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Scientists using ‘deep learning’ to predict bTB status in cows
The project aims to produce data that can be used for diagnostic and management purposes.
Method set to become ‘key weapon’ in fight against the disease

Researchers at Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC) are using ‘deep learning’ to predict the Bovine Tuberculosis (bTB) status of dairy cows.

Deep learning is a form of machine learning that uses artificial neural networks to learn from large data sets. Researchers hope that by using the method to analyse milk samples, they will strike a significant blow to the disease - thought to cost the UK dairy industry some £175 million every year.

Project leader Professor Mike Coffey said: “This is potentially a great step forward in the fight against TB. Being able to use routinely collected milk samples to alert a cow that may have been exposed to infection will allow the farmer to take remedial action long before the normal testing regime comes in.

“The early removal of infected cows should lower the background level of TB and contribute to enabling more effective outcomes from the existing tools deployed to eradicate the disease.”

The project has received £337,000 from the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC) to produce data that can be used for management and diagnostic purposes. It also aims to produce data for potential inclusion in national genetic evaluations for bTB host resistance.

The funding follows Defra’s review of its 25-year bTB eradication strategy, which now specifically includes “improved genetic resistance and improved diagnostic tests”.

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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.