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Fat and fit

Researchers found that fatter dormice increase metabolic rate more frequently and spend more time at normal body temperature during hibernation, minimizing negative effects. This strategy enables dormice to maximize total hibernation time while maximizing survival chances.

SourceUniversity of Veterinary Medicine -- Vienna·JournalFunctional Ecology·DateOct 22, 2013

Paracetamol improves exercise endurance in the heat

A study published in Experimental Physiology found that paracetamol can improve exercise endurance in the heat by reducing body temperature. This improvement allows individuals to exercise for longer periods without overheating. The researchers hope to investigate the specific mechanisms by which paracetamol achieves this effect.

SourceWiley·JournalExperimental Physiology·DateSep 19, 2013

Primate hibernation more common than previously thought

Researchers have discovered that two little-known lemur species in Madagascar burrow underground and hibernate for three to seven months. The study suggests that primate hibernation may not be as rare or unique as previously thought, offering insights into the behavior of these close genetic relatives.

SourceDuke University·JournalScientific Reports·DateMay 2, 2013

Discovery points to new approach to fight dengue virus

Researchers have discovered that rising temperature induces key changes in the dengue virus when it enters its human host, leading to a new approach for designing vaccines against the aggressive mosquito-borne pathogen. The study found that the virus's bumpy form is more efficient at infecting mammalian cells.

SourcePurdue University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 11, 2013

Researchers develop mouse with 'off switch' in key brain cell population

Scientists create genetically modified mice with a built-in 'off switch' for their serotonin-producing cells, which control breathing, temperature regulation, and mood. The discovery sheds light on sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) and depressive disorders, two conditions linked to low serotonin levels.

A thermometer for dinosaurs

Researchers from the University of Bonn analyzed fossil teeth from two giant herbivorous dinosaurs, Camarasaurus and Brachiosaurus, using a chemical thermometer to determine their body temperatures. The analysis revealed that both dinosaurs had a body temperature between 36 and 38 degrees Celsius.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalScience·DateJun 23, 2011

Bees warm up with a drink, too!

A study by Monash University researchers reveals that bees use a 'hot' drink to warm up on cold days and a 'cool' drink in warmer weather. The bees preferred feeding from artificial flowers with warmer nectar, which helped them maintain an optimal body temperature for flight.

SourceMonash University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 17, 2010

Migrating birds chill to fatten up

Researchers found that smaller migrating blackcaps lose body temperature at night during stopovers to save energy, while heavier birds drop their metabolic rates less. This helps the birds accumulate more fuel and shorten their refueling stops.

SourceThe Company of Biologists·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateSep 11, 2009

Exercise in cold water may increase appetite, UF study finds

Researchers found that exercising in cold water led to a 44% higher caloric intake compared to warm water or resting periods. The study suggests that environmental conditions during exercise may influence post-exercise appetite, and individuals should consider the kinds of foods they eat after exercise.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalInternational Journal of Sport Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism·DateMay 4, 2005