Science and research news from across Europe. Covers major discoveries, university leadership, disease burden and costs, and research policy in the region.
A new study reveals that the average height of European males has grown by 11cm between the mid-nineteenth century and 1980. This increase is attributed to factors such as decreased infant mortality rates, smaller family sizes, increased income per capita, and better living conditions.
A study of 2,589 patients found that mechanical chest compressions with defibrillation did not improve survival rates compared to manual CPR. However, the device was deemed safe and showed promise in increasing efficiency and safety for emergency personnel.
A randomized study found that prasugrel pre-treatment in patients with non-ST-elevation acute coronary syndrome (NSTE-ACS) significantly increases the risk of life-threatening bleeding without reducing major ischemic events. This shift away from pre-treatment may lead to changes in treatment strategies.
A study published by the European Society of Cardiology found that listening to favorite music improves endothelial function in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD), leading to increased exercise capacity. The combination of music and exercise training resulted in the most significant improvement in endothelial function.
A CHADS2 score of 0 or 1 indicates a low stroke risk, but 35.8% of strokes occurred in patients with these scores, suggesting refined stratification is needed. The CHA2DS2-VASc score reclassified 53.8% of patients to higher risk categories.
A mass screening program in Sweden identified 5% of 75- to 76-year-olds with untreated atrial fibrillation. The study found that more than 90% of patients with newly diagnosed atrial fibrillation were started on oral anticoagulation treatment, which reduces the risk of stroke by up to 70%.
A study found significant differences in LDL-cholesterol target achievement between Germany and the UK, with UK patients receiving more potent statins and higher doses. The UK system's incentive-based reimbursement may drive aggressive treatment, while Germany's restrictive system leads to conservative treatment.
The study found a significant reduction in STEMI hospitalisations in Canton Ticino after the smoking ban was implemented, with an average 21.1% decrease between 2004-07 and 2007-2010. The impact varied by age group, with older people showing a long-lasting reduction in STEMI admissions.
A study found that short-term smoking cessation improves arterial function and reduces the risk of heart attacks, but doesn't immediately lower serotonin levels. However, longer-term smoking cessation may be needed to completely reverse the damage caused by smoking.
The study found that diabetic patients who received reperfusion therapy and secondary prevention medications had a lower ischemic stroke rate over time. Despite this improvement, diabetic patients were less likely to receive these treatments compared to non-diabetic patients.
A large-scale study of 1 million patients found that high-dose statin use was associated with a significant reduction in the risk of developing dementia. The protective effect of statins remained consistent across different age, gender, and cardiovascular risk subgroups.
Patients with three or more cardiovascular risk factors, including diabetes and hypertension, have a comparable stroke risk to those with atrial fibrillation. The study found that the risk of stroke associated with atrial fibrillation is eliminated in patients with five or more risk factors.
A recent study published by the European Society of Cardiology found that smokers who reach age 70 lose approximately 4 years of life expectancy. The study tracked the health of over 7,000 older men and discovered a significant increase in mortality rates among current and former smokers compared to never-smokers.
Astronomers have discovered an ancient solar twin that is 8.2 billion years old, providing insights into the Sun's life-giving properties and lithium content. The star, HIP 102152, has low levels of lithium, supporting the theory that stars destroy their lithium as they age.
New research by Dr Bernard Grobety reveals that crystalline particles in Icelandic volcanic ash are more harmful to jet engines and fall out of the cloud faster than glassy particles. The study aims to improve authorities' response to future eruptions by understanding the behavior of these particles.
New research shows that European hunter-gatherers acquired domesticated pigs from nearby farmers around 4600 BC. The interaction between the two groups led to the incorporation of farming and breeding of livestock into their culture.
The European Society of Cardiology emphasizes the need for personalized AF management to close the mortality gap. Current therapies have only improved mortality by 5-10%. A new taxonomy of AF is proposed based on its pathophysiology, and biomarkers, imaging, and ECG are being studied to improve treatment.
Recently published studies in Chernobyl and Fukushima Exclusion Zones reveal high frequencies of tumors, cataracts, and growth suppression in birds and pine trees. Lack of funding for independent scientists hinders understanding of radiation's impact on life.
A family history of diabetes is associated with an increased risk of prediabetes, especially in non-obese individuals. The study found that family history increased the risk of isolated impaired fasting glycaemia and impaired glucose tolerance by 37% and 25%, respectively.
A new study published in PLOS ONE reveals that prehistoric northern European societies used garlic mustard as a spice, flavored meats and starches. The findings suggest that the practice of using spices to enhance food flavor dates back at least 6,100 years.
Researchers found that neurotic men born after 1957 have fewer children, while extraverted men and conscientious women tend to have more. The study suggests personality effects may be contributing to the decline of fertility rates in Europe.
A new book by CSIRO Publishing sheds light on the critical role of Aboriginal people in the exploration of Australia during the Burke and Wills expedition. The book highlights the cross-cultural differences and perspectives between European explorers and Indigenous inhabitants.
Researchers found significant regional differences in the relationship between population and air pollution, particularly in Europe and India. Nitrogen dioxide concentrations more than doubled when cities increased in population from 1 million to 10 million people.
A study by Dr. Karen Ruebens reveals two separate Neanderthal cultures in Europe, with distinct handaxe designs and social learning mechanisms. The research provides new insights into Neanderthal regionality and cultural complexity.
A new study estimates the average cost per case of drug-resistant TB in the EU, revealing significant economic burden and support for investing in more effective vaccines. The study found that the costs of treating MDR-TB and XDR-TB cases exceed €170,000 and €170,000 respectively.
Two research teams discovered Neandertal bone tools in southwest France, similar to later modern human sites and used today by high-end leather workers. The tools, called lissoirs, were made from deer ribs and polished for softening and water-resistance, dating back approximately 50 thousand years.
A study published in Physics of Fluids simulates the path of volcanic debris and oil spills, providing a tool for scientists to predict the spread of ash clouds and oil flows. The model can help estimate the amount and speed of ejected material from future eruptions.
A new software solution developed by TUM's Prof. Gritzmann and his team consolidates agricultural land more efficiently than ever before, saving farmers up to 30% on running costs. The algorithm uses sophisticated mathematical ideas to optimize field allocation and reduce travel costs.
The VDI guidelines provide a state-of-the-art approach to GMO monitoring of Lepidoptera. The study aims to increase detection success and inform the European Community's requirements.
The DynoTRAIN project aims to establish virtual testing as a valid route to certification for rail vehicles. Researchers used real-world track data and simulated the dynamic behavior of railway vehicles to build mathematical tools that can synthesize data into representative virtual test environments.
The giant water bug Lethocerus patruelis is the largest European true bug, reaching lengths of up to 8cm. It has a powerful hunting tool that involves injecting strong digestive saliva into its prey.
Increased variability in yearly temperature records has shifted to regions of high population in Europe and North America. Globally, total temperature variability remains relatively stable despite global warming trends.
European grassland butterflies have declined dramatically between 1990 and 2011, mainly due to agricultural intensification and habitat loss. This trend is alarming as butterflies are indicators of ecosystem health and biodiversity.
A study of over 42,000 people found that migrants from Eastern European countries didn't become happier after settling in Western Europe. In fact, those from Poland were significantly less happy. The researcher suggests that happiness is already present before migration and doesn't increase as a result.
A study from the European Social Survey found that women working full-time still do two-thirds of the household chores, despite an increase in women in the labor market. However, this burden is not matched by men, who may actually benefit from a more equal distribution of housework.
The European Society of Cardiology and Association for European Paediatric and Congenital Cardiology have released a joint consensus statement on pediatric arrhythmias. The statement outlines the diagnosis and management of pediatric arrhythmias, highlighting differences between pediatric and adult cases.
A study by North Carolina State University found that the Irish potato famine-causing pathogen Phytophthora infestans has evolved into a more virulent form, with modern strains containing genes not present in historical samples.
According to a major international effort, many European fish stocks in the northeast Atlantic are being fished sustainably, with populations expected to recover over time. The study highlights the importance of maintaining low fishing pressure until stocks rebuild their populations.
Research suggests that chewing food thoroughly increases bioaccessibility of its energy content, with particles becoming smaller as chews increase. This means that eating whole almonds or incorporating mixed fibers from fruits and vegetables can lead to greater energy retention.
Christian Theobalt aims to enable computers to reconstruct motions and surface characteristics from video camera input. His project, CapReal, will explore theoretical bases for whole new methods of dynamic scene reconstruction, aiming to capture geometry, motions, and material characteristics in complex real scenes.
Cardiovascular screening is crucial for cancer patients who received chest radiation, especially those at high risk of developing radiation-induced heart disease (RIHD). The European Society of Cardiology recommends regular screenings to detect cardiac abnormalities and reduce the risk of death from coronary artery disease.
Dr. Immanuel Bloch will receive the 2013 Körber European Science Prize for his groundbreaking research on lattice-trapped ultracold atoms, enabling precise monitoring of solid structures and potential applications in superconductors and quantum information processing. The prize includes €750,000 to support his research activities.
A new study published in PLOS ONE suggests that standardized vascular health checks could improve health outcomes and reduce costs in Germany, the UK, France, Denmark, Italy, and Poland. The study used the Archimedes Model to simulate a clinical trial comparing seven health check strategies to current levels of care.
A new study by Max-Planck-Gesellschaft researchers finds that rising unemployment rates in Europe have led to a decrease in fertility, with young adults being the most affected. The drop in children per woman was strongest for first births, with many postponing family formation.
A European-wide study found that prolonged exposure to particulate air pollution increases the risk of lung cancer, particularly adenocarcinoma, at concentrations below EU limit values. The analysis of 17 cohort studies involved over 313,000 people and found a strong association between air pollution and lung cancer risk.
The European Society of Cardiology emphasizes the need for a resurgence in cardiovascular research and development to address the growing burden of cardiovascular diseases. The society proposes a forum to discuss ways to rejuvenate R&D, including simplifying regulation and increasing EU funding.
A study of 1423 egg donors across 11 European countries found that altruism is the primary motivation, but financial compensation plays a significant role in some countries. The majority of donors are young women who expect personal benefits, and their age affects their motivations.
A four-year EU-funded project has developed a response programme to rapidly restore drinking water networks following a deliberate contamination event. The SecurEau toolbox includes tools for detecting water quality changes, identifying sources of contamination, and cleaning distribution systems.
Researchers have discovered a direct genetic link between ancient Native American remains and their living descendants using mitochondrial DNA analysis. The study, published in PLOS ONE, found three maternal lineages from ancient times to the present, providing a unique connection between oral traditions and genetic evidence.
Researchers found that lower fitness levels in middle-aged South Asian men contribute to higher blood sugar levels and increased diabetes risk. To mitigate this, physical activity guidelines may need to be adjusted to account for ethnicity.
The study reveals a large block of genes from wild relatives are present in domestic tomatoes, affecting the genome in unexpected ways. Genes associated with fruit color and drought tolerance show rapid evolution among domesticated and wild varieties.
Death rates from heart disease have decreased in most EU countries since the early 1980s, but some nations are experiencing a slowdown in progress due to rising obesity and diabetes rates. The study found that cardiovascular disease remains a leading cause of death in Europe, with significant variation between individual countries.
The €3.9M HARCO project, backed by the European Commission, has successfully developed equipment to reduce vibration levels on machine tools, improving product accuracy and reducing costs.
A study by the European Institute of Studies on Prevention found that 8.6% of people suffered sexual harassment and 1.5% experienced sex against their will during summer holidays in southern Europe. The survey, which interviewed over 6,500 young tourists, highlights the need for awareness and preventive measures to address these issues.
The EHRA White Book reports on arrhythmia treatments in 55 ESC member countries, with a focus on lead extractions. Lead extraction data reveals significant morbidity and mortality worldwide.
The study found that intimate partners were responsible for 38.6% of all female murders and 13.5% of all homicides globally. The rates varied widely across regions, with southeast Asia having the highest rates of murder of women by intimate partners.
The SILCS Diaphragm has been granted regulatory approval and will be launched in six European countries. It is a single-size device that fits most women and does not require a pelvic exam to determine size, making it easier to access and use.
A new study reveals that British post-menopausal women are 50% less likely to access appropriate treatment for vaginal atrophy, a chronic condition caused by low estrogen levels. The condition can lead to painful intercourse and emotional distress, but local oestrogen therapy has shown beneficial effects on sex lives.
Research reveals pesticides are responsible for reducing regional biodiversity of invertebrates in streams and rivers by up to 42 percent. The study's findings highlight the urgent need for new concepts linking ecology with ecotoxicology to protect aquatic ecosystems.
A new study reveals overweight and obese patients are less likely to achieve successful remission in early rheumatoid arthritis. These patients require 2.4 times more anti-TNF therapy to achieve similar outcomes.