Researchers in Europe are working to counter potential risks from nanomaterials used by a range of industries for technological advances. By Tom Cassauwers While others might dream big, Dr Otmar Schmid dreams small. That’s because he works on nanomaterials, which are so tiny they’re invisible to the naked eye. Demand around the world for nanomaterials … Read more
Understanding the deep connections among human, animal and environmental health is more important than ever, according to the two heads of a groundbreaking EU research project. By Horizon Staff In an era of interconnected global threats, the “One Health” idea recognises that human well-being is tightly tied to that of animals, plants and the wider … Read more
Compounds found in seaweed may reduce a serious digestive-tract illness. By Vittoria D’Alessio Roberto Saldana was 16 when he developed severe stomach pain and diarrhoea, but two more years would pass before he was diagnosed with inflammatory bowel disease, or IBD. Saldana, now 41 and a resident of the Spanish capital Madrid, said he was … Read more
Two major illnesses in Europe have prompted EU researchers to hunt for cures by grouping affected people. By Anthony King Professor Rick Grobbee believes the key to better treatment for individual patients with heart disease is to look at large numbers of them. This approach can reveal different subgroups of disease. Grobbee, a researcher at … Read more
Researchers are examining the range of environmental effects on people’s health over their whole lives. By Jack McGovan Three decades ago, Professor Martine Vrijheid was investigating the prevalence of birth defects near hazardous waste sites across Europe as part of her PhD work. She found that there was indeed an increased risk close to dumps. … Read more
Researchers are looking at how to tackle pollutants in urban runoff and overflowing sewers. By Jessica Berthereau Near the medieval Belgian city of Ghent, in the municipality of Wetteren, researchers are trying to reduce pollutants in rainwater using seashells. Millions of shells from the nearby North Sea collect and filter water that flows during rainfall … Read more