Articles tagged with Animal Diseases
Local African herders guided scientists to decide which animals to immunize and when, achieving higher than 80% herd immunity. The eradication of rinderpest is a triumph against a disease that has plagued animals and humankind for centuries.
Researchers tracked parasite-induced disease and death in reintroduced wolf packs in Yellowstone National Park, finding that mange did not infect wolves until 2007. The diseases that infected the wolves quickly were all viral, including canine distemper and parvovirus, while mange is a skin infection caused by scabies mites.
A rare but deadly infection, similar to malaria in humans, was discovered among a group of horses at the King Ranch in Texas. WSU/USDA scientist Don Knowles developed a reliable diagnostic test and treatment to kill the parasites, containing the outbreak and identifying a new tick species responsible for its spread.
A novel arenavirus has been identified as the possible cause of inclusion body disease in snakes, a devastating illness that spreads easily among boas and pythons in captivity. The discovery may lead to the development of diagnostic tools and treatments to eradicate the disease from snake collections worldwide.
A new diagnostic tool has been found to significantly improve clinical practice among veterinary and animal health officers in Uganda. The tool, a low-cost decision support card, was introduced to 15 clinical participants and led to an increase in the number of clinical signs recorded, suggesting improved examination skills.
University of Missouri veterinarian Leah Cohn has discovered an effective treatment for cytauxzoonosis, a deadly feline disease spread by Lone Star ticks. The treatment has been shown to save about 60 percent of infected cats, offering new hope for cat owners nationwide.
A UCSB study found that 70 percent of the most damaging non-native forest insects and diseases in US forests originated from imported live plants. The study emphasizes the importance of improving bio-security measures to mitigate the environmental impact of global trade.
Researchers at the Institute of Tropical Medicine Antwerp have developed a molecular identification technology that accurately identifies biting midges responsible for spreading bluetongue disease. This breakthrough can help determine where the disease will spread and inform effective pest control strategies.
A new study suggests that culling Tasmanian devils cannot control the spread of facial tumour disease and may even increase its transmission. Alternative strategies such as setting up insurance populations, finding genetic resistance, and developing a vaccine are being explored to save the iconic marsupial
Researchers from USDA's Animal Disease Research Unit have identified the cayenne tick as a vector of equine piroplasmosis in a 2009 Texas outbreak. The discovery highlights the potential for the disease to spread internationally, prompting efforts to prevent its spread.
A recent study has identified a genetic marker on bovine chromosome 20 associated with the incidence of three costly cattle diseases: pinkeye, foot rot, and pneumonia. This finding has the potential to improve disease tolerance in cattle and reduce economic losses for producers.
Research in yeast reveals that cellular stress can induce the formation of infectious protein particles called prions, which are associated with neurodegenerative disorders. The study identifies a protein called Lsb2 that promotes spontaneous prion formation under stress conditions.
A new study on deer mice on California's Channel Islands has found that precipitation, predator diversity, and island characteristics are key factors in regulating the spread of hantavirus. The research suggests that a stronger relationship between climate change and human health risk may exist than previously thought.
Researchers found that 55 white-lipped peccaries tested positive for Leptospirosis, with older animals showing higher serovar diversity. The study highlights the need for further research on disease transmission between livestock and wildlife.
A growing livestock industry is fueling animal epidemics that threaten food security in developing countries, where people rely on farm animals for their families' survival. The lack of veterinary capacity to track and control outbreaks poses a significant risk to human health, particularly in Africa and Asia.
Researchers developed a new animal model that uniquely identifies genes associated with increased resistance to disease in high-runners, which could help explore mechanisms underlying complex diseases and develop effective diagnostics and therapies.
Researchers have created a new animal model for rheumatoid arthritis that closely mimics the human disease. The KRN-CTM model exhibits chronic inflammation and cartilage damage similar to human cases.
A team of researchers discovered a gene responsible for a rare and fatal disease in American Staffordshire terriers. The same gene is believed to cause a similar disease in humans. Genetic analysis led to the identification of an entirely new mutation, which can be tested in human samples to determine its connection to Kufs' disease.
Researchers at Rockefeller University have identified two compounds emitted by mosquito predators that deter female mosquitoes from laying eggs in pools of water. These natural insect repellents could provide an environmentally friendly alternative to controlling disease-carrying insects.
Scientists are using a vaccine to vaccinate bison against brucellosis in Yellowstone National Park to prevent the disease from spreading to nearby livestock. Researchers found that bison infected with Brucella abortus exhibit similar symptoms to cattle, highlighting the need for targeted eradication programs.
The Field Museum and University of Chicago launched the Emerging Pathogens Project to study emerging diseases in animals, such as bird flu, malaria, and AIDS. By analyzing DNA data from collected specimens, scientists aim to understand how diseases evolve and spread between animal species.
Researchers will integrate data from climate modelling and disease forecasting systems to predict epidemic risks up to six months in advance. The project aims to give decision makers time to deploy intervention methods to prevent large-scale disease spread.
A new vaccine for liver fluke is being developed through a £1 million international research effort led by Queen's University Belfast. The parasite causes significant losses in the livestock industry, resulting in billions of pounds in economic losses each year. Scientists will work with partners in India and Wales to uncover an effect...
Researchers have developed an early warning system to defend rare Jersey cows against the spread of bluetongue disease. By analyzing meteorological data and midge activity, the team can predict when the disease-carrying midges are likely to reach the UK and Channel Islands.
A recent study suggests that human Rhodesian sleeping sickness in Uganda is spreading due to the movement of infected livestock, particularly cattle. The research found a strong correlation between disease prevalence and distance to nearby livestock markets.
Experts surveyed lawn care and landscape professionals about disease- and insect-resistant plants, finding that respondents believe these plants will increase business benefits and client satisfaction. The survey results show that fewer than 4% of respondents are concerned about the impact on their businesses.
The University of Minnesota is part of a multidisciplinary team working to pre-empt or combat emerging zoonotic pandemics. The project, RESPOND, aims to improve the ability of countries to recognize and respond to new epidemics in areas with unstable ecological relationships.
Camille Harris is studying the ecological impacts of forest disturbance on LaCrosse Virus dynamics using experimentally logged forest plots. Her research aims to understand how logging influences mosquito vector distributions and resulting disease dynamics.
A new oral vaccine shows promise in protecting prairie dogs against plague, offering a potential solution for endangered black-footed ferrets. Meanwhile, shipwrecks and man-made structures are found to increase the risk of invasive species taking over coral reefs, threatening their diversity and native life.
A new mouse model has been created to understand human neuronal diseases that impair feeling and movement. The mouse model mimics symptoms of Charcot-Marie-Tooth and hereditary motor neuronopathy, two conditions with no effective treatments.
Researchers used probiotics to protect animals from diseases such as mastitis and salmonellosis, demonstrating their potential to prevent and treat human diseases. The study identified specific bacterial species and mechanisms of action that could lead to the development of new treatments.
A new study assesses the risk of disease transmission from Yellowstone bison to cattle and proposes cost-effective management solutions. The alternatives suggested by the study, such as buying grazing rights or testing all cattle within a special zone around the park, highlight substantial benefits and consequences.
A study by the University of Nottingham aims to identify bacterial antigens that could lead to an effective vaccine against Bovine Mastitis. The researchers will use state-of-the-art molecular technology to determine which proteins are essential for infection.
New research reveals that commercial bees are infecting and spreading diseases to wild pollinators, contributing to declining pollinator populations. The study found that commercially produced bumble bees carry a harmful pathogen that can be transmitted to wild bees at flowers.
Researchers have discovered a group of 24 linked to virulence in Brucella abortus strain S19, which has been used as a vaccine for cattle. The study's findings may explain why other strains cause disease and trigger abortion in livestock. This understanding could aid in combating brucellosis and its potential applications in bioterrorism.
The Wildlife Conservation Society's new book, State of the Wild, explores pressing conservation issues including wildlife disease, climate change, and conservation as diplomacy. The book features expert essays from top scientists and thought leaders, providing a comprehensive look at the current trends affecting wildlife worldwide.
Researchers at the University of Iowa and Missouri have developed pig and ferret models of cystic fibrosis through genetic manipulation. The studies used adeno-associated virus vectors to disrupt or introduce mutations into the CFTR gene, resulting in animals that may lead to the development of a good animal model for the disease.
Researchers investigated how genetic background and environmental factors impact NPC disease in mice. Results show a wide range of lifespan outcomes, averaging from 50-130 days, suggesting complex interactions between genetics and environment.
The Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University has received a $200,000 Rockefeller Foundation grant to assess veterinary health services in Indonesia and enhance the country's capacity to prevent and control infectious diseases shared by animals and people. The grant will support the expansion of a nationwide community-...
A graduate student at Kansas State University has received a national research award for his presentation on diagnosing bovine anaplasmosis. His research aims to identify and distinguish between Anaplasma marginale and Anaplasma phagocytophilum infections, providing an accurate diagnostic tool for livestock producers.
Researchers found that people treated with minocycline within six to 24 hours after a stroke had significantly fewer disabilities. The study results show that minocycline may be an alternative treatment for stroke, offering improved outcomes compared to current treatments.
Wildlife experts from WCS and FAO argue that keeping wild animals separate in wildlife markets can prevent disease outbreaks. Closing these trade hubs could significantly reduce the threat of emerging diseases like avian flu.
A University of Missouri-Columbia researcher is using a microchip implant to help blind animals and potentially humans with retinal blindness. The preliminary results are promising, and the technology may also benefit pets with similar diseases.
Researchers detected viable bacterial and fungal populations in air samples from a research ship during May-June 2003. DNA analysis revealed matches to dust-borne isolates in Mali, suggesting transatlantic transport of pathogens.
Researchers at Purdue University have developed a national surveillance network using pet medical records to predict disease outbreaks in humans and animals. The program found correlations between flea and tick infestations and Lyme disease, as well as an increase in canine leptospirosis cases over the past decade.
Scientists are sounding the alarm on the dangers of animal movement in spreading diseases, citing examples such as avian 'flu and diseases of pets through international travel. They call for improved communication and regular screening of animals before movement to prevent disease spread.
The new mobile lab expands the diagnostic laboratory's capacity to respond to animal disease outbreaks, enabling quick expansion of testing capabilities. The trailer is equipped with biosafety level 3 standards and can process blood and tissue samples within 24-48 hours.
Neuroscientists at Thomas Jefferson University have found that glucosamine can significantly delay the onset of multiple sclerosis (MS) symptoms and improve movement in animal models. The anti-inflammatory effects of glucosamine may be useful in conjunction with existing treatments to help patients manage MS-related debilitating effects.
A study published in the Journal of Immunology suggests that the immune-cell substance MIF may be necessary for multiple sclerosis progression, but less important for initiating the disease. Researchers found that mice lacking MIF developed an acute phase of the disease, but then recovered without further signs of progression.
The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine will release animal disease reports on July 18 at a news conference. The reports, embargoed until 1:30 p.m. CDT, will be available to reporters through the AVMA and National Academies
The conference aimed to incorporate ecological methods into traditional epidemiological studies, exploring how environmental changes influence disease dynamics. Experts emphasized the need for building a bridge between ecology and epidemiology to address emerging pathogens effectively.
Researchers have successfully treated an animal model of alpha-mannosidosis, a rare genetic disorder that causes severe mental retardation and skeletal abnormalities, with gene therapy. The treatment restored damaged neurons and improved brain function in cats with the disease.
The LSU Vet School has received a $9.9 million grant from the National Institutes of Health to establish a Center for Experimental Infectious Disease Research. The COBRE program aims to enhance the school's research capacity and competitiveness for NIH grants, focusing on human health and comparative medicine.
A study by Wildlife Conservation Society reveals that simultaneous Ebola outbreaks consist of multiple viral strains originating from different areas. The authors recommend establishing a monitoring network to look for dead and dying large animals as an early warning system to minimize damage to both people and wildlife.
Researchers at Ohio State University have created the first DNA gene chip for horses, containing over 3,200 expressed horse genes, allowing for rapid scanning of individual horse genes. This breakthrough could lead to better accuracy in studying human disease and developing new treatments.
Researchers from Purdue's schools of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine and IU School of Medicine will collaborate to study human diseases using animal models, improving understanding of muscle wasting, obesity, diabetes, and cancer. The $4.5M program aims to develop new treatments for devastating childhood diseases.
Scientists have developed a new, non-invasive method to study neurochemistry and behavior in animal models of neurological and psychiatric diseases. The microPET technique allows researchers to measure dopamine receptor levels in living animals, providing insights into disease progression.
A new testing method for Johne's disease has been developed, allowing farmers to classify test results into five levels and make more informed decisions about cow management. This method enables the efficient handling of a large number of samples and saves farmers money by reducing the need for fecal culture tests.
Researchers are continuing their five-year study on lentiviruses, a deadly viral infection, at Ohio State University. The project aims to identify the factors responsible for enhancing the viruses' infection of the nervous system.
Purdue University scientists are using breakthrough molecular research and new technologies to diagnose Johne's disease in cattle. The disease, caused by Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis, can lead to $1 billion in U.S. cattle industry losses annually.