A new study reveals that Bdellovibrio can reduce Salmonella bacteria by 90% without harming birds. The research confirms the safety and effectiveness of this natural predator as a potential alternative to antibiotics.
The €820,000 project aims to enhance the competitiveness of Austrian and Hungarian poultry industries by establishing a knowledge centre. The centre will foster industry activities, improve efficiency and ensure safe poultry production.
A nationwide study found nearly half of US meat and poultry samples contaminated with drug-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. The bacteria can cause serious illnesses like pneumonia, endocarditis, and sepsis, highlighting the need for a more comprehensive inspection program.
A US Department of Agriculture study suggests that dietary yeast extract has good potential as a non-antibiotic alternative for decreasing pathogens in organic turkey production. The researchers are looking for a balance between enhancing immune response and maintaining growth.
A UC Riverside entomology team proposes a pesticide-free method to increase egg production by targeting a damaging parasite. The strategy involves introducing a natural parasite that competes with and eliminates the more difficult-to-manage fowl mite, reducing egg losses by up to five percent.
Researchers create water-resistant thermoplastic from chicken feathers using methyl acrylate, resulting in films with excellent mechanical properties and resistance to tearing and water. The development aims to replace petroleum-based plastics with renewable resources, promoting sustainability and environmental responsibility.
Scientists demonstrate a novel mechanism for Chagas disease's devastating effects: a parasite-driven autoimmune response that alters host genome. This chicken model reveals the origin of Chagas-like heart disease in the absence of parasitism, shedding new light on this lethal endemic infectious disease.
New research suggests that wild migratory birds, such as bar-headed geese, may contribute to the spread of bird flu by carrying the virus between domestic farms and wetlands. The study found a significant link between Tibet, Qinghai Lake, and H5N1 outbreaks in both wild and domestic birds.
Hot dogs and deli meats have low levels of carcinogenic compounds, while bacon and rotisserie chicken contain higher amounts. Chicken skin is particularly high in HCA levels due to its lower moisture content.
A recent study published in Psychological Science found that people can use comfort food as a social surrogate to combat loneliness. Participants who wrote about eating a comfort food reported reduced feelings of loneliness compared to those who wrote about an unfamiliar food.
Researchers found a genetic mutation caused by vitamin A that suppressed feather growth, leading to the distinctive naked neck appearance. This discovery has implications for understanding bird evolution and could improve poultry production in hot climates.
A complex genetic mutation triggered by a vitamin A-derived substance caused the development of bald necks in Transylvanian naked neck chickens. The mutation led to enhanced production of an inhibitory protein called BMP12, resulting in an outstanding bald neck.
Researchers at the University of Bristol discovered that domestic hens exhibit a clear physiological and behavioral response to mild chick distress, suggesting an empathic capacity. The study used both behavioral and physiological methods to measure these traits in birds.
Researchers found that low to intermediate rates of chicken litter-based fertilizers produced the highest plant growth index and flower yield. High rates can lead to symptoms like reduced growth, decreased root quality, and fewer flowers.
Researchers have successfully developed genetically modified chickens that do not transmit avian influenza virus to other chickens, potentially stopping bird flu outbreaks within poultry flocks. This genetic modification has the potential to reduce the risk of bird flu epidemics leading to new flu virus epidemics in humans.
Researchers from TUM are studying the development of soil, flora, and fauna at Chicken Creek, aiming to establish factors influencing ecosystem development. The project has shown that rain plays a crucial role in shaping the initial phase of an ecosystem.
Researchers are improving rain gardens to reduce runoff and filter pollutants, keeping toxic metals out of storm drains. Scientists have found that biochar-activated carbons can attract heavy metals, leading to more effective filtration.
A recent study by the University of Delaware found that pelletized manure and no-tillage treatments can significantly reduce estrogen concentrations in manure runoff. The study, published in the Journal of Environmental Quality, suggests that measuring all forms of estrogens is crucial to understanding their environmental impact.
A Queen's University study found autistic children are prone to telling white lies to avoid hurting others' feelings. In a test, most nodded or said yes instead of expressing disappointment with a soap gift.
The USDA has created the first genomic map of the domesticated turkey, which could help breeders develop improved commercial breeds to meet consumer demands. The nearly complete genome map was compiled in under a year and at a fraction of the cost of sequencing chicken and cow genomes.
The international consortium's completion of the turkey genome sequence promises to provide new insights into avian genetics and improve turkey quality. The sequence will enable scientists to better understand specific genes important in meat yield, health, and disease resistance.
The international consortium has completed the majority of the genome sequence of the domesticated turkey, with over 90% of the genome sequenced and assembled. The research will provide knowledge of specific genes important in meat yield and quality, health, disease resistance, fertility, and reproduction.
Researchers found that fields amended with poultry litter can accumulate significant levels of arsenic, which can then migrate into nearby streams and rivers. The study highlights the importance of controlling point sources of arsenic and suggests management practices to protect local regions from agricultural pollutants.
A CCNY-led team has created a non-toxic, recyclable gelling agent that can solidify oil on salt water, allowing for efficient scooping and separation. The agent is environmentally benign and uses renewable sources.
Agricultural Research Service study finds chicken litter has a value of about $78 a ton, compared to traditional synthetic fertilizers, resulting in 12% higher cotton yields and increased farmer profits. The research also shows farmers can further increase profits by using less fertilizer.
A new study found that free-range eggs in Taiwan contain at least five times higher levels of certain pollutants than regular eggs. The findings raise concern about the safety of eating free-range chicken eggs due to potential exposure to environmental pollutants like PCDDs and PCDFs.
Researchers found that vaccinated birds can shed vaccine virus to infect other birds, and live vaccines do not always protect against infection from other viral strains. The use of modified live virus vaccines may be increasing the diversity of Newcastle Disease viruses circulating in wild birds.
Researchers have identified a gene regulating appetite and explored thyroid-stimulating hormone receptor protein to understand domestication's impact on chickens. The study provides a model for exploring the molecular basis of animal domestication.
A 21-month study found that incoming raw poultry is the primary source of Listeria monocytogenes contamination in commercial chicken cooking plants. The research team tracked sources of contamination, including employees, fresh air, and the surrounding environment, and found that floor drains were consistently positive for the bacteria.
Researchers at NIST have designed an instrument that can quickly and precisely detect trace amounts of chemical compounds indicating poultry spoilage. The technique relies on identifying low-volatility compounds present early in the decay process.
A study by Liying Zhang and colleagues found that eggs from chickens on highly contaminated melamine feed contained levels of the contaminant below US FDA limits. The researchers suggested that exposure levels below 100 ppm in feed would not pose potential hazards for food safety.
Researchers have discovered an influenza detector gene called RIG-I in ducks that could prevent the transmission of the virus to humans. The duck's immune system contains the virus, reducing viral replication by half.
A new study by Johns Hopkins researchers examines the potential influence that business connections between broiler chicken growers may have on the transmission of avian influenza, H5N1. The study found company affiliation to be the greatest driver of farm-to-farm disease transmission risk.
A study by the US Department of Agriculture's Agricultural Research Service found that the air in broiler house attics can be as much as 20 degrees Fahrenheit warmer than outside, reducing the need for heating fuel. This technology uses ceiling inlets to circulate solar-heated attic air within the chicken houses.
Researchers at Uppsala University have made a breakthrough in understanding the genetic transformation of wild species into domestic chickens. The study reveals two significant selective sweeps, one affecting the TSHR gene and another involving the TBC1D1 gene, which are linked to changes in reproduction timing and glucose uptake in mu...
Scientists have identified a new phenomenon called cell autonomous sex identity (CASI) that explains why some birds appear male on one side and female on the other. This discovery sheds light on the sexual development of birds and may have implications for behavior, disease susceptibility, and poultry production.
Researchers mapped chicken retinas, discovering a complex pattern of color receptors that maximizes their ability to see colors. This superior vision may help birds find mates and feed on colorful fruit, and could lead to insights into treating human genetic disorders.
Scientists at the University of Missouri have created a low-cost, soy-based chicken substitute that simulates chicken's fibrous qualities. The new product has health benefits, including lowering cholesterol and maintaining healthy bones.
Scientists develop a mathematical model of a three-cell microcircuit in a chicken's brain, revealing an elegant compromise between abstraction and complexity. The model reduces the system to one equation with two parameters, shedding light on why it's difficult to understand the brain using traditional methods.
Researchers found that chicken type II collagen (CCII) capsules improved joint function in RA patients with fewer side effects compared to the established antirheumatic drug methotrexate. Oral tolerance induction via dietary exposure is believed to contribute to this finding.
A new technique using infrared spectroscopy can accurately determine the gender of six-week-old turkey poults with over 95% accuracy, potentially saving millions of male chicks from being killed shortly after birth. This method could be used by the breeding industry to identify female eggs for breeding and select female turkeys.
The USDA has awarded a two-year grant of $908,280 to Virginia Tech and the University of Minnesota to complete sequencing the genome of the domesticated turkey. The project aims to identify genes and functions in the final genome sequence, providing invaluable information for disease prevention.
A UBC study suggests that finding alternative feed sources for farm animals can significantly reduce pressure on the world's dwindling fisheries, while contributing positively to climate change. The researchers propose new strategies to effect swifter and larger-scale changes in the fishing industry.
Researchers at the University of Edinburgh discovered a strain of Staphylococcus aureus bacteria jumping from humans to chickens, marking the first clear evidence of bacterial pathogens crossing from humans to animals since domestication. This finding has significant implications for poultry farming and food security.
Researchers at Texas A&M University have found a new mechanism for regulating the circadian rhythm in chickens' eyes, which could lead to breakthroughs in understanding and treating diseases such as cancer and heart disease. The discovery involves microRNA-26a, a small RNA molecule that plays a crucial role in controlling the activity ...
Improving toilets and hand hygiene can reduce tropical enteropathy and lead to substantial decreases in stunting among children. Dr Jean Humphrey hypothesises that preventing faecal-oral transmission by providing safe disposal of stools and promoting handwashing with soap can normalise child growth.
Researchers have developed genetically modified pea seeds that produce antibodies against coccidiosis, reducing treatment costs and making it easier to use in commercial settings. The study found that chickens fed these antibody-containing pea seeds were significantly less likely to contract the disease.
A 2006 heat wave in California killed over 600 people and 25,000 cattle, with temperatures rising to the hottest one percent of historical records. The event was exacerbated by high humidity, which caused heat waves to last longer and fed on themselves until winds changed.
A study published in Journal of Consumer Research found that people tend to favor unfamiliar options when they are under stress or experiencing upheaval, rather than comfort foods or familiar choices.
The article 'Tripping Points: Barriers and Bargaining Chips on the Road to Copenhagen' reveals key issues hindering climate agreement, including finance and technology transfer. Researchers predict a poker-like game of negotiations, with countries delaying decisions until the last hours of the conference.
Scientists develop environmentally friendly process for producing biodiesel from chicken feather meal, generating up to 593 million gallons annually. The process also produces high-grade animal feed and nitrogen-rich fertilizer, reducing waste and increasing renewable energy production.
Scientists have developed a new hydrogen storage method using carbonized chicken feather fibers, which can hold vast amounts of hydrogen at a lower cost. The method has the potential to improve upon existing methods and pave the way for a truly hydrogen-based energy economy.
Research at Duke University found that adding healthy options to menus can have the opposite effect, causing consumers with high self-control to make drastically worse choices. The study suggests that significant effort is needed from both food service providers and customers to promote healthy behaviors.
Consumers may feel they have fulfilled a healthy eating goal when choosing an unhealthy option, while the presence of a healthy choice draws attention to the least-healthy alternative. The study found that this phenomenon is more pronounced in individuals with high levels of self-control.
Clostridium perfringens produces a potent toxin that promotes tissue damage, inflammation, and heart effects, posing significant risks to poultry and diabetic individuals.
Researchers found evidence that houseflies collected near broiler poultry operations can contribute to the dispersion of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. The study suggests that flies in intensive production areas could efficiently spread resistant organisms over large distances.
A team of researchers from Wuhan University found that adding chicken manure to contaminated soil can break down 75% of crude oil after two weeks. The study identified 12 microbial species capable of metabolizing crude oil components, paving the way for a more environmentally benign bioremediation approach.
Researchers Jane Hill and Barbara Cade-Menun found that phytate concentration was high in manures but not retained in crop soils and sediments. The study concluded that phytate is most likely to be hydrolyzed in situ by microorganisms.
Researchers studied embryonic chickens' hearts to identify key proteins involved in regulating heartbeat control. Understanding these components can help develop better therapies for human heart abnormalities such as hypertension and congestive heart failure.
Researchers found that free-range chickens are more susceptible to disease, particularly bacterial and parasitic infections. The study, published in Acta Veterinaria Scandinavica, suggests that this is due to the challenges of managing these systems, leading to higher mortality rates.