Erratum to 2015 Science paper on ancient Ethiopian genome
A bioinformatics error affected the results, overestimating the genetic impact. The corrected study reveals extensive Eurasian admixture only in Eastern Africa.
Africa
Articles tagged with Africa
Neanderthals and modern H. sapiens crossbred over 100,000 years ago
Scientists discovered that Homo neanderthalensis and Homo sapiens interbred at least twice, 100,000 and 50,000 years ago. The findings contradict the previous understanding of Neanderthals' genetic makeup and suggest a more complex evolutionary history.
Slavery carried bilharzia parasites from West Africa to the Caribbean, genomics confirms
The study reveals that Schistosoma mansoni, a blood fluke infecting over 250 million people worldwide, originated in East Africa and was transported by slave traders to the Caribbean. Genomic comparison with a closely related species identifies key genetic variations enabling the parasite to infect humans.
Hunting pressure on forest animals in Africa is on the increase
A team of European researchers has predicted increased hunting pressure in the Congo Basin, leading to dramatic population declines or extinctions. The study identified areas with high hunting pressure, including Virunga National Park and the Okapi Wildlife Reserve.
Agricultural policies in Africa could be harming the poorest
Research by University of East Anglia suggests that African agricultural policies aimed at alleviating poverty may be making things worse for the poorest. The 'green revolution' policies in Rwanda have been shown to strip smallholder farmers of their main productive resource, land, and exacerbate poverty.
National politics shape the impacts of park law enforcement
A University of Illinois researcher found that a country's governance quality affects the livelihoods of families who rely on resources from national parks. In Benin, better governance led to better social and ecological outcomes, while Niger's poor governance resulted in negative consequences for poorer communities.
Charisma counts: Focus on great apes creates glaring research gaps in tropical Africa and Asia
A new study by University of Michigan anthropologist Andrew Marshall highlights major gaps in research effort, with a disproportionate focus on charismatic great apes. This bias leads to crucial knowledge gaps in tropical protected areas and unrealistic assessments of threatened taxa.
Humans evolved by sharing technology and culture
Researchers found similar patterns in engraved ostrich eggshells across different sites, indicating the sharing of symbolic material culture. This exchange enabled groups to adopt and adapt new technologies and cultures, contributing to the survival and development of Homo sapiens.
Intimate partner violence shows bidirectional link with maternal perinatal depression
A cohort study found a bidirectional association between intimate partner violence and depression among pregnant women and new mothers in South Africa. The study suggests that combination interventions addressing both violence and mental health may be effective in interrupting the cycle.
Slow progress on stillbirth prevention: Parents of 2.6 million babies suffer in silence each year
New research highlights the slow progress made in preventing stillbirths, despite significant reductions in maternal and child deaths. The study reveals that most stillbirths are preventable with improved quality of care during labor and birth.
Harmful mutations have accumulated during early human migrations out of Africa
A recent study found that mildly deleterious mutations evolve as neutral during early human migrations out of Africa, while very harmful mutations are found at similar frequencies globally. This suggests a maximum threshold for human tolerance to genetic damage.
Walter Reed Army Institute of Research begins phase 2 clinical trial of Ebola vaccine
The Walter Reed Army Institute of Research is conducting a Phase 2 clinical trial to evaluate the safety and immunogenicity of an Ebola vaccine regimen in healthy and HIV-infected study volunteers. The trial includes two vaccine candidates and will assess their safety and immune response in volunteers up to 70 years old.
Let's go wild: How ancient communities resisted new farming practices
Research reveals that domesticated grains were adopted late and sporadically in North Africa, with communities instead integrating them into their existing nomadic lifestyle. This challenges the conventional narrative of a gradual transition to settled agriculture.
Map shows hotspots for bat-human virus transmission risk
A new study has identified the factors contributing to the transmission of zoonotic diseases from bats to humans, highlighting areas at high risk in West Africa, sub-Saharan Africa, and South East Asia. The research used data spanning over 110 years to create a global map showing hotspots for bat-human virus transmission risk.
South Africa's child mortality reduction deemed 'a successful failure'
Researchers found that South Africa reduced childhood deaths associated with HIV but failed to meet the MDG4 goal due to its narrow definition. The country's progress is deemed a 'success' when considering overall child mortality levels, despite not meeting the target.
'Virtual fossil' reveals last common ancestor of humans and Neanderthals
Scientists recreated the skull of the last common ancestor of Homo sapiens and Neanderthals by applying digital methods and statistical techniques. The 'virtual fossil' reveals that this ancestral population likely originated in Africa and had early hallmarks of both species, with a split timeline of around 700,000 years ago.
Red palm weevils can fly 50 kilometers in 24 hours
Researchers from California and Saudi Arabia found that nearly 40% of red palm weevils flew more than 10 kilometers, with some reaching distances of up to 50 kilometers in just 24 hours. The study provides valuable insights into the flight capabilities of these pests.
Divorce: On the decline in sub-Saharan Africa
A new study reveals that divorce rates in sub-Saharan Africa have decreased over the past two decades, primarily due to older unions becoming more stable. The research found that as women enter into marriages at an older age, the likelihood of marriage breakdown decreases, resulting in fewer divorces.
Surprising diversity of TB strains found in Ethiopia
The study reveals high genetic diversity of TB strains in Ethiopia, suggesting that Europeans introduced a new wave of virulent strains. The findings contradict the long-held 'virgin soil hypothesis' and shed light on past epidemics of TB.
Genomic analysis sheds light on Ebola virus disease outbreak in Liberia
A comprehensive genomic analysis of Ebola virus sequences from Liberia reveals a single introduction source, followed by local spread and diversification. The study also identified reintroductions as a key factor in the continuation of the outbreak in Guinea.
Diabetes and its effect on bone is key topic at Abu Dhabi meeting
Experts presented research on the complex relationship between diabetes and bone, highlighting increased risk of fragility fractures in people with type 2 diabetes. The studies found that diabetic patients may experience higher BMD but lower bone microstructure quality, leading to an increased risk of wrist fracture.
Studies presented at IOF regional meeting find dramatically low levels of vitamin D
Research studies presented at the IOF regional meeting found significantly low levels of vitamin D in different population groups across the Middle East. The studies revealed high prevalence of vitamin D deficiency, affecting all age groups, sexes and local/non-local populations.
IOF Young Investigator Awards recognize research excellence in the bone field
The IOF Young Investigator Research Award is offered to researchers aged 40 years or younger. The award includes a grant of 1000 USD and the opportunity to present at a special oral session during the Meeting.
Regional coordinator announces more details on GEO-CRADLE project
The GEO-CRADLE consortium coordinates regional institutions to support effective integration of Earth Observation (EO) capacities, modeling, and data exploitation skills. The project provides a roadmap for implementing GEOSS and Copernicus in the region, with a focus on climate change, food security, access to raw materials and energy.
Global toll of injuries down by almost a third since 1990
Injuries have fallen by almost a third since 1990, with car crashes, self-harm, and falls making up the top causes, while fracture injuries require hospital admission. The global injury toll remains high but decreased in most regions, prompting researchers to conclude that the world is becoming safer.
Gates Foundation supports KAUST with $1.5 million for parasitic weed research in Africa
The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation approved $1.5 million funding for King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) to combat Striga hermonthica, a destructive parasitic weed in sub-Saharan Africa. The research aims to enhance food security for millions by providing lifesaving control methods.
Study: With climate change, malaria risk in Africa shifts, grows
A new study finds that malaria risk in Africa is shifting due to climate change, with the highest-risk transmission zone moving eastward and expanding into new areas by 2080.
African wildlife: What it looked like 1000 years ago and why this is important
A team of scientists reconstructed wildlife populations across Africa to better understand how they shaped the world. They focused on large mammal herbivores and found that dry areas had fewer animals, while wetter savannas were dominated by elephants and fire.
Massive 'development corridors' in Africa could spell environmental disaster
Researchers warn that Africa's planned 'development corridors' could have devastating environmental impacts, including habitat disruption and loss of biodiversity. The corridors, spanning 53,000 km, would crisscross the continent and prioritize agricultural production over environmental conservation.
Men see lower gains in life expectancy than women in era of HIV treatment in South Africa
A study published in PLOS Medicine found that while HIV mortality declined and life expectancy improved for all adults following ART scale-up, the improvements were greater for females than males. Female adult life expectancy increased by 13.2 years, while male life expectancy increased only 9 years.
Chapman University professor is Regional Coordinator for €3 million European Union Grant
Chapman University associate professor Hesham El-Askary is the regional coordinator for a €3 million European Union Grant. The project, GEO-CRADLE, aims to strengthen earth observation networks in the region, addressing specific challenges affecting global understanding of climate and natural resources.
NASA sees an elongated Tropical Cyclone Megh in the Gulf of Aden
Tropical Cyclone Megh formed in Arabian Sea, moving west past Horn of Africa and into the Gulf of Aden. The storm is expected to make landfall in southeastern Yemen on November 10 with maximum sustained winds near 75 knots.
Scientists mark 'stunning success' of vaccine in virtually ridding Africa of meningitis A
A vaccine developed for African meningitis A has led to the control and near elimination of deadly disease in 26 countries. However, scientists warn that unless countries maintain high levels of protection through routine immunization schedules, the disease could rebound in 15 years.
Global climate change
Researchers found that anthropogenic warming in the west Pacific likely contributed to the 2014 drought in East Africa. The study used a data set to show that the region is drier than ever, with eight droughts occurring over the past 15 years.
Does religion make kids less generous?
A recent study published in Current Biology suggests that growing up in a non-religious household may increase altruism in children. The research found that children from non-religious families were significantly more likely to share with others, contrary to the commonly held notion that religion promotes generosity.
Effectiveness of efavirenz-based antiretroviral therapy for HIV-infected children
A study found that switching to efavirenz-based therapy did not result in higher rates of viral rebound or failure in HIV-infected children with suppressed viral loads. This approach may offer advantages in these patients.
HIV/AIDS deaths are down in South Africa -- But most are still unacknowledged
Refined estimates suggest nearly three million AIDS deaths by 2010, highlighting the need for accurate reporting to monitor HIV control efforts. The study found that 93% of AIDS deaths were misattributed to other causes, hindering progress in South Africa.
Thousands die from snakebite each year as anti-venom treatment out of reach
Every year, thousands of people in impoverished communities die from snakebites due to the unavailability and high cost of anti-venom treatment. Despite efforts to address this issue, many countries remain unable to provide affordable solutions.
Global failure to act on snake bite costs thousands of lives each year
Vulnerable populations face dire consequences from snake bites, with millions dying or maimed due to inadequate treatment and affordability issues. The head of the Australian Venom Research Unit argues for urgent international action to strengthen regulatory agencies and increase access to effective antivenoms.
Elephants boost tree losses in South Africa's largest savanna reserve
A recent study by Carnegie Institution for Science found that elephants are responsible for a high tree-fall rate in Kruger, driven by population density and fire frequency. The research used LiDAR technology to map millions of trees across the reserve, providing insights into ecosystem management and conservation.
NIH study reveals risk of drug-resistant malaria spreading to Africa
A recent NIH study found that artemisinin-resistant Plasmodium falciparum parasites can infect diverse mosquito species in Africa, including Anopheles coluzzii. This discovery suggests a higher risk of drug-resistant malaria infections in Africa, posing challenges to efforts to prevent and eliminate the disease.
Uncovered: The European roller's route between Africa and Europe
Scientists uncover European roller's migratory routes, resting areas and wintering grounds, revealing key areas of conservation importance. The study highlights the species' fragile state of conservation and the impact of human activities on its migration patterns.
Study questions dates for cataclysms on early moon, Earth
Researchers cast doubt on lunar impact date methods by analyzing meteorite-impact zircons, suggesting contextual information loss upon separation from host rocks. This may affect our understanding of the late heavy bombardment on the young Moon, which could influence life's emergence timeline.
Africa's future -- can biosciences help?
A new series of assays explores how African smallholders can meet SDG2 by using biosciences to protect crops from diseases and pests, increase yields, and promote food security. The results provide recommendations for policymakers, educationalists, and those interested in smallholder agriculture.
Africa's urban waste, a valuable source of electricity
Estimated electricity production from African urban waste could reach 122.2 TWh in 2025, alleviating energy poverty for millions. However, poor waste management limits actual potential to 83.8 TWh, affecting 27 million families.
A cure for vitamin B6 deficiency
Scientists at ETH Zurich have developed a genetically modified cassava variety that produces several-fold higher levels of vitamin B6, addressing the widespread deficiency in Africa. The new trait is stable under different conditions and has been confirmed to be bioavailable for human consumption.
Horn of Africa drying ever faster as climate warms
The Horn of Africa is becoming increasingly arid due to global warming, threatening the region's agriculture and exacerbating tensions. Researchers have found a 2,000-year trend of drying in the region, which contradicts predictions that it will become wetter.
Ancient genome from Africa sequenced for the first time
The sequenced ancient human genome from Africa reveals a significant wave of migration back into the continent around 3,000 years ago, affecting all populations across the African continent. This migration predates the 'Eurasian backflow' event and shares genetic similarities with Early Neolithic farmers who brought agriculture to Europe.
Salmonella unmasked as major killer of young children in Africa
Invasive Salmonella infections are a major cause of child illness and deaths in sub-Saharan Africa, with 3.4 million illnesses and 681,000 deaths worldwide in 2010, according to new research.
New genome reveals higher Eurasian migration into ancient Africa
Researchers have sequenced the full genome of an ancient African male skeleton, revealing significantly more Eurasian ancestry than previously thought. The study estimates that 4-7% of African genomes trace back to a Eurasian source, with gene flow reaching Central, West and Southern Africa.
New human ancestor's feet resemble our own, Dartmouth scientist finds
The feet of Homo naledi, a newly discovered human ancestor, are remarkably similar to those of modern humans in form and structure. This suggests that Homo naledi was a long-distance traveler with an arched foot, similar to early human species such as Homo erectus.
Saucer-like shields protect 2 new 'door head' ant species from Africa and their nests
Two new 'door head' ant species have evolved saucer-like shields to block nest entrances and protect against intruders. Their unique morphologies are the second case of such specialization discovered in Africa.
Africa faces rising rates of traumatic brain injury
African countries face a significant burden of traumatic brain injury, with the majority resulting from motor vehicle accidents. Developing accurate surveillance systems and public health measures is crucial to reducing the risk and impact of TBI.
Trade in invasive plants is blossoming
The study found that over 2,625 invasive plant species were offered for sale on eBay, with 35 being among the 100 worst invasive species. The plants are often sold by dealers in countries with lax regulations, making it difficult to track and control online trade.
MSU lands $1.8M USAID award to boost African Great Lakes' coffee industry
The Feed the Future program aims to address declining coffee production in Rwanda by promoting research, farmer capacity building, and policy engagement. MSU will inform coffee sector stakeholders of effective practices for controlling pests and establish a policy environment that encourages producers to invest in sustainable practices.
Study finds high proportion of advanced breast cancers in sub-Saharan Africa
A new study found that a large majority of breast cancers in Cote d'Ivoire and Republic of Congo are detected at an advanced stage, with over two-thirds of tumors being 5 cm or larger in diameter. The study's results underscore the need for improved access to diagnosis and treatment in sub-Saharan Africa.
Scientists from CU Denver, CU Anschutz help discover new ancient ancestor
Homo naledi, discovered in South Africa, has a unique combination of derived cranial vault and hand morphology. Its age is unknown, but it may represent an intermediate between Australopithecus and Homo erectus.
African dams linked to over 1 million malaria cases annually
A new study finds that African dams are linked to over 1.1 million malaria cases annually, with the risk being particularly high in areas with unstable malaria transmission. The research highlights the need for better disease control measures around dam reservoirs.
NASA sees Tropical Depression Fred fading, new storm developing
Tropical Depression Fred is weakening due to strong upper-level winds, while a new low-pressure area called System 91L is moving westward across the tropical Atlantic. Forecasters expect System 91L to have a 40% chance of development in the next two days and 60% in five days.
Provision of HIV treatment can be cost-saving for companies in high prevalence settings
A new study found that providing antiretroviral therapy programmes in the workplace can lead to significant cost savings for companies, particularly in South Africa where HIV prevalence is high. The study estimated that annual cost savings would decrease by 5% and average cost per HIV positive employee would decrease by 14%.