Researchers from the University of Konstanz found that normal protein PrP helps cells communicate during embryonic development. Without it, physiological abnormalities occur, and cell-to-cell contact is disrupted. This discovery may aid in understanding prion diseases and developing effective treatments.
Childhood diarrhoea claims almost 2 million lives annually; researchers prioritize improving acceptability and effectiveness of oral rehydration solution (ORS) and designing locally adapted training programs for health workers. The top research priorities aim to optimize use of available interventions and programs.
Researchers have discovered a cryptic species of kissing bugs that co-exist with known carrier species of the Chagas disease-causing parasite, despite being genetically distinct. The study's findings suggest that understanding what keeps these species separated is crucial to developing effective control measures.
Researchers have rediscovered a dormant human gene, IRGM, which was thought to be extinct for millions of years. The study, published in PLOS Genetics, reveals that the gene was resurrected through a complex series of structural events, suggesting its potential importance in fighting new or resistant infectious agents.
A new study found that young men aged 24 or less who leave the UK Armed Forces have a two to three times higher risk of suicide compared to their peers. The risk is highest in those with short lengths of service and lower ranks, suggesting pre-military vulnerabilities may play a role.
A systematic review methodology is proposed to collate and synthesize high-quality research evidence on gene-disease associations. The approach emphasizes identifying true genetic associations amidst a large volume of false positives.
Researchers have identified two distinct molecular pathways that control the formation of regulatory T cells (Treg), which are vital in limiting undesirable immune responses. The study shows that if a gene called Carma1 isn't expressed normally, Treg development is impaired in the thymus, but alternative pathways can compensate.
A recent study published in PLoS Medicine found that the WHO Child Growth Standards are more accurate than the US National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS) charts in predicting mortality risk for malnourished children. The researchers analyzed data from over 60,000 children in Niger and found that the WHO standards were the most acc...
Researchers discovered that capsaicin, found in chili peppers, triggers a desensitization process in pain receptors, allowing them to adapt to painful stimuli. This adaptive response enables the receptor to continuously respond to varying stimuli, leading to a shift in responsiveness threshold.
Researchers discover gene ATOH1 regulates cell specialization, preventing cancer formation in organisms. Reactivating the gene in human colon cancer cells halts tumor growth and induces cell death.
Bias in medical literature can be prevented through recognition and declaration of competing interests, detailed authorship policies, and mechanisms to control outcome reporting bias. The PLoS Medicine editors propose these measures to reestablish the integrity of the scientific record.
Researchers identified two molecules, yersiniabactin and salmochelin, that enable E. coli to survive and reproduce by stealing iron from their hosts. This discovery presents a potential way to selectively eradicate pathogenic E.coli strains without affecting beneficial ones.
A recent study found that Phase I drug trials are underreported, with only 17% published in scientific journals. The lack of transparency can compromise the safety and efficacy of new drugs, highlighting the need for increased mechanisms to ensure complete availability of trial results.
A rare case of a boy with Ataxia Telangiectasia developed abnormal growths in his brain and spinal cord four years after receiving human fetal stem cell therapy. The tumors were found to be benign neural tumors that could not have arisen from the patient's own tissues, highlighting the need for caution in stem cell therapy.
Researchers found that local climate moderates the relationship between temperature, precipitation and dengue incidence. Climate patterns affect mosquito reproduction and virus development.
Researchers used Nuclear Magnetic Resonance spectroscopy to analyze the structure of Tau, identifying structural properties and fast motions. This breakthrough provides insights into how phosphorylation alters binding to microtubules, leading to nerve cell damage.
Researchers found that monkeys devised a near-optimal strategy by balancing sensory information and prior expectations regarding rewards. The monkeys' harvesting efficiency fell within 1-2% of the theoretical maximum, revealing impressive decision-making ability.
Researchers discovered that mosquitoes use RNA interference to combat dengue virus, allowing the virus to multiply and be transmitted to humans. Genetic manipulation of this response could help stop dengue virus transmission by Aedes aegypti.
A study published in PLoS Medicine found that first-time mothers are at a higher risk of developing psychosis in the month following childbirth. Women with higher infant birth weight and maternal diabetes had lower risks, while smoking and living without their partner did not significantly impact psychosis risk.
Researchers have found a common genetic circuit controlling the formation of teeth in both jaws and throats of vertebrates. This discovery suggests that a core set of genes governs tooth development, regardless of location, and may also be involved in other patterned structures like hair and feathers.
Researchers found a direct link between vitamin D and a genetic variant associated with multiple sclerosis (MS). Vitamin D deficiency during pregnancy may increase the risk of offspring developing MS later in life.
Researchers find voluntary vaccination effective in containing outbreaks of diseases like smallpox and SARS due to social network effects. Neighborhood size plays a crucial role in determining the effectiveness of voluntary vaccination programs.
A new study reveals that large structural DNA changes, known as copy number variants, may be responsible for schizophrenia. Researchers found eight deletions in patients' genomes, two of which were newly identified, suggesting that these rare variations could be causative.
Researchers uncover genetic adaptations in Nautilia profundicola, a microbe thriving near deep-sea vents. These adaptations include genes for temperature fluctuations and nitrate assimilation, aiding the bacterium's survival in extreme conditions.
A comprehensive survey of global spending on neglected disease R&D found that just over $2.5 billion was invested in 2007, with HIV/AIDS, TB, and malaria receiving nearly 80% of the total funding. Many neglected diseases are underfunded, with some receiving less than 4% of global funding.
Researchers have discovered a gene expression signature associated with survival in advanced ovarian cancer. The study identified specific genes and pathways that correlate with overall survival, providing potential targets for therapies and personalized treatment strategies.
Leading authors debate the best strategies to tackle ghostwriting, a form of scientific misconduct that undermines author accountability. Some advocate for regulations and explicit disclosure of writing assistance, while others argue against excessive controls that may not be justified by current evidence.
A new study published in PLOS ONE reveals that Triceratops used their three horns for battle scars, contradicting the notion that they only displayed them. The researchers found that the squamosal bone was injured 10 times more frequently in Triceratops than its closely-related dinosaur Centrosaurus.
Researchers found that honey bees can reliably distinguish between patterns containing two and three dots, but struggle with four. The bees use a combination of working memory and memory rules to solve the problem. This remarkable cognitive ability challenges traditional views on the numerical competence of insects.
Expert authors advocate for a US foreign policy agenda focused on eliminating neglected tropical diseases, citing connections between NTDs and conflict. The control of these devastating diseases could be achieved at a fraction of the cost of other medical interventions.
A new editorial emphasizes the need to address the devastating impact of rape as a weapon of war, citing conflicts in the DRC, Burma, Sudan, and former Yugoslavia. The PLoS Medicine editors argue that medical journalists and editors can draw attention to this issue, influencing support for humanitarian organizations and advocacy groups.
African HIV patients achieve near-perfect adherence rates due to prioritizing treatment to maintain social relationships and ensure future support. This contrasts with North American rates, where individualistic values may hinder adherence success.
A Canadian/U.S. research team has reported a therapeutic model exploiting the natural dynamics of the 'fight or flight' system to stimulate recovery from chronic stress disorders. The HPA axis dysfunction may become chronic if driven far from its natural homeostatic rest point, leading to disorders like CFS, depression, and PTSD.
Researchers found that prior STD infections can lead to a genetic bottleneck in HIV transmission, allowing multiple viral variants to spread. The study suggests that the genital mucosa provides a natural barrier against infection, which can be compromised by inflammatory genital infections.
The current policy in South Africa allows individual schools to decide whether or not to distribute condoms, leading to limited access for adolescents. The researchers argue that making condoms available in schools would increase access and prevent HIV transmission among the country's youth, who account for 34% of new HIV infections.
A study found that the pathogenic soil bacterium Burkholderia pseudomallei is associated with land management changes such as livestock husbandry and residential gardening. The bacterium was more commonly found in areas with lower soil pH, irrigation, and presence of livestock animals.
A study published in PLoS Medicine suggests that elderly people with damaged kidneys are more likely to develop cardiovascular disease, including heart failure and stroke. Lifestyle changes can help reduce the risk of cardiovascular problems in these individuals.
A team of researchers highlights challenges and concerns with unlinked anonymous HIV testing in developing countries. They outline strategies to harmonize high-quality surveillance with international ethical standards, including reviewing justifications, providing confidential voluntary testing, and strengthening local capacity.
Researchers found that nematodes disrupt plant PIN proteins and activate others to create 'feeding sites' where plants produce food for the worms. This discovery could lead to ways to thwart these parasites in crops.
A study of ancient DNA from 68 skeletal remains reveals a rapid evolution in the Icelandic mtDNA pool over the past thousand years. The original female settlers appear to be genetically less closely related to present-day Icelanders than previously thought.
Scientists have proposed a novel explanation for a long-standing floral genetic mystery in plants, revealing a complex mechanism that provides a clear selective advantage. The study used computational modeling to investigate potential explanations for the existence of interdependent genes that regulate flower development.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Malaria Research Institute identified saglin and TRAP as essential proteins for Plasmodium's invasion of the Anopheles mosquito salivary gland, a critical step in transmitting malaria to humans. This discovery could lead to novel approaches for disrupting the parasite's lifecycle and preventing malaria spread.
Researchers found that tiny structures in the joint lining mimic antibody-producing lymph nodes and support specific antibody production, potentially leading to joint destruction. The processes can occur independently of the body's lymph nodes, suggesting a new treatment modality for rheumatoid arthritis targeting lymphoid structures.
Researchers found a brain region that facilitates rapid switching between learning and remembering, improving learning efficiency. The study used fMRI to investigate the neural mechanisms underlying this process, revealing complex interactions between different brain areas.
A policy promoting cross-border health programs could contribute to reducing maternal and child mortality by leveraging existing resources and addressing interplay of elements within different health systems. Reducing maternal and child mortality requires focus on political, economic, social, and cultural factors.
Researchers have identified a mechanism for an effective immune response to brain tumors by combining immunotherapy and strategies to kill tumor cells. The study suggests that this combination may provide effective treatment for glioblastoma multiforme, the most aggressive form of brain cancer.
A recent whole-genome study identified genetic variants associated with Kawasaki disease, an inflammatory condition in children that affects the cardiovascular system. The research team found that genes involved in cardiovascular function and inflammation are key players, suggesting potential new diagnostics and treatments.
A study published in PLoS ONE reveals that shared experiences can alter recognition of one's own face, blurring the line between self and others. This finding has implications for understanding self-identity and social behavior.
A study published in PLoS ONE reveals that male crickets with larger heads and mouthparts are more successful in fights, echoing an ancient Chinese text. Researchers tested the hypothesis that relatively larger weaponry conveys an advantage to males in aggressive contests.
Two experts disagree on whether all African children with fever should be treated presumptively with antimalarial drugs. Blaise Genton and colleagues argue that declining malarial transmission rates support changing the policy, while Mike English and colleagues claim there is not enough evidence to abandon presumptive treatment.