A study by the University of Plymouth explores attitudes towards microplastic particles in cosmetics, revealing widespread surprise among participants. The research suggests that clear labelling could lead to positive consumer responses and broad support for a ban on microbeads in cosmetics.
Researchers are investigating DNA sequences from ancient viruses that become active in NF2 tumour cells, and found that certain drugs can block their action and slow down tumour growth. The goal is to develop a new non-invasive drug treatment for people with NF2.
Research by the University of Plymouth found that adolescents are more likely to take online risks, despite being framed as either potential winners or losers. The study suggests that this is due to their limited ability to draw upon qualitative 'gist' representations, rather than quantitive calculations.
Researchers removed single neurons from fruit fly embryos to gain insight into gene expression control in developing brain networks. The study identified B52, a protein linked to acetylcholine production, and its disruption may cause severe mental problems.
Researchers have found that pharmaceuticals can persist in riverine bacteria for extended periods, posing environmental risks. The study suggests improved predictive power is needed to assess the environmental impact of these substances, particularly in lower-income countries where their use is forecast to increase significantly.
A report by Brain Tumour Research reveals that brain tumours are the biggest killer of children and young adults, with only £4 million spent on research per death. The charity is campaigning for increased funding to advance treatments and find a cure.
Researchers found that increased cell membrane fluidity enhances auranofin's ability to induce DNA damage and cellular oxidation in ovarian cancer cells. This could lead to improved treatment outcomes by increasing the drug's effectiveness against cancer cells with fluid membranes.
Researchers found that gannets use shallow and short dives with less swimming when at ocean fronts, indicating abundant food closer to the surface. This study highlights the importance of these habitats for marine ecosystem functioning and could inform conservation efforts.
A study by University of Plymouth found that washing clothes can release hundreds of thousands of tiny synthetic particles into the environment. The research suggests that laundry could be a significant source of microplastics in wastewater, with potential harmful effects on aquatic life.
A new study aims to investigate whether providing personal Health Trainer support can help smokers who want to reduce but not quit. The research will recruit 900 participants and compare the effectiveness of Health Trainer support versus existing advice on reducing smoking.
A new technique pioneered by scientists at Plymouth University can unravel historic changes to Antarctic sea ice, as well as demonstrate past alterations to glaciers and ice shelves. The method builds on an existing technique that identified changes to Arctic sea ice, allowing for the recovery and analysis of IP25 lipids from sediments.
A new research project from Plymouth University aims to enhance social acceptance for prisoners through wider community engagement. The Photographic electronic Narrative (PeN) project will enable trainees to create a visual, self-reflexive narrative of their resettlement journey and engage the wider community in this process.
A systematic review of existing research suggests that physical activity could divert attention away from addiction, build confidence, and improve mood. The study aims to provide practical information on the effectiveness of physical activity as an alternative approach to treating alcohol and substance use disorders.
A new study suggests that increased sea temperatures can enhance and accelerate radiation-induced DNA effects in marine mussels. The research found that DNA damage appeared earlier at higher temperatures compared to lower temperatures, potentially compromising the mussels' ability to defend against genotoxic insult.
Researchers suggest that 'leaky gut' syndrome could be the cause of Olympic stomach upsets. The study found that zinc carnosine, taken alone or with bovine colostrum, may improve the performance of the mucosal barrier of the gut.
A recent study published in Nature Neuroscience has made significant progress in understanding the role of proteins in synaptic transmission. The researchers identified two variations of a protein called Unc13 that work separately to regulate synaptic function, paving the way for new diagnostic and therapeutic approaches.
Researchers found that older women produced a greater amount of peptide YY, which tells humans when they're full, than younger counterparts. This increase in PYY levels may be associated with reduced hunger and food intake in elderly people.
A new web-based data facility has been launched to aid the creation and implementation of patient-centered care policy. The Measure for Person Centred Coordinated Care (P3C) provides a compendium of measures for person centred care, making it easier to source information for commissioners and researchers.
A new report highlights the benefits of outdoor learning for children, including improved behavior, social skills, and health. It proposes a framework for governments to integrate outdoor learning into national education policies, aiming to enhance children's long-term prospects.
A study found that zinc carnosine can improve gut health and prevent leaky gut in athletes. The supplement, taken alone or with bovine colostrum, may help prevent heat stroke and other symptoms in active individuals.
A new study found that UK diving beetle populations have shifted their ranges over the past three decades due to female choosiness, leading to the evolution of rough body surfaces in males. In some cases, 'rough' and 'smooth' females co-exist within the same species, with different geographical ranges. This shift is likely driven by th...
A recent study published in Marine Biodiversity Records reveals that lionfish have colonized almost the entire southeastern coast of Cyprus within a year, thanks to rising sea temperatures. The invasive species can outcompete native fish and reduce biodiversity in the area.
A study by Plymouth University PhD student Rebekah Cioffi and colleagues found that widespread and restricted species of Deronectes diving beetles have different levels of bacterial immunity and metabolic plasticity. This suggests that factors beyond just temperature tolerance may play a role in shaping geographical ranges
Research at University of Plymouth investigates potential therapy for dementia with Lewy bodies, a condition caused by alpha-synuclein protein deposits in nerve cells. The project aims to understand mitochondrial damage and its impact on DLB, potentially leading to new treatments.
A joint university team is using field and laboratory tests, computer modeling, to evaluate the level of vibration six rock-based lighthouses endure from constant sea battering. The study aims to understand how climate change affects lighthouse longevity.
A €3.5 million pan-European consortium is developing Blood Biomarker-based Diagnostic Tools for Early Stage Alzheimer's Disease (BBDiag) to improve diagnosis and clinical trial success rates. The project aims to train a new generation of researchers and develop disease-modifying treatments and prevention strategies.
Research by Plymouth University indicates that people's political ideology significantly influences their attitude towards hydraulic fracking. Politically conservative participants were more likely to favor fracking and perceive economic benefits, while liberals expressed greater concerns over health risks.
Researchers found that snails choose seedlings based on dislike for naturally-omitted scents rather than taste. This discovery suggests harnessing these chemicals could provide an eco-friendly solution to protect crop seedlings from pests.
A new study will explore the extent to which entrepreneurship empowers women refugees in Arab countries, assessing its impact on poverty alleviation. The research project will develop recommendations for aid programs across the Middle East and Africa to enhance effectiveness.
Scientists have obtained high-resolution satellite images revealing the dramatic retreat of tropical glaciers in the Pacific, particularly in West Papua New Guinea. The Carstenz Glacier has almost completely disappeared, while the East North Wall Firn has split into smaller fragments.
Scientists have found that repeated storms in 2013/14 were the most energetic to hit western Europe in almost seven decades, leading to extensive beach and dune erosion. The research also shows a growing trend of stormy conditions with potential changes to beaches along the continent.
Researchers have discovered that graphene can transmit high-frequency electrical signals without losing any energy. This breakthrough has significant implications for the development of next-generation electronic devices and ultra-sensitive biological sensors.
A new non-destructive technique using EPR oximetry measures oxygen levels in smaller 3D cell cultures, reducing oxygen concentration loss and enabling comparable results to native tissues.
A study by Plymouth University found that young women with high emotional intelligence are more likely to engage in manipulative behaviors, leading to higher levels of delinquency. The research suggests that this may be linked to evolutionary factors, where social survival takes precedence over social niceties.
A new project led by University of Plymouth aims to investigate the impact of dementia on farming businesses, families, and communities. The research will focus on providing specialist care networks for those affected, with a goal of improving quality of life for people with dementia in rural areas.
Researchers develop a vaccine vector based on cytomegalovirus expressing Ebola virus glycoprotein, demonstrating protection in rhesus macaque model. The study's findings suggest a unique immunological response, producing high levels of antibodies with minimal T cell responses.
A UK project will provide an estimated size of the lesbian, gay and bisexual community in England, enabling Public Health England to address their health needs. The research team will develop a robust method to measure the LGB population size on an ongoing basis.
A study has identified a series of innovations that can help hospitals reduce unnecessary acute admissions. The research found that early patient assessment by senior staff played a central role in reducing admissions, with different approaches used across four hospitals in the south west of England. Patients were generally happy with ...
A study found that ocean acidification can lead to genetic drift in populations, hindering adaptation to climate change. The researchers observed changes in shell length and sex ratio, as well as increased metabolic rates, in response to acidic waters.
A recent study by Plymouth University found high levels of toxic metals in playground paints, including lead up to 40 times the recommended concentration. The research recommends regular monitoring of paint condition and stricter controls on domestic and imported paints used for playgrounds.
A clinical trial is underway to investigate the use of cholesterol-lowering drug Simvastatin in treating Parkinson's disease. The study, funded by several organizations, aims to explore its potential neuroprotective effects and could lead to new treatments for the condition.
Researchers found that auranofin reduces the survival rates of ovarian cancer cells with depleted BRCA1 levels, increasing their sensitivity to the drug. This suggests auranofin's potential as a clinical treatment for ovarian cancers with BRCA1 deficiency.
A new study predicts that rail services in the South West of England will be disrupted for over 40 days per year by 2040 and up to 120 days by 2100 due to rising sea levels. The cost of maintaining tracks and sea defences is also expected to soar, with estimated annual costs rising from £800,000 to £5.8-7.6 million by 2040.
PhenoloGIT aims to create an educational platform that utilizes real-world data to teach seasonal changes and periodic life cycle events, promoting citizen science and 21st-century skills. The platform will be piloted in four schools across UK, Spain, Lithuania, and Denmark, expanding its reach in the future.
A global climate shift occurred in the late 1980s, triggered by anthropogenic warming and a volcanic eruption, resulting in significant changes in Earth's biophysical systems. The study found a 60% increase in winter river flow and a 400% increase in wildfires in the Western United States.
A report by the General Medical Council reveals that medics from different backgrounds perform better or worse due to multiple factors influencing their performance. The review highlights the importance of addressing differential attainment to create a level playing field for all candidates.
Researchers have found evidence that the melting of Scandinavian ice sheet drove a catastrophic freshwater flood, plunging the planet into a sudden cold snap, reconciling climate models with reconstructions. The study provides the missing link to understanding current inconsistencies between climate models and reconstructions.
A new blood test has been developed to detect foetal blood group, sex, and genetic conditions in unborn babies with high accuracy. The test is non-invasive and costs a fraction of traditional amniocentesis tests.
A new report by Plymouth University finds that ocean acidification is benefiting invasive species such as algae and jellyfish, which can cause toxic blooms and harm native herbivores. As CO2 levels rise, these organisms are becoming more resilient and spreading to new areas.
Experts identify self-disseminating vaccines as a potential solution to control emerging infectious diseases (EIDs) at their animal source. The vaccines use virus-based vectors to deliver vaccinations across populations, making it easier to inoculate animals and prevent disease transmission.