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 majority of Wikipedia pages are peaceful, but edit wars are waged between strongly disagreeing editors. Consensus is generally reached in a reasonable time, even for controversial articles, except in cases of never-ending wars with multiple active editors.
Children aged 8-10 years spent an average of just 4% of their day engaging in moderate to vigorous physical activity, falling short of the daily recommended amount. This early disparity highlights the need for interventions to encourage primary school children to become more physically active.
Male Cardiocondyla obscurior ants use chemical tagging to identify and kill younger rival males, ensuring colony survival. This behavior increases the chances of surviving fights against two-day-old males to 14%.
Researchers taught a robot to converse with humans as if it were a small child, enabling the robot to move from babbling to producing salient wordforms. This study may be useful for understanding language acquisition in humans.
Researchers discovered a unique trapping mechanism in Nepenthes gracilis pitcher plants, where raindrops dislodge clinging ants, propelling them into the digestive cavity. This behavior allows for efficient capture of prey without manual intervention.
A 25-year study in Northern Sweden found that a switch to low-carbohydrate diets after reducing fat intake led to an increase in cholesterol levels, indicating a higher cardiovascular risk. Despite initial success in reducing cholesterol levels through dietary changes, the population's BMI continued to rise over time.
Researchers found that parasitic plant Rafflesia cantleyi has 'stolen' genes from its host Tetrastigma rafflesiae, including those related to respiration and metabolism. This horizontal gene transfer has replaced the parasite's own gene activity in three-quarters of the cases.
Researchers have identified and characterized a new behavior in geckos and cockroaches, allowing them to run off ledges and execute a pendulum-like motion to swing underneath. This discovery has inspired the development of robots that can also perform this acrobatic move, with potential applications in search-and-rescue missions.
Research finds that maternal smoking disrupts retinoid pathways in the developing fetal lung, leading to increased risk of asthma and lung disease. The study shows that maternal smoking affects lung development and retinoic acid signaling in offspring, highlighting a potential mechanism for long-term health consequences.
A study suggests that subaerial chemical weathering plays a more significant role in forming rock platforms along coasts and rivers than previously thought. The researchers found that the platforms correspond to the saprock-bedrock boundary, remain within the zone of modern water table, and are weakened by wet/dry cycling.
Researchers found that people can intuitively sense changes in body odor composition across the lifespan, with odors from older individuals being rated as less intense and less unpleasant. This ability is driven by specific chemical components, contrary to popular belief about old age odor.
A study published in PLOS ONE found that office bacteria are most abundant on chairs, phones, and human skin, with over 500 bacterial genera identified. The study also revealed that men's offices have significantly more bacteria than women's, but the diversity of communities didn't show significant differences.
A new study demonstrates that a back brace with a tiny heat sensor can measure how long it is worn, leading to improved compliance rates among children. The Thermobrace system shows promising results in tracking brace wear and fostering better patient-physician relationships.
Research finds that belief in God is associated with better theory of mind, a cognitive ability to understand others' thoughts and feelings. The study also explores the gender gap in religious belief, suggesting that women tend to be more religious than men due to differences in mentalizing abilities.
Research on LRRK2 protein mutation G2019S reveals potential drawbacks of blocking its kinase activity. In a study published in Molecular Neurodegeneration, deleting the kinase domain of LRRK2 led to changes in motor coordination and anxiety-like behaviors in mice without affecting dopamine signaling.
A study published in EPJ Data Science found that words with positive emotional content are more frequently used in online communication, enhancing social relations and facilitating interaction. This positive bias is linked to the use of less informative words for emotional expression.
Research published in PLOS ONE found that warmer, drier conditions associated with El Niño led to higher mortality rates for leatherback turtle eggs and hatchlings. Climate models project that these conditions will become more common, threatening the already endangered species.
Researchers suggest that older-looking candidates may have an advantage in wartime elections due to implicit biases towards leaders who appear older and more dominant. The study found that altered images of Barack Obama and John McCain showed a preference for the older-looking version of each candidate.
Researchers used image analysis software to determine that octopuses reproduce specific features of objects in their surroundings for effective camouflage. This strategy may make the approach more flexible and increase success in different environments.
A new bright yellow frog species, Diasporus citrinobapheus, has been found in western Panama with a unique characteristic of dyeing its captor's fingers yellow when handled. The researchers studied the frog's body structure, coloration, and vocalizations to confirm its validity as a new species.
A new study published in Critical Care found that women are more likely to suffer from post-traumatic stress after leaving an ICU, but a follow-up scheme has been shown to significantly reduce their symptoms. The study suggests that early intervention is crucial for women at high risk of PTSD.
Researchers found that carnivorous plants in symbiosis with ants produced larger leaves, increased nitrogen availability, and improved growth. The ants acted as the plant's 'gizzard', recycling nutrients from insects caught in the plant's traps.
Researchers at Auburn University have discovered a new species of trapdoor spider, named Myrmekiaphila tigris, in the heart of the city. The spider's unique features were confirmed through DNA analysis and physical examination, highlighting the biodiversity still unknown to scientists.
Research shows that earplugs can lower the incidence of confusion and delay cognitive disturbances in ICU patients. The use of earplugs resulted in better sleep quality, with a corresponding decrease in delirium risk by over 50%.
A new study by the University of California Santa Barbara found that female brown-headed cowbirds prefer less intense wing-spreading displays as courtship behavior. This suggests that current physical condition may not be the most reliable measure of male quality for females to use when choosing a mate.
The study found that Chile's sandy beaches experienced lasting changes due to the earthquake and tsunami, with uplifted beaches showing rapid recolonization of intertidal species. The data provides insight into human-altered coastal landscapes, which could inform future projects.
A survey of 4,000 US Ph.D. students found that interest in faculty positions wanes with more years in school, while non-academic careers become increasingly attractive. The study suggests a need for more information and resources about pursuing non-academic careers.
A study found that genetic variations in an odor receptor gene affect responses to cooked meat, shedding light on controversies surrounding androstenone content. Researchers investigated participants' responses to different pork samples, revealing a significant impact of the gene variant on taste perception.
Researchers have identified an ancestral Alu element in orangutan genomes, which has uniquely multiplied within the species. This discovery provides insights into primate evolution and diversity, with implications for understanding speciation processes.
A new bioluminescent real-time reporter (BART) technique combined with loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) detects genetically modified crops at 0.1% GM contamination levels, surpassing EU limits. This approach simplifies DNA extraction and detection, providing a field-ready solution for monitoring GMOs.
Research reveals histamine plays a central role in controlling purple sea urchin metamorphosis, regulating cell death and settlement. Histamine's presence inhibits programmed cell death, allowing larvae to mature into adult forms.
Researchers have identified two novel genetic loci, Hfhl1 and Hfhl3, that affect high-frequency hearing in ageing-related hearing loss. These loci are limited to specific portions of the hearing frequency map and may explain only a portion of the variation in high-frequency hearing loss observed in mice.
Researchers found that dogs can be manipulated to make counterproductive choices based on human behavior, highlighting their social bias and sensitivity to cues. The study suggests that humans can influence canine decisions by using specific behaviors.
A study found that unschooled adults from Papua New Guinea mapped numbers onto space but only used endpoints when placing numbers on a line. In contrast, educated individuals used the entire number line, demonstrating that this understanding can be learned through education and cultural practices.
A new study published in PLOS ONE reveals that over 6 million birds die every year at communication towers during migration, primarily due to getting caught in cables. Replacing steady-burning lights with blinking ones on approximately 4,500 towers could potentially reduce mortality by 45%.
A study on vervet monkeys found that social learning is strongly influenced by matrilineal family members, with mothers being particularly strong role models. The research suggests that the mother-offspring relationship plays a crucial role in shaping the behavior of young monkeys.
Male praying mantises alter approach rate and courtship behavior based on recent mate encounters. High-risk behavior results in higher rates of sexual cannibalism when paired with hungry females.
Investing in C-sections could be a cost-effective solution to reduce maternal deaths in developing countries. The study found that C-sections would be highly cost-effective for 48 of the 49 included countries, making them economically favorable for improving maternal outcomes.
Researchers found that larger, younger, and more fertile females increase the chances of successful fertilization for males. Monogamous behavior, where males mate with one female, is favored in early morning mating, while bigynous males opt for second mates if they cannot secure a first mate.
New research reveals that primary cilia on cells in the retina and liver can form long-lasting contacts with each other, indicating a new role for cilia in cell communication. This discovery suggests that cilia may play a key role in human genetic diseases related to ciliary dysfunction.
A recent study found that 91% of documented malaria resurgence events were attributed to weakened control programs, highlighting the need for sustained funding. The researchers emphasize the importance of continued investment in successful malaria control and elimination programs to maintain progress and save thousands of lives.
Researchers used mitochondrial and Y chromosome DNA analysis to determine family relationships and burial traditions of ancient Peru. The study found a 500-year continuity without major impact from European colonization, supporting the idea of ayllu-based communities based on kinship relationships.
An online survey of over 3,500 young adults aged 18-25 found that half had smoked cannabis in the past 30 days, with co-use of tobacco and marijuana highest among Caucasians and daily smokers. The study suggests that 'stop smoking' campaigns should factor in cannabis use to their treatment plans.
A new optical imaging system uses speckle imaging to measure differences in light bouncing off red blood cells, identifying cells infected with malaria parasites. The technique delivers results in under 30 minutes with high accuracy and low cost, promising to revolutionize malaria diagnosis.
A statewide assessment of stonefly diversity in Ohio has revealed at least 102 species, with many adapted to survive warm summer water temperatures. The study's findings will inform conservation efforts, prioritizing rare and threatened species like the Atlantic Needlefly.
A recent study found that men who hold guns or large kitchen knives are perceived as taller and more muscular than those holding non-threatening objects. The researchers suggest that this pattern may reflect human psychology's tendency to associate size with danger and formidability.
Researchers found that ant queens from species Cardiocondyla obscurior laid more eggs as they aged, unlike humans and other organisms. This high reproductive rate did not shorten the queens' life spans, a surprising finding.
Researchers found that Cantonese speakers demonstrated enhanced musical pitch perception compared to Canadian French and English speakers. Notably, individuals with congenital amusia who also spoke Cantonese still showed improved pitch perception.
A study published in PLoS ONE found that people's fear levels toward threats are associated with the typical size of their social circles. The researchers determined that this effect was not due to a lack of differentiation between small and large groups, suggesting that social circle size plays a significant role in shaping our percep...
Elite soccer players exhibit superior executive functions compared to non-players, correlating with performance in goals and assists. Cognitive flexibility and creativity are also essential components of top-tier athleticism.
Research published in PLoS ONE reveals that photographs of children with Down syndrome elicit less positive attitudes than those of typically developing children. The study found a strong negative bias among caregivers working with intellectually disabled persons.
A recent study published in PLOS ONE found that sleep disturbances significantly impair the overnight improvement and plateau performance of motor tasks in patients with sleep apnea. The authors concluded that optimal memory consolidation requires continuous sleep, independent of the total amount of sleep.
A recent study published in PLOS ONE suggests that learning a new language can improve with time off. Adult subjects who took a break after high proficiency showed no decline in abilities and even processed the language more naturally. This unexpected result may be attributed to the brain's ability to reorganize and adapt.
A class of compounds found in hops has been shown to reduce weight gain and improve gut permeability in obese and diabetic mice. The treatment also normalized insulin sensitivity markers, suggesting a novel mechanism for improving metabolic health.
A new study published in Malaria Journal found that malaria prevention measures saved 850,000 child deaths in Africa between 2001 and 2010. The Lives Saved Tool model used by researchers estimated the impact of interventions such as insecticide-treated mosquito nets and pregnant women's malaria prevention.
The Black Queen Hypothesis suggests that microbes can lose necessary functions and rely on others to do the work, enabling cooperation in communities. Prochlorococcus plankton species, studied by the authors, is an example of this adaptation.
A new study published in BioMed Central shows that cognitive training can improve reasoning, memory, language, and hand-eye coordination in healthy older adults. The results suggest that this type of training may help prevent mental decline and promote independent living among elderly individuals.
Researchers tracked the transfer of parasitic lice on brown mouse lemurs to infer their social contacts and habits. The study found that lice were transferred between 43% of males during the breeding season, indicating conflicts over females.
A new, pitch-black wasp species has been discovered in Sulawesi, Indonesia, belonging to the digger wasp family. The species differs from all known related digger wasps due to its unusual body size and long, sickle-shaped jaws.
Research published in BioMed Central's Journal of Cardiothoracic Surgery found that opera and classical music increased survival time before organs failed. Music may act via the parasympathetic nervous system, reducing inflammation and increasing regulatory cells.