Introduction Of Pathogens Research Articles

Temporal trends in biosecurity in Irish pig herds using a standardized scoring system

BackgroundBiosecurity measures are crucial to the introduction and spread of pathogens both within and between farms. External biosecurity focuses on preventing pathogens from entering or leaving the farm, while internal biosecurity aims to limit or stop the spread of pathogens within the farm. Implementing biosecurity measures not only protects animals from disease but also has positive effects on productivity, welfare and farm profitability. By reducing the need for antimicrobials, biosecurity measures also contribute to combating antimicrobial resistance. To assess and improve biosecurity, tools like Biocheck.UGent have been developed. In Ireland, the Biocheck.UGent tool has been widely used in pig farms since 2018. The aims of this study were firstly to assess temporal trends on biosecurity scores in Irish pig farms from 2018 to 2023 using the Biocheck.UGent tool and secondly to identify areas for improvement.ResultsThere was an increase in the number of annual assessments over the study period, with the majority of farms being assessed multiple times. Overall, external biosecurity scores were higher than internal scores. Improvements in the scores were observed over time for most of the subcategories for external and internal biosecurity and across the different farm types. Analysis of the subcategories within the scoring system revealed areas with lower scores, including disease management, cleaning and disinfection, and measures between compartments. Weaner-to-finisher farms tended to have lower scores compared to other farm types.ConclusionsWhile external biosecurity in Irish pig farms is generally high, there is room for improvement in internal biosecurity. This study highlights the importance of continuous efforts to improve biosecurity. The data obtained will aid in estimating the cost–benefit of implementing biosecurity measures, crucial for decision-making and better returns on investments.

Microbiome’s Place in Meat: Contributions of the Meat Processing Built Environment Microbiome to Pathogen Persistence

Meat processing facilities create a perfect niche environment for microbial growth and persistence, both freely and in biofilms. These organisms exist in complex communities, characterized by cooperation and competition, and we are trying to understand how these dynamics are impacted by the introduction of pathogens like Listeria monocytogenes. Here, we will introduce you to our current knowledge of the meat processing microbiome and our new work on the microbial interactions within it when pathogens are introduced. We will discuss how resilient these microbiomes are and environmental features that could be harnessed to alter them to improve food safety and quality in meats.

Screening Wild Birds for Tick-Borne Zoonotic Pathogens in Portugal.

Wild birds may be involved in the transmission of agents of infectious diseases, including zoonoses, a circumstance which raises a number of public and animal health issues. Migratory bird species play a significant role in the introduction of tick-borne pathogens to new geographic areas, contributing to the dissemination of various etiological agents. This preliminary study aimed to assess the occurrence of four potentially zoonotic pathogens (Hepatozoon spp., Borrelia spp., Babesia spp. and Theileria spp.) in the wild birds of Portugal. Blood and tissue samples were taken from 103 birds admitted at wildlife rehabilitation centers. Through the use of conventional PCR, our findings indicate no evidence of the circulation of these pathogens among the studied bird populations in the region. In the One Health context, it is relevant to understand how faraway avian populations play a role in the epidemiology of infectious diseases. Further molecular studies are needed to deepen the knowledge of avian piroplasmosis, borreliosis and hepatozoonosis.

A comparative template-switching cDNA approach for HTS-based multiplex detection of three viruses and one viroid commonly found in apple trees

Exclusion is a keystone of integrated pest management to prevent the introduction of pathogens. U.S. plant quarantine programs employ PCR and high-throughput sequencing (HTS) to test imported plants for viruses and viroids of concern. Achieving a low limit of detection in any HTS protocol could be challenging. Following a template-switching cDNA amplification protocol, seven cDNA synthesis treatments were used to test simultaneously the relative abundance and coverage of the three most commonly latent RNA viruses found in apples: apple chlorotic leaf spot virus, apple stem grooving virus, and apple stem pitting virus, as well as the viroid apple hammerhead viroid. Amplified double-stranded cDNAs were subjected to library preparation using Nanopore SQK-DCS109 and Illumina Nextera XT, and sequenced with MinION and NextSeq2000, respectively. Treatments with oligo d(T)23-VN or its combination with random hexamers yielded the highest relative reads for viruses, while treatments containing the reverse primer pool produced more relative reads for AHVd. These treatments and random hexamers also generated the highest genome coverages, which were typically similar in both HTS workflows. However, relative abundances of viruses determined with SQK-DCS109 were up to 2.22-fold higher compared to Nextera XT. In contrast, Nextera XT yielded viroid reads 3.30-fold higher than SQK-DCS109. A framework of considerations for expanding this sensitive approach to other targets and crops is discussed.

Organization of antiepizootic work in case of African swine fever in the Republic of Crimea

African swine fever is a dangerous viral disease of pigs that is widespread and causes enormous economic damage to the pig industry. In this regard, it is important to monitor the epizootic situation and evaluate the effectiveness of antiepizootic work in this infection. The methods of complex epizootological research were used in the work. The initial data were accounting and reporting materials of the State Veterinary Committee of the Republic of Crimea, operational information from the official website of the Rosselkhoznadzor Administration for the Republic of Crimea and the city of Sevastopol. The first outbreak of African swine fever on the territory of the Republic of Crimea was registered in early 2016 in the Razdolnenskiy district, the cause of which has not been fully clarified. Subsequently, in the period 2016-2017, 26 new outbreaks of ASF disease were detected among wild and domestic animals. In December 2023 and March 2024, epizootic outbreaks of African swine fever were observed among domestic pigs in the villages of Malovidnoe and Uglovoe, Bakhchisarayskiy district. In order to prevent the introduction of the African swine fever virus into safe regions, it is necessary to carry out educational and awareness-raising work among the population and personnel on the possible ways of introduction and spread of the ASF pathogen. Managers of pig-breeding enterprises and owners should be obliged to create conditions for feeding and keeping animals in accordance with veterinary and sanitary norms and instructions of veterinary specialists. It is also necessary to vaccinate animals against erysipelas and classical swine fever in time, to regularly disinfect and deratize the premises, to prevent the accumulation of waste. All cases of disease and death of pigs should be immediately reported to the veterinary service, and unhindered access for veterinarians for sampling and appropriate action should be ensured. It is important to ban domestic slaughter and carefully control the movement of people, animals and feed, especially from unfavorable areas.

New finding on a migratory bird, the fowl tick Argas (Persicargas) persicus (Oken, 1818), in Italy

Migratory birds reach Europe from sub-Saharan Africa, and some avian species may harbor and transport infected ectoparasites, mainly ticks, native to the territories of departure. In 2022, a project focused on identifying the introduction of pathogens in Italy from Africa via migratory birds represented an important opportunity to investigate this particular route of tick dispersal. Among ticks collected from migratory birds on the island of Ventotene, Latium Region, we found one larva of a soft tick on a common whitethroat (Curruca communis) that was morphologically and molecularly identified to the species level as Argas (Persicargas) persicus (Oken 1818). This study reports the fifth detection of this species in Italy; therefore, it is considered very rare. Further monitoring programmes should be implemented to better monitor the spread of this species and possibly update its distribution.

Multidrug-Resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae Strains in a Hospital: Phylogenetic Analysis to Investigate Local Epidemiology.

Multidrug-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae is a significant healthcare challenge that particularly affects vulnerable patients through opportunistic nosocomial infections. Surveillance is crucial for monitoring the prevalence of these infections. Eighty-four KPC K. pneumoniae strains (2019-2022) were collected from patients admitted in Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Campus Bio-Medico. Strains were identified by MALDI-TOF and tested for antimicrobial susceptibility, and gene amplification was performed to identify the different blaKPC variants. Phylogenetic reconstructions were carried out using Bayesian methods. Additionally, to create a Bayesian skyline plot (BSP), additional analyses were conducted, running a simulation of 100 million generations under a Bayesian skyline model along with the uncorrelated log-normal relaxed clock model. To identify potential subgroups within genetic clusters and evaluate genetic variability among sequences, principal coordinate analysis (PCoA) was performed. In total, 84 Klebsiella pneumoniae isolates were classified as multidrug-resistant (MDR), characterized by resistance to three or more antibiotic classes, including carbapenems, and testing positive for KPC gene presence, and were included in the study. The Bayesian evolutionary tree for K. pneumoniae showed strongly supported branches but no genetic structure related to sampling dates or hospital departments. Phylogenetic analysis revealing a 73-year evolutionary span of K. pneumoniae strains. PCoA analysis identified three genetic outliers from 2022 and one from 2021, indicating higher genetic distances. The Bayesian skyline plot revealed increased genetic variability peaking at the end of 2019, followed by stabilization from early 2020 onward, with no significant changes in genetic variability thereafter. Overall, the study found no genetic structure correlating with sampling date or hospital department, suggesting significant variability in pathogen introduction during the pandemic. The increase in multidrug-resistant K. pneumoniae was linked to the influx of severe COVID-19 cases, prolonged hospitalizations, and heightened broad-spectrum antibiotic use, which likely facilitated resistance development and transmission amidst altered infection control practices.

Ensuring the epidemiological safety of a medical organization during the period of an increase in the incidence of influenza and acute respiratory viral infections

Every year, acute respiratory viral infections (ARVI) hold leading positions in terms of morbidity and economic damage both in the world and in the Russian Federation. A medical organization requires the use of not individual preventive measures, but an integrated approach. Objective: to optimize a set of measures aimed at ensuring epidemiological safety during the period of increased incidence of influenza and acute respiratory viral infections. To achieve this goal, a set of measures was adapted for use in medical organizations based on current regulatory documents on the prevention of influenza and acute respiratory viral infections. The work was carried out at the inpatient department of a large multidisciplinary medical center for the period 2020–2024. The developed set of measures included three areas: organizational, preventive and anti-epidemic. Organizational measures were carried out both during the period of no increase in the incidence of influenza and acute respiratory viral infections and during the period of increased incidence. Preventive measures carried out in the hospital are aimed at minimizing the possibility of introducing the infectious agent from outside, eliminating infection directly in the hospital and preventing the removal of the pathogen outside the hospital. The use of the developed set of measures led to a decrease in the number of introductions of ARVI and flu pathogens into the hospital of a medical organization, and the absence of group morbidity.

Review on Various Type of Vaccines for Controlling Infectious Disease

Background: Vaccines have played a critical role in the prevention and treatment of infectious diseases, greatly lowering worldwide morbidity and mortality. This review examines many forms of vaccinations. In contrast, inactivated vaccines, such as the polio vaccine, are safer for immunocompromised people, they frequently require booster shots. Aim: This review emphasises the importance of vaccinations in public health and the need for innovation to tackle future infectious disease threats. The introduction of new pathogens has prompted the creation of novel vaccination platforms, including mRNA and viral vector vaccines. mRNA vaccines, such as those used to treat COVID-19, use genetic instructions to direct cells to manufacture antigens, resulting in strong immunity. Conclusion: These vaccines have demonstrated excellent efficacy and rapid scaling, making them valuable instruments in pandemics. This review emphasises the necessity of designing vaccine methods that meet individual illnesses, demographics, and logistical obstacles. While vaccinations have considerably reduced the occurrence of infectious diseases, more research is needed to address future threats, improve vaccine efficacy, and overcome obstacles such as vaccine reluctance and global inequities. Understanding the capabilities and limits of each vaccine type will help researchers and policymakers better equip healthcare systems to address current and future infectious disease concerns.

Validation of a Health Characterization Model for Tilapia Farming in a Brazilian Federative Unit

Brasília, Distrito Federal, is among the Brazilian cities with the highest number of tilapia farms, with around 660 farms, of which 112 are commercial. The aim of this study was to validate a health characterization model for commercial tilapia production using the production chain in the Distrito Federal (DF), one of Brazil’s 27 federative units, by applying a semi-structured questionnaire. A total of 112 farms were categorized according to the degree of vulnerability to the introduction of pathogens and the risk of dissemination using two weighted scorecard tables that evaluated 15 items each. After calculating the mean between the two variables, the farms were classified from A (insignificant risk) to D (high risk). Most of the commercial tilapia farms in the Distrito Federal were categorized as B (39; 34.8%) and C (53; 47.3%), representing low and medium risk, respectively. When comparing the different commercial groups, a significant difference (p < 0.05) was observed in the mean scores between closed-system fattening farms and both semi-closed fattening farms and pay-to-fish farms. Closed-system fattening farms, such as those using biofloc, aquaponics, and recirculation aquaculture systems, showed the lowest vulnerability to pathogen entry and the lowest risk of disease spread. The study’s findings provide valuable health information for the official veterinary service of the DF, enabling the categorization of farms, identification of production units, and determination of the most vulnerable strata. Furthermore, the model can be easily applied by private companies and by official veterinary services in other states or countries with significant tilapia production that need to implement risk-based surveillance programs for tilapia farms.

Management of zoonoses in research institutions - lessons learned from a Coxiella burnetii outbreak case.

When biomedical research investigates the human surgical situation in the need of a chronic course, it is more often possible to do so using large animal models. The use of farm animals always poses special challenges for the institution conducting the research in terms of infection prevention and occupational safety. Especially for the zoonotic disease coxiellosis it is important to be aware of the constant risk of pathogen introduction by small ruminants and to take appropriate precautions. In this way, personal injury should be avoided or at least be kept to a minimum in the event of infection since then sustainable zoonosis control can be immediately initiated. Using the example of a Q fever outbreak at a research facility, we want to share with this extended case report the importance of central emergency structures, provisions and the inclusion of relevant experts and disciplines in a crisis team. Its primary purpose is to support the affected facility and coordinate the implementation of necessary cleaning, disinfection and decontamination measures in close contact with the responsible local authorities. The aim is to inactivate the pathogen in a systematic and controlled manner in few steps of action only and to keep the interruption of the facility's operations as short as possible.

First Report of Ralstonia pseudosolanacearum Causing Bacterial Wilt in Ginger in Peru.

Around 90% of Peru's ginger (Zingiber officinale) production is concentrated in the Junín region, due to the optimal agroecological conditions for its cultivation. In March 2024, fields with ginger plants (cultivar Criollo) in Junín region, provinces Chanchamayo and Satipo, specifically in the cities of Pichanaqui and Satipo respectively, exhibited approximately 40% of plants with severe symptoms of a disease characterized initially by plant yellowing and rapid progressing to necrosis. Affected rhizomes showed dark vascular bundles with milky white exudates upon cutting, while stems displayed vascular necrosis hindering water and nutrient transport, often resulting in plant death. Fifteen plants were sampled and diseased vascular tissues from rhizomes and stems were cultured on nutrient agar (NA) and incubated at 28°C. After 72 h, all isolations resulted in colonies with typical characteristics of Ralstonia solanacearum species complex (RSSC) were produced, with appearing fluid, irregularly round, and creamy white. Three isolates were selected for the identification steps (UNALM-RP01 to 03) were identified by PCR using primers 759/760 (Opina et al. 1997) confirming as RSSC with a 282 bp amplification product. Additionally, isolates were assigned to biovar 3 based on their ability to metabolize three acid-producing disaccharides (maltose, lactose, cellobiose) and three hexose alcohols (mannitol, sorbitol, dulcitol) (Hayward, 1964). Phylotype I was identified by multiplex PCR (primers Nmult) with a 114 bp amplification product (Fegan and Prior 2005). For the identification of the sequevars of the three isolates, DNA was extracted and PCR with primers ENDO-F/R (Ji et al. 2007) were performed to amplify and sequence the partial gene sequence of egl gene with 681 bp in length. The phylogeny by Neighbor joining with 10,000 bootstraps clustered the UNALM isolates along other sequevar 30 of R. pseudosolanacearum. The sequences were deposited in Genbank under accessions PQ213016, PQ213017 and PQ213018. For pathogenicity tests, bacterial colonies of isolate UNALM-RP01 were scraped from the culture media with a sterile needle and introduced into the stems of three 2-month-old ginger plants (cultivar Gigante). The plants subsequently exhibited yellowing seven days post-inoculation. Additionally, the rhizomes showed internal discoloration and bacterial exudation. Three plants were used as a control, which were pierced with a sterilized needle and showed no symptoms. All tested plants were kept in a greenhouse with controlled temperature (20-40 °C) The pathogen was successfully re-isolated from infected plants on NA medium, presenting typical colonies of RSSC and identified via PCR with primers 759/760, fulfilling Koch's postulates. This represents the first case in Peru of ginger plants infected with a Ralstonia species, specifically R. solanacearum phylotype I, corresponding to R. pseudosolanacearum. This species of RSSC and sequevar is known for causing disease in ginger. Its presence in Peru, however, may be the result of the pathogen's introduction, as its geographical origin is associated with Asia (Fegan and Prior 2005). To our knowledge, this is the first report of R. pseudosolanacearum causing ginger wilt disease in Peru. In 2024, an estimated average yield loss of 30% has been attributed to wilt disease in the Junín region, posing a significant threat to cultivation. Urgent and effective disease management strategies are essential to control and mitigate further losses.

Reassortants of the Highly Pathogenic Influenza Virus A/H5N1 Causing Mass Swan Mortality in Kazakhstan from 2023 to 2024.

In the winter of 2023/2024, the mass death of swans was observed on Lake Karakol on the eastern coast of the Caspian Sea. From 21 December 2023 to 25 January 2024, 1132 swan corpses (Cygnus olor, Cygnus cygnus) were collected and disposed of on the coast by veterinary services and ecologists. Biological samples were collected from 18 birds for analysis at different dates of the epizootic. It was found that the influenza outbreak was associated with a high concentration of migrating birds at Lake Karakol as a result of a sharp cold snap in the northern regions. At different dates of the epizootic, three avian influenza A/H5N1 viruses of clade 2.3.4.4.b were isolated from dead birds and identified as highly pathogenic viruses (HPAIs) based on the amino acid sequence of the hemagglutinin multi-base proteolytic cleavage site (PLREKRRRKR/G). A phylogenetic analysis showed that the viruses isolated from the swans had reassortations in the PB2, PB1, and NP genes between highly pathogenic (HP) and low-pathogenic (LP) avian influenza viruses. Avian influenza viruses A/Cygnus cygnus/Karakol lake/01/2024(H5N1) and A/Mute swan/Karakol lake/02/2024(H5N1) isolated on 10 January 2024 received PB2, PB1, and NP from LPAIV, while A/Mute swan/Mangystau/9809/2023(H5N1) isolated on 26 December 2023 received PB1 and NP from LPAIV, indicating that the H5N1 viruses in this study are new reassortants. All viruses showed amino acid substitutions in the PB2, PB1, NP, and NS1 segments, which are critical for enhanced virulence or adaptation in mammals. An analysis of the genomes of the isolated viruses showed that bird deaths during different periods of the epizootic were caused by different reassortant viruses. Kazakhstan is located at the crossroads of several migratory routes of migratory birds, and the possible participation of wild birds in the introduction of various pathogens into the regions of Kazakhstan requires further study.

Results of departmental control of bacteriological water pollution within the limits of the “One Health” concept

The article is devoted to the analysis of the state of contamination of water from surface reservoirs and drinking water by bacteriological agents at the facilities of operators of the market of char products under the control of the State Production and Consumer Service in the Kharkiv region and the importance of studying this factor of contamination. Using the sources of domestic and foreign literature, the data of our research, the article presents information on the spread of bacteriological contamination of surface water bodies (from fish farms) and drinking water in the production of food products and the results of sanitary and microbiological control of drinking water samples. Sanitary and microbiological control of water quality establishes the degree of its safety under the requirements for a centralized drinking water supply. The main sanitary test for water contamination by intestinal secretions of warm-blooded animals remains bacteria of the group Escherichia coli (E. coli). Unlike the vast majority of countries, stricter requirements for the quality of drinking water concerning this indicator have been preserved in Ukraine, that is, all types of glucose-positive coliform bacteria are taken into account, not only lactose-positive variants. This approach is justified since many lactose-negative intestinal bacteria can not only enter but also multiply under appropriate conditions in drinking water and harm human health. Water as the main or auxiliary raw material is used in the vast majority of technological processes of food production. Practically all food production is connected with the consumption of water from the water supply system, boreholes, or wells. Although the drinking water that «reaches» the «faucet» of the enterprise producing food products undergoes several stages of purification, it still remains a risk factor for contamination, including bacteriological contamination. The increase in the number of operators of the food market, and non-compliance with the requirements during the circulation of objects of sanitary measures leads to an increase in the risks of contamination and infection of people. Only periodic laboratory bacteriological control of the state of drinking water at the facilities of the food market operator can ensure the circulation of food products that do not harm human health and are suitable for consumption. The relevance of the problem of fecal contamination of drinking water is also due to the periodic lack of electricity, as water purification systems work unstable. Also, it should be noted that the summer of 2024 in Ukraine was abnormally warm. The reproduction of pathogens often depends on the temperature of the water, which is manifested as a ratio of favorable temperature and the manifestation of clinical signs of the disease. Pathogens also have optimal temperature ranges for reproduction. An increase in water temperature will increase the introduction of exotic pathogens originating from regions with a higher environmental thermal index. The destruction of the infrastructure leads to the deterioration of the sanitary and hygienic condition of settlements, and life support facilities, and the complication of the epidemic and epizootic situation. An environment favorable for the spread of dangerous infectious diseases is created. One Health and climate change adaptation can significantly contribute to food security, environmental sanitation, and steps towards regional and global integrated surveillance and response systems

Biosafety in Norwegian Aquaculture—Risks and Measures in RAS Facilities and Well‐Boats

ABSTRACTBiosafety is a central concern in Norwegian salmon farming, as diseases and parasites are common. Continued production depends on preventing and controlling diseases and parasites. A critical part of the farmed salmon's life is during smolt production and the following well‐boat transport out to sea. Biosafety here is thus essential, and there is a need for an overview of risk factors and measures. Biosafety is related to the technical solutions' design, construction, cleaning, and maintenance, that can be studied through field work, interviews, and document analysis. This paper presents results from a study identifying risk factors related to technical solutions in smolt production (with RAS—recirculating aquaculture systems) and well‐boats, and potential measures to reduce risk. Risk factors for RAS facilities are divided into four main groups: Introduction of pathogens to the facility, spread of pathogens inside the facility, growth of pathogens inside the facility, and additional risks. Risk factors for well‐boats are divided into three main groups: Introduction of pathogens through intake water, spread of pathogens between fish groups, and spread of pathogens from well‐boat to the environment. Measures are proposed to mitigate the identified risk factors. The lists are not exhaustive, and risk magnitude is not quantified, so effect of measures is not calculated. Still, the measures' potential for risk reduction and implementation (cost/benefit) are discussed, suggesting measures vital for biosafety in RAS facilities and well‐boats.

Intraspecific diversity of Erwinia amylovora strains from northern Algeria

BackgroundFire blight, caused by Erwinia amylovora, is the most destructive bacterial disease affecting plants in the Rosaceae family, leading to significant economic losses. In Algeria, this disease has been reported since 2010. This study aimed to investigate the origin of fire blight in Algeria, in order to increase knowledge of the epidemiology of this serious disease and contribute to its management. A comprehensive characterization of 18 E. amylovora isolates recovered from northern Algeria between 2016 and 2021 to evaluate their phenotypical and genotypical diversity was conducted.ResultsPhenotypic differences, particularly in growth kinetics, virulence, and fatty acid profiles, allowed differentiation of strains into five groups, possibly indicating distinct introduction events. Genetic characterization revealed that only one strain lacked the ubiquitous plasmid pEA29, which is correlated with reduced virulence, while none harbored the pEI70 plasmid. Phylogenetic analysis using concatenated sequences of the recA, groEL, rpoS, ams, and hrpN genes grouped Algerian strains with those from a broadly prevalent clade. CRISPR genotyping identified a novel CR1 pattern and three genotypes, two of them previously unreported.ConclusionsThis study represents the first phenotypic, genetic, and phylogenetic investigation of E. amylovora strains in the region, and provides valuable information on the possible pathways of the introduction of this fire blight pathogen in northern Africa. The findings suggest one or more introduction events from a common ancestor, likely originating in northern Italy, followed by dispersal in various regions of Algeria.

Development of a Multiplex Polymerase Chain Reaction Assay for Detecting Five Previously Unreported Papaya Viruses for Quarantine Purposes in Korea

There are concerns about the introduction and spread of plant pests and pathogens with globalization and climate change. As commercial control agents have not been developed for plant viruses, it is important to prevent virus spread. In this study, we developed a multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) detection method to rapidly diagnose and control three DNA (papaya golden mosaic virus, Lindernia anagallis yellow vein virus, and melon chlorotic leaf curl virus) and two RNA (papaya leaf distortion mosaic virus and lettuce chlorosis virus) viruses that infect papaya. Specific primer sets were designed for the virus coat protein. Performing PCR, clear bands were observed with no non-specific reaction. Our multiplex PCR method can simultaneously detect small amounts of DNA/RNA to diagnose five viruses infecting papaya and prevent the spread of the virus.

Early warning system on harmful aquatic organisms at a regional sea scale: Components and mechanisms

The introduction of harmful aquatic organisms and pathogens (HAOP) via the ballast water of ships can endanger human health, the environment, economic resource-related systems, as well as impair biological diversity. Early warning systems (EWS) are highly effective instruments for mitigating risks and enhancing readiness in the face of potential disasters, including those resulting from HAOP. The establishment of a regional EWS for the identification and notification of harmful organisms is a complex marine policy process involving communication with stakeholders, technical development, engagement of regional knowledge, and, ultimately, harmonization between key authorities and Participating States. The purpose of EWS is to promptly communicate the findings of HAOP to the appropriate stakeholders, such as government agencies and commercial companies. The paper elucidates in detail the criteria and procedure for developing a regionally standardized EWS, including its mechanism, the technical information platform that is required, and the obligations of EWS data providers. It also discusses the decision-making process for issuing alerts and identifies the intended recipients of the warning signals. The system has been operational in the Baltic Sea region for over two years, and the knowledge and insights gathered during its development may prove beneficial in other areas as well.

A Synoptic Review of Plant Disease Epidemics and Outbreaks Published in 2022.

This scientometric study reviews the scientific literature and CABI distribution records published in 2022 to find evidence of major disease outbreaks and first reports of pathogens in new locations or on new hosts. This is the second time we have done this, and this study builds on our work documenting and analyzing reports from 2021. Pathogens with three or more articles identified in 2022 literature were Xylella fastidiosa, Bursaphelenchus xylophilus, Meloidogyne species complexes, 'Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus', Raffaelea lauricola, Fusarium oxysporum formae specialis, and Puccinia graminis f. sp. tritici. Our review of CABI distribution records found 29 pathogens with confirmed first reports in 2022. Pathogens with four or more first reports were Meloidogyne species complexes, Pantoea ananatis, grapevine red globe virus, and Thekopsora minima. Analysis of the proportion of new distribution records from 2022 indicated that grapevine red globe virus, sweet potato chlorotic stunt virus, and 'Ca. Phytoplasma vitis' may have been actively spreading. As we saw last year, there was little overlap between the pathogens identified by reviewing scientific literature versus distribution records. We hypothesize that this lack of concordance is because of the unavoidable lag between first reports of the type reported in the CABI database of a pathogen in a new location and any subsequent major disease outbreaks being reported in the scientific literature, particularly because the latter depends on the journal policy on types of papers to be considered, whether the affected crop is major or minor, and whether the pathogen is of current scientific interest. Strikingly, too, there was also no overlap between species assessed to be actively spreading in this year's study and those identified last year. We hypothesize that this is because of inconsistencies in sampling coverage and effort over time and delays between the first arrival of a pathogen in a new location and its first report, particularly for certain classes of pathogens causing only minor or non-economically damaging symptoms, which may have been endemic for some time before being reported. In general, introduction of new pathogens and outbreaks of extant pathogens threaten food security and ecosystem services. Continued monitoring of these threats is essential to support phytosanitary measures intended to prevent pathogen introductions and management of threats within a country.

Optimizing Clubroot Management and the Role of Canola Cultivar Mixtures.

The sustainable cultivation of canola is under threat from clubroot disease (Plasmodiophora brassicae). The pathogen's resting spores can survive in the soil for extended periods, complicating disease management. Therefore, effective clubroot control requires a combination of tactics that provide multiple layers of protection. Management strategies have focused on pathogen avoidance and reducing disease levels in infested fields. The sanitation of machinery and field equipment remains the most effective method for preventing the pathogen's introduction into non-infested fields. For disease reduction, crop rotation, liming, chemical control, and host resistance are commonly employed, with the use of clubroot-resistant cultivars being the most effective to date. However, resistance breakdown has been observed within four years of the introduction of new cultivars, jeopardizing the long-term effectiveness of this approach. A promising yet underexplored strategy is the use of cultivar mixtures. This approach leverages mechanisms such as the dilution effect, the barrier effect, induced resistance, disruptive selection, and the compensatory effect to control the disease. Cultivar mixtures have the potential to reduce the impact of clubroot on canola production while preserving pathogen population structure, thereby minimizing the likelihood of resistance breakdown. Given its potential, further research into cultivar mixtures as a management strategy for clubroot disease is warranted.