Last week’s AHD Bulletin –
- Animal Health Digest Bulletin, February 22, 2024. Link.
Most read post(s) from the February 22nd AHD Bulletin –
- And, “What else?” Link.
- 8 restaurant etiquette tips, explained. Link.
- Skipping the dog walk IS a big deal. Link.
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A major solar storm could be devastating to our planet
Source: The New Yorker, February 26, 2024. Link. Karyn Shultz shares why disturbances on the sun may have the potential to devastate our power grid and communication systems. It’s a long read but gives perspectives on the potential effect of solar weather and how it may challenge our growing infrastructures.
New study examines how African swine fever replicates
Source: PORK, February 22, 2024. Link. A team of Pirbright scientists assembled eight proteins, comprising the ASF virus RNA polymerase, to produce an active complex that can transcribe genes and produce mRNA. Using cryo-electron microscopy they solved the molecular structure of the RNA polymerase in detail. Now they will work to identify additional accessory virus and host factors involved in regulating the temporal expression of ASF virus genes and the packaging of the virus RNA polymerase into particles ready to start a next round of infection.
Powerful new antivenom raises hopes for a universal solution to lethal snakebites
Source: Science, February 21, 2024. Link. Researchers have discovered a potent antibody that can neutralize a key type of neurotoxin produced by four different deadly snake species from South Asia, Southeast Asia, and Africa. They believe it is a step toward an antivenom that could be used on any of the 200 or so dangerous venomous snakes worldwide.
Having a bad day? Even the cows notice.
Source: Progressive Dairy, February 2, 2024. Link. Amber Adams Progar looks at the connection between how we interact with cattle and our safety during these interactions. She says farmer well-being = cow well-being.
5 things meat eaters should know
Source: Explore Animal Health, February 16, 2021. Link. No matter what, protein is a must in your daily diet. If you choose to incorporate animal protein, know that it’s providing a variety of nutrients, some of which can’t be found anywhere else, and that farmers are laser focused on making sure animals are healthy and well-cared for.
