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stephen beech

‘Treasure trove’ reveals animal diversity began earlier than thought

‘Treasure trove’ reveals animal diversity began earlier than thought

By Stephen Beech The discovery of a fossil "treasure trove" has pushed back the origins of animals at least four million years. The "exciting" find in China includes the remains of a creature that "looks like the sand worm from Dune." It has transformed

Is even the occasional night out bad for your liver?

Is even the occasional night out bad for your liver?

By Stephen Beech Even occasional binge drinking may triple the risk of liver damage, warns new research. Just the odd session of drinking can cause harm for moderate drinkers, according to the study. Scientists described their findings as a "huge wake-up call" for those who enjoy a

Area of Alaskan permafrost that’s size of Greece thawing

Area of Alaskan permafrost that’s size of Greece thawing

By Stephen Beech An area of Alaskan permafrost the size of Greece is thawing, reveals new research. Arctic and global climate patterns may never be the same as a result, scientists warned. As temperatures rise, the Arctic is warming around four times faster than the rest of the planet, accelerating

Study finds spacing out seniors on planes speeds up evacuations

Study finds spacing out seniors on planes speeds up evacuations

By Stephen Beech Older aircraft passengers should be evenly distributed throughout the cabin to allow for a safe evacuation in an emergency, according to new research. Older travelers, who may be limited in their dexterity, should be spread out onboard for everyone's safety, scientists say. The Federal Aviation

Why is snow becoming increasingly rare?

Why is snow becoming increasingly rare?

By Stephen Beech Snow really is becoming increasingly rare, according to new research. A detailed study of weather trends in the Northern Hemisphere found that about one in four regions (24%) have seen declines in snow-covered areas, compared with 9% showing increases. The strongest overall declines occurred in Europe

New research may explain why some never get the flu

New research may explain why some never get the flu

By Stephen Beech A protein found in sweat, saliva and tears may explain why some people never get the flu, according to a new study. Dermcidin has antiviral activity against the virus and may shape susceptibility to potentially deadly influenza, say scientists. The influenza virus is a leading cause of

Why open-plan offices may increase risk of workplace bullying

Why open-plan offices may increase risk of workplace bullying

By Stephen Beech Bullying is more likely to happen in open-plan offices, according to new research. The layout leads to a "clearly increased risk" of workplace bullying compared with employees having their own office or sharing with just a few colleagues, say scientists. Open-plan offices, where