Articles tagged with Open Access
Comprehensive exploration of living organisms, biological systems, and life processes across all scales from molecules to ecosystems. Encompasses cutting-edge research in biology, genetics, molecular biology, ecology, biochemistry, microbiology, botany, zoology, evolutionary biology, genomics, and biotechnology. Investigates cellular mechanisms, organism development, genetic inheritance, biodiversity conservation, metabolic processes, protein synthesis, DNA sequencing, CRISPR gene editing, stem cell research, and the fundamental principles governing all forms of life on Earth.
Comprehensive medical research, clinical studies, and healthcare sciences focused on disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Encompasses clinical medicine, public health, pharmacology, epidemiology, medical specialties, disease mechanisms, therapeutic interventions, healthcare innovation, precision medicine, telemedicine, medical devices, drug development, clinical trials, patient care, mental health, nutrition science, health policy, and the application of medical science to improve human health, wellbeing, and quality of life across diverse populations.
Comprehensive investigation of human society, behavior, relationships, and social structures through systematic research and analysis. Encompasses psychology, sociology, anthropology, economics, political science, linguistics, education, demography, communications, and social research methodologies. Examines human cognition, social interactions, cultural phenomena, economic systems, political institutions, language and communication, educational processes, population dynamics, and the complex social, cultural, economic, and political forces shaping human societies, communities, and civilizations throughout history and across the contemporary world.
Fundamental study of the non-living natural world, matter, energy, and physical phenomena governing the universe. Encompasses physics, chemistry, earth sciences, atmospheric sciences, oceanography, materials science, and the investigation of physical laws, chemical reactions, geological processes, climate systems, and planetary dynamics. Explores everything from subatomic particles and quantum mechanics to planetary systems and cosmic phenomena, including energy transformations, molecular interactions, elemental properties, weather patterns, tectonic activity, and the fundamental forces and principles underlying the physical nature of reality.
Practical application of scientific knowledge and engineering principles to solve real-world problems and develop innovative technologies. Encompasses all engineering disciplines, technology development, computer science, artificial intelligence, environmental sciences, agriculture, materials applications, energy systems, and industrial innovation. Bridges theoretical research with tangible solutions for infrastructure, manufacturing, computing, communications, transportation, construction, sustainable development, and emerging technologies that advance human capabilities, improve quality of life, and address societal challenges through scientific innovation and technological progress.
Study of the practice, culture, infrastructure, and social dimensions of science itself. Addresses how science is conducted, organized, communicated, and integrated into society. Encompasses research funding mechanisms, scientific publishing systems, peer review processes, academic ethics, science policy, research institutions, scientific collaboration networks, science education, career development, research programs, scientific methods, science communication, and the sociology of scientific discovery. Examines the human, institutional, and cultural aspects of scientific enterprise, knowledge production, and the translation of research into societal benefit.
Comprehensive study of the universe beyond Earth, encompassing celestial objects, cosmic phenomena, and space exploration. Includes astronomy, astrophysics, planetary science, cosmology, space physics, astrobiology, and space technology. Investigates stars, galaxies, planets, moons, asteroids, comets, black holes, nebulae, exoplanets, dark matter, dark energy, cosmic microwave background, stellar evolution, planetary formation, space weather, solar system dynamics, the search for extraterrestrial life, and humanity's efforts to explore, understand, and unlock the mysteries of the cosmos through observation, theory, and space missions.
Comprehensive examination of tools, techniques, methodologies, and approaches used across scientific disciplines to conduct research, collect data, and analyze results. Encompasses experimental procedures, analytical methods, measurement techniques, instrumentation, imaging technologies, spectroscopic methods, laboratory protocols, observational studies, statistical analysis, computational methods, data visualization, quality control, and methodological innovations. Addresses the practical techniques and theoretical frameworks enabling scientists to investigate phenomena, test hypotheses, gather evidence, ensure reproducibility, and generate reliable knowledge through systematic, rigorous investigation across all areas of scientific inquiry.
Study of abstract structures, patterns, quantities, relationships, and logical reasoning through pure and applied mathematical disciplines. Encompasses algebra, calculus, geometry, topology, number theory, analysis, discrete mathematics, mathematical logic, set theory, probability, statistics, and computational mathematics. Investigates mathematical structures, theorems, proofs, algorithms, functions, equations, and the rigorous logical frameworks underlying quantitative reasoning. Provides the foundational language and tools for all scientific fields, enabling precise description of natural phenomena, modeling of complex systems, and the development of technologies across physics, engineering, computer science, economics, and all quantitative sciences.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Young children exhibit similar associative learning and problem-solving skills to birds until around 8 years old. After this age, their performance surpasses that of the birds, according to a new study published in PLOS ONE.
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.
Research published in PLOS ONE found that monarch butterflies with darker orange wings flew significantly longer distances than those with lighter wings. The study suggests an association between pigment level and flight distance, paving the way for further research into butterfly wing color.
Researchers have documented the physiological events in lace plant leaves during programmed cell death (PCD), revealing how cells dismantle and disappear. The study used long-term live cell imaging and staining to observe the progression of PCD, which is essential for producing the characteristic holes in the leaves.
A naturally occurring line of immunodeficient pigs can support the growth of human tumors, making them a promising large animal model for studying human cancers. The ability of human melanoma cells and pancreatic carcinoma cells to grow in these pig models could lead to significant advancements in cancer research and drug discovery.
New research suggests that Neandertal arm morphology was caused by scraping activities such as hide preparation, not spear thrusting. This challenges the previous hypothesis that spear thrusting was responsible for the observed asymmetry in their skeletons.
Researchers have developed a new body shape index (ABSI) that combines BMI and waist circumference to predict mortality hazard independently of BMI. The study analyzed data from over 14,000 US adults, finding ABSI to be strongly correlated with death rate.
Women experiencing high job strain are more than twice as likely to have a heart attack compared to those with low-strain jobs. A 10-year study found that elevated job strain has long-term cardiovascular health effects in women.
Directly targeting microRNA-125b to block androgen receptor activity represents a novel approach for treating castrate-resistant prostate cancer. The study provides new insight into the mechanism of miR-125b regulation of castrate-resistance prostate cancer.
A novel yeast strain has been developed that can produce bioethanol from xylose, a previously untapped sugar in plants. The hybrid yeast outperforms existing strains in ethanol production and xylose fermentation efficiency.
A new study published in BMC Medicine has found that open access journals are producing high-quality peer-reviewed articles with a similar scientific impact to traditional subscription journals. The study compared the citation rates of over 610 open access journals and over 7,000 subscription journals, finding that the differences disa...
A new study found that young children who watched more hours of TV had worse muscular fitness and larger waist sizes by adolescence. This correlation could lead to increased risk of adult health problems if left unaddressed. Researchers recommend reducing screen time for toddlers to promote healthy physical development.
Research published in PLOS ONE reveals a significant association between menopausal hormone therapy and high blood pressure in postmenopausal women. Longer use of hormone therapy was found to increase the odds of developing high blood pressure, although this risk decreased with age.
A study published in PLOS ONE found that sharing a meal with a former romantic partner is more likely to make the current partner jealous than other activities. The researchers also found no significant differences in jealousy reported by male and female participants.
GigaScience offers a new era of publishing with its open access, open data format, hosting large datasets and analysis tools alongside traditional articles. This allows readers to test scientific conclusions using underlying data and analysis tools, overcoming reproducibility issues.
Researchers have discovered ancient domesticated caprines at Leopard Cave in Namibia, dated to the end of the first millennium BC. The findings provide new insights into the origins of domestication and herding practices in southern Africa.
GigaScience, a new journal from BGI and BioMed Central, publishes large-scale biological research in a unique format that combines standard articles with complete data hosting and analysis tools. This allows readers to test scientific conclusions using underlying data and analysis tools.
Current genomic research resources and bioinformatics methods are insufficient for personalized genomic medicine, citing shorter linkage disequilibrium regions and unprobed variants.
A widely-held belief that certain eye movements indicate lying has been debunked in a new study published in PLOS ONE. The researchers found no correlation between eye movement direction and truthfulness, challenging existing approaches to detecting deceit.
Research reveals that king penguins in areas with daily human disturbance show less stress from noise and approaching humans, but experience increased heart rate after capture. The study emphasizes the importance of considering human presence effects on ecological studies and conservation measures.
Research reveals that ants farm subterranean aphids in clone groups, with over half of ant mounds containing a single species or clone. This unique farming method allows ants to actively manage diversity and abundance, maximizing honeydew yield and dietary protein.
Researchers found that chronic inflammation caused by immune system challenges can lead to long-term neurological changes and memory problems in mice. The study suggests that this early event may be an important step in the development of Alzheimer's disease.
Research found that consuming more dietary vitamin B12 and animal protein lowered arsenic levels in toenails, while eating more vegetable and animal fat also had a protective effect. However, omega-3 fatty acids were associated with increased arsenic levels.
Researchers found that geckos evolved sticky toepads repeatedly, with about 60% of species having adhesive pads. The study suggests that adhesive toepads arose independently 11 times and were lost nine times during gecko evolution.
Research in Namibia's grasslands reveals that 'fairy circles', circular bare spots surrounded by taller grass, exhibit a life cycle with varying life spans. The study finds that smaller circles are generally shorter-lived than larger ones, with life spans ranging from 24 to 75 years.
A systematic review published in BMC Medicine found that properly supervised residents' care is safe and of equal quality to that of fully trained doctors. Adequate supervision and evaluation are crucial for maintaining patient care, according to the study's lead author.
Researchers tracked elephant movement patterns in Kruger National Park, finding sharp changes at season thresholds. This approach offers a biologically relevant definition of seasons, distinct from arbitrary human-made boundaries.
A new EEG test distinguishes between children with autism and neurotypical controls by analyzing brain connectivity. The test reveals reduced short-range connectivity in the left hemisphere, particularly in language regions, but increased long-distance connectivity as a compensatory mechanism.
Researchers found that male blue tits make fewer hunting trips to feed their brood if their mates have UV-reflecting crowns smeared with chemicals. However, they continue to protect and defend their chicks equally well as males with non-UV-treated females.
A recent study published in PLOS ONE found a significant association between traffic noise exposure and an increased risk of heart attacks. The research showed that every 10 decibels of noise above the threshold resulted in a 12% higher risk of myocardial infarction.