Fresh insights into the genes that cause the neurological disorder could open new routes for the prevention and perhaps even reversal of symptoms. By VITTORIA D’ALESSIO Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition that has been intensely investigated since the mid-20th century. It’s estimated that ASD affects around 1 in 100 children and mainly boys. Studies suggest … Read more
As Europe’s population ages, understanding the causes of declining birth rates becomes more important. By ANDREW DUNNE When demography expert Daniele Vignoli asked young couples for their thoughts about having children, a theme emerged: uncertainty about the future. In an experiment that Vignoli conducted in Italy and Norway in 2019, he showed a total of 800 … Read more
As biodiversity declines and causes reductions in the genetic variation of animals, historic genomes offer clues for conservation. By MICHAEL ALLEN As recently as the early 1800s, thousands of Seychelles paradise flycatcher birds lived on at least five islands off the southeast coast of Africa. By the 1960s, just 28 of the winged creatures were left … Read more
Links between the human intestine and diseases such as arthritis are increasingly coming to light and signal that healthy diets can help control illnesses. By ANTHONY KING Health in body and mind may well be rooted in the gut. The trillions of bacteria, archaea, fungi and viruses in the human body – collectively called the microbiome … Read more
The answer to cleaning up contaminated industrial sites in Europe could lie in the microbes that are already there. By JACK MCGOVAN Trees and other vegetation grow on the site of a former soap factory in northwestern France. While the greenery suggests all is well in the Ploufragan commune near the Brittany coast, the truth is … Read more
Heat pumps in buildings are in focus as the EU slashes emissions and boosts clean energy. By HELEN MASSY-BERESFORD At the foot of the mountains of western Italy between the cities of Turin and Cuneo, Europe recently took a step forward in a campaign to provide homes with clean energy as part of the fight against … Read more