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USDA says current poultry food safety guidelines do not stop salmonella outbreaks

The study concludes that a more holistic approach to poultry food safety is needed to better protect the public from foodborne pathogens like Salmonella. It highlights the limitations of current guidelines, which only consider pathogen prevalence and do not account for other risk factors such as serotype virulence and temperature abuse.

SourceSociety for Risk Analysis·JournalRisk Analysis·DateAug 26, 2020

Domesticated chickens have smaller brains

Researchers found that selective breeding of junglefowl for reduced fear led to changes in brain composition and affected fear memory. The domesticated birds became accustomed to non-hazardous events more rapidly due to smaller brains relative to body size.

SourceLinköping University·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateAug 26, 2020

Parasite infestations revealed by tiny chicken backpacks

A new insect detection system using tiny chicken backpacks with wearable sensors has been developed to detect blood-feeding livestock mites. The technology, nicknamed 'Fitbits for chickens,' can help farmers identify infestations and improve poultry welfare.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 13, 2020
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Feeds of the future

A University of Göttingen research team found that black soldier fly larvae meal and spirulina can be included in poultry feed without negatively impacting quality. Microalgae are also a potential alternative to soybean meal, but remain more expensive due to production costs.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalJournal of the Science of Food and Agriculture·DateJul 1, 2020

Reusing chicken litter shows benefits

A recent study by the American Society of Agronomy found that reusing chicken litter can deter growth of pathogens like Salmonella. Researchers discovered 'good' bacteria in used poultry litter can hinder Salmonella growth, providing new information on the relationship between litter environment and microbiome.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalJournal of Environmental Quality·DateJun 10, 2020

Simple way of 'listening' to chicks could dramatically improve welfare

A new study found that chicks' distress calls can predict flock-level behavior, growth rate, and mortality rate, making it a potential 'iceberg indicator' for welfare issues. The researchers developed a simple method to measure these calls, which could act as an early-warning signal to farmers.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalJournal of The Royal Society Interface·DateJun 9, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

More effective human antibodies possible with chicken cells

Researchers developed a technique to generate human antibodies faster than existing methods using chicken immune system cells. The ADLib system can produce diverse antibodies with improved binding affinity, potentially leading to breakthroughs in cancer treatment and other medical applications.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalCellular and Molecular Immunology·DateMay 26, 2020

Past is prologue: Genetic 'memory' of ancestral environments helps organisms readapt

A study on chicken adaptation reveals that genetic changes play a more prominent role when organisms return to their ancestral homelands. Researchers found that plastic phenotypic changes are sufficient to help animals adapt when reintroduced to familiar environments, but mutation-induced changes are necessary for initial adaptation.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalScience Advances·DateMay 22, 2020

Foot feathering in domesticated breeds of pigeons and chickens use same gene regulatory networks

Researchers found that regulatory mutations in TBX5 and PITX1 genes cause foot feathering in both domesticated breeds of chickens and pigeons. This study demonstrates a remarkable convergence in the evolution of this trait across species, suggesting that favored mutations have been spread through strong phenotypic selection.

SourceSMBE Journals (Molecular Biology and Evolution and Genome Biology and Evolution)·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateApr 28, 2020

Foot feathering birds flock genetically together

Researchers found that genetic variants at Tbx5 and Pitx1 contribute to foot feathering in both chickens and pigeons. A 17,000 base-pair long deletion near Pitx1 removes the same exact region in both species, indicating similar mutations and molecular pathways.

SourceSMBE Journals (Molecular Biology and Evolution and Genome Biology and Evolution)·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateApr 28, 2020
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.

Healthier chickens, happier consumers

A new system of cameras and vision software is being developed to monitor commercial broilers' activity levels, providing a common assessment tool for farmers, retailers, and consumers seeking to support better animal welfare.

SourceUniversity of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture·DateMar 31, 2020

Lower-sodium turkey breast wins sensory test over full-salt option

Researchers at UMass Amherst developed a lower-sodium turkey breast that was preferred by consumers in a blind sensory test. The study found that using a blend of sodium salts with a larger molecular structure slowed down the overall sodium diffusion rate, providing enough saltiness without compromising juiciness and texture.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·DateMar 13, 2020

Using ultrasound localization microscopy to detect oxygen levels in tissues

Using ultrasound localization microscopy, researchers can visualize blood vessels and measure oxygen levels in tumors with high resolution. This technique has the potential to improve cancer detection and therapy evaluation by providing accurate information on tumor hypoxia.

SourceBeckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 4, 2020
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

New tiny 44-million-year-old bird fossil links Africa and Asia to Utah

A new species of quail-sized fossil bird from 44 million year old sediments in Utah has strong links with other extinct species from Namibia and Uzbekistan. The fossil fills a nearly 15 million-year gap in the galliform lineage in North America, revealing flexibility in the ecology and diet of early paraortygid birds.

SourceMidwestern University·JournalDiversity·DateMar 3, 2020

Avian influenza and live poultry trade in China

Research in China suggests a strong association between avian influenza and the country's live poultry trade network. Movement of virus lineages was often associated with major evolutionary divergences and was much more likely to occur within regional trade communities.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 2, 2020

Meat isn't good for you

A new study from Northwestern University and Cornell University links red and processed meat consumption to a higher risk of cardiovascular disease and death. The research suggests that reducing red meat intake may be an important strategy to reduce cardiovascular disease and premature death.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateFeb 3, 2020

Editing chicken genes for virus resistance

Researchers successfully used CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing to delete a specific protein necessary for avian leukosis virus subgroup J infection in chickens. The edited cells were then bred to create resistant chickens, addressing a major concern for the poultry industry.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 20, 2020
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Study: Pig virus is easily transmitted among chickens and turkeys

A study by Ohio State University researchers found that a pig virus is easily transmitted to healthy chickens and turkeys, developing diarrhea in as little as two days. The virus's rapid spread has raised concerns about its potential impact on humans, who are susceptible but may not show symptoms.

SourceOhio State University·JournalEmerging Infectious Diseases·DateJan 15, 2020

Egg-based flu vaccines: Not all they're cracked up to be?

Viral mutations can cause influenza viruses to mutate so that they can better latch onto and infect bird cells, making the immune system less effective. Cell-based vaccines offer an alternative using canine kidney cells, which are more similar to humans, increasing their effectiveness.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateJan 8, 2020

Earthquakes, chickens, and bugs, oh my!

A new algorithm developed by University of California, Riverside researchers can spot patterns in massive datasets quickly, improving earthquake detection and monitoring insect vectors. The SCAMP algorithm has been used to detect 16 times more earthquakes than previously known and can also analyze the behavior of chickens.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·DateNov 26, 2019

Toxicity of crumb rubber from artificial turf

Researchers exposed chicken embryos to pollutants in crumb rubber, leading to mass loss and developmental issues, as well as gene dysregulation. The findings suggest a need to reassess the potential toxicity of crumb rubber used in playgrounds and athletic fields.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 25, 2019
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

The cause of chewy chicken meat

University of Delaware researchers identify gene expression irregularities and lipoprotein lipase enzyme as causes of wooden breast syndrome in broiler chickens. This metabolic disorder can make the meat hard and chewy, causing significant economic losses for growers.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 20, 2019

Cornell partners in $10 million poultry science grant

The five-year grant, awarded by the USDA, aims to transform nutrition and water use in the poultry industry. Researchers will explore alternative feed proteins, such as microalgae, to improve production efficiency and quality while reducing competition with food sources.

SourceCornell University·DateNov 6, 2019

Poor toilet hygiene, not food, spreads antibiotic-resistant E. coli superbugs

A new study reveals that antibiotic-resistant E. coli superbugs are more likely to be spread through poor toilet hygiene than the food chain, with human-to-human transmission being a primary route of infection. The research found that strains of E. coli resistant to ESBLs dominate in human faeces and bloodstream infections.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·DateOct 22, 2019

Global trends in antimicrobial resistance of farm animals

A new study reveals a significant increase in antibiotic-resistant pathogens in chickens and pigs worldwide, particularly in developing countries. The researchers identified hotspots of resistance, including China and India, where more than half of the world's pigs and chickens are raised.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateSep 19, 2019

The genealogy of important broiler ancestor revealed

A new study has revealed the genetic origins of the White Plymouth Rock chicken, a crucial component in today's meat chickens. The research team used genomics to study breed formation and identified the major contributors to the breed's development.

SourceUppsala University·JournalPoultry Science·DateAug 27, 2019
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.

Substituting poultry for red meat may reduce breast cancer risk

A recent study found that increasing consumption of red meat was associated with a higher risk of invasive breast cancer, while consuming poultry was linked to decreased risk. Substituting poultry for red meat may be a simple way to reduce breast cancer incidence.

SourceWiley·JournalInternational Journal of Cancer·DateAug 7, 2019

Long live the long-limbed African chicken

Researchers found that African chickens have longer, meatier legs due to selective breeding, but are losing diversity as commercial birds are introduced. The study highlights the importance of preserving traditional breeds and their unique characteristics.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalInternational Journal of Osteoarchaeology·DateJul 16, 2019
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.

A solarium for hens? How to increase the vitamin D content of eggs

Researchers at Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg have found a way to further increase the vitamin D content of eggs by exposing chickens to UV light. This method works under practical conditions and could represent an important step towards supplying the population with vitamin D.

SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·JournalPoultry Science·DateJun 24, 2019

Americans still eat too much processed meat and too little fish

A new analysis found that US adults consume excessive amounts of processed meat, with only 15% meeting guidelines for fish/shellfish consumption. Consumption trends show a decrease in unprocessed red meat and an increase in poultry, while fish/shellfish intake remains unchanged.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics·DateJun 21, 2019

Global data resource shows genetic diversity of chickens

A global data resource has been developed to showcase the genetic diversity of chickens, featuring 174 breeds. The Synbreed Chicken Diversity Panel (SCDP) includes information on SNPs and provides a comprehensive family tree, highlighting the importance of preserving genetic variation for breeding sustainability.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalBMC Genomics·DateJun 20, 2019
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.

Researchers find genes that could help create more resilient chickens

Researchers have identified genes that can help chickens resist Newcastle disease, a major poultry pathogen affecting small flocks in low- to middle-income countries. The study found that certain breeds of chickens have innate resistance to the disease due to evolutionary adaptations.

SourcePenn State·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 14, 2019

AJTMH tipsheet for March 2019

Researchers analyzed sentinel chickens to detect Eastern equine encephalitis virus, finding its presence year-round in the Florida Panhandle. A new hand-washing product, SuperTowel, shows potential to limit disease spread in humanitarian crises. The global 'pandemic' of fake medicines kills over 250,000 children annually.

SourceBurness·JournalAmerican Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene·DateMar 11, 2019

Cracking feather formation could lead to cooler birds

Scientists have discovered how bird feathers form in a wave-like motion, creating a regular pattern in the skin. This discovery could help design strategies to reduce feather density in farmed birds, improving their heat tolerance in tropical climates.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalPLOS Biology·DateFeb 21, 2019
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Hens that lay human proteins in eggs offer future therapy hope

Researchers have successfully produced high-quality human proteins in eggs from genetically modified hens, offering a promising alternative to expensive mammalian cell culture techniques. The study found that the proteins worked at least as well as those produced using existing methods, with no adverse effects on the chickens.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalBMC Biotechnology·DateJan 27, 2019

Fried food linked to heightened risk of death among older US women

A large US study found that eating fried foods, especially fried chicken and fish, increases the risk of death from any cause and heart-related death. Regular consumption was associated with a higher risk of 8% compared to non-fried food eaters. Reducing fried food intake may have a positive public health impact.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateJan 23, 2019

Chickens to be marker of Anthropocene

Modern broiler chickens are a defining feature of the Anthropocene, shaped by human biology and consumption. The rapid evolution of these chickens reflects a biosphere dominated by human activity.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateDec 12, 2018
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Grant to improve poultry production worldwide

Researchers at the University of California - Davis are working to improve chicken breeds with enhanced resistance to Newcastle disease and heat stress through genomic analysis. The Feed the Future Innovation Lab for Genomics to Improve Poultry aims to protect chickens from deadly diseases in Africa and worldwide.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·DateOct 25, 2018

Vaccine shows promise against widespread chicken disease

Researchers have developed a new vaccine strategy that offers partial protection against the highly contagious infectious bronchitis virus. The recombinant virus vaccine approach has potential to be more cost-effective and respond to emerging new virus strains, but further research is needed to develop a more robust vaccine.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalJournal of Virology·DateOct 23, 2018

E. coli strain from retail poultry may cause urinary tract infections in people

A study found that a specific E. coli strain from retail poultry products is causing urinary tract infections in people, with nearly 80% of meat samples and 72% of patient cultures positive for the bacteria. The research suggests that cooking poultry thoroughly and handling it carefully are crucial to prevent foodborne illnesses.

SourceGeorge Washington University·JournalmBio·DateAug 28, 2018
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.

UTIA Animal Science professor named fellow by Poultry Science Association

Dr. Michael O. Smith, a UTIA professor of poultry production, has been elected a Fellow in the Poultry Science Association for his professional distinction and contributions to the field. He is one of five members elected at any given meeting, recognizing his contributions without longevity considerations.

SourceUniversity of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture·DateAug 7, 2018

A major step towards individualized cancer therapy

Researchers have successfully replicated ovarian tumors inside chicken eggs, paving the way for patient-centred cancer treatment. The 'chicken egg tumour model' allows for rapid testing of anti-cancer drugs tailored to each patient's needs.

SourceKyoto University·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 4, 2018
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

UMD researcher discovers mechanisms and epigenetic markers with implications for diseases ranging from cancers to infertility

A UMD researcher has discovered mechanisms dictating germline stem cell development and epigenetic markers associated with diseases such as cancers, viral infections, and male infertility. These findings provide insight into treatments for these conditions and unlock future animal and human health research.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalStem Cell Reports·DateApr 30, 2018

Zika presents hot spots in brains of chicken embryos

Researchers discovered Zika virus infects hot spots in the brains of chicken embryos, affecting key signaling centers and neural patterning. This finding could lead to targeted therapies and drug testing for complications associated with Zika virus in humans.

SourcePurdue University·JournalCell Reports·DateApr 17, 2018
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.

This is the environmental footprint of the egg industry

A recent study by Spanish researchers reveals the significant environmental cost of egg production in Spain, including greenhouse gas emissions and water contamination. The analysis shows that feed choice and layer replacement are key factors contributing to these impacts.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalJournal of Cleaner Production·DateApr 3, 2018

Cracking eggshell nanostructure

Researchers at McGill University have discovered a unique nanostructure in chicken eggshells that contributes to their strength and fragility. The findings, published in Science Advances, could lead to improved food safety by enabling the selection of genetic traits in laying hens that produce consistently stronger eggs.

SourceMcGill University·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 30, 2018

Backyard chickens need more regulation

A recent UC Davis study suggests that local ordinances for backyard poultry are inadequate, with laws not keeping pace with those for commercial growers. The study recommends stronger regulations on vaccinations, manure management, and general animal welfare in urban settings.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalJournal of Community Health·DateMar 2, 2018

Heritage turkey production research profitable but more difficult

Researchers at Penn State are studying methods for raising heritage-breed turkeys, which sell for four times the cost of commercial birds. The birds have distinct characteristics, such as smaller breasts and gamier flavor, and require alternative production methods due to their natural breeding and dietary needs. The study's first phas...

SourcePenn State·DateJan 29, 2018
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.