News on open-access publishing and its reach. Covers journal launches, open-access agreements, and research made freely available.
Researchers found that most pairs of black-legged kittiwakes avoid inbreeding more often than chance, suggesting they can detect relatives in large populations. Inbred pairs produced fewer hatching eggs and chicks with lower survival rates.
Researchers have produced video footage of a male nematode worm preparing to mate with a hermaphrodite, showcasing the complex process. The study revealed that the male uses acetylcholine to regulate tail muscles for an exploratory embrace, and then searches for the vulva before mating commences.
Researchers found breast cancer incidence fell 13.2% nationwide, with greater reductions among women in urban (-13.8%) versus rural (-7.5%) areas. The decline may be linked to HT discontinuation, which was more pronounced in rich/urban areas.
A study found that high soy intake was associated with improved lung function and a lower risk of developing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in smokers. Flavonoids in soy may help protect against tobacco carcinogens, but more research is needed to understand the underlying mechanism.
Researchers used MRI to compare brains of 38 people with dyslexia to a typical brain model, revealing differences in the right cerebellar declive and lentiform nucleus associated with varying language performance. These findings suggest different neuro-cognitive pathologies underlying dyslexia subtypes.
Researchers found increased mRNA levels of PN-1, a prostasin inhibitor, in colorectal tissue samples from patients with mild/moderate dysplasia and severe dysplasia before colorectal cancer. Elevated PN-1 levels coincide with the acquisition of malignant properties in colorectal tissue.
A recent study found that American over-65s scored significantly better than their English counterparts in a memory and awareness test. Higher levels of education and lower levels of depressive symptoms in the US may have contributed to this difference, while aggressive cardiovascular disease treatment in England could be a factor.
A small study found that people believe bottled water has health benefits, but are unsure of the extent. Convenience and taste were more influential factors for participants when choosing bottled water.
Researchers found that Money spiders infected with Rickettsia bacteria have reduced long-distance dispersal, suggesting an adaptive modification by the bacteria to promote transmission. Treating the spiders with antibiotics increased their ballooning frequency.
A new software program uses mathematical modeling to prescribe optimal light exposure for avoiding jet lag, resulting in quicker re-synchronization and improved performance. The method considers background light levels and time zones traveled, providing personalized recommendations for bright light intervention.
Researchers have discovered that human fallopian tube mesenchymal stem cells can differentiate into muscle, fat, cartilage, and bone cell lines, offering a new source for regenerative medicine. The study found that these cells are abundant in fertile women's reproductive years and can be easily isolated and expanded in vitro.
A Canadian study found that living in areas with more fast-food outlets and convenience stores than supermarkets has been associated with obesity. The proximity of these unhealthy environments is a significant risk factor for weight gain.
Research suggests that estrogens acting through their receptors affect the dopamine transporter, which may explain trends in timing of women's susceptibility to these diseases. Estrogen levels vary significantly at different life stages, and women are more likely to experience neurological disease onset or exacerbation during these times.
In Drosophila montana, males try to prolong copulation to increase their chances of fathering offspring. The researchers found that when females were prevented from dislodging the copulating male, matings lasted one-and-a-half times longer.
A study published in BMC Family Practice found that most people lack basic knowledge of human anatomy. Approximately half of the participants correctly identified the location of major organs, highlighting potential problems in doctor-patient communication and diagnosis.
Researchers found that young mice are resistant to proteoglycan-induced arthritis, but become susceptible with age due to immunological senescence and impaired immune regulation. This study sheds light on the complex mechanisms underlying age-related changes in arthritis susceptibility.
A comprehensive investigation into sea urchins' axial complex has shown that various internal organs are structurally linked. The study uses high-resolution imaging to analyze specimens from multiple orders, providing a re-evaluation of published studies spanning two centuries.
Researchers discovered sedatives and hypnotics are associated with a four-fold increase in suicide risk among the elderly. The study found that even after adjusting for mental disorders, sedative treatment was linked to an almost fourteen-fold increase in suicide risk.
Researchers have developed a simple and scalable method to finish non-structural gaps in genome assemblies using 454 sequencing. The technique enables the targeting of class III gaps that are difficult to close with traditional cloning methods, with potential applications for other genomes.
Researchers found that mobile health clinics decrease both the incidence and economic burden of preventable diseases, saving $36 in combined emergency department costs for every $1 invested. The model also showed a net profit to the healthcare system due to reduced costs and increased value of life years saved.
A nationwide study found filicide offenders have fewer previous criminal offenses and are more likely to be employed than homicidal controls, contradicting the idea that they are mentally disordered. They also exhibit emotional problems and suicidal behavior, highlighting the need for adequate support.
Researchers have discovered that crustaceans use resilin springs to simplify brain control of limb movements, allowing for more efficient energy storage and reduced nervous system activity. This unique mechanism enables crabs and crayfish to coordinate their limb movements at an impressive 20 times per second.
A new species of malaria parasite, Plasmodium gaboni, has been discovered in chimpanzees in Central Africa. The parasite is closely related to the human malaria agent Plasmodium falciparum and sequencing its nuclear genome may help discover new potential drug targets.
Research suggests that even perceiving one's neighborhood as unsafe can be hazardous for elder health, leading to mobility disability. The study found a strong correlation between perceived danger and actual violent crime rates.
A GIS-driven digital map pinpointed malaria outbreak hotspots in Madhya Pradesh, leading to a 5% reduction in cases. The system enabled timely preventive action and dynamic data updating, highlighting the effectiveness of electronic monitoring and mapping in malaria management.
New research on cohesin binding patterns in fission yeast reveals that features thought to differentiate cohesin behaviour between organisms collectively define its overall behaviour. This suggests that cohesin's mechanisms of action might be more similar between organisms than previously thought.
Subordinate female cichlids receive reciprocal benefits for helping dominant pairs raise offspring, increasing their reproductive potential. This finding suggests a 'pay-to-reproduce' hypothesis, where subordinates adjust their care to gain access to breeding substrate and enhance their own reproduction.
Urgent care centers (UCCs) tend to be open outside of office hours and offer a wider range of services than primary care offices. They have significantly expanded hours of operation and provide services like fracture care, suturing lacerations, and x-rays, more commonly associated with emergency departments.
Researchers identified seven ginsenosides with immune-suppressive effects and selectively inhibited expression of the inflammatory gene CXCL-10. The study uses state-of-the-art technologies to define bioactivity and opens up a methodology for studying medicinal herbs.
A meta-analysis of 17 randomized controlled trials found that pre-procedural treatment with sodium bicarbonate-based hydration is the optimal strategy to prevent contrast-induced nephropathy. Sodium bicarbonate was superior to normal saline in reducing CIN incidence, with a number needed to prevent one case being 16.
A new study found that high-achieving schoolchildren, even from poor families, are less likely to smoke. This suggests that improved education for children from disadvantaged backgrounds could be an effective intervention in reducing smoking prevalence and addressing social inequality.
Researchers used magnetization transfer imaging to visualize alterations in cerebral architecture of Tourette's patients and found correlations with symptom severity. They identified changes in the frontal lobe that may be responsible for the syndrome's pathology.
Researchers developed a new method for transcriptome analysis using next-generation sequencing technology, enabling the discovery of protein-coding genes and genetic markers in corals. The study identified approximately 11,000 genes, over 30,000 markers of genetic variation, and novel candidate genes for stress-related processes.
Researchers in Greenland found a strong correlation between the country's constant sunlight and an increase in suicides during the summer months. Most suicides occurred among young men, with violent methods accounting for 95% of cases.
Research on cabbage looper caterpillars reveals that dietary bacteria can alter gene expression in metabolism, homeostasis, and immunity. The insects' ability to fine-tune their natural defenses through gene regulation may provide a survival advantage.
Researchers identified 34 genetic markers of influenza infection severity in past outbreaks but found only half of these markers in the current swine-flu strain. The study suggests that the current virus lacks many attributes making previous outbreaks deadly, but more studies are needed for firm conclusions
Pfizer has launched an open access waiver fund to support automatic waivers of publication fees for authors from low-income countries, enabling them to publish research articles globally without financial barriers. This initiative aims to promote recognition and sharing of research conducted in developing countries.
Pfizer has partnered with BioMed Central to cover publication costs for its researchers, making their research results universally accessible. This move follows the lead of major funders such as the National Institutes of Health and Wellcome Trust, which have implemented policies for open access.
A new study suggests that human behavior, such as installing large domestic water tanks, may enable the dengue mosquito Aedes aegypti to re-emerge in Australia and expand its range of possible infections. By 2050, the risk of dengue fever is expected to be high in all capital cities around the country.
A study of 971 patients found VAP accounted for almost half of nosocomial infections, with a crude mortality rate of 35%. Anticipative antimicrobial therapy may be a potential intervention to avoid VAP in mechanically ventilated patients.
A study of 50,806 cesarean deliveries found regional anesthesia reduced infant intubation and poor Apgar scores. This suggests that regional anesthesia may be the preferred choice for most cesarean sections.
A third of teens using cannabis regularly use it as a medication to relieve health problems such as depression, anxiety and sleep difficulties. The study found that cannabis provided immediate relief without the unpleasant side effects of prescribed medications.
Researchers studied louse infestation's effect on immune activity in wild wood mice, finding reduced readiness to mount an immune response. This suggests a potential immunosuppressive effect of the parasite, supporting the idea that modern human populations have heightened immune responsiveness due to reduced exposure to parasites.
A study published in BMC Medicine found that standard doses of Rifampin, a first-line antituberculosis drug, result in low serum concentrations in children. The researchers suggest increasing the dose to 10-20mg/kg may be more effective. This could lead to increased treatment duration and risk of relapse in severe forms of tuberculosis.
A new study published in PLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases highlights the debilitating effects of filarial hydrocele on marriage and sex. Hydrocele, a chronic manifestation of filariasis, causes swelling in the scrotum, leading to pain during intercourse and emotional distress.
Research by the University of Massachusetts Medical School found a 20.8% reduction in daily smoking among 10th graders after enforcement of the Synar Amendment. This law makes it financially dangerous for shops to sell tobacco to underage customers, reducing cigarette supply to vulnerable groups.
Researchers analyzed primary care records of 5,477 colorectal cancer patients and 38,314 controls to quantify the exact risks posed by eight clinical features. The study found that rectal bleeding carries a high risk warranting investigation regardless of other symptoms.
Researchers found strong conservation of gene expression in brain tissue across five species, including mammals and non-mammalian vertebrates. This suggests that neurons play a more central role in functional interactions than cells in other tissues.
A new statistical method estimates the source location and geographic extent of an aerosolized anthrax release based on early cases and weather information. This enables public health decision makers to identify people at risk and treat them promptly to save lives.
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.
A systematic review of 33 HBV outbreaks found that administration of drugs using multi-vial compounds and capillary blood sampling with non-disposable devices are the most frequent transmission routes. The study highlights several topical factors, including a high number of outbreaks in dialysis units and associations with multi-vial use.
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 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.
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.
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.