Scientists discover the evolutionary secret behind different animal life cycles
Researchers uncover mechanism explaining how embryos form larvae or miniature adults, correlating gene activation timing with life cycle evolution.
Life Cycles
Articles tagged with Life Cycles
Climate conundrum: Study finds ants aren’t altering behavior in rising temperatures
Researchers at North Carolina State University found that ants do not adjust their behavior in response to rising temperatures, persisting in sub-optimal microhabitats. The study suggests that ants may not be able to adapt to warmer ecosystems, with potential implications for forest ecosystems.
SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalJournal of Animal Ecology·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 16, 2023
Cell quality control
In a groundbreaking study, researchers at Eötvös Loránd University have found that gland cells in Drosophila melanogaster can remove defective secretory particles as early as the secretion process begins. This discovery sheds new light on crinophagy, a previously understudied process crucial for maintaining cellular quality and function.
Energy footprint is reduced by the alternative community lifestyle
A study by UPV/EHU's Ekopol and Life Cycle Thinking groups found that an alternative community lifestyle can reduce energy consumption due to the significance of energy used in goods and services. The energy footprint per inhabitant of Errekaleor neighbourhood is 24% lower than that of ACBC.
SourceUniversity of the Basque Country·JournalSustainable Production and Consumption·DateDec 6, 2022
Biofuel on the road to energy, cost savings
Researchers at Argonne National Laboratory have identified promising new biofuels that can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 60% while improving fuel efficiency or reducing tailpipe emissions. The biofuels, developed using advanced engine design, can be blended with conventional fuels to improve engine performance and meet more ...
SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering·DateNov 10, 2022
Tiger sharks that interact with tourists are larger and have higher hormone levels, study shows
Researchers found that female tiger sharks that frequently visit Tiger Beach in the Bahamas are larger and have higher hormone levels than other individuals. The study suggests possible effects of mass tourism on these sharks, with females having better nutritional states and more omega-3 in their blood.
Louisiana State University biologist applies AI to build a world plant life cycle timing database
Dr. Daijiang Li is building Phenobase, a global database on plant phenology using AI and machine learning to extract information from millions of images and existing records.
It takes guts: fungus living inside cave crickets reveals fungal evolution steps
A research group from Japan has found a new genus of fungus in the Kickxellales that inhabits the guts of cave crickets, suggesting the evolutionary transition between saprobes and gut-inhabiting fungi. The discovery sheds light on how fungi in the Kickxellomycotina evolved to live inside animals.
Researchers discover new multicellular bacteria species
Researchers have isolated a novel bacterial species, HS-3, that displays complex multicellular behavior and a reversible two-phase life cycle. The discovery reveals a previously unknown mechanism for the emergence of multicellularity in bacteria, suggesting that environmental factors played a crucial role.
Association of healthy lifestyle with mortality among former smokers
A large study of former smokers found that those adhering to evidence-based recommendations for body weight, diet, physical activity, and alcohol intake had a significantly lower risk of death. The study included nearly 160,000 older U.S. adults and showed that better lifestyle habits can reduce mortality risk from various causes.
When mothers shut down the fathers’ genes in the embryo
Researchers found that Marchantia liverworts completely inactivate paternal genes in embryos, ensuring proper development. The mechanism involves Polycomb Repressive Complex 2 and maintains haploid dosage despite the short diploid phase.
SourceGregor Mendel Institute of Molecular Plant Biology·JournaleLife·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 23, 2022
Chinese Medical Journal Review shines a light on the overlooked virus, hepatitis D
Researchers discuss Hepatitis D's life cycle and interactions with its host, exploring strategies for further research to combat this overlooked virus. HDV coinfects people with hepatitis B, rapidly progressing to liver cirrhosis and cancer if left untreated, with a review published in the Chinese Medical Journal.
Animal health: New life expectancy estimates for UK dogs suggest Jack Russell Terriers live longest
A new study analyzed 30,563 records of dog deaths in the UK, finding that Jack Russell Terriers have the highest life expectancy at birth (12.72 years), while French Bulldogs have one of the lowest (4.53 years). Neutering also appears to increase life expectancy for dogs.
Revising the lifecycle of an important human parasite
Scientists tracked Cryptosporidium in real-time, revealing a simplified lifecycle that completes in three days with only three stages: asexual cells, male cells, and female cells. This understanding paves the way for potential vaccines or therapies to combat the disease.
The University of the Basque Country on track to cut its environmental and social footprint
The University of the Basque Country is taking steps to cut its environmental and social footprint by analyzing its impact through life-cycle assessment and modeling. By identifying areas for improvement, such as reducing transportation emissions and extending computer lifespan, the university aims to reduce its impact by up to 30%.
Life cycle assessment of carbon capture
A life cycle assessment of carbon capture at Amager Bakke incineration plant reveals that the technology reduces CO2 emissions from incineration but decreases electricity production by 50%. The overall net energy efficiency is not affected, but heat output increases by 20%.
SourceTechnical University of Denmark·JournalWaste Management & Research The Journal for a Sustainable Circular Economy·DateNov 9, 2021
How weather affects crawfish harvests
A study by Louisiana State University researchers found that heavy rainfall in August can suppress crawfish harvest yields in the spring due to low oxygen levels in ponds. Winter temperatures also impact crawfish growth, with freezing conditions slowing it down.
Illinois professor proposes guide for developing common data science approaches
A University of Illinois professor has proposed a framework for guiding researchers in developing common data science approaches, aiming to unify conversations and share knowledge across disciplines. The data science life cycle framework identifies key issues that can be generalized across fields and those specific to each discipline.
SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalCommunications of the ACM·DateJun 25, 2020
Drug used for liver disease also affects C. diff life cycle, reduces inflammation in mice
Researchers found that a commonly used drug, ursodiol, can reduce inflammation in mice infected with C. difficile and inhibit the life cycle of the bacteria. The study suggests that ursodiol may be a viable alternative to antibiotic treatments for C. diff infections.
What happens to gold nanoparticles in cells?
Researchers found gold nanoparticles undergo significant transformations after a few weeks in cellular environments. They revealed mechanisms of detoxification and cell protection, also seen in the degradation of other nanomaterials.
Only eat oysters in months with an 'r'? Rule of thumb is at least 4,000 years old
A new study suggests people have been eating only oysters in months with the letter 'r' - September to April - for at least 4,000 years. Researchers analyzed snail parasites on discarded shells to determine the seasonal pattern of oyster harvesting.
Map of malaria behavior set to revolutionize research
Researchers have created a detailed map of individual malaria parasite behavior, giving the highest resolution view of malaria parasite gene expression to date. The Malaria Cell Atlas presents possible targets for developing antimalarial drugs, vaccines, and transmission blocking strategies.
Parasite needs chemical (lipid/nutrient) in cat intestines for sex
Researchers discovered that Toxoplasma gondii requires linoleic acid to complete its sexual phase of life, a nutrient found at high levels in feline intestines. The finding may lead to the development of treatments to reduce the spread of toxoplasmosis from cats to humans.
Live fast and die young, or play the long game? Scientists map 121 animal life cycles
Researchers identified two key elements of animal life cycles: pace (reproduction rate and lifespan) and shape (mortality rate across lifespan). This study provides insights into conservation strategies and predicts winners and losers from the global environment crisis.
Treatment for common cause of diarrhea more promising
Researchers at WashU Medicine have successfully grown the most common type of Cryptosporidium in the lab using a new technique. This breakthrough will accelerate efforts to treat the deadly infection and identify potential drug candidates.
How landscape plants have an impact on the carbon footprint
A study examines how landscape plants contribute to greenhouse gas emissions during production and use, with life cycle assessment revealing the dominant contributor is equipment use. Modifying activities in landscape plant production can reduce carbon footprint and promote environmentally friendly behavior.
A new aspect in Plasmodium falciparum life cycle revealed: 'Express' sexual conversion
A new study reveals that Plasmodium falciparum parasites can directly convert from their asexual to sexual form without an additional replication cycle, increasing the parasite's survival and transmission capabilities. This finding provides important information on the malaria parasite's lifecycle and its transmission to mosquitoes.
Structure of spherical viruses aren't as perfect as we thought
New study using cryo-EM reveals structural asymmetry in spherical viruses like dengue and Zika, challenging long-held assumptions about icosahedral symmetry. The research found that many viruses have nearly icosahedral structures, with unique features like 'belly buttons' on their outer layer.
Study uncovers new link between neonicotinoid pesticide exposure and bumblebee decline
Researchers found that queens and males are greatly affected by low-dose neonicotinoid pesticide exposure, threatening the stability and survival of wild bee populations. The study also reveals that exposure alters genes regulating biological functions such as locomotion, reproduction, immunity, and learning and memory.
African killifish becomes fastest maturing vertebrate on record
Researchers found that African killifish can mature and reproduce in as little as two weeks, setting a new record for the fastest maturation rate in vertebrates. The fish's lifespan is also highly flexible, with some individuals reaching sexual maturity in up to 10 weeks.
Finding a weak link in the frightful parasite Schistosoma
Researchers at Morgridge Institute for Research identified key stem cells governing the complex life cycle of Schistosoma. A gene associated with germline development was also found, providing potential targets for prevention and treatment of schistosomiasis, a deadly neglected tropical disease affecting hundreds of millions.
Research offers new insights into malaria parasite
Researchers have discovered that various stages of the malaria parasite's life cycle are connected to epigenetic features and chromatin structure. The study provides insights into the connection between genome organization, epigenetics, and stage-specific gene expression in the malaria parasite.
First-ever transgenic ticks to help fight tick-borne diseases such as Lyme disease
Researchers at the University of Nevada, Reno have successfully developed the world's first transgenic ticks to combat tick-borne diseases like Lyme disease. By disrupting insulin signaling in ticks, the scientists aim to better understand pathogen interactions and develop new vector control targets.
Microwaves could be as bad for the environment as cars suggests new research
A new study by the University of Manchester reveals that microwaves emit significant amounts of carbon dioxide equivalent to 6.8 million cars annually in the EU. The research also found that microwaves consume substantial electricity, equivalent to three large gas power plants, and contributes to resource depletion and climate change.
NASA's look at the difference of a few days in the Thomas Fire
Thomas Fire contained to 60% thanks to improving weather conditions, with satellite images showing reduced hot spots and smoke. However, forecasted strong north winds may reignite the fire, prompting concern for continued spread.
Life in marine driftwood: The case of driftwood specialist talitrids
Driftwood hoppers, also known as talitrids, have evolved to thrive in marine driftwood habitats. They are characterized by their small size and reliance on symbiotic microflora for digestive purposes. The species demonstrate dwarfism due to poor diet and slow metabolism, with the smallest species measuring less than 6 mm in length.
In the face of climate change can our engineers keep the trains running on time?
Climate change creates extreme conditions that impact railway bridge maintenance, requiring new solutions to mitigate track deterioration and reduce carbon emissions. The study evaluates the effectiveness of eight mitigation measures, recommending elastic rail pads, soft baseplates, and under ballast mats for short-span bridges.
Genetic 'fossils' reveal long-term viral partnerships in grass
Defective viruses in grass genomes form partnerships with other viruses to compensate for functional deficiencies, resulting in concerted evolution of noncoding regulatory sequences. This partnership enables the development and maintenance of relationships over time.
Fueling the future
A study published in Energy & Environmental Science found that second-generation biofuels made from managed trees and perennial grasses may provide a sustainable fuel resource. The research demonstrated an 80% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions relative to petroleum diesel.
Not all cool pavements are created equal
A new research from Berkeley Lab found that the choice of pavement material can significantly impact carbon emissions. The study's decision tool helps cities understand the trade-offs of cool pavements and their potential environmental consequences. Cities may need to reconsider their cool pavement strategies, as the benefits may not o...
Why Lyme disease is common in the north, rare in the south
A USGS-led study found that high temperatures and lower humidity kill off ticks that transmit Lyme disease, making it less common in the South. The researchers discovered that southern black-legged ticks tend to stay hidden under leaves to retain moisture, increasing their survival rates.
Brazilian study compiles data on 958 types of South American jellyfish
The Brazilian census details 958 distinct morphological types of jellyfish, including their habitats, occurrences, and ecological data. The most toxic species belong to the class Cubozoa, while the class Scyphozoa includes a common Brazilian species.
Forsyth study provides new insight in the fight against Sjögren's syndrome
Researchers at the Forsyth Institute have defined the immune-regulatory mechanisms of Sjögren's syndrome, revealing how PD-L1 and PD-1 proteins interact to suppress protective immunity. The study found that inhibiting this pathway accelerates autoimmune responses and disease development.
Lack of plasmodium surface-protein blocks mosquito infection
A study published in Cell Host & Microbe reveals that a Plasmodium surface-protein is essential for the malaria parasite's life cycle in mosquitoes. The discovery provides a new approach to block transmission and offers hope for developing vaccines or drugs to alleviate malaria suffering.
Sheffield researchers identify greater environmental risks in 'green' material
Sheffield researchers found that replacing lead zirconate titanate with potassium sodium niobate poses significant environmental risks due to heavy metal and radioactive material releases. The study's life cycle analysis revealed harmful effects on air, water, and land quality prior to material use.
The life cycle of proteins
Researchers discovered that around one-tenth of proteins remain stable and live longer than expected as they age. This finding could explain why additional gene copies don't automatically result in more protein production.
SourceMax Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association·JournalCell·DateOct 6, 2016
USU ecologists propose new method to probe population growth questions
Researchers developed a mathematical framework to identify key life cycle components driving population growth. This approach can be applied to existing data to provide more robust answers to demographic questions in ecology and evolution.
Ecological context of mosquito-borne infectious disease
Research at the ESA Annual Meeting highlights the complex relationships between mosquitoes and their environments. Mosquito life cycles are connected to temperature and humidity, but warming climates may not always increase disease transmission. A study found that invasive mosquito species can even help break the spread of parasites.
Ecoprofile for 2014 Ingeo® Biopolymers Production
The updated ecoprofile data assesses energy, water, and resource usage, as well as air and water emissions and solid waste. Ingeo biopolymers replace petroleum-derived materials in various products, offering positive lifecycle benefits.
SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalIndustrial Biotechnology·DateJul 6, 2015
TSRI team gets new close-up view of key part of Ebola virus life cycle
A new study by TSRI researchers provides a higher-resolution view of the Ebola virus life cycle, revealing key vulnerabilities that can be targeted with antiviral therapeutics. The findings also shed light on how the virus assembles its genetic material, which is critical for understanding its structure-based design.
A tool is created to improve the sustainability of the transport sector
The European Commission developed the BIOLCA tool to evaluate alternative fuels and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. It allows users to simulate life cycles, compare environmental impacts, and boost sustainability.
Seeds out of season
Scientists created a new modeling framework to study the relationships between different stages of a plant's life cycle. The study found that changes in environmental factors can affect the duration of subsequent stages. This research has the potential to improve crop yields and conservation efforts amid climate change.
From single cells to multicellular life
Researchers observed the evolution of simple self-reproducing groups of cells from individual cells, revealing a reproductive division of labour. Cheats that initially exploited others' cooperation eventually became seeds for future generations, leading to the emergence of multicellular organisms with improved fitness.
Tree frogs speed up their life cycle when becoming lunch
Hansen's tree frog embryos hatch earlier after being preyed upon by katydids, responding to chemical cues. This flexible hatching behavior allows the frog an adaptive advantage, as it gives them time to escape into the next life-stage.
Yale journal explores advances in sustainable manufacturing
A Yale School of Environment special issue examines life cycle engineering for a more sustainable manufacturing sector. The study finds that product design and maintenance can significantly reduce environmental impact.
The carbon footprint of flowering trees
A study by Charles R. Hall and Dewayne Ingram found that flowering trees have a total cost from seedling to end-of-life of $98.60, with labor costs accounting for $43.68. The research emphasizes the importance of life cycle assessment in understanding the inputs and impacts of systems producing field-grown trees.
A mathematical perspective of seasonal variations in Lyme disease transmission
Researchers develop a reaction-diffusion model to account for seasonal patterns in Lyme disease transmission, taking into consideration factors such as temperature, rainfall, and resource availability. The model aims to drive the basic reproduction number R0 below 1 to eradicate the disease.
SourceSociety for Industrial and Applied Mathematics·JournalSIAM Journal on Applied Mathematics·DateDec 19, 2013
Sustainable management of secondary raw materials
The recycling of discarded consumer goods can make a big contribution to efficient management of non-renewable raw materials. A new international process is being launched to develop quality and sustainability standards for secondary raw materials, focusing on three main areas: improving basic data and support for pilot projects.
NJIT high speed rail expert to address DC conference next week
Expert Rongfang Liu will address concerns about China's high-speed rail development at the Transportation Research Board conference. Her research suggests that investments in high-speed rails can receive adequate returns when linked to investment recovery periods and fare structures corresponding to traveler demographics.
NIST prototypes framework for evaluating sustainability standards
The NIST framework analyzes sustainability standards using the Zachman framework, providing a structured approach to selecting and implementing effective standards. This helps small and medium-size enterprises identify relevant standards, measure progress, and report results, ultimately boosting their sustainability efforts.