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Making protected areas pay biodiversity dividends

A new essay proposes revising protected area categories to reflect biodiversity outcomes, with potential huge implications for preserving the earth's rapidly diminishing biodiversity. The change aims to make significant gains in biodiversity conservation and stanch species loss, habitat destruction, and ecosystem services degradation.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateMar 17, 2008

Global malaria map

A global malaria risk map has been released, revealing high-risk areas and providing estimates of people living in low-risk zones. The map identifies regions where existing control strategies can be used to eliminate P. falciparum transmission, potentially reducing deaths in sub-Saharan Africa.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateFeb 25, 2008

Substance abuse in Somali combatants; and more

A study in PLOS Medicine found that Somali combatants' excessive use of khat, a stimulant with amphetamine-like effects, is prevalent across southern and central Somalia. The study also revealed high levels of cannabis and other drug use among combatants, posing significant challenges for post-conflict reintegration programs.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateDec 10, 2007

Determining cause of death in developing countries

Researchers developed new methods for estimating mortality fractions using vital registration data in Mexico, and a validation strategy for verbal autopsy data combining previous methods in China. These advancements improve health planning and prioritization in low-resource settings.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateNov 20, 2007

Health professionals responding to ethnic diversity

A study of British doctors and health professionals found they struggle with language barriers, cultural understanding, and uncertainty about how to care for patients from ethnic minority backgrounds. This uncertainty can lead to hesitancy and inertia in practice, contributing to inequalities in care.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateNov 12, 2007

Strengthening the reporting of observational research

The STROBE Initiative recommends a 22-item checklist for accurate and complete report of observational studies. The guidelines enhance the assessment of study strengths and weaknesses, as well as its generalizability. By following these recommendations, researchers can improve the quality of their work.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateOct 15, 2007

Racial categories in medical practice and research

Experts discuss the pitfalls of racial profiling in medical research and practice, highlighting the importance of using race as a proxy for biological difference. Racial categories are social and historical, not biological or attributive, making them imprecise markers of genotypic and socio-cultural determinants of variation in health.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateSep 24, 2007

HIV therapy in pregnancy-data support WHO recommendations

A observational cohort study from Côte d'Ivoire found that antiretroviral therapy according to WHO recommendations prevents mother-to-child HIV transmission. The study's findings support the WHO's guidelines for preventing perinatal and postnatal HIV transmission in West Africa.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateAug 20, 2007

Congenital diaphragmatic hernia

Research suggests that congenital diaphragmatic hernia does not disrupt pulmonary surfactant maturation in human fetuses, contrary to previous findings. The study provides new insights into the development of this complex condition.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateJul 30, 2007

Preventing fractures in men -- Making the most of limited flu vaccine stocks

A study published in PLOS Medicine found that men who participate in sports or vigorous physical activity are less likely to suffer from osteoporotic fractures. The researchers analyzed data from over 2,000 men and found that those with higher levels of physical activity had a significantly lower risk of fractures. By taking exercise, ...

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateJun 18, 2007

Anti-inflammatory drugs interact with HRT, and more

Researchers found that traditional nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may counteract the heart-protective effect of hormone replacement therapy in women. Current use of hormone replacement therapy was associated with a significantly lower risk of heart attack than non-use, but NSAID use negated this benefit.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateMay 21, 2007

Loperamide therapy for acute diarrhea in children

A systematic review of 13 trials involving over 900 children found that loperamide should not be given to children under 3 years old or with bloody diarrhoea. However, in other children, the drug may be useful in treating acute diarrhea. The risks outweigh the benefits in high-risk situations.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateMar 26, 2007

What do we know about asthma in Africa?

The prevalence of asthma and allergic diseases has significantly increased in Ghana between 1993 and 2003. According to a study, the prevalence of exercise-induced bronchospasm and atopy doubled over this period, posing concerns for public health in West Africa.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateFeb 26, 2007

Contraceptives and the poor; plus new findings on cryptococcosis

Researchers found that the poorest people in developing countries are least likely to use contraception, with significant regional variations. The authors emphasize the need for governments and international health organizations to focus on providing contraceptive services to those with very low incomes.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateFeb 5, 2007

Erythrocyte G protein as a novel target for malarial chemotherapy

Researchers discovered that propranolol decreases erythrocyte G protein activity and inhibits blood-stage malarial parasite growth in red blood cells. The study suggests using propranolol in combination with existing antimalarials to reduce treatment doses, providing a novel antimalarial target and potential treatment strategy.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateDec 25, 2006

Social medicine in the 21st century

A unique study published in PLoS Medicine found significant differences in street-based drug use patterns between African American and white men, with implications for tailored interventions. The research highlights the importance of understanding cultural backgrounds and motivations to improve patient access and adherence to care.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateOct 23, 2006

Routine HIV testing widely supported in Botswana

A cross-sectional study of 1,268 adults in Botswana found that routine HIV testing is widely accepted and may reduce barriers to testing. The authors emphasize the importance of informed consent and human rights safeguards to protect individuals from discrimination and violence related to testing.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateJul 17, 2006

Free access to science speeds its use

A natural experiment found that open-access articles in PNAS gained a significant citation advantage over non-OA articles, being twice as likely to be cited within 4-10 months and almost three times more likely between 10-16 months after publication. The study suggests that open access accelerates the dissemination of scientific research.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateMay 15, 2006

Discrimination against individuals with HIV/AIDS in Nigeria

A study of Nigerian healthcare professionals found discriminatory attitudes towards patients with HIV/AIDS, including refusal to care for or admit them. The authors highlight inadequate education and resource shortages as contributing factors, and call for targeted interventions to address these issues.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateJul 18, 2005

Mathematician receives distinguished writing award

Ezra A. Brown, professor of mathematics at Virginia Tech, received the George Pólya Award for his article 'Square Roots from 1;24,51,10 to Dan Shanks' published in College Mathematics Journal in March 1999. The award recognizes excellence in mathematical exposition.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalCollege Mathematics Journal·DateAug 21, 2000