53,149 results on '"ANIMAL health"'
Search Results
2. Lincomycin as a growth-promoting antibiotic induces metabolic and immune dysregulation in animals
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Ni, Hongyuhang, Wu, Haoze, Wang, Jing, Chan, Bill Kwan-wai, Chen, Kaichao, Chan, Edward Wai-Chi, Li, Fuyong, and Chen, Sheng
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- 2024
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3. Progress and persistence of diseases of high consequence to livestock in the United States
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Ackermann, Mark R. and Bannantine, John P.
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- 2024
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4. Quantification of metals in commercially available wet and dry cat food in United Arab Emirates
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Semerjian, Lucy, Alsuwaidi, Shamma Mohamed, Alhosani, Manwa Khalid, Alketbi, Mariam Ali, Alzarooni, Mariam Saud, Alomran, Sara Sultan, Omar, Manal Ali, and Abass, Khaled
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- 2025
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5. Mixed viral infections (Rotavirus, Herpesvirus and others) in European wild rabbits
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Duarte, Ana, Abade dos Santos, Fábio A., Fagulha, Teresa, Caetano, Inês, Carvalho, Paulo, Carvalho, João, Santos, António Emidio, de Ayala, Ramón Pérez, and Duarte, Margarida D.
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- 2025
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6. Microbial biopesticides: A one health perspective on benefits and risks
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Cai, Panqin and Dimopoulos, George
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- 2025
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7. An international disease monitoring tool to estimate the likelihood of entry of animal health hazards from legal trade of live animals and products of animal origin imported from different countries (IDM+)
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Royden, Alex, Dewar, Robert, Cowled, Brendan, Sadler, Rohan, Hillman, Alison, Gonzalez-Villeta, Laura C., Roberts, Helen, McCarthy, Catherine, and Simons, Robin R.L.
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- 2025
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8. Identifying housing and management factors associated with lameness in small-scaled mountain dairy farms with different housing systems
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Zanon, T., Alrhmoun, M., Katzenberger, K., Poulopoulou, I., and Gauly, M.
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- 2023
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9. Prevalence of natural infection by Trypanosoma evansi in Crioula LAGEANA cattle
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Fiorin, Felipe Eduardo, Casa, Mariana da Silva, Griebeler, Leonardo Bergman, Goedel, Mariana Fuchs, Nascimento, Luís Flávio Nepomuceno do, Neves, Gabriella Bassi das, Fonteque, Graziela Vieira, Miletti, Luiz Claudio, Saito, Mere Erika, and Fonteque, Joandes Henrique
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- 2023
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10. Improvement in the surveillance system for livestock diseases and antimicrobial use following operational research studies in sierra leone January-March 2023
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Konteh, Samuel Alie, Bangura, Fatmata Isatu, Leno, Amara, Satyanarayana, Srinath, Nair, Divya, Bah, Mohamed Alpha, Saidu, Salam, Sellu-Sallu, David, Gborie, Sahr Raymond, Kamara, Sorie Mohamed, Jalloh, Amadu Tejan, Kanu, Joseph Sam, Kamara, Kadijatu Nabie, Moiwo, Matilda Mattu, Dsani, Esther, and Nantima, Noelina
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- 2023
11. Knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of animal health staff and farmers towards brucellosis control in sheep and goat in China: A cross-sectional study.
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Xu, Quangang, Amonsin, Alongkorn, and Jeamsripong, Saharuetai
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MEDICAL personnel , *ANIMAL herds , *ANIMAL health , *BRUCELLOSIS , *DAIRY cattle - Abstract
Background: In China, brucellosis has resurfaced recently with a discernible spatial distribution, particularly affecting dairy herds and small ruminant populations. However, limited dissemination of knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) for brucellosis control exists among farmers and animal health staff. This study aimed to assess the KAP of brucellosis control and prevention in animal health staff and farmers, with the goal of educating the public regarding the application of efficient brucellosis control and prevention strategies. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional survey involving 1,468 participants, comprising farmers (n = 1,067) and animal health staff (n = 401) based on their significant density of sheep and goat population. They completed a questionnaire targeting a specific group of farmers and animal health staff through face-to-face interviews. The KAP scores were then categorized as either satisfactory or unsatisfactory based on a cutoff set at ≥80% of the total score for satisfactory. Binary logistic regression was used to identify the association between KAP and geographical information. Results: The results indicated satisfaction with KAP among farmers (57.7%, 75.8% and 87.0%) and animal health staff (80.5%, 84.5%, and 78.3%) at ≥ 80% cut-off point of total score. The primary concern of farmers is involved in the understanding of the route of transmission and handwashing practices after contacting animals. Predictors of higher knowledge and positive attitude included province of residence and age. The factors linked to satisfactory practice levels consist of province of residence, educational level, and a history of family members' infections (p < 0.05). Among animal health staff, the primary factor associated with KAP was province of residence, sex, level of education, and history of family members infection (p < 0.05). Additionally, brucellosis information primarily originated from traditional promotional materials and veterinarians. Conclusions: This study emphasized that the KAP scores for both animal health staff and farmers were satisfactory, except for a suboptimal knowledge score among farmers. To proactively control future brucellosis outbreaks, it is imperative to develop targeted educational resources aimed at enhancing the understanding of brucellosis, particularly among farmers. Ensuring the availability and accessibility of informative materials for the effective prevention and control of brucellosis in livestock animals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2025
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12. CBD for pets: navigating quality assurance, safety standards, and marketing strategies.
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Rideout, Hannah, Cook, Alasdair J. C., and Whetton, Anthony D.
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As the human cannabinoid (CBD) market grows, there is an inevitable transfer of the same or similar products into the veterinary sector. Advances in veterinary medicine and care of companion animals has led to extended life expectancy and consequently, there is an increased incidence of age-related chronic conditions that compromise quality of life. CBD products may alleviate these conditions. Research into CBD for companion animal species is on the rise, however, we found that there are no licensed veterinary CBD products available in the market due to a lack of appropriate testing and/or data. Here we outline the data that is available and show that the regulatory, and safety considerations around these products needs further consideration and this encompasses many products currently available on the market. Changes in regulations and further research for quality assurance are paramount to distribution of safe and applicable products for companion animals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2025
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13. Insights into microbial compositions of the respiratory tract of neonatal dairy calves in a longitudinal probiotic trial through 16S rRNA sequencing.
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Tan, Jia W., Eicher, Susan D., Kritchevsky, Janice E., Bryan, Keith A., Dickey, Aaron, Chitko-McKown, Carol G., and McDaneld, Tara G.
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ANIMAL health ,HEALTH of cattle ,BACTERIAL diversity ,HYPERVARIABLE regions ,BACTERIAL population ,LUNGS - Abstract
Introduction: Probiotics are a promising intervention for modulating the microbiome and the immune system, promoting health benefits in cattle. While studies have characterized the calf lung bacterial profile with and without oral probiotics, simultaneous probiotic effects on the bacterial populations of multiple sites along the respiratory tract have not been characterized. Methods: This study utilized the same pre-weaning diary calf group from our previous studies to characterize the bacterial populations present in the nostril and tonsil across control and treatment groups and nine sampling time points. DNA was exacted from the nostril and tonsil swabs and lung lavage fluids, and 16S ribosomal RNA gene hypervariable regions 1-3 were subsequently sequenced. Results: Temporal variation in alpha bacterial diversity within the nostril, tonsil, and lung samples was observed, indicating distinct bacterial compositions among sampling time points. Oral probiotic treatment did not change alpha diversity in any respiratory tissue, however, spatial variability in bacterial taxa composition was observed among the three respiratory tract regions. While the majority of differentially abundant taxa in probiotic treated calves were unique to their anatomical location, a few were common to two anatomical locations and one Finegoldia amplicon sequence variant was differentially abundant in all three anatomical locations. Discussion: In conclusion, these findings contribute to the understanding of the dynamic nature of bacterial diversity and the potential effects of probiotics within the bovine respiratory tract and provides insight for future studies of probiotics on animal health, disease prevention, and management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2025
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14. Documentation of ethnoveterinary knowledge and alternative practices for cattle tick control in Sekhukhune District, Limpopo Province, South Africa.
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Phaahla, Confidence Semakane, Shai, Jeremiah Leshweni, Maduna, Vincent, Moropeng, Resoketswe Charlotte, and Magano, Solomon Ramagoai
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ANIMAL health ,AGRICULTURE ,CATTLE tick ,TICK infestations ,TICK control - Abstract
Introduction: The integration of traditional plant-based methods for controlling ectoparasites in the primary healthcare of livestock is progressively emerging as a crucial intervention to enhance livestock productivity in regions with limited resources, particularly in smallholder farming areas facing resource constraints. In Sekhukhune District, where livestock plays a vital role in rural livelihoods, cattle ticks present a significant challenge to cattle farming. This study aimed to document the ethnoveterinary practices employed by local communities to control cattle ticks, highlighting the use of alternative methods rooted in indigenous knowledge (IK). Methods: Data were collected using a purposive sampling method to select traditional livestock keepers, herders, and community elders to uncover the plant-based treatments and management strategies used in tick control. In addition, a semi-structured questionnaire and a guided field survey were employed to collect data. Results: A total of 250 participants, with an age range from 18 to over 60 years, were recruited. The result revealed that the elder participants, over 60 years of age, were more knowledgeable compared to the youth and adults. Furthermore, 28 plant species with potential acaricidal properties and other methods aimed at controlling cattle tick infestations were documented. Cissus quadrangularis was the most frequently cited species, which was widely distributed throughout the district. Conclusion: In addition, these results are framed within the larger context of sustainability, promoting eco-friendly cattle farming practices in Sekhukhune District while reducing reliance on conventional acaricides. By documenting this ethnoveterinary knowledge, the study contributes to the preservation of indigenous knowledge while advocating for sustainable approaches to livestock health management in rural areas. The study concludes with valuable insights into the selected local community's traditional methods of managing tick infestations. Furthermore, the study underscores the significance of preserving and understanding indigenous knowledge in livestock health management, particularly in regions where conventional veterinary approaches may face challenges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2025
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15. Multi-platform diagnostic strategy and biosecurity as basis of contagious agalactia control programs in endemic areas.
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De la Fe, Christian, Grau, Ana, Minguez, Olga, Sánchez, Antonio, Esquivel, Rosario, and Corrales, Juan C.
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AGRICULTURE , *VETERINARY medicine , *ANIMAL health , *ANIMAL herds , *MYCOPLASMA - Abstract
Background: Control strategies against contagious agalactia (CA), considered one of the most important diseases affecting small ruminants in countries surrounding the Mediterranean, are mainly based on traditional strategies considered suboptimal such as the use of inactivated vaccines and antibiotics. This manuscript analysed the efficacy of an alternative non-mandatory official control programme based on a multi-platform diagnostic panel and biosecurity developed and started in 185 herds placed in a contagious agalactia endemic area of Spain, using the data of 74,080 samples collected and analysed during a 4 years-period (2018–2021). Results: Globally, the combined analyses of bulk tank milk (BTM), ear or nasal swabs (in goats or sheep, respectively) and the serology to detect Mycoplasma agalactiae (Ma), allowed the detection of 40.54% of positive farms (n = 75), with Ma the species always detected in sheep (100%) and Mycoplasma mycoides subsp. capri (Mmc, 68,8%), Ma (29,3%) or both of them (1,9%) in goats. Taking into account productive aptitude and vaccination against CA, the use of BTM, ear or nasal swabs, and serology for herd classification demonstrated either a lack of concordance or only weak concordance. In herds that did not vaccinate, the classification of positives by male serology or swab detection showed moderate concordance. Vaccination against AC proved to be a protective factor against the occurrence of herds with bucks or rams testing positive. Conclusions: Since the different diagnostic techniques are not interchangeable, it is necessary to apply a multi-platform diagnostic panel for the accurate classification of herds. Based on official classification, strict biosecurity standards, including the prohibition of the entry of animals with unknown health status, allowed the completion of the CA control program. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2025
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16. Case report: FGF4L1 retrogene insertion is lacking in the tall dachshund phenotype.
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Sullivan, Stacey, Szeremeta, Katarzyna Julia, and Kutzler, Michelle
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WORKING dogs ,ANIMAL health ,PHENOTYPES ,ACHONDROPLASIA ,DECISION making ,LABORATORY dogs - Abstract
Two retrogene insertions, FGF4L1 (formerly 18-FGF4, colloquially CDPA) and FGF4L2 (formerly 12-FGF4, colloquially CDDY), have recently been discovered as determinants of short leg phenotype in dogs. This case study is comprised of a family of standard wirehaired dachshunds in which the dogs lacking the FGF4L1 gene exhibit a tall phenotype. The tall phenotype in the dachshunds of this report precludes the dog's working function of den work. The data presented in this report provide information as to how FGF4L1 status could be used in making breeding decisions in dachshunds to maintain working ability without compromising animal health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2025
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17. Nasal microbial diversity is associated with survival in piglets infected by a highly virulent PRRSV-1 strain.
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Obregon-Gutierrez, Pau, Cortey, Martí, Martín-Valls, Gerard E., Clilverd, Hepzibar, Correa-Fiz, Florencia, Aragón, Virginia, and Mateu, Enric
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PORCINE reproductive & respiratory syndrome ,PIGLETS ,ANIMAL health ,MICROBIAL diversity ,SWINE industry - Abstract
Background: Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) is a major threat to swine industry worldwide, especially virulent variants arising during the last years, such as Spanish PRRSV-1 Rosalia strain. The role of the nasal microbiota in respiratory viral infections is still to be unveiled but may be promisingly related with the health status of the animals and thus, their susceptibility. The goal of this project was to study the nasal microbiota composition of piglets during a highly virulent PRRSV-1 outbreak comparing animals that died due to the infection with animals that survived it. The microbiota composition was inferred by V3–V4 regions of the 16S rRNA gene sequencing and bioinformatics analysis. To deepen the analysis, we added samples taken from piglets before the outbreak as well as from the sows giving birth to piglets under study. Results: Piglets that survived the PRRSV-1 outbreak reported a more diverse and different nasal microbiota at three weeks of age compared to piglets dying, which was highly related with the litter of origin and the sow of the piglets. In addition, a high abundance of classical swine nasal colonizers belonging to genera such as Bergeyella, Glaesserella, Neisseria and Moraxella (among others), was related with good outcome. On the other hand, a dysbiotic community dominated by Escherichia and a different clade of Moraxella was found in piglets with bad outcome. Moreover, samples taken before the outbreak showed similar dynamics prior to virulent PRRSV-1 arrival, suggesting that microbiota-related susceptibility was already occurring in the animals and that the increase in mortality seen was related to the new highly virulent strain. Conclusion: Our study suggests that the susceptibility to an infection such as PRRSV could be related to the nasal microbiota composition at the moment of infection and may serve as starting point to explore animal resilience. Since the dysbiosis detected as an initial response to infection may be not specific for this virus, further investigations should explore this phenomenon in the context of other viral infections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2025
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18. Exploring probiotics as a sustainable alternative to antimicrobial growth promoters: mechanisms and benefits in animal health.
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Sachdeva, Angel, Tomar, Tanu, Malik, Tabarak, Bains, Aarti, and Karnwal, Arun
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GUT microbiome ,SUSTAINABILITY ,ANIMAL health ,CLOSTRIDIUM perfringens ,DRUG resistance in microorganisms ,ENTEROTYPES - Abstract
The extensive use of antimicrobial growth promoters (AGPs) in livestock has raised global concerns due to increasing antimicrobial resistance (AMR) among pathogenic microbes. This review examines probiotics as a sustainable alternative to AGPs, offering a safer approach for promoting animal growth and health. Probiotics enhance animal productivity and immunity by producing antimicrobial compounds and competing with pathogens for nutrients. In addition, probiotics strengthen the gut barrier and modulate the gut microbiome, facilitating beneficial bacterial growth while suppressing pathogenic species. Studies demonstrate the efficacy of probiotic strains of genera Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium in inhibiting pathogens such as Clostridium perfringens and Salmonella in livestock. This comprehensive evaluation highlights probiotics' potential to advance sustainable livestock practices, reduce reliance on antibiotics, and mitigate AMR risks, underscoring the need for further research and regulatory considerations for their use in animal husbandry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2025
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19. Proteomics of the Dark-Ventral-Patch Sexual Signal in Male Red Deer.
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Broggini, Camilla, Huertas-Abril, Paula V., Membrillo, Alberto, de la Peña, Eva, Abril, Nieves, and Carranza, Juan
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SEXUAL selection , *RED deer , *ANIMAL species , *ANIMAL health , *CELL communication , *ODORS - Abstract
Simple Summary: In many animal species, including the Iberian red deer, odors play crucial roles in communication, especially during mating. In male red deer, a dark ventral patch, which is linked to urine markings, acts as a key signal in attracting mates and competing with other males. This patch is covered in hair that holds onto chemical compounds, which may offer insights into the animal's health and reproductive readiness. This study aimed to explore whether proteins found on the hairs of the dark ventral patch could provide clues about the biological processes related to reproduction. We identified specific proteins on the hairs that might be involved in metabolic activities and cell signaling connected to mating. These findings help us understand how the chemical signals, carried by hair and urine might play a role in competition among males for mates. This research could be valuable in advancing our understanding of animal communication and sexual selection. Sexual signals in animals encompass a variety of forms including visual, acoustic, and chemical signals that are fundamental for intra- and interspecific communication, including sexual selection processes. Among these, odor signals play a critical role. Chemical compounds involved in sexual signaling vary in nature, with lipids and proteins being particularly important. In the male Iberian red deer (Cervus elaphus hispanicus), the dark ventral patch has been identified as a key sexual signal during mating competition, associated with specific chemical compounds deposited during urination. Hair plays a significant role in this signaling due to its ability to retain compounds on the scales of the hair cuticle. In this study, we used a shotgun proteomic approach to investigate whether the ventral patch hair retains proteins on its surface that could reveal metabolic and cell-signaling adaptations potentially related to reproductive activity. Characterization of the origin and functionality of the proteins found in the hair of the dark ventral patch of male red deer, and their relationship to distinct metabolic pathways, provides an initial understanding of the potential role of these compounds in chemical communication in red deer intrasexual competition for mates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2025
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20. Assessing and Improving Animal Welfare Using Applied Ethology.
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Fàbrega, Emma and Hötzel, Maria J.
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ANIMAL health , *GLOBAL Positioning System , *COMPARATIVE biology , *ANIMAL welfare , *EMOTIONS in animals , *AFFECTIVE neuroscience , *ORGANIC farming , *BROILER chickens , *PIGLETS - Abstract
The Special Issue "Behaviour, Applied Ethology and Welfare of Farmed Animals" explores empirical data and theoretical discussions on contemporary issues in animal welfare, focusing on the use of behavior as an indicator. The papers cover topics such as environmental enrichment, virtual fencing, dietary adjustments, and innovations to improve animal health and welfare in organic systems. The studies emphasize the importance of understanding, assessing, and improving animal welfare through applied ethology, highlighting the role of behavior in enhancing welfare conditions for farmed and captive animals. The articles also discuss the complexities of aligning animal welfare with economic realities and the need for policies that cater to different farm sizes while addressing the balance between welfare and economic constraints. [Extracted from the article]
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- 2025
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21. Probiotic Characterization of Lactic Acid Bacteria from Donkey Feces in China.
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Wu, Yanqiu, Yue, Shousong, Yu, Jinhui, Bian, Fei, Chen, Gao, and Zhang, Yan
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LACTIC acid bacteria , *GUT microbiome , *DIETARY supplements , *ANIMAL health , *BILE salts - Abstract
Simple Summary: Probiotics are beneficial for human and animal health and have been used as dietary supplements for various purposes, such as enhancing immunity, improving growth performance, and modulating gut microbiota. Probiotics have host-specific characteristics that are better when obtained from the host. Donkey husbandry in China has been booming during recent years; however, there is a shortage of probiotics specific for donkeys. To develop probiotics for donkeys, this study explored the donkey-derived lactic acid bacteria (LAB) to inhibit common pathogens and those restricted to equines. Eight donkey-derived isolates exhibited antibacterial activity against four indicator pathogens tested. The isolates were selected based on their potential in vitro probiotic characteristics. Ligilactobacillus salivarius L9 strain isolated in this study had excellent probiotic properties, such as fast growth and acid production rates, tolerance to gastric and internal stress, higher hydrophobicity, auto-aggregation, co-aggregation activity with the four indicator pathogens, and absence of acquiring antibiotic resistance. L9 strain is a superior candidate probiotic and is expected to be applied in the donkey breeding industry after further validation in vivo experiments. Probiotics are beneficial to humans and animals and often used for regulating immunity, intestinal microbiota balance, and animal growth performance. Donkey husbandry has boomed in China in recent years and there is an urgent need for probiotics effective for improving donkey health. However, studies on potential probiotic strains isolated from donkeys are scarce. This project aimed to screen LAB strains from donkey feces, detect their antimicrobial activity and evaluate their probiotic characteristics in vitro. Thirteen LAB isolates showed different degrees of antimicrobial activity against four indicator bacteria: three common pathogens (Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Salmonella typhimurium) and one pathogen restricted to equines (Salmonella. abortus equi), eight of which could inhibit all four pathogens. Seven isolates showed higher tolerance to low pH and bile salts, with >50% and >60% survival rates, respectively. Five of them had more than 50% survival rate to artificial gastric and intestinal fluids. Only three isolates possessed good properties, with >40% auto-aggregation, >40% hydrophobicity, and high co-aggregation with the indicator pathogens. An L9 isolate, identified as Ligilactobacillus salivarius, was sensitive to most antibiotics tested. Overall, these results indicate that the L. salivarius L9 isolate meets the requirements of the probiotics selection criteria in vitro and can potentially be developed as a probiotic for donkeys. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2025
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22. Do Activity Sensors Identify Physiological, Clinical and Behavioural Changes in Laying Hens Exposed to a Vaccine Challenge?
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Kang, Hyungwook, Brocklehurst, Sarah, Haskell, Marie, Jarvis, Susan, and Sandilands, Victoria
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ANIMAL behavior , *HENS , *ANIMAL mechanics , *ANIMAL welfare , *ANIMAL health , *ANIMAL housing - Abstract
Simple Summary: Large group sizes and diverse structures in modern housing systems for laying hens can have a detrimental effect on animal health and welfare by limiting health monitoring and the early detection of signs of sickness in individual hens. Wearable sensor technology that can monitor changes in animal behaviour and activity would be beneficial to mitigate these difficulties. This study investigated whether activity sensors detected sickness-type signs caused by side-effects from a live vaccine challenge in laying hens in comparison to the assessment of changes in physical and clinical signs or observing behaviour. Our study showed that wearable sensors detected changes in activity levels, distance travelled and the location of individual hens. Sensor technology to detect changes in behaviour and animal movement may be useful for monitoring animal health and welfare. This study aimed to identify if sensor technology could be used to detect sickness-type signs (caused by a live vaccine) in laying hens compared to physiological and clinical sign scoring and behaviour observation. The experiment comprised 5 replicate batches (4 hens and 12 days per batch) using previously non-vaccinated hens (n = 20). Hens were moved on day 1 to a large experimental room with various designated zones (e.g., litter, perches, nest box), where they wore two sensors (FitBark, TrackLab). Saline was applied using ocular and nasal drops on day 3 as a control. A live vaccine (Infectious Laryngotracheitis, ILT, vaccine), applied using the same method on day 6, was used to induce mild respiratory and other responses. Physiological and clinical signs, and behaviour from videos were also recorded by a single observer. There were significant changes in body weight (p < 0.001), feed intake (p = 0.031), cloacal temperature (p < 0.001) and three out of five clinical signs (ocular discharge (p < 0.001), conjunctivitis (p < 0.001) and depression (p = 0.009)) over days. A significant decrease (p < 0.001) in activity level (FitBark) and distance travelled (both sensors) were identified over the study days, and activity and distance travelled were highly significantly associated (p < 0.001) with total clinical scores, with hens showing reduced activity and distance travelled with worsening total clinical scores. With behaviour observations from videos, the proportions of sitting, foraging and feeding behaviours (p = 0.044, 0.036 and 0.004, respectively), the proportion of total visit duration to the litter zone (p < 0.001) and perch (p = 0.037) with TrackLab and the proportions of visit counts of hens in the litter zone (p = 0.012) from video scanning changed significantly with days. This study suggests that the vaccine challenge caused associated changes in clinical/physiological signs and activity/distance travelled data from the sensors. Sensors may have a role in detecting changes in activity and movement in individual hens indicative of health or welfare problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2025
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23. Linking Animal Feed Formulation to Milk Quantity, Quality, and Animal Health Through Data-Driven Decision-Making.
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Akintan, Oreofeoluwa A., Gebremedhin, Kifle G., and Uyeh, Daniel Dooyum
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DECISION support systems , *ANIMAL health , *MACHINE learning , *OPTIMIZATION algorithms , *SUSTAINABILITY , *MILK quality - Abstract
Simple Summary: Precision feed formulation is essential to improve livestock health, productivity, and milk quality, which directly affects animal health. The feed can be tailored to better meet livestock needs and enhance their growth and production by utilizing data-driven techniques such as machine learning and advanced decision-making systems. These advancements help improve milk quality and promote sustainability in dairy farming, though challenges such as data quality and industry adoption remain. These innovations contribute to better animal health and more efficient dairy production. The global demand for high-quality animal products, particularly dairy, has intensified the need for more precise and efficient livestock feed formulation. This review connects data-driven decision-making in optimizing feed formulation to enhance milk quantity and quality while addressing animal health implications. Modern feed formulation has evolved into a sophisticated, data-centric process by integrating diverse data sources such as nutritional databases, environmental data, and animal performance metrics. Leveraging advanced analytical techniques, such as machine learning and optimization algorithms, have created highly accurate feed formulations tailored to specific livestock needs. These innovations increase milk yield and contribute to developing dairy products with higher nutritional value. Decision Support Systems play a complementary role by offering real-time decision-making capabilities, enabling farmers to make data-informed adjustments composition based on changing conditions. However, despite its potential, the widespread adoption of data-driven feed formulation faces challenges such as data quality, technological limitations, and industry resistance, mostly disjointed processes. The objectives of this review are: (i) to explore the current advancements and challenges of data-driven decision-making in feed formulation, focusing on its connection to milk quantity and quality, and (ii) to highlight how this optimized feed formulation strategy improves sustainable dairy production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2025
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24. From Prediction to Precision: Explainable AI-Driven Insights for Targeted Treatment in Equine Colic.
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Cetintav, Bekir and Yalcin, Ahmet
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ANIMAL health , *COLIC in horses , *VETERINARY medicine , *ARTIFICIAL intelligence , *MACHINE learning - Abstract
Simple Summary: Colic is a critical health issue for horses, often requiring immediate and precise intervention to improve survival rates. This study uses machine learning and explainable artificial intelligence (XAI) techniques to predict the likelihood of survival for horses affected by colic. By analyzing clinical, procedural, and diagnostic data, the model identifies key factors that influence outcomes, such as pulse rate, lesion type, and protein levels. The use of SHAP (Shapley additive explanations) ensures transparency and enables targeted treatments, improving the welfare of horses and advancing precision veterinary care. Such innovations highlight the importance of combining technology and veterinary science for better animal health management. Colic is a leading cause of mortality in horses, demanding precise and timely interventions. This study integrates machine learning and explainable artificial intelligence (XAI) to predict survival outcomes in horses with colic, using clinical, procedural, and diagnostic data. Random forest and XGBoost emerged as top-performing models, achieving F1 scores of 85.9% and 86.1%, respectively. SHAP (Shapley additive explanations) was employed to provide interpretable insights, offering both global and local explanations for model predictions. The analysis revealed that key features, such as pulse rate, lesion type, and total protein levels, significantly influenced survival likelihood. Local interpretations highlighted the unique contribution of clinical factors to individual cases, enabling personalized insights that guide targeted treatment strategies. These tailored predictions empower veterinarians to prioritize interventions based on the specific conditions of each horse, moving beyond generalized care protocols. By combining predictive accuracy with interpretability, this study advances precision veterinary medicine, enhancing outcomes for equine colic cases and setting a benchmark for future applications of AI in animal health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2025
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25. Pretreatment of Palm Kernel Cake by Enzyme-Bacteria and Its Effects on Growth Performance in Broilers.
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Liu, Yue, Liu, Ying, Cao, Yunhe, and Wang, Chunlin
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FEED analysis , *SOLID-state fermentation , *PALM oil industry , *ANIMAL experimentation , *ANIMAL health , *CORN as feed - Abstract
Simple Summary: This study focused on improving the nutritional value of palm kernel cake, a by-product of palm oil production, which is often used in animal feed but contains anti-nutritional factors. We used enzymes to break down these factors and then fermented the cake with beneficial microbes. Our experiments showed that these treatments significantly enhanced the nutritional content of the palm kernel cake. We tested this improved feed on broiler chickens and found that it led to better growth, higher feed intake, and improved nutrient absorption. The treated feed also boosted the chickens' immune systems and overall health. These findings suggest that the reported method made the palm kernel cake a more valuable and effective component of animal feed, potentially reducing feed costs and improving animal welfare. This research is important for the agricultural industry as it offers a sustainable way to enhance animal nutrition and health. This study aimed to improve palm kernel cake by reducing anti-nutritional factors with enzymes and enhancing its nutritional value through microbial fermentation. It also examined the effects of these treatments on palm kernel cake in broiler chicken diets. Palm kernel cake was hydrolyzed using xylanase and mannanase under various conditions. Co-fermentation with Lactobacillus plantarum QZSL and Saccharomyces boulardii mafic-1701 was assessed under different parameters. In the animal experiment, 350 male Cobb broiler chicks were divided into seven groups: a control group provided a corn-soybean meal diet, and groups provided diets containing 10% and 20% palm kernel cake, enzyme-hydrolyzed palm kernel cake, and bacteria-enzyme co-fermented palm kernel cake. Optimal conditions for enzymatic hydrolysis of palm kernel cake are 55 °C, pH 3.0, and a 1:2.5 feed-to-water ratio. Adding 0.1 g xylanase and 1.0 g mannanase to 10 g palm kernel cake for 12 h increased reduced sugar content to 139.33 mg/g and reduced neutral detergent fiber to 43.92%. For solid-state fermentation with Lactobacillus plantarum QZSL and Saccharomyces boulardii mafic-1701, optimal conditions are 37 °C, 5% inoculation, 20% moisture, 3 days fermentation, and a 7:3 bacterial ratio. Animal experiments showed significant improvements in broilers' growth, nutrient digestibility, antioxidant capacity, immune function, and intestinal health. Enzyme-bacteria co-fermentation of palm kernel cake boosts its nutritional value and enhances broiler intestinal health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2025
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26. Dietary Taurine Regulation of the Intestinal Microbiome in Chinese Stripe-Necked Turtle (Mauremys sinensis).
- Author
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Yuan, Yue, Niu, Xin, Hao, Chenguang, Liang, Lingyue, Huang, Zubin, Wang, Dongmei, Hong, Meiling, and Ding, Li
- Subjects
- *
GUT microbiome , *TAURINE , *NUCLEOTIDE sequencing , *ANIMAL health , *GRAM-positive bacteria - Abstract
Taurine is essential for sustaining the body's physiological equilibrium and is extensively utilized as a dietary supplement and immune system enhancer for aquatic creatures. The gut microbiota serves as a vital health indicator in animals. In this study, our goal was to evaluate the effects of dietary taurine on the gut microbiome of Chinese stripe-necked turtles (Mauremys sinensis). Turtles were evenly divided into three supplementation groups: a control group with no taurine in the diet, a low group with 0.1% taurine, and a high group with 0.4% taurine. High-throughput sequencing was employed to analyze the gut microbiome's composition and structure. The results showed that the impact of taurine supplementation on the α-diversity and β-diversity of the gut microbiome was not statistically significant. At the phylum level, Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes predominated the gut microbiome. At the genus level, three beneficial bacteria, Clostridium_sensu_stricto_13, Pygmaiobacter, and Terrisporobacter showed significant differences under different levels of taurine supplementation and increased in abundance with the supplementation of taurine, while the harmful bacterium Brucella decreased in abundance with the addition of taurine and exhibited significant differences. Furthermore, LEfSe analysis and functional predictions highlighted significant variations in the functional traits of gram-positive intestinal bacteria among the different taurine supplementation levels. These findings imply that dietary taurine may alter the intestinal microbiome structure in Chinese stripe-necked turtles, offering valuable insights for the scientific assessment of taurine's health benefits as a feed additive and potentially guiding the formulation of more informed and healthier feeding practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2025
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27. Quality assessment of fish vaccine data in the Norwegian Veterinary Prescription Register (VetReg).
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Udhwani, Trishang, Dean, Katharine R., Sommerset, Ingunn, and Helgesen, Kari Olli
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VACCINATION coverage , *PRODUCT coding , *AQUACULTURE industry , *COMMUNICABLE diseases , *ANIMAL health - Abstract
Background: Vaccination of farmed salmonids has been an integral part of preventing infectious diseases in Norway's aquaculture industry. In Norway, vaccine usage is regulated by the government. There is a need to monitor vaccine usage for both regulatory and research purposes, at local and national scales. The Norwegian Veterinary Prescription Register (VetReg) is a national database that includes all prescriptions of medicines to animals dispensed by pharmacies and all medicines used for food producing animals by veterinarians. This study aimed to evaluate the quality of fish vaccination data reported to VetReg in 2016–2022. We considered the following attributes: completeness, validity, and timeliness. For external validation, we compared the data in VetReg to wholesaler statistics. Results: Pharmacies reported fish vaccines to VetReg in a variety of quantity units, including doses and volumes, which required us to harmonize the data to a single unit. It was not possible to harmonize the quantity units for nine percent of the records, which were mainly bath vaccines reported in doses. We identified specific issues that required manual editing of the units of 1 percent of the records. We validated individual variables such as product codes and location identifiers using external registers. The 'number of animals' variable was inconsistent for 31 percent of the records. The coverage of vaccine data in VetReg ranged from 81 to 113 percent for the ten most sold vaccines in 2020–2022, as compared to wholesales statistics. For the timeliness, we found that 75 percent of the records were submitted within 25 days for all years. Conclusions: Overall, we found that the fish vaccination data in VetReg was of sufficient quality to monitor injectable vaccine usage at hatcheries after 2020. We identified issues at the product level, with bath vaccines, and with single variables (number of animals, weight, and species). We recommend that quality can be improved by reporting all vaccines in volume rather than doses, reporting a single vaccine prescription per report, and including a deadline for pharmacies to report in the legislation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2025
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28. CRISPR/Cas9-editing of PRNP in Alpine goats.
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Allais-Bonnet, Aurélie, Richard, Christophe, André, Marjolaine, Gelin, Valérie, Deloche, Marie-Christine, Lamadon, Aurore, Morin, Gwendoline, Mandon-Pépin, Béatrice, Canon, Eugénie, Thépot, Dominique, Laubier, Johann, Moazami-Goudarzi, Katayoun, Laffont, Ludivine, Dubois, Olivier, Fassier, Thierry, Congar, Patrice, Lasserre, Olivier, Aguirre-Lavin, Tiphaine, Vilotte, Jean-Luc, and Pailhoux, Eric
- Abstract
Misfolding of the cellular PrP (PrP
c ) protein causes prion disease, leading to neurodegenerative disorders in numerous mammalian species, including goats. A lack of PrPc induces complete resistance to prion disease. The aim of this work was to engineer Alpine goats carrying knockout (KO) alleles of PRNP, the PrPc -encoding gene, using CRISPR/Cas9-ribonucleoproteins and single-stranded donor oligonucleotides. The targeted region preceded the PRNPTer mutation previously described in Norwegian goats. Genome editors were injected under the zona pellucida prior to the electroporation of 565 Alpine goat embryos/oocytes. A total of 122 two-cell-stage embryos were transferred to 46 hormonally synchronized recipient goats. Six of the goats remained pregnant and naturally gave birth to 10 offspring. Among the 10 newborns, eight founder animals carrying PRNP genome-edited alleles were obtained. Eight different mutated alleles were observed, including five inducing KO mutations. Three founders carried only genome-edited alleles and were phenotypically indistinguishable from their wild-type counterparts. Among them, one male carrying a one base pair insertion leading to a KO allele is currently used to rapidly extend a PRNP-KO line of Alpine goats for future characterization. In addition to KO alleles, a PRNPdel6 genetic variant has been identified in one-third of founder animals. This new variant will be tested for its potential properties with respect to prion disease. Future studies will also evaluate the effects of genetic background on other characters associated with PRNP KO, as previously described in the Norwegian breed or other species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]- Published
- 2025
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29. A qualitative exploration of the enablers of and barriers to conformance with antibiotic withdrawal periods on smallholding, peri-urban pig farms in Kiambu County, Kenya.
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Scott, Claire, Bor, Nicholas, Reyher, Kristen K., Tasker, Alex J., Buller, Henry, Bueno, Irene, and Thomas, Lian F.
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SWINE farms , *MEDICAL personnel , *WATER shortages , *FARM supplies , *ANIMAL health , *ANTIBIOTIC residues , *WATER withdrawals - Abstract
Non-conformance with antibiotic withdrawal period guidelines represents a food safety concern, with potential for antibiotic toxicities and allergic reactions as well as selecting for antibiotic resistance. In the Kenyan domestic pig market, conformance with antibiotic withdrawal periods is not a requirement of government legislation and evidence suggests that antibiotic residues may frequently be above recommended limits. In this study, we sought to explore enablers of and barriers to conformance with antibiotic withdrawal periods for pig farms supplying a local independent abattoir in peri-urban Nairobi. We drew upon semi-structured interviews with farmers and government animal health professionals as well as focus groups which involved private animal health professionals. We also explored farmers' engagement with antibiotic withdrawal periods by visiting thirteen pig farms (supplying one of two local independent abattoirs) weekly for one month in order to capture instances of antibiotic use. We analysed data using reflexive thematic analysis. All farmers participating in the study demonstrated an awareness of the concept of antibiotic withdrawal periods and described intentions to conform, motivated by caring for others, wanting to prevent harm or a perception that regulation around antibiotic withdrawal periods existed for local independent abattoirs. The antibiotic use practices that we identified showed limited opportunities for non-conformance with antibiotic withdrawal periods. Farmers and veterinarians reported that instances of antibiotic use were uncommon, especially in slaughter-weight pigs, and were mainly restricted to the treatment of clinical signs under the supervision of an animal health professional. Local factors presented barriers to antibiotic withdrawal period conformance including farmers' economic constraints, lack of formal medicine recording, an absence of consistent abattoir monitoring and resource emergency, such as water scarcity on farms. This study demonstrates the importance of these contextual factors to conformance with antibiotic withdrawal periods. We highlight the need to account for farm-level influences when planning future research and interventions aimed at reducing the presence of antibiotic residues in meat from smallholding pig farms in peri-urban Nairobi. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2025
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30. Field study on the suitability of oral fluid samples for monitoring of Lawsonia intracellularis and Brachyspira hyodysenteriae by multiplex qPCR under field conditions.
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Eddicks, Matthias, Reiner, Gerald, Junker, Sigena, Willems, Hermann, Becker, Sabrina, Stadler, Julia, Hagn, Josefine, and Ritzmann, Mathias
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SALIVA ,ANIMAL health ,PUBLIC health surveillance ,VENTILATION monitoring ,COMMUNICABLE diseases - Abstract
Background: Monitoring or surveillance of infectious diseases is crucial in terms of herd health management of livestock. Investigations of oral fluids have become an animal friendly routine strategy to monitor respiratory pathogens in pigs. Less is known about the suitability of oral fluids for the detection of enteric pathogens in swine. In the present study we evaluated the use of oral fluids to monitor B. hyodysenteriae and L. intracellularis compared to pooled fecal samples by multiplex qPCR in a pen-wise follow-up of fattening pigs. Therefore, we collected oral fluids at an age of 12, 16 and 20 weeks of life and compared them to pooled fecal samples collected from the same pens on two fattening farms. Results: Cohen´s Kappa analysis revealed a substantial agreement between oral fluids and pooled fecal samples on pen level (Cohen´s Kappa: 0.745; p < 0.001). DNA-loads of L. intracellularis were tendentially higher (p = 0.053) in pooled fecal samples than in the corresponding OFs. Conclusions: The present study shows that oral fluids are an appropriate tool to monitor B. hyodysenteriae and L. intracellularis on conventional fattening farms under field conditions. However, multiple pen testing should be conducted to increase the diagnostic performance and sensitivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2025
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31. Prevalence of bovine trypanosomosis and tsetse fly density in the Yem special district: a cross-sectional study.
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Bekele, Dagim, Wang, XiaoLong, Beshir, Ahimedin, and Terefe, Endale
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TSETSE-flies ,SPECIAL districts ,ANIMAL health ,MIXED infections ,DISEASE management ,TRYPANOSOMA - Abstract
This study assesses the prevalence of bovine trypanosomes and the density of tsetse flies in the Yem Special District, Southern Ethiopia, highlighting the disease's significant impact on livestock health and agricultural productivity. Conducted between May 2022 and January 2023, the cross-sectional survey analyzed 960 blood samples for trypanosomes prevalence and tsetse fly density. Results revealed a 10.63% (9–12%) overall prevalence of bovine trypanosomes, with Trypanosoma congolense (5.83%) and Trypanosoma vivax (4.73%) as the predominant species, and 0.63% of mixed infection. Significant associations were found between trypanosomes and anemia, age, and sex, with higher prevalence rates observed in cattle with poor body condition scores and black-hair coats. The study identified three Glossina species, with Glossina morsitans submorsitans being the most prevalent. The findings underscore the need for integrated vector control strategies, community engagement in disease management, and further research using molecular techniques for deeper understanding and effective control measures. Collaboration among stakeholders is crucial for mitigating the disease's impact on livestock and human populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2025
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32. Biosecurity measures reducing Salmonella spp. and hepatitis E virus prevalence in pig farms—a systematic review and meta-analysis.
- Author
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Huber, Nikolaus, Meester, Marina, Sassu, Elena L., Waller, Elisabeth S. L., Krumova-Valcheva, Gergana, Aprea, Giuseppe, D'Angelantonio, Daniela, Zoche-Golob, Veit, Scattolini, Silvia, Marriott, Emily, Smith, Richard P., Burow, Elke, and Carreira, Guido Correia
- Subjects
HEPATITIS E virus ,ANIMAL herds ,FOOD pathogens ,ANIMAL health ,SWINE farms - Abstract
Salmonella spp. and hepatitis E virus (HEV) are significant foodborne zoonotic pathogens that impact the health of livestock, farmers, and the general public. This study aimed to identify biosecurity measures (BSMs) against these pathogens on swine farms in Europe, the United States, and Canada. Overall, 1,529 articles from three scientific databases were screened manually and with the artificial intelligence (AI) tool ASReview. We identified 54 BSMs from 32 articles, primarily focused on Salmonella spp. control. Amongst the extracted BSMs, only five measures for Salmonella spp. control, namely, 'acidification of feed', 'acidification of drinking water', 'rodent control', 'all-in and all-out production', and 'disinfection' had sufficient observations to conduct a meta-analysis. Of these five, acidification and rodent control were found to be protective measures, that is, their summary odds ratios in the corresponding meta-analyses were lower than 1, indicating lower odds of Salmonella spp. presence on farms which implemented these BSM compared to farms which did not implement them (odds ratio [OR] around 0.25). All-in and all-out production showed a non-significant protective effect (OR = 0.71), while disinfection showed a statistically non-significant lack of association between disinfection and the presence of Salmonella spp. on the farm (OR = 1.03). For HEV, no meta-analysis could be performed. According to multiple articles, two BSMs were significantly associated with a lower risk of HEV presence, namely, disinfecting vehicles (OR = 0.30) and quarantining pigs before introducing them on the farm (OR = 0.48). A risk of bias assessment for each included article revealed a high risk in the majority of the articles, mainly due to selection and performance bias. This emphasises the lack of standardised, high-quality study designs and robust empirical evidence linking BSM implementation to pathogen reduction. The limited data available for meta-analysis, coupled with the high risk of bias (RoB) in the literature, highlights the urgent need for more substantial evidence on the effectiveness of BSMs in mitigating the transmission and spread of zoonotic pathogens, such as Salmonella spp. and HEV on pig farms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2025
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33. Diseases of Economic Importance in Feedlot Cattle in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Review with a Focus on Existing and Potential Options for Control.
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Mwacalimba, Kennedy, Kimeli, Peter, Tiernan, Raymond, Mijten, Erik, Miroshnychenko, Tetiana, and Poulsen Nautrup, Barbara
- Subjects
- *
LUMPY skin disease , *RIFT Valley fever , *VACCINATION complications , *ANIMAL health , *TRADE regulation , *FEEDLOTS - Abstract
Simple Summary: This review defines and describes the economically important diseases affecting feedlot cattle in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) and assesses current therapy and control strategies. Five key diseases—foot-and-mouth disease (FMD), contagious bovine pleuropneumonia (CBPP), lumpy skin disease (LSD), Rift Valley fever (RVF), and bovine respiratory disease (BRD)—present ongoing threats to the profitability of feedlots in SSA. Due to the challenges of eradicating these diseases, prevention and control are crucial to maintaining livestock health and economic stability. This review identifies several areas for improvement: (1) enhancing biosecurity measures where they are inadequate; (2) increasing vaccine uptake, supported by the development of more effective vaccines with fewer side effects and less reliance on strict cold-chain logistics; and (3) evaluating newer therapeutic products for their potential to improve animal health, reduce disease transmission, and encourage the prudent use of antimicrobials. By focusing on these areas, this review underscores the importance of strategic disease management to safeguard the future of cattle production in SSA and enhance feedlot profitability. Livestock production in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) should address health challenges and boost productivity to reach the projected increase in population growth. This review aimed to define and describe economically important diseases of feedlot cattle with a focus on current therapy and control strategies. Five diseases were selected for review, which represent an ongoing threat to feedlot profitability in SSA. Foot-and-mouth disease is an economically devastating viral disease that severely affects production and trade. Therapy includes local treatment and systemic application of antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory drugs. Vaccines are available, but are limited by uncoordinated vaccine campaigns, poor distribution to remote parts of the countries, and lack of cross-protection among different serotypes and topotypes. Losses due to contagious bovine pleuropneumonia derive from high mortality, morbidity, and trade restrictions. Antimicrobials are used to reduce mortality and limit the spread of disease. Lumpy skin disease leads to losses due to morbidity, mortality, quality degradation of hides, and trade restrictions. Therapy includes topical treatment and the systematic use of antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs. Vaccines are available, but vaccine failures and adverse events have been reported. Rift Valley fever is one of the most important arthropod-borne zoonoses in SSA. Outbreaks are treated by mass vaccination, although this may not be coordinated in all SSA countries. Bovine respiratory disease is the most common and costly disease in global cattle production. Losses result from deaths, treatment costs, and reduced growth performance. Efficacious vaccines against the main causative agents are available, but their uptake differs greatly among SSA countries. As eradicating these diseases is not a realistic aim in most SSA countries in the future, prevention and control remain critical. This review identifies areas for potential improvement, including the following. (1) Improvement of biosecurity measures where they are nonexistent or sub-optimal. (2) An increase in vaccine uptake, which could be supported by the introduction of new efficacious vaccines, with fewer side effects and less need for a strict cold chain. (3) Evaluation of newer products regarding their ability to improve health, reduce the spread of disease, and support the prudent use of antimicrobials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2025
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34. Unusual Findings of Human-Associated Four-Nucleated Entamoeba Species in Captive Wild Animals.
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Esteban-Sánchez, Lorena, García-Rodríguez, Juan José, and Ponce-Gordo, Francisco
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CAPTIVE wild animals , *ZOO animals , *ENTAMOEBA , *ANIMAL health , *MICROSCOPY - Abstract
Simple Summary: Several species of the genus Entamoeba infect humans and other animals, primarily non-human primates. The number of morphological characters that can be used for their identification is very limited and none are conclusive, making genetic analyses crucial. The study of parasites found in captive animals, such as those in zoos, is very important both for the health of the animals themselves and for understanding the potential for transmission between animals and humans (caretakers and visitors). In this study, human-related Entamoeba species such as Entamoeba dispar, Entamoeba hartmanni, as well as Entamoeba nuttalli, incorrectly considered to be exclusive to non-human primates, have been identified in captive wild animals at a Spanish zoo (Zoo Aquarium of Madrid, located in Madrid city, Spain) through genetic analysis. The presence of E. dispar has been confirmed for the first time in birds (in greater rhea, Rhea americana) and in previously unreported mammalian hosts, including primates (mantled guereza, Colobus guereza; lar gibbon, Hylobates lar) and anteaters (Myrmecophaga tridactyla). Entamoeba nuttalli was detected only in mandrills (Mandril sphinx) while E. hartmanni was found in both mandrills and chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes). These findings expand our knowledge of the epidemiology of these parasitic species and emphasize the need for routine monitoring to prevent transmission. Several species of amoebae in the genus Entamoeba forming four-nucleated mature cysts are pathogenic, but their identification is challenging due to a lack of distinctive morphological traits. Furthermore, host species cannot reliably be used as a criterion for identification. In this study, several isolates of four-nucleated cyst-forming Entamoeba species from animals at the Zoo Aquarium of Madrid are genetically identified. Entamoeba cysts were identified through microscopic analysis of faecal samples; none of the animals exhibited symptoms. DNA was extracted, and a fragment of the SSU-rRNA gene was PCR-amplified and sequenced to identify the species. Entamoeba dispar was identified in mantled guerezas (Colobus guereza), lar gibbons (Hylobates lar), greater rheas (Rhea americana) and giant anteaters (Myrmecophaga tridactyla). Entamoeba hartmnanni was detected in mandrills (Mandrillus sphinx) and chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes). Entamoeba nuttalli was detected in mandrills; the analysis of sequences available in GenBank revealed that this species has also been detected in human samples. The identification of the Entamoeba species across diverse host species underscores the need for genetic confirmation to prevent misidentifications. These findings expand the known host range of these species and emphasize the importance of regular monitoring to minimize transmission risks, including potential cross-species transmission to/from humans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2025
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35. High Concentrations of Tilmicosin Promote the Spread of Multidrug Resistance Gene tol C in the Pig Gut Microbiome Through Mobile Genetic Elements.
- Author
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Chen, Tao, Zhao, Minxing, Chen, Majian, Tang, Xiaoyue, Qian, Yuliang, Li, Xiaoting, Wang, Yan, Liao, Xindi, and Wu, Yinbao
- Subjects
- *
MOBILE genetic elements , *GUT microbiome , *MULTIDRUG resistance , *DRUG resistance in bacteria , *ANIMAL health - Abstract
Simple Summary: Antibiotic resistance is a growing concern that affects both human and animal health, making infections harder to treat. This study focused on how the antibiotic tilmicosin affects the spread of antibiotic resistance genes in the gut microbiome of pigs. The pigs were given different concentrations of tilmicosin, and their manure was analyzed to track changes. The results showed that while there was no significant change in the total abundance of macrolide resistance genes, the high-concentration treatment led to a significant increase in the abundance of the multidrug resistance gene tolC. This gene has been associated with changes in the gut microbiota, particularly an increase in certain host bacteria. This study is important because it highlights how antibiotics can impact the gut microbiome and promote the transfer of resistance genes, which could ultimately affect both animal and human health. The impact of antibiotic therapy on the spread of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) and its relationship to gut microbiota remains unclear. This study investigated changes in ARGs, mobile genetic elements (MGEs), and gut microbial composition following tilmicosin administration in pigs. Thirty pigs were randomly divided into control (CK), low-concentration (0.2 g/kg; L), and high-concentration (0.4 g/kg; H) groups. Tilmicosin concentration in manure peaked on day 16 of dosing and dropped below detectable levels by day 13 of the withdrawal period. While tilmicosin did not significantly affect the total abundance of macrolide resistance genes (MRGs) (p > 0.05), it significantly increased the abundance of the multidrug resistance gene tolC in the H group compared with the L and CK groups during the withdrawal period (p < 0.05). This increase was associated with a coincidental rise in the abundance of MGEs (e.g., int1 and int2) and the growth of potential tolC-hosting bacteria such as Paenalcaligenes and Proteiniclasticum. Redundancy analysis showed gut microbial composition as the primary driver of MRG abundance, with MGEs, tilmicosin concentration, and manure physicochemical properties playing secondary roles. These findings suggest that high-dose tilmicosin may alter the gut microbiota and promote ARG spread via MGE-mediated transfer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2025
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36. Terpinen-4-ol Improves the Intestinal Barrier Function of the Colon in Immune-Stressed Weaning Piglets.
- Author
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Yu, Lihuai, Qiu, Guangzhi, Yu, Xiaomu, Zhao, Jianwei, Liu, Jun, Wang, Hongrong, and Dong, Li
- Subjects
- *
INTESTINAL barrier function , *ANIMAL health , *LIVESTOCK productivity , *ANIMAL welfare , *SUSTAINABLE agriculture - Abstract
Simple Summary: The implications of intestinal barrier function improvement in immune-stressed weaning piglets by terpinen-4-ol(TER) are observed. Enhanced nutrient absorption, reduced gastrointestinal disease incidence, and improved overall growth performance can be achieved through improved intestinal barrier function. A promising alternative is offered by the use of TER as a natural plant extract. Far-reaching implications on animal health, economic viability, environmental sustainability, and animal welfare are observed from the use of TER to improve intestinal barrier function in immune-stressed weaning piglets. The importance of natural alternatives in enhancing livestock productivity and health is underscored by this promising approach, paving the way for more sustainable and ethical farming practices. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of terpinen-4-ol (TER) supplementation on the intestinal barrier function of pigs. Five groups of fifty 28-day-old piglets with comparable body weights were randomly assigned to the following groups: the control group (CON), the lipopolysaccharide group (LPS), the low TER group (PLT), the middle TER group (PMT), and the high TER group (PHT). The basal diet was given to the CON and LPS groups, and 30, 60, or 90 mg/kg TER was added to the basal diet for the TER groups. After the 21-day trial period, piglets in the LPS and TER groups received an intraperitoneal injection of 100 μg/kg body weight of LPS, whereas the piglets in the CON group received an injection of 0.9% normal saline solution. The results showed that LPS stimulation resulted in a decrease (p < 0.05) in the depth of colonic crypts in piglets, which was greater (p < 0.05) in the TER group. Compared with those in the CON group, the number of goblet cells and MUC2 expression were decreased in the colon of piglets in the LPS group, while these parameters were increased in the PMT group (p < 0.05). The malondialdehyde (MDA) content was greater in the colon of the LPS group than in that of the CON group, while the activities of glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase (CAT) were lower in the colon of the LPS group; conversely, the MDA content was lower in the colons of the PLT and PMT groups than in those of the LPS group (p < 0.05). TER also reduced (p < 0.05) LPS-induced upregulation of IL-1β and TNF-α expression, along with the relative gene expression of NLRP3, ASC, and caspase-1 in the colon of piglets (p < 0.05). Compared with those in the CON group, the abundances of Firmicutes and UCG-005 in the LPS group were lower (p < 0.05), and those in the TER group were significantly greater than those in the LPS group. Compared with those in the CON group, the abundance of Proteobacteria in the LPS group increased (p < 0.05), while the abundance of Actinobacteria and Phascolarctobacterium increased (p < 0.05) in the colon of the PHT group compared with that in the LPS group. In conclusion, TER effectively improved the intestinal barrier function of the colon in weaning piglets. Based on the results of this study, the appropriate dose of TER in the diets of weaning piglets was 60 mg/kg. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2025
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37. Aflatoxin B1: Challenges and Strategies for the Intestinal Microbiota and Intestinal Health of Monogastric Animals.
- Author
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Choi, Hyunjun, Garavito-Duarte, Yesid, Gormley, Alexa R., and Kim, Sung Woo
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- *
GUT microbiome , *FEED contamination , *SMALL intestine , *ANIMAL health , *AFLATOXINS , *ANIMAL weaning - Abstract
The objective of this review is to investigate the impacts of aflatoxins, particularly aflatoxin B1 (AFB1), on intestinal microbiota, intestinal health, and growth performance in monogastric animals, primarily chickens and pigs, as well as dietary interventions to mitigate these effects. Aflatoxin B1 contamination in feeds disrupts intestinal microbiota, induces immune responses and oxidative damage, increases antioxidant activity, and impairs jejunal cell viability, barrier function, and morphology in the small intestine. These changes compromise nutrient digestion and reduce growth performance in animals. The negative impact of AFB1 on the % change in average daily gain (ΔADG) of chickens and pigs was estimated based on meta-analysis: ΔADG (%)chicken = −0.13 × AFB1 intake per body weight (ng/g·d) and ΔADG (%)pig = −0.74 × AFB1 intake per body weight (µg/kg·d), indicating that increasing AFB1 contamination linearly reduces the growth of animals. To mitigate the harmful impacts of AFB1, various dietary strategies have been effective. Mycotoxin-detoxifying agents include mycotoxin-adsorbing agents, such as clay and yeast cell wall compounds, binding to AFB1 and mycotoxin-biotransforming agents, such as specific strains of Bacillus subtilis and mycotoxin-degrading enzyme, degrading AFB1 into non-toxic metabolites such as aflatoxin D1. Multiple mycotoxin-detoxifying agents are often combined and used together to improve the intestinal health and growth of chickens and pigs fed AFB1-contaminated feeds. In summary, AFB1 negatively impacts intestinal microbiota, induces immune responses and oxidative stress, disrupts intestinal morphology, and impairs nutrient digestion in the small intestine, leading to reduced growth performance. Supplementing multi-component mycotoxin-detoxifying agents in feeds could effectively adsorb and degrade AFB1 co-contaminated with other mycotoxins prior to its absorption in the small intestine, preventing its negative impacts on the intestinal health and growth performance of chickens and pigs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2025
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38. A Review of the Mycotoxin Family of Fumonisins, Their Biosynthesis, Metabolism, Methods of Detection and Effects on Humans and Animals.
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Anumudu, Christian Kosisochukwu, Ekwueme, Chiemerie T., Uhegwu, Chijioke Christopher, Ejileugha, Chisom, Augustine, Jennifer, Okolo, Chioke Amaefuna, and Onyeaka, Helen
- Subjects
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ANIMAL health , *FUMONISINS , *PUBLIC safety , *FOOD contamination , *COMPLEX matrices , *SORGHUM - Abstract
Fumonisins, a class of mycotoxins predominantly produced by Fusarium species, represent a major threat to food safety and public health due to their widespread occurrence in staple crops including peanuts, wine, rice, sorghum, and mainly in maize and maize-based food and feed products. Although fumonisins occur in different groups, the fumonisin B series, particularly fumonisin B1 (FB1) and fumonisin B2 (FB2), are the most prevalent and toxic in this group of mycotoxins and are of public health significance due to the many debilitating human and animal diseases and mycotoxicosis they cause and their classification as by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) as a class 2B carcinogen (probable human carcinogen). This has made them one of the most regulated mycotoxins, with stringent regulatory limits on their levels in food and feeds destined for human and animal consumption, especially maize and maize-based products. Numerous countries have regulations on levels of fumonisins in foods and feeds that are intended to protect human and animal health. However, there are still gaps in knowledge, especially with regards to the molecular mechanisms underlying fumonisin-induced toxicity and their full impact on human health. Detection of fumonisins has been advanced through various methods, with immunological approaches such as Enzyme-Linked Immuno-Sorbent Assay (ELISA) and lateral flow immunoassays being widely used for their simplicity and adaptability. However, these methods face challenges such as cross-reactivity and matrix interference, necessitating the need for continued development of more sensitive and specific detection techniques. Chromatographic methods, including HPLC-FLD, are also employed in fumonisin analysis but require meticulous sample preparation and derivitization due to the low UV absorbance of fumonisins. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the fumonisin family, focusing on their biosynthesis, occurrence, toxicological effects, and levels of contamination found in foods and the factors affecting their presence. It also critically evaluates the current methods for fumonisin detection and quantification, including chromatographic techniques and immunological approaches such as ELISA and lateral flow immunoassays, highlighting the challenges associated with fumonisin detection in complex food matrices and emphasizing the need for more sensitive, rapid, and cost-effective detection methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2025
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39. Butyrate Supplementation Improves Intestinal Health and Growth Performance in Livestock: A Review.
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Chen, Wenting, Ma, Qingshan, Li, Yan, Wei, Lin, Zhang, Zhenwei, Khan, Adnan, Khan, Muhammad Zahoor, and Wang, Changfa
- Subjects
- *
ANIMAL health , *SHORT-chain fatty acids , *GENETIC regulation , *ANIMAL nutrition , *LIVESTOCK growth , *BUTYRATES - Abstract
Butyrate supplementation has gained considerable attention for its potential benefits in livestock, particularly concerning intestinal health and growth performance. This review synthesizes recent research on the diverse roles of butyrate, across various livestock species. As a short-chain fatty acid, butyrate is known for enhancing intestinal development, improving immune function, and modulating microbial diversity. Studies indicate that butyrate supports gut barrier integrity, reduces inflammation, and optimizes feed efficiency, especially during the critical weaning and post-weaning periods in calves, piglets, and lambs. Supplementation with butyrate in livestock has been shown to increase average daily gain (ADG), improve gut microbiota balance, promote growth, enhance gut health, boost antioxidant capacity, and reduce diarrhea. Additionally, butyrate plays a role in the epigenetic regulation of gene expression through histone acetylation, influencing tissue development and immune modulation. Its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects have been demonstrated across various species, positioning butyrate as a potential therapeutic agent in animal nutrition. This review suggests that optimizing butyrate supplementation strategies to meet the specific needs of each species may yield additional benefits, establishing butyrate as an important dietary additive for enhancing growth performance and health in livestock. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2025
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40. The Smell of Money? An Iowa-Focused Impact Analysis of National Pork Producers Council v. Ross.
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Goos, Alec T.
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- *
FACTORY farms , *ANIMAL health , *ANIMAL welfare , *REFERENDUM , *SMALL farms - Abstract
Federalism is the foundation of the American governmental system with the dormant Commerce Clause serving as a barrier against states reaching beyond their borders. The dormant Commerce Clause was tested in the U.S. Supreme Court case, National Pork Producers Council v. Ross over California's Proposition 12, an animal health and welfare ballot measure that regulates the sale of livestock into the California marketplace. Proposition 12 survived its challenge before the U.S. Supreme Court because the Court found that pork chops are not regulated under the dormant Commerce Clause. This decision immensely impacts Iowa's economy as Iowa is the number one pork producer in the nation, and most of its production is not in compliance with Proposition 12. Exploring the economic, environmental, and human health impacts of factory farming, and the cost of compliance with Proposition 12, this Note suggests that the consolidation of the agricultural industry has harmed, rather than helped, Iowans. This Note argues that Proposition 12 presents a unique opportunity for the Iowa Legislature to wean itself off factory farming and reestablish its roots as a state committed to small family farms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2025
41. The role of gene editing, organoids, and in vitro phenotyping in sustainable animal production.
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Redel, Bethany K., Jeon, Eun Su, Green, Cari C., and Prather, Randall S.
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- *
SOMATIC cell nuclear transfer , *GENOME editing , *SUSTAINABILITY , *ANIMAL health , *CRISPRS - Abstract
There is a critical need for improving animal resilience, welfare, and productivity to meet the nutritional needs of the growing global population. While selective breeding has brought about tremendous improvement in livestock genetics and improving traits, it is a relatively lengthy process to integrate beneficial alleles into the herd and it is not possible to introduce variants identified in other species. Therefore, gene editing provides researchers with a tool to rapidly overcome many of these challenges. This review highlights the advances in gene editing technology, the methods used to generate gene edited livestock, and approaches that can be used to accelerate the discovery of novel alleles linked to specific traits in vitro. Additionally, the application of organoid technology is discussed, and how that linked with gene editing technology can mimic the in vivo physiology and biological functions in vitro , providing answers to important biological questions and decreasing the number of large animals needed for research. Together, these tools will enable production agriculture to be more productive and thus better able to meet the growing worldwide demand for food. Identifying methods to improve animal health, production, and resilience is critical to create a sustainable food supply to meet global nutritional demand. Recent advancements in gene editing tools, cell culture methods, and in vitro phenotyping can accelerate the identification of variants or novel alleles that are transformative for livestock health and resilience. The use of organoids and gene editing can provide a model to link the genome to the phenome and decrease the number of animals needed for research. Image by Eun Su Jeon and the University of Missouri Molecular Cytology Core. This article belongs to the Collection: Proceedings of the Annual Conference of the International Embryo Technology Society, Fort Worth, TX, USA, 18–22 January 2025. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2025
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42. Chapter Three - Sorghum and pearl millet as sustainable alternative forage options for water limited environments: Opportunities and challenges.
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Cruz, Alondra, Saini, Dinesh K., Aviles, Diego, Norris, Aaron, and Jagadish, S.V. Krishna
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- *
ANIMAL health , *ANIMAL feeds , *CORN , *HEAT adaptation , *CROP yields , *PEARL millet , *SORGHUM - Abstract
Forage maize (Zea mays L.,), also referred to as silage maize or fodder maize, is a vital feed crop cultivated for livestock consumption, valued for its high yield potential and nutritional content, making it a staple feed source for ruminant animals like dairy cows, beef cattle, and sheep. Water scarcity poses a significant challenge to livestock feed production, particularly in arid and semi-arid regions, highlighting the urgent need to explore alternative forage crops that are resilient to adverse climatic conditions. Forage sorghum (Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench) and pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Br.) are recognized for their adaptation to drought and heat tolerance, allowing them to achieve high forage yields with lower water requirements compared to maize. In the present chapter, we provide a comparative assessment of the dry matter contents and nutritional compositions of annual forages, including maize, sorghum, and pearl millet, while examining antinutritional compounds such as dhurrin and nitrates and their variations due to genetic, management conditions, and environmental factors. We also discuss the impact of dhurrin and nitrates on health and productivity of livestock. Recommendations for future research are proposed to advance sorghum and pearl millet as alternative forages for water-limited arid and semi-arid agricultural regions globally. By embracing these recommendations, stakeholders can harness sorghum and pearl millet forages as better alternatives to maize in feeding ruminant livestock in water-limited regions, thereby promoting sustainable livestock production and improving food security. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2025
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43. From Deadly to Life-Saving Effects: Antimicrobial and Antibiofilm Effects of Tarantula cubensis Extract on Bacterial and Fungal Pathogens.
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AYDIN, Elif
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- *
DRUG resistance in bacteria , *MICROORGANISM populations , *ANIMAL health , *MELITTIN , *ANTI-infective agents - Abstract
Every year, many people around the world lose their lives due to antibiotic resistance therapy. These resistances pose serious health threats to both individuals and societies, making even simple services difficult to treat. Antibiotic resistance not only affects medical practices, but also causes a huge economic burden on health systems. In this study, Tarantula cubensis spider venom was investigated to produce new antimicrobial agents effective against Gram (+) and Gram (-) bacteria and Candida species. Antimicrobial and antibiofilm activity of T. cubensis extract against microorganisms were tested using minimum inhibition, resazurin and time killing curve methods. MIC values of T. cubensis extract were determined as 14.3-0.45 mg/mL by broth dilution method and 14.3-3.58 mg/mL by resazurin method for the investigated pathogens. Time-kill curve studies confirmed the growth retardant, bacteriostatic/ fungistatic and bactericidal/ fungicidal activity of T. cubensis extract. Antibiofilm studies also showed that T. cubensis extract significantly inhibited and blocked biofilm formed by pathogens (melittin 8-82%, apamin 1.8-78%). T. cubensis was effective in inhibiting biofilm formation (from 99.98% to 75.68%) and eradicating biofilm (from 32.97% to 4.67%) at the highest concentration. T. cubensis extract was found to have high antibacterial and antibiofilm properties. Such natural poisons offer a promising and powerful solution to control microbial populations, combat pathogens, and protect human and animal health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2025
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44. Exploring longitudinal associations between farmer health and well-being and dairy herd subclinical mastitis prevalence and productivity: The HUNT Study, Norway.
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Steen, N.A., Rosvold, E.M., and Torske, M.O.
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- *
ANIMAL health , *SUSTAINABLE agriculture , *ANIMAL herds , *LIVESTOCK productivity , *AGRICULTURE , *MASTITIS , *MILK yield - Abstract
The list of standard abbreviations for JDS is available at adsa.org/jds-abbreviations-24. Nonstandard abbreviations are available in the Notes. The health and well-being of farmers is one aspect of the sustainability of agriculture, as is the health and productivity of livestock. Previous research suggests a possible association between the two, but the complexity of the relationships between farmers and their livestock can hamper research efforts. This observational study uses high quality existing survey and register data from a cohort of Norwegian dairy enterprises to explore possible longitudinal associations between farmer health and well-being (general health, chronic disease or condition, chronic pain, anxiety or depression symptoms, or poor life satisfaction) and changes in dairy herd udder health (estimated by the proportion of milk tests with a high somatic cell count [SCC%]) or milk yield (kg/cow-year Eq). We found evidence of a general trend toward increased SCC% with poor farmer health or well-being. If the farmer had poor self-reported general health, the odds ratio (OR) for a 1-yr increase in SCC% at the enterprise was 1.51 (95% CI: 0.76, 2.99) and 1.80 (0.71, 4.51) after adjustment for possible effect modifiers, compared with those with good health, and for poor life satisfaction the OR was 1.50 (0.71, 3.15) and 2.61 (0.92, 7.39) after adjustment. We also find evidence that enterprises where a farmer was experiencing poor health or well-being tended to have lower odds of a decrease in milk yield than other enterprises. The OR for a 1-yr decrease in milk yield with any chronic disease or condition was 0.42 (0.24, 0.76), and with symptoms of anxiety or depression the OR was 0.56 (0.23, 1.34). Potential confounders and effect modifiers are discussed and explored. These results suggest that further longitudinal research to unravel the relationships between farmer health and well-being, and livestock health and productivity is needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2025
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45. Invited review: Phenotyping strategies and genetic background of dairy cattle behavior in intensive production systems—From trait definition to genomic selection.
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Pacheco, Hendyel A., Hernandez, Rick O., Chen, Shi-Yi, Neave, Heather W., Pempek, Jessica A., and Brito, Luiz F.
- Subjects
- *
DAIRY cattle behavior , *ANIMAL behavior , *ANIMAL sexual behavior , *ANIMAL welfare , *ANIMAL health , *HEALTH of cattle - Abstract
The list of standard abbreviations for JDS is available at adsa.org/jds-abbreviations-24. Nonstandard abbreviations are available in the Notes. Understanding and assessing dairy cattle behavior is critical for developing sustainable breeding programs and management practices. The behavior of individual animals can provide valuable information on their health and welfare status, improve reproductive management, and predict efficiency traits such as feed efficiency and milking efficiency. Routine genetic evaluations of animal behavior traits can contribute to optimizing breeding and management strategies for dairy cattle but require the identification of traits that capture the most important biological processes involved in behavioral responses. These traits should be heritable, repeatable, and measured in noninvasive and cost-effective ways in many individuals from the breeding populations or related reference populations. Although behavior traits are heritable in dairy cattle populations, they are highly polygenic, with no known major genes influencing their phenotypic expression. Genetically selecting dairy cattle based on their behavior can be advantageous because of their relationship with other key traits such as animal health, welfare, and productive efficiency, as well as animal and handler safety. Trait definition and longitudinal data collection are still key challenges for breeding for behavioral responses in dairy cattle. However, the more recent developments and adoption of precision technologies in dairy farms provide avenues for more objective phenotyping and genetic selection of behavior traits. Furthermore, there is still a need to standardize phenotyping protocols for existing traits and develop guidelines for recording novel behavioral traits and integrating multiple data sources. This review gives an overview of the most common indicators of dairy cattle behavior, summarizes the main methods used for analyzing animal behavior in commercial settings, describes the genetic and genomic background of previously defined behavioral traits, and discusses strategies for breeding and improving behavior traits coupled with future opportunities for genetic selection for improved behavioral responses. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2025
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46. Grazing sheep on pastures with tansy ragwort (Senecio jacobaea L.) – results of a two-year study on ingested pyrrolizidine alkaloids and transfer into animal organs.
- Author
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Aboling, Sabine, Ohlsen, Susanne, Huckauf, Aiko, Tänzer, Julian, These, Anja, Pieper, Robert, Hass, Marie-Lena, Lenzewski, Nikola, and Ganter, Martin
- Abstract
Tansy ragwort (Senecio jacobaea L.) growing in animal pasture may pose a risk to humans due to the potential transfer of pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs) into food of animal origin. Here, we investigated what amount of PAs corresponds to the amount of ragwort consumed by sheep on a pasture and whether the ingested PAs are transferred into edible tissue. From 2020 to 2021, a field study was conducted with 70 sheep grazing on a pasture (stocking density of 12 sheep/hectare) with considerable quantities of tansy ragwort. After slaughter, blood samples were taken for analysis of liver enzyme activities and haemoglobin concentration. Samples of ruminal fluid, liver and diaphragm pillar were analysed for PAs. The amount of ingested ragwort was determined by counting missing plant parts and calculating their weight using reference material. The mean daily intake of ragwort per sheep ranged from 0.16 kg to 4.89 kg fresh matter and corresponded to PA doses from 0.3 to 40.9 mg/kg body weight with no effect on the liver enzyme activities. The PA concentrations in the animal tissue were between the limit of detection and a maximum of 8.0 µg/kg in the liver and 2.5 µg/kg in muscle. These data suggest that the risk is negligible of exposure to PAs through consumption of meat or liver. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2025
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
47. The prebiotic potential of lactobin and glucans combined with goat's milk in cats.
- Author
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Bing Han, Jintao Sun, Xinshu Gu, Jinquan Wang, Xiumin Wang, Hui Tao, Zhenlong Wang, and Jie Liu
- Subjects
GOAT milk ,BETA-glucans ,ANIMAL health ,BILE acids ,GLUCANS - Abstract
Copyright of Canadian Journal of Veterinary Research / Revue Canadienne de Recherche Vétérinaire is the property of Canadian Veterinary Medical Association and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)
- Published
- 2025
48. Alternative Foot-and-Mouth Disease Eradication Strategies in a Large Feedlot Under Resource Limitations.
- Author
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Britton, Logan L., Hagerman, Amy D., Mielke, Sarah R., Rigney, Columb P., and Delgado, Amy H.
- Abstract
Response to animal disease has importance for domestic supply and demand, trade implications, and other economic factors. Stamping out is effective at eradicating disease but requires resource investments that may be prohibitive in large-scale animal production systems. Alternative management strategies in a 50,000-head cattle feedlot are examined. Sample feedlot and epidemiological data are utilized for a discrete programming model. We analyze 14 scenarios across five management strategies under stochastic cattle prices and static disease management costs. Results show that targeted depopulation is a preferred method for the overall feedlot. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2025
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
49. Urinary health indicators in folivorous-frugivorous primates with and without food supplementation.
- Author
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Back, Janaína Paula and Bicca-Marques, Júlio César
- Subjects
ANIMAL health ,DIETARY supplements ,HEALTH status indicators ,TUBERS ,LEUCOCYTES - Abstract
Food supplementation by humans in peri-urban and urban landscapes can lead to excessive intake of energy and certain macronutrients, and affect animal health. In this study, we evaluated the influence of food supplementation on urinary health indicators in brown howler monkeys (Alouatta guariba) by comparing supplemented and non-supplemented free-ranging peri-urban groups. We also evaluated the effect of sex, day shift, and season of sampling. Between August 2021 and August 2022, we non-invasively collected 61 samples (43 from females and 18 from males) from adult individuals (N = 10) in three supplemented groups and 56 samples (25 from females and 31 from males) from adults (N = 7) in three non-supplemented groups. The supplements, mostly raw foods (e.g., fruits, vegetables, and tubers) and bread, represented 18% of the total fresh mass ingested by the supplemented groups. We assessed pH, density, and the presence of eight urine components (glucose, bilirubin, ketones, protein, urobilinogen, nitrite, blood, and leukocytes) using reagent urine strips. Season of sampling predicted urine density (mean = 1.022), while both season and day shift predicted pH (mean = 6.5). The occurrence of supplementation was a weak predictor of these parameters. Finally, we detected leukocytes in 21% of the 117 samples. We did not identify any visible signs of disease in any individual throughout the study and found no clinical changes in urine under the conditions studied. We urge validation of the results with urine strips to facilitate monitoring of the health of howler monkeys living in anthropogenic landscapes in the presence or absence of dietary supplementation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2025
- Full Text
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50. Livestock ownership among smallholder farming households in Eastern Zambia: a gendered pathway for enhancing climate resilience?
- Author
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Bwalya, Bridget, Chiluba, Brian Chanda, and Mwanza, Kweleka
- Subjects
CLIMATE change adaptation ,ANIMAL herds ,ANIMAL health ,LIVESTOCK productivity ,HERBAL medicine - Abstract
This study administered 379 questionnaires to smallholder farming households to determine livestock ownership, climate change, and its impacts on livestock production, including measures to adapt livestock production to climate change. Data were analyzed using ordinary least squares regression model, Two sample Z proportions test, and percentages. Results indicate that few livestock were owned by households, commonly cattle, goats, pigs and chickens. Joint ownership dominated, followed by ownership by household heads, be they male or female, then spouses. Non-household heads rarely owned livestock. Joint livestock ownership significantly increases the total livestock units a household owns. The respondents overwhelmingly reported that the climate had changed, with a shorter rainy season, droughts, floods, and higher temperatures. There were slight variations in the perception of climate change across the study sites and by gender. Livestock production had been affected by increased incidences of disease, water, and fodder shortages, ultimately reducing livestock productivity across all the sites. Livestock households have adapted to climate change and other production constraints more broadly by addressing livestock health through administering vaccines, consulting with veterinary officials, and using traditional remedies for livestock diseases. Some respondents supplemented fodder and water, while others resorted to selling off the livestock. More men reported the provision of water as they more likely deal with large livestock that need bigger quantities of water. Similarly, while more commonly reported by men, the provision of fodder shows variability across chiefdoms, suggesting that fodder scarcity is a region-specific constraint. The use of traditional remedies such as herbs remained an important adaptive measure, especially among women. The study concludes that livestock production has high potential to contribute to inclusive climate change adaptation in the study region and more broadly but there is an urgent need to increase the percentage of livestock owning households and the size of the herds for livestock to make meaningful contributions to household welfare and climate resilience. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2025
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
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