The Vikings were part of a global network trading in ivory from Greenland
Researchers found Vikings traveled extensively for walrus ivory, covering 6,000 km, including interactions with indigenous Arctic populations.
Europe
Articles tagged with Europe
Alarming surge: Global crisis of childhood overweight and obesity
Childhood obesity has surged globally, with nearly half of all overweight children under 5 years old found in Asia. The authors highlight the need for coordinated efforts to address this epidemic, including increased physical activity and healthier diets.
Harvests, wildfires, epidemics: How the jet stream has shaped extreme weather in Europe for centuries
Tree-ring data reveal that periodic shifts in strong winds high above the Earth's surface have driven opposite climates in different parts of Europe for the past 700 years. This research provides critical data to improve climate models, comparing past patterns to current trends and societal impacts.
Researchers explore novel approach to map forest dieback in satellite images
Researchers developed DIAMANTE, a data-centric semantic segmentation approach to detect forest tree dieback events in satellite images. The approach trains a U-Net-like model on labelled remote-sensing datasets and achieves reasonable accuracy for early disease detection, reducing false alarms.
Demand-side actions could help construction sector deliver on net-zero targets
A new study suggests that using state-of-the-art energy efficiency technologies can enable Europe's construction sector to almost eliminate its carbon emissions by 2060. Employing technologies like solar energy and heat pumps can reduce total energy used for heating and cooling buildings by up to 97%.
European Green Deal: a double-edged sword for global emissions
The EU's Green Deal aims to reduce carbon emissions by 2050 but may increase emissions globally. An international team of scientists found that the deal could lead to a 244.8% increase in global emissions outside EU borders. However, adopting a plant-based diet and phasing out biofuels within the EU could significantly reduce emissions.
UC3M doubles the number of outreach activities for European Researchers' Night 2024
The Universidad Carlos III de Madrid is organizing 16 R&D&I outreach activities as part of European Researchers' Night 2024, with half taking place at its Madrid-Puerta de Toledo Campus. The events cover topics like AI, biocultural rights, and scientific discoveries.
European COFUND to convert ideas into actions to tackle global climate-related challenges
The DREAM+PLAN program will recruit up to 32 PhD researchers to develop pathways for solving local and global climate emergencies through resilience, restoration, and regeneration. The program's goal is to create a positive impact on a more sustainable, fair, inclusive planet.
Study identifies areas of Europe at risk from dengue fever due to spread of Asian tiger mosquito
A new study by the UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology predicts high-risk towns across Europe for dengue fever outbreaks, with southern France and northern Italy being most affected. The research uses advanced high-resolution modeling to provide daily risk assessments for each area.
The competitive edge of Norway's hydrogen by 2030: Socio-environmental considerations
The article examines three scenarios for Norway's hydrogen export market development, including techno-economic viability and spatial considerations. The results suggest that Norway may be cost-competitive in blue hydrogen exports but faces sustainability limitations due to natural gas reliance.
New population model identifies phases of human dispersal across Europe
The 'Our Way Model' reveals four phases of human dispersal, including a slow expansion from the Levant to western Europe and rapid advancements into previously unsettled areas. Climate change significantly impacted human dispersal, with periods of severe cold and warming influencing population growth and decline.
Qunkasaura: New sauropod dinosaur from the Cretaceous discovered in the Iberian Peninsula
Scientists have discovered a new species of sauropod dinosaur, Qunkasaura pintiquiniestra, from the Cretaceous period in Spain. The fossil record reveals that Europe was home to both endemic and immigrant sauropods, challenging previous assumptions about regional isolation.
Hot flash drug shows significant, rapid benefits in pivotal clinical trials
A new non-hormonal hot flash treatment has been shown to significantly reduce symptom frequency and severity within weeks, while also improving sleep quality and overall well-being. The investigational drug elinzanetant was found to have a favorable safety profile with mild side effects.
The Lancet Public Health: Climate change and ageing populations to drive greater disparities in deaths from hot and cold temperatures across Europe, modelling study suggests
A new study suggests that climate change and ageing populations will widen regional disparities in death risk from hot and cold temperatures in Europe. By 2100, heat-related deaths are projected to increase significantly, mostly in southern regions, while cold-related deaths are expected to decline slightly.
The invasion of Ukraine and European attitudes
The Russian invasion of Ukraine led to increased support for democracy, income redistribution, and the European Union among Europeans. Attitudes towards authoritarianism and anti-immigration views decreased as a result.
Nearly 25% of European landscape could be rewilded
Rewilding efforts in Europe could help countries meet conservation goals with 70% of opportunities in colder climates. Passive and active strategies are proposed to create self-sustaining ecosystems.
Study highlights sex differences in notified infectious disease cases across Europe
A study analyzing 5.5 million EU/EEA infectious disease cases over 10 years found significant sex differences in notified male versus female cases for several diseases. The proportion of males ranged from 40-45% for pertussis and Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli infections to 75-80% for HIV/AIDS.
New interpretation of runic inscription reveals pricing in viking age
A new study from Stockholm University provides fresh insights into the Viking Age monetary system, revealing a flexible pricing system that used both oxen and silver as units of payment. The Forsa Ring inscription describes fines paid in these forms, indicating a more practical and efficient financial system.
Heat caused over 47,000 deaths in Europe in 2023, the second highest burden of the last decade
A study led by ISGlobal estimates that heat caused over 47,000 deaths in Europe in 2023, with southern European countries being the most affected. The mortality rate was higher in women and people over 80 years old, and without societal adaptation processes, it would have been 80% higher.
Groundwater reserves in southwestern Europe more stable overall than previously thought
Research found that 68% of wells in southwestern Europe have stable groundwater levels, while 20% show rising levels and 12% decline. Effective management approaches in semi-arid regions led to recovery of groundwater levels in areas such as La Mancha Oriental in Spain.
When the last pit is closed
Researchers investigate four European regions experiencing demographic decline, exploring how relationships between generations and places change over time. The study uses participant observation and participatory action research methods to gather insights from families and local residents.
TUM and NTU Singapore sign flagship partnership
The Technical University of Munich (TUM) has established a flagship partnership with Nanyang Technological University Singapore (NTU), expanding its global presence in the region. The partnership aims to tackle major challenges in Southeast Asia through collaboration on quantum sovereignty, artificial intelligence, and other key areas.
Same-sex marriage recognition helps countries attract, retain highly skilled workers
European countries that recognized same-sex marriages saw a 21% decrease in new HB1 visas from the US over 20 years. This suggests that inclusive policies make countries more attractive for skilled labor, particularly in STEM fields.
Innovative approach to vaccine trials and pandemic preparedness
A new approach in vaccine research, adaptive platform trials (APTs), offers a flexible adjustment of study design during ongoing clinical trials. This allows for quick adaptation to new developments and enables the recruitment of large numbers of participants across different countries.
Texas A&M research collaboration uncovers how domestic rabbits become feral in the wild
Researchers at Texas A&M University uncovered how domestic rabbits become feral in the wild through natural selection. They found that all European, South American, and Oceania rabbits had a mix of feral and domestic DNA, explaining why they quickly adapted to living in the wild.
UMA scientists find a natural quicksand trap dated to more than one million years ago in the ‘elephant graveyard’ of Orce
Scientists at the University of Malaga have uncovered a natural quicksand trap in the 'elephant graveyard' of Orce, dated to over 1.4 million years ago. The discovery provides insights into human presence in Western Europe and competition with large carrion hyenas for meat resources.
The plague may have caused the downfall of the Stone Age farmers
New research suggests that the plague may have contributed to the population decline of Stone Age farmers in Scandinavia and Northwestern Europe. Analysis of ancient DNA from bones and teeth found that 17% of individuals were infected with the plague, indicating its common presence during the late Stone Age.
IVF and IUI treatment cycles increase across Europe, along with stable pregnancy rates
Data from the ESHRE European IVF Monitoring Consortium shows a 20% increase in ART treatment cycles in Europe, with steady rises in IVF and IUI usage. Pregnancy rates per transfer remained similar in 2021 and 2020 for IVF and ICSI, while frozen embryo replacement showed slightly higher rates.
Tackling the climate and housing crises: How the EU can promote compact living
A new study by RIFS suggests that voluntary reductions in living space can contribute to achieving EU's climate and housing goals. European citizens are willing to embrace smaller living under the right circumstances, with a preference for centrally-located apartments in green neighborhoods.
Research brings into question prosecution of foreign fighters in Russia
Research by Associate Professor Shannon Bosch challenges Russia's classification of foreign fighters as mercenaries, arguing that international law and Ukrainian domestic legislation protect their rights. The study highlights the need for full combatant immunity and prisoner of war status for these foreign fighters.
The Long-term Ecological Research Network research infrastructure can help scaling up ecological restoration: Insights from a questionnaire
A long-term ecological research network can help scale up ecological restoration in Europe by providing standardized and open-access data on natural ecosystems. The network's knowledge and expertise cover most European habitats and degradation states, enabling the development of a harmonized monitoring framework for EU-wide evaluation.
What was behind the 2021-2022 energy crisis within Europe?
Researchers used statistical physics and network science to analyze European electricity price data, revealing that factors beyond Russian gas were at play during the 2021-2022 energy crisis. The study found strong correlations between certain countries' markets and unexpected impacts on electricity prices.
What do we need for better biodiversity monitoring in Europe?
A new study by iDiv-IIASA highlights the need for improved biodiversity monitoring in Europe, citing limitations such as fragmented efforts and lack of integrated data. The researchers identified key policy areas and solutions to address these challenges, including enhanced coordination, standardization, and stakeholder engagement.
New regulations needed to limit impact of favouritism on country credit ratings
Research by economists at University of East Anglia and others found links between finance ministers and executives at biggest credit ratings agencies associated with higher ratings for countries without these connections, highlighting a conflict-of-interest problem in the credit ratings agency business model.
International study reveals high unmet need for mental health care among adolescents in Asia and Europe
A large international study reveals that most Asian and European adolescents do not seek professional help despite having high levels of mental health problems. In middle-income countries, less than 1% of adolescents with severe mental health issues sought formal help.
FRONTIERS opens new call for science journalism in residency program
The FRONTIERS Science Journalism Initiative offers a residency program for journalists to develop independent journalism while working with scientists at the forefront of knowledge. Seven journalists from around the globe were selected for the first round and will receive Frontiers Residencies in various EU countries.
European countries differ in their drinking styles – what is yours?
A new study reveals six drinking patterns in Europe, with countries like Estonia and Cyprus showing the highest average alcohol-attributable deaths. The research suggests that changing these patterns requires a cultural shift and may involve implementing effective alcohol policies.
LIST to help develop gas sensors for everyday products under new Horizon Europe project
The Luxembourg Institute of Science and Technology is developing affordable gas sensors for environmental monitoring and occupational safety. The €8 million AMUSENS project aims to create portable, cost-effective sensors using nanotechnology and artificial intelligence.
Kinship and ancestry of the Celts in Baden-Württemberg, Germany
A new genetic analysis of Celtic burial mounds in Baden-Württemberg, Germany, confirms the long-held suspicion that two princes were biologically related. The study finds a close relationship between the two individuals and suggests that power structures among early Celtic elites may have been based on biological kinship.
Swiss study of Portuguese immigrants looks into the impact of citizenship on identity
A Swiss research team surveyed 400 Portuguese immigrants to understand how their desire for citizenship influences their attachment to home and host cultures. The findings suggest that acquiring citizenship can lead to a decrease in attachment to the immigrant's original group, while increasing identification with the host culture.
Who will like beetle skewers? What Europeans think about alternative protein food
While some European countries like Denmark, Finland, and Spain show positive attitudes towards alternative protein food, others such as Italy have lower acceptance rates. Additionally, young Polish consumers are less likely to adopt novel foods compared to Danish and German consumers.
Political elites take advantage of anti-partisan protests to disrupt politics
New research from the University of Notre Dame reveals that protest movements against political parties can inadvertently empower politicians who use them to disrupt the status quo. The study analyzed 12 case studies across Europe, Asia, and North and South America between 2008 and 2016, finding varying outcomes including factional cha...
Ancient Mycenaean armor tested by Marines and pronounced suitable for extended combat
Researchers recruited Hellenic Marine volunteers to test the Dendra armor's combat suitability. The experiment revealed that the armor did not limit a warrior's fighting ability or cause severe strain on the wearer.
Study implicates Neanderthal DNA in autism susceptibility
Researchers at Clemson University discovered that certain Neanderthal-derived genetic variations are more common in people with autism than in the general population. These findings suggest long-term effects of ancient human hybridization on brain organization and function, potentially leading to earlier diagnostics.
How to ensure biodiversity data are FAIR, linked, open and future-proof? Policy makers and research funders receive expert recommendations from the BiCIKL project
The BiCIKL project has shared lessons learned on improving data findability, accessibility, interoperability, and reusability (FAIR-ness) of various biodiversity data types. The project's policy briefs provide recommendations for policymakers and research funders to adopt best practices and guidelines.
Higher income reduces stroke mortality risk by a third, new study shows
A new study has revealed that high-income individuals have a 32% lower risk of post-stroke mortality. Those with higher education also face a 26% lower risk of death post-stroke.
The spread of misinformation varies by topic and by country in Europe
A study published in PLOS ONE found that people in Europe primarily consume trustworthy news, but a small percentage rely on questionable sources. The ratio of questionable news to reliable news consumption differs between countries, highlighting the need for context-specific approaches to fighting misinformation.
Frequent salting of food increases the risk of stomach cancer
A study of over 470,000 adults found that those who frequently add salt to their food are 39-40% more likely to develop stomach cancer. The research highlights the connection between high salt consumption and stomach cancer in Western countries, raising awareness of the negative effects of extremely high salt consumption.
European Court of Human Rights is “backsliding” on legal protections for asylum seekers, study says
A new study by Dr. Ben Hudson from the University of Exeter Law School criticizes the European Court of Human Rights for reversing its principles on protecting asylum seekers. The research finds that the court has become uncertain about what makes an applicant 'sufficiently vulnerable' to receive special protection.
Storks fly with a little help from their friends
A study from the Max Planck Institute found that storks choose routes with high densities of other storks, especially for young birds. As they gain migration experience, their preference decreases, suggesting a shift towards independence.
Theories that explain the crisis in democracy are inadequate for Latin America, experts say
Experts say the dominant literature on political polarization is inadequate for Latin America, citing a lack of evidence linking increased social inequality to polarized politics. Instead, research suggests that other factors, such as changes in political behavior and institutional instability, may be driving the crisis.
ERC wants to see what shapes the stories AI tells us
The project, AI STORIES, aims to understand how artificial intelligence creates new narratives and challenges dominant American narratives. The research will test the hypothesis that AI-generated responses mimic sci-fi stories where AI gains human emotions.
Early medieval money mystery solved
A team of researchers analyzed 49 silver coins from the Fitzwilliam Museum and found a chemical and isotopic signature matching third- to seventh-century silver from the Byzantine Empire. The study reveals a surge in trade involving these silver coins between 660 and 750 AD, which had a significant impact on people's lives. Later analy...
How vulnerable are European countries to changes in gas prices?
A recent study examines European electricity prices' vulnerability to changes in natural gas prices and proposes new indicators to measure it. The research highlights the need for vigilant market surveillance during energy crises and suggests decoupling electricity markets from natural gas prices.
War in Ukraine is increasing the prevalence of mental health conditions in children, new study finds
A new study reveals a significant rise in mental health problems among Ukrainian children and adolescents displaced by the war. Key findings include a one-third of child population experiencing clinically relevant anxiety, traumatic stress, depression, conduct behavior, and ADHD.
According to new research radio made the famous Finnish composer Jean Sibelius an international media figure
Research highlights the significant impact of radio on Finland's famous composer Jean Sibelius, transforming him into a celebrated national hero and international media figure. The study shows how coordinated joint concerts and radio broadcasts helped increase Sibelius' global reach.
With VECSELs towards the quantum internet
Researchers have developed VECSELs with record output power and absolute frequency stability, overcoming the hurdle of spectral differences between glass fibers and quantum bits. These lasers enable low-loss transmission and precise frequency conversion for quantum internet applications.
Shy sea anemones are more likely to survive heatwaves
A study by researchers from the University of Gothenburg found that shy sea anemones can outlast bold ones during extreme heatwaves due to their slower metabolism. This survival strategy may be beneficial for other cold-blooded marine species exposed to rapid temperature changes.
UC3M coordinates an EU-funded network to promote research on radical polarization
Researchers from 34 countries collaborate on DepolarisingEU project, developing interventions to mitigate undemocratic partisanship. The initiative aims to promote pluralism, civil discourse, and media literacy to counter radical polarization.
Reviving Europe’s orchard meadows: researchers call for action
A study by Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research and Macquarie University highlights the ecological value of orchard meadows in Central Europe. The research team advocates for moderate management intensity, connectivity to neighboring habitats, and preservation of structural diversity to maintain biodiversity.