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News archive: Research press releases 2019

New sepsis screening would “miss” large proportion of cases if used in the UK, new study finds

Posted on Monday 23 December 2019

A screening system assessing the risk of sepsis in new-borns, which is being trialled in the UK, would miss around 30 per cent of cases compared with the current method being used in the NHS, according to a new study.


Genes and family are biggest predictor of academic success, study suggests

Posted on Thursday 19 December 2019

Whether children will enjoy academic success can be now predicted at birth, a new study suggests.


Ancient chewing gum reveals new clues about our ancestors

Posted on Wednesday 18 December 2019

Researchers have succeeded in extracting DNA from ancient chewing gum – revealing new information about our ancient relatives.


Animal-assisted interventions can be positive for people’s health - but more research is needed

Posted on Wednesday 18 December 2019

The impact of animal-assisted interventions for both patients and health services could be substantial, but more rigorous research is needed, says Dr Elena Ratschen and Professor Trevor Sheldon from the University of York.


Top tips for enjoying 12 sustainable days of Christmas

Posted on Monday 16 December 2019

The festive period is traditionally a time to overindulge and so it’s easy to forget about staying sustainable. With some help from our leading environment and sustainability experts at the University of York, here’s 12 tips for a Christmas that will ease the burden on the planet without taking away the festive fun.


UK insects struggling to find a home make a bee-line for foreign plants

Posted on Monday 16 December 2019

Non-native plants are providing new homes for Britain’s insects - some of which are rare on native plants, a new study has found.


His colourful materials: University acquires 18th-Century stained glass painter’s notebook

Posted on Friday 13 December 2019

The University of York has acquired a notebook belonging to celebrated glass artist William Peckitt (1731-95) depicting some of his techniques and recipes for colour mixing.


Computerised CBT could help reduce waiting lists in the treatment of depression in adolescents

Posted on Thursday 12 December 2019

Using a computerised version of cognitive behavioural therapy to treat depression in children and young adults has the potential to improve access to psychological therapies and reduce waiting lists, a new study suggests.


Killer whale grandmothers boost survival of calves

Posted on Monday 9 December 2019

Post-menopausal killer whale grandmothers improve the chances of survival for their grand-calves, new research has found.


New study uses viruses as weapons to destroy aggressive plant bacterial disease

Posted on Monday 2 December 2019

Pathogen-specific viruses can be successfully used to fight a disease that decimates some of the world’s major food crops, a new study has found.


University of York to expand access for refugee and asylum seekers

Posted on Tuesday 26 November 2019

The University of York has signed a new international pledge as part of a commitment to increasing education opportunities for refugees and asylum seekers.


Some hyper-realistic masks more believable than human faces, study suggests

Posted on Thursday 21 November 2019

Some silicone masks are now so realistic they can easily be mistaken for real faces, new research suggests.


York laboratory awarded Queen's Anniversary Prize

Posted on Thursday 21 November 2019

The University of York’s Structural Biology Laboratory (YSBL) in the Department of Chemistry has been awarded a prestigious Queen's Anniversary Prize.


Suicides reduced by 17 per cent in new collaborative prevention programme

Posted on Tuesday 19 November 2019

A new suicide prevention programme which includes swift access to specialist care and 12 months of telephone follow-ups has shown to reduce deaths by 17 per cent.


Study explores why patients skip appointments for suspected cancer

Posted on Tuesday 19 November 2019

Men, the elderly and people from deprived areas are among the patients most likely to miss an urgent referral appointment for suspected cancer, a study led by the University of York has found.


New research finds gender inequality extends beyond the grave

Posted on Monday 18 November 2019

Ghosts of sexism past haunt the world’s most famous rich list for dead celebrities, according to a new study from the University of York.


Environmental experts join University of York law students for a global day of action on air pollution

Posted on Thursday 14 November 2019

Academics and campaigners will be speaking at a conference hosted by York Law School (18 November) as part of a global day of action to promote climate justice on air pollution.


World’s children to bear brunt of health impacts of climate change

Posted on Wednesday 13 November 2019

Climate change is already damaging the health of the world’s children and is set to have lifelong health consequences for future generations, according to a new report.


Launch of About Face

Posted on Tuesday 12 November 2019

Part of UKRI’s flagship £900 million Future Leaders Fellowships programme, Dr Bound Alberti has launched her research programme, About Face.

Scientists find no evidence for ‘Insect Armageddon’ – but there’s still cause for concern

Posted on Monday 11 November 2019

Researchers who set out to test the widespread theory that the UK is experiencing an alarming plunge in insect numbers have found no evidence for ‘Insect Armageddon’.


York researcher charts the emergence of loneliness as a modern emotion

Posted on Monday 11 November 2019

Loneliness is a product of modern ways of thinking about the self and society, according to a new study.


By ‘eck: why having a regional accent doesn’t hold you back in top job interviews

Posted on Monday 11 November 2019

Having a regional accent did not count against candidates applying for jobs, a study by the University of York has found.


On the right track: York researchers develop AI technology to revolutionise the future of railway inspections

Posted on Monday 11 November 2019

Technology developed by researchers from the University of York to spot faults in train lines is set to save an estimated £10 million per year in railway maintenance costs.


Veterans’ substance abuse has devastating impact on loved ones

Posted on Friday 8 November 2019

An academic at the University of York is calling on the families of veterans with substance abuse problems to take part in a major survey looking at their experiences.


Care plans substantially reduce risk of ending up in hospital for patients with severe mental health problems

Posted on Monday 4 November 2019

Seeing the same doctor and having a dedicated care plan has a significant beneficial impact on people with a severe mental illness, a major study has found.


York researchers use storytelling and immersive technologies to bring history to life

Posted on Wednesday 30 October 2019

Researchers from the University of York have developed new technology to transform the way people experience historical sites including the York Minster.


York undergraduate wins BBC Radio 4’s Student Journalist of the Year

Posted on Wednesday 30 October 2019

A University of York student has been named Student Journalist of the year 2019 at the Today Programme Student Journalism Awards.


Overseas consumer markets linked to habitat loss for rare species in Brazil’s savannah, study reveals

Posted on Monday 28 October 2019

Overseas consumer markets could be responsible for more than half of the impact of expanding soy production on rare species in one of the world’s most biodiverse regions, the Cerrado savannah in Brazil, a new study led by the University of York has revealed.


White Rose universities receive renewed funding for next generation of researchers

Posted on Friday 25 October 2019

The White Rose universities of York, Leeds and Sheffield have received around £10 million from the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC) to fund the next generation of UK bioscientists.


World’s most famous tapestry was made for the town where it was stitched: Bayeux.

Posted on Thursday 24 October 2019

An art expert from the University of York has discovered the Bayeux Tapestry was originally designed to fit on three sides of a cathedral wall in France.


Scientists identify British butterflies most threatened by climate change

Posted on Thursday 24 October 2019

Scientists have discovered why climate change may be contributing to the decline of some British butterflies and moths, such as Silver-studded Blue and High Brown Fritillary butterflies.


Cannabis dependency ‘wrongly labelled as a male issue’

Posted on Tuesday 22 October 2019

Research on cannabis dependency is wrongly skewed towards men, according to a new review.


New study into popular Ethereum-based crypto-games suggests they meet definitions of gambling

Posted on Monday 21 October 2019

Several popular crypto-games based on the Ethereum network, that allow players to exchange virtual goods for cryptocurrency, meet definitions of gambling, according to research by the University of York.


Bacteria use selfish strategy to get ahead in the human gut

Posted on Monday 21 October 2019

A species of bacteria found in the human gut gains a competitive advantage by keeping sugar nutrients to itself, scientists have discovered.


Framing the face: Project to explore the ethics of face transplants launches

Posted on Monday 21 October 2019

A University of York researcher is launching a project to investigate the emotional history and ethics behind face transplants.


No place like home: species are on the move, but many have nowhere to go

Posted on Monday 21 October 2019

Many insects moving north in response to climate change find they have nowhere to go in Britain’s intensively managed landscapes, according to new research.


Experts gather at York conference focusing on global challenges of feeding and healing the world

Posted on Monday 21 October 2019

International scientists, agricultural experts and policy makers will gather this week (22/23 October) to hear how researchers - including those from the University of York - are working to find answers to feeding a rising global population while protecting the planet.


More than half of LGBT+ graduates think inclusivity programmes in the workplace are important

Posted on Friday 18 October 2019

LGBT+ graduates value inclusivity programmes and say they are a vital factor in wellbeing at work, new research has revealed.


Plotting air raids on Britain: map shows devastating impact of WWII Luftwaffe strikes

Posted on Wednesday 16 October 2019

A researcher from the University of York has developed an interactive map detailing every air raid across the UK during the Second World War.


York Maastricht Partnership announce £2m of research projects

Posted on Tuesday 15 October 2019

The York Maastricht partnership (YMP) has announced its first round of funding, supporting £2m (€2.2m) of research collaborations across nine distinct projects – including initiatives to tackle serious health problems and solutions to global sustainability.


Researchers to reconstruct richness of prehistoric oceans

Posted on Friday 11 October 2019

Scientists are set to reconstruct the world’s ‘pristine’ prehistoric oceans in order to understand the full impact of human activity on the marine environment.


Homelessness can be reduced using innovative ‘Housing First’ model

Posted on Thursday 10 October 2019

A housing model has proved effective in reducing homelessness across Europe but it needs more political support to increase its impact, says a new study led by the University of York.


Climate change is causing tropical moths to shrink in size

Posted on Thursday 10 October 2019

Researchers have discovered the first evidence of tropical insects shrinking in size in their bid to survive rising temperatures.


University of York law students lead global day of action on air pollution

Posted on Monday 7 October 2019

Thousands of students are expected to take part in a global day of action led by York Law School to promote climate justice on air pollution.


Geometry goes viral: Researchers use maths to solve virus puzzle

Posted on Friday 27 September 2019

Researchers have developed a new mathematical framework that changes the way we understand the structure of viruses such as Zika and Herpes.


New research reveals soil microbes play a key role in plant disease resistance

Posted on Wednesday 25 September 2019

Scientists have discovered that soil microbes can make plants more resistant to an aggressive disease - opening new possibilities for sustainable food production.


National study challenges conventional wisdom about good funeral care

Posted on Tuesday 24 September 2019

A national study has identified five factors that bereaved people report as being important to them when planning a funeral.


Scientists and key figures develop vision for managing UK land and seas after Brexit

Posted on Tuesday 24 September 2019

Researchers have outlined how fishing and farming policies could be created to protect employment opportunities and the environment after Brexit.


New study on sharing shows social norms play a role in selfish and generous decision making

Posted on Monday 23 September 2019

A child’s desire to share becomes influenced by social norms around the age of eight, new research has revealed.


York tops the Russell Group for teaching in Good University Guide

Posted on Friday 20 September 2019

The University of York has topped the Russell Group for teaching quality in the Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2020.


Antidepressants may reduce anxiety more than depressive symptoms

Posted on Friday 20 September 2019

Researchers have discovered that a commonly used antidepressant also leads to an early reduction in anxiety symptoms.


University of York researchers at the forefront of tackling climate change

Posted on Friday 20 September 2019

As the world faces an unprecedented threat from climate change, our academics and researchers are applying their pioneering research to help solve some of the major challenges we face.


Majority of people recognise urgency of climate change, research suggests

Posted on Wednesday 18 September 2019

More than 60% of people recognise that addressing climate change requires a ‘high’ or ‘extremely high’ level of urgency, new research involving scientists at the University of York suggests.


Sweet success of parasite survival could also be its downfall

Posted on Monday 16 September 2019

University of York scientists are part of an international team which has discovered how a parasite responsible for spreading a serious tropical disease protects itself from starvation once inside its human host.


Scientists discover how cancer cells regenerate in the prostate

Posted on Friday 13 September 2019

Scientists have discovered a mechanism by which cancer cells in the prostate can regenerate following radiotherapy – paving the way for improved prostate cancer treatment.


Patients diagnosed with cancer after skipping appointment more likely to die within a year

Posted on Thursday 12 September 2019

Cancer patients who miss an urgent referral appointment for their symptoms are 12% more likely to die within 12 months of diagnosis, a major new study has found.


Calls for regulation of video game loot boxes based on University of York research

Posted on Thursday 12 September 2019

University of York academics have contributed to a House of Commons report calling for video game loot boxes to be regulated under gambling law and for their sale to children to be banned.


New research on ancient rhino tooth could unlock evolution mysteries

Posted on Wednesday 11 September 2019

Scientists from the University of York were involved in a project to extract original proteins providing genetic data from a 1.77 million-year-old rhino tooth.


Researchers find earliest direct evidence of milk consumption

Posted on Tuesday 10 September 2019

Researchers have found the earliest direct evidence of milk consumption anywhere in the world in the teeth of prehistoric British farmers.


Scientists establish new way to test for drug resistant infections

Posted on Monday 9 September 2019

Scientists have developed a method to test whether an infection is resistant to common antibiotics.


Study reveals links between extreme weather events and poor mental health

Posted on Thursday 5 September 2019

People whose homes are damaged by storms or flooding are significantly more likely to experience mental health issues such as depression and anxiety, according to new research.


Childhood report reveals quarter of a million UK children are unhappy

Posted on Wednesday 28 August 2019

Almost a quarter of a million children in the UK report being unhappy with their lives as a whole, according to a new report by the University of York and The Children’s Society. 


Majority of social media users are happy for their data to be used for research, study reveals

Posted on Tuesday 27 August 2019

Social media users are generally positive about their personal data being used for research purposes, a study by the University of York has revealed.


Smartphone app makes parents more attuned to their babies’ needs, research shows

Posted on Thursday 22 August 2019

University of York researchers have designed an app to help new parents become more ‘tuned in’ to what their babies are thinking and feeling.


Connected forest networks on oil palm plantations key to protecting endangered species

Posted on Tuesday 20 August 2019

Connected areas of high-quality forest running through oil palm plantations could help support increased levels of biodiversity, new research suggests.


Study identifies possible genetic link between children’s language and mental health

Posted on Tuesday 20 August 2019

A new study suggests there may be genetic explanations for why some children with poor language also have poor mental health.


Climate change ‘disrupts’ local plant diversity, study reveals

Posted on Thursday 15 August 2019

Faster rates of climate change could be increasing the diversity of plant species in many places, according to research from the University of York.


Archaeology student finds exceptionally rare fragment from Roman bottle

Posted on Monday 22 July 2019

A masters student at the University of York has found himself at the centre of an extraordinary archaeological discovery.


York academic to sit on panel looking at Highly Protected Marine Areas

Posted on Monday 22 July 2019

A University of York academic has been asked to sit on an advisory panel to evaluate if Highly Protected Marine Areas (HPMAs) could be introduced off England’s coast.


Study finds children with autism more likely to be bullied at home and at school

Posted on Monday 22 July 2019

A major new study has found children with autism are more likely to be bullied by both their siblings and their peers, meaning that when they return from school, they have no respite from victimisation.


Academics elected Fellows of the British Academy

Posted on Thursday 18 July 2019

Two University of York academics have been elected Fellows of the British Academy.


Researchers to tackle worsening North-South health divide

Posted on Thursday 18 July 2019

Researchers from the University of York have joined forces with other leading experts to tackle worsening health inequalities between the North and the rest of England.


Report calls for radical rethink on support given to released prisoners recovering from addiction

Posted on Tuesday 16 July 2019

A major new report examining the help given to prisoners recovering from addiction has set out a series of “blueprints” which its authors say could “transform” the way prisoners are supported once they have served their sentence.


York researchers develop blueprint for protecting physical health in people with mental illness

Posted on Tuesday 16 July 2019

Researchers from the University of York and Hull York Medical School are at the centre of an international commission to improve the health of people who use mental health services.


Expert Reaction: 50 years since moon landing

Posted on Tuesday 16 July 2019

An astrophysicist and an archaeologist at the University of York comment on the impact of the first moon landing, as the world celebrates 50 years since the NASA space mission.


New species of tree discovered in Tanzania mountains

Posted on Tuesday 16 July 2019

Researchers have discovered a new species of tree in the Usambara Mountains in Tanzania.


Wildfires pose threat to important night-time pollinators

Posted on Friday 12 July 2019

Researchers have shown how wildfires have a detrimental impact on moths and the plants they pollinate at night.


Could studying human origins help teenagers understand their complex emotions?

Posted on Wednesday 10 July 2019

They were once considered our inferior, brutish relatives, but now researchers are using the story behind early humans to help teenagers understand their emotions.


Climate change and deforestation push tropical species towards extinction

Posted on Tuesday 9 July 2019

Only 38 per cent of tropical forest can protect wildlife from rising temperatures as a result of deforestation, increasing the likelihood that vulnerable species will go extinct, say scientists.


Declining fire threatens Serengeti ecosystem

Posted on Monday 8 July 2019

A study of the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem involving researchers from the University of York has revealed that increasing livestock numbers are threatening the ecology of the area by reducing fires.


Lack of trust muddies the water in UK fishing industry

Posted on Friday 5 July 2019

A survey of UK fishermen has revealed low levels of trust in key government organisations and scientists.


David Cameron rudest prime minister at PMQs, according to study

Posted on Wednesday 3 July 2019

Research analysing Prime Minister’s Questions (PMQs) over a period of nearly 40 years has revealed that David Cameron personally insulted the leader of the opposition more than any other prime minister.


Potential harm from medical instruments not made clear in studies

Posted on Wednesday 3 July 2019

The potential harm from medical instruments is not made clear in academic studies, according to research by the University of York.


New drug to remove blood-thinning medication post-surgery step closer

Posted on Wednesday 3 July 2019

Researchers at the University of York have developed a new way to safely remove a blood-thinning drug used during surgery that can lead to harmful side-effects in recovering patients.


UK newspapers not adhering to reporting guidelines following suicides of transgender people

Posted on Thursday 27 June 2019

A new study suggests that UK newspapers are not adhering to guidelines when they report on suicides involving people who are transgender.


Solar farms can provide haven for British wildlife

Posted on Tuesday 25 June 2019

A new report suggests that in addition to producing clean energy, solar farms could offer a vital boost to Britain’s rare species.


Competitive rivalry in Facebook messaging not such a bad thing

Posted on Monday 24 June 2019

Research at the University of York has shown that brands that ‘take on’ their competitors in Facebook posts are more likely to get higher engagement rates.


Majority of children in care have experienced significant abuse and neglect

Posted on Thursday 20 June 2019

A joint study by researchers at the Universities of York and Stirling has found that 90 per cent of children in Scotland who go into care when aged five or under have experienced significant abuse and neglect before they enter the care system.


Veterans struggling to navigate a ‘bewildering’ benefits system, study reveals

Posted on Wednesday 19 June 2019

A complex benefits systems is forcing some veterans with physical and mental health problems to use foodbanks or search through bins, a major new study has revealed.


Expert Reaction: Law Commission announces safety assurance for autonomous vehicles

Posted on Wednesday 19 June 2019

An expert in artificial intelligence (AI) from the University of York comments on the Law Commission's announcement that they will establish a safety assurance scheme for autonomous vehicles.


Breakthrough in understanding how human eyes process 3D motion

Posted on Monday 17 June 2019

Scientists at the University of York have revealed that there are two separate ‘pathways’ for seeing 3D motion in the human brain, which allow people to perform a wide range of tasks such as catching a ball or avoiding moving objects.


Study reveals everyday technology helps fight loneliness

Posted on Thursday 13 June 2019

A new report suggests that people feel less lonely when they have access to everyday technology such as a radio, television or tablet.


Ancient DNA from Roman and medieval grape seeds reveal ancestry of wine making

Posted on Monday 10 June 2019

A grape variety, still used in wine production in France today, can be traced back 900 years to just one ancestral plant, scientists have discovered.


Scientists get a grip on sloth family tree

Posted on Thursday 6 June 2019

Scientists have solved the evolutionary puzzle of how sloths went from enormous ground-dwelling giants to the small, famously-laidback tree-climbers of the modern day.


Female cannabis users underrepresented in health research, study reveals

Posted on Tuesday 4 June 2019

Research at the University of York has shown that women are underrepresented in research into the links between cannabis and psychosis, which could limit understanding of the impact of the drug.


Establishing the ultimate limits of quantum communication networks

Posted on Friday 31 May 2019

Scientists say they have established the ultimate limits of quantum communication networks.


Africa’s elephant poaching rates in decline, but scientists warn iconic animal is still under threat

Posted on Tuesday 28 May 2019

Elephant poaching rates in Africa have started to decline after reaching a peak in 2011, an international team of scientists have concluded.


Research highlights cost effectiveness of cardiac rehabilitation

Posted on Tuesday 28 May 2019

Research carried out at the University of York has shown that cardiac rehabilitation (CR) is a cost-effective practice.


Antibiotics found in some of the world’s rivers exceed ‘safe’ levels, global study finds

Posted on Monday 27 May 2019

Concentrations of antibiotics found in some of the world’s rivers exceed ‘safe’ levels by up to 300 times, the first ever global study has discovered.


Unique Iron Age shield gives insight into prehistoric technology

Posted on Thursday 23 May 2019

A unique bark shield, thought to have been constructed with wooden laths during the Iron Age, has provided new insight into the construction and design of prehistoric weaponry.


Expert Reaction: India election results 2019

Posted on Thursday 23 May 2019

An expert in politics of the Global South at the University of York comments on the latest poll count in the India elections 2019.


Thoughts on body image in pregnancy important indicator of emotional wellbeing

Posted on Thursday 23 May 2019

Researchers have shown that a new way of assessing women’s relationship with their bodies during pregnancy could help predict how well the mother might bond with her unborn baby and her longer-term emotional wellbeing.


University of York researcher named among Nation’s Lifesavers

Posted on Thursday 16 May 2019

Professor Stephen Smith and his team have been recognised for their research into the diagnosis and treatment of Parkinson’s.


York researcher to study medicinal potential of East Asian tree

Posted on Thursday 9 May 2019

A University of York researcher has been awarded a Future Leaders Fellowship from UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) to investigate how a small tree native to East Asia could help in the creation of new medicines.


York theatre expert advises on new Royal Shakespeare Company production

Posted on Thursday 9 May 2019

A specialist in 17th century theatre at the University of York is Expert Advisor to the new Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC) production of John Vanbrugh’s The Provoked Wife.


Expert Reaction: Meghan Markle and pregnancy body image

Posted on Wednesday 8 May 2019

An expert in body image at the University of York comments on the pressures and anxiety that pregnant women and new mothers can experience, following the first interview with the Duchess of Sussex since giving birth.


University of York academic to explore ethics of face transplants

Posted on Tuesday 7 May 2019

A University of York academic has been awarded a Future Leader Fellowship from UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) to study the emotional history and ethics of face transplants.


Research reveals freshwater mussel shells were material of choice for prehistoric craftsmen

Posted on Tuesday 7 May 2019

A new study suggests that 6,000 years ago people across Europe shared a cultural tradition of using freshwater mussel shells to craft ornaments.


York researchers appointed to UK government programme

Posted on Friday 3 May 2019

Researchers from York have been appointed to a new UK government programme examining some of the UK’s most pressing environmental issues to ensure that future policies are informed by the best possible research.


Expert Reaction: House of Lords inquiry into forensic science

Posted on Wednesday 1 May 2019

An expert in digital forensic science at the University of York, and one of the witnesses called to give evidence at the House of Lords Science and Technology Committee, reacts to the latest report on reforms to forensic science provision.


Theresa May – the evasive Prime Minister?

Posted on Wednesday 1 May 2019

Research at the University of York has shown that British Prime Minister, Theresa May, is the most evasive when responding to questions compared to the last four Conservative Prime Ministers.


Chatterbox parents may boost tots’ intelligence

Posted on Monday 29 April 2019

Researchers have found that young children who are exposed to large amounts of adult speech tend to have better cognitive skills.


Expert reaction: Spain election

Posted on Monday 29 April 2019

An expert in Spanish politics comments on the results of Spain’s election, where the country’s governing socialists have won, but fallen short of a majority.


Mind the gap – new study examines pay and job rank among academic economists

Posted on Monday 29 April 2019

The pay gap between male and female economists at UK universities has not fallen for 20 years, a new study has revealed.


Expert Reaction: Notre Dame Cathedral fire

Posted on Tuesday 16 April 2019

Experts in archaeology, music, history, history of art, and medieval studies at the University of York give their reactions to the Notre Dame Cathedral fire in Paris.


Expert Reaction: Disney+ makes its mark

Posted on Friday 12 April 2019

An expert in film and television production at the University of York comments on Disney’s latest project announcements for its new Disney+ streaming service.


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

Posted on Friday 12 April 2019

Researchers at the University of York have shown that costly external NHS hospital inspections are not associated with improvements in quality of care.


Expert Reaction: Apple TV announce Oprah and Prince Harry TV project

Posted on Wednesday 10 April 2019

An expert in film and television production at the University of York comments on the latest announcement from Apple TV that Oprah Winfrey and the Duke of Sussex will be working together on a series about mental health.


New intervention doubles quit rate among smokers with severe mental illness

Posted on Monday 8 April 2019

A dedicated intervention to help people with severe mental illness stop smoking can double quit rates at six months compared to standard care, research by the University of York has revealed.


Expert Reaction: Parker Solar Probe orbit of the Sun

Posted on Thursday 4 April 2019

An expert in astrophysics at the University of York comments on the NASA mission to study the Sun using the Parker Solar Probe. The mission aims to make a close flyby of the Sun, attempting to go faster and closer than before.


Scientists map out how to protect third of the world’s oceans by 2030

Posted on Thursday 4 April 2019

Scientists at the University of York have mapped out how to protect over a third of the world’s oceans by 2030, in order to safeguard wildlife and mitigate the impacts of climate change.


More policy work needed to reduce use of smokeless tobacco, say researchers

Posted on Wednesday 3 April 2019

Researchers at the University of York have shown that regulations on smokeless tobacco are still lacking, despite 181 countries agreeing to a common approach to controlling the demand and supply.


Home rehabilitation to help people with heart failure achieve better quality of life

Posted on Tuesday 2 April 2019

A new rehabilitation programme which significantly improves the quality of life of patients with heart failure from the comfort of their own homes will be rolled out at four NHS centres across the UK.


Lost in translation – how English and German textbooks differ over Europe

Posted on Tuesday 2 April 2019

The way Europe is depicted in some English textbooks for secondary schools could be helping to fuel negative attitudes towards the continent, a study has suggested.


Expert Reaction: Exhibitions mark 500 years since death of Leonardo Da Vinci

Posted on Monday 1 April 2019

An expert in 15th and 16th Century Italian art at the University of York comments on the nationwide exhibitions of Leonardo Da Vinci’s drawings to mark the world-famous artist’s death, 500 years ago.


Expert Reaction: Gabapentin and pregabalin become class C drugs

Posted on Monday 1 April 2019

An expert in mental health and addiction at the University of York comments on the Government’s move to make gabapentin and pregabalin a class C drug.


Feeding red squirrels peanuts may make natural diet a tough nut to crack

Posted on Saturday 30 March 2019

New research suggests a population of red squirrels on the Lancashire coast may have developed weaker bites after snacking on peanuts.


Researchers explore John Ruskin’s ‘Storm Cloud’ in 200 year celebration

Posted on Friday 29 March 2019

Art historians at the University of York have co-curated a major new exhibition and co-edited a book on how John Ruskin’s views on the natural world and environmental change were influenced by the celebrated artist JMW Turner.


Drones could protect coffee plants from devastating fungal disease

Posted on Friday 29 March 2019

A team of UK scientists, including researchers at the University of York, are researching how to apply drone technology to prevent the spread of a fungal disease which devastates coffee crops.


Expert Reaction: New order to exterminate sick grey squirrels and muntjac deer

Posted on Friday 29 March 2019

An expert in ecology, evolution and conservation at the University of York comments on a new government order that requires the extermination of sick or abandoned grey squirrels and muntjac deer in animal care and wildlife rescue centres.


The Serengeti-Mara squeeze – one of the world’s most iconic ecosystems under pressure

Posted on Thursday 28 March 2019

Increased human activity around one of Africa’s most iconic ecosystems is “squeezing the wildlife in its core”, damaging habitation and disrupting the migration routes of wildebeest, zebra and gazelle, an international study has concluded.


Expert Reaction: ‘Ruskin, Turner & The Storm Cloud’ exhibition launch

Posted on Thursday 28 March 2019

An art historian at the University of York comments on the launch of the ‘Ruskin, Turner, and the Storm Cloud’ exhibition at York Art Gallery, which marks 200 years since John Ruskin’s birth.


UK’s first ultra-secure quantum network link between research and industry launched

Posted on Tuesday 26 March 2019

Researchers at the University of York have teamed up with colleagues at the University of Cambridge and BT to build a new high-speed link which will enable the development and testing of new quantum technologies.


Expert Reaction: Apple announce video and news streaming service

Posted on Monday 25 March 2019

An expert in film and television production at the University of York comments on Apple's announcement that it will launch a new video and news streaming service.


UK gets new £5 million climate change research centre

Posted on Thursday 21 March 2019

A new £5 million centre, involving researchers from the University of York, will explore how we can live differently in order to tackle climate change.


Expert Reaction: Security challenges of mobile health apps

Posted on Thursday 21 March 2019

An expert in cyber security at the University of York comments on new research from the University of Toronto on the security issues around data sharing by mobile health apps.


Mathematicians reveal swimming prowess of human sperm

Posted on Wednesday 20 March 2019

Researchers have discovered what gives human sperm the strength to succeed in the race to fertilise the egg.


Expert Reaction: Full moon in March Equinox

Posted on Wednesday 20 March 2019

Director of the University of York's Astrocampus comments on the full moon as it coincides with the March Equinox.


Trials testing new educational methods in schools often fail to produce useful evidence, say researchers

Posted on Friday 15 March 2019

Educational trials aimed at boosting academic achievement in schools are often uninformative, new research suggests.


Bacteria ‘trap’ could help slow down antibiotic resistance

Posted on Thursday 14 March 2019

Scientists have developed a new and faster test for identifying how single bacteria react to antibiotics, which could help in the fight against antimicrobial resistance.


Expert Reaction: Protecting the Ascension Island

Posted on Wednesday 13 March 2019

An expert in Marine Conservation at the University of York comments on the Chancellor's Spring Statement pledge to declare 445,000 square kilometres of ocean around Ascension Island as a Marine Protected Area.


Brain Awareness Week: How an app could help scientists understand memory

Posted on Monday 11 March 2019

An academic at the University of York is appealing for people to download a free app and take part in a series of games as part of a research project looking at memory and ageing.


Expert Reaction: Deadly tree disease spreading fast

Posted on Friday 8 March 2019

A University of York expert comments on the recent news that the deadly tree fungus, ash dieback, is spreading more quickly than previously anticipated.


Putting the brake on our immune system’s response

Posted on Monday 4 March 2019

Researchers have discovered how a tiny molecule known as miR-132 acts as a “handbrake” on our immune system – helping us fight infection.


Expert Reaction: Conflict over Kashmir

Posted on Wednesday 27 February 2019

An expert in political change and social transformation in the Global South comments on the growing conflict between India and Pakistan over Kashmir.


It might be stretching the point, but you really can feel like Mr Fantastic

Posted on Wednesday 27 February 2019

Everyone dreams of having superhero powers. Well, scientists say it is now possible to believe, albeit fleetingly, that you have the powers of Mr Fantastic.


Disadvantaged boys benefit most from early school years

Posted on Thursday 21 February 2019

Boys from disadvantaged backgrounds benefit most from early schooling, helping to narrow the skills gap with boys from high socio-economic backgrounds, according to new research.


Letters reveal Charles Dickens tried to place his wife in an asylum

Posted on Wednesday 20 February 2019

Analysis of previously unseen letters has shed new light on Charles Dickens’s troubled relationship with his wife Catherine – revealing at one point he attempted to have her committed to a mental asylum.


Catch me if you can: Study reveals disguises are surprisingly effective

Posted on Monday 18 February 2019

Superficial but deliberate changes in someone’s facial appearance – such as a new hairstyle or complexion - are surprisingly effective in identity deception, new research suggests.


Expert reaction: Labour Party split

Posted on Monday 18 February 2019

An expert in British politics from the University of York comments on the news that seven MPs have resigned from the Labour Party in protest at Jeremy Corbyn’s leadership.


One Planet Week: Waste plastic from science labs would fill over 100 bathtubs a year, say researchers

Posted on Monday 11 February 2019

Researchers at the University of York have created a new system for recycling single-use plastics used in some scientific experiments.


Could theatre be a way forward in communicating conservation messages?

Posted on Thursday 7 February 2019

Theatre performances in zoos can be effective in increasing knowledge of important conservation messages, a study at the University of York has revealed.


Fruit and vegetables important for mental well-being

Posted on Wednesday 6 February 2019

Consuming more fruit and vegetables can improve your mental well-being, according to a new study.


Side-effects not fully reported in more than 30% of healthcare reviews

Posted on Wednesday 6 February 2019

The potential side-effects of health interventions were not fully reported in more than a third of published health study reviews, research at the University of York has shown.


Expert Reaction: Record number of alcohol-related deaths

Posted on Tuesday 5 February 2019

The number of alcohol-related deaths has reached a new high, according to the latest figures from NHS Digital.


Sustainable housing projects should rely less on resident behaviour to succeed

Posted on Friday 1 February 2019

A new report has shown that sustainable housing developments should rely less on residents adapting their behaviour to achieve environmentally-friendly outcomes, and more on built-in home features.


E-cigarettes more effective than nicotine replacement therapies

Posted on Thursday 31 January 2019

E-cigarettes are almost twice as effective as nicotine replacement treatments, such as patches and gum, at helping smokers to quit, according to a new clinical trial.


Delays in blood cancer diagnosis could be avoided, study finds

Posted on Tuesday 29 January 2019

Many patients with lymphoma take longer to be diagnosed than expected, with some thinking these delays could have been avoided, a new report from the University of York has found.


Presidents disadvantage a country’s economy, new research suggests

Posted on Wednesday 23 January 2019

New research suggests presidential systems are worse for a country’s economy than parliamentary forms of government.


Emergency caesareans put new mothers at higher risk of developing postnatal depression, according to new research

Posted on Wednesday 23 January 2019

A new study has revealed first-time mothers who give birth via unplanned caesarean section are 15% more likely to experience postnatal depression.


Mental health claimants more than twice as likely to lose their benefits as non-psychiatric claimants

Posted on Tuesday 22 January 2019

People who are mentally ill are 2.4 times more likely than claimants with non-psychiatric conditions to lose their existing benefits following a Personal Independence Payment (PIP) eligibility assessment, research has found.


York and Maastricht universities announce major partnership

Posted on Monday 21 January 2019

The University of York and Maastricht University have now concluded the details of an initial £3m investment deal to position their partnership as a strategic response to Brexit and deliver a suite of collaborative joint initiatives.


Street light switch-off benefits night-time pollinators

Posted on Monday 21 January 2019

Switching off street lights in the middle of the night to save money and energy could have a positive knock-on effect on nocturnal pollinators, according to new research.


Expert Reaction: January's total lunar eclipse

Posted on Friday 18 January 2019

Host of the astronomy podcast Syzygy comments on what to expect from January's total lunar eclipse.


Tanzania forest protected as a result of major scientific discoveries

Posted on Wednesday 16 January 2019

The United Republic of Tanzania has announced it will protect a globally unique forest ecosystem in East Africa, following research that demonstrated it is under threat from illegal activities including tree-cutting for charcoal and the poaching of elephants and other animals.


Expert reaction: Defra’s clean air strategy

Posted on Monday 14 January 2019

An expert in atmospheric chemistry from the University of York reacts to the Government’s new plans to tackle air pollution.


Lighting up the way medical students learn anatomy

Posted on Thursday 10 January 2019

Body painting is considered by some to be the most ancient form of art. Its origins stem from tribal cultures, where its use was for ritual and ceremony. Today it is a familiar sight at carnivals and sporting events.


Ultramarine pigment may reveal forgotten female scribes of medieval monasteries

Posted on Wednesday 9 January 2019

Precious blue pigment preserved in the dental plaque of an 11th-century woman has revealed the earliest evidence that medieval women may have been the artists behind some of Europe’s most richly illustrated books.


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