Science and research news from across Europe. Covers major discoveries, university leadership, disease burden and costs, and research policy in the region.
A study of healthy senior men found that intense endurance exercise confers cardiac benefits regardless of age. The research, published by the European Society of Cardiology, indicates that 40 is not too old to start endurance training and that the heart remains amenable to modification through exercise even at this age. This finding s...
A statistical modeling study projects almost all European countries will experience rising obesity rates by 2030, with the highest prevalence in females in Ireland. The study highlights the need for urgent policies to reverse this trend and prevent premature mortality and economic strain on healthcare systems.
A population-based screening program in the UK detected a small number of lethal pathologies, including heart block, irregular heart rhythm, and valvular heart disease, in 2.7% of screened individuals. The study suggests that cost-effective screening programs can prevent sudden cardiac deaths in young people.
Researchers developed a new approach to measure the sensitivity of aquatic invertebrates to pesticides, revealing that different species respond differently to toxicants. The study focused on three pesticides, diazinon, imidacloprid, and propiconazole, which showed varying levels of toxicity among shrimps and snails.
Scientists have identified a new species of paper wasp, Polistes helveticus, in Central Europe. The discovery revealed the coexistence of two distinct species, one already known from the region and another previously thought to be limited to southern Europe.
AURORA is a large international molecular screening programme for metastatic breast cancer aiming to improve understanding of the disease and its response to treatments. The study will analyze over 1300 patients' tissue and plasma samples, enabling scientists to identify genetic characteristics that predict treatment outcomes.
Kevin C. A. Burke, a University of Houston geology professor, has received the 2014 Arthur Holmes Medal for his fundamental contributions to tectonics and Earth evolution. His research focuses on understanding rock structures at the core/mantle boundary and has been recognized internationally.
The UK has a higher child mortality rate than nearly every other country in Western Europe, with 3800 children under five dying in the UK in 2013. The country's high infant mortality rates are attributed to poor organisation of children's health services.
A study analyzing Eurovision voting patterns over two decades found that cultural and geographical factors drive support for certain countries' acts, rather than prejudice. The analysis revealed clusters of countries with similar voting behaviors and identified the probability of each country belonging to a particular bloc.
A large-scale seafloor survey found widespread presence of bottles, plastic bags, fishing nets, and other types of human litter across European seas. Litter was found at all depths, from shallow waters to 4500-meter waters, with the highest density in submarine canyons.
A recent CU-Boulder study contradicts the widely held notion that Neanderthals were dimwitted and primitive, suggesting they had cognitive abilities comparable to those of anatomically modern humans. The researchers found evidence of complex communication, efficient hunting strategies, and a diverse diet among Neanderthals.
Scientists have developed a groundbreaking technique to trace an individual's DNA back to their ancestral home 1,000 years ago using Geographic Population Structure (GPS) tool. The method has been successful in locating worldwide populations to their geographic regions and village of origin with accuracy rates of up to 98%.
A new report reveals that cutting down on meat and dairy products can reduce nitrogen air and water pollution, greenhouse gas emissions, and free up large areas of farmland. Adopting a demitarian diet across Europe could reduce nitrogen pollution levels by about 40%.
Researchers will simulate the impact of tsunamis on urban areas, modeling how water channels around clusters of buildings. The facility aims to produce engineering guidelines to mitigate future tsunami impacts. The research has far-reaching implications for building and urban design in tsunami-prone areas.
Researchers found East African honeybees resistant to invasive parasites, but preliminary data suggests habitat loss and drought may be major factors driving colony declines. The study recommends protecting nesting habitats and native flowering plants to maintain healthy bee populations.
A recent study reveals that persons captured in medieval raids into present-day Finland, Russian Karelia, and the Baltic Countries were sold on remote trade routes extending to Central Asia. The demand for blonde girls and boys as exotic luxury items drove this trade, with only a few hundred of thousands reaching southern markets.
A European-wide strategy is needed to manage invasive species, threatening native biodiversity, and costing an estimated €12 billion each year. The EU must commit long-term investment to address the issue, including raising awareness of biosecurity and implementing European-wide legislation.
Researchers used advanced dating techniques to analyze remains from three caves in Spain, Girona, Gipuzkoa, and Asturias. The findings suggest that Neanderthals and Cro-magnons did not coexist on the Iberian Peninsula, contradicting previous theories.
The European Commission Joint Research Centre has identified Europe's top ICT hubs, which excel in access to top universities, research centers, and funding opportunities. These regions have a high concentration of businesses, innovative output, and strong networks, making them ideal for digital success.
A recent study found that mortality from viral hepatitis is significantly higher than from HIV/AIDS across EU countries. In 2010, there were nearly 90,000 deaths due to hepatitis C and nearly 31,000 deaths due to hepatitis B, compared to just over 8,000 deaths from HIV/AIDS.
A novel outcome prediction model has been developed using sequentially-assessed measures to generate an individualised mortality risk prediction without liver transplantation. The model uses age, encephalopathy, and cardiovascular failure severity on admission, as well as dynamic variables, to predict non-transplanted 15-day survival.
The European Association for the Study of the Liver (EASL) has published online recommendations for managing hepatitis C, which reflect the approval of three new direct-acting antivirals. The guidelines provide best practice on key areas, including treatment indications, available drugs, and measures to improve treatment adherence. Wit...
A majority of Europeans view biomedical research as a source of hope and trust the public to challenge opinion. However, most lack scientific literacy and rely on experts for understanding, highlighting the need for education and communication about research findings.
The European Biodiversity Observation Network (EU BON) aims to provide integrated biodiversity information to support decision-making in various sectors. EU BON integrates disparate databases and online sources to improve monitoring and evaluation of biodiversity.
Researchers have successfully elucidated the complete upstream segment of the terpenoid indole alkaloid biosynthesis pathway in tobacco plants, paving the way for cost-effective production of diverse therapeutic compounds. The technology developed can be utilized to produce other valuable plant-derived compounds.
Research suggests that humans became less mobile and physically active after the transition to agriculture in Central Europe around 5300 BC. Male bones show a decline in strength and rigidity, indicating reduced mobility and heavy physical work, while female bones exhibit more inconsistent trends.
A recent study published at EuroHeartCare 2014 found that poor sleep doubles the risk of unplanned hospitalizations in patients with heart failure. The researchers analyzed data from nearly 500 patients and discovered that those with chronic sleep problems were two times more likely to be hospitalized than those without sleep issues.
Research presented at EuroHeartCare 2014 found that visualizing a safe place reduced operative pain in patients undergoing ablation of atrial fibrillation. Patients who used visualization during the procedure were in pain less often and asked for fewer painkillers, with perceived pain intensity possibly also reduced.
The ENTEGA team won the award for its ECO tool, which optimizes sales and profit targets by integrating data from price comparison sites. The tool resulted in a 30% decrease in selling costs compared to their current approach.
A study of nearly 63,000 Norwegians found that moderate to severe depression increases the risk of heart failure by 40%. Depression triggers stress hormones and inflammation, which may accelerate heart diseases. Early detection and treatment can help improve outcomes.
A new study of Brazil's indigenous societies finds most experience catastrophic decline after first contact, but some populations recover and even grow. Population viability analysis suggests contacted and uncontacted societies could recover from as few as 100 individuals.
A recent study by MIT economists finds strong convergence of prices within the Eurozone, with prices differing by 30-50% lower than in neighboring countries. The research suggests that the common currency drives identical pricing, contradicting previous findings.
A new study published in Environmental Research Letters has found that a warm North Atlantic Ocean can promote extreme winters in the US and Europe. The research suggests that natural variations in sea surface temperatures, such as the Atlantic Multidecadal Oscillation, can affect atmospheric circulation patterns like the North Atlanti...
A University of Huddersfield historian's research reveals that Britain's hospital services were highly developed in the 1920s and 1930s, particularly in Leeds and Sheffield. The study highlights the importance of local priorities and disparate standards in shaping healthcare, which has implications for current debates on the NHS.
A new 6-month follow-up study confirms that early treatment with metoprolol significantly reduces dead heart muscle, hospital readmissions, and cardioverter-defibrillator implantation. The treatment also shows promise for reducing chronic heart failure cases.
A study comparing US and European cholesterol guidelines found substantial differences in statin use recommendations for men and women. The application of these guidelines to a European population resulted in varying proportions of individuals eligible for statins.
Researchers estimate that up to 100% of lung cancer patients experience sexual dysfunction, which can persist after treatment. Experts call for open discussions and specialized help from healthcare professionals to address these issues.
Rates of blindness have halved in high-income countries over the past 20 years, falling from 3.314 million to 2.736 million people. Macular degeneration has become the leading cause of blindness in rich countries, replacing cataracts.
A multidisciplinary team is crucial for managing women with vertebral osteoporotic fractures, which are associated with significant morbidity and excess mortality. Early detection and treatment of suspected fractures, as well as long-term management of underlying osteoporosis, are essential to reduce the risk of further fracture.
Low back pain is the leading cause of global disability, affecting nearly one in 10 people worldwide. The condition's prevalence and impact are expected to increase with aging populations, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.
The European Respiratory Society has developed new consensus statements to guide the management of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (TB) in Europe. These statements aim to bridge the gap in knowledge due to limited clinical evidence, particularly for extensively drug-resistant TB.
Breast cancer mortality rates in Europe have decreased from 1989 to 2010 due to improved treatments and enhanced access to care. However, notable variations between countries remain, with France showing a modest decrease despite devoting substantial resources to cancer care.
A new study provides reliable data on antibiotic use in non-EU southern and eastern European countries, highlighting the need for national action plans to enhance judicious use. High rates of self-medication with antibiotics and parenteral administration are reported, emphasizing the urgent need for restriction and education.
Researchers found fractal nature in football dynamics, with ball and player positions exhibiting self-similarity. The study suggests the superiority of one team persists for only 30 seconds before changing hands.
The PredictND project will test novel approaches for earlier diagnosis of memory disorders and detect individuals at high risk. The project aims to improve the accuracy and efficiency of clinical practice.
A recent study published in PLOS ONE found that plant food supplements are widely used in Europe, with Italy and Spain showing the highest diversity of products. In the UK, evening primrose oil was the most commonly used botanical ingredient.
Researchers from Queen Mary University of London used mathematical models to analyze the resilience of European natural gas networks. They found that countries in Eastern Europe are less resilient to crises than their counterparts in Western Europe, with Ukraine and Belarus facing significant challenges.
Researchers used computational software to analyze published data on Damascus blades, proposing a new explanation for pattern formation. The study suggests that the high carbon content and microsegregation of solutes during solidification lead to the characteristic band-like formation of coarse cementite particles.
A recent study by IIASA researchers found that education significantly improves cognitive function in seniors and slows down cognitive decline. The study examined variation in years of schooling in six European countries during the 1950s and 1960s and showed that compulsory educational reforms had a positive impact on mental functioning.
A healthy diet rich in vegetables, salads, and fruits, as well as fermented dairy products containing probiotics, can help maintain digestive health. Probiotics also have beneficial effects at all stages of life, including the very early ones, supporting disease prevention and treatment in children and immunocompromised individuals.
IBS patients exhibit imbalanced gut microbiota composition and altered digestive functions. A low-fiber diet rich in FODMAPs can exacerbate symptoms, while a balanced Western diet with low FODMAP content may improve IBS symptoms.
A study published in Nature Geoscience found that changes in the Sun's energy output may have led to marked natural climate change in Europe over the past 1000 years. The research suggests that regional climate variability associated with solar activity should be taken into account when making future climate projections.
A four-year study in Ireland found that five percent of badgers traveled over 7.5km from their setts, with the longest recorded distance being 22.1km. This information is crucial for designing policies to tackle tuberculosis within cattle populations and understanding how infection is maintained and spread within badger populations.
A new study by Italian researchers suggests that a person's activity at the time of a quake influences their perception of shaking more than their location. People in motion had the worst perception, while those who were asleep on higher floors reported stronger shaking.
A new study predicts that most of Europe will experience higher warming than the global average if surface temperatures rise to 2 °C above pre-industrial levels. This could lead to increased evaporation and drought in regions like Spain, Portugal, and France, as well as more frequent extreme precipitation events and flood risks.
A recent study reveals that the genetic disease ARVC is more widespread than initially assumed, with all known affected families sharing a common genetic origin. The mutation was first identified in Canada and has since been found in European countries including Germany, Denmark, and the USA, indicating a shared European heritage.
The ALMA observations revealed a compact clump of carbon monoxide gas in the debris disc around Beta Pictoris, which is surprising given its short lifetime. The team suggests that cometary collisions are replenishing the carbon monoxide, with one large comet collision every five minutes needed to achieve this amount.
A new study by IIASA researchers suggests that increasing labor force participation by as little as 1 or 2 percentage points could allow pension ages to be reduced by one year without increasing the burden on the working population. This approach is considered more palatable politically than raising retirement age, which has proven unp...
A new dinosaur species found in Portugal is estimated to be the largest land predator in Europe, with blade-shaped teeth up to 10 cm long. The dinosaur, Torvosaurus gurneyi, could reach 10 meters long and weigh around 4-5 tons, making it one of the largest terrestrial carnivores from the Jurassic period.
The New Guinea flatworm, considered one of the 100 worst invasive alien species, has been found in France for the first time. The flatworm was identified by molecular analysis and is capable of consuming European snails and other soil-dwelling species.