Science and research news from across Europe. Covers major discoveries, university leadership, disease burden and costs, and research policy in the region.
The European Science Foundation's TECHBREAK initiative aims to identify key enabling technologies that can benefit the space sector. By combining expertise from both space and non-space sectors, TECHBREAK seeks to accelerate scientific progress and innovation.
A US-based lab is searching for natural enemies of the invasive silverleaf nightshade weed, which can outcompete native plants and poison livestock. The lab aims to use biologically based approach to control the weed's spread in Europe and the US.
The Position Paper examines the evidence and concludes that atypical fractures in association with bisphosphonate use are rare. Available evidence shows that the well-known benefits of bisphosphonate treatment outweigh the relatively low risk of these rare, atypical fractures.
The EMBO Young Investigator Programme has selected 21 talented young researchers from across Europe to join the network. These group leaders will receive financial support and benefits such as lab management training and networking events.
A recent study found that most depression patients (56%) discontinue their treatment within the first four months of medication, while less than a quarter complete therapy for more than 11 months. The researchers suggest that acute depression stages and lower adherence rates are common factors contributing to treatment dropout.
The European Network for Rare and Congenital Anaemia (ENERCA) aims to disseminate latest developments in rare anemias through a network of close contacts. The project has been funded with €1.2 million Euros by the European Commission, and Spain is working on developing a Strategic plan for rare diseases.
Phase III trial data suggests Tumor Treating Fields (TTF) therapy increases median survival time and improves quality of life scores compared to standard chemotherapy. Younger patients and those with better functional status show an impressive survival advantage.
Astronomers have discovered a planet from another galaxy orbiting a star that has entered our Milky Way, providing the first confirmed detection of an extragalactic exoplanet. The planet, HIP 13044 b, was detected using high-resolution spectrograph FEROS attached to the MPG/ESO telescope at ESO's La Silla Observatory.
Professor Ilkka Hanski is awarded the European Latsis Prize for his pioneering work in metapopulation biology, shedding light on mechanisms maintaining biodiversity and informing conservation. His research on the Glanville fritillary butterfly has become a model system to study general questions.
A study by University of Warwick professor Andrew Oswald finds that UK citizens face increased anxiety and depression, with 15% suffering from mental disorders. Emotional prosperity is declining across Europe, with policy-makers urged to shift focus from material prosperity to psychological well-being.
A study found that various types of C. difficile are now common across European hospitals, with an average incidence rate of 4.1 per 10,000 patients per day. The most prevalent types were 014/020, 001, and 078, with type 027 being less common in Europe compared to other regions.
A recent genetic study has overturned current thinking on the origins of European farming populations. The research, published in PLOS Biology, found that these early farmers were more closely related to populations living in modern-day Turkey, Iraq, and other parts of the Ancient Near East than to local hunter-gatherers.
A European Observational Study found low discontinuation rates and sustained virologic suppression with REYATAZ/ritonavir-based regimens over five years. The study, which included 1,294 ARV-experienced patients, showed that 75% of those with baseline HIV-1 RNA levels <50 copies/mL remained suppressed after three years.
A study of Amish individuals found a rare mitochondrial haplogroup X associated with successful aging, while another haplogroup J had a negative association. The research suggests that genetic variants may play a role in maintaining physical and cognitive function in older age.
The European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology has published a comprehensive English-language textbook for paramedics in reproductive medicine. The book provides an overview of key issues, including evidence-based protocols and research, to support the development of care in reproductive health.
A specialist in genetic medicine is leading a multi-national team investigating the genetics of immune system disorders, including NIMBL conditions such as Aicardi-Goutières Syndrome and Systemic Lupus Erythematosus. The €7.5 million project aims to improve patient care and develop treatments for these devastating genetic disorders.
A study by Duke University scientists found that the Bermuda High's center intensified by 0.9 geopotential meters a decade from 1948 to 2007, leading to increased summer rainfall variability in the Southeast. This intensification is attributed to anthropogenic warming and is expected to continue in coming decades.
The European Union has recognized the importance of addressing rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases, which affect over 100 million Europeans. The conference called for an EU Musculoskeletal Disease Strategy and national action plans to improve healthcare and treatment.
A new study reveals that 91% of professional basketball, volleyball, handball, and football players are dehydrated when starting their training sessions. This is due to the high rate of sweating during indoor sports, with players losing up to 1.8 litres of fluids per hour.
The new guidelines, published by Elsevier, provide detailed advice for healthcare professionals on how to treat cardiac arrest and continue treatment after the heart has been restarted. In many cases, therapeutic hypothermia is recommended to increase survival rates.
A study tracking over 1,000 children for 10 years found that increased BMI in overweight children doubles their blood pressure risk. Even a modest weight loss can lead to significant blood pressure reductions, while small increases can heighten the risk of hypertension.
A team of astrophysicists has observed dramatic flares and bursts of energy from a weakly magnetized, slowly rotating pulsar, challenging the understanding of how these events occur in normal, low-field neutron stars. The discovery indicates that internal magnetic fields may be responsible for powering these phenomena.
Spinal osteoporotic fractures often go undiagnosed and untreated, leading to severe repercussions such as stooped back, acute pain, loss of height, and premature death. The IOF campaign aims to raise awareness and promote prevention, diagnosis, and early treatment.
The European Science Foundation recommends creating a virtual research institute to focus on RNA research and its applications in treating diseases. The institute would promote superior training of young scientists and deliver dedicated education programs for RNA research.
A study by Dr. Hatem Azim found that breastfeeding is safe for women after breast cancer treatment, contrary to common advice. Successful long-term breastfeeding was associated with type of breast surgery and post-delivery lactation counseling.
Researchers report a new surgical technique, balloon kyphoplasty, offers quick pain relief and improves quality of life for patients with vertebral compression fractures. The procedure, which involves inflation and injection of bone cement, shows sustained improvements in disability and mobility.
A study presented at the ESMO Congress found that a patient's overall survival time is linked to the time to treatment failure for each line of chemotherapy. Analyzing data from 980 women with metastatic breast cancer, researchers identified this key factor as the most significant determinant of overall survival.
The article discusses the variations in end-of-life care in intensive care units (ICUs) and the need for clinicians to be aware of subtle institutional pressures and adapt their approach to individual patients. Key findings include differences in family involvement, communication styles, and attitudes toward withdrawing life support ac...
The European Board of Intensive Care Medicine aims to increase recognition of intensive care medicine within European legislation. The ESICM launches the 'Linking Intensive Care to Family Experience' (LIFE) campaign to improve quality by including patient and family views.
The Chronic Disease Alliance, a coalition of 10 European health organizations, has been recognized for its efforts to improve the prevention of chronic diseases at the European level. The alliance has produced a policy paper that identifies central causes of chronic diseases and furnishes action proposals on how to combat their spread.
The European Society for Medical Oncology launches OncologyPRO, a unique scientific portal providing instant access to high-quality scientific knowledge. The platform offers a range of services tailored to the specific needs of cancer specialists, improving their efficiency and patient outcomes.
The European Oncology Nursing Society has launched a breakthrough cancer pain initiative to improve patient outcomes in palliative care. The survey aims to identify knowledge gaps and provide insights into best practices for managing breakthrough cancer pain among oncology nurses across Europe.
A new study finds that transgenic corn's suppression of the European corn borer has saved $3.2 billion for corn growers in Illinois, Minnesota, and Wisconsin over the past 14 years. Non-Bt corn growers also benefited from yield savings without the cost of Bt technology fees.
A study found that Bt corn's pest suppression benefits non-Bt farmers in Wisconsin by up to 75%, with total economic benefits exceeding $6.9 billion across the Midwest. The primary benefit of Bt corn is reduced yield losses, which non-Bt farmers also experience without paying Bt technology fees.
A new study from the University of Minnesota found that genetically modified Bt corn reduces pest losses in both transgenic and non-transgenic corn. The study found that areawide suppression of European corn borer populations resulted in estimated annual losses of $1 billion, but also benefited non-Bt corn by 28-73% in neighboring states.
The journal provides global coverage of data protection and privacy issues, spanning scholarship and practice. It aims to solidify the position of data protection and privacy law as a central area of importance for individuals, economies, and new technologies.
A patchwork of reproductive health regulations across Europe hinders access to medically assisted reproduction (MAR) treatments. Many patients resort to seeking care abroad due to limited availability and reimbursement policies.
New research suggests that massive volcanic eruptions led to the extinction of Neanderthals, causing a dramatic climate shift that devastated ecosystems. The study, published in Current Anthropology, proposes that the eruption cleared the way for modern humans to thrive in Europe and Asia.
A study of 15-year-olds in seven Eastern European and 16 Western countries found that drunkenness levels increased in Eastern Europe and among girls, but decreased in Western countries and boys. This decline was attributed to changes in socioeconomic conditions and alcohol marketing practices.
Researchers reveal starry smooth-hounds grow twice as slowly and only reproduce every two years, sparking concern over slow reproductive rate and potential impact on population. The findings provide a unique opportunity to conserve the enigmatic species.
A Spanish study reveals that combining noise and chemical contaminants can exacerbate hearing loss in workers. While protective masks can filter particles, they have limited effect on toxic gas molecules.
The Mayo Clinic Center for Social Media has launched a global Social Media Health Network, bringing together institutions from around the world to harness the power of social media in healthcare. The network aims to share best practices, develop training resources and facilitate growth of social media programs.
A new report by the International Osteoporosis Foundation reveals poor post-fracture care in the region, with high mortality rates after hip fractures. The report predicts a significant increase in osteoporotic fractures due to aging populations and limited access to diagnostic tests and medication.
The study analyzed the impact of climate change on spotted hyena survival in Europe over 10,000 years ago. The researchers found that while climate change was a factor in the hyenas' disappearance, it was not the sole cause.
Scientists have detected gas escaping from Mercury using NASA satellites designed to view the Sun's atmosphere. The STEREO mission has recorded evidence of a 'tail' of emission surrounding the planet, similar to comet-like features observed on Earth and in images taken by the MESSENGER satellite.
A pilot study has been funded to evaluate a new approach to weight loss and physical activity in people at increased cardiovascular risk. The Waste the Waist programme aims to encourage behaviour change through lifestyle modifications, targeting individuals who are at risk of developing diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
The Webinos project aims to create a universal application platform for cross-platform use of services and technologies across mobile, PC, TV, and in-car devices. The consortium is developing an open source platform and software components that will enable industry-wide collaboration and eliminate economic barriers.
A study published in Preventive Medicine found that teenagers spend significantly more time watching TV and engaging in sedentary behavior on weekends. The researchers analyzed data from over 3,000 European adolescents and found that having a computer in the bedroom reduces the risk of excessive TV watching.
More than 100 marine scientists advocate for an integrated European network of long-term marine observatories to provide reliable data for sustainable use of seas. The network aims to reduce uncertainty about sea-level rise and its impact on coastal defences, saving millions annually.
Women with secondary breast cancer face inadequate support due to lack of knowledge, experience and staff numbers among healthcare professionals. Better training, resources, and services are needed to address this complex condition.
Hilary Calvert, Alberto Costa, and Bengt Glimelius received the 2010 ESMO Award for their significant work in breast cancer development, multidisciplinary care, and gastrointestinal cancer treatment. The awards recognize their contributions to advancing medical research and improving patient outcomes.
SPADnet aims to create a new generation of smart image sensors for photon-starved biomedical applications, enabling scalable and efficient imaging. The project will develop ring-assembly modules for Positron Emission Tomography (PET) imaging and carry out performance tests in a PET evaluation system.
Researchers found that brain stimulation therapy improved motor function in 95% of patients with mild to moderate muscle weakness after an ischemic stroke. The treatment, using repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS), rebalances brain activity between the affected and unaffected hemispheres.
The ALIAS project, a three-year, 3.87-million-euro initiative, seeks to develop adaptable robots capable of serving as safe assistants for elderly people. The robots will monitor home environments, provide cognitive assistance, and facilitate social contacts, aiming to improve quality of life.
Although overall cancer mortality is decreasing in the EU, incidence has increased by almost 20% since 2002. Cancer prevention efforts are struggling to keep pace with economic crises, which threaten to worsen occupational exposure to carcinogens.
VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland is developing image processing technology to analyze large amounts of video data and recognize potential risk situations. The new application can identify, locate and track abandoned luggage, allowing security authorities to take swift action.
The 23rd ECNP Congress highlighted the latest discoveries and perspectives in mental health, including gene-environment interactions, circadian rhythms, and brain disease mechanisms. Key take-home messages focused on improving pharmacological and non-drug treatments for mental disorders.
A European Union version of the US 'priority review voucher' system could incentivize pharmaceutical companies to develop treatments for neglected diseases. The system would offer accelerated regulatory review, pricing, and reimbursement decisions in exchange for developing a treatment for a neglected disease.
A recent EFSA report reveals no known safe level of lead exposure, necessitating revised EU regulations. Lead contamination has been linked to cognitive impairment, ADHD, and increased risk of hypertension and neurocognitive decline.
The 2010 Balzan Prizewinners were announced in Milan for their groundbreaking work in European History, The History of Theatre, Stem Cells, and Mathematics. Carlo Ginzburg won for his work on European History, while Manfred Brauneck received the prize for The History of Theatre.