Articles tagged with Europe
A new study reveals that European Starlings in North America underwent rapid local adaptation, adjusting to temperature and rainfall variations through subtle genetic changes. The species' massive population size enabled the spread of beneficial gene variants across generations.
The Path2Integrity project aims to promote learning settings and materials for honesty, reliability, respect, and accountability in research. It features messages from science leaders on the importance of research integrity principles, with resources available in multiple languages.
The EINST4INE project aims to develop new methods, skills, and concepts to guide businesses through digital transformation. The initiative will recruit 15 early-stage researchers to tackle real-world challenges faced by industry.
A new study finds that high blood pressure is causally associated with the most common heart rhythm disorder, atrial fibrillation. Elevated blood pressure was found to increase the risk by 1.8%, 2.6%, and 1.4% relative increases in atrial fibrillation for systolic, diastolic, and pulse pressures, respectively.
Regional disparities exist in responses of secondary pollutants to emission reductions, especially fine particulate matter and ozone. Ozone shows rising signals in most areas, but declining signal exists in North America despite reduced nitrogen oxides.
Researchers mapped regions with high numbers of undersized fish and crustaceans, which are typically discarded due to size limits. This helps identify areas for fishing restrictions to ensure more sustainable fisheries and conservation efforts.
The STREAM project aims to reduce costs and increase worker safety in railway construction, operation, and maintenance by introducing robotic technologies. The project will deliver two methods: a control platform for converting heavy-duty hydraulic machines into autonomous systems, and a modular wearable active exoskeleton to reduce ph...
The report highlights the impact of coffee consumption timing on sleep quality, suggesting that limiting caffeine intake six hours prior to bedtime can help lessen its effects. For those sensitive to caffeine, this approach may improve overall sleep outcomes.
Researchers found that European greater mouse-eared bats have sufficient baseline levels of key immune parameters to tolerate infection throughout hibernation. In contrast, North American bats frequently arouse from hibernation to trigger an immune response, leading to starvation and death.
A €9.75m Irish-led project, PANDEM-2, aims to create a more consistent and futureproof approach to pandemic management in the EU. The project will develop novel concepts, services, and IT systems to improve EU preparedness and response.
A recent study by the PREDICT network identified bacterial infections and alcohol consumption as common triggers for acute decompensation of liver cirrhosis. The study monitored 1273 patients from 15 European countries and found that these triggers were present in over 90% of cases.
New estimates suggest that Western Europe experienced unmatched dust storms during the coldest periods of the latest ice age. The research, published in Quaternary Science Reviews, challenges the long-held assumption that China was the dustiest region on Earth during this time period.
A study published in Frontiers in Immunology found that Brazilians of African descent are less likely to find a donor in the National Register of Voluntary Bone Marrow Donors, with an up to 60% reduction in chances. The lack of representation and genetic diversity makes it harder for individuals with African ancestry to find compatible...
A new study found that mobile apps with artificial intelligence improve the health status of migrants by 5.3%, while also increasing social integration by 2.7%. The study, conducted at Anglia Ruskin University, surveyed new migrants and refugees in Greece over a 10-month period.
A European consortium aims to create a platform for sharing pathology data to develop artificial intelligence tools, accelerating disease diagnosis and treatment. The BIGPICTURE project collects 3 million digital slides from humans and laboratory animals to support AI development in pathology.
Researchers at the University of Tartu are developing a new large-scale prototype of a cosmic-ray tomography device to detect illegal goods in cargo, making security checks faster and safer. The technology uses safe natural radiation that passes through us every day, allowing for efficient customs controls.
A team of seismologists has discovered a new mechanism driving the separation of the Atlantic plates, with evidence of an upwelling in the mantle from depths of over 600 km. This finding provides greater understanding of plate tectonics and its role in natural disasters such as earthquakes and tsunamis.
Skin cancer rates in the UK have increased dramatically over the past four decades, with a notable rise in middle-aged and older adults. The study found that public health campaigns targeting children and adolescents may be contributing to the stabilization of skin cancer incidence among young people.
Hypertension symptoms in women are frequently misattributed to menopause, increasing their risk of heart disease and stroke. Middle-aged women with a history of pregnancy complications or early menopause are particularly at risk.
Atrial fibrillation death rates in Europe are highest in wealthier countries, with women more likely to die than men. Lifestyle factors such as obesity and alcohol consumption in wealthier nations contribute to these disparities.
Research found that physical activity does not undo the negative effects of excess body weight on heart health. Even among those who are active, being overweight or obese increases cardiovascular risk.
The SignON project, funded by the European Union's Horizon 2020 program, will develop a mobile solution for automatic translation between sign and oral languages. The platform aims to facilitate exchange between deaf and hard of hearing individuals and hearing people across Europe.
FishChoice guides consumers to maximise nutrient intake while minimising exposure to chemical pollutants, promoting sustainable seafood consumption. The new version provides advice in the form of a traffic light to help users choose safe and sustainable seafood options.
Analysis of 33,000 graves reveals a change in Western European burial practices from regionally specific grave goods to standardized, unfurnished burials between the 6th-8th centuries AD. This shift indicates a well-connected Europe with regular contact and exchange of ideas across vast areas.
A new study by the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research suggests that carbon pricing is a more efficient way to address climate change than regulations and bans. The study highlights the economic benefits of Pigouvian taxation, which can help maximize welfare while minimizing negative externalities.
Researchers analyzed over 5,000 bronze objects from Central European hoards and found that around 70% of rings had similar weights, suggesting a standardized currency system. This discovery indicates the earliest development of commodity money in prehistoric Europe.
A study from Uppsala University reveals that all European eels share the same gene pool, regardless of their location. The team used whole-genome analysis to compare DNA sequences from eels across Europe and North Africa, finding no significant differences in gene variants.
A recent study published in Maturitas found that UV-radiation can affect the levels of oestrogens and gonadotropins in postmenopausal women, increasing the risk of osteoporosis, cardiac diseases, and neurodegenerative diseases. Researchers recommend carefully monitoring sun exposure to prevent harm.
A health impact study estimated the mortality burden attributable to air pollution in over 1,000 European cities. The research found that 51,000 premature deaths could be prevented annually by reducing PM2.5 and NO2 concentrations to recommended levels.
Researchers have discovered that Maltese patients with ALS do not have flaws in the C9orf72, SOD1, TARDBP, and FUS genes, which are common in European ALS cases. Instead, a higher percentage of Maltese patients without a family history of ALS have harmful DNA mutations in rarely damaged genes.
The INTERVENE project aims to develop novel genome-based disease prediction tools using advanced AI approaches on genomic and health data. The project will test these tools in clinical settings for cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes, and breast cancer.
The American Chemical Society outlines key business and policy issues in chemistry for 2021, with a focus on climate goals and the impact of open access publishing. The organization also notes that chemical firms are looking to bounce back from the COVID-19 pandemic and manufacturers will remain busy producing COVID-19 vaccines.
Scientists are using brain recordings, flight analyses, and computational modeling to uncover the neural mechanisms behind insect decision-making. The study aims to inform autonomous robotics, computational neuroscience, and other fields by understanding how insects utilize movement to simplify information sampling.
The Ukraine genome survey found over 13 million genetic variants, including medically relevant mutations linked to breast cancer, autism, and rare eye diseases. The study shows Ukraine accounts for a quarter of European genetic variation, providing valuable insights into human history and disease prevention.
The SciFiMed project develops a multiplex detection system to examine the functional activity of seven complement factor H related proteins in patient samples. This technique helps diagnose inflammatory diseases such as macular degeneration with higher accuracy.
The CriticalEarth programme aims to develop climate scientists skilled in advanced mathematical theories and the physics of Earth systems. The project addresses two key challenges: abrupt climate shifts and uncertainty in temperature rise predictions.
A study found high levels of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) in drinking water in some Chinese cities, exceeding international guideline levels. The findings suggest urgent need for elimination of these chemicals from drinking water and better control and reduction of PFAS releases.
Two ERC-funded innovation projects will develop nanometric sensors for brain surgery and flexible X-ray detectors for medical imaging. The projects aim to reduce damages and improve efficiency in healthcare and industrial non-destructive testing.
The European Research Council has awarded €8.25 million in ERC Proof of Concept grants to 55 researchers, enabling them to explore the commercial and societal potential of their work. This funding will support the development of new technologies, such as a low-cost COVID-19 test and clean energy producing technology.
Researchers identified a severe drought period in 1302-07 Europe, which shares similarities with the 2018 weather anomaly and recent climate trends. The study suggests that transitional phases in the climate are characterized by stable weather patterns, contributing to extreme events like the Great Famine of 1315-21.
A recent study published by an Estonian-led international network found that social media is increasingly used as a primary channel for official news and information during crises, such as the COVID-19 pandemic. The researchers recommend creating methods for fact-checking and releasing consistent results to combat misinformation.
A new study combining archaeological work with genetic technology sheds light on the peopling of the Caribbean. The analysis of 263 ancient human genomes shows two major migratory waves in the region, revealing a highly mobile population with distant relatives often living on different islands.
Researchers used VR simulations to study goalkeepers' ability to stop free kicks, finding that defensive walls can block their view and impair performance. The study suggests that VR simulations could be useful in other sports, such as soccer.
A new experiment provides insights into transient atomic states, enabling better understanding of photocatalysis, elementary steps in photosynthesis and radiation damage. The study uses high-resolution electron spectroscopy to capture a snapshot of the short-lived state produced when X-rays interact with neon atoms.
A majority of European anaesthesiologists and intensive care specialists believe that precious ICU capacity should be shared between nations during international emergencies. The study found that around 60% were in favour of a centralized European institution to distribute such resources.
A joint Anglo-German research project will analyze the practice of translation in cultural magazines from 1945-1965. The project aims to understand how these magazines used translated texts to forge new European identities, and explore the significance of translation in reconfiguring a vision of Europe after WWII.
The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) has released four COVID-19 vaccination strategies for EU/EEA countries, developed using mathematical modeling to inform prioritization. The strategies prioritize groups at high risk of severe disease and death, highlighting the importance of vaccination of healthcare workers.
Researchers found that climate warming causes trees to advance their leaf unfolding and flowering times, but at different rates. This unequal timing may disrupt interactions with pollinators and impact ecosystem structure and function.
The N-PATH project will train 40 young European nephrologists from 6 countries through a two-year educational path with hands-on training and online lessons. The course is funded by the European Commission and will provide innovative advanced training in interventional nephrology.
A new study published in the European Journal of Human Genetics found that prenatal testing has halved the number of babies born with Down syndrome in Europe. The growth of noninvasive prenatal screening has led to a significant reduction in DS births, with some countries experiencing reductions of up to 71%.
A group of over 300 global scientists is urging European governments to adopt a coordinated approach to managing the pandemic by setting clear COVID-19 case number targets. The proposed strategy aims to achieve low case numbers, enhance mitigation measures, and develop long-term common vision to protect people's health, societies, and ...
A recent CMCC study analyzed 2018's Ro-Pax CO2 data from EU-MRV, revealing clustering in vessel populations and key factors contributing to high emissions. The study found variability spanning five orders of magnitude due to ferry size, propulsion features, age, and other characteristics.
The number of people with dementia from minority ethnic groups is increasing in Europe, but uptake of services remains low. Alzheimer Europe has launched a guide to support health and social care workers in providing intercultural dementia care.
A study found that days with high-profile European football matches are associated with more traffic accidents in Asia. Drivers stay awake late to watch the game, leading to poor attention management and impaired decision-making.
Heart patients experiencing frequent nightmares are at a significantly higher risk of depression, anxiety, and insomnia, with women more likely to experience persistent bad dreams. The study found strong associations between nightmares, sleep disorders, and psychological problems in heart disease patients.
A new study highlights the importance of coordinated policy reforms in supporting renewable electricity across EU member states. Without coordination, investors may shift their focus to subsidized technologies or countries with available subsidies, increasing the overall costs of expanding renewable energy generation in Europe. Strengt...
A large-scale population study found over 50% of Asians and a third of Black Africans in the UK have severe vitamin D deficiency, increasing risk of respiratory infections and musculoskeletal disorders. The study emphasizes the need for targeted public health measures to mitigate deficiency risk in affected populations.
A research consortium has analyzed frequency fluctuations in 12 synchronous grid areas across three continents, revealing that bigger grids are more stable. The study used a new measurement technology and a portable GPS-synchronized recorder to collect high-resolution data.
Patients diagnosed with non-cardiac chest pain often struggle to accept normal test results due to misconceptions about heart disease. A new study shows that a brief educational intervention significantly improves patient trust and reduces future chest pain episodes.
A no-deal Brexit may lead to exclusion of the UK from 24 European Reference Networks, which provide specialized care for patients with rare diseases. The networks have improved patient outcomes and collaboration among experts; their removal could diminish access to clinical trials and funding.