Articles tagged with Animal Research
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 recent study found that dolphin tourism in Zanzibar is causing stress and exhaustion among bottlenose dolphins. The research highlights the need for regulation of the industry to minimize long-term negative impacts on the animals and their habitats.
A six-year study by ecologists at Rice University and Indiana University found that a symbiotic fungus living inside fescue can have far-reaching effects on plant, animal, and insect communities. The research suggests that cooperative microorganisms play a significant role in ecological diversity.
Researchers found that replaying recent events in the hippocampus is not just for memory, but also for creating cognitive maps and making better navigation decisions. The study suggests that the brain uses replays to build a complete representation of its environment, allowing animals to plan novel routes.
A new study reveals that Arctic reindeer have evolved to bypass their internal biological rhythms, relying instead on light and dark cycles to regulate hormone levels. This adaptation allows them to thrive in environments with no reliable light-dark cycle.
A UBC researcher warns that allowing one-off sales of ivory could stimulate the illegal market, leading to increased poaching in Africa. The researcher emphasizes the need for robust monitoring and enforcement of the ivory trade before permitting such sales.
Researchers found that birds leave messages in the egg that influence the development of their chicks' begging behavior. The messages can affect the chick's weight gain and survival after hatching.
Scientists have identified a new phenomenon called cell autonomous sex identity (CASI) that explains why some birds appear male on one side and female on the other. This discovery sheds light on the sexual development of birds and may have implications for behavior, disease susceptibility, and poultry production.
Researchers at the Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology discovered that desert ants can locate odour sources in a map-like manner and use this information for navigation. The ants need both antennae to smell the scenery in stereo, enabling precise location of their nests after foraging for food.
A study published in Nature Methods found that introducing as few as two controlled environmental variables to preclinical mice tests can significantly reduce costly false positives and the number of animals needed for testing. This approach challenges traditional standardization efforts in animal testing.
Researchers found that human and mouse embryonic stem cells have distinct responses to growth factors, rendering animal models less reliable for preliminary tests. Human ES cells will remain essential for stem cell research due to their superior performance in tissue differentiation.
A team of scientists has discovered that the drastic decline in Arctic musk ox populations began due to a warming climate rather than human hunting. The researchers used ancient DNA to test for human impacts on musk ox populations and found that humans were not responsible for their decline.
Researchers found that oxytetracycline breaks down more quickly in cattle manure than in soil, due to its higher organic material and moisture content. Temperature and moisture levels also play a crucial role in degradation rates.
The study provides a comprehensive atlas of transcription factor combinations, indicating which factors can combine to determine cell fate. The researchers identified nearly 1,000 different pairs of TF proteins that can be wired together, representing the blueprint of all possible combinations that direct gene expression in mammals.
Researchers found a proto-dinosaur called Asilisaurus kongwe, which lived about 243 million years ago and shared characteristics with dinosaurs. The discovery sheds light on the diversification of relatives of crocodilians and dinosaurs, suggesting rapid evolution and greater dietary flexibility.
A new study found that fruit flies without the key gene controlling circadian rhythms were more resilient to stress at a young age, but their health declined faster as they aged. The research suggests that biological clocks may play a role in aging and health, with intact genes potentially improving health and longevity.
A study by researchers at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health suggests that mosquitoes played a primary role in spreading West Nile virus westward across the US. Genetic analysis detected widespread movement by Culex tarsalis populations, which were congruent with the pattern of West Nile virus infection across the country.
Researchers at Cornell University have discovered how fruit flies employ a stabilizer reflex to right themselves after being disturbed by wind gusts. By studying the insects' aerial maneuvers, the team aims to develop more efficient and stable flapping-wing aircraft designs.
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center found that blocking new growth of specific brain nerve cells increases vulnerability for cocaine addiction and relapse. Increasing adult neurogenesis may prevent addiction before it starts, potentially improving the length and quality of life for millions of drug abusers.
Researchers found that damselfish can distinguish between different species using only their ultraviolet facial patterns. The fish's ability to see in the UV range allows them to convey information about their identity and attract mates, while remaining inconspicuous to predators.
New research reveals the mechanical properties of footpads vary predictably across animal sizes, with bigger critters requiring stiffer shoes. The study found that larger animals have softer pads on rear feet, which may help them recover energy from each step and enhance propulsion.
Researchers at Tufts University developed a novel antitoxin strategy using 'tagged binding agents' that can bind to Botulinum toxin molecules and flush them out of the system. This approach has the potential to create more efficient therapies against toxins used in bioterrorist events, snake bites, and chronic diseases.
The giant panda genome study has identified genetic traits that may aid in understanding the animal's unique bamboo diet and inform conservation efforts. The research found that pandas lack genes necessary for competing digestion of bamboo, suggesting a reliance on microbes to digest this staple food source.
Dolphins' health is shedding light on human and ocean health. Researchers have discovered that diseases found in dolphins are similar to human diseases, providing clues into how human health might be affected by contaminated coastal water or seafood. High levels of PCBs in dolphins may be suppressing their immune function.
Researchers found that fat garden warblers, like those studied in Italy, take significantly shorter breaks during migration. They typically move on by nightfall, while thin birds wait for nearly two days to replenish their fat reserves. This study highlights the importance of ecologically-intact resting grounds for migratory birds.
A Purdue University study found that inserting a human protein important in cancer development into plants revived dying plants, showing an evolutionary link between the two species. The discovery could advance understanding of this class of proteins and offer new options for studying their function in humans.
Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital identified several FDA-approved agents that can shift cellular energy metabolism processes, including an over-the-counter anti-nausea drug, meclizine. This approach may offer new therapeutic strategies for treating heart attack and stroke.
Researchers at MDC developed a system to investigate ion channel function in mammals and block them with neurotoxins. They used genetic engineering to deliver toxin genes into neurons, enabling long-lasting investigation of ion channels and blockade of chronic pain.
A study published in Global Change Biology found that the seasonal timing of biological events has become earlier by more than 11 days in the UK since 1976. This acceleration is most rapid for organisms at the bottom of food chains, such as plants and insects.
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 used radar equipment to observe migrating butterflies and moths flying several hundreds of metres above the ground, highlighting their remarkable abilities. The study found that these insect migrants can travel nearly twice as far and closer to their preferred direction as an insect just randomly drifting downwind.
Researchers at the Weizmann Institute of Science found that bats aim their sound beams off-center when locating objects, making this strategy more efficient than aiming directly at the center. This approach allows bats to better track movement across the beam.
Researchers at Oregon State University have developed a new compound that appears to balance neurotransmitters better than existing antidepressants, potentially offering improved efficacy and reduced side effects.
NIFA awarded $24 million in grants to study animal health, reproduction, breeding, genetics, and nutrition. The grants aim to improve the agriculture industry's competitiveness and reduce the use of antibiotics and hormones.
Researchers from UF and Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute found a 60-million-year-old fossil of Cerrejonisuchus improcerus, an ancient crocodile relative that was likely preyed upon by Titanoboa. The study provides new insights into the diversity of ancient South American rainforest ecosystems.
Researchers at Georgia Tech have developed a potential new treatment against ovarian cancer using magnetic nanoparticles to attach to and remove cancer cells from the body. The technique has shown promising results in both mouse and human cancer samples.
Researchers at the University of Notre Dame describe a significant advance in imaging cell death using synthetic probes. The new method can distinguish between healthy and dying cells in tumors, potentially aiding in tumor grading and treatment effectiveness measurement.
A researcher from Northwestern University has invented a novel way to halt and reverse rheumatoid arthritis by developing an imitation of a suicide molecule that targets hyperactive immune cells. The approach, tested on mice, showed promising results with a 75% success rate and no reported toxicity.
A joint team from the University of Kansas and Northeastern University found that microraptor's four wings allowed for successful gliding. The study suggests that birds evolved flight above the ground, not as a terrestrial adaptation.
Two studies show that bats and toothed whales' echolocation abilities converge in the prestin gene, a hearing gene, leading to similar adaptations. The research suggests that convergence of complex traits like echolocation may be more common than previously thought.
Researchers at Emory University School of Medicine have identified a novel compound, 7,8-dihydroxyflavone, that mimics the brain's growth factor and protects against neurological disease damage. The flavonoid compound shows potential as a new class of brain-protecting drugs with low chronic toxicity.
A study published in BMC Ecology found that rescued chimpanzees in Cameroon are from the same region, suggesting local trade is a significant issue. The research also revealed that protected areas are being targeted for poaching, highlighting the need for conservation efforts to protect endangered subspecies.
Yasuní National Park is home to an array of plant and animal groups, harboring extremely high numbers of animals and plants in small areas. The park's extraordinary diversity makes it a crucial area for sustaining biodiversity in the long term, with scientists recommending a moratorium on new oil exploration or development projects.
Researchers found that insect societies exhibit nearly indistinguishable lifespan, growth rates, and reproduction features when considered as superorganisms. This finding may shed light on the evolution of social systems in insects.
A recent study by Cornell University scientists reveals that trees have evolved to maximize photosynthetic capacity through a decrease in specific leaf area as they increase in size. This change is attributed to a developmental shift towards short-shoots, which produce leaves with smaller specific leaf areas than long-shoots.
Researchers have identified at least three different genes involved in the emergence of stripes, spots, and other markings on domestic cats. The study's findings may also contribute to understanding human skin disorders that follow standardized patterns.
Researchers at OSU and UGA developed a faster, easier, and less expensive test to detect Haemonchus contortus, a parasitic worm causing significant production losses in the global sheep and wool industry. The new lectin staining test allows for quick feedback on anemia status and parasite burden.
Male cleaner wrasse aggressively chase females who cheat clients, protecting their own dinner interests. This behavior, similar to human 'Robin Hood' tendencies, may not be as charitable as thought.
Researchers found that expressing mutant DISC1 during prenatal periods, postnatal periods, or both led to distinct brain alterations and behaviors resembling schizophrenia or mood disorders. The study suggests that manipulating DISC1 expression timing may help develop new therapies for psychiatric disorders.
Researchers tested urban macaques for lead and toxic metal exposure, finding higher levels in younger animals. The study suggests that synanthropic macaques, which share the same ecological niche with humans, could serve as early indicators of human exposure to toxins.
Researchers use new acoustic sensors to monitor endangered North Atlantic right whales and reduce ship strikes, a leading cause of their deaths. The tools improve monitoring capabilities and enhance management efforts to protect these whales.
Researchers at Oregon State University are developing a legged robot that can run stably over rough terrain using principles found in insects like cockroaches and guinea hens. The goal is to create robots that can perform difficult jobs, such as military operations or space exploration, with minimal computing power.
John Flynn, Frick Curator of Fossil Mammals and Professor at the American Museum of Natural History, has been awarded the distinction of Fellow by the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS). Dr. Flynn's research focuses on vertebrate paleontology, especially carnivore evolution and faunal succession in South America.
Researchers have discovered a new model of fungal growth, known as the 'apical recycling model', which sheds light on how fungi cells shape and grow. This breakthrough has the potential to inform the development of new strategies for preventing and treating fungal diseases in plants and animals.
A team of researchers from Kansas and China have discovered a venomous, birdlike raptor that lived 128 million years ago in China. The discovery sheds new light on the evolution of modern birds and the tactics used by their ancient ancestors.
A new study has found that housing development near national parks and protected areas can reduce their conservation value by interrupting travel corridors for animals and altering habitats. As a result, researchers project an additional 17 million housing units will be built within 50 kilometers of protected areas by 2030.
A new study published by the American Psychological Association finds that deficiencies in DHA, a type of omega-3 fatty acid, may contribute to mental illnesses such as schizophrenia and ADHD. The research suggests that increasing DHA in the diet may help improve nervous-system function.
A new study suggests that combining celebrex with low-dose aspirin may reduce the effectiveness of aspirin in preventing heart attack and stroke. Researchers found that celebrex interferes with aspirin's ability to block blood clots, particularly when taken in low doses.
Researchers observed veined octopuses using coconut shells to create a shelter, traveling up to 20 meters while carrying stacked shells beneath their body. The behavior is distinct from hermit crabs and suggests that even marine invertebrates engage in tool use.
In cooperative breeding species, female birds show off sexually to compete with each other and with males. Researchers found that these females evolved traits such as colorful plumage and elaborate dances, comparable to those of males.
Researchers found that mice lack two key features of a critical DMD gene, hindering the use of mice as primary models for studying DMD. The findings indicate that mouse models are particularly poor at replicating brain effects of DMD, which could limit understanding of the disease's mechanisms.