A systematic review found that non-specialist providers can deliver effective treatments for children with intellectual disabilities or lower-functioning autism spectrum disorders. The studies showed improvements in developmental, behavioral, and family outcomes with various psychosocial interventions.
In a groundbreaking study, researchers found that benign E. coli bacteria can evolve to become pathogenic within 500 generations or 30 days when confronted with macrophages. The bacteria adapted by developing resistance to being killed by immune cells and acquiring traits similar to those of deadly pathogens.
A recent study published in PLOS Medicine found that police activities in Thailand, including urine drug testing and coercive tactics, may lead to riskier behaviors among people who inject drugs. The study, conducted in Bangkok, highlighted the need for better integration of public health policy with policing activity.
A large pooled analysis of over 7,000 patients with malaria suggests that dihydroartemisinin-piperaquine is highly efficacious but that young children are at higher risk of treatment failure due to insufficient doses. The study highlights the need for optimal drug dosing levels in this population.
A new paper by James Hansen and colleagues assesses the impacts of global warming, concluding that drastic emission reductions are needed to stabilize the climate. A call for papers on responses to climate change has been issued, with a focus on alternative energy development, environmental preservation, and ecosystem restoration.
A PLOS Medicine study reveals that half of trials with posted results on ClinicalTrials.gov have not been published in a journal. The study found that unpublished trials were more likely to report certain outcomes, such as participant flow and adverse events, suggesting improved transparency in clinical research.
The PLOS & DNDi Collection showcases Open Access research on neglected tropical diseases, highlighting the journey from advocacy to scientific innovation. The collection features articles on Chagas disease, leishmaniasis, and human African trypanosomiasis, emphasizing the need for tangible solutions.
A systematic review found that non-physician clinicians regularly interact with pharmaceutical sales representatives, receiving gifts and samples. Most reported favorable views of these interactions, with some concerns about potential bias and conflict of interest.
Researchers have identified a new therapeutic target for Huntington's disease, the HDAC4 enzyme. Halving levels of HDAC4 in cells can delay aggregation of mutant huntingtin protein and rescue nerve cell function.
Research published in PLOS Computational Biology found that people prefer to hasten painful stimuli over waiting for it, as anticipation can be more disabling than the pain. The study suggests that focusing on immediate pain reduces dread, while considering future pain increases it.
A recent study published in PLOS Medicine found that new guidelines for starting anti-AIDS drugs in young children may increase treatment access, but do not significantly impact mortality rates. The study analyzed data from over 3000 children with HIV and found that deferring treatment until CD4 counts and percentages fell below certai...
Scientists have used genetics to analyze DNA and discover an influx of European genes into Caribbean populations after Columbus' arrival. The results demonstrate how deciphering genetic echoes can illuminate human history, highlighting differences in susceptibility to diseases among populations.
A new study using phylogenetic analysis explores the relationships among different folktales, including 'Little Red Riding Hood', to identify distinct groups spread across regions and cultures. The research suggests that folktales evolve gradually over time, with elements blending together as they spread.
Researchers have found evidence of chili pepper residues in ancient pottery dating back to 400 BC, suggesting that Mixe-Zoquean cultures may have used chili peppers for multiple culinary purposes. The discovery opens the door for further research into the uses of chili peppers in prehistoric times.
New research found that scorpions choose their strongest defensive behavior based on both physical characteristics and performance measurements. The study also revealed a correlation between scorpion shape, pinch force, and venom strength when defending themselves from predators.
The study found that epigenetic modification of the HAND2 gene plays a critical role in endometrial cancer development. Hand2 methylation is already increased in premalignant endometrial lesions and predicts a poor response to progesterone treatment.
A study revealed RSV infection induces distinct global gene expression patterns in young children, identifying a 'biosignature' for diagnosis and disease severity assessment. The research also uncovered suppressed non-specific immune system genes and elevated inflammation genes in infants under 6 months.
Researchers discovered that the SLC24A5 gene plays a crucial role in skin pigmentation variation among South Asians. The study found evidence of positive selection for this gene in North India but not in South India, highlighting an intriguing interplay between natural selection and demographic history.
A new study finds that high temperatures and low rainfall influence trachoma transmission in Africa, with eye-seeking flies more active at higher temperatures and abundant in areas with low rainfall. The World Health Organization aims to eliminate blinding trachoma by 2020, but understanding all factors affecting the disease is crucial.
A new study found that tigers are dispersing over much greater distances than previously recorded, with long-range connectivity reduced by human settlements and roads. Genetic approaches combined with landscape ecology revealed evidence of tiger populations connected across 650 km in Central India.
Scientists have uncovered a 165-million-year-old fossil of copulating froghoppers, providing insight into the earliest record of insect mating. The discovery suggests that froghopper genital symmetry and mating position remained static for over 165 million years.
Research found that adults with lower education levels consumed more sugar- and fat-rich foods than those with higher education levels. They also expended more energy through physical activity, which may explain their higher food intake.
A new study published in PLOS ONE found that drilling sumps associated with hydrocarbon extraction can negatively impact aquatic ecosystems. The degradation of these sumps can lead to changes in the community composition of zooplankton, highlighting the need for better climate change mitigation strategies.
A study published in PLOS Medicine suggests that syphilis screening and treatment in pregnant women in sub-Saharan Africa could be a cost-effective use of resources, preventing up to 25,000 newborn deaths and 64,000 stillbirths each year. The intervention could also prevent 2.6 million DALYs annually.
A study published in PLOS Medicine estimates depression as the second leading cause of global disability burden, ranking first in Central America and Southeast Asia. Disability from depression affects mostly people in their working years, with women more than men.
A recent study published in PLOS Biology reveals that a majority of rhythmic proteins are produced during two intervals of the circadian cycle, with proteins required for metabolism showing peak production during the day and those required for cell growth at night. This discovery provides new insights into the regulation of protein pro...
In dry conditions, Ecuador laurel trees invest more in honeydew production for ants, which strengthens their defensive mutualism. The study suggests that trees may 'buy insurance' for their leaves with carbon-rich sap, paid to ants in exchange for protection.
A 15-year study on P. vivax population genetics in South Korea found drastic genetic change occurred between 2002-2003, suggesting parasites were introduced from North Korea. This explains why South Korea was unable to eliminate vivax malaria for 20 years.
Researchers say Chagas disease remains a leading cause of heart disease in impoverished North American communities, with inadequate healthcare and limited treatment options available. The editorial calls for increased medical awareness, scientific cooperation, and public-private partnerships to develop new tools and treatments.
Visceral Leishmaniasis is a severe disease causing spleen, liver, and bone marrow damage if untreated. In Brazil's largest cities, like Belo Horizonte, VL cases are on the rise, with high fatality rates despite available diagnosis and treatment.
A new PLOS Collection delves into the complex evolutionary cascade theory that made sauropod dinosaurs' gigantism possible. Researchers investigate factors contributing to their unique body size, including mobility, posture, and nutrition.
Research published in PLOS ONE found that infant brains activate the same areas used for movement when observing others. This suggests a neurobiological foundation for imitation and cultural learning in young children.
New research published in PLOS ONE confirms the presence of tuberculosis from 7,000 years ago in a human skeleton from Hungary. Analysis of ancient DNA and lipids on the bones revealed a bacterial complex associated with tuberculosis.
Researchers used gene sequencing to map bacterial communities on two human cadavers, finding differences and changes over the decomposition process. The study suggests specific patterns in bacterial communities as a corpse decomposes.
Researchers found that prenatal music exposure can lead to long-lasting changes in the brain after birth, influencing the development of the auditory system. The study showed that fetuses can learn and retain musical melodies for a long time, even up to four months of age.
Researchers discovered a new molecular target for controlling malaria by blocking egg development in mosquitoes. The study found that a male hormone delivered during sex activates a protein switch, which boosts egg production. This finding holds promise for developing new tools to control malaria-transmitting mosquito populations.
A systematic review and meta-analysis found that psychological and health promotion interventions by non-mental health specialists improved symptoms in women during the perinatal period. The study, conducted in middle-income countries, suggests promise for psychosocial interventions in low- and middle-income settings.
Researchers discovered how Brachyury regulates the timing of gene expression in the notochord, a precursor to the backbone, and found that certain mutations can delay or alter this process, potentially leading to birth defects and cancer. The study sheds light on a crucial regulatory mechanism in embryonic development.
Research suggests that older children with HIV may need to start antiretroviral therapy (ART) earlier to achieve high CD4 counts in later life. The recommended CD4 count thresholds for ART initiation are unlikely to maximize immunological health in children who have never received ART before the age of 10 years.
Researchers found that emotionally intelligent individuals are more likely to manipulate others' decisions based on their own intentions. They can either facilitate or hinder retaliation, depending on their own goals.
Research reveals that regional differences in rainfall timing and resulting vegetation patterns help maintain genetic diversity among giraffe species. Annual climate cycles may play a key role in this process, with each species tied to its local seasonal cycle of greening.
New research shows that men slow down by 7% when walking with their female romantic partners, deviating from their optimal walking speed. This phenomenon suggests that males in mixed-sex groups may make energetic adjustments to accommodate their partner's pace, potentially influencing mobility and reproductive strategies.
A unique South African plant, Lithops, has been found to adapt to extreme conditions by optimizing its photosynthesis and water loss. Researchers discovered local differences in surface adaptations and physiological mechanisms that allow the plant to thrive in dry environments.
A new study published in PLOS Medicine suggests that South Africa's current antiretroviral treatment policy could lead to HIV elimination within the next 24-34 years. The research also found that a universal test and treat approach could achieve elimination 10 years earlier, according to more comprehensive mathematical models.
Researchers identified a host blood RNA transcriptional signature that can form the basis of a simple diagnostic test to differentiate TB from latent TB and other diseases. The test showed high sensitivity and specificity in distinguishing between these conditions, with promising results for potential use in African health facilities.
A new DNA test, Xpert MTB/RIF, has shown high sensitivity and specificity in diagnosing tuberculous meningitis (TBM) in HIV-infected individuals. The test was compared to smear microscopy and demonstrated improved performance, especially after centrifuging the sample. Further studies are needed to confirm these findings.
A recent study found that the hippocampus helps individuals resist temptation by simulating future outcomes. Individuals with hippocampus damage, such as those with Alzheimer's disease or frontotemporal dementia, struggle to imagine long-term rewards, leading to impulsive decisions.
A mass vaccination campaign of over 300,000 people in Guinea demonstrated the feasibility of using an oral cholera vaccine during a cholera outbreak. The campaign achieved high coverage rates and was well accepted by the local community.
A new study published in PLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases found that children under five are equally likely to contract bilharzia as their infected mothers. The researchers recommend improving access to clean water and sanitation to reduce the spread of the disease.
Researchers have identified Human Neutrophil Peptide-1 (HNP-1) as a potential treatment for leishmaniasis, a vector-borne disease affecting young individuals worldwide. HNP-1 has been shown to directly kill Leishmania parasites and increase the lifespan of neutrophils, reducing their susceptibility to infection.