Articles tagged with Animal Health
A recent UC Davis study suggests that local ordinances for backyard poultry are inadequate, with laws not keeping pace with those for commercial growers. The study recommends stronger regulations on vaccinations, manure management, and general animal welfare in urban settings.
A new systematic review suggests that pets contribute to managing mental health conditions by providing emotional support and reducing feelings of loneliness. The study highlights both positive and negative aspects of pet ownership, emphasizing the importance of incorporating pet-related support into mainstream mental health care.
A new report recommends steps toward achieving global regulatory acceptance of non-animal testing approaches for acute inhalation toxicity. The report highlights the need for more efficient and human-relevant methods that don't use animals, with working groups formed to gather reference data and conduct testing.
A study by the Dairy Herd Health Group at the University of Nottingham's School of Veterinary Medicine and Science found that 25% of UK dairy farms used over half of all antibiotics in the sample. The research also identified factors associated with high antibiotic use, including oral antibiotics and digital dermatitis treatments.
A Brazilian study reveals that minor changes to corrals, such as removing splash colors and water puddles, can significantly reduce the stress levels of cattle. The implementation of good handling practices, including calm handlers and reduced noise levels, also led to improved behavior and cortisol release.
The G7 Ministerial Meeting on Health emphasized the need for urgent strategies to mitigate and adapt to climate change's impact on health. Reducing emissions and reinforcing surveillance systems were identified as key measures to adopt globally.
Researchers found that broccoli's indole glucosinolates can activate the Aryl hydrocarbon receptor in the intestinal lining, maintaining a healthy balance in gut flora and immune surveillance. This may help prevent diseases like various cancers and Crohn's Disease caused by inflammation.
Research suggests that mangos and their components have anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative properties, which may help reduce risk for chronic disease. Mangos are also associated with better nutrient intake, glycemic control, and improved gut health.
Research led by Dr. Lauri Byerley found that walnuts increase beneficial bacteria in the gut, promoting a diverse microbiota. This shift in gut bacteria has been associated with better health outcomes, including reduced risk of cardiovascular disease and inflammatory bowel disease.
German Shepherd Dogs are predisposed to musculoskeletal disorders due to selective breeding, with osteoarthritis being the most common condition. The study analyzed data from over half a million dogs and found that GSDs are more likely to die from complications arising from these conditions.
Scientists discovered a signaling system by which organs in C. elegans communicate their need for heme, an essential biological process. The study found that HRG-7 and BMP-5 proteins facilitate two-way communication between tissues, promoting systemic heme homeostasis.
Researchers detected neonicotinoid pesticides in drinking water in an agricultural area, highlighting concerns over their impact on human health. A new study found that a specific treatment method can effectively remove these substances from water.
A new study found that nighttime light exposure can pass on immune and endocrine problems to hamster offspring. Researchers at Ohio State University exposed adult hamsters to dim light at night, then monitored their effects on the next generation.
Researchers aim to learn how to provide healthier aquatic environments for animals and plants by studying viruses in controlled aquariums. The study will explore unique relationships between fish, animals, and plants with microbes.
A new study found that certain bacterial species and fungal families are present in both land-based sources and coral reefs, suggesting invasion. The researchers used high-throughput DNA sequencing to analyze water samples from coastal inlets, sewage treatment plants, and coral tissues.
Researchers found that monkeys suppressed HIV-like virus SHIV after receiving dual-antibody treatment, which enabled their immune systems to control the virus long after the antibodies were gone. The study suggests a potential approach to treating HIV and other infections.
A new study reveals barriers and facilitators to implementing a digital health programme in the UK, highlighting challenges such as lack of IT infrastructure and trust in security. The researchers provide ten key recommendations to aid adoption, including investment in digital healthcare and upskilling efforts.
A study published in Cell Reports found that hydras have a network of tough protein fibers called the cytoskeleton, which acts as structural memory and guides cell alignment. This allows the hydra to regrow lost body parts with remarkable accuracy.
Killer whales in captivity require enhanced living conditions to elicit natural behaviors. Experts propose changes to environmental enrichment, feeding, and husbandry systems to prioritize psychological and physical wellbeing.
A Vanderbilt University study found that each animal species has a unique microbial community that improves its health and fitness. Researchers transplanted microbiomes from closely related species into individuals, showing that digestion and survival rates were reduced when using non-native communities.
The US Department of Agriculture has awarded over $4.3 million to 48 veterinarians to repay their loans and provide critical services in areas lacking sufficient veterinary resources. The program aims to address shortages of food animal veterinarians, particularly in rural areas.
Researchers have successfully grown norovirus in laboratory cultures of human intestinal epithelial cells, paving the way for further studies on prevention, treatment, and control of norovirus infections. This achievement represents a significant step forward in understanding human gastroenteritis viruses.
A new study published in Frontiers in Veterinary Science ranks the suitability of mammals as pets, with Agile Wallaby, Sika Deer, Tamar Wallaby, Llama, and Asian Palm Civet making the top five list. The research developed a methodology to assess mammal suitability for domestic ownership, considering behavioral needs and welfare risks.
Researchers found that different parts of an organ grow at varying rates when the body changes size. This discovery could help understand how organs work and interact with each other to maintain animal health.
A study by Alison Franklin and her team at Pennsylvania State University found that treated wastewater from pharmaceutical and personal care products shows scant presence in wheat crops irrigated with the effluent. The researchers discovered that most compounds were present on the outer surfaces of plants, but only trace amounts were d...
A study of rhinoceros bones reveals a significant increase in osteopathology as new species evolved, from 28% to 65-80%. The black rhino showed 50% fewer osteopathologies than derived extinct taxa, suggesting that long-term bone health may have been compromised by adaptations for increased mass and activity.
The International Health Regulations (IHR) face a 'crisis of confidence' following the Ebola epidemic. Georgetown experts recommend reforms to build core capacities, clarify reporting requirements, and strengthen emergency responses.
Researchers have identified growth differentiation factor 10 (GDF10) as a molecule that promotes brain cell formation of new connections after a stroke. The discovery may lead to the development of a treatment to enhance brain repair and functional recovery in people who have suffered a stroke.
Recent changes in the dairy industry have benefited dairy cow health and welfare, as well as consumers' expectations for improved animal health. The shift towards more sustainable production methods has led to increased adoption of new technologies, such as automated milking systems and data-driven management practices.
A team of researchers decoded genetic sequences of E. coli O157, revealing its ancestor has been around for over 175 years. The study found that the bacteria's ability to produce shiga-toxins has evolved, making some strains more deadly than others.
The John H. Prescott Marine Mammal Rescue Assistance Grant Program provides funding to organizations responding to stranded marine mammals and collecting health data. Funding supports rehabilitation and conservation efforts for marine mammal populations in the wild.
A recent study found that signaling to one another can be lost in populations, particularly if receiving the signal is not crucial for mating. This loss of signals can happen rapidly and may lead to extinction or hybridization with other species.
A new study reveals higher concentrations of methylmercury in Arctic species compared to lower trophic levels, suggesting increased toxicity and potential protective effects of selenium. The research confirms previous suggestions that biomagnification may be more pronounced in Arctic systems.
A 13-year study found that humans are the biggest threat to Southern California mountain lions, causing over half of known deaths. The population's declining genetic diversity is exacerbated by an interstate highway that bisects their habitat.
A new era in animal tracking is underway, with advancements in GPS tags and satellite technology allowing scientists to track animals in real-time. Researchers can now analyze health data, energy use, and brain waves, providing insights into complex interactions among animals.
Researchers found that migratory birds' social hierarchy plays a significant role in avoiding collisions with obstacles like wind turbines. The study's computer simulations revealed that groups with a single well-informed leader are more likely to avoid such hazards.
A NIH-funded study suggests that the presence of companion animals may reduce social anxiety in children with autism. Children with ASDs showed lower skin conductance levels when interacting with peers and companion animals compared to typically developing children.
The Georgetown Consensus Group recommends policies to increase female animal models and balance male/female cell use in preclinical studies. The NIH is urged to correct the over-reliance on male cells and animals, which obscures key sex differences.
A clinical trial found that animal-assisted therapy significantly improved the emotional well-being and quality of life of adult cancer patients. The study, published in Journal of Community and Supportive Oncology, involved 37 patients who received daily visits from certified therapy dogs during their treatment.
Avivagen has discovered a natural compound, OxC-Beta, that can support immune function and prevent disease in livestock. The product is formed by the full oxidation of beta-carotene and has been shown to be effective against bacterial infections.
Researchers will screen proprietary enzymes for digestibility of common ingredients found in Canadian pork and poultry feed and develop commercial products to improve feed conversion and producer profit margins. The project aims to reduce strain on the environment due to decreased animal waste and improve overall animal growth and health.
A new scientific review from UC Davis reports that genetically engineered feed has no impact on animal health and nutrition. The review analyzed nearly 30 years of studies involving over 100 billion animals, finding no differences in the nutritional makeup of meat, milk, or other food products derived from GMO-fed animals.
A new scientific review of genetically engineered feeds in livestock diets concludes that feeding these crops has no impact on the health or productivity of animals. The review examines nearly 30 years worth of data from over 100 billion animals, revealing comparable performance and health between GE-fed and non-GE-fed animals.
Researchers at the University of Leicester have developed a novel electronic system for diagnosing canine lymphoma in its early stages and monitoring remission after chemotherapy. The cLBT test detects biomarkers associated with the disease, offering improved diagnostic capabilities for veterinarians and pet owners.
A new gene therapy approach has been shown to be effective in preventing and treating botulism exposure, with a single treatment leading to prolonged production of antitoxin proteins. The therapy, known as VNA gene therapy, can protect against toxin-mediated diseases such as C. difficile and Shiga toxin-producing E. coli infections.
Researchers found that acrylamide exposure damages the blood-cerebrospinal fluid barrier and impairs its secretory and transport functions. These changes may underlie acrylamide-induced neurotoxicity in central and peripheral neuropathy.
More than 500 delegates from 62 countries have issued a call to action to address the impacts of climate change on human health and the global environment. The ecohealth community has developed a vision and commitment to action that will bring together existing efforts to respond to climate change.
A comprehensive online resource has been developed to assist in the identification of 194 potentially invasive species from around the world. The new tool, built by the USDA and California Department of Food and Agriculture, includes diagnostic characters, distribution, hosts, and important references for each species.
Researchers propose 'One Health' model to guide sustainable growth of aquaculture industry, addressing animal health and environmental impacts. The model connects experts from various fields to develop sustainable operations ensuring adequate human nutrition and healthy environments.
Scientists found that corals with large energy reserves and flexibility in their algae partnerships can recover from yearly bleaching events. These adaptable species will be key targets for conservation efforts to preserve coral reefs worldwide.
Research found that early-life experiences can alter behavioral responses to pain and affect the next generation. Female sheep who had their tails docked or experienced mild simulated infections showed more pain-related behavior when giving birth.
A study led by a Cummings School veterinarian aims to explore the benefits of pets in reducing childhood obesity. The research project will test whether companion animals can aid children in sticking with weight loss interventions.
Researchers uncover the growing concern of animal hoarding in Europe, characterized by poor animal care and neglect, with implications for mental health and public well-being. The study highlights the need for standardized intervention protocols and collaboration between sectors to address this issue.
A recent perspective paper cautions about uncertainties in scientific evidence linking red and processed meat to increased cancer risk. The review discusses differences between animal studies and human data, suggesting that other foods may protect the gut from potential adverse effects of meat.
Researchers found that state regulatory agencies struggle to address public health concerns from industrial food animal production due to narrow regulations, a lack of public health expertise, and limited resources. The study suggests that strengthening regulations and providing complementary expertise can help protect public health.
A new research project led by Dr. Colin E. Bishop is developing a one-shot, non-surgical method for sterilizing companion animals, with the goal of reducing pet overpopulation in shelters. The treatment involves destroying GnRH cells in the hypothalamus to induce permanent sterility.
A study by University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio found that baby marmoset monkeys who started eating solid food earlier were more likely to become obese by age one. The research also showed metabolic damage such as insulin resistance and poor blood sugar control, setting the stage for future obesity.
A compact wireless sensor recorded and transmitted brain activity data wirelessly for over a year in animal tests, representing a major step toward cord-free control of advanced prosthetics. The device has the potential to revolutionize rehabilitation options for people with physical disabilities.
Researchers aim to identify genetic markers for improved dairy cow fertility, focusing on cyclicity and pregnancy timing. The study will involve collecting DNA from cows in five states and analyzing variables such as time from calving to conception.
Efforts to reduce lead pollution have been largely successful, but the problem persists due to new industrial inputs and consumer product contamination. Blood lead levels remain high, with no known threshold for toxicity, posing ongoing health risks to people and animals worldwide.