Science and research news from across Europe. Covers major discoveries, university leadership, disease burden and costs, and research policy in the region.
An international team analyzed ancient DNA from 38 northern Europeans, uncovering that Scandinavia was settled via southern and northern routes. Agriculture arrived in northern Europe through migrating farmers and pastoralists. The study provides new insights into population dynamics of prehistoric northern Europe.
Plant species in the European Alps have shifted their elevational ranges upslope over the past several decades, with average abundance increasing. This trend has slowed at higher elevations, resulting in increased competition among species, particularly those at the highest elevations.
Direct DNA sequencing is uncovering unexpected genetic connections between ancient and modern populations in Eurasia, suggesting early gene flow or population structure that led to Europeans and Asians. Genetic analyses also reveal Neanderthal ancestry and mixing events, providing new insights into human prehistory.
A European Society of Cardiology study found that four in ten cardiomyopathies in young people are genetic. Family screening is crucial to detect the disease in apparently healthy relatives and prevent early death. The study also highlights the need for earlier diagnosis and better diagnostic tests, including genetic testing.
Researchers found that women in female-dominated workplaces face a 'women's work penalty' with worse access to flexible working arrangements. The study, published in the European Journal of Industrial Relations, suggests that low wages are accompanied by poor working conditions.
A major review by UNSW medical researchers has identified Enterovirus D68 as the likely cause of a mystery polio-like illness that paralysed children in the affected regions. The study used Bradfield Hill criteria to determine causality and found strong evidence linking EV-D68 to acute flaccid myelitis.
Research reveals human smugglers operate in a highly segmented market, with each stage a competitive marketplace for 'independent and autonomous' smugglers. Successful smugglers rely on reputation among migrants to maintain their business, and removing one smuggler can lead to rivals seizing their market share.
Only one-third of countries meet global targets for protected area connectivity, with EU Member States averaging 18.9% connected land coverage. The study recommends designating new PAs in strategic locations to enhance connectivity and support biodiversity conservation.
A new study suggests that people who perceive their willpower as limited are more likely to feel exhausted and need breaks between mentally taxing activities. In contrast, those who view their willpower as limitless tend to feel energized and ready to tackle the next challenge.
A European Society of Cardiology study found that nearly a quarter of patients with chronic ischaemic cardiovascular disease are dead or hospitalised within six months. The study identified factors such as older age, history of peripheral revascularisation and chronic kidney disease as strongly associated with high risk.
A new financial services tribunal is proposed to fill the gap in resolving mid-market disputes between financial institutions and small and medium-sized enterprises. The tribunal could increase international demand for English credit, reduce compliance costs, and improve innovation and growth.
A study by University of East Anglia and Nottingham Trent University found that Olympic success leads to decreased trading volumes in major economies. However, stock market returns remain largely unaffected. The researchers suggest that investors' distraction is the primary reason for this decrease.
A consortium of UK and European universities will test the validity of quantum superposition principle using a tiny glass particle levitated in a vacuum. The experiment aims to determine if quantum mechanics apply at larger scales, with implications for quantum technology applications.
Researchers from FAU are studying German cities' bids for European Capital of Culture to understand the impact on EU culture and identity. Initial findings suggest that cities prioritize cooperation over competition, highlighting the initiative's potential as a counter-balance to EU politics.
The new laboratory will focus on advancing understanding in areas including number theory, mathematical analysis, biomathematics and financial mathematics. It represents the highest level of collaboration between French and UK mathematics communities.
Research reveals more than two thirds of central and northern Europe were once covered by trees, now down to a third. New forest initiatives may mitigate habitat change using ecological approaches and traditional farming practices.
A European study found that increasing cycling networks in cities can lead to significant health and economic benefits. The study estimates that if all assessed cities achieved a 24.7% bicycle mode share, over 10,000 premature deaths could be avoided annually.
A modeling study suggests human fleas and body lice played a role in the spread of plague during Europe's Second Pandemic. The study found that these ectoparasites better reflected mortality patterns than other transmission routes.
Professor James Hough receives the Gold Medal for his seminal contribution to gravitational waves, while Professor Robert White is awarded for a lifetime of distinguished achievement in solid Earth geophysics. The awards recognize significant achievements in astronomy and geophysics across various fields.
Researchers found that increased fluctuations in the jet stream's path since the 1960s coincide with more extreme weather events, including heat waves, droughts, wildfires, and flooding. The study used tree ring data to reconstruct historical changes in the North Atlantic jet stream prior to the 20th century.
A new warm-up program for children's soccer has been shown to reduce injuries by around 50 percent. The '11 + Kids' program, developed for kids aged 7-13, involves a 20-minute warm-up with seven exercises performed at the start of training sessions.
The passenger pigeon's massive population of five billion individuals was dwindling even before the arrival of Europeans, who contributed to its eventual collapse. Genetic analysis using PSMC method found that the species' genetic variation patterns were unusual, making it unsuitable for this technique.
A UK survey found that feelings of threat from immigration, distrust of politicians, and disidentification with Europe significantly impacted voting intentions for Brexit. The results suggest that perceived threats from immigration were a key factor in shaping the Brexit vote.
A study by Case Western Reserve University reveals Aldi's success lies in limiting product choice and targeting price-conscious consumers with a single supplier for most products, resulting in higher sales growth (15%) compared to Walmart (2%)
The first human settlers on the Scandinavian peninsula followed two distinct migration routes, resulting in a genetically diverse population. Genetic variants linked to physical performance and reduced skin pigmentation were found, indicating adaptation to cold environments.
Renewable energy generation causes grid frequency fluctuations due to variable wind speeds and photovoltaic feed-in. Power trading appears more significant in grid frequency fluctuation than renewable feed-in, with small grids showing larger fluctuations.
A new study published in PLoS Biology suggests two main migrations into Scandinavia after the last glacial maximum: one from the south and another from the north-east. The research team analyzed genomic data from seven individuals, revealing a surprisingly large number of genetic variants in Scandinavian hunter-gatherers.
A multidrug-resistant Mycobacterium tuberculosis was found in eight refugees arriving in Europe, highlighting the need for early detection and isolation. The study's findings led to the development of a rapid PCR test and an EU-wide alert system to prevent further transmission.
Scientists analyzed various natural hazards like earthquakes, space weather events, and floods to understand their impact on power grid recovery time. The report highlights the importance of integrating risk assessment and management efforts across policy areas and improving cross-jurisdictional emergency management capabilities.
PharmaMar initiates EMA re-examination process for Aplidin, a marine-derived anticancer agent targeting multiple myeloma. The re-examination procedure aims to confirm or update the negative opinion on its Marketing Authorization Application.
The mmMAGIC project has developed a radio interface for mm-wave communication, addressing challenges in capacity, throughput, latency, and energy efficiency required for 5G services. The project has demonstrated the feasibility and practicality of its technical solutions, contributing to the development of 5G mm-wave systems.
Researchers from A Coruña University reject the glacier refuge theory for Iberian brown bears. They found that the Pleistocene lineage was lost and Holocene bears arrived from an unidentified area, likely France, 5,000 years after colonizing Britain.
A study of 20,000 tree species observations in the European Alps found that climate change has led to a decline in elevation gradients of leaf-out dates from 34 days to 22 days between 1960 and 2016. This shift is likely due to increased late spring and winter temperatures.
A study found that adults who ate more than two tomatoes or three portions of fresh fruit per day had slower lung function decline over a 10-year period. The researchers suggest that certain components in these foods might help restore lung damage caused by smoking.
A new study predicts that migrants applying for asylum in the European Union will nearly triple over the average of the last 15 years by 2100. The researchers found that countries with higher temperature deviations from 20 degrees Celsius during their growing season are more likely to see increased asylum applications.
Researchers analyzed tree masting observational data and found a strong correlation between the North Atlantic Oscillation and synchronized tree reproduction across Europe. This study supports the idea that the North Atlantic Oscillation plays a key role in large-scale masting.
A large-scale brain imaging study has refuted the long-held theory that a specific region in the left hemisphere is responsible for language processing. The research found no correlation between the planum temporale's anatomical asymmetry and language lateralization, contradicting previous findings.
A comprehensive review of the European Court of Justice and German Federal Administrative Court's relevant case-law on Natura 2000 assessment and derogation procedure. The study examines key aspects of the procedure, including scope, procedural steps, and requirements for authorisation and implementation.
Researchers in Southern Europe face significant challenges in achieving nearly zero-energy buildings due to sociological and climatic factors. The study highlights the need for improved regulations, design, construction, and use of these buildings to address thermal comfort issues and minimize environmental impact.
Seven researchers from Portugal, Czech Republic, Estonia, Poland, and Turkey will receive €50,000 grants to set up independent laboratories. The funding aims to improve European science competitiveness by supporting talented scientists in countries with limited research resources.
Researchers analyzed atmospheric and oceanic interactions to identify a pattern linking spring sea surface temperatures to summer East Atlantic circulation over Western Europe. This connection may improve summer rainfall forecasts for the UK, Ireland, and northern France.
A 95-million-year-old African tortoise migrated to Europe via the ancient supercontinent of Laurasia. Its remains, including a skull and carapaces, were found in Spain and Portugal.
The Graphene Flagship has successfully tested graphene for two space-related applications: loop heat pipes and solar sails. The experiments, conducted in microgravity, showed excellent thermal properties and radiation pressure behavior, paving the way for a commercial product.
The next-generation SuperMUC-NG will provide more compute power for scientists, enabling them to tackle complex problems and simulate earthquakes with greater accuracy. The new supercomputer will use warm-water cooling and advanced storage capabilities to reduce power consumption and address data management challenges.
The ESMO Position Paper emphasizes the need for patient-centered care in cancer treatment, addressing physical, psychological, social, and spiritual needs. It calls for increased awareness, research, education, and resources for supportive and palliative care.
The current flu vaccine is predicted to be effective against the majority of H3N2 flu viruses in the US, but may not protect against minority groups. Scientists have identified a mutation that can shift the vaccine virus to the minority group, potentially decreasing its effectiveness.
Despite growing scientific diversity, leading journals' editorial boards are predominantly composed of US and UK editors, with limited representation from emerging nations. This lack of geographic diversity can hinder the diffusion of knowledge and limit opportunities for underrepresented communities.
A team of researchers is mapping areas at risk from liquefaction, a devastating form of seismic phenomenon caused by earthquakes. The LIQUEFACT project aims to assess community resilience to liquefaction-induced disasters, producing a framework for building vulnerability evaluation and mitigation strategies.
A study by Dr. MG Carta et al. found a high prevalence of symptoms of depression among healthcare workers in Italy, with significant risks for physicians, nurses, and surgeons. The study highlights the impact of job stressors on mental health and quality of life among healthcare professionals.
Experts argue that the European Athletics Council's proposal to disregard pre-2005 world records is overly simplistic and unfair to clean athletes. The plan aims to address past doping violations but risks removing inspirational performances from history.
An international research team led by Mark van Kleunen found that plant species from European habitats altered by humans have a head start in spreading to other continents. The study investigated over 10,000 plant species and found that those from human-made environments were more successful in naturalizing on other continents.
The report highlights the need for Europe to change its diet to improve consumer health and mitigate climate change. Scientists recommend decreasing animal protein consumption, introducing new incentives for affordable nutrition, and promoting sustainable agriculture practices.
The European Union is requiring hybrid and pure electric vehicles to be equipped with acoustic vehicle alerting systems, which could lead to increased noise pollution. René Weinandy, head of Noise Abatement in Transport for the German Environment Agency, expressed concerns about the potential harm of these systems.
A new European alliance for oyster conservation has been established to protect the endangered European flat oyster. The alliance seeks to re-establish this key species in the North Sea and adjacent seas through restoration of oyster reef structures.
The University of Huddersfield and STFC are working on the RF distribution system for Europe's €1.8 billion European Spallation Source, a particle accelerator expected to be in full use by 2023. The project aims to produce high-intensity neutrons for atomic-level investigations of materials.
A recent study reveals prehistoric women performed intensive manual labor for thousands of years, surpassing modern female athletes. This finding highlights the crucial role of women's labor in agriculture's development and underscores the importance of using female comparative data to interpret past behavior.
The European Research Council has awarded €630 million in Consolidator Grants to 329 top researchers across Europe, creating an estimated 2,000 jobs and funding research projects in physical sciences, life sciences, social sciences, and humanities. The grants are aimed at boosting the EU's scientific excellence and competitiveness.
A new report by ECDC and WHO reveals that over half of HIV diagnoses in Europe occur at a late stage, leading to poorer health outcomes and increased transmission risks. Early diagnosis is crucial to prevent these outcomes, with improved testing practices and community-based services vital to addressing the issue.
The study reveals huge inequalities persist with heart disease accounting for over 50% of all deaths in many middle income countries, compared to less than 30% in high income countries. The UK has the highest prevalence of adult obesity in males and 2nd highest in females, and ranks joint 5th for raised blood cholesterol.
Leading lung cancer specialists call for immediate action to implement life-saving lung cancer screening programmes across Europe. The EU Position Statement on Lung Cancer Screening provides a detailed set of recommendations and a 'Call to Action' for policymakers to start planning within the next 18 months.