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.
Open Access
News on open-access publishing and its reach. Covers journal launches, open-access agreements, and research made freely available.
Lower exposure to UVB light may increase colorectal cancer risk
A study using data from 186 countries found a significant correlation between lower UVB exposure and higher rates of colorectal cancer across all age groups. Lower UVB exposure may reduce levels of vitamin D, which has been associated with an increased risk of colorectal cancer.
Minority groups in the US experience cognitive issues earlier in life
A recent study found that minority groups in the US are more likely to experience cognitive issues earlier in life. The study analyzed data from over 179,000 adults and found that Black and Hispanic individuals were more likely to self-report memory loss and cognitive decline compared to white individuals.
SLAS announces open access journal publishing with Elsevier in 2022
The Society for Laboratory Automation and Screening (SLAS) has announced its transition to a Gold Open Access publishing model with Elsevier. This change aims to increase public access to innovative life sciences research and drive citations for both SLAS Discovery and SLAS Technology journals.
Gender stereotypes still hold true for youth and types of political participation
A new study reveals that young men are more likely to engage in direct political actions, while women prefer civic activities like volunteering. The researchers attribute this gap to societal roles and expectations instilled from an early age.
SourceThe Polish Association of Social Psychology·JournalSocial Psychological Bulletin·DateMay 31, 2021
Terasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovation is awarded grant from the Good Food Institute
The Terasaki Institute has been awarded a grant by the Good Food Institute to develop an innovative method for producing cultivated meat. The project aims to address scalability and cost challenges in alternative protein production, using unique microcarriers to differentiate cell cultures.
Once we're past the fear stage, where do we place the blame for the COVID-19 pandemic?
A study in Poland found that government responsibility was a leading factor in attributing COVID-19 incidence rates. Political views and mental health symptoms also played significant roles, with liberal-leaning individuals blaming the government more than conservative ones.
SourceThe Polish Association of Social Psychology·JournalSocial Psychological Bulletin·DateMay 20, 2021
Sexual attraction preferences vary between men and women and across different ages
A new analysis of over 7,300 Australian users of dating websites found that men and women prioritize similar traits in their sexual attraction, but to varying degrees. Physical build, attractiveness, and personality are highly important across both sexes, with women placing greater emphasis on age, education, and emotional connection.
Conservationists concerned about illegal hunting and exploitation of porcupines in Indonesia
A study found 39 incidents of seized porcupines in Indonesia from 2013 to 2020, highlighting the country's lack of controls on hunting and trade. The researchers recommend categorizing all porcupine species as protected under Indonesian wildlife laws.
Once we're past the fear stage, where do we place the blame for the COVID-19 pandemic?
A study published in Social Psychological Bulletin found that Polish adults blamed the government more for COVID-19 incidence rates than personal responsibility or anxiety levels. Political views played a significant role in attributing blame, with liberal-leaning individuals blaming the government more than conservatives.
Biophotonics in photomedicine
Researchers are bridging gaps between scientists from different fields to merge knowledge and create innovated, reliable products. Biophotonic innovations are expected to transform healthcare for the next few decades.
A touch from a conversing robot is linked to positive emotional state
A study published in PLOS ONE found that participants who were touched by a humanoid robot during conversation reported a better emotional state. Those who received non-functional touch from the robot were more likely to comply with requests and exhibit positive behavioral responses, suggesting potential for robots to boost motivation.
Research result reporting set for boost under new system
A new MDAR Framework has been developed to harmonize outcome recording across major journals and establish basic minimum reporting requirements. The framework is designed to be flexible and adaptable to individual journal needs, aiming to reduce the burden on authors and editors.
SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 26, 2021
New species of dumbo octopus identified using minimally invasive techniques
A new species of deep-sea dumbo octopus has been identified using a combination of non-invasive and minimally invasive techniques. The study utilized MRI, micro-CT, and gene analysis to gather morphological and molecular information on the specimen without causing harm.
AI algorithms can influence people's voting and dating decisions in experiments
Researchers found that AI algorithms significantly influenced participants' decisions on fictitious political candidates and online dating partners. The study suggests people prefer human-explicit advice for subjective matters like dating but rely on algorithms for rational decisions.
Foods associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and death in middle-age
Researchers identified two dietary patterns associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and death in middle-age. The first pattern includes high intakes of chocolate, confectionary, butter, and white bread, while the second is characterized by high sugar-sweetened beverages, fruit juice, and preserves.
Air pollution data in 5 Chinese cities differs for local VS US monitoring stations
A new analysis of air pollution data from five large Chinese cities found statistically significant differences between locally-reported and US embassy-reported measurements. The study suggests that when air quality is poor, local stations systematically report lower PM2.5 levels than reported by US stations.
Delaying second dose of COVID-19 vaccines may be an effective public health strategy
A study published in PLOS Biology suggests delaying the second dose of COVID-19 vaccines for 9-15 weeks after the first dose can avoid more hospitalizations, infections, and deaths. The researchers found that prioritizing widespread inoculation with available first doses is critical to mitigating adverse outcomes.
UH receives Mellon Foundation grant to establish Puerto Rican literature database
The University of Houston receives a $1.35 million grant to create a free, open-access database of Puerto Rican literature, including photographs, manuscripts, poems, and videos. The digital portal aims to make the works of key Puerto Rican poets widely accessible to scholars and reading communities.
Long-term weight retention and associated health risks identified in obese adults
A study of 264,230 individuals found that UK adults who are overweight or obese retain their weight over time, associated with an increased risk of health complications and death. The researchers also found greater levels of socioeconomic deprivation linked to increasing severity of obesity.
Novel algorithm reveals birdsong features that may be key for courtship
Researchers have developed an algorithm to identify features of male zebra finch songs underpinning the distinction between courtship and non-courtship contexts. The study suggests a potential for 'bottom-up' approaches to drive discovery in vocal communication, uncovering previously unidentified features.
New deadly snake from Asia named after character from Chinese myth 'Legend of White Snake'
A new venomous snake species, Suzhen's krait, has been discovered in Southwestern China and Northern Myanmar. The snake is named after the mythical figure Bai Su Zhen from traditional Chinese mythology.
Art and nature elicit equally intense sense of 'the sublime' in virtual reality
A study published in PLOS ONE found that immersive VR videos of art and natural scenes elicit similar levels of 'the sublime', but with distinct sub-dimensions. Nature-based videos evoked a greater sense of vastness, existential danger, fear, and positive affect compared to art-based videos.
CT colonography most effective noninvasive colorectal cancer screening test
A new study published in the American Journal of Roentgenology found that CT colonography with a 10 mm threshold is the most effective and efficient non-invasive screening test for colorectal cancer prevention and detection. This method targets advanced neoplasia while reducing unnecessary colonoscopies compared to other tests.
The MIT Press launches Direct to Open
The MIT Press has launched Direct to Open, a groundbreaking model that shifts the focus from market-based sales to collaborative library support. This initiative aims to increase accessibility and impact of scholarly research, while promoting sustainability in book publishing.
Pirate attacks more frequent in waters with destructive fishing practices
Research reveals pirate attacks occur more frequently in areas with high-bycatch fishing and habitat destruction. The correlation persists even when accounting for neighboring coastal conditions.
Certain occupations may be associated with higher rates of heavy drinking
Research found that jobs classified as skilled trade occupations were most likely associated with heavy drinking, while professional occupations had lower rates. The study used data from 100,817 UK adults aged 40-69 and found associations between occupation and alcohol consumption differed in men and women.
Biophysical Society announces new open access journalBiophysical Reports
The new journal features short contributions and rapid turnarounds, covering all disciplines of biophysics with an emphasis on methods and techniques. The inaugural Editor-in-Chief, Jörg Enderlein, expects significant potential for the journal to offer transparent and rapid editorial decisions.
Local and national restrictions in England reduced contacts in small and varied ways
A study published in BMC Medicine found that local and national restrictions in England reduced social contacts, but the effects were mixed. Restrictions like the Rule of Six and working from home led to modest reductions in contacts, while the 10pm closure had little impact.
More deaths in England and Scotland may be due to obesity and excess body fat than smoking
A recent study published in BMC Public Health found that obesity and excess body fat likely accounted for more deaths than smoking among older adults, but still contributed to more deaths among younger adults. The analysis also suggests that gender played a role in the contributions of these factors to estimated deaths.
Nanocarriers in the enhancement of therapeutic efficacy of natural drugs
The use of nanocarrier drug delivery systems can improve the bioavailability, stability and aqueous solubility of natural drugs. Four plant materials from China, including Epimedium, Rehmannia glutinosa, Panax ginseng and Angelica sinensis, are discussed in this review article.
New journal to push the boundaries of biological imaging
The new journal, Biological Imaging, provides an interdisciplinary forum for quantitative and computational imaging in life sciences, covering topics like microscopy, image acquisition, and machine learning. The journal aims to drive cross-fertilization across research applications and inspire innovative work.
Freesound iniciates the Freesound Licensing project thanks to a Grant for the Web grant
Freesound has obtained a $100 million Grant for the Web grant to launch the Freesound Licensing project, enabling creators to earn revenue by re-licensing their content. The platform will promote an exchange space for reuse and help content creators monetize their sounds beyond original Creative Commons restrictions.
Who's writing open access articles?
A study found that male authors, those employed at prestigious institutions, and those affiliated with STEM disciplines are more likely to author open access articles. The study analyzed characteristics of 182,320 open access authors across the US from 2014-2018.
SourceAcademic Analytics Research Center (AARC)·JournalQuantitative Science Studies·DateJan 19, 2021
Focused on author choice & research quality, AAAS announces new OA policy
AAAS introduces trial basis for cOAlition S-funded authors to publish accepted manuscripts with CC BY or CC BY-ND licenses on Science family journals. This move aims to alleviate financial burden on authors and promote diversity in scientific publishing.
BIO Integrationjournal, Volume 1, Issue number 4, publishes
The journal features an original article on microfluidic technology and blood flow research, as well as review articles assessing antimicrobial peptides' potential in cancer therapy. It also discusses the interaction between COVID-19 and metabolic syndrome, and the entry mechanism of nanoparticles into tumors.
Daedalus, journal of the American Academy of Arts & Sciences, becomes open access
The American Academy of Arts & Sciences and The MIT Press have announced that Daedalus, Journal of the American Academy, will now be an open access publication. This move makes hundreds of previously inaccessible essays freely available to audiences worldwide.
Patients on ACE inhibitors, ARBs, don't have higher COVID-19 risk, finds study
A recent study published in The Lancet Digital Health found no increased risk of COVID-19 diagnosis, hospitalization, or complications for patients taking ACE inhibitors or ARBs. The study analyzed data from over 1.1 million patients and provided robust evidence to support the safety of these medications.
Scientists show what loneliness looks like in the brain
A study of 40,000 adults found that lonely individuals have distinct brain regions and networks, including a stronger default network and preserved fornix nerve fibers. This could help prevent neurological disease and develop better treatments for loneliness.
Capacity-building for nature-based solutions: The ReNature open-access research collection
The ReNature project has launched a collection of research articles exploring the excellence of nature-based solutions for innovation, sustainable economic growth, and human well-being in Malta. The collection aims to promote capacity-building and share knowledge on successful implemented nature-based solutions.
Advance care planning may influence place of death, avoid dying in hospital
A study of 21,231 UK urgent care register records found that advance care planning significantly influenced the place of death, with patients who had recorded preferences dying at home or in their chosen setting. Patients without a recorded preference were more likely to die in hospital.
Nonlinear beam cleaning in spatiotemporally mode-locked lasers
EPFL researchers demonstrate nonlinear beam cleaning, enabling generation of high-energy, ultrashort pulses with single-mode beam quality. They achieve sub-100 femtosecond pulses with high pulse energy and low M2 value without external amplification in a compact setup.
SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics·DateNov 30, 2020
Vegans, vegetarians and pescetarians may be at higher risk of bone fractures
A study published in BMC Medicine found that vegans had a 43% higher risk of total fractures compared to meat-eaters, with higher risks of hip, leg, and vertebrae fractures. Vegetarians also had a higher risk of hip fractures.
First US nationwide estimates of sexual minority representation in STEM fields
The study uses large datasets to examine representation of sexual minorities in STEM fields. Men in same-sex couples are less likely to complete a STEM degree or work in a STEM occupation compared to heterosexual men. However, women in same-sex couples are more likely to work in a STEM field than women in different-sex couples.
Wrinkle-faced male bats lower face masks to copulate
Researchers observed wrinkle-faced bats displaying unique mating behavior, using a mask-like face fold during copulation. This rare lek courtship behavior was previously unknown in bat species, with only 12 instances found across mammals.
Ivory Coast without ivory? Elephant populations are declining rapidly in Côte d'Ivoire
The study found that only four protected areas in Côte d'Ivoire still host forest elephants, with low density. Human population size, habitat degradation, and cocoa plantation conversion significantly impact elephant presence.
DECT in the ED: better diagnoses, less follow-up, more savings
Dual-energy CT enhances radiologist confidence in emergency department imaging studies, leading to reduced downstream imaging and associated costs. This technology resulted in a decrease of recommended follow-up imaging examinations totaling $52,991.53-61,598.44.
Snakes disembowel and feed on the organs of living toads in a first for science
Researchers observed Small-banded Kukri Snakes dissecting Asian Black-spotted Toads alive, removing organs to consume. The snakes may have evolved this tactic to avoid being poisoned by the toad's toxin.
Initiative for Open Abstracts launches to promote discovery of research
The Initiative for Open Abstracts aims to boost the discovery of critical research by making abstracts openly available through Crossref. This collaboration between publishers, librarians, researchers, and stakeholders seeks to facilitate large-scale access and promote discoverability.
Changes in hospitalizations for alcohol use disorder in US
Hospitalizations for alcohol use disorder in the US rose significantly over a nearly two-decade period, with an increase of 10%, resulting in more in-hospital deaths. The study also found that age-standardized rates of hospitalization and death due to alcohol use disorder remained high across different demographic groups.
New roles for clinicians in the age of artificial intelligence
The rapid development of AI in medicine has led to new opportunities for clinicians. However, concerns about replacement have been raised. The authors explore the unlikelihood of complete replacement and propose adaptations to enable successful integration.
Women hold prominent roles, publish more in 'open science' vs. 'reproducibility' model
A recent study by an international research team found that the 'open science' movement promotes greater equity, diversity, and inclusivity. Women publish more often in high-status authorship positions in open science, whereas participation decreases in the reproducibility literature.
IU researchers trace the outlines of two cultures within science
A study by Indiana University researchers reveals two distinct scientific cultures within the movements of open science and reproducibility. Open science is associated with more prosocial language, increased participation from women and underrepresented groups, and a culture that promotes transparency and collaboration.
Women's authorship, open science, and reproducibility
Researchers analyzed nearly 3,000 articles between 2010-2017, finding women's participation grew in high-status positions within open science literature, but declined in reproducibility literature. Open science literature adopted communal and collaborative approaches, improving science.
SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 14, 2020
New subspecies of the rarest Palaearctic butterfly found in the Arctic Circle of Yakutia
A new subspecies of the rarest Palaearctic butterfly, Arctic Apollo, has been found in the Arctic Circle of Yakutia. The species, named Parnassius arcticus arbugaevi, exhibits distinct physical and DNA differences from other Arctic Apollo populations.
Sedentary behaviour on the rise across Europe
The study found that sedentary behavior increased by 3.9% in Spain, 7.4% in Germany, 17.8% in France, and 22.5% in Great Britain between 2002 and 2017. The authors suggest that increasing physical activity and reducing screen time could help mitigate the risks associated with prolonged sitting.
Sedentary behaviour on the rise across Europe
A study published in BMC Public Health found a significant increase in sedentary behaviour across Europe, with 54.3% of adults spending more than four-and-a-half hours sitting per day in 2017. The research also showed that young and older adults were equally affected, but the age group with the largest increase was those aged 35-44.
Researchers predict deficits in female birth numbers in India over coming decades
A new study projects that India will experience a significant shortage of female births between 2017 and 2030, with an estimated 6.8 million fewer female births recorded due to sex-selective abortions. The country's regional diversity and cultural preferences for male babies have contributed to this imbalance.
Behavioural variability in captive African elephants in the use of the trunk while feeding
Researchers studied captive African elephant trunk usage during feeding, finding varied strategies for manipulating different food types. The study revealed a correlation between food item shape and grasping strategy, allowing efficient feeding and increased food intake.
PLOS special collection launch
The EAC's MRH initiative has streamlined timelines for medicinal product applications, decreasing from 24 months to 8-14 months. The initiative aims to improve access to quality medicines by harmonizing technical standards and regulatory requirements.