Farm Animals Research Articles

Effects of β-glucan on the performance and gut integrity of broilers under acute heat stress conditions.

Effects of β-glucan on the performance and gut integrity of broilers under acute heat stress conditions.

The Causes of oestrus occurance during pregnancy in cows

Oestrus is that restricted period of sexual receptivity, characterized by intense sexual desire, when the female will seek the male and even have periods of homosexual activity in which a cow mimics a bull. True oestrus begins when the female assumes the mating stance so that the male may mount and copulate. It does not normally occur during pregnancy in farm animals, although it is known to occur sporadically in cattle. Occurrence of heat during pregnancy has been recognized in several species including the cow (Branton, 1949) and sheep (Williams. 1946). The incidence of oestrus during pregnancy has been reported to lie between (1 % and 10 % ) (Donald, H.P. 1943; Donoho and Richard 1955; Erb and Morrison 1958) . According to previous studies, 1 - 22% of pregnant cows show estrus during gestation (Thomas and Dobson 1989). Williamson et al. (1972) reported that 7.3% of cows show standing heat within 21 days of conception. Farmers may not recognize this behaviour as estrus during pregnancy and have the cow reinseminated. If this is done deep intra cervically or intrauterine, it might cause loss of the embryo and a prolonged calving interval

Plasmid mediated colistin resistance in ESBL producing Enterobacterales based on both phenotypic and molecular analysis in companion and farm animals from Algeria.

Plasmid mediated colistin resistance in ESBL producing Enterobacterales based on both phenotypic and molecular analysis in companion and farm animals from Algeria.

Serological evaluation of Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic fever in humans with High-Risk professional exposure and in residual sera collected in 2022-2023 across Corsica (France).

Serological evaluation of Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic fever in humans with High-Risk professional exposure and in residual sera collected in 2022-2023 across Corsica (France).

Effects of community action on animal vaccination uptake, antimicrobial usage, and farmers' wellbeing in Ghana: study protocol for a cluster-randomized controlled trial.

Effects of community action on animal vaccination uptake, antimicrobial usage, and farmers' wellbeing in Ghana: study protocol for a cluster-randomized controlled trial.

Reviving hope: Phage therapy application for antimicrobial resistance in farm animal production over the past decade

Reviving hope: Phage therapy application for antimicrobial resistance in farm animal production over the past decade

Rhythmic Insulin Induced by Eating During the Active Phase Promotes Skeletal Muscle Growth via Synchronizing Mitochondrial Energy Supply Rhythm and Cell Cycle.

Food intake during the inactive period disrupts the metabolic rhythm of skeletal muscle. Energy metabolism is closely related to muscle growth. However, the impact of eating time on skeletal muscle growth remains unclear. In this study, nocturnal rabbits were subjected to day-restricted feeding (DRF) and night-restricted feeding (NRF), and it was found that DRF disrupted insulin rhythm, whereas NRF enhanced insulin rhythm and promoted skeletal muscle growth. The pathway analyzed by RNA-seq found that circadian rhythm and pancreatic secretion pathways were enriched in Tibialis anterior muscle. Mechanistically, we found that rhythmic insulin couples mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation rhythm with mitochondrial fission-fusion rhythm by altering BMAL1 phase, which synchronized mitochondrial ATP production rhythm with the G1/S phase progression of the cell cycle and thus promoted myoblast proliferation. Our findings suggest that food intake during the active phase enhances insulin-mediated mitochondrial energy supply rhythm, thereby promoting skeletal muscle growth. This study provides a new perspective for guiding a healthy diet for growth in children and farm animals.

An Assessment of the N Load from Animal Farms in Saline Wetland Catchments in the Ebro Basin, NE Spain

Inland saline wetlands in the Ebro Basin (Spain) are protected by international regulations but are also threatened by the expansion of animal farms. We studied the input–output budgets of N from animal farms in four catchments of wetlands in the central Ebro Basin designated as Nitrate Vulnerable Zones. We used the N produced in animal farms as inputs and the N extracted by the crops on which manures and slurries are applied as outputs in each catchment. The balances considered the regulations concerning the slope of land where animal excreta may be applied and the doses of application. At a detailed scale, we applied the Water Erosion Prediction Program (WEPP) to the Farnaca catchment to assess the runoff and nutrients arriving to its wetland. While the Bujaraloz-Sástago basin showed a high excess of N load, in the Gallocanta basin, N extraction by crops was significantly higher than the N produced by the animal farms. Despite this lack of surplus of N from animal excreta, the groundwaters in the Gallocanta catchment are polluted by nitrates. The emphasis on N from animal farms in plans to prevent water pollution is missing the role of mineral fertilizers as the sources of pollution in basins with small N loads from animal farms. Agricultural plots in the Farnaca catchment produce significant amounts of sediments and nutrients that eventually pollute the wetland. Modelling approaches at detailed scales are required to assess the flows of materials to individual wetlands.

Prevalence, antimicrobial resistance pattern, and associated factors of Salmonella serovars among human-animal interfaces in the Amhara National Regional State, Ethiopia

BackgroundSalmonellosis in humans and animals poses significant public health concerns, leading to substantial economic losses and increased healthcare costs in both developed and developing countries. This study aimed to assess the prevalence, antimicrobial resistance pattern, and associated factors of Salmonella serovars in humans and animals (sheep, chicken, and cattle) in the Amhara National Region state of Ethiopia.MethodsA prospective cross-sectional study was conducted using a consecutive convenience sampling technique from September 2022 to January 2024 at public health facilities and 25 randomly selected animal farms surrounding each health facility in the Amhara National Regional State. Socio-demographic data and relevant clinical characteristics were collected using a standardized questionnaire. After enrichment with Selenite F broth, Salmonella serovars were isolated using MacConkey, Xylose Lysine Deoxycholate, and Salmonella Shigella agar. The Salmonella serovars were characterized through a series of biochemical tests. The antimicrobial resistance patterns were determined using the modified Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion technique. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 29, and the results were summarized in tables and graphs.ResultThe overall prevalence of Salmonella serovars among humans and animals was 12.1% (49/404; 95% CI: 9.2–15.6) and 2.7% (9/336; 95% CI: 1.3–4.8), respectively. Human isolates of Salmonella serovars exhibited high resistance rates to ampicillin (79.6%) and tetracycline (71.4%). Similarly, all animal isolates of Salmonella were found to be 100% resistant to both ampicillin and tetracycline. In contrast, a 2% resistance of Salmonella isolates was observed to ciprofloxacin among humans but 11% in animals. Data also showed that 71.4% and 88.9% of Salmonella isolates from humans and animals were resistant to three or more antibiotic classes, respectively. Close contact with patients experiencing diarrhea (AOR = 2.83; 95% CI: 1.05–7.629; P = 0.04) and with animals (AOR = 3.179; 95% CI: 1.574–6.419; P = 0.001) revealed a statistically significant association with the prevalence of culture-confirmed salmonellosis.ConclusionThe prevalence of culture-confirmed Salmonella serovars among humans and animals was significantly high. Many isolates of Salmonella from these groups showed resistance to three or more classes of antibiotics. Individuals who come into contact with those experiencing diarrhea or who handle animals are at an increased risk of developing salmonellosis. To help reduce these infections, public health initiatives should focus on improving animal handling practices and promoting better hygiene in both the environment and personal habits through one health approach.

Key Contribution and Risk of Airborne Antibiotic Resistance: Total Suspended Particles or Settled Dust?

The atmosphere is an important environmental medium in spreading antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in animal farming systems, yet the exposure risks associated with airborne pathways remain underexplored. This study employed metagenomic sequencing to investigate the airborne transmission of AMR in chicken farms (i.e., chicken feces, total suspended particles (TSP), and dust) and its exposure risks on the gut and nasal cavities of workers, office staff, and nearby villagers. Results revealed that TSP exhibited greater abundance, diversity, and transfer potential of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) compared to dust. The abundance of airborne resistome decreased with distance from the chicken house, and ARGs were estimated to spread up to 9.48 km within 1 h. While the gut resistome of workers and villagers showed limited differences, emerging tet(X) variants and high-risk dfrA remain future concerns. More nasal resistome was attributable to TSP compared to dust. Workers faced significantly higher inhalable exposures to antibiotic-resistant bacteria (ARB) and human pathogenic antibiotic-resistant bacteria (HPARB), exceeding those of office staff and villagers by an order of magnitude. We also compiled lists of high-risk and potential-risk airborne ARGs to inform monitoring. These findings highlight the need for regular air disinfection in animal farms and better protective measures for workers.

Across borders – the status and future opportunities for long-term conservation of Nordic animal genetic resources

The genetic diversity of multiple animal species is now declining rapidly, highlighting the need for action to protect and preserve animal genetic resources for the long term. The Nordic countries house a broad range of farm and companion animal breeds and subspecies that play a critical role in environmental sustainability, food safety and security, and human activities. Unfortunately, close to 80% of these breeds and subspecies are either endangered or critically endangered, with population sizes too small to ensure their long-term survival. In addition, almost half of them have either a declining or unknown demographic trend, and many of them suffer from high inbreeding. Emerging pressures such as climate change, infectious diseases and public unrest further threaten the status of the populations, and urgent action is necessary to ensure their future survival. Consequently, efforts for safeguarding the genetic diversity of animal genetic resources (AnGR) with additional in vitro or cryoconservation efforts need further consideration. The Nordic conservation strategies for AnGR have traditionally been based on in vivo or live conservation. Although cryoconservation efforts are in place for some species, the number of donors and doses varies considerably between breeds and species. Due to the increasing demand for additional measures for safeguarding AnGR, this document discusses the status of active AnGR conservation measures in the Nordic countries and emphasize the central role of regional cooperation in ensuring AnGR sustainability and long-term viability. Further, the contributions of cryoconservation in mitigating genetic losses are discussed.

Explainable AI for Livestock Disease Detection: An Integrated ML/DL Framework

Livestock diseases lead to significant economic loss and threaten food security. With the increasing demand for dairy and meat products, maintaining animal health has become a critical global priority. Although farmers and agricultural workers often lack deep technical understanding of data processing, modern AI and ML technologies are now central to early disease detection in livestock. Interpretable Machine Learning (IML) and Explainable AI (XAI) provide opportunities to build trust by making model predictions transparent and understandable. This article explores XAI and IML approaches for health monitoring in farm animals, offering insights into early symptom recognition through sensor data and image analysis. XAI integrates CNN-based visual diagnostics and real-time sensor stream interpretation, while IML utilizes SHAP (SHapley Additive exPlanations) and LIME (Local Interpretable Model-agnostic Explanations) for symptom pattern explanation and decision support. Experimental results using publicly available datasets of livestock behavior and visual symptom records demonstrate that XAI/IML-based systems provide farmers and veterinarians with clear, actionable insights to enhance livestock welfare and productivity.

Astaxanthin Alleviates the Decline of Sperm Quality Caused by Heat Stress in Mice via Reducing Oxidative Stress

Heat stress impairs spermatogenesis primarily through increased testicular oxidative stress. Astaxanthin, a potent antioxidant, has shown beneficial effects in sperm cryopreservation. However, its potential to mitigate testicular damage induced by elevated temperatures remains uninvestigated. In this study, male mice were administered astaxanthin (10 mg/kg/d, 50 mg/kg/d, and 100 mg/kg/d) via gavage for 21 days, with heat exposure occurring during the final 14 days. Samples were collected after the last treatment or following a recovery period. Spermatozoa in the cauda epididymis were assessed using computer-aided sperm analysis (CASA) or Diff-Quik staining, and serum testosterone levels and oxidative stress markers in both serum and testis were quantified via enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Heat treatment resulted in significant reductions in sperm motility, viability, and morphological integrity. However, daily supplementation of astaxanthin at 50 mg/kg and 100 mg/kg effectively alleviated these heat-induced impairments. Furthermore, astaxanthin at 50 mg/kg/d notably improved testis weight, testis index, and serum testosterone levels under heat stress. Its antioxidant capacity was validated by significant restoration of total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and reduction in malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in both testis and serum. In conclusion, this study highlights the protective effects of astaxanthin against heat-induced testicular and sperm damage by reducing oxidative stress, supporting its potential use as a nutritional or nutraceutical supplement to promote male reproductive health, particularly in the context of summer subfertility in farm animals.

Genomic characterization of extended-spectrum β-lactamase-producing Escherichia coli spread among chickens and healthy residents in Lombok, Indonesia.

Extended-spectrum β-lactamase-producing Escherichia coli (ESBL-Ec) poses a substantial public health challenge, particularly in developing countries where antimicrobial resistance is a growing concern. Although extensive research has documented the prevalence and impact of ESBL-Ec in clinical settings and farm animals, the intricate relationship between poultry farming practices and human health remains unclear. To elucidate the genomic relationships between isolates from chickens and humans, we conducted a whole-genome sequencing analysis of 200 E. coli isolates derived from chickens, chicken farmers, and non-farmer volunteers in Lombok, Indonesia. The isolates exhibited considerable diversity, with 78 distinct sequence types (STs) identified by multilocus sequence typing. Of these, 35% (n = 70) and 6% (n = 12) were positive for ESBL and AmpC-type β-lactamase genes, respectively, with blaCTX-M-55 being the most prevalent (n = 41). The most prevalent STs among those carrying ESBL or AmpC genes were ST48, ST1485, ST1727, and ST2690. Phylogenetic analysis of publicly available data indicated that ST1485, ST1727, and ST2690 strains had an indigenous spread in this region, whereas the ST48 isolates originated from different sources. The blaCTX-M-55 gene was identified in 22 different STs, predominantly carried by an IncHI1A-type plasmid, suggesting horizontal transmission of the plasmid over the clonal barrier. Long-read sequencing analysis of representative isolates revealed the presence of additional resistance genes against different classes of antibiotics, suggesting that the acquisition of the IncHI1A-type plasmid contributes to multidrug resistance in recipient clones. Our analysis provides unique insights into the dissemination of multidrug-resistant ESBL-Ec strains in Lombok, where humans and chickens are in close proximity.IMPORTANCEWe performed a genomic comparison of ESBL-producing E. coli (ESBL-Ec) isolated from chickens, chicken farmers, and non-farmers on Lombok Island, where indigenous chicken farming, which involves close proximity of humans and chickens, is a major industry. The detection of the same ESBL-Ec clones in both chickens and farmers indicated the potential of a zoonotic transmission pathway for antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Moreover, the presence of a common plasmid carrying an ESBL gene along with other antimicrobial resistance genes in various E. coli clonal groups highlights the dissemination of resistance determinants within both poultry and human populations. This cross-species amplification of antimicrobial resistance poses a substantial risk to public health, as it can lead to the proliferation of multidrug-resistant bacterial infections, complicating treatment options and increasing the burden on healthcare systems. Addressing these issues is crucial for implementing effective antimicrobial stewardship and improving biosecurity practices in poultry farming.

Application of phages in farm animals, food and the environment as part of aOne Health approach-potentials and challenges

In order to ensure the holistic protection of human, animal and environmental health (commonly referred to as One Health), alternatives to the available antimicrobial approaches are required. Although antibiotic drugs have an outstanding broad spectrum of activity, their use is under discussion due to increasingly occurring resistances. Furthermore, the utilisation of antibiotics can result in significant consequences for the affected microbiome, often irreversibly altering its natural composition. The necessity for the implementation of alternative and targeted control measures for bacterial pathogens (e.g. zoonoses) represents asignificant challenge for all sectors within the One Health framework. With growing interest, control strategies, some of which have been neglected for centuries, are under discussion for use as valuable tool for safeguarding health across all sectors.Bacteriophages (phages) represent anaturally occurring biological resource with promising potential for use in targeted biocontrol of specific bacteria. As bacterial viruses, they interact specifically with their bacterial hosts, invading them to utilize the bacterial metabolism for their replication, finally destroying the infected bacterial cell. The benefits of this natural predator-prey relationship for the control of bacterial pathogens have long been recognized and extensively studied. This review summarises selected studies on the use of phages, illustrating the potential and application possibilities, but also the challenges of phage use. Due to their cross-sectoral relevance, the use of phages in farm animals, food and the environment is presented as an example.

Public Awareness and Perceptions of Antibiotic Use in Human and Veterinary Medicine in Serbia.

Background/Objectives: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a growing global health threat, requiring an approach that integrates human, animal, and environmental health. Public awareness and responsible antibiotic use are key to combating AMR. This study examines the knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to antibiotic use among the general population in Serbia, exploring their impact on antimicrobial stewardship efforts. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in December 2022 using a three-stage stratified random sample of the Serbian population. The Eurobarometer questionnaire was utilized with permission from the European Commission. Statistical analyses included multivariate ordinal logistic regression to identify predictors of desirable attitudes and behaviors related to antibiotic use. Results: Almost two-thirds of respondents (61.6%) reported not receiving any advice on rational antibiotic use, underscoring the need for education of the general population and raising awareness. A Higher Antibiotic Knowledge Score was associated with a 60% greater likelihood of favorable attitudes and a 21% greater likelihood of rational antibiotic use. Pharmacists were identified as the primary source of antibiotic-related information for the general population in Serbia, but there is limited public interest and awareness of antibiotic use in animals, as well as of the bans on using antibiotics to stimulate growth in farm animals within the EU. Conclusions: Through targeted educational interventions, strengthening interdisciplinary collaboration and AMR control measures is necessary for human and veterinary medicine. Although pharmacists are the primary source of information about antibiotics for the population in Serbia, collaboration with physicians and their empowerment should be introduced to strengthen antimicrobial stewardship further.

Russian student startups in the field of animal care and treatment

In order to identify the main directions of student entrepreneurial projects in the field of animal husbandry and treatment, an analysis of student startups supported by the Foundation for the Promotion of Innovation in 2024 was conducted, and its results are presented. In 2024, the Innovation Promotion Fund supported 111 (4.8%) startups in the field of animal husbandry and treatment, represented by 41 universities. The majority of startups are implemented in the field of Biotechnology (83.8%). Thematically, all the analyzed startups represent three main groups: Veterinary Medicine and Animal Welfare (35.1%), Feed and Feed Additives (34.2%), and Animal Husbandry and Breeding Technologies (30.6%). In most universities (56.1%), the foundation has supported one startup project in the field of animal husbandry (treatment). a total of 32 projects (28.8%) were supported by three universities (Novosibirsk State Agrarian University, Kazan State Pedagogical University, and the State Agrarian University of the Northern Urals). In 37.0% of startup projects, the name of the animal species was not indicated. Among the names of startup projects indicating the type of animal, farm animals dominate (72.9%), companion animals are mentioned in 22.9% of the names.

Extract of Pterocarpus santalinoides (L’Her. Ex Dc) Leaf Decolonizes Escherichia coli on and in the Larvae of Housefly Intended for Feed Meal

Maggot meal is a sustainable alternative to fish meal in organic poultry production. However, maggots are often raised in environments contaminated with pathogenic bacteria, posing safety concerns. This study evaluated the efficacy of Pterocarpus santalinoides ethanol leaf extract in reducing Escherichia coli colonization on housefly maggots. The in vitro antibacterial activity of the extract was assessed using the broth dilution method, determining the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) against E. coli. The larvicidal concentration and acute toxicity (LD50 = 60.334 mg/mL) of the extract on housefly larvae were also evaluated. The extract demonstrated significant antimicrobial activity with a MIC of 25 mg/mL and MBC of 50 mg/mL. When applied to E. coli-inoculated maggots, the extract eradicated the bacterium at 50 mg/mL, both on the surface and internally, within 20 hours. A concentration-dependent antibacterial effect was observed, with complete elimination of E. coli. This study highlights the potential of P. santalinoides extract for ensuring the microbiological safety of maggot meal used in animal feed. Further research is needed to optimize dosage and evaluate the extract's safety in farm animals.

PREVALENCE AND INTENSITY OF INTESTINAL PARASITIC WORM EGGS IN CATTLE FECES AT THE SLAUGHTERHOUSE IN TANAH MERAH VILLAGE, NORTH SAMARINDA DISTRICT

Cattle farming is the most popular business for many people as a source of income because it producer meat and milk that has high economic value. Based on the maintenance aspect, cattle products produced in Indonesia have not been maximized due to many health problems of farm animals. One of the pathogens that are often found on farms is parasites. This can pose a real danger to some livestock. This study aims to determine the prevalence and intensity of intestinal parasitic worm eggs in cattle feces found in Tanah Merah Village Slaughterhouse, North Samarinda District. The total number of samples in the study was 30 cattle fecal samples. Worm eggs are observed through fecal examination using two methods, namely sedimentation method and flotation method. The results of this study showed that 13 types of intestinal parasitic worm eggs were found in cattle feces found from Tanah Merah Village Slaughterhouse, Samarinda, namely Ascaris lumbricoides, Bunostomum phlebotomum, Clonorchis sinensis, Dicrocelium dendriticum, Fasciola hepatica, Hymenelopsis nana, Paragonimus wastermani, Schistosoma bovis, Schistosoma mansoni, Schistosoma haemabotium, Strongyloides stecoralis, Taenia saginata and Trichuris trichura. Taenia saginata worm eggs have the highest intensity value of 1.028 eggs/individual. Ascaris lumbricoides worm eggs have the highest prevalence value of 26,67% of the total individuals.

Potential Biological Impacts of Microplastics and Nanoplastics on Farm Animals: Global Perspectives with Insights from Bangladesh.

Microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs), formed through the degradation of larger plastic materials, are emerging pollutants of significant concern. While their impact on aquatic ecosystems is well documented, their effects on terrestrial, especially farm animals remain underexplored. This review assesses the potential threats of MPs and NPs to Bangladesh's livestock sector by analyzing the results of experimental models and environmental studies. In Bangladesh, MPs and NPs have been detected in agricultural soils, air, water bodies, and aquatic organisms, indicating possible entry into animal systems through contaminated feed, water, and inhalation. Once internalized, these particles may trigger oxidative stress, inflammation, and tissue damage, impairing vital biological systems. Documented health consequences include reduced fertility, hematotoxicity, gut microbiota imbalance, gut-brain axis disruption, skeletal disorders, and metabolic dysfunction. Additionally, MPs and NPs can induce genomic changes, including altered gene expression and DNA hypomethylation, intensifying physiological damage and reducing productivity. Therefore, managing plastic contamination is vital in protecting animal health, ensuring food safety, and preserving human well-being around the globe, especially in vulnerable regions like Bangladesh. Given the critical role of livestock and poultry in ensuring food security and public health, the findings highlight an urgent need for comprehensive research and mitigation strategies.