"Clip" - what is it, definition of the term
The term designates a brief excerpt taken from a longer audio or video recording, isolated for purposes such as illustration, analysis, or distribution; it may also refer to a small fastening device that holds objects together by applying pressure, commonly employed in stationery, electronics, and mechanical assemblies.
Detailed information
The term refers to a small fastening or cutting tool commonly employed in laboratory rodent work. When applied to small mammals such as rats and mice, it serves two principal functions: temporary restraint and permanent identification.
In restraint, the device secures a limb or the tail, allowing precise manipulation during surgeries, injections, or physiological measurements. Its design features a spring‑loaded jaw that closes with consistent pressure, minimizing tissue damage while preventing escape. Proper placement reduces stress responses, improves data reliability, and facilitates rapid handling in high‑throughput environments.
For identification, a permanent mark is created by removing a minute portion of tissue—typically from the ear or tail. The procedure follows these steps:
- Anesthetize the animal according to institutional protocols.
- Position the animal on a stable surface with the target area exposed.
- Apply the tool to the chosen site, activating the cutting edge to excise a 1–2 mm segment.
- Allow the wound to heal; the resulting scar provides a unique, lifelong identifier.
Advantages of this method include low cost, ease of implementation, and compatibility with existing record‑keeping systems. Limitations involve the need for skilled personnel to avoid excessive bleeding or infection, and the requirement for regular health monitoring of the clipped site.
Alternative approaches, such as subcutaneous micro‑chips or tattooing, may be selected when longer‑term durability or reduced tissue loss is desired. However, the described tool remains the standard for many facilities because it delivers rapid, reproducible markings without the need for specialized equipment.