Influence of parent flock age on embryonic metabolism in modern turkey strains.

The metabolic response of some galliform embryos to embryonic heat production (EHP) and how incubation conditions have been adjusted to prevent overheating of embryos is well established in broiler breeders. However, the daily metabolic status of turkey embryos has not been studied or established in turkey embryos. The objectives of the current research were therefore to determine the respiratory (eggshell conductance, G) and metabolic status (EHP) of 2 modern turkey genetic strains [Hybrid (H) and Nicholas (N)] and 4 parent flock ages [young (Y, 30 wk), peak (P, 34 wk), mature (M, 55 wk), and old (O, 60 wk)] during incubation.

Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Three Cage Layer Housing Systems.

Agriculture accounts for 10 to 12% of the World's total greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Manure management alone is responsible for 13% of GHG emissions from the agricultural sector. During the last decade, Québec's egg production systems have shifted from deep-pit housing systems to manure belt housing systems.

A prospective evaluation of air quality and workers' health in broiler and layer operations.

Objectives: In developed countries, poultry are raised in totally confined buildings in which workers are exposed to indoor airborne contaminants. A prospective study was conducted to investigate the relationship between workers' respiratory health and airborne contaminants during the life cycle of broiler and layer flocks.

Methods: Seventeen layer and 16 broiler operations were chosen within a 200 km radius of Edmonton.

Swine production impact on residential ambient air quality.

Numerous residents in agricultural areas are concerned about the impact that the swine industry may have on the ambient air quality. They assume there is a risk because there is limited information on the airborne contaminant that may originate from these facilities. The objective of the project was to assess the impact of swine production on ambient air quality related to public health in farming communities.

Bone mineral density and breaking strength of White Leghorns housed in conventional, modified, and commercially available colony battery cages.

Limited opportunity for movement and load-bearing exercise for conventionally caged laying hens leads to bone loss and increased susceptibility to osteoporosis, bone fractures, and cage layer fatigue, all of which compromise hen welfare and have negative consequences for production. The objective of this study was to compare bone mineral density (BMD) and strength measures of White Leghorns housed in conventional battery cages (CONV), cages modified to incorporate a nest box and perch (MOD), and commercially available, furnished colony cages with (CWDB) or without (CWODB) a raised dust bath. Hens reared on floor litter were randomly allocated to 1 of 4 cage systems at 19 wk of age.