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University of York


Study reveals links between extreme weather events and poor mental health

Research found that people experiencing storm and flood damage are about 50% more likely to experience poorer mental health, even when the damage is minor. The study suggests that climate change will increase the frequency and intensity of storms and floods in the UK, highlighting the need for mental health support.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·DateSep 5, 2019

Scientists get a grip on sloth family tree

Researchers use cutting-edge techniques to extract ancient protein sequences from fossilized bones, revealing a common ancestor between two-toed sloths and giant ground sloths like Megatherium. The study challenges decades of scientific opinion on sloth evolution and provides new insights into the evolutionary history of animals.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateJun 6, 2019

Chatterbox parents may boost tots' intelligence

A new study by the University of York found that young children who hear a large amount of adult speech tend to have better cognitive skills. The researchers also discovered that high-quality adult speech can benefit children's linguistic development and positive parenting styles can reduce restless behavior.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalDevelopmental Psychology·DateApr 30, 2019

Need for social skills helped shape modern human face

A new review suggests that social communication played a significant role in shaping the modern human face. The study, led by University of York researchers, concludes that our faces evolved not only due to factors like diet and climate but also to facilitate nonverbal communication and establish large social networks.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateApr 15, 2019

Researchers call for rethink of external NHS inspections amid questions of effectiveness

A study by researchers at the University of York found that costly external NHS hospital inspections do not lead to improvements in quality of care. Rates of falls and pressure ulcers improved before inspections, but slowed afterwards. The authors suggest a less resource-intensive approach to reduce costs and burden on staff.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalJournal of Health Services Research & Policy·DateApr 11, 2019

Putting the brake on our immune system's response

A novel mechanism discovered by researchers at the University of York and Queen Mary University London reveals that miR-132 controls how immune cells respond to infection. This tiny molecule acts as a 'handbrake' on the immune system, preventing over-reaction and promoting protective immunity.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalThe EMBO Journal·DateMar 4, 2019

Is there a universal hierarchy of human senses?

A study conducted by researchers at the University of York found that cultures' emphasis on specific sensory experiences, such as music or pottery, affects their ability to communicate about different senses. This challenges the long-held assumption of a universal hierarchy of human senses.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 5, 2018

Neanderthal healthcare practices crucial to survival

Research at the University of York suggests that Neanderthals had a well-developed system of care for injuries and childbirth challenges. The study of over 30 individuals with minor and serious injuries found evidence of healthcare dating back 1.6 million years ago, indicating a fundamental role in survival strategies.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalQuaternary Science Reviews·DateOct 4, 2018