Articles tagged with Ethology
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.
A collaborative effort has created a standardized nomenclature for the architecture of insect brains, tripling the number of identified structures. This will enable future research on brain function and disease to be more efficient and accurate.
Researchers found that male chipping sparrows form 'dear enemy' alliances with weaker neighbors to prevent stronger rivals from moving in. In a surprise discovery, these coalitions were shown to be rare and often based on specific vocal relationships.
An animal study suggests that activating acid-sensing ion channels called ASIC1a in the brain's emotional control center can reduce anxiety-like behavior. The findings highlight a potential new mechanism for controlling fear and anxiety, paving the way for novel therapies.
Researchers have observed Guam mantas gathering around fish spawn, which is a previously unknown behavior. The mantas react to the presence of surgeonfish by trying to evade them. This study highlights the importance of understanding manta behavior for conservation efforts in Micronesia.
Researchers developed a new paradigm to analyze collective animal behavior using machine learning without tracking individual animals, mirroring human observation. The technique successfully distinguished between species and changes in behavior in response to stimuli.
Researchers from Haverford College discovered that falcons head off their prey by flying so the target appears stationary in the falcon's visual field, reducing energy expenditure and increasing hunting success. This strategy is also employed by bats and humans when chasing prey or evading threats.
A recent study estimated human-directed aggression in UK dogs, revealing that nearly 7% exhibit aggressive behaviour when meeting people. The majority of these incidents occur in one specific situation, contradicting the common 'safe' or 'vicious' dog stereotype.
Many clinical studies on vitamins have poor methodology, leading to inaccurate conclusions and defying existing evidence. New methodologies are needed to provide scientifically valid information to consumers with inadequate diets or deficiencies.
In a study, researchers found that dogs can perceive faces in images and differentiate between familiar and strange faces. Dogs preferred viewing conspecific faces over human faces, gazing more at the eye area of familiar faces.
Researchers found that gut bacteria changes are associated with autism-like behaviors in mice, which improved when treated with beneficial bacteria. The study suggests a potential therapeutic role for probiotics in treating gastrointestinal and behavioral symptoms of autism.
Scientists create a virtual reality environment to study how rats navigate and anticipate rewards. The results show that rats prefer to use visual cues for navigation, while their legs work in harmony with their anticipation of food. In contrast, auditory cues alone lead to confusion and random movement.
Researchers at NYU-Poly used underwater robots to examine how golden shiner fish interact with a robot's coloration, size, and movement. The results show that the fish are drawn to a robot mimicking their natural colors and movement patterns, influencing their swimming behavior.
Researchers at Caltech developed a new stimulus to study mouse visual behavior, finding that mice respond with immediate reflex-like responses to a looming black disk, freezing or fleeing depending on the environment. The study validates the mouse model for studying visual processing and has implications for understanding animal behavior.
Researchers at Newcastle University developed a technology that tracks dog behavior to detect potential health issues in owners. The system uses movement sensors and machine learning algorithms to identify changes in canine behavior that may indicate declining health or boredom.
Researchers selectively bred silver foxes for friendly behavior, resulting in faster maturation, more attractive features, and changes in hormone levels that affect physical development. These findings suggest that human preference for beautiful faces may be linked to an individual's approachability and sociability.
A study found that dogs react sociably to robots that behave socially towards them, even if the devices look nothing like a human. The research suggests that designers of social robots should consider how their designs interact with users and animals.
Researchers at the University of California, Davis, are studying complex networked systems, from nanomachines to nation-states, to find ways to intervene in networks to better control them or prevent catastrophic cascading breakdowns.
A USCB study reveals that diet experience can alter taste preferences in fruit flies, with changes occurring through a mechanism involving the degradation of TRPL protein and reduction in synaptic connections. Long-term camphor exposure causes a decline in TRPL levels and subsequent increase in taste acceptance.
A new study reveals an unexpected role for a protein in the integration of opposing attractive and aversive gustatory stimuli in fruit flies. The findings demonstrate that the protein inhibits the activity of sugar-activated receptors when bitter compounds are present, reducing attraction to sugars.
A new study by Ohio State University researchers found that people assume strangers are different from them when competing online, leading to more aggressive bidding. This bias changes how people act on websites like eBay, where competition alters assumptions about strangers.
Gene Robinson, a renowned expert in social behavior and genetics, has received the Animal Behavior Society's Distinguished Animal Behaviorist award. His groundbreaking work on the mechanisms and evolution of social behavior in Western honey bees has significantly advanced the field.
Research found that aging elicits changes in taste preferences, with older animals preferring less sweet and umami tastes and more bitter tastes. Despite no differences in neural activity, these age-related changes were observed in behavioral studies.
A recent study published in Current Biology found that lunar cycles affect human sleep quality. The research revealed a significant drop in brain activity related to deep sleep around full moon, with participants also reporting poorer sleep quality and lower melatonin levels.
Researchers have identified a risk factor for autism in children, linking prenatal exposure to maternal antibodies to changes in brain development that affect behavior. The study found altered patterns of neurodevelopment and social behavior in offspring exposed to specific antibodies.
In a study, cockatoos solved a 5-lock problem by first removing a pin, then a screw, and so on. They adapted their approach when faced with altered sequences, suggesting they understood the structure of the problem. The birds' performance was characterized by flexible and sensitive reactions to changes in the sequence.
Researchers found that cockatoos employ a 'cognitive ratchet' process to solve the problem, suggesting they have a representation of the goal. After mastering the sequence, birds reacted with immediate sensitivity to changes in the puzzle box.
A study at Duke University found that lemurs in larger social groups exhibit more 'social intelligence' and are more likely to steal food behind a human's back. The research supports the 'social intelligence hypothesis,' suggesting that living in large social networks drove the evolution of complex social cognition in primates.
Researchers have developed a novel trophallaxis network control method for formation flight of multiple UAVs, which enables efficient information transfer and coordination. The new strategy has the potential to improve the stability and performance of UAV formations in various applications.
Dogs demonstrate a 'secure base effect' when interacting with their owners, showing increased motivation for rewards when owner is present. This study reveals the importance of ownership for dog behavior and confidence.
Researchers at UCSB have discovered the mechanisms behind salt-mediated behaviors in fruit flies, shedding light on sensory biology and its connection to human brain function. The study reveals that two distinct types of neurons compete to regulate behavioral outputs, with one type activated by low-salt and another by high-salt.
A Michigan State University team used a model system to show that predator confusion can evolve swarming behavior in prey, allowing groups to defend themselves against larger predators. This discovery provides insights into the evolution of intelligence and how it developed in nature.
Researchers found that interacting with shelter dogs increased joviality, positive affect, attentiveness, and serenity among teenagers. The study suggests that dog-interaction activities could be a beneficial addition to traditional treatments for teenagers struggling with drug abuse and related issues.
Researchers can now study song acquisition, storage, and regurgitation in songbirds using MRI, providing parallels to human language acquisition. This technique allows for repeated, long-term developmental measurements of the brain, shedding light on learning, language, and neuroendocrinological plasticity.
In a study on reed warblers, scientists found that males aggressively defend against potential infidelity but turn out to be caring fathers. The results suggest that females' perceived male weakness may reduce their investment in joint offspring.
James Cameron will deliver a presentation on his DEEPSEA CHALLENGE expedition and donate an extreme-depth unmanned undersea exploration system known as a 'lander' to Scripps. The lander will be used for future deep-sea exploration endeavors, unlocking the mysteries of Earth's least explored environment.
A new study found that individual experiences and behaviors contribute to differences in brain structure, even among genetically identical mice. The research suggests that this process is linked to the generation of new neurons in the hippocampus, a region responsible for learning and memory.
Researchers analyzed social bonds in rock hyrax colonies, finding that balanced triads are more common than initially thought. Structural balance theory suggests that enemies of enemies can be stable configurations, contradicting classical human relationship dynamics.
A study found that intranasal delivery of neuropeptide Y reduced anxiety, depressive-like behavior, and hyper-arousal in rats exposed to single prolonged stress. This provides proof-of-concept for potential non-invasive prophylactic treatment for PTSD.
Researchers have linked autism in a mouse model to abnormalities in specific chromosomal regions and associated genes. The study provides new insights into the disease's causes and may lead to the development of new treatments.
The Journal of Visualized Experiments (JoVE) is accepting submissions for its new Behavioral Sciences section. The new section will enable scientists to publish cutting-edge methodologies and innovations in video format.
Researchers found that social bees use chemical signals to mark flowers where they've been attacked, while solitary bees do not. The study suggests a link between sociability and the evolution of warning signals in bees.
Researchers found that as cows' core body temperatures rise above 101°F, they stand for longer periods to disperse heat. Dairy producers can use this behavior to improve herd well-being and efficiency by providing cooling systems.
Researchers at ETH Zurich discovered a link between prenatal infections, stress during puberty, and schizophrenia-relevant brain changes. The study suggests that the combination of these two factors significantly contributes to the development of the disorder.
Researchers at UGA discovered a neural pathway in fly larvae that triggers impulsive eating behavior when exposed to appetizing odors. This finding suggests that humans and flies share similar mechanisms for responding to rewarding cues, which can lead to compulsive eating.
Research published in PLOS ONE found that children with autism spectrum disorders display more social behaviors like talking and physical contact when interacting with animals than with toys. The presence of animals also increases instances of smiling and laughing, and reduces negative behaviors.
Researchers observed wild meerkat groups in the Kalahari Desert, where dominant females yield to lower-ranked individuals to cross roads, revealing a complex adaptation mechanism. This phenomenon may be an innate response, allowing animals to cope with novel threats and minimizing group risk.
Researchers discovered a hierarchical warning scheme used by song sparrows to ward off trespassing rivals, including matching the intruder's song, soft songs, and wing waves. The study found that birds who matched the intruder's song were most likely to attack, adding nuance to their complex communication system.
A small robot was driven by a male silkmoth to track down its sex pheromone, demonstrating the potential for insect-inspired odor tracking. The researchers hope to apply this technology to autonomous robots that can detect environmental spills and leaks.
Scientists have developed a new technology to see thoughts 'swim' through the brain of a living fish, allowing real-time visualization of neuronal activity during perception. This breakthrough has the potential to unlock complex behaviors, including learning, memory, and emotions, by interpreting specific combinations of neurons.
Socially isolated rats are more susceptible to addiction to amphetamine and alcohol due to enhanced reward sensitivity. They exhibit quicker preference formation for environmental cues associated with the rewarding substance, making extinction harder to achieve.
A study by evolutionary biologist Kathryn Lord found that wolf pups and dogs develop their senses at the same time but enter critical periods of socialization at different ages. Wolf pups begin walking and exploring without fear, relying on smell, while dog pups only start to explore after all three senses are functioning.
EPFL researchers find correlation between childhood psychological trauma and neurological changes similar to those found in violent humans. The study demonstrates that traumatic experiences in pre-adolescent rats lead to altered brain function, including reduced orbitofrontal cortex activation and increased aggression.
A study by Michigan State University found captive hyenas excel at solving novel problems, suggesting limitations in applying captive animal results to the wild. The researchers, led by Sarah Benson-Amram, discovered that captive hyenas were more willing to tackle challenges and explored solutions.
Researchers found that the Nopili rock-climbing goby uses the same set of muscles for both climbing and eating, filming jaw muscle movement during both activities. The study suggests that these fish have learned to use similar movements to meet two different needs, potentially coopted through evolution.
In a study published in Nature Neuroscience, researchers discovered that three distinct brain areas work together to weigh the benefits of giving to oneself versus another monkey. The team found that neurons in the anterior cingulate gyrus (ACCg) encode both giving and receiving rewards in a remarkably similar way.
A University of Utah study suggests human hands evolved not only for manual dexterity but also for making fists and fighting. The research found that human fists provide a performance advantage in punching, with increased force delivery and protection for delicate hand bones during combat. This evolution may have been driven by selecti...
Researchers used optogenetics to control brain activity in mice, tracing stress resilience to neurons in the reward circuit. Instantly triggering or reversing depression-like states was possible with flashes of an LED light.
Researchers at Durham University found that some grey seal mothers adopt a flexible parenting style, adjusting their behavior to local conditions. This approach allows them to give their pups a better chance of survival, but also carries risks if they misjudge the environment.
Research shows socially isolated animals produce less myelin in the prefrontal cortex, a region responsible for emotional and cognitive behavior. The study also found that social isolation disrupts oligodendrocyte cell development, leading to changes in gene transcription.
A new study suggests that social contact can lower pain responses and inflammation in mice with nerve damage. The study found that paired mice showed reduced signs of inflammation and allodynia behavior compared to isolated mice.