Articles tagged with Europe
A Review published in The Lancet warns that health inequalities in Europe are worsening and calls for urgent action to reduce disparities. The review provides policy recommendations to improve health equality across European countries, regardless of their current status or income.
An international team of academics researched the implementation and effects of Germany's compensation payments to former forced labourers, finding that personal experiences and memories played a crucial role in shaping victims' perceptions of the payments. The study, published in four volumes, reveals complex persecution experiences a...
The joint statement provides a one-page report for each indication, using a colour-coded system to grade responses. This aims to increase the utilization of CPX technology by empowering clinicians to undertake their own interpretations.
A new study found that people living close to Eyjafjallajökull volcano experienced worse respiratory symptoms after the 2010 eruption. The researchers reported increased symptoms such as phlegm, eye irritation, and cough, highlighting the importance of healthcare professionals being aware of potential risks.
A study reveals that most electronic waste in Spain is uncontrolled, with only 2.55 kg out of 13.86 kg collected and processed correctly under the Integrated Waste Management System (SIG). The majority of manufacturers are not registered in the system, leading to significant payment evasion.
The pollination services provided by insects like bees and hover-flies are crucial for global food production, but declining pollinators threaten this ecosystem service. The loss of pollinators could lead to reduced crop yields and decreased fruit and vegetable availability, exacerbating food insecurity.
A new feasibility study suggests a generic framework for researcher professional development across Europe, overcoming deficiencies and promoting mobility. The framework aims to support researchers in their career aspirations and provide a common language for describing skills.
A new treatment has been developed to help prevent asthma attacks in asthmatics by boosting their immune systems. The study found that a simple inhalation of an immune system protein molecule can significantly reduce worsening asthma symptoms and the need to use an asthma inhaler.
The failure to meet 2010 biodiversity targets has led to a critical review of existing policies and the need for improved design and implementation. Scientists emphasize the importance of understanding complexity in processes to address scale-related problems in conservation.
A comprehensive review of European bird monitoring programs revealed opportunities for improvement in sampling design, data analysis, and public involvement. Recommendations include collecting quantitative data, optimizing resource allocation between sites, and increasing collaboration among programs to integrate and reuse sampled data.
Researchers emphasize the need for policy-makers to consider various scales in conservation decisions, including space and time, to effectively protect biodiversity. The SCALES project highlights the importance of adopting scale-sensitive approaches to bridge the gap between scientific research and practical applications.
Stable isotopes are used to establish the origin of substances, track dynamic processes, and solve environmental mysteries. Researchers will discuss various applications, including water analysis, ecological systems, and global element cycles.
A nationwide Finnish study found that women who had three or more induced abortions before a first birth have a higher risk of delivering a baby prematurely and with low birth weight. The risk increases with each additional abortion, but the overall increase is small.
A European registry study found that TAVI valves were mainly used on patients over 80 years old with comorbidities, resulting in a high risk of complications and mortality. The study also showed significant differences in procedural approaches and post-procedure care across countries.
The US performs worst on potentially preventable death rates compared to France, Germany, and the UK, with slower progress in improving healthcare. Despite higher healthcare spending, the US has made less progress in reducing preventable deaths among men and women under 65.
The European Society of Cardiology is tackling the issue of underused implantable cardiac devices, particularly ICDs, due to financial constraints. The initiative aims to raise awareness about their importance and reduce sudden cardiac death rates in countries like Ukraine and Germany.
The analysis revealed significant gradients in arrhythmia treatment between Western European countries and Eastern European and North African countries. Training and adherence to guidelines are crucial to addressing healthcare inequalities, as highlighted by the European Society of Cardiology.
Researchers found that closing the yield gap on underperforming lands could boost production significantly, while also reducing the environmental impact of agriculture. The study suggests that more strategic use of fertilizer and water could lead to substantial gains in crop production and reduced adverse environmental impacts.
New guidelines set minimum acceptable success rates for catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation, with 50% success rate expected at 12 months. Long-term outcome data shows only 40-50% of patients remain free of recurrent AF after 5 years.
Researchers have developed autonomous self-assembling electronic microreagents to jointly direct complex chemical reactions and analyses in solutions. The project MICREAgents will create programmable microscale electronic chemistry, containing electronic circuits on 3D microchips called lablets.
Astronomers using ALMA detected glycolaldehyde, a simple form of sugar, in the gas surrounding a young binary star. This discovery suggests that the building blocks of life existed in this system at the time of planet formation.
Patients who resume smoking after a stroke are at three times the risk of dying within a year, with early relapse increasing mortality. The study highlights the importance of comprehensive smoking cessation interventions for post-stroke patients.
Ischemic stroke risk after acute myocardial infarction (AMI) dropped significantly, from 4.7% in 1998-2000 to 3.8% in 2007-2008, due to improved AMI care. Reperfusion therapy, blood clot dissolving therapy, and statins were found to be independent predictors of reduced stroke risk.
Analysis of four French registries from 1995 to 2010 shows significant improvements in management and outcomes for acute myocardial infarction (AMI) patients, resulting in a notable decrease in 30-day mortality rates. This improvement is attributed to increased use of coronary angiography/PCI and early adoption of recommended medications.
The European Society of Cardiology sets a new standard for CRT management, covering pre-implant evaluation, device implantation, and follow-up. Key findings include improved symptoms, cardiac function, hospitalization rates, and mortality in CRT patients.
The Atrial Fibrillation Ablation Pilot Study found that catheter ablation suppresses arrhythmia recurrences in 74% of patients after a single procedure. Symptoms such as palpitations and shortness of breath were significantly reduced, with over half of patients becoming asymptomatic.
A Swedish registry analysis found a significant decline in ischemic stroke risk after AMI over the past decade. The risk decreased by 21% from 4.7% in 1998-2000 to 3.8% in 2007-2008, likely due to improved care and modernization of coronary care.
The expanding raccoon population in Europe threatens native species and human health with infectious diseases such as rabies and Baylisascaris procyonis. The spread of these illnesses is linked to the raccoon's adaptability, high reproductive potential, and lack of natural predators.
Scientists investigate the genetic differences between East Asians and Europeans to understand why East Asians have lighter skin but lower skin cancer rates. The study focuses on the Senoi indigenous tribe in Peninsular Malaysia, which is believed to include a mix of African and Asian ancestry.
The study found that global platelet reactivity is a significant predictor of ischemic events in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) who are at high risk. Patients who do not respond to clopidogrel therapy have a higher prevalence of adverse cardiovascular events, including ischemic events and cardiac death.
A study found that personalized antiplatelet treatment using platelet function testing improved clinical outcomes in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention. Non-responders to clopidogrel were given higher doses or alternative therapies, reducing stent thrombosis and acute coronary syndrome rates.
The FAME 2 trial found that FFR-guided PCI plus optimal medical therapy significantly reduced the need for urgent revascularisation and hospital readmission in patients with stable coronary artery disease. The study also showed a lower risk of primary endpoint events, including death and heart attack.
Research from the SPICI study found that adhering to a heart-healthy lifestyle in combination with drug treatment after an acute myocardial infarction treated with coronary artery balloon intervention (PCI) can lead to significant reductions in new cardiac events. The study estimated that preventing 300 to 400 cardiac events annually c...
Patients with clopidogrel non-responsiveness had a higher risk of stent thrombosis and acute coronary syndrome. Personalized antiplatelet treatment using platelet function testing shows promise in reducing ischemic events without increasing bleeding risks.
Improved treatment and management of acute myocardial infarction have led to significant reductions in 30-day mortality, from 12.9% to 3.9%, and in-hospital complications. The analysis suggests that the declines are due to both increased use of recommended interventions and earlier use of medications.
The RECLOSE 2-ACS study found that approximately 20% of patients had a high platelet reactivity to aspirin and were nonresponders. These patients had a significantly higher prevalence of an ischemic event or cardiac death at the 2 year follow-up.
The study found that TAVI leads to significant improvements in health-related quality of life, including increased mobility and reduced discomfort, for patients with severe aortic stenosis. Patients reported remarkable increases in self-rated quality of life scores after TAVI procedure.
A study presented at ESC Congress 2012 found that renal denervation successfully treats patients with resistant hypertension, significantly lowering blood pressure. The procedure resulted in no adverse events or deterioration in renal function, making it a safe and effective treatment option for real-world patient populations.
The ACCESS-EU study found significant clinical improvements in patients treated with MitraClip therapy, including reduced death rates, mitral regurgitation, and need for surgery. The study's results confirmed the effectiveness of the device in a real-world setting.
Researchers found a correlation between low solar activity and cold Central European winters, with the Rhine River serving as a proxy. The study suggests that periods of low sunspot numbers lead to regional cooling, with implications for climate research and the debate on anthropogenic climate change.
The ASTRID study found that patients with high and very high risk benefited from transfemoral TAVI, with mortality rates of 4.7% and 7.7%, respectively. The registry also showed differences in vascular complications and residual aortic regurgitation between valve types.
The IABP-SHOCK II trial randomized 600 patients to receive either an intraaortic balloon pump or conventional optimal medical treatment, but found no reduction in 30-day mortality rates. The study also showed that the IABP did not improve blood pressure, organ perfusion, or reduce treatment time in the intensive care unit.
The study found a decline in mortality rates among STEMI patients in France from 1995 to 2010, attributed to increased use of reperfusion therapy and recommended treatments. The proportion of younger women with STEMI also increased, consistent with declining prevalence of hypertension, diabetes, and hypercholesterolemia.
The PROTECT study found that zotarolimus-eluting and sirolimus-eluting stents have comparable rates of stent thrombosis at three years. The study also showed that dual antiplatelet therapy use can affect the long-term clinical relevance of stent type.
Patients with psoriasis are at higher risk of new-onset diabetes mellitus due to chronic inflammation. The study found that the risk increases with severity of psoriasis, with patients having severe psoriasis being more than twice as likely to develop diabetes.
Research by the European Society of Cardiology found that energy drinks improve left and right ventricular function in healthy subjects. Energy drink consumption increases diastolic blood pressure but also shows benefits for heart rate and overall cardiac performance.
A 15-year study of French registries shows a 68% decrease in STEMI mortality rate, with key factors including younger patients, increased use of reperfusion therapy, and improved early management. The results highlight the importance of addressing population characteristics and behavior to further reduce mortality rates.
A study at ESC Congress 2012 found that renal denervation improved contractile function of the left side of the heart by more than 10% in patients with advanced heart failure. In contrast, standard drug treatment showed no change in contractile function.
A new study confirms ECG as a cost-effective method for detecting cardiac abnormalities in young athletes, preventing fatal events. The program's mean cost per athlete is €115, with most subsequent examinations being low-cost echocardiograms.
A study published by the European Society of Cardiology found that passive smoking increases platelet activation and carbon monoxide levels in healthy individuals. The researchers investigated three parameters: mean platelet volume (MPV), carboxyhemoglobin (COHb), and lactate.
A large meta-analysis found that electrical storms are a strong risk factor for death, with nearly 4 times higher mortality rates compared to those without. Effective treatment involves catheter ablation, which can terminate ES in nearly 83% of cases, preventing relapses.
A novel blood test can predict which heart failure patients are at risk of sudden death and may benefit from implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs). The test measures changes in the SCN5A gene, which is involved in electrical activity in the heart.
Increased copeptin levels are associated with increased frequencies of comorbidities, severity of heart failure, and risk of all-cause death. Copeptin measurements link to the strength of cardiac contractility and predict poorer kidney function. The risk of mortality from all causes increases with rising copeptin levels.
A country-wide German registry found that women received a lower percentage of drug eluting stents (DES) compared to men for the same condition. DES are known to decrease repeat target vessel revascularization procedures and provide favorable long-term results, especially in women with smaller epicardial vessels.
A clinical study found that electronic cigarettes do not cause significant defects in cardiac function, unlike smoking tobacco cigarettes. The study compared the effects of e-cigarettes and tobacco cigarettes on 20 young daily smokers and 22 electronic cigarette users, showing no acute adverse effects from e-cigarette use.
Research from Bremen, Germany found that non-smokers experienced a 26% decrease in ST-elevation myocardial infarctions (STEMIs) following the introduction of a smoking ban. In contrast, active smokers showed little change in STEMI rates, highlighting the benefits of anti-smoking legislation.
A new study reveals a correlation between low solar activity and unusually cold winters in Central Europe, particularly along the Rhine River. The researchers used historical records of riverboat shipments and found that ten out of fourteen freezing episodes occurred during years with minimal sunspots.
Professors Ian Tannock and Jean Yves Blay will receive the 2012 ESMO Awards for their contributions to medical oncology. The European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) is recognized with the ESMO Lifetime Achievement Award.
A 2009-2010 study by the European Commission's Joint Research Centre found an average 66% decrease in sulphur dioxide concentrations in EU harbors, while non-EU ports showed no change. The policy limits fuel sulfur content to less than 0.1%.
Recent advances in paleogenetics provide new insights into human evolution in Europe, showing that cultural and demographic events have shaped genetic variation among modern-day populations. The study reveals a more diverse range of mechanisms influencing genetic diversity than previously thought.