Another piece of the ancient computer’s puzzle has been solved. The 2 000-year-old Antikythera Mechanism, the first analogue computer, was a bronze hand-powered device from ancient Greece filled with complex gears. It was used to predict the positions of the planets and events like lunar and solar eclipses. The machine was even used to set […]
SARS-CoV-2 mutations thwart body’s killer cells
An EU-backed study has shown that when the SARS-CoV-2 virus mutates, it can prevent killer T cells from recognising infected cells and eliminating them. In the ongoing battle against the SARS-CoV-2 virus, antibodies play a vital role in fighting off infection. However, they don’t work alone. Another protagonist is the killer T cell that finds […]
Global emissions cuts in line with Paris Agreement mean near-term benefits for Earth
A new EU-backed study shows that cutting emissions to meet the 1.5 °C and 2 °C temperature targets could slow warming within 2 decades. Many countries are taking steps to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in line with the goals of the Paris Agreement. However, the short-term mitigation benefits that will arise from these efforts are […]
Bypassing age verification measures on social media
An EU-backed study has shown how easy it is for children to bypass the mechanisms that the most popular apps use to verify their age: all they have to do is lie. The measures that popular social media apps use to verify age during the sign-up process are basically ineffective. According to research supported by […]
Can you teach an old dog new words? Yes, study finds
Dogs can learn new words after hearing them only four times. It comes as no surprise to see a dog running to its bowl after it hears “food” or fetch its collar when its owner utters “outside”. There are a few more simple words and commands that dogs pick up along the way. According to […]
Genetics and their role in small and large birth weight
An EU-backed study has shown that the genetics of mother and baby contribute to very small and large birth weight. Genetics play an important role in small and large birth weight, according to a new study supported by the EU-funded DYNAHEALTH, LIFECYCLE, EDCMET, EUCAN-Connect and CAPICE projects. The study showed that the genetics of both […]
In a first, the EU produced more energy from renewables than fossil fuels in 2020
The EU now generates more energy from renewables than from fossil fuels, new report claims. Europe aims to become the first climate-neutral continent by 2050. This very ambitious goal seems closer to becoming a reality now that renewables have overtaken fossil fuels to become the EU’s main source of electricity. According to a newly published […]
New tools provide valuable insight into lethal brain tumour biology
Using new technology developed for their research into glioblastoma brain cancer, EU-backed researchers have shown how immune cells protect the tumour rather than the body. Across the globe, about 240 000 people are diagnosed with brain and nervous system tumours every year. The most common and most lethal of these tumours is glioblastoma, a malignant […]
Smart tech for more sustainable seas
An EU-funded project team is developing and testing smart nets, smart scanners and other technologies to help combat overfishing. The growing consumer demand for seafood over the last few decades is depleting fish stocks in our seas and oceans. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, in 2017 only 65.8 % […]