Articles tagged with Dogs
Researchers at Penn University successfully used gene therapy to restore retinal cone function and day vision in canines with inherited day blindness. The treatment was effective for younger dogs and held promise for future clinical trials.
A TGen and VARI program is studying naturally occurring cancers in dogs to better understand the causes of disease and develop new treatments. The goal is to translate knowledge into therapeutics that can help both humans and animals, with a focus on rare sarcomas and osteosarcoma.
A comprehensive study documents American industry's water usage, revealing that most water is used indirectly in processing such as packaging and shipping food crops. The study estimates water use among over 400 industry sectors, with surprising amounts required for common products like sugar, dog and cat food, and milk.
Researchers analyzed over 900 dogs and 200 wild gray wolves worldwide, finding that modern dogs share more genetic similarity with Middle Eastern gray wolves than other wolf populations. The study's findings contradict previous research suggesting an East Asian origin for dogs.
A new therapy has been found to prevent severe cardiac injury and ventricular dilatation in dogs with muscular dystrophy. The treatment, which involves chronic infusion of a membrane-sealing agent, restores the compliance of heart muscles from dystrophic dogs to normal.
Researchers have identified unique features of the dog genome that enable genetic studies, highlighting breeds as a model for understanding genomic mechanisms. The study shows how genetic mechanisms may control breed-defining traits, such as short legs and skeletal size.
Researchers at UAB are testing a software program designed to teach children safe dog interaction behaviors. The Blue Dog software aims to reduce accidental bites from pet dogs, particularly among children ages 5-9.
Researchers found that the IGF1 gene variant responsible for small size in dogs is closely related to that found in Middle Eastern wolves, supporting an ancient origin. The study also suggests that smaller body size may have been desirable in densely populated agricultural societies where dogs lived indoors or in confined spaces.
Researchers found five genome regions that increase the risk of developing an SLE-like autoimmune disorder in dogs. The study identified strong risk factors that may double the risk of human SLE, and could provide new avenues for studying the disease.
Researchers identified five loci associated with a canine systemic lupus erythematosus-related disease complex in Nova Scotia duck tolling retrievers. This study suggests that dogs can serve as an excellent model for identifying pathways involved in human complex diseases, particularly autoimmune disorders.
A study by Tufts University found significant variation in calorie density among 'low-calorie' pet foods, ranging from 217 to 440 kcal/cup. This can lead to confusion among pet owners and may result in pets not losing weight or even gaining weight if owners follow the recommended feeding directions.
A recent study identified 155 regions on the canine genome influenced by selective breeding. These regions contain 1,630 known or predicted protein-coding genes linked to physical and behavioral variations such as size, coat color, and behavior.
Researchers have identified a genetic locus on chromosome 7 associated with canine compulsive disorder (CCD), a condition characterized by repetitive behaviors. The CDH2 gene region is linked to increased risk of CCD in Doberman breeds and may be involved in human OCD and autism spectrum disorders.
A genetic locus on chromosome 7 has been linked to canine compulsive disorder, a condition characterized by repetitive behaviors. The neural cadherin-2 gene, CDH2, is involved in mediating synaptic activity and neuronal adhesion, suggesting a possible connection to human obsessive-compulsive disorder.
North Carolina State University's College of Veterinary Medicine requires all students to receive disaster training, enabling them to respond to the needs of both people and animals in the wake of disasters. This comprehensive program equips veterinarians with advanced state and federal disaster certifications.
A new study demonstrates that muscle cells grown in the lab can restore an intestine's ability to squeeze shut properly. The technique may strengthen sphincters, which are bands of muscle separating intestinal sections, and treat conditions like gastric reflux and fecal incontinence.
Researchers at Loyola Medicine found that adults using pet therapy during recovery had 50% less pain medication usage. The animal-assisted therapy was trained through a program called Canine Companions for Independence.
Researchers have solved the puzzle of how the Falkland Islands wolf, an extinct species, got to the islands. DNA analysis reveals that the closest relative is a South American dog species called the maned wolf and the bush dog.
UOG scientists have employed new tactics to combat the coconut rhinoceros beetle (CRB) invasion, including the use of canine teams and a bio-control virus. The efforts aim to drive the population to zero, with the latest strategy targeting breeding sites using trained dogs and destroying debris.
In a unique situation, gastroenterologists performed endoscopies on military dogs with gastrointestinal complications. The procedures involved putting their human skills to the test to care for canine heroes in the combat zone.
A recent study by Ohio State University found that microchipped animals were reunited with their owners in almost three out of four cases. The return-to-owner rate for cats was 20 times higher and for dogs 2 1/2 times higher than for all stray cats and dogs, highlighting the effectiveness of microchip technology in pet reunification.
Researchers at the University of Iowa challenge previous studies on social cues in babies and dogs, finding that distractions from adults lead to poor performance in a classic toy-hiding game. Computer simulations support this explanation, showing that attention and memory are key factors in the task.
Dean Franklin, an engineer, and two physicians, Robert Rushmer and Robert Van Citters, pioneered noninvasive imaging and treatment of the heart. They developed devices that measured blood flow, heartbeat dimensions, and blood pressure without cutting open the body.
Researchers at KTH in Stockholm have made new discoveries about the history of the dog, pinpointing its birthplace to Asia south of the Yangtze River in China 16,000 years ago. The findings suggest that the dog descended from a large number of tamed wolves, with several hundred animals involved in its origins.
Researchers develop virtual environments and novel medicines to help military personnel diagnosed with PTSD, and explore the use of psychiatric service dogs. Preliminary data from clinical trials show promising results in treating co-morbid alcohol dependence.
A study identifies three genetic variants accounting for the wide range of dog coat textures, from poodles to beagles. The findings have implications for understanding complex human diseases, such as cancer and heart disease.
Researchers from the University of Utah and NIH identified three genes controlling seven major types of dog coat, including curly hair. The study used data from Portuguese water dogs to understand complex human diseases caused by multiple genes.
Indiana University researchers examine how rural LGBTQ youth use the internet to find representation, while dog owners' attitudes towards animals are influenced by cultural logics and personal experiences. Additionally, students perceive bullying as a false dichotomy, with themselves labeling as non-bullies even if engaging in behavior...
According to renowned canine researcher Stanley Coren, dogs' mental abilities are close to a human child age 2 to 2.5 years. Dogs can learn up to 165 words, including signals, and some breeds excel in specific areas such as working and obedience intelligence.
Genetic analysis reveals African village dogs have directly descended from indigenous dogs, with higher genetic diversity than modern breeds. This challenges the claim that dogs were first domesticated in East Asia.
Scientists at Rutgers University and UCLA have developed a highly accurate way to peer into the brain to uncover a person's mental state. They found that specific mental functions do not correspond directly with certain brain areas but rather a unique pattern of neural connections.
Research found that gun dogs and sheep dogs excel in following a pointing finger, while hunting hounds and mongrels struggle. Breed characteristics with short noses and central eyes also improve comprehension. The study cautions against making generalizations about the effects of domestication on dog behavior.
Researchers at Yale University developed a system to detect human skin vapors, revealing fatty acids as primary attractants for mosquitoes. The technology also enables dogs to identify their owners by detecting unique skin compounds.
Researchers found that infants can match angry snarl sounds to photos of aggressive dogs, while matching friendly yap sounds to welcoming body language. This study contributes to our understanding of how babies learn rapidly, recognizing emotions in their social world.
A single genetic event explains the short legs of all short-legged dog breeds, including dachshunds and corgis. The discovery provides new insights into human developmental disorders and may lead to a better understanding of hypochondroplasia, a growth disorder affecting some people.
Studies have documented increasing MRSA infections among dog and cat bites, with skin, soft-tissue, and surgical infections most common. Infections can spread to owners through animal saliva and skin, highlighting the need for proper treatment and precautions.
Dogs can be diagnosed with osteoarthritis early on through synovial fluid analysis, which could help prevent the disease or reduce its progression. Researchers found altered synovial fluid quantity and quality in injured joints, suggesting potential biomarkers for early detection.
Researchers found that preventing vascular congestion can help alleviate symptoms of heart failure. The study suggests that targeting venous endothelial responses may be an effective way to prevent congestion and improve outcomes for patients with heart failure.
Researchers have identified a genetic mutation in mitochondrial DNA that causes sensory ataxic neuropathy (SAN) in Golden Retriever dogs. The mutation leads to progressive loss of neurons, affecting about five percent of the current Swedish Golden Retriever population.
Researchers at UF have developed gene therapy that restores the faulty enzyme for glycogen storage disease type 1A, allowing dogs to survive for extended periods without glucose supplementation. The treated dog, born with the deadly disease, is now 20 months old and healthy after receiving precise doses of cornstarch every few hours.
A study found that pet therapy dogs can transfer MRSA and C. difficile to patients through contact, highlighting the need for hand sanitation procedures among both handlers and animals. The transmission of these pathogens poses a new avenue for spread, potentially impacting influenza and norovirus as well.
Researchers at NC State University have discovered that a molecule found in soy, genistein, can inhibit the growth of canine lymphoma cells. The study's findings suggest that this compound could be used to enhance traditional cancer treatments like chemotherapy, leading to reduced stress and costs for dog owners.
Research reveals that 3-year-olds, dogs, and young children share similar social environments, leading to comparable understanding of human gestures. 3-year-olds rely on the index finger's direction to locate hidden objects, while 2-year-olds and dogs respond to protruding body parts.
The study suggests that humans were experimenting with agriculture by cultivating local grains, rather than adopting from southern rice-farming areas. The findings provide insight into the origins of agriculture in northern China.
Researchers have developed a promising new drug treatment, NO-Cbl, which has shown significant anti-tumor efficacy with limited toxicity in dogs with cancer. The treatment uses 'biological Trojan horse technology' to target cancer cells, and could potentially be used in combination regimes to enhance its effectiveness.
Research reveals a potentially lethal risk of rabies transmission through butchering and handling infected dogs. Two patients showed symptoms after preparing and eating infected animals, highlighting the dangers of consuming dog meat.
Scientists have developed a successful treatment for dogs with Duchenne muscular dystrophy using 'exon skipping' technology, which covers up genetic errors. The treatment involves injecting tailor-made DNA patches into the bloodstream, improving muscle functioning and reducing deterioration in skeletal muscles.
Two patients in Hanoi died from laboratory-confirmed rabies after consuming butchered dog or cat meat. The researchers caution that handling unvaccinated animals poses a significant risk for rabies transmission in endemic areas.
A team of scientists from McMaster University and around the world analyzed rabies transmission data and found evidence for low levels of transmission, suggesting that elimination of canine rabies is a realistic goal. Achieving vaccination coverage of 60% or more in dog populations in Africa would be feasible through annual campaigns.
Researchers developed a new thoracic ultrasound examination called TFAST to diagnose pneumothorax and other thoracic injuries in dogs. The study found that TFAST proved highly accurate for detecting PTX and other related injuries, with accuracy comparable to human clinical research.
A new University of Pennsylvania survey found that most dogs will continue to be aggressive unless training techniques are modified. Non-aversive training methods, such as exercise and rewards, elicited few aggressive responses. The study highlights the risk of dominance-based training, which can lead to owner-directed aggression.
A Stanford study finds that dogs that bred with wolves thousands of years ago passed on a genetic mutation for dark coat color to their wild ancestors. This mutation is now found in nearly exclusive in North America's black wolf population, which has a selective advantage over lighter-colored wolves in forested areas.
A new study reveals that black wolves, the first genetically modified predators, have adapted to changing environments thanks to human dog breeding. The trait, which originated from domesticated dogs, has proven valuable for wolf populations as their arctic habitats shrink.
Researchers found that a novel mutated variant of a gene in dogs is responsible for the black coat color in wolves, transferred through matings. The discovery suggests that natural selection has increased the frequency of black coat color in wolf populations across North America.
Research at Kansas State University found that dog owners who don't wash their hands after petting their dogs or before cooking meals are more likely to spread antibiotic-resistant E. coli bacteria. Despite common bonding behaviors like sleeping with pets, these practices have no association with an increase in shared E. coli strains.
A team of scientists found distinct subspecies of rabies virus in African countries, indicating limited movement between localities. With a progressive strategy, neighboring countries can work together to eliminate rabies from sub-Saharan Africa.
A recent study has genetically linked Lou Gehrig's disease in humans to a similar disease in dogs called degenerative myelopathy. The researchers discovered that dogs with this disease have the same genetic mutation as humans with ALS, paving the way for using them as animal models to help identify therapeutic interventions.
A recent study suggests that college students can benefit from owning a pet, with nearly a quarter reporting that their pets helped them get through difficult times. Students who lived with dogs or cats were less likely to feel lonely and depressed, highlighting the importance of animal companionship in young adulthood.
A professor of political science argues for a national policy on culture in the legal system. She proposes three conditions to reduce false claims of cultural defense, including membership in the ethnic group, tradition adherence, and influence on actions.
A Duke University study has found that cats' inefficient gait is actually an adaptation for stealthy stalking, rather than energy efficiency. This means that while dogs rely on efficient four-footed running to catch prey, cats use a slow and deliberate approach to creep up on their unsuspecting victims.