Articles tagged with Asia
The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases has funded 10 international centers for excellence in malaria research, with a focus on cutting-edge research in endemic areas. The program aims to generate critical knowledge, tools, and evidence-based strategies to support intervention and control programs in regions most affe...
A new study by endocrinologists at the University at Buffalo has shown that Vietnam veterans exposed to Agent Orange have significantly more Graves' disease, a thyroid disorder. The autoimmune disease was three times more prevalent among veterans who encountered the dioxin-containing chemical.
Using television and radio to tell stories about sustainable rice farming has helped Asian farmers better conserve biodiversity. Dr. K.L. Heong's research found that building biodiversity into rice paddies can prevent pest outbreaks, reducing the need for pesticides.
Over 100 million people in rural southern Asia are exposed to unsafe levels of arsenic from their well-water, increasing cancer risks and causing cardiovascular disease. Researchers propose using deeper wells only for individual households and implementing measures to preserve deep wells specifically for drinking water.
Researchers have discovered that the Indian continental crust was forced down to a depth of at least 200 km under the Asian plate during the Himalayan collision. This finding is significant as it contradicts previous estimates and challenges fundamental parameters of Himalayan tectonics.
Groundwater experts propose using deeper aquifers for irrigation, pumping high volumes of water from wells can pull down arsenic-contaminated water. Scientists recommend retesting existing deep wells on a regular basis to ensure quality. Filtration and alternative methods are used in countries without deep aquifers.
A genetic analysis reveals that flu strains in the US don't disappear at the end of winter, but instead migrate to South America and other parts of the world. This knowledge has implications for public health efforts, including antiviral use and vaccination programs.
Researchers reconstructed the initial 2009 H1N1 influenza outbreak in Ho Chi Minh City, finding that containment efforts may have delayed establishment of infection but did not prevent community spread. The study also showed that treatment clearance times varied depending on treatment timing and patient characteristics.
A study examining global hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) rates found significant differences in transplant use between countries and regions. HSCT is most frequently used in countries with higher gross national incomes and governmental healthcare expenditures.
The Lancet China special issue was launched at a joint event in Beijing, combining the inauguration of the China Center for Health Development Studies. The issue features various articles on healthcare reform, children's health, air and water quality, and more.
A new study of tree rings provides the most detailed record yet of at least four epic droughts that have shaken Asia over the last thousand years. The research reveals the role of climate in historical events, such as the fall of China's Ming Dynasty and the collapse of kingdoms in Vietnam, Myanmar, and Thailand.
Catalan researchers have found a new species of primate, Pliopithecus canmatensis, in the Vallès-Penedès basin. The discovery sheds light on the evolution and dispersal of this extinct family of primitive Catarrhini primates from Africa to Eurasia.
A new study reveals that modern-day Chinese pigs are directly descended from ancient pigs domesticated 10,000 years ago. The research found a difference between pig domestication patterns in Europe and East Asia, with no incorporation of wild boar into domestic stocks in China.
The South East Asia Infectious Disease Clinical Research Network emphasizes the importance of laboratory improvement for generating reliable data in resource-constrained settings. Local experts and scientists are vital to research, requiring active participation in scientific activities and continuing education programs.
Newborn mortality in low-income countries is a significant concern, with many infants going unseen by health services. Community-based approaches, such as community mobilization and home visits by community workers, can improve newborn survival rates, according to a study published in PLoS Medicine.
A study suggests that severe droughts and heavy monsoon rains may have weakened Angkor's economy and led to its downfall. The research, published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, found evidence of a mega-drought lasting three decades, which could have exacerbated crop failure and infectious disease.
University of Guam professors Seyda Turk Smith, Kyle D. Smith, and Abdulgaffar Peang-Meth published an article in the International Journal of Intercultural Relations on university-based services for asylum seekers on Guam. The study highlights the importance of community formation among refugees through need-based activities and cultu...
A new analysis of elephant trade data highlights the failure of law enforcement in Central and West Africa and South-east Asia, where large domestic ivory markets openly sell ivory illegally. Urgent law enforcement action is crucial to addressing the illicit ivory trade.
The World Wildlife Fund's latest report reveals that the China-Myanmar border is allowing illegal wildlife trade, with vendors selling tiger bone wine and other products to buyers in China. The report highlights the need for effective enforcement of laws to end all illegal trade.
The study examines the effects of geopolitical change on scientific production over the last 30 years. Asia's share of world scientific output grew by 155% and China has shown spectacular progress, catching up with the US in natural sciences and engineering by 2015.
Smallholder mixed farmers, who feed most of the world's poor people, are neglected by aid and policies. The authors urge wealthy countries to support small-scale farming systems that combine crop and livestock production, which can increase food production sustainably.
Researchers tracked a virulent strain of MRSA using genome sequencing, shedding light on its spread between South America, Europe, and Southeast Asia. The study reveals the bacteria's evolutionary history and patient-to-patient transmission within a single hospital.
A new study by NOAA and international partners found that springtime ozone levels in western North America are rising due to air flowing eastward from the Pacific Ocean, primarily from Asia. The increases could make it harder for the US to meet ozone pollution standards.
A new study links springtime ozone increases above western North America to air pollution from Asia and other regions. Researchers analyzed nearly 100,000 ozone observations to find that global atmospheric wind patterns track emissions back to broad regions of origin.
The Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) satellite reported that Tropical Depression 01W's rainfall is now light and widely scattered. The storm has made landfall and is dissipating over Vietnam and Cambodia, bringing light rain to some areas.
A global survey by WHO found that unnecessary caesarean sections increase risk of maternal mortality and morbidity, while medically indicated procedures are associated with improved perinatal outcomes. Caesarean section for breech presentation is linked to reduced perinatal mortality but increased risk of neonatal ICU stay.
A new warbler species, the 'limestone leaf warbler', has been discovered in Laos and Vietnam. The bird is characterized by its distinct vocalizations and morphological differences from other warblers in the area.
A Duke University study of over 3,000 orphaned and abandoned children in five countries found that institutional care can be a viable option, with better physical health and cognitive functioning than community-dwelling peers. The research challenges global policies recommending institutions only as a last resort.
A study of 73 Southeast Asian and East Asian populations reveals a high correlation between genetic ancestry and ethnic groups, contradicting previous theories. Genetic diversity increases from northern to southern latitudes, suggesting a single major migration route from Southeast Asia.
TRMM satellite analyzed Typhoon Mirinae's rainfall, showing totals over 200 mm in the Philippines and 275 mm in Vietnam. The typhoon dropped heavy rain north of its path, causing flooding and disasters.
A new tropical cyclone has formed in the Philippine Sea, with NASA's Aqua satellite confirming its presence. The system is expected to impact the Philippines, prompting public storm warnings and warnings from local authorities.
Typhoon Mirinae made landfall in Vietnam with strong thunderstorms, leaving behind floods, destruction, and death. The storm had maximum sustained winds near 57 mph and caused serious flooding, power outages, and landslides, taking at least 10 lives.
The European Society of Cardiology is addressing the growing need for improved CVD management in Asia through events that promote an integrated approach. The region faces a significant challenge due to the increasing prevalence of type 2 diabetes, which accounts for up to 50% of deaths related to CVD.
China's new initiatives aim to replace 'paper tigers' with real conservation efforts, including improved policing of tiger trade and awareness-raising campaigns. The International Tiger Coalition welcomes China's engagement and recognizes the country's crucial role in wild tiger conservation.
Tropical Storm Parma is expected to bring moderate to heavy rainfall to Vietnam before and after landfall. The storm has already caused significant damage and loss of life in China, with reports of three fatalities and over 35,000 people evacuated.
A new species of horned tyrannosaur, Alioramus altai, has been discovered in Asia, exhibiting a unique set of adaptations for meat-eating. The fossil, found in the Gobi Desert, shows a gracile cousin of Tyrannosaurus rex with slender teeth and small muscle attachments.
NASA's infrared satellite images showed Typhoon Ketsana dumping heavy rains on northern Philippines and Vietnam with thunderstorm cloud tops as cold as -63F. The storm brought record rainfall, deadly flooding, and mudslides, affecting over 2 million homes.
The International Osteoporosis Foundation reports a growing problem of osteoporosis in Asia, with hip fracture incidence increasing 2-to 3-fold over the past 30 years. Vitamin D deficiency and low calcium intake are widespread, resulting in significant personal suffering, lost productivity, and long-term dependence.
A multicenter study found that drug-eluting stents are safe and effective in patients with diabetes, with low acute complications. The study showed a lower rate of restenosis for certain stent types, such as SES, BES, and EES.
Pneumonia caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae and Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) claim an estimated 1.2 million child lives annually. Effective vaccines exist but their use is limited in low-income countries. Implementing pneumococcal vaccine could save over 440,000 children's lives by 2015.
The global average annual rate of reduction in under-5 mortality has increased from 2000-2008 compared to 1990-2000. However, the world is still far from achieving Millennium Development Goal 4, with many regions not on track to meet the target.
The Saola's population has declined sharply since its discovery in 1992, with only a few dozen individuals remaining. The primary threats to the species are hunting and snaring, which can be devastatingly effective due to the Saola's vulnerability to dogs.
Researchers at KTH in Stockholm have made new discoveries about the history of the dog, pinpointing its birthplace to Asia south of the Yangtze River in China 16,000 years ago. The findings suggest that the dog descended from a large number of tamed wolves, with several hundred animals involved in its origins.
Researchers discovered that genetic differences exist more within Central Asian ethnic groups than between them, indicating a constructed social system rather than common ancestry. This challenges traditional notions of ethnicity and highlights the importance of analyzing genetic data in understanding ethnological issues.
A team of researchers found that glaciers in the region advanced due to cooler temperatures created by increased cloud cover and reduced evaporation. The study provides valuable insights into how glaciers respond to climate change, enabling better forecasting of water supply changes in the coming decades.
The region may need to import over a quarter of its rice, wheat and maize if current irrigation management is not improved or innovated. A new study warns that Asia's vast irrigation systems must be revitalized to meet the growing food demand without further straining water resources.
A survey conducted in Ohio found that Latin Americans were viewed most negatively by residents, with poor ratings on characteristics such as wealth and intelligence. In contrast, Asian immigrants received high marks for being self-sufficient and Europeans were seen as the most fitting in with American culture.
A team of Indian and American researchers used computers to extract patterns in ancient Indus symbols, creating a statistical model for the unknown language. The study provides insights into the underlying grammatical structure of the Indus script.
A study of a 40,000-year-old human skeleton found high levels of nitrogen isotopes suggesting regular consumption of freshwater fish. This suggests that early modern humans in China had access to fish as a food source before the development of effective fishing gear.
A water snake from South East Asia has developed an unusual hunting technique that startles fish into fleeing towards its head. The snake uses sound waves to trigger the fish's 'C-start' response, driving them to swim directly into its jaws.
The Lancet is launching a major series on the state of public health in southeast Asia to assess the region's successes, challenges, and growing risk of pandemics. The series will focus on building effective capacity and cooperation between health institutions and ministries across the region.
A recent review of contaminated waters found high concentrations of pharmaceuticals, including antibiotics, in natural and drinking waters. The study warns that increased farm usage of anti-infectives may augment levels in future agricultural wastewater, posing a risk to aquatic biota and human health.
A landmark USGS study documents the process of methylmercury formation in the North Pacific Ocean, which contaminates tuna and other seafood. The study shows that long-range transport of mercury from Asia is a significant pathway, highlighting the need for reduced mercury emissions to protect public health.
A recent study highlights the importance of prompt medical intervention in combat injuries, where timely surgical care can significantly improve survival rates. Orthopaedic surgeons are at the forefront of this effort, providing treatment as soon as possible to prevent further damage and promote optimal function.
Oil palm expansion in the Brazilian Amazon is likely to occur at the expense of natural forest, according to William F. Laurance and Rhett A. Butler. The proposed revision to Brazil's forest code would allow up to 30% of reserved forests to consist of oil palm plantations.
The study provides a comprehensive map of global malaria endemicity, revealing areas where malaria control can be improved and areas where elimination may be possible. The map uses model-based geostatistics to incorporate data from local surveys, providing an important resource for policymakers and researchers.
Scientists propose that rapid sea level rises over the past 5 million years led to habitat compression, causing species extinction locally. A study of 325 mammal species mapped their ranges across the peninsula, revealing a 600-kilometer gap with 30% fewer species than expected.
The Earth Observatory of Singapore (EOS) aims to provide invaluable research and data on environmental threats such as earthquakes, tsunamis, volcanic eruptions, and climate change in Southeast Asia. The centre will also embark on outreach and education programmes to spark interest in earth sciences among students.
Springer has partnered with Education Research Institutes in Seoul and Taiwan to publish the Asia Pacific Education Review journal, further expanding its education research portfolio. The partnership aims to enhance the journal's reputation and make it available to a worldwide audience.
The report finds that climate change is the primary threat to coral reefs worldwide, with bleaching and acidification expected to cause significant declines. However, some reefs have shown recovery, particularly those in protected areas or with minimal human impact.