Science and research news from across Europe. Covers major discoveries, university leadership, disease burden and costs, and research policy in the region.
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.
Astronomers have discovered a 'dust trap' around a young star that is likely a comet factory, allowing particles to grow from millimetre size to comets. The observations, made using ALMA, reveal a ring of gas with a central hole created by an unseen planet or companion star.
Europe's national R&D budgets have stalled, leading to a brain drain and stunted scientific growth. Portugal's former science minister calls for sustained investment to strengthen universities and research facilities, promoting collaboration across borders.
Researchers found that 70% of stars in a globular cluster do not undergo the final nuclear burning and mass-loss phase, contradicting previous theories. The team discovered that these stars have low levels of sodium, suggesting a link between sodium content and stellar evolution.
Researchers created a mathematical model to estimate goal-scoring potential based on individual qualities, extrinsic factors and intrinsic abilities. The study revealed Messi ranks sixth in overall performance among top strikers.
A new study in the Journal of Quaternary Science explores the historic impact of forest diseases on vegetation change. The research suggests that human activity, such as international seed trade, is a major factor in frequent pathogen outbreaks over the last 100 years.
A new investigational device, Helio System (TF-FA), was successfully deployed in four patients with high-risk aortic insufficiency. The device helps stabilize the Sapien XT Transcatheter Heart Valve and improves aortic insufficiency from moderate to trivial.
A multicentre Asian registry reported early experience confirming TAVI efficacy and safety in a physically smaller population. Low stroke and mortality rates were observed, with high procedural success rates, supporting the feasibility of TAVI in Asian patients.
Studies in Western Europe reveal local forces driving tectonic activity, while a paper on the Osa Peninsula describes rapid vertical deformation of crustal blocks. Another study examines the extension of an orogenic wedge through the exhumation of high-pressure terranes in Norway.
Researchers at the University of Granada found that European Commission-proposed tobacco-warning images do not elicit a strong avoidance response in smokers, as people often perceive them as unpleasant but not impactful. The study proposes using less explicit photos to increase their emotional impact and effectiveness.
A new study by EMBO reports found that corruption in countries hinders the attraction and retention of highly skilled workers. The level of corruption directly affects the availability of skilled workers, leading to negative consequences for a country's economy.
The European Society of Human Genetics urges caution on using new genetic sequencing techniques due to potential risks and benefits. The society recommends targeted analysis to limit unsolicited findings, ensuring patients' rights are protected while also providing them with necessary health information.
The European Heart Rhythm Association (EHRA) is introducing late-breaking clinical trials for the first time at its annual meeting, EHRA EUROPACE 2013. These trials focus on innovative treatments for atrial fibrillation and other arrhythmias.
The Leibniz Institute for Tropospheric Research advocates for tightening the Air Quality Directive to set better standards, improve air quality, and protect human health. Researchers recommend regulating pollutants like particulate matter, ground-level ozone, and benzo(a)pyrene to reduce the negative impacts of air pollution.
Researchers found that European winter weather is more challenging to forecast when the Atlantic airflow is weaker, leading to more complicated weather patterns. This phenomenon is linked to the North Atlantic Oscillation, which affects the relationship between atmospheric pressure systems and European weather conditions.
A new experimental set-up developed by Dr Alexandre Bounouh's team at LNE in France accurately measures mechanical values and properties of MEMS devices through electrical measurement. The technique uses a current with varying frequency to analyze the harmonic content of the output voltage, determining mechanical characteristics such a...
Ancient DNA analysis confirms Yersinia pestis as the cause of the Justinianic Plague. The results provide insights into the phylogeny and origin of this plague, contradicting previous theories. This breakthrough sheds new light on a major pandemic in European history.
Researchers found that wolves and bears were able to adapt their diets in response to changing environments, allowing them to survive after the last ice age. In contrast, large cats such as saber-toothed cats and cave lions were unable to adjust their diets, leading to their decline.
The article discusses the need for sustainable bioenergy crops by setting a standard. The first precondition is good governance, including environmental groups, to achieve public acceptance. The second precondition is to fortify the producer's sustainability toolbox, including effective tools and baselines. The third precondition is in...
The EMAS clinical guide provides recommendations for assessing the endometrium in peri and postmenopausal women to exclude carcinoma of the endometrium and premalignant hyperplasia. Transvaginal ultrasound scanning is used for initial assessment, followed by endometrial biopsy as an outpatient procedure.
A new study published in PLOS Biology found that Europeans are closely related, sharing nearly the same set of ancestors within a thousand years. The researchers used DNA data from over 2,000 individuals to detect subtle local trends and historic migrations, revealing patterns of demographic shifts and cultural influences.
A recent study reveals that Europeans are genetically linked over the past thousand years, tracing back to nearly the same set of ancestors. The research found subtle local differences in genetic sequences among European populations.
Tobacco deaths can be reduced in the USA with new regulations and public health efforts. In Asia, controlling the tobacco epidemic is crucial to prevent devastating loss of life and illness. European countries face challenges in implementing effective tobacco control measures, highlighting opportunities for improvement.
A recent horse meat detection incident in European food products led to concerns in the US. The incident involved tiny amounts of horse meat mistakenly added to beef products due to equipment issues. The American Chemical Society discusses the issue and its implications for the US market.
Researchers found evidence of lead pollution in a lagoon at 3,020 m altitude, tracing it back to ancient metallurgical activities. The study suggests that human activity significantly impacted the environment during the Holocene period.
The US and other high-income countries struggle to achieve the 'Triple Aim', a goal of better health, care, and lower cost. The article highlights strategies and tactics that can be learned from other countries.
The ESC guide offers practical advice on using new oral anticoagulants (NOACs) to prevent stroke in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation. It highlights the benefits of NOACs, including reduced monitoring requirements and lower bleeding risk compared to vitamin K antagonists.
The European Union's current policies on genetically engineered crops are undermining its competitiveness and humanitarian activities in the developing world. The authors recommend adopting rational, science-based principles to prevent economic decline and lower standards of living across the continent.
Research revealed a significant increase in chronic liver disease risk among women with high BMI and heavy alcohol intake. Women are twice as sensitive to alcohol-related liver damage, and low BMI combined with high alcohol consumption poses greater risks.
The European Society of Cardiology recommends catheter-based renal denervation for patients with resistant hypertension, indicating its potential in treating multiple cardiovascular diseases. The technique involves radiofrequency ablation to reset renal blood pressure regulation and reduce whole-body sympathetic nerve activity.
A new study published in Diabetologia suggests that consuming one 12oz serving of sugar-sweetened soft drinks daily can increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes by 22% in European populations. The research found a statistically significant association between artificially sweetened soft drink consumption and an increased risk of...
A new study found that a commonly used US stem cell transplant regimen for advanced neuroblastoma in children was associated with more acute toxicity, particularly to the kidneys and liver. The study informed the recent decision of the Children's Oncology Group to switch to an equally effective European approach.
A team of scientists, including Dr Paul Brotherton from the University of Huddersfield, investigated haplogroup H mitochondrial genomes from ancient human remains to understand modern European populations. The results show a significant population upheaval around 4,000 BC, potentially due to large-scale migration or growth.
A study by Spanish researchers found that roe deer accidents peak between April and July, particularly at nightfall, while wild boar accidents occur between October and January. The risk is also higher on Sundays due to increased night-time traffic.
Researchers reconstructed modern Europe's genetic history using ancient DNA from skeletons in central Germany, revealing dramatic migrations and a mysterious genetic turnover around 4000-5000 years ago. The study provides a high-resolution record of human DNA evolution over 4000 years, shedding light on the demographic history of Europe.
A new study published in Psychological Science found that individuals living in greener areas reported less mental distress and higher life satisfaction. The association held even after accounting for other factors that contribute to life satisfaction.
A new study has reconstructed regional temperature patterns covering all seven continents and found that Earth's current warmth is not seen in the last 1,400 years. The research, published in Nature Geoscience, reveals a natural cooling trend reversed by industrial greenhouse gas emissions.
Research finds that individuals living in urban areas with green space report less mental distress and higher life satisfaction. The effect is significant even after accounting for income, employment, marital status, physical health, and housing type.
A new study evaluates the effectiveness of the Natura 2000 network in covering threatened European species, finding that many fish species are poorly covered. The authors recommend increasing site numbers, developing public awareness, and involving local people in conservation strategies to improve efficiency.
The European Commission needs to reform its science funding programme by reducing red tape and improving transparency to get the most out of €70 billion in research funding. This includes better mapping and linking of funded projects, open data drives, and ending discriminatory salary policies.