Researchers found widespread contamination of English rivers with neurotoxic pesticides fipronil and imidacloprid, exceeding accepted safe limits. The use of pet flea products is a likely source of the contamination, posing a high risk to aquatic ecosystems.
A study by University of Sussex scientists suggests that neurons in the sensory cortex can decipher meaning and regulate bodily responses. Researchers found that even in sensory parts of the cortex, there were neurons directly linking learned sequences to motor responses, and some responded to rewards or outcomes.
Researchers have found a way to circumvent a centuries-old theory that allows them to effectively cancel magnetic fields. This breakthrough has practical benefits for various fields like medicine, quantum technology, and neuroscience.
A new study by the University of Sussex Business School reveals that countries signing up to the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) have seen significant reductions in carbon emissions, with an average decrease of 13% between 2000 and 2014. In contrast, the world average carbon footprint per capita grew by 23% over th...
Researchers found that cats are more likely to slow blink at their owners if they have received a slow blink stimulus, and approach the experimenter after slow blinking. This technique can provide positive communication between cats and humans, enhancing the bond and potentially improving feline welfare.
A new study published in Nature Energy reveals that nuclear power does not deliver sufficient carbon emission reductions and should not be considered a low-carbon energy source. Renewable energy investments are found to have stronger correlations with CO2-emission reductions, particularly in countries with lower GDP per capita.
Critics argue that male circumcision campaigns in Africa are not based on robust science but on racist assumptions about culture, health, and sexuality. The campaigns have been carried out without sufficient contextual research and with underrepresentation of African voices.
A new study has identified major gaps in the international ozone treaty, which must be addressed to avert stronger climate change and serious risks to human health. The treaty's loopholes include unaccounted for CFC and HFC emissions, leakages from old air conditioners, and emissions of nitrous oxide from agriculture.
A new study published in Earth System Dynamics reveals that only a minority of the world's large aquifers are depleting, with most experiencing non-linear and irregular trends in groundwater storage. Extreme rainfall events play a crucial role in replenishing groundwater resources in dry environments.
The team created a new routing algorithm that allows qubits to directly interact with many more qubits, giving rise to higher expected computational power. This approach outperforms the 'superconducting' devices in calculating the expected computational power.
Scientists developed a highly sensitive and accurate Nitrogen Dioxide sensor, which can detect below 20 parts-per-billion of NO2 in under 15 minutes. The device has potential applications in domestic, public, and industrial settings to prevent respiratory issues and infant morbidity.
A study found that independent search engines often return anti-vaccine websites, while internet giants like Google.com typically do not. This raises concerns about the spread of misinformation and its impact on vaccine hesitancy.
A new method developed by researchers at the University of Sussex provides detailed information about the size and thickness of graphene particles. This technique is a non-destructive, laser-based approach that allows for statistical mapping of nanosheet populations in materials.
Research from the University of Sussex found that participants who watched TV while performing a demanding task ate more snacks regardless of calorie content. However, those who engaged less in tasks consumed fewer snacks. The study suggests that distracted attention affects satiety cues and eating habits.
A new study recommends that governments pay billions of pounds to coal plant operators to shut down early and compensate regional economies hardest hit by the loss of coal producers. This will ensure a just transition to greener energy production.
A new study found that geographical areas with high levels of lithium in public drinking water had correspondingly lower suicide rates. Lithium, known for its anti-suicidal effect, is widely used as a medication for mood disorders and has potential preventative use to combat dementia.
New research reveals that children, especially boys, exhibit strong gender stereotypes in job roles, leading to increased masculinity beyond age seven. The study suggests that voice pitch can be a useful tool to monitor and challenge implicit stereotypes.
Astrocast uses satellite imagery and machine learning to predict drought conditions, providing valuable time for farmers and pastoralists to prepare. The system has been successful in forecasting changes up to ten weeks ahead with good confidence.
Scientists at the University of Sussex have identified a potential pattern within blood that signals the presence of motor neuron disease. The discovery could significantly improve diagnosis with a future development of a blood test that identifies the unique biomarker, simplifying and speeding up diagnosis.
A new study at Brighton and Sussex Medical School found that people make irrational trust decisions precisely when online health information includes both 'shouting' and spelling mistakes. The results show an additive effect, making the combination of errors the most concerning for credibility. Experts emphasize the importance of under...
The University of Sussex has developed the most sensitive strain sensor, capable of detecting strains as low as 0.1% and up to 80% with a gauge factor of ~20. This technology could revolutionize wearable devices for vital sign monitoring and building structural integrity assessment.
Zebrafish use single photoreceptors to spot tiny prey, similar to how humans might spot stars in the sky. This discovery provides insights into animal visual acuity and could lead to new understanding of human foveal vision.
A study suggests that patient notes and letters from GP records could provide valuable insights into managing major health crises like COVID-19. Researchers found that while there are concerns over patient privacy, the majority of citizens' jury members were supportive of making such information available to researchers.
Children of parents with a degree perform better in maths at age 11, with a gap that doesn't widen through secondary school. The study highlights the importance of parental education in supporting maths attainment, and recommends strategies to improve parental education as a way to increase child achievement.
A new study found that telecommuting may have limited energy savings due to increased travel for recreation and other purposes. Studies with more rigorous methodologies showed less clear-cut results, highlighting the complexity of modern work patterns.
A new study has discovered a link between gene defects and eczema, wheeze, and nasal blockage among babies as young as six months. The research suggests that treatment targeted towards children carrying these genetic defects started soon after birth could improve their lives.
Scientists at the University of Sussex suggest that free open source hardware (FOSH) could provide a viable solution to provide healthcare services with needed tools and equipment. FOSH designs are already being used to support the NHS, but verification and certification processes can be lengthy.
A new study by the University of Sussex found that four-year-olds display overconfidence in their abilities, even when faced with evidence to the contrary. Girls outperformed boys in a card game due to a lower-risk strategy, but also experienced greater swings in confidence.
A study by University of Sussex researchers found that common anti-parasite treatments for cattle have devastating impacts on dung beetles, key prey items for various bird and bat species. The treatments, which are widely used and available without veterinary oversight, can attract adult beetles and impair their larvae's development.
Researchers have identified a new target in 'normal cells' for a potential treatment of triple negative breast cancer. Using PIK3Cδ inhibitors, the study found a reduction in tumour growth and improved survival outcomes when levels of the protein were controlled in surrounding healthy tissue.
Scientists at the University of Sussex have measured a neutron property more precisely than ever before, finding it smaller than predicted by some theories about matter in the universe. This discovery helps rule out these theories and pushes the limit on measuring the electric dipole moment of the neutron.
Researchers at the University of Sussex have developed a novel terahertz camera capable of capturing high-resolution images of solid objects' interiors. The camera uses laser light patterns to detect terahertz electromagnetic waves, revealing tiny hidden features of living things and distinguishing between different materials.
Scientists have discovered a non-invasive technique that can successfully target both cholinergic and dopaminergic neurons, two major neurotransmitter systems affected by Parkinson's disease. This breakthrough could lead to a more precise and effective treatment for the condition.
Researchers found that only 0.12% of climate research funding went to social science research, while natural sciences received 770% more funding. Experts recommend increasing funding for social science research, improving transparency, and prioritizing key questions.
Researchers at the University of Sussex have found a way to convert depleted uranium into ethane, an alkane used to produce ethanol and other compounds. This breakthrough could reduce the storage burden of DU and lead to new energy sources, challenging previous fears about its health risks.
The global low-carbon revolution faces a significant threat unless new governance mechanisms are established to ensure a sustainable supply of rare minerals and metals. The extraction and processing of these materials poses environmental and social risks, and their growing demand could lead to shortages and market instability.
A new AI-powered computer model has been developed to identify early signs of dementia, potentially improving diagnosis rates in the UK. The model, created by a collaboration between astrophysicists and medical researchers, can analyze patient records to predict 70% of dementia cases before a formal diagnosis.
A new blueprint developed by University of Sussex physicist Dr Conor Boland could lead to a new golden age of healthcare with wearable real-time health monitoring devices based on nanomaterials. The breakthrough enables researchers to compare successes and optimize sensitivities and flexibilities in these materials.
A new study found that while social media analysis may identify those with depression symptoms, users are concerned about the risks to their privacy. Many respondents were uneasy with the concept of profiling their SM content for depression and feared stigmatisation or misdiagnosis.
A new study suggests that global biodiversity levels could be lower than previously thought due to the long-lasting impact of abrupt land changes. Biodiversity assessments may be underestimating species loss at sites with recent disturbances, such as deforestation or agriculture intensification.
Researchers at the University of Sussex have developed an adhesive that can unstick when exposed to a magnetic field, allowing for easy disassembly and recycling of products. The adhesive works with various materials, including plastic, wood, glass, and metal, and is comparable in strength to industry-standard adhesives.
Researchers found that people perceive themselves as lighter when smelling lemon and heavier when smelling vanilla. The study suggests that technology could be used to develop new therapies or wearable technologies that utilize scent to enhance self-confidence.
Researchers at the University of Sussex have identified novel biomarkers in bodily fluids that could signal the presence of glioblastoma. These biomarkers are associated with extracellular vesicles and may enable a simpler way to test for the tumor, rather than a biopsy.
The relaxation of international regenerative medicine regulations can lead to a downward spiral in standards, warns Professor Margaret Sleeboom-Faulkner from the University of Sussex. As countries compete for innovative treatments, efficacy is compromised, and risks increase, making it harder to ensure patient safety.
New analysis reveals Europe's onshore wind farms could supply enough energy for the world until 2050, producing 497 EJ of power. The study identifies Turkey, Russia, and Norway as having the greatest potential for future wind power density.
A University of Sussex research team has developed a personal sound projector that can track a moving individual and deliver an acoustic message in real-time. The system uses a low-cost camera to focus sound on a target, creating a sphere of sound around 6cm in diameter.
Scientists have discovered a crucial protective role of Polo-like kinase (PLK1) in guarding against severe DNA damage during cell division. PLK1 is essential for maintaining chromosome rigidity and preventing chromosome rearrangements that can lead to cancers.
A new study reveals that a simple genetic system controls complex motor movements in fruit flies, which shares similarities with human movements such as rolling in babies. This discovery provides insights into the molecular basis of motor control and its relationship to diseases like Huntington's and Parkinson's.
Research at the University of Sussex identified how genetic variations in two main EBV strains impact their behavior in infecting white blood cells. These differences affect the virus's ability to drive rapid cell growth, a key factor in the development of lymphoma.
Researchers found that snails can store and recall two unrelated memories but struggle with similar ones. They discovered an overlapping mechanism causing proactive interference, leading to the loss of older memories. Practicing interweaving and learning different topics can help retain more information.