Research suggests climate-driven changes in seawater density may disrupt mangrove dispersal patterns worldwide, particularly in the Indo-West Pacific region. The study, published in Nature Climate Change, highlights the importance of considering oceanic factors in understanding mangrove response to climate change.
Researchers from Vrije Universiteit Brussel used new techniques to determine the age of limestone layers and fossils in Maastricht quarries, dating back to the last dinosaur age. The study found that the shallow sea was rich in oxygen, suitable for sustaining a diverse ecosystem.
A new discovery by VUB professor Ann Massie's research group reveals a strategy that prolongs life expectancy and preserves hippocampal function in the aging brain. The absence of system xc- has positive effects on mouse longevity and cognitive function, challenging current understanding of the aging process.
Researchers found that macrophages feed on lactic acid produced by cancer cells, paralyzing killer immune cells and weakening tumour immunity. This discovery highlights the need to curb lactic acid production in tumours to improve immunotherapy outcomes.
A study by VUB researcher Ari Ximenes uncovered factors that prevent mangroves from spreading in South America. Longshore drift and chilling temperatures are major factors hindering the southward expansion of mangrove species.
Researchers at VUB have detected vitamin D deficiency in cremated human remains through the analysis of interglobular dentine. This innovation allows for the identification of past populations' exposure to sunlight and daily activities, shedding new light on environmental and sociocultural factors influencing health.
A VUB researcher analyzed US foreign policy towards Europe over the past two decades, finding that Europe is increasingly seen as a tool for achieving American interests elsewhere. The study highlights the shift in US priorities and the impact on European policymakers.
Research led by VUB team shows that global changes in lake temperature and ice cover are caused by human-induced climate change, posing a threat to water quality and native fish species.
A research team from VUB has been monitoring glaciers in the Alps for 20 years, using drones to track glacier melting and find that the Morteratsch and Pers glaciers have lost mass again. The study found that climate change is causing glaciers to lose mass faster, with one cooler summer not changing the overall trend.
A new study reveals that city butterflies and moths have genetically adapted to the warmer urban environment, starting their overwintering state later in the year. This allows them to take advantage of a longer growing season, reproducing successfully before winter sets in.
A VUB researcher's study found that loneliness can be temporary and even provide opportunities for self-development, challenging the common view of loneliness as solely negative. The study also highlights the importance of addressing loneliness throughout one's life.
International research reveals that children will face a disproportionate increase in lifetime extreme event exposure due to climate change. The study, led by Prof. Wim Thiery of VUB, quantifies the impact of climate change on children born between 1960 and 2020, showing they will experience more heatwaves, droughts, crop failures, riv...
A set of guidelines published in Nature Methods provide recommendations for better reporting standards in AI methods used to classify biomedical data. The guidelines aim to ensure the quality and reproducibility of predictive methods, addressing issues such as accuracy, bias, and reproducibility.
Researchers used a new technique to reconstruct the climate of Europe during the Cretaceous period, finding that temperatures fluctuated between 15°C and 27°C. This shows that seasonal differences remained constant despite rising average temperatures, leading to hotter summers and warmer winters.