Articles tagged with Open Access
Researchers from California Academy of Sciences have described six new species of subterranean Dracula ants in Madagascar and Seychelles. These tiny ants are fierce social predators with dagger-like teeth that hunt underground or deep within leaf litter, leading a cryptic lifestyle.
Three new eriophyoid mite species were found in Xinjiang, China, infesting the undersurface of rose family plants without causing damage. The discovery adds to over 1000 previously identified eriophyoid mites in China.
Ten new subsocial cobweb spider species were found in Madagascan colonies, with most belonging to genus Anelosimus. The discovery highlights the vast unexplored biodiversity of Madagascar's arthropod groups.
Researchers uncover hidden diversity in minute midges through DNA analysis and type material examination. Two new species were discovered and one misidentified species was corrected, shedding light on the fascinating world of non-biting midges.
A systematic review found that sedentary behavior is associated with an increased risk of anxiety in adults and children. The link may be due to disturbances in sleep patterns, social withdrawal theory, and poor metabolic health. Further research is needed to confirm the causal relationship between sedentary behavior and anxiety.
Researchers Floris Roelofsen and Donka F. Farkas investigate the workings of 'yes' and 'no', finding that their interpretation is affected by intonation and sentence polarity. Their framework explains distribution and interpretation in English and predicts patterns across languages.
A study published in PLOS ONE found that climate change may affect tourism at US national parks, with potential increases in visitation in temperate areas and decreases in high-latitude and high-elevation parks. The authors suggest that protected areas can adapt to these changes to minimize detriment.
Research published in BMC Evolutionary Biology found that male nightingales' songs contain specific features, such as repeated song sequences and varied song types, which signal their ability to care for offspring. These song features are linked to greater paternal efforts, including more frequent feeding and defense of the nest.
A study published in PLOS Computational Biology reveals that woodlice can calm their excited neighbors through a process of behavioral contagion, leading to greater group cohesion. This phenomenon is observed when calm individuals reduce the excitation of their neighbors, causing them to become calm as well.
A new study finds that climate change will lead to overall declines in plant growing days by 2100 due to warming, drought, and limited solar radiation. The study reveals that tropical regions will face significant reductions in suitable climates for plant growth, with some areas facing up to a 200-day reduction per year.
A new study published in SAGE Open found that a computer game that exercises concentration and attention control can improve the behavior and social interactions of children with AD/HD in China. The game, combined with neurocognitive training, resulted in improved assignment completion, peer acceptance, and teacher relationships.
A clinical pilot study found that using virtual reality to enhance movement and increase confidence in the affected limb significantly improves spontaneous use of the paralyzed arm. This suggests an alternative focus on increasing patient confidence may be critical for full recovery.
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.
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.
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.
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.