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Nutritional values established in 3 new, high-energy protein ingredients fed to weanling pigs

The study determined the nutritional value of three new protein products: dried fermentation biomass, hydrolyzed porcine intestinal mucosa products, and fish meal. The results showed that these ingredients are relatively high in crude protein, with lysine content in dried fermentation biomass being particularly notable.

New phytase effective in improving phosphorus, calcium digestibility in pigs

A new microbial phytase derived from Aspergillus oryzae has been found to be highly effective at releasing phosphorus from the phytate molecule. The enzyme, Ronozyme HiPhos, improves phosphorus and calcium digestibility in pigs by up to 68.7% and 84.7%, respectively.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Animal Science and Biotechnology·DateJun 5, 2013

JCI early table of contents for May 8, 2013

Gene replacement in pigs alleviates intestinal obstruction associated with cystic fibrosis. In contrast, Alzheimer's disease is characterized by the removal of synaptic protein ADAM10. These findings provide insight into pathophysiology and suggest tissue-specific gene replacement can alleviate CF symptoms.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMay 8, 2013

Pig brain models provide insights into human cognitive development

Researchers have developed a model of the pig brain to study human cognitive development, characterizing normal brain growth trajectory from neonatal period to sexual maturity. The model provides unique insights into brain structure and function, including effects of prenatal infections and early-life nutrition on brain development.

Finally! The pig genome is mapped

The pig genome has been mapped, providing insights into the evolution of domesticated pigs and their relationship to wild boars. The study reveals that domestication occurred nearly 10,000 years ago in several independent locations across Europe and Asia.

SourceUppsala University·JournalNature·DateNov 14, 2012

Meeting pigs' phosphorous requirements with fermented soybean meal

Researchers found that pigs digest the phosphorous in fermented soybean meal (FSBM) better than conventional soybean meal due to fermentation's ability to release phytate-bound phosphorus. FSBM offers a 65.5% standardized, total-tract digestibility of phosphorus, compared to 46.1% in conventional soybean meal.

How tribal courts can end war

In Enga, village court magistrates focus on restitution and 'restorative justice,' sending combatants home with compensation. The system has reduced violence and deaths, showing that indigenous means of conflict resolution can be more effective than Western law.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalScience·DateSep 27, 2012

U of M faculty find antimicrobials altering intestinal bacteria composition in swine

A study by University of Minnesota researchers found that antimicrobial growth promoters in swine alter intestinal bacteria composition, leading to accelerated growth and development. The findings suggest a possible alternative to antibiotics in animal production without compromising animal health.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota Academic Health Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 4, 2012

Picking the pig with the perfect pins

Researchers at Newcastle University used biomechanical motion capture to analyze pigs' gait and identify those at risk of becoming lame. The study aims to develop a farmer-friendly system to predict leg problems and reduce lameness, improving health and welfare on UK farms.

Sichuan Agricultural University and BGI to unravel the relation between DNA methylomes and obesity

Researchers from Sichuan Agricultural University and BGI reported the atlas of DNA methylomes in porcine adipose and muscle tissues, providing a valuable epigenomic source for obesity prediction and prevention. The study found that different methylated regions in promoters play a more important role in regulating gene expression and ar...

SourceBGI Shenzhen·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 22, 2012

Feral pigs exposed to nasty bacteria

A study by North Carolina State University has found that feral pigs in the state are exposed to Brucella suis, a harmful bacteria that can be transmitted to people through unsafe butchering and consumption of undercooked meat. The bacteria can also spread in pig populations, causing abortions in affected swine.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalJournal of Wildlife Diseases·DateApr 10, 2012