Climate and peatland initiation
Peatland initiation coincided with warming and increased precipitation, forming globally important carbon sinks. The study's findings have implications for future changes in peatland distribution.
Europe
Articles tagged with Europe
Fecal microbiota transplantation produces sustained improvements in cognitive and clinical outcomes
A single treatment of fecal microbiota transplantation produces sustained clinical and cognitive improvements in patients with liver cirrhosis and hepatic encephalopathy. The study showed significant reductions in HE episodes and hospitalizations, as well as improvements in cognitive function over 1 year.
Phase 2 studies of two novel treatments for primary biliary cholangitis report encouraging results
Phase 2 studies of tropifexor and seladelpar demonstrate potent anti-cholestatic and anti-inflammatory activity without increasing pruritus. Tropifexor and seladelpar are being explored as potential treatments for patients with primary biliary cholangitis, a progressive liver disease.
Selective internal radiation therapy (SIRT) fails to extend survival in the SORAMIC study palliative cohort
The SORAMIC study found no overall survival benefit of adding selective internal radiation therapy (SIRT) to sorafenib for patients with unresectable primary liver cancer. However, subgroup analyses suggested possible survival benefits in younger patients and those with certain cirrhosis characteristics.
Budesonide add-on therapy improves markers of disease activity but fails to improve histology in patients with primary biliary cholangitis
A study found that budesonide add-on therapy improves biochemical markers of disease activity but fails to improve liver histology in high-risk patients with primary biliary cholangitis. Budesonide was shown to produce clinically meaningful improvements in serum alkaline phosphatase levels.
US study reports dramatic reduction in likelihood of liver transplantation in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma
A nationwide US study confirms a significant decrease in liver transplant probabilities for HCC patients between 2005-2007 and 2014-2016. Patients with Medicaid insurance were less likely to receive transplants than those with private/commercial insurance.
Sustained virological response to oral hepatitis C virus treatment associated with reduced mortality in an Italian cohort
A real-world study found that patients with chronic hepatitis C virus infection who achieve a sustained virological response (SVR) after direct-acting antiviral agent (DAA) treatment have lower all-cause mortality. Achieving SVR reduced mortality from both liver-related and unrelated causes at all stages of disease.
Hepatitis C virus elimination programs report encouraging results: Is elimination within reach?
Two nationwide hepatitis C elimination programs in Georgia and Iceland have reported high levels of engagement, initiation of direct-acting antiviral agents, and cure among patients chronically infected with HCV. In Georgia, over 90% of diagnosed individuals were cured, while in Iceland, the prevalence of active HCV infection among peo...
NGM282 -- an engineered analogue of FGF19 -- shows promise in patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis
NGM282, an engineered analogue of FGF19, inhibits bile acid synthesis and decreases markers of hepatic inflammation in patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis. Significant reductions in serum levels of ALT and AST were observed in the NGM282 3 mg/day treatment group.
Italy: Ongoing hepatitis A virus outbreak among men who have sex with men is linked to current outbreaks in Europe
A study found that the Italian outbreak is predominantly caused by strains linked to recent European outbreaks, highlighting the risk of acute HAV infection via sexual transmission in high-risk groups like MSM. The study also emphasizes the importance of hepatitis A vaccine coverage and awareness campaigns for prevention.
Linkage to care specialist facilitates access to hepatitis C treatment for people who inject drugs
A prospective study found that linkage to care specialists can facilitate rapid access to hepatitis C treatment, with 60% of patients initiated on treatment. The study highlights the importance of increasing HCV diagnosis and treatment to meet WHO goals by 2030.
Mediterranean-style diet improves gut microbial diversity and reduces hospitalization
A Mediterranean-style diet rich in vegetables, fermented milk products, and coffee has been shown to improve gut microbial diversity and reduce hospitalization risk in patients with liver cirrhosis. The study found that Turkish individuals had higher microbial diversity compared to US participants.
HEPAHEALTH Project Report -- risk factors and the burden of liver disease in Europe and selected Central Asian countries
The HEPAHEALTH Project Report reveals a significant increase in liver disease mortality in Europe and Central Asia, driven by high alcohol consumption and obesity rates. The report emphasizes the need for effective prevention strategies to mitigate this growing health concern.
RAND identifies new strategies for countering Russian social media
A new RAND Corporation report reveals Russia's sophisticated social media campaign targeting the Baltics, Ukraine, and nearby states. The report recommends strengthening tracking, blocking, and tagging of Russian propaganda, offering alternative media, and developing compelling arguments to align populations with Western values.
Lavas in the lab could lead miners to new iron ore deposits
Geologists from KU Leuven have found that magmas split into two separate liquids under specific conditions, leading to the formation of Kiruna-type iron ore deposits. These discoveries may help identify new iron ore deposits globally.
Statins associated with reduced morbidity and mortality in patients with primary sclerosing cholangitischolangi
A Swedish study found that statins significantly reduce the risk of death, liver transplantation, and variceal bleeding in patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis. The study also showed a reduced risk of these outcomes in patients receiving azathioprine but not ursodeoxycholic acid.
Animated short created to raise public awareness about liver failure
The animated short film aims to raise public awareness about the challenges of liver failure and liver cirrhosis. The film highlights the DIALIVE technology, a novel liver dialysis device undergoing clinical trials to assess its safety and efficacy.
Birds migrate away from diseases
Researchers at Lund University found that migratory birds have a less variable immune system than sedentary birds, possibly due to the reduced diversity of pathogens in their breeding grounds. This adaptation could provide a survival advantage, as dealing with multiple pathogens is often difficult for birds when they first encounter them.
Houston Methodist leads international research for rare neurodegenerative disorder
Houston Methodist is leading an international research effort for spinocerebellar ataxia (SCA), a rare inherited neurodegenerative disorder. The $6 million, five-year study aims to bring promising investigational therapies to patients with SCA1 and SCA3.
ERC advanced grants: CNRS in the lead among European institutions
The CNRS secured 15 out of 34 French projects funded by the ERC Advanced Grants, marking a significant lead among European hosting institutions. This achievement comes at a time when the CNRS has demonstrated its expertise in various scientific domains.
European Research Council invests €650 million in advanced frontier research
The European Research Council has invested €650 million in advanced frontier research, with 269 senior researchers across Europe receiving funding for groundbreaking projects. The grants are expected to lead to major scientific advances and potentially create jobs.
Dark matter might not be interactive after all
New observations suggest dark matter may only interact through gravity, contradicting previous findings. Researchers used the Atacama Large Millimetre Array to study a galaxy cluster and found no separation between dark matter and its surrounding galaxy.
Automated prep of MS-sensitive fluorescently labeled N-Glycans with a pipetting robot
The automated protocol simplifies sample preparation, reducing time and error. Researchers can now seamlessly transition to automation, relieving them from monotonous pipetting tasks.
More evidence shows exposure to traffic and outdoor air pollution increases risk of asthma
A new study published in the European Respiratory Journal found that long-term exposure to high levels of road traffic and ozone significantly increases the risk of asthma symptoms and medication use. The study also identified a biological marker, 8-isoprostane, which is exhaled in the breath and linked to tissue damage in the lungs.
Increase of plant species on mountain tops is accelerating with global warming
A study found that the number of plant species on European mountain peaks increased by five times more than during the period 1957-66, and is accelerating due to global warming. The researchers believe that some specialized species will be outcompeted as warmer climates spread, but local conditions and microclimates play a role.
The great acceleration reaches new heights
A new study reveals that biodiversity on mountain peaks in Europe is increasing at an accelerated rate, with plants colonizing higher altitudes in response to warmer temperatures. This trend suggests a risk of disrupting mountain ecosystems as certain species may not be able to adapt to changing conditions.
Paucity of phosphorus hints at precarious path for extraterrestrial life
Researchers at Cardiff University have discovered a significant scarcity of phosphorus in cosmic supernovae, which could pose a challenge to the existence of life beyond Earth. The finding suggests that material blown out into space by these stellar explosions may vary dramatically in chemical composition.
This is the environmental footprint of the egg industry
A recent study by Spanish researchers reveals the significant environmental cost of egg production in Spain, including greenhouse gas emissions and water contamination. The analysis shows that feed choice and layer replacement are key factors contributing to these impacts.
Astrophysicists map the infant universe in 3-D and discover 4,000 early galaxies
Researchers used Subaru telescope in Hawaii and Isaac Newton telescope in Canary Islands to create 3D map of universe's first 16 billion years. The team found nearly 4000 early galaxies, many of which may have evolved into Milky Way-like galaxies. These discoveries provide crucial information about early phases of galaxy formation.
Astro-ecology: Saving endangered animals with software for the stars
A collaboration between astrophysicists and ecologists is helping to monitor rare and endangered species using thermal infrared imagery captured by drones. The project aims to track, find, and monitor endangered animals easily and prevent poaching.
Island emus' size related to size of island homes
Research found that Australian offshore island emus were smaller versions of their mainland relatives and their body size correlated to the size of their inhabited islands. The study analyzed DNA and bone measurements of extinct small emus on King Island, Tasmania, and Kangaroo Island.
Gravitational waves created by black holes in the center of most galaxies
Researchers have found that massive black holes in the center of most galaxies can disrupt and modify binary system orbits, leading to observable gravitational waves. This process could force binaries to merge sooner, producing detectable ripples in space-time.
X-rays could sterilize alien planets in (otherwise) habitable zones
Astronomers found intense X-ray radiation from red dwarf stars can strip away a planet's ozone layer, making it uninhabitable. This means that life on land might only survive in the oceans.
Human daily rhythms: Clocks vs. light/dark cycle
A study by University of Seville finds that human primary activities are synchronized with the winter day as a synchronizer, rather than clock time. The study characterizes laborer's activities along the daily and yearly cycle of light and dark, revealing latitudinal patterns tied to the light/dark cycle.
Here, there and everywhere: Across the universe with the Beatles
Astronomers have discovered that the Beatles' record company funded Godfrey Hounsfield's X-ray research, leading to the invention of the CT scanner. The band's music has also inspired NASA to name their Lucy mission after the 'Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds' song.
First age-map of the heart of the Milky Way
A new age-map of the Milky Way's center shows that a period of star formation lasting around 4 billion years created the complex structure. The map, produced by an international team, combines data from millions of stars and spectroscopic surveys, revealing that the bar-shaped structure was formed about 7 billion years ago.
Is the Milky Way getting bigger?
A team of astronomers has found that galaxies like the Milky Way are slowly increasing in size due to star formation on their outskirts. The study, led by Cristina Martínez-Lombilla, reveals a growth rate of around 500 meters per second, which is fast enough to cover the distance from Liverpool to London in about twelve minutes.
Astronomers find 72 bright and fast explosions
A team of astronomers found 72 very bright but quick events in a recent survey, which they believe could be related to supernovae. The transients appear hot and large, expanding and cooling as they evolve, sparking debate about their origin.
Did highest known sea levels create the iconic shape of Mount Etna?
New research suggests that high sea levels in the Mediterranean Sea may have triggered the formation of Mount Etna's distinctive cone structure. This theory proposes that changes in the volcano's magma behavior coincide with periods of rising sea levels, which could also explain similar changes at other volcanic sites worldwide.
Anthropogenic lead still present in European shelf seas
A study by GEOMAR and international colleagues reveals a 4-fold reduction in Pb concentrations in European surface waters since the phasing out of leaded gasoline. However, legacy Pb from Mediterranean sources persists, suggesting sediments are now a new source of Pb to the environment.
Polymers that mimic chameleon skin
Researchers have developed a biocompatible synthetic material that replicates tissue mechanics and alters color when it changes shape, like chameleon skin. The material is composed of a unique triblock copolymer with carefully selected structural parameters, exhibiting flexibility, strain profile, and optical properties.
Bovine genetics: The startling diversity of Buša cattle
The study found that Buša cattle account for a significant proportion of neutral genetic diversity in Bos taurus worldwide. The breed's unique genetic variation makes it an important conservation target for maintaining global genetic and functional diversity.
Sensors to prevent Parkinson's patients from falling
A new EIT Health project, 'MoveIT', aims to analyze gait patterns and warn patients of potential falls. The project uses sensors placed on patients' shoes and upper body to gather data for further research.
Salvage logging is often a pretext for harvesting wood
Researchers found that economic profit is the main motivation behind salvage logging in protected areas, despite warnings about its harm to biodiversity and regeneration capacity. Salvage logging should be banned from protected areas unless necessary for safety reasons, according to ecologists.
Competition and conflict in Formula One racing
Researchers analyzed 732 Formula One races to find that drivers of similar status, age, or competing in safe conditions are more likely to experience collisions. The study suggests that targeting these factors could aid in preventing conflicts among drivers.
ELCC 2018: Heine H. Hansen award given to Fabrice Barlesi
Fabrice Barresi has been awarded the Heine H. Hansen Award by European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO) and International Association for the Study of Lung Cancer (IASLC). This award is presented annually at the European Lung Cancer Congress to a lung cancer investigator who has made a special contribution to this field.
Half of vision impairment in first world is preventable
A study published in the British Journal of Ophthalmology reveals that around half of vision impairment in Western Europe is preventable. The UK has a relatively low prevalence of blindness, but higher rates of moderate to severe vision impairment compared to some non-EU countries.
Ships in the English Channel have highest rate of sulphur violations in northern Europe
Researchers at Chalmers University found that ships in the English Channel have the highest rate of sulphur violations in northern Europe, with up to 98% non-compliance. The lowest compliance rates were observed in the western part of the channel and Baltic Sea.
LifeTime -- A visionary proposal for an EU Flagship
A consortium of 60 scientists will apply single-cell technologies to experimental model systems, combined with genome editing and advanced microscopy. This will help understand how cells stay healthy or progress towards disease and develop effective therapeutics. The project also aims to improve early diagnoses and intervention.
Wood pellets: Renewable, but not carbon neutral
The use of wood pellets for clean energy is limited by the loss of carbon sequestration in forests and the impact on biodiversity. The process also requires fossil fuels during manufacturing and overseas shipping, negating any potential carbon neutrality.
Protein nutrition for cells and organisms: Can we use it to treat diseases?
Amino acid transporters are essential for capturing nutrients from blood vessels, which can be blocked by specific inhibitors to treat diseases. Blocking these functions can also enhance inhibition or excitation in the brain, a strategy used to treat chronic pain and possibly schizophrenia.
Volcanic eruption influenced Iceland's conversion to Christianity
A team of scientists and medieval historians used ice cores and tree rings to date the Eldgjá volcanic eruption, which occurred soon after Iceland's settlement. The researchers found that memories of the eruption were used to stimulate the Christianisation of Iceland in medieval poem Voluspá.
Medicinal cannabis is safe and effective -- it's time to reboot research
A new special issue of the European Journal of Internal Medicine presents a comprehensive overview of current evidence for medical cannabis and derived products. The studies highlight its effectiveness in pain relief and potential benefits for elderly patients, calling for further research to improve the evidence base.
Study of nearly 300,000 people challenges the 'obesity paradox'
A study of nearly 300,000 people found that being overweight or obese increases the risk of heart disease, with a BMI above 22-23 kg/m2 and increased waist circumference also linked to higher cardiovascular disease risk. Maintaining a healthy weight through diet and exercise can help minimize this risk.
Pioneering research on mechanistic basis of disease in new journal Systems Medicine
The new peer-reviewed journal Systems Medicine captures leading research in medical systems biology, emphasizing molecular mechanistic biomarkers. This approach aims to drive innovations in new drug discovery and preventive therapies based on healthy aging research.
Larger families linked to heightened tooth loss risk for moms
A large European study found that women with larger families, particularly those with three children, experience an average of 4 fewer teeth than mothers with two children. Higher levels of educational attainment and age also contribute to a lower risk of tooth loss.
New insights into the origin of elongated heads in early medieval Germany
An international team analyzed ancient genomes of 40 early medieval people from southern Germany, revealing a diverse genetic profile among women with artificially deformed skulls. Genetic analysis points to eastern European origins and suggests long-range female mobility bridging cultural spaces.
Why economic growth does not necessarily contribute to human happiness
A new study reveals that economic growth in developed countries may not improve human happiness, but rather erodes free goods and creates social problems. The Negative Endogenous Growth Model suggests that economic systems can produce wealth from the erosion of free goods, leading to unhappiness and excessive consumption.
Research could improve management of conflict between wildlife and farmers across the globe
A new study by University of Stirling researchers found disparities in wildlife management approaches across Europe, leading to worsening conflicts. The team assessed nine different schemes involving large grazing birds and discovered a lack of adaptation to changes in bird numbers and damage levels.
Benefits of Bt corn
The widespread adoption of Bt field corn led to significant reductions in European corn borer and corn earworm infestations. This resulted in lower recommended insecticide sprays, total insecticides applied, and crop damages on pepper, green bean, and sweet corn crops.