Science and research news from across Europe. Covers major discoveries, university leadership, disease burden and costs, and research policy in the region.
Researchers discovered that brain's 'slow waves' start in the cerebral cortex and are initiated by a local cluster of neurons. This finding provides new insights into processes like memory consolidation and learning, and could lead to a better understanding of diseases like Alzheimer's.
Professor Socrates Papapoulos has made significant contributions to advancing osteoporosis research and advocacy worldwide. He is a renowned researcher at the Leiden University Medical Center and IOF Board member, with over 300 publications and several awards.
A new EU scorecard highlights significant inequalities in osteoporosis care across European countries. Despite marked differences in fracture risk and services, approximately 57% of high-risk individuals remain untreated, with inadequate access to testing, treatment, and effective medications.
The European Union faces a significant burden of osteoporosis, with 22 million women and 5.5 million men affected. The annual economic cost of new and prior fragility fractures is €37 billion, with costs expected to increase by 25% by 2025.
The European Commission needs to reform its science funding programme by reducing red tape, improving data mapping and linking, promoting open data, and ending inegalitarian salary policies. The current programme aims to bring €70 billion of research funding, but reforms are necessary to unlock its full potential.
Researchers found that male moths lose the ability to measure pheromone blend ratios as they fly upwind, leading them to rely on their initial impression. This allows males to mate with females of different strains, resulting in hybrid moth populations.
The ORIENTplus upgrade provides a high-capacity e-infrastructure for EU-China collaborations, enabling data-intensive projects like Large Hadron Collider and genome research. The upgraded link supports robust networks, scalable storage, and fast compute for world-class research and education.
Researchers have empirically calibrated the Maya Long Count calendar to the modern European calendar using carbon-14 dating, offering a more accurate understanding of Maya dates relative to historic events. The study's findings suggest that climate change played an important role in the development and demise of the complex civilization.
Patients with untreated sleep apnoea are more likely to fail a driving simulator test and report nodding whilst driving. The study found that 24% of sleep apnoea patients failed the test compared to 12% of controls.
A study presented at the Sleep and Breathing Conference found that CPAP treatment significantly improved productivity at work among sleep apnea patients. The researchers observed a notable reduction in daytime sleepiness among those who adhered to the treatment programme, with 35 out of 45 participants showing significant improvements.
New research estimates that Europe can potentially reduce greenhouse gas emissions from land use by over 60% by 2050 through efficient agriculture and forest management. This reduction would be driven primarily by cutting emissions from livestock production and optimizing forest management to increase carbon sequestration.
Alexander Levitzki's work on signal transduction therapy and tyrosine kinase inhibitors has led to the development of effective anticancer drugs. His contributions have been recognized with numerous awards, including the Israel Prize in Biochemistry and the Wolf Prize for Medicine.
A new study by the University of Luxembourg found that employment and health problems are the main reasons why migrants feel unhappy in their new country. Economic factors such as unemployment and low income, as well as health issues, were found to have a significant impact on migrants' wellbeing.
A new study found that EU minimum tax legislation for cigarettes has no effect on smoking prevalence, with prices rising up to three times faster than before. The introduction of the legislation in Spain in 2006 led to a shift towards hand-rolled cigarettes, which are cheaper than manufactured ones.
The NIH team developed a nonhuman primate model in December 2012 to study the emerging coronavirus. Clinical signs of the disease appear within 24 hours of infection, including reduced appetite and respiratory issues. The model is helping scientists evaluate potential vaccines and treatments.
A new find in a 246-million-year-old sediment layer reveals the skull of a juvenile placodont, confirming its European origin and providing insight into the group's early evolution. The discovery highlights the significance of crushing dentition in placodonts, with pointed teeth appearing earlier than previously thought.
The Lancet Series reveals significant disparities in male life expectancy between eastern and western Europe, with a gap of over 40 years. Public health policies are also at risk due to EU law's influence from industry and pro-business stances.
A study by University of Texas at Austin researchers reveals that Texas Longhorns are direct descendants of cattle brought over by Columbus in 1493, with an 85% taurine genome from the Middle East. The breed's genetic diversity is partially responsible for their resilience to harsh climatic conditions.
The new Guidance emphasizes the importance of early diagnosis and treatment for postmenopausal osteoporosis, citing high fracture rates and low treatment adherence. The report provides updated guidelines for assessing fracture risk, management algorithms, and nutritional recommendations to prevent fractures.
The Horizon Health web portal provides a valuable online resource for journalists and interested citizens, featuring accurate and up-to-date information on health research funded by the EU. The platform aims to improve communication on EU-funded health research projects, mainly towards the media and general public.
New research estimates that 14% of chronic childhood asthma is caused by exposure to traffic pollution near busy roads. The findings are comparable to the burden associated with passive smoking, highlighting the importance of clean air for all.
A study by the ZEUS group found no significant difference in the incidence of bone metastases between patients receiving zoledronic acid and those on standard treatment. The 50-month study suggested that zoledronic acid may not be effective in preventing hormone therapy-induced bone loss in high-risk prostate cancer patients.
A retrospective multicenter study of 677 patients found that intraoperative, early postoperative, and mesh-related complications are common in pelvic organ prolapse surgery. Mesh-related complications were the most common, with erosion being the most frequent complication.
Experiments predict that Daphnia lumholtzi can invade European lakes and outcompete native species, leading to substantial declines in population growth. The invasive species' ability to thrive at low temperatures also poses a threat.
AgedBrainSYSBIO assembles 14 international research teams to tackle ageing and cognitive decline using GWAS, comparative genomics, and protein-protein interactions. The project aims to identify druggable targets for preventing and curing age-related diseases.
Researchers directly verified a state of transition where molecules hover above the catalyst before flying away, opening up possibilities for improving catalysts. This study uses the world's strongest X-ray laser to observe ultrafast chemical reactions in real-time.
Researchers discovered that maxillary sinuses change size to accommodate different climates, affecting nasal cavity shape and function. The study found a significant correlation between nose size and sinus volume in both African and European populations.
A European-wide study with 450,000 participants found that eating over 40 grams of processed meat per day increases the risk of mortality compared to those who eat fewer than 20 grams a day. Moderate consumption of up to 40 grams daily does not increase mortality risk.
The European League Against Rheumatism recommends immediate use of synthetic DMARDs after diagnosis, but they are expensive. The survey found that 26 countries cannot afford biological DMARDs, excluding 320 million people from treatment.
Félix Goñi, a renowned researcher, has received the prestigious European Avanti award for his groundbreaking work on cell membrane lipids and their role in programmed cell death. The award recognizes his contributions to the understanding of biophysics of lipids, including metabolism, enzymology, structure, and membranes.
The UK's premature mortality rates have worsened, particularly among men older than 55 years, due to increases in drug and alcohol use disorders. The country ranks lower than other nations in several health metrics, including ischaemic heart disease, COPD, and stroke.
A new SPB by COST and ESF explores LCS research's role in enhancing essential responses to Europe's broader challenges. Key findings highlight the importance of cultural literacy in shaping European identities and cultures.
The UK's pace of decline in premature mortality has fallen behind the average of other European countries and EU15+ nations over the past 20 years. The country struggles with disabling conditions such as back and neck pain, depression, and drug use, leading to more chronic disability than ever before.
A Swiss government-protected field site will provide a secure environment for GM crop researchers, enabling them to conduct experiments without security measures. This model could help European countries evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of GM crops in an objective manner.
Researchers are working to improve study design and sample collection to better understand the composition and effects of the gut microbiota. The American Gastroenterological Association hosted a World Summit on Gut Microbiota For Health, where experts discussed future research directions.
A new study suggests that more than three-quarters of people in England drink in excess of the recommended daily alcohol limit, leading to a significant increase in binge drinking among men and women, particularly those on high incomes.
The HPS2-THRIVE study found that vitamin niacin combined with statin treatment increases adverse side-effects, including skin flushing and gastrointestinal problems. Patients taking the experimental treatment were four times more likely to stop due to skin-related reasons.
Fecal microbiota transplantation has been shown to be highly effective in treating recurrent Clostridium difficile infections, with over 90% of patients being cured within a short period. The treatment offers a rapidly acting alternative to standard antibiotic treatments.
Functional bowel disorders affect 50% of patients consulting a gastroenterologist. Recent research suggests that gut microbiota plays a significant role in these conditions. The AGA reports on the latest findings and potential therapeutic avenues.
The EAU has made its patient information available in Spanish and Greek to cater to patients from diverse linguistic backgrounds. This move aims to provide trustworthy information on urological diseases to all European patients, with translations coordinated by national societies.
The BIOPOOL project aggregates data from European biobanks to facilitate faster and more accurate cancer diagnoses. This initiative enables clinicians to compare biopsy images of patients with those of numerous other patients, reducing the need for invasive tests and improving treatment outcomes.
The EU directive on GMOs must be amended to allow the production of plant-made pharmaceuticals, which could lead to cheaper vaccines, pharmaceuticals, and organic plastics. The new regulations should provide tight oversight to encourage investment while maintaining trust.
A new study projects that global sea-level rise will not be uniform, with certain regions experiencing higher rates of rise. The team used sophisticated computer modeling to show how ice loss from glaciers and ice sheets will impact regional sea levels, particularly in the Equatorial Pacific Ocean.
Researchers worldwide are embarking on DEMO projects to demonstrate fusion energy production, following the construction of ITER in France. The challenges ahead include finding solutions to well-known scientific and technical issues.
Vulvar lichen sclerosus is a chronic inflammatory disease affecting genital areas, causing significant discomfort. The EMAS clinical guide provides advice on early recognition and treatment to prevent delay in management.
A recent publication by ILSI Europe identifies key contributors to child obesity, including maternal diet, gestational weight gain, and metabolic perturbations. Combining data from clinical studies could lead to more effective nutritional advice for pregnant women.
New isotopic data shows that Neolithic farmers introduced agriculture to Central Europe from the Near East through colonizers. This discovery sheds light on the spread of farming across Europe and challenges previous theories about its adoption.
A 397,000-year-old fossil found in Serbia reveals that southeastern European human ancestors evolved differently than those in western Europe due to the absence of glaciers. The study confirms southeast Europe as a critical 'gate to the continent' where humans, plants, and animals sought refuge during glaciations.
The European Space Sciences Committee (ESSC) has released its position statement on the ESA council meeting at ministerial level, commenting on the impact of decisions taken. The ESSC recommends prioritizing scientific return in the Science Programme and reiterates its support for European involvement in the Global Exploration Strategy.
A recent study found that minimum alcohol prices increased by 10% resulted in significant reductions in alcohol-related deaths. The decrease was particularly pronounced among heavier drinkers, who reduced their consumption when cheaper drinks became more expensive.
The European Science Foundation proposes a new model of integrated care support for citizens' health through linked social and health care. Key priorities include personalized care delivery, effective use of ICT applications based on user acceptability, and ensuring respect for formal and informal carers.
Geneviève Almouzni has been recognized for her pioneering work on histones and chromatin, promoting epigenetics in Europe, and mentoring female scientists. She will receive the 2013 FEBS | EMBO Women in Science Award for her exceptional achievements in molecular biology.
The SPACEKIDS project aims to develop ultra-sensitive cameras using Kinetic Inductance Detectors (KIDs), paving the way for better understanding of the Universe and its own planet. The program is funded by a European Union Framework Programme 7 grant and involves collaboration with leading European institutes.
A study published in BioMed Central's open access journal Carbon Balance and Management suggests that afforestation can lead to cooler summers and wetter conditions in regions like Europe. Planting trees can provide localized benefits by making the surrounding air moister and cooler, sequestering carbon and protecting biodiversity.
A new population modelling approach contradicts the widespread belief that disease must have been a factor in the thylacine's extinction. The study found that European settlement, including hunting and habitat loss, was powerful enough to drive the species to extinction without invoking a mystery disease.
A study by MIT and LSE found that migrants from certain countries may be up to 40% less likely to gain citizenship due to biases in the voting process. Despite this, interactions with immigrant groups can help reduce prejudice over time.
The European Commission has chosen the Human Brain Project, a decade-long research initiative backed by 1.19 billion euros, to study the human brain. Eight Israeli scientists will lead a team from top research institutions across Europe and the world.
The radial approach for percutaneous coronary interventions (PCI) is associated with reduced bleeding complications and improved survival rates, particularly in STEMI patients. The European Society of Cardiology recommends radial access as the default strategy for PCI in high-risk acute coronary syndromes.
The Human Brain Project will integrate data across all scales to improve understanding of brain development and combat brain disorders. Led by McGill University's Dr. Alan Evans, the project aims to reconstruct the brain in supercomputer-based models and simulations.
IST Austria professor Peter Jonas is one of three Austrian collaborators in the €1 billion Human Brain Project. He contributes his research on cellular and subcellular parameters, crucial for accurate modeling of the brain.