Articles tagged with Open Access
Researchers use language tree to identify unique languages with low close relatives, guiding preservation efforts. A tool is developed to target conservation priorities, helping minimize linguistic diversity loss.
Scientists have discovered a mass emergence of rare mantis-flies in an Australian macadamia orchard, capturing the first-ever images and videos of their larval stage. The larvae feed on unknown prey, prompting further research to uncover their diet.
The shift from public to private funding in biomedical research poses significant challenges, including collaborative research models, intellectual property rights, and oversight. Researchers must navigate conflicts between private benefactors, institutions, and scientists to ensure the integrity of research.
A study in Toronto found that commuters are exposed to high levels of noise while using public transport, with peak levels exceeding EPA recommended thresholds. Researchers recommend reducing noise exposure through materials and equipment improvements, as well as promoting hearing protection.
A new study estimates that between 0.9% and 1.3% of UK adults used emergency food banks in 2013-2015, equating to approximately 850,000 people annually. Repeat visits indicate that distributing emergency food is not a long-term solution to food poverty.
Scientists warn against the accidental spread of self-propagating gene drive systems, which could cause significant ecological harm. However, genetic technologies still hold promise for conservation work, but with strict regulations and international cooperation.
Research published in BMC Research Notes found that desk-based workers spent 73% of their working day sitting down, but wanted to spend only 53.8% of it doing so. They also preferred spending more time walking and standing during work hours, with an additional 46 minutes per eight-hour day for walking and 26 minutes for standing.
A study published in BMC Medicine found that non-UK qualified GPs work longer hours, tend to be older and serve more patients in deprived areas. The Brexit policy restrictions on immigration are likely to worsen the GP workforce crisis, with the most affected being the UK's most deprived areas.
Researchers can increase their work's impact by using visual storytelling and developing a media product following a Four Phase Media Development Model. This model involves four steps: scoping, development, release, and review to ensure success.
Researchers analyzed records of over 2.5 million women from 14 countries, finding that living with a mother-in-law actually results in lower family sizes. Women who live with either their own or husband's mother have fewer children compared to those who only live with their spouse.
A nearly complete Jurassic ichthyosaur fossil was discovered in India, measuring over 5.5 meters in length. The fossil is believed to belong to the Ophthalmosauridae family and is thought to have lived between 165-90 million years ago.
Ant queens perform 'undertaking behaviors' when co-founding a new colony with an infected queen, biting and burying the corpse to prevent pathogen transmission. This behavior is associated with a significant reduction in mortality among queens, suggesting that they have evolved complex strategies to limit disease transmission.
Researchers at Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution identified an extensive conserved group of bacteria within healthy humpback whales' blow. The discovery could serve as a framework for monitoring the health of this species and others, with potential implications for disease detection and conservation.
Researchers mapped 27 types of illegal activities in Brazilian protected areas, with vegetation suppression and hunting being the most common. Human population density and accessibility were key factors influencing these activities, highlighting the need for targeted conservation efforts.
Researchers found that a set of validated, self-reported questions can predict mental health problems like depression and PTSD after return from deployment. The questions assess 14 psychological attributes and can be used to identify high-risk individuals.
New research found that global livestock methane emissions for 2011 are 11% higher than previously estimated. The study used revised emissions factors and spatially distributed annual carbon fluxes to calculate the increased emissions.
Two new species of bird-catcher trees from Puerto Rico have been discovered and named after Frances W. Horne and Ana Roque de Duprey, unrecognised women who devoted decades to educational projects in botany. The research highlights the importance of these trees thriving in well-studied areas like the Luquillo Mountains.
A study involving 7603 Danish employees found that sexual harassment by clients or customers is associated with increased depressive symptoms, scoring 2.05 points higher on the Major Depression Inventory. In contrast, employees harassed by colleagues scored 2.45 points higher, indicating a significantly higher risk of clinical depression.
A study published in BMC Public Health suggests that increasing tobacco taxes across the EU can lead to significant reductions in cigarette consumption, particularly in higher-income countries. In contrast, lower-income countries may experience negative tax revenue effects, highlighting the need for alternative funding strategies.
The city of Teotihuacan in Central Mexico stands alone with its innovative apartment compounds and well-planned residential areas. Its design was previously unknown until Michael E. Smith's study revealed its uniqueness.
Researchers found that players who started playing at age 12 or later had less risk of clinical impairment in executive function and depression compared to those who started earlier. The study suggests that repeated head impacts during childhood may lead to long-term problems with mood and behavior.
Researchers have identified six new sponge species and discovered two previously unknown symbiotic relationships in North Sulawesi Island. This finding highlights the region's remarkable biodiversity and underscores the need for sustainable tourism practices to preserve these areas.
Researchers have found that titanium dioxide nanoparticles released from metal implants can interfere with bone formation and resorption, resulting in adverse effects. The review calls for further research to characterize the biological, physical, and chemical interactions between titanium dioxide nanoparticles and bone-forming cells.
A new study published in Frontiers in Psychology reveals that saying sorry when making a social rejection can have the opposite effect of its intention. Researchers found that apologizing can increase feelings of hurt and create pressure to forgive before being ready. The study's findings challenge popular beliefs about apologies in so...
A recent study published in Critical Care found that patients admitted to ICUs at weekends are at increased risk of death. The severity of illness and case mix were also different between weekends and weekdays, with more patients having a higher severity of illness on Saturdays and Sundays.
The Xpert Ultra assay overcomes limitations of the current test, providing more reliable detection of Rifampicin resistance and significantly improving tuberculosis detection in patients with pauci-bacillary disease. The new assay format includes gene target amplifications that enhance previously amplified targets.
A team of entomologists has solved the mystery of a secretive fly species by studying mushrooms in Los Angeles. The females were found to lay eggs on mushroom caps, while males were discovered only after citizen scientists alerted researchers.
A collection of thirteen research papers addresses conservation strategies for elusive invertebrates in the European Union. Monitoring saproxylic beetles is feasible, and Citizen Science increases public awareness about Natura 2000 and saproxylic species in forests.
Researchers found that urbanization led to significant epigenetic differences in Darwin's finches, which may be a heritable component of adaptation. The study suggests that diet and methylation patterns played a key role in the rapid adaptation of these species to changing environments.
A new study published in Frontiers in Human Neuroscience has found that the harmonic structure of pop songs is linked to their placement in the Billboard Top 100 charts. The research analyzed chord-by-chord transcriptions of 545 songs and found that rare chords and surprising harmonies are key factors in a song's popularity.
Researchers found that six out of eight products saw a 0-7% drop in calorie sales after recipe changes. However, some customers swapped reformulated products for higher-calorie alternatives. The study suggests 'silent' product reformulation may help combat obesity by reducing calorie intake at low cost.
A potential Miocene-era breeding site of the extinct baleen whale Parietobalaena yamaokai has been identified in Hiroshima, Japan. The discovery suggests that the northern hemisphere may have supported a breeding ground for this species dating back over 15 million years.
Scientists have discovered two new primitive species of earthworm, Drawida polydiverticulata and Drawida thomasi, in the Western Ghats mountain ranges in Kerala. The species are part of the genus Drawida, which has an important centre of speciation in the state.
A new proposal defines subspecies based on a potentially incipient new species, heritable trait, and geographic isolation. The concept of subspecies has been contentious, but the newly proposed definition aims to simplify its recognition.
The BMC Ecology Image Competition 2017 has produced a diverse array of winning and highly commended images showcasing pressing issues in ecology. The competition highlights the intersection of art and science, with images capturing intricate species interactions, conservation efforts, and natural processes.
Scientists have discovered four new fruit fly species in the Himalaya region of India, revealing previously unknown information about their flower visitation habits. The study also revises the descriptions of all Lordiphosa genus representatives in India and highlights a unique sex comb adaptation in one of the newly described species.
A new computer program correctly identifies depressed individuals from their social media photos 70% of the time, according to a study. The program uses features such as photo color, comments, and face presence to predict depression. Future research aims to refine the model and address data privacy concerns.
A mobile learning app using game elements such as leaderboards and digital badges was found to positively impact student academic performance, engagement, and retention. On average, app users achieved higher marks than non-users, with a 7.03% increase in grades.
A new record of the Oriental eye fly transmitting conjunctivitis has been discovered in China. Three new species from the same genus were also identified, adding to the understanding of these disease-causing insects.
A review of over 170 studies reveals that insect analysis is only useful in a few forensic cases. The method's success relies on species distribution, temporality, behavior, and genetic analysis, which should be applied case-by-case.
Aarhus University researchers and industrial companies publish results and data on innovative Open Science platform, making basic research relevant to industries accessible. The platform breaks barriers and provides risk-free zone for companies to try out ideas, acquire latest university research and create unique products.
German Shepherd Dogs are predisposed to musculoskeletal disorders due to selective breeding, with osteoarthritis being the most common condition. The study analyzed data from over half a million dogs and found that GSDs are more likely to die from complications arising from these conditions.
A study published in BMC Nutrition found that consuming sugar-sweetened drinks with high-protein meals reduced fat oxidation, leading to increased fat storage. The researchers also discovered that the combination of a sugary drink and a protein-rich meal increased cravings for savory and salty foods.
Researchers found a link between physical injuries and chronic conditions, including angina, heart attack, asthma, and non-neoplastic lung disease. The study suggests that continued monitoring is warranted for survivors of the 9/11 attacks.
Check List, a reputable biodiversity-themed journal, has joined Pensoft's peer-reviewed and open access family. The new platform offers high-tech perks, including easy publishing and data sharing through platforms like GBIF, Genbank, and Barcode of Life.
A study found that global malaria funding is declining despite its importance in eliminating the disease worldwide. The decrease in external funding, combined with increasing government financing, may lead to malaria resurgence if sustainable financing solutions are not implemented.
Researchers developed energy-recycling stairs that store user's energy during descent and return it during ascent, making stair negotiation easier for elderly and disabled individuals. This technology could be a more affordable alternative to elevators and stair lifts, allowing people to retain their ability to use stairs.
The new journal will publish interdisciplinary research using systems biology and network medicine to personalize patient treatment. It aims to address the need for authoritative information on systems medicine and its integration in clinical care.
A study published in PLOS ONE found that a successful smile may contradict the 'more is always better' principle, with a bigger smile showing more teeth being perceived less well. The researchers also discovered that smiles developed symmetrically are rated as more successful.
A new species of parrot has been identified in the Yucatán Peninsula, Mexico, characterized by its distinctive blue covert feathers and loud, short call. The Blue-winged Amazon parrot is thought to have evolved from the White-fronted parrot around 120,000 years ago.
Researchers replicated traditional Native Californian Indian water bottles to analyze polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) levels. The study found PAHs in the air during production, but not significant leaching from storage.
A systematic review of 71 studies found that occupation is a major factor in vitamin D deficiency, particularly among shift workers and healthcare professionals. Regular screening and education programs can help prevent adverse health outcomes linked to vitamin D insufficiency.
A team led by Thomas Hales has delivered a formal proof of the Kepler Conjecture, resolving a centuries-old mathematical problem. The proof uses computer verification to establish certainty, addressing the community's inability to thoroughly verify previous attempts.
Scientists develop a new method for identifying palm species in the Neotropical genus Syagrus by analyzing the first few millimeters of the leaflet margin. This technique is useful when other morphological characteristics are unclear, providing a reliable alternative for species identification.
The Journal has published 3,000 articles per year with an incredibly short submission-to-publication time of <65 days. It plays a crucial role in shaping the evolution of scientific publishing and enables quick dissemination of groundbreaking research.
Dog ownership has been found to encourage older adults to be more physically active, with an average of 22 minutes spent walking per day compared to non-owners. The study, published in BMC Public Health, also showed that dog owners had fewer sedentary events than non-dog owners.
A study published in BMC Public Health found that high alcohol consumption from age 16 to 43 is linked to higher blood glucose levels in women, while men's consumption did not show the same association. The long-term study of over 900 participants revealed an important risk factor for type 2 diabetes.
Scientists assess invasive alien plant control measures in Kruger National Park, finding shortcomings including inadequate goal-setting and planning. The study recommends prioritizing species based on formal documentation and regular monitoring to optimize funding allocation.
A recent study published in Rice journal reveals that rice bran contains high levels of essential vitamins, amino acids, and antioxidants, making it a potential health food. The researchers identified over 400 compounds in rice bran that could provide medicinal benefits.
A new species of frog has been discovered in the Neotropics, featuring transparent skin that allows its heart to be visible. The species, Hyalinobatrachium yaku, is characterized by dark green spots on its head and body, and a unique call. Its distribution is uncertain due to its small size and habitat destruction.