We’ve already talked about the importance of encouraging a research culture in our domestic hospitals, surgeries and universities, but we feel like we could still do more to reveal the vital role that research plays in our society. Here are just a few things that research has revealed to the world in recent years.
Consequences of a warmer Earth
Few of us could be said to be looking forward to the effects of global warming, but according to recent research, it may not be all doom and gloom. Data taken from previous time periods when the Earth was between glacial maximums show that an initial period of widespread extinctions eventually leads to an increase in the world’s biodiversity. However, researchers doubt that such a process will occur this time, as it takes millions of years for species to evolve, and global warming has meant that climate change has been occurring very rapidly indeed.
The dangers of tap water
Scientists have begun to link liver disease to the water we drink from our taps thanks to new research undertaken this year. Alcohol-related deaths in the UK are among the highest in Europe, but this study, funded by the Foundation for Liver Research, has found a link between magnesium concentrations in the water supply to liver failure and damage previously laid squarely at the door of alcohol. It is believed that those living in soft water areas, where magnesium concentrations are lower, are as much as 34% more likely to suffer from liver damage as those who live in hard water areas.
Women and colour vision
While male eyes are thought to be better at picking out fine detail and fast-moving stimuli, it has been revealed that women are more adept at seeing in colour. A study undertaken by the City University of New York suggested that testosterone could be the element that determines sex difference in vision, as there are numerous hormone receptors located in the brain, particularly around the primary visual cortex.
As you can see from even these three examples, the importance of research for informing us about the world we live in, our own bodies and the way we live our lives cannot be underestimated. To compile the data you need to undertake a successful and informative research study, make use of one of our flexible and effective data capture solutions or contact us to arrange a free, no-obligation workshop and help us develop a bespoke data capture solution to best suit your needs.