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 new study reveals that closely related species tend to avoid living together due to intense competition for food and shelter. This separation is crucial for the survival of individual species.
Research on caribou in West Greenland reveals that climate change is affecting not only the timing of plant growth but also the availability of nutritious food. This 'trophic mismatch' leads to reduced births and increased deaths among caribou calves, highlighting the need for conservation efforts to protect seasonal animals.
A new approach measures animal emotional states based on human psychology findings that emotions affect information processing. Rats in standard conditions show stronger responses to lost rewards than those in enriched environments, suggesting a negative emotional state.
A three-year study will investigate how low levels of environmental chemicals affect sheep foetuses and potentially human health. The researchers aim to understand the long-term reproductive effects of exposure to hormone-like chemicals, which could have greater consequences for females than males.
Scientists have created human liver cells from embryonic stem cells, enabling drug toxicity studies and potential treatments for liver diseases. Researchers also found that innate immunity influences the response to treatment for chronic hepatitis C and discovered a link between urinary tract infections and primary biliary cirrhosis.
Researchers have made significant progress in developing neural cell transplants as a potential treatment for Parkinson's disease. Engineered human neural progenitor cells that produce glial-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) show promise in promoting functional recovery and improving motor function without causing negative side effects.
Researchers at Saint Louis University have made a breakthrough finding that a smallpox drug, hexadecyloxypropyl-cidofovir (CMX001), successfully targets adenovirus in animal models. CMX001 provided protection from the virus when administered prophylactically or therapeutically and reduced viral load to undetectable levels.
Researchers have successfully inserted DNA from the extinct Tasmanian tiger into mouse embryos, demonstrating a functional response in developing cartilage and bone. This breakthrough has significant implications for the development of new biomedicines and gaining insights into the biology of extinct animals.
Researchers discovered the Ashwell receptor's essential role in reducing coagulation abnormalities during infection and sepsis, significantly improving survival. The receptor triggers a protective response, limiting lethal side effects by removing pro-coagulation factors from circulation.
Researchers discovered extensive deep-sea coral habitats off the coast of North Carolina, containing commercially valuable fish populations and many newly discovered species. The reefs are important habitats for several species and contain historical data about changing ocean climate and productivity.
Researchers successfully recorded the electrophysiology of sleep in a wild animal, three-toed sloths, and found they slept 9.63 hours per day, significantly less than captive sloths. This study provides insight into the function of sleep in mammals and challenges previous comparative studies conducted in captivity.
Researchers found that mice lacking a specific receptor display hyperactivity and lack inhibitory interneurons, a common deficit in schizophrenia. This study provides a potential animal model for developing new treatments for psychiatric disorders.
A study by Ashley J. W. Ward and colleagues found that groups of fish only follow leaders when a threshold number of fellow group members perform a particular behaviour, reducing the risk of non-adaptive following. This quorum response is also relevant to human decision-making.
Researchers use feces found by trained dogs to learn about the habits of rare and endangered mammals, revealing that farms with less than 30% natural vegetation have fewer endangered species. The study highlights the importance of preserving open grasslands for threatened species like maned wolf and giant anteater.
The platypus genome provides insights into the evolution of venom components and a bird-like sex-determination system in mammalian ancestors. Researchers have found that platypus venom genes evolved by gene duplication of antimicrobial beta-defensins, mirroring an independent evolutionary pathway in reptiles.
The platypus genome sequence published by UK researchers reveals a mix of mammalian, bird-like and reptilian features in the species' genetic blueprint. The analysis found that platypus venom is a cocktail of proteins originally with different functions, similar to those in reptile venom.
The first duck-billed platypus genome analysis reveals clues about early mammalian genome organization and the evolution of unique characteristics. The study found that the platypus shares more than 80% of its genes with other mammals, but also has distinct genetic features associated with reptilian and avian traits.
Researchers found evidence that fungi can 'lock' depleted uranium into a mineral form that may be less likely to find its way into plants, animals, or the water supply. Fungal-based approaches should not be neglected in remediation attempts for metal-polluted soils.
A recent discovery of the greater white-toothed shrew in Ireland raises concerns about ecological impact and control. The introduction is believed to have occurred recently, with seven individuals trapped in four locations in Tipperary, marking a rare event for the country.
Researchers used PET scanning to track salvinorin A distribution in primates' brains, finding a peak concentration within 40 seconds. The drug's effects were localized to the cerebellum and visual cortex, causing psychoactive effects with just 10 micrograms.
A new study finds that relying on animal experiments to develop treatments for spinal cord injuries is hindered by significant extrapolation challenges, with only a small percentage of promising agents translating to humans. The review calls for the development of new research techniques to address this issue.
A study comparing English-speaking and Indonesian-speaking children found that polysemous words like 'animal' in English hindered their precision in identifying the scope of biological concepts. In contrast, Indonesian-speaking children exhibited little trouble distinguishing between plants and animals.
Scientists have developed a new technique to study neurons in three dimensions, allowing for faster analysis of neuronal activity and interactions. This breakthrough uses a fast-moving laser beam and multi-photon microscopy to provide a more detailed understanding of neuron function.
Researchers at New York Medical College discovered a link between bird lack of brown fat and dinosaur extinction. The study found that birds' inability to generate heat may have contributed to the demise of dinosaurs.
Researchers at Brown University found that flies live longer when they don't produce germline stem cells, which create eggs and sperm. This suggests a general principle in biology where reproductive signals directly control lifespan and metabolism in the whole organism.
Researchers found that sit-and-wait lizards use running mechanics when moving at slower speeds, while wide foragers evolved a walking gait. The study used 18 species of lizards to understand the impact of foraging styles on biomechanics.
NOAA researchers are part of the FISH-BOL initiative, a global effort to barcode marine and freshwater species. This allows for fast and accurate identification of species, including larval fish and fishery products.
Researchers found that female mice prefer outbred males with diverse major urinary proteins (MUPs) in their urine. This distinction allows females to 'count' the number of protein types, avoiding inbred males with less varied protein profiles.
Researchers have compared historical monitoring data with actual records from the test site to refine nuclear explosion detection methods. The study reveals that today's techniques can detect nuclear tests with high accuracy, thanks to improved monitoring experience gained from past efforts.
Researchers found over 10,500 dead animals along 11 miles of roads in Indiana, with nearly 95% being frogs and other amphibians. The study suggests that road-related death contributes to their decline, highlighting the need for mitigation structures like underpasses and fences.
Using C. elegans, researchers identified previously unknown proteins key to transporting heme in human blood and discovered genes involved in heme transport, which could lead to new treatments for iron deficiency. The findings suggest that understanding heme absorption is crucial for effective iron delivery in humans.
A new study published in PLOS ONE found that female fruit flies often choose males who win fights, contradicting the assumption that aggression is key to successful mating. The researchers suggest that unexpected interactions between individuals, known as 'chemistry,' play a crucial role in mate selection.
Researchers at Rockefeller University and the University of Tokyo found that insects use fast-acting ion channels to smell odors, a major break with previous understanding. This new strategy allows for direct detection of odor molecules, bypassing complex biological apparatus previously thought to be necessary.
Researchers at the American Museum of Natural History contributed to a study analyzing over 2,300 species in Madagascar to develop a more efficient conservation plan for the country's unique biodiversity. A new phylogenetic tree of multicellular animals has also been redrawn by comparing genetic data from diverse animal phyla.
A commentary in Biological Psychiatry highlights attacks on medical researchers conducting non-human primate research, emphasizing their vital role in psychiatric disorder treatment. The authors condemn these acts and advocate for public action to protect scientists.
Researchers discovered a gene in flies whose activity is controlled by protein and sugar intake, suggesting a second mechanism for glucose release under specific dietary conditions. The findings also reveal potential links between diet, insulin signaling, and life span, particularly with high-protein diets.
Research found that Culex quinquefasciatus mosquitoes harbouring both ace-1R and KdrR genes have lower survival costs than those carrying only one gene, suggesting a possible advantage for multiply resistant organisms in pest management strategies.
A recent study by William Roberts and his team found that rats can keep track of how much time has passed since a discovery, but not when it occurred. The researchers used an experiment with varying cues to test the rats' ability to remember episodic-like memories.
A meta-analysis of over 50 studies found that bird feeding can lead to immediate positive outcomes, such as increased chick survival, but also creates ecological traps and disrupts natural selection. The study highlights the need for more comprehensive research on the impact of bird feeding on ecosystems.
Preliminary results from DNA analysis of wolverine scat samples collected on the Tahoe National Forest do not match those of historic California wolverine populations. The animal is identified as a male wolverine that does not genetically match populations in Washington or Southern Sierra Nevada.
Scientists have found that migratory moths use various strategies to control their flight direction and speed, including selecting favorable wind directions and compensating for wind drift. These findings provide the first conclusive evidence for a compass mechanism in nocturnal insect migration.
Researchers at the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute found that bats are more effective pest control agents than birds in a lowland tropical rainforest. In the study, plants lost 13.3% of their leaf area when only bats were excluded, compared to 7.2% with only birds excluded.
A University of Alberta study reveals that consuming natural trans vaccenic acid (VA) can lower cholesterol levels and improve metabolic health. Results show significant reductions in total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglyceride levels, suggesting a potential benefit to using diets with enhanced VA.
A new study has introduced a nonlethal method to measure the body composition of small rodents using Dual-Energy X-Ray Absorbtiometry (DXA). This technology allows for accurate measurements without harming the animals, facilitating longitudinal research and increasing scientific collaboration between field and laboratory researchers.
Researchers found a significant delay in the evolution of animal life due to low levels of oxygen and molybdenum in ancient deep oceans. This discovery provides new insights into the environmental conditions that led to the emergence of animal life.
A new study found that brief, high doses of folate in rats reduced muscle tissue damage and scarred areas after a heart attack. Researchers believe folate acts as an energy reserve for the heart, providing needed energy during a blocked artery.
A team of Spanish and Croatian researchers discovered that upside-down living spiders have evolved disproportionately longer legs to move efficiently between plants. This allows them to bridge gaps quickly while minimizing energy expenditure.
Research suggests that increased competition between species for resources limits new species evolution, with rates of speciation slowing down over time. Studies analyzed bird family phylogenies and found a decrease in new species formation as the number of competitors increases.
Researchers have discovered that mantis shrimp can perceive circular polarized light, a previously unknown visual system. This ability is thought to be used for sex-specific communication and may provide a private channel of communication unavailable to predators and competitors.
Researchers discover ancient organism with multiple reproductive strategies, including sexual reproduction, dating back to the Neoproterozoic era. The findings suggest that ecosystems were complex and interconnected hundreds of millions of years ago, providing insights into early life evolution and potential extraterrestrial life.
Researchers have discovered 53 million-year-old rabbit's foot bones that predates the oldest previously known rabbits by several million years. The fossils found in west-central India show advanced rabbit-like features and extend the record of rabbits on the Indian subcontinent by 35 million years.
A study published in PNAS reveals that evolution drives animals to become more complex, with most branches evolving in the same direction. The researchers found that complexity increases as organisms adapt to their environments and compete for resources.
Researchers at UC Berkeley discovered that geckos rely on their active tails to prevent falling off vertical surfaces and navigate through mid-air. The study has implications for designing better climbing robots and may aid in space exploration.
Researchers found that consumers associate animal logos more strongly with themselves than traditional product-related logos. This association enhances brand evaluation and recognition. The study's findings challenge conventional branding wisdom, suggesting unique visual identifiers can be effective in marketing.
Female zebra finches strongly preferred directed, courtship songs with less variability in pitch, indicating an ear for detail. The study's findings also suggest that females' preferences shape male song behavior over time, highlighting the importance of social communication in birdsong production and perception.
Tests on ground squirrels found that moderate cortisol levels improve learning, while low or high levels impede it. The study suggests a link between cortisol and learning, which could inform understanding of human cognitive development.
A gene therapy treatment has been developed to restore a missing liver enzyme in people with glycogen storage disease type Ia (GSD-Ia). The treatment has shown promising results in animal studies, with protected blood glucose levels for up to a year. Further research is needed to test the safety and efficacy of the treatment in humans.
Scientists develop a new, lean mouse model by crossing mice deficient in protein kinase C beta (PKCB) with the C57 black mouse. The hybrid mice have less fat distribution, less fat tissue overall, and increased ability to burn fat, suggesting a potential strategy for treating obesity and disorders associated with excess weight.
A study of Lincoln's sparrows reveals that first-laid eggs are less likely to hatch, while older siblings have an advantage in terms of resources and competition. This finding challenges the common assumption that younger chicks are more vulnerable due to size disparities with their peers.
Researchers have created a new mouse model of mania, allowing them to study the complex interactions between genetic and environmental factors contributing to bipolar disorder. The study found that mice missing the GluR6 gene exhibited symptoms of mania, including increased activity, reduced anxiety, and aggressive behavior.