A study by University of Copenhagen researchers challenges a 70-year-old assumption about the origins of life on Earth. They found that oxygen concentrations in ancient ocean samples were 5-10 times lower than today, contradicting previous theories that increased oxygen levels drove the evolution of more complex marine organisms.
A mathematical approach using statistical methods can estimate when whales like narwhals and bowhead whales will return to their natural behaviour after being tagged. This method allows researchers to avoid discarding too much or too little data, reducing the risk of interfering with research results or animal welfare.
Researchers from the University of Copenhagen have solved the mystery of how the Hepatitis C virus evades the human immune system. The virus uses a molecule called FAD as a 'mask', cloaking itself in a form that is already present in cells, making it invisible to the immune system.
A new study from the University of Copenhagen and Roskilde University found that computers malfunction between 11 and 20 percent of the time, wasting users' productivity. The researchers identify insufficient performance and lack of user-friendliness as the two biggest categories of problems.
The IMO's current climate targets are insufficient to address the industry's growing CO2 emissions, which now account for 3% of global emissions. The organization lacks the political instruments and resources needed to implement more ambitious goals.
Researchers found that providing stunted children with nutrient supplements can reverse impaired development and improve their growth. The study's findings suggest that milk-based supplements are beneficial, but a plant-based alternative is equally effective.
The new VOLT Center aims to understand the interactions between organisms, environment, and atmosphere regarding volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which influence global climate. Researchers will study the production, consumption, and effects of VOCs from various organisms, including bacteria, plankton, and plants.
A novel framework guides informed and effective soil management as carbon sinks, considering context-dependent environmental conditions. Management targeting 'labile' carbon is more effective in increasing carbon sequestration than focusing on 'stabilized' carbon.
Researchers have developed a battery-free GPS tracker that harnesses kinetic energy from an animal's movements, allowing for longer-term tracking. The 'KineFox' device has been tested on several species, including horses and dogs, and shows promise for monitoring endangered species.
Researchers have created a new technology capable of processing vast amounts of information generated by quantum systems. This is achieved through the coupling of deterministic single photon light sources with specially designed integrated photonic circuits.
Researchers from the University of Copenhagen have made a breakthrough in removing rapeseed's bitter substances, paving the way for a new plant-based protein source. The team identified three proteins that transport glucosinolates into seeds, allowing them to prevent accumulation and produce healthier seeds.
According to the study, 50 countries' climate plans predict 12 gigatons of CO2 emissions annually by 2050, which must be removed from the atmosphere. The researchers emphasize the need for rapid reductions here and now, as relying solely on technology and nature restoration may not be sufficient to meet this goal.
Researchers used a novel method to study tectonic plate movement, finding two significant slowdowns in the South American plate over the past 15 million years. These events may have contributed to the widening of the Andes mountain range by causing unstable material to tear free and sink into the mantle.
Researchers found an exceptional number of unknown viruses in the faeces of 647 healthy Danish one-year-olds, representing more than 200 families of yet to be described viruses. These viral species likely have a major impact on whether children develop various diseases later on in life.
Two new species of poisonous birds have been discovered in New Guinea's rainforest, containing a neurotoxin similar to that found in South American poison dart frogs. Genetic changes in these bird species allow them to tolerate and store the toxin in their feathers, potentially serving as a defensive mechanism.
The detection of GRB 221009A marks the most energetic gamma-ray burst ever observed, with a luminosity surpassing that of entire galaxies and hundreds of billions of stars. The event was followed up by space-based telescopes, including the James Webb Space Telescope, which provided insight into its properties.
Researchers have shed light on the molecular mechanisms allowing beetles to absorb water rectally, a property enabling them to survive in extremely dry environments. This knowledge could be used to develop more targeted and eco-friendly methods to combat beetle species that destroy food production.
The PaleoJump database offers a crucial tool for scientists to study abrupt transitions in the climate system. By analyzing pre-evaluated, relevant high-quality data archives, researchers can gain a clearer understanding of past climate change and its potential tipping points.
A new study reveals that intergalactic gas can activate and feed supermassive black holes at the heart of galaxies. The researchers found a direct connection between gas outside galaxies and active supermassive black holes, with misaligned gas playing a significant role in their growth.
A new study by the University of Copenhagen found that private forests in Denmark have a significant impact on property values. Forest owners attribute great value to their trees and landscapes, leading to increased quality of life and financial gains.
Researchers from the University of Copenhagen and NASA have developed a method to map several billion trees and their carbon uptake in Africa's Sahel region. The method can help monitor whether climate credit purchases have a positive effect on tree numbers and nature restoration.
A study published in Communications Biology reveals that a large portion of an insulin dose may not be effective, providing a tool for developing more precise medications. The discovery could lead to improved treatment outcomes for millions of people worldwide.
A University of Copenhagen study examines how data is used in asylum decisions, revealing inconsistencies and discrepancies that can lead to applicants being deemed untrustworthy. The research highlights the opaque nature of the decision-making process and the need for critical evaluation of new data types.
Researchers used AI to analyze thousands of satellite measurements, revealing four categories of ice movements linked to meltwater flow. The study provides insight into how the Greenland ice sheet reacts to warmer temperatures and more meltwater.
The James Webb Space Telescope has discovered frozen forms of complex molecules on the surface of small dust grains, providing insight into planetary system formation. The study reveals that these ice-cold conditions facilitate the creation of essential molecules for life, with potential implications for exoplanet atmospheres.
Researchers found that kilonovae, caused by neutron star collisions, produce spherical explosions with symmetrical shapes. The discovery may provide a new key to fundamental physics and measuring the Universe's age.
A new method assesses decision importance under uncertainty, suggesting that best decisions still pay off even when success is low. The study applies the method to a stylized greenhouse-gas emission problem, indicating that an early transition to a decarbonized society is rational despite low probability of success.
A new study from the University of Copenhagen suggests that combining proteins and antioxidants in foods like coffee with milk may have an anti-inflammatory effect in humans. The researchers found that immune cells treated with this combination were twice as effective at fighting inflammation as those with only polyphenols.
A study suggests that the collapse of West Antarctica's ice sheet could stabilise the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC), which distributes heat to Western Europe. This finding could help prevent a catastrophic cascading effect on climate tipping points.
Researchers at University of Copenhagen and Ruhr University Bochum have made a groundbreaking discovery, solving a long-standing problem in quantum physics. They can now control two quantum light sources, enabling the creation of quantum mechanical entanglement, a phenomenon with sci-fi-like properties.
A recent survey study of PhD students reveals that around a third of students have granted co-authorships to more powerful researchers despite little or no contribution. The practice is most prevalent in the medical sciences, with 49% of Ph.D. students reporting guest authorships.
A new study reveals that recent high temperatures on the Greenland ice sheet are unique compared to the past millennium. The researchers updated existing ice core data with information from the most recent decades, showing a warming trend of 1.5 degrees Celsius above the long-term average.
Measurements taken by University of Copenhagen researchers show high air pollution levels in the Copenhagen metro, with ultra-small particles 10-20 times higher than on heavily trafficked streets. The pollution comes mainly from trains' brakes and rails, posing a health risk to frequent users.
Pulses are a nutritious and climate-friendly superfood that Europeans are not fully aware of or utilizing. A study by Katharina Henn reveals low consumption in Europe, with Denmark at the bottom and Spain leading the way. The solution lies in building European traditions around pulses rather than relying on meat-like substitutes.
A researcher at the University of Copenhagen solved a 30-year-old problem in computer science by applying Petri nets to forecast COVID epidemic development. The breakthrough enables individual-oriented modeling, which can be used in epidemiology and other fields.
A new study reveals how new cells join a tissue by reading mechanical information from neighboring tissue. They use cellular fingers called filopodia to touch neighboring cells, opening up the cell layer. This process must happen with accurate precision for proper development and tissue formation.
Researchers warn that commonly used methods for estimating equilibrium climate sensitivity in complex climate models may be underestimating temperature rise. The study highlights the need for longer simulations to account for potential late tipping points, which could significantly influence global warming.
Research found that approximately 40% of Danish population has gut microbes that extract more energy from food, leading to a higher risk of obesity. This composition of gut microbes is also associated with faster digestion and greater nutrient extraction.
Researchers at University of Copenhagen developed a method to map individual trees' carbon content using aerial images, improving accuracy and enabling better comparisons between countries. The method supports Rwanda in verifying commitments under schemes like REDD+ and AFR 100.
A new study from the University of Copenhagen found that individuals with high empathy scores can accurately detect emotional sounds in animals, including arousal and valence. The study involved 1024 participants from 48 countries and showed a significant correlation between empathy for humans and understanding animal sounds.
Researchers observed a gamma-ray burst that defied categorization, sparking an international investigation. The team discovered a kilonova, a smoking-gun proof of neutron star collision, which challenged existing theories on short gamma-ray bursts.
University of Copenhagen researchers made a groundbreaking discovery about the mammalian brain, finding that a vital enzyme that enables brain signals is switching on and off at random intervals. This challenges the long-held assumption that these enzymes are active at all times to convey essential signals continuously.
Scientists have found early warning signals for climate tipping in the Amazon Rainforest, West-Central Greenland ice sheet, and Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation. The study provides a clear mathematical understanding of increased variability, sensitivity, critical slowing down, and being close to a tipping point.
A new study documents the central role of Arctic vegetation in warming for the first time. The researchers found that different types of vegetation have varying effects on surface energy conversion, with dry areas producing greater warming than wet areas.
A new study from the University of Copenhagen found that at least 60 percent of Danes who promised to donate never followed through on their commitments. Digital payment solutions made it easier for people to delay donations, but also led to larger average cash contributions. Social pressure was identified as a key driver of charity gi...
Researchers at University of Copenhagen discover that plants use stress hormone ABA to reorganize their roots and grow away from salty areas. This mechanism could lead to the development of more salt-tolerant crops, reducing crop yields loss due to salinity.
A new study reveals significant gender bias in Reddit discussions about female politicians, with more frequent use of given names and language related to their body or family. This perpetuates stereotypes and can affect voter perception, incentivizing female politicians to conform to online expectations.
Researchers at the University of Copenhagen develop a low-fat, more sustainable whipped cream alternative using lactic acid bacteria as building blocks. The bacteria-based foam can be whipped, peaks up, and retains liquid, making it a potential game-changer in the food industry.
A Danish study reveals that nearly half of the population is unaware of woody biomass as an energy source, highlighting a need for public engagement on its sustainability. The study also shows strong public concerns over biodiversity and climate change, emphasizing the importance of adapting policies to minimize environmental costs.
Researchers used counterfactual history to analyze the 2011 cloudburst, demonstrating a clear correlation between heat in the atmosphere leading up to the event and its intensity. The study shows that a century of human-caused temperature increases doubled the risk of similar or stronger cloudbursts in the future.