Developmental Biology Research and Model Organisms
Author Information
Author(s): Jamie A Davies
Primary Institution: University of Edinburgh
Hypothesis
Is there a clear distinction between 'model organisms' and other species in developmental biology research?
Conclusion
There is no empirical basis for dividing species studied in developmental biology into 'model organisms' and others.
Supporting Evidence
- The distribution of attention to different organisms follows a smooth power law.
- Two genera, Mus and Drosophila, accounted for two fifths of papers published.
- The study analyzed 4615 papers published in five different years.
Takeaway
Scientists study many different animals in developmental biology, but there's no special group of 'model organisms' that are more important than others.
Methodology
A quantitative analysis of organisms studied in developmental biology journals over five decades.
Potential Biases
Potential bias in the selection of journals and organisms studied.
Limitations
The study only includes papers from specific developmental biology journals and may not represent all research in the field.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.01
Statistical Significance
p<0.01
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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