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A study conducted by researchers at Warsaw University of Life Sciences in Poland focused on highly pathogenic avian influenza (bird flu) and its impact on poultry flocks. The study aimed to identify genomic regions and candidate genes associated with survival following infection. Blood samples were obtained from chickens that survived the 2015 outbreak and uninfected controls, and a whole-genome sequence was obtained to identify genetic variants. The researchers found regions on several chromosomes that showed significant association with survival, but no specific locus fully explained the difference between survivors and controls. The study highlights the complex nature of host response to influenza virus replication. [Extracted from the article]

A new report from the Instituto de Virologia presents fresh data on avian influenza, also known as bird flu. The report highlights the highly contagious nature of the disease and its significant threat to poultry production worldwide. The research focuses on the emergence and control of highly pathogenic avian influenza in Argentina in 2023. The study concludes that strict stamping-out measures have been effective in controlling the virus, but continuous active surveillance is crucial to promptly detect any new incursions and contain virus dissemination. [Extracted from the article]

A new report from Ningxia University presents fresh data on avian influenza (bird flu). The research focuses on the impact of spatial heterogeneity, random disturbances in the external environment, and the incubation period of infected individuals on the outbreak of avian influenza. The study establishes a stochastic avian influenza model that incorporates spatial diffusion and nonlocal delay, and analyzes the mean-square exponential stability and almost sure exponential stability of the model. Additionally, a fixed-time control strategy is proposed to achieve stability within the desired settling time. The research provides valuable insights into the understanding and control of avian influenza. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report from the U.S. National Poultry Research Center in Athens, Georgia discusses the inactivation of highly pathogenic avian influenza virus (HPAIV) in raw milk through high-temperature short time (HTST) continuous flow pasteurization. The study found that no viable virus was detected in raw milk samples after pasteurization using the standard U.S. conditions of 72 degrees Celsius for 15 seconds. The research concludes that the U.S. milk supply is safe when pasteurized. This information is important for those interested in avian influenza and its potential impact on the food supply. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from Zagazig University in Egypt have conducted a study on avian chlamydiosis and low pathogenic avian influenza virus H9N2 (LPAIV H9N2) in broiler chickens. The study aimed to determine the pathogenicity of Chlamydophila psittaci and LPAIV H9N2 individually and in combination, as well as the effectiveness of neem leaf extract against these infections. The results showed that the administration of an 8% aqueous neem leaf extract reduced the replication of C. psittaci and LPAIV H9N2 in the respiratory and gut of treated birds, leading to improved performance and increased average body weight. The researchers recommend the oral supplementation of neem leaf extract to control these infections in broiler chickens. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by Environment and Climate Change Canada has found that a severe outbreak of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) H5N1 virus in 2022 resulted in significant mortality among wild birds in eastern Canada. The study estimated that the virus caused 40,391 wild bird deaths during the spring and summer of 2022, with seabirds and sea ducks being the most affected. The research suggests that population-level impacts are possible for Northern Gannets and American Common Eiders, but unlikely for Common Murres. Further research is needed to understand the broader ecological consequences of the outbreak on wild bird populations. [Extracted from the article]

A review conducted by The Pirbright Institute reveals that global strategies to control bird flu are not effective. The study examines the transmission of bird flu from mammals to mammals in various species, including European fur farms, South American marine mammals, and US dairy cattle. The researchers highlight potential gaps in control mechanisms, such as a lack of engagement with modern vaccine and surveillance technologies and insufficient data collection on the transmission of bird flu between cows and humans on US dairy farms. The study emphasizes the need for new control strategies, including vaccination, to address the evolving nature of bird flu. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from National Taiwan University have conducted a study on avian influenza, specifically focusing on the development of a recombinant H5N2 vaccine based on virus-like particles (VLPs). The study aimed to confirm the effectiveness of the vaccine in protecting chickens and identify the best adjuvants for the vaccine. The researchers found that the VLP vaccine, when adjuvanted with certain substances, significantly enhanced antibody responses in chickens and provided protection against the local strain of avian influenza. These findings offer insights for optimizing VLP vaccines to mitigate the impact of avian influenza outbreaks. [Extracted from the article]

CSL Seqirus, a business of CSL, has announced its fifth BARDA award in response to the avian influenza outbreak. Through its partnership with BARDA, CSL Seqirus will expand its Vendor Managed Inventory program for its MF59 adjuvant, which is designed to enhance the body's immune response to influenza antigens. Under the $121.4 million multi-year award, CSL Seqirus will deliver MF59 adjuvant to increase the inventory of the VMI program to 40 million equivalent doses. This award highlights the importance of pandemic preparedness and the collaboration between CSL Seqirus and BARDA to protect public health. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by researchers at the City University of Hong Kong explores the prevalence and transmission dynamics of avian influenza viruses along poultry marketing chains in Bangladesh. The study found that the prevalence of avian influenza viruses increases as birds are transported from farms to live bird markets. The researchers implemented a controlled field experiment and discovered that curtailing avian influenza virus prevalence in live bird markets requires mitigating risk in marketing chain nodes preceding the delivery of chickens to these markets. This research provides valuable insights into the transmission of avian influenza and can inform strategies for disease control in poultry farming. [Extracted from the article]

A patent application titled "Compositions Of Anti-Viral Peptides And/Or Compounds And Methods Of Use Thereof" has been published online. The inventors discuss the need for broad-spectrum antivirals, particularly for coronaviruses, due to their significant impact on health and the economy. They propose the use of antiviral peptides, specifically P9R, which can inhibit viral replication and entry into cells. The patent application also mentions the use of other compounds like arbidol, chloroquine, and camostat. The methods of administration include various routes such as oral, intranasal, and pulmonary. [Extracted from the article]

This article discusses the risk of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5 viruses spreading within the French broiler and layer production networks. The study used a risk assessment framework to assess the transmission of the virus between farms. The results showed that the transmission probabilities were highest in the broiler sector when the exposed farm was an indoor broiler farm and the source was a broiler farm. In the layer sector, the highest transmission probabilities were observed when the source farm was a free-range farm and the exposed farm was a production farm. The study provides insights into the role of different types of farms in the spread of the virus and can be useful for implementing control measures. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at Hebei Agricultural University in China have developed a rapid detection method for H3 avian influenza viruses (bird flu) based on real-time reverse transcription recombinase-aided isothermal amplification (RT-RAA). The method uses specific primers and probes to target the hemagglutinin (HA) gene of H3 avian influenza virus, ensuring highly specific detection without cross-reactivity with other avian respiratory viruses. The results showed that the RT-RAA method had a high detection limit and was consistent with real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) results. The method can be visualized with a portable blue light instrument, making it suitable for resource-constrained environments. This research provides a valuable reference for the early diagnosis of H3 avian influenza. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report from the University of Melbourne discusses the contrasting dynamics of two incursions of low pathogenicity avian influenza virus (bird flu) into Australia. The study found that the H4 subtype of the virus, detected in shorebirds, represents a recent incursion from Asia and exhibits exclusive, persistent circulation in shorebirds. On the other hand, the H10 subtype has emerged in wild waterfowl, poultry, and captive birds across Australia, likely replacing previously circulating H10 lineages. Understanding these different dynamics of avian influenza incursions can inform disease risk identification and communication for better disease preparedness and response. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by the Luxembourg Institute of Health has investigated the detection of avian influenza virus RNA in cattle milk. The researchers found that four out of five tested extraction methods were effective in detecting the virus in milk samples with normal texture for at least two weeks after the onset of clinical signs. However, the best results were obtained when the milk samples were diluted 1:3 in molecular transport medium prior to RNA extraction. The study also demonstrated the compatibility of an influenza RT-qPCR system with synthetic RNA detection for validation purposes. This research provides valuable insights into the surveillance and detection of avian influenza in dairy cattle. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by the University of Montreal has reported an outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza A(H5N1) virus in seals in the St. Lawrence Estuary, Quebec, Canada in 2022. The virus, which was found in harbor and gray seals, is believed to have been transmitted from infected bird carcasses at seal haul-out sites. The presence of this virus in marine mammals raises concerns about the potential establishment of a marine mammal reservoir and the associated public health risks. The study highlights the need for further research and prevention measures. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report from Kansas State University highlights research on avian influenza, also known as bird flu. The study focused on the stability and inactivation of the highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 virus in lactose, a milk byproduct. The researchers found that the virus remained stable for 14 days in concentrated lactose under refrigerated conditions, but could be successfully inactivated using heat or citric acid treatments. This study provides valuable insights into the persistence and inactivation of avian influenza in lactose, which has implications for public health and agriculture. [Extracted from the article]

A study published in the journal Conservation Letters suggests that the food-stealing behavior of certain seabirds, known as kleptoparasitism, may be a possible transmission path for the deadly H5N1 avian influenza virus. Researchers from the University of New South Wales analyzed data on frigatebirds and skuas, which engage in kleptoparasitism, and found that if these birds target infected individuals and consume their regurgitated prey, they could become infected and spread the virus to other populations. Seabirds are particularly vulnerable to avian flu due to their close contact and communal resources on breeding islands. The researchers emphasize the importance of early detection and monitoring to manage the risk of avian influenza. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at UTHealth Houston and Baylor College of Medicine have detected avian influenza A(H5N1) virus in the wastewater of 10 Texas cities using virome sequencing. The virome is the collection of viruses in a sample, in this case, a wastewater sample. The virus was detected in 10 cities, 22 sites, and 100 samples from March 4 to July 15. However, the abundance of the virus in the wastewater did not correlate with influenza-related hospitalizations, indicating a low risk to the public. Continued surveillance is necessary to monitor any evolutionary adaptations that could potentially allow the virus to jump to humans. [Extracted from the article]

This article discusses a study that aimed to estimate the time and rate of introduction of the Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) virus into individual commercial poultry flocks in the United States during the 2022/24 outbreak. The study used mathematical modeling techniques and mortality rates as a proxy for HPAI incidence to estimate the time window of pathogen introduction and the adequate contact rate. The results showed that the median time to HPAI detection in the flock was six days, the median most likely contact rate was 6.8 newly infected birds per infectious bird per day, and the median number of test days per flock was two. The findings of this study can be beneficial for outbreak management and can inform models used for surveillance design, risk analysis, and emergency preparedness. [Extracted from the article]

This article discusses the use of knowledge graphs to understand ecological systems, specifically focusing on highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI). Knowledge graphs are a tool that can organize and predict relationships within complex systems by integrating data from various sources. The authors developed a knowledge graph that includes data on pathogen-host associations, animal species distributions, and human population demographics related to HPAI. They used the graph to validate their method and identify new relationships and features of HPAI ecology. This research has not yet undergone peer review. [Extracted from the article]

A preprint abstract suggests that a new variant of the avian influenza virus, called PB2-627V, has emerged and poses a potential risk for human pandemics. This variant combines properties of avian and human-like PB2-627 mutations, allowing it to overcome host restrictions and infect both avian and mammalian hosts. The PB2-627V mutation has been found in various avian, mammalian, and human isolates of the virus, and its increasing prevalence in poultry is accompanied by a rise in human infection cases. The study emphasizes the need for close monitoring of influenza viruses carrying PB2-627V to prevent a pandemic. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by researchers at Iowa State University evaluated different RNA extraction protocols for avian influenza virus (bird flu) using nanopore metagenomic sequencing. The current diagnostic process for avian influenza relies on real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (rRT-PCR) and genome sequencing, which can take days to weeks. The study aimed to optimize and validate nucleic acid extraction as the first step in using Oxford Nanopore Technologies (ONT) for rapid diagnosis. The results showed that while no protocol outperformed the others on all parameters, the magnetic particle-based method was the most consistent and less error-prone. This study highlights the influence of different RNA extraction protocols on sequencing performance. [Extracted from the article]

A new report from Hebei Agricultural University in Baoding, China, presents fresh data on avian influenza, also known as bird flu. The study focuses on the H9 subtype of avian influenza virus, which has been rapidly spreading and evolving in recent years, posing a threat to both the aquaculture industry and human health. The researchers developed a real-time fluorescent reverse transcription recombinase-aided isothermal amplification (RT-RAA) technique for the detection of H9 avian influenza virus. This technique is rapid, sensitive, and specific, and it can be used for low-cost detection in resource-limited environments. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences in Harbin, People's Republic of China, has developed a quadruplex real-time quantitative PCR method for the detection of four important pathogens in ducks: Muscovy duck parvovirus (MDPV), Goose parvovirus (GPV), Duck circovirus (DuCV), and Duck adenovirus 3 (DAdV-3). The assay showed no cross-reactivity with other poultry pathogens and had a high sensitivity and accuracy. The study concluded that this method provides a rapid, sensitive, specific, and accurate technique for clinical testing of these viruses in ducks. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at the University of Paris Saclay have published a study on the influenza A virus, specifically focusing on the development of vaccines for chickens. Current poultry vaccines targeting the hemagglutinin region of the virus provide limited protection against different strains. The researchers tested the effectiveness of combining nanoparticles with a subunit vaccine, and found that chickens vaccinated with the combined formulations were fully protected from the virus and showed no virus shedding. This research suggests that the combined vaccine formulations could be crucial for controlling avian influenza outbreaks. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences in Harbin, China, has found that a recombinant Marek's disease virus (MDV) can provide full protection against the H9N2 subtype of avian influenza virus (AIV) in chickens. The researchers constructed two recombinant MDV strains that carried the hemagglutinin (HA) gene of AIV, which is responsible for the virus's ability to infect cells. The study showed that one of the recombinant MDV strains, rMDV-UL41/HA, provided complete protection against both H9N2 AIV and MDV in chickens. This research suggests that rMDV-UL41/HA could be a promising bivalent vaccine for both avian influenza and Marek's disease in chickens. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report from Islamic Azad University in Marvdasht, Iran, discusses the cloning and co-expression of two genes, hemagglutinin H9N2 influenza virus and fusion protein Newcastle virus, using the baculovirus expression system. The study aimed to produce recombinant proteins that could potentially be used as vaccine candidates against avian influenza (bird flu) and Newcastle disease, two significant poultry diseases. The researchers successfully cloned the genes into a plasmid and produced recombinant proteins in insect cells. This research provides a promising step towards the development of a dual influenza and Newcastle vaccine. [Extracted from the article]

A systematic review of laboratory investigations into the pathogenesis of avian influenza viruses in wild avifauna of North America was conducted to address the lack of consolidated information regarding wild bird species' response to avian influenza virus (AIV) infection. The study found that waterfowl, such as Anatidae, were the most studied species in AIV pathobiology research, while gulls and passerines were less represented despite evidence of their susceptibility and contribution to avian influenza disease dynamics. This study provides a comprehensive compilation of available literature on the pathobiology of AIV in all wild birds, offering an opportunity to assess existing knowledge and identify areas for further research. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted in Pakistan found high rates of seropositivity for avian influenza A viruses (AIV) H5, H7, and H9 in goats and sheep. However, there were low levels of seropositivity for human and swine influenza viruses. The study suggests that goats and sheep may serve as previously unrecognized hosts for viruses of pandemic concern, highlighting gaps in our understanding of the ecology of influenza A and B viruses. This information is based on a preprint abstract and has not yet been peer-reviewed. [Extracted from the article]

A new study conducted by researchers at Tra Vinh University in Vietnam examines the awareness and behavior of farmers towards highly pathogenic avian influenza (bird flu) prevention. The study found that small-scale poultry farming in Tra Vinh Province employs traditional practices and demonstrates a keen awareness of infectious diseases. However, strategies to raise farmers' awareness should focus on profession, education, training, and income. The research provides valuable insights into the prevention of avian influenza in the region. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at Universitas Brawijaya in Malang, Indonesia, focused on avian influenza (bird flu) and its impact on poultry health. The study specifically examined the administration of an inactivated vaccine for avian influenza subtype H9N2 in broiler chickens at JAPFA COMFEED Myanmar Pte Ltd. The results showed that the vaccine was effective in stimulating the broiler immune system and protecting the chickens from H9N2 infection. This research contributes to the understanding of avian influenza vaccination management in commercial broilers and supports the sustainability of production and animal health in a commercial farm environment. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) discusses the findings of a study on avian influenza (bird flu). The study focused on dendritic cells, which are important components of the immune system, and their response to infection with high and low pathogenic avian influenza viruses. The researchers observed a strong proinflammatory response and morphological changes in the dendritic cells, which eventually led to cell death. The study concluded that both high and low pathogenic avian influenza viruses are capable of infecting and replicating in dendritic cells, and the dysregulated immune response seen with high pathogenic avian influenza infections may contribute to the severity of the disease. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report published by investigators from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) sheds light on the prevalence of avian influenza (bird flu) in atypical wild bird host groups during an outbreak of the highly pathogenic strain Ea/am H5N1. The study found that synanthropic birds, such as Columbiformes and Passeriformes, had a comparatively low risk of transmitting the virus. Predatory and scavenging birds, particularly raptors and Cathartidae, had the highest prevalence of the virus. Understanding the dynamics of avian influenza in different bird populations can provide valuable information on viral transmission, disease ecology, and risk to humans and agriculture. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee, has found that avian influenza A viruses with pandemic potential are highly susceptible to antiviral medications. The researchers screened over 20,000 protein sequences of various influenza viruses and found that the frequencies of substitutions associated with reduced inhibition by antivirals were low. The study also identified novel markers of resistance to existing antiviral interventions. These findings suggest that current antiviral medications are effective against avian influenza A viruses and provide valuable information for monitoring and preventing outbreaks. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by investigators at South China Agricultural University has examined the characteristics and pathogenicity of novel reassortment H6N6 avian influenza viruses in southern China. The H6N6 avian influenza virus subtype is commonly found in poultry and has the potential to infect humans. The study found that certain strains of the virus have an increased affinity for human-type receptors, allowing them to overcome species barriers and infect humans. The research highlights the importance of continuous surveillance of this subtype for the health of livestock, poultry, and human safety. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted in a district of South India aimed to assess the knowledge and biosecurity practices related to avian influenza (bird flu) among poultry farmworkers. The study included 105 participants from 70 poultry farms, and it found that 90% of participants were aware of avian influenza, but only 18% recognized its potential transmission to humans. The study highlighted the need for targeted awareness campaigns to improve understanding and implement effective preventive measures against avian influenza. This research has been peer-reviewed and was published in the Journal of Public Health Management & Practice. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by the Cusack group at EMBL Grenoble has provided new insights into how the avian influenza virus can mutate to replicate in mammalian cells. The study focused on the role of the polymerase enzyme in the replication process and discovered that a host cell protein called ANP32 acts as a bridge between the two viral polymerases. The study also found that the avian and mammalian versions of ANP32 differ, which explains why the avian influenza virus does not easily replicate in mammals and humans. These findings are important for understanding the potential for avian influenza to cross the species barrier and could aid in the development of anti-influenza drugs. [Extracted from the article]

A preprint abstract discusses a study that introduces and evaluates a paper-based loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) test for diagnosing the H5 subtype of avian influenza virus (AIV). The LAMP assay demonstrated a detection limit of 500 copies per reaction and is a cost-effective and user-friendly diagnostic tool that can be used in resource-limited settings. The study suggests that the paper-based LAMP assay holds promise for improved surveillance and early intervention strategies for avian influenza outbreaks. However, it is important to note that this preprint has not been peer-reviewed. [Extracted from the article]

A preprint abstract discusses the public's perception of the highly pathogenic avian influenza (H5N1), commonly known as bird flu, and their attitudes towards policies aimed at reducing its risks to human health. The study found that a small minority of Americans express concern about the public health risks of H5N1 and misinformation about the safety of consuming unpasteurized milk products. These low levels of concern and misinformation are associated with opposition to policies aimed at reducing the risks of avian influenza outbreaks. The researchers suggest that public apathy towards avian flu risks could undermine pandemic preparedness efforts. [Extracted from the article]

A recent preprint study found that a bovine isolate of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 virus remained stable for 14 days in a concentrated lactose solution under refrigerated conditions. However, the virus was successfully inactivated through heat or citric acid treatments in lactose. The study emphasizes the persistence of the virus in lactose and its efficient inactivation according to industrial standards. It is important to note that this preprint has not yet undergone peer review. [Extracted from the article]

A recent outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in dairy cows has raised concerns about the potential transmission of the virus through commercial dairy products. However, studies have shown that pasteurization effectively inactivates avian influenza in milk, and a retail milk survey found viral RNA but no live virus in tested dairy products. Additional testing was conducted on various dairy samples, including cheese, butter, ice cream, and fluid milk, to detect HPAI viral RNA. The results showed that viral RNA could be detected in some samples, but all samples were negative for live virus, indicating that existing pasteurization methods effectively ensure consumer safety. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at Pisa University Hospital in Italy highlights the threat of avian influenza (bird flu) as a potential pandemic. The study focuses on the enzootic nature of the A(H5Nx) clade 2.3.4.4b subtype of the avian influenza virus, which has been found in mammals and caused outbreaks in US dairy cattle. The researchers emphasize the importance of pandemic preparedness through the development and delivery of prepandemic candidate vaccines. For more information, the study can be found in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences. [Extracted from the article]

A new study conducted by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) provides insights into avian influenza, also known as bird flu. The study focuses on understanding the timing and distribution of virus spread, which is crucial for global biosecurity management. The researchers used a combination of GPS tracking data from waterfowl and disease surveillance data to create a model that predicts the future spread of the virus. The study highlights the importance of extensive tracking and offers advance warning for managing outbreaks and implementing biosecurity measures. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by researchers at Leshan Normal University in China has found that allicin, a compound found in garlic, can improve the immune performance and expression of immune-related genes in Muchuan black-bone chickens. The researchers supplemented the chickens' diets with varying levels of allicin and observed improvements in growth performance, immune function, and protein and lipid metabolism. These findings suggest that allicin could be a potential alternative to antibiotics in animal husbandry. The study was published in the Indian Journal of Animal Research and has been peer-reviewed. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at Ghent University focused on the immunogenicity and biodistribution of self-amplifying mRNA vaccines against H5 avian influenza (bird flu) in mice. The study found that all four tested vaccines elicited an adaptive immune response, with the full-length HA sa-RNA vaccines performing the best. The study also observed cellular immune responses and antigen-specific IgA antibodies in the lungs. Additionally, the study found that the injected vaccines were detected not only at the injection site but also in the draining lymph nodes, spleen, and to a lesser extent, in the lung, kidney, liver, and heart. [Extracted from the article]