A hitchhiker's guide to manta rays
Research in Maldives reveals diverse associations between manta rays and 'hitchhiker' fish. New species of symbionts were discovered, expanding our understanding of these unique relationships.
PLOS
Allocating COVID-19 vaccines based on health and socioeconomics could reduce mortality
A new study published in PLOS Medicine found a spatial relationship between COVID-19 mortality and population-level health and socioeconomic indicators. The researchers identified 9 key indicators, including chronic kidney disease and nursing home prevalence, which had the largest individual effect on COVID-19 mortality rates.
"Long COVID": More than a quarter of COVID-19 patients still symptomatic after 6 months
A recent study found that over a quarter of COVID-19 patients still experience symptoms six to eight months after initial diagnosis. Commonly reported symptoms include fatigue and shortness of breath. The study's findings highlight the need for timely healthcare resource planning for post-COVID-19 care.
COVID-19 pandemic linked to reduced access to gender-affirming care in 76 countries
A survey of 964 adults in 76 countries found that half faced reduced access to gender-affirming resources during the pandemic, leading to poorer mental health outcomes. The study highlights the need to increase secure access to these resources to improve the health of trans and non-binary people.
The role of race and scientific trust on support for COVID-19 social distancing
A recent study found that trust in science significantly increases support for COVID-19 social distancing measures across different US racial groups. The researchers analyzed data from various surveys and found a strong correlation between scientific trust and support for distancing policies.
Better pregnancy outcomes linked to reduction of armed conflict in Colombia
A new study has found that a ceasefire in Colombia led to better pregnancy outcomes for women who conceived after the conflict began. The analysis of over 3 million pregnancies found lower risks of stillbirths and perinatal mortality in areas with reduced conflict violence, highlighting the need for countries with long-running armed co...
'Smart collar' could prevent tapeworms in dogs
Researchers developed a smart collar that delivers praziquantel, a deworming drug, to dogs infected with echinococcosis. The collar reduces the risk of tapeworms in dogs by 0.182 times and 0.336 times compared to control groups.
Packaged water consumption linked to cholera outbreak in DRC capital
A case control study found a positive association between sachet water consumption and increased risk of cholera. The study suggests that direct contact between the mouth and contaminated exterior of the sachet transmits pathogens.
Regular monitoring may be only way to prevent large COVID-19 outbreaks in schools
A new study finds that regular COVID-19 monitoring of everyone in a school setting is essential to prevent large outbreaks. Mathematical simulations suggest that waiting until a student tests positive is too late to take preventive measures, highlighting the importance of early detection and action.
Scientists show how light therapy treats depression in mice model
A new study reveals that light therapy's benefits come from activating the Period1 gene in a brain region involved in mood regulation. Exposure to light at the end of the dark period has an antidepressant effect on mice.
New iguanodon-like dinosaur identified from jawbone fossil from Spain
A new iguanodon-like dinosaur has been identified from a jawbone fossil in Spain. The creature is believed to have been around 6-8m long and was closely related to species found in modern-day China and Niger.
Mapping urban greenspace use with cellphone GPS data
A study published in PLOS ONE found that urban greenspace use is correlated with demographics, with women, older adults, and ethnic minority groups spending more time outdoors. The authors used GPS data from cell phone apps to track users' visits to local green spaces, revealing significant effects on trip duration and distance.
Ancient Islamic tombs cluster like galaxies
A study published in PLOS ONE reveals that ancient Islamic tombs in Sudan are distributed according to large-scale environmental factors and small-scale social factors. The tombs cluster around central 'parent' points, likely representing older tombs of importance, with smaller scale distribution influenced by nearby older structures.
Brain microstructure may explain benefits of physical activity on older adults' cognition
A recent study published in PLOS ONE suggests that physical activity can improve cognitive function in older adults by altering brain microstructure. The research, which analyzed MRI scans of 318 brains post-mortem, found a positive correlation between physical activity and increased cortical thickness.
New risk model may improve the prediction of preterm birth
A new risk prediction model may improve the prediction of impending spontaneous preterm birth, reducing unnecessary hospital admissions and treatment costs. The model combines clinical risk factors with vaginal fluid fetal fibronectin concentration analysis, showing promising performance in predicting preterm birth within seven days.
What underlies inconsistent clinical trials results for COVID-19 drugs?
A new study suggests that varying virus dynamics among patients may contribute to inconsistent clinical trial results for COVID-19 drugs. Recruiting participants shortly after symptom onset could reduce the number of participants needed to detect significant antiviral drug effects.
Astronauts demonstrate CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing in space
Researchers have developed a novel method for studying DNA repair in yeast cells that can be conducted entirely in space, using CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing technology. The technique successfully demonstrated the viability of the new method on the ISS, paving the way for extensive research into DNA repair in space.
Streetonomics: using street names to quantify a city's cultural values
A study using street names to quantify cultural indicators found that Vienna honors the most women (54%), followed by London (40%). Paris and New York have lower proportions, with many streets named after people from the 1860s. Street names also reflect professions and professions held by street honorees, such as artists, writers, and ...
Deep sea Pacific Salas y Gómez and Nazca ridges are highly biodiverse
The deep-sea ecosystems of the Salas y Gomez and Nazca ridges are characterized by exceptional biodiversity, hosting rare and unique species of fish and invertebrates. These findings have significant implications for conservation efforts, emphasizing the need to protect these unique environments.
6% of under-18s at risk of cognitive decline and more due to anticholinergic medications
A study found that anticholinergic medications may increase the risk of cognitive decline and falls in under-18s. In the German population, up to 6% of this age group are at risk due to these medications.
Some ethnic groups in UK with type 2 diabetes may be less likely to be prescribed statins
People of South Asian and African/African Caribbean ethnicity are less likely to be prescribed guideline-indicated statins for type 2 diabetes, a finding that could prevent up to 12,600 heart attacks and strokes in the UK. The study suggests that targeted education and prescribing interventions may help address these disparities.
When did the first COVID-19 case arise?
A new study suggests that the first COVID-19 case arose in China between early October and mid-November 2019, with November 17 being the most likely date of origin. The analysis reveals a more rapid spread than previously confirmed cases imply, with the disease spreading globally by January 2020.
Genetic study of liver cancer reveals new drug target
A recent genetic study published in PLOS Genetics has identified MAGEA3, a gene associated with poor prognosis in liver cancer, as a potential target for new treatments. The study found that blocking the expression of MAGEA3 in liver cancer cells can prevent their growth and death, offering hope for developing new therapies.
US children pay high price for gun violence
A study by Stanford University found that pediatric firearm injuries in the US result in a median cost of $12,984 per patient under 18 years old. The authors analyzed data from the national Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project Kids' Inpatient Database to identify factors contributing to variation in hospital costs.
Anglo-Saxon ancestry was 'mixed and mutable'
The study found that early Anglo-Saxons had a mix of local and continental ancestry, with the ratio changing over time due to varying immigration patterns. The results suggest that being Anglo-Saxon was tied to language and culture rather than genetics.
N. European govts assertively responding to COVID-19 most likely to be supported
Citizens in Northern Europe were more likely to support governments with proactive and decisive approaches to addressing the pandemic. Proactive communications and assertive policies played a significant role in shaping public opinion during the COVID-19 crisis.
Almost 10% of survey respondents would refuse to perform bystander CPR during the pandemic
During the COVID-19 pandemic, almost 10% of survey respondents would refuse to perform potentially-lifesaving bystander CPR. Many respondents were willing to act if they had a facemask or performed hands-only CPR.
English neighborhoods which have less-healthy diets estimated by modelling study
A new analysis identifies neighborhoods in England where dietary habits deviate significantly from recommendations, prioritizing urban areas in northern England and inner-city London. Targeted strategies such as vouchers for fruits and vegetables may ultimately reduce health inequalities in these areas.
SARS-CoV-2 infections may trigger antibody responses against multiple virus proteins
Researchers mapped epitopes in SARS-CoV-2 to identify potential cross-reactive antibodies, expanding vaccine and therapeutic development options. The study suggests new targets for diagnostics and improved treatments against SARS-CoV-2 and other coronaviruses.
Anti-aging protein in red blood cells helps stave off cognitive decline
Researchers have discovered a link between ADORA2B protein in red blood cells and age-related cognitive decline. The study found that mice lacking ADORA2B exhibited accelerated aging, including poor memory and hearing deficits.
Yellow fever mosquitoes evolve different strategies to resist pesticides
A new study found that yellow fever mosquitoes have distinct genetic changes behind permethrin resistance, including mutations in VGSC and cuticle protein genes. These mutations enable the mosquitoes to survive exposure to the pesticide, posing a significant threat to disease control.
Light in darkness: an experimental look at Paleolithic cave lighting
A study replicated Paleolithic lighting systems using archaeological evidence, revealing diverse features among the different systems. The researchers found that wooden torches worked best for exploring caves, while grease lamps were suitable for lighting small spaces over a long period.
US sex trafficking survivors face challenges as mothers
US sex trafficking survivors experience difficulties building parenting confidence and exhibiting emotional withdrawal, impacting their ability to be protective parents. The study highlights the need for targeted support to help these individuals overcome challenges in motherhood.
Baby orb weaver spiders can weave as complex webs as adults
Despite miniature brain size, baby orb weavers can create complex webs identical to those of adults. The study suggests flexibility in spider behavior despite neurological limitations.
Bats in Switzerland harbor diverse viruses, some potentially zoonotic
A study of 18 bat species in Switzerland revealed 39 different viral families, with 16 infecting vertebrates and potentially posing a risk to humans. A near-complete genome of an MERS-CoV-related virus was also identified, highlighting the need for continued monitoring of viruses carried by bats.
Research papers that omit 'mice' from titles receive misleading media coverage
A study published in PLOS Biology found an association between articles' titles and news stories' headlines, suggesting journalists tend to follow authors' decision to omit the species studied. Papers not mentioning mice in their titles receive more press coverage and are significantly more highly tweeted than papers that do.
A push for a shift in the value system that defines "impact" and "success"
A group of 24 women scientists advocate for a paradigm shift to recognize multifaceted scientific impact, promoting mentorship and diversity. The authors aim to dismantle biased systems by expanding measures of success beyond citations.
Fast heart, slow heart: Changes in the molecular motor myosin explain the difference
Researchers found sequence changes in the beta myosin protein that explain the difference in contraction velocity between small and large mammals, with human and rat proteins differing at nine key sites. The study suggests these changes enabled slower heart rates in larger animals as they evolved from smaller species.
Over 10,000 harbor seals estimated to live in the inland waters of Washington State
A sea count survey and tagging data revealed an estimated 10,000 harbor seals inhabiting the Northern Inland Waters of Washington State. The study used line-transect methods to estimate the stock size of Phoca vitulina richardii in these waters.
Ceramics provide insights into medieval Islamic cuisine
A study of organic residues on ceramic pottery from rural and urban Sicily during the 9th to 12th century AD reveals a diverse range of vegetables, fruits, beeswax, and animal food products. The findings are consistent with Arabic literature's colorful dishes and highlight regional differences in cuisine preferences and ceramics use.
Researchers pinpoint substantial historical sea level changes in the Southern Levant
Researchers in the Southern Levant identified substantial historical sea level changes, with a 2.5m rise occurring around 2000 years ago. This finding has significant archaeological implications for the region.
How the amphibians got their vertebrae
A study found that ancient amphibians' spine stiffness varied with habitat, with more aquatic species having more rigid backbones. The researchers collected measurements on over 40 species of temnospondyls, providing valuable information on early vertebrate adaptations to water-to-land transitions.
Mixed farming methods could reduce US emissions and increase productivity
A study published in PLOS Biology suggests that mixed farming methods could eliminate agricultural greenhouse gas emissions in the US if established across high-quality cropland. The methods reduce synthetic fertilizer use and increase protein production while reducing beef consumption by 20%.
No evidence that the shift to farming made males and females more physically similar
A genomic study of 194,000 females and 167,000 males in the UK Biobank finds no correlation between farming and reduced sex differences in size and shape. Genetic variations linked to physical traits show no significant increase in either males or females over the past 3,000 years.
Electronic nose might "sniff out" COVID-19-infected people at mass scale
Researchers developed an electronic nose that can identify COVID-19-infected individuals with high accuracy. The system may enable large-scale screening and detection of SARS CoV-2 infection in public places.
Transgender teens may turn to substance use to cope with stress
A new study found that over half of transgender adolescents engage in substance use as a coping strategy for GM-related stressors. Internalized transphobia and family functioning were key factors in predicting substance use.
The Varroa mite dsRNA is not toxic to monarch butterflies
Research found that Varroa mite dsRNA is not toxic to monarch butterfly larvae, contrary to expectation based on shared target gene. The study uses dsRNA to control varroa mites in honeybee colonies and found it safe for monarchs.
Gender differences exist even among university students' wage expectations
A study of university students found that despite optimistic initial expectations, women tended to decrease their expected wages after being informed about the actual wages of similar graduates. In contrast, male students increased their expected wages under the same conditions. The study suggests a persistent gender gap in wage expect...
Malaria parasite's partiality for the spleen
A study found that malaria parasite Plasmodium vivax accumulates in the spleen to a greater extent than its relative P. falciparum after infection. Imaging techniques revealed increased glucose metabolism in the spleen of participants infected with P. vivax.
Healthy lifestyle linked to better cognition for oldest adults -- regardless of genetic risk
A new study found that healthy lifestyles are associated with lower cognitive impairment risks in adults over 80, regardless of APOE ε4 status. The analysis confirmed that individuals with healthier lifestyles had a 55% and 28% lower risk of cognitive impairment compared to those with unhealthy lifestyles.