EU-backed scientists show us how smart materials called magnetoactive polymers (MAPs) could someday be used to stimulate healing in epithelial wounds. MAPs change their mechanical properties in response to their surroundings. A revolutionary development in the fields of solid mechanics and materials science, these materials consist of a polymeric matrix (an elastomer) with miniscule magnetic […]
Read MoreTemporary rules to detect child sexual abuse online
MEPs endorsed a temporary regulation that allows web-based service providers to continue fighting child sexual abuse material online on a voluntary basis. In the context of a worrying increase in the volume of child abuse material on the internet exacerbated by the pandemic, the House backed with 537 votes in favour, 133 against and 24 abstentions a […]
Read MoreCell and Gene Therapy: first EIC-ERC workshop held
The European Innovation Council (EIC) and European Research Council (ERC) hosted a joint workshop on gene and cell therapy on 29 June 2021. Cell and gene therapy is a dynamic field of research, ranging from basic science to clinical applications as well as a promising area of medicine. The purpose of the workshop was to […]
Read MoreEFSA advises food suppliers on information for consumers
New guidance is available to help food suppliers decide what information to give consumers about storing food and time limits for consumption. Once food packaging has been opened, bacteria can be transferred to food by contaminated hands, surfaces, or equipment. Setting a time limit for consumption is complex, but the tool developed by EFSA’s experts assists food suppliers in […]
Read MoreWhy are morning people happier?
Scientists claim one sleep habit can lead to more happiness. Feeling the blues? It’s time to reset your alarm clock. According to a study published in the journal ‘JAMA Psychiatry’, adjusting your sleep schedule could be good for your mental health. The research concluded that waking up just an hour earlier than usual could lower […]
Read MoreDigital COVID Certificate enters into application
As of today, the EU Digital COVID Certificate Regulation enters into application. This means that EU citizens and residents will now be able to have their Digital COVID Certificates issued and verified across the EU. 21 Member States as well as Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein had already started to issue certificates ahead of today’s deadline, […]
Read MoreUse of antibiotics in animals is decreasing
Use of antibiotics has decreased and is now lower in food-producing animals than in humans, says the latest report published by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), the European Medicines Agency (EMA) and the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC). Taking a One Health approach, the report from the three EU agencies presents data on […]
Read MoreEU must tackle inequality
David Sassoli called on EU leaders to deliver on promises on the travel certificate and tackle inequality in the recovery from the Covid-19 pandemic. The President of the European Parliament made the plea at the start of the European Council on 24 June. He told the heads of state and government there was the prospect […]
Read MoreUnique exoplanet photobombs Cheops study of nearby star system
While exploring two exoplanets in a bright nearby star system, ESA’s exoplanet-hunting Cheops satellite has unexpectedly spotted the system’s third known planet crossing the face of the star. This transit reveals exciting details about a rare planet “with no known equivalent”, say the researchers. The discovery is one of the first results from ESA’s Cheops (CHaracterising […]
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