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Anokyewaa Appau AA, Ofori LA. Antibiotic Resistance Profile of E. coli Isolates from Lettuce, Poultry Manure, Irrigation Water, and Soil in Kumasi, Ghana. Int J Microbiol 2024; 2024:6681311. [PMID: 38312829 PMCID: PMC10838198 DOI: 10.1155/2024/6681311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2023] [Revised: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 02/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Inputs such as irrigation water and poultry manure used in lettuce cultivation have been found to be associated with antibiotic-resistant pathogens. The study assessed the antibiotic resistance profile of Escherichia coli isolated from lettuce, poultry manure, irrigation water, and soil in Kumasi. One hundred and fifty-six samples of lettuce, irrigation water, soil, and manure were collected from three farms over a seven-week cultivation period (seedlings to harvest stage). E. coli were enumerated using standard methods. 98% of the samples were positive for E. coli. Geometric means for lettuce, irrigation water, and soil ranged from 2.0 × 105 to 1.67 × 107 MPN/100 ml while that of manure ranged from 2.0 × 105 to 1.31 × 107 MPN/100 ml. Generally, the microbial load of all parameters on all farms across the weeks was significant and exceeded World Health Organization (WHO) and International Commission on Microbiological Specifications for Foods (ICMSF) standard recommendations for food. Using the Kirby Bauer method, antibiotic sensitivity testing was performed against 225 biochemically confirmed E. coli with twelve antibiotics. Relatively high resistance was recorded for some members of the beta-lactam class: meropenem: 94.2%, ampicillin: 91.9%, cefuroxime: 95.1%, ceftriaxone: 94.7%, and cefotaxime: 94.2%. Eighty of the isolates were screened for extended spectrum beta lactamase (ESBL) production using cefotaxime (CTX) and cefotaxime/clavulanic acid (CTX/CLA) discs and three showed positive: one each from poultry manure, irrigation water, and soil. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) confirmed the presence of blaCTX-M gene. The occurrence of antibiotic-resistant E. coli in vegetables and their production environment is alarming and poses serious health threats to the general public. The presence of blaCTX-M gene in E. coli from a vegetable production site recorded for the first time in Ghana requires enforcement by regulatory bodies on the inappropriate use of antibiotics in the country.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Linda Aurelia Ofori
- Department of Theoretical and Applied Biology, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
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Urban J, Jaworski S, Lange A, Bień D, Matuszewski A, Michalczuk M. Effects of the Addition of Crude Fibre Concentrate on Performance, Welfare and Selected Caecal Bacteria of Broilers. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:3883. [PMID: 38136920 PMCID: PMC10741125 DOI: 10.3390/ani13243883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The study evaluated the effects of crude fibre concentrate supplementation on final body weight, mortality, feed conversion ratio, European Production Efficiency Factor, European Broiler Index, welfare parameters, colony-forming units of selected caecal bacteria (Enterobacteriaceae and lactic acid bacteria) and pH of broiler faeces and litter. The study comprised 990 Ross 308 male chicks divided into three groups, a control and two experimental groups, which were given crude fibre concentrate as a feed supplement. On the thirty-fifth day of rearing, the birds' welfare scores were evaluated, and 2 g of cecum was collected post-mortem from six chickens in each group. Subsequently, a series of ten-fold dilutions of the material was prepared, followed by cultures and measurement of pH in the faeces and litter. The inclusion of crude fibre concentrate resulted in a beneficial impact on the ultimate body mass (p ≤ 0.001), welfare standard (p ≤ 0.001), and quantity of colony-forming units of lactic acid bacteria (p ≤ 0.05) within the cecum. Furthermore, it had a positive influence on lowering the pH levels of both faeces and litter (p ≤ 0.05).
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Affiliation(s)
- Jakub Urban
- Department of Animal Breeding, Institute of Animal Sciences, Warsaw University of Life Sciences, Ciszewskiego 8, 02-786 Warsaw, Poland; (D.B.); (M.M.)
| | - Sławomir Jaworski
- Department of Nanobiotechnology, Institute of Biology, Warsaw University of Life Sciences, Ciszewskiego 8, 02-786 Warsaw, Poland; (S.J.); (A.L.)
| | - Agata Lange
- Department of Nanobiotechnology, Institute of Biology, Warsaw University of Life Sciences, Ciszewskiego 8, 02-786 Warsaw, Poland; (S.J.); (A.L.)
| | - Damian Bień
- Department of Animal Breeding, Institute of Animal Sciences, Warsaw University of Life Sciences, Ciszewskiego 8, 02-786 Warsaw, Poland; (D.B.); (M.M.)
| | - Arkadiusz Matuszewski
- Department of Animal Environment Biology, Institute of Animal Sciences, Warsaw University of Life Sciences, Ciszewskiego 8, 02-786 Warsaw, Poland;
| | - Monika Michalczuk
- Department of Animal Breeding, Institute of Animal Sciences, Warsaw University of Life Sciences, Ciszewskiego 8, 02-786 Warsaw, Poland; (D.B.); (M.M.)
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Chakraborty D, Prasad R, Watts DB, Allen Torbert H. Effectiveness of flue gas desulfurization gypsum in reducing phosphorus solubility in poultry litter when applied as an in-house amendment. WASTE MANAGEMENT (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2023; 171:1-9. [PMID: 37619431 DOI: 10.1016/j.wasman.2023.08.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Revised: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023]
Abstract
Phosphorus (P) runoff from agricultural lands receiving poultry litter (PL) poses a major environmental challenge. Application of flue-gas-desulfurization (FGD)-gypsum produced from coal power plants in agricultural lands has shown promise to reduce P losses. However, no information is available about the effectiveness of FGD-gypsum addition in reducing P solubility when applied as an in-house amendment. Hence, the objectives of this study were to understand a) effectiveness of FGD-gypsum as a litter amendment in reducing P loss risk; and b) how FGD-gypsum amendment in PL alters the distribution of P forms. Broiler chickens were raised for five flocks in seven individual litter treatments replicated four times in a randomized complete block design. Based on the FGD-gypsum addition, the PL treatments were broadly classified as FGD-gypsum treated and untreated. Toxic metal concentrations were analyzed in FGD-gypsum as well as the treatments. Sequential water extractions were performed to understand P solubility. Litter P fractionation was performed to identify bioavailable P (Water-P), labile P (NaHCO3-P), aluminum/iron chemisorbed P (NaOH-P), and mineral occluded P (HCl-P). Results indicated significantly higher soluble P in all untreated than in all FGD-gypsum treated litters in the initial water extraction. The FGD-gypsum treated litters reduced soluble P by 58 to 67% in the 1st water extraction compared to untreated litters. Fractionation study revealed lower proportion of Water-P and higher proportion of NaHCO3-P and HCl-P in all FGD-gypsum treated than in untreated litters. This study suggests reuse of FGD-gypsum in broiler houses can help reduce P mobility without any toxic metals concerns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Debolina Chakraborty
- 201 Funchess Hall, Department of Crop, Soil, and Environmental Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
| | - Rishi Prasad
- 201 Funchess Hall, Department of Crop, Soil, and Environmental Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA; Department of Animal Science, Auburn University; Auburn, AL 36849, USA.
| | - Dexter B Watts
- USDA-ARS National Soil Dynamics Lab., 411 S. Donahue Dr., Auburn, AL 36832, USA
| | - H Allen Torbert
- USDA-ARS National Soil Dynamics Lab., 411 S. Donahue Dr., Auburn, AL 36832, USA
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Brink M, Janssens GP, Delezie E. How do moisture content, friability, and crust development of litter influence ammonia concentrations in broiler production? Livest Sci 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.livsci.2022.105109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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Adler C, Schmithausen AJ, Trimborn M, Heitmann S, Spindler B, Tiemann I, Kemper N, Büscher W. Effects of a Partially Perforated Flooring System on Ammonia Emissions in Broiler Housing-Conflict of Objectives between Animal Welfare and Environment? Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11030707. [PMID: 33807897 PMCID: PMC7999410 DOI: 10.3390/ani11030707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2021] [Revised: 02/26/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Previous studies have shown positive effects of a partially perforated flooring system on animal welfare in broiler housing. Towards the end of the fattening periods, the present study showed a higher ammonia emission rate (NH3 ER) for a partially perforated flooring system compared with a littered control barn. Nevertheless, the measured NH3 concentrations were below 20 ppm, except during a mechanical litter treatment in the winter fattening period. Furthermore, the system offers the possibility of applying practical solutions that were not feasible before. By using underfloor air extraction, manure belts, or acidification systems underneath the elevated perforated area, NH3 concentrations and the resulting NH3 ER could be reduced. Thus, with some optimization, the partially perforated flooring system could be used to contribute to an increase in animal welfare and environmental protection at the same time. Abstract A partially (50%) perforated flooring system showed positive effects on health- and behavior-based welfare indicators without affecting production performance. Ammonia (NH3) is the most common air pollutant in poultry production, with effects on animal welfare and the environment. The objectives of animal welfare and environmental protection are often incompatible. Therefore, this study addresses the question of how a partially perforated flooring system affects NH3 emissions. According to German regulations, three fattening periods were carried out with 500 Ross 308 broilers per barn (final stocking density: 39 kg m−2). The experimental barn was equipped with an elevated perforated area in the supply section, accessible by perforated ramps. The remaining area in the experimental barn and the control barn were equipped with wood shavings (600 g m−2). Besides the different floor types, management was identical. Air temperature (Temp), relative air humidity (RH), NH3 concentration, and ventilation rate (VR) were measured continuously. Furthermore, dry matter (DM) content, pH, and litter quality were assessed. Towards the end of the fattening periods, the NH3 emission rate (ER) of the partially perforated flooring system was higher compared with that of the littered control barn (all p < 0.001). This effect is mainly caused by the higher NH3 concentrations, which are promoted by the lack of compaction underneath the elevated perforated area and the increase in pH value under aerobic conditions. Nevertheless, the partially perforated flooring system offers different approaches for NH3 reduction that were previously not feasible, potentially contributing equally to animal welfare and environmental protection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolin Adler
- Institute of Agricultural Engineering, University of Bonn, 53115 Bonn, Germany; (M.T.); (I.T.); (W.B.)
- Correspondence:
| | | | - Manfred Trimborn
- Institute of Agricultural Engineering, University of Bonn, 53115 Bonn, Germany; (M.T.); (I.T.); (W.B.)
| | - Sophia Heitmann
- Institute of Animal Hygiene, Animal Welfare and Farm Animal Behaviour, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, 30559 Hannover, Germany; (S.H.); (B.S.); (N.K.)
| | - Birgit Spindler
- Institute of Animal Hygiene, Animal Welfare and Farm Animal Behaviour, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, 30559 Hannover, Germany; (S.H.); (B.S.); (N.K.)
| | - Inga Tiemann
- Institute of Agricultural Engineering, University of Bonn, 53115 Bonn, Germany; (M.T.); (I.T.); (W.B.)
- Institute of Animal Science, University of Bonn, 53115 Bonn, Germany
| | - Nicole Kemper
- Institute of Animal Hygiene, Animal Welfare and Farm Animal Behaviour, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, 30559 Hannover, Germany; (S.H.); (B.S.); (N.K.)
| | - Wolfgang Büscher
- Institute of Agricultural Engineering, University of Bonn, 53115 Bonn, Germany; (M.T.); (I.T.); (W.B.)
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Pepper CM, Dunlop MW. Review of litter turning during a grow-out as a litter management practice to achieve dry and friable litter in poultry production. Poult Sci 2021; 100:101071. [PMID: 33848927 PMCID: PMC8065223 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2021.101071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2020] [Revised: 01/29/2021] [Accepted: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Maintaining dry litter that chickens can “work” is a key objective for successful meat chicken production as it reduces the likelihood of health and welfare issues by breaking down and working excreta and contributing to the water evaporation process. Litter turning is a practice that may help reduce moisture content within the litter by accelerating the drying process when it is combined with effective ventilation. However, information and research about the practice and the effects it could have on the health and well-being of meat chickens (broilers) are minimal. A recent survey of Australian meat chicken growers reiterated the concerns they have about its impact on chicken well-being, but it also demonstrated how growers thought it could enhance the effectiveness of their operation. The aim of this review paper is to identity information relevant to litter turning and the potential effects of this practice on litter quality, ammonia emissions, litter moisture, and animal welfare. This review demonstrates the need for additional research to validate perceptions and address potential concerns and impacts that this practice may have on broiler production. Closing this knowledge gap will improve litter turning practices leading to safer and more consistent outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claire-Marie Pepper
- Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, Queensland Government, Toowoomba 4350, Queensland, Australia.
| | - Mark W Dunlop
- Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, Queensland Government, Toowoomba 4350, Queensland, Australia
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Chang R, Pandey P, Li Y, Venkitasamy C, Chen Z, Gallardo R, Weimer B, Jay-Russell M, Weimer B. Assessment of gaseous ozone treatment on Salmonella Typhimurium and Escherichia coli O157:H7 reductions in poultry litter. WASTE MANAGEMENT (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2020; 117:42-47. [PMID: 32805600 DOI: 10.1016/j.wasman.2020.07.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2020] [Revised: 07/10/2020] [Accepted: 07/23/2020] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Poultry litter is used as soil amendment or organic fertilizer. While poultry litter is enriched with organic matter suitable for land, the presence of pathogens such as Salmonella in poultry litter is a concern. To investigate the effect of gaseous ozone on pathogen reductions in poultry litter, this study conducted a series of experiments that involved understanding of Salmonella Typhimurium and Escherichia coli O157:H7 inactivation at various doses of Ozone (O3) in wet and dry poultry litter conditions. Previously, ozone treatment has been shown to disinfect the surface of foods and plant materials including fruits, juices, and wastewater, however, additional research are needed to better understand the impacts of ozone on treatment of soil amendments. Sanitizing methods capable of eliminating pathogens of soil amendments are crucial to mitigate disease outbreaks related with litter/manure-based fertilizers. In this study, a bench scale continuous ozone treatment system was designed to produce O3 gas, with a range O3 concentrations (7.15-132.46 mg·L-1), monitor ozone concentrations continuously, and control the ozone exposure time (15 to 90 mins) to understand the effectiveness of O3 in eliminating S. Typhimurium and E. coli O157:H7 in poultry litter. Results showed that 7.15 mg·L-1 did not reduce the counts of S. Typhimurium until exposure to O3 for 90 min. The O3 concentrations of 43.26 ~ 132.46 mg·L-1 exposure reduced the bacterial counts. Furthermore, the moisture content of poultry litter was found to be an influencing factor for pathogen reduction. The pathogen reduction rates were reduced when the moisture content was increased. At higher moisture content, high concentrations of O3 (132.46 mg·L-1) were needed for pathogen reductions. The moisture content of 30% or lower was found to be more effective for controlling pathogen levels in poultry litter. Our study demonstrates that gaseous O3 treatment could be used as an additional decontamination technique to ensure the certain degree of microbiological safety of poultry litter based soil amendment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruixue Chang
- Department of Population Health and Reproduction, Veterinary Medicine School, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA; Department of Environmental Sciences and Technology, College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Pramod Pandey
- Department of Population Health and Reproduction, Veterinary Medicine School, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA.
| | - Yanming Li
- Department of Environmental Sciences and Technology, College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Chandrasekar Venkitasamy
- Department of Population Health and Reproduction, Veterinary Medicine School, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA; Food Science and Human Nutrition, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA
| | - Zhao Chen
- Department of Population Health and Reproduction, Veterinary Medicine School, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Rodrigo Gallardo
- Department of Population Health and Reproduction, Veterinary Medicine School, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Bart Weimer
- Department of Population Health and Reproduction, Veterinary Medicine School, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Michele Jay-Russell
- Western Center for Food Safety, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Bart Weimer
- Department of Population Health and Reproduction, Veterinary Medicine School, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA
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9
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Kurucz V, Kiss B, Szigeti ZM, Nagy G, Orosz E, Hargitai Z, Harangi S, Wiebenga A, de Vries RP, Pócsi I, Emri T. Physiological background of the remarkably high Cd 2+ tolerance of the Aspergillus fumigatus Af293 strain. J Basic Microbiol 2018; 58:957-967. [PMID: 30168857 DOI: 10.1002/jobm.201800200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2018] [Revised: 07/11/2018] [Accepted: 07/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The physiological background of the unusually high cadmium tolerance (MIC50 > 2 mM) of Aspergillus fumigatus Af293 was investigated. The cadmium tolerance of the tested environmental and clinical A. fumigatus strains varied over a wide range (0.25 mM < MIC50 < 1 mM). Only the Af293 strain showed a MIC50 value of >2 mM, and this phenotype was accompanied by increased in vivo virulence in mice. A strong correlation was found between the cadmium tolerance and the transcription of the pcaA gene, which encodes a putative cadmium efflux pump. The cadmium tolerance also correlated with the iron tolerance and the extracellular siderophore production of the strains. In addition to these findings, Af293 did not show the synergism between iron toxicity and cadmium toxicity that was detected in the other strains. Based on these results, we suggest that the primary function of PcaA should be acting as a ferrous iron pump and protecting cells from iron overload. Nevertheless, the heterologous expression of pcaA may represent an attractive strain improvement strategy to construct fungal strains for use in biosorption or biomining processes or to prevent accumulation of this toxic metal in crops.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vivien Kurucz
- Department of Biotechnology and Microbiology, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Beáta Kiss
- Department of Biotechnology and Microbiology, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Zsuzsa M Szigeti
- Department of Biotechnology and Microbiology, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Gábor Nagy
- Department of Biotechnology and Microbiology, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Erzsébet Orosz
- Department of Biotechnology and Microbiology, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Zoltán Hargitai
- Department of Pathology, Kenézy Gyula County Hospital, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Sándor Harangi
- Department of Inorganic and Analytical Chemistry (Agilent Atomic Spectroscopy Partner Laboratory), Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Ad Wiebenga
- Fungal Physiology, CBS-KNAW Fungal Biodiversity Centre & Fungal Molecular Physiology, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Ronald P de Vries
- Fungal Physiology, CBS-KNAW Fungal Biodiversity Centre & Fungal Molecular Physiology, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - István Pócsi
- Department of Biotechnology and Microbiology, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Tamás Emri
- Department of Biotechnology and Microbiology, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
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10
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Vaz C, Voss-Rech D, de Avila V, Coldebella A, Silva V. Interventions to reduce the bacterial load in recycled broiler litter. Poult Sci 2017; 96:2587-2594. [DOI: 10.3382/ps/pex063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2016] [Accepted: 03/01/2017] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
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11
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Dunlop MW, Moss AF, Groves PJ, Wilkinson SJ, Stuetz RM, Selle PH. The multidimensional causal factors of 'wet litter' in chicken-meat production. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2016; 562:766-776. [PMID: 27110988 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2016.03.147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2015] [Revised: 03/14/2016] [Accepted: 03/20/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
The problem of 'wet litter', which occurs primarily in grow-out sheds for meat chickens (broilers), has been recognised for nearly a century. Nevertheless, it is an increasingly important problem in contemporary chicken-meat production as wet litter and associated conditions, especially footpad dermatitis, have developed into tangible welfare issues. This is only compounded by the market demand for chicken paws and compromised bird performance. This review considers the multidimensional causal factors of wet litter. While many causal factors can be listed it is evident that the critical ones could be described as micro-environmental factors and chief amongst them is proper management of drinking systems and adequate shed ventilation. Thus, this review focuses on these environmental factors and pays less attention to issues stemming from health and nutrition. Clearly, there are times when related avian health issues of coccidiosis and necrotic enteritis cannot be overlooked and the development of efficacious vaccines for the latter disease would be advantageous. Presently, the inclusion of phytate-degrading enzymes in meat chicken diets is routine and, therefore, the implication that exogenous phytases may contribute to wet litter is given consideration. Opinion is somewhat divided as how best to counter the problem of wet litter as some see education and extension as being more beneficial than furthering research efforts. However, it may prove instructive to assess the practice of whole grain feeding in relation to litter quality and the incidence of footpad dermatitis. Additional research could investigate the relationships between dietary concentrations of key minerals and the application of exogenous enzymes with litter quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark W Dunlop
- Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, Queensland Government, Toowoomba, QLD 4350, Australia; University of New South Wales, School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia; Poultry CRC, PO Box U242, University of New England, Armidale, NSW 2351, Australia.
| | - Amy F Moss
- The University of Sydney, Poultry Research Foundation, Camden, NSW 2570, Australia
| | - Peter J Groves
- The University of Sydney, Poultry Research Foundation, Camden, NSW 2570, Australia
| | | | - Richard M Stuetz
- University of New South Wales, School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Peter H Selle
- The University of Sydney, Poultry Research Foundation, Camden, NSW 2570, Australia
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12
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Dunlop MW, Blackall PJ, Stuetz RM. Odour emissions from poultry litter - A review litter properties, odour formation and odorant emissions from porous materials. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2016; 177:306-319. [PMID: 27111649 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2016.04.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2016] [Revised: 03/21/2016] [Accepted: 04/05/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Odour emissions from meat chicken sheds can at times cause odour impacts on surrounding communities. Litter is seen as the primary source of this odour. Formation and emission of odour from meat chicken litter during the grow-out period are influenced by various factors such as litter conditions, the environment, microbial activity, properties of the odorous gases and management practices. Odour emissions vary spatially and temporally. This variability has made it challenging to understand how specific litter conditions contribute to odour emissions from the litter and production sheds. Existing knowledge on odorants, odour formation mechanisms and emission processes that contribute to odour emissions from litter are reviewed. Litter moisture content and water thermodynamics (i.e. water activity, Aw) are also examined as factors that contribute to microbial odour formation, physical litter conditions and the exchange of individual odorant gases at the air-water interface. Substantial opportunities exist for future research on litter conditions and litter formation mechanisms and how these contribute to odour emissions. Closing this knowledge gap will improve management strategies that intercept and interfere with odour formation and emission processes leading to an overall reduction in the potential to cause community impacts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark W Dunlop
- Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, Queensland Government, Toowoomba, Qld 4350, Australia; University of New South Wales, School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia; Poultry CRC, PO Box U242, University of New England, Armidale, NSW 2351, Australia.
| | - Patrick J Blackall
- Poultry CRC, PO Box U242, University of New England, Armidale, NSW 2351, Australia; The University of Queensland, Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation, St Lucia, Brisbane 4067, Australia
| | - Richard M Stuetz
- University of New South Wales, School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
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13
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Mendes PM, Becker R, Corrêa LB, Bianchi I, Dai Prá MA, Lucia T, Corrêa EK. Phytotoxicity as an indicator of stability of broiler production residues. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2016; 167:156-9. [PMID: 26686067 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2015.11.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2015] [Revised: 11/09/2015] [Accepted: 11/13/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Beddings used for successive broiler lots act as substrate to absorb water and feed from the excreta and may be subsequently used as agricultural fertilizers. This study evaluated the physicochemical characteristics and the phytotoxicity of beddings used to raise five consecutive broiler lots in five aviaries. Samples were collected for beddings not used yet and for beddings used at each of the five broiler lots. Lettuce and cucumber seeds were considered as phytotoxicity bioindicators. As beddings were used for greater number of lots, N, Ca, K, Mg and P contents generally increased, but the C content decreased, the pH alkalinized and humidity was reduced (P < 0.05). The germination index for lettuce and cucumber seeds was reduced with increased bedding (P < 0.05). Beddings used for at least five broiler lots presented decreased C:N ratio and would not recommended for agricultural use due to its toxicity for both tested seeds.
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Affiliation(s)
- P M Mendes
- Centro de Desenvolvimento Tecnológico, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Pelotas, RS, Brazil
| | - R Becker
- Centro de Engenharias, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Pelotas, RS, Brazil
| | - L B Corrêa
- Centro de Engenharias, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Pelotas, RS, Brazil
| | - I Bianchi
- ReproPel, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Pelotas, RS, Brazil
| | | | - T Lucia
- ReproPel, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Pelotas, RS, Brazil
| | - E K Corrêa
- Centro de Engenharias, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Pelotas, RS, Brazil.
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14
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Miles DM, Moore PA, Burns RT, Brooks JP. Ammonia and nitrous oxide emissions from a commercial broiler house. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY 2014; 43:1119-1124. [PMID: 25603060 DOI: 10.2134/jeq2013.09.0390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Complex variation in gas emissions from animal facilities has been shown in recent research reports. Uncertainties in these emission estimates are driving research activities concerning different animal species across the globe. Greenhouse gas (NO and CO) and NH concentrations were measured in a modern, tunnel-ventilated, commercial broiler house in Mississippi during five flocks (spanning approximately 1 yr). These were flocks 9 through 13 on reused pine shavings litter, representing litter reuse beyond 2 yr. Gas concentrations obtained from a photoacoustic multigas analyzer were coupled with ventilation measurements of air flow through the house to develop NH and NO emission rates. Ammonia emission during a flock (43 d) averaged approximately 14.8 ± 9.8 kg d in the commercial house (equivalent to 23.5 g bird marketed or 0.54 g bird d). Nitrous oxide emission averaged 2.3 ± 1.7 kg d in the house (equivalent to 3.64 g bird marketed or 0.085 g bird d). Emission rates increased with time from Day 1 to Day 43 and reached average values on Day 23 and 24 for NH and NO. Even with extended litter reuse, estimates of NH emissions from the broiler house agree well with recently published research that reused litter in eight or fewer flocks. This is important information for farmers who may not be able to afford to replace the litter with fresh bedding material annually.
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15
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van der Hoeven-Hangoor E, Rademaker CJ, Paton ND, Verstegen MWA, Hendriks WH. Evaluation of free water and water activity measurements as functional alternatives to total moisture content in broiler excreta and litter samples. Poult Sci 2014; 93:1782-92. [PMID: 24812231 DOI: 10.3382/ps.2013-03776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Litter moisture contents vary greatly between and within practical poultry barns. The current experiment was designed to measure the effects of 8 different dietary characteristics on litter and excreta moisture content. Additionally, free water content and water activity of the excreta and litter were evaluated as additional quality measures. The dietary treatments consisted of nonstarch polysaccharide content (NSP; corn vs. wheat), particle size of insoluble fiber (coarse vs. finely ground oat hulls), viscosity of a nonfermentable fiber (low- and high-viscosity carboxymethyl cellulose), inclusion of a clay mineral (sepiolite), and inclusion of a laxative electrolyte (MgSO4). The 8 treatments were randomly assigned to cages within blocks, resulting in 12 replicates per treatment with 6 birds per replicate. Limited effects of the dietary treatments were noted on excreta and litter water activity, and indications were observed that this measurement is limited in high-moisture samples. Increasing dietary NSP content by feeding a corn-based diet (low NSP) compared with a wheat-based diet (high NSP) increased water intake, excreta moisture and free water, and litter moisture content. Adding insoluble fibers to the wheat-based diet reduced excreta and litter moisture content, as well as litter water activity. Fine grinding of the oat hulls diminished the effect on litter moisture and water activity. However, excreta moisture and free water content were similar when fed finely or coarsely ground oat hulls. The effects of changing viscosity and adding a clay mineral or laxative deviated from results observed in previous studies. Findings of the current experiment indicate a potential for excreta free water measurement as an additional parameter to assess excreta quality besides total moisture. The exact implication of this parameter warrants further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - C J Rademaker
- Animal Nutrition Group, Wageningen University, PO Box 338, NL-6700 AH Wageningen, the Netherlands
| | - N D Paton
- Cargill Animal Nutrition, 10 Nutrition Way, Brookville, OH 45309
| | - M W A Verstegen
- Animal Nutrition Group, Wageningen University, PO Box 338, NL-6700 AH Wageningen, the Netherlands
| | - W H Hendriks
- Animal Nutrition Group, Wageningen University, PO Box 338, NL-6700 AH Wageningen, the Netherlands; Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 1, NL-3584 CL Utrecht, the Netherlands
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16
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Lima IM, Boykin DL, Thomas Klasson K, Uchimiya M. Influence of post-treatment strategies on the properties of activated chars from broiler manure. CHEMOSPHERE 2014; 95:96-104. [PMID: 24025533 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2013.08.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2012] [Revised: 08/05/2013] [Accepted: 08/08/2013] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
There are a myriad of carbonaceous precursors that can be used advantageously to produce activated carbons or chars, due to their low cost, availability and intrinsic properties. Because of the nature of the raw material, production of granular activated chars from broiler manure results in a significant ash fraction. This study was conducted to determine the influence of several pre- and post-treatment strategies in various physicochemical and adsorptive properties of the resulting activated chars. Pelletized samples of broiler litter and cake were pyrolyzed at 700 °C for 1h followed by a 45 min steam activation at 800 °C at different water flow rates from 1 to 5 mL min(-1). For each activation strategy, samples were either water-rinsed or acid-washed and rinsed or used as is (no acid wash/rinse). Activated char's physicochemical and adsorptive properties towards copper ions were selectively affected by both pre- and post-treatments. Percent ash reduction after either rinsing or acid washing ranged from 1.1 to 15.1% but washed activated chars were still alkaline with pH ranging from 8.4 to 9.1. Acid washing or water rinsing had no significant effect in the ability of the activated char to adsorb copper ions, however it significantly affected surface area, pH, ash content and carbon content. Instead, manure type (litter versus cake) and the activation water flow rate were determining factors in copper ion adsorption which ranged from 38 mg g(-1) to 104 mg g(-1) of activated char. Moreover, strong positive correlations were found between copper uptake and concentration of certain elements in the activated char such as phosphorous, sulfur, calcium and sodium. Rinsing could suffice as a post treatment strategy for ash reduction since no significant differences in the carbon properties were observed between rinsed and acid wash treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabel M Lima
- USDA ARS, Southern Regional Research Center, 1100 Robert E. Lee Blvd, New Orleans, LA 70124, United States.
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17
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Miles D, Brooks J, McLaughlin M, Rowe D. Broiler litter ammonia emissions near sidewalls, feeders, and waterers. Poult Sci 2013; 92:1693-8. [DOI: 10.3382/ps.2012-02809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
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18
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Miles D, Rowe D, Cathcart T. Litter ammonia generation: Moisture content and organic versus inorganic bedding materials. Poult Sci 2011; 90:1162-9. [DOI: 10.3382/ps.2010-01113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
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19
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Miles DM, Brooks JP, Sistani K. Spatial contrasts of seasonal and intraflock broiler litter trace gas emissions, physical and chemical properties. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY 2011; 40:176-187. [PMID: 21488506 DOI: 10.2134/jeq2010.0055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
Comprehensive mitigation strategies for gaseous emissions from broiler operations requires knowledge of the litters' physical and chemical properties, gas evolution, bird effects, as well as broiler house management and structure. This research estimated broiler litter surface fluxes for ammonia (NH3), nitrous oxide (N2O), and carbon dioxide (CO2). Ancillary measurements of litter temperature, litter total N, ammonium (NH4+), total C content, moisture, and pH were also made. Grid sampling was imposed over the floor area of two commercial broiler houses at the beginning (Day 1), middle (Day 23), and end (Day 43) of a winter and subsequent summer flock housed on reused pine shavings litter. The grid was composed of 36 points, three locations across the width, and 12 locations down the length of the houses. To observe feeder and waterer (F/W) influences on the parameters, eight additional sample locations were added in a crisscross pattern among these automated supply lines. Color variograms illustrate the nature of parameter changes within each flock and between seasons. Overall trends for the NH3, N2O, and CO2 gas fluxes indicate an increase in magnitude with bird age during a flock for both summer and winter, but flux estimates were reduced in areas where compacted litter (i.e., caked litter or cake) formed at the end of the flocks (at F/W locations and in the fan area). End of flock gas fluxes were estimated at 1040 mg NH3 m(-2) h(-1), 20 mg N2O m(-2) h(-1), and 24,200 mg CO2 m(-2) h(-1) in winter; and 843 mg NH3 m(-2) h(-1), 18 mg N2O m(-2) h(-1)), and 27,200 mg CO2 m(-2) h(-1) in summer. The results of intensive sample efforts during winter and summer flocks, reported visually using contour plots, offer a resource to the poultry industry and researchers for creating new management strategies for improving production and controlling gas evolution. Particularly, efforts could focus on designing housing systems that minimize extremes in litter compaction. The extremes are undesirable with more friable litter prone to greater gas evolution and more compacted litter providing a slippery, disease-sustaining surface.
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Affiliation(s)
- D M Miles
- USDA-ARS, Genetics and Precision Agric. Res. Unit, Mississippi State, MS 39762, USA.
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Sistani KR, Torbert HA, Way TR, Bolster CH, Pote DH, Warren JG. Broiler litter application method and runoff timing effects on nutrient and Escherichia coli losses from tall fescue pasture. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY 2009; 38:1216-1223. [PMID: 19398519 DOI: 10.2134/jeq2008.0185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
The inability to incorporate manure into permanent pasture leads to the concentration of nutrients near the soil surface with the potential to be transported off site by runoff water. In this study, we used rainfall simulations to examine the effect of broiler chicken (Gallus gallus domesticus) litter application method and the runoff timing on nutrient and E. coli losses from tall fescue (Festuca arundinacea Schreb.) pasture on a Hartsells sandy loam soil (fine-loamy, siliceous, subactive, thermic Typic Hapludults)) in Crossville, AL. Treatments included two methods of litter application (surface broadcast and subsurface banding), commercial fertilizer, and control. Litter was applied at a rate of 8.97 Mg ha(-1). Treatments were assigned to 48 plots with four blocks (12 plots each) arranged in a randomized complete block design to include three replications in each block. Simulated rainfall was applied to treatments as follows: Day 1, block 1 (runoff 1); Day 8, block 2 (runoff 2); Day 15, block 3 (runoff 3); and Day 22, block 4 (runoff 4). Total phosphorus (TP), inorganic N, and Escherichia coli concentrations in runoff from broadcast litter application were all significantly greater than from subsurface litter banding. The TP losses from broadcast litter applications averaged 6.8 times greater than those from subsurface litter applications. About 81% of the runoff TP was in the form of dissolved reactive phosphorus (DRP) for both litter-application methods. The average losses of NO(3)-N and total suspended solids (TSS) from subsurface banding plots were 160 g ha(-1) and 22 kg ha(-1) compared to 445 g ha(-1) and 69 kg ha(-1) for the broadcast method, respectively. Increasing the time between litter application and the first runoff event helped decrease nutrient and E. coli losses from surface broadcast litter, but those losses generally remained significantly greater than controls and subsurface banded, regardless of runoff timing. This study shows that subsurface litter banding into perennial grassland can substantially reduce nutrient and pathogen losses in runoff compared to the traditional surface-broadcast practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- K R Sistani
- USDA-ARS, Animal Waste Management Research Unit, 230 Bennett Lane, Bowling Green, KY 42104, USA.
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Necrotic enteritis in chickens: A paradigm of enteric infection by Clostridium perfringens type A. Anaerobe 2009; 15:55-60. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anaerobe.2009.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 124] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2008] [Revised: 11/24/2008] [Accepted: 01/16/2009] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
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Tall Fescue Fertilized with Alum-Treated and Untreated Broiler Litter: Runoff, Soil, and Plant Nutrient Content. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2006. [DOI: 10.1300/j064v28n03_09] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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23
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Singh A, Bicudo J, Tinoco A, Tinoco I, Gates R, Casey K, Pescatore A. Characterization of Nutrients in Built-up Broiler Litter Using Trench and Random Walk Sampling Methods. J APPL POULTRY RES 2004. [DOI: 10.1093/japr/13.3.426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
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