Fuel properties and incineration behavior of poultry litter blended with sweet sorghum bagasse and pyrolysis oil.

The incineration of poultry litter (PL) effectively reduces the volume of waste in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal of "affordable and clean energy". However, mono-incineration is associated with considerable challenges due to the varying moisture, structural and chemical composition and low energy yield. The aim of the present work was to investigate the influence of sweet sorghum bagasse (SS) and pyrolysis oil (PO) on improving the fuel properties of PL and mitigating ash related burdens during incineration. The different biomass feedstocks were produced by combining PL with SS at 0.0% (T0), 25% (T1), 50% (T2), 75% (T3) and compared with 100% SS (T4). In order to achieve high energy potential and low ash deposition, the parallel samples were additionally mixed with 10% PO to improve the energy value. The experimental results show that increasing the proportion of SS and adding PO to the mixtures increases the volatile matter and decreases the moisture and ash content. The addition of PO also increases the carbon and hydrogen content. The use of SS and PO thus increased the values of the ignitability index and apparently also the flammability by 30.0%-49.4% compared to pure PL. SS and PO shifted the HHV of the starting material from 16.90 to 18.78 MJ kg-1. In addition, SS + PO improved the flame volume and red color intensity of the PL blends based on the image analysis method. However, the presence of SS and PO did not sufficiently improve the ash-related index values, which requires further investigation.

Field and laboratory investigation of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N6 and H5N8 in Quang Ninh province, Vietnam, 2020 to 2021.

BACKGROUND: Avian influenza (AI) is a contagious disease that causes illness and death in poultry and humans. High pathogenicity AI (HPAI) H5N6 outbreaks commonly occur in Quang Ninh province bordering China. In June 2021, the first HPAI H5N8 outbreak occurred at a Quang Ninh chicken farm. OBJECTIVES: This study examined the risk factors associated with HPAI H5N6 and H5N8 outbreaks in Quang Ninh. METHODS: A retrospective case-control study was conducted in Quang Ninh from Nov 2021 to Jan 2022. The cases were households with susceptible poultry with two or more clinical signs and tested positive by real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. The controls were households in the same village as the cases but did not show clinical symptoms of the disease. Logistic regression models were constructed to assess the risk factors associated with HPAI outbreaks at the household level. RESULTS: There were 38 cases with H5N6 clade 2.3.4.4h viruses (n = 35) and H5N8 clade 2.3.4.4b viruses (n = 3). Compared to the 112 controls, raising poultry in uncovered or partially covered ponds (odds ratio [OR], 7.52; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.44-39.27), poultry traders visiting the farm (OR, 8.66; 95% CI, 2.7-27.69), farms with 50-2,000 birds (OR, 3.00; 95% CI, 1.06-8-51), and farms with ≥ 2,000 birds (OR, 11.35; 95% CI, 3.07-41.94) were significantly associated with HPAI outbreaks. CONCLUSIONS: Combining biosecurity measures, such as restricting visitor entry and vaccination in farms with more than 50 birds, can enhance the control and prevention of HPAI in Quang Ninh and its spread across borders.

Brachyspira in dogs: risk factors of shedding in central Germany and longitudinal study of an infected kennel.

BACKGROUND: Brachyspira (B.) pilosicoli is a zoonotic pathogen, able to infect different animal species such as pigs, poultry, and rodents, causing intestinal spirochetosis. An association of gastrointestinal clinical signs, such as diarrhea, with the isolation of B. pilosicoli from fecal samples or rectal swabs has not been proven in dogs. Other Brachyspira species commonly isolated from dogs, such as "B. canis" and "B. pulli", are considered commensals. This study investigated the occurrence of different Brachyspira species in rectal swabs and fecal samples in an independent canine cohort in central Germany. These included samples from shelter dogs, hunting dogs, and dogs presenting at regional small animal practices with various clinical signs. Data about the dogs, including potential risk factors for Brachyspira isolation, were obtained using a standardized questionnaire. The study also longitudinally investigated a colony of Beagle dogs for Brachyspira over 5 years. RESULTS: The rate of Brachyspira spp. isolation was 11% and included different Brachyspira species ("B. canis", "B. pulli", and B. pilosicoli). "B. canis" was detected in 18 dogs, whereas B. pilosicoli was only isolated from 1 dog in the independent cohort (not including the Beagle colony). Risk factors for shedding Brachyspira and "B. canis" were being less than 1 year of age and shelter origin. Gastrointestinal signs were not associated with the shedding of Brachyspira. B. pilosicoli and "B. canis" were isolated from several dogs of the same Beagle colony in 2017 and again in 2022, while Brachyspira was not isolated at multiple sampling time points in 2021. CONCLUSIONS: Shedding of B. pilosicoli in dogs appears to be uncommon in central Germany, suggesting a low risk of zoonotic transmission from dogs. Commensal status of "B. canis" and "B. pulli" is supported by the results of this study. Findings from the longitudinal investigation of the Beagle colony agree with an asymptomatic long-term colonization of dogs with "B. canis" and B. pilosicoli and suggest that introducing new animals in a pack can trigger an increased shedding of B. pilosicoli.

Isolation and genetic characteristics of Novel H4N1 Avian Influenza viruses in ChongQing, China.

BACKGROUND: Avian influenza viruses (AIVs) constitute significant zoonotic pathogens encompassing a broad spectrum of subtypes. Notably, the H4 subtype of AIVs has a pronounced ability to shift hosts. The escalating prevalence of the H4 subtype heightens the concern for its zoonotic potential, signaling an urgent need for vigilance. METHODS: During the period from December 2021 to November 2023, we collected AIV-related environmental samples and assessed them using a comprehensive protocol that included nucleic acid testing, gene sequencing, isolation culture, and resequencing. RESULTS: In this study, a total of 934 environmental samples were assessed, revealing a remarkably high detection rate (43.66%, 289/662) of AIV in the live poultry market. Notably, the H4N1 subtype AIV (cs2301) was isolated from the live poultry market and its complete genome sequence was successfully determined. Subsequent analysis revealed that cs2301, resulting from a reassortment event between wild and domesticated waterfowl, exhibits multiple mutations and demonstrates potential for host transfer. CONCLUSIONS: Our research once again demonstrates the significant role of wild and domesticated waterfowl in the reassortment process of avian influenza virus, enriching the research on the H4 subtype of AIV, and emphasizing the importance of proactive monitoring the environment related to avian influenza virus.

Molecular characterization of the whole genome of H9N2 avian influenza virus isolated from Egyptian poultry farms.

H9N2 avian influenza viruses (AIVs) affect both poultry and humans on a global level, and they are especially prevalent in Egypt. In this study, we sequenced the entire genome of AIV H9N2 isolated from chickens in Egypt in 2021, using next-generation sequencing (NGS) technology. Phylogenetic analysis of the resulting sequences showed that the studied strain was generally monophyletic and grouped within the G1 sublineage of the Eurasian lineage. Four segments (polymerase basic 2 [PB2], polymerase basic 1 [PB1], polymerase acidic [PA], and non-structural [NS]) were related to Egyptian genotype II, while the nucleoprotein (NP), neuraminidase (NA), matrix (M), and haemagglutinin (HA) segments were related to Egyptian genotype I. Molecular analysis revealed that HA protein contained amino acid residues (191H and 234L) that suggested a predilection for attaching to human-like receptors. The antigenic sites of HA had two nonsynonymous mutations: V194I at antigenic site A and M40K at antigenic site B. Furthermore, the R403W and S372A mutations, which have been observed in H3N2 and H2N2 strains that caused human pandemics, were found in the NA protein of the detected strain. The internal proteins contained virulence markers: 504V in the PB2 protein, 622G, 436Y, 207K, and 677T in the PB1 protein, 127V, 550L, and 672L in PA protein, and 64F and 69P in the M protein. These results show that the detected strain had undergone intrasubtype reassortment. Furthermore, it contains changes in the viral proteins that make it more likely to be virulent, raising a question about the tendency of AIV H9N2 to become highly pathogenic in the future for both poultry and humans.

Characterization of ß-lactamase and virulence genes in Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolated from clinical, environmental and poultry sources in Bangladesh.

The emergence and spread of multidrug-resistant pathogens like Pseudomonas aeruginosa are major concerns for public health worldwide. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of P. aeruginosa in clinical, environmental, and poultry sources in Bangladesh, along with their antibiotic susceptibility and the profiling of ß-lactamase and virulence genes using standard molecular and microbiology techniques. We collected 110 samples from five different locations, viz., BAU residential area (BAURA; n = 15), BAU Healthcare Center (BAUHCC; n = 20), BAU Veterinary Teaching Hospital (BAUVTH; n = 22), Poultry Market (PM; n = 30) and Mymensingh Medical College Hospital (MCCH; n = 23). After overnight enrichment in nutrient broth, 89 probable Pseudomonas isolates (80.90%) were screened through selective culture, gram-staining and biochemical tests. Using genus- and species-specific PCR, we confirmed 22 isolates (20.0%) as P. aeruginosa from these samples. Antibiogram profiling revealed that 100.0% P. aeruginosa isolates (n = 22) were multidrug-resistant isolates, showing resistance against Doripenem, Penicillin, Ceftazidime, Cefepime, and Imipenem. Furthermore, resistance to aztreonam was observed in 95.45% isolates. However, P. aeruginosa isolates showed a varying degree of sensitivity against Amikacin, Gentamicin, and Ciprofloxacin. The blaTEM gene was detected in 86.0% isolates, while blaCMY, blaSHV and blaOXA, were detected in 27.0%, 18.0% and 5.0% of the P. aeruginosa isolates, respectively. The algD gene was detected in 32.0% isolates, whereas lasB and exoA genes were identified in 9.0% and 5.0% P. aeruginosa isolates. However, none of the P. aeruginosa isolates harbored exoS gene. Hence, this study provides valuable and novel insights on the resistance and virulence of circulating P. aeruginosa within the clinical, environmental, and poultry environments of Bangladesh. These findings are crucial for understanding the emergence of ß-lactamase resistance in P. aeruginosa, highlighting its usefulness in the treatment and control of P. aeruginosa infections in both human and animal populations.

Progress on CRISPR/Cas9 system in the genetic improvement of livestock and poultry.

CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing technology, as a highly efficient genome editing method, has been extensively employed in the realm of animal husbandry for genetic improvement. With its remarkable efficiency and precision, this technology has revolutionized the field of animal husbandry. Currently, CRISPR/Cas9-based gene knockout, gene knock-in and gene modification techniques are widely employed to achieve precise enhancements in crucial production traits of livestock and poultry species. In this review, we summarize the operational principle and development history of CRISPR/Cas9 technology. Additionally, we highlight the research advancements utilizing this technology in muscle growth and development, fiber growth, milk quality composition, disease resistance breeding, and animal welfare within the livestock and poultry sectors. Our aim is to provide a more comprehensive understanding of the application of CRISPR/Cas9 technology in gene editing for livestock and poultry.

Molecular characterization and prevalence of ß-lactamase-producing Enterobacterales in livestock and poultry slaughterhouses wastewater in Iran.

Beta-lactamase-producing Enterobacterales bacteria cause severe hard-to-treat infections. Currently, they are spreading beyond hospitals and becoming a serious global health concern. This study investigated the prevalence and molecular characterization of extended-spectrum ß-lactamase and AmpC-type ß-lactamase-producing Enterobacterales (ESBL-PE, AmpC-PE) in wastewater from livestock and poultry slaughterhouses in Ardabil, Iran. A total of 80 Enterobacterales bacteria belonging to 9 species were identified. Among the isolates, Escherichia coli (n = 21/80; 26.2%) and Citrobacter spp. (n = 18/80; 22.5%) exhibited the highest frequency. Overall, 18.7% (n = 15/80) and 2.5% (n = 2/80) of Enterobacterales were found to be ESBL and AmpC producers, respectively. The most common ESBL producer isolates were E. coli (n = 9/21; 42.8%) and Klebsiella pneumoniae (n = 6/7; 85.7%). All AmpC-PE isolates belonged to E. coli strains (n = 2/21; 9.5%). In this study, 80% of ESBL-PE and 100% of AmpC-PE isolates were recovered from poultry slaughterhouse wastewater. All ESBL-PE and AmpC-PE isolates were multidrug-resistant. In total, 93.3% of ESBL-PE isolates harbored the blaCTX-M gene, with the blaCTX-M-15 being the most common subgroup. The emergence of ESBL-PE and AmpC-PE in wastewater of food-producing animals allows for zoonotic transmission to humans through contaminated food products and contaminations of the environment.

A review of current knowledge on avian Newcastle infection in commercial poultry in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Newcastle disease (ND) is a tremendously contagious avian infection with extensive monetary ramifications for the chicken zone. To reduce the effect of ND on the Saudi rooster enterprise, our analysis emphasizes the necessity of genotype-particular vaccinations, elevated surveillance, public recognition campaigns, and stepped-forward biosecurity. Data show that one-of-a-kind bird species, outdoor flocks, and nearby differences in susceptibility are all vulnerable. The pathogenesis consists of tropism in the respiratory and gastrointestinal structures and some genotypes boom virulence. Laboratory diagnostics use reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction, sequencing, and serotyping among different strategies. Vital records are supplied through immune responses and serological trying out. Vaccination campaigns, biosecurity protocols, and emergency preparedness are all covered in prevention and manipulation techniques. Notably, co-circulating genotypes and disparities in immunization regulations worry Saudi Arabia. The effect of ND in Saudi Arabia is tested in this paper, with precise attention paid to immunological reaction, pathogenesis, susceptibility elements, laboratory analysis, and preventative and manipulation measures. Saudi Arabia can shield its bird region and beef up its defences against Newcastle's ailment, enforcing those hints into its policies.

Phenotypic and genotypic characterization of extended spectrum beta-lactamase producing E. coli harboring carbapenem and colistin-resistant genes from poultry farms in Egypt.

Background: eEscherichia coli (E. coli) bacteria that produce extended spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) is associated with a high prevalence of human illnesses worldwide. The emergence of resistance to carbapenem and colistin compounds poses further challenges to the treatment options for these illnesses. This study aimed to evaluate the phenotypic and genotypic pattern of resistance to carbapenem and colistin in ESBL-producing E. coli. Escherichia coli isolates collected from the respiratory tract of chickens in El-Sharkia government, Egypt. Methods: A total of 250 lung samples were collected from 50 poultry farms. These samples were then subjected to isolation, identification, and serotyping of E. coli. The presence of antimicrobial resistance was identified by disc diffusion testing. The occurrence of ESBL phenotypes was also assessed using the double disc synergy method. PCR/sequencing techniques were employed to examine the presence of ESBL (ß-lactamase (bla)-TEM, blaSHV, and blaCTX-M), colistin (mcr-1), and carbapenem (blaNDM, blaVIM, and blaKPC) resistance genes. Results: The findings revealed that 140 out of 250 (56%) were identified as E. coli. All E. coli isolates had a high level of multi-antimicrobial resistance (MAR) with an index value greater than 0.2, and 65.7% of them were confirmed to produce ESBL. Out of the 92 ESBL phenotypes, 55 (59.7%), 32 (34.7%), 18 (19.6%), and 37 (40.2%) isolates harbor b laTEM-3, b laSHV-4, b laCTX-M-1, a nd blaCTX-M-14 genes, respectively. The blaNDM-1 gene was identified in all 40 phenotypes that exhibited resistance to carbapenem, accounting for 28.5% of all strains of E. coli and 43.4% of ESBL isolates. The VIM and KPC genes were not detected in any of the samples. Furthermore, there was a significant prevalence of the mobilized colistin resistance (mcr)-1 gene, with 64 (69.5%) of the ESBL isolates exhibiting this gene. Conclusion: The prevalence of ESBL-producing E. coli, particularly those resistant to carbapenem and colistin, poses a significant public health risk in society.

Prevalence, molecular characterization, and antimicrobial resistance among Escherichia coli, Salmonella spp., and Staphylococcus aureus strains isolated from Egyptian broiler chicken flocks with omphalitis.

Background: Bacterial Omphalitis has been reported as a significant cause of mortalities in newly hatched broiler chicks. Aim: This study aimed to assess the occurrence of omphalitis among broiler chickens in Gharbia governorate in Egypt. In addition, the bacteria associated with the occurrence of omphalitis in broiler chickens were also investigated and characterized. Methods: For this purpose, 43 farms in that area were surveyed. The comparative levels of omphalitis caused by Escherichia coli (E. coli), Salmonella spp., and Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) were screened in 129 chicks. The drug resistance to eight commonly used antimicrobials in Egyptian poultry farms was screened using the disk diffusion method. Results: The overall incidence rate of omphalitis was 37.21%. In birds with omphalitis, the co-prevalence of S. aureus, Salmonella spp., and E. coli was 87.5%. When compared to healthy flocks, broiler chicks with omphalitis caused by Salmonella spp., E. coli, and S. aureus had a greater mortality rate in the first week of life. However, there were no significant differences in the mortality cases caused by these pathogens. Eighty-seven percent of the cases of omphalitis were linked to E. coli and 75% to Salmonella spp. and S. aureus. From the yolk sac of broiler chicks with omphalitis, E. coli, Salmonella spp., and S. aureus were isolated at rates of 87.5%, 62.5%, and 45.8%, respectively. The isolates of E. coli and Salmonella spp. exhibited great sensitivity to gentamycin and Tetracycline; however, the strongest drug resistance was observed toward cefpodoxime, sulphamethoxazole and trimethoprim, ampicillin, and amoxycillin and clavulanic acid. The recovered isolates of S. aureus showed susceptibility to chloramphenicol (72.37%), oxytetracycline (81.82%), and erythromycin (81.82%). However, every S. aureus isolate that was found resistant to amoxycillin and clavulanic acid, penicillin G and oxacillin. of blaTEM, blaSHV, and blaCTX-M genes has been proposed as the genetic cause of ß-lactam antibiotic resistance in Salmonella spp. and E. coli. MecA and blaZ; however, were found in every strain of S. aureus. Conclusion: The frequency of omphalitis and its associated mortalities was comparatively high in Gharbia governorate. More efforts should be made to adopt strict hygienic standards for controlling and preventing such disease and this will consequently lead to minimizing the use of antimicrobials in poultry farms.

Assessment of antibiotic residues in chicken meat.

Background: Nowadays veterinarians and poultry producers use antibiotics to increase growth rates, bird health, and feed efficiency, egg production, for preventative and therapeutic purposes, and to lessen the prevalence of poultry diseases. Most poultry producers have used a variety of antibiotics, either with or without veterinarian instruction. Although antibiotics are beneficial for the majority of their uses, their unauthorized use has resulted in residues accumulated in poultry products intended for human consumption which represents a serious risk to the general public that could be toxicological, microbiological, or immunological. Aim: This study aimed to the estimation of the residues of three major antimicrobials used in the intensive chicken-rearing systems in Egypt, namely Oxytetracycline (OTC), Gentamicin, and Ciprofloxacin. Moreover, the effect of cooking on such residues was investigated. Methods: A total of 100 chicken meat samples (breast, thigh, gizzard, liver, 25 each) were examined for detection of the aforementioned antimicrobials using the microbial inhibition assay and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Besides, samples containing the highest antimicrobial residues were examined for the effect of boiling for 30 minutes on such residues. Results: The obtained results revealed that 23%, 21%, and 17% of the examined samples were positive for OTC, gentamicin, and ciprofloxacin residues , respectively . Cooking (boiling) for 30 minutes showed a reduction of the antibiotic residue by 88.2%, 95.2%, and 31.3%, respectively. Conclusion: Antimicrobial residues were detected in the chicken meat parts retailed in Egypt. Cooking can reduce the antimicrobial residues at least in part.

Use of veterinary medicinal products in the Philippines: regulations, impact, challenges, and recommendations.

Agricultural production is a major driver of the Philippine economy. Mass production of animal products, such as livestock and poultry farming, is one of the most prominent players in the field. Filipino farmers use veterinary medicinal products (VMPs) when raising agricultural animals to improve animal growth and prevent diseases. Unfortunately, the extensive use of VMPs, particularly antibiotics, has been linked to drug resistance in animals, particularly antibiotics. Antimicrobial gene products produced in animals due to the prolonged use of VMPs can passed on to humans when they consume animal products. This paper reviews information on the use of VMPs in the Philippines, including the regulations, their impact, challenges, and potential recommendations. The Philippines has existing legislation regulating VMP use. Several agencies were tasked to regulate the use of VMPs, such as the Department of Agriculture, the Department of Health, and the Philippine National Action Plan. Unfortunately, there is a challenge to implementing these regulations, which affects consumers. The unregulated use of VMPs influences the transmission of antibiotic residues from animals to crops to humans. This challenge should be addressed, with more focus on stricter regulation.

Development of an Open Droplet Microchannel-Based Magnetosensor for Immunofluorometric Assay of Trimethoprim in Chicken and Pork Samples with a Wide Linear Range.

Trimethoprim (TMP), functioning as a synergistic antibacterial agent, is utilized in diagnosing and treating diseases affecting livestock and poultry. Human consumption of the medication indirectly may lead to its drug accumulation in the body and increase drug resistance due to its prolonged metabolic duration in livestock and poultry, presenting significant health hazards. Most reported immunoassay techniques, such as ELISA and immunochromatographic assay (ICA), find it challenging to achieve the dual advantages of high sensitivity, simplicity of operation, and a wide detection range. Consequently, an open droplet microchannel-based magnetosensor for immunofluorometric assay (OMM-IFA) of trimethoprim was created, featuring a gel imager to provide a signal output derived from the highly specific antibody (Ab) targeting trimethoprim. The method exhibited high sensitivity in chicken and pork samples, with LODs of 0.300 and 0.017 ng/mL, respectively, and a wide linear range, covering trimethoprim's total maximum residue limits (MRLs). Additionally, the spiked recoveries in chicken and pork specimens varied between 81.6% and 107.9%, maintaining an acceptable variation coefficient below 15%, aligning well with the findings from the ultraperformance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS) technique. The developed method achieved a much wider linear range of about 5 orders of magnitude of 10-2-103 levels with grayscale signals as the output signal, which exhibited high sensitivity, excellent applicability and simple operability based on magnetic automation.

Antibiotic resistance and virulence genes profile of Non typhodial Salmonella species isolated from poultry enteritis in India.

Salmonella species (spp) is the most important gastrointestinal pathogen present ubiquitously. Non typhoidal Salmonella (NTS) is commonly associated with gastroenteritis in humans. Layer birds once get infection with NTS, can become persistently infected with Salmonella Typhimurium and intermittently shed the bacteria. It results in a high risk of potential exposure of eggs to the bacteria. The current study was conducted to determine the serotype diversity, presence of virulence genes, antibiotic resistance pattern, and genes of NTS from poultry enteritis. Out of 151 intestinal swabs from poultry total 118 NTS were isolated, which were characterized serologically as S. Typhimurium (51 strains), S. Weltevreden (57 strains) and untypable (10 strains). Most effective antibiotics were amikacin, gentamycin and ceftriaxone (33.05%) followed by ampicillin, azithromycin and ciprofloxacin (16.69%), co-trimoxazole (13.55%), and tetracycline (6.78%). Multidrug resistance recorded in 17.70% (N = 21/118) strains. Antimicrobial-resistant genes i.e. blaTEM, blaSHV, blaCTX-M, tet(A), tet(B), tet(C), sul1, sul2, sul3. blaTEM and tet(A) were present in 95% (20/21). Eleven virulence genes i.e. invA, hilA, sivH, tolC, agfA, lpfA, spaN, pagC, spiA, iroN and fliC 2 were present in all the 30 isolates. While, sopE was present in only 2 isolates, NTS strains with characteristics of pathogenicity and multidrug resistance from poultry enteritis were detected. Multidrug resistance showed the necessity of prudent use of antibiotics in the poultry industry.

Cross-Species Transmission Potential of H4 Avian Influenza Viruses in China: Epidemiological and Evolutionary Study.

H4 avian influenza viruses (AIVs) have been widely detected in live poultry markets in China. However, the potential public health impact of H4 AIVs remains largely uncertain. Here, we fully analyzed the distribution and phylogenetic relationship of H4 AIVs in China. We obtained 31 isolates of H4 viruses in China during 2009-2022 through surveillance in poultry-associated environments, such as live poultry markets and poultry farms. Genomic sequence analysis together with publicly available data revealed that frequent reassortment and introduction of H4 AIV from wild birds to poultry may have occurred. We identified 62 genotypes among 127 whole genome sequences of H4 viruses in China, indicating that H4 AIVs had great genetic diversity in China. We also investigated molecular markers and found that drug resistance mutations frequently occurred in the M2 protein and a few mutations related to receptor binding and the host signature in H4 AIVs. Our study demonstrates the cross-species transmission potential of H4 AIVs in China and provides some reference significance for its risk assessment.

Avian H6 Influenza Viruses in Vietnamese Live Bird Markets during 2018-2021.

Avian influenza viruses of the H6 subtype are prevalent in wild ducks and likely play an important role in the ecology of influenza viruses through reassortment with other avian influenza viruses. Yet, only 152 Vietnamese H6 virus sequences were available in GISAID (Global Initiative on Sharing All Influenza Data) prior to this study with the most recent sequences being from 2018. Through surveillance in Vietnamese live bird markets from 2018 to 2021, we identified 287 samples containing one or several H6 viruses and other influenza A virus subtypes, demonstrating a high rate of co-infections among birds in Vietnamese live bird markets. For the 132 H6 samples with unique influenza virus sequences, we conducted phylogenetic and genetic analyses. Most of the H6 viruses were similar to each other and closely related to other H6 viruses; however, signs of reassortment with other avian influenza viruses were evident. At the genetic level, the Vietnamese H6 viruses characterized in our study encode a single basic amino acid at the HA cleavage site, consistent with low pathogenicity in poultry. The Vietnamese H6 viruses analyzed here possess an amino acid motif in HA that confers binding to both avian- and human-type receptors on host cells, consistent with their ability to infect mammals. The frequent detection of H6 viruses in Vietnamese live bird markets, the high rate of co-infections of birds with different influenza viruses, and the dual receptor-binding specificity of these viruses warrant their close monitoring for potential infection and spread among mammals.

Hidden Hazards Revealed: Mycotoxins and Their Masked Forms in Poultry.

The presence of mycotoxins and their masked forms in chicken feed poses a significant threat to both productivity and health. This review examines the multifaceted impacts of mycotoxins on various aspects of chicken well-being, encompassing feed efficiency, growth, immunity, antioxidants, blood biochemistry, and internal organs. Mycotoxins, toxic substances produced by fungi, can exert detrimental effects even at low levels of contamination. The hidden or masked forms of mycotoxins further complicate the situation, as they are not easily detected by conventional methods but can be converted into their toxic forms during digestion. Consequently, chickens are exposed to mycotoxin-related risks despite apparently low mycotoxin levels. The consequences of mycotoxin exposure in chickens include reduced feed efficiency, compromised growth rates, impaired immune function, altered antioxidant levels, disturbances in blood biochemical parameters, and adverse effects on internal organs. To mitigate these impacts, effective management strategies are essential, such as routine monitoring of feed ingredients and finished feeds, adherence to proper storage practices, and the implementation of feed detoxification methods and mycotoxin binders. Raising awareness of these hidden hazards is crucial for safeguarding chicken productivity and health.