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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

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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