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Game theory and economics show how to steer evolution in a better direction

Researchers use game theory and economics to steer evolution in a better direction, identifying conditions for improved outcomes through policy changes and coordination. The study provides a mathematical formula to determine when evolution managers will have sufficient incentive to steward biological resources.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 16, 2021

By capsule through the bloodstream: How intestinal bacteria communicate with the body

An international research team discovered that intestinal bacteria can distribute their metabolic products throughout the body via the bloodstream using membrane vesicles. The study found that these vesicles can overcome the blood-brain barrier and enter brain cells, suggesting a new method for delivering drugs or vaccines.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalJournal of Extracellular Vesicles·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 9, 2021

Centriole instability might contribute to some cases of microcephaly

Researchers at IRB Barcelona have identified γTuRC as a centriole stabilizer, revealing its role in maintaining centriole stability and preventing microcephaly. The study's findings suggest that defects in γTuRC may contribute to various human diseases, including adolescent scoliosis and male infertility.

SourceInstitute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona)·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 1, 2021

By 2500 earth could be alien to humans

Researchers warn that global warming could make the Amazon barren, the Midwest tropical, and India too hot to live in by 2500. Climate models project a future where vegetation and crop-growing areas shift towards the poles, leading to drastic changes and potential human fatalities.

SourceMcGill University·JournalGlobal Change Biology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 14, 2021

Genetic study explores how human pregnancy is unique

A new genetic study reveals hundreds of genes that evolved to be turned on or off in the human uterus during early pregnancy, shedding light on what makes human pregnancy uniquely human. These genes are involved in cell-to-cell communication, immune response regulation, and placental invasion, highlighting the importance of evolutionar...

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournaleLife·DateOct 11, 2021

AI may predict the next virus to jump from animals to humans

A study published in PLOS Biology suggests that machine learning models using viral genomes can predict the likelihood of an animal-infecting virus infecting humans. The researchers identified generalizable features in viral genomes that are independent of taxonomic relationships and developed models to identify candidate zoonoses.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 28, 2021

Science is based on promises, not on mere rules

The removal of the 14-day rule from international guidelines on embryo research has sparked concerns among bioethicists about the lack of consideration for potential consequences. The authors argue that countries should not automatically amend their laws without thoughtful discussions involving stakeholders and citizens.

SourceKyoto University·JournalEMBO Reports·TypeMeta-analysis·DateSep 6, 2021

New discovery pinpoints the ‘golden window’ for IVF success

Researchers at RMIT University have discovered a Teflon-like molecule on the womb's surface that decreases at a certain point in the menstrual cycle, opening the 'golden window' for pregnancy success. This finding could lead to improved IVF success rates and potentially treat underlying causes of infertility.

SourceRMIT University·JournalFertility and Sterility·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 23, 2021

Study of East Africans illuminates new genetic factors underlying human faces

A new study has identified 20 genetic regions linked to face shape in East Africans, highlighting the importance of diverse populations in understanding human facial features. The findings also reveal that shared genetic factors contribute to similarities across populations, while population-specific variants drive differences.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Genetics·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 19, 2021

What to call seafood made from fish cells

A new Rutgers study suggests that food companies use the terms "cell-based" or "cell-cultured" when labeling seafood products made from fish cells. The study found that both terms meet FDA regulations and help consumers understand the production process, while also recognizing potential allergens.

SourceRutgers University·JournalJournal of Food Science·DateAug 9, 2021

'Harder, better, faster, stronger'-tethered soft exosuit reduces metabolic cost of running

Researchers developed a tethered soft exosuit that reduces the metabolic cost of running on a treadmill by 5.4% compared to not wearing the exosuit. The study tested two different assistance profiles, one based on human biology and another based on simulation, with the latter outperforming the former in reducing metabolic cost.

With imprecise chips to the artificial brain

Junior Professor Dr. Elisabetta Chicca and colleagues discover that imprecise digital and analog circuits are more efficient than precise ones in building artificial nervous systems. The study, published in Proceedings of the IEEE, reveals a new approach to designing autonomous cognitive systems with minimal power requirements.

SourceBielefeld University·JournalProceedings of the IEEE·DateMay 16, 2014

E-whiskers

Researchers at Berkeley Lab created highly sensitive tactile sensors using composite films of carbon nanotubes and silver nanoparticles, 10 times more sensitive than previous pressure sensors. These e-whiskers can be integrated into various systems to enable robots to 'see' and 'feel' their surroundings.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 21, 2014