Articles tagged with Open Access
Researchers found that population movement is a critical factor in dengue's spread in Rio de Janeiro. The study, published in PLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases, revealed that areas with high levels of people traffic have higher risk of transmission.
A study published in PLOS Medicine found that dementia is often associated with mixed pathological changes, including Alzheimer's and vascular dementia. The researchers estimated that drugs targeting specific pathologies may have limited impact on the overall burden of dementia.
A new study found that inadequate clothing can restrict children's outdoor physical activity, with three-quarters of children aged 3-6 years old spending time in childcare settings. The study suggests that parents may need education on the importance of active play for children's development.
A study in Italy found that pediatricians over-prescribe antibiotics due to perceived parental expectations, particularly if parents expect a prescription for respiratory tract infections. The main factors associated with actual practices were discharge from the child's ear and parental expectation of a prescription.
A study published in BioMed Central's Conflict and Health journal found that news reports on the Iraq conflict grossly underestimated civilian casualties. The researchers analyzed media coverage and found that US newspapers reported more Coalition fatalities than Iraqi civilians, while non-US newspapers showed a reversed pattern.
A study published in BMC Psychiatry found that depression and alcohol misuse are more common mental health disorders among UK Service personnel returning from Iraq and Afghanistan. The study also reveals that reservists are at a greater risk of psychiatric injury than regular personnel.
Researchers have discovered a potential new function for anti-epileptic drugs in treating neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease. The study found that neurons were protected after treatment with T-type calcium-channel blockers, suggesting the possibility of developing new treatments for neuronal injury.
Researchers isolated and synthesized scent molecules from Argentine ant colonies, which induced aggression in worker ants when applied. The findings suggest that these chemical cues play a crucial role in defining colony membership, shedding light on the complex social systems of ants.
A study published in BMC Public Health found that high temperatures, humidity, and low wind speed are linked to increased dengue fever cases. The authors suggest that weather conditions affect mosquito survival and flying patterns, which contribute to disease transmission.
A study on Stegodyphus tentoriicola spiders reveals that relatedness fosters better group dynamics and more efficient food foraging. This cooperative behavior helps maintain harmony in larger groups, countering the 'tragedy of the commons' phenomenon.
A recent study published in BMC Biology identified genetic pathways associated with moderate alcohol consumption, but found no correlation between these genes and alcohol dependence. The research team found that drinking behavior was linked to pleasure and reward pathways in the brain, similar to satiety and appetite for food.
Researchers developed a molecular diagnostic tool that uses targeted genetic sequencing to screen for variations in 362 genes associated with mitochondrial disease. The new method accurately identified the mutation underlying each patient's condition, increasing sensitivity for diagnosing previously unknown genes.
A new study has identified a possible link between autism and non-DNA sequence mutations in the oxytocin receptor gene, OXTR. The research found that this alteration is present in both peripheral blood cells and the brain's temporal cortex, suggesting a major role in human development.
Researchers found that a high protein diet led to smaller brains in mice with Alzheimer's disease. The study suggests a possible link between high protein intake and reduced AD risk.
Researchers in Japan developed a computer program that accurately predicts patients' risk of dying at the time of an emergency call. The algorithm achieved over 80% sensitivity and has potential to prioritize ambulances for critical cases.
A randomized, double-blind trial found that mangosteen juice lowered C-reactive protein levels by 1.33mg/L in obese participants. The natural treatment was safe at all dosages tested and showed promise as a potential therapeutic option for reducing inflammation and cardiovascular risk.
Researchers have discovered that sponges soaked in Botox can effectively treat intrinsic rhinitis, a condition affecting millions of people. The minimally invasive application method resulted in improved symptoms and a long-lasting reduction of nasal hypersecretion.
Researchers from Germany investigated a large study of 589 prostate cancer patients between 2000 and 2006 and found no link between XMRV infection and the disease. Despite previous reports suggesting a potential association, the study detected no evidence for XMRV in German prostate cancer patients.
A new study published in BMC Medicine found that the popular antidepressant nortriptyline is associated with a dramatic increase in suicidal thoughts among men. Compared to its competitor escitalopram, nortriptyline was linked to a 9.8-fold increase in emerging suicidal thoughts and a 2.4-fold increase in worsening suicidal thoughts.
A study found that stricter hand hygiene practices in schools are difficult to maintain over time. School children may be more susceptible to H1N1 influenza than adults, but hand hygiene is not an effective long-term solution.
A new study found that socio-economic disparities in breast cancer survival are linked to stage at diagnosis, treatment, and race. Women from low-income areas were more likely to receive late-stage cancer diagnoses and less access to first-course treatment.
A new study from Canada found that young adults are the most likely to donate blood, but this trend may not be sustainable due to an aging population. The research also highlights positive ties between level of education and ability to speak English with donation likelihood.
A UK study of 15-16 year olds found that cheap alcohol is strongly linked to harmful underage drinking, including violence, regretted sex, and public intoxication. Researchers recommend restricting consumption to lower frequencies and increasing the price of cheap alcohol products to reduce harm.
A study published in BMC Public Health found that approximately 3.4 million UK children live with at least one binge drinking parent, while 2.6 million have a hazardous drinker. The research aims to raise awareness of the risks of parental substance use on child care and development.
A study found Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis (Map) in various wildlife and domestic ruminants, suggesting transmission between species. The bacteria causes severe diarrhea in ruminants and has been linked to Crohn's disease in humans.
Minocycline has been shown to have a neuroprotective effect on neurons by reducing apoptosis and ameliorating behavioral deficits in animal models after a stroke. This study suggests that minocycline could be a new treatment option for acute ischemic stroke, offering hope for patients who currently have limited treatment options.
A survey of European and Malaysian people found that most believed they were at risk from swine flu due to age or weakened immunity. However, some groups such as homosexuals, prostitutes, and farmers were incorrectly perceived to be at high risk.
Research reveals strong correlation between prolonged stress and increased risk of large vessel disease, small vessel disease, and cryptogenic stroke. Stress may be related to behaviors such as smoking and physical inactivity that increase stroke susceptibility.
Researchers found that physicians' practical support is associated with more favorable glycemic control outcomes. Empathic listening and patient preferences were not linked to differences in glycemic control, contrary to expectations.
The PLoS Medicine editors discuss maintaining integrity in clinical effectiveness research, highlighting the need for transparent methods and objective reporting. They also warn against practices that distort scientific evidence, such as cherry-picking studies or fishing for favorable conclusions.
Repeated suicide attempts in older women increase risk of completed suicide, while severe attempts in men do the same. The study highlights the importance of observation and treatment for vulnerable populations.
Researchers discovered that a single gene mutation affects mating preferences in fish, making grey medaka less appealing to rivals but more attractive to themselves. This study sheds light on color-based mate choice and potential speciation processes.
Researchers estimate diabetes prevalence in US states, finding the South has the highest rates. States like Minnesota and Alabama have high levels of blood pressure and cardiovascular disease risk.
A study published in BioPsychoSocial Medicine reveals that patients with high levels of optimism and self-orientation may be less likely to lose weight. However, counseling and nutrition programs can help improve self-awareness and reduce psychological stress, leading to successful weight loss.
Research published in Environmental Health found an increased risk of oral clefts and neural tube defects among children born to mothers exposed to tetrachloroethylene (PCE) during pregnancy. The study, conducted in Cape Cod towns between 1969-1983, suggests a link between PCE exposure and birth defects.
A Danish study found that healthcare workers' fear-avoidance beliefs about physical activity and work are predictive of developing lower back pain. The study suggests that changing these beliefs may be beneficial for treatment and prevention.
Researchers found that stimulation of inner ear balance organs affects brain blood flow in opposition to changes in blood pressure. The study may lead to new treatment options for conditions such as aging-related vestibular loss and orthostatic intolerance.
The Switch programme, a family-, school-, and community-based intervention, promotes children's fruit and vegetable consumption and lowers 'screen time'. Researchers found modest but significant results in reducing screen time and increasing fruit and vegetable consumption in the experimental group.
Stem cell biology faces challenges in defining molecular characteristics, with potency and self-renewal not exclusive to stem cells. A new perspective suggests considering 'stemness' as a system property, rather than individual cell traits, which may lead to improved understanding of cancer stem cells.
A study found that minimal training can significantly improve first responders' speed and effectiveness when inserting laryngeal masks during life-saving CPR or mouth-to-mouth. Regular refresher courses are recommended to maintain skills, as proficiency declines after six months of non-use.
A recent study published in Critical Care found that severe trauma patients who receive old red blood cells are twice as likely to die. The study, which analyzed data from 202 patients, suggests that using fresher red blood cells may reduce mortality rates and complications.
A recent study published in BMC Emergency Medicine found that 60% of unintended incidents in the emergency department are caused by human failures. The majority of these events were attributed to departments outside the emergency department, such as laboratories.
New research shows that binge drinking inhibits production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, impairing immune system activation. The study found that alcohol suppresses TLR4's signaling, leading to a prolonged risk of infection
Researchers found a strong association between teenage birth rates and state-level measures of religiosity in the US. Conservative religious beliefs are strongly predicted to influence teen birth rates, even after controlling for income differences.
Researchers define 'gut feelings' experienced by GPs as two types: sense of alarm and reassurance. The former involves feeling uneasy about possible adverse outcomes, while the latter means feeling secure despite uncertainty. This definition aims to facilitate future research on the effectiveness of 'gut-compass'.
A Norwegian study found associations between acne, high chocolate and chip intake, and low vegetable consumption in both males and females. Mental health problems were also strongly linked to acne, even when diet was introduced into the statistical model.
The GRADE framework has been criticized for its reliability, with Brian Kavanagh arguing that it lacks evidence-based support. International collaborations are crucial in evaluating eHealth, as highlighted in two related articles by Mohammed Ansari and David Bates, who recommend increasing knowledge generation and data exchange.
Research reveals that parasitic worm infections are prevalent in Northern Rwanda, with those infected more likely to be underweight. The study also found a link between parasite infections and anemia, but not significant growth stunting.
Researchers found that idiomatic sentences activated the right middle temporal gyrus and right medial frontal gyrus, indicating a more complex understanding process. The left hemisphere's role in suppressing literal meaning was not specifically activated, but limbic regions involved emotional responses were.
A study found increased risks of breast cancer in women from the most exposed zone and an excess of lymphatic and hematopoietic tissue neoplasms in all but the least exposed zone. Researchers analyzed medical records of over 36,000 individuals exposed to dioxin after a 1976 industrial accident.
Research suggests that living close to noisy roads increases the risk of developing hypertension and cardiovascular diseases. The study found modest exposure effects at lower noise levels, but more marked effects among younger and middle-aged populations.
Researchers found patients with upper GI complaints visited GPs twice as often and received double the number of prescriptions. High contact frequency was most strongly associated with upper GI symptoms, rather than psychological co-morbidity.
Researchers found that elderly individuals have a slower response time when identifying faces, with one component of the brain's reaction being less sensitive to faces. This suggests that age-related decline affects face processing abilities.
A 'surviving sepsis' program improved patient outcomes by increasing compliance with guidelines and reducing in-hospital mortality. The study found a significant improvement in intensive care unit patients, with a notable 45% risk reduction for death.
A survey of 374 radiologists found that increased use of radiological imaging is driven by new technology, patient informedness, and lower physician tolerances for uncertainty. This can lead to unnecessary investigations, radiation exposure, and healthcare costs.
Researchers discovered that genetic differences exist more within Central Asian ethnic groups than between them, indicating a constructed social system rather than common ancestry. This challenges traditional notions of ethnicity and highlights the importance of analyzing genetic data in understanding ethnological issues.
A new diagnostic test, urine LAM-ELISA, was tested on 291 Tanzanian patients suspected of having TB and found to have a disappointing sensitivity of 50.7%. The specificity of the test was also low at 87.8%, raising concerns about its reliability as a standalone diagnostic tool.
Researchers have identified pathways that control partial pancreatic regeneration induced by sodium tungstate treatment, revealing its anti-diabetic effects.
Researchers define global conservation priorities for endangered carnivores considering socioeconomic and life-history factors. The study identifies 41 ecoregions worldwide as key areas for cost-effective conservation investments.
Research suggests that red light can impact alertness at night via pathways other than the circadian system, contradicting previous assumptions about blue light's dominance. The study found that moderate levels of red light increase alertness in individuals, making it a viable alternative to blue light for improving nighttime alertness.