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University of York


Tropical beetles face extinction threat

A recent study has found that tropical high-altitude beetles are at risk of extinction due to climate change. The research, conducted in the Brazilian Atlantic Rainforest, revealed that two plant-eating beetle groups - weevils and leaf beetles - are highly specialised to high altitudes and may disappear in a warmer world.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalInsect Conservation and Diversity·DateOct 17, 2017

Yoda bat gets happy: New species officially recognized

A new species of fruit bat, previously nicknamed 'Yoda' due to its resemblance to the Star Wars Jedi Master, has been officially recognized and renamed the happy (Hamamas) tube-nosed fruit bat. The species was discovered in Papua New Guinea and distinguished from other similar species based on unique morphological characteristics.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalRecords of the Australian Museum·DateAug 10, 2017

Skin plays significant role in spread of leishmaniasis

Researchers at the University of York have found that parasites responsible for leishmaniasis are mainly acquired from the skin rather than through blood transfusions. This discovery challenges current treatment methods and highlights the importance of measuring parasite levels in the skin to assess treatment success.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 5, 2017

New approach to unlock the genetic potential of plant cell wall

The study provides detailed information about the genetics of crop plants, enabling breeders to identify key genes responsible for cell wall properties. By linking this data to specific changes in genetic information, researchers can make targeted improvements to support agricultural industries and biofuel production.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 16, 2017

1976 drought revealed as worst on record for British butterflies and moths

Scientists at the University of York found that the 1976 drought was the most devastating event for butterflies and moths in 50 years. The study measured data against extreme weather events since 1968, revealing a significant impact on over 50 species. Researchers warn that global warming may exacerbate such events in the future.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalPhilosophical Transactions of the Royal Society of London (B )·DateMay 31, 2017

Why green spaces are good for grey matter

A study of older people found that walking between busy urban areas and green spaces triggers changes in brain activity, reducing frustration and increasing excitement. The research has important implications for architects, planners, and health professionals as the global population ages and becomes more urbanized.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·DateApr 10, 2017

Review shows limited progress in digitizing NHS records

A review of NHS electronic record implementation found limited progress made in the past 25 years, with challenges including confusion over policy funding and complex IT system integration. The study calls for more guidance on IT implementation to help hospitals make informed decisions about digitizing patient records.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalBritish Medical Bulletin·DateJan 10, 2017

Study confirms steady warming of oceans for past 75 years

A new study confirms the steady warming of oceans over the past 75 years, with a rate of 0.12 degrees Celsius per decade since 1997, contradicting claims of a global warming 'hiatus'. The research uses data from buoys, satellites, and Argo floats to support the NOAA findings, providing accurate measurements of ocean temperatures.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 4, 2017

Scientists develop new antibiotic for gonorrhea

Scientists at the University of York have developed a new antibiotic for gonorrhoea by harnessing the therapeutic effects of carbon monoxide-releasing molecules. The treatment targets the bacteria's energy production, preventing it from respiring oxygen and ultimately leading to its death.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalMedChemComm·DateJan 4, 2017

Raw foodies: Europe's earliest humans did not use fire

Scientists at the University of York found evidence of raw animal tissue, uncooked starch granules, and pollen grains in a 1.2 million year old hominin's dental plaque. This suggests that Europe's earliest humans did not use fire for cooking until around 800,000 years ago.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalZeitschrift für Didaktik der Naturwissenschaften·DateDec 14, 2016

Scientists step closer to halting spread of lung cancer

Researchers at the University of York and Texas have identified a protein, PAQR11, in the Golgi apparatus that receives a signal from Zeb1, triggering the transport of membrane sacks and altering the cancer cell's perimeter. This process allows cancer cells to detach from their fixed position and travel to other parts of the body.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateNov 25, 2016

Early evidence of dairying discovered

Scientists have discovered evidence of prehistoric milk production in southern Europe dating back to the onset of agriculture around 9,000 years ago. The study suggests that dairying played a crucial role in sustaining early farmers and spreading farming across the western Mediterranean region.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 15, 2016

Autism and human evolutionary success

A recent study suggests that individuals with autism may have played an important role in their social groups due to their exceptional memory skills and heightened perception. Collaborative morality, which emerged around 100,000 years ago, allowed for the acceptance and respect of people with autistic traits.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalTime and Mind·DateNov 15, 2016