Articles tagged with Open Access
In a surprise twist, female strawberry poison frogs in Costa Rica prioritize the nearest singing male over physical appearance and vocal quality. The research found that females fail to discriminate between different call rates or frequencies, instead opting for the closest speaker.
Researchers found that depressed individuals express personal goals in vague terms, such as 'to be happy,' rather than specific objectives like improving a running time. This reduced specificity may be linked to the motivational deficits seen in depression, and could inform more effective psychotherapeutic approaches.
Two new water mite species have been discovered in South Korea and the Russian Far East, expanding the known diversity of this group. The discovery, published in ZooKeys, brings the total number of described species to over 400 worldwide.
A new species of green palm-pitviper was described from a cloud forest reserve in northern Honduras. Genetic analysis revealed that the closest relatives are found over 600 km away in Costa Rica, indicating a relict lineage.
Research found that earthworms increase nitrogen content of plants and reduce slug damage by 60% due to improved plant defenses. High plant diversity also results in lower slug damage, suggesting a complex interaction between the two species.
A large-scale study of mosquitoes in Kenya found a diverse range of arboviruses, including West Nile, Ndumu, and Ngari viruses. Over 450,000 mosquitoes were screened, revealing previously unknown viruses with similarities to the Chaoyang virus in China.
Research found distinct brain connectivity patterns for joyous, taunting and tickling laughter, with regions sensitive to social information activated differently. This study sheds light on the neural mechanisms underlying laughter perception and its implications for cognitive function.
Researchers analyzed starch granules from Neolithic stone tools and found they resembled those of sago-type palms, indicating a reliance on sago palms as a primary food source. The study also suggests that people ate bananas, acorns, and freshwater roots and tubers before rice cultivation began.
Research by Sophie Wuerger found that colour perception remains largely unchanged over the years, despite age-related losses in the optical media. The study revealed that certain neural pathways compensate for these losses, allowing colour functions to remain constant across time.
Research published in PLOS ONE found that self-affirmation exercises can improve problem-solving skills and reduce acute stress. Students who performed a self-affirmation exercise scored higher on a subsequent problem-solving task than those who did not, suggesting that self-affirmation may be a useful buffer against chronic stress.
Researchers from Japan created a human Dravet syndrome model using patient-derived induced pluripotent stem cells, revealing the effect of SCN1A mutations on GABAergic neurons. This breakthrough provides an unparalleled insight into the mechanism behind DS and a unique platform for drug development.
Researchers found that female cowbirds unable to recognize high-quality male songs alter flock behavior, affecting both males and females. The study highlights the interconnected nature of individual behavior and social environments in bird species.
The Subterranean Biology journal has transitioned to advanced open access publishing, allowing for increased accessibility of its content. The new format enables faster online publication, color figures, and multimedia integration, while also promoting the dissemination of published content through Pensoft's promotional efforts.
A study published in PLOS ONE found that listeners gauge a speaker's body size from their voice frequency, quality, and formant spacing. Deep male voices and high-pitched female voices are perceived as more attractive due to their association with smaller body sizes.
The Journal of Therapeutic Ultrasound marks a significant milestone in the field, focusing on translational and clinical research. This open-access journal aims to accelerate the adoption of therapeutic ultrasound as a clinical tool for treating various medical disorders.
A study published in PLOS ONE found that clenching the right fist before memorizing information strengthens the memory, while clenching the left fist before recalling improves verbal recall. Researchers suggest this effect may be due to brain regions associated with memory formation being activated by hand-clenching.
Researchers developed phase shift nanoemulsions that produce tiny microbubbles, which accumulate in tumors and amplify the effects of ultrasound. This reduces treatment time and power needed to destroy tumor tissue by over half, showing promise for improving cancer therapy.
Biologists Jaime Troncoso-Palacios and Carlos F. Garin investigated the identity of Liolaemus nigromaculatus, a tree iguana species described in 1834. They successfully clarified the type locality, revealing it was collected between Puerto Viejo and Copiapó in Atacama, Chile.
An audit of Australian millipede species records in two online databases found numerous errors, including duplicated records and incorrect locations. The study highlights the need for data aggregators like GBIF and ALA to collaborate with their providers to ensure accurate data publication.
Researchers found that even light smoking increases the risk of rheumatoid arthritis, with a doubling of risk for those who smoke 1-7 cigarettes per day. Stopping smoking after 15 years reduces the risk, but it remains higher than non-smokers.
A new text-mining algorithm helps identify the most relevant scientific research for a public database correlating environmental chemicals with their effects on genes and human health. The algorithm improved the process of prioritizing relevant articles by increasing productivity by 27 percent and novel data content by 100 percent.
A new study published in Critical Care finds that reducing movement in ICUs can decrease severe pain and serious adverse events, while increasing analgesic use. The training program implemented by the University of Montpellier Saint Eloi Hospital increased staff awareness and reduced side effects.
Research by Ha and colleagues found that teens' likelihood to break up is independent of how well they handle conflicts, contradicting previous studies on adult relationships. The authors suggest differences in relationship goals among younger teen couples may be the reason for this finding.
Research published in PLOS ONE found a decrease in media coverage of aggression in ice hockey in North American newspapers between 1998-2000 and 2009-2011. The shift in focus from violence to safety rules and equipment may contribute to cultural trends in the sport, influencing attitudes towards traumatic brain injuries.
Researchers discovered three new species of carnivorous snails in Thailand's limestone areas, highlighting the importance of conservation efforts. The study found that despite human exploitation and quarrying, these unique creatures continue to thrive in specific mountain ranges.
Researchers found that premature babies with abnormal gut bacteria are at risk of necrotizing enterocolitis. The study identified specific bacteria, including Firmicutes and Enterobacteriaceae, that can be detected through a simple urine test.
Researchers found that only 22% of manipulated responses were corrected, while 92% of participants accepted and endorsed the reversed political survey score. This suggests that people can reason about issues with considerable openness to change, contradicting traditional polling assumptions.
A study by researchers at the University of California, San Diego found that offering packs of smaller drinks leads to increased soda consumption and higher business revenues. The results suggest that limiting larger servings of sugary drinks may have unintended consequences, such as increasing soda sales.
Researchers found that human hematopoietic stem cells can survive for longer periods when cultured with a feeder layer of adipocytes, or fat cells. The study demonstrates the potential for using fat cells to extend the lifespan of hHSCs in vitro, which could be crucial for developing advanced cell therapies.
A new species of leafcutter bee, Megachile chomskyi, has been found in Texas. The species is known for its narrow preference for specific pollen sources, particularly the Evening-Primrose Family. Its unique characteristics include an elongated tongue and mandible structure.
PeerJ has launched a new 'preprint server' for the Biological and Medical Sciences, allowing authors to share early drafts and receive feedback. The service aims to facilitate an end-to-end publication process, providing a permanent digital identifier and long-term preservation.
Research published in PLOS ONE reveals that Wikipedia users value community interaction more than political affiliations. Despite the increasing divide in U.S. politics, the study found no trends indicating a preference for interacting with like-minded individuals within the Wikipedia community. Instead, users engage with others from d...
Historic records indicate a complex ritual system surrounding shark fishing and making gear from shark teeth. Researchers analyzed 120 ancient weapons, identifying eight shark species, including two previously unknown to the Gilbert Islands, now likely extinct.
Researchers identified a stable, specific 'breathprint' unique to each individual, with variations influenced by diet and health conditions. Breath analysis could become a valuable source of clinical information, similar to other bodily fluids.
Researchers have mapped a two-year migration pattern of female white sharks in the Pacific Ocean, revealing widely separated nursery areas. The study highlights the need for conservation efforts to protect these vulnerable animals from commercial fishing and habitat disruption.
Research published in PLOS ONE reveals that freshwater river dolphins use lower frequency biosonar clicks, but their unique head anatomy may help keep signals focused. This study provides a valuable tool for conservation biologists to prevent species decline and estimate population sizes.
A recent genetic study of tadpole shrimps reveals that these organisms are much younger than previously thought, with some species evolving in the past 25 million years. The research challenges the term 'living fossil' by showing that these ancient crustaceans have undergone periods of radiation and extinction.
A new rare species of Allium, Allium formosum, has been discovered in Kyrgyzstan, closely related to the previously undetected Allium spathulatum. The plant is characterized by its elegant habit and beautiful coloration, and its discovery highlights the need for further explorations and plant protection in the area.
Two Canadian scientists, Dr. Yves Bousquet and Dr. Patrice Bouchard, have updated the nomenclatural and taxonomic data in Pierre Dejean's Coleoptera catalogs. The review of the second (1833) and third (1836) catalogues revealed new synonymies and clarified the usage of genus-group names.
Research from the Million Women Study found that every 5 unit increase in BMI increases CHD incidence by 23%, equivalent to a 2.5 year age increase. One in six obese women and one in eleven lean middle-aged women will develop CHD between ages 55-74, highlighting the importance of small lifestyle changes.
The newly described species, Pyropia plicata, has a distinctive growth form with pleated blades and beautiful coloration. It is highly prized by Maori in New Zealand as karengo and is also eaten worldwide for its high protein content.
A study published in PLOS ONE found that the surface bacteria on fresh produce vary depending on the type of produce and cultivation practices. Different types of fruits and veggies have distinct bacterial communities, which may impact food spoilage rates.
Research found scale insects were 13 times more abundant on willow oaks in hot areas compared to cooler ones, with higher survival rates in hot greenhouses. The study suggests urban warming may lead to changes in pest abundance as natural forests also warm up.
Research suggests that men with muscle dysmorphia prefer traditional masculine roles, while those with anorexia nervosa display greater adherence to traditional feminine roles. The study highlights the increasing pressures men face to define their masculinity in the modern world.
A study published in Frontiers in Zoology found that female great tits' appearance signals healthy attributes in their offspring, with black stripe correlating to chick weight at two weeks and white cheek patches to immune strength. The research suggests a balance between genetic and environmental factors in determining offspring health.
The BMC Ecology Image Competition has announced its winners, featuring striking visual elements that depict specific ecological interactions. The overall winning image highlights the coevolution of a stick insect and its host, while the runner-up showcases a subalpine flower meadow in Colorado.
A new study found that nearly half of Florida manatees seek power plant outfalls for warmth, while about 17% choose warm springs. Hot springs offered the best protection against cold weather, suggesting protecting access to these refuges is crucial for long-term survival.
A study published in Cost Effectiveness and Resource Allocation found that managing musculoskeletal disorders can improve employment rates, household income, and reduce the need for disability benefits. The analysis revealed a significant positive correlation between physical function and economic outcomes.
Research suggests that low to moderate drinkers of alcohol may experience lower severity of fibromyalgia symptoms, including chronic pain, fatigue, and sleep problems. Moderate drinking has also been found to improve quality of life, with benefits seen in physical function, ability to work, and overall well-being.
A new species of long-horned beetle has been discovered in Yunnan Province, China, characterized by its striking blue-greenish body and blue legs. Seven previously unknown species have also been recorded from the region, including rare ones found only in China, Myanmar, and Vietnam.
Researchers found that one-sided cellphone conversations are more distracting and memorable for bystanders than chats between two people. Participants rated cell phone conversations as more distracting and recalled more words from them.
The invasive dog-strangling vine (Vincetoxicum rossicum) has been found to compete successfully with native Canadian plants in both disturbed and undisturbed areas. Despite cooler temperatures, the plant produces an equal number of seeds as it does in its typical range.
A new checklist of Cucurbitaceae from India brings up-to-date information on the family's evolution, diversity, and distribution. The list includes 94 species, 79% of which have DNA sequences available in GenBank.
A new fish species, Alburnoides manyasensis, has been described from the Koca Stream drainage of Lake Manyas in Turkey. The species is characterized by small black spots and inhabits clear fast-running water with cobble and pebble substrates.
Researchers found that describing blood donations as a way to prevent a death rather than save a life significantly increased the rate of donations. Volunteers presented with 'prevention of loss' messages were also more likely to expect larger donations.
A large European study found that eating processed meat was associated with an increased risk of premature death, particularly from cancer and cardiovascular disease. The researchers estimated that up to 3% of premature deaths could be prevented if people consumed less than 20g of processed meat per day.
Research on sugar gliders and grey short-tailed opossums reveals a distinct pattern of handedness based on gender. Unlike other mammals, quadruped marsupials show reversed sex-related handedness, with males being right-handed and females left-handed, particularly for more complex tasks.
A new method for estimating blood loss, based on base deficit (BD), is more accurate than the current Advanced Trauma Life Support (ATLS) classification. BD was linked to increased severity of injury, length of stay, morbidity and mortality.
The new center is designed to improve how science is conducted and communicated, with tools to promote accurate and transparent findings. It also provides incentives for original research and replication of previous studies.
The Association for Psychological Science has launched an initiative to encourage multi-center replication studies, with a new type of article that allows replication study designs to be peer-reviewed before data collection. The goal is to make replication a valued part of daily scientific practice.