in tests involving 46 users.
A €3.7 million project, AiPBAND, is training a new generation of brain tumor researchers in the EU and China. The four-year initiative focuses on gliomas, a devastating brain tumour type affecting 25,000 people annually in Europe.
A team of scientists from the University of Plymouth is developing potential new antimicrobials produced by the microbiome of deep-sea sponges. They have already cultured over 100 novel bacterial strains, some of which can kill MRSA, and are on the lookout for other applications in cancer, immune deficiency, and wound healing.
A study published in Scientific Reports found that consistent lead-in motions enable faster learning of new techniques, with participants perfecting their skills twice as quickly when executing consistent movements. The research has implications for skill learning and movement rehabilitation following neurological conditions.
Scientists explore gene therapy for injured peripheral nerves, aiming to improve functional recovery after microsurgical repair. The approach involves modifying a directional cue for nerve cells to promote fast regeneration and functional recovery.
A new study by the University of Plymouth found that European governments are placing too much emphasis on safety and affordability when it comes to transport policies for older people. The research highlights the need for a more rounded approach that prioritizes mobility, independence, and social inclusion.
A research team has secured funding to develop the first early detection system to locate invasive non-native species and harmful components of ships' ballast water. The system combines surveillance and risk-based monitoring to mitigate threats to human health and the environment.
A health service research expert warns that social prescribing requires a nuanced evidence base to address individualisation and responsiveness to patient needs. The UK policy push to integrate social prescribing into 'new models of care' highlights the need for more research on its delivery and effectiveness.
The University of Plymouth has developed HDNetDB, the first freely available data network for scientists researching Huntington's disease. This resource links various cellular processes in a molecular network and provides a more holistic view of the disease.
Scientists from the University of Plymouth have discovered that cellular prion protein is over-produced in schwannoma cells, contributing to tumor growth and patient prognosis. The study identified existing drugs that could manage this protein overproduction and potentially lead to an effective therapy for neurofibromatosis 2 patients.
A UK-based consortium will develop a platform for producing new antibiotics using bacteriocins, potent toxins produced by bacteria. The aim is to generate derivatives with drug-like properties while preserving their original potent bacteria-killing abilities.
A UK-wide collaboration is receiving additional £290,000 in funding to continue its work on a 'joined-up' approach to prisoner mental health. The research aims to develop and evaluate an integrated system of care involving therapy, medication, housing, training, and employment.
New research aims to understand falling sea levels in the Dead Sea, with potential impacts on the environment and local economies. The study will use historical and present-day data, along with numerical models to predict future levels and assess government responses.
A study published in Environment & Behaviour found that patients who visited a virtual Wembury beach experienced less anxiety, pain, and had more positive recollections of their treatment. The benefits were not found for those who walked around a virtual city.
A new study suggests that tailored music sessions can transform the lives of people with speech impairments by improving communication and reducing feelings of isolation. The research highlights the potential benefits of music for post-verbal individuals, including enhanced creativity and self-expression.
A large research study reveals that older people are not being referred for mental health support nearly as frequently as their younger counterparts. Despite this, studies have shown that older people may benefit the most from 'talk therapies', with over three-quarters of people around the age of 64 experiencing significant clinical im...
Researchers discovered two brain proteins with unique functions in the development of dementia, leading to potential new treatments. The study used Drosophila fruit flies to examine the effects of these proteins on nerve cell survival and activation, revealing one form is linked to poor movement and another to greater neurodegeneration.
The University of Plymouth and a collaboration of Cornish and national partners have been awarded £2.7m European funding to improve the use of e-health in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.
Research by University of Plymouth and Auckland aims to demonstrate coral reef islands' adaptability to rising sea levels, providing hope for vulnerable nations. The study uses a 1:50 scale replica of an island in Tuvalu to test the theory that shifting sand and gravel can form a natural barrier against sea water.
Scientists at Northumbria University and University of Plymouth are developing medical guidelines for astronauts. A systematic review group will pool studies and create comprehensive guidelines that inform operational decisions. The guidelines aim to prevent health changes among astronauts, as well as benefiting terrestrial human health.
A new vaccine called Zoonoses Barrier Vaccine (ZBV) aims to prevent the spread of highly pathogenic zoonotic diseases. The vaccine targets deadly pathogens in animal species and has shown promise in preventing devastating diseases such as Lassa haemorrhagic fever, SARS, MERS, plaque, Rift Valley Fever Virus and Q Fever.
A new approach using a combination of silver, titanium oxide and hydroxyapatite nanocoatings successfully inhibited bacterial growth on dental implants by 97.5%, reducing the risk of peri-implantitis. The findings have great potential for increased patient comfort and satisfaction, as well as reduced costs.
A new research project aims to explore the mechanisms causing earthquakes in the lower crust, accounting for 30% of intracontinental seismic activity. By combining geological and satellite observations with laboratory work, scientists hope to increase knowledge of geological processes and mitigate the dangers posed by such activity.
A study found that funding agencies are not transparent about their methods to reduce waste and support methodological research, and governments are not holding them accountable. This has led to a lack of comprehensive strategies for data sharing and reducing research waste.
Scientists from Plymouth University Peninsula Schools of Medicine and Dentistry are investigating a potential new drug therapy for dementia diseases. They aim to understand how impaired autophagy, or cellular recycling, contributes to neurodegenerative disorders such as Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease.
A study published in the Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy reveals that epidermicin is as effective as mupirocin in eradicating MRSA from cotton rats' nostrils. The results justify further development of epidermicin as an alternative to existing antimicrobial agents.
Researchers have discovered that Merlin plays a vital role in nerve repair after injury, opening up new potential therapies for trauma and diabetes-related damage. The study found that deficient Merlin levels contribute to poor nerve repair, but also identified a crucial pathway for repair using Schwann cells.
Scientists have developed new HCV vaccination strategies using a model system, aiming to create durable and effective vaccines for all populations. The project, led by Professor Peter Simmonds, will focus on addressing the substantial societal problem of HCV infection.
Researchers at University of Plymouth receive funding to build on existing work exploring phenomena within Standard Model and Beyond, with aim to develop new ideas using supercomputers. The grant will fuel efforts to push boundaries in particle physics research and identify possible candidates for universe's remaining mass-energy content.
A landmark global scale study found that populations at the northern and southern range edges are most sensitive to ocean acidification, leading to reduced growth and genetic diversity. The research provides insights into how ocean acidification will shape species' distributions in the future.
A consortium of researchers will assess various interventions, including bovine colostrum and elemental diets, to improve gut health and reduce mortality rates. The research aims to address the high mortality rate of severe acute malnutrition, particularly among children in low-income countries.
Researchers analysed viromes in blood samples from patients with Ebola symptoms, finding potential links between co-infected pathogens and worsening clinical outcomes. The study aims to identify new pathogens and improve diagnosis for other VHFs.
The study will examine the degree of damage caused by agricultural land management practices to the local environment and explore ways to lessen such damage. It aims to identify means to mitigate the effects of soil erosion on economic, health, and societal perspectives.
A biomedical researcher created micro muscles to test muscle efficiency in lab conditions. The study aims to improve exercise performance for athletes and develop diets for people with mobility issues by understanding how nitrates and nitrites affect muscle function.
New research led by the University of Plymouth reveals beaches along the UK's Atlantic coastline have not recovered from severe winter storms in 2013/14. Sediment losses of up to 200 m3 for every 1m strip of beach indicate potential for dramatic changes in beach equilibrium.
Researchers study how male Syrian artisans adapted to exile, impacting finished products and preserving cultural traditions. Training programmes will support sustainable social enterprises among refugee communities.
The University of Plymouth is expanding its work supporting farmers and families in rural Kenya after receiving a second grant from Comic Relief. The partnership has already seen the number of shops up and running across the country rise to 77, with the aim of doubling that number by the end of 2018.