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.
A rat model study shows that dietary soy supplementation can prevent menopause-related syndromes, improve lipid profiles, and reduce LDL cholesterol while increasing HDL cholesterol levels. The findings support the indication that soybean consumption may prevent coronary heart disease.
Researchers analyzed human muscle tissue from SMA patients to understand transcriptional changes. The study found distinct expression signatures for severe and mild forms of SMA, revealing different phases of atrophy and hypertrophy in muscles affected by each form.
A study of 533 American women found that those with blood lead concentrations above 8μg/dL were three times more likely to die of coronary heart disease. The research adds to the existing evidence on the adverse effects of lead on health, particularly among older cohorts exposed to higher levels of environmental lead.
Researchers found that hemofiltration reduced ECMO duration by 30 hours and fluid balance per day, leading to significant cost savings. The treatment also decreased the need for blood transfusions.
Former ICU patients value continuity of care, information and reassurance after hospital discharge. Many feel abandoned without access to follow-up services, highlighting the need for consistency in provision across the UK.
A pilot study found potentially hazardous chemicals in hospital cleaning products, including quaternary ammonium chlorides and glycol ethers. The study highlights the importance of protecting workers and others from exposure to cleaning hazards, particularly in poorly ventilated spaces.
A study found that black women are 3 times more likely to develop aggressive triple negative breast tumours compared to non-black women. The study also revealed that the prevalence of these tumours is not limited to pre-menopausal black women, but is also common in those diagnosed before or after age 50 and across all body mass indexes.
A study of 4,060 adult patients with diabetes found that on-demand scheduling did not improve outcomes compared to traditional scheduled visits. The study suggests that timely follow-up for chronic disease management may be compromised by on-demand scheduling.
A systematic review of 16 studies found proteinuria to be a poor predictor of adverse outcomes. However, a slight association was observed with stillbirths at a proteinuria level of 5g in 24 hours.
The human brain operates in a self-organized critical state, characterized by optimal memory and information-processing capacity. Researchers used brain imaging techniques to measure synchronization between brain regions, finding dynamic changes consistent with critical dynamics.
Researchers identified a novel pathway contributing to severe malaria's high mortality in sub-Saharan African children. Disrupted endothelium causes ultra-large von Willebrand factor release, leading to ADAMTS13 inhibition. This study sheds new light on the interaction between malaria parasites and their human host.
Scientists successfully produced biologically-active interleukin-10 in genetically modified tobacco plants, offering a potential new treatment for autoimmune diseases. The transgenic plants can produce the active cytokine at high levels without lengthy extraction and purification processes.
Research using EEG shows that guitarists' brains become more synchronized when playing together, with the frontal and central regions showing strong synchronization patterns. This finding has implications for how our brains interact during coordinated actions, such as music performance.
A study found that iron homeostasis is disrupted in prion disease-affected brains, leading to a vicious cycle of increased iron uptake. The misfolded protein PrP-scrapie causes this imbalance by altering cellular iron metabolism, paving the way for novel therapeutic strategies.
Research found that facemasks can prevent adverse cardiovascular effects caused by diesel exhaust, reducing arterial stiffness and associated risks. Wearing a facemask during exercise in smoggy cities may lead to reduced blood pressure and improved heart rate control.
Researchers found five single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in ADAM33 that were more frequent in COPD patients than non-COPD smokers. These polymorphisms, particularly S1, are associated with lung abnormalities and progressive decline in lung function characteristic of COPD.
A Brazilian study found that current guidelines for sexually transmitted infections are woefully inadequate, with only 32% of infected women correctly identified using the World Health Organization's risk assessment score. The researchers recommend rapid and less costly diagnostic tests to control the spread of STIs in adolescents.
Incipient sex chromosomes have been found in New Zealand's eponymous export, the kiwifruit. The genetic linkage map of the kiwifruit reveals that a subtelomeric region bears hallmarks of an early sex-determining locus.
Researchers have discovered a cryptic species of kissing bugs that co-exist with known carrier species of the Chagas disease-causing parasite, despite being genetically distinct. The study's findings suggest that understanding what keeps these species separated is crucial to developing effective control measures.
A Swedish study published in BMC Public Health found that teenagers are more positive towards their parents' attempts to discourage them from smoking. The most effective actions parents can take include dissuading their children from smoking and not allowing them to smoke at home.
A study by Jean-Marc Lassance and Christer Löfstedt found that female moths can distinguish between males of different ancestries and reproductive fitness based on their pheromone composition. This ability allows females to select mates that are more likely to produce offspring with the same genetic makeup, driving species formation.
Researchers have identified two causes of critical illness hypeglycemia in children: peripheral insulin resistance and primary beta-cell dysfunction. The study found that those with respiratory failure only had CIH caused by elevated insulin resistance, while those with both respiratory and cardiovascular failure had CIH caused by prim...
A recent study found that post-partum haemorrhage is a significant threat to new mothers in high-income countries, resulting in severe outcomes including infertility and death. The authors recommend increased access to active management of the third stage of labour to reduce PPH rates.
A study of 1060 vets in north Germany found that psychosocial stress increased with working hours, leading to demoralization and substance abuse. The research suggests a complex relationship between stress, tobacco consumption, problem drinking, and drug use.
Researchers used genetic markers to study coral groupings and found that skeletal shape is not a reliable way to differentiate species. This discovery highlights the need for accurate understanding of coral biodiversity to conserve coral reefs.
A new website allows scientists to collaborate on bacterial strain identification through multilocus sequence analysis. The database grows in size and utility as taxonomists add their isolates, enabling electronic taxonomy.
Researchers found that monkeys devised a near-optimal strategy by balancing sensory information and prior expectations regarding rewards. The monkeys' harvesting efficiency fell within 1-2% of the theoretical maximum, revealing impressive decision-making ability.
A multi-centre study found that osteoblast cell injections accelerated fracture healing, with increased bone growth and no significant patient complications. The treatment is considered a safe and effective alternative to traditional methods, allowing for faster recovery without surgery.
A new article suggests that gorilla lice evolved to infest pubic hair around 3.3 million years ago, possibly due to human-gorilla contact. This divergence occurred despite humans and gorillas diverging from a common ancestor at least 7 million years ago.
Researchers found that every second of compression pause reduces the likelihood of successful return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) by 1%. Effective CPR requires minimal interruptions, with powerful chest compressions being crucial.
Researchers identified eighteen new genetic changes in rats from four continents that enable resistance to warfarin. VKORC1 gene mutations may cause heritable resistance by preventing coumarin derivatives from interfering with the reductase enzyme activity.
A systematic review of over 13,000 participants found that exposure to alcohol adverts and product placements increases drinking behavior in young people. The study suggests that counter-advertising and social marketing techniques may be effective prevention options for limiting alcohol problems in young people.
A recent study found that playing games against a virtual opponent activates different brain areas than those activated when playing against a human opponent. The medial prefrontal cortex and other regions associated with 'Theory of Mind' were more active in male players believing they were competing with another human.
Research followed over 2000 high- and middle-school children, finding that TV viewing times predict a poor diet in the future. Young adults who watched more than five hours of TV per day had lower intakes of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, but higher intakes of fast food and unhealthy snacks.
Research reveals that tobacco companies in South Korea have been deliberately targeting girls and young women with marketing campaigns, using tactics such as associating smoking with body image and female emancipation. The study calls for stricter regulations and public education to combat the rise in female smoking rates.
Research published in BMC Endocrine Disorders shows that regular high-intensity interval training can significantly improve insulin action and glucose clearance. A three-minute sprint workout every couple of days may be the best way to cut the risk of diabetes, with substantial improvements in metabolic prowess seen within two weeks.
A new editorial emphasizes the need to address the devastating impact of rape as a weapon of war, citing conflicts in the DRC, Burma, Sudan, and former Yugoslavia. The PLoS Medicine editors argue that medical journalists and editors can draw attention to this issue, influencing support for humanitarian organizations and advocacy groups.
Researchers have created gene-engineered male flies that die as embryos, outcompeting wild pests and reducing crop damage. This new method of pest control eliminates the need for radiation, increasing safety and effectiveness.
Expert authors advocate for a US foreign policy agenda focused on eliminating neglected tropical diseases, citing connections between NTDs and conflict. The control of these devastating diseases could be achieved at a fraction of the cost of other medical interventions.
The new journal Genomic Medicine bridges the gap between research and clinical practice, providing open access to high-quality research articles. The journal features columns by leading experts on genomic medicine and its applications.
A recent study found that fainting was the most common in-flight medical emergency, accounting for 53.5% of cases. The researchers also highlighted the need for standardization in reporting in-flight emergencies, citing poor data quality as a major issue.
A Canadian/U.S. research team has reported a therapeutic model exploiting the natural dynamics of the 'fight or flight' system to stimulate recovery from chronic stress disorders. The HPA axis dysfunction may become chronic if driven far from its natural homeostatic rest point, leading to disorders like CFS, depression, and PTSD.
Researchers found that prior STD infections can lead to a genetic bottleneck in HIV transmission, allowing multiple viral variants to spread. The study suggests that the genital mucosa provides a natural barrier against infection, which can be compromised by inflammatory genital infections.
A recent study published in BMC Medicine found that individuals with high trust in mass media tend to be healthier. Young, married, and highly-educated women reported the highest levels of health, while those in Turkmenistan had the lowest opinion of their own wellbeing.
A study of ancient DNA from 68 skeletal remains reveals a rapid evolution in the Icelandic mtDNA pool over the past thousand years. The original female settlers appear to be genetically less closely related to present-day Icelanders than previously thought.
A Canadian study found that psychological concerns, such as self-efficacy and motivation/intention, are the most important barriers to an active lifestyle. The study's findings highlight the need for health promotion programs to enhance people's confidence and motivation.
Research published in International Journal of Health Geographics links outbreaks of nephropathia epidemica, a rodent-borne disease, to global warming. Warmer weather and increased food sources for voles lead to population growth and disease transmission.
Researchers found that free-range chickens are more susceptible to disease, particularly bacterial and parasitic infections. The study, published in Acta Veterinaria Scandinavica, suggests that this is due to the challenges of managing these systems, leading to higher mortality rates.
Research published in BioMed Central's Arthritis Research and Therapy found that women experience more severe symptoms, greater disability, and poorer treatment outcomes compared to men. The study of over 6,000 patients revealed a significant gender gap in disease activity measures, treatments, and clinical characteristics.
A study published in BMC Evolutionary Biology found that animal species sleeping for longer periods have reduced parasite infestation and increased immune cells. This suggests that sleep plays an important role in protecting animals from parasitic infections.
Research published in BMC Medicine found a significant association between metabolic syndrome and PTSD after controlling for other factors. Veterans with higher severity of PTSD were more likely to meet the diagnostic criteria for metabolic syndrome.
Aphids leave behind their old exoskeletons, called exuviae, to act as decoys for parasitoid wasps. This behavior helps aphids escape from parasitic attacks by giving other aphids time to flee while the wasps investigate the empty shells.
A recent survey of doctors has found that most feel only confident in performing five out of seventeen procedures required by the NHS. The study suggests that guidance on acceptable standards is limited, and some procedures may be unachievable for all trainees.
A new paper in Optics Express envisions a future with widespread use of LED lights, offering significant energy savings and environmental benefits. LEDs are predicted to save more than $1 trillion in energy costs over 10 years and lead to substantial reductions in carbon dioxide emissions.
A US death map shows that heat/drought and severe summer weather are leading causes of death, with the South and mountain west particularly vulnerable. The study highlights the importance of emergency management in reducing loss of life from natural hazards.
A supplement published in Malaria Journal reviews aspects of research agenda for global malaria elimination. Despite hurdles, progress has been made in developing malaria vaccines intended to kill all parasites in the community, reducing transmission.
A study of over 1,000 female sex workers in Cambodia found that new entrants were twice as likely to have gonorrhoea or chlamydia. The high risk is attributed to limited access to STI services and prevention information. The study highlights the need for improved health education and training programs for sex workers.
Dr Ben Berkhout's multi-disciplinary approach to RNA research has provided key insights into HIV-1 replication mechanisms. He was awarded the 2008 M Jeang Retrovirology Prize for his outstanding mid-career contribution to HIV research.
Research published in BMC Medical Education reveals a high prevalence of depression among medical students, particularly females, with symptoms including somatic and affective clusters. The study suggests that this period is crucial for professors and educators to monitor suicidal thoughts and risk in their students.
Researchers have identified MEDNIK syndrome as a debilitating genetic disorder characterized by mental retardation, enteropathy, deafness, and other symptoms. The AP1S1 gene mutation is found to cause impairment of neural networks, including the spinal cord, inner ear, and brain.