Articles tagged with Human Evolution
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 that chimpanzees have a similarly narrow pelvis to humans, contradicting previous theories. The study proposes a new hypothesis that the obstetrical dilemma developed gradually and became increasingly exacerbated over evolution.
A new study from Case Western Reserve University reveals how ethnic Tibetan women thrive in low-oxygen environments, with unique blood and heart traits enhancing oxygen delivery. The research provides valuable insights into human adaptation to extreme environments and offers clues about future environmental challenges.
Researchers at George Washington University found that fossil hotspots in eastern Africa, such as the East African Rift System, bias our understanding of human evolution due to their limited geographic representation. The study suggests that scientists must take this bias into account when interpreting early human history and recommend...
Researchers found that humans were born to run due to their unique physiological traits and social benefits of endurance pursuits. Studies reveal that humans were engaging in endurance hunting tactics for thousands of years, with similar patterns observed across diverse environments.
A research team from Göttingen University has discovered that antisense RNA (asRNA) plays a crucial role in cell transport, allowing cells to accelerate gene expression and produce proteins quickly in response to environmental stress or harm. This new understanding sheds light on the function of asRNAs and their potential link to disea...
The internet exposes users to extreme morally relevant stimuli, causing empathy overload and public shaming. Research is needed on platform design features that sustain attention without inducing negative externalities.
Researchers have generated complete 'end-to-end' reference genomes for the sex chromosomes of five great ape species, highlighting enormous variation on the Y chromosome. The findings inform understanding of diseases related to genes on these chromosomes in both apes and humans.
The study reveals remarkable variation between primate Y chromosomes, showing rapid evolution and previously unstudied regions. The researchers found that over 90% of ape X chromosome sequences aligned to the human X chromosome, while only 14-27% of ape Y chromosome sequences aligned to the human Y chromosome.
A new study reveals that competition between species played a major role in the rise and fall of hominins. The research found that the Homo lineage experienced an unprecedented number of new species emerging, contradicting traditional views on evolutionary patterns. Technology, such as stone tools and fire, may have driven this process.
A team of researchers has identified a single nucleotide change in the TBX1 gene that affects skull base development, contributing to human's unique brain size. This variation is associated with lower TBX1 expression levels in humans compared to extinct hominins, leading to distinct changes in cranial morphology.
In a setup resembling a trust game, participants exchanged large amounts with anonymous members of their own community but little with members of other communities. The researchers found that repeated interactions alone cannot explain the evolution of human cooperation and that group competition also weakens overall cooperation.
Researchers discovered human fossils and artifacts at Ilsenhöhle in Ranis, Germany, indicating that Homo sapiens arrived in cold northern latitudes before Neanderthals disappeared in southwest Europe. The analysis of ancient DNA and zooarchaeological findings suggests that humans consumed a diverse range of animals during their stay.
A new study reveals a larger number of transposable elements in the human genome than previously known, shedding light on their potential role in human diseases. The 'genomic time machine' approach allowed researchers to identify degenerate TEs that were missed in previous studies.
The structure of families is projected to change significantly, with grandparents and great-grandparents increasing in age and number, while cousins, nieces, nephews, and grandchildren declining. This shift could limit their ability to help raise grandchildren.
A new study by University of Maine researchers reveals that human evolution's core processes might prevent humans from resolving global environmental problems like climate change. The study found that cultural adaptation to the environment, which has driven human evolution, accelerates due to a positive feedback process, making it chal...
Archaeologists recommend using state-of-the-art techniques, such as micromorphology, to analyze evidence and increase confidence in claims about human evolution. This approach aims to rewrite our understanding of human ancestors by uncovering hidden clues in ancient sediments.
Recent studies by Cara Ocobock and Sarah Lacy found that prehistoric women engaged in hunting, with their female anatomy providing advantages such as endurance and fat metabolism. The research corrects the historical erasure of women from the narrative of human evolution.
Researchers found that chimpanzees are more likely to climb hills when heading towards contested borders, where they can quietly rest and hear distant sounds of rival groups. This behavior suggests that chimpanzees gauge the distance of rivals and act accordingly to avoid costly fights.
Researchers from Bologna, Siena, and Haifa will investigate Neanderthal extinction in Eastern and Southeastern Europe and Western and Central Asia. The project aims to shed light on the chain of events that led to their disappearance.
A new study reconstructs the well-preserved skull of Pierolapithecus catalaunicus, a key fossil in understanding great ape and human evolution. The researchers found that the species shares similarities with both fossilized and living great apes, but also has distinct facial features not found in other Middle Miocene apes.
Neanderthals demonstrated intelligence and symbolic thought through their ability to control fire and cook food. Their varied diet consisted of cooked meats, fish, and other food sources, showcasing their advanced cognitive abilities.
Moderately sized groups of hominins may have successfully scavenged carcasses, even competing with giant hyenas, according to a new study. The research suggests that scavenged remains were an important source of meat and fat for early humans.
A study by Dartmouth researchers reveals that human shoulders and elbows evolved to facilitate 'downclimbing' - the process of descending from trees without dying. This adaptation allowed early humans to navigate their environment safely, gathering food and deploying tools for hunting and defense.
A new study found that a massive North Atlantic cooling event led to the disruption of early human occupation in Europe, with climate stress changing the course of early human history. The study used observational and modeling evidence to document the unprecedented climate anomaly.
A recent study reveals that past climate changes and vegetation shifts played a key role in determining when and where early human species interbred. The research suggests that the overlap of habitats led to increased encounters and interactions among groups, increasing the chance of interbreeding.
A new DNA study reveals that the intermingling of hunter-gatherer groups in Europe was strongly linked to geography, with certain groups remaining isolated for thousands of years. The research adds detail to the puzzle of European Stone Age history.
A study analyzing genomic data from 34 fossils, including the famous sambaquis shell mounds, found that Luzio, São Paulo's oldest skeleton, was a descendant of the ancestral population that settled the Americas at least 16,000 years ago. The research also revealed differences between coastal and inland communities, suggesting two disti...
Researchers have identified cut marks on a fossil leg bone that suggest butchery and likely cannibalism by humans' close evolutionary relatives around 1.45 million years ago. The analysis of 3D models revealed nine clear matches for stone tool damage, which was found to be located in areas suitable for removing flesh.
Scientists used CRISPR interference to study gene function in human and chimp stem cells, discovering genes essential for cell cycle regulation that are absent in humans. This approach sheds light on the evolution of human brain development and highlights the importance of studying gene interactions over DNA sequences.
Researchers found that tightly curled scalp hair provided the best protection from the sun's radiative heat while minimizing sweat. This adaptation enabled human brains to grow to modern-day sizes without conserving water through sweating.
A study from the Max Planck Institute of Geoanthropology found technological continuity spanning 140,000 years at Bargny 1 site in Senegal, suggesting Middle Stone Age toolkits persisted longer than thought. The research highlights long-term cultural stability in West Africa's diverse habitats.
Researchers found that elephants exhibit hallmarks of domestication, including low aggression, empathic behaviour, and social learning. They propose that elephants' massive size and safe environment may have relaxed selective pressures for aggression, allowing for the evolution of prosocial behaviour.
The discovery of stone tools and cut-marked animal bones at the Nyayanga site in Kenya offers new insights into the dawn of stone technology. The artifacts, dating back 2.9 million years, include hammerstones, cores, and flakes, which were used to process a wide range of materials and foods.
Neanderthals deliberately hunted down and slaughtered European straight-tusked elephants over 125,000 years ago, providing a significant source of nutrition. The study reveals that Neanderthals came together in larger social groups than previously assumed, with adult male individuals being overrepresented in the assemblage.
The shift from foraging to farming led to increased conflict, violence, and infectious diseases. Humans adapted genetically to dairy consumption around 5,000 years ago, while early agricultural communities faced social challenges, including limited diets and kinship organization.
Researchers at Indiana University found that the average age of human conception is around 26.9 years, with fathers averaging 30.7 years and mothers averaging 23.2 years over the past 250,000 years. The study also suggests that the age gap between fathers and mothers has narrowed in recent times.
Researchers observed a wild chimpanzee showing an object to its mother to share attention, a social behavior previously thought to be unique to humans. The study suggests that in certain social conditions, primates can engage in referential gestures to comment or remark on the world.
A new study published in Collective Intelligence journal suggests that evolutionary forces may be fueling collective tendencies to discriminate. The research recommends fostering environments where desired behavior emerges naturally through evolutionary dynamics rather than regulating against undesired outcomes.
A new computer program, ExtRaINSIGHT, has been developed to track harmful mutations in the human genome throughout evolution. The study found three regions of the genome that are extremely sensitive to mutations, including splice sites, miRNA molecules, and central nervous system genes.
Researchers found that over 60% of investigated microbial species matched their human host's evolutionary history, indicating a co-evolutionary relationship spanning ~100,000 years. This discovery fundamentally changes how the human gut microbiome is viewed and opens up new possibilities for population-specific therapies.
Researchers produced human and chimpanzee brain organoids to investigate the role of ARHGAP11B in brain evolution. The study found that the gene is essential for neocortex development, with its absence or inhibition leading to decreased levels of critical brain stem cells.
The study reveals that Sahelanthropus tchadensis, a 7 million-year-old species, had both ground-dwelling and tree-climbing abilities. This suggests that early humans acquired bipedalism very early in their history.
Researchers found that a specific amino acid substitution in the VMAT1 gene alters amygdala-dependent behaviors associated with anxiety, providing insight into its role in cognitive and emotional functions. Humanized substitutions of Vmat1 in mice revealed decreased levels of anxiety-like behaviors, supporting previous human studies.
A new study suggests that voluntary imagination, rather than speech, is crucial for combinatorial language acquisition in children with language deficiencies. The research found that children who engaged in a voluntary imagination intervention showed significant improvement in language comprehension.
A new study published in Behavior Genetics found that natural selection favors characteristics associated with lower earnings and poorer education, such as having more children. The research, led by UEA, analyzed data from over 300,000 people in the UK and suggests that this may be contributing to increasing income inequality.
Administering oxytocin to central social network members spreads cooperation via increased punishment of uncooperative behavior, Li et al. found in a new study published in JNeurosci. Cooperation can conflict with individual goals, but oxytocin may have evolved humans' need for group living.
A new study on bonobo social structure may hold clues to understanding human cooperation. Researchers found four neighboring groups of bonobos maintaining exclusive and stable borders, showing they interact regularly and peacefully with each other.
A team of researchers has identified the ancient bird species behind giant prehistoric eggs in Australia, resolving a years-long debate. The study found that the eggs belonged to a unique duck-like line of megafauna known as the 'Demon Ducks of Doom', which was laid by the Genyornis newtoni bird.
A new study reveals that Denisovans could adapt to extreme climates, changing our understanding of their geographical distribution. The discovery was made through palaeoproteomics analysis and geometric morphometric studies on a human molar found in northern Laos.
A new study by an international team of scientists links early human habitats to past climate shifts using a supercomputer model and fossil records. The research suggests that climate change played a central role in determining where different hominin groups lived and their remains were found.
A recent study published in Genome Biology and Evolution found that ancient human remains from Bulgaria are more closely related to contemporary East Asians than Europeans. The researchers propose a scenario where an African population hub expanded into Europe and East Asia around 45,000 years ago, with the European representatives dec...
Research from UMass Amherst found that disbelief in human evolution is associated with higher levels of prejudice and racist attitudes. The study, conducted across 19 Eastern European countries, 25 Muslim countries, and Israel, linked low belief in evolution to biased attitudes towards outgroups and support for discriminatory behavior.
A complete, gapless genome sequence has been completed for scientists and physicians, revealing new details about the region around the centromere. The newly sequenced genome provides insights into human genetic variation and may hold clues to the evolution of our ancestors in Africa.
The completed human genome assembly has revealed new insights into human evolution and diseases. Researchers found that highly repetitive regions, including segmental duplications, contain genes critical for brain development and function. These findings shed light on the genetic factors that make humans distinct from other primates.
Researchers from the University of Oxford's Big Data Institute have created a single genealogy tracing the ancestry of all humans, combining genome sequences from eight databases and 3,609 individual genomes. The study successfully recaptured key events in human evolutionary history, including migration out of Africa.
Researchers used an ancient fish, elephant sharks, to gain insights into human biology and how a widely used medication works. The findings show that progesterone receptor activation in humans requires a different mix of hormones and steroids than in elephants sharks, with the latter not inhibited by RU486.
Researchers found that wild chimpanzees do not independently invent complex tool use behaviors like nut cracking. Instead, they learn from observing and imitating others, similar to humans. This challenges the long-held assumption that chimpanzee culture is non-cumulative.
The Omo I fossils, found in Ethiopia, have been dated to be at least 230,000 years old, pushing back the known emergence of Homo sapiens by tens of thousands of years. This reevaluation was made possible through advanced geochemical analysis and a new understanding of volcanic ash layers.
Two studies highlight significant migration to Great Britain that replaced 50% of the island's ancestry during the Late Bronze Age. The analysis also reveals a dramatic increase in milk tolerance around 1200 B.C., providing new insights into dairy consumption in Britain.
A new study provides a detailed timeline of mammal evolution, confirming that modern placental mammal groups postdate the K-Pg extinction. The researchers used a novel computational approach to analyse a large genomic dataset and answer a long-standing question about mammal origins.