Science and research news from Africa. Covers Congo Basin wildlife, maternity care, malaria resurgence, and drug-resistant parasites.
The discovery of Ajnabia odysseus in Morocco suggests that dinosaurs crossed hundreds of kilometers of open water to colonize Africa. The tiny duckbill was likely a powerful swimmer, with large tails and powerful legs, and may have simply swum the distance.
Scientists have uncovered a 5-million-year-old relative of the living honey badger, Mellivora capensis, from the early Pliocene locality of Langebaanweg in South Africa. The fossil discovery provides insight into the evolution and diversity of mustelids during this time period.
Research in rural South Africa identifies socio-economic factors as key drivers of overweight and obesity among mothers. The study found that decision-making authority, income level, and family size significantly affect women's health, highlighting the need for evidence-based policies to tackle the region's obesity epidemic.
A new study warns that massive African reforestation efforts could harm ecosystems, as the biomes are divided into distinct types with unique tree species. The researchers analyzed 753 sites in both environments, finding that rainfall, seasonality, and temperature are key environmental factors.
The study identified over 3 million novel variants in African genomes, showcasing the continent's vast genetic diversity. It also revealed complex patterns of ancestral mixing and natural selection, shedding light on population history, environmental adaptation, and disease susceptibility.
A meta-analysis of preventive malaria treatments among school-age children found that treatment cuts malaria prevalence by 46% and subsequent cases by 50%. Preventive treatment also improves learning outcomes and reduces anaemia cases.
The study found that modern humans settled along the Mediterranean coast before expanding into the Sinai desert and eastern Jordanian Rift Valley. Favorable environmental conditions, including a freshwater lake known as Lake Lisan, enabled human settlement and spread throughout the region.
A study published in PLOS ONE found that about 1/3 of young women in 43 LMIC have lost at least one sibling before the age of 25. Sibling loss was relatively more common in countries affected by conflict and war, while bereaved respondents in many studied countries still had a comparable number of remaining living siblings.
Researchers in Lesotho and Switzerland found that combining home visits with HIV self-tests increased test coverage among villagers, particularly young people. The strategy resulted in a 20% higher HIV test rate compared to traditional campaigns.
Researchers from KAUST analyzed fonio millet genomes to identify genes that could lead to higher yields and larger grains. The study found two genes, DeGs5-3A and DeSh1-9A, which were artificially selected for their larger grain size.
Key findings from TropMed20 include new research on climate-related health impacts, such as increased tick bites and fetal health risks. The conference also addresses racism in tropical medicine and explores the potential of monoclonal antibodies to combat diseases like COVID-19 and malaria.
The FoodLAND project is developing innovations for local agriculture and aquaculture development in six African countries, aiming to strengthen agro-biodiversity and healthy diets. The project will create a network of 14 local Food Hubs to mobilise actors in rural and urban communities, testing and introducing technological innovations.
Researchers have identified key genetic markers associated with heat and drought tolerance, inflammation resistance, and tick control in African cattle. The study reveals how Asian cattle breeds influenced the development of indigenous breeds through genetic 'time travel', enabling them to thrive across Africa.
Researchers at Technical University of Denmark have isolated new strains of lactic acid bacteria that can increase the safety of fermented camel milk products. The bacteria can kill off disease-causing microorganisms such as E.coli and salmonella, making the milk safer for consumption.
The study predicts the Asian giant hornet's potential spread in the US, including down the west coast, and globally to parts of Africa, Europe, Australia, and South America. Suitable habitats include regions with warm summers, mild winters, and high rainfall.
A recent study found a significant increase in the trading of species such as green monkeys and warthogs to protect crops, despite religious taboos. The research suggests that urban demand is not driving the wildmeat trade, but rather limited access to alternative protein sources and crop-protection incentives.
Experts will discuss the challenges of mental health in times of pandemic, including social isolation and uncertainty. The virtual panel discussion aims to provide insights into the effects of protective policy measures on human mental health.
A new study reveals that dust played a critical role in forming thick soils in the Levant region, enabling early human civilization to take root. The discovery challenges existing hypotheses on soil formation, suggesting that dust input was more important than erosion rates.
A study suggests that urban mosquito species Anopheles stephensi could spread to dozens of cities across Africa, putting millions at higher risk of contracting malaria. The authors used location data and spatial models to predict the spread of this Asian mosquito species in Africa, identifying 44 highly suitable locations.
Critics argue that male circumcision campaigns in Africa are not based on robust science but on racist assumptions about culture, health, and sexuality. The campaigns have been carried out without sufficient contextual research and with underrepresentation of African voices.
A new paper published in Science Advances confirms Latin America is twice as rich in plant species as tropical Africa, with a third of the world's biodiversity. The study provides essential baseline data for conservation efforts, focusing on areas with the greatest biodiversity.
Researchers predict a shift toward mosquitoes carrying dengue fever and other diseases, posing a significant threat to public health in Sub-Saharan Africa. The study highlights the need for targeted control measures, including diagnostics and community-based interventions, to combat this emerging threat.
Researchers found that bat and fruit bat species capable of carrying the Ebola virus thrive in West and East Africa, including Central Africa. The study suggests keeping a closer eye on diseases in their modeled ranges to inform the public about potential Ebola infections.
Research suggests that older bull elephants hold leading positions in male elephant societies, helping younger followers find food and water. The study's findings raise concerns over the removal of old bulls in both legal and illegal hunting practices.
Researchers found a strong linear relationship between societal generosity and life expectancy. Societies with higher transfer payments have lower mortality rates, particularly in Western European countries and Japan.
The NIAID has established a global network of centers for research in emerging infectious diseases, which will investigate spillover potential and prepare for future outbreaks. The network aims to detect new causes of febrile illnesses, develop reagents and diagnostic assays, and study human immune responses.
Scientists have identified over 40 quantitative trait loci associated with 14 traits in cassava, including disease responses and nutritional quality. This discovery aims to improve cassava breeding and provide a powerful tool for breeders.
Scientists link the end of the Green Sahara to a previously unknown megadrought in Southeast Asia, which lasted over 1,000 years and shifted human settlement patterns. The study provides new insights into the impact of climate change on societal adaptations and upheavals.
A new study by the UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology found that land surface conditions can affect mesoscale convective systems, allowing for more accurate forecasts and up to six hours' warning. This will inform alert systems for communities across Africa, enabling them to better prepare for severe flooding.
The Phase 2 clinical trial will evaluate the safety, immunogenicity, and efficacy of NVX-CoV2373 in approximately 2,650 healthy adults and 240 medically stable HIV-positive adults. The trial aims to provide early data on vaccine protection against Covid-19 in South Africa.
The EAC's MRH initiative has streamlined timelines for medicinal product applications, decreasing from 24 months to 8-14 months. The initiative aims to improve access to quality medicines by harmonizing technical standards and regulatory requirements.
A study by WCS and partners pinpointed the Democratic Republic of Congo, Gabon, Republic of Congo, Cameroon, and Equatorial Guinea as crucial countries for safeguarding biodiversity and intact forests. The analysis combines datasets to highlight regions with high conservation value, guiding national development plans towards sustainabl...
The emergence of artemisinin-resistant malaria parasites in Rwanda marks a major concern for global health. Significant proportions of parasites carrying the R561H mutation have been detected, indicating that these resistant strains can spread between locations and acquire resistance to partner drugs.
Researchers call for integrated management strategy to combat Mimosa diplotricha's impact on crop yields, biodiversity, and local livelihoods. The invasive weed is threatening the region's agricultural productivity and socio-ecological balance.
A new vaccine against RSV could protect infants under six months old against severe illness and death. Infants born to mothers from low- and middle-income countries were particularly well-protected by the vaccine, with hospitalization rates 53% lower for RSV LRTI.
A new study reveals that almost two-thirds of first confirmed COVID-19 cases outside China had travel links to Italy, China, or Iran. The research suggests that travel from these countries may have seeded additional outbreaks globally before the pandemic was characterized.
A monthly vaginal ring containing the antiretroviral drug dapivirine is being considered as a new HIV prevention method for cisgender women in sub-Saharan Africa. The European Medicines Agency has adopted a positive scientific opinion on its use, paving the way for potential approval.
Researchers discovered a shared skeletal structure between African and American crocodiles, suggesting a close evolutionary relationship. This finding proposes that crocodiles migrated from Africa to America, reaching the Americas via Australasia around 7 million years ago.
Researchers identified two major factors: dry climate and city life, which led to the evolution of Aedes aegypti mosquitoes to specialize in biting humans. In regions with intense dry seasons, these mosquitoes showed a strong preference for human hosts.
Researchers from UMD and international partners highlight the urgent issue of African vulture poisoning, which threatens global disease and biodiversity. A coordinated approach leveraging community engagement and pre-existing resources is recommended to maximize conservation impacts.
A study from Binghamton University found that each additional year of school equates to an earnings increase of 18-20% in South Africa. Cognitive skills also play a significant role in determining wages, with memory and orientation being more important in rural areas.
The African Heart Rhythm Association (AFHRA) statement highlights barriers to effective pacing, including skilled implanter shortages and high device costs. Researchers propose solutions, such as improved local training and collaboration with governments to address these challenges.
This latest issue of Cardiovascular Innovations and Applications (CVIA) features groundbreaking research on identification of novel TTN mutations and discovery of digenic mutations. The issue includes studies on the genetic causes of dilated cardiomyopathy and the effects of glycyrrhizic acid on vascular injury.
San communities are marginalized despite living for thousands of years, with weak land tenure protections in Botswana. In contrast, Namibia recognizes their rights through community-based natural resources management and human rights organizations play a crucial role in advocating for their welfare.
Researchers argue that one-sided narratives shape the dichotomy between state-led and market-led approaches to promote agricultural development. A combination of state-led initiatives, donor-funded or market-led approaches, and input subsidy programs can work if there is evidence-based policy learning between both camps.
Researchers discovered that ancient shells were deliberately collected and strung together as beads, with evidence of ochre coloring treatment found on four out of five shells. This study provides insight into the origins of string-making technology, likely between 160-120,000 years ago.
A new Boston University School of Public Health study estimates that remdesivir can increase ICU capacity by over 50%, saving up to 6,862 lives per month. The drug's 'double impact' could save as many as 13,647 South Africans by December.
A Stanford-led study reveals a strong connection between air pollution and infant mortality in sub-Saharan Africa. The researchers found that even small increases in particulate matter concentrations lead to significant increases in infant mortality rates.
A new study warns of rising invasive species threats due to increased pathways and trade, causing significant environmental losses and economic damage. The research highlights the need for urgent action to prevent, detect, and control invaders at local and global levels.
The Suomi NPP satellite analyzed the expansive Saharan dust plume, which extended over 5,000 miles across the Atlantic Ocean and impacted air quality in North and South America. The aerosol particles have significant effects on human health, weather, and climate, including cooling or warming the earth.
A new study finds that dose escalation of hydroxyurea treatment for children in Uganda with sickle cell anemia is more effective and has similar side effects than a lower fixed dose. The findings have global implications, removing a major barrier to expanding the use of hydroxyurea worldwide.
A study in the New England Journal of Medicine has found that dose escalation of hydroxyurea treatment is more effective and has similar side effects than a lower fixed dose for children with sickle cell anemia in Uganda. The results have global implications and can potentially improve treatment outcomes worldwide.
A recent study mapped mosquito insecticide resistance patterns across Africa, finding dramatic increases in resistance to five mainstream insecticides between 2005 and 2017. This surge in resistance poses a significant threat to malaria control efforts, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa where over half of all cases occur.
A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine has found that dose escalation of hydroxyurea treatment is more effective and has similar side effects than a lower fixed dose for children with sickle cell anemia in Uganda. The findings have global implications and could impact use of hydroxyurea worldwide.
Researchers at Goethe University have successfully produced tsetse fly attractants in genetically modified brewer's yeast, which could be used to contain sleeping sickness. The new production method is cost-effective and environmentally friendly, making it suitable for rural communities in Africa.
A new study suggests that prehistoric people relied on shellfish to sustain them as they migrated out of Africa, particularly during periods of drought. The availability of these marine mollusks allowed for continuous harvests without major ecological impacts.
Research led by Dr Anthony Romilio found evidence of massive predators in Jurassic-era fossil footprints in southern Queensland. The tracks suggest dinosaurs up to three metres high and 10 metres long roamed the area.
A conservation biologist reflects on losing species like saiga antelopes and Huemel deer, highlighting the complexities of conservation. She shares her hope for success stories in protected areas like Yellowstone National Park and the importance of focusing on rare species.
Researchers have found evidence of the earliest use of bow-and-arrow technologies in the tropical rainforests of Sri Lanka, dating back to ~48,000 years ago. This discovery challenges traditional assumptions about human innovation and cultural development in extreme environments.
A study led by the Max Planck Institute of Geoanthropology found that ancient DNA documents population changes across eastern and southern Africa from the Neolithic to the Iron Age. Genomic analysis revealed complex interactions between hunter-gatherers, pastoralists, and farmers, with varying integration of diverse ancestries.