Articles tagged with Animal Research
A previously undetected mutation in a strain of C57BL/6 mice has been found to affect the results of immune system research studies. The Ragon Institute team traced the mutation back to a specific commercial supplier and notified the company, which is now taking steps to check all its colonies.
The Hubbard Brook Experimental Forest has been a hub for long-term ecological research, revealing the impact of acid rain, clear-cutting, and climate change on forest ecosystems. The research has informed policy measures and inspired collaborations among federal agencies and academic scientists.
Researchers found that pregnant females reduce oxidative damage to shield their offspring, which is linked to adult survival in both sexes. The study also suggests that oxidative damage can be a marker for fertility and survival across species.
Research from the University of East Anglia found that inbred birds have shorter lifespans due to telomere shortening. The study analyzed DNA samples from a population of Seychelles warblers, finding that inbreeding affects not only the young but also their mothers' ability to provide for them.
Researchers at Washington State University developed an algorithm that enables non-expert users to train virtual robots, mimicking animal training methods. The system uses user feedback to improve robot performance and adapts to different teaching styles.
A recent study by Uppsala University researchers reveals that same-sex sexual behavior (SSB) is more common than thought and may have benefits in the opposite sex. SSB was found to increase reproductive performance in siblings of the opposite sex, suggesting a genetic mechanism driving its prevalence across various animal species.
A study published in PLOS ONE found that wolf puppies do not follow the expected 50:50 rule in play interactions, instead showing more equal play with similarly aged partners. Adult wolves, on the other hand, exhibit self-handicapping behaviors to engage younger pups in play.
A study published in the Journal of the Acoustical Society of America found that birds can differentiate between whole and broken songs using spatial and intensity cues. The research used zebra finches and budgerigars, demonstrating that stream segregation is not a uniquely human ability
A study by the University of Cincinnati's James L. Winkle College of Pharmacy uses mathematical modeling to predict chemical compound behavior in biological tissues, such as skin. This approach enables researchers to test cosmetic or consumer products virtually, reducing the need for animal testing.
A new study suggests that a sonic net around airfields can prevent collisions between birds and aircraft, reducing the number of birds in the area by 80%. The noise levels emitted are equivalent to those of a conversation in a busy restaurant, deterring bird species at high risk of strike such as starlings.
A study published in PLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases describes a suitable small animal model for testing ZIKV interventions. The A129 mouse model accumulates virus in the brain and other tissues, exhibiting symptoms similar to those in humans.
A research team from Northwestern University and Lund University has identified a sensory system in fruit flies that directly detects air humidity, allowing them to adapt to changing environments. Understanding this ability could lead to new tools for mosquito control and inform the prediction of species distribution under global warming.
The study found that venomous and endangered species, as well as those with higher body mass or posing a threat to humans, tend to be more interesting overall. The top 10 reptiles accessed on Wikipedia in 2014 were dominated by fearsome species like the Komodo dragon, saltwater crocodile, and king cobra.
Researchers discovered Venus flytraps exploit common plant defense systems to capture insects, utilizing touch-sensitive trigger hairs and glands that promote insect digestion. The traps' gene expression patterns resemble those of roots, suggesting a nutrient uptake mechanism.
Researchers from the University of Leeds found that human steering in a driving simulator is influenced by visual speed signals, not just road edges. The study's findings suggest that our brains process information from across the whole visual scene to guide steering, similar to how insects choose their flight paths.
Researchers estimate cheetah populations in the Maasai Mara to be lower than previously thought, with an average of 1.28 adult cheetahs per 100km2. The 'spatially explicit' method used can distinguish between visiting and resident animals, providing a more accurate count.
Researchers found that muscle destruction must precede ligament destruction for vertebral retraction to occur. The study's findings have significant implications for understanding the death of dinosaurs like Sinosauropteryx.
A new study by the USGS reveals that hydropeaking, a widespread practice in hydroelectric dam operations, can disrupt river food webs and harm aquatic insects. Alternative hydropower practices, such as leaving river levels low and stable during periods of minimal power production, may help mitigate these negative effects.
A recent study found that hydropeaking, or the daily raising and lowering of river flows, has a devastating impact on aquatic insect abundance. The researchers discovered a clear correlation between hydropeaking and the number of insect species present, with certain insects being nearly absent in areas where they should have been present.
A new study by Spanish National Research Council (CSIC) reveals that the 3-nitrooxypropanol compound reduces methane production in ruminants without harming their health. This finding opens up possibilities to decrease global temperatures and increase efficiency of ruminant production systems.
Researchers have sequenced the mitochondrial genome of the Hispaniolan solenodon, revealing that it diverged from other living mammals 78 million years ago. The venomous mammal survived asteroid impact and human colonization, but is now threatened by habitat loss and introduced predators.
MicroRNAs play a crucial role in controlling fertility and puberty by regulating the expression of gonadoliberin or GnRH, a neurohormone that stimulates sexual maturation. Failure to produce microRNAs leads to infertility and sterility in adults.
A new miniaturized microscope reveals that astrocytes, traditionally thought to be passive support cells, respond to intense stimuli by generating their own chemical signals. This discovery offers unprecedented insight into nervous system function and could lead to novel pain treatments.
Researchers found that micro-needle insertion into the hippocampus of mice with Alzheimer's disease reduced beta-amyloid plaques and improved memory tasks. The procedure also triggered neurogenesis in the brain, suggesting a potential new approach to treating neuro-cognitive disorders.
Researchers found corvid birds outperformed great apes in a cognitive task, despite having smaller brains. The study suggests neuronal density and brain structure play a key role in intelligence.
Tropical forests depend on animals for seed dispersal to store carbon, but this role differs across regions. Large animal losses lead to fewer large trees and increased carbon loss in some forests.
Researchers found fossils in Japan that suggest tritylodontids co-existed with early mammals for millions of years, overturning the widely accepted theory about their extinction. The discovery sheds new light on the ecological dynamics of these animal families.
Researchers found that bird-like dinosaurs with toothless beaks were able to survive on seeds after the meteor impact, while those with teeth went extinct abruptly. The study suggests that dietary adaptations played a crucial role in the survival of modern birds.
Researchers develop a broad-spectrum antiviral by targeting both viral surfaces and human cells, potentially avoiding drug resistance. The new approach, using a modified polymer, shows promise in lab testing and animal models without toxic effects.
New research reveals bed bugs have developed thicker cuticles to resist insecticides, making control efforts more challenging. Understanding this resistance mechanism could lead to the development of new strategies for effective bed bug control.
A new study finds that binturongs release a popcorn-like aroma from their urine, containing the compound 2-acetyl-1-pyrroline, to mark territories and attract mates. Researchers analyzed urine samples from 33 binturongs and identified 29 chemical compounds, with 2-AP being present in every sample.
A newly discovered insect, Asiagomphus reinhardti, has been found in remote mountainous regions of Cambodia and Laos. The dragonfly, named after TU Dresden researcher Klaus Reinhardt, is characterized by a black body with yellow spots and green eyes.
A new species of extinct rodent, Sayimys negevensis, has been discovered in Israel's Negev desert, providing insights into the early dispersal route of mammals from Asia to Africa. The discovery bridges the gap between primitive ctenodactylines and gundis, highlighting Israel's unique paleogeographic position.
The Institute for In Vitro Sciences (IIVS) hosted a unique 2.5-day workshop on in vitro exposure systems and dosimetry assessment tools for inhaled tobacco products. Attendees gained a deeper understanding of the issues involving aerosol exposure to cells and tissues in culture.
Scientists have created an optogenetic tool that can control specific G-protein-coupled signalling pathways in the brain with high temporal precision. By using different-coloured light, researchers can switch these pathways on and off, offering new insights into the role of certain signalling pathways in disease.
A UCL-led study reveals that low doses of lithium prolong the lives of fruit flies by blocking GSK-3 and activating NRF-2, a molecule important for cell defense. The benefits were seen in both male and female flies, with average lifespan increases ranging from 13% to 18%.
A new study shows that genetically modified pig hearts developed by US and LMU researchers can survive for more than 2½ years when transplanted into baboons. The findings demonstrate a promising breakthrough in xenotransplantation, with potential implications for human organ transplantation.
Six new species of dragon millipedes have been discovered in Chinese caves, featuring unusually long legs and antennae. The species, which live exclusively in caves, exhibit extreme adaptations such as loss of pigmentation and elongated body parts, making them appear ghostly white and semi-transparent.
The USDA has awarded $6.6 million in grants for research focused on improving animal nutrition and growth, with a goal of enhancing animal health, reducing production costs, and minimizing environmental impacts. Funded projects include studies on starch digestion in cattle and nutrient delivery to pigs facing disease challenges.
A biomechanics team at Trinity College Dublin discovered how insects construct internal bandages to mend damaged limbs, restoring approximately two-thirds of their original strength. This innovative repair mechanism allows insects to function almost normally after a cut, promoting survival in the wild.
Researchers assess impact of past land use change on current biodiversity by analyzing woodlands planted over 160 years. The project provides a unique opportunity to study the effects of historical land use on modern ecosystems.
Researchers have established a mouse model that mimics aspects of Zika virus infection in humans, allowing for the testing of vaccines and therapeutics. The model shows high levels of the virus in the brain, spinal cord, and testes of male mice, supporting clinical data on sexual transmission.
Researchers used microbial metagenome analysis and environmental chemistry to find the most likely transit route Hannibal's forces took across the Alps, pinpointing the Col de Traversette pass as a key crossing point. The study, published in Archaeometry, provides solid evidence for Hannibal's route, dating back to 218 BC.
Recent studies on red raspberries suggest the fruit's potential in reducing cardiovascular disease risk, maintaining normal blood glucose levels and liver function, while also exhibiting anti-inflammatory effects related to bone health. The research was presented at the 2016 Experimental Biology conference.
A new study from Colorado State University found that improving habitats for game animals has mixed consequences for other wildlife in the same setting. The research calls for a more holistic approach to current management efforts.
Researchers found that SSRI antidepressants cause decreased bone density in mothers during lactation, leading to higher risks of fractures. Folic acid supplementation may mitigate this effect, suggesting women may need more folic acid while breast-feeding.
Researchers at Rockefeller University have identified a set of neurons in the fly brain that are activated only when flies eat sweet solutions, especially when hungry. These neurons connect to taste neurons in the pharynx, allowing flies to directly taste and monitor food while swallowing it.
Researchers have discovered that fossilized snakeskin can retain evidence of skin color from multiple pigments and structural colors, allowing for the reconstruction of ancient animal colors. The discovery opens up new avenues for research into the evolution and function of color in animals.
Researchers tracked turtles released outside their familiar areas and found most returned home, often within a few hundred meters of their original location. The study's findings have important implications for turtle conservation, supporting the idea that long-term resettlement is not a realistic option.
Researchers found that the Ice-Age diet triggered physical changes in Neanderthals, including an expanded liver and renal system. A high-protein intake led to a larger ribcage and wider pelvis, adapting to the limited availability of carbohydrates.
Lyme disease is transmitted by ticks primarily carrying the bacteria Borrelia burgdorferi. Researchers are exploring four arms of treatment-related research, including a mouse study of a regimen that eradicated the bacteria in the test tube and strategies to discover new drugs selectively targeting the Lyme bacterium. The goal is to pr...
A team of researchers at Ben-Gurion University and Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research found that fairy circles occur due to the way plants organize themselves in response to water shortage. The study, published in PNAS journal, provides new evidence on the cause of these barren circular patches of land.
Scientists at Stanford University have revived an abandoned drug that shows promise in fighting two disease-causing viruses, dengue and VEEV. The drug works by boosting the human body's ability to resist viruses rather than directly targeting them.
Researchers found that small sanctuaries allow threatened blackbucks to survive in densely populated Maharashtra region. The study suggests that these micro-refuges can help preserve biodiversity in increasingly urbanized landscapes.
Brown skuas in Antarctica show remarkable ability to distinguish between researchers and neutral individuals after just 3-4 visits. The birds' cognitive abilities are surprisingly high, considering their habitat evolution in human-free areas.
An international team led by the University of Leicester has identified 12 giant super-eruptions between 8 and 12 million years ago in the United States. The research suggests that these eruptions were significantly larger than previously thought, with one estimated to have exceeded 1,900 km3 in volume.
A novel plant protein, HMGB3, signals tissue damage and activates an immune response in plants, similar to its human counterpart HMGB1. This discovery sheds light on the parallels between plant and human immune systems.
Researchers used high-definition video cameras to track strangers forming groups in a covered stadium. They found individuals joined groups with similar physical traits, including levels of attractiveness, and attractive women were more likely to be in the center of social groups.
A proposed canal project in Nicaragua could deplete habitats of endangered animals like jaguars and Baird's tapirs. MSU researchers developed a conservation plan to minimize damage, suggesting adjustments to the canal design to preserve crucial habitat.
Researchers develop a solution to Hans Selye's hypothesis on adaptation energy, which has puzzled scientists for almost 80 years. The new theory predicts phenomena such as oscillating death and remission without exogenous reasons, providing an instrument for early crisis anticipation.