Articles tagged with 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.
The 2013 guidelines recommend a single systolic blood pressure target of 140 mmHg, with an increased role for home blood pressure monitoring. They also stress the importance of assessing totality of risk factors and consider individualized treatment approaches. Lifestyle changes, such as reducing salt and alcohol intake, are crucial fo...
A new study found a high prevalence of NSAID prescriptions in patients with ischaemic heart disease or risk factors, highlighting the need for safer alternatives and physician guidelines to prevent cardiovascular harm. Diclofenac was commonly prescribed in 56% of cases, raising concerns about its safety.
A nurse-led program improved patient self-assessment and led to changes in drug therapy among 89% of participants. The program also showed significant actions taken to reduce comorbidities, particularly cardiovascular disease, at a rate of 17.2%.
New antibody biomarkers could significantly improve diagnosis in rheumatoid arthritis by detecting the disease in patients who test negative for existing diagnostic antibodies. The study found that these biomarkers were present in both early and seronegative disease, indicating their potential to close the diagnostic gap in RA.
A study analyzing US data reveals that up to one-third of rheumatoid arthritis patients discontinue therapy within the first year, with loss of efficacy being the leading reason. The findings highlight the need for early intervention and improved adherence to treatment to enable patients to lead active lives.
Patients with Systemic Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (SJIA) who received canakinumab successfully tapered off corticosteroids, achieving a CS-free status in 42 out of 128 patients. This reduction in corticosteroid use has significant long-term health benefits for children suffering from SJIA.
A study at EULAR 2013 found that depression indicators are stronger predictors of work disability in early arthritis than disease activity or response to therapy. Patients with moderate to severe depression were more likely to consider or enter early retirement.
Women who have given birth are at a higher risk of developing ACPA-negative rheumatoid arthritis, according to a new study. The increased risk is more pronounced among those who deliver within the first year of symptoms.
A study demonstrates that brodalumab effectively reduces PsA symptoms and improves quality of life. The treatment also shows promise for those with prior biologic exposure, indicating a potential new therapeutic approach for this progressive disease.
A new study shows that rapid evaluation for Giant Cell Arteritis (GCA) using Color Doppler Ultrasound (CDUS) followed by immediate treatment significantly reduces permanent vision loss. The 'fast track' approach led to 11.1% transient visual manifestations, with none suffering from permanent visual loss.
A new study demonstrates the efficacy of a radiographic scoring method to evaluate joint damage in rheumatoid arthritis, revealing progressive destruction even under TNF-blocking therapies. Patients with pre-existing damage showed significant increases in joint damage, highlighting the importance of early and accurate evaluation.
Professors Barry Bresnihan and Jean-Michel Dayer received the Meritorious Service Award from EULAR for their dedication to advancing rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases. They have conducted pivotal research that substantially improved patient lives, particularly in rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus.
A new study reveals that one in eight high-risk patients using over-the-counter NSAIDs take the medication despite knowing the risks. The most common reasons for use were musculoskeletal complaints, with 67% citing this as a reason.
RA patients identified seven key categories essential for adopting and maintaining physical activity, including personal incentives, peer support, and professional coaching. The study aimed to develop an internet-based physical activity intervention that caters to these needs, promoting exercise habits among RA patients.
The European Rheumatology Research Foundation was launched to support high-quality, peer-reviewed research on rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases. The foundation aims to improve diagnosis and treatment of SSc by introducing revised classification criteria.
Psoriatic arthritis patients treated with ustekinumab showed significant and sustained improvements in signs and symptoms, even in those previously treated with biologic agents. The treatment was well-tolerated with no deaths or serious adverse events.
Apremilast administered to patients with psoriatic arthritis showed significant clinical responses beyond 24 weeks, with up to 65% achieving ACR20 response rates at week 52. The novel PDE-4 inhibitor was well-tolerated with an acceptable long-term safety profile.
The CHERISH trial demonstrates the effectiveness of tocilizumab in reducing symptoms and signs of juvenile idiopathic arthritis. Patients with polyarticular JIA achieved significant clinical responses, including ACR30/50/70 responses, with as many as 65% attaining an ACR70 response.
A head-to-head trial shows that subcutaneous abatacept is as effective as adalimumab in clinical and functional outcomes for patients with active rheumatoid arthritis. The study found comparable efficacy and safety profiles between the two treatments, with fewer injection site reactions in the abatacept group.
A £3.5 million project aims to reconstruct primitive musical instruments and reach conclusions about the type of music played on them using archaeological evidence and specialist performers.
Research from the University of Sheffield reveals a decline in Europe's undeclared economy from 22.3% to 18.4% of GDP between 2003 and 2012. The study found an east-west divide, with southern European countries having larger undeclared economies.