Science and research news from across Europe. Covers major discoveries, university leadership, disease burden and costs, and research policy in the region.
Studies reveal the significant financial cost of liver disease in Europe, with hospitalisations accounting for 50.6% of direct costs per month. Moreover, acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF) has a high short-term mortality rate of 35.5%, emphasizing the need for better diagnostic criteria and treatment strategies.
A new study uses a pathogen-based incidence approach to generate infectious disease burden estimates in Europe, attributing morbidity to specific pathogens. The methodology has limitations but shows the need for further research and integration of demographic changes and infection dynamics.
Researchers found that older and male dogs are more successful hunters in small-scale societies, with higher success rates than younger females. The study also revealed that early European farmers cast a wide net for food resources, diversifying their diet beyond crops and domesticated animals.
KIT showcases algae engineering platform, laser technologies for battery production, electronic drawbar for agricultural machines, and organic computing system for tractors. Algae can convert sunlight into chemical energy, reducing CO2 emissions.
Researchers have found evidence of cereal-based agriculture and domesticated animals at Vashtëmi, a site in southeastern Albania that dates back to 6,500 BC. This discovery suggests that early farmers in the region preferred resource-rich settings, such as wetland edges, to establish pioneer farming villages.
Research led by Prof. Annette Menzel found that airborne pollen concentrations have risen sharply in cities across Europe, particularly in urban areas, where the increase is three percent per year. Climate change and warmer temperatures are seen as key factors driving this trend, with rural areas also expected to be affected.
In European dung flies, larger males are preferred by females for mating, leading to increased copulation frequency and potentially larger testes. This difference in mating behavior is attributed to female preference, but the underlying evolutionary cause remains unclear.
A new 12-month project will examine the effects of sight loss on physical activity in older adults. The study, funded by the Thomas Pocklington Trust, aims to improve understanding and develop policies promoting health and wellbeing in those affected by sight loss.
Three noteworthy studies were presented, including a study on KRAS in non-small cell lung cancer patients and another on dacomitinib's favorable clinical benefits. Additionally, researchers validated the role of tumor lymphocytic infiltration as a favorable prognostic factor for resectable non-small cell lung cancer.
A quantitative analysis of Google search queries found a link between online behavior and real-world economic indicators, suggesting countries with higher GDP are more focused on the future. The study used Google Trends data from over 45 billion searches in 45 countries to calculate a 'future orientation index' that correlates with GDP.
A study found that experienced Tai Chi practitioners have better arterial compliance and knee muscle strength than their non-practitioner counterparts. This suggests that Tai Chi may be a suitable exercise for older people to improve both cardiovascular function and body strength, without compromising arterial health.
Scientists have made breakthroughs in reprogramming scar tissue from myocardial infarction (MI) into viable heart muscle cells using viral vectors. The new approach has shown promising results in adult mice and offers a potential solution to the major problem of cardiac regeneration after MI.
The European Respiratory Society and ECDC introduce new EU Standards for Tuberculosis Care to bridge gaps in TB case management. The guidelines include recommendations such as drug susceptibility testing and proper isolation protocols to combat multidrug-resistant TB cases.
Researchers have identified a unique population of individuals who experienced intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) and childhood starvation, which may be at greatest risk of developing long-term heart complications. Cellular changes associated with IUGR and starvation could be targeted to prevent or reverse structural heart changes.
Researchers are developing vaccines and monoclonal antibodies to combat atherosclerosis, targeting the underlying cause of cardiovascular disease. Phase 2a trials for these treatments are underway, with promising results showing reduced inflammation and plaque severity.
A new report provides crucial information on how to conserve European butterfly species listed on the EU Habitats Directive. The guidelines include detailed accounts of each species' habitat requirements and food-plants, as well as dos and don'ts in managing their habitats.
European butterflies are under threat, with 10% facing extinction, due to habitat loss and poor management. A new publication provides practical guidelines for managing habitats in a sustainable way, supporting biodiversity and human survival.
The University of Liverpool is leading a EUR 8 million European project, SATIN, to develop and test new food products with satiating qualities to help control appetite and manage weight. The project aims to create foods that fill people up quicker and for longer, while maintaining a healthy balanced diet.
A study of nearly 2000 US male health professionals found that moderate drinkers who survived a first heart attack had a lower risk of death from any cause and cardiovascular disease. The researchers discovered a 'U' shape effect, where heavy drinking increased mortality risk.
A recent genetic study has found evidence of prehistoric gene flow between Africa and Europe, dating back to 11,000 years ago. The research suggests that more than 35% of sub-Saharan African lineages arrived in Europe during this time period, likely via coastal routes.
Researchers recommend including race-specific criteria to reduce false positives and anxiety among healthy black athletes. A study found 43% of black athletes would be identified for further investigation under current guidelines.
A study of ancient DNA found that Western European Neandertals experienced a demographic crisis, leading to reduced genetic variation and near-extinction. This discovery challenges the long-held theory of cold adaptation in Neandertals.
A newly discovered fossil species of scops owl found in Madeira reveals that its extinction was linked to human arrival and habitat destruction. The findings suggest that human introduction led to disease transmission, invasive species, and habitat loss, contributing to the bird's demise.
A new study estimates the total economic burden of fragility fractures in the European Union at €39 billion EUR, with hip fractures contributing to over half of all costs. The study highlights the need for preventive action to address the growing number of seniors and estimated doubling of fractures by 2050.
A Cardiff University team has secured funding to develop a new surgical simulator that accurately reproduces the effects of cutting in real time. The project, led by Professor Stéphane Bordas, aims to reduce risk to neurosurgery patients and aid training worldwide.
A new Marine Board-ESF position paper highlights gaps in monitoring and regulating chemical pollution in Europe's seas. It calls for better coordination, cooperation, and harmonization among existing monitoring efforts to address the impact of human activities on marine ecosystems.
A new study has found a significant variation in hip fracture risk across the globe, with countries experiencing a 10-fold difference in incidence rates. The study's findings indicate that higher risk countries for both men and women are located in North Western and Central Europe.
A study found that CD4 cell count is associated with AIDS risk in HIV-infected adults on combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) with a suppressed viral load. Patients with higher CD4 counts have lower AIDS risk, even at counts above 500 cells/μL.
A global consortium is collaborating on the largest ever academic-industry research project to find new methods for developing drugs for ASD. The EU-AIMS project aims to provide novel validated cellular assays, animal models, and new biomarkers for patient-segmentation or individual response prediction.
Researchers find high concentrations of heavy metals and restricted brominated flame retardants in mixed plastics from disassembled electrical and electronic equipment. The study emphasizes the importance of implementing strict quality management to prevent substance release into the environment or new products.
The PROMISE project aims to survey germs brought in with food and investigate their potential to cause disease. The project will pool data from throughout Europe to assess the risks posed by contaminated food of animal origin, building an extensive database of bacterial isolates.
The Asian fly species Drosophila suzukii is taking over European fruit, particularly cherries and red fruits, causing significant damages to crops. The study found that the fly can lay eggs in unaffected fruit, leading to destruction of the fruit by its larvae.
Patients interested in art had better general health, found it easier to walk, and had more energy. They were also happier, less anxious or depressed, and felt calmer.
The EU's Habitats Directive has created the world's largest network of protected areas, Natura 2000, which covers 18% of land and sea surfaces. The review outlines the development process of this complex conservation project over two decades.
The European Science Foundation's session on life in extreme environments explores adaptation and sustainable exploitation of resources. Researchers will discuss emerging ideas about biogeochemical cycles, ecosystem responses, and mitigation options.
A recent study by the European Society of Cardiology has found that depression increases the risk of death in patients who have a coronary stent implanted. After seven years of follow-up, depressed patients were 1.5 times more likely to die than non-depressed patients.
A team of ecologists found that Central European meadows and long-grazed grasslands are the most species-rich areas on Earth, with some regions boasting over 942 plant species per hectare. The study's findings predict a total of 219,204 species globally, remarkably close to current estimates of 275,000 species.
The EASL-EORTC joint Clinical Practice Guidelines (CPGs) on the management of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) provide best practice recommendations for surveillance, diagnosis, and therapeutic strategies. The guidelines aim to improve access to effective interventions for patients with HCC, an increasing global health burden.
A new assessment reveals large areas in Europe and Africa with insufficient freshwater resources, exacerbating water scarcity issues. The report emphasizes the need for improved water management and forecasting to address future challenges.
Christine Petit and Karen Steel's pioneering research on the genetics of hearing and deafness has shed light on the molecular mechanisms underlying ear development and function. Their work has led to significant advances in diagnosis, genetic counseling, and therapeutic decisions for patients with inherited forms of deafness.
The study, published in Geological Magazine, reveals that Aragosaurus ischiaticus, found in Teruel, Spain, is the oldest of its kind and could be a common ancestor. Its new age means it fills the gap in the transitional period between Jurassic and Cretaceous periods.
A new study has identified five genetic mutations associated with Crohn's disease in Ashkenazi Jews, who are nearly four times more likely to develop the condition. The findings provide insights into the unique risk factors driving this higher prevalence rate.
A recent study by Mount Sinai School of Medicine identified five novel genetic mutations associated with an increased risk of Crohn's disease in Ashkenazi Jews. These findings provide new insights into the disease's causes and may lead to the development of novel treatment approaches.
A large analysis of studies involving over 40,000 subjects found that women with chronic heart failure have a lower risk of death compared to men. The study also revealed that women are more likely to have preserved ejection fraction and less ventricular remodelling, which may contribute to their better survival rates.
A study by KIT's Institute for Technology Assessment and Systems Analysis reveals that fiercer technical competition in Japan drives innovative mobile services. European operators are recommended to adopt similar measures, such as unlicensed radio spectrum usage and new licensing schemes, to regain competitiveness.
A study found that single-pass whole-body computed tomography is effective at detecting injured tissue, but variable in excluding injuries. The scan's performance improves after 30 minutes of admission, allowing healthcare teams to prioritize treatment while minimizing missed injuries.
A study has revealed that eight new diseases, including herpes zoster and certain forms of cancer, can serve as indicators for undiagnosed HIV. The findings highlight the importance of earlier testing and diagnosis to improve survival rates and quality of life among infected individuals.
Experts urge policymakers to introduce changes to ensure safe and clean air in Europe. The European Respiratory Society has devised 10 principles for clean air, calling for significant reductions in fine particles and ozone, as well as policy changes to reduce ultrafine particle emissions from motor vehicles.
Astronomers use VLT to analyze earthshine light, detecting biosignatures of vegetation and ocean cover, suggesting life on Earth. The study establishes a benchmark for future exoplanet life searches using spectropolarimetry technique.
The ESC emphasizes the importance of continued funding and support from industry for CME to maintain transparency and minimize bias. The organization suggests a shift towards small group practical sessions based on clinical cases, maximizing the effectiveness of CME.
The clinical guide highlights the benefits of selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) in reducing fracture risk for postmenopausal women. SERMs, such as bazedoxifene and lasofoxifene, offer a new therapeutic option with potential anti-fracture effects.
Energy efficiency experts propose a new EU target of a 40% reduction in primary energy demand by 2050, arguing that radically improving building efficiency is crucial for reducing global greenhouse gas emissions. The proposed target aligns with the ambitions of the new Energy and Climate Change Secretary Ed Davey.
Most European Neandertals were on the verge of extinction around 50,000 years ago, according to a new study published in Molecular Biology and Evolution. A small group of Neandertals recolonized central and western Europe after dying off, surviving for another 10,000 years before modern humans entered the scene.
A study by the USDA Forest Service found that tree cover in US cities is declining at a rate of 4 million trees per year, mainly due to impervious cover and natural disasters. The greatest losses were seen in New Orleans, Houston, and Albuquerque, highlighting the need for comprehensive tree planting programs.
A benchmarking study found substantial progress in implementing previous guidelines, but many countries struggled with task. The new European Guidelines on CVD Prevention will be shorter and more accessible to engage health professionals.
Scientists emphasize the importance of evidence-based policies and challenge 'policy-biased evidence' to ensure impartial decision-making. They also urge the scientific community to think globally and act with greater public engagement to guard against science misuse in policy-making.
Susan M. Gasser has been recognized for her outstanding scientific research on genome stability and epigenetics, as well as her commitment to mentoring women in science. She has made significant contributions to our understanding of chromatin biology and epigenetics, with implications for human disease, including cancer.
Scientists at EMBL Hamburg have discovered the myomesin protein can stretch up to two-and-a-half times its length, unfolding in a previously unknown way. The study reveals the protein's superhelical architecture and unusual elastic properties, shedding new light on muscle contraction mechanisms.
The European Society for Paediatric Oncology (SIOPE) is advocating for policy changes to address the negative impact of EU legislation on childhood cancer treatment. The current directive has increased bureaucracy and administration, making it time-consuming and expensive to conduct clinical trials.
The study found that 10% of TB patients received less than the recommended four drugs, while almost 34% of HIV-positive patients were not satisfactorily managed. The research highlights the need to increase awareness, training, and resource allocation to prevent drug-resistant TB cases.