Articles tagged with Open Access
Domestic cats have a unique perception of bitterness in food due to variations in their repertoire of bitter receptors, which differs from that of other mammals. The study found that cat taste receptors were less sensitive to certain bitter compounds compared to human receptors, explaining why cats can be picky eaters.
Springer announces a partnership with IMISCOE to publish their open-access journal Comparative Migration Studies and book series IMISCOE Research Series. The journal offers a unique comparative perspective on the science of migration and diversity, publishing qualitative, quantitative, and mixed-methods research.
A new study published in BMC Medicine found that people in England consume an additional 12 million bottles of wine each week due to holidays and special occasions. This increase in alcohol consumption can lead to health issues, highlighting the need for more accurate measurement and targeted interventions.
Researchers have reconstructed the ancestral snake, revealing it had tiny hindlimbs and targeted soft-bodied prey. The study suggests snakes originated on land, rather than in water, during the middle Early Cretaceous period.
A new species of Zenkevitchia amphipod has been discovered in the Caucasus region through molecular sequencing. The find sheds light on a previously understudied group of cave animals, highlighting their cryptic nature.
Research published in Molecular Autism found that male toddlers with autism have distinct brain structure changes compared to females, suggesting separate evaluation and early developmental markers. Additionally, studies suggest a 'female protective effect' through sex differences in genes and prenatal hormones.
A new standard for open and reproducible research has been set by a group of Cambridge researchers, sharing over 200GB of data and 20,000 lines of code. This move aims to increase the reliability of research results, particularly in publicly funded work.
Researchers have identified five new species of blueberry relatives in Colombia, showcasing the country's rich biodiversity. The newly discovered species exhibit unique morphological characteristics and are found primarily in the Western Cordillera and Chocó biogeographic region.
A team of Brazilian and English zoologists has developed a comprehensive guide to identifying 19 species of planktonic copepods from the 'de la Plata' basin, the second largest river basin in South America. The study provides detailed information on taxonomy, phylogenetic relationships, and identification keys for each sex.
Scientists have identified two new iguanid lizard species from the Laja Lagoon in Chile, expanding our knowledge of the region's unique reptilian diversity. The study describes two new species within the Liolaemus elongatus-kriegi complex, highlighting the importance of continued research into Patagonian lizards.
A systematic review of cigar smoking and all-cause and smoking-related mortality found that cigar smoking carries the same fatal health risks as cigarette smoking, including oral, esophageal, and lung cancers. The risk of death from these cancers increases with inhalation of cigar smoke.
A recent study published in PeerJ assessed over 1,100 collegiate distance runners and found that the sex difference in competitiveness persisted among the fastest runners. The researchers used surveys to evaluate each runner's motivation, training volume, and desire to compete at an elite level after college.
A comprehensive review of research on inhibiting beta amyloid production offers insights into the potential for Alzheimer's treatment. The study examines the role of proteolytic secretases and their viability as therapeutic targets.
Researchers have developed a new method for muscle regeneration using autologous minced tissue grafts, which can restore functional muscle at the site of injury. The approach uses a collagen hydrogel-based expansion method and demonstrates similar functional recovery as donor muscle grafts with reduced tissue requirements.
The Lantana camara species complex's unresolved composition is a major impediment to its effective management. The complex's high diversity and rapid adaptive evolution make it challenging to identify and predict invasiveness.
Researchers have discovered that the skull of a Daspletosaurus, a large tyrannosaurine dinosaur, suffered numerous injuries during life and also after death. The injuries included bites that healed, as well as those inflicted after death by another tyrannosaur, indicating evidence of combat between two large carnivores.
A study of 16,193 teenagers found that one in five had accessed e-cigarettes, with regular smokers being the most frequent users. E-cigarette access was associated with binge drinking and involvement with violence after drinking, suggesting that these devices may be linked to increased risk-taking behaviors.
The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has criticized the 2°C temperature rise target as 'utterly inadequate' for protecting those at most risk from climate change. Limiting warming to 1.5°C could prevent severe impacts, preserve ecosystems, and ensure food security, says Petra Tschakert.
A new jumping spider species, Stenaelurillus albus, with a unique mating plug has been discovered in the Western Ghats of India. The study also re-describes another species and highlights the presence of mating plugs in Salticidae families.
Researchers created a nanobot on a bacterial spore, using graphene quantum dots to detect changes in humidity. The device, called NERD, responds 10 times faster and is more sensitive in low-humidity situations.
The inaugural issue of ACS Central Science features a range of articles highlighting the importance of chemistry in bridging physical and life sciences. Key findings include advances in analytical chemistry enabling real-time monitoring of genetic and environmental factors, and synthetic chemistry's role in delivering genetic treatments.
A new millipede species has been found in Launceston's city parks and reserves, with a known range of less than 12 square kilometers. The species, Tasmaniosoma anubis, does not appear to be threatened despite its small range.
Researchers found that melatonin significantly improved sleep quality, reduced awakenings, and increased REM sleep compared to using earplugs and eye masks. Melatonin's effectiveness was attributed to its ability to boost brain activity, reduce anxiety, and promote cognitive restoration.
The Menetries's tiger moth was recorded feeding on the native devil's helmet host plant, Aconitum rubicundum, for the first time. This discovery confirms that the species is polyphagous and may rely on aconite alkaloids for protection against diseases.
PeerJ Computer Science aims to bring a 21st century publishing platform to computer scientists, with free publication options and CC BY licensing. The new journal will publish articles across all fields of computer science, with the goal of increasing cross-fertilization between fields.
Researchers demonstrate a system that produces both biofuel and animal feed from one crop, eliminating land-use competition for food resources. The process, known as solid-state fermentation, yields high ethanol content while producing quality animal feed with zero waste.
Researchers developed a novel laboratory model to test factors improving MSC binding to defective cartilage. Integrins were found essential for effective MSC attachment and therapy efficacy in osteoarthritis repair.
Research suggests umami taste has a beneficial role in health, especially for elderly patients, who may experience reduced sensitivity due to diseases or medications. 'Kokumi' substances found in garlic and onions can enhance flavors in low-fat foods.
Research suggests that staying at home and watching TV can help reduce disease spread during a flu epidemic. The study found that certain age groups and socio-economic groups responded more strongly to these behaviors, highlighting the importance of targeted public health policies.
Research finds children exceeding screen time limits, with girls more likely to exceed recommendations for social media use as they age. The study suggests re-evaluating guidelines due to the rise of mobile devices and their impact on health.
Scientists create a chemical modified version of second messenger cAMP that selectively activates only Epac2, one of several proteins involved in insulin secretion. The analogue activates Epac2 more potently than cAMP itself, offering insights into the protein's function and potential as a pharmacological target.
Scientists have discovered three new species of the Begonia genus, native to Brazil and adding to the existing 1,500 species. The rare species were found in confined territories, making their discovery challenging.
Researchers found that exposure to lavender aroma significantly increased money transfer between test persons in a trust game. The study suggests that smelling lavender may help establish trusting negotiations and build team spirit in various situations.
A recent review article suggests that stem cell therapy may be less effective in older patients with chronic diseases, such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease. The study proposes strategies to enhance the regenerative properties of autologous stem cells and improve their therapeutic potential.
A study analyzing alcohol sales data across GB regions found that areas with higher sales per adult had higher rates of alcohol-related deaths. The South West region, despite high consumption, had low alcohol death rates, possibly due to tourism.
Scientists discover two new taxa of wood-feeding cockroaches in China, highlighting their unique hermit lifestyle. These wood-eating insects are distinct from other cockroach species, which typically infest human habitats, and were previously understudied due to their secluded behavior.
Researchers developed a low-cost focus stacking setup that produces better results than high-end solutions, ideal for mass digitization programs. The system uses consumer-grade products and is easy to control, allowing for high-quality macro photography at a fraction of the cost.
A team of Chinese and Italian scientists have discovered a new species of blister beetle, Hycleus marcipoli, part of the understudied phaleratus group. The name 'Marco Polo' pays tribute to the collaboration during Ph.D. studies between China and Italy.
A new taxonomic toolkit has resolved a century-long neglect of the Ophion parasitic wasp genus, revealing six new species and redefining the group's diversity. The toolkit uses a combination of molecular and morphometric analyses to accurately describe species, increasing confidence in taxonomy.
A new trout species, Salmo kottelati, has been described from the Alakır Stream in Antalya, Turkey. The species is distinguished by its smaller parr marks, larger mouth gape, and maxilla, which set it apart from other genera of salmonids.
A 10-week cooking skills program in Australia resulted in sustained changes in participants' food purchasing behaviors, knowledge, and social interactions. Participants reported increased confidence in cooking and eating healthier meals together as a family.
Elsevier has launched a new open access journal, Journal of Vascular Surgery Cases, to publish high-quality case reports on all aspects of vascular diseases. The journal aims to provide novel and timely information to practicing clinicians and researchers in the field.
A recent article collection in BMC Medicine examines the safety of e-cigarettes, with two experts offering differing views on their impact. Peter Hajek argues that e-cigarettes are orders of magnitude safer than conventional cigarettes, while Charlotta Pisinger believes they can be less harmful but still pose health risks.
Researchers used a new endocrine-based approach to determine the age at sexual maturity for wild stocks of western Atlantic bluefin tuna, finding they mature at a considerably younger age than currently assumed. This discovery could lead to changes in fisheries scientists' estimates of population size.
The future ocean will be warmer, with reduced ice extent, higher sea levels, more acidic, and lower oxygen levels. Research must focus on understanding marine systems' responses to cumulative pressures.
A young female hammerhead shark was tracked for 10 months, revealing its 3,350 km journey and important insights into habitat use. The research suggests that juvenile hammerheads are trading off risks to get offshore quickly, maximizing growth and reproductive potential.
Researchers use genetically engineered pig models to study human diseases and identify new drug targets for cancer, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, neurodegenerative diseases, ophthalmology, and xenotransplantation. These models enable the development of novel cell therapies to restore diseased tissues and organs.
A study published in BMC found that children born during and after the 1997-98 El Niño event had lower height-for-age and lean mass, indicating chronic malnutrition. The researchers warn that climate change may increase the frequency of El Niño episodes, posing a significant risk to future generations.
Researchers found that couples who kiss frequently share similar oral bacteria, with at least nine kisses per day leading to significantly shared salivary microbiota. The study also suggests an important role for other mechanisms that select oral microbiota, shaped by lifestyle and personal care habits.
The study using Google Analytics found that online plant databases are visited by users in over 100 countries, with mobile traffic growing steadily. This highlights the democratization of botanical information, equal access for researchers worldwide, and reduced wear on biodiversity objects.
Research reveals genetic differences between catsharks in the Mediterranean and North East Atlantic, suggesting they may be more vulnerable to over-fishing. The study's findings also highlight sex-specific migration patterns among catshark populations.
Researchers found that people prefer leaders with a healthy complexion, regardless of intelligence level, except for situations requiring negotiation or exploration. A study of 148 participants revealed that health is the most important trait when selecting a leader, surpassing intelligence as an optional extra.
EBioMedicine brings together worlds of basic research and clinical science in an open-access journal with Cell Press and The Lancet editorial influence. The journal prioritizes rapid publication and publishes a range of research study types, including commentaries and viewpoints.
A team of speleobiologists has described four new species of dragon millipedes from southern China, highlighting their distinctive spiky bodies. The discovery sheds light on the genetic diversity of these bizarre creatures, with China holding the highest recorded number of species in the genus Desmoxytes.
A community-based study found air pollutants released by unconventional oil and gas production exceed recommended levels in the US, with hazardous chemicals like benzene, hydrogen sulfide, and formaldehyde detected. The study highlights the need for improved air-quality monitoring programs near these sites.
A new species of tarantula from Brazil was named Bumba lennoni in tribute to John Lennon. The species has defensive urticating hairs on its abdomen, and its genus name is inspired by a Brazilian folk tradition.
A recent study suggests that long-term daily treatment of Viagra can provide protection for the heart at different stages of heart disease, with few side effects. The phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitor improved heart performance in all patients with various heart conditions and showed no negative effect on blood pressure.
Researchers have developed bioinspired materials with potential applications in detecting heavy metals and fostering faster surgery recovery time. The materials interact with light to enable applications in therapy, biosensing, and bioimaging.
BioMed Central partners with the University of Michigan to launch an open-access journal focused on clinical research surrounding diabetes and endocrine diseases. The new journal aims to promote better care for patients by sharing new knowledge, both research and clinical, on various aspects of endocrine disorders.
Health policy academics and clinicians warn of potential risks of new .health internet domain, citing lack of transparency and inadequate stakeholder participation. They recommend an immediate moratorium and the formation of an expert working panel to discuss governance and ensure universal access to quality health information online.