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
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.
A new study on Bardet-Biedl syndrome reveals that defective primary cilia can broadcast signals that worsen symptoms, including kidney problems and intellectual disabilities. Cilia play a crucial role in regulating intercellular communication, and their malfunctioning is responsible for various inherited disorders.
Researchers used a yeast model to understand the dynamics of early-stage ribosomal subunit assembly, discovering snR190 functions as an RNA chaperone. The study also identified Dbp7 as the enzyme responsible for dissociating snR190 from ribosomal RNA precursors.
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.
Researchers have found that heart cells regulate their circadian rhythms through changes in sodium and potassium ion levels, which can impact heart rate. This new understanding may lead to better treatments and preventative measures for combating heart conditions.
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.
A study published in The Journal of Sex Research found that higher testosterone levels are associated with having multiple partners in men and solitary sexual activity in women. The research, which analyzed data from nearly 4,000 adults, highlights the complex relationship between hormones and human sexuality.
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...
A study on fruit flies found that intermittent time-restricted fasting increased longevity and improved healthspan. The study suggests that stimulating autophagy at night could provide humans with similar benefits without the need for drastic dietary changes.
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
Researchers at Mount Sinai Hospital are testing a novel light therapy to slow Alzheimer's debilitating effects, aiming to improve both cognition and sleep. The treatment involves flashing pulses of light designed to enhance electrical brain waves and reset the sleep-wake cycle.
A new large-scale study created the most comprehensive Cell Atlas of the Gut to date, revealing that Crohn’s disease may be caused by activation of developmental pathways. The detailed maps will help explain how the gut forms and functions, transforming research into intestinal diseases.
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.
A new study asked over 470 firefighters about their recovery methods in extreme heat, finding that simple strategies like finding shade and drinking water are often used. The research suggests potential for better cooling and recovery protocols to improve firefighter safety and performance.
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.
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.
Researchers discovered that fetal membranes can heal after injury through the action of cells called myofibroblasts and protein Cx43. This finding holds promise for reducing the risk of birth complications from preterm prelabour rupture of the membranes, a leading cause of early infant death.
Researchers found that weighted restraint significantly decreases lung reserve volume and increases breathing effort during recovery from exercise. The study's findings suggest that prolonged application of weighted restraint could pose a threat to the subject's survival.
A new study reveals that metabolism increases rapidly during infancy, peaking at around one year old. After a gradual decline until the 20s, metabolism levels off and then slows down again after age 60, with older adults requiring fewer calories. The findings suggest that muscle loss and cellular changes contribute to this decline.
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.
Researchers review advancements in biosensing technologies for neonatal sepsis diagnosis, highlighting the need for faster and more accurate methods. Biosensors offer a promising solution, detecting multiple parameters simultaneously with high sensitivity and accuracy.
A long-running survey of ants at Stanford's Jasper Ridge Biological Preserve found that the distribution of Argentine ants has receded by 30% since 1994. Climate change was identified as a significant factor in this decrease, particularly during an extreme drought from 2012 to 2015.
A new biomarker, HBcrAg, has been found to accurately predict viral load in patients with chronic hepatitis B and reflect response to anti-viral treatments. This discovery may lead to improved monitoring methods for CHB, enabling clinical decisions and potentially improving patient outcomes.
Research highlights the connection between discrimination and altered gut microbiomes, which can impact metabolic and immune functions. The study's authors emphasize the need for further investigation into the relationship between the human gut microbiome and health inequities.
A recent study found that artificial neural networks develop spontaneous systems to name colours, adopting similar behaviours to humans. The researchers identified a universal property of optimizing complexity/accuracy trade-offs in discrete communication systems.
A new study published in the Journal of Marketing argues that a biological account of human behavior can benefit human welfare. The researchers found that many undesirable consumer behaviors are biologically rooted in the brain and genes, and that acceptance of biology as a causal explanation varies depending on factors such as portray...
The 1st International BioDesign Research Conference was a groundbreaking event that brought together 64 world-renowned experts to present on biosystem design and synthetic biology. The conference featured 126 abstracts and 35 satellite video presentations, showcasing the latest research in this field.
Prellis Bio successfully generated 300 human IgG antibodies against SARS-CoV2, leveraging its Externalized Human Immune System technology. This achievement demonstrates the potential of the technology for rapid antibody production, reducing time to one month compared to traditional methods.
The MDI Biological Laboratory will use the African turquoise killifish, a vertebrate with a short lifespan of four to six months, to study aging and its relation to regeneration. This model shares symptoms of aging with humans, including loss of muscle mass and decline in immune function.
A new time-banking system utilizing blockchain technology is being tested in Vanuatu to assess human value based on societal obligations and assisting others. The system aims to redefine the concept of work by prioritizing psychological, emotional, or spiritual needs over tangible benefits.
New research reveals that different types of habitat loss can destabilise entire plant and animal communities. The study found that the specific ways in which habitat is lost is key to understanding its impact on ecosystem function and stability.
Researchers found that when we watch people perform actions, our expectations distort our perception of their behavior. However, this distortion does not occur with inanimate objects. The study suggests that our attributions of intention play a key role in shaping our understanding of others' actions.
Researchers discovered that labiodentals, made by touching lower lip to upper teeth, increased dramatically in recent millennia following agriculture development. This finding suggests language is shaped by culturally-induced changes in human biology to a previously underrecognized extent.
New research maps the distribution of destructive human activities impacting threatened birds, mammals, and amphibians globally. The study identifies hotspots of human impact, including South East Asia and South America, where tropical forests are rich in biodiversity.
A new study finds that the decline in mortality among the very old may be due to errors in data collection and analysis, rather than biological factors. The researchers suggest that even small errors can significantly impact mortality rates, particularly at the end of life.
Researchers from McMaster University have discovered a novel genetic control of lipid maintenance that links to lifespan. The study found that the WNT signalling pathway plays a key role in regulating lipid production, which is essential for healthy living.
A team of researchers at UC Davis has developed a new method to estimate the biological sex of human skeletal remains based on protein traces from teeth. This method uses sensitive mass spectrometry to measure proteins and can be used alongside existing techniques.
Prellis Biologics has developed record speed and resolution technology for printing human tissue with viable capillaries, a major hurdle in organ engineering. This breakthrough enables the production of thick, functioning tissue for drug testing and ultimately human organs.
Researchers found that young zebra finches are biased to produce specific sound patterns, similar to those in human languages and music. This bias is thought to be influenced by innate brain mechanisms, supporting the idea of a 'universal grammar' for language learning.
A team of scientists used a novel microscope to measure the density of heterochromatin, a tightly packed form of chromatin found in human cells. The study reveals that heterochromatin DNA is not fully inactive, but rather has physical properties that can be described in live cells.
Researchers developed a new method to predict human biological age using carotid artery data, with a mean absolute error of 6.9 and 5.9 years for healthy individuals. The study used a combination of carotid ultrasound and tonometry data, as well as machine learning algorithms.
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.
The Society of Biological Psychiatry recognized the Simons Foundation with the 2017 Humanitarian Award for its leadership in decreasing stigma, advancing awareness, and contributing to research advancements. The $5,000 award prize was presented by Dr. Kerry Ressler on May 19, 2017.
The discovery of two partial archaic human skulls from the Lingjing site in central China reveals a complex mix of biological trends among early modern humans. The fossils, dated to around 100,000 years ago, show a blend of features with late archaic and early modern humans, as well as Neandertals.
A study at Technical University of Munich found that antibodies can activate human nerve cells within milliseconds, modifying their function. This knowledge improves understanding of illnesses associated with certain types of cancer and paraneoplastic syndromes, which occur when the body's autoimmune reaction attacks its own cells.
The review highlights the need for personalized biologic dosing in rheumatoid arthritis treatment due to varying patient responses and drug concentrations. Implementing individualized doses can improve therapeutic outcomes while reducing costs.
Researchers propose a unifying framework for managing environmental microbiomes, highlighting the importance of preserving biodiversity in maintaining human health. The study suggests that altering microbial diversity can have significant impacts on human health, emphasizing the need for effective management strategies.
Researchers found that women generally outlive men across multiple species, with a ubiquity of survival advantage. However, they also appear to be in poorer health through adult life, with higher rates of physical limitations and health problems like osteoarthritis and back pain.
A study in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences identified biological factors predicting viral transmission efficiency among humans. Low host mortality and extended survival time increase a virus's ability to spread, while envelope structures and insect vectors hinder emergence.
A recent study published in the American Journal of Human Biology found that cortisol levels increase with aggressive behavior in 10-year-old boys. Cortisol is not associated with increased aggression in girls during this age range.
The journal will publish evidence-based original research on the impact of biological sex on 21st century technology and human life. Topics include sex-specific differences in genomic and cellular function, synthetic biology, and technological advances.
Researchers identified over 100 biologically important areas (BIAs) in U.S. waters to inform conservation and management decisions for whales, dolphins, and porpoises. BIAs cover 24 species, stocks, or populations in seven regions and include reproductive, feeding, migratory, and population-concentrated areas.
Adjusting dietary manipulation may help patients with various conditions by influencing the internal biological clock. Insulin plays a crucial role in resetting the circadian clock, allowing for effective digestion and absorption.
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.
The Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS) has selected six papers for the 2013 Cozzarelli Prize, honoring originality and excellence in scientific disciplines. The award recipients include studies on planetary formation, task-related 'cortical' bursting, and honey bee pathogen replication.
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.
Researchers found that South American squirrel monkeys can detect structural dependencies in musical patterns, similar to those found in human languages. This suggests that the ability to process dependencies may have evolved in human cognition along with human language.
A study published in the American Journal of Human Biology found that children spending more than three-quarters of their time sedentary have up to nine times poorer motor coordination than their active peers. Physical activity alone is not enough to overcome the negative effects of sedentary behavior on basic motor skills.
The FASEB MARC Program has awarded a $1,650 travel grant to Shanelle Joseph from Southern University and A
tM College for her poster/platform presentation at the 2012 meeting. The program aims to increase underrepresented minority engagement in biomedical research.