Birds choose mates with ornamental traits
A study shows that male birds choose their mates with ornamental traits, similar to how females choose males. Researchers created population genetic models to understand the evolution of these preferences.
Population Genetic Models
Articles tagged with Population Genetic Models
Genomic tools for species discovery inflate estimates of species numbers, U-Michigan biologists contend
A new study from University of Michigan biologists found that genomic tools can lead to inflated diversity estimates by misidentifying normal genetic variation as species boundaries. The multispecies coalescent model, widely used for quick species determination, overestimates species numbers five to 13 times higher than true numbers.
Ancient human history more complex than previously thought, researchers say
A new estimator developed by geneticists suggests that the population in Africa was likely 50% larger than previously thought and that an archaic-modern human separation date of 440,000 years ago is the best fit. The study also found that ancient populations interbred less than previously believed throughout Eurasia.
Prevalence of homosexuality in men is stable throughout time since many carry the genes
A new study by Giorgi Chaladze uses a computational model to explain the persistence of male homosexuality throughout history and cultures. The research suggests that many heterosexual men carry genes predisposing them to homosexuality, which helps maintain its stability within populations.
Modeling the promise and peril of gene drive
A new study using mathematical models estimates that gene replacement can spread quickly through populations, potentially eradicating diseases like malaria. However, the speed and efficiency of this biological control strategy also bring significant risks of unintended consequences.
A clinical score for predicting risk of venous thromboembolism
A new clinical score, L-TRiP(cast), predicts the risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) in patients with a leg cast. The model was validated in two independent cohorts and identified high-risk patients with an accuracy of 80.8%.
Family ties: Social structure matters in species conservation
A new study published in PNAS shows that social structure is crucial for maintaining genetic diversity within species. Researchers developed a mathematical model that predicts how social groups will impact species evolution and conservation.
New population genetics model could explain Finn, European differences
A new population genetics model reveals a previously unknown bottleneck in the Finnish population between 10,000 to 20,000 years ago. This event likely reduced the population size significantly and resulted in fewer genetic differences among its offspring.
New genetic evidence resolves origins of modern Japanese
A genome-wide study identifies the Ainu people as direct descendants of indigenous Jomon, supporting a hybridization model for Japanese population history. Genetic mixing occurred around 5,000-7,000 years ago, older than previously estimated archaeological records.
People more likely to choose a spouse with similar DNA, finds CU-Boulder study
A new CU-Boulder study reveals that individuals are more genetically similar to their spouses than to randomly selected individuals from the same population. The researchers found a preference for genetic similarity in mates, known as genetic assortative mating, which is about a third of the strength of educational assortative mating.
Technical tests of biodiversity
Researchers from SISSA and Polytechnic University of Turin used a mathematical model to study the effect of migration on biodiversity. They found that higher migration rates can actually increase genetic variability, contradicting previous common assumptions.
Unexpected genomic change through 400 years of French-Canadian history
Researchers have discovered an unprecedented change in the French-Canadian genomic signature over 400 years, with rare mutations accumulating at an alarming rate. This finding has significant implications for understanding population-specific diseases and conservation genetics.
Powerful mathematical model greatly improves predictions for species facing climate change
The UCLA-developed integral projection model improves predictions for species facing climate change by analyzing multiple data sources simultaneously. The model reveals that gradual environmental changes have a greater impact on populations than fluctuating changes.
Roots of the British come under new scrutiny
A multidisciplinary project at the University of Leicester explores the role of historical diasporas in shaping Britain's population history. The study will examine cultural change mechanisms and legacy of early diasporas on the island.
Study shows male homosexuality can be explained through a specific model of Darwinian evolution
Researchers suggest a new evolutionary model for male homosexuality, involving genetically-based 'sexually antagonistic selection' that promotes female fecundity. This model provides insight into the origins and dynamics of male homosexuality in human populations.
Cutting-edge computational molecular biology research featured in Genome Research
Researchers have developed new mathematical models to infer ancestral origins from genomic data, significantly improving accuracy. Additionally, a novel technique for mapping disease genes using admixture linkage disequilibrium has been created, offering a powerful approach for identifying genetic determinants of common diseases.
Early intervention with ICDs: Saving lives and money
Defibrillator therapy found to be beneficial in reducing the risk of sudden cardiac death and prolonging life among patients with high-risk genetic cardiac disorders. The treatment is associated with significant cost savings, ranging from $15,000 to $20,000 per quality-adjusted-life-year saved.
Founding fathers & mothers: How many crossed the land bridge?
Jody Hey's study suggests that the founder population for the New World was approximately 70 individuals, representing about 1 percent of the ancestral Asian population. The dates of divergence are consistent with archaeological records, spanning 12,000-14,000 years ago.
Researchers devise potent new tools to curb ivory poaching
Researchers have developed a DNA-based method to determine the geographic origin of ivory, enabling authorities to identify hot spots for enforcement. The technique has been tested in 16 African nations and shows high accuracy in assigning tusks to specific locations.
Hunting illusive signs of natural selection
A study by Penn State researchers found a cluster of four genes that appear to be heavily selected in the European-American population, suggesting adaptation to new environmental pressures. In contrast, the African-American population shows signs of natural selection for milk tolerance due to changes in TRPV6 and TRPV5 genes.
Rapid evolution helps hunted outwit their predators
In a laboratory experiment using rotifers and algae in chemostats, rapid evolution allowed prey to adapt and outnumber their predators. This phenomenon, predicted by computer models, demonstrates how evolution can play a crucial role in ecological dynamics and could have implications for understanding diseases like HIV.
Male pregnancy in seahorses may affect formation of new species
Researchers found evidence of sympatric speciation in seahorses due to their size-specific mating practice and disruptive selection. This study suggests that male pregnancy and monogamy may play a key role in creating new species without geographic barriers.
Researchers model evolution of influenza virus
A computer-intensive mathematical model simulated mutation in flu genetic units, revealing a secondary, non-specific immune response that gives people temporary protection against nearly all variants. This understanding could inform the development of more effective vaccines offering longer-term immunity.
Hatchery salmon may threaten wild populations
A genetic model found that hatchery salmon can develop 'captive traits' and introduce them to wild populations, decreasing their survival rate. Conservation efforts, such as conserving or restoring habitats, may be effective in preventing this shift.
Farmers and GM crops should both impact farmland birds,Sciencestudy predicts
A new study in Science predicts that genetically modified herbicide-tolerant (GMHT) crops may severely reduce bird populations on a small percentage of farms, particularly those with high seed densities. The consequences depend on which farmers adopt the new crop types, with intensive farms experiencing more significant declines.
Transgenic fish could threaten wild populations
A study by Purdue University researchers found that transgenic fish can threaten native populations due to their larger size, which gives them a mating advantage. The
It only takes one fish to wipe out a population
Biologists warn that genetically modified fish carrying the human growth hormone gene could turn Darwinian evolution upside down and lead to population decline. A single transgenic individual can cause a population to dwindle and eventually become extinct due to the rapid spread of the 'Trojan gene'.
1999 Tyler Prize Honors Rice Geneticist And Population Scientist
The 1999 Tyler Prize honors Te-Tzu Chang's research on rice genetics and conservation, which has led to major advances in plant breeding, productivity, and disease resistance. Joel E. Cohen's contributions to understanding food webs and population growth have also had a lasting impact on both.
Greater Prairie Chicken Appears On Comeback Trail In Illinois
Conservation efforts have led to a resurgence of the Greater Prairie Chicken population in Illinois, with numbers increasing from just six resident males to over 500 birds. The success is attributed to an experimental program that imported birds from healthy populations elsewhere, addressing genetic diversity and habitat loss issues.
Genetically Speaking, Race Doesn't Exist In Humans
A recent DNA study by Alan R. Templeton reveals that the genetic variation among humans is primarily individual-level, with most differences too small to define distinct racial lines. The research challenges the notion of human races as a scientifically valid concept.
The Evolution Of Beauty, Part Of A Special Section On The Evolution Of Sex In The 25 September 1998 Science
The sensory exploitation theory suggests that animals choose mates using sensory systems shaped for daily survival needs, rather than solely for sexual attraction. This model proposes that animals have built-in preferences for traits unrelated to genetic fitness, which can be seen in examples such as water mites mimicking copepod vibra...
Ancient 'Volcanic Winter' Tied To Rapid Genetic Divergence In Humans
A new hypothesis proposes that a 71,000-year-old volcanic winter and subsequent 1,000-year ice age led to widespread famine and death, causing a significant bottleneck in human populations. This event is believed to have resulted in rapid genetic divergence among modern humans.
For Fruit Flies, Finding The Right Mate May Mean Offspring With A Longer Life Span, According To New Study
A new study by geneticists at the University of Georgia shows that female fruit flies who have a choice between mates have offspring that live longer as adults. The research confirms the validity of the 'good genes' model, which proposes that females prefer males with certain traits because they indicate high genetic quality.
Epilepsy Research Advance Reported At Jackson Laboratory
A new mouse model, swe mice, has been identified by researchers at Jackson Laboratory with a defect in the Nhe1 gene. The mice exhibit both petit mal and grand mal seizures, similar to human absence and convulsive epilepsy, making it a promising authentic model for studying human absence epilepsy.
Hunt For Early Heart Attack Genes Begins
A team of researchers will examine the blood samples and medical histories of 2,000 people who have experienced an early heart attack. The goal is to locate and determine the structure and function of genes that contribute to heart disease.
First-Time Discovery: Social Structure Of Ant Colonies Could Have Important Role In Gene Flow And Origin Of Species
Researchers found that social behavior dictates genetic flow within a single species of social insects, challenging traditional theories. The study discovered four routes of gene flow between single-queen and multiple-queen colonies, highlighting the role of queens in shaping gene exchange.
Humble Pocket Gophers Shed Light On The Genetic Fortitude Of Cheetahs
A recent study using pocket gophers found that individuals with low genetic variation accepted skin grafts from each other, while those with higher genetic diversity rejected them. This suggests that cheetahs and other genetically impoverished species may be more vulnerable to disease outbreaks.