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This research aimed to determine the impact of the identical inoculant mixture of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) on the silage quality of five different corn hybrids (Zea mays), which were ensiled separately. The hybrids (Pioneer Hi-Bred DuPont) differed in terms of FAO maturity group (from early H1, mid-early H2, medium H3, mid-late H4 to late H5). The inoculant consisted of a mixture homofermentative and heterofermentative LAB: Lactobacillus buchneri, Lactobacillus plantarum, and Enterococcus faecium. Ensiling was done in laboratory conditions, where the green mass of corn hybrids was ensiled with and without LAB. The process of ensiling lasted 60 days. The addition of the inoculant had a significant positive effect on the content of crude protein (CP, P<0.05) and non-fiber carbohydrates (NFC, P<0.05) in the silages obtained. Application of the inoculant also reduced acid detergent lignin, P<0.05) in the experimental silages. The chemical characteristics of the hybrids and inoculant composition affected the energy content. However, a positive influence of LAB inoculation on net energy for lactation (NEL) content was only determined in early-maturity hybrid H1 (P<0.05). This silage had the highest value for NEL concentration, with the lowest Neutral Detergent Fiber (aNDF) and acid detergent lignin (ADL) content. The addition of LAB inoculates influenced the health safety of the silages by increasing the content of acetic acid, with the potential of extending the duration of their aerobic stability and resistance to microbial degradation., Cilj istraživanja bio je utvrditi utjecaj identične inokulantne smjese bakterija mliječne kiseline (LAB) na kvalitetu silaže pet različitih hibrida kukuruza (Zea mays). Hibridi (Pioneer Hi-Bred DuPont) razlikovali su se prema FAO skupini zrelosti (od ranog H1, sredine ranog H2, srednjeg H3, srednjeg kraja H4 do kasnog H5). Inokulant se sastojao od mješavine homofermentativnog i heterofermentativnog LAB-a: Lactobacillus buchneri, Lactobacillus plantarum i Enterococcus faecium. Siliranje je obavljeno u laboratorijskim uvjetima, gdje je zelena masa hibrida kukuruza odvojeno silirana sa i bez LAB-a. Proces siliranja trajao je 60 dana. Dodavanje inokulanta imalo je znakovito pozitivan učinak na sadržaj sirovih proteina (CP, P<0,05) i ugljikohidrata bez vlakana (NFC, P<0,05) u dobivenim silažama. Primjena inokulanta također je smanjila sadržaj lignina (ADL- kiselinski deterdžent lignin, P<0,05) u eksperimentalnim silažama. Kemijska svojstva hibrida i sastav inokulanata utjecali su na energetski sadržaj. Međutim, pozitivan utjecaj LAB inokulacije na sadržaj NEL (neto energija za laktaciju) određen je samo u hibridu H1 rane zrelosti (P<0,05). Ova silaža imala je najveću vrijednost za koncentraciju NEL-a, s najnižim sadržajem aNDF-a (neutralna vlakna deterdženta) i ADL-om. Dodavanje LAB inokulanta utjecalo je na zdravstvenu sigurnost silaže povećanjem sadržaja octene kiseline, s potencijalom produljenja trajanja aerobne stabilnosti i otpornosti na razgradnju mikroba.

Problem otpada je rastući problem u svetu. Većina svetskih propisa ograničava mogućnost deponovanja otpada i bezbedno upravljanje otpadom preusmerava na insineratore tj. spalionice otpada. Verovanje da će spaljivanjem otpad nestati, dovelo je do masovne insineracije kao široko rasprostranjene metode “odlaganja” svih vrsta otpada, uključujući i opasan otpad kakav je medicinski i hemijski. Insineracijom se smanjuje zapremina otpada, uništavaju se bakterije i virusi. Nažalost, spaljivanje nije “čist“ proces i pored emisije gasova dolazi do stvaranja velike količine pepela čije čestice na sebi nose veoma toksične polutante kao što su polihlorovani dibenzo dioksini (PCDDi), polihlorovani dibenzo furani (PCDFi). Radi se o nepolarnim, lipofilnim jedinjenjima koja se lako akumuliraju u životnoj sredini, veoma su postojani zbog čega predstavljaju opasnost po zdravlje ljudi. Osim u procesu insineracije mogu nastati i u toku velikih šumskih požara ili u toku nekih industrijskih procesa kao što je proizvodnja pesticida. U lanac ishrane životinja dospevaju putem kontaminarane hrane tj. zemljišta i biljaka koje ih bioakumuliraju. U lanac hrane ljudi dospevaju preko namirnica animalnog porekla kao što su jaja, meso i životinjske masti. Zbog velikog toksičnog i karcinogenog potencijala propisan je čitav niz mera kontrole prisustva ovih veoma toksičnih jedinjenja u životnoj sredini kao i hrani za ljude i životinje.

Tokom poslednjih 40 godina, upotreba dopunskih masti i ulja u obrocima visokomlečnih krava postala je standardna praksa. Masti se dodaju sa ciljem povećanja energetske gustine obroka. Povećani unos energije trebalo bi da poboljša energetsku ravnotežu, kondiciju, poveća proizvodnju mleka, poboljša reprodukciju i poveća sadržaj mlečne masti. Mlečne krave konzumiraju hranu koja pretežno sadrži polinezasićene masti (PUFA) kao deo biljnih triglicerida i glikolipida. Nezasićene masne kiseline su toksične bakterije buraga, posebno one koje su uključene u varenje celuloze. Negativni efekti nezasićenih masti na m.o. koji vare vlakna su glavni razlog zašto se velike količine „slobodnih“ biljnih ulja ne mogu davati mlečnim kravama. U mlečnoj masti krava, palmitinska kiselina (16:0) je najčešća masna kiselina, ujedno je i najzastupljenija masna kiselina u palminom ulju, po kojoj i dobija ime. Raznovrsni dodaci masti danas su dostupni za mlečne krave. Tzv „inertne masti“ imaju manji uticaj na fermentaciju buraga nego klasične masti, druga velika prednost komercijalnih masti je ta što su to „suve“ masti kojima se može lakše rukovati. Postoje tri glavne strategije za proizvodnju inertnih masti. Prva je povećanje zasićenosti masnih kiselina tako da tačka topljenja bude iznad opsega temperature okoline, ovo smanjuje rastvorljivost i potencijalnu interakciju masti sa m.o. buraga. Druga strategija je vezivanje masne kiseline sa kalcijumom da bi se formirali kalcijumovi sapuni. Budući da je slobodna masna kiselina potrebna za biohidrogenizaciju i interakciju sa m.o., vezivanje masnih kiselina u sapun sprečava ovu interakciju. Konačno, masti mogu biti „inkapsulirane“ na različite načine kako bi se fizički sprečila interakcija sa m.o. buraga. Od pomenutih strategija, samo prve dve su trenutno u komercijalnoj upotrebi. Podaci iz brojnih istraživačkih studija ukazuju na malu razliku u svarljivosti između prve dve vrste inertnih masti, sa malom prednošću za kalcijumove sapune.

Tokom poslednjih 40 godina, upotreba dopunskih masti i ulja u obrocima visokomlečnih krava postala je standardna praksa. Masti se dodaju sa ciljem povećanja energetske gustine obroka. Povećani unos energije trebalo bi da poboljša energetsku ravnotežu, kondiciju, poveća proizvodnju mleka, poboljša reprodukciju i poveća sadržaj mlečne masti. Mlečne krave konzumiraju hranu koja pretežno sadrži polinezasićene masti (PUFA) kao deo biljnih triglicerida i glikolipida. Nezasićene masne kiseline su toksične bakterije buraga, posebno one koje su uključene u varenje celuloze. Negativni efekti nezasićenih masti na m.o. koji vare vlakna su glavni razlog zašto se velike količine „slobodnih“ biljnih ulja ne mogu davati mlečnim kravama. U mlečnoj masti krava, palmitinska kiselina (16:0) je najčešća masna kiselina, ujedno je i najzastupljenija masna kiselina u palminom ulju, po kojoj i dobija ime. Raznovrsni dodaci masti danas su dostupni za mlečne krave. Tzv „inertne masti“ imaju manji uticaj na fermentaciju buraga nego klasične masti, druga velika prednost komercijalnih masti je ta što su to „suve“ masti kojima se može lakše rukovati. Postoje tri glavne strategije za proizvodnju inertnih masti. Prva je povećanje zasićenosti masnih kiselina tako da tačka topljenja bude iznad opsega temperature okoline, ovo smanjuje rastvorljivost i potencijalnu interakciju masti sa m.o. buraga. Druga strategija je vezivanje masne kiseline sa kalcijumom da bi se formirali kalcijumovi sapuni. Budući da je slobodna masna kiselina potrebna za biohidrogenizaciju i interakciju sa m.o., vezivanje masnih kiselina u sapun sprečava ovu interakciju. Konačno, masti mogu biti „inkapsulirane“ na različite načine kako bi se fizički sprečila interakcija sa m.o. buraga. Od pomenutih strategija, samo prve dve su trenutno u komercijalnoj upotrebi. Podaci iz brojnih istraživačkih studija ukazuju na malu razliku u svarljivosti između prve dve vrste inertnih masti, sa malom prednošću za kalcijumove sapune.

U savremenoj živinarskoj proizvodnji koriste se brojni programi kojima se “namerno” izaziva ograničavanje rasta u određenom periodu, nakon čega životinja ispoljava ubrzani rast. Pored poboljšanja intenziteta porasta, na ovaj način mogu se ostvariti i drugi efekti, poput poboljšanja konverzije hrane, manjeg deponovanja masnog tkiva u telu životinje i smanjenja ukupnih troškova proizvodnje. Novija istraživanja potvrdila su i njihov pozitivan uticaj u kontroli nastanka pojedinih metaboličkih poremećaja (ascites, sindrom iznenadne smrti i tibijalna dishondroplazija). Najčešća tehnika za ograničavanje rasta brojlera predstavlja kontrolisano smanjenje unosa hrane tokom ranog perioda tova. To se postiže primenom različitih programa kvantitativne i kvalitativne restrikcije unosa hrane, odnosno hranljivih materija. Bez obzira na vrstu primenjenog programa uvek treba biti veoma oprezan, s obzirom da veliki broj faktora utiče na sposobnost jedinke da ispolji kompenzatorni rast i ostvari dobre proizvodne rezultate. Pri tome je posebno važno pronaći optimalan odnos između intenziteta i dužine trajanja ograničenog unosa hrane. Takođe, treba uzeti u obzir da, ukoliko se primenom određenog programa restrikcije ne ostvare uvek zadovoljavajući efekti u pogledu ostvarenih proizvodnih rezultata, ne treba ih odmah odbaciti kao neefikasne. Naime, potrebno je razmotriti njihovu ekonomsku isplativost, odnosno utvrditi da li tržišna cena dobijenog proizvoda (živinskog mesa) sa smanjenim sadržajem masti opravdava nižu telesnu masu brojlera ostvarenu na kraju tova.

This experimental study was conducted to determine the ability of a novel mycotoxins detoxification agent (MR) at a concentration of 0.2% to reduce the toxicity of aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) or T-2 toxin, alone or in combination, and to examine its effect on performance, pathohistological changes (PH) and the residue of these toxins in the tissues of broiler chicks. A total of 96 broiler chicks were divided into eight equal groups: group C, which served as control (without any additives); group MR, which received the novel detoxification agent (supplemented with 0.2%); group E-I (0.1 mg AFB1/kg of diet); group E-II (0.1 mg AFB1/kg of diet + MR 0.2%); group E-III (0.5 mg T-2 toxin/kg of diet); group E-IV (0.5 mg T-2 toxin/kg of diet + 0.2% MR); group E-V (combination of 0.1 mg AFB1/kg, 0.5 mg T-2 toxin/kg of diet); and group E-VI (combination of 0.1 mg AFB1/kg, 0.5 mg T-2 toxin + 0.2% MR). Results indicate that feeds containing AFB1 and T-2 toxin, alone or in combination, adversely affected the health and performance of poultry. However, the addition of MR to diets containing AFB1 and T-2 toxin singly and in combination exerted a positive effect on body weight, feed intake, weight gain, feed efficiency and microscopic lesions in visceral organs. Residual concentration of AFB1 in liver samples was significantly (p < 0.05) decreased when chicks were fed diets supplemented with 0.2% of MR.

The gut of food-producing animals is a reservoir for foodborne pathogens. Thymol is bactericidal against foodborne pathogens but rapid absorption of thymol from the proximal gut precludes the delivery of effective concentrations to the lower gut where pathogens mainly colonize. Thymol-β-d-glucopyranoside is reported to be more resistant to absorption than thymol in everted jejunal segments and could potentially function as a prebiotic by resisting degradation and absorption in the proximal gut but being hydrolysable by microbial β-glycosidase in the distal gut. Previous in vitro studies showed bactericidal effects of thymol-β-d-glucopyranoside against Campylobacter, Escherichia coli, and Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium in the presence but not absence of intestinal microbes expressing β-glycosidase activity, indicating that hydrolysis was required to obtain antimicrobial activity. Presently, the oral administration of thymol-β-d-glucopyranoside was studied to examine the effects on intestinal carriage of Campylobacter, E. coli, and S. Typhimurium in swine. The effects of thymol-β-d-glucopyranoside or thymol on antimicrobial sensitivity of representative E. coli isolates and characterized Salmonella strains were also explored. Results from two in vivo studies revealed little antimicrobial effects of thymol-β-d-glucopyranoside on Campylobacter, E. coli, or S. Typhimurium in swine gut. These findings add credence to current thinking that hydrolysis and absorption of thymol-β-d-glucopyranoside and thymol may be sufficiently rapid within the proximal gut to preclude delivery to the distal gut. Antibiotic susceptibilities of selected bacterial isolates and strains were mainly unaffected by thymol. Further research is warranted to overcome obstacles, preventing the delivery of efficacious amounts of thymol-β-d-glucopyranoside to the lower gut.

Strategies are sought to reduce the carriage and dissemination of zoonotic pathogens and antimicrobial-resistant microbes within food-producing animals and their production environment. Thymol (an essential oil) is a potent bactericide in vitro but in vivo efficacy has been inconsistent, largely due to its lipophilicity and absorption, which limits its passage and subsequent availability in the distal gastrointestinal tract. Conjugation of thymol to glucose to form thymol-β-d-glucopyranoside can decrease its absorption, but in vivo passage of effective concentrations to the lower gut remains suboptimal. Considering that contemporary swine diets often contain 5% or more added fat (to increase caloric density and reduce dustiness), we hypothesized that there may be sufficient residual fat in the distal intestinal tract to sequester free or conjugated thymol, thereby limiting the availability and subsequent effectiveness of this biocide. In support of this hypothesis, the anti-Salmonella Typhimurium effects of 6 mM free or conjugated thymol, expressed as log10-fold reductions of colony-forming units (CFU) ml−1, were diminished 90 and 58%, respectively, following 24-h in vitro anaerobic fecal incubation (at 39°C) with 3% added vegetable oil compared to reductions achieved during culture without added oil (6.1 log10 CFU ml−1). The antagonistic effect of vegetable oil and the bactericidal effect of free and conjugated thymol against Escherichia coli K88 tested similarly were diminished 86 and 84%, respectively, compared to reductions achieved in cultures incubated without added vegetable oil (5.7 log10 CFU ml−1). Inclusion of taurine (8 mg/ml), bile acids (0.6 mg/ml), or emulsifiers such as polyoxyethylene-40 stearate (0.2%), Tween 20, or Tween 80 (each at 1%) in the in vitro incubations had little effect on vegetable oil-caused inhibition of free or conjugated thymol. Based on these results, it seems reasonable to suspect that undigested lipid in the distal gut may limit

Th e aim of this study was to determine the eff ect of supplementing food with various concentrations of organic selenium (0.2 and 0.3 mg/kg diet) on the biochemical and haematological parameters of blood and the qual-ity of breast meat of 45 pheasants. Th e pheasants were divided into three groups and fed mixtures containing organic selenium supplementation in the concentrations of 0.2 mg/kg (1st group) and 0.3 mg/kg (2nd group) and a mixture without selenium in a control group (K). Aft er 60 days of the ex-periment, it was determined that the average values of selenium content in the breast meat and blood serum of the 2nd group of pheasants which were fed 0.3 mg/kg of organic selenium were signifi cantly higher (p < 0.05) than the same parameters of the pheasants from K group. Th e pheasants from the 2nd group also had better sensory traits of meat and they had the highest diff erence of the sum of the ranks of meat acceptability. Th e diff erence was by 15 points higher than that in the K group and 7 points higher than in the meat of the pheasants from the 1st group that fed 0.2 mg/kg of selenium. Th e addition of organic selenium supplementation to the diet for the 2nd group of pheasants (0.3 mg/kg) increased the water retention capacity in breast meat by 0.75% compared to the K group, namely by 0.58% in comparison to the 1st group. Th e average values of chemical parameters of meat (pH, water, fat, proteins and ash content), haematological parameters of pheasant blood (number of erythrocytes, leucocytes and platelets, haemoglobin and haem-atocrit values) and biochemical parameters of blood serum (glucose, en-zymes: aspartate transaminase and alanine aminotransferase, total protein concentration, total cholesterol albumin, triglycerides, calcium, potassium and sodium) were within the limits of reference values for pheasants and very uniform without signifi cant variations among experimental groups.

An adequate accommodation of sport horses implies the appliance of all construction, zootechnical and hygienic norms. Stables for horses should provide optimal microclimatic conditions for horses, social contact with other horses, unrestricted access to food and water, as well as to reduce the risk to injury to a minimum. Stables are essential for wellbeing of horses, because they spend a significant part of the day in them. Lights, temperature, humidity, air flow, concentration of gases and dust, hygiene and noise intensity in the areas where the animals are, must be within limits that are not harmful for horses. Satisfying optimal microclimatic conditions in the horse stables represent one of the most important items when projecting a facility. The aim of this paper is to highlight the significance of adequate accommodation for horses in accordance with the natural ethological characteristics of horses as well as to describe the most important ambient parameters in the closed type facilities.

Th e aim of this study was to determine the eff ect of supplementing food with various concentrations of organic selenium (0.2 and 0.3 mg/kg diet) on the biochemical and haematological parameters of blood and the qual-ity of breast meat of 45 pheasants. Th e pheasants were divided into three groups and fed mixtures containing organic selenium supplementation in the concentrations of 0.2 mg/kg (1st group) and 0.3 mg/kg (2nd group) and a mixture without selenium in a control group (K). Aft er 60 days of the ex-periment, it was determined that the average values of selenium content in the breast meat and blood serum of the 2nd group of pheasants which were fed 0.3 mg/kg of organic selenium were signifi cantly higher (p < 0.05) than the same parameters of the pheasants from K group. Th e pheasants from the 2nd group also had better sensory traits of meat and they had the highest diff erence of the sum of the ranks of meat acceptability. Th e diff erence was by 15 points higher than that in the K group and 7 points higher than in the meat of the pheasants from the 1st group that fed 0.2 mg/kg of selenium. Th e addition of organic selenium supplementation to the diet for the 2nd group of pheasants (0.3 mg/kg) increased the water retention capacity in breast meat by 0.75% compared to the K group, namely by 0.58% in comparison to the 1st group. Th e average values of chemical parameters of meat (pH, water, fat, proteins and ash content), haematological parameters of pheasant blood (number of erythrocytes, leucocytes and platelets, haemoglobin and haem-atocrit values) and biochemical parameters of blood serum (glucose, en-zymes: aspartate transaminase and alanine aminotransferase, total protein concentration, total cholesterol albumin, triglycerides, calcium, potassium and sodium) were within the limits of reference values for pheasants and very uniform without signifi cant variations among experimental groups.

The aim of the research was to evaluate the carcass characteristics and meat quality from chickens fed on diets in which fish meal was substituted with raw earthworms (Lumbricus rubellus) or earthworm meal. In the trial which lasted 42-days, 100 one-day-old Hybro broilers were divided into the control and three experimental groups. The control group was fed on standard broiler feed, the first (E-I) and the second experimental groups (E-II) were fed a diet in which 50% or 100% of fish meal was substituted with earthworm meal, respectively, whilst the third group (E-III) consumed feed without fish meal, but was given raw chopped earthworms ad libitum from day 1 to day 42. The replacement of fish meal with fresh earthworms resulted in significantly lower carcass weights in the E-III group in comparison with the control group (p lt 0.05). The differences in drumstick, thigh and breast meat share relative to the carcass mass were not significant (p>0.05). The lowest fat content in thigh and breast meat was in the group in which fish meal was replaced with earthworm meal. The lightness (L*) of thigh and breast meat was highest in the broilers fed fresh earthworms ad libitum. No significant differences in pH value were detected between the experimental groups (p>0.05). The most consumer acceptable were drumstick samples from E-II group and the least acceptable samples from the control group. Earthworm meal may be considered an adequate substitute for fish meal in broiler chickens' diet since it does not impair the production performance, carcass yield and meat quality.

The aim of the research was to evaluate the carcass characteristics and meat quality from chickens fed on diets in which fish meal was substituted with raw earthworms (Lumbricus rubellus) or earthworm meal. In the trial which lasted 42-days, 100 one-day-old Hybro broilers were divided into the control and three experimental groups. The control group was fed on standard broiler feed, the first (E-I) and the second experimental groups (E-II) were fed a diet in which 50% or 100% of fish meal was substituted with earthworm meal, respectively, whilst the third group (E-III) consumed feed without fish meal, but was given raw chopped earthworms ad libitum from day 1 to day 42. The replacement of fish meal with fresh earthworms resulted in significantly lower carcass weights in the E-III group in comparison with the control group (p<0.05). The differences in drumstick, thigh and breast meat share relative to the carcass mass were not significant (p>0.05). The lowest fat content in thigh and breast meat was in the group in which fish meal was replaced with earthworm meal. The lightness (L*) of thigh and breast meat was highest in the broilers fed fresh earthworms ad libitum. No significant differences in pH value were detected between the experimental groups (p>0.05). The most consumer acceptable were drumstick samples from E-II group and the least acceptable samples from the control group. Earthworm meal may be considered an adequate substitute for fish meal in broiler chickens diet since it does not impair the production performance, carcass yield and meat quality.

The aim of the research was to evaluate the carcass characteristics and meat quality from chickens fed on diets in which fish meal was substituted with raw earthworms (Lumbricus rubellus) or earthworm meal. In the trial which lasted 42-days, 100 one-day-old Hybro broilers were divided into the control and three experimental groups. The control group was fed on standard broiler feed, the first (E-I) and the second experimental groups (E-II) were fed a diet in which 50% or 100% of fish meal was substituted with earthworm meal, respectively, whilst the third group (E-III) consumed feed without fish meal, but was given raw chopped earthworms ad libitum from day 1 to day 42. The replacement of fish meal with fresh earthworms resulted in significantly lower carcass weights in the E-III group in comparison with the control group (p<0.05). The differences in drumstick, thigh and breast meat share relative to the carcass mass were not significant (p>0.05). The lowest fat content in thigh and breast meat was in the group in which fish meal was replaced with earthworm meal. The lightness (L*) of thigh and breast meat was highest in the broilers fed fresh earthworms ad libitum. No significant differences in pH value were detected between the experimental groups (p>0.05). The most consumer acceptable were drumstick samples from E-II group and the least acceptable samples from the control group. Earthworm meal may be considered an adequate substitute for fish meal in broiler chickens diet since it does not impair the production performance, carcass yield and meat quality.

The aim of the research was to evaluate the carcass characteristics and meat quality from chickens fed on diets in which fish meal was substituted with raw earthworms (Lumbricus rubellus) or earthworm meal. In the trial which lasted 42-days, 100 one-day-old Hybro broilers were divided into the control and three experimental groups. The control group was fed on standard broiler feed, the first (E-I) and the second experimental groups (E-II) were fed a diet in which 50% or 100% of fish meal was substituted with earthworm meal, respectively, whilst the third group (E-III) consumed feed without fish meal, but was given raw chopped earthworms ad libitum from day 1 to day 42. The replacement of fish meal with fresh earthworms resulted in significantly lower carcass weights in the E-III group in comparison with the control group (p lt 0.05). The differences in drumstick, thigh and breast meat share relative to the carcass mass were not significant (p>0.05). The lowest fat content in thigh and breast meat was in the group in which fish meal was replaced with earthworm meal. The lightness (L*) of thigh and breast meat was highest in the broilers fed fresh earthworms ad libitum. No significant differences in pH value were detected between the experimental groups (p>0.05). The most consumer acceptable were drumstick samples from E-II group and the least acceptable samples from the control group. Earthworm meal may be considered an adequate substitute for fish meal in broiler chickens' diet since it does not impair the production performance, carcass yield and meat quality.

Fish, as the top of the trophic pyramid of aquatic ecosystems, are one of the most sensitive bioindicators for the presence of heavy metals in the aquatic ecosystems that inhabit them. Concentrations of cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), mercury (Hg) and zinc (Zn) were determined in the muscle tissue and liver of selected fish species from the Zapadna Morava River during 2013 and 2018, respectively. The aim of this paper was to obtain a more complete insight into the level of accumulation of heavy metals in the organism of fish, especially fish meat as an edible part that should satisfy the health safety for human consumption. Investigations of the concentration of the presence of heavy metals from Carassius auratus, Abramis brama and Squalius cephalus have revealed various bioaccumulation of heavy metals. Among the examined fish, the highest accumulation of heavy metals was found in Abramis brama, Carassius auratus and Squalius cephalus, respectively. In all fish for all four investigated heavy metals, higher concentrations were detected in the liver and less in fish muscle. Bioaccumulation of heavy metals had the following trend: Zn > Pb > Cd > Hg.The determined concentrations of the analyzed heavy metals in fish muscle were not within the permitted limits of the MAC national legislation of the Republic of Serbia. Meat of investigated fish species is not health-safe and hygienically correct for use in human nutrition (The Official Gazette Republic of Serbia No 22/2018 and No 90/2018). The content of tested heavy metals in fish meat indicates that in this aquatic ecosystem during the five year period there was no significant pollution with these heavy metals.

Coal is produced by heating organic matter under reduced oxygen supply, during this process, volatile components are formulated in the form of gas and the base of coal remains a constant component. This process is called pyrolysis. Coal is used in agriculture, medicine, cosmetics, and feed preparation where it is added for the prevention of toxin absorption. The aim of this study was to determine if and to what extent the addition of biochar in the nutrient mixture influenced the increase, the intake and feed conversion, as well as the concentration of glucose, total proteins and albumin in blood serum. The experiment included a total of 12 female calves, divided into two equal groups, control (C) and experimental (E), and lasted for 24 days. The C group beside milk consumed the concentrated feed without the addition of biochar, while the E group was fed milk plus concentrated feed supplemented with biochar in the amount of 0.25%. Body weight was measured at the beginning and at the end of the study. Blood samples were taken at the beginning and at the end of the study, for the determination of the concentration of total blood serum proteins and albumin at the beginning and at the end of the study, and for the determination of glucose at the end of the trial. The amount of the concentrated feed consumed was weighed at the end of the study. The addition of biochar in feed significantly increased the concentration of total blood serum proteins and albumin concentrations and lowered the blood serum glucose of the calves.

Fish, as the top of the trophic pyramid of aquatic ecosystems, are one of the most sensitive bioindicators for the presence of heavy metals in the aquatic ecosystems that inhabit them. Concentrations of cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), mercury (Hg) and zinc (Zn) were determined in the muscle tissue and liver of selected fish species from the Zapadna Morava River during 2013 and 2018, respectively. The aim of this paper was to obtain a more complete insight into the level of accumulation of heavy metals in the organism of fish, especially fish meat as an edible part that should satisfy the health safety for human consumption. Investigations of the concentration of the presence of heavy metals from Carassius auratus, Abramis brama and Squalius cephalus have revealed various bioaccumulation of heavy metals. Among the examined fish, the highest accumulation of heavy metals was found in Abramis brama, Carassius auratus and Squalius cephalus, respectively. In all fish for all four investigated heavy metals, higher concentrations were detected in the liver and less in fish muscle. Bioaccumulation of heavy metals had the following trend: Zn > Pb > Cd > Hg.The determined concentrations of the analyzed heavy metals in fish muscle were not within the permitted limits of the MAC national legislation of the Republic of Serbia. Meat of investigated fish species is not health-safe and hygienically correct for use in human nutrition (The Official Gazette Republic of Serbia No 22/2018 and No 90/2018). The content of tested heavy metals in fish meat indicates that in this aquatic ecosystem during the five year period there was no significant pollution with these heavy metals.

Lawsonia intracellularis is known to cause proliferative enteropathy (PE), one of the economically most important swine diseases with global distribution. Not unlike other enteric diseases, PE is a frequent indication for antibiotic therapy. However, their unjustified use leads to an emerging problem antimicrobial resistance. Thus, the aim of this research was to assess if a phytogenic additive may replace antibiotics in the control of PE in 144 weaned piglets (72 treated and 72 controls) naturally infected with L. intracellularis. The quantity of L intracellularis faecal shedding was monitored by real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay in faecal samples on day 0, 14 and 28, whilst the level of the ileum damage was determined by immunohistochemistry (IHC) assay performed on gut sections. Real-time PCR assay revealed that cycle-threshold (Ct) values in the treatment group increased significantly over time and were higher than in the control. These results indicate that the use of the phytogenic additive decreases the faecal excretion of L. intracellularis both throughout the experiment and in comparison to the control. The expression of the L. intracellularis antigen in IHC assay was lower in treated animals, implying that the additive leads to the decrease in the pathogen quantity in the ileum. Significantly higher feed conversion ratio was recorded in the treatment group. The results indicate that the phytogenic additive may be beneficial in the control of PE, but additional research is necessary to assess its use in various pig categories and define the optimum concentrations.

BACKGROUNDNigella sativa L. (NS) is a plant containing bioactive constituents such as thymoquinone. Extracts of NS improve performance and reduce enteropathogen colonization in poultry and small ruminants, but studies with swine are lacking. In two different studies oral administration of NS extracts at doses equivalent to 0, 1.5 and 4.5g kg(-1) diet was assessed on piglet performance and intestinal carriage of wildtype Escherichia coli and Campylobacter, and Salmonella Typhimurium. RESULTSWildtype E. coli populations in the jejunal and rectal content collected 9days after treatment began were decreased (P0.05). Populations recovered from pigs treated with extract at 1.5 and 4.5g kg(-1) diet were 0.72-1.31 log(10) units lower than the controls (ranging from 6.05 to 6.61 log(10) CFU g(-1)). Wildtype Campylobacter and Salmonella Typhimurium were unaffected by NS treatment. Feed efficiency over the 9days improved linearly (P<0.05) from 3.88 with 0 NS-treated pigs to 1.47 and 1.41 with pigs treated with NS at 1.5 and 4.5g kg(-1) diet, respectively, possibly due to high glutamine/glutamic acid content of the NS extract. CONCLUSIONNS supplementation of weanling pigs improved feed efficiency and helped control intestinal E. coli during this vulnerable production phase.

The aim of this study was to emphasize the importance of conservation of the Lipe sheep, as a local endangered type of Zackel breed, and to perform a comprehensive phenotypic characterization in order to ensure a better use and preservation of this genetic resource. In addition, we compared the results of a detailed morphometric characterization of the modern Lipe sheep carried out in the present study with the morphometric parameters of the native form of this breed described in 1935. The comparative analysis revealed the development dynamics of the local Lipe sheep in the traditional habitat, over a period of nearly one century. Throughout this period, different factors affecting Lipe sheep management, such as biogeografic, agro-economic, sociocultural and others, led to significant population erosion, and to the current status of the Lipe sheep as an endangered genetic resource. Although a slight increase has been registered in some body measurements, the major body indexes of the Lipe sheep, such as body format, body compactness, body massiveness, body proportion, pelvic, and head index, remained without significant fluctuations over the last century (p>0.05). Body length of the modern type still exceeds the height at withers, which was also recorded in the native Lipe sheep nearly 100 years ago. A prominent sexual dimorphism is still evident. Therefore, our comparative analysis showed no significant differences between the native and modern form of Lipe sheep in their body format and growth potential. The slight increases in absolute body measurements of the modern Lipe type we recorded could be linked to better housing conditions and improved quality of feed, without application of strategic selection measures over the last 100 years. The importance of conservation of this ovine resource is less economical, but mostly cultural, historical and heritage oriented, and still essential for the survival of the breed.

The aim of this trial was to determine the apparent and true total tract digestibility of phosphorus from monocalcium phosphate, as an inorganic P source in a broiler diet. The trial included 300 one-day-old broiler chickens (Cobb 500), which were randomly divided into three groups - by one hundred birds each. The experiment lasted 42 days, and was divided into three periods (days 1-21 for starter, days 21-35 for grower, and days 35-42 for finisher). One group of broilers was fed a diet without the addition of MCP (basal diet), and the other two experimental groups received different monocalcium phosphates. Cr2O3 was added to the diets at a 0.5% level as an indigestible marker. The production results (average body weight, average daily gain, feed intake and feed to gain ratio) were monitored during the trial. At day 11 and day 25, 10 birds from each group were placed into individual balance cages, in order to provide the collection of faeces during 5 consecutive days. The apparent and true total tract digestibility of P, as well as the apparent total tract digestibility of Ca were determined. Results showed that apparent total tract digestibility of P was influenced by the source of inorganic P (P<0.001). It was concluded that the utilisation of P was not significantly affected by the age of broilers, and the level of digested Ca did not represent the limiting factor for P digestibility in this experiment.

The aim of this trial was to determine the apparent and true total tract digestibility of phosphorus from monocalcium phosphate, as an inorganic P source in a broiler diet. The trial included 300 one-day-old broiler chickens (Cobb 500), which were randomly divided into three groups - by one hundred birds each. The experiment lasted 42 days, and was divided into three periods (days 1-21 for starter, days 21-35 for grower, and days 35-42 for finisher). One group of broilers was fed a diet without the addition of MCP (basal diet), and the other two experimental groups received different monocalcium phosphates. Cr2O3 was added to the diets at a 0.5% level as an indigestible marker. The production results (average body weight, average daily gain, feed intake and feed to gain ratio) were monitored during the trial. At day 11 and day 25, 10 birds from each group were placed into individual balance cages, in order to provide the collection of faeces during 5 consecutive days. The apparent and true total tract digestibility of P, as well as the apparent total tract digestibility of Ca were determined. Results showed that apparent total tract digestibility of P was influenced by the source of inorganic P (P<0.001). It was concluded that the utilisation of P was not significantly affected by the age of broilers, and the level of digested Ca did not represent the limiting factor for P digestibility in this experiment.

The aim of this trial was to determine the apparent and true total tract digestibility of phosphorus from monocalcium phosphate, as an inorganic P source in a broiler diet. The trial included 300 one-day-old broiler chickens (Cobb 500), which were randomly divided into three groups – by one hundred birds each. The experiment lasted 42 days, and was divided into three periods (days 1–21 for starter, days 21–35 for grower, and days 35–42 for finisher). One group of broilers was fed a diet without the addition of MCP (basal diet), and the other two experimental groups received different monocalcium phosphates. Cr 2O 3 was added to the diets at a 0.5% level as an indigestible marker. The production results (average body weight, average daily gain, feed intake and feed to gain ratio) were monitored during the trial. At day 11 and day 25, 10 birds from each group were placed into individual balance cages, in order to provide the collection of faeces during 5 consecutive days. The apparent and true total tract digestibility of P, as well as the apparent total tract digestibility of Ca were determined. Results showed that apparent total tract digestibility of P was influenced by the source of inorganic P ( P<0.001). It was concluded that the utilisation of P was not significantly affected by the age of broilers, and the level of digested Ca did not represent the limiting factor for P digestibility in this experiment.

Zahvaljujući velikim tehničkim mogućnostima, optimizacija obroka upotrebom softvera našla je veoma široku primenu na farmama, u mešaonama i fabrikama hrane za životinje. Postupak preračunavanja je mnogo brži nego pri manuelnom metodu, a može se istovremeno pratiti i veći broj pokazatelja hranljive vrednosti. Linearno programiranje smatra se delom revolucionarnog razvoja koji je omogućio formulisanje glavnih ciljeva uzimajući u obzir odluke koje su nužne za postizanje optimalnog rezultata za kompleksne probleme. S obzirom da troškovi ishrane u uzgoju životinja čine preko 60% ukupnih troškova, najširu upotrebu našli su “least cost” modeli. Namena navedenih modela za sastavljanje obroka i smeša sa minimalnom cenom koštanja je utvrđivanje optimalne strukture obroka, odnosno smeše, koja zadovoljava definisane zahteve korišćenjem matematičke tehnike linearnog programiranja i simpleks metode. Iako računarski programi mogu biti odlično oruđe u formulisanju obroka ako se koriste na ispravan način, njihova primena ne eliminiše potrebu za stručnim znanjem i kvalitetnim rukovođenjem ishranom životinja.

The aim of this trial was to determine the apparent and true total tract digestibility of phosphorus from monocalcium phosphate, as an inorganic P source in a broiler diet. The trial included 300 one-day-old broiler chickens (Cobb 500), which were randomly divided into three groups - by one hundred birds each. The experiment lasted 42 days, and was divided into three periods (days 1-21 for starter, days 21-35 for grower, and days 35-42 for finisher). One group of broilers was fed a diet without the addition of MCP (basal diet), and the other two experimental groups received different monocalcium phosphates. Cr2O3 was added to the diets at a 0.5% level as an indigestible marker. The production results (average body weight, average daily gain, feed intake and feed to gain ratio) were monitored during the trial. At day 11 and day 25, 10 birds from each group were placed into individual balance cages, in order to provide the collection of faeces during 5 consecutive days. The apparent and true total tract digestibility of P, as well as the apparent total tract digestibility of Ca were determined. Results showed that apparent total tract digestibility of P was influenced by the source of inorganic P (P<0.001). It was concluded that the utilisation of P was not significantly affected by the age of broilers, and the level of digested Ca did not represent the limiting factor for P digestibility in this experiment.

The aim of this study was to emphasize the importance of conservation of the Lipe sheep, as a local endangered type of Zackel breed, and to perform a comprehensive phenotypic characterization in order to ensure a better use and preservation of this genetic resource. In addition, we compared the results of a detailed morphometric characterization of the modern Lipe sheep carried out in the present study with the morphometric parameters of the native form of this breed described in 1935. The comparative analysis revealed the development dynamics of the local Lipe sheep in the traditional habitat, over a period of nearly one century. Throughout this period, different factors affecting Lipe sheep management, such as biogeografic, agro-economic, sociocultural and others, led to significant population erosion, and to the current status of the Lipe sheep as an endangered genetic resource. Although a slight increase has been registered in some body measurements, the major body indexes of the Lipe sheep, such as body format, body compactness, body massiveness, body proportion, pelvic, and head index, remained without significant fluctuations over the last century (p>0.05). Body length of the modern type still exceeds the height at withers, which was also recorded in the native Lipe sheep nearly 100 years ago. A prominent sexual dimorphism is still evident. Therefore, our comparative analysis showed no significant differences between the native and modern form of Lipe sheep in their body format and growth potential. The slight increases in absolute body measurements of the modern Lipe type we recorded could be linked to better housing conditions and improved quality of feed, without application of strategic selection measures over the last 100 years. The importance of conservation of this ovine resource is less economical, but mostly cultural, historical and heritage oriented, and still essential for the survival of the breed.

Lawsonia intracellularis is known to cause proliferative enteropathy (PE), one of the economically most important swine diseases with global distribution. Not unlike other enteric diseases, PE is a frequent indication for antibiotic therapy. However, their unjustified use leads to an emerging problem antimicrobial resistance. Thus, the aim of this research was to assess if a phytogenic additive may replace antibiotics in the control of PE in 144 weaned piglets (72 treated and 72 controls) naturally infected with L. intracellularis. The quantity of L intracellularis faecal shedding was monitored by real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay in faecal samples on day 0, 14 and 28, whilst the level of the ileum damage was determined by immunohistochemistry (IHC) assay performed on gut sections. Real-time PCR assay revealed that cycle-threshold (Ct) values in the treatment group increased significantly over time and were higher than in the control. These results indicate that the use of the phytogenic additive decreases the faecal excretion of L. intracellularis both throughout the experiment and in comparison to the control. The expression of the L. intracellularis antigen in IHC assay was lower in treated animals, implying that the additive leads to the decrease in the pathogen quantity in the ileum. Significantly higher feed conversion ratio was recorded in the treatment group. The results indicate that the phytogenic additive may be beneficial in the control of PE, but additional research is necessary to assess its use in various pig categories and define the optimum concentrations.

BACKGROUNDNigella sativa L. (NS) is a plant containing bioactive constituents such as thymoquinone. Extracts of NS improve performance and reduce enteropathogen colonization in poultry and small ruminants, but studies with swine are lacking. In two different studies oral administration of NS extracts at doses equivalent to 0, 1.5 and 4.5g kg(-1) diet was assessed on piglet performance and intestinal carriage of wildtype Escherichia coli and Campylobacter, and Salmonella Typhimurium. RESULTSWildtype E. coli populations in the jejunal and rectal content collected 9days after treatment began were decreased (P0.05). Populations recovered from pigs treated with extract at 1.5 and 4.5g kg(-1) diet were 0.72-1.31 log(10) units lower than the controls (ranging from 6.05 to 6.61 log(10) CFU g(-1)). Wildtype Campylobacter and Salmonella Typhimurium were unaffected by NS treatment. Feed efficiency over the 9days improved linearly (P<0.05) from 3.88 with 0 NS-treated pigs to 1.47 and 1.41 with pigs treated with NS at 1.5 and 4.5g kg(-1) diet, respectively, possibly due to high glutamine/glutamic acid content of the NS extract. CONCLUSIONNS supplementation of weanling pigs improved feed efficiency and helped control intestinal E. coli during this vulnerable production phase.

The current study was conducted to evaluate the impact of monobasic calcium phosphate (MCP), as a source of inorganic phosphorus in broilers diet, on production performances and bone mineralization. A total of 300 1-day-old (Cobb 500) broilers, both sexes, obtained from the local hatchery, were included in the trial and divided in three groups, by one hundred birds each. During 42 days of the trial groups were fed with different experimental diets. One group of broilers was fed a diet without the addition of inorganic P (basal diet), the other two groups of broilers received diets with the addition of two different kinds of MCP (one was originating from ―Balakovo Mineral Fertilizers‖, Balakovo, Russia, and the other one was produced by ―Elixir Feed‖ DOO, Šabac, Serbia). Production results (average body weight, average daily gain, feed intake and feed to gain ratio) were monitored during the trial. At the end of experiment, on the forty-second day, right legs were collected from 12 birds in each group, in order to obtain the samples of tibia and tarsus. Bones were examined on bone breaking strength and the tissue density (mineral density). Both experimental groups that received MCP, as a P source achieved significantly higher production results compared to the group of broilers fed with basal diet (P<0.001). Furthermore, the differences were observed between the two experimental groups - production results, as well as bone tissue density of the first experimental group (fed with addition of MCP – Elixir), was significantly higher, compared to the group fed with MCP from Russia (P<0.05). Additionally, MCP in diet improved bone breaking strength (P<0.05). Results suggested that MCP has significant impact on growth, production performances and level of mineralization of bones. Furthermore, bone criteria are important criteria for estimating the P availability.

Computer Assisted Sperm Analysis (CASA) represents an objective, reproducible and reliable method of sperm quality assessment, however, not many reports exist that correlate its accuracy with bull semen fertility. The aim of this study was to evaluate the correlation between selected CASA motility parameters of cryopreserved bull semen and fertility. The total spermatozoa motility (SM %), the progressive spermatozoa motility (PSM %) as well as the percentage of spermatozoa with rapid movement (RAP %) were measured through CASA. All 12 ejaculates were collected from one Holstein Friesian bull. A total of 816 Holstein Friesian cows were used for artificial insemination (AI) and the evaluation of fertility. The fertility success was assessed by pregnancy rates per cycle (PRC %), 90 days after AI of the cows. The sperm variables that were associated with an increase in the PRC were the SM (R2 = 0. 6722), the PSM (R2 = 0. 6520) and the RAP (R2 = 0. 7103). RAP had a greater influence (P<0.001) on fertility (PRC), than SM and PSM (P<0.01). The increase of sperm motility parameters (SM, PSM and RAP) led to increased PRC, i.e. to increased fertility.

Computer Assisted Sperm Analysis (CASA) represents an objective, reproducible and reliable method of sperm quality assessment, however, not many reports exist that correlate its accuracy with bull semen fertility. The aim of this study was to evaluate the correlation between selected CASA motility parameters of cryopreserved bull semen and fertility. The total spermatozoa motility (SM %), the progressive spermatozoa motility (PSM %) as well as the percentage of spermatozoa with rapid movement (RAP %) were measured through CASA. All 12 ejaculates were collected from one Holstein Friesian bull. A total of 816 Holstein Friesian cows were used for artificial insemination (AI) and the evaluation of fertility. The fertility success was assessed by pregnancy rates per cycle (PRC %), 90 days after AI of the cows. The sperm variables that were associated with an increase in the PRC were the SM (R2 = 0. 6722), the PSM (R2 = 0. 6520) and the RAP (R2 = 0. 7103). RAP had a greater influence (P<0.001) on fertility (PRC), than SM and PSM (P<0.01). The increase of sperm motility parameters (SM, PSM and RAP) led to increased PRC, i.e. to increased fertility.

Tokom četiri proizvodne godine (2011-2014), analizirani su reproduktivni pokazatelji iz 123 laktacije 46 umatičenih grla i to 79 laktacija od 30 krava holštajnske rase i 44 laktacija od 16 krava simentalske rase, na dva porodična gazdinstva. Krave su hranjene uz dodatak različitih količina vitaminskih silaža COMBO-VIT-SIL®. Silaže su na bazi šargarepe, tri vrste bundeve i cele biljke kukuruza, svežeg repinog rezanca ili klipa kukuruza. Prva proizvodna godina, 2011. godina, uzeta je kao kontrolna, jer tada nije korišćena vitaminska silaža u ishrani krava. Najveći sadržaj β-karotina utvrđen je u silaži šargarepe i muskatne bundeve: 391,65 mg/kg suve materije. Upotrebom vitaminskih silaža u našem ogledu, postignut je porast prosečnog prinosa mleka, na farmi holštajnske rase, za 1,101 kg , a na farmi simentalske rase za 29 kg, (p>0,05). Prosečan indeks VO smanjen je kod krava holštajnske rase od oko 3,38 doza, na 2,42±1,80 doza, a kod krava simentalske rase od 1,60±1,35 na 1,40±1,26 doza. Servis period je na farmi krava holštajnske rase bio značajno kraći uz silaže sa vitaminskom bundevom (p<0,01), u odnosu na kontrolnu grupu, a na farmi krava simentalske rase, uz dodatak silaže sa muskatnom bundevom, u odnosu na dodatak silaže sa šargarepom (p<0,05). Uz pomenuto, značajno je skraćen i normalizovan međutelidbeni interval, kod krava holštajnske rase od 427±74 dana, na 372±17 dana, a kod krava simentalske rase od 480±124 dana, na 364±38 dana., During four consecutive productive years (2011-2014) reproductive parameters of 123 lactations from 46 cows on two family farms were monitored and analyzed (79 lactations in 30 Holstein and 44 lactations in 16 cows of Simmental breed). Cows were fed with the addition of different amount of vitamin silages COMBO-VIT-SIL®. Silages were produced from, carrot, three different types of pumpkins, whole corn, sugar beet pulp or corn cob with grain. The #irst production year (2011) was taken as a control; animals were fed corn silage during that year. The highest amount of β-carotene was determined in the silage of carrot and Muscat pumpkin (391.65 mg/kg of DM). By the use of vitamin silages in our study average milk yield was higher for 1.101 kg in Holstein and for 29 kg (p>0.05). Average days until #irst arti#icial insemination was shorter for vitamin silages (p<0.01), as well as for silages with Muscat pumpkin ad as well as for the carrot silage (p<0.05). Average insemination index in Holstein supplemented with vitamin silage was lower (2.42±1.80 doses compared to the control 3.38); similarly it was lower in Simmental cows fed vitamin silages 1.40±1.26 versus 1.6±1.35 doses in control. Beside mentioned, intercalving interval was shortened in both Holstein (from 427±74 on 372±17 days) and Simmental cows (from 480±124 on 364±38 days).

It is useful to determine the gestational age in sheep to provide essential information for effective flock management practices. The aims of this study were to evaluate the efficacy and practical aspects for using two ultrasound techniques, transabdominal and transrectal, in determining the gestational age in Wurttemberg ewes. Monitoring of embryo and fetus developmental stages during the ewes gestation was carried out with real time ultrasound using a transabdominal convex probe, frequency 3.5 MHz, and a transrectal linear probe, frequency 7.5 MHz. The size of the embryonic vesicle during the period from the 23rd to the 38th day of gestation can be used as a confirmational indicator of gestational age when the transrectal probe is used. The occipital nasal diameter correlated with the gestational age with both transabdominal (P < 0.05) and transrectal probes (P < 0.01) from the 46th to the 63rd day of gestation. The biparietal diameter of the fetal head measured by transabdominal probe during the period from the 46th to the 63rd day of gestation correlates with gestation age (P < 0.05). The diameter of the fetal eye orbit monitored by transrectal probe from the 46th to the 63rd day of gestation also correlated well with gestational age (P < 0.05).

It is useful to determine the gestational age in sheep to provide essential information for effective flock management practices. The aims of this study were to evaluate the efficacy and practical aspects for using two ultrasound techniques, transabdominal and transrectal, in determining the gestational age in Wurttemberg ewes. Monitoring of embryo and fetus developmental stages during the ewes gestation was carried out with real time ultrasound using a transabdominal convex probe, frequency 3.5 MHz, and a transrectal linear probe, frequency 7.5 MHz. The size of the embryonic vesicle during the period from the 23rd to the 38th day of gestation can be used as a confirmational indicator of gestational age when the transrectal probe is used. The occipital nasal diameter correlated with the gestational age with both transabdominal (P < 0.05) and transrectal probes (P < 0.01) from the 46th to the 63rd day of gestation. The biparietal diameter of the fetal head measured by transabdominal probe during the period from the 46th to the 63rd day of gestation correlates with gestation age (P < 0.05). The diameter of the fetal eye orbit monitored by transrectal probe from the 46th to the 63rd day of gestation also correlated well with gestational age (P < 0.05).

Intenziviranje stočarske proizvodnje dovelo je do toga da reprodukcija, kao primarna fiziološka funkcija svakog živog organizma sa ciljem produženja vrste, u odnosu na biološke zakone i potrebe bude višestruko ugrožena, odnosno rezultira evidentno slabijim rezultatima. Ispoljavanje genetskog potencijala za proizvodnju životinja je u neposrednoj zavisnosti od ishrane. Nepravilna i deficitarna ishrana, pored toga što dovodi do smanjenja obima proizvodnje (mesa, mleka, jaja), izuzetno nepovoljno se odražava i na uspeh reprodukcije. Nepovoljan uticaj ishrane se manifestuje poremećajem ili izostankom estrusa, smanjenom koncepcijom, resorpcijom ploda ili pobačajem, rađanjem avitalnih ili mrtvih mladunaca itd. Nasuprot navedenom, pravilna ishrana reproduktivnih grla, čiji organizam treba da podnese sve napore višegodišnje intenzivne proizvodnje, omogućava njihovo duže zadržavanje i eksploataciju u proizvodnji. Plodnost životinja predstavlja jedan od osnovnih faktora ekonomičnosti proizvodnog procesa. Među brojnim faktorima koji utiču na nastanak poremećaja reprodukcije i plodnosti, po svom značaju izdvajaju se nutritivni faktori (energetska vrednost obroka, sadržaj proteina, mineralnih materija i vitamina). Kroz brojne oglede ishrane utvrđeno je da, kako nedovoljna količina, tako i veća količina hranljivih materija može u velikoj meri da utiče na proces reprodukcije. Osnovni problemi su vezani za stepen suficita, deficita ili disbalansa u ishrani reproduktivnih domaćih životinja. Pored toga, u hrani za životinje mogu da se nađu i štetne materije (estrogen biljnog porekla, ili sekundarni metaboliti plesni) koje mogu u značajnoj meri da naruše reproduktivni ciklus u svim njegovim fazama. Najbolja preporuka je da se životinjama obezbedi izbalansiran obrok u svim hranljivim sastojcima koji zadovoljavaju prethodno normirane nutritivne zahteve i preporuke., Intensification of livestock production has led to the fact that the reproduction, as the primary physiological function of every living organism with the aim of extending the species, in relation to biological laws and requirements became multiple compromised, or to result in evidently lower performance. The manifestation of genetic potential for animal production is highly dependent on nutrition. Irregular and deficient diet, in addition of leading to a reduction in the volume of production (meat, milk, eggs) extremely adversely affects the success of reproduction. The adverse effects of eating disorder is manifested or absence of estrus, reduced conception, fetal resorption or abortion, giving birth to non-vital or dead cubs etc. In contrast to stated, the proper nutrition of reproductive animals whose organism should endure the difficulties of many years of intensive production enables their longer retention and utilization in manufacturing. Fertility represents also a basic factor of economical production. Among many different factors that affect fertility and reproductive disorders by its significant stand out nutritional factors energy value of diet, content of protein, minerals and vitamins. Through the many feeding trials, it has been documented that insufficient quantity as well as a greater amount of nutrients can significantly affect the process of reproduction. The main problems are related to the degree of excess, deficit or imbalance of nutrients in the diet of domestic reproductive animals. In addition, the feed can contain harmful substances (estrogens of plant origin, or secondary metabolites of molds) that can significantly impair the reproductive cycle in all its phases. The best recommendation is to provide to animals a completely balanced meal in all nutrients that meet previously established nutritional requirements and recommendations.

Ethnoveterinary medicine (EVM) considers implementation of folk knowledge and skills in animal health care, production and breeding. Also it means understanding of diagnostic, preventive, therapeutic skills and treatments in order to improve public health. EVM has a wide importance in the organic farming and environmental protection. Our studied geographic area is important because it is inhabited with Shops or Torlaks, a special ethnographic group of the South Slavs. Torlaks have developed special animal treatment and methods of animal breeding, particularly in sheep. The aim of this study was to examine the knowledge of ethno veterinary medicine in villagers from the eastern part of Stara planina in the Dimitrovgrad municipality, District of Pirot, to point out the specificity and importance of knowledge in relation to the geographic places and determine the applicability of knowledge in veterinary medicine and organic production. The research included 50 inhabitants from area of villages: Gornji Krivodol, Boljev Dol, Kamenica and Senokos. All villages are in the territory of the municipality of Dimitrovgrad, District of Pirot, Republic of Serbia. Performed methods were: non-structural, semi-structured and field interviews. According to the collected data, 64 different recipes and methods were noted, of which 43 include medicinal plants recipes, and other data include different methods of diagnosis, treatment, prevention and animal nutrition.

Animal food has to incorporate multiple objectives, ie. it should provide good animal health, good production and reproductive performance, reduce pollution of the environment as well as have the impact on food of animal origin, by supplying it, in addition to basic nutrients, with certain useful substances that can act preventively on the occurrence of various diseases in humans in modern living conditions. This complex task implies the application of scientific knowledge concerning biotechnology in the field of animal feed production, and also includes the use of specific nutrients that are the result of the latest developments in specific disciplines such as molecular biology and genetic engineering. As a result of researches in these areas there were created some varieties of cereals and legumes with improved nutritional properties. On the other hand, obtaining a safe food of animal origin product imposes the use of substances of natural origin (such as probiotics, prebiotics, phytobiotics, enzymes, chelating forms ..), which provide better digestibility and more complete utilization of certain nutrients from the feedstuff. In this way, the quantity of undigested substances are significantly reduced as well as soil and the atmosphere pollution. The use of specific additives in animal nutrition resulting from biotechnological research is most frequent when a problem concerning certain level of production or animal health has to be overcome. This implies a group of non-nutritional ingredients which are aimed to regulate the digestive tract microflora, pH, weight gain, as well as to modify metabolic processes etc., Hrana za životinje treba istovremeno da objedini više ciljeva, tj. treba da obezbedi dobro zdravlje životinja, dobre proizvodne i reproduktivne performanse, smanji zagađivanje čovekove okoline ali i da utiče na namirnice animalnog porekla, da ih pored osnovnih hranljivih materija, snabde i određenim korisnim materijama koje mogu da deluju preventivno na pojavu raznih oboljenja ljudi u savremenim uslovima življenja. Ovaj kompleksan zadatak podrazumeva primenu naučnih saznanja iz oblasti biotehnologije u proizvodnju hrane za životinje a takođe uključuje i upotrebu specifičnih hraniva nastalih kao rezultat najnovijih dostignuća iz pojedinih naučnih disciplina kao što su molekularna biologija i genetski inženjering. Kao rezultat istraživanja u ovim oblastima stvoreni su varijeteti žitarica i leguminoza sa poboljšanim nutritivnim svojstvima. Sa druge strane, da bi se dobio bezbedan proizvod, odnosno namirnica animalnog porekla, nameće se upotreba supstanci prirodnog porekla (kao što su probiotci, prebiotici, fitobiotici, enzimi, helati, …) koje će doprineti boljoj svarljivosti i potpunijem iskorišćavanju određenih hranljivih materija iz hraniva. Na taj način se u značajnoj meri smanjuje deo nesvarenih materija i zagađivanje zemljišta i atmosfere. vSpecifični dodaci u ishrani životinja, koji su proistekli iz biotehnoloških istraživanja najčešće se koriste da bi se prevazišli problemi u vezi sa određenim nivoom proizvodnje ili zdravstvenim stanjem životinja. Tu se ubraja grupa nehranidbenih ingredijenata koja reguliše mikrofloru digestivnog trakta, pH, prirast, modifikuje procese metabolizma i slično.

Campylobacter jejuni is an important human food-borne pathogen that can contaminate meat and poultry during processing. Consequently, strategies are sought to reduce the carriage of C. jejuni in food animals before they arrive at the abattoir. Thymol is a natural product that reduces survivability of Campylobacter in vitro, but its rapid absorption from the proximal alimentary tract limits its bactericidal efficacy in vivo. Thymol-beta-d-glucopyranoside is more resistant to absorption than free thymol, but its administration to chickens has not been reported. In the present studies, 1mM thymol-beta-d-glucopyranoside was shown to exhibit near equal anti-Campylobacter activity as 1mM thymol when incubated anaerobically in avian crop or cecal contents in vitro, resulting in reductions of 1.10-2.32 log(10) colony forming units mL(-1) in C. jejuni concentrations after 24h incubation. In a follow-up live animal study, oral administration of thymol-beta-d-glucopyranoside, but not free thymol, significantly lowered (>10-fold) recovery of Campylobacter from the crop of market-aged broilers when compared to placebo-treated controls (n = 6 broilers/treatment). Neither thymol-beta-d-glucopyranoside nor thymol affected recovery of Campylobacter from cecal contents of the treated broilers. These results indicate that rapid absorption or passage of free thymol from the crop precluded its anti-Campylobacter activity at this site and throughout the entire gastrointestinal tract. Conversely, lower recovery of Campylobacter from the crop of birds treated with thymol-beta-d-glucopyranoside indicates this conjugate was retained and able to be hydrolyzed to biologically active free thymol at this site as intended, yet was not sufficiently protected to allow passage of efficacious amounts of the intact glycoside to the lower gut. Nevertheless, these results warrant further research to see if higher doses or encapsulation of thymol-beta-d-glucopyranoside or similar glycosides may yield an

Mastitis in dairy cows is an economically important disease because it makes up 38% of all diseases that occur in intensive cattle breeding. Mastitis affects milk production, either temporarily or permanently, depending on the course of infection and type of pathogen agent. Regular and timely therapy of mastitis based on the application antimicrobials, apart from prophylaxis, is very important for good health of breeding stock. This paper presents the case of repeated mastitis in a cow, Holstein-Friesian breed, 5 years old, which did not respond to antibiotic therapy. Milk samples from each separate quarter of the udder were collected under aseptic conditions and sent to the laboratory for further bacteriological tests, for isolation and identification of pathogens, as well as to test pathogen resistance to some antibiotics. On the basis of bacteriological examinations, there was confirmed the presence of Streptococcus dysgalactiae, which showed sensitivity to ampicillin, cloxacillin and augmentin, intermediate resistance to tetracycline and resis­tance to kotrimeksazol.(cotrimoxazole-proveriti)., Mastitis goveda predstavlja oboljenje koje izaziva najveće ekonomske gubitke kod mlečnih krava i čini 38% od svih oboljenja koja se javljaju u intezivnom uzgoju mlečnih krava. Mastitisi utiču na proizvodnju mleka, privremeno ili stalno u zavisnosti od toka infekcije i vrste uzročnika. Pravilna i pravovremena terapija supkliničkih mastitisa, zasnovana je na primeni antimikrobnih lekova i pored profilakse je ključna za dobro zdravstveno stanje zapata. U ovom radu je prikazan slučaj hroničnog mastitisa krave holštajn frizijske rase, starosti 5 godina, koja nije reagovala na antibiotsku terapiju. Uzorci mleka su uzeti u aseptičnim uslovima, iz svake četvrti pojedinačno, i poslati u laboratoriju radi izolacije i identifikacije uzročnika i ispitivanja osetljivosti uzročnika na antibiotike. Na osnovu detaljnih bakterioloških ispitivanja potvrđeno je prisustvo Streptococcus dysgalactiae (Strep. dysgalactiae) koji je pokazivao osetljivost na ampicilin, kloksacilin i augmentin, intermedijarnu osetljivost na tetraciklin, i rezistenciju na kotrimoksazol.

Intenziviranje stočarske proizvodnje dovelo je do toga da reprodukcija, kao primarna fiziološka funkcija svakog živog organizma sa ciljem produženja vrste, u odnosu na biološke zakone i potrebe bude višestruko ugrožena, odnosno rezultira evidentno slabijim rezultatima. Ispoljavanje genetskog potencijala za proizvodnju životinja je u neposrednoj zavisnosti od ishrane. Nepravilna i deficitarna ishrana, pored toga što dovodi do smanjenja obima proizvodnje (mesa, mleka, jaja), izuzetno nepovoljno se odražava i na uspeh reprodukcije. Nepovoljan uticaj ishrane se manifestuje poremećajem ili izostankom estrusa, smanjenom koncepcijom, resorpcijom ploda ili pobačajem, rađanjem avitalnih ili mrtvih mladunaca itd. Nasuprot navedenom, pravilna ishrana reproduktivnih grla, čiji organizam treba da podnese sve napore višegodišnje intenzivne proizvodnje, omogućava njihovo duže zadržavanje i eksploataciju u proizvodnji. Plodnost životinja predstavlja jedan od osnovnih faktora ekonomičnosti proizvodnog procesa. Među brojnim faktorima koji utiču na nastanak poremećaja reprodukcije i plodnosti, po svom značaju izdvajaju se nutritivni faktori (energetska vrednost obroka, sadržaj proteina, mineralnih materija i vitamina). Kroz brojne oglede ishrane utvrđeno je da, kako nedovoljna količina, tako i veća količina hranljivih materija može u velikoj meri da utiče na proces reprodukcije. Osnovni problemi su vezani za stepen suficita, deficita ili disbalansa u ishrani reproduktivnih domaćih životinja. Pored toga, u hrani za životinje mogu da se nađu i štetne materije (estrogen biljnog porekla, ili sekundarni metaboliti plesni) koje mogu u značajnoj meri da naruše reproduktivni ciklus u svim njegovim fazama. Najbolja preporuka je da se životinjama obezbedi izbalansiran obrok u svim hranljivim sastojcima koji zadovoljavaju prethodno normirane nutritivne zahteve i preporuke., Intensification of livestock production has led to the fact that the reproduction, as the primary physiological function of every living organism with the aim of extending the species, in relation to biological laws and requirements became multiple compromised, or to result in evidently lower performance. The manifestation of genetic potential for animal production is highly dependent on nutrition. Irregular and deficient diet, in addition of leading to a reduction in the volume of production (meat, milk, eggs) extremely adversely affects the success of reproduction. The adverse effects of eating disorder is manifested or absence of estrus, reduced conception, fetal resorption or abortion, giving birth to non-vital or dead cubs etc. In contrast to stated, the proper nutrition of reproductive animals whose organism should endure the difficulties of many years of intensive production enables their longer retention and utilization in manufacturing. Fertility represents also a basic factor of economical production. Among many different factors that affect fertility and reproductive disorders by its significant stand out nutritional factors energy value of diet, content of protein, minerals and vitamins. Through the many feeding trials, it has been documented that insufficient quantity as well as a greater amount of nutrients can significantly affect the process of reproduction. The main problems are related to the degree of excess, deficit or imbalance of nutrients in the diet of domestic reproductive animals. In addition, the feed can contain harmful substances (estrogens of plant origin, or secondary metabolites of molds) that can significantly impair the reproductive cycle in all its phases. The best recommendation is to provide to animals a completely balanced meal in all nutrients that meet previously established nutritional requirements and recommendations.

Eastern Serbia region, especially Homolje territory is an important natural resource of a great potential for organic sheep production. Its long tradition of sheep breeding and the quality of lamb meat and dairy products has become well-known. Svrljig type of Zackel sheep is traditionally reared in the hilly - mountain region of Eastern Serbia. It is well adapted to environmental conditions and sustainable breeding systems. Bearing in mind that autochthonous breeds are preferable for organic production due to the fact that they are well adapted to habitat and due to their genetic tolerance to diseases, the autochthonous Svrljig sheep population reared in Homolje territory was chosen for this research. Examination of health status, body score condition, reproductive traits in a population of 342 ewes and growth traits of 412 lambs reared in sustainable livestock farming was performed. Reproductive and lamb growth traits, litter size at weaning (LSW), total litter weight at birth (TLWB), total litter weight at one-month (1TLMW) and total litter weight at weaning (TLWW) were analyzed. Results of health status, basic ewe reproductive traits and lamb growth performance show that autochthonous Svrljig type of Zackel sheep has robust constitution and potential to be the breed of choice for organic production in the hilly - mountain region of Eastern Serbia

Intenziviranje stočarske proizvodnje dovelo je do toga da reprodukcija, kao primarna fiziološka funkcija svakog živog organizma sa ciljem produženja vrste, u odnosu na biološke zakone i potrebe bude višestruko ugrožena, odnosno rezultira evidentno slabijim rezultatima. Ispoljavanje genetskog potencijala za proizvodnju životinja je u neposrednoj zavisnosti od ishrane. Nepravilna i deficitarna ishrana, pored toga što dovodi do smanjenja obima proizvodnje (mesa, mleka, jaja), izuzetno nepovoljno se odražava i na uspeh reprodukcije. Nepovoljan uticaj ishrane se manifestuje poremećajem ili izostankom estrusa, smanjenom koncepcijom, resorpcijom ploda ili pobačajem, rađanjem avitalnih ili mrtvih mladunaca itd. Nasuprot navedenom, pravilna ishrana reproduktivnih grla, čiji organizam treba da podnese sve napore višegodišnje intenzivne proizvodnje, omogućava njihovo duže zadržavanje i eksploataciju u proizvodnji. Plodnost životinja predstavlja jedan od osnovnih faktora ekonomičnosti proizvodnog procesa. Među brojnim faktorima koji utiču na nastanak poremećaja reprodukcije i plodnosti, po svom značaju izdvajaju se nutritivni faktori (energetska vrednost obroka, sadržaj proteina, mineralnih materija i vitamina). Kroz brojne oglede ishrane utvrđeno je da, kako nedovoljna količina, tako i veća količina hranljivih materija može u velikoj meri da utiče na proces reprodukcije. Osnovni problemi su vezani za stepen suficita, deficita ili disbalansa u ishrani reproduktivnih domaćih životinja. Pored toga, u hrani za životinje mogu da se nađu i štetne materije (estrogen biljnog porekla, ili sekundarni metaboliti plesni) koje mogu u značajnoj meri da naruše reproduktivni ciklus u svim njegovim fazama. Najbolja preporuka je da se životinjama obezbedi izbalansiran obrok u svim hranljivim sastojcima koji zadovoljavaju prethodno normirane nutritivne zahteve i preporuke., Intensification of livestock production has led to the fact that the reproduction, as the primary physiological function of every living organism with the aim of extending the species, in relation to biological laws and requirements became multiple compromised, or to result in evidently lower performance. The manifestation of genetic potential for animal production is highly dependent on nutrition. Irregular and deficient diet, in addition of leading to a reduction in the volume of production (meat, milk, eggs) extremely adversely affects the success of reproduction. The adverse effects of eating disorder is manifested or absence of estrus, reduced conception, fetal resorption or abortion, giving birth to non-vital or dead cubs etc. In contrast to stated, the proper nutrition of reproductive animals whose organism should endure the difficulties of many years of intensive production enables their longer retention and utilization in manufacturing. Fertility represents also a basic factor of economical production. Among many different factors that affect fertility and reproductive disorders by its significant stand out nutritional factors energy value of diet, content of protein, minerals and vitamins. Through the many feeding trials, it has been documented that insufficient quantity as well as a greater amount of nutrients can significantly affect the process of reproduction. The main problems are related to the degree of excess, deficit or imbalance of nutrients in the diet of domestic reproductive animals. In addition, the feed can contain harmful substances (estrogens of plant origin, or secondary metabolites of molds) that can significantly impair the reproductive cycle in all its phases. The best recommendation is to provide to animals a completely balanced meal in all nutrients that meet previously established nutritional requirements and recommendations.