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Examining the role of development in evolutionary theory

In an editorial titled "Introduction to the Special Issue: Development, Evolution, and Movements toward Resynthesis," the authors underscore a shift towards acknowledging the importance of individual development in evolutionary change. This shift challenges traditional Darwinian and neo-Darwinian frameworks while advocating for an Extended Evolutionary Synthesis. The introduction was penned by Dr. David Witherington, Dr. Robert Lickliter, and Dr. David Moore and published by Karger.

Microscopic analysis offers new understanding of Middle Triassic Biota

A recent study examining microcoprolites from the Luoping biota has shed light on the dietary habits of lophogastrid shrimps, revealing their consumption of cyanobacteria. This finding, according to a study led by Dr. Michael Benton and published by Science Direct, provides valuable insight into primary producers and consumers in Triassic marine ecosystems following the Permian-Triassic mass extinction event. The discovery is instrumental in understanding the full restoration of marine ecosystems after such a catastrophic event.

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Study suggests common ground between individual and collective intelligence, creating potential for bioengineering and AI

A recent study calls into question the traditional distinction between individual and collective intelligence, suggesting that they share common elements. This finding could have potential applications in bioengineering and artificial intelligence. The research, conducted by Michael Levin and Richard Watson, was published by Sage Journals.

Study explores Gavin de Beer's enduring concepts in vertebrate skull development

An article published in the Philosophical Transactions B journal examines the enduring ideas of Gavin de Beer about modularity, homology, and heterochrony in vertebrate skull development. The authors, Dr. James Hanken and Dr. Brian K. Hall, analyse de Beer's shift from embryology to comparative skull studies, highlighting current perspectives on these concepts and emphasizing cellular roles and evidence for the evolution of middle ear ossicles.

Study unveils mutation map for protein binding evolution

Researchers detailed a method for tracing the mutation-driven evolution of protein binding pairs, showing that a few key changes can lead to significant functional shifts guided by positive selection. The study by Ziv Avizemer, Carlos Martí‐Gómez and three others was published on April 20.

Mesozoic marine reptiles: Study reveals gradual evolution of swimming adaptations

Researchers recently uncovered how various marine reptiles, thriving post-Permian extinction, gradually developed advanced swimming techniques, culminating in diverse and specialized movement forms during the Cretaceous period. The study was authored by Benjamin C. Moon, Susana Gutarra, Thomas L. Stubbs, Beatrice H. Heighton, and Michael J. Benton.

Wild Emmer's diverse traits offer potential innovation for modern wheat cultivation

A study on 263 wild emmer accessions revealed significant trait diversity and potential, suggesting their gene pool could enhance modern wheat cultivation. The study was published by Shanjida Rahman, Dr. Shahidul Islam, Prof. Rajeev Varshney and four others on March 25.

Ancient sharks' rapid tooth replacement sheds light on ecosystem's recovery during Triassic Period

A team of researchers studied the tooth replacement rate of ancient hybodont sharks and its role in the recovery of the marine ecosystem during the Middle Triassic period. The ancient sharks, some of the most successful chondrichthyan lineages of all time, first appeared in the Devonian era and survived until the Late Cretaceous, according to a study published in May by Science Direct.

New Research from UC San Diego Sheds Light on the Possible Origins of Life

Discovery of functional prebiotic metabolism shows promise for improving carbon-capture technologies

Flowering Plants: An Evolution Revolution

Researchers at the University of Bristol have identified the huge impact of flowering plants on the evolution of life on Earth.

The London Millennium Bridge Wobble Finally Explained

An international team of engineers and mathematicians, led by Georgia State University in the United States and the University of Bristol, has dispelled previous theories around why London’s Millennium Bridge moves from side-to-side when being crossed by large numbers of pedestrians.

Study Offers New Insights into When Modern Mammals Evolved

A new study has provided the most detailed timeline of mammal evolution to date.

Unique Data Creates 'Fair and Robust' Online Exams

Researchers have developed a new way of reinforcing "fair and robust" online exams, a study reports.

New Dino, ‘Iani,’ Was Face of a Changing Planet

A newly discovered plant-eating dinosaur may have been a species’ “last gasp” during a period when Earth’s warming climate forced massive changes to global dinosaur populations.

How Studying Poop May Help Us Boost White Rhino Populations

Researchers at North Carolina State University have identified significant differences in the gut microbiome of female southern white rhinos who are reproducing successfully in captivity,

Model Aims to Help First Responders Reach Accident Sites Faster

Researchers at North Carolina State University have developed a complex model to improve how quickly first responders –

Modern Horses Have Lost Their Additional Toes, Scientists Confirm

The distant ancestors of modern horses had hooved toes instead of a single hoof, which vanished over time, according to researchers.

Skipping Evolution: Some Kangaroos Didn’t Hop, Scientists Explain

Extinct kangaroos used alternative methods to their famous hop according to comprehensive analysis from University of Bristol and the University of Uppsala scientists.

Ancient Herbivore’s Diet Weakened Teeth Leading to Eventual Starvation, Study Suggests

A team of researchers from the University of Bristol have shed light on the life of the ancient reptile Rhynchosaur, which walked the earth between 250-225 million years ago, before being replaced by the dinosaurs.

New Study Shows How Adaptations to Living in a Cold Climate Promoted Social Evolution

For the first time ever, scientists have uncovered evidence that a species’ long-term adaptation to living in an extremely cold climate has led to the evolution of social behaviours including extended care by mothers,