Articles tagged with Africa
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.
Australian and South African sites selected as top contenders to host the Square Kilometre Array (SKA) radio telescope, with low man-made signals a key requirement. Both countries' sites offer stable ionospheric conditions and a good view of the southern sky, ideal for detecting cosmic radio waves.
Research by Andreas Hemp reveals a host of rare plants in Kilimanjaro's forests, contrary to previous thought, and explains the mountain's unique bamboo zone absence due to elephant lack. The complex links between plants and animals are showcased, highlighting human impact on forest diversity.
New research suggests that international fishing trade can benefit developing African countries by generating foreign exchange revenue and improving local food security. The trade in high-value fish species, such as tuna and squid, helps underpin domestic fisheries and supports the livelihoods of thousands of people.
Researchers launch large balloons with instrument packages over Africa and the Atlantic to gather data on hurricane conditions. The data will help predict which systems develop into hurricanes, providing critical insights for improving weather forecasting.
A global health expert argues that up to seven neglected tropical diseases, including river blindness and trachoma, can be brought under control with increased coverage of existing programs. This could lead to the elimination of infections in some cases and improved health outcomes for millions of people in Africa.
Northwestern University has received a four-year, $4.9 million grant from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation to develop and produce affordable diagnostic devices for infectious diseases. The team will focus on two targeted products and work with commercial collaborators Abbott and Inverness Medical Innovations to improve test systems.
University of Utah meteorologist Ed Zipser leads a NASA mission to study African weather disturbances that intensify into hurricanes. The study aims to improve hurricane prediction and understanding of extreme events like category 5 storms.
A Kenyan study confirms that routine Hib vaccination significantly reduced invasive Hib disease to 88% below baseline. This finding suggests that virtual elimination of the devastating disease is possible if more countries adopt the vaccine as part of their national immunization programs.
Research reveals that African HIV-infected patients have significantly higher rates of adherence to antiretroviral regimens, with 77% taking their medications as directed compared to 59% in North America. This contradicts historical assumptions about poor adherence among Africans.
A systematic review and meta-analysis found higher ART adherence rates in sub-Saharan Africa compared to North America. The study suggests that factors beyond poverty, such as poor patient-clinician relationships and untreated depression, contribute to low adherence rates in North America.
In sub-Saharan Africa, AIDS deaths are disproportionately affecting health professionals, particularly nurses and clinical officers. The study found that over a decade, death would claim more of these healthcare workers than resignation or normal retirement due to the disease.
The Heineken Workplace Programme, which provides antiretroviral treatment to employees, shows that offering HAART is feasible. By restricting treatment options, companies can manage HIV patients while prioritizing the health of their workforce.
Scientists study how African winds, dust conditions influence hurricane birth; use satellite data, weather stations, aircraft to improve hurricane forecasting. Researchers seek answers on hurricane development, air currents, Saharan Air Layer's effect on clouds.
Researchers at Tufts University's Feinstein International Center aim to improve animal health, trade, and human livelihoods in Africa. They propose independent certification bodies to ensure safe export trade and fair standards for livestock commodities.
A large trial suggests that male circumcision reduces HIV infection risk by 60%. If all men were circumcised, 2 million new infections and 300,000 deaths could be avoided. Long-term benefits would include saving 1.6-5.8 million lives after 20 years.
Researchers have discovered that beads date back between 100,000 to 135,000 years ago, indicating a sophisticated level of symbolic thinking in early humans. This finding has major implications for understanding the origins of behaviorally modern humans and their ability to use symbols.
A fake malaria drug, artesunate, was found to be contaminated with only 20% of the active ingredient, leading to the death of a 23-year-old man in East Burma. The study highlights the risks of counterfeit antimalarial medicines in Africa, where genuine artesunate is scarce and expensive.
A study found that intercontinental migration from Africa can improve the welfare position of households with migrants by increasing their capital and allowing them to invest in productive activities. This not only benefits the migrant-sending countries but also provides a source of cheap labor for European countries, helping to allevi...
Researchers found faster subtropical warming of the troposphere, moving jet streams poleward, which could widen tropical regions and alter rainfall patterns. This shift may reduce winter precipitation in southern Europe and Australia, as well as impact regional climate patterns.
The latest Global Disease Burden study finds a 20% reduction in global disease burden, but HIV/AIDS and malaria increase death tolls, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. Meanwhile, Eastern Europe experiences a 'striking reversal' in falling adult mortality rates without effective health monitoring.
A new study provides an explanation for continental plate breakups, showing that they often occur along preexisting lines of weakness created during earlier collisions. The research uses geochemical fingerprinting to demonstrate this principle, shedding light on the history of the Rheic Ocean.
The Rwenzori Mountains, home to one of four remaining tropical ice fields outside the Andes, are experiencing substantial reduction in glacial cover due to increasing air temperature over the last four decades. Glaciers are receding tens of meters each year, with less than one square kilometer of glacier ice remaining.
A study of 103 countries found an estimated 3.2 million stillbirths worldwide each year, with rates ranging from 5 per 1000 in rich countries to 32 per 1000 in south Asia and sub-Saharan Africa. The true figure is likely higher due to under-reporting.
A study published in PLOS Medicine found that seasonal childhood anaemia in West Africa is associated with the haptoglobin 2-2 genotype. The research suggests a link between this genetic variation and the development of anaemia during periods of high malaria prevalence.
A group of experts allege that the World Bank has neglected malaria treatment for years, concealing its expenditures and downscaling its staff. In response, the World Bank defends its efforts, citing research on the challenges of linking funding to health outcomes.
Scientists are using lead isotope analysis to study ancient copper artifacts from sub-Saharan Africa, providing insights into the spread of Islam and trade patterns across the Sahara Desert. The analysis reveals that merchants traded gold from regions like present-day Niger for copper from North Africa via camel caravans.
The L'ORÉAL-UNESCO awards recognize pioneering work in immunology, molecular pathology, and genetic disorders. The laureates will receive a $100K prize and international recognition for their contributions to human health.
The worldwide state of tuberculosis epidemiology, diagnosis, and treatment is examined through research results published in 2005. TB remains a top cause of HIV-related mortality in sub-Saharan Africa, with high incidence rates among gold miners and those with recent M. tuberculosis infection.
Research in East Africa highlights the dual nature of land use, with positive impacts on local economies but negative consequences for native plants and wildlife. LUCID project explores links between social systems and environmental changes, aiming to understand why some communities maintain biodiversity despite agricultural expansion.
A new study finds that particles in cloudy water layers drift over long distances to be buried at depths of up to 1500 meters, affecting our understanding of carbon burial and climate relationships. This process may have been more vigorous in the past due to fluctuating sea levels.
A review of 12,000 Ugandan women found that male circumcision significantly reduced the likelihood of HIV infection among female partners. The study also found a reduction in other STDs, such as human papillomavirus and syphilis, but not gonorrhea or Chlamydia.
A study in South Africa found that implementing a blood safety program, including education and targeted outreach, significantly reduced the prevalence of HIV-1 in blood donations. The program resulted in a 50% decrease in HIV-1 positivity rates over two years.
African remains found in Campeche, Mexico, provide earliest physical link between the African Diaspora and the New World. The discovery, dating back to the late-16th century, sheds light on the early transatlantic slave trade.
Three promising young science reporters from Latin America were selected by the program's recruitment committee to attend and report on the 2006 AAAS Annual Meeting. Lorena Guzmán from Chile, Roberta Jansen from Brazil, and Rosalía Servín Magaña from Mexico will receive full support to cover the conference.
The ARM Mobile Facility (AMF) will collect atmospheric data on absorbing aerosols from desert dust in the dry season and deep convective clouds during the summer monsoon. This information will help improve model simulations of global climate and increase understanding of the influence of the West African Monsoon.
Using genetic evidence from over 20 species of locusts, researchers found that ancestors of the African desert locust flew across the Atlantic, giving rise to diverse New World species. The study's findings suggest high-altitude winds were essential for the swarm's flight, with modern-day examples supporting this hypothesis.
A team of researchers assembled ancient gourd remnants across the Americas and found they matched modern gourds in Asia, suggesting a pre-pottery Asian origin. The findings indicate that people arrived in the New World with domesticated plants and tools, changing our understanding of the founding of the Americas.
A recent clinical trial in Ghana found that IPTi reduced malaria by 25 percent and anemia by 20 percent in children up to 15 months old. Researchers are discussing the results at a symposium on IPTi, which has shown clear potential as a new prevention strategy for fighting malaria in Africa. Similar large-scale implementation studies a...
The United Nations University is building an online academy to promote sustainable development in Africa through information and communications technologies. The academy will provide online training in water, environment, renewable energy, and biotechnology, aiming to improve African competitiveness and lift productivity.
Climate models project significant changes in global water availability by 2050, with varying trends across regions. The study highlights the complex relationship between climate and water resources, noting that warmer temperatures can lead to both increased and decreased water supply in different parts of the world.
Researchers have found that two genetic conditions, sickle cell trait and a mild version of thalassemia, offer natural protection against malaria but can be rendered ineffective when occurring together. This study of Kenyan children highlights the complexity of genetic interactions in naturally acquired immunity.
A new multilateral initiative aims to develop a sustainable malaria research infrastructure in Africa by supporting competitively awarded grants for centers of excellence. Trained African scientists are crucial in assembling interdisciplinary teams and conducting research projects focused on developing better tools to fight the disease.
A Cornell University study reveals that child-headed households in Namibia often rely on their youthful social networks for support, highlighting the need for young Africans to be trained as social supports. The study of over 200 children found that 60% turn to other youths for help and advice, with many facing suicidal thoughts.
Two 'screen and treat' cervical cancer prevention programs in low-resource settings resulted in lower precancerous lesions and cervical cancer prevalence. Novel non-cytology-based screening methods, such as HPV DNA testing and visual inspection with acetic acid, were associated with significant reductions in cervical cancer risk.
Population growth is expected to double in Africa by 2050, posing a significant threat to poverty reduction. Experts argue that continued high fertility rates and rapid population growth could be more serious obstacles to development than AIDS, threatening food security and increasing dependence on international assistance.
Dr. Henry Gabelnick, a renowned expert in reproductive health and microbicide development, has been awarded the lifetime achievement award by International Conference on AIDS India. The award recognizes his significant contributions to the field, including the development of Ushercell, a microbicide consisting of cellulose sulfate.
Experts propose thorough output-based assistance (OBA) to accurately target aid funds. OBA improves quality of care and devolves financial decisions to the lowest level, potentially increasing 80% of allocated money reaching the poor.
Researchers sequenced goby DNA to find evidence of invasion; genetic analysis suggests Atlantic gobies invaded during warm period 150,000 years ago. Warmer climate may lead to further expansion of marine species beyond cold water barriers.
Researchers uncover fossils of two new species, Biretia fayumensis and Biretia megalopsis, in Egypt's Fayum desert, dating back 37 million years. The discoveries confirm that the common ancestor of humans, monkeys, and apes originated in Africa, with one species appearing to be nocturnal.
The experimental vaccine combines synthetically modified elements of four HIV genes found in subtypes A, B and C, representing about 85% of HIV infections worldwide. The trial aims to test the safety and ability of the vaccine to generate an immune response in healthy adults.
A rapid impact package of four anti-parasitic drugs could bring tangible benefits to Africa's poorest communities by controlling seven neglected diseases. The cost of the package would be negligible, ranging from $0.07 to $0.40 per person per year.
Researchers found that Agulhas eddies, which transport seawater from the Indian Ocean to the South Atlantic Ocean, are large warm rings of water with a diameter of about 300 kilometres. These eddies import considerable quantities of heat into the Atlantic Ocean, contributing to climate change and global warming.
In KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, hospital admissions for malaria dropped by 89% after introducing an antimalarial combination called artemether-lumefantrine (AL) and improving mosquito control with DDT. The province also saw a significant decline in outpatient cases and malaria-related deaths.
The prevalence of drug-resistant gonorrhoea is increasing in South Africa, with reports of treatment failure coinciding with the emergence of ciprofloxacin-resistant isolates. The country's health department has been urged to take action and conduct nationwide surveillance to assess the extent of the problem.
The American Society for Clinical Pathology is providing laboratory training and quality improvement programs for diagnosis and monitoring of HIV/AIDS patients in resource-limited countries. The program aims to improve the effectiveness of HIV diagnostic, care, and treatment services and interventions.
A national study found that black immigrants' health deteriorates the longer they live in the US, primarily due to racial discrimination. The study, which analyzed data from over 3,000 black immigrants, shows that those born in Europe have the poorest health, while those from Africa and South America fare better.
A new study reveals that tropical deforestation affects rainfall in the US and around the globe, with significant changes observed in various regions. Deforestation in Amazonia influences precipitation in Mexico to Texas, while Central Africa affects the US Midwest, and Southeast Asia alters rainfall in China and the Balkan Peninsula.
The SALT Telescope will provide unparalleled views of the southern Milky Way and nearby galaxies like the Magellanic Clouds. The telescope's Prime Focus Imaging Spectrograph will capture high-resolution pictures and spectra, enabling scientists to study star formation and galaxy evolution.
The Abuja Declaration endorses a five-point strategy to support capture fisheries, develop aquaculture, improve fish market chains, increase benefits from fish trade, and provide decision makers with information. African fish and fishery products have an annual export value of $2.7 billion.
A study found that HPV16/18 vaccine effectiveness varies significantly across regions, with higher rates in Europe and North America compared to sub-Saharan Africa.