News on open-access publishing and its reach. Covers journal launches, open-access agreements, and research made freely available.
Research found that Pacific dunlins have lost weight and spend more time flying to escape peregrine falcons, a response to the increased threat of predation. The dunlins' adaptations help them survive harsh winters with reduced risk of starvation.
Research published in BMC Microbiology found that eating apples regularly can increase beneficial bacteria in the gut, producing short-chain fatty acids and butyrate. These findings suggest a link between apple consumption and improved digestive health.
The ADH1B*47His allele, causing an unpleasant response to alcohol, emerged around 10,000-7,000 years ago with rice domestication in southern China. This genetic adaptation may help protect against alcoholism and organ damage.
A study published in BMC Public Health found that childhood traumas are associated with an increased risk of developing lung cancer. The researchers analyzed data from over 17,000 individuals and found that those who experienced six or more traumas were approximately three times more likely to develop lung cancer.
Researchers found that fish oil improved lung function and reduced inflammatory markers in sepsis patients, resulting in shorter hospital stays. The study suggests that traditional soybean oil may promote inflammation, highlighting the benefits of omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil.
Researchers found scant evidence of antibiotic resistance genes in isolated polar bears, contradicting previous findings in other animals. The study suggests that the spread of antibiotic resistance may be caused by human contact, rather than natural occurrence.
Researchers discovered that human chromosomes can reorganize their territories surprisingly quickly, taking up to 15 minutes to complete, when transitioning from proliferation to quiescence. This rapid process is driven by an energy-driven mechanism involving nuclear actin-myosin motor function.
A new supplement provides essential reference and set of tools for evidence-informed health policymaking. The series addresses four broad areas and contains 17 support tools from renowned experts.
Researchers found that adults with less than 12 years of formal schooling experienced worse asthma symptoms and lower asthma self-efficacy. Higher education was associated with better asthma control and reduced emergency health service visits.
The number of people overweight/obese increased significantly in sub-Saharan Africa between the early 1990s and early 2000s. The rate of increase was higher among the poor group, highlighting a pressing public health concern.
Certain cardiac pacemakers may inadequately stimulate a patient's heart while undergoing an MRI scan due to the magnetic pulses mixing with electronic pulses from the pacemaker. This can lead to incorrect or absent stimulation and is potentially dangerous for the patient undergoing the scan.
Research shows Italy's poor are more likely to be hospitalized with avoidable conditions, mirroring global patterns. Socio-economic disparities exacerbate the issue, particularly among males and those aged 45-64.
A systematic review found that cannabis extracts reduced spasticity and improved mobility in multiple sclerosis patients. The study suggests that combined THC and CBD extracts may provide therapeutic benefits for MS spasticity symptoms.
A recent study by Jeremy Wright has catalogued the presence of venom glands in 158 catfish species, suggesting that at least 1250 and possibly over 1600 species may be venomous. Catfish venoms are neurotoxic and hemolytic, causing severe pain, muscle spasm, and respiratory distress.
Researchers identified scent secretions in lemurs that encode markers of relatedness, preventing inbreeding and facilitating nepotism. The study reveals a complex olfactory mechanism allowing lemurs to recognize family ties and avoid unfamiliar kin.
A recent study published in Reproductive Biology and Endocrinology found that sperm from men with non-obstructive azoospermia are equally capable of producing embryos through intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). The study also showed that there were no significant differences in implantation rates or clinical pregnancy rates betwee...
A survey of eight European countries found that school closures significantly reduce illness transmission, with a 10% decrease in contacts. Closing schools may have a greater impact on disease transmission during a pandemic, potentially reducing transmission by up to 21%.
A study of 3500 Welsh children found they were exposed to similar amounts of secondhand smoke before and after the smoking ban. Despite concerns about displacement, the home remained the main source of children's exposure.
A new study found that rats exposed to fuel vapor from both leaded and unleaded gasoline exhibited increased aggressive behavior. Exposure to either type of fuel vapor led to significant changes in brain chemistry, including fluctuations in neurotransmitters.
Researchers discovered that high-dose laser therapy stimulates melanoma tumor growth and histological alterations in mouse models. This finding underscores the need for caution when using laser therapy for skin cancer treatment.
A new treatment route for bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) and its human form Creutzfeldt Jakob disease (CJD) may be closer based on new findings from the University of Leeds. Glypican-1 has been shown to cause abnormal prion proteins to rise, and reducing levels in infected cells can lower their levels.
A recent study published in BMC Public Health suggests that immediate and aggressive spending of $60 billion on HIV/AIDS treatment could end the epidemic globally. The research, which analyzed a leading-edge mathematical model, predicts that an accelerated approach over five years is necessary to control the spread of the disease.
A new supplement reviews the history and application of the Sterile Insect Technique (SIT) in eliminating malaria. SIT involves releasing sterile male mosquitoes to wipe out a pest population, which can be effective against Anopheles mosquitoes that spread malaria.
Research found four alterations in RORB gene associated with pediatric bipolar disorder, linking circadian rhythm abnormalities to the condition. The study suggests that clock genes may be important candidates for further investigation into bipolar disorder's molecular basis.
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 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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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 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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.