Articles tagged with Evolutionary Theories
Comprehensive exploration of living organisms, biological systems, and life processes across all scales from molecules to ecosystems. Encompasses cutting-edge research in biology, genetics, molecular biology, ecology, biochemistry, microbiology, botany, zoology, evolutionary biology, genomics, and biotechnology. Investigates cellular mechanisms, organism development, genetic inheritance, biodiversity conservation, metabolic processes, protein synthesis, DNA sequencing, CRISPR gene editing, stem cell research, and the fundamental principles governing all forms of life on Earth.
Comprehensive medical research, clinical studies, and healthcare sciences focused on disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Encompasses clinical medicine, public health, pharmacology, epidemiology, medical specialties, disease mechanisms, therapeutic interventions, healthcare innovation, precision medicine, telemedicine, medical devices, drug development, clinical trials, patient care, mental health, nutrition science, health policy, and the application of medical science to improve human health, wellbeing, and quality of life across diverse populations.
Comprehensive investigation of human society, behavior, relationships, and social structures through systematic research and analysis. Encompasses psychology, sociology, anthropology, economics, political science, linguistics, education, demography, communications, and social research methodologies. Examines human cognition, social interactions, cultural phenomena, economic systems, political institutions, language and communication, educational processes, population dynamics, and the complex social, cultural, economic, and political forces shaping human societies, communities, and civilizations throughout history and across the contemporary world.
Fundamental study of the non-living natural world, matter, energy, and physical phenomena governing the universe. Encompasses physics, chemistry, earth sciences, atmospheric sciences, oceanography, materials science, and the investigation of physical laws, chemical reactions, geological processes, climate systems, and planetary dynamics. Explores everything from subatomic particles and quantum mechanics to planetary systems and cosmic phenomena, including energy transformations, molecular interactions, elemental properties, weather patterns, tectonic activity, and the fundamental forces and principles underlying the physical nature of reality.
Practical application of scientific knowledge and engineering principles to solve real-world problems and develop innovative technologies. Encompasses all engineering disciplines, technology development, computer science, artificial intelligence, environmental sciences, agriculture, materials applications, energy systems, and industrial innovation. Bridges theoretical research with tangible solutions for infrastructure, manufacturing, computing, communications, transportation, construction, sustainable development, and emerging technologies that advance human capabilities, improve quality of life, and address societal challenges through scientific innovation and technological progress.
Study of the practice, culture, infrastructure, and social dimensions of science itself. Addresses how science is conducted, organized, communicated, and integrated into society. Encompasses research funding mechanisms, scientific publishing systems, peer review processes, academic ethics, science policy, research institutions, scientific collaboration networks, science education, career development, research programs, scientific methods, science communication, and the sociology of scientific discovery. Examines the human, institutional, and cultural aspects of scientific enterprise, knowledge production, and the translation of research into societal benefit.
Comprehensive study of the universe beyond Earth, encompassing celestial objects, cosmic phenomena, and space exploration. Includes astronomy, astrophysics, planetary science, cosmology, space physics, astrobiology, and space technology. Investigates stars, galaxies, planets, moons, asteroids, comets, black holes, nebulae, exoplanets, dark matter, dark energy, cosmic microwave background, stellar evolution, planetary formation, space weather, solar system dynamics, the search for extraterrestrial life, and humanity's efforts to explore, understand, and unlock the mysteries of the cosmos through observation, theory, and space missions.
Comprehensive examination of tools, techniques, methodologies, and approaches used across scientific disciplines to conduct research, collect data, and analyze results. Encompasses experimental procedures, analytical methods, measurement techniques, instrumentation, imaging technologies, spectroscopic methods, laboratory protocols, observational studies, statistical analysis, computational methods, data visualization, quality control, and methodological innovations. Addresses the practical techniques and theoretical frameworks enabling scientists to investigate phenomena, test hypotheses, gather evidence, ensure reproducibility, and generate reliable knowledge through systematic, rigorous investigation across all areas of scientific inquiry.
Study of abstract structures, patterns, quantities, relationships, and logical reasoning through pure and applied mathematical disciplines. Encompasses algebra, calculus, geometry, topology, number theory, analysis, discrete mathematics, mathematical logic, set theory, probability, statistics, and computational mathematics. Investigates mathematical structures, theorems, proofs, algorithms, functions, equations, and the rigorous logical frameworks underlying quantitative reasoning. Provides the foundational language and tools for all scientific fields, enabling precise description of natural phenomena, modeling of complex systems, and the development of technologies across physics, engineering, computer science, economics, and all quantitative sciences.
Researchers found a negative relationship between predation pressure and bird longevity, supporting the classical theory of ageing. The study analyzed data from nearly 1400 bird species, revealing that larger species with faster reproductive rates tend to live shorter lives.
Scientists discovered that species with germ plasm, a cell lineage responsible for producing gametes, evolve faster than those without. This accelerated rate of evolution leads to 'explosive radiations' of species and challenges traditional views on the process.
A new evolutionary theory proposes that consuming a very low-nutrient diet can increase human lifespan. Laboratory animal studies have shown that severely restricted food intake reduces the incidence of diseases and increases lifespan, likely due to increased cellular recycling mechanisms.
A new PLOS Collection delves into the complex evolutionary cascade theory that made sauropod dinosaurs' gigantism possible. Researchers investigate factors contributing to their unique body size, including mobility, posture, and nutrition.
Researchers confirmed Haldane's 90-year-old theory that new genes may get lost from populations but found it cannot predict the ultimate fate of beneficial alleles. Genetic diversity can be maintained indefinitely through complex population dynamics.
Researchers found that selfish behavior is punished by evolution, contradicting a popular theory from 2012. Game theory simulations revealed that zero-determinant strategies, which offer advantages against non-selfish opponents, cannot be the product of evolution.
Researchers propose a new theory linking cancer's evolutionary roots to ancient life forms. If correct, it may transform cancer therapy by revealing a systematic response to stress or physical challenges.
Research by Adrian Bejan reveals that elite athletes in these sports are taller and heavier, allowing for more force to be applied as they move forward. This applies to pitchers like Max Scherzer, golfers like those in the top 10 of driving distance, and boxers who maximize punching power by gaining size.
Researchers found that starfish with intact eyes move towards the reef, while those without eyes walk randomly. The study suggests that starfish nervous system can process visual information, pointing to an underestimation of echinoderms' capacity.
Researchers discovered that evolution produces modules due to their few and short network connections, which are costly to build and maintain. This finding will help evolve artificial intelligence, enabling robot brains to acquire animal-like grace and cunning.
Paleontologists find varying evolutionary modes among morphological traits within fossil species, validating mosaic evolution. The study analyzes hundreds of sequences of fossil samples using model selection methods, revealing conflicting patterns of change.
Stuart A. Newman's alternative model suggests that the origination of animal form motifs was predictable and sudden, with abrupt morphological transformations favored during early evolution. This perspective resolves puzzling aspects of animal evolution, including the rapid rise of complex body forms.
Research suggests that the menopause evolved to reduce competition between related women, enabling cooperation in childcare. Women who stopped reproducing around age 50 had more grandchildren due to reduced rivalry with their daughter-in-laws.
A team of scientists proposes a new theory of evolution that combines emergent fitness landscape and curl flux to explain evolutionary dynamics. The theory provides a physical foundation for general evolution dynamics, offering insights into the Red Queen Hypothesis and the benefits of sexual reproduction.
Researchers found that birds with multiple plumage colour forms evolve into new species faster than those with only one colour form. The study, published in Nature, used decades of data and genetic information to confirm a 60-year-old evolution theory.
A new type of viral genome has been discovered, challenging current understanding of virus evolution. The circular DNA genome, found in a unique RNA-DNA hybrid virus, suggests that entirely new virus types may emerge through recombination of functional and structural modules.
A study of ancient graptoloid populations found that they did not rapidly develop new physical traits after a mass extinction event. Instead, the researchers suggest an evolutionary lag occurred, with limited morphological innovation continuing for approximately 2 million years.
Modules differ in form and function, allowing for division of labor among specialized modules. The study identifies necessary conditions for division of labor to evolve, including positional effects and synergistic effects between differentiated modules.
A new study found that intuition plays a significant role in accepting evolution, with knowledge level being less of a factor. The research suggests using exercises to help students become aware of their dual processing, allowing them to judge ideas on their merits.
A robotic bug named DASH+Wings was tested for its ability to fly and run. The results showed that the extra boost from flapping wings improved the robot's speed and stability, but did not provide enough thrust to launch it from the ground.
A comparative study of nematode species reveals that changes in a short protein domain can alter signaling networks involved in organ development. The modular structure of proteins allows for the conservation of important parts while enabling opportunities for short domains to change, facilitating evolutionary development.
Researchers found that smaller leaves have more tightly packed major veins, which provides redundancy in water transport. This allows them to maintain function even during extreme drought, making them more resistant to the effects of embolism in dry soil.
New York Medical College scientist Stuart A. Newman suggests that the loss of a gene critical for heat generation led to the emergence of enlarged skeletal muscles in birds, enabling them to walk on two legs and adapt to flying or swimming. This theory challenges traditional views on bird evolution and extinction
A 47 million-year-old lizard fossil has provided key findings on the evolutionary relationships between snakes and other reptiles. The study reveals that snakes evolved independently from limbless lizards, rather than sharing a common ancestry with burrowing reptiles.
Researchers found that long-term mutations are advantageous over short-term fitness gains, leading to the survival of less fit organisms. This unique study provides unprecedented detail on the complexity of evolution and challenges the traditional view of evolutionary success.
A Tel Aviv University researcher warns that environmental stressors like pollution and stress can alter gene expression in a way that affects the human genome. This epigenetic inheritance can be passed down to future generations, with potential long-term impacts on health.
Researchers found a critical lag time between horse tooth evolution and dietary changes due to climate shifts. Horses' diets narrowed over millions of years, with strong natural selection for teeth only occurring occasionally.
A Duke University engineer's theory predicts that dominant teams in March Madness and top-ranked universities share similar hierarchies. The constructal law explains how these systems evolve to minimize imperfections and optimize performance.
Recent research by Farlow and colleagues reveals a fundamental change in understanding the evolution of DNA, suggesting that DNA repair mechanisms may drive intron variation. The study proposes an alternative explanation for the observed range of intron numbers across species, providing a new perspective on the role of junk DNA.
A new study challenges the traditional prisoner's dilemma paradigm by suggesting that incentives to cooperate can minimize conflict and change the game from pure conflict to partial cooperation. The research, published in Proceedings of the Royal Society B, finds that payoffs from social interactions can evolve under certain conditions...
Clement Loo, a University of Cincinnati doctoral student, presented his research on invasive species and the Shifting Balance Theory at an international conference. His paper argues that this theory is more nuanced than traditional Fisherian gradual mass selection in understanding the evolution of invasiveness.
A new analysis by Jianzhi Zhang and coworkers reveals flaws in models predicting the cost of complexity and finds that moderate complexity best enables organisms to adapt. The study challenged assumptions underlying traditional mathematical models, suggesting that a moderate amount of complexity is beneficial for adaptation.
Researchers at Michigan State University used digital evolution techniques to study altruism in species, finding that genes are more likely to help those physically similar to them. This challenges traditional kin selection theory and raises the possibility of life on other planets based on shared genes rather than familial units.
A new study applying employment contract theory to symbiosis finds that mutually beneficial relationships are maintained by simple self-interest, with partners benefiting from healthy hosts. The research discounts the idea that host species have evolved to promote symbiosis by promising rewards or threatening punishment.
Researchers develop new theory explaining the evolution of eusocial behavior, finding that standard natural selection is sufficient to account for cooperation in species like ants and bees. The study suggests that eusociality arises independently multiple times due to the stability of colonies once established.
A recent study reveals that the Neo-Tuberosum potato germplasm has its roots in Chile, challenging the long-held notion of its origins in the Andes. The Chilean potato's adaptation to long-day conditions made it a pre-adapted species for growth in other regions.
A Brandeis biochemist confirms Darwin's theory of universal common ancestry using a large-scale, quantitative test. The study finds that all life forms share a genetic heritage from single-celled microorganisms to humans, supporting UCA millions of times over alternative theories.
Researchers found little evidence for geographical separation driving hamlet color variations, instead suggesting ecological factors like competition for food and habitat may influence co-existence. The study provides insights into the evolutionary process of new species arising.
A new theory suggests that higher intelligence is associated with novel social values and preferences in human evolution. More intelligent individuals are more likely to adopt liberal political ideology, atheism, and preference for sexual exclusivity. However, intelligence does not correlate with evolutionarily old preferences and values.
A new analysis of a fossil specimen called microraptor suggests that small, feathered species must have been gliders that came down from trees. The research supports the idea that some species believed to be dinosaurs may have descended from birds.
Researchers have found that mutational robustness can either impede or facilitate adaptation depending on population size, mutation rate, and reproductive capabilities. Neutral mutations can set the stage for future beneficial adaptation, allowing populations with intermediate levels of robustness to adapt fastest to novel environments.
UC researcher Michal Polak confirms one of Darwin's theories by showing that the spines on Drosophila bipectinata males assist them in copulation. The study found that removing these spines resulted in drastic reductions in ability to copulate and compete for mates.
Professor Hanna Kokko has been awarded the Per Brinck Oikos Award 2010 for her groundbreaking research on ecological and evolutionary dynamics. Her work focuses on the interactions between individual behavior, life-history theory, and population dynamics, with applications to conservation and management problems.
A new theory proposes that male lemurs deposit a solid plug in the female's reproductive tract to prevent rival males from mating, allowing them to focus on other females. This strategy is thought to be advantageous when females have short receptivity periods and are the same size as males.
Dr. Michael J. Wade, a renowned evolutionary biologist, will receive the 2009 Sewell Wright Award for his seminal contributions to multi-level selection and the study of evolution. His work has been cited over 5500 times and has formed a significant part of the conceptual landscape for the 'levels of selection' discussion.
Joseph Felsenstein and Louis J. Gross, both Central High graduates, received the 2009 and 2006 AIBS Distinguished Scientist Awards for their significant scientific contributions to integrative and organismal biology.
A new study found that parasites evolve to be less aggressive when scattered among isolated clusters of hosts, favoring the survival of the group. This discovery suggests that as human activity makes the world more connected, natural selection will favor more virulent and dangerous parasites.
Researchers from the University of Pittsburgh have documented early separate-sex evolution in a wild strawberry species still transitioning from hermaphroditism. This finding provides evidence for the theory that males and females developed from hermaphroditic ancestors, with plants serving as models for understanding early evolution.
A new study by Anna Dornhaus found that individual rock ants specializing on one task are no more efficient than those performing multiple tasks. Despite concentrating their work on a specific job, specialized ants do not perform better or faster, but instead spend more hours working.
Researchers developed a model explaining why large species dominate certain taxonomic groups, and how this relates to metabolism and habitat. The simple yet accurate model also omits traditional ideas from evolution and ecology.
A team led by Dr Bill Hughes found that ancestral females in colonies of bees, wasps, and ants were monogamous, supporting the theory of kin selection. This study provides conclusive evidence that kin selection explains the evolution of social insects.
A new study reveals that female lark buntings show dynamic preferences for certain traits in males, which shift from year to year. This flexibility may help females adapt to changing environmental conditions and increase their nesting success.
A recent study published in Nature finds good agreement between species richness of tropical forests and coral reefs and a simple mathematical model based on the neutral theory of biodiversity. The researchers argue that interactions between species can be largely ignored, contradicting previous claims from other scientific teams.
Researchers at the University of Rochester confirm the X chromosome is a key factor in the origin of new species, with 60% of its genes causing infertility in hybrids. The large X-effect pushes newly formed species onto divergent evolutionary paths.
A study found that carbon dioxide inhalation triggers emotional distress and a panic response in healthy volunteers. The reaction is dose-dependent, with higher CO2 concentrations causing stronger negative emotions. Older subjects exhibited a weaker reaction, suggesting an underlying protective brain alarm may be blunted in the elderly.
New evidence from a tiny Mongolian dinosaur suggests that small size evolved before flight in dinosaurs, forcing paleontologists to re-examine their assumptions about the evolution of birds. The study found that some dinosaur lineages actually increased in size over time, contradicting previous theories.
Researchers found that evolving to complex goals accelerates speedup in simulations, suggesting a possible shortcut to optimization. The study's findings have practical implications for engineering fields and computer science.
A pair of researchers propose a tug-of-war theory model that explains the selection pressures driving the evolution of advanced eusocial groups, such as superorganisms. According to the model, intergroup competition ultimately leads to the emergence of these societies.
The first issue of the HFSP Journal showcases innovative interdisciplinary research at the interface between biology and physics. The journal features articles on topics such as magnetoreception, ERKII signaling, and protein evolution, highlighting the intersection of multiple scientific disciplines.
Kirsten E. Nicholson's four-year study of Caribbean anoles found no support for ecomorph convergence theory, which suggests that species in similar habitats develop similar characteristics. Her research also found little correlation between co-existent anole species and differing dewlap configurations.