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Pig-induced pluripotent stem cells may be safer than previously thought

Researchers at the University of Georgia have made a breakthrough in pig-induced pluripotent stem cells, showing they can safely incorporate into tissues without tumor formation. This finding has significant implications for stem cell therapies and potentially reduces the need for rodent-based models.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalStem Cells·DateDec 9, 2011

Healthy piglets? Not with sulfonamides!

Researchers have discovered that toltrazuril can effectively control coccidiosis in piglets, whereas sulfonamides fail to provide sufficient protection. Toltrazuril treatment has been shown to significantly improve health outcomes and reduce diarrhoea in pigs.

SourceUniversity of Veterinary Medicine -- Vienna·JournalParasitology Research·DateDec 5, 2011
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

UCLA scientists find H1N1 flu virus prevalent in animals in Africa

A study by UCLA scientists has found the first evidence of the H1N1 virus in animals in Africa, with 89% of pigs studied showing exposure to the virus. The discovery highlights the rapid spread of diseases globally and the importance of understanding viral transmission between humans, wild animals, and domestic animals.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalVeterinary Microbiology·DateSep 22, 2011

Hog waste producing electricity and carbon offsets

The system produces enough electricity to power 35 homes for a year and prevents the release of greenhouse gases equivalent to nearly 5,000 metric tons of CO2 per year. The pilot project demonstrates how hog farms can manage waste, reduce emissions, and generate on-farm renewable power.

SourceDuke University·DateSep 8, 2011
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Veterinary researcher receives prestigious grant to study swine disease

Veterinary researcher Scott Kenney received a prestigious USDA grant to investigate the molecular mechanisms of pathogenesis behind porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus. The two-year grant aims to better understand how the virus causes reproductive failure in sows and respiratory diseases in piglets.

SourceVirginia Tech·DateAug 18, 2011

Mannan oligosaccharides offer health benefits to pigs

Researchers found that mannan oligosaccharides increase the total number of immune cells in pigs infected with porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus. MOS also alleviates the overstimulation of the immune system, reducing fever and improving feed efficiency.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Animal Science·DateJul 28, 2011

Evolution of swine flu viruses traced in long-term study

Scientists analyzed over 650 influenza viruses from Hong Kong pigs, tracing the emergence of subtypes that can infect humans. The study highlights the potential for gene-swapping between viruses and recommends continued surveillance to understand how this process might lead to new variants with human flu epidemic risks.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalNature·DateMay 25, 2011
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Long-term study of swine flu viruses shows increasing viral diversity

A long-term study reveals that increased transport of live pigs has driven an increase in the diversity of swine influenza viruses found in Hong Kong over the past three decades. The study suggests that this rising diversity may lead to a higher likelihood of swine-to-human transmission, although the risk remains unquantified.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalNature·DateMay 25, 2011
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

Livestock also suffer traffic accidents during transport

A Spanish study reveals that livestock, particularly pigs and cattle, are prone to traffic accidents during transport, resulting in pain and stress. The study calls for specific protocols and emergency services training to deal with these incidents and improve animal welfare.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalJournal of Applied Animal Welfare Science·DateMay 13, 2011

Wild hogs: Researchers examine impact of feral pigs in eastern N.C.

Feral pigs in eastern North Carolina have been found to host significant numbers of parasites that can be transmitted to humans, including Toxoplasma gondii and Trichinella. The study's findings highlight the potential health risk posed by feral pigs to both domestic swine and humans.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalJournal of Wildlife Diseases·DateApr 25, 2011

In vitro infection and replication of hepatitis E virus in human hepatocytes

Researchers have successfully infected and replicated swine hepatitis E virus in human hepatocytes, confirming its zoonotic potential. This breakthrough verifies the infectious disease can be transmitted from animals to humans., Hepatitis E is a major cause of epidemic and acute sporadic hepatitis worldwide.

SourceEuropean Association for the Study of the Liver·DateApr 2, 2011
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

First partial sequencing of an Iberian pig

Researchers have successfully sequenced 1% of the Iberian pig's genome, providing a new understanding of its genetics and meat quality. The study reveals surprising genetic diversity, with regions related to olfactory and immune systems showing higher variability.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalHeredity·DateMar 22, 2011

Pig model of cystic fibrosis improves understanding of disease

Researchers have created a pig model that genetically replicates the most common form of cystic fibrosis, revealing how the CF protein is misprocessed and leads to disease symptoms. The study suggests that a small amount of active CFTR protein activity is not sufficient to prevent disease in pigs.

SourceUniversity of Iowa Health Care·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateMar 16, 2011

Research sheds light on fat digestibility in pigs

Recent research from the University of Illinois found that different types of diets affect endogenous losses of fat in pigs. The study measured endogenous losses to determine true digestibility of both intact and extracted corn oil, revealing that intact fat was less digestible than extracted fat.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Animal Science·DateMar 7, 2011

Environmental impact of animal waste

Researchers found that anaerobic lagoons in North and South Carolina have high levels of nitrogen-cycling genes but low denitrification enzyme activity, leading to acidification and eutrophication of surrounding ecosystems. The study highlights the need for improved waste management practices to minimize environmental harm.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalJournal of Environmental Quality·DateMar 4, 2011

Research proves new soybean meal sources are good fish meal alternatives

Researchers at the University of Illinois found that fermented and enzyme-treated soybean meals can replace fish meal in weanling pig diets without sacrificing digestibility. These new sources are cheaper alternatives to traditional fish meal, which has seen a significant price increase.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Animal Science·DateFeb 7, 2011
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Household bugs -- a risk to human health?

Research published in BMC Microbiology suggests that insects on pig farms can carry and transmit antibiotic-resistant bacteria to humans. The study found high prevalence of resistant Enterococcus faecalis and faecium in insect intestines, mirroring those found in pigs' feces.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Microbiology·DateJan 25, 2011

University of Illinois study confirms glycerin as a feasible feedstuff for swine

The University of Illinois study found that swine diets can include up to 15% glycerin and achieve comparable performance to a conventional corn:soybean diet. However, the study revealed no effect of feeding glycerin on meat quality. The availability and cost of glycerin may impact its use as a feed ingredient.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Animal Science·DateJan 19, 2011

Cilantro ingredient can remove foul odor of holiday chitlins

Scientists have discovered that cilantro's (E,E)-2,4-Undecadienal compound effectively eliminates the strong smell of chitlins. The ingredient can suppress odor at very low concentrations, equivalent to about 10 drops in an Olympic-size pool.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateDec 15, 2010
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

Cilantro ingredient can remove foul odor of 'chitlins'

Scientists have identified an ingredient in cilantro that can effectively remove the foul odor of chitlins. The compound (E,E)-2,4-Undecadienal was found to suppress the unpleasant smell at concentrations as low as 10 parts per billion.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateNov 13, 2010

Growth defects in cystic fibrosis may start before birth

A new study found that infants with cystic fibrosis have reduced IGF1 levels compared to healthy infants, suggesting that IGF1 deficits begin early in the course of CF disease. This could lead to new therapies for growth defects in people with CF.

SourceUniversity of Iowa Health Care·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 9, 2010

Swine researchers seek answers to fiber's low digestibility

Swine researchers found that fiber in distillers dried grains with solubles (DDGS) is poorly utilized by pigs, with less than 50% digestibility. Soluble fiber, like pectins and oligosaccharides, is easily fermentable, but insoluble fibers are harder to digest.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Animal Science·DateSep 8, 2010
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Can you ask a pig if his glass is half full?

Researchers from Newcastle University have found that pigs' moods reflect their level of contentment, influenced by their living environment. The study used a technique to 'ask' pigs about their optimism or pessimism, revealing a direct correlation between emotional state and physical space.

SourceNewcastle University·DateJul 27, 2010

Visually guided laser may be viable treatment for abnormal heartbeat

A new laser-balloon catheter successfully interrupted irregular electrical pulses in patients and pigs, offering a potential new treatment for abnormal heartbeats. The treatment achieved 100% accuracy in clinical trials and had long-lasting effects, making it a promising alternative to traditional ablation procedures.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateMay 25, 2010
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Calcium in early life may prevent obesity later

A new study from North Carolina State University found that calcium-deficient piglets developed fat cells instead of bone-forming cells, potentially leading to lifelong bone health issues. The researchers plan to investigate the effects of early life calcium deficiency on bone density and strength in a longer-term study.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·DateMay 13, 2010

Virginiamycin may reduce feed costs for swine producers

Researchers found that adding virginiamycin to corn-soybean meal feed rations improves ileal amino acid digestibility, enabling pigs to utilize amino acids more efficiently. This increase in digestibility could lead to significant savings on formulation cost and lower diet costs for swine producers.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Animal Science·DateMay 4, 2010

Pigs provide clues on cystic fibrosis lung disease

A new experimental model using pigs with a CF-causing gene mutation has provided valuable insights into the development of lung disease in people with cystic fibrosis. The study's findings suggest that infection precedes inflammation in CF lungs, supporting early and aggressive treatment to delay or prevent lung disease.

SourceUniversity of Iowa Health Care·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateApr 28, 2010
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Chinese pigs 'direct descendants' of first domesticated breeds

A new study reveals that modern-day Chinese pigs are directly descended from ancient pigs domesticated 10,000 years ago. The research found a difference between pig domestication patterns in Europe and East Asia, with no incorporation of wild boar into domestic stocks in China.

SourceDurham University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 19, 2010

Guinea pigs not 'dumbed down' by domestication

Researchers found that domestic guinea pigs excelled in a water maze test due to their improved ability to decipher guidance symbols, while wild cavies were stronger swimmers. The study suggests an adaptation in domesticated animals for efficient problem-solving in human-made environments.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalFrontiers in Zoology·DateMar 24, 2010

Tryptophan-enriched diet reduces pig aggression

A study by US Department of Agriculture researchers found that a tryptophan-enriched diet reduces aggression in young female pigs, making them calmer and easier to manage. The supplement raised blood concentrations of serotonin, a calming neurotransmitter, leading to reduced behavioral activity and aggression.

SourceUnited States Department of Agriculture - Research, Education and Economics·JournalApplied Animal Behaviour Science·DateMar 18, 2010

The pig and its pancreas

A team of LMU researchers has created a genetically modified strain of pigs that consistently develop the essential symptoms of type 2 diabetes. The pigs' physiology is similar to humans', making them an ideal model system for studying the disease, testing new treatments and diagnostic methods.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalDiabetes·DateFeb 26, 2010
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

77 percent of European pigs are castrated without anesthetic

A study found that 77% of male pigs in Europe are castrated without anesthesia, despite EU regulations requiring the practice to be done within the first seven days of life. This is a concern as it can lead to animal suffering and health issues.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·Journalanimal·DateDec 9, 2009

Research reveals exactly how coughing is triggered by environmental irritants

Researchers have identified the reaction inside the lungs that can trigger coughing when exposed to certain air pollutants and irritants. The study found that switching on receptor proteins called TRPA1 on nerve endings in the lungs triggers a cough reflex, which could potentially be treated by blocking these receptors.

SourceImperial College London·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateNov 23, 2009

First draft of the pig: Researchers sequence swine genome

A global collaborative effort has produced a first draft of the pig genome, offering insights into breeding practices, disease resistance and human health. The sequencing project involved an international team of scientists and provided a 98% complete sequence that will allow researchers to pinpoint genes useful for pork production.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·DateNov 2, 2009

Vitamin C deficiency impairs early brain development

Research at University of Copenhagen suggests that vitamin C deficiency in pregnant and breast-feeding women may lead to impaired mental development in new-born babies. Guinea pigs subjected to moderate vitamin C deficiency have reduced hippocampal neurons and spatial memory impairments.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateSep 2, 2009
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

4 out of 106 heart replacement valves from pig hearts failed

Researchers found that pig heart valves used to replace defective aortic valves in human patients failed much earlier and more often than expected. Four out of 106 patients developed severe impairment after less than four years, requiring surgery to replace the valves.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalJournal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery·DateJun 29, 2009

Engineered pig stem cells bridge the mouse-human gap

Researchers have successfully created a line of induced pluripotent stem cells from adult pigs, providing a valuable model for studying therapeutic potential and addressing ethical concerns. The pig iPS cells closely resemble human stem cells, making them an exciting emerging field with rapid progression and multiple applications.

SourceAmerican Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateJun 4, 2009
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

World first: Chinese scientists create pig stem cells

Researchers have successfully created pig stem cells using somatic cells from pigs with hooves, opening doors to creating models for human genetic diseases and developing resistant pigs. The discovery has far-reaching implications for animal and human health.

SourceOxford University Press UK·JournalJournal of Molecular Cell Biology·DateJun 2, 2009

Swine flu: What does it do to pigs?

Researchers found that both swine flu subtypes cause respiratory symptoms and lung lesions in weanling pigs. H1N1-infected pigs developed more severe disease, with approximately a third of the lung affected.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalVirology Journal·DateMay 11, 2009

Early agriculture left traces in animal bones

The study suggests that humans were experimenting with agriculture by cultivating local grains, rather than adopting from southern rice-farming areas. The findings provide insight into the origins of agriculture in northern China.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 23, 2009

Hippo ancestry disputed

Researchers dispute a recent study that creates a different family tree for the hippo, arguing that it ignores important DNA data. Hippos are closest living relatives of whales, according to most DNA evidence from the last 12-13 years.

SourceUniversity of Calgary·JournalNature·DateMar 18, 2009
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

UV lights decrease infectious TB in hospital room air

Researchers used guinea pigs to test air disinfection methods, finding that UV lights and negative ionizers reduced TB transmission. The study showed a significant decrease in TB infection rates when UV lights and fans were used to ventilate patient room air.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateMar 16, 2009

Study: Soybean oil reduces carbon footprint in swine barns

Soybean oil has been found to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by an average of 20% in methane emissions and 19% in carbon dioxide emissions when sprayed inside swine finishing barns. The study, conducted at a northern Missouri farm, also showed a significant reduction in particulate matter.

SourcePurdue University·JournalJournal of Environmental Quality·DateFeb 26, 2009

Update presented on disease in pork plant workers

Researchers found that 16 of 24 affected workers improved with treatment, including 12 with marked improvement, while six who were not exposed to pig brain mist also showed improvements. The disease is identified as a sensory predominant polyradiculoneuropathy with an autoimmune basis.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateFeb 24, 2009