The Effect of Adding Different Levels of Reduced Glutathione to Extender on the Quality of Cooled Ring-Necked Pheasant Semen.

Aim: Artificial propagation of ring-necked pheasant through semen preservation is of significance, as this species is facing enormous threats in its natural habitat. Semen preservation inevitably induces oxidative stress, and exogenous antioxidants need to be investigated for the preservation of ring-necked pheasant semen. Therefore, the current study was conducted to investigate the role of glutathione (GSH) in extender on the liquid storage of ring-necked pheasant semen. Materials and Methods: Semen was collected from 10 sexually mature males, evaluated for sperm motility, and pooled. Pooled semen was aliquoted for dilution with Beltsville poultry semen extender (1:5) at 37°C having GSH levels of 0.0 mM (Control), 0.2, 0.4, 0.6, and 0.8 mM. Extended semen was gradually cooled to 4°C and stored in a refrigerator (4°C) for 48 hours. Semen quality, that is, sperm motility, membrane integrity, viability, acrosomal integrity, and DNA integrity, was assessed at 0, 2, 6, 24, and 48 hours. Results: Sperm motility (%), plasma membrane integrity (%), viability (%), and acrosomal integrity (%) were recorded higher (p < 0.05), whereas DNA fragmentation (%) was recorded lower in extender supplemented with 0.4 mM GSH up to 48 hours of storage compared with 0.2, 0.6, and 0.8 mM GSH concentrations and control. Conclusion: It is concluded that 0.4 mM GSH in extender improves sperm quality parameters of ring-necked pheasant during liquid storage up to 48 hours at 4°C.

Prevalence of parasites in selected captive bird species / Prevalência de parasitas em espécies de pássaros em cativeiro selecionados

Abstract Blood and fecal samples of chukar partridge (Alectoris chukar), albino pheasant (Phasianus colchicus), silver pheasant (Lophura nycthemera), rose-ringed parakeet (Psittacula krameri) and turkeys (Meleagris gallopavo) were analyzed to check parasitic prevalence. To record parasites these five avian species were placed kept in separate cages at Avian Conservation and Research Center, Department of Wildlife an Ecology, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan. 100 fecal and 100 blood samples for each bird species were inspected to analyze internal parasites. During present study, 17 species of endoparasites 14 from fecal samples and three from blood were examined. Two species of ectoparasites i.e. mite Dermanyssus gallinae 42% and fowl ticks Args persicus 41%were studied. Blood parasites included Plasmodium juxtanucleare 50%, Leucoctoyzoon simond having parasitic prevalence 40%, and Aegyptinella pullorum having parasitic prevalence of 40%. Parasitic species recorded from fecal samples included 6 species of nematodes viz. Allodpa suctoria 2%. Syngamus trachea with parasitic prevalence of 60%, Capillaria annulata 37.5%, Ascardia galli 24%, Capillaria anatis 40% and Heterakis gallinarum 28.3%. Similarly, two species of trematodes viz. Prosthogonimus ovatus having parasitic prevalence of 50% and Prosthogonimus macrorchis 21% were also documented from fecal avian samples . Single cestode species Raillietina echinobothrida having parasitic prevalence of 72% and 3 protozoan species i.e. Eimeria maxima having parasitic prevalence of 21%, Giardia lamblia 41% and Histomonas meleagridis 18% were documented during corpological analysis. In our recommendation, proper sanitation, medication and vaccination of bird's enclousres are suggested to avoid parasites.

RESUMO Amostras de sangue e fezes de perdiz chukar (Alectoris chukar), faisão-albino (Phasianus colchicus), faisão-prateado (Lophura nycthemera), periquito-de-rosa (Psittacula krameri) e perus (Meleagris gallopavo) foram analisadas para verificar a prevalência de parasitas. Para registrar os parasitas, essas cinco espécies de aves foram colocadas em gaiolas separadas no Centro de Conservação e Pesquisa de Aves, Departamento de Vida Selvagem e Ecologia, Universidade de Veterinária e Ciências Animais, Lahore, Paquistão. Cem amostras fecais e 100 amostras de sangue para cada espécie de ave foram inspecionadas para analisar os parasitas internos. Durante o presente estudo, foram examinadas 17 espécies de endoparasitas, 14 de amostras fecais e 3 de sangue. Foram estudadas duas espécies de ectoparasitas, ou seja, o ácaro Dermanyssus gallinae 42% e o carrapato aviário Args persicus 41%. Os parasitas sanguíneos incluíram Plasmodium juxtanucleare 50%, Leucoctoyzoon simond com prevalência parasitária de 40% e Aegyptinella pullorum com prevalência parasitária de 40%. As espécies parasitas registradas em amostras fecais incluíram 6 espécies de nematoides viz. Allodpa suctoria 2%, Syngamus traqueia com prevalência parasitária de 60%, Capillaria annulata 37,5%, Ascardia galli 24%, Capillaria anatis 40% e Heterakis gallinarum 28,3%. Da mesma forma, duas espécies de trematódeos viz. Prosthogonimus ovatus com prevalência parasitária de 50% e Prosthogonimus macrorchis 21% também foram documentados em amostras fecais de aves. Espécies de cestoide único Raillietina echinobothrida com prevalência parasitária de 72% e 3 espécies de protozoários, isto é, Eimeria maxima com prevalência parasitária de 21%, Giardia lamblia 41% e Histomonas meleagridis 18% foram documentadas durante a análise corpológica. Em nossa recomendação, o saneamento adequado, medicação e vacinação de invólucros de pássaros são sugeridos para evitar parasitas.

Independent loss events of a functional tetherin gene in galliform birds.

IMPORTANCE: Birds represent important hosts for numerous viruses, including zoonotic viruses and pathogens with the potential to cause major economic losses to the poultry industry. Viral replication and transmission can be inhibited or blocked by the action of antiviral restriction factors (RFs) encoded by the host. One well-characterized RF is tetherin, a protein that directly blocks the release of newly formed viral particles from infected cells. Here, we describe the evolutionary loss of a functional tetherin gene in two galliform birds, turkey (Meleagris gallopavo) and Mikado pheasant (Syrmaticus mikado). Moreover, we demonstrate that the structurally related protein TMCC(aT) exerts antiviral activity in several birds, albeit by a mechanism different from that of tetherin. The evolutionary scenario described here represents the first documented loss-of-tetherin cases in vertebrates.

Genomic Variation, Population History, and Long-Term Genetic Adaptation to High Altitudes in Tibetan Partridge (Perdix hodgsoniae).

Species residing across elevational gradients display adaptations in response to environmental changes such as oxygen availability, ultraviolet radiation, and temperature. Here, we study genomic variation, gene expression, and long-term adaptation in Tibetan Partridge (Perdix hodgsoniae) populations residing across the elevational gradient of the Tibetan Plateau. We generated a high-quality draft genome and used it to carry out downstream population genomic and transcriptomic analysis. The P. hodgsoniae populations residing across various elevations were genetically distinct, and their phylogenetic clustering was consistent with their geographic distribution. We identified possible evidence of gene flow between populations residing in <3,000 and >4,200 m elevation that is consistent with known habitat expansion of high-altitude populations of P. hodgsoniae to a lower elevation. We identified a 60 kb haplotype encompassing the Estrogen Receptor 1 (ESR1) gene, showing strong genetic divergence between populations of P. hodgsoniae. We identified six single nucleotide polymorphisms within the ESR1 gene fixed for derived alleles in high-altitude populations that are strongly conserved across vertebrates. We also compared blood transcriptome profiles and identified differentially expressed genes (such as GAPDH, LDHA, and ALDOC) that correlated with differences in altitude among populations of P. hodgsoniae. These candidate genes from population genomics and transcriptomics analysis were enriched for neutrophil degranulation and glycolysis pathways, which are known to respond to hypoxia and hence may contribute to long-term adaptation to high altitudes in P. hodgsoniae. Our results highlight Tibetan Partridges as a useful model to study molecular mechanisms underlying long-term adaptation to high altitudes.

Calcitriol combined with fish oil in the diet of Chukar partridge can ameliorate laying performance by improving oviduct histomorphometry and functions.

The effects of calcitriol (CT) and/or fish oil (FO) on performance, oviposition time, sex ratio and morphology of the reproductive system of laying Chukar partridges were studied. Female (n = 48) and male (n = 16) partridges were used in a completely randomised design using a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement and were randomly allocated to either of four experimental treatments with four cage replicates of three females and one male each. Female birds received no FO (CON - FO) or were orally administered with 0.2 mL (0.24 g)/500 g body weight FO (CON + FO) or 0.2 mL solution containing 10 µg CT (CT - FO), or their combination (CT + FO) for 42 successive days. The eggs were collected every two hours between 07:00 and 23:00 h. Administering FO along with CT had considerably increasing effect on the male-biased sex ratio. FO and CT administration interacted to increase serum calcium concentration. Experimental treatments increased the number of leucocytes and erythrocytes. Serum cholesterol was decreased in CON + FO partridges compared with those of the CT - FO and CON - FO birds. There was an interaction between FO and CT on the weight of eggs and hatchlings, number of medium white follicles, diameter and the number of small yellow follicles, the weight and diameter of the fifth follicles (F5), and thickness of secondary mucosal folds in both uterus and vagina. Administering CT alone or with FO increased the feed intake, egg production, oviductal weight, diameter and number of large yellow follicles, the weight and diameter of the second (F2) and first (F1) follicles compared with those of the CON - FO females. Further studies are required to elucidate the mechanisms by which such changes in the sex ratio skew, ovary and oviduct are mediated.

Isolation and characterization of bacteria residing in the oral, gut, and fecal samples of different pheasant species / Isolamento e caracterização de bactérias residentes nas amostras orais, intestinais e fecais de diferentes espécies de faisão

There is a paucity of research conducted on microbial prevalence in pheasants. The microbiota of captive birds has zoonotic significance and must be characterize. Present study is therefore planned to assess the microbiota from oral, fecal and gut content of captive avian species. It will be helpful in characterization of harmful microbes. Different samples taken from oral, gut and feces of ring-necked pheasants (Phasianus colchicus), green pheasants (Phasianus versicolor), golden pheasant (Chrysolophus pictus) and silver pheasant (Lophura nycthemera). Samples were collected, diluted, and inoculated onto different agar plates (MacConkey, SS agar, MSA and nutrient agar) for cultivation of bacterial species. Colonies of E.coli, Staphylococcus spp. Brachyspira spp. and Campylobacter spp were observed based on colony morphology. Colony forming unit showed E. coli as frequently found bacteria in fecal, oral and gut contents of all the above pheasants. The overall significance difference was found among bacterial species of golden pheasants, green pheasant, ring-necked pheasant, and silver pheasants. It was concluded that E.coli is predominant isolated from heathy pheasants followed by Campylobacter, Staphylococcus and Brachyspira.

Há uma escassez de pesquisas realizadas sobre a prevalência microbiana em faisões. A microbiota de aves em cativeiro tem significado zoonótico e deve ser caracterizada. O presente estudo está, portanto, planejado para avaliar a microbiota do conteúdo oral, fecal e intestinal de espécies aviárias em cativeiro. Será útil na caracterização de micróbios nocivos. Diferentes amostras retiradas da boca, intestino e fezes de faisões de pescoço redondo (Phasianus colchicus), faisões verdes (Phasianus versicolor), faisões dourados (Chrysolophus pictus) e faisão prateado (Lophura nycthemera). As amostras foram coletadas, diluídas e inoculadas em diferentes placas de ágar (MacConkey, ágar SS, MSA e ágar nutriente) para o cultivo de espécies bacterianas. Colônias de E. coli, Staphylococcus spp., Brachyspira spp. e Campylobacter spp foram observados com base na morfologia da colônia. A unidade formadora de colônia mostrou E. coli como bactéria frequentemente encontrada no conteúdo fecal, oral e intestinal de todos os faisões acima. A diferença de significância geral foi encontrada entre as espécies bacterianas de faisões dourados, faisões verdes, faisões de pescoço anelado e faisões prateados. Verificou-se que a E.coli é predominantemente isolada de faisões saudáveis, seguida por Campylobacter, Staphylococcus e Brachyspira.

Isolation and characterization of bacteria residing in the oral, gut, and fecal samples of different pheasant species / Isolamento e caracterização de bactérias residentes nas amostras orais, intestinais e fecais de diferentes espécies de faisão

Abstract There is a paucity of research conducted on microbial prevalence in pheasants. The microbiota of captive birds has zoonotic significance and must be characterize. Present study is therefore planned to assess the microbiota from oral, fecal and gut content of captive avian species. It will be helpful in characterization of harmful microbes. Different samples taken from oral, gut and feces of ring-necked pheasants (Phasianus colchicus), green pheasants (Phasianus versicolor), golden pheasant (Chrysolophus pictus) and silver pheasant (Lophura nycthemera). Samples were collected, diluted, and inoculated onto different agar plates (MacConkey, SS agar, MSA and nutrient agar) for cultivation of bacterial species. Colonies of E.coli, Staphylococcus spp. Brachyspira spp. and Campylobacter spp were observed based on colony morphology. Colony forming unit showed E. coli as frequently found bacteria in fecal, oral and gut contents of all the above pheasants. The overall significance difference was found among bacterial species of golden pheasants, green pheasant, ring-necked pheasant, and silver pheasants. It was concluded that E.coli is predominant isolated from heathy pheasants followed by Campylobacter, Staphylococcus and Brachyspira.

Resumo Há uma escassez de pesquisas realizadas sobre a prevalência microbiana em faisões. A microbiota de aves em cativeiro tem significado zoonótico e deve ser caracterizada. O presente estudo está, portanto, planejado para avaliar a microbiota do conteúdo oral, fecal e intestinal de espécies aviárias em cativeiro. Será útil na caracterização de micróbios nocivos. Diferentes amostras retiradas da boca, intestino e fezes de faisões de pescoço redondo (Phasianus colchicus), faisões verdes (Phasianus versicolor), faisões dourados (Chrysolophus pictus) e faisão prateado (Lophura nycthemera). As amostras foram coletadas, diluídas e inoculadas em diferentes placas de ágar (MacConkey, ágar SS, MSA e ágar nutriente) para o cultivo de espécies bacterianas. Colônias de E. coli, Staphylococcus spp., Brachyspira spp. e Campylobacter spp foram observados com base na morfologia da colônia. A unidade formadora de colônia mostrou E. coli como bactéria frequentemente encontrada no conteúdo fecal, oral e intestinal de todos os faisões acima. A diferença de significância geral foi encontrada entre as espécies bacterianas de faisões dourados, faisões verdes, faisões de pescoço anelado e faisões prateados. Verificou-se que a E.coli é predominantemente isolada de faisões saudáveis, seguida por Campylobacter, Staphylococcus e Brachyspira.

Characterization and functional properties of a novel monoclonal antibody which identifies a B cell subpopulation in bursa of Fabricius.

The bursa of Fabricius (BF) plays a central role in the development of B lymphocytes in birds. During embryonic development the BF primordium is colonized by myeloid and lymphoid prebursal stem cells to form the follicle buds, which ultimately develop into lymphoid follicles with a central medullary and an outer cortical region. Lympho-myeloid differentiation within the medulla is fundamental to normal B cell development. In contrast, the complexity of the cellular composition of the follicular cortex and its role in B cell differentiation has only recently begun to be studied. As an effort to characterize the different bursal cells we have produced a large panel of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) by immunizing mice with a BF cell suspension of guinea fowl (Numida meleagris). One of these antibodies (clone: 7H3) was found to recognize a 80 kDa cell surface antigen expressed first in the yolk sac blood island of 2-day-old guinea fowl and chicken embryos, and later detected in the embryonic circulation and primary lymphoid organs. Double immunofluorescence revealed that chB6+ (Bu-1+) B cells of embryonic BF co-express the 7H3 antigen. 7H3 immunoreactivity of the bursal follicles gradually diminished after hatching and only a subpopulation of cortical B cells expressed the 7H3 antigen. In addition, in post-hatched birds 7H3 mAb recognizes all T lymphocytes of the thymus, peripheral lymphoid organs and blood. Embryonic BF injected with the 7H3 mAb showed a near complete block of lymphoid follicle formation In conclusion, 7H3 mAb labels a new differentiation antigen specific for avian hematopoietic cells, which migrate through the embryonic mesenchyme, colonize the developing BF lymphoid follicles, and differentiate into a subpopulation of cortical B cells. The staining pattern of the 7H3 mAb and the correlation of expression with cell migration suggest that the antigen will serve as valuable immunological marker for studying the ontogeny of avian B cells.

Common Diseases of Michigan Gamebirds: A Retrospective Study.

Michigan has abundant resources for outdoor activity including upland gamebird hunting in the wild and on licensed hunting preserves. Due to the popularity of hunting, Michigan had a thriving gamebird industry before the economic downturn of 2008/2009. After the economic downturn, the number of gamebird preserves decreased. To understand the health issues faced by captive gamebird raisers while the industry was thriving, a 25-year retrospective study of gamebird submissions to the Michigan State University Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory from 1983 through 2008 was undertaken. Although pheasants, quail, partridges, grouse, and mallard ducks were raised, pheasants greatly outnumbered all other gamebird species, both in numbers and submissions, and quail were the next most predominant species. Causes for submission included parasitic, bacterial, viral, and miscellaneous causes. Parasitic diseases were predominant, with coccidiosis being the leading diagnosis in pheasants and partridges and Capillaria spp. infestation of the crop prevailing in quail. Bacterial diseases were the next most predominant affliction, with clostridial enteritis, both necrotic and ulcerative, in quail, and a variety of bacterial diseases were found in pheasants and partridges. Rotaviral enteritis and adenovirus were the most prevalent viral diseases in pheasants, with adenovirus being the predominant viral disease in quail and paramyxovirus the most prevalent in partridges. From these findings, we conclude that gamebird submissions should be closely screened for parasitic diseases and the diagnosis confirmed at necropsy through scraping and examination of affected tissues.

Reporte de caso­Enfermedades comunes de aves de caza en Michigan: Un estudio retrospectivo. Michigan tiene abundantes recursos para la actividad al aire libre, incluida la caza de aves silvestres en tierras altas silvestres y en cotos de caza autorizados. Debido a la popularidad de la caza, Michigan tenía una próspera industria de aves de caza antes de la recesión económica de los años 2008/2009. Después de la recesión económica, el número de reservas de aves de caza disminuyó. Para comprender los problemas de salud que enfrentan los criadores de aves de caza en cautiverio mientras la industria prosperaba, se realizó un estudio retrospectivo de 25 años de los casos de diagnóstico de aves de cacería remitidos al Laboratorio de Diagnóstico Veterinario de la Universidad Estatal de Michigan desde el año 1983 hasta el 2008. Aunque se criaron faisanes, codornices, perdices, urogallos y ánades reales, los faisanes superaron en gran medida a todas las demás especies de aves de caza, tanto en número como en casos clínicos y la codorniz fue la segunda especie más predominante. Las causas de envío de casos clínicos incluyeron infecciones parasitarias, bacterianas, virales y diversas. Predominaron las enfermedades parasitarias, siendo la coccidiosis el principal diagnóstico en faisanes y perdices y la infestación en el buche por Capillaria spp. fue predominante en codornices. Las enfermedades bacterianas fueron el segundo problema más predominante, con enteritis por clostridios, tanto necrótica como ulcerativa, en codornices, y una variedad de enfermedades bacterianas se encontraron en faisanes y perdices. La enteritis por rotavirus y los adenovirus fueron las enfermedades virales más prevalentes en los faisanes, siendo el adenovirus la enfermedad viral predominante en la codorniz y el paramixovirus la más prevalente en las perdices. A partir de estos hallazgos, concluimos que las presentaciones de aves de caza deben ser examinadas de cerca para detectar enfermedades parasitarias y el diagnóstico debe confirmarse en la necropsia mediante de raspados y examen de los tejidos afectados.

An Uncommon Case of Trueperella pyogenes Infection in an Adult Backyard Rooster and a Retrospective Study; 2000-20.

Trueperella pyogenes is an opportunistic Gram-positive bacterium that induces purulent lesions and abscesses in cattle, small ruminants, and swine. In birds, T. pyogenes infections have been linked to lameness and osteomyelitis in turkeys (Phasianidae) and hepatic fibriscess in turkeys and pigeons (Columbidae). An 18-mo-old backyard rooster with a history of progressive emaciation was submitted to the California Animal Health and Food Safety (CAHFS) laboratory system. At necropsy, unusual numerous miliary granulomas were identified, primarily in the spleen, but granulomas were also observed in air sacs and lungs. Microscopically, few to moderate numbers of granulomas with giant cells were observed in the spleen, lung, air sacs, and crop composed of necrosis and mixed inflammatory cell inflammation including multinucleated giant cells, fibrin deposition, and fibrosis. Trueperella pyogenes was isolated from the air sacs and trachea. Avibacterium paragallinarum PCR was positive from the tracheal swab. A retrospective analysis of CAHFS data on T. pyogenes between 2000 and 2020 identified 24 cases in avian species: chickens (Gallus gallus domesticus; 16/24), turkeys (5/24), Pekin duck (Anas platyrhynchos domesticus; 1/24), parrot (Psittaciformes; 1/24), and pheasant (Phasianidae; 1/24). Although T. pyogenes infection in birds is rare, the clinical signs and gross lesions might be indistinguishable from avian mycobacteriosis in some cases and should be considered in the differential diagnosis.

Reporte de caso­Un caso no común de infección por Trueperella pyogenes en un gallo adulto de traspatio y un estudio retrospectivo; entre los años 2000-20. Trueperella pyogenes es una bacteria grampositiva oportunista que induce lesiones purulentas y abscesos en bovinos, pequeños rumiantes y porcinos. En las aves, las infecciones por T. pyogenes se han relacionado con cojera y osteomielitis en pavos (Phasianidae) y fibrosis hepática en pavos y palomas (Columbidae). Un gallo de traspatio de 18 meses de edad con antecedentes de emaciación progresiva fue enviado al sistema de Laboratorios de Salud Animal y Seguridad Alimentaria de California (CAHFS). En la necropsia, se identificaron numerosos granulomas miliares inusuales, principalmente en el bazo, pero también se observaron granulomas en los sacos aéreos y los pulmones. Microscópicamente, se observaron pocos a moderados granulomas con células gigantes en el bazo, pulmón, sacos aéreos y buche compuesto por necrosis e inflamación celular inflamatoria mixta, incluidas células gigantes multinucleadas, depósito de fibrina y fibrosis. Trueperella pyogenes se aisló de los sacos aéreos y la tráquea. Un método de PCR para Avibacterium paragallinarum fue positivo realizado a partir de hisopos traqueales. Un análisis retrospectivo de los datos de CAHFS sobre T. pyogenes entre los años 2000 y 2020 identificó 24 casos en especies aviares: pollos (Gallus gallus domesticus; 16/24), pavos (5/24), pato Pekín (Anas platyrhynchos domesticus; 1/24), loro (Psittaciformes; 1/24) y faisán (Phasianidae; 1/24). Aunque la infección por T. pyogenes en aves es poco común, los signos clínicos y las lesiones macroscópicas pueden ser indistinguibles de micobacteriosis aviar en algunos casos y debe considerarse como diagnóstico diferencial.

Reproductive performance, expression of TRAP6 and TGF-ß4 genes in utero-vaginal junction mucosa, and indicators of liver function in female Chukar partridge (Alectoris chukar) breeders fed with fish oil and calcitriol during the egg-laying period.

Reproductive attributes, expression of TRAP6 and TGF-ß mRNA in the mucosa of the utero-vaginal junction (UVJ) of oviduct, and liver function were evaluated in Chukar partridge (Alectoris chukar) breeders subjected to long-term oral administration of fish oil (FO) and/or calcitriol (CT). A total of forty-eight 1.5-year-old laying Chukar partridges and 16 age-matched males (female:male ratio of 3:1) were randomly allocated to four groups (4 replicates of 3 female birds and one male bird each). Breeder females in groups 1, 2, and 3 were orally administered daily with 0.2 mL (0.24 g)/500 g body weight FO, 0.2 mL solution containing 10 µg CT, or their combination (FO + CT) for 42 successive days, respectively. Pure crystalline calcitriol was dissolved in ethanol (30%) prior to administration. The control group (CON), received a similar volume of a 30% solution of ethanol only. Eggs were collected and incubated to evaluate the reproductive performance. Blood samples were taken on days 0, 21, and 42 of the trial for the quantification of serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and aspartate aminotransferase (AST). On day 43, one bird per replicate was killed by cervical dislocation to assess the expression of TRAP6 and TGF-ß genes in the UVJ mucosa. Administration of CT or FO + CT increased the egg production rate, fertility rate, and hatchability rate of the set eggs. Fertility duration and sperm penetration rate were higher in partridges receiving FO and (or) CT, but chick quality, and embryonic mortality were not affected by the treatment effect. Administration of CT or FO + CT decreased the serum ALT and AST levels. Administration of FO or CT was associated with a lower expression of TGF-ß mRNA in the UVJ mucosa. Oral administration of FO resulted in a reduction in the expression of TRAP6 in the UVJ mucosa. However, the birds fed with CT or FO + CT recorded a higher mRNA expression for TRAP6. Although the reproductive performance and TRAP6 expression were higher following the feeding of FO or FO + CT, expression of TGF-ß was decreased, suggesting plausibly that TGF-ß may not have a determinant effect on the reproductive attributes in female Chukar partridges. Further studies are required to understand the mechanisms underlying the effects of TRAP6 and TGF-ß on other reproductive criteria in partridges.

Captive breeding challenges posed by Malaysian and Bornean Peacock-pheasants (Polyplectron malacense and P. schleiermacheri).

We describe unique reproductive features of two threatened Galliformes species, the Malaysian peacock-pheasant (Polyplectron malacense) and Bornean peacock-pheasant (P. schleiermacheri). These features pose challenges to successful captive breeding to build up sustainable populations for conservation purposes. Single egg clutches in both species mean that reproductive rates are low and population increase is slow. The very rounded eggs of Bornean Peacock-pheasant cause difficulties for egg orientation in incubators. Single chicks with special requirements are poorly suited to rearing by broody bantams and successful husbandry requires increased human time, commitment, and skills.

Study on prevalence and liver function test enzymes of differently plumaged peafowls (Pavo cristatus) infected with Toxoplasma gondii in captivity / [Estudo sobre enzimas de prevalência e teste da função hepatica de pavões de plumage diferente (Pavo cristatus) infectados com Toxoplasma gondii em cativeiro]

O presente estudo foi realizado para determinar a prevalência geral de toxoplasmose em pavões de plumagem diferente e seu efeito nas enzimas de teste da função hepática dos hospedeiros. Um total de cem pavões de plumas diferenciais, como ombro preto (n = 52), azul (n = 28), branco (n = 10) e arlequim (n = 10) foram estudados no zoológico de Bahawalpur, no Paquistão, usando o Latex Agglutination Test (LAT) e ensaio imunossorvente ligado a enzima (ELISA). A prevalência geral por LAT e ELISA foi de 37% e 30%, respectivamente. Por LAT, observou-se uma prevalência não significativamente maior (P≥0,05) em gênero (37,77%) nos machos do que nas fêmeas (36,36%), enquanto os adultos apresentaram uma prevalência maior (37,97%) em relação aos jovens (33,33%). De acordo com o ELISA, uma prevalência significativamente (P <0,05) maior (35,55%) foi observada nos machos do que nas fêmeas (25,45%) e significativamente (P <0,05) maior prevalência (31,64%) foi registrada nos adultos do que nos jovens (23,80%). A análise do perfil bioquímico sérico mostrou que o nível de bilirrubina não teve elevação significativa nos hospedeiros infectados, em comparação aos não infectados, enquanto a concentração de albumina, alanina aminotransferase (ALT), aspartato aminotransferase (AST), fosfatase alcalina (ALP) foi significativamente (P <0,05) diferente nos hospedeiros infectados. Conclui-se que a toxoplasmose afeta as enzimas do teste da função hepática. Essa é uma pesquisa preliminar e requer mais pesquisas em todo o país, com populações e amostras maiores.(AU)

Polyostotic osteosarcoma associated with avian leukosis virus infection in a captive bare-faced curassow (Crax fasciolata).

BACKGROUND: Osteosarcoma is a malignant mesenchymal bone tumor. Although it is a common tumor in the appendicular skeleton of dogs and cats, it is rarely reported in birds. Retroviruses are usually associated with solid tumor development in different avian species. CASE PRESENTATION: This report aims to describe a case of osteosarcoma associated with the avian leukosis virus in a captive bare-faced curassow (Crax fasciolata). A captive adult female bare-faced curassow presented with lameness, hyporexia, and a non-ulcerative and firm tumor in the right femur. The bird was euthanized due to the poor prognosis. Histopathology revealed an infiltrative mesenchymal neoplasm consisting of spindle cells with moderate cell pleomorphism, organized in bundles and interspersed by marked deposition of the osteoid matrix, which was compatible with osteosarcoma affecting both femur and tibiotarsus, with renal metastasis. Immunohistochemistry of the primary and metastatic tumor demonstrated vimentin expression by neoplastic cells. Samples of the neoplasm, bone marrow, and spleen were processed for PCR, which enabled the demonstration of proviral avian leukosis virus (ALV) DNA. CONCLUSIONS: To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of an osteosarcoma in a bare-faced curassow with an unusual polyostotic manifestation and associated with ALV infection.

Molecular characterization and pathogenicity of a fowl adenovirus serotype 4 isolated from peacocks associated with hydropericardium hepatitis syndrome.

In September 2019, a highly prevalent infectious disease caused severe hydropericardium hepatitis syndrome (HHS) in a peacock farm in Central China. The disease showed high mortality of 78.6% in 28-42 day-old peacocks. In this study, one strain of highly pathogenic fowl adenovirus serotype 4 (FAdV-4) was isolated from peacocks and designated as HN19. Molecular characterization of amino acid revealed that HN19 contains the same deletions as the dominate strains in chickens in China recently. Phylogenetic analyses revealed that HN19 showed higher homology with other FAdV-4 strains isolated from China, indicating that HN19 might originate from previously FAdV-4 predecessor in China. Experimental infection of the HN19 strain via intramuscular injection led to 100% mortality rate in 21-day-old specific pathogenic-free (SPF) chickens. To our knowledge, this represents the first report on the prevalence of FAdV-4 in peacocks. These results suggested that the potential risk of cross-species transmission of FAdV-4 from chickens to peacocks, highlighting the need for implementing strict biosecurity measures to avoid the mixing of different bird species.

Genomic and biological characteristics of Avian Orthoavulavirus-1 strains isolated from multiple wild birds and backyard chickens in Pakistan.

Circulation of the dominant sub-genotype VII.2 of Avian Orthoavulavirus-1 (AOAV-1) is affecting multiple poultry and non-poultry avian species and causing significant economic losses to the poultry industry worldwide. In countries where ND is endemic, continuous monitoring and characterization of field strains are necessary. In this study, genetic characteristics of eleven AOAV-1 strains were analyzed isolated from wild birds including parakeets (n = 3), lovebird parrot (n = 1), pheasant (n = 1), peacock (n = 1), and backyard chickens (n = 5) during 2015-2016. Genetic characterization (genome size [15,192 nucleotides], the presence of typical cleavage site [112-RRQKRF-117]) and biological assessment (HA log 27 to 29 and intracerebral pathogenicity index [ICPI] value ranging from 1.50 to 1.86) showed virulent AOAV-1. Phylogenetic analysis showed that the studied isolates belonged to sub-genotype VII.2 and genetically very closely related (> 98.9%) to viruses repeatedly isolated (2011-2018) from commercial poultry. These findings provide evidence for the existence of epidemiological links between poultry and wild bird species in the region where the disease is prevalent. The deduced amino acid analysis revealed several substitutions in critical domains of fusion and hemagglutinin-neuraminidase genes. The pathogenesis and transmission potential of wild bird-origin AOAV-1 strain (AW-Pht/2015) was evaluated in 21-day-old chickens that showed the strain was highly virulent causing clinical signs and killed all chickens. High viral loads were detected in different organs of the infected chickens correlating with the severity of lesions developed. The continuous monitoring of AOAV-1 isolates in different species of birds will improve our knowledge of the evolution of these viruses, thereby preventing possible panzootic.

Isolation and molecular characterization of Fowl adenovirus strains in Black grouse: First reported case in Poland.

This article describes the isolation, molecular characterization, and genotyping of two fowl adenovirus (FAdVs) strains with GenBank Accession numbers (MT478054, JSN-G033-18-L and MT478055, JSN-G033-18-B) obtained from the internal organs of black grouse (Lyrurus tetrix). This study also reveals the first confirmation of fowl adenovirus in Poland, supporting one of the hypotheses about the probability of fowl adenovirus interspecies transmission. The adenovirus strain sequences were investigated via phylogenetic analysis and were found to have an overall mean pairwise distance of 2.189. The heterogeneity, Relative Synonymous Codon Usage (RSCU), codon composition, and nucleotide frequencies were examined. Statistical analyses and Tajima's test for the examined sequences were carried out. The Maximum Likelihood for the examined sequences substitutions was performed. The results of the sequence analysis identified MT478054, JSN-G033-18-L and MT478055, JSN-G033-18-B as strains of fowl adenovirus 2/11/D, with the Fowl adenovirus D complete sequence showing a 93% match. Wild birds may act as a natural reservoir for FAdVs and likely play an important role in the spreading of these viruses in the environment. The findings reported here suggest horizontal transmission within and between avian species.

Antiviral Activity and Adaptive Evolution of Avian Tetherins.

Tetherin/BST-2 is an antiviral protein that blocks the release of enveloped viral particles by linking them to the membrane of producing cells. At first, BST-2 genes were described only in humans and other mammals. Recent work identified BST-2 orthologs in nonmammalian vertebrates, including birds. Here, we identify the BST-2 sequence in domestic chicken (Gallus gallus) for the first time and demonstrate its activity against avian sarcoma and leukosis virus (ASLV). We generated a BST-2 knockout in chicken cells and showed that BST-2 is a major determinant of an interferon-induced block of ASLV release. Ectopic expression of chicken BST-2 blocks the release of ASLV in chicken cells and of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) in human cells. Using metabolic labeling and pulse-chase analysis of HIV-1 Gag proteins, we verified that chicken BST-2 blocks the virus at the release stage. Furthermore, we describe BST-2 orthologs in multiple avian species from 12 avian orders. Previously, some of these species were reported to lack BST-2, highlighting the difficulty of identifying sequences of this extremely variable gene. We analyzed BST-2 genes in the avian orders Galliformes and Passeriformes and showed that they evolve under positive selection. This indicates that avian BST-2 is involved in host-virus evolutionary arms races and suggests that BST-2 antagonists exist in some avian viruses. In summary, we show that chicken BST-2 has the potential to act as a restriction factor against ASLV. Characterizing the interaction of avian BST-2 with avian viruses is important in understanding innate antiviral defenses in birds.IMPORTANCE Birds are important hosts of viruses that have the potential to cause zoonotic infections in humans. However, only a few antiviral genes (called viral restriction factors) have been described in birds, mostly because birds lack counterparts of highly studied mammalian restriction factors. Tetherin/BST-2 is a restriction factor, originally described in humans, that blocks the release of newly formed virus particles from infected cells. Recent work identified BST-2 in nonmammalian vertebrate species, including birds. Here, we report the BST-2 sequence in domestic chicken and describe its antiviral activity against a prototypical avian retrovirus, avian sarcoma and leukosis virus (ASLV). We also identify BST-2 genes in multiple avian species and show that they evolve rapidly in birds, which is an important indication of their relevance for antiviral defense. Analysis of avian BST-2 genes will shed light on defense mechanisms against avian viral pathogens.