Science and research news from across Europe. Covers major discoveries, university leadership, disease burden and costs, and research policy in the region.
The monograph Migration Culture: A Comparative Perspective offers a new approach to understanding migration by analyzing the cultural and value differences between migrants and locals. Key findings include that migrants prioritize self-direction over security, and that values tend not to change rapidly in emigration.
A new study found that racial wage discrimination against black English football players disappeared after the Bosman ruling introduced a free transfer market, increasing labour mobility. However, non-EU players still face wage discrimination due to restrictive contracting rules and prejudice from clubs.
The Western Balkans region has developed a 10-point plan to combat the COVID-19 pandemic, prioritizing healthcare systems, climate neutrality, and digitalization. The plan aims to strengthen pandemic preparedness and crisis resilience in the region.
Two model studies document the probability of climate tipping in Earth subsystems, supporting the urgency of restricting CO2 emissions. The findings suggest that abrupt climate changes might be less predictable and more widespread than anticipated, with potential consequences for Western Europe's climate.
Researchers have identified two new palaeotheriidae mammals, 'Leptolophus cuestai' and 'Leptolophus franzeni', from the Eocene epoch in Spain. These ancient animals had atypical dental features and were smaller than modern horses.
Plant-based diets are recommended for healthy adults, with low consumption of salt and animal products, and increased intake of whole grains, fruits, vegetables, legumes, and nuts. Fermented dairy products like yogurt and cheese can also have a protective effect on cardiovascular health.
A study analyzing age-at-death records of 33,715 Indigenous people in central California between 3050 BCE and 1870 CE found that Spanish settlers contributed to severe demographic collapse. The research suggests extreme social disruption caused by the presence of Europeans led to increased mortality rates among both males and females.
Archaeologists discovered over 80 metal objects at Stark Farms, including Spanish horseshoe scrapers and copper pendants, used by Chickasaws as everyday items. The site provides evidence of direct contact between de Soto's expedition and the Chickasaw tribe.
The Laacher See volcano eruption occurred 13,077 years ago, according to revised dating, providing crucial information about historical climate fluctuations. This revised date coincides with observed temperature drops in Greenland Ice Sheet cores and has significant implications for European climate archives.
A new RMIT University study found that buskers who use digital platforms like apps, QR codes, PayPal, and Bitcoin receive more donations than those using loose coins. The study analyzed over 3,500 active buskers from 121 countries and found that North America and Europe had the most active buskers.
A mobile application developed by Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona and UPC researchers has been tested for its ability to predict the severity of disabling fatigue in patients with chronic fatigue syndrome/myalgic encephalomyelitis, particularly in women. The app measures heart rate variability and shares results with medical staff.
The European Association for the Study of Obesity provides evidence-based physical activity recommendations for adults with overweight and obesity. The guidelines highlight the benefits of exercise training on health and wellbeing beyond weight loss.
Researchers built a phylogeographic model to assess the role of new viral lineages in COVID-19 resurgence. The study found that more than half of circulating lineages in European countries resulted from new introductions since June 15.
The RESILIENCE project seeks to prevent anthracycline-induced cardiotoxicity in cancer patients through remote ischaemic preconditioning, with over 600 patients enrolled in a randomised clinical trial. Cardiac function will be evaluated using state-of-the-art cardiac magnetic resonance imaging.
A third of EU-regulated eel products were found to be mislabelled, with some species originating from China and the US. The study highlights the need for straightforward labelling requirements that include the scientific name of the species.
Scientists discovered the oldest strain of Yersinia pestis in a 20- to 30-year-old man from 5,000 years ago. The ancient bacteria was less contagious and deadly than its medieval version, transmitted primarily through animal bites. This finding challenges long-held theories on the development of human civilization in Europe and Asia.
Researchers found that Bronze Age weight systems emerged gradually in a westward spread from Mesopotamia to Europe, with similar units of weight used across the region. The study suggests that free entrepreneurship drove the emergence of accurate weight systems, enabling merchants to interact freely and establish profitable partnerships.
Researchers have successfully resurrected the extinct Gould's mouse, a significant finding given the high rate of native rodent extinction in Australia. The study revealed that the species' genetic diversity did not guarantee its survival, underscoring the rapid decline of populations in the face of invasive species, habitat destructio...
Scientists discovered a molecule, Castaneroxy A, extracted from chestnut leaves that neutralizes dangerous staph bacteria, including MRSA. The compound, found only in tiny quantities in the leaves, disables toxin production and enables skin to heal rapidly.
A study reveals that Bronze Age weight systems diffused through trade networks in Western Eurasia, with a single origin in Mesopotamia. The Indus Valley developed an independent system, while new units of weight emerged gradually west of Mesopotamia.
A European gene therapy trial for Crigler-Najjar syndrome has demonstrated the first therapeutic effects of the treatment, allowing patients to stop phototherapy. The trial's preliminary results are encouraging, suggesting that gene therapy could become an alternative treatment for this severe liver disease.
The CHEOPS satellite unexpectedly detected a third planet passing in front of its star, revealing details about a strange planet without a known equivalent. The exoplanet, Nu2 Lupi d, has a radius 2.5 times that of Earth and orbits its star with an orbital period of over 107 days.
The joint statement aims to address current controversies and evolving concepts in thyroid cancer care. Key findings include the use of molecular theranostics for refining management recommendations and indicators of response to RAI therapy. The statement was led by Seza Gulec, MD, and published in the peer-reviewed journal Thyroid.
The LIGHT-CAP project aims to develop new nanotechnology-enabled architectures for solar energy conversion and storage. Researchers will apply cutting-edge materials to build systems capable of absorbing sunlight, converting it into electric charges and storing the associated energy in a sustainable way.
The release of the European water vole genome provides a comprehensive set of genetic tools to support conservation efforts, helping to understand genetic diversity and structure of water vole populations. The reference genome will aid in reintroduction efforts and inform management strategies for sustainable species survival.
A new type of Homo has been identified in Israel, with features that challenge the prevailing hypothesis on Neanderthal origins. The discovery suggests that at least some Neanderthals' ancestors came from the Levant, and that two types of Homo groups lived side by side for over 100,000 years.
Researchers discover that cryptochrome 4, found in birds' retinas, is sensitive to magnetic fields and could be the long-sought magnetic sensor. The team deciphered the mechanism behind this sensitivity, which arises from electrons moving within the molecule after blue-light activation.
Researchers have identified a light-sensitive protein in birds' eyes that is also sensitive to magnetic fields. The discovery sheds light on how migratory birds navigate using the Earth's magnetic field.
A new study by University of Sydney researchers found that the Anglo-Saxons were a mix of continental European and local ancestry, with 50-70% of Middle Anglo-Saxon individuals being of local ancestry. The findings suggest that being Anglo-Saxon was more likely a matter of language and culture, not genetics
Research shows that migratory birds disperse seeds to warmer latitudes, which can be counterproductive for plant adaptation to climate change. The study suggests that only a few species of migratory birds have the potential to help plants move to cooler latitudes and adapt to changing conditions.
Citizens in Northern Europe were more likely to support governments with proactive and decisive approaches to addressing the pandemic. Proactive communications and assertive policies played a significant role in shaping public opinion during the COVID-19 crisis.
The study found that early Anglo-Saxons had a mix of local and continental ancestry, with the ratio changing over time due to varying immigration patterns. The results suggest that being Anglo-Saxon was tied to language and culture rather than genetics.
A new study from Washington University in St. Louis mapped PM2.5 levels across China, Europe, and North America using satellite data and computer modeling. The research found that most changes in air quality were driven by natural meteorological variability, not lockdowns.
A study by researchers from King's College London and IMIM found that 6.4% of Europeans suffer from depression, with higher rates in economically developed nations and varying rates across countries. The study suggests that demographic and socio-political factors contribute to the differences in prevalence.
Researchers found that airborne lead in London is attributable to resuspended dust, not current coal burning or seasonally variable sources. Historical contributions of leaded gasoline remain a significant source of environmental lead.
A species of butterfly found in Sub-Saharan Africa can migrate thousands of miles to Europe crossing the Saharan Desert in years with favorable weather conditions, increasing understanding of how insects could spread between continents due to climate change.
Winter rainfall in sub-Saharan Africa limits painted lady butterfly migrations to Europe. The size of migrating populations varies greatly, increasing by a hundredfold in some years, likely driven by weather conditions in West Africa.
Patients two months after COVID-19 recovery show significant cognitive disturbances, including memory issues, spatial awareness problems, and executive function impairment. The majority of younger patients under 50 exhibit these symptoms, highlighting the need for adequate support and treatments to alleviate symptoms.
A Curtin University-led study of ancient bones on Kangaroo Island has provided new insights into the island's past fauna and potential species reintroduction. The research identified 33 species, including extinct ones, and shed light on the impact of European arrival on biodiversity.
A new study has found that pregnant women with migraines are at a higher risk of obstetric and postnatal complications. Migraine pregnant women had increased risks of gestational diagnosis of diabetes, hyperlipidemia, and blood clots.
A study by CNRS scientists proposes a balanced coexistence between agriculture and the environment. Implementing an organic, sustainable system involves changing diet, generalizing long crop rotation systems, and bringing together crops and livestock to reduce synthetic fertilizers and pesticides.
A study led by Professor Ivan Rektor found that listening to Mozart's Sonata for Two Pianos K448 reduced epileptiform discharges in epilepsy patients by 32%, while Haydn's music had the opposite effect. The acoustic properties of music were responsible for this anti-epileptic effect.
The Leopoldina and RNE outline options for societal, political, and business transformations to meet the climate change challenge. They emphasize the importance of a global carbon price, infrastructure expansion, and new climate-friendly technologies.
Maxime Dougados and Josef Smolen are the recipients of the EULAR Meritorious Service Award, which honors their contributions to the field of rheumatology. They have published over 1000 articles and have promoted initiatives such as FOREUM and ACR/EULAR criteria for rheumatoid arthritis.
A 10-week lifestyle modification programme improved cardiovascular and mental health in people living with obesity, with significant reductions in anxiety, depression, body weight, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels. The programme's personalized approach, non-judgemental environment, and focus on emotional eating triggers led to su...
Researchers from the University of Cambridge identified Yersinia Pestis in individual burials, showing that plague victims received individual care despite the outbreak. This contradicts previous assumptions of mass burials and improves our understanding of past pandemics.
Thirty state-of-the-art IPCC-climate models predict varying climates for Europe due to differing simulations of North Atlantic ocean currents. The analysis highlights the importance of incorporating ocean circulation into climate models, suggesting that uncertainties in predictions may be largely dependent on changes to this circulation.
A study published in eLife reveals how plants produce defence chemicals that vary across Europe due to genetic variation, environmental pressures, and geographical location. The research found that different regions have unique profiles of these chemical compounds, shaped by factors such as weather conditions and landscape features.
Andrea Ablasser is awarded the EMBO Gold Medal 2021 for her groundbreaking research on how cells recognize double-stranded DNA as a danger signal. Her work may pave the way for therapeutic opportunities for inflammatory conditions and cancer treatment.
Researchers found that a specific strain of Phytophthora infestans, known as FAM-1, was responsible for the Irish potato famine and spread to six continents. The pathogen caused massive outbreaks in Europe, leading to widespread starvation and migration.
A new study challenges the notion that widespread Indigenous population decline led to significant forest regrowth in tropical regions. Instead, it found that dense and highland forests were less likely to show signs of afforestation following Spanish contact.
Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology have developed a dipping solution that significantly extends the storage time of fish side streams, increasing their value as food ingredients. The solution covers the surface with antioxidants, reducing oxidation and keeping quality high.
A survey of 32,000 European adults found decreased alcohol consumption in most countries, with the largest declines seen in Albania, Finland, and others. Respondents experiencing financial distress reported less reduction in consumption.
Research found that Filipino-Americans are more likely to be diagnosed with advanced thyroid cancer, while European Americans tend to have early-stage disease. DBP expression was also linked to cancer staging in both groups, suggesting a protective role for the protein.
A research team led by the University of Göttingen has created tiny gas bubbles with a radius of a few thousandths of a millimeter using laser pulses, observing their expansion and shockwaves. The team used holographic flash imaging and X-ray laser pulses to capture data and images, providing insights into cavitation processes.
A new study by Silvia Weko reveals that political ideology plays a larger role than party preferences in shaping attitudes towards climate policy among Europeans. Cosmopolitan attitudes are more positive towards climate action, while communitarian minds are more concerned with energy security and economic development.
A study analyzing e-scooter injuries in Berlin found that most incidents occur on weekends, at night, and are caused by loss of control or kerb jumping. The researchers advocate for stricter regulations, including helmet use, age limits, and technical modifications to reduce injury risk.
Romain van Wassenhove has created a sustainable bamboo connector that can be used to make modular structures out of sustainable materials. His invention is EU patent-protected and has been published in Composite Structures, a leading journal for composite materials and their applications.
Toshiba has demonstrated record distances for quantum communications using a novel 'dual band' stabilisation technique, enabling QKD over 600km. The technique sends two optical reference signals to minimise phase fluctuations on long fibres, resulting in constant optical phase stability even after propagation through hundreds of km.
A new report by the International Osteoporosis Foundation reveals that fragility fractures result in 4.3 million cases and €56.9 billion in healthcare costs each year in Europe. The report also highlights significant service provision gaps, with only half of women at high fracture risk receiving therapy for osteoporosis.