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The human side of animal health: global research review reveals new insights to achieving better biosecurity

A review of nearly two decades of global research on farm biosecurity finds that educating farmers alone often falls short. Interventions addressing incentives, social norms, and practical barriers are crucial to motivating action. The study also highlights the importance of understanding human behavior in achieving better biosecurity.

SourceUniversity of Vermont·JournalFrontiers in Veterinary Science·TypeLiterature review·DateJul 22, 2026

Q&A: Does nature have a role in national security?

Disrupted ecosystems can increase risk for food security, water scarcity, health and well-being, crime, mass migrations, border breaches, and social unrest. Governments must protect natural infrastructure to safeguard citizens' basic needs and prevent ecological disruptions.

SourcePenn State·JournalNature-Based Solutions·DateApr 23, 2026
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.

Scientists trace crop viruses back to the last Ice Age

A new international study reveals that the ancestors of modern crop viruses likely emerged before the last Ice Age, affecting both wild and cultivated plants. The viruses, spread by leaf-eating beetles, infect various crops and wild species, posing risks to agriculture and natural ecosystems.

SourceAmerican Phytopathological Society·JournalPlant Disease·DateMar 9, 2026

Researchers advance technology for protecting engineered cells

Engineered cell lines are prone to misidentification, threatening scientific discoveries and intellectual property. Researchers at UT Dallas have developed a novel method to embed unique genetic identifiers, eliminating identification errors and safeguarding innovations with tamper-proof genomic tags.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Dallas·JournalAdvanced Science·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 5, 2025
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.

Illegal shark product trade evident in Australia and New Zealand

A University of Adelaide study has revealed clear patterns in the flow of shark products between Australia and Aotearoa/New Zealand. The research highlights Asia as the primary source of origin for seized products, particularly fin products, which are used in shark fin soup.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·DateJul 1, 2025

Study shows action to eradicate yellow-legged (Asian) hornet has been effective

A new study confirms the UK's effective action against the invasive Asian hornet has prevented its establishment. The invasive species, which devastates honeybee colonies in France and Italy, was first reported in the UK in 2016 but has not spread due to rapid eradication efforts by authorities and vigilant citizens.

SourceUK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 9, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

The key to early detection of invasive insects? A curious public with smartphones

Researchers recommend public surveillance via online observation platforms like iNaturalist and Observation.org to detect invasive species early. By leveraging the growing number of smartphone users, scientists aim to widen the surveillance net and augment existing biosecurity frameworks.

SourceEntomological Society of America·JournalEnvironmental Entomology·TypeSystematic review·DateNov 18, 2024

Attitudes such as distrust of government can cause swine farmers to resist animal biosecurity: UVM study finds

A new University of Vermont study found that swine farmers' attitudes, particularly distrust of government, significantly impact their decision-making strategies regarding biosecurity. Farmers attending a single biosecurity education event improved farm biosecurity, even among those in the Biosecurity Skeptics group. The study also rev...

SourceUniversity of Vermont·JournalScientific Reports·TypeSurvey·DateAug 6, 2024

Intensive farming could raise risk of new pandemics

A recent study by the University of Exeter warns that intensive livestock farming may raise the risk of emerging infectious diseases (EIDs). The researchers highlight the need to consider social and economic factors in traditional assessments.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateJul 16, 2024

Special Issue of Applied Biosafety focuses on synthetic genomics

The special issue explores challenges and opportunities in managing synthetic genomics risks, introducing a common global baseline for nucleic acid synthesis screening. Review articles provide insights into enhancing gene synthesis security and biosecurity practices of synthetic DNA providers.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalApplied Biosafety·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateJun 26, 2024
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.

Rice U.’s Todd Treangen wins NSF CAREER Award

Rice University's assistant professor of computer science, Todd Treangen, has been awarded a $599,943 National Science Foundation CAREER Award to develop a comprehensive computational platform for detecting yet-unseen microbial pathogens. The project aims to characterize previously unseen pathogens that could pose a risk to humans.

SourceRice University·DateMar 30, 2023

UK’s Overseas Territories at ongoing risk from wide range of invasive species

A new study predicts which invasive non-native species could pose a future threat to the UK's Overseas Territories, with Gibraltar and Saint Helena most at risk. The list includes species such as green mussels, little fire ants, and brown rats that could outcompete native species and alter unique ecosystems.

SourceUK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology·JournalConservation Letters·DateJan 29, 2023
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.

Good news on blocking a virus considered a global threat

Researchers developed an antibody cocktail effective against a Hendra virus variant, neutralizing its ability to mutate and evade recognition. The combination of four antibodies leaves the virus with minimal ability to further evolve, providing significant protection against this global biosecurity threat.

SourceOhio State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 13, 2022

Open sharing of biotechnology research – transparency versus security

A recent study published in PLOS Biology explores the intersection of open science practices and biosecurity risks, proposing solutions to mitigate catastrophic misuse. The authors argue that controlling access to research materials and software is necessary to prevent the spread of risky information.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateApr 14, 2022
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.

Model predicts cross-species contamination risk for livestock

A new mathematical model reveals high risk of cross-species disease spread on farms with multiple types of livestock. Targeting top 3% of most networked farms can significantly reduce transmission and protect other species.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalVeterinary Research·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 14, 2022

Vehicles Play Important Role in PRRSV Transmission

Researchers from North Carolina State University found that trucks transporting pigs and farm workers can spread porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) among farms. The model estimated that vehicle movements contributed up to 20% of PRRSV transmissions, highlighting the importance of enhancing biosecurity measures ...

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalTransboundary and Emerging Diseases·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 7, 2022
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.

Rise of termite clone queendoms offers clue to curb invasions

Researchers discovered all-female, forest-dwelling drywood termite colonies in Japan and found they evolved through human-assisted hybridization, leading to stronger offspring and double breeding. This can outcompete incumbent species, posing a risk to homeowners with drywood termite infestations.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 27, 2022

Koblentz receives funding for global biolabs project

Koblentz will create a detailed resource with data on high-containment labs, research types, and oversight mechanisms. Funding will focus on strengthening national and international policies for safe and responsible conduct of biomedical research

SourceGeorge Mason University·DateJan 10, 2022

Preventing “alien” invasions

A new article from McGill University researchers advocates for bolstering planetary biosecurity to address potential biological contamination risks from space missions. Early detection and rapid response protocols, informed by knowledge gained from invasion science, are crucial for preventing the spread of alien biological contaminants.

SourceMcGill University·JournalBioScience·DateNov 18, 2021
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Alien organisms – hitchhikers of the galaxy?

A team of scientists, including Dr Phill Cassey, are calling for greater recognition of the biosecurity risks ahead of the space industry. The research highlights the potential for 'alien organisms' to survive the journey and cause invasive species threats.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalBioScience·TypeContent analysis·DateNov 17, 2021

"Alien" invasions and the need for planetary biosecurity

The article highlights the dangers of biological contamination from space travel, citing examples of bacteria resistant to ionizing radiation and disinfectants found in NASA 'clean rooms'. Researchers propose the use of invasion science to address this threat, leveraging insights on epidemiology, rapid evolution, and early detection.

SourceAmerican Institute of Biological Sciences·JournalBioScience·TypeLiterature review·DateNov 17, 2021

History of insect invasions offer insight into the future

A recent USDA study analyzed two centuries of alien species discoveries to estimate the rate of new insect arrivals and potential future invasions. The research found that efforts to reduce biological hitchhiking on live plant imports have been successful, but a significant number of Hemiptera insects remain undetected.

SourceUSDA Forest Service - Northern Research Station·JournalScience Advances·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 3, 2021

US influence on Australia’s illegal pet trade

A study by University of Adelaide researchers found that unregulated reptile trade in the US drives demand for illegal reptiles in Australia. Three reptile families had the highest probability of being smuggled, with species listed in CITES Appendices I having a higher smuggling probability

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalConservation Letters·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 19, 2021
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Australia's wish list of exotic pets

A study found that Australians prefer pets from threatened species, invasive species, and popular US imports, posing a risk to native populations. The trade of these animals is often unregulated, making it difficult to track demand and assess the public's interest in owning exotic pets.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalNeoBiota·DateAug 20, 2020

Mary Ann Liebert, Inc. to publish Applied Biosafety

The Journal of ABSA International has been awarded to Mary Ann Liebert, Inc., effective 2021. The publication aims to promote global biosafety awareness and best practices in preventing occupational exposures and adverse environmental impacts related to biohazardous releases.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalApplied Biosafety·DateJul 29, 2020
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.

COVID-19 from food safety and biosecurity perspective

The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of food safety and biosecurity in preventing the spread of the virus. Initial epidemiological studies suggest that bats may be natural reservoir hosts of Coronavirus, and hunting for bushmeat can increase the risk of transmission.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalThe Open Food Science Journal·DateJun 24, 2020
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.

Rethinking biosecurity governance

The article highlights the need for a new approach to biosecurity governance, grounded in experimentation. Key findings include the importance of framing governance experiments with hypotheses, developing capacity to quickly identify difficult cases, and fostering cross-biology communities for iterative improvement.

SourceHarvard Kennedy School·JournalScience·DateApr 9, 2020

Reframing biosecurity governance as an experimental space, including as relates to handling COVID-19

Experts argue for a more experimental approach to biosecurity governance, focusing on systematically evaluating effectiveness and limitations of current solutions. This shift could help address previously unknown security concerns created by advancements in biological sciences like CRISPR and synthetic genomics.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateApr 9, 2020

Video games offer clues to help curb animal disease outbreaks

Researchers developed video games to test disease control and prevention strategies, finding that a small shift in risk attitudes can significantly impact disease incidence. The model suggests that changing farmer behavior could make dramatic impacts on avoiding devastating outbreaks.

SourceUniversity of Vermont·JournalFrontiers in Veterinary Science·DateJun 25, 2019
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.

Global trade spreads deadly frog disease from Asia

A deadly disease threatening frogs originated in East Asia, with global trade and human movement of amphibians contributing to its spread. The study found that the range of the disease expanded greatly between 50 and 120 years ago, coinciding with the rapid expansion of intercontinental trade.

SourceJames Cook University·JournalScience·DateMay 10, 2018

'Cyberbiosecurity' and protecting the life sciences

The evolving nature of biotechnology introduces new cyberbiosecurity risks, including accidental breaches and intentional threats. The authors recommend employee training, systematic analyses, and new policies to prevent and detect security incidents.

SourceColorado State University·JournalTrends in Biotechnology·DateDec 7, 2017

Survival of soil organisms is a wake-up call for biosecurity

Nematodes, tiny worm-like organisms, have shown the ability to survive in dry conditions for up to three years, highlighting the need for improved detection methods. The study found that nematodes can infect plant hosts even after extended periods, emphasizing the importance of biosecurity measures.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalNeoBiota·DateAug 24, 2017

Bright future ahead for African plant biosecurity network

The African Plant Biosecurity Network has gained strong commitments from members, partners, and regional agencies to ensure its long-term success. The network aims to improve national and regional quarantine and plant protection capacity, lifting crop yields and enabling safe regional trade.

SourcePlant Biosecurity Cooperative Research Centre·DateApr 5, 2017
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.

Zika virus infection may prevent reinfection, collaborative study finds

Researchers found that Zika virus infection provides excellent protection against reinfection, offering potential relief from future epidemics. The study also revealed the virus remains in some tissues for an extended period, but clears from blood plasma and urine within 10 days.

SourceKansas State University·JournalNature Medicine·DateOct 13, 2016

Stowaway frogs being stopped by border security

Stowaway frogs being stopped by border security reduces the risk of introduction of new diseases by up to 50%. Biosecurity measures are crucial in preventing the spread of emerging diseases that have devastated native frog populations worldwide.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·DateAug 9, 2016
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Zika virus research at Biosecurity Research Institute aims to control, fight mosquitoes

Researchers at Kansas State University's Biosecurity Research Institute are studying the relationship between Zika virus and mosquitoes to develop better controlling methods. They aim to target specific species of mosquitoes that transmit the virus, such as Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus, which are widely distributed in the U.S.

SourceKansas State University·JournalJournal of Medical Entomology·DateJul 1, 2016

What's in a name? Everything -- if you're a fruit fly

A global research effort has resolved a major biosecurity issue by identifying four destructive fruit fly species as one, Bactrocera dorsalis. The combination of these species will lead to improved international cooperation in pest management and enhanced food security for some of the world's poorest nations.

SourcePlant Biosecurity Cooperative Research Centre·JournalSystematic Entomology·DateOct 28, 2014
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.

New H5N1 viruses: How to balance risk of escape with benefits of research?

Two experts argue different views on balancing biosecurity and potentially life-saving research for H5N1 viruses. Adolfo García-Sastre advocates for enhanced BSL-3 facilities to prevent human exposure while Michael Hanna suggests BSL-4 containment due to vaccine limitations and potential for rapid spread.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalmBio·DateMar 6, 2012