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Mice show no fear in brain study
The study looked at how memories associated with fear are formed, and how that fear can be manipulated.
The study looked at how memories associated with fear are formed, and how that fear can be manipulated.

Scientist find part of the brain associated with fear from memories

Scientist have been able to switch off the part of the brain that forms associations of fear from memories.

In a study using mice, scientist at Columbia University in New York, identified neurons in the part of the brain called the hippocampus, that associate fear with bad memories.

The mice expressed fear after experiencing an unpleasant event and then being placed back in that same environment.

Scientists then switched off these neurons and the mice no longer showed any fear.

In their study, published in Science, the researchers said their findings could have implications in tackling conditions, such as post traumatic stress disorder.

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Practices urged to audit neutering data

News Story 1
 RCVS Knowledge has called on vet practices to audit their post-operative neutering outcomes.

It follows the release of the 2024 NASAN benchmarking report, which collates data from neutering procedures performed on dogs, cats and rabbits.

The benchmarking report enables practices in the UK and Ireland to compare their post-operative outcomes to the national average. This includes the rate of patients lost to follow-up, which in 2024 increased to 23 per cent.

Anyone from the practice can submit the data using a free template. The deadline for next report is February 2026.

Visit the RCVS Knowledge website to complete an audit. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
New guidance for antibiotic use in rabbits

New best practice guidance on the responsible use of antibiotics in rabbits has been published by the BSAVA in collaboration with the Rabbit Welfare Association & Fund (RWA&F).

The guidance is free and has been produced to help veterinary practitioners select the most appropriate antibiotic for rabbits. It covers active substance, dose and route of administration all of which are crucial factors when treating rabbits owing to the risk of enterotoxaemia.

For more information and to access the guide, visit the BSAVALibrary.