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Defence Chiefs Could Learn From Darwin
The dynamic nature of modern security threat such as global terrorism requires a flexible response - and nations should mimic the way biological organisms evolve in response to their changing environment, researchers from the University of Edinburgh say.

The experts say that by adopting Darwinian principles of adapting to best suit an environment, nations could capitalise on their opponents’ mistakes and win conflict with flexibility instead of power.

A major conference held in Edinburgh earlier this week heard how the principle of competition and survival in nature could help nations develop flexible and speedy defence systems for conflicts in the 21st century.

Researchers say the process of adaptation, which explains how biological organisms reproduce and change over many generations, could inform defence strategy because it offers ideas for building organisations and strategies that track competitors shifting tactics and capitalise on opponents weaknesses.

Experts say that the primary security threats today do not follow systematic or predictable patterns so without a flexible and effective response battles and wars may be lost because we will be 'out adapted' by our enemies. The question is how to adapt faster than competitors.

Dr Dominic Johnson, from the School of Social and Political Science at the University of Edinburgh, said: "The history of life on earth has tried and tested far more adaptive strategies than militaries could ever hope to. They are all around us to see and their secrets have been extensively studied. We would be wise to identify the most successful strategies and apply them to the fight against insurgency and terrorism."

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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
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.