Science and research news from across Europe. Covers major discoveries, university leadership, disease burden and costs, and research policy in the region.
Kaj Blennow receives the 2010 ECNP Neuropsychopharmacology Award for his influential contributions to Alzheimer's disease research. His work focuses on developing laboratory measures for clinical diagnosis and therapy monitoring, holding significant implications for drug development and patient care.
The European Menopause and Andropause Society (EMAS) has published four position statements on common management problems in the post-reproductive health of women. The statements cover the management of menopause in the context of obesity, epilepsy, endometriosis, and premature ovarian failure.
A new species of predatory dinosaur, Balaur bondoc, has been discovered in Romania with unusual features such as a re-evolved functional big toe with a large claw. Its unique anatomy suggests it was adapted for strength over speed and likely hunted in a different way than its relatives.
The discovery of Balaur bondoc, a large theropod dinosaur from Late Cretaceous Europe, reveals an animal with advanced adaptations and fused bones. Its presence indicates that the region had intermittent faunal connections with the mainland up to the end of the Cretaceous period.
Researchers found Ashkenazi Jews have higher genetic diversity than previously thought, with evidence of interbreeding with European and Middle Eastern populations. Only a minority of disease-related genes show signs of positive selection, suggesting most traits arose through random genetic drift.
The 23rd ECNP Congress emphasizes the urgent need to address mental disorders, a major challenge for healthcare systems worldwide. Key findings include improved early recognition and diagnosis, as well as comprehensive treatment programs for patients with neurological and mental disorders.
The 2010 International Mathematical Union prizes were awarded to four mathematicians: Elon Lindenstrauss, Ngô Bảo Châu, Stanislav Smirnov, and Cédric Villani. Lindenstrauss received the Fields Medal for his work on measure rigidity in ergodic theory and its applications to number theory.
The Kavli Prize Science Forum brings together influential science policy figures to discuss the role of international cooperation in addressing global challenges. The event aims to facilitate high-level discussion on major topics in science and science policy, with a focus on balancing cooperation and competition.
A new case series in European Urology introduces a purely intrafascial approach for robot-assisted laparoscopic prostatectomy, aiming to avoid damage to critical structures. The study reports promising results with no perioperative major complications, but highlights the need for well-designed studies to evaluate its advantages.
Archaeologists have unearthed Britain's earliest surviving Stone Age house at the Star Carr site in North Yorkshire, dated to 8,500 BC. The 3.5m circular structure features a large wooden platform and post holes, providing evidence of early carpentry and domestic life.
Icatibant blocks bradykinin, a protein that dilates blood vessels and produces HAE symptoms. The drug produced faster symptom relief than the comparison drug in two phase 3 trials.
Indiana University has been awarded $9.2 million from the National Science Foundation to lead two high-speed international network services: TransPAC3 and ACE. These connections will facilitate direct U.S.-Asia research interactions and provide significant economies of scale in trans-Atlantic connectivity.
The European Association for the Study of the Liver has released clinical practice guidelines for managing ascites, spontaneous bacterial peritonitis, and hepatorenal syndrome in patients with cirrhosis. The guidelines aim to improve disease outcomes and symptoms for cirrhotic patients.
The ITEA D-MINT project successfully applied model-based testing to industrial scale, reducing development time and increasing efficiency. Key industries like automotive, telecommunications, and healthcare saw significant benefits from this approach.
A team of scientists at Columbia University's Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory found that the anomalous winter was caused by two colliding weather events: El Niño and a strong negative phase in the North Atlantic Oscillation. This event led to more snowfall on the East Coast and northwest Europe, contrary to climate change predictions.
Researchers are collecting high-tech sensing data from various sources to create a reliable early-warning system for train operators. The goal is to predict natural disasters and possible terror attacks on rail lines.
The European Society of Cardiology has launched a new cookbook featuring heart-friendly recipes created by leading cardiologists. The book aims to demonstrate that a diverse diet can be achieved without compromising on taste, and includes sections discussing heart health topics and alternative ingredients.
The new code addresses good practice and bad conduct in science, offering a basis for trust and integrity across Europe. Researchers will have a common set of standards to self-regulate the research community, preventing misconduct that can endanger reputations.
Scientists have discovered a star with a mass of 265 solar masses in the Large Magellanic Cloud, exceeding previous records. This finding raises questions about the formation process of such massive stars and their role in shaping the universe.
Researchers have identified key genetic mutations causing Behçet's disease, a vascular condition leading to severe ulcers and skin lesions. The study found three genes associated with the disease, paving the way for new treatments.
A new study found that getting angry may actually hurt one's cause in negotiations with East Asians, unlike in negotiations with European Americans. Cultural norms about expressing anger play a critical role in shaping reactions to emotional displays.
Researchers developed a definition for heat waves and found that long-duration heat waves have the greatest impact on mortality, with elderly women particularly vulnerable. The study highlights the need for tailored public health interventions to address heat-related mortality in different cities.
The FOREMOST project developed advanced process modules and chip architectures for 45nm node CMOS logic, enabling key European players to mass produce semiconductors worldwide. The project also paved the way for future 32/28nm nodes and facilitated rapid transfer to industrial production.
Despite progress, many countries still don't address advertising to children by calorie content and more regulations are needed. Lobstein noted that voluntary actions have some impact, but loopholes undermine efforts, and industry reform is hindered by profit loss.
Companies that prioritize sustainable management of biodiversity are seen as winners in resource-constrained worlds, while those neglecting it risk being out of step with the market. Consumers are increasingly aware of biodiversity loss and are willing to stop buying from companies disregarding ethical sourcing practices.
Research by University of Illinois marketing expert Cele Otnes found that businesses' attempts to create memorable experiences through rituals can have negative consequences for customers, making them feel trapped or embarrassed. Optional rituals offer leeway to satisfy customers' comfort zones, but embedded rituals can deter repeat bu...
A study published in Perceptual and Motor Skills found that Spanish public-sector workers reported higher percentages of psychological violence compared to Finnish counterparts. The study also revealed sex-based differences in workplace conflicts, with men more likely to complain about conflict in Finland.
In European mountains, burning has become a common tool for managing scrubland, but its impact on bird populations is varied. The study found that some species, such as the Dartford warbler, recover more slowly after fire at higher altitudes.
New eco-friendly cremation methods use low-heat processes and break down corpses into soil, reducing greenhouse gas emissions. A corpse composting method turns bodies into natural soil without a sealed casket, providing environmentally friendly burial options
The European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology reports that Europe leads the world in Assisted Reproduction Technology (ART), with over 479,000 treatment cycles in 2007. The number of ART treatments has grown by 5-10% per annum over the last 5 years.
A new non-surgical treatment for uterine fibroids, ulipristal acetate (UPA), has shown promising results in reducing total fibroid volume and menstrual bleeding. Patients taking UPA experienced improved quality of life, fertility, and reduced symptoms.
The Flanders Institute for Biotechnology has received a high score from the European Research Council due to its excellent research in biotechnology. The institute supports promising researchers with ERC grants to advance their work and develop new therapies for autoimmune diseases and neurological disorders.
A study by Human Assisted Reproduction Ireland found that there is negligible risk of seroconversion in ART patients, making repeat viral screening unjustifiable. This could result in significant financial costs for couples undergoing treatment.
The ONOM@TOPIC project developed advanced prototypes for new-generation e-ID cards and SIM devices, utilizing Near Field Technology to enable wireless data exchange. These innovations led to the creation of a global standard, IAS-ECC, now used in various European e-government programs.
A study by the University of Oviedo has shown that the change in the points system used to reward wins in European leagues led to an increase in dirty play. The researchers found a significant rise in red cards issued to teams winning matches during the 95/96 season.
European Urology has released a new impact factor of 7,667, highlighting its status as a top urological forum for over 35 years. The journal is read by 20,000 urologists globally and offers high-quality papers, fast response, and an international profile.
Researchers at Max Planck Institute for Comparative and International Private Law propose extending the right of bequeather to choose the governing law, making it easier for beneficiaries of migrant workers to settle their estates. The proposal aims to standardize international inheritance laws across EU countries.
Patients with concurrent anemia, lymphocytopenia, or hypocomplementemia are more likely to develop lymphoma and experience increased mortality due to pulmonary and hepatic involvement. The study found that liver and lung involvement and non-Hodgkin lymphoma development were also related to an increased mortality in pSS patients.
A study of 356 RA patients found that achieving disease remission leads to significant improvements in work productivity, quality of life, and physical functioning compared to low disease activity. Longitudinal analysis over one year showed stable emotional aspects and significant reductions in overall activity impairment.
A new registry reveals key differences in Chinese SLE patients compared to those studied in the US, Europe, and Malaysia. Chinese patients are more likely to present with haematological disorders and kidney disease, but less likely to experience neurological manifestations.
A new study reveals that rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients have a two-fold increased risk of myocardial infarction (MI), comparable to diabetes patients. The risk is particularly high in young women with RA, increasing six-fold for those under 50 years old.
Studies from France and Brazil reveal that rheumatic conditions like RA and SLE significantly impact emotional relationships and sexual activity, with many patients unwilling to seek help. Patients often experience physical problems such as decreased libido and joint pain, as well as emotional consequences like guilt and frustration.
A new study found that SLE patients from Northern Europe tend to have photosensitivity, while those from Southern Europe experience more arthritis. The research highlights the impact of genetics on disease manifestations.
A multinational study found that patients in rich countries are three times more likely to receive biologic treatments for rheumatoid arthritis than those in poor countries. The study also showed no impact of macro-economic status on RA patients' perceptions of disease severity, measured by patient-reported outcomes.
A US-based longitudinal cohort study found a positive association between incident RA and increasing tea consumption, with women who drank ≥4 cups of tea per day having a significantly increased risk. No correlation was found between coffee consumption and RA incidence.
Two studies confirm vitamin D deficiency is prevalent among patients with rheumatic conditions, including RA and osteoporosis. Supplementation with recommended daily doses fails to normalize vitamin D levels, highlighting the need for further research on effective treatment strategies.
A multinational study has validated previous research showing NT-proBNP is a strong indicator for cardiovascular risk in arthritis patients. Early control of inflammation can help manage long-term CV risk associated with RA. Elevated inflammatory markers like CRP are also independent predictors of CV risk.
Researchers found 11 species of wildlife, including primates and crocodiles, in confiscated bushmeat. The study estimates that around 270 tonnes of potentially contaminated bushmeat is smuggled into Europe annually.
Studies show smoking predicts RA diagnosis and poor response to anti-TNFs, altering gene expression and immune response. Swedish studies confirm smoking risk for RA, while mouse models reveal similar changes in human cells.
The European Working Time Directive is likely to remain in place due to its benefits on healthcare quality and patient safety. The directive's implementation has led to a decrease in hospital stays and admissions, as well as improved doctor well-being.
A new study found that alcohol consumption is associated with a reduced risk of developing several arthritic conditions. However, the exact nature of this association remains unclear, with some researchers suggesting that moderate alcohol consumption may protect against systemic inflammation.
A new study found that wealth and population density are the primary factors driving invasive species in Europe, surpassing climate and geography. Human activities like trade and travel have led to a surge in introduced species, causing ecosystem disruption and native species displacement.
A new study found that 72% of women with RA experience daily physical pain, affecting emotional and social aspects of their lives. The study highlights the importance of reducing pain in managing RA and improving patients' productivity at work.
Research led by the University of Exeter finds that climate change is increasing hazard risks in mountainous regions, including glacier loss and rock-fall activity. The study's findings highlight the need for increased public awareness and preparedness to mitigate the impacts of climate-related hazards.
The PRACE partnership has established a persistent pan-European High Performance Computing research infrastructure, providing computing power of several Petaflop/s. The initiative aims to support European scientists and engineers in remaining internationally competitive, addressing major challenges like climate change and energy saving.
A new atlas highlights the critical role of politics in driving biodiversity loss, emphasizing the need for policy reforms to reduce pressure on biodiversity. The atlas combines key research findings from a major European project and provides recommendations for policymakers and conservationists.
A new study found a connection between La Niña-like sea surface temperatures in the central Pacific and droughts in western Europe and the American West. The cooler Pacific Ocean led to arid conditions, contributing to the departure of the Anastazi people.
A study by the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology found that IVF children generate significant fiscal implications for governments, with a discounted net tax revenue of approximately €127,000. This represents an 8-fold return on investment for governments.
The study enrolled 237 patients with recurrent GBM and found that NovoTTF was as effective as the best available chemotherapies without the toxicity. Patients treated with NovoTTF lived longer and experienced fewer infections compared to chemotherapy.
Researchers at NYU Langone Medical Center found that Jewish communities retained their genetic influences despite migration, exhibiting common genetic threads. The study identified distinct population clusters with shared Middle Eastern ancestry and variable degrees of European and North African intermingling.