Researchers have developed a rhesus macaque model to study Zika brain pathology, revealing similar brain lesions as in human infants with congenital Zika syndrome. The findings suggest that therapies can be tested using fewer animals, providing hope for the development of new treatments.
A new study found that dogs with noise sensitivity and musculoskeletal pain exhibit increased avoidance behaviors and a later age of onset compared to those without pain. The researchers suggest that veterinarians should thoroughly examine dogs with behavior problems associated with noise for potential underlying pain.
A study published in PLOS ONE found that young Southern white rhinos produce four distinct calls, including 'Whine', 'Snort', 'Threat', and 'Pant', which are used in different social interactions. The calls have a strong innate component, suggesting that vocal development may be an innate trait rather than learned from mothers.
Researchers at Michigan State University are developing a new cancer vaccine using the virus-like particle Qβ, which generates anti-cancer immune responses. The vaccine aims to protect animals against cancerous cells and could translate to human use for spontaneously occurring cancers.
A new in-depth review from the Journal of Dairy Science examines necessary minerals and their mechanisms for absorption in cows. The review highlights two key methods, paracellular and transcellular absorption, and discusses factors affecting mineral uptake.
Researchers found that cockatoos excel at fitting shapes into specific frames without requiring training or visual alignment like humans. They require fewer attempts to insert simple shapes compared to non-human primates, highlighting an allocentric frame of reference similar to toddlers.
A study published in Veterinary Record shows that dexmedetomidine gel significantly reduces behaviors related to fear and anxiety in dogs during fireworks displays. The treatment has been found to be safe and effective, with 72% of dogs showing good or excellent treatment effect.
Researchers found that wolves excelled in cooperative behavior compared to dogs, even when raised together under similar conditions. The study suggests that domestication may not have increased tolerance and cooperation among dogs as expected.
A new study by University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna researchers reveals that Kune Kune piglets possess highly developed social learning abilities through observation. The piglets attentively observed and replicated tasks demonstrated by their mother or aunt, showcasing exceptional memory capabilities.
Researchers found that each transposon family interprets cell signals uniquely and uses distinct strategies to determine jumping timing. This study sheds light on the complex interactions between host cells and jumping genes.
Researchers developed an automatic detection method called A-MUD to analyze ultrasonic vocalizations in mice. The tool was compared to manual methods and commercial solutions, showing equal quality and lower error rates.
A recent position paper reveals that animals and humans exhibit similar symptoms after consuming certain foods, highlighting the need for research on molecular allergy diagnostics. An elimination diet is recommended to diagnose food intolerance in both species, which may lead to improved prevention and treatment strategies.
Researchers found that winter foals were smaller than their spring and fall counterparts, suggesting a critical impact of reduced metabolism on fetal growth. Despite this, some benefits emerged from the study, including the potential for earlier foaling that can give young horses a head start in competitions.
Researchers at Vetmeduni Vienna have identified bone lining cells as the primary target of oestrogen in regulating bone density and preventing pathological changes. The study found that oestrogen binding to these cells controls the expression of RANKL, a key factor in bone turnover.
Researchers found that Przewalski's horses, now protected in the Gobi Desert, consume only high-quality grass throughout the year due to improved human attitudes. In contrast, Khulan wild asses also live in the same habitat but are still hunted and have a more restricted diet.
A study found that 67% of pet owners surveyed couldn't accurately recognize veterinary emergencies, with many calling out-of-hours services for convenience or reassurance. Veterinary practices can help by providing guidance on emergency conditions and training receptionists in telephone triage.
A new pestivirus, LINDA virus, has been discovered in Austrian pigs, causing severe shaking and damage to the brain and spinal cord. The virus is distantly related to classical swine fever and its discovery highlights the need for further research into its prevalence and potential impact on pig breeding.
A new study found a connection between common household chemicals and neural tube birth defects in mice and rats. Exposure to these quaternary ammonium compounds, used as disinfectants and preservatives, was shown to cause birth defects even at low concentrations.
A new study confirms that wolves and dogs refuse to cooperate when they don't receive a reward, showing an innate sensitivity to inequity. The behavior is similar in both species, indicating it's not solely due to domestication.
A study found declawed cats exhibit increased risk of pain, aggression, and behavioral issues such as inappropriate elimination. The research highlights the importance of considering long-term health effects and exploring alternative solutions to reduce welfare concerns.
The HHMI Medical Research Fellows Program has selected 79 medical and veterinary students for a year-long research experience, with 53% female awardees. The program provides a multilevel mentoring approach to help fellows establish a foothold in the research world.
Researchers found cats with normal lactate levels had better survival rates than those with high lactate levels, with a five-day survival rate of 57% compared to 17%. The study suggests lactate can be a helpful measure in evaluating prognosis and making treatment decisions for critically ill cats.
Cognitive biologists found dogs can correctly interpret cues by humans and find hidden food even if they cannot see it. Dogs adopt human perspectives by following gazes and understanding who knows what, enabling them to identify informants and successfully complete tasks.
In a study, male Allobates femoralis frogs became cannibals when they took over new territories, eating all clutches to ensure only their own offspring survived. This behavior was linked to territorial status, rather than sexual motivation.
A new study confirms dogs exhibit prosocial behavior, preferring to deliver treats to familiar partners. The complexity of the task influenced the frequency of food delivery, but social proximity played a significant role.
In a study published in Scientific Reports, researchers discovered that edible dormice experience increased telomere length with age, contrary to human aging. The unique life history of the species and its remarkable longevity may hold the key to understanding cellular rejuvenation.
Researchers found that Goffin's cockatoos can make elongated tools of appropriate shape and length out of various materials, including larch wood, leafy beech twigs, and cardboard. The birds demonstrated problem-solving skills by anticipating tool requirements and adapting their techniques to produce functional instruments.
A scientist at SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry has discovered that a dip in beer can sedate and immobilize tiny snails before a terminal dunk in ethyl alcohol, reducing physical distress. This humane method is similar to those used with domestic animals.
Researchers from Vetmeduni Vienna found that high food availability during the active season in summer contributes to a long life. Telomere length at the end of the experiment was directly correlated with food availability, revealing that a full belly rejuvenates the cells.
A study by University of Tokyo researchers found a statistically significant increase in cow births during near full and full moon phases. The study suggests that cows may be a suitable model for studying the lunar cycle's impact on animal births, with further research needed to confirm results.
A European-wide research programme is investigating why great apes are prone to heart disease, with a focus on chimpanzees and gorillas. The Ape Heart Project aims to improve heart screening in zoos and gain insights into the management and welfare of primates in human care.
A new analysis of over a century of literature reveals the life and journey of the word however, with common misuse as a synonym for but. Dr Andrew Hamilton's study shows that using however incorrectly has risen since World War II, often misusing it as a conjunction.
Researchers have discovered a rare fungus that produces compounds effective against both normal and resistant Staphylococcus aureus pathogens. The six most active compounds, including the previously unknown cyclo-(L-proline-L-methionine), boost the activity of other antimicrobial compounds.
The Asian bush mosquito is spreading its range in Austria, becoming a day-biting nuisance. The invasive species has adapted to various climates and can be found in isolated populations, posing a threat to the region.
Researchers found that female blue tits sing when faced with danger, singing patterns resembling those of males. The birds' vocalizations may serve as a warning signal or indicate stress and the ability to escape.
Austrian researchers found that nematode species previously limited to Southern Europe have spread to the country, infecting dogs and potentially affecting people. Monitoring of mosquitoes and wild animals is crucial to slow the spread of parasites.
The USDA has allocated $2.4 million to alleviate veterinarian shortages through education, extension, and training programs. This funding supports the development of specialized skills among veterinarians and veterinary technicians to address shortages in rural areas.
Researchers have identified a hybrid form of the common house mosquito in eastern Austria that can transmit exotic diseases such as West Nile virus. The hybrid mosquitoes can act as bridge vectors, picking up pathogens from their original host birds and potentially transmitting them to other birds or humans.
Bernard Rollin, a renowned bioethics expert and philosopher at Colorado State University, has been honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award for Excellence in Research Ethics. The award recognizes his seminal work in advancing research ethics, particularly in animal care and use.
Research shows that female poison frogs remember the exact location of where they laid their eggs, allowing them to transport only their own tadpoles. In contrast, males tend to transport both their own and unrelated tadpoles due to their territorial behavior.
Reported dog attacks on guide dogs in the UK rose from an average of three per month in 2010 to eleven attacks per month in 2015. Guide Dogs' stock were injured in 43% of attacks, with veterinary costs estimated at £34,514.30.
A study by Lisa Wallis and Friederike Range found that older Border Collies perform slower in tasks requiring learning, logical reasoning, and cognitive flexibility. However, the dogs' long-term memory for touchscreen stimuli remained unaffected by age.
A recent study by Vetmeduni Vienna's Centre for Artificial Insemination and Embryo Transfer found that simulator-based training in large animal gynaecology is nearly as efficient as animal-based training. Students who trained four times on horses scored best with regard to a correct diagnosis, while those trained solely on the simulato...
Researchers found that stroked calves gained weight faster, weighed more at 90 days, and had lower avoidance distances, indicating a stronger human-animal relationship. Disbudding without anesthesia disrupted this bond.
Researchers found pygmy slow lorises in Southeast Asia exhibit multiday torpor to conserve energy during food scarcity. This discovery highlights the possibility that hibernation may be used by further primate species beyond Madagascar.
Researchers developed a novel isothermal amplification method using gold nanoparticles and magnetic microbeads to detect DNA sequences characteristic of Leishmania infantum kinetoplast. The approach exhibits good reproducibility and sensitivity, outperforming other point-of-care tests.
Researchers discovered ticks carrying Borrelia burgdorferi parasite in Richmond Park and Bushy Park, posing a risk to visitors. The team advises taking preventative measures to avoid tick bites, especially in areas with frequent parkland usage.
The Center for Agriculture and Food Security and Preparedness at the University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture is developing a national training program for produce food safety with a $1.5 million grant from the FDA.
Researchers at Leuphana University developed a new screening-based procedure to assess environmental risks caused by veterinary antibiotics. The Usage Pattern-Based Exposure Screening (UPES) method aggregates data on antibiotic usage patterns and models consumption to predict environmental impact.
Researchers found that riding a horse increases the body's stress hormones and heart rate compared to simulator-based training, indicating a more complex movement experience for riders. This suggests that simulators could be an excellent preparation for beginners but may not fully replace traditional horseback riding.
A study found that intestinal parasites, such as Giardia, were the most commonly found parasite in cats across Austria, with over 56% testing positive. The parasites can be transmitted through contact with infected cat faeces, and households with multiple cats are at higher risk.
Researchers investigated daily fluctuations in human buccal mucosa cells over a year, revealing significant daily rhythms in eleven fatty acids. The study suggests that the cellular changes may be linked to environmental conditions and could have implications for human health.
A new study by the University of Surrey warns that excessive cobalt levels can cause severe side effects in horses, including long-term damage to vital organs. The researchers urge trainers to be aware of the dangers of cobalt misuse, as there is no evidence to suggest it enhances athletic performance.
A study by the University of Veterinary Medicine -- Vienna found that larger brain size confers a survival advantage to female guppies, but not males. The research, which released large- and small-brained guppies into semi-natural streams, revealed that large-brained fish are better at evading predators, leading to higher survival rates.
Two Boston University medical students, Joseph Park and Jacqueline Estevez, have been selected to conduct full-time biomedical research in the Medical Research Fellows Program. They will receive mentored research training from top biomedical scientists, focusing on Vibrio parahaemolyticus and cytokine profiles for liver cancer treatment.
A team of scientists from the University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna developed a method to analyze horse tail hair to determine its ecological significance. By aligning hair segments to time using satellite information, they found that tail hair growth rates vary greatly between species and even within individuals.
The Calchlorin neuter shot has been shown to be safe and effective in both dogs and cats, providing an affordable solution to pet overpopulation. The injection eliminates the need for surgical sterilization, reducing health and welfare concerns globally.
A study found that some dogs can mount an immune response to human norovirus, suggesting they may be infected. However, the risk of canine infection and transmission to humans is unclear.
Archaeologists have discovered a unique complete camel skeleton unearthed in Tulln, Austria, dating back to the 17th century. DNA analysis reveals the animal was a hybrid of a dromedary and Bactrian camel. The find provides insight into the use of camels as exotic animals during the Ottoman era.
A recent study found that female mice are more attracted to the odor of healthy males than unhealthy males. However, they also choose to mate with unhealthy males, defying expectations and suggesting alternative factors at play in their mating behavior.