Articles tagged with Animal Research
Researchers found four species – tigers, elephants, wild boars, and clouded leopards – showing increased populations in areas with human infrastructure. However, deforestation still impacted some species, particularly clouded leopards.
Research from the University of Oxford and Yellowstone National Park found that wolves with black coats are more likely to survive canine distemper virus (CDV) outbreaks. This suggests that the gene for a black coat may provide protection against the virus, leading to its increased frequency in areas with CDV outbreaks.
A recent study by the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund International analyzed demographic data over 50 years to understand factors influencing mountain gorilla population growth. The research found that increased group density led to slower reproduction in females, resulting in a significant slowing of population growth.
The study reveals that a genetic mutation can accelerate the body's internal clock, leading to improved adjustment to shift work schedules. The findings have implications for understanding the health consequences of circadian misalignment and developing medical treatments.
A study by the University of Turku found that red foxes can be deceived into not eating bird eggs with chemical camouflage, while raccoon dogs showed less effectiveness. The methods could provide an alternative to hunting and help protect vulnerable prey species.
Scientists uncover mechanism controlling cellular levels of tau, a protein linked to devastating neurodegenerative diseases. Overexpression of specific form of numb protein Numb-72 decreases tau levels and slows neuron loss in animal models.
Researchers found that Australian superb fairy-wrens with 'extreme exploration phenotypes' are more aggressive in the wild. The birds' personalities were measured using a shyness-boldness scale and exploration avoidance behavior, revealing a link between aggression and survival.
Researchers discovered two distinct types of regret linked to separate parts of the brain, influencing stress response and mood disorders. Stress-susceptible mice were hypersensitive to one type, while healthy mice were sensitive to another.
New research published in Nature suggests that the earliest gills played a crucial role in ion regulation, contradicting traditional views on their evolution. The study found ion-regulating cells in the gills of lampreys, amphioxus, and acorn worms, revealing an early chapter in the evolutionary story of gills.
A new system has been developed to deliver ultrasound stimulation to the brain in awake, naturally behaving mice, allowing researchers to evaluate its effects on sleep and working memory. This advance will help scientists test different ultrasound treatment protocols in mouse models of diverse neurological conditions.
Researchers developed a groundbreaking model to estimate bait vaccination effectiveness in wild animals by analyzing the proportion of immunized animals and vaccine applications. The study successfully tested the model using real data from Japan's CSF outbreak, demonstrating a measurable increase in immunized wild boars.
A black-coated Canada lynx has been photographed for the first time in Yukon, shedding light on a rare genetic variation. The animal's unique coat color is a result of melanism, a condition where an individual has excess melanin, and its impact on hunting abilities is still unclear.
A team from UNIGE and EPFL discovered that too much or too little motivation can blur sensory information and affect decision-making. In a state of hyper-motivation, rodents performed poorly, while moderate motivation led to optimal choice. These results open up new perspectives in learning methods.
Studies on prion diseases in mice reveal coordinated gene expression changes before symptoms appear, shedding light on selective vulnerability and potential treatment targets. Researchers predict disease progression using new methods, suggesting therapies may be more effective when applied early.
A new platform has been created using 214,000 microbiome samples to track antibiotic-resistant bacteria globally. The data can be used to tailor guidelines on combating resistance in different regions.
A new fossil specimen discovered in California reveals that the first saber-like canines evolved in an early nimravid around 40 million years ago. This finding highlights the quick diversification of carnivorous mammals after the middle Eocene climatic optimum.
A University of Washington-led study found that even low levels of human activity in protected areas can alter wildlife behavior. Wildlife activity dropped to zero when outdoor recreation levels reached around 40 visitors per week in Glacier Bay National Park.
Researchers from McGill University developed a medical adhesive inspired by flatworms that uses suction to absorb blood and promote blood coagulation. The adhesive can be removed without causing re-bleeding, making it a potential replacement for wound sutures or delivering drugs.
A new type of satellite imagery with a spatial resolution of 15 cm has been used to detect and monitor critically endangered North Atlantic right whales. The technology allows for the identification of individual whales and their habitats, which will have significant implications for conservation efforts.
Researchers have discovered that erect-crested penguins, an endangered species, lay a smaller first egg and reject it in favor of a larger second egg. This reproductive strategy allows the bird to better feed its chicks and increases the chances of survival for both eggs.
A team of researchers has identified multiple candidate genes that influence longevity in mice, with subtle genetic variations leading to different health outcomes as we age. The discovery is significant, as it may lead to the development of effective treatments for human aging and diseases.
Researchers propose a new explanation for how dinosaur mummies might form, suggesting desiccation and deflation as a common pathway. This process is also observed in modern animal carcasses, revealing that rare fossils may not be as unusual as previously thought.
Researchers at Leibniz-Institut für Lebensmittel-Systembiologie an der TU München discovered that casein digestion produces peptides with a satiating effect, stimulating gastric acid secretion via bitter receptors. This mechanism may help regulate food intake and maintain a healthy body weight.
Researchers have found evidence of genetic diversity in the prion protein gene of endangered Eld's deer, which could provide resistance to chronic wasting disease. The study suggests reducing the frequency of a variant associated with the disease and implementing strict management practices to prevent exposure.
A new study of thrushes reveals that differences in plumage coloration between males and females help birds identify potential mates more quickly. The researchers found that species with the most pronounced color differences were more likely to be migratory, have short breeding seasons, and share territory with closely related species.
The Independent Task Force Report emphasizes the need for a One Health approach to prevent or respond adequately to the next pandemic. Key findings highlight the importance of 'Smart Surveillance' to identify high-threat pathogens and invest in R&D for innovative diagnostics, antiviral strategies, and therapeutic research.
Researchers found pelagic seabirds fly into the eye of a storm to reduce risk of injury or death. The birds' unique flight style allows them to navigate strong winds.
The study found a significant need for stable and durable diagnostics to differentiate infected animals from vaccinated ones. The researchers propose five priorities: vaccinology, antimicrobial resistance, climate mitigation, digital health, and epidemic preparedness.
Researchers found that administering nitric oxide to preterm mice after birth can reverse symptoms of congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, including sensory and cognitive disorders. A clinical trial is now underway to test this treatment in human preterm infants.
Research reveals forest elephants disperse seeds over long distances, aiding timber species regeneration. Logging can be part of conservation efforts when planned and legally conducted.
A team of scientists and high school students collaborated to study Hong Kong's soil biodiversity, collecting 3,588 individual samples and identifying 150 species. The project also raised public awareness about the importance of citizen science in understanding local biodiversity.
Researchers found that B-type procyanidins induce hormesis in hemodynamic and metabolic responses, with optimal doses triggering improved cognitive functions and stress resistance. The study suggests a link between B-type procyanidin intake and CNS neurotransmitter receptor activation.
Researchers found that petting real dogs activates the prefrontal cortex more than stuffed animals, with increased brain activity each time interaction occurs. This effect persists after the dog is gone, suggesting a long-lasting impact of social bonding.
Researchers at WashU Medicine identified a visual pathway in mice brains that is activated when animals see others scratching, triggering a reflex response. This discovery advances understanding of itching triggers and may point to solutions for itch-related conditions in humans.
Research on ostriches found that optimal breeding group sizes vary depending on the balance of males and females within it. The study showed that males have a single optimal group size, while females have multiple optimal sizes due to cooperative care. Intermediate-sized groups were not optimal for reproductive success in either sex.
UTSW researchers discover Fic enzyme plays crucial role in guiding cellular response to stress, linked to diseases like cancer and metabolic syndrome. The findings suggest a 'stress thermostat' that can be controlled to slow or stop disease progression.
Researchers found that song elements' order strongly correlates with rhythmical timing, suggesting a similar processing mechanism as humans. This discovery sheds light on the cognitive processes of songbirds and their potential for musicality.
Researchers find nematodes have two independent ageing processes, one determining movement cessation and the other death time, correlated with each other. This challenges the concept of a single biological age measure indicative of overall health.
A study found that aberrant expression of MAO-B causes both peripheral and neuroinflammation in RA patients, leading to joint pain and cognitive impairment. Administering an MAO-B inhibitor called KDS2010 improved both joint inflammation and cognitive function in a RA animal model.
Researchers from Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University found that brain stimulation combined with a nose spray containing nanoparticles can improve recovery after ischemic stroke. The treatment increased cognitive and motor functions, and weighed more quickly than those treated with TMS alone.
Researchers have isolated a new fungus, Beauveria caledonica, that can be used for biological control of banana borers and Fusarium wilt, two major threats to tropical and subtropical crops. The fungus produces a secondary compound called oosporein, which intensifies its action against the disease.
A new drug capsule developed at MIT may be able to replace injections for biologic drugs by tunneling through the mucus barrier in the small intestine. The capsule's robotic cap spins and displaces mucus, allowing drugs to pass into cells lining the intestine.
A study published in the Journal of Dairy Science found that feeding behavior traits are correlated with feed efficiency in lactating dairy cattle. Researchers estimated genetic parameters for feeding behavior and their associations with feed efficiency traits in US Holstein cows.
A study of over 15,000 individual animals found that ungulates' diets and mating strategies are linked to stress risk. Animals without constant access to food are prone to behavioral problems. The research highlights the importance of providing suitable conditions, including food and social organization, for improved welfare.
Researchers confirm that turtles rehabilitated in the aftermath of the Kalamazoo River oil spill had high long-term survival rates, with up to 11 years post-spill showing nearly imperceptible differences in monthly survival probability. The study's findings suggest that rehabilitation efforts increased the monthly survival probability ...
A new international study finds that dairy cows and their calves experience worse welfare than beef cattle. The researchers' assessment of bovine welfare risks is based on expert opinions from around the world.
A new study by Grant Brown and Braeden Donaldson found that juvenile convict cichlids exposed to high-risk alarm cues have brains 16% larger compared to low-risk groups, with noticeable increases in olfactory and optic bulbs. The brains revert to normal size after removal of the alarm cues.
Researchers found that symbiotic fungi in reared ambrosia beetles differed from those in wild beetles, potentially leading to a new biocontrol method for preventing wilt disease. The study identified nine filamentous fungi and one yeast as symbionts, including previously undescribed species.
Researchers have identified a complex of proteins in a tiny marine invertebrate that share similarities with the human immune system, suggesting an earlier origin for the building blocks of our immune system. The study could ultimately guide the development of new immunotherapies and improve understanding of transplant rejection.
A team of scientists studied how relatedness to a social group changes with age in seven mammal species, finding that incentives to help or harm shift depending on the species' social structure and gender. This understanding can explain differences across species and sexes.
UCF researchers have designed a cerium oxide nanoparticle to protect bones against radiation damage from cancer therapy. The treatment also improves bone regeneration and kills cancer cells, reducing the risk of bone fractures and tissue damage.
Researchers from NAU and University of Washington collaborate to create a safe and effective vaccine for Valley Fever, a fungal infection spreading due to climate change. The project aims to address the growing threat of emerging epidemics and prevent disease through vaccination.
A recent study of Alaskan brown bears reveals that their gut microbiomes play a crucial role in supporting health and achieving comparable size despite eating vastly different diets. The research sheds light on the importance of diverse dietary niches for bears, which can help them extract nutrition from various food sources.
Researchers engineered mosquitoes to produce compounds that stunt malaria parasite growth, reducing the risk of disease transmission. The technique could be combined with gene drive technology to drastically cut malaria transmission in real-world settings.
A study by the University of Bristol and Namibian Ministry found no statistically significant differences in population growth factors between dehorned and horned black rhinos. The research suggests that dehorning is not a hindrance to black rhino reproduction or survival, reassuring its use as an anti-poaching deterrent.
Scientists have successfully delivered a common blood pressure medication directly to the inner membrane of mitochondria, targeting energy-producing parts of cells. The new method uses the body's natural transport system to deliver drugs more precisely, potentially improving therapy efficacy and reducing negative side effects.
Researchers used computer models to link red squirrel sightings to environmental parameters, identifying areas with missing ecological corridors. The study aims to improve urban planning by understanding the challenges faced by urban squirrels due to habitat fragmentation and climate change.
Researchers discovered a gene mutation that causes faulty RNA processing in worms, leading to increased longevity. The PUF60 gene affects the mTOR signalling pathway, which regulates cell metabolism and has been a target for anti-aging drugs.
Researchers discovered three new cryptozoic snake species in Ecuador's Andes, named after institutions supporting cloud forest conservation. The discovery highlights the need for habitat protection due to widespread destruction of native habitats.
Researchers from the University of Copenhagen have identified a new mechanism in ARVC that could lead to a potential treatment strategy. They found that activating sirtuin-3 can slow down disease progression, and honokiol, a natural product extracted from the tulip tree, has been shown to work similarly.