A study published in BMC Public Health suggests that increasing tobacco taxes across the EU can lead to significant reductions in cigarette consumption, particularly in higher-income countries. In contrast, lower-income countries may experience negative tax revenue effects, highlighting the need for alternative funding strategies.
Researchers found that players who started playing at age 12 or later had less risk of clinical impairment in executive function and depression compared to those who started earlier. The study suggests that repeated head impacts during childhood may lead to long-term problems with mood and behavior.
A NASA study found that astronaut blood parameters, such as red blood cells and oxygen-carrying proteins, remained higher than pre-flight levels even after adapting to microgravity. The study collected whole blood samples from 31 astronauts over up to six months on the International Space Station.
A recent study published in Critical Care found that patients admitted to ICUs at weekends are at increased risk of death. The severity of illness and case mix were also different between weekends and weekdays, with more patients having a higher severity of illness on Saturdays and Sundays.
Research published in BMC Public Health found that maternal mobile phone use was associated with lower risk of language and motor skills delays at ages 3 and 5. Children born to mobile phone users had a 27% lower risk of lower sentence complexity, 14% lower risk of incomplete grammar, and 31% lower risk of moderate language delay.
A recent study published in BMC Ecology found that grey mouse lemurs with high hair cortisol levels had a lower chance of survival. The researchers discovered that low cortisol levels were associated with a 13.9% higher chance of survival compared to those with high levels.
A new study sheds light on the connection between gut bacteria and anxiety, finding that a significant number of miRNAs were changed in the brains of microbe-free mice. The researchers suggest that targeting the gut microbiome may be a potential therapeutic approach for psychiatric disorders.
Researchers found that urbanization led to significant epigenetic differences in Darwin's finches, which may be a heritable component of adaptation. The study suggests that diet and methylation patterns played a key role in the rapid adaptation of these species to changing environments.
Researchers found that six out of eight products saw a 0-7% drop in calorie sales after recipe changes. However, some customers swapped reformulated products for higher-calorie alternatives. The study suggests 'silent' product reformulation may help combat obesity by reducing calorie intake at low cost.
The BMC Ecology Image Competition 2017 has produced a diverse array of winning and highly commended images showcasing pressing issues in ecology. The competition highlights the intersection of art and science, with images capturing intricate species interactions, conservation efforts, and natural processes.
A new computer program correctly identifies depressed individuals from their social media photos 70% of the time, according to a study. The program uses features such as photo color, comments, and face presence to predict depression. Future research aims to refine the model and address data privacy concerns.
A mobile learning app using game elements such as leaderboards and digital badges was found to positively impact student academic performance, engagement, and retention. On average, app users achieved higher marks than non-users, with a 7.03% increase in grades.
Researchers have discovered a potential new treatment for delayed neuropathy caused by insecticides or chemical exposure. The study identified the TRPA1 channel as responsible for the condition and found that duloxetine and ketotifen alleviate symptoms in animal models.
German Shepherd Dogs are predisposed to musculoskeletal disorders due to selective breeding, with osteoarthritis being the most common condition. The study analyzed data from over half a million dogs and found that GSDs are more likely to die from complications arising from these conditions.
Individuals with high levels of psychopathic traits are better at learning to lie than those with few psychopathic traits, according to a study. After practicing a lying task, individuals with high psychopathic traits showed significant improvements in response time, whereas those with low psychopathic traits did not.
A study published in BMC Nutrition found that consuming sugar-sweetened drinks with high-protein meals reduced fat oxidation, leading to increased fat storage. The researchers also discovered that the combination of a sugary drink and a protein-rich meal increased cravings for savory and salty foods.
Researchers found MRSA's resistance gene in S. aureus isolates dating back to the mid-1940s, 14 years before methicillin's introduction. The study highlights the importance of surveillance and genome sequencing to combat antibiotic resistance.
Researchers found a link between physical injuries and chronic conditions, including angina, heart attack, asthma, and non-neoplastic lung disease. The study suggests that continued monitoring is warranted for survivors of the 9/11 attacks.
A study found that global malaria funding is declining despite its importance in eliminating the disease worldwide. The decrease in external funding, combined with increasing government financing, may lead to malaria resurgence if sustainable financing solutions are not implemented.
Men who are tall and obese have an increased risk of high grade prostate cancer and death from prostate cancer, according to a study published in BMC Medicine. The research found that height is not associated with overall prostate cancer risk but increases the risk of high grade disease and death by 21% and 17% respectively.
A NASA study found that human presence in closed habitats increases fungal diversity and changes the composition of the mycobiome. Fungi, known for their ability to thrive in harsh environments, can become opportunistic pathogens in humans.
A new study found that removing the flowers of invasive shrub Prosopis juliflora from mosquito-prone areas can decrease local mosquito vector populations by nearly 60%. The removal also reduced the number of older female mosquitoes, which are known to transmit malaria parasites.
A study published in Respiratory Research reveals abnormal lung structure and function changes in mice exposed to second-hand smoke during gestation, leading to decreased lung function in adult offspring. The research suggests that in utero second-hand smoke exposure can predispose to adult lung diseases.
Researchers replicated traditional Native Californian Indian water bottles to analyze polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) levels. The study found PAHs in the air during production, but not significant leaching from storage.
A systematic review of 71 studies found that occupation is a major factor in vitamin D deficiency, particularly among shift workers and healthcare professionals. Regular screening and education programs can help prevent adverse health outcomes linked to vitamin D insufficiency.
Research found that early-life exposure to severe famine as a fetus or infant significantly increases the chance of having dyslipidemia in adulthood. The association was true for women but not men, suggesting cultural differences may play a role. Severe maternal under-nutrition during pregnancy could also contribute to the increased risk.
Dog ownership has been found to encourage older adults to be more physically active, with an average of 22 minutes spent walking per day compared to non-owners. The study, published in BMC Public Health, also showed that dog owners had fewer sedentary events than non-dog owners.
A study published in BMC Public Health found that high alcohol consumption from age 16 to 43 is linked to higher blood glucose levels in women, while men's consumption did not show the same association. The long-term study of over 900 participants revealed an important risk factor for type 2 diabetes.
A recent study published in Rice journal reveals that rice bran contains high levels of essential vitamins, amino acids, and antioxidants, making it a potential health food. The researchers identified over 400 compounds in rice bran that could provide medicinal benefits.
A recent study published in BMC Public Health found that young people who were happier and more aware of the harms of alcohol and cigarettes were more likely to never drink or smoke. Nearly 70% of participants labeled themselves as persistent non-users, scoring highest on harm awareness and happiness tests.
A new study published in BMC Public Health found that enforcing rules about bedtimes on weekdays significantly impacts children's sleep. Parents who enforce bedtime rules on weekdays are 59% more likely to have their child meeting sleep guidelines, according to the researchers.
By 2040, at least 160,000 people annually will require palliative care due to chronic illnesses and end-of-life care. The researchers predict a significant increase in the number of people with palliative care needs due to aging population and rising prevalence of chronic progressive illnesses.
A new computer model assesses real-time Zika epidemic risk in US cities by combining population dynamics, historical infection rates, socioeconomics, and mosquito density. The model predicts that certain counties in Texas have the highest risk of Zika transmission, while others have nearly no risk.
A mouse experiment revealed that hydroxytyrosol, a compound found in extra-virgin olive oil, can reverse markers of insulin resistance and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. The study showed that hydroxytyrosol exerts a protective effect in the liver by improving enzyme activity and fatty acid composition.
A study developed the Historic Book Odour Wheel to document the aromas associated with old books. Visitors to libraries described the smell as 'woody', 'smoky', and 'earthy'. The wheel combines chemical descriptions with sensory inputs, providing a tool for conservators and heritage management.
A large US study found that living in areas with high fine particle air pollution may increase the chance of dense breasts, a well-established breast cancer risk factor. Women with dense breasts were more likely exposed to high PM2.5 levels.
Researchers developed a computer program to diagnose cancer and locate tumors in blood samples, with an accuracy rate of 80% for early-stage cancers. The program uses molecular patterns in cancer DNA to identify the type and location of cancer.
Researchers developed a computer method called ZeitZeiger that uses genome-wide expression data to predict a person's 'internal' time of day. The method demonstrates accurate predictions using 15 genes from across the human genome, including non-core clock genes.
Research published in Genome Medicine found that a broad cancer vaccine targeting multiple neo-antigens could only be effective for less than 0.3% of the population, based on analysis of over 60,000 unique tumors.
A new facial recognition system, LemurFaceID, can correctly identify individual lemurs using photos of their faces, offering a non-invasive alternative to traditional methods. The system shows high accuracy in identifying lemurs across different species, with potential applications for conservation and research.
Researchers found that male flies are attracted to specific flash frequencies from female wings, with a preference for young females' slower wing beats of 178Hz. The study suggests that wing movement contributes to mate selection and may be a common phenomenon in other insects.
A newly discovered beetle species, Nymphister kronaueri, has been found to hitch a ride on the back of army ants as a means of transportation. The beetle uses its strong mandibles to anchor itself tightly to the ant's body, mimicking the shape and appearance of the ant's abdomen.
A non-pharmaceutical agent called Vasalgel forms a hydrogel barrier to prevent sperm movement, providing long-term and reliable contraception. The study's findings suggest the method is safe and effective, with no conceptions occurring in test monkeys.
Researchers have successfully produced live cows with increased resistance to bovine tuberculosis using a modified version of CRISPR gene-editing technology. The new method resulted in no off-target effects on the animals' genetics, making it a promising approach for producing transgenic livestock.
A new species of lobopodian, Ovatiovermis cribratus, has been discovered in the Burgess Shale, providing insights into the ecology and relationship of these ancient creatures. The discovery reveals that strong recurved claws may have allowed them to anchor themselves on hard surfaces and filter food from water.
A UK study found that eating disorders are not limited to adolescence or early adulthood, affecting 3% of mid-life women. The research also identified risk factors such as childhood unhappiness, parental divorce, and sexual abuse.
Researchers have discovered a new species of ruby seadragon in the wild, showcasing its intense red color and distinctive features. The fish lives at depths of over 50 meters, beyond recreational diving limits, and relies on its red color for effective camouflage.
A new study found that patients given psychological support before heart surgery scored lower on disability tests, had better mental quality-of-life, and reported more physical activity. Personalized support appeared to have the greatest benefit, and a short-term intervention can be easily implemented in cardiac surgery units.
A new study suggests that nearly a quarter of attempted suicides at metro stations can be identified using real-time CCTV, paving the way for prevention. The researchers found that specific behaviours such as pacing and leaving objects on the platform could indicate suicide risk.
According to a study published in BMC Psychiatry, pets offer significant support for individuals managing long-term mental health conditions. Participants reported that their pets helped manage stigma associated with their condition and provided unconditional validation during times of crisis.