Articles tagged with Open Access
Researchers successfully engineered Arabidopsis plants to reduce xylan content and improve breakdown of carbohydrate into simple sugars. The resulting plants exhibit improved saccharification properties, allowing for better production of biofuels from plant biomass.
Research reveals that black dahlia flowers accumulate more anthocyanins due to low flavone concentrations, leading to their distinctive dark color. This finding could be used to engineer plants with tailored flavone contents, as the suppression of flavone formation is an effective mechanism.
Research finds that male-dominated symposia have significantly fewer women presenters than those organized by women or mixed groups, despite primatology being a field with a significant history of female scientists. Women in the field tend to give more posters than talks, whereas men dominate talks.
Researchers compare three immunoassay methods to detect EBV infection in patients with mononucleosis or immunosuppressed adult liver transplant recipients. The study suggests that molecular tests identifying early protein markers may have value for diagnosing active infection.
The Wuzhishan miniature pig genome sequence has provided valuable knowledge for medical engineering and drug design. Despite high levels of polymorphism, the genome is mostly homozygous, with 84% homology between humans and pigs.
The Illacme plenipes, a millipede species from California, boasts the most legs of any animal group, with females reaching up to 750 legs. Its unique anatomy and adaptations enable it to thrive in its limited habitat near San Juan Bautista, where thick fog accumulation provides a specialized environment.
Researchers found that stress-related problem drinking is linked to a specific combination of neural circuit functioning, including highly reactive reward circuits and hypo-reactive threat circuits. This imbalance can lead to excessive drinking in response to stress, as the brain struggles with opposing drives for pleasure and fear.
Researchers discovered that wild birds were previously exposed to the West Nile virus before their arrival in Greece during autumn migration. The study found 14 positive serum samples from birds up to 8 months prior to the human outbreak, and genetic determinants of increased virulence were present in these samples.
Short-term alcohol intake increases brain activity and GABA-mediated signal transmission in healthy social drinkers, altering the brain's resting-state network. The study suggests a potential mechanism for the effects of alcohol on the brain.
Nine new species of arboreal tarantulas were discovered in Central and Eastern Brazil, including four of the smallest species ever recorded. These discoveries highlight the need for conservation efforts due to high pressure from human activities on regions with threatened biodiversity.
Researchers found that adding thickening agents and creamy flavors increased expected fullness, but only thickness affected hunger suppression. Texture and flavor play a crucial role in satiety perception.
Researchers have made a breakthrough in nuclear reprogramming by identifying histone H3.3 as a key player in reverting nuclei to a pluripotent state, capable of becoming any cell type. This discovery has significant implications for regenerative medicine and cancer treatment.
The Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Journal is expanding its reach to the international plastic surgery community through a publishing partnership with Revista Brasileira de Cirurgia Plastica. The journal will exchange content with RBCP, allowing for easy access to research advances among Brazilian leaders. A new open-access title, ...
A study published in PLOS ONE found that older adults are worse at distinguishing between lifted weights than younger counterparts. The researchers assessed the ability of participants in two age groups to estimate weight ratios and found that older adults consistently estimated the ratios as much higher than they actually were.
The partnership enables the publication of high-quality stem cell research in an open-access venue, promoting outreach and quality in the field. Stem Cell Reports will feature various article types and allow authors to retain full copyright over their work.
The Beutler laboratory has released its ENU mutagenesis data, which underpin the Nobel Prize-winning discoveries, for public use. The dataset is available in an online open access repository called Mutagenix, linked permanently to a 'Data Note' article published in BMC Research Notes.
The PLOS Biology editorial emphasizes the need for open access journals to ensure research reusability, beyond just accessibility. The scientific community can progress by sharing and building upon each other's work.
Researchers identified molecular pathways involved in both systemic and arthritic components of SJIA, revealing differences in affected organs. The study found that glucocorticoid signalling was more heavily involved in inflammation associated with SJIA, highlighting the need for tailored treatment plans.
A comprehensive review article discusses progress and application of Cell-SELEX technology, which uses live cells as targets for binding aptamers. The technique offers stability, short length, and ease of manufacturing, making it an attractive option for drug compound screening.
A new study published in Molecular Autism found that common genetic variations can add up to increase the risk of autism spectrum disorder. The research, which analyzed data from over one million participants, suggests that inherited risk is additive and can significantly impact an individual's likelihood of developing ASD.
A new cave-dwelling reef coral species, Leptoseris troglodyta, has been discovered in the Indo-Pacific region. This species differs from its relatives by its small polyp size and lack of symbiotic algae, providing insights into coral-algal symbiosis.
Researchers developed a new model that incorporates detailed household transmission data to better predict flu outbreaks. The study found that infection rates were higher than previously thought, revealing the importance of including untested individuals in outbreak analysis.
A study published in Clinical Epigenetics found that individuals with a specific genetic variation in SIRT1 are more likely to develop vibration-induced white finger disease. The research suggests that testing for this variant before starting work with vibrating machinery could prevent years of pain and disability.
A genomic sequencing project funded by community donations has published the first sequence of the critically endangered Puerto Rican Parrot. The project, led by Dr. Taras Oleksyk, covers nearly 76% of the parrot's genome and has found similarities to zebra finches and chickens.
The apple flea weevil has reemerged as a significant pest in organic apple orchards, causing up to 90% damage. The authors discuss management options and highlight the need for proven methods in organic production.
A new article explores the link between chronic laminitis and inflammation, identifying an anti-inflammatory protein APOA-IV as a key factor. The psychology of equine performance also plays a crucial role in enhancing horse's mood, emotion, and temperament to improve performance.
Researchers found that viewing objects associated with one gender can make viewers perceive an androgynous face as being of the opposite gender. The study suggests two possible explanations for this effect, including common brain regions involved in identifying both types of stimuli and a higher cognitive function of adapting to gender.
Researchers developed an Audiobased Environment Simulator to help blind users learn about a new space using only audio cues. Blind participants played the virtual reality game and showed improved navigation skills in real-world environments.
Researchers found that 7 out of 10 top media-covered ADHD studies were refuted or strongly attenuated by later research. This phenomenon may cause significant distortion in health science communication if generalized to other health topics. The study highlights the potential for misleading early results to dominate public discourse.
A modeling study published in PLOS ONE found that introducing small payments alongside punishment can create stable, righteous societies in the face of corruption. Once corruption is eradicated, it can be held at bay indefinitely even if power inequalities return.
Researchers found that women's disgust responses are weaker when they are sexually aroused. The study, published in PLOS ONE, used a combination of peer review and post-publication rating and commenting to maximize the impact of every report it publishes. All works published in PLOS ONE are Open Access.
Researchers have discovered a new species of African monkey, the lesula, in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The species is threatened by local bush meat hunting and has a limited range of 6,500 square miles, making it vulnerable to extinction.
Two groundbreaking papers from the CMS and ATLAS experiments announce the discovery of the elusive Higgs boson, marking a major milestone in particle physics. The observation confirms the Standard Model of particle physics and validates theories explaining how elementary particles can have mass.
Researchers developed a Bayesian Artificial Neural Network model to analyze gene expression levels from over 90 FNA samples. The model identified eight biomarkers capable of distinguishing between malignant and benign tumours with high accuracy. This approach could potentially reduce the number of people with benign nodules undergoing ...
The ENCODE project has published a series of articles annotating the functional elements in the human genome, revealing new information on pseudogenes and regulatory elements. The study's findings are now freely available online as part of BioMed Central's open access policy.
Researchers tracked albatross movements using GPS to discover the 'dynamic soaring' technique, which allows birds to fly with minimal mechanical cost. This method may lead to advancements in robotic aircraft design, enabling them to harness wind energy without engines.
A study found that plain cigarette packs reduce their appeal among young Brazilian women, while branded packs are considered more stylish and sophisticated. The research supports the recommendation for plain packaging to reduce smoking among youth and young adults.
Researchers predict increased likelihood of large-volume lava flows and phreatomagmatic eruptions at Yellowstone National Park along three NNW-trending fault lines. Geochemistry suggests rapid magma ascent without storage, supporting a higher probability of future volcanism along these regions.
Research published in PLOS ONE found that young children consider merit when sharing resources, taking into account the amount of work they contribute and their partner's contribution level. However, a self-serving bias was also observed, with few children giving away more than half of the reward even when their partner had worked more.
The analysis of Sinocalliopteryx gigas' abdominal contents suggests that these dinosaurs were adept stealth hunters capable of tackling prey over a third their size. The study also found evidence of eating bird-like dinosaurs and primitive birds, providing new insights into their hunting behavior.
A new collection of articles introduces methodological innovations for estimating child mortality, crucial for monitoring progress toward the MDG goal. The UN IGME's evidence-based estimates are necessary for planning national and global health strategies.
A botany student has confirmed the existence of a new species, New England Banksia, previously classified as a variety of the Hairpin Banksia. The study, published in PhytoKeys, used molecular evidence to support the distinct species status of New England Banksia.
Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection is a significant risk factor for type 2 diabetes in the elderly, according to new research. CMV infection can cause inflammation and damage pancreatic cells, leading to insulin resistance and increased glucose levels.
Researchers found that both high and low mating rates are detrimental to female sea slug fitness, suggesting indirect benefits to traumatic mating. The study suggests that there may be additional fitness benefits beyond reproduction.
Researchers found that managers and non-managers exhibit differential brain activation patterns during decision-making, with managers showing a more heuristic, automated approach. This study provides insight into the neural basis of managerial decision-making and its differences from non-managerial decisions.
Research published in PLOS ONE found that patients with anorexia have difficulty judging their own body size, but can accurately estimate the size of others. The study suggests that individuals with anorexia may still hold a distorted perception of their own body shape even after recovery.
Researchers have identified a biochemical marker, SSEA4, that can be used to identify and purify human pancreatic stem cells. These stem cells can differentiate into insulin-producing cells when grown in culture with high glucose levels, potentially offering a new approach for treating type 1 diabetes.
Researchers found a direct relationship between the brightness of European paper wasps' colours and the size of their poison glands. This colouration serves as an honest signal to predators that the wasp is strong and healthy, potentially wasting energy on bright patterns.
A new study found that VLBW infants fed more than 75% human milk grew slower than those fed less than 75%. Fortifying human milk with protein and calories can help improve growth rates. The research suggests that a balanced approach is necessary to provide the benefits of human milk without sacrificing growth.
A recent study of the Old Order Amish population found associations between certain bacterial species and metabolic syndrome, suggesting potential targets for medication, diet or lifestyle changes. The researchers identified specific species but not full gut communities linked to metabolic syndrome traits.
Research reveals that individuals who exhibit spiteful behavior are consistent in their actions over time, imposing maximum harm on others. The study, conducted by Erik Kimbrough and Philipp Reiss, used an artificial auction market scenario to test the frequency and extent of spiteful behavior among 48 student participants.
A new study investigates the relationship between beetle body size, horn size, and grip strength in males. The researchers found that male beetles have a stronger grip than females, likely due to their larger limb size.
Researchers have successfully derived human embryonic stem cells from frozen embryos after 18 years of storage. This breakthrough provides a valuable alternative source of ES cells for drug screening and medical research.
Researchers found that moles' SOX9 expression occurs sooner in hands than feet, allowing for stronger forelegs and enlarged digging front paws. This adaptation enabled moles to thrive underground, with specialized features such as Os falciforme.
Archaeological tools from an ancient site outside Jerusalem provide insights into land use patterns and sustainable resource management during extreme climate change. The study, published in PLOS ONE, suggests that Neolithic humans adapted to changing environments by clearing forests for fields and grazing lands.
A study published in PLOS ONE found that increased stress in men is associated with a preference for female body sizes ranging from normal to overweight. The researchers discovered that stressed men rated normal weight and overweight figures more highly than non-stressed men.
Research published in PLOS ONE found that autistic children who received a pet scored higher in 'offering to share' and 'offering comfort' categories after the pet arrived compared to before. Participants who had lived with pets since birth showed weaker relationships with their pets.
A new study found that 14% of trauma victims developed hypothermia upon arrival, with head injuries and intubation being independent risk factors. The study recommends controlling infusion fluid temperature and using heated ambulances to reduce the incidence of hypothermia.
The Botanical Society of America (BSA) has launched an open-access journal, Applications in Plant Sciences (APPS), to promote the rapid dissemination of new tools and protocols. APPS will be part of BioOne's Open Access Collection, fostering communication within the botanical community to advance plant sciences.
A 500-year-old Incan mummy was found to have a bacterial lung infection at the time of death, according to a new study published in PLOS ONE. The researchers used proteomics to analyze immune system response from degraded samples and found that one mummy had a protein profile similar to those with chronic respiratory infections.