"Article" - what is it, definition of the term
A scholarly paper is a formally organized written composition that conveys original research, analysis, or synthesis on a particular subject; it adheres to a standardized structure—including abstract, introduction, methodology, results, discussion, and references—to ensure clarity, reproducibility, and scholarly communication, typically undergoing peer review before publication.
Detailed information
A scholarly paper on rodents serves as the primary vehicle for communicating experimental findings, methodological advances, and theoretical interpretations. It presents data in a standardized format that enables peer evaluation and facilitates integration into the broader scientific record.
Typical components of such a document include an abstract that summarizes objectives and outcomes, an introduction that outlines the research question, a methods section detailing animal handling, housing conditions, and experimental procedures, a results segment that reports statistical analyses, a discussion that interprets the implications, and a reference list that acknowledges prior work.
Rats and mice dominate laboratory research for several practical reasons:
- Rapid reproductive cycles allow generation of multiple cohorts within short periods.
- Well‑characterized genomes support genetic manipulation and model development.
- Small size and low maintenance costs reduce logistical burdens.
- Established behavioral paradigms provide comparable metrics across studies.
Publications focusing on these species impact diverse disciplines:
- Toxicology reports assess chemical safety by measuring physiological responses.
- Neuroscience papers explore neural circuitry through electrophysiology and imaging.
- Pharmacology studies evaluate drug efficacy and side‑effect profiles.
- Immunology research examines host‑pathogen interactions using murine infection models.
Citation metrics and journal impact indicators guide researchers in selecting outlets that maximize visibility. Peer review processes enforce methodological rigor, verify statistical soundness, and ensure ethical compliance with animal welfare standards.
Accurate documentation of experimental conditions, sample sizes, and statistical thresholds underpins reproducibility. When researchers adhere to these conventions, subsequent investigations can replicate findings, refine hypotheses, and advance knowledge about rodent biology and its relevance to human health.