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Stannius ligature

The Stannius ligature is a special knot tied around the heart of a fish or frog to help scientists study how the heart beats. The knot is made of a special thread that doesn't break down easily, so it stays in place for a long time.

The ligature works by slowing down the electrical signals that make the heart beat. This is helpful because it allows scientists to study the different parts of the heart more closely. They can see how changes in certain parts of the heart affect the overall heartbeat.

For example, scientists can use the Stannius ligature to study how a particular drug affects the heart. They can apply the drug to the heart, then see how the heart responds by measuring its electrical activity. They can also look at different parts of the heart to see how they are affected by the drug.

Overall, the Stannius ligature helps scientists understand how the heart works, which can lead to better treatments for heart disease and other conditions that affect the heart.