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.
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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.
A recent study found that Kenyan patients who spend more than three days in hospitals are more likely to harbor antibiotic-resistant bacteria. The research team identified three risk factors associated with colonization, including hospitalization for extended periods and intubation.
A South African study found that interacting with children can promote a sense of belonging and purpose, reducing anxiety and depression in retirement home residents. The program, which includes activities like playing games and reading, also boosts mood and emotions.
A recent study analyzing data from 63 foraging societies worldwide reveals that women hunt in at least 79 percent of these societies, targeting game of all sizes. Women's involvement in teaching hunting practices and employing diverse weapon choices also challenges the long-held perception of men as primary hunters.
Researchers have identified cut marks on a fossil leg bone that suggest butchery and likely cannibalism by humans' close evolutionary relatives around 1.45 million years ago. The analysis of 3D models revealed nine clear matches for stone tool damage, which was found to be located in areas suitable for removing flesh.
A new study using satellite data from over 7,000 global reservoirs found that total storage capacity has increased, but the filling rate is lower than anticipated. The analysis suggests that addressing future water demands cannot rely solely on constructing new reservoirs, highlighting the need for novel management strategies.
The article discusses the growing challenge of food security in Africa, particularly with regards to rice production and consumption. The research reveals that socioeconomic developments have a more substantial influence on rice availability than gradual climate change, but climatic anomalies pose a significant threat to stability. Div...
Researchers at UNIGE have identified a new type of molecular sensor that enables the malaria parasite to infect human cells or mosquitoes at just the right moment. By understanding how this sensor works, scientists can potentially scramble its signals to disorientate the parasite and block its multiplication and transmission.
Research identified three genetic risk factors for Dupuytren's contracture, a condition affecting fingers, that originated from Neanderthal DNA. The study, based on 7,871 affected individuals and 645,880 healthy controls, provides evidence of the intermingling between Neanderthals and modern humans influencing disease prevalence.
African Superplume is responsible for rift-parallel deformation and seismic anisotropy in the East African Rift System, contradicting previous theories on plate-driving forces. The study uses 3D thermomechanical modeling to explain this phenomenon.
Researchers found that giraffes on either side of the rift have not interbred for over 1,000 years, with females showing no signs of migration. The study suggests that Masai giraffes are more endangered than previously thought, requiring separate but coordinated conservation efforts.
The African-led PrEPVacc trial has completed participant enrolment at all four sites in East and Southern Africa. The trial is testing two different ways to prevent HIV, including HIV vaccine regimens and a new form of oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP).
A study of 17,000 people across eight African countries found a decline in vaccine confidence, particularly for COVID-19 vaccines. The drop in routine childhood vaccinations has led to six million fewer children receiving life-saving shots, putting decades of progress at risk.
A global observational study found high mortality among infants with culture-positive sepsis, highlighting the need for effective antibiotics. The study developed tools to identify at-risk newborns and inform WHO guidelines on treatment.
Researchers found that tightly curled scalp hair provided the best protection from the sun's radiative heat while minimizing sweat. This adaptation enabled human brains to grow to modern-day sizes without conserving water through sweating.
The initiative aims to improve data collection methods on researchers' racial and ethnic dimensions. It seeks to overcome obstacles, including sensitive data that may be leaked, to promote structural changes and impact in the research ecosystem.
A new working group of the Global Research Council aims to map existing funding mechanisms for global research collaboration. The group will assess opportunities for multilateral engagement and figure out how to implement them, despite legal barriers that prevent public resources from crossing national borders.
Experts at the Global Research Council's annual meeting emphasize the need for equal opportunities and local context-specific challenges to address climate change impacts. The assessment highlights the importance of global research collaboration, tailored solutions, and partnerships between countries to mitigate and adapt to climate ch...
The study found that smaller agri-SMEs owner-managed by women were more likely to experience disruptions in marketing and maintaining their labour supply. Larger agri-SMEs made changes to comply with government guidelines and sustained their business operations. Multi-faceted support packages are recommended to cushion these enterprises.
A study of almost 65,000 children aged up to 5 found that nearly 27% are infected with malaria, with older under-five children and those from large families or rural areas being most vulnerable. Insecticide-treated bed nets and improved housing are promising means to prevent malaria infection among children.
An observational study of 329,000 Medicare admissions found that older persons receiving hospital care from allopathic (M.D.) or osteopathic (D.O.) physicians experience similar quality and cost of care. Researchers also highlight systemic health inequities faced by persons with sickle cell disease.
Translation of Swahili language and knowledge during colonial and postcolonial periods in Tanganyika/Tanzania is complex, influenced by power dynamics and linguistic flexibility. The article highlights the role of European academics, missionaries, and students in shaping Swahili through translation, creating a 'developed' language that...
Scientists at Scripps Research have determined the structure of the critical protein complex that lets Lassa virus infect human cells, identifying new antibodies and vaccine targets. The research also found a high level of conservation across different lineages of the virus, paving the way for more effective vaccines and treatments.
A new fossil discovery shows that a tiger-sized, saber-toothed creature called Inostrancevia migrated 7,000 miles to occupy a vacant ecosystem before going extinct. The arrival of this top predator indicates its vulnerability and serves as an analogue for modern apex predators facing extinction due to human activities.
Recent studies reveal complex patterns of admixture in human populations, particularly in Africa and the Americas. In Africa, ancient introgression from Neanderthals and Denisovans contributed to increased genetic diversity, while in the Americas, modern admixture resulted in redistributed archaic ancestry.
A University of Leicester-led study suggests that ancient lakes existed in South Africa's interior during the last Ice Age, supporting hunter-gatherer communities. The research provides new insights into human migration patterns and ecosystem sensitivity to global climate change.
A recent study published in Nature challenges traditional views on human origins in Africa, proposing that modern humans emerged from the interaction of multiple populations across the continent. By analyzing genomic data from diverse African groups, researchers found evidence of gene flow and mixing over hundreds of thousands of years.
A cutting-edge study in Mozambique found that the beta variant of SARS-CoV-2 was transmitted through regional migration from South Africa, while the delta variant entered mainly from the UK and India. The analysis also revealed that most introductions did not contribute to local spread.
A Pharmacy PhD student from the University of Huddersfield has won a prestigious award to present her research on how community pharmacies can contribute to preventing suicide in low and middle-income countries, particularly in Nigeria. She aims to raise awareness of suicide and train pharmacists to recognize signs and risk factors.
African rhinos have dozens of gammaretroviruses in their genomes absent from Asian rhino species. The viruses are closely related to rodent viruses and suggest that African rhinos were infected by an exogenous viral variant, leading to genome colonization.
A devastating fungal disease, Fusarium wilt of banana (FWB), caused by Tropical Race 4 (TR4) is spreading in Mozambique, jeopardizing banana production. The Cavendish banana variety is highly susceptible to the disease, and lack of access to on-farm data hinders effective containment.
A study from the Max Planck Institute of Geoanthropology found technological continuity spanning 140,000 years at Bargny 1 site in Senegal, suggesting Middle Stone Age toolkits persisted longer than thought. The research highlights long-term cultural stability in West Africa's diverse habitats.
A new study reveals a higher prevalence of stunting and wasting among poor children, while overweight children live in richer homes. Researchers are calling for an integrated approach to tackle the 'double burden' of child malnutrition.
Researchers found evidence of abundant C4 grasses and habitat heterogeneity in eastern Africa, challenging previous reconstructions of early Miocene ecosystems. The study pushes back the oldest evidence of C4 grass-dominated habitats by over 10 million years, with implications for primate evolution and tropical ecosystem origins.
A climate-resilient bean genome unveiled potential to boost food security in drought-prone regions through improved genetic diversity and productivity. The sequencing of the hyacinth bean provides opportunities for targeted breeding to reduce anti-nutritional properties and increase its cultivation.
The study reveals that the African penguin's geographical range has shrunk significantly over the past 22,000 years due to rising sea levels, leaving only a few small islands as suitable nesting habitats. This decline has been exacerbated by human pressures such as climate change, habitat destruction, and competition for food.
Researchers found evidence of C4 grasses in eastern Africa dating back to around 15 million years ago, contradicting the long-held idea that open habitats proliferated later. The findings suggest that early apes lived in a variety of habitats and that C4 grasses played a significant role in shaping their evolution.
The Save Our Seas Foundation has awarded a record 75 grants to support shark and ray conservation projects worldwide. The foundation's 20th anniversary year highlights growing commitment to protecting these vital ocean species.
Scientists have discovered how sandgrouse hold water in their feathers, enabling males to fly long distances and retain enough water for chicks. The unique feather structure uses capillary action to absorb and retain water.
Researchers developed a model that predicts which species are at risk of becoming threatened or extinct based on climate change, human population growth, and land use patterns. The study aims to shift conservation efforts from reactive to proactive, enabling the protection of species before they reach threatened status.
African provinces' inclusive wealth per capita rose modestly by 1% between 2012 and 2018, signaling weak sustainability performance. The study highlights the tradeoffs between income and natural capital growth, emphasizing the importance of harmonizing national and subnational interventions.
Research highlights gaps in knowledge about the relationship between gender and energy, limiting policymakers' actions and exacerbating inequality. Women's access to finance, education, and household bargaining power can increase adoption of efficient cooking technologies and cleaner fuels.
Researchers analyzed manillas and found a strong similarity between the metal composition of Benin Bronzes and Portuguese trade prior to the 18th Century. The consistency in metal composition suggests that African metalsmiths were selective about what metal they used, with German brass being the principle source.
Adolescents in sub-Saharan Africa have limited access to digital devices, with varying rates of mobile phone ownership across countries. The study found that wealthier households and homes with high maternal education had greater access to digital technology.
The University of Liverpool has signed a 5-year agreement with the Mama Doing Good Foundation, Kenya Medical Research Institute, and other partners to reduce household air pollution in Kenya. The partnership aims to train 130,000 Kenyan community health workers to prevent household air pollution and improve community health.
Physicist Sekazi Mtingwa recognized for promoting accessibility, diversity, and equity in STEM. He co-developed the Bjorken-Mtingwa formulation solving intrabeam scattering effects, enabling more efficient particle accelerators.
Researchers found that infected mosquito saliva contains molecules called sfRNAs that can blunt the body's immune response. These molecules are injected during the mosquito bite, making it more likely for people to become infected with dengue virus.
The study confirms that a significant number of people from Southwest Asia moved to the Swahili coast in medieval and early modern times, having children with local populations. Hallmarks of the Swahili civilization predated these arrivals, contradicting previous scholarly views.
A University of South Florida anthropologist has uncovered the first ancient DNA from the Swahili Civilization, revealing African and Asian ancestry patterns. The study challenges centuries-old narratives and restores pride to the millions who identify as Swahili by providing clarity to their heritage.
A team of researchers from South Africa has discovered exceptional trace fossils that provide insight into the locomotion of ancient giant amphibians. The fossils, found on a rock surface once part of a tidal flat or lagoon, suggest these animals propelled themselves through water with continuous side-to-side tail motions.
A new study led by UCL researchers found evidence of ancient empires' impact on migration in Africa, revealing genetic traces from across the continent. The study used DNA data from over 1,300 individuals from 150 ethnic groups, identifying migrations linked to empires like Kanem-Bornu and Aksum.
A new study from the University of Surrey found that Water Safety Plans are not widely used in small drinking supplies in vulnerable rural areas due to a lack of awareness and training. This could put countless lives at risk, as these plans aim to improve the quality of small drinking water supplies.
A major conference will discuss the human cost of heritage loss due to climate change and explore how behavioural science can inform choices about what should be saved. International scholars and policy experts will examine how to measure the impact of Loss and Damage on coastal heritage.
A team of MIT researchers has created an 'unclonable' label system to combat counterfeit seeds in Africa, where fake seeds can cost farmers up to two-thirds of expected crop yields. The system uses biodegradable silk-based tags with unique codes that cannot be replicated.
Research at KAUST demonstrates that most of the Red Sea is underlain by oceanic crust, overturning the assumption that it's an extended rift basin. The team mapped the transition from a rift to seafloor spreading and found approximately two-thirds of the Red Sea is currently covered by oceanic crust.
A recent study found that organophosphate pesticides used to control desert locusts in Eastern Africa had devastating impacts on honey production, pollinators, and ecosystems. The campaign led to a 78% decline in honey production and an estimated loss of US$500 million in revenue.
A new study published in The Lancet found that an existing drug, sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine, protects pregnant women from sexually transmitted and reproductive tract infections. Researchers tested this drug alongside a promising new treatment, dihydroartemisinin-piperaquine, which showed unique ability to prevent malaria.
A community-based approach using health workers increased IPTp coverage by up to 473% in Nigeria, but did not reduce antenatal care attendance. The TIPTOP project shows that community health workers play a critical role in supporting the health of women and can save thousands of maternal and infant lives.
A global study aims to better understand the burden of Human papillomavirus (HPV) among girls and women in low- and lower middle-income countries. The study will inform effective strategies to prevent infection and introduce HPV vaccine into national programs, protecting the health of girls and women and reducing rates of cervical cancer.
A new study from the University of East Anglia finds that most people migrate short distances within their own country to adapt to climate change. The research reveals that everyday mobility is a crucial aspect of managing different shocks and stresses, including increasing climate variability.
A genomic study of 180 indigenous Africans provides new insights into human history, biology, and population diversity. The research sheds light on the origin of modern humans, African population history, and local adaptation, including traits such as skin color, heart development, and immunity.