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.
PLOS Biology has achieved a record-breaking impact factor of 13.9, placing it above established journals such as EMBO Journal and Current Biology. This milestone reflects the journal's growing influence in the scientific community, particularly among open-access advocates.
A recent study using ancient DNA reveals that South American horses diverged from North American caballines around 3 million years ago. The research also suggests that all North American caballines belong to the same species and convergently evolved morphologically.
A promising new vaccine candidate has shown protection against Lassa fever in macaque monkeys, offering hope for a potential vaccine. The vaccine's effectiveness and safety will need to be further assessed in larger studies.
Researchers discovered extensive microRNA target gene predictions, assigning a biological function to 70% of all microRNAs. The findings provide insights into the importance and function of microRNAs across huge evolutionary time scales, shedding light on their role in shaping life's diversity.
A new theoretical framework allows for two-dimensional drawings of neuron arbors, facilitating the creation of biologically realistic connection maps. This enables computer simulations of neural circuits involving tens of thousands of neurons, potentially unraveling brain mysteries.
Researchers discovered a genetic link between a Fog2 gene mutation and small lungs, abnormal diaphragm development, and breathing difficulties in children. The study provides an important genetic starting point for further insight into human disorders.
A comprehensive annotation of Candida albicans genome paves way for improved diagnostics and therapies. The 6,354 gene annotation will aid in understanding the yeast's role in human diseases.
A new study reveals that traditional models of extinction underestimate species extinction risk by ignoring a critical parameter. The researchers used water fleas as a model organism and found that incorporating density-dependent demographic stochasticity into the models accurately predicted extinction rates.
A comprehensive analysis of 1,721 estimates from 188 studies covering 46 countries found schizophrenia is more common in developed countries but overall less common than thought. The study revealed that immigrant populations have higher rates of the disease than native-born individuals.
Medical journals rely heavily on pharmaceutical funding, which can lead to biased research and favoritism towards company-funded trials. Experts like Richard Smith argue that this creates a cycle of dependency that compromises the credibility of journals.
Researchers observed B cells' random and directed migration to helper T cells, guided by chemokine receptor CCR7 and cognate antigen. The interaction enables stable formation of motile conjugates with activated T cells.
A 29-year study reveals that as ocean temperatures rise, the average weight of elephant seal pups decreases, impacting their survival rate. The decline in weaning weights coincided with an increase in mothers' foraging time and a decrease in mass gained.
A new study ranks top nanotech applications to aid poor, with energy storage and agriculture leading the list. The study's authors believe these technologies can contribute to UN Millennium Development Goals and improve living standards in developing countries.
Researchers found that a single gene, glypican-3, plays a significant role in regulating body size in mice. The gene is already known to be associated with a rare human growth disorder, and its expression level correlates with size variation in both humans and mice.
A high-throughput screening method using automated imaging and bioinformatics has identified a novel compound with promising potential as an anticancer agent. The compound, hydroxy-PP, targets carbonyl reductase 1, an enzyme involved in chemotherapy-related cardiotoxicity.
A recent study published in PLOS Medicine found that uric acid levels are unlikely to be a major determinant of coronary heart disease. The research analyzed data from over 9,400 cases of CHD and 155,000 controls, concluding that improving diet, losing weight, and controlling blood pressure may help reduce the risk of CHD.
A group of researchers argue that industrial chemicals in the environment pose significant health risks to children due to their exposure through inhalation, ingestion, and placental transfer. The lack of developmental neurotoxicity testing for 75% of high-production volume chemicals is a major concern.
The Beilstein Journal of Organic Chemistry will publish original research on all aspects of organic chemistry and related disciplines. The journal aims to provide a chemically intelligent presentation of articles while emphasizing speed of publication.
Rabies experts predict that raccoon rabies could spread rapidly across Ohio, with the virus potentially covering the state within 41 months. The study suggests that a strategic approach to controlling the spread of the disease is needed, including early detection and high-powered intervention programs.
A new international treaty aims to address the global management of publicly funded health R&D, prioritizing diseases with a high burden such as tuberculosis and leishmaniasis. The treaty would provide a binding framework for redirecting knowledge and scientific expertise towards priority needs.
Scientists adapted a molecular biology technique called mass spectrometry-based genotyping to quickly detect and analyze the SARS virus from clinical samples. This breakthrough provides valuable information on transmission routes and containment policies.
A two-sided market framework is used to compare the traditional 'Reader Pays' model with the newer 'Author Pays' or Open Access publishing model. The study finds that Open Access appears efficient when distribution costs are minimal, but editorial quality may affect profitability.
Researchers developed a new method for early disease outbreak detection using electronic health records. The 'space time permutation scan statistic' can detect outbreaks even without geographical information, and has been implemented in the SaTScan software for wider use.
Researchers discover that the nuclear hormone receptor nhr-49 controls two opposing pathways regulating fat metabolism in nematodes. The discovery reveals a complex feedback system controlling fat consumption and composition, with potential implications for understanding human metabolic disorders such as diabetes and obesity.
Sprinkles, a powder containing microencapsulated iron and micronutrients, has been found to be as effective as ferrous sulphate in treating anemia in children. The treatment has been shown to have fewer side effects and is more acceptable to caregivers. Sprinkles have been distributed to over 15,000 children in developing countries, re...
A modeling study published in PLoS Medicine suggests that integrating HIV prevention and treatment efforts could prevent up to 10 million AIDS deaths in Africa by 2020, with a predicted 74% reduction in new infections and 50% decrease in annual mortality.
A new technique detects lymph node metastases in cancer patients using nanoparticles and MRI, providing unprecedented accuracy and potentially sparing unnecessary surgery. The method involves tracking nodes with magnetic particles, identifying patterns for normal and malignant nodes, and generating a 3D reconstruction of the lymph nodes.
A decentralized, Web-based, community-wide effort called the Tropical Diseases Initiative (TDI) proposes an open-source approach to discovering new drugs for neglected diseases. By adopting this model, scientists from laboratories, universities, and corporations can work together to develop affordable treatments for tropical diseases s...
Researchers developed a survey method using helicopters to estimate orangutan numbers, revealing crucial information on distribution and size. The study suggests orangutans may adapt better to degraded forests than previously thought, provided illegal hunting and agricultural conversion are controlled.
The use of celebrities to market drugs and diseases is a practice that raises concerns about public health and transparency. According to investigative reporter Ray Moynihan, this practice can lead to a lack of balance in the public debate about major health problems, as well as a failure to disclose potential conflicts of interest.
A new Red List Index measures changes in extinction risk for birds worldwide, showing a steady deterioration between 1988 and 2004. The index provides a reliable baseline to track progress toward the 2010 biodiversity target, with particularly steep declines observed for Asian birds and seabirds affected by commercial long-line fisheries.
A Canadian study found that fortifying foods with folic acid reduced the incidence of neural tube defects in babies from Newfoundland and Labrador by 70%. The blood folate levels of women and seniors also increased significantly, indicating a positive impact on fetal development.
Researchers Konrad Körding and colleagues used utility functions, commonly used in economics, to analyze motor control. They found a surprising amount of agreement on preferred movements and a counterintuitive result that longer resistance was preferred over stronger resistance.
The Cairo Conference's 20-year plan for reproductive health is under threat from conservative and liberal ideological battles, international funding shortfalls, and the HIV pandemic. The situation has resulted in 60 million unwanted pregnancies, 19 million unsafe abortions, and half a million maternal deaths annually.
Researchers assessed over 60,000 articles from 170 journals to determine the most clinically relevant titles. The study found that general broad interest titles and North American/European titles were among the top five most useful, suggesting that clinicians should focus on these publications.
A study of 13,271 Salmonella infection cases in Sweden found that 87% were contracted abroad, with most coming from Spain, Greece, and Turkey. The number of diagnoses for a rare type of Salmonella Enteritidis increased dramatically among visitors to Greece in 2001.
A twelve-year longitudinal study found that personality and learning style are key predictors of doctors' burnout and stress. Doctors with high neuroticism and lower conscientiousness tend to experience more burnout.
A study found that pigs have more babies due to gene duplication, which allowed them to adapt to climate change. The researchers used a multi-disciplinary approach to investigate the evolution of aromatase genes and their role in altering reproductive biology.
Researchers found that exposure to bovine material alone cannot explain the young age of vCJD cases in the UK; an additional age-dependent susceptibility factor is required. The study suggests that permeability of the intestinal barrier changes with age, but further research is needed.
A study published in BMC Medicine found that using visual aids significantly improved pregnant women's understanding of HIV study information. The researchers suggest that the current informed consent process is inadequate and should be revised to effectively communicate information.
A study of 166,000 Americans found that those reporting more depressive symptoms were at increased risk for illnesses, with exercise and higher education reducing symptoms. Young adults aged 18-24 reported the highest number of days with depressive symptoms.
A Japanese study found that heavy smokers who switch to low-yield cigarettes do not reduce their nicotine intake significantly. Instead, they may increase their risk due to compensatory behavior, inhaling more carbon monoxide or tar per cigarette.
A large UK study found that Gulf war veterans reported significantly more symptoms of disease than non-Gulf war veterans in almost all ill health categories. The study also found that nearly 1 in every 20 UK servicemen who served in the first Gulf war believe they have Gulf war Syndrome.
A study published in Critical Care found that severe sepsis affects around 5% of cancer patients hospitalized in the US, resulting in a mortality rate nearly five times higher than non-cancer patients. Early antibiotic treatment could significantly improve cancer survival rates.
Despite WHO guidelines, only two in five infants under six months fed exclusively on breast milk. The study found low breastfeeding rates, especially in South America and the Caribbean.
A study of 56,000 people from Wichita, Kansas found that Chronic Fatigue Syndrome causes a significant burden on the economy, with lost productivity estimated at $9.1 billion annually. The syndrome affects approximately 450,000 individuals nationwide, resulting in substantial economic losses and reduced household income.
Nigerian naval personnel are putting themselves and their partners at risk by denying the existence of AIDS and engaging in risky sexual behaviors. A recent survey found that nearly half of sailors had sex with a female sex worker without using a condom, despite having good knowledge of AIDS-related information.
A new study examines the complex relationships between pagans, historians, and heritage managers at Stonehenge. The research reveals a need for open and transparent dialogue to address conflicting demands and interests.
Research by Brigid Hogan and Tadashi Okubo found that Wnt signaling can induce a dramatic shift in lung progenitor cells' lineage commitment, generating intestinal cell types. This discovery sheds light on conditions such as Barrett's esophagus and holds potential for programming adult stem cells.
Researchers found almost half of patients in Serbian emergency departments experienced depression, while over one in eight suffered from PTSD. Symptoms were more prevalent among older patients, those with lower social support, and those living in remote areas.
A study published in BMC Medical Research Methodology revealed that over 38% of Nature papers and a quarter of BMJ articles contained at least one statistical error. The researchers suggest making raw data freely available to minimize the impact of errors, which could have important practical consequences.
A recent study found that low-income Native American women experience alarmingly high rates of domestic abuse, with over half reporting assault by a partner in their lifetime. The research highlights the need for targeted programs and services to address these disparities and prevent further harm.
A systematic review found that diagnostic test accuracy is underestimated when results are verified after a delay, with an average underestimation of 74%.
A study published in Journal of Biology reveals that young dolphins adopt an ideal position to get a 'free ride' in their mother's slipstream, reducing energy required for swimming. This drafting phenomenon helps the calf stay with its mother, but can be disrupted by fishing vessels, potentially impacting dolphin populations.
Scientists create microscision technique that uses gas to bombard skin with tiny crystals, creating invisible conduits for drug delivery. The new method is shown to be effective in administering local anaesthesia without causing pain, making it a promising alternative to traditional needles.
A meta-analysis of 14 randomised controlled trials found no significant differences between the failure rates of oral and intravenous rehydration therapies. The researchers conclude that further studies are not warranted, as oral rehydration is less traumatic, simple to administer, and associated with lower hospital admission rates.
In a groundbreaking study, Robert Sapolsky and Lisa Share found evidence of a pacific culture among wild olive baboons in Kenya, where males became less aggressive after an outbreak of TB. This unique cultural tradition suggests that females may play a key role in regulating male behavior.
A study found that only half of publishers agreed to grant permission for web-based courses to store electronic versions of articles without additional charges. Fewer than 60% granted permission to reproduce extracts at no fee, highlighting the need for more transparent and accessible publishing policies.
A UCR study found that exposure to second-hand smoke compromises the ability of fibroblasts to move towards damaged tissue, leading to abnormal healing and excessive scarring. The research team discovered that components of second-hand smoke alter the cells' cytoskeleton, increasing adhesive properties and reducing mobility.
A new study found that patients who took statins before having a stroke had better outcomes compared to those who did not. However, statin use was not shown to reduce the severity of strokes.