Articles tagged with Europe
Researchers from FIGHT-MG project discover that a viral molecule can trigger an inappropriate immune response, causing muscular function to deteriorate. The study provides proof of concept that a viral infection can cause auto-immune myasthenia, a rare disease characterized by muscular weakness and exhaustion.
Research reveals successful solo rock/pop stars are twice as likely to die early as those in equally famous bands. Adverse childhood experiences are also significantly more common among those who died from drug and alcohol misuse.
Every week, the UK National Poisons Information Service receives around two phone queries about snakebites, with over half of these enquiries concerning the European adder, the only poisonous snake native to the UK. Snakebite injuries can be serious due to their effects on the heart and other organs, despite being rarely fatal.
Researchers discovered ancient wooden wells in eastern Germany, providing evidence of skilled carpentry among early European farmers. The tree rings preserved environmental data offering insights into climate and strategies used by these prehistoric settlers.
The Natura 2000 network's effectiveness in covering European species is evaluated, with mixed results. The analysis shows that the network mostly covers target species but has gaps in representation, especially for narrow-ranged species.
A new climate model simulates the effects of Arctic hurricanes on ocean water circulation and climate, suggesting potentially cooler conditions in Europe and North America. The research finds that polar lows influence the sinking of dense cold water in the North Atlantic, driving large-scale ocean circulation.
The European Science Foundation published a report calling for an advanced understanding of the human brain, highlighting five key opportunities for research. The initiative aims to provide a framework for discussion on future research and practice in light of changes in our understanding of the brain.
The 2011 TIMSS and PIRLS assessments reported global student achievement in mathematics, science, and reading, with East Asian countries leading the way. The top-performing countries in each subject were identified, along with trends in achievement over time.
The study found that tobacco smuggling in Europe is lower than expected, with availability being the primary driver. Illicit tobacco was more common in countries bordering Ukraine and Russia, as well as those with lower prices for Marlboro packs.
A new study by European Molecular Biology Laboratory researchers found that each person's gut metagenome is unique and remains stable over time. The analysis of 207 individuals revealed a high resolution of individual mutations in gut microbes, with potential applications for identifying gut diseases and developing personalized therapies.
A study published in Current Biology found that the European Romani population has its roots in northwestern India, dating back around 1,500 years. The research used genome-wide data to confirm this origin and shed light on the history of the Romani people.
Researchers analyzed microbial DNA in 252 stool samples to catalog genetic variation, finding over 10 million single-letter changes in collective DNA. The data could aid understanding of how human genes interact with microbes to maintain health or cause disease.
Research finds that HIV-infected children have a 2.5-fold increased risk of early atherosclerosis damage, leading to cardiovascular disease. Experts recommend aggressive treatment of high cholesterol and promotion of healthy lifestyles to prevent complications.
Research shows that obstructive sleep apnea causes early cardiovascular damage similar to diabetes, highlighting the importance of seeking medical attention. Patients with moderate to severe OSA have endothelial dysfunction and higher arterial stiffness, which can lead to heart failure.
Researchers have identified 35 hearts without significant coronary artery disease that are eligible for transplantation using pharmacological stress echo. The study found successful transplantation in emergency recipients with minimal complications, paving the way for an upward shift in donor age cut-off limit from 55 to 65 years.
A recent study discovered that small patches of native plants within fruit orchards can enhance pollinator services, increasing mango production. The presence of these patches has been shown to increase the number of visits from honeybees and wild pollinators, leading to improved crop yields.
A peer-reviewed study found that most houses have levels of at least one flame retardant exceeding federal health guidelines, with hormone disruptors, carcinogens, and chemicals of unknown safety profiles detected. The study highlights the need for safer alternatives to phase out hazardous chemicals.
Climate change is affecting all regions in Europe, causing a range of impacts on society and the environment. Higher temperatures, decreased precipitation in southern regions, and melting glaciers are among the key findings.
Professor Uffe Haagerup received the 14th European Latsis Prize for his pioneering work in operator algebra, a field with significant applications in quantum field theory. The prize recognizes his unique achievements and contributions to mathematics, solidifying his reputation as a leading mathematician.
The European Commission awards the ESC nearly €500,000 to survey European CVD research funding landscape and identify gaps in funding. The CardioScape project will provide intelligence on where cardiovascular research funding is provided and make recommendations for future transnational research strategies.
The SustainValue project creates concrete tools for ensuring partners act sustainably. A networked approach helps develop comprehensive solutions rather than individual products. The project also establishes new indicators for assessing economic, social, and environmental impacts across entire networks of stakeholders.
Astronomers have discovered that dwarf planet Makemake lacks a significant atmosphere, revealing new insights into its composition. The study used observations of Makemake passing in front of a star to determine its size, density, and albedo, with findings comparable to dirty snow.
The annual UK Flusurvey aims to collect data from men and women of all ages on flu symptoms, trends, and risk factors. Researchers hope to uncover if 'man flu' is real and explore the impact of pets on reported flu-like illnesses.
Researchers have identified two species of wood-boring beetles as the makers of wormholes in European printed art since the Renaissance. The study, published in Biology Letters, uses printed art as a trace fossil to precisely date species and identify their locations.
The LLLight'in'Europe project aims to measure employee strengths in solving complex problems, fostering innovation and attracting new talent. The four-year study will assess Complex Problem Solving Skills (CPS) capabilities in 4150 individuals across Europe.
The North American Oak Skeletonizer has invaded Europe on planted Northern Red Oaks since 1989. The moth's arrival is attributed to air transport of cocoons from NATO aircraft, leading to the discovery of this previously unknown species in Europe.
A recent study published in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology challenges the benefits of planned home birth, citing higher rates of unexpected complications, emergency transports, and perinatal mortality. The authors argue that a hospital-based approach can provide a safer and more satisfying experience for patients.
A team of researchers discovered genetic evidence of blending between Europeans and Asians in ancient Scythian warriors living in the Altai Mountains of Mongolia. The study reveals that local Central Asian populations blended with European lineages due to technological advancements from the Scythian culture.
The University of Southampton is leading a €11.6 million EU-funded research project to develop new crops that can withstand drought, addressing the impact of climate change on crop productivity. The project aims to characterise DNA variation in under-utilised crops and harness this knowledge to produce better crops.
Physicists create graphene mini-labs to study fast-moving electrons and their relativistic behavior. The experiments mimic the dynamics of cosmic rays, despite traveling at a fraction of the speed of light.
The 1000 Genomes Project has mapped normal human genetic variation at different scales, revealing differences between individuals and populations. The results open new approaches for research on the genetic causes of diseases, including links to specific DNA sequences and their inherited variants.
Researchers found that ancient European hippos shrunk in size during the Pleistocene Era due to changing environmental conditions. The study suggests that temperature, food availability, and other factors influenced their adaptation.
Researchers from Germany and Slovakia have found that triclosan concentrations in the Elbe river basin exceeded predicted no-effect concentrations by up to a factor of twelve. Triclosan is currently not included in routine monitoring programs, despite being used extensively in personal care products and sportswear.
The revised Tobacco Products Directive has been put on hold due to allegations of financial impropriety against former EU Commissioner John Dalli. The delay raises concerns about the EU Commission's commitment to public health and citizens' confidence in decision-making.
A study comparing sepsis mortality rates in Europe and the US found higher mortality rates in Europe, but differences may reflect varying critical care approaches rather than healthcare quality. The study also revealed disparities in ICU admission and length of stay between the two regions.
Research estimates that European countries with weak agricultural import controls are more vulnerable to exotic insect pests. The study provides new metrics to evaluate and improve border controls, highlighting the need for better biosecurity measures to prevent invasive insects from entering the continent.
Researchers developed an electronic nose to detect obstructive sleep apnoea, a condition associated with inflammation in the upper airways. The device accurately diagnosed sleep apnoea in patients, showing a sensitivity of 93%, and could potentially reduce costs by selecting patients who require further testing.
Researchers discovered that migratory birds carrying ticks can transmit Crimean-Congo Haemorrhagic fever to new areas in southern Europe. The study found one bird species, the woodchat shrike, was a carrier of virus-infected ticks.
A Danish-British research team discovered a previously unknown third position in the calcium pump's on-off switch, enabling it to function at full speed when activated. This discovery improves our understanding of biological mechanisms and may lead to better treatment of diseases related to calcium balance.
A team of researchers investigated whether 'surplus' land can be used to produce feedstock for bioenergy. They found that land-use conflicts between food and energy production are a pressing issue. The study suggests clarifying the definition of surplus land and taking environmental and socio-economic factors into account.
A European-wide network aims to improve GMO regulatory systems through systematic environmental impact assessments. The network addresses public concerns and creates confidence in the ENSyGMO results by analyzing GM crop effects using integrated approaches and methods at various scales.
A study found that kidney transplants performed in Europe have higher survival rates after 5 and 10 years compared to those in the United States. The disparity may be attributed to the lack of cost reimbursement for anti-rejection drugs in the US, leading to poorer outcomes among certain demographics.
A team using ALMA discovered a surprising spiral structure in the gas around red giant star R Sculptoris, suggesting a previously unseen companion star. The astronomers found that far more material than expected had been ejected by the star, contributing to the dust and gas that form future stars.
The UNIKE project aims to establish a global network for researchers to critically analyze university developments in different parts of the world. The initiative will explore how Asian universities are reforming their institutions and pave the way for international partnerships between Europe and Asia.
A new EU project has developed non-invasive methods for characterizing contaminated sites, reducing the need for costly sampling and monitoring. These methods, including geophysical measurements and vegetation analysis, enable more accurate detection of pollution and efficient rehabilitation of megasites in Europe.
Researchers found a link between prolonged QRS wave and increased mortality in heart failure. A new type of pacemaker could be effective for treating this condition, which is often overlooked.
Researchers found that plants in different regions produce distinct chemical defenses against aphids, which are influenced by local pest populations. This variation is driven by the need for optimal defense against specific aphid species, highlighting the importance of genetic diversity in plant evolution.
The University of Strathclyde is launching a new training network, 'Stardust', to tackle space debris and asteroid deflection with 14 European partners. The programme will provide significant advances in protecting the planet from these hazards.
The European Drug Initiative on Channels and Transporters (EDICT) project has enabled a major step forward in understanding membrane protein structures and functions. Over 30 proteins have been studied, with at least six potential new drug compounds identified.
The European Society for Medical Oncology has released the ESMO 2012 Congress press conference schedule, featuring live streaming and remote participation. Media representatives can access updated information on the official ESMO website.
A large-scale European study found that surgical mortality rates are significantly higher than previously estimated, with 4% of patients dying after surgery. The highest mortality rates were observed in Latvia and Poland, while Ireland, Italy, Belgium, Portugal, and France also showed significant variations.
Researchers at NIST have developed a new computational method to identify promising refrigerant fluids with low global warming potential. The new method identified over 1,200 candidates from 56,000 compounds, including fluorinated olefins that react rapidly with atmospheric compounds.
Recent breast cancer research at ESMO 2012 emphasizes the importance of avoiding weight gain after treatment to reduce recurrence risk. Additionally, studies focus on the correlation between body mass index and prognosis, as well as lung cancer in never-smoking women, highlighting hormonal factors and high incidence of EGFR mutation.
Research published in BMJ Supportive & Palliative Care reveals that cancer and chronic disease account for nearly half of gradual deaths in European Union countries. The study found that thousands of people experience debilitating symptoms before passing away, emphasizing the need for palliative care strategies to improve quality of life.
Research published in BMJ Open found that many European foods still contain high levels of trans fatty acids, putting millions at risk. While overall TFA content has fallen, Eastern Europe remains a hotspot for high levels, while Western Europe has made significant progress.
The Euro-26 study examined health, life expectancy, and lifestyles of 26 European cities, identifying major differences within individual urban areas. Key priority areas were found for each city, including depression and anxiety, cancer, and respiratory disease.
A large European-wide study has confirmed that work stress is associated with a small but consistent increase in the risk of experiencing a first coronary heart disease event. The study found that individuals with highly demanding jobs and little freedom to make decisions are 23% more likely to experience a heart attack.
A major review of European breast cancer screening services found that the benefits outweigh the harms, with seven to nine lives saved for every 1,000 women screened. The review also noted that four cases of over-diagnosis occur for every 1,000 women screened, which can cause stress and anxiety.
Researchers have discovered a small crustacean, Ankylocythere sinuosa, living on invasive red swamp crayfish in Europe. The finding suggests that the crustacean may have arrived with the crayfish 30 years ago and could potentially impact native species.
The study found that women with heart disease can safely go through pregnancy if adequately evaluated, counseled, and receive high-quality care. However, developing countries have poorer outcomes due to limited access to better care, while cardiomyopathy patients face higher mortality rates.