Human activity may influence the distribution and transmission of Bartonella bacteria
A study by Hannah Frank and colleagues reveals humans play a significant role in changing infection patterns, including spillover from animals to humans.
Search results for “Animals”
1,000+ results for "Animals"
Animal populations are shrinking due to their high-risk food-finding strategies
A study using animal-attached technology has revealed that animals using high-risk food-finding strategies are particularly susceptible to extinction. The research found that these animals fail to gather food for their young before they starve, leading to catastrophic results.
New study may provide clues to how birds began to fly
Researchers measured the ground effect of flying animals and found that it saves twice as much energy as previously believed. The study supports the 'ground up' theory on how birds began to fly by suggesting that proto-wings evolved from running and jumping abilities.
Comparing nocturnal and diurnal rodents helps scientists understand a human eye disease
Comparing nocturnal and diurnal rodents helps scientists understand a human eye disease. Researchers found that cone-dominant animals have low levels of omega-3 fatty acids, which may explain why rod cells are not affected by mutation to PUFA synthesis genes.
SourceAmerican Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·JournalJournal of Lipid Research·DateOct 2, 2018
New study probes the ancient past of a body plan code
A new study reveals that Hox genes play a role in regulating the body plan of radially symmetrical animals like sea anemones. The research found that disrupting Hox gene function led to defects in segmentation and tentacle patterning, suggesting an ancestral role for these genes in controlling body development.
Know someone sick? Your own smell might give it away
A new study from the Monell Chemical Senses Center reveals that healthy animals' bodily odors change when they are near sick animals, potentially impacting social contacts and disease spread. The findings suggest that exposure to sickness-related odors can trigger protective responses in others.
Breaking down backbones
Researchers found that mammal backbones gained distinct regions during evolution, enabling adaptation to various lifestyles such as running, flying, and digging. The study analyzed fossil records and living animals' vertebrae, challenging the notion of specialization in early land animals.
Wild animals were routinely captured and traded in ancient Mesoamerica
Researchers found evidence of captive jaguar and puma in ancient Mesoamerica, used in rituals and trade networks across the region. Stable isotope analysis suggests some animals originated from distant regions, confirming earlier research on animal captivity and trade.
Carrier status matters in foot-and-mouth disease
A new study published in mSphere found that FMDV carriers can transmit the virus to naïve animals under controlled conditions. The findings impact global foot-and-mouth disease management and highlight the need for better vaccines to prevent carrier states.
The dynamics and energetics of locomotion depend on the number of propulsive legs
A study by Dr. Tom Weihmann shows that body dynamics depend strongly on the number of propulsive legs, with increasing leg numbers impeding energy recovery. This discovery could explain quadrupedal animals adopting bipedalism and potentially inform control mechanisms for fast-running robots.
Study reveals big game animals must learn to migrate and pass knowledge across generations
A team of scientists found that big game animals like bighorn sheep and moose learn to migrate by passing cultural knowledge across generations. The researchers used GPS tracking data to show that translocated animals took decades to learn how to navigate their new habitats, and those that did became more likely to migrate.
Most Americans accept genetic engineering of animals that benefits human health
A Pew Research Center survey finds that majority of Americans accept genetic engineering of animals to prevent disease transmission and grow organs for transplants. However, others oppose the use of technology to improve meat quality or revive extinct species, citing concerns about ecosystem risks.
Roles of emotional support animals examined
A recent study surveyed university counseling centers about student requests for letters to allow emotional support animals, finding that most schools struggle with handling such requests. The research also explores the role of courthouse dogs in providing emotional support to witnesses, but raises concerns about their impact on trials.
ASU study finds animals can use muscle as an internal water source
A new Arizona State University study shows that animals may be able to use their own muscles to get water when it's not available. Researchers found that during reproduction, muscle metabolism is linked to the water requirements of developing offspring.
Older kids who abuse animals much more likely to have been abused themselves
A review of available evidence suggests that older children who abuse animals are two to three times as likely to have been abused themselves. Girls are less likely to engage in animal abuse, but when they do, child abuse may be more prevalent.
Spleen microbes of wild animals change with tick-borne illness
Researchers discovered that Anaplasma bacteria alter the microbiota of mouse and shrew spleens, changing bacterial compositions. The study highlights wild animals as potential reservoirs for tick-borne diseases with public health importance.
World's first animals caused global warming
Researchers found that early animals caused a decrease in oxygen levels and increase in carbon dioxide, leading to global warming. This process had a massive impact on the environment, contributing to mass extinctions during animal evolution's first 100 million years.
What caused the mass extinction of Earth's first animals?
Researchers from Arizona State University study the Ediacaran-Cambrian transition and find a severe marine anoxic event coincided with the decline of early animals. The team integrated geochemical data and fossil records to precisely match evolutionary and environmental events, shedding light on this pivotal moment in Earth's history.
People who feel threatened by vegetarianism more likely to care less about animals
A study found that individuals who perceive vegetarianism as a threat to their way of life tend to exclude certain animal categories from their moral circle. Human supremacy beliefs and perceived vegetarianism threat both predicted the exclusion of fewer animals, with stronger human supremacy beliefs leading to broader exclusions.
Researchers explore whether smarter animals are bigger troublemakers
Research suggests that smarter animals are more likely to cause conflicts with humans as they learn to exploit resources and evade deterrents. This includes learning to avoid human-made barriers and accessing restricted areas.
Shifting the thinking on tetrapod evolution: Ancient four-limbed animals lived near the poles
The discovery of ancient tetrapod fossils in South Africa suggests that four-limbed animals evolved in environments beyond tropical regions. The presence of these animals near the poles raises questions about the role of high-latitude environments in their evolutionary transition.
When did animals leave their first footprint on Earth?
Researchers discovered fossil footprints for animal appendages in the Ediacaran Period in South China, revealing evidence of early animal life. The trackways indicate that bilaterian animals with paired appendages existed during this period, raising questions about their evolutionary origins.
Probe into farm animals could help treat drug-resistant bacteria
A study published in Foodborne Pathogens and Disease suggests that farm animals may play a role in helping to combat drug-resistant infections. Researchers analyzed the transfer of resistant E. coli between farm animals and humans, highlighting the need for more robust data and state-of-the-art genome analysis.
Marine animals have been following their preferred climate for millions of years
Researchers at FAU have discovered that marine animals have been migrating for millions of years in response to changes in temperature. Coral, molluscs, and sponges have followed their preferred cold and warm zones for half a billion years, with isotherms shifting towards the poles or equator as temperatures rise or fall.
SourceFriedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg·JournalGlobal Ecology and Biogeography·DateMay 17, 2018
Mapping movements of ocean creatures great and small
Researchers compiled a massive dataset of movement data for diverse marine megafauna, including whales, turtles, sharks, and birds. The study found that species-specific movement patterns are influenced by habitat, with open-ocean animals moving in straighter lines and coastal animals exhibiting more erratic behavior.
SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 13, 2018
Smart skin for flexible monitoring
A thin smart patch called Marine Skin can track an animal's movement and diving behavior in real-time, while also monitoring the health of the surrounding marine environment. The patch uses stretchable silicone elastomers to withstand high pressures and can be attached to a wide range of sea creatures.
SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·Journalnpj Flexible Electronics·DateMay 3, 2018
New DNA screening reveals whose blood the vampire bat is drinking
A new DNA method efficiently screens vampire bat blood meal and faecal samples to determine which domestic animals they feed on, while also assessing population structure. This technique may aid in preventing rabies exposure by identifying animal hosts at risk.
SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalMolecular Ecology Resources·DateApr 20, 2018
Researchers seek evolutionary story behind snake-like animals that use heads to burrow
A multi-university study is mapping the repeated evolution of similar head shapes among animals using their heads to dig into the ground. The researchers aim to understand how anatomy, development, relationships, and ancestry influence body shape, examining over 400 million years of evolution.
Media representations of animals deceive us about their survival in the wild
A study reveals that charismatic species are often misperceived as having healthy populations, leading to complacency and reduced conservation efforts. The researchers propose that companies contributing to the creation of these representations should support conservation initiatives.
Astro-ecology: Saving endangered animals with software for the stars
A collaboration between astrophysicists and ecologists is helping to monitor rare and endangered species using thermal infrared imagery captured by drones. The project aims to track, find, and monitor endangered animals easily and prevent poaching.
Sulfur amino acid restriction could amount to new dietary approach to health
Researchers found that sulfur amino acid restriction can lead to enhanced lifespan, weight loss, and reduced oxidative stress in animals. While more research is needed in humans, the study suggests that a restricted diet may help protect against cardiovascular disease and cancer.
Early Maya animal rearing and trade
Researchers analyzed ancient animal remains from Ceibal, Guatemala, revealing widespread Maya animal management earlier than thought. The findings suggest that captive animals played a significant role in the development of state society among the Maya.
SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 19, 2018
Mice change their appearance as a result of frequent exposure to humans
Research reveals that wild mice living near humans in a Swiss barn underwent changes in behavior and physical appearance, including the development of white fur patches and shorter snouts. The study, led by Anna Lindholm, found that these changes occurred without human selection or breeding, highlighting the process of self-domestication.
Guidelines needed for use of therapy animals in mental health treatment
Therapy animals are used in mental and physical health treatment, but lack regulation; guidelines aim to prevent misuse and misunderstanding. The new recommendations include standard terminology, clear methodologies, peak bodies, and ongoing research.
Number of people killed by animals each year in the US remains unchanged
A new study found that US animal-related fatalities remained stable from 2008-2015, with most deaths caused by nonvenomous animals like farm animals and dogs. The majority of fatalities were preventable, highlighting the need for education and targeted public policy to reduce animal-related deaths.
Risso's dolphins plan their dives
Researchers found that Risso's dolphins gather information from previous dives and combine it with present experience to optimize their dives. The dolphins adjust their strategy based on the depth distribution and availability of prey, showcasing advanced planning abilities.
Tracking data reveal the secret lives of marine animals
Marine animals such as seals, whales, sharks, turtles, seabirds, and others exhibit similar movement patterns globally, despite differences in geography, phylogeny, or travel mode. In coastal areas, tracking data show complex search behavior, while open ocean movements are more predictable.
SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 26, 2018
Marine animals explore the ocean in similar ways
A study mapped global movements of whales, sharks, sea birds, and polar bears to understand ocean travel patterns. Despite size differences, marine animals move similarly through the ocean.
SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 26, 2018
Mammals and birds could have best shot at surviving climate change
Researchers analyzed over 270 million years of data to find that mammals and birds are better equipped to evolve and adapt to a changing climate. They have the ability to regulate their body temperature, allowing them to thrive in colder temperatures.
Humans limit animal movements
A global study using GPS data from over 800 animals found that terrestrial mammalian movements in areas with a high human footprint are significantly reduced. This fragmentation of habitats due to human infrastructure can have severe consequences for ecosystems, including changes in seed dispersal, food chains, and population sizes.
Hunting dogs as possible vectors for the infectious disease tularaemia
Researchers found seven percent of Austrian hunting dogs tested positive for the disease, highlighting a potential new vector for tularaemia transmission. The study suggests that asymptomatic dogs may pose an additional risk of infection for people.
SourceUniversity of Veterinary Medicine -- Vienna·JournalVector-Borne and Zoonotic Diseases·DateJan 19, 2018
Novel hypothesis on why animals diversified on Earth
A novel hypothesis proposes that animal diversification resulted from a revolution within the animals' own biology, rather than in surrounding chemistry. Cells with stem cell properties are vital for multicellular life, and tumor cells have developed mechanisms to maintain these properties despite high oxygen levels.
Novel hypothesis on why animals diversified on Earth
Researchers suggest a biological innovation fueled animal diversification during the Cambrian explosion, rather than atmospheric oxygen changes. Tumor biology insights reveal how stem cells maintain properties in high-oxygen environments, sparking new perspective on tissue renewal.
Why don't turtles still have tail spikes?
A study covering 300 million years of evolutionary history found that only a few extinct animals developed tail weaponized features. The researchers identified four essential traits: large body size, armor, herbivory, and thoracic stiffness. These conditions are rarely seen in living animals, explaining the rarity of modern tail weaponry.
Climate change: Soil animals cannot explain self-reinforcing effect
A new study challenges the long-held assumption that soil animals contribute to the self-reinforcing effect of climate change by releasing more CO2. The research found that warming temperatures and drought actually lead to a decrease in feeding activity, contrary to expectations.
SourceGerman Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle-Jena-Leipzig·JournalNature Climate Change·DateDec 21, 2017
Fewer laboratory animals thanks to secondary nanobodies
Researchers at the Max Planck Institute for Biophysical Chemistry have developed secondary nanobodies that outperform traditional antibodies in key cell-biological applications. These nanobodies can be produced in large scale by bacteria, reducing the need for animals in antibody production and improving resolution in light microscopy.
Smartphone app uses computer vision to identify animals
A Brazilian startup has developed a smartphone app that uses computer vision and artificial intelligence to identify animals. The 'Crowdpet' app combines photos of lost animals registered by owners with snaps of animals found in the street by volunteers, achieving a 99% success rate in distinguishing cats and dogs.
Obesity prevented in mice fed high-fat diet
Researchers at WashU Medicine identified a way to prevent fat cells from growing larger, leading to weight gain and obesity. By activating a specific protein pathway in mice, they found that high-fat diets did not lead to obesity.
Evolution: It's all in the ears
A new study reveals that extinct sauropterygians evolved inner ear proportions similar to those of modern aquatic reptiles and mammals. Researchers found similarities between the inner ears of ancient sea monsters like plesiosaurs and modern animals such as crocodiles, whales, and sea turtles.
It's all in the ears: Inner ears of extinct sea monsters mirror those of today's animals
A new study reveals that extinct marine reptiles called sauropterygians evolved similar inner ear proportions to modern aquatic reptiles and mammals. The research found that nearshore sauropterygians had ears similar to those of crocodiles, while fully-aquatic plesiosaurs had ears similar to sea turtles.
Unique field survey yields first big-picture view of deep-sea food webs
Researchers used video observations to reveal that deep-sea jellies are key predators and play a crucial role in forming the principal forage base for many commercially-important meso-predators and apex species. The study also found that gelatinous animals have complex food habits spanning the entire food web.
Livestock, food supply, and greenhouse gases
A study models the effects of removing farmed animals from the US agricultural system on food production and greenhouse gas emissions. Removing animals resulted in increased food availability, but also led to nutrient deficiencies and reduced GHG emissions by 28%. The removal of animals had unintended consequences on the food supply
SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 13, 2017
How human cognition can affect the spreading of diseases like Ebola
Researchers found that people generalize knowledge from similar animals to those they encounter, leading to increased risk perception. This study highlights the importance of understanding inductive reasoning in health communication and its potential impact on public health.
Do animals think rationally?
Researcher suggests a wide range of animal species exhibit executive control when making decisions, consciously considering their goals and ways to satisfy them. Studies have shown that elephants, chimpanzees, ravens, and lions engage in rational decision-making, remembering specific events, using tools, and solving problems.
Mongolian microfossils point to the rise of animals on Earth
The discovery of exceptionally well-preserved microfossils in Mongolia's Khesen Formation may confirm the existence of animal ecosystems earlier than previously thought. The cache, comprising eight genera and 17 species, represents a critical transition in life's history.
Diversity of large animals plays an important role in carbon cycle
A recent analysis by Stanford University researchers found that places with high animal diversity correlate with areas that have the most carbon sequestered in soil. The team discovered that meal remnants from animals contribute to an increase in soil microbes, which convert organic material into stored carbon.
To avoid a post-antibiotic world, researchers target animal farming and meat intake
Researchers analyze and describe a comprehensive strategy for preserving antibiotic effectiveness by reducing antibiotic use in farm animals, aiming to reduce consumption by up to 80 percent globally by 2030. The study suggests that limiting meat intake or imposing user fees on veterinary antibiotics could achieve significant reductions.
Penguin-mounted video captures gastronomic close encounters of the gelatinous kind
Scientists report that four penguin species target gelatinous animals for meals, providing a new link in the food web. The findings suggest that gelatinous organisms play an underrated role in the carbon cycle and can sustain large marine animals.
SourceEcological Society of America·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·DateSep 25, 2017
How do human impacts on wetlands affect animals?
Changes to wetlands alter animal populations, with reduced survival and reproduction in human-altered habitats. The study highlights the complex role of wetlands in human-altered ecosystems, which can provide important habitat but also pose risks to animals.
Welfare of zoo animals set to improve
Researchers have developed a new welfare assessment grid to help zookeepers monitor the physical and psychological wellbeing of animals in their care. The grid provides daily monitoring of factors such as environment quality and daily procedures, enabling zookeepers to identify potential problems and improve animal welfare.