The secret of dog friendliness is revealed. Free Technical Library News

NEWS OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY, NOVELTY IN ELECTRONICS
Free technical library / timeline

Revealed the secret of dog friendliness

27.07.2017

Scientists from Oregon and Princeton jointly figured out the genetic basis of the friendliness of domestic dogs.

At the first stage, the authors compared the behavior of 18 different domestic dogs - both purebred and half-breeds - and 10 wolves living in captivity and raised by people in close contact with them (in one of the research institutes located in Indiana, USA). It turned out that dogs are much friendlier than wolves, even "domestic" ones.

After that, Udell and von Holdt turned their attention to people with Williams syndrome - a hereditary disease that is expressed in an "elven" face and partial mental retardation, but with increased friendliness and sociability. This is caused by a deletion (disappearance) of a section of the 7th chromosome, and the more changes there are, the more pronounced this syndrome is in humans.

Genetic analysis showed that in dogs there is a similar mechanism, only not in the 7th, but in the 6th chromosome. There, the corresponding site is responsible for the production of the GIF21 protein, which, in turn, regulates the activity of some other genes.

It turned out that in dogs in general this area is more variable than in wolves. And the more significant the changes in it, the friendlier the dog.

This study is important because although we have learned a lot about dogs recently - for example, that they are able to perceive speech and have episodic memory - the genetic basis of these abilities is still largely unexplored. Meanwhile, it can have important consequences, including applied ones.

This work shows that the genetics of dog behavior may be even more relevant to the genetics of human behavior than previously thought.

<< Back: Editing of human embryos for the first time 27.07.2017

>> Forward: The meaning of life helps to sleep peacefully 26.07.2017

Latest news of science and technology, new electronics:

Artificial leather for touch emulation 15.04.2024

In a modern technology world where distance is becoming increasingly commonplace, maintaining connection and a sense of closeness is important. Recent developments in artificial skin by German scientists from Saarland University represent a new era in virtual interactions. German researchers from Saarland University have developed ultra-thin films that can transmit the sensation of touch over a distance. This cutting-edge technology provides new opportunities for virtual communication, especially for those who find themselves far from their loved ones. The ultra-thin films developed by the researchers, just 50 micrometers thick, can be integrated into textiles and worn like a second skin. These films act as sensors that recognize tactile signals from mom or dad, and as actuators that transmit these movements to the baby. Parents' touch to the fabric activates sensors that react to pressure and deform the ultra-thin film. This ... >>

Petgugu Global cat litter 15.04.2024

Taking care of pets can often be a challenge, especially when it comes to keeping your home clean. A new interesting solution from the Petgugu Global startup has been presented, which will make life easier for cat owners and help them keep their home perfectly clean and tidy. Startup Petgugu Global has unveiled a unique cat toilet that can automatically flush feces, keeping your home clean and fresh. This innovative device is equipped with various smart sensors that monitor your pet's toilet activity and activate to automatically clean after use. The device connects to the sewer system and ensures efficient waste removal without the need for intervention from the owner. Additionally, the toilet has a large flushable storage capacity, making it ideal for multi-cat households. The Petgugu cat litter bowl is designed for use with water-soluble litters and offers a range of additional ... >>

The attractiveness of caring men 14.04.2024

The stereotype that women prefer "bad boys" has long been widespread. However, recent research conducted by British scientists from Monash University offers a new perspective on this issue. They looked at how women responded to men's emotional responsibility and willingness to help others. The study's findings could change our understanding of what makes men attractive to women. A study conducted by scientists from Monash University leads to new findings about men's attractiveness to women. In the experiment, women were shown photographs of men with brief stories about their behavior in various situations, including their reaction to an encounter with a homeless person. Some of the men ignored the homeless man, while others helped him, such as buying him food. A study found that men who showed empathy and kindness were more attractive to women compared to men who showed empathy and kindness. ... >>

Electronic helmet for truck drivers 14.04.2024

Road safety, especially for drivers of heavy construction equipment, is a top priority for engineers and scientists. In light of this, the German Fraunhofer Institute for Structural Strength and System Reliability has introduced a new product - an electronic helmet, which is designed to protect drivers from serious injury when driving construction vehicles. A new electronic helmet developed by a team of engineers from the Fraunhofer Institute opens up new perspectives for the safety of truck and construction equipment drivers. The device is capable of monitoring the level of shaking in the car cabin and warning the driver of possible danger. The basis of the helmet's operation is a built-in piezoelectric sensor, which generates electricity during physical deformation. This mechanism allows the device to respond to intense vibrations typical of construction equipment. When the level of deformation exceeds safe values, an alarm system is activated on the helmet, ... >>

Antivitamins instead of antibiotics 13.04.2024

The problem of bacterial resistance to antibiotics is becoming increasingly serious, posing a threat to the effective treatment of infections. In light of this, researchers are looking for new ways to combat superbugs. One of the promising directions is the use of antivitamins that can have an antibacterial effect. Antivitamins, although known as the opposite of vitamins, have proven to be a promising tool in the fight against bacterial antibiotic resistance. A study conducted by scientists from the University of Göttingen in Germany confirmed their potential in creating new drugs to combat dangerous infections. With the rise of antibiotic-resistant superbugs, there is a need to find alternative treatments. Antivitamins are molecules similar to vitamins, but capable of inhibiting bacterial activity without harm to the human body. At the moment, science knows only three antivitamins: rose ... >>

Random news from the Archive

LG Concept Notebook 21.01.2007

LG Electronics has received yet another prestigious Red Dot Award for design. This time it was awarded to the company for the development of a new laptop concept.

Designed by LG designers, the portable PC has an OLED screen that is substantially thinner than standard LCDs. It does not require a wide frame around the edges and consumes less electricity. The keyboard is also a one-piece tactile OLED panel (similar to the one already implemented in LG Chocolate phones).

See full Archive of science and technology news, new electronics

All languages of this page

Home page | Library | Articles | Website map | Site Reviews