'Cause my hair is curly
Researchers have identified the underlying mutation responsible for the Selkirk Rex cat breed's curly hair. The dominant SADRE gene is distinct from other breeds and allows for genetic diversity.
Veterinary Medicine
Articles tagged with Veterinary Medicine
Directing change: How do they do it?
Researchers at the University of Veterinary Medicine in Vienna used fruit flies to study adaptation to changing temperatures, finding temporally heterogeneous trajectories of selected alleles. Genetic changes were widespread and rapid, with some genes adapting quickly while others showed little change.
Of mice and men
Researchers discovered that inhibiting PDGFRB can prevent growth of this type of tumour, extending survival in mice and a human patient. The study found that imatinib treatment significantly improved the patient's prognosis.
It must be important but what does it do? The strange case of UCP2
Researchers at Vienna University of Veterinary Medicine discovered UCP2's primary expression in immune cells, with increased levels during T-cell proliferation. This finding may have significant implications for the development of treatments for immune disorders.
Even Usain Bolt can't beat greyhounds, cheetahs...or pronghorn antelope
A study published in Veterinary Record compares the athletic abilities of humans and animals, finding that greyhounds, cheetahs, pronghorn antelope, and other species outrun and outmuscle top athletes. Human adaptations for endurance are impressive, but animals excel in speed, strength, and power.
Bend or stretch? How stressful is hyperflexion of horses' necks?
A recent study has found that hyperflexion of horses' necks, when done without force or aggression, does not elicit a pronounced stress response. The study monitored hormone levels, heart rate, and body temperature in horses lunged with either hyperflexion or an extended head and neck position.
SourceUniversity of Veterinary Medicine -- Vienna·JournalJournal of Animal Physiology and Animal Nutrition·DateJul 24, 2012
Motion sensors detect horse lameness earlier than veterinarians, MU study finds
Researchers have developed a motion sensor system called the 'Lameness Locator' that detects lameness in horses earlier than veterinarians using traditional subjective eye tests. The system places sensors on the horse's head, limb, and tail to monitor movement and diagnose lameness more accurately.
Penn and Cornell researchers spearhead the development of new guidelines for veterinary CPR
Penn and Cornell researchers have created evidence-based guidelines for veterinary CPR, aiming to standardize treatment of cardiac arrest in pets. The guidelines recommend 100-120 chest compressions per minute, intubated ventilation at a rate of 10 breaths per minute, and administration of vasopressors every 3 minutes.
SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalJournal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care·DateJun 7, 2012
Living longer – variability in infection-fighting genes can be a boon for male survival
Male Alpine chamois with heterozygous immune genes survive longer than those with identical copies, particularly in areas affected by scabies. This sex-specific fitness benefit may be due to the enhanced immunity conferred by different immune gene variants.
Slaughtering animals without prior stunning should be curbed, if not banned
A former British Veterinary Association president argues that slaughtering animals without prior stunning is 'not acceptable' and should be restricted to those communities that require it for religious beliefs. The practice is linked to animal welfare concerns, with many animals experiencing pain and distress before loss of consciousness.
Researchers find critical regulator to tightly control deadly pulmonary fibrosis
A recent study published in Nature Communications has identified a key component regulating pulmonary fibrosis, a fatal disease with currently no cure. The researchers found that the CLYD gene serves as a crucial negative regulator, halting disease progression and potentially opening new avenues for treatment.
Jak of all trades? Not of leukaemia therapy!
Recent study finds that inhibiting JAK2 kinase does not benefit leukaemia patients, but blocking STAT5 signaling can prevent cell proliferation. This discovery challenges the approach to targeting JAK2 in CML treatment.
How far is far enough?
Researchers developed a mathematical model to determine safe distances from residential areas for livestock farms, taking into account factors like odor emissions and wind conditions. The model aims to simplify current guidelines and regulations by providing a single, conservative estimate of separation distances.
No pain, no gain? Studies of the ideal way of making jump shots in handball
Researchers analyzed ankle ligament movements and strains during the jump shot, finding that landing causes additional stress on ligaments. The study suggests improved training techniques can reduce injury risk, benefiting junior players.
The bigger picture of population genomics
Researchers have developed a software package called PoPoolation2 to compare population data, facilitating the study of evolution and adaptation. The tool uses next-generation sequencing methods to determine allele frequencies between populations, providing insights into evolutionary processes.
Winter diets? The secret is to chill the extremities
Researchers found that red deer lower their heart rates in winter regardless of food intake, suggesting an internal programming mechanism. The deer's ability to regulate body temperature is crucial for conserving energy during the cold season.
SourceUniversity of Veterinary Medicine -- Vienna·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateDec 16, 2011
The short goodbye: Weaning foals
Foals weaned in the presence of other mares show reduced stress levels and adapt faster to life without their mothers. Weaning methods can significantly impact stress hormone levels in foals, with gradual separation showing less stress than abrupt removal.
The mark of the beast: tradition or stress?
A recent study by Christine Aurich's group at the University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna found that short-term branding stress levels are comparable to microchip implants in foals. However, branding causes more prolonged tissue damage and alterations in body temperature, leading to increased welfare concerns.
Keeping pets sweet: Treating diabetes in dogs
A recent study developed a system to continuously monitor blood glucose levels in diabetic dogs, revealing that none were receiving ideal treatment. The system provided valuable insights for improving treatment plans, including adjusting insulin doses and diets.
The American Society for Microbiology honors Andrea Endimiani
Andrea Endimiani has been recognized for his groundbreaking research on the impact of drug resistance traits on infections caused by Gram-negative bacteria. He has also made significant contributions to understanding the prevalence of KPC-producing Klebsiella pneumoniae in multiple US cities.
Vaccine linked to 'bleeding calf syndrome'
Bleeding calf syndrome affects new-born calves, caused by low blood cell counts and bone marrow depletion. A vaccine against BVDV has been linked to the condition through anti-MHC class I antibodies produced by mothers.
Females choose mates for their personalities, study shows
Researchers found that adventurous females prefer mates with similar outgoing personalities, regardless of physical attributes. This study provides evidence that compatible personalities play a crucial role in partner choice in non-human species.
No treatment is the best treatment -- diarrhea in young foals
Researchers found that diarrhoea is closely linked to changes in faecal bacteria, with the majority of foals developing the condition due to colonisation by E. coli and other bacteria. This suggests that horse breeders should not limit suckling time or use supplements to prevent diarrhoea.
Many a mickle makes a muckle: How changes in animals' size and shape arise
Researchers have discovered that subtle genetic changes can significantly impact an organism's size and shape. The study, led by David Stern at Princeton University, found that five specific genetic changes contribute to the evolution of distinct morphologies in fruit flies. These findings provide insight into how individual mutations ...
New MRSA variant detected in cow's milk that can evade some existing detection methods
A new variant of meticillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) has been detected in cow's milk, which is genetically different from existing MRSA strains. The variant can evade some existing detection methods, leading to incorrect prescriptions and potentially putting people at risk.
A boring life -- the Asiatic wild ass in the Mongolian Gobi
The Asiatic wild ass is critically endangered due to habitat destruction and hunting. The species' range is limited to areas with low biomass production, forcing it into unproductive habitats. Conservation efforts could benefit not only the wild ass but also other rare mammals by opening up migration corridors.
Out of Africa -- how the fruit fly made its way in the world
Researchers studied fruit flies adapting from sub-Saharan Africa to Europe and found that a gene called crm regulates temperature-dependent traits. The study reveals that changes in this gene may have enabled the flies to survive in colder climates.
Sleeping through danger: the dormouse approach to survival
A recent European study found that dormice in certain habitats live longer due to fewer predators and successful avoidance methods. The animals' ability to accumulate fat reserves helps them survive harsh winters.
Plant buffers can slow runoff of veterinary antibiotics
Researchers found that plant buffers can slow down the runoff of veterinary antibiotics in surface water, reducing transport by 58-72% for herbicides and 70% for antibiotics. The use of certain species like hybrid poplar can further enhance degradation of deposited antibiotics.
MU researchers use motion sensors to determine equine lameness
A new motion sensor system developed by MU researchers uses sensors on a horse's head, limbs, and tail to detect lameness. This system improves early detection and treatment outcomes for horses with lameness by removing human bias and increasing frequency of motion sampling.
If junk DNA is useful, why is it not shared more equally?
Recent research by Farlow and colleagues reveals a fundamental change in understanding the evolution of DNA, suggesting that DNA repair mechanisms may drive intron variation. The study proposes an alternative explanation for the observed range of intron numbers across species, providing a new perspective on the role of junk DNA.
'They talk about diversity...' -- the need for conservation of Asiatic cheetahs
Recent research reveals significant genetic differences between Asiatic and African cheetah populations, highlighting the need for targeted conservation efforts. The few remaining Asiatic cheetahs in Iran require urgent attention to prevent extinction.
Parents' social problems affect their children -- even in birds
A study found that changing the composition of quail groups causes aggression and changes in hormone levels, affecting chick growth and behavior. The results suggest a direct impact of mother quails' social environment on their offspring's phenotype.
Bird-brained? Birds' personalities are correlated with their hormone levels
Researchers found that young birds with higher levels of glucocorticoid hormones tend to be more curious and proactive, but also more stressed. Stress causes a significant increase in glucocorticoids in fast nestlings compared to slow ones.
The spice of life: Variety is also good for hares
A new study published in Molecular Ecology found that hares with genetic variation at a specific gene locus have higher reproductive success, including increased fertility and fecundity. The research suggests that variability at the individual level can provide advantages for survival and reproduction.
Vet med's big shift to more women, fewer men driven by falling barriers, more female grads
A new study found that three factors contribute to the feminization of veterinary medicine: decreasing discrimination against female students, male applicants deterred by growing female enrollment, and increasing female graduates. The study reveals no evidence of acceptance bias or gender-based concerns about tuition and salaries.
Women's choices, not abilities, keep them out of math-intensive fields
Research suggests that women choose not to pursue careers in math-intensive fields due to personal preferences and family commitments. Women are more likely to prioritize family needs over academic ambitions.
SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalCurrent Directions in Psychological Science·DateOct 26, 2010
Life-saving in the bacterial world: How Campylobacter rely on Pseudomonas to infect humans
Research found that Campylobacter jejuni bacteria survive longer on meat surfaces when co-cultured with Pseudomonas species, enabling potential infection. The study's results have significant implications for reducing food poisoning incidents.
SourceUniversity of Veterinary Medicine -- Vienna·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·DateOct 7, 2010
MU College of Veterinary Medicine to study efficacy of cancer drug in dogs
The MU College of Veterinary Medicine is conducting a study to examine the efficacy of Attaxol in dogs with naturally occurring cancer. The study aims to determine the optimal dose and treatment duration for this cancer drug, which was developed specifically for canine use.
Training the trainers: How to minimize stress when horses are first ridden
Research by Alice Schmidt examined stress in young horses during initial training, finding that mounting is a significant source of stress. However, exercise and proper training can alleviate stress levels over time. Gentle handling from the start is crucial to develop a strong bond between horse and rider.
Study: 3 out of 4 cats will wear a collar, making it worth a try
A study found that almost three-quarters of cats in a six-month study wore collars consistently, with 60% exceeding owners' expectations. The researchers suggest including collar discussion during annual wellness exams and microchipping as a backup identification method.
SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of the American Veterinary Medical Association·DateSep 8, 2010
A dog's life -- physiotherapy for arthritic pets
Researchers have found that walking uphill and using obstacles can improve flexibility in arthritic dogs' joints, while walking downhill offers little therapeutic benefit.
SourceUniversity of Veterinary Medicine -- Vienna·JournalAmerican Journal of Veterinary Research·DateAug 25, 2010
Illegal bushmeat trade rife in Europe
Researchers found 11 species of wildlife, including primates and crocodiles, in confiscated bushmeat. The study estimates that around 270 tonnes of potentially contaminated bushmeat is smuggled into Europe annually.
DNA analysis reveals the prime stock of Indonesian cattle
Indonesian zebu cattle have a unique origin with banteng (Bos javanicus) as part of their ancestry, adapted to tropical climates. The study shows that many famous 'racing bulls' from Madura descended from banteng cows.
Novel veterinary procedure detecting life-threatening injuries touted
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.
Instances of mass die-offs in wild lions precipitated by extreme climate change
Research finds that extreme climate conditions can create conditions for diseases normally tolerated singly to converge and cause mass die-offs in wildlife. In a study on Serengeti lions, researchers linked deadly outbreaks of canine distemper virus to debilitated prey populations and heavy tick infestations after droughts and floods.
Penn researchers identify first sex chromosome gene involved in meiosis and male infertility
A team of scientists identified the TEX11 gene on the X chromosome as a key player in meiosis and male infertility. Disruption of this gene causes sterility in males and reduces female fecundity, highlighting the importance of sex chromosomes in fertility.
National Institutes of Health funds new center for reproduction and infertility research at Illinois
The National Institute of Child Health and Human Development has approved funding for a Center for Reproduction and Infertility Research at the University of Illinois. The center will support research on maternal-fetal interactions during early pregnancy and identify factors underlying infertility in women with endometriosis.
Bernese Mountain Dogs prone to Borrelia burgdorferi infection
A recent study has found that Bernese Mountain Dogs are more susceptible to Borrelia burgdorferi infection than other breeds. More than half of the dogs tested were infected, with antibodies against B. burgdorferi found in 58% of those studied.
Have you ever seen an elephant ... run?
Researchers are using motion capture cameras and MRI scans to create 3D models of elephant locomotion. The study's goal is to understand how elephants coordinate their limbs and determine if they truly run. This knowledge can improve animal welfare, inform human biomechanics, and aid in the design of walking robots.
Survey of animal shelters says dogs fare better than cats
The survey found that dogs received 16% fewer animals since 1996, while cat intake increased by nearly 20%, leading to a rise in cat euthanasia rates. In contrast, dogs saw a significant decrease in euthanasia rates and more adoptions, with 63,700 dogs adopted compared to 51,600 in 1996.
SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of the American Veterinary Medical Association·DateJul 1, 2006
Farm study raises doubts about new approach to swine-disease control
A new approach to controlling swine disease, known as acclimatization, was tested on a farm in Illinois. The study found that pigs exposed to the farm's wild-type virus developed immunity but suffered reproductive issues, casting doubt on its effectiveness.
SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalJournal of the American Veterinary Medical Association·DateApr 4, 2006
The hare and the greyhound: A race the hare can win
The hare's hind-limb hip-extensor muscles are more exaggerated than the greyhound's, enabling rapid acceleration and direction changes. This muscle difference gives the hare a competitive advantage in races against greyhounds.
Greyhounds and humans going round the bend
A study published in Nature found that greyhounds can sustain high speeds around corners without slowing down due to centripetal forces. Unlike humans, who are limited by cornering forces, greyhounds use a unique biomechanical approach that allows them to maintain speed.
MRI best tool for studying intricate nerves in dogs
Researchers used MRI to study canine cranial nerves, enabling earlier disease recognition and imaging of nerve nuclei. The study sheds light on the challenges of identifying small nerves using conventional imaging modalities.
Researcher at UGA College of Veterinary Medicine identifies new way of combating viral diseases
Researchers at UGA College of Veterinary Medicine have identified a new way to combat viral diseases by blocking a protein that helps transport viruses out of cells. This approach, targeting the host gene Rab9, shows promise in preventing the replication of four different viruses: Marburg, Ebola, HIV-1, and measles.
Penn researchers describe newly found dinosaur of the Montana coastline
The discovery of Suuwassea emilieae, a smaller relative of Diplodocus and Apatosaurus, provides significant insights into the fauna of the Morrison Formation. The new species features an anomalous second hole in its skull, which has puzzled paleontologists for years.
Stuart research funds generating dividends for veterinary medicine
Researchers have found that dietary grain affects colonic hydration, leading to significant changes in gut function. The study suggests that switching from hay only to hay and grain can decrease water content in the colon.
Young Amazonian manatee returned to wild
A young Amazonian manatee named Airuwe was successfully rehabilitated and released back into the wild with the help of a conservation program led by Dr. Greg Bossart. The rehabilitation program, which involved a community-led effort, showed that with proper care and support, orphaned manatees can thrive in their natural habitats.