Science and research news from across Europe. Covers major discoveries, university leadership, disease burden and costs, and research policy in the region.
Researchers at Jena University found that rapeseed protein has comparable bioavailability to soya protein, making it a viable replacement option. This breakthrough study opens the door for rapeseed protein to be used in human nutrition, addressing global protein demands and reducing reliance on imported soya protein.
The Human Brain Project seeks to integrate fragmented knowledge of the human brain through supercomputer-based models. Researchers will test conceptual models using simulated and real systems, aiming to refine models and develop new technologies.
A study reveals that radiotherapy services are insufficiently equipped in 10 European countries to meet the growing demand for treatment, with Nordic countries and Belgium being well-equipped. The authors suggest further investigation into optimizing efficiency to address fragmentation of radiotherapy services.
Joerg Schmiedmayer's work focuses on ultra cold atom clouds with high order, approaching a disordered thermal equilibrium. His new ERC Grant will investigate relaxation and non-equilibrium dynamics in quantum systems.
Michael Stratton and Peter Hegemann received the 2013 Louis-Jeantet Prize for their discovery of ion channels activated by light, known as optogenetics, which holds promise for treating neurological diseases. They will use the prize money to continue their research on proteins that can be activated by light.
New research published in Psychological Science found that public campaigns urging Americans to think and act interdependently may actually decrease motivation for action. In contrast, Asian American students' behavior was not affected by emphasis on interdependence.
Glaciers in the tropical Andes have been retreating at an increasing rate since the 1970s, with a 30-50% shrinkage since then. Climate change is blamed for this rapid melting, which could affect water supply to Andean populations.
A team of European experts, led by Newcastle University, has designed blast-proof technologies to reduce debris and protect passengers in the event of a bomb attack. The new technology is being incorporated into European and national standards, aiming to save lives and prevent terrorist attacks on railways.
A new study reveals the European Jewish genome is a mosaic of Caucasus, European, and Semitic ancestries, supporting the Khazarian Hypothesis. The research challenges the long-held Rhineland Hypothesis, suggesting a complex multi-ethnical ancestry with a dominant Caucasus-Near Eastern signature.
African Americans had more accurate knowledge of historically documented racism compared to European Americans. This difference in historical knowledge partially accounted for group differences in perceptions of racism, both at a systemic and an incident-specific level.
A workshop with 15 European colleagues identified 50 most important questions for conserving biodiversity in the Alps. These questions focus on nature, management, and people, highlighting the importance of transdisciplinary work in addressing environmental problems.
A study published in Climatic Change reveals that global warming has increased monthly heat records by a factor of 5 worldwide. The researchers found that 80% of observed monthly records would not have occurred without human influence on climate, highlighting the urgent need for adaptation.
A recent study published in PNAS found evidence of gene flow from India to Australia around 4,230 years ago, challenging the notion that Australia remained isolated between initial colonization and European arrival. This migration also shares a common origin with populations from New Guinea and the Philippines.
A study by Dr. Mark Ebell found that patients expect to cough for 7-9 days, while the actual duration is closer to 18 days. This mismatch may contribute to over-prescription of antibiotics, which can lead to antibiotic resistance and increased healthcare costs.
The REBORNE project aims to develop new biomaterials that stimulate bone tissue formation with the use of mesenchymal stem cells. Clinical trials will be conducted in France, Spain, Germany, and Italy to evaluate the safety and efficacy of this treatment for delayed union fractures.
A new study estimates that up to 1.5 million EU children are born each year with mercury exposures above the safe limit, resulting in a potential lifetime earning loss of €8-9 million per person. Exposure reduction could equate to €10 billion per year in benefits.
A groundbreaking air cleaning device developed by the University of Copenhagen has successfully removed Volatile Organic Compounds from industrial emissions. The invention uses natural processes to clean indoor air and remove pollutants, resulting in improved relations between businesses and their neighbors.
A study of 900 Spanish consumers found that country of origin is the most important factor when buying fish, with Spain being the preferred choice. The majority of respondents prefer wild fish and fresh products, highlighting a trend towards domestic consumption.
Researchers found that Italian wolves primarily consume wild boar, accounting for two-thirds of their diet, with roe deer making up around a third. The study suggests that wolves prefer wild boar even when roe deer densities are high, indicating a strong preference for this prey.
Researchers have identified five small wasp species that directly attack the younger life stages of the pine wood nematode vector Monochamus galloprovincialis. The study, published in ZooKeys, highlights the potential for these tiny insects to control a major pest affecting southwest Europe pine stands.
Researchers used the MPG/ESO 2.2-metre telescope and Hubble Space Telescope to study 21 globular clusters, finding that a few were young with blue stragglers distributed throughout, while others were old with the stars clumped in the centre. This reveals big differences in the speed of evolution from cluster to cluster.
Researchers from FIGHT-MG project discover that a viral molecule can trigger an inappropriate immune response, causing muscular function to deteriorate. The study provides proof of concept that a viral infection can cause auto-immune myasthenia, a rare disease characterized by muscular weakness and exhaustion.
Research reveals successful solo rock/pop stars are twice as likely to die early as those in equally famous bands. Adverse childhood experiences are also significantly more common among those who died from drug and alcohol misuse.
Every week, the UK National Poisons Information Service receives around two phone queries about snakebites, with over half of these enquiries concerning the European adder, the only poisonous snake native to the UK. Snakebite injuries can be serious due to their effects on the heart and other organs, despite being rarely fatal.
Researchers discovered ancient wooden wells in eastern Germany, providing evidence of skilled carpentry among early European farmers. The tree rings preserved environmental data offering insights into climate and strategies used by these prehistoric settlers.
The Natura 2000 network's effectiveness in covering European species is evaluated, with mixed results. The analysis shows that the network mostly covers target species but has gaps in representation, especially for narrow-ranged species.
A new climate model simulates the effects of Arctic hurricanes on ocean water circulation and climate, suggesting potentially cooler conditions in Europe and North America. The research finds that polar lows influence the sinking of dense cold water in the North Atlantic, driving large-scale ocean circulation.
The European Science Foundation published a report calling for an advanced understanding of the human brain, highlighting five key opportunities for research. The initiative aims to provide a framework for discussion on future research and practice in light of changes in our understanding of the brain.
The 2011 TIMSS and PIRLS assessments reported global student achievement in mathematics, science, and reading, with East Asian countries leading the way. The top-performing countries in each subject were identified, along with trends in achievement over time.
The study found that tobacco smuggling in Europe is lower than expected, with availability being the primary driver. Illicit tobacco was more common in countries bordering Ukraine and Russia, as well as those with lower prices for Marlboro packs.
A new study by European Molecular Biology Laboratory researchers found that each person's gut metagenome is unique and remains stable over time. The analysis of 207 individuals revealed a high resolution of individual mutations in gut microbes, with potential applications for identifying gut diseases and developing personalized therapies.
A study published in Current Biology found that the European Romani population has its roots in northwestern India, dating back around 1,500 years. The research used genome-wide data to confirm this origin and shed light on the history of the Romani people.
Researchers analyzed microbial DNA in 252 stool samples to catalog genetic variation, finding over 10 million single-letter changes in collective DNA. The data could aid understanding of how human genes interact with microbes to maintain health or cause disease.
Research finds that HIV-infected children have a 2.5-fold increased risk of early atherosclerosis damage, leading to cardiovascular disease. Experts recommend aggressive treatment of high cholesterol and promotion of healthy lifestyles to prevent complications.
Research shows that obstructive sleep apnea causes early cardiovascular damage similar to diabetes, highlighting the importance of seeking medical attention. Patients with moderate to severe OSA have endothelial dysfunction and higher arterial stiffness, which can lead to heart failure.
Researchers have identified 35 hearts without significant coronary artery disease that are eligible for transplantation using pharmacological stress echo. The study found successful transplantation in emergency recipients with minimal complications, paving the way for an upward shift in donor age cut-off limit from 55 to 65 years.
A recent study discovered that small patches of native plants within fruit orchards can enhance pollinator services, increasing mango production. The presence of these patches has been shown to increase the number of visits from honeybees and wild pollinators, leading to improved crop yields.
A peer-reviewed study found that most houses have levels of at least one flame retardant exceeding federal health guidelines, with hormone disruptors, carcinogens, and chemicals of unknown safety profiles detected. The study highlights the need for safer alternatives to phase out hazardous chemicals.
Climate change is affecting all regions in Europe, causing a range of impacts on society and the environment. Higher temperatures, decreased precipitation in southern regions, and melting glaciers are among the key findings.
Professor Uffe Haagerup received the 14th European Latsis Prize for his pioneering work in operator algebra, a field with significant applications in quantum field theory. The prize recognizes his unique achievements and contributions to mathematics, solidifying his reputation as a leading mathematician.
The European Commission awards the ESC nearly €500,000 to survey European CVD research funding landscape and identify gaps in funding. The CardioScape project will provide intelligence on where cardiovascular research funding is provided and make recommendations for future transnational research strategies.
The SustainValue project creates concrete tools for ensuring partners act sustainably. A networked approach helps develop comprehensive solutions rather than individual products. The project also establishes new indicators for assessing economic, social, and environmental impacts across entire networks of stakeholders.
Astronomers have discovered that dwarf planet Makemake lacks a significant atmosphere, revealing new insights into its composition. The study used observations of Makemake passing in front of a star to determine its size, density, and albedo, with findings comparable to dirty snow.
The annual UK Flusurvey aims to collect data from men and women of all ages on flu symptoms, trends, and risk factors. Researchers hope to uncover if 'man flu' is real and explore the impact of pets on reported flu-like illnesses.
Researchers have identified two species of wood-boring beetles as the makers of wormholes in European printed art since the Renaissance. The study, published in Biology Letters, uses printed art as a trace fossil to precisely date species and identify their locations.
The LLLight'in'Europe project aims to measure employee strengths in solving complex problems, fostering innovation and attracting new talent. The four-year study will assess Complex Problem Solving Skills (CPS) capabilities in 4150 individuals across Europe.
The North American Oak Skeletonizer has invaded Europe on planted Northern Red Oaks since 1989. The moth's arrival is attributed to air transport of cocoons from NATO aircraft, leading to the discovery of this previously unknown species in Europe.
A recent study published in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology challenges the benefits of planned home birth, citing higher rates of unexpected complications, emergency transports, and perinatal mortality. The authors argue that a hospital-based approach can provide a safer and more satisfying experience for patients.
A team of researchers discovered genetic evidence of blending between Europeans and Asians in ancient Scythian warriors living in the Altai Mountains of Mongolia. The study reveals that local Central Asian populations blended with European lineages due to technological advancements from the Scythian culture.
The University of Southampton is leading a €11.6 million EU-funded research project to develop new crops that can withstand drought, addressing the impact of climate change on crop productivity. The project aims to characterise DNA variation in under-utilised crops and harness this knowledge to produce better crops.
Physicists create graphene mini-labs to study fast-moving electrons and their relativistic behavior. The experiments mimic the dynamics of cosmic rays, despite traveling at a fraction of the speed of light.
The 1000 Genomes Project has mapped normal human genetic variation at different scales, revealing differences between individuals and populations. The results open new approaches for research on the genetic causes of diseases, including links to specific DNA sequences and their inherited variants.
Researchers found that ancient European hippos shrunk in size during the Pleistocene Era due to changing environmental conditions. The study suggests that temperature, food availability, and other factors influenced their adaptation.
Researchers from Germany and Slovakia have found that triclosan concentrations in the Elbe river basin exceeded predicted no-effect concentrations by up to a factor of twelve. Triclosan is currently not included in routine monitoring programs, despite being used extensively in personal care products and sportswear.
The revised Tobacco Products Directive has been put on hold due to allegations of financial impropriety against former EU Commissioner John Dalli. The delay raises concerns about the EU Commission's commitment to public health and citizens' confidence in decision-making.
A study comparing sepsis mortality rates in Europe and the US found higher mortality rates in Europe, but differences may reflect varying critical care approaches rather than healthcare quality. The study also revealed disparities in ICU admission and length of stay between the two regions.
Research estimates that European countries with weak agricultural import controls are more vulnerable to exotic insect pests. The study provides new metrics to evaluate and improve border controls, highlighting the need for better biosecurity measures to prevent invasive insects from entering the continent.
Researchers developed an electronic nose to detect obstructive sleep apnoea, a condition associated with inflammation in the upper airways. The device accurately diagnosed sleep apnoea in patients, showing a sensitivity of 93%, and could potentially reduce costs by selecting patients who require further testing.
Researchers discovered that migratory birds carrying ticks can transmit Crimean-Congo Haemorrhagic fever to new areas in southern Europe. The study found one bird species, the woodchat shrike, was a carrier of virus-infected ticks.
A Danish-British research team discovered a previously unknown third position in the calcium pump's on-off switch, enabling it to function at full speed when activated. This discovery improves our understanding of biological mechanisms and may lead to better treatment of diseases related to calcium balance.