Articles tagged with Animal Health
A recent USDA survey of 2,545 preweaned heifer calves across 104 dairy operations has provided valuable insights into calf health and management practices in the US. The study's findings will help improve the well-being of dairy heifer calves and inform more efficient calf-rearing practices.
Researchers found that Corexit 9500 caused negative effects on Eastern oysters, affecting their immune functions and feeding rates. The study highlights the importance of considering the impact of oil dispersants on marine species.
The discovery of the Bombali virus in Sierra Leone's bats marks a significant breakthrough for the PREDICT project, which aims to find viruses before they spillover into humans. The finding suggests that bats are likely hosts of ebolaviruses and underscores the importance of understanding their role in preventing Ebola outbreaks.
Researchers at UMN Medical School found that senolytic drugs can reverse physical dysfunction caused by aging cells, extending lifespan in animal models. A high-fat diet or being old enhances this dysfunction.
A recent study suggests that some level of reactive oxygen species (ROS) may be essential to health and development, contrary to the common assumption that they are harmful. The research, led by Purdue University's Daniel Suter, found that inhibiting an enzyme producing ROS in zebrafish embryos resulted in developmental complications.
The American Association of Feline Practitioners has released the first feline-specific anesthesia guidelines, aimed at reducing complications and mortality in cats undergoing anesthesia. The guidelines address specific causes of disparities and provide a standardized approach for administering anesthesia.
A recent IUPUI study has made a groundbreaking discovery in understanding the role of blow flies in transmitting pathogens. Researchers found that analysis of blow fly digestive tracts can detect fecal metabolites, providing valuable insights into pathogen transmission and conservation.
Researchers have discovered a previously undiscovered hepadnavirus in an immunocompromised cat and found it in banked feline blood samples. The virus is similar to the human hepatitis B virus and has been linked to liver cancers in other species.
A recent study funded by Morris Animal Foundation failed to find an effective nonsurgical contraceptive for free-roaming cats. Researchers tested GonaCon, a vaccine previously found promising in other species, but it only provided contraception for one year in 30 percent of treated cats.
A recent UK study found that French Bulldogs are prone to various health conditions, with ear infections, diarrhea, and conjunctivitis being the most common. The research also suggests that male French Bulldogs may be less healthy than females, highlighting concerns about the breed's welfare due to its extreme physical features.
The Morris Animal Foundation is awarding $750,000 to eight research projects aimed at improving horse health by preventing and treating foal pneumonia, laminitis, and septicemia. The studies will also investigate health problems in grey alpacas, including the development of a genetic screening test.
Researchers analyzed 729 reports of abnormal animal behavior related to 160 earthquakes, but found that most evidence consists of single observations and anecdotes. The team suggests a series of questions to analyze the data, including whether animal behavior is linked to specific rules or environmental changes.
Researchers developed a new surgical technique for recurrent laryngeal neuropathy (RLN), improving outcomes and helping horses breathe easier. The toggle technique provides a stronger anchor point on the paralyzed cartilage, giving afflicted horses a higher quality of life.
Researchers at Colorado State University's Veterinary Teaching Hospital found that taller casts distribute pressure evenly over the leg, reducing pressure sores and soft tissue complications. The study suggests that veterinarians should fit dogs with longer casts to minimize secondary injuries and improve healing outcomes.
A new study by Rothamsted Research reveals that well-designed grazing practices can improve animal growth and wellbeing, linked to soil health and pasture value. The study developed a method to measure individual fields' contribution to animal performance, providing insights into sustainable production.
Researchers at UC Davis found that doubling cage sizes and providing double-compartment cages can significantly reduce upper respiratory disease in shelter cats. This simple change improves feline well-being, lowers staff stress, and increases adoptions, ultimately saving more lives.
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.
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.
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 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.