Science and research news from across Europe. Covers major discoveries, university leadership, disease burden and costs, and research policy in the region.
The first international consensus on fibromuscular dysplasia provides a unified approach to diagnosis, management, and treatment of this vascular disease. Key recommendations include imaging protocols, antiplatelet therapy, and standardized angioplasty procedures.
A study by UPV/EHU researchers found that Chinese companies often falsify their ISO 9001 quality certificates, compromising the validity of their procedures. The research group recommends improving transparency and not trusting certificates from China to avoid serious problems.
Patients with type 2 diabetes should be prescribed physical activity to control blood sugar and improve heart health. Exercise programs are a cost-effective treatment and should be reimbursed. Long-term adherence can be improved by setting early achievable goals and adapting exercise plans to patients' preferences.
A study of the European gypsy moth genome found divergent proteins involved in muscle development, which may affect flight. The research also identified altered gene expression in response to viral infections, suggesting new avenues for biological control.
Scientists warn of increased bluetongue risk in the UK due to climate change, with larger outbreaks predicted under warmer conditions. Existing control measures can still prevent largest outbreaks, but ongoing vigilance is crucial.
Researchers sequenced the European gypsy moth genome, revealing its largest moth or butterfly genome ever recorded. The study provides insights into the insect's immune system and potential bioinsecticides to protect forests and orchards from destruction.
A recent study by Tània Verge and Javier Astudillo found that executive positions in politics are heavily gender-skewed. Female candidates face obstacles such as lower party leadership advantages and more rigorous scrutiny when reapplying, despite having more political experience.
Researchers found that climate change has led to increased synchrony between the two species, resulting in more conflicts over nesting sites. As a result, pied flycatcher fatalities in great tit nests have risen dramatically.
A study found that 2.1 million European cardiovascular deaths were caused by poor nutrition, with the potential to be prevented by better nutrition.
Astronomers have found the first direct evidence of white dwarf stars solidifying into crystals, which could make them billions of years older than previously thought. This discovery has been published in Nature and is based on observations taken with the European Space Agency's Gaia satellite.
A confidential online poll of 81 UK female surgeons found that over half have faced or witnessed discrimination in the workplace. The survey also revealed that Orthopaedics is seen as the most sexist surgical specialty, with many respondents citing poor work-life balance and inflexibility as major obstacles to a career in surgery.
A study found that roadsides with only hedges were the most effective at reducing pollution exposure, cutting black carbon and ultrafine particles. The researchers suggest planting denser hedges or a combination of trees with hedges in open-road environments to improve air quality.
A study published in JAMA Network Open found that Holocaust survivors had higher rates of chronic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and osteoporosis. Researchers suggest that unique characteristics of resilience among survivors and better health literacy may be contributing factors to their lower mortality rates.
The study reveals that herbal cannabis THC concentrations increased by 5% annually from 2006 to 2016, while cannabis resin THC levels rose rapidly from 10% to 17% between 2011 and 2016. This shift may offset the potential therapeutic benefits of CBD.
Researchers at Aarhus University found that current breeding programs for European wheat do not provide sufficient climate resilience. This lack of response diversity can lead to reduced yields, increased yield variability, and market volatility.
A decline in European wheat's climate resilience is reported, as analyzed from farmers' field data and trials. Wheat cultivar diversity hotspot exists in Slovakia, but deserts are found in Czechia, Germany, Italy, and Spain
A study reveals that nephrologists treat the most complex patients, with kidney disease patients having the highest number of comorbidities and medication needs. The findings highlight the need for better financial funding and awareness for kidney diseases in European healthcare systems.
A new study by the European Society of Cardiology found that giving birth is associated with a 14% higher risk of heart disease and stroke. Pregnant women are advised to keep weight gain under control and adopt healthy lifestyle habits after pregnancy to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.
A new report reveals that only 41% of European MPAs are fished less intensely than non-protected waters, while trawling activity is 38% higher inside MPAs. The findings suggest that stronger regulations are needed for MPAs to effectively protect sensitive species and biodiversity.
Many NHS trusts and health boards have been unable to accurately forecast how Brexit will affect crucial areas such as supply chains, medicines, and workforce. Only a quarter of those that responded were able to disclose their risk assessment related to Brexit, with many citing uncertainty about the government's guidance.
Scientists from Leipzig Institute for Meteorology and TROPOS conduct a field experiment to understand the relationship between aerosol particles, clouds, and precipitation. They observe the atmosphere at Punta Arenas, a region with minimal pollution, to gather data on cloud formation and life cycle.
The European robin and Turtle dove genomes have been sequenced for the first time, enabling researchers to explore genetic switches controlling bird migration. The study will also provide insights into the magnetic compass that helps birds navigate.
A global study estimates that one in four people over age 25 are at risk for stroke during their lifetime. The study reveals large geographic variations in stroke risk, with the highest risks found in East Asia and Central Europe.
Economists offer a new view of how cartels work, finding that firms don't need extensive information-sharing to collude. In fact, reduced transparency can help firms undercut cartels and gain market share, according to the study published in the Journal of Political Economy.
A new study published in the Biodiversity Data Journal reveals a total of 20,539 samples of different Iberian spider species, with 11 new species discovered. The research highlights the lack of knowledge on Iberian spiders and emphasizes the need for standardized protocols and wider taxonomical data to protect their conservation.
A new study reveals that approximately one-third of all US-born US citizens living in the US are considering leaving to live abroad. The main motivations cited are exploration, retirement, and dissatisfaction with their current situation. National identity and networks played a significant role in shaping these aspirations.
Researchers used drones equipped with thermal cameras to detect European nightjar nests in a pilot study. The method proved effective, allowing for accurate location of nests without disturbing the birds. This technology could have wider applications for detecting warm-blooded species.
The 5TONIC Lab in Madrid is accelerating 5G network slice deployment by developing proof-of-concept demonstrations for vertical markets. The €8m EU-backed 5G-Transformer project enables standard technological frameworks for network slicing using NFV, SDN, and MEC.
A study has identified 66 alien plant and animal species that could pose the greatest threat to European biodiversity in the coming decade. These invasive species are likely to arrive via shipping or trade, with aquatic species being most at risk.
A new study reveals that regions worldwide are experiencing more extreme weather events, with heavy rainfall in North America and Europe, while Africa sees an increase in droughts. The study suggests that human-caused climate change is driving these changes, with significant impacts on people's livelihoods.
A new algorithm developed in the European TBO-Met project optimizes flight trajectories to reduce delays and enhance safety. The system can predict and mitigate weather-related uncertainties, resulting in increased efficiency and cost savings.
The UFZ model suggests that managing isolated outbreaks of African swine fever requires swift action, including the removal of 20% of dead wild boars to control virus spread. The model also recommends establishing a central core zone and buffer zone to prevent further spread, highlighting the importance of fast response times.
Lancaster University's Movement For Movement initiative embeds physical activity into medical students' training, recognized as a UK best practice exemplar by the WHO. The resources empower future doctors to positively impact individual and population health.
Fuchs-Schündeln's ERC project aims to analyze heterogeneous labor market outcomes, exploring effects of maternity leave policies and increasing female presence in occupations on relative wages. The €1.6m grant will fund four subprojects involving macro- and microeconomic methods.
SourceData from EMBO is an open platform that makes research data directly searchable, while BioStudies aggregates the data files linked to a specific publication or project. This integrated workflow enables authors to make their published data openly accessible and easy to find.
Recent studies have questioned the conventional dating of indigenous sites in Ontario, Canada, with new evidence pointing to a 50-100 year shift in dates. The findings suggest that early contact between indigenous people and Europeans may have occurred later than previously thought.
The European Society of Cardiology survey found that nearly two-thirds of individuals at high risk of cardiovascular disease are centrally obese. The study highlights the need for health care systems to invest in prevention and public health initiatives to prevent heart disease and stroke.
Researchers identify a new strain of Yersinia pestis in ancient DNA, suggesting it may have contributed to the decline of Neolithic European settlements. The strain is believed to have evolved before mass migrations from the Eurasian steppe, spreading through trade routes and infecting mega-settlements with poor sanitation.
Scientists used radiocarbon dating to re-evaluate the history of key indigenous sites in Canada, finding that European trade goods were not reliable chronological markers. The study suggests that notable 'contact-era' events may need to be revaluated, as previously dated sites now date 50-100 years later than assumed.
A new paper examines the rationale behind the 'Barcelona Declaration' for responsible AI development and usage in Europe, focusing on safety, reliability, and ethics issues. The declaration aims to integrate best practices proactively as part of the design process.
Children's Hospital of Philadelphia celebrates European Commission approval of LUXTURNA, a one-time gene therapy treating vision loss due to inherited retinal dystrophy. The therapy has received regulatory approval in both the US and EU, offering new hope for patients with progressive blindness.
Maroon communities on Hispaniola resisted Spanish economic and labor arrangements, challenging European conquest. The Spanish eventually abandoned the north and west of the island due to African resistance's impact on their resources.
A recent study published in the European Heart Journal found that both excessive and insufficient sleep are linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and death. The research analyzed data from 116,632 adults aged between 35 and 70 years, revealing a significant association between sleep duration and cardiovascular health.
Researchers found that hybridization during eutrophication led to an expansion in biodiversity of the European whitefish species once the ecosystem recovered. This rapid niche expansion was made possible by genetic variation, demonstrating functional variation can quickly recover after ecosystem restoration.
A Finnish-Chinese study found that global warming increases frost damage on trees in Central Europe, with some areas experiencing substantial increases in spring frosts. This is due to earlier flowering and leafing out of plants, which can lead to more frequent and severe frost events.
Quside co-founder and CEO Dr. Carlos Abellan has been recognized by the European edition of the MIT Technology Review's 35 Innovators Under 35 list for his work on quantum random number generators. The technology, which enables gigabit-per-second quantum random numbers, is crucial for ensuring long-term data protection in a hyper-conne...
The new guidelines from the European Hematology Association and European LeukemiaNet provide standardized approaches to clinical management of Chronic Myelomonocytic Leukemia (CMML). The recommendations are based on expert consensus and include steps to improve evidence supporting clinical guidelines.
Despite substantial progress, Europe still faces challenges in diagnosing HIV-positive individuals and providing antiretroviral therapy. The report highlights a significant gap between diagnosed cases and those receiving treatment, particularly in Eastern European countries.
The European Research Council awarded €573 million in funding to 291 top mid-career researchers from 40 countries, with a focus on building teams and pursuing innovative ideas. The grants will support research projects across various domains, including physical sciences, life sciences, and social sciences.
A Champalimaud Centre researcher will explore how social environment and spatial factors influence an insect's defensive strategy, shedding light on brain mechanisms that underlie behaviour. The grant will fund novel experiments using fruit fly models.
An Austrian-Danish research team discovered 44 new species of twirler moths in Europe, including 22 previously unknown species. The discovery highlights the need for further research into insect biology to identify their conservation status and preservation efforts.
The project aims to drastically reduce costs and time for the pilot production of new photonic products, enabling a thousand new companies and thousands of jobs. The new facility will utilize a shared use model to combine PICs from different companies on one wafer, reducing costs.
Researchers have developed an effective monoclonal antibody treatment, lanadelumab, that can reduce the frequency of life-threatening swelling attacks in patients with hereditary angioedema. The treatment has shown a 90% reduction in attack rate and can be self-administered every two weeks.
A new study found a significant increase in type 1 diabetes cases across Europe, with rates rising by 3.4% per year. The study's findings have important implications for healthcare planning and delivery, highlighting the need for improved blood sugar control and increased support services.
A study published in the European Heart Journal found that greater cardiorespiratory fitness was linked to a lower risk of cardiovascular disease, including heart attacks. The researchers discovered that even small increases in fitness could have a significant impact on health.
The European Region saw a significant increase in new HIV diagnoses, with the eastern part recording over 130 000 cases. However, there is encouraging progress in the EU and EU/EEA countries, particularly among men who have sex with men, where diagnoses have declined by 20% since 2015.
A new checklist of North American fungi reveals 44,488 known species, with hundreds of thousands more awaiting discovery. The comprehensive list includes both large macrofungi and tiny microorganisms, highlighting their crucial roles in ecosystem balance and human well-being.
New research predicts a significant rise in the frequency and intensity of powerful storms in Europe and North America due to climate change. The study, led by Dr. Matt Hawcroft, projects a threefold increase in extreme precipitation events by the end of the century.
The European Perinatal Health Report shows that stillbirth and neonatal mortality rates decreased in Europe in 2015 compared to 2010. However, the rate of decrease varied widely between countries, with some experiencing significant declines while others saw little change.
Researchers found pesticide residues in 83% of soil samples from 11 European countries, highlighting the persistence of pesticides in the land. The study suggests that mixes of pesticides are more common than single types, posing a risk to non-target species.