Search

An innovation of the traditional timber truss is proposed, designed, built and tested. It is an original joining system to connect the top-chord and the tie-beam. The joint studied enables prolonging the rafter over the linkage with the tie, so as to form overhanging eaves. The behaviour of the connection under loads was analysed either by considerations relating to the possible limit states and by means of Finite Elements Analysis (FEA). In accordance with the design which was theoretically analysed, a prototype was made and it was subjected to loading tests that gave positive results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Allowing dairy cattle to access pasture or outdoor areas is known to be beneficial for cows' welfare and is considered important by the general public. However, in confinement-based operations with high-yielding cows, pasture access may be difficult to implement, especially for lactating animals. Providing pasture access to heifers and dry cows seems a more feasible option for most farms. The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of providing high-yielding dairy cows with free-choice pasture access during the dry period on their health, behavior, and milk production. Over the study period, a total of 78 Holstein cows were assigned to 1 of 2 treatments during the dry period (51 ± 8 d): housing with free-choice access to the pasture (PAST) or housing continuously without any access to the outdoors (CTRL). After calving, all cows from both treatments were mixed and housed continuously. To assess the effects of the treatment on cows' performance, all animals enrolled were monitored both before calving and during the first 100 d in milk of the following lactation. The behavior of all cows involved was monitored continuously during the whole observation period using collar-based sensors. All cows were inspected monthly to assess lameness, hock lesions, cleanliness, and body condition score. During the period after calving (0–100 d in milk), milk production and composition were also monitored. Results showed that free-choice pasture access affected cows' feeding behavior. Before calving, the animals in PAST spent more time feeding than in CTRL and, interestingly, this difference tended to persist for several weeks after calving. During the dry period, cows in PAST were cleaner than in CTRL but no differences in locomotion and body condition score were found between the 2 groups. Free-choice pasture access during the dry period also affected milk production during the following lactation. The cows that spent the dry period in PAST produced more milk than CTRL counterparts, particularly for the animals that calved during summer. In the current study we have found that providing free-choice pasture access during the dry period can positively affect the performance of dairy cattle and represents a desirable practice in confinement-based dairy production systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) have been increasingly used to monitor and assess air quality. The interest in the application of UAVs in monitoring air pollutants and greenhouse gases is evidenced by the recent emergence of sensors with the most diverse specifications designed for UAVs or even UAVs designed with integrated sensors. The objective of this study was to conduct a comprehensive review based on bibliometrics to identify dynamics and possible trends in scientific production on UAV-based sensors to monitor air quality. A bibliometric analysis was carried out in the VOSViewer software (version 1.6.17) from the Scopus and Web of Science reference databases in the period between 2012 and 2022. The main countries, journals, scientific organizations, researchers and co-citation networks with greater relevance for the study area were highlighted. The literature, in general, has grown rapidly and has attracted enormous attention in the last 5 years, as indicated by the increase in articles after 2017. It was possible to notice the rapid development of sensors, resulting in smaller and lighter devices, with greater sensitivity and capacity for remote work. Overall, this analysis summarizes the evolution of UAV-based sensors and their applications, providing valuable information to researchers and developers of UAV-based sensors to monitor air pollutants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The use of compost-bedded pack barn (CBP) systems for dairy cattle housing can improve animal welfare and herd productivity, but it is necessary that the bedding is properly managed. Therefore, evaluating the bedding quality conditions in this confinement system is paramount, as the results obtained can be used as a basis for adequate management. In this study, bedding attributes were mapped in a CBP with positive pressure ventilation. From the mapping, it was possible to identify areas with unsuitable conditions for the staying of the cows (surface) and for the composting process (at 0.2 m depth). The results achieved in this study can be used to guide decision-making processes regarding bedding management in this housing system. The objective of this study was to characterize the dependence and spatial distribution of bedding attributes in an open compost-bedded pack barn (CBP) system with positive pressure ventilation during the winter period in Brazil. The study was conducted in July 2021, in the Zona da Mata region, Minas Gerais, Brazil. The bedding area (shavings and wood sawdust) was divided into a mesh with 44 equidistant points. At each point, the bedding temperature at the surface (tB-sur) and at a depth of 0.2 m (tB-20) and the air velocity at bedding level (vair,B) were measured, and bedding samples were collected. The bedding samples were used to determine the moisture level and pH at the surface (MB-sur e pHB-sur) and at a depth of 0.2 m (MB-20 and pHB-20). The spatial behavior of the variables was evaluated using geostatistics techniques. For all variables, the occurrence of strong spatial dependence was verified. Through the maps, it was observed that tB-sur, tB-20, MB-sur, MB-20, and vair,B showed high spatial variability, whereas pHB-sur and pHB-20 demonstrated low variation. On the surface, values of tB-sur < 20 °C and MB-sur > 60% were observed. At the subsurface, there was a predominance of tB-20 < 40 °C, MB-20 > 60%, and pH > 9, which are indications of low bedding composting activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The external quality of eggs is an essential factor to consider in the poultry production sector since economic losses are directly related. This study evaluated the spatial variability of external egg quality in naturally ventilated vertical caged aviaries, with variability in quality hypothesized to be caused by hen age differences and by variability in thermal and light conditions within the aviary. Both winter and summer conditions in a tropical region were examined. The spatial variability of external egg quality was found to be greater in summer than in winter, regardless of hen age. Egg weight and shell quality values were lower in the upper level of cages located in the center of the aviary. The light intensity in the aviary presented tremendous spatial variability, but its effect on external egg quality was not significant. Egg external quality spatial distribution determination is shown to be a useful indicator of economic loss and an aid in hen nutritional and thermal management, as well as in egg collection and classification, by deploying a differentiated management of collection in the area where hens produce eggs with lower external egg quality. External egg quality is an essential parameter of egg production as it relates directly to economic losses. This study evaluated the spatial variability of external egg quality in five naturally ventilated caged vertical aviaries. Differences caused by bird age and thermal and luminous variability within aviaries during winter and summer were analyzed. Data on aviary air temperature, relative humidity, light intensity, and external egg quality were collected at evenly distributed points along the aviary length within three levels of cages. The experimental design was completely randomized in a factorial scheme. In the summer, the highest air temperature and lowest relative humidity were found in central cages, mainly in upper center cages; hens produced eggs with a lower weight and shape index in this area. Similar results were obtained in the winter. In the summer, eggs with lower shell weight and thickness were also produced by hens housed in the central cages, but in the winter, the opposite result was obtained. This study of the spatial variability of external egg quality proved efficient in detecting areas within an aviary with poor quality eggs; improvements to design and management in these areas could help management improve production efficiency and contribute to a sustainable egg supply. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The aim of the present study was to develop predictive models for the potential generation and emission of ammonia from Brazilian broiler chicken production. For this study, samples of poultry litter (shavings and coffee husks) from thirty commercial poultry houses located in the Zona da Mata Mineira region were analyzed. The poultry litter samples were subjected to different air temperatures in climatic chambers. The models developed and validated showed high accuracy, indicating that they can be used to estimate the potential for generation and emission of ammonia in poultry production, enabling its quantification when its measurement is not possible. Air quality is one of the main factors that must be guaranteed in animal production. However, the measurement of pollutants is still a problem in several countries because the available methods are costly and do not always apply to the reality of the constructive typology adopted, as in countries with a hot climate, which adopt predominantly open facilities. Thus, the objective of the present study was to develop predictive models for the potential generation and emission of ammonia in the production of broiler chickens with different types of litter, different reuse cycles and under different climatic conditions. Samples of poultry litter from thirty commercial aviaries submitted to different air temperatures were analyzed. The experiment was conducted and analyzed in a completely randomized design, following a factorial scheme. Models were developed to predict the potential for generation and emission of ammonia, which can be applied in facilities with ambient conditions of air temperature between 25 and 40 °C and with wood shaving bed with up to four reuse cycles and coffee husks bed with up to six reuse cycles. The developed and validated models showed high accuracy indicating that they can be used to estimate the potential for ammonia generation and emission. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Studies on the effect of thermal stress on lactating cows have increased considerably in recent years. Feedlot systems for dairy cows have become popular around the world. This article aims to develop a scientometric analysis to evaluate studies on thermal stress in lactating cows housed in a free-stall, tie-stall, and compost-bedded pack barn system. A total of 604 studies from the Web of Science database was considered for this study. The data obtained from the Web of Science was exported to Citespace software. The most used keywords by the researchers were "heat stress", "dairy cow" and "cattle". The most relevant countries, authors, institutions, and networks of co-occurrences for our research were highlighted. This article provides a comprehensive review of thermal stress in lactating cows housed in confinement in the last 22 years and contributes to future research in this area. Due to climate change, heat stress is a growing problem for the dairy industry. Based on this, annual economic losses in the dairy sector are verified mainly on a large scale. Despite several publications on thermal stress in lactating dairy cows in confinement systems, there need to be published reviews addressing this issue systematically. Our objective was to scientometrically analyze the effects of heat stress in dairy cows managed in a confinement system. Based on PRISMA guidelines, research articles were identified, screened, and summarized based on inclusion criteria for heat stress in a confinement system. Data was obtained from the Web of Science. A total of 604 scientific articles published between 2000 and April 2022 were considered. Data was then analyzed using Microsoft Excel and CiteSpace. The results pointed to a significant increase in studies on heat stress in lactating cows housed in confinement systems. The main research areas were Agriculture, Dairy Animal Science and Veterinary Sciences. The USA showed the highest concentration of studies (31.12%), followed by China (14.90%). Emerging themes included heat stress and behavior. The most influential journals were the Journal of Dairy Science and the Journal of Animal Science. The top authors were L. H. Baumgard and R. J. Collier. The leading institutions were the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, followed by the State University System of Florida and the University of Florida. The study maps the significant research domains on heat stress of lactating cows in confinement systems, discusses implications and explanations and highlights emerging trends. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Here, we aimed to characterize the structural features, to descript the bedding material, and to observe the management practices of compost (CBP) barns in the state of Kentucky (USA). These systems allow thermal comfort for animals, as well as better hygiene conditions for cows. All CBP barns showed structural variations. Sawdust and wood shavings were the most used materials in beds and coliforms E. coli, Bacillus, and Streptococcus were present in the CBP barns with a lower moisture content. In addition, the most frequently cited benefits of the CBP barn include increased cow comfort compared to free stalls; increased cow cleanliness; low maintenance; its ability to work well for heifers and lame, fresh, problem, and old cows; and its ability to allow natural resting positions with no free stalls. This study was conducted to describe the building layout and dimensions, characterize the bedding material, and observe the management practices in 42 compost-bedded pack (CBP) barns in Kentucky (USA). The average herd size found in the study was 90 cows and the breeds consisted of Jersey (6.8%), Holstein (72.7%), and mixed (20.5%). The average CBP barn dimensions were 49.1 m (length) by 21.9 m (width). Many of these barns had feed alleys and driveways; overshot ridges with frequent orientation from NE to SW; and green sawdust, kiln-dried sawdust, or a mixture of both as the most common bedding materials. The bed-turning process was performed mechanically at depths of less than 0.25 m, and the loading of fresh material was performed every one to five weeks, varying by season, weather conditions, barn size, and cow density. The average bedding moisture content was found to be 59.0% (wet bulb—w.b.) and ranged from 36.2 to 71.8%. Coliforms were not present in barns that had a higher compost temperature, and the E. coli, Bacillus, and Streptococcus counts were higher in the barns that had a lower moisture content. In conclusion, it was observed that heterogeneous management was used among the barns and that the producers were satisfied with the compost barn system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: In the dairy farming system that uses compost barns, animals remain in a large area covered with organic material and are free to move and express their behaviors in a more natural way. The compost barn system has become popular in recent years because it provides greater well-being and quality of life, favoring animal productivity and longevity. The aim of this paper is to develop a bibliometric analysis to evaluate scientific studies about compost barn systems. A total of 108 databases, considering articles and literature reviews obtained from the Scopus and Web of Science databases were considered for this analysis. After standardizing the data, the resulting spreadsheet was analyzed with VOSviewer software. The keywords most used by the authors were "compost-bedded pack barn", "dairy cow", and "dairy cattle". The most relevant countries, journals, institutions, researchers, and co-citation networks to compost barn research were highlighted. The analysis confirmed a significant interest in the spatial variation in the sheds and their relationship with milk quality, heat stress, and animal welfare. This paper provides a great contribution related to the scientific evolution and the research and publishing tendencies of studies on the compost barn animal housing system. The objective of this study was to evaluate the main scientific studies addressing the topic of compost barns in recent years, highlighting the main journals, authors, countries, organizations, and keywords associated with the publications and trends in this type of research through a bibliometric analysis. For this analysis, publications (articles and literature reviews) addressing compost barns were obtained from the Scopus and Web of Science databases. A total of 108 studies published between 2007 and April 2022 were included. A greater number of publications was observed starting in 2017, with 2021 having the largest number of publications. The Journal of Dairy Science was the most highly cited journal. Marcia I. Endres was the author with the greatest academic impact. The most influential country was the United States, followed by Brazil. Among the organizations that have published studies on compost barns, the Federal University of Lavras, and the University of Florence had the largest numbers of publications. In conclusion, this bibliometric analysis allowed us to evaluate the scientific evolution, research, and publishing tendencies of studies on the compost barn animal housing system, and the results make it possible to deduce current trends in scientific research and publications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Among animal facilities, compost-bedded pack (CBP) barns have attracted a lot of attention from milk producers and the scientific community. Systematic investigation of the main thermal, chemical, and physical properties of bedding materials in CBP barns is of environmental and economic relevance, helping dairy producers operate these beds properly. Here we assessed 42 CBPs in the state of Kentucky (USA), aiming to study the thermal, chemical, and physical properties of bedding materials. We found that thermal conductivity increased with increasing particle size. Regarding chemical features, the assessed CBPs were similar when considering the bedding materials. The particle weight fraction found in CBPs might result in excessive water retention and low aeration. Based on these main results, we concluded that many dairy producers could use the bedding compost to fertilize their crop fields and avoid over-applying nutrients, and reduce water pollution. The thermal, chemical, and physical properties of compost bedding materials play an important role in every phase of compost production. Based on this, we aimed to assess the thermal, chemical and physical properties of bedding materials for compost-bedded pack (CBP) barns. The database for this study was registered from 42 CBP barns, distributed throughout the state of Kentucky (USA). The thermal conductivity showed a linear relationship with moisture content and bulk density, while thermal resistivity decreased with increasing particle size. The bedding moisture average was 46.8% (±11.5). The average finer index (p < 0.05) was the highest weight percentage (30.1%) in the samples studied. Water-holding capacity (WHC) increased with increasingly fine particle size. The higher bulk density value was 3.6 times that of the lowest bulk density value. The chemical characterization of the bedding material provided the following results: 42.7% (±3.8%) C, 1.6% (±0.4%) N, and 28.2 (±8.0) C:N ratio. However, thermal properties are strongly dependent on particle size. Producers can use the bedding material as fertilizer in their crops, due to the chemical characteristics of the materials. Beds with good physical and chemical properties improve their moisture content. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Buffalo breeding in the Amazon biome can contribute significantly to local community development and, thus, is considered an essential income source. However, in Amazon regions, the inadequate breeding of these animals can lead to considerable negative consequences for the environment. Therefore, it is crucial to develop methodologies to improve animal management and grass yield. One of these methodologies is related to Precision Agriculture (PA), adapted for pasture and animal monitoring. Along these lines, we seek to utilize geostatistical techniques and remote sensing applications to better understand Buffalo grazing under a rotating system. In particular, we analyze forage Dry and Green Matter, as well as pH in pasture soils, demonstrating the obstacles against and advantages of the implementation of precise techniques for decision making and increasing grass productivity. We describe ways in which geostatistical soil pH mapping can be conducted, as well as the premises necessary to include remote sensing data in the analysis of pasture variables. Implementing these results in buffalo management systems can contribute to greater productivity and increasingly sustainable livestock. The mapping of pastures can serve to increase productivity and reduce deforestation, especially in Amazon Biome regions. Therefore, in this study, we aimed to explore precision agriculture technologies for assessing the spatial variations of soil pH and biomass indicators (i.e., Dry Matter, DM; and Green Matter, GM). An experiment was conducted in an area cultivated with Panicum maximum (Jacq.) cv. Mombaça in a rotational grazing system for dairy buffaloes in the eastern Amazon. Biomass and soil samples were collected in a 10 m × 10 m grid, with a total of 196 georeferenced points. The data were analyzed by semivariogram and then mapped by Kriging interpolation. In addition, a variability analysis was performed, applying both the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) and Normalized Difference Water Index (NDWI) derived from satellite remote sensing data. The Kriging mapping between DM and pH at 0.30 m depth demonstrated the best correlation. The vegetative index mapping showed that the NDVI presented a better performance in pastures with DM production above 5.42 ton/ha−1. In contrast, DM and GM showed low correlations with the NDWI. The possibility of applying a variable rate within the paddocks was evidenced through geostatistical mapping of soil pH. With this study, we contribute to understanding the necessary premises for utilizing remote sensing data for pasture variable analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Adequate environmental conditions are essential to ensure the wellbeing and productivity of dairy cattle. The use of compost-bedded pack barn (CBP) systems in dairy farming certainly improves animal welfare conditions, but it is necessary to evaluate and characterize the thermal environment inside the facilities. The main objective of this study was to map the thermal environment inside a CBP system with positive-pressure ventilation. Through mapping, it was possible to identify regions with more challenging conditions for animals in terms of thermal comfort. The results achieved can be used to direct decision-making processes to create adequate environmental conditions for the hosted animals. The objective of this study was to evaluate and characterize the dependence and the spatial and temporal distribution of variables and indices of the thermal environment in an open compost-bedded pack barn system with positive-pressure ventilation (CBPPV) during the winter period. The study was conducted in a CBPPV system located in the Zona da Mata region, Minas Gerais, Brazil. The indoor environment was divided into a mesh composed of 55 equidistant points, where data on dry-bulb air temperature (tdb) and relative humidity (RH) were collected. The collected data were divided into four periods—dawn, morning, afternoon, and night—and mean values were obtained. To evaluate the thermal microenvironment, the temperature and humidity index (THI) and the specific enthalpy of air (h) were used. For spatial dependence analysis, geostatistical techniques were applied. Through the results, a strong spatial dependence was verified for all variables evaluated. Through THI and h maps, conditions of thermal comfort were found for dairy cattle. The highest values of tdb, THI, and h were recorded in the afternoon period in the northwest region of the facility (tdb = 23.2 °C, THI = 69.7, and h = 50.9 kJ∙kg of dry air−1). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: It is known that improving the welfare of cows increases dairy productivity. A compost-bedded pack barn equipped with evaporative cooling pads to regulate the inside environmental conditions of dairy seems to be a synergic combination to improve substantial the welfare in dairy facilities. However, there is a lack of information about both techniques working together. A computational model of a tunnel-ventilated compost-bedded pack barn with an evaporative pad cooling system was developed to know the spatial distribution of temperature, relative humidity and velocity of the air inside the barn. These variables allowed us to compute a thermal stress index for dairy cattle to identify the geometric characteristics and operative conditions of the evaporative pad cooling that provide the best environmental conditions inside the barn according to the outside environmental conditions. Evaporative cooling is one of the most efficient techniques to reduce heat stress in cows in agricultural facilities. Additionally, compost-bedded pack barn has been shown to improve the welfare and production of cows. Two techniques were combined and analysed by developing a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model of a tunnel-ventilated compost-bedded packed barn that integrated the heat and airflow dynamics of an evaporative pad cooling system. This allowed us to study the distribution of dry-bulb temperature, relative humidity and airflow velocity inside the barn based on the external environmental conditions, thickness of the pad, water temperature and specific manufacturer characteristics of the pad, providing optimal cooling pad location, size and operating conditions in the barn. Employing experimental data the CFD model was validated showing good agreement. The Equivalent Temperature Index for dairy Cattle (ETIC) was used to determine the level of stress of the cows considering the airflow velocity. It was found a moderate stress due to high relative humidity and low airflow velocity. From the predicted results, it was recommended to increase the airflow velocity above 3 m s − 1 when simultaneously the external dry-bulb temperature and relative humidity exceed 30 °C and 55%, respectively, simultaneously. Additionally, installation of baffles at the pad outlet to drive the airflow to the floor was suggested to improve the drying of the compost-bedded closed to the pads, where a low airflow velocity region was established. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Manure management is a crucial aspect warranting attention since a significant proportion of anthropogenic NH 3 emissions are derived from it. In dairy cattle, only 20 to 30% of the dietary N is retained in milk, while a relevant amount is excreted in urine and faeces. A substantial proportion (60 to 80%) of the urine-N of high-producing dairy cows exists as urea, which is rapidly converted to NH 4 + by the urease enzyme, and volatilizes into the atmosphere as NH 3. While extensive literature studied the effects of technical solutions for cattle housing and waste storage, environmental parameters and manure treatments on NH 3 emission, limited information exists on its quantification under controlled conditions from isolated and mixed excreta. The aim of the study was to evaluate the NH 3 emission reduction potential from maintaining urine and faeces separate in dairy farming systems. NH 3 emissions from urine (U) and faeces (F) alone, as well as their mixture (M) were monitored under different environmental conditions (10 °C and 20 °C) and different exposure periods (24 and 72 h). The M samples had significantly higher NH 3 emissions (about 100 times higher) than U and F, both in cold and warm conditions and at all exposure periods. Significantly higher NH 3 emissions were measured from U, compared to F, after 48/72 h of exposure, probably linked to the higher pH and water content found in U. Separating urine and faeces (before contact) has the potential to reduce NH 3 emissions by about 99% during the first 24–72 h of air exposure in dairy cow management systems. This potential approach should also be coupled with accurate urine management, under conditions that prevent environmental urease contamination. Such strategy could also be an effective solution to improve on-farm N reuse and to reduce the adoption of chemical fertilizers. [Display omitted] • NH 3 emissions from dairy cattle excreta were monitored using a dynamic chamber. • Faeces, urine and the mix of them were monitored at different exposure period. • NH 3 emissions from the mix are almost 100 times higher than faeces and urine alone. • Separation of dairy cattle excreta is an effective strategy to cut NH 3 emissions. • Warm conditions promote NH 3 emissions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Suitable environmental conditions in broiler houses are essential for animal welfare and successful broiler production. Animals' effective adaptations to environmental challenges are crucial to their development and production. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) tools can be seen as an alternative to evaluating indoor environmental conditions. The primary aim of this paper was to evaluate the environment inside a commercial broiler house provided with a heating system. The proposed CFD model presented a good simulation of the experimental data. This analysis indicated the existence of failures in the heating system in some areas of the broiler house during the experimental periods, and it may cause discomfort for the broilers and consequently affect the chicks' productive and economic losses. Thus, these obtained results can be used to drive decision-making processes to create satisfactory environmental conditions for the development of chicks. The aim of this paper was to analyze, using computational fluid dynamics (CFD), a heating system in a commercial broiler house. Data were collected in a broiler house located in the western mesoregion of Minas Gerais, Brazil. The data were collected at 10 a.m. on the seventh day of chicks' life in 16 points inside the house. A tetrahedral mesh was adopted for the simulation, and testing of the mesh yielded a geometry of 485,691 nodes. The proposed model was developed in a permanent state condition to simulate the temperature air inside the broiler house, and all other input variables were considered constant. The applied CFD technique resulted in satisfactory fitting of the air temperature variable along the broiler facility as a function of the input data. The results indicated that the model predicted the environmental conditions inside the broiler house very accurately. The mean error of the CFD model was 1.49%, indicating that the model is effective and therefore that it can be used in other applications. The results showed that the heating system provided favorable thermoneutral conditions for chicks in the biggest part of the broiler house. However, there were some areas with air temperature above and below the thermoneutral zone [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Animal welfare is a major challenge that most European pig producers have been facing in recent decades to comply with EU legislation and to meet the increasing societal and market demand for pork produced in a sustainable way. Pig welfare is ruled in terms of minimum requirements for housing and management, but stakeholders have considered that both farm-level and animal-based indicators are fundamental to monitor animal welfare. Some of the welfare issues still affecting fattening pigs are the lack of space, bedding and manipulable material, and the continued practice of routine tail docking of pigs. Tail docking is applied routinely across most European countries to reduce the occurrence of severe tail biting lesions, despite its ban in the EU. An observational study on 51 pig farms in seven EU countries, aimed at investigating housing risk factors for the welfare of finishing pigs, showed that body weight and presence of bedded solid floored resting area (BED) identify three clusters of farms. The outcomes of this study confirmed that BED and larger availability of space per pig, above the minimum requirement of EU legislation, can limit the occurrence of lesions in pigs with undocked tails. Pig welfare is affected by housing conditions, the minimum requirements of which are set up by EU legislation. Animal and non-animal-based measures are useful indicators to investigate housing risk factors for pig welfare. An observational study on 51 pig farms in seven EU countries, aimed at investigating housing risk factors for the welfare of finishing pigs, showed body weight and presence of bedded solid floored resting area (BED) identifying three clusters of farms. Farms with BED were featured by no or limited tail docking, larger availability of manipulable materials and lower number of pigs per farm and per annual work unit. In these farms, less skin and ear lesions were found, compared with lean pigs of farms without BED, which were characterized by lower pig space allowance, mortality rate and medication cost. In farms without BED, heavy pigs were featured by more space per pig, more pigs per drinker and higher mortality rate and medication cost per pig, compared to lean pigs. No statistical difference in tail lesions was found between the three farm clusters, although tail docking was performed in all farms without BED and not performed on most farms with BED. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In livestock farming, maintaining dry bedding is considered to be important for maximising animal performance and welfare. A better understanding of the mechanisms that regulate drying has the potential to improve bedding management and reduce production costs. A custom laboratory-scale method was developed to explore the effects of environmental conditions and bedding characteristics on drying rate (DR). Samples (n = 256) of different types of bedding materials were exposed to controlled environmental conditions by using a climate chamber equipped with a custom cabinet capable of simulating different levels of air velocity and bedding temperature. The effects of the type of material, bedding moisture content, bedding temperature, air temperature, air relative humidity (RH) and air velocity were evaluated in a full factorial experimental design. Under the experimental conditions tested, DR ranged from 0.28 to 6.04 kg m−2 d−1, with an average of 2.03 kg m−2 d−1. All variables significantly affected DR, but large variation in the magnitude of effects was found. Bedding moisture content, air velocity and air RH had considerably larger effects than the other variables, together accounting for more than 70% of the variance in DR. The DR from bedding samples increased with bedding moisture content and air velocity but decreased with increasing air RH. The results of the current study may have important implications in the design and management of bedded pack barns. To increase the DR and keep bedding dry, producers should focus primarily on providing adequate barn ventilation (both in terms of air velocity and air exchange), whereas maintaining a high pack temperature may yield poorer-than-expected results. [Display omitted] • Water evaporation from livestock bedding materials has been measured experimentally. • Drying rate depends on environmental conditions and bedding characteristics. • Bedding moisture content, air velocity and air RH are the most important factors. • Producers with bedded pack barns should focus on providing adequate ventilation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Behaviour and physiological responses (e.g. respiratory rate and cloacal temperature) could be an indication of the thermal comfort or discomfort of broilers chicks. This study aimed to estimate the cloacal temperature (CT) of chicks in response to different intensities and durations of thermal exposure during the first week of life using a fuzzy inference system (FIS) and a fuzzy genetic algorithm (Fuzzy-GA). The experiment was conducted in four temperature-controlled wind tunnels located at the environmental laboratory of the Federal University of Lavras (UFLA; Minas Gerais, Brazil). The experimental database is composed of 114 laboratory-based observations. The duration of thermal challenge (CD; days) and dry bulb temperature (t db ; °C) were used as input variables for FIS. This paper proposes a theoretical framework for the development of Fuzzy-GA systems via two different approaches: the Mogul approach and the Pittsburgh approach. According to our results, the predicted CT values for both models (FIS and Fuzzy-GA) were similar to the experimentally-observed CT values. However, we noted that the model based on Fuzzy-GA exhibited better statistical results than the manual FIS in terms of CT-predicting capability. Thus, the model based on Fuzzy-GA can be used to predict CT for chicks exposed to thermal challenges and can therefore aid in decision-making processes. • To estimate and compare cloacal temperature of chicks submitted to thermal stress. • Fuzzy Inference System and Fuzzy Genetic algorithm were developed and compared. • Descriptive statistical indices computed to evaluate improvement to Fuzzy systems. • The fuzzy-GA exhibited better predicting capacity statistical results than the FIS. • Thermal challenge may affect chick welfare and they may not recover adequately. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Packaging waste is cause for serious concern. Each year hundreds of millions of tons of packaging are produced, therefore solutions that drastically reduce their environmental impact are urgently needed. While the recycling of metal, wood, paper and cardboard packaging has been significantly improved, an efficient recycling or disposal of some plastics is not yet feasible. The European Union implemented various regulations concerning packaging and packaging waste and set some relevant short to medium-term targets for recycling and disposal rates. Over the last decade, the global trend of the eco-sustainable packaging market is heading in the same direction. The aim of this research is to develop an innovative and sustainable composite material for the production of tertiary packaging based on the combination of natural fibres and biodegradable biopolymers. In particular, the experimental application entailed the creation of prototypes consisting of a material made of straw and biodegradable plastic Mater-Bi® which is named NeoPalea. The new material was prototyped to verify its physical characteristics and to determine its potential use to replace current not-biodegradable packaging. The results show a good match with the characteristics of current polymers, suggesting that this material can be used as a potential substitute in packaging applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The bedding material used in barns for dairy cows has a significant effect on animal welfare and performance. Bedding influences the duration in which animals remain lying down and, consequently, the processes of rumination and milk production. It is crucial to have a complete understanding of the properties of bedding materials and the effects of alternative bedding materials on dairy cattle. This paper aims to evaluate the physical, chemical, and biological properties of various alternative and conventional bedding materials for dairy cattle for use in compost bedded pack or freestall barn systems. We analyzed 50 samples of 17 bedding materials produced in 3 European countries. We analyzed physical properties including the water holding capacity, porosity, moisture content, bulk density, dry bulk density, and particle size. Chemical analyses were performed to determine the total N, total organic C, and C:N ratio. In the biological analyses, the Escherichia coli count, total bacteria count, coliform count, and Klebsiella spp. count were assessed. The results demonstrated how the physical properties of the bedding materials may influence the chemical and biological properties. All of the materials presented adequate chemical properties to be used as bedding material. The physical properties of the bedding materials differed widely among the materials except for the dry bulk density, which presented no difference. Moreover, the contamination of each studied microorganism was observed for each bedding material to determine which material had the lowest level of contamination. Posidonia oceanica, Miscanthus grass, and spelt husks could be considered as a potential alternative material for use as bedding material for dairy cows in both systems (i.e., composted bedded pack and freestall). This experiment illustrated the importance of performing thorough physical, chemical, and biological analyses before implementing a material as bedding for dairy cattle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research project aims at identifying a new network of routes and historical itineraries for the development and promotion of rural tourism in the Tuscany Region, by promoting forms of sustainable mobility in rural areas, particularly marginal ones. Religious tourism is defined as tourism, which includes visits to religious sites such as shrines, churches, abbeys, hermitages and sacred places; such places are an attraction for their religious essence as well as their artistic and cultural beauty. The ancient obsolete road system, which often survives as an archaeological relic as a precursor of the present road system, especially in rural areas, is more widespread than a layman would think. The paper refers the results of the study aimed at recovering the entire historical road that allowed pilgrims and travelers to reach La Verna (a place where St. Francis received the Stigmata) coming from Florence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Earth-to-air heat exchangers (EAHE) can reduce the energy consumption required for heating and cooling of buildings. The composition and the thermal characteristics of the soil influence the heat exchange capacity, and the soil moisture can furthermore affect thermal performance of EAHE. The aim of this study was to compare the thermal performance of EAHE in dry and artificially wetted soil. Tests were carried out in the Basra Province (Iraq), in a semi-desert area. Two experimental EAHE were built in a poultry barn and tested from June 2013 to September 2013. The pipe exchangers were buried at 2 m deep. One heat exchanger operated in dry soil (DE), while the other one operated in artificially wetted soil (WE). In the WE system, a drip tubing placed 10 cm above the air pipe wetted the soil around the exchanger. Air temperatures at the inlet and at the outlet of both the exchangers as well as soil temperature at 2 m deep were continuously monitored. The experimental results confirmed that wetting the soil around EAHE improves the general heat exchange efficiency. The coefficient of cooling performance (COP) of the earth-to-air heat exchangers system was evaluated on the basis of the ratio between the heat removed from the air or added to the air and the energy input. During the day, with an average COP of 6.41, the WE system cooled the air more than the DE system, which reported a value of 5.07. On average, in the hottest hours of the day, the outlet temperature of the WE was 37.35°C while in the DE it was 38.91°C. Moreover, during the nighttime, the WE system warmed the air more than the DE system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research aimed to characterize, evaluate and compare the spatial distribution of the leading bed variables, animal welfare indicators, and milk production in a closed compost-bedded pack barn (CBP) with a negative tunnel ventilation system, for summer and winter periods. The study was carried out in a CBP located in the Zona da Mata region, Minas Gerais, Brazil. The geostatistical modeling technique evaluated the variables of temperature, moisture content, and pH (on the surface and depth of 0.20m) across the length of the bed. Bed samples were characterized for carbon (C), nitrogen (N), and C:N ratio. Cows housed in the CBP were assessed for locomotion and hygiene scores and average milk production. To evaluate the thermoregulation of the cows, the respiratory rate (RR) and surface temperature (ST) were measured. Geostatistical analysis showed spatial dependence and the non-uniformity of the spatial distribution of bed variables. The worst levels of bed temperature and moisture were found in the regions close to the evaporative cooling plate, surrounding the feeding alley, and in the region with the highest cow stocking. The C:N ratio, obtained in both climatic seasons of the year, remained outside the recommended range for ideal composting. During the summer and winter, the bed variables' values suggest that the material was below levels for optimal composting; however, the aerated inner layer was biologically active. The high animal density significantly impacted the worsening of the bed moisture content and internal temperature. In general, dairy cows showed adequate hygiene (score of 1 and 2) and locomotion (score of 0 and 1) scores for the two climatic seasons evaluated, indicating good welfare conditions. In relation to RR and ST, the summer period presented less favorable environmental conditions. During winter, the average milk production was 28.1 ± 7.2 kg day-1, and during summer, it was 26.9 ± 6.7 kg day-1. • The use of geostatistics made possible to assess the quality of the CBP bed. • The high cow stocking density had an impact on the worsening of the moisture content and internal temperature in the bed. • Dairy cows showed a good hygiene and locomotion scores in the CBP. • In the closed CBP system average milk production was slightly lower during the summer in comparison with winter. • The use of infrared thermography made possible to evaluate the surface temperatures of in cows and bed in closed CBP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Compost-bedded pack barns (CBPB), generally known as compost dairy barns, are alternative housing systems for dairy cows. In these barns, the whole surface of the resting area is covered with a deepbedded pack that is frequently stirred in order to incorporate fresh manure into the pack and to enhance the evaporation of water. Experiences with CBPB for dairy cows are reported in literature from the US, Israel, the Netherlands and Austria. Potential advantages of these housing systems regard animal welfare and manure management. Since 2006, this housing system has been widely applied in Italy. However, there is still little scientific knowledge available about Italian CBPB. This study aims to describe the housing system, assess producers' satisfaction and measure performance of dairy cows housed in CBPB. Ten commercial dairy farms in northern Italy were involved in the study. All pens in each farm were surveyed to determine the total available surface area, bedded area and pack depth. A questionnaire was submitted to each farm manager in order to investigate management practices, labour requirement, amount of bedding materials used and producers' satisfaction. The temperature of the bedded pack was measured in summer and in winter. Data from the Italian Dairy Association were collected for each herd over a period of one year (from September 2011 to September 2012). In the barns involved in the study, the average total available area was 10.9 m2/cow and the average pack area was 6.7 m²/cow. The bedded pack was aerated 1.4 times per day. The most commonly used bedding material in these farms was dry sawdust. The consumption of bedding materials was 8.1 m³/cow per year. A tendency towards inverse correlation was found between the space per cow and the amount of bedding needed per cow (R²=0.395; P=0.051). Operations related to pack management required 4.1 hours of labour per cow per year. A direct relationship was found between the bedded area space per cow and the annual labour required for pack management (R²=0.505; P=0.048). Although some concerns were raised about the cost of bedding and ease of management, producers were satisfied with this housing system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: This paper aims to validate a recently released commercial sensor (AFICollar®, Afimilk, Israel) to monitor dairy cows' feeding and ruminating behavior. In order to evaluate the sensor's performance under different feeding scenarios, the cows involved were divided into groups and fed different types of feed, including grazed pasture. Further, two version of the software used to convert raw data into behavioral information were tested and compared. Sensor data have been validated against visual observations, which served as the gold standard. Various statistical methods have been employed to assess sensor precision and accuracy. The results indicate that the sensor is adequately accurate for both feeding and ruminating time. However, the precision of the system appeared somewhat limited and should be improved. The use of sensor technologies to monitor cows' behavior is becoming commonplace in the context of dairy production. This study aimed at validating a commercial collar-based sensor system, the AFICollar® (Afimilk, Kibbutz Afikim, Israel), designed to monitor dairy cattle feeding and ruminating behavior. Additionally, the performances of two versions of the software for behavior classification, the current software AFIfarm® 5.4 and the updated version AFIfarm® 5.5, were compared. The study involved twenty Holstein-Friesian cows fitted with the collars. To evaluate the sensor performance under different feeding scenarios, the animals were divided into four groups and fed three different types of feed (total mixed ration, long hay, animals allowed to graze). Recordings of hourly rumination and feeding time produced by the sensor were compared with visual observation by scan sampling at 1 minute intervals using Spearman correlation, concordance correlation coefficient (CCC), Bland–Altman plots and linear mixed models for assessing the precision and accuracy of the system. The analyses confirmed that the updated software version V5.5 produced better detection performance than the current V5.4. The updated software version produced high correlations between visual observations and data recorded by the sensor for both feeding (r = 0.85, CCC = 0.86) and rumination (r = 0.83, CCC = 0.86). However, the limits of agreement for both behaviors remained quite wide (feeding: −19.60 min/h, 17.46 min/h; rumination: −15.80 min/h, 15.00 min/h). Type of feed did not produce significant effects on the agreement between visual observations and sensor recordings. Overall, the results indicate that the system can provide farmers with adequately accurate data on feeding and rumination time, and can be used to support herd management decisions. Despite all this, the precision of the system remained relatively limited, and should be improved with further developments in the classification algorithm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: A rabbit house's microclimate has a strong influence on the physiological responses of rabbits, and thermal discomfort may damage their development. The primary aim of this study was to develop a spatial distribution of temperature and humidity index (THI) maps via kriging interpolation, as well as to characterize and evaluate its relationship with physiological responses (i.e., the respiratory frequency (RF) and ear surface temperature (EST) of New Zealand white (NZW) rabbits kept in a rabbit house. The spatial distribution maps of THI allowed us to visualize the heterogeneity in the distribution space of the variables, as well as to identify regions where NZW rabbits were exposed to unfavorable developmental conditions. The relationship between THI, RF, and EST was evident, and the maps showed that an increase in THI led to an acceleration of respiratory movements and an elevation of surface temperature in rabbit ears. This led to an attempt to dissipate excess heat acquired from the environment. Thus, the spatial distribution maps of THI overlaid with RF and EST data was found to provide useful information to assist the producer in making decisions to improve the production environment for NZW rabbits. The objective of this study was to characterize and evaluate the temperature and humidity index (THI) of New Zealand white (NZW) rabbits kept in a rabbit house using geostatistical techniques. Furthermore, we sought to evaluate its relationship with respiratory frequency (RF) and ear surface temperature (EST). The experiment was conducted at the Federal University of Lavras, Brazil. A total of 52 NZW rabbits were used. For the characterization of the thermal environment, the dry bulb temperature (tdb, °C), relative humidity (RH, %), and dew point temperature (tdp, °C) were collected at 48 points in the rabbit house at 6:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m., and 6:00 p.m. for seven days. The RF and EST of the animals was monitored. Subsequently, the THI was calculated and the data were analyzed using geostatistical tools and kriging interpolation. In addition, the RF and EST data were superimposed on the rabbit house's THI data maps. The magnitude of the variability and structure of the THI inside the rabbit house were characterized and the heterogeneity was visualized. Critical THI points inside the rabbit house and in locations where animals with high RF and ESTs were housed were identified, thus providing information about improving the production environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The bedding material used in dairy cow housing systems plays a key role in animal welfare and performance, since it influences the time that the animals remain lying down. The primary aim of this paper was to evaluate the physical properties of different bedding materials for dairy cattle and, further, to employ different fuzzy clustering algorithms to effectively cluster these alternative materials based on their physical properties. To perform nine physical analyses, 51 different bedding materials from various places in Europe were used. These data were analysed by principal components analysis (PCA) and then by fuzzy clustering analysis. Three clustering algorithms were tested for different numbers of clusters (2–8). They were compared by five validation indexes to choose the best clustering algorithm and the number of clusters. By these analyses it was possible to conclude that alternative materials can be classified based on their physical properties. The Gustafson–Kessel (GK) clustering algorithms, with eight clusters, fit better regarding the division of materials according to their properties. Posidonia oceanica showed potential to be used as an alternative bedding material due to its favourable physical properties. The bedding materials used in dairy cow housing systems are extremely important for animal welfare and performance. A wide range of materials can be used as bedding for dairy cattle, but their physical properties must be analysed to evaluate their potential. In the present study, the physical properties of various bedding materials for dairy cattle were investigated, and different fuzzy clustering algorithms were employed to cluster these materials based on their physical properties. A total of 51 different bedding materials from various places in Europe were collected and tested. Physical analyses were carried out for the following parameters: bulk density (BD), water holding capacity (WHC), air-filled porosity (AFP), global density (GD), container capacity (CC), total effective porosity (TEP), saturated humidity (SH), humidity (H), and average particle size (APS). These data were analysed by principal components analysis (PCA) to reduce the amount of data and, subsequently, by fuzzy clustering analysis. Three clustering algorithms were tested: k-means (KM), fuzzy c-means (FCM) and Gustafson–Kessel (GK) algorithms. Furthermore, different numbers of clusters (2−8) were evaluated and subsequently compared using five validation indexes. The GK clustering algorithm with eight clusters fit better regarding the division of materials according to their properties. From this clustering analysis, it was possible to understand how the physical properties of the bedding materials may influence their behaviour. Among the materials that fit better as bedding materials for dairy cows, Posidonia oceanica (Cluster 6) can be considered an alternative material. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The primary aim of this paper is to develop decision trees to predict rabbits' physiological responses, such as the respiratory rate or ear temperature, based on environmental variables (dry bulb temperature and relative humidity). The decision tree for ear temperature exhibited better statistical indices, indicating the benefits of using the ear temperature as an indicator of thermal stress. Our findings confirm that the resulting decision trees are powerful classifiers, and the results can be easily understood. Hence, the proposed decisions trees can aid in investigating the influence of environmental conditions on physiological responses and, consequently, the rabbits' welfare. These results can be used in practical situations and can be obtained in real time to support rabbit breeders in decision-making to improve environmental conditions for rabbits. The thermal environment inside a rabbit house affects the physiological responses and consequently the production of the animals. Thus, models are needed to assist rabbit producers in decision-making to maintain the production environment within the zone of thermoneutrality for the animals. The aim of this paper is to develop decision trees to predict the physiological responses of rabbits based on environmental variables. The experiment was performed in a rabbit house with 26 rabbits at eight weeks of age. The experimental database is composed of 546 observed data points. Sixty decision tree models for the prediction of respiratory rate (RR, mov.min−1) and ear temperature (ET, °C) of rabbits exposed to different combinations of dry bulb temperature (tdb, °C) and relative humidity (RH, %) were developed. The ET model exhibited better statistical indices than the RR model. The developed decision trees can be used in practical situations to provide a rapid evaluation of rabbit welfare conditions based on environmental variables and physiological responses. This information can be obtained in real time and may help rabbit breeders in decision-making to provide satisfactory environmental conditions for rabbits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]