Children born to youngest and oldest mothers have higher rates of developmental vulnerabilities at age 5. Socio-economic factors explain at least half the increased risk, with 40% of children born to mothers aged 15 years or younger being developmentally vulnerable.
The pin mold fungus Phycomyces blakesleeanus uses a gene from bacteria to create large gravity-sensing crystals that help it grow upright. Genetic analysis reveals the role of horizontal gene transfer in acquiring this unique trait, providing insights into the evolution of adaptation.
Research reveals that HIV-1 viruses transmitted from mother to child during delivery are more resistant to maternal antibodies than non-transmitted variants. A new vaccine aims to boost maternal antibody attack, reducing transmission risk during delivery.
Gene editing of bone marrow stem cells has shown promise against HIV in non-human primates. The technique successfully reduced the size of dormant 'viral reservoirs' that pose a risk of reactivation, giving rise to white blood cells resistant to SHIV.
A recent study reveals that women are underrepresented in STEMM fields, with some disciplines showing a significant gender gap. The research suggests that it may take decades or even centuries to close the gap in certain fields, highlighting the need for practical measures such as reforming academic publishing and peer review.
Researchers tested Dual Path Platform (DPP-POCT) Syphilis Screens tests in rural clinics and a hospital in the Solomon Islands, showing high patient satisfaction and ease of use. The point-of-care test can provide results in under half an hour with no electricity or special equipment needed.
A common Great Barrier Reef coral species has enough genetic diversity to adapt to warming conditions, but its future remains uncertain. The model predicts that the coral will become more sensitive to temperature swings, but it will still survive for at least another century.
Researchers discovered genetic and epigenetic changes in humans and chimpanzees that increase the fight-or-flight response, a trait more common in species with warfare history. These adaptations may have played a role in shaping human warfare.
A US study found that approximately one pound of food per person was wasted daily from 2007-2014, resulting in significant environmental impacts. The research also showed a paradoxical relationship between diet quality and food waste, highlighting the need for simultaneous efforts to improve diet quality and reduce waste.
A new ancestor of modern sea turtles has been found in Alabama, dating back to the Late Cretaceous epoch. The discovery reveals two distinct species within the Peritresius clade, expanding the known evolutionary history of these marine reptiles.
Two cluster-randomized trials in Africa found that conditional day 3 follow-up for children with uncomplicated fever is non-inferior to universal follow-up, allowing caregivers to return only when symptoms persist. The studies suggest that current WHO guidance may be reconsidered and could lead to more efficient use of resources.
Computer simulations reveal that peregrine falcons' ability to execute maneuvers is enhanced by extreme speeds during dives from high altitudes. The research found that high-speed dives require precise tuning of mathematical laws for successful attacks.
Researchers have developed a web-based application to help on-the-ground decision making about integrating malaria and schistosomiasis control programs. The app models the impact of integrated treatment plans, providing insights into the most effective approaches.
A study reveals that charismatic species are often misperceived as having healthy populations, leading to complacency and reduced conservation efforts. The researchers propose that companies contributing to the creation of these representations should support conservation initiatives.
A study published in PLOS Pathogens reveals the genetic basis of structural diversity among trichothecene toxins produced by fungi. The analysis of genomic sequences and molecular biology experiments found that different combinations and versions of TRI genes are responsible for the diversity of trichothecene structures.
Researchers at Leang Burung 2 rock shelter on Sulawesi island discovered archaic cobble-based cores and flakes indicating human occupation at least 50,000 years ago. The findings provide key insights into early human occupation and cultural evolution in the Indonesian region.
A new method prioritizes species for conservation efforts in the face of uncertainty. The approach overcomes data limitations to identify phylogenetic conservation priorities, producing accurate estimates of evolutionary distinctness scores.
A modeling study estimates that US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) sodium reformulation targets will reduce cardiovascular disease cases, saving lives and costs. The study projects a gain of approximately 1.1 million discounted quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) and $19 billion in societal costs.
Researchers analyzed cysticercosis cases in Spain from 1997 to 2014, finding increasing hospitalizations, particularly among children under 15. The study also identified regional variations, with the Murcia region having the highest rate, and common clinical characteristics such as epilepsy and convulsions.
Recent studies published in PLOS Computational Biology have introduced novel computational methods to explore the molecular function of proteins. These approaches aim to simplify the challenge of determining functions for an ever-increasing amount of known proteins by identifying shared functional sites and predicting their activity.
A recent study found that less than one-fifth of investigator brochures referenced peer-reviewed animal studies, highlighting the need for rigorous preclinical research. The study also revealed a concerning lack of negative efficacy studies, suggesting publication bias.
Researchers have identified genetic variants associated with type 2 diabetes and blood sugar levels in a large Chinese population study. The findings suggest that these variants can reduce gene activity, leading to elevated blood sugar levels. Further analysis is needed to understand the role of these variants in human insulin secretion.
A study published in PLOS ONE found that climate change and recreational activities have altered the ecology of Walden Pond, affecting water quality and plankton community. The research used sediment cores to track changes in phytoplankton levels and nutrient levels since the 1920s.
The study found that preprint posting increased during the Zika epidemic compared to the Ebola outbreak, providing earlier access to scientific reports. The authors advocate for broader use of preprints to facilitate criticism, analysis, and further studies in infectious disease outbreaks.
Researchers calculated genetic scores from over 30 genes in 3000 children with no family history of type 1 diabetes. The upper quartile of scores was associated with a greater than 10% risk for pre-symptomatic stage of multiple islet autoantibodies by age 6.
A new study finds that kidney dysfunction is a contributing factor to severe malaria cases caused by Plasmodium vivax parasites. Elevated creatinine levels were associated with increased disease severity and mortality, while certain immune molecules could predict outcome in patients.
Researchers have discovered 29 human footprints in intertidal beach sediments off the coast of British Columbia, dated to around 13,000 years ago. The findings suggest that humans were present on the west coast of Canada about 13,000 years ago, as it emerged from the most recent ice age.
Research articles explore associations between comorbidities, symptoms, and patient-rated health in heart failure patients. Patterns of multimorbidity were identified, with poorer clinical outcomes observed in certain groups, highlighting the need for comprehensive approaches in phenotyping patients with heart failure.
A new study found that e-liquid ingredients can vary widely in toxicity, with some being more toxic than nicotine alone and propylene glycol and vegetable glycerin. The researchers developed a system to rapidly evaluate e-liquid toxicity using plastic plates with tiny wells containing human cells exposed to different e-liquids.
A team of researchers has identified the gene that enables electric fish to generate high-frequency electrical discharges, a phenomenon seen only in Apteronotid fish. This discovery sheds light on the evolution and function of specialized sodium channels in these animals.
A new study suggests that multidisciplinary care programs for patients with mild to moderate chronic kidney disease (CKD) are likely to be cost-effective. The study estimates that such programs add 0.23 quality-adjusted life years over usual care, with a cost of $51,285 per QALY gained.
A new study published in PLOS Medicine found that high doses of antiviral drug favipiravir extended survival in non-human primates infected with Ebola virus. The drug was shown to inhibit viral replication in a drug concentration-dependent manner, with animals treated at higher doses surviving longer than those treated at lower doses.
Leprosy patients develop unusual fatty clots that can lead to stroke or heart attack. Researchers identified key factors and molecules involved in clot formation, including soluble tissue factor and von Willebrand factor.
Researchers discovered a key step in blood digestion that can be targeted to disrupt hookworm development. Testing quinolones disrupted hemozoin formation, interrupting development and reproduction, offering promise for new treatments against human-infecting hookworms.
New research suggests that stiffer connections allow for better exchange of physical cues during coordinated movements, requiring more effort from partners. This study explores the impact of stiffness on human interaction and its potential applications in physical training and rehabilitation.
A study published in PLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases found that mass azithromycin treatment significantly decreased yaws among schoolchildren in Ghana. The provision of a single oral dose reduced both seropositivity and skin lesions consistent with yaws one year later.
A new study published in PLOS Genetics has identified a mutation in the muskelin 1 gene that causes lethal acrodermatitis, a deadly skin condition in bull terriers. The discovery enables veterinarians to test for the disease and prevent breeding of affected dogs.
A study published in PLOS ONE found that US National Parks are essential for bird conservation in a changing climate. By 2041-2070, the average park is expected to support 29% more species in winter and 6% more species in summer.
A study published in PLOS Biology found that obesity is associated with a decline in taste buds due to chronic inflammation and fat accumulation. Mice fed an obesogenic diet had 25% fewer taste buds than lean mice, with increased apoptosis rates and decreased progenitor cells.
A state-by-state analysis found that sudden unexpected death of infants (SUDI) is the most common cause of full-term infant mortality in the US. The study suggests that interventions to reduce SUDI risk could lead to a major reduction in infant mortality.
Researchers discovered that Chlamydia trachomatis proteins interact with host cell proteins to regulate the bacterium's exit from infected cells via lysis or membrane-bound package. Calcium ion signaling plays a crucial role in this process, and disruptions to this pathway significantly inhibit extrusion.
Researchers developed a new model that quantifies yellow fever dynamics across Africa using seasonal climatic measures, confirming the risk varies throughout the year. The model accurately captured geographic and temporal heterogeneities in transmission and offers insights for early interventions.
A study of 5,065 participants found that stronger hand grips are associated with a lower heart mass and reduced remodeling of the heart muscle, indicating a reduced risk of cardiovascular events. This suggests that hand grip strength may be an important indicator of cardiovascular health.
Researchers found trade-offs between fighting claw mass and egg number in weakly eusocial snapping shrimp queens. In contrast, strongly eusocial species showed smaller or absent trade-offs. Colony size also played a role in shaping these trade-offs.
Researchers discovered six new species of pterosaurs with remarkable diversity in size and shape, contradicting previous studies that suggested a decline before the mass extinction. The fossils date to just over 66 million years ago, revealing that these flying reptiles dominated the skies until their extinction.
Researchers found that lopsided ear function can lead to asymmetric brain development, causing differences in motor behavior. They used mice with a genetic defect to demonstrate the link between inner ear function and brain asymmetry, which was also observed in humans with normal ear function.
A novel Helmintex assay has been shown to detect low-intensity schistosomiasis infections with high accuracy, surpassing traditional methods. The study found that the HTX method detected eggs in 29% of samples negative according to the Kato-Katz method.
Using CRISPR/Cas9, scientists have shown that inactivating the FREP1 gene reduces mosquitoes' susceptibility to malaria parasite infection. This technique holds promise for preventing malaria transmission to humans, but may require further refinement to balance resistance with fitness costs.
Researchers developed new, open-source algorithms to automatically detect bat echolocation calls in noisy audio recordings using deep learning approach. The algorithms were trained on thousands of annotated audio datasets collected by citizen scientists, enabling reliable detection of bat calls in real-world recordings.
A study found that 16.2% of dual-registered clinical trials had discrepant completion statuses, with 33.9% listed as 'completed' on ClinicalTrials.gov despite being 'ongoing' on EUCTR. This discrepancy may affect publication bias and systematic reviews.