rss_2.0Sciendo RSS Feed for Annals of Animal Sciencehttps://sciendo.com/journal/AOAShttps://www.sciendo.comhttps://sciendo-parsed.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/6470adfb71e4585e08aa2dd2/cover-image.jpghttps://sciendo.com/journal/AOAS140216https://sciendo.com/article/10.2478/aoas-2024-0095<abstract> <title style='display:none'>Abstract</title> <p>Given a significant climate-flexible and socio-economic role in developing nations, environmental heat stress imposes a major financial impact on sheep production systems globally endangering their production, reproduction, and growth. In this regard, the adverse effects of heat stress on sheep production systems have to be addressed through adoption of effective heat alleviation measures like animal management, nutritional management and genetic interventions of which the nutritional interventions seems to be the most cost effective way to alleviate heat stress. Nutritional manipulation for heat stress alleviation in sheep involves the use of antioxidant supplements (Vitamin B; Vitamin E and Selenium; Selenium; Zinc sulphate and folic acid; Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Selenium and Zinc; Naringin; <italic>Opuntia ficus-indica f. inermis;</italic> Açai oil and Brown seaweed like <italic>Ascophyllum nodosum</italic> and <italic>Sargassum latifolium</italic>). Further, electrolyte supplements (Dietary Electrolyte Balance (DEB); Sodium bicarbonate and potassium bicarbonate; Sodium hydroxide) have a beneficial effect on thermal responses, respiratory activities, gas exchange parameters, rumen fermentation, blood buffering capacity and acid-base balance. The mineral mixture supplements (Mineral blocks; Mineral mixture and antioxidants; Chromium; Zinc) play a crucial role in increasing the efficiency of antioxidant defence system, immunity-related parameters, production, reproduction, feed digestibility and insulin sensitivity. Probiotic supplements (<italic>Lactobacillus acidophilus</italic>, <italic>Saccharomyces cervisiae</italic>, <italic>Propionibacterium freudenreichii, Lactobacillus casei</italic>, <italic>Enterococcus faecium</italic>, <italic>Lactobacillus lactis</italic>, <italic>Bacillus subtilis</italic>, <italic>Propionibacterium freudenreichii</italic>, <italic>Pediococcus cerevisiae</italic>, <italic>Megaspha eraelsdenii</italic>, <italic>Bacillus licheniformis</italic>, <italic>Aspergillus oryzae</italic>, <italic>Schizochytrium limacinum, Trichoderma reesei</italic> and <italic>Saccharomyces cerevisiae</italic>) improve lactational performance, dietary energy utilization and productivity. The probiotics (live <italic>Saccharomyces cerevisiae</italic>) and prebiotics (mannan oligosaccharide plus b-glucans) used in heat stress alleviation improve dietary energy utilisation. Furthermore, the vital role of herbal supplements (Rosemary, Cinnamon, Turmeric, Clove, Naringin, Chestnut tannins, Giloy stem powder, Curcumin, Rocket oil (watercress oil), Flaxseed, Cornus, Oregano, Thyme, Chamomile flowers, <italic>Moringa oleifera,</italic> Betaine) has been highlighted to promote feed intake, antioxidant status, growth performance, feed utilization, reproductive performance and immune response. Effective adoption of nutritional strategies can thus ensure sustainable sheep production in this changing climate scenario.</p> </abstract>ARTICLEtruehttps://sciendo.com/article/10.2478/aoas-2024-00952024-09-07T00:00:00.000+00:00https://sciendo.com/article/10.2478/aoas-2024-0093<abstract> <title style='display:none'>Abstract</title> <p>The study aimed to examine the parameters of turkey ejaculates (n=40) of high and low quality (HQ and LQ, respectively), preserved with the addition of taurine (TAU; 5 mM, 10 mM) and ergothioneine (EGT; 5 mM, 10 mM) for 48 h at 5°C in a liquid state. The motility, plasma membrane integrity (PMI), mitochondrial function, apoptotic and necrotic spermatozoa percentage, and sperm cells that generated NO were determined after 2, 24, and 48 h of storage. The preserved semen was also analysed for the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), catalase (CAT), glutathione (GSH) content, and malondialdehyde (MDA) production. Taurine, in both doses, may improve the antioxidant status of stored turkey semen as well as sperm motility, viability and functionality regardless of ejaculate quality, as manifested by increased SOD and CAT activities, reduced MDA levels, and enhanced sperm characteristics i.e. plasma membrane integrity (PMI), mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), total motility (TMOT), and progressive motility (PMOT). In turn, the addition of EGT increased GSH content in the external environment and suppressed lipid peroxidation in turkey spermatozoa, in particular those from low-quality (LQ) ejaculates. However, it appears that EGT could deliver more satisfactory results when added at lower concentrations.</p> </abstract>ARTICLEtruehttps://sciendo.com/article/10.2478/aoas-2024-00932024-09-07T00:00:00.000+00:00https://sciendo.com/article/10.2478/aoas-2024-0097<abstract> <title style='display:none'>Abstract</title> <p>This study evaluated the role of <italic>Moringa oleifera</italic> leaves extract (MOLEx) in improving the performance and health of rabbits during the fattening period. The growth, carcass measurements, serum immunity, lipid profile, liver and kidney functions, digestive enzymes, antioxidant condition, cecal microbiota of rabbits have been examined. A total of 100 New Zealand White male rabbits (5-week-old) were randomly distributed into five groups and were fed on the basal diet only or the basal diet supplemented with graded levels of MOLEx (1, 2, 3 or 4 g/kg diet) for 8 weeks. Animals in each group were divided into 10 replicates, with two animals each. Results showed that dietary supplementation of MOLEx at levels of 1, 3 and 4 g/kg feed improved growth performance (p &lt; 0.05) including LBW (7, 9, 11, 13 weeks), BWG (5-13 weeks) and FCR (11-13 and 5-13 weeks). The inclusion of MOLEx in rabbits feed (3 and 4 g/kg) increased carcass%, dressing% and spleen% and decreased duodenum pH and cecal pH. Abdominal fat% was significantly lowered after the treatment with MOLEx. Lipid profile, liver and kidney functions, and cecal microbiota (increasing beneficial bacteria and reducing harmful bacteria) of growing rabbits were positively affected by MOLEx levels. The dietary supplementation of MOLEx improved most of antioxidant biomarkers of growing rabbits. The dietary supplementation of MOLEx (2, 3 and 4 g/kg) increased immunological indicators (IgM, IgG, IgA, lysozyme and complement 3), and lowered cortisol level compared with the control group. Digestive enzymes (protease, lipase and amylase) activities of rabbits positively affected by MOLEx levels (3 and 4 g/kg feed). In conclusion, the inclusion of MOLEx in rabbits feed can be effective in improving productive performance, kidney and liver functions, digestive enzymes, antioxidant biomarkers, immunological indicators, cecal microbiota and carcass traits.</p> </abstract>ARTICLEtruehttps://sciendo.com/article/10.2478/aoas-2024-00972024-09-07T00:00:00.000+00:00https://sciendo.com/article/10.2478/aoas-2024-0091<abstract> <title style='display:none'>Abstract</title> <sec><title style='display:none'>Background</title> <p>Lumpy skin disease (LSD) has been a significant concern in veterinary medicine since its discovery. Despite decades of research, understanding the full spectrum of this disease remains a challenge. To address this gap, a comprehensive analysis of the existing body of knowledge on LSD is essential. Bibliometric analysis offers a systematic approach towards the mapping of research landscape, identifying key contributors, and uncovering emerging trends in LSD research.</p> </sec> <sec><title style='display:none'>Objective</title> <p>This study aims to conduct a thorough bibliometric analysis spanning from 1947 to till the present date in order to map the knowledge domain of LSD. The objective is to gain insights into the global research trends, identify influential contributors, explore collaboration networks, and predict future outlook in LSD research.</p> </sec> <sec><title style='display:none'>Method</title> <p>Data extracted from the Scopus database was used to perform a bibliometric analysis. 341 relevant documents were selected for analysis. Bibliometric indicators, including publication numbers, citation counts, and the h-index, were utilized to assess the comprehensive contributions of nations, organizations, authors, and source titles. Additionally, cooperation networks between countries, organizations, and authors were visualized using the <italic>VOSviewer</italic> tool.</p> </sec> <sec><title style='display:none'>Results</title> <p>The analysis revealed a significant increase in research output on LSD, with a notable growth rate of 19.26%. Since its discovery in Zambia in 1929, LSD research has grown steadily, with an average annual growth rate of 5.21%. The University of Pretoria and the Federal Centre for Animal Health emerged as the most active institutions and organizations in LSD research. The Journal of Virology was identified as the most cited journal, reflecting its significant impact on the field, and a strong international collaboration was observed between the United Kingdom and South Africa.</p> </sec> <sec><title style='display:none'>Conclusion</title> <p>This study provides valuable insights into the global research landscape of LSD, highlighting key trends, contributors, and collaboration networks. By reviewing decades of research, this analysis enhances our understanding of LSD and serves as a foundation for future research endeavours. The findings of this study will aid researchers in navigating the vast literature on LSD, ultimately contributing to advancements in veterinary medicine and disease management strategies.</p> </sec> </abstract>ARTICLEtruehttps://sciendo.com/article/10.2478/aoas-2024-00912024-09-07T00:00:00.000+00:00https://sciendo.com/article/10.2478/aoas-2024-0096<abstract> <title style='display:none'>Abstract</title> <p>As with other fishes farming, sturgeon farming depends on the use of well-balanced feed to maintain production. Commercial feeds available on the market are often based on soy protein, which, unfortunately, has many adverse effects on these fish. Therefore, alternative constituents are being sought that could be used in sturgeon fish farming. This study was designed to assess the feasibility of using diets containing white lupin meal at levels of 5% and 10% for juvenile Siberian sturgeon, compared to a formulated control group without lupin inclusion and a reference group fed commercial feed. Histological and immunohistochemical analyses were performed, combined with digestive enzyme activity assays. This study showed that feeding with white lupin meal did not adversely affect the rearing parameters, histology, or enzyme metabolism of sturgeons. An increase in the length of intestinal folds in the anterior intestine was observed in the group with 10% lupin meal inclusion, while this trend was not present in the spiral intestine, which may be indicative of a compensatory physiological mechanism when fish are fed less digestible feed. Antioxidative mechanism impairment was also noted in the two experimental groups. However, further research is still required to determine the possibility of using white lupin meal in the feeding of sturgeon fish, especially for more mature specimens.</p> </abstract>ARTICLEtruehttps://sciendo.com/article/10.2478/aoas-2024-00962024-09-07T00:00:00.000+00:00https://sciendo.com/article/10.2478/aoas-2024-0092<abstract> <title style='display:none'>Abstract</title> <p>A2 milk, characterised by the presence of only the A2 β-casein genotype, has recently been of great interest due to its potential health benefits, which are the subject of intensive scientific research. From the dairy industry standpoint, it is crucial to ascertain its functional and technological attributes. The objective of this study was to compare two types of yoghurt (A1 and A2 yoghurts), produced respectively from cows’ milk containing exclusively β-casein (β-CN) A1 (A1/A1) or A2 (A2/A2) genotypes, in terms of basic chemical composition, protein profile, amino acid composition, antioxidant capacity, sensory quality, acidity, instrumental texture and colour profiles, as well as rheological characteristics. The obtained results indicate that the β-CN polymorphism had no significant impact on the basic chemical composition, acidity, DPPH radical scavenging activity, ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) or colour properties of the yoghurts. Nonetheless, the β-CN genotype did affect the textural, rheological, and sensory qualities of the acidic gels, with A2 yoghurt yielding gels exhibiting higher hardness, gumminess, improved consistency and viscosity, and overall sensory quality compared to the corresponding A1 treatment. These results indicate that A2 milk serves as a good raw material for fermented milk production, warranting further investigation.</p> </abstract>ARTICLEtruehttps://sciendo.com/article/10.2478/aoas-2024-00922024-09-07T00:00:00.000+00:00https://sciendo.com/article/10.2478/aoas-2024-0088<abstract> <title style='display:none'>Abstract</title> <p>Β-glucan exerts a positive impact and consider as a functional feed additives to enhance fish growth, immunity, control disease outbreaks and pathogen infections by increasing functional, immune and decreasing harmful responses. The present study aimed to determine the most effective dietary level of beta-glucan (βG) to improve Nile tilapia <italic>Oreochromis niloticus</italic> (L.) fry growth performance, feed utilization, and hematological indicators. Seven isonitrogenous (32% crude protein) and isocaloric diets (18 MJ/kg) were formulated. All diets were identical except for the variation in βG levels.The basal experimental diet (control diet) had no βG added. Diets 2–7 each contained βG at levels of 250, 500, 1000, 2000, 4000, and 8000 mg/kg diet, respectively. A total of 840 fish with an average body weight of 0.2±0.01 g were allocated into the seven experimental treatments (in triplicate). The trial lasted for 120 days, Nile tilapia fry growth performance and feed utilization were significantly (P≤0.05) higher in all treatments receiving βG diets than in the control diet. The fish fed with ßG_0.1 diet showed the highest significant growth induces and the best FCR values. The survival (S%) of the fish also showed a significant increase in the βG diets up to ßG_0.8 levels, when compared to the other experimental diet groups. All hematological parameters increased (P≤0.05) in fish fed with a diet supplemented up to ßG_0.8 compared to the control group. Histological examination of the intestine and liver in the control group revealed histopathological alterations in the villi. On the other hand, the groups treated with βG had longer and structurally normal villi. The most well-preserved intestinal tissue and the tallest villi were observed in ßG_0.1, followed by ßG_0.050 and ßG_0.8 groups. In the liver, the control group exhibited fatty degeneration, necrosis and pyknosis whereas the ßG_0.1 group displayed the most preserved hepatic tissue, followed by ßG_0.8 and ßG_0.2 groups. The results indicate that according to FBW-based broken-line model analysis, the optimal dietary level of βG for Nile tilapia fry to exhibit superior growth and diet utilization efficiency associated with the best FCR for Nile tilapia should be 0.12% βG /kg diet. To increase the immunity of fish and improve the properties of hematological and histopathological indices, the dose can be increased to 0.8% βG without any adverse effects.</p> </abstract>ARTICLEtruehttps://sciendo.com/article/10.2478/aoas-2024-00882024-09-07T00:00:00.000+00:00https://sciendo.com/article/10.2478/aoas-2024-0090<abstract> <title style='display:none'>Abstract</title> <p>The scientific evidence on the effects of consuming organic chicken meat on human health is examined in this review article. Few studies particularly look at the effects of eating organic chicken meat on people’s health. Although the evidence is conflicting, they speculate that consuming organic chicken meat may reduce the incidence of obesity and allergy-related illnesses. Customers who purchase organic chicken meat generally have healthier eating habits. The significance of these discoveries for human health is unclear. Still, animal and poultry studies suggest that whether agriculture produces food from conventional or organic sources has different effects on early development and physiology. Omega-3 fatty acids and meat are more abundant in organic than in common meat. However, this is not nutritionally relevant compared to other dietary sources. The widespread use of pharmaceuticals is one of the primary drivers of antimicrobial resistance in traditional animal agriculture. It is possible to reduce this risk and potentially have significant positive effects on public health by preventing animal sickness and using antibiotics more sparingly, as is done in organic farming. The review highlights the importance of organic feeds as an effective and vital alternative to antibiotics in the poultry industry and their impact on human health.</p> </abstract>ARTICLEtruehttps://sciendo.com/article/10.2478/aoas-2024-00902024-09-07T00:00:00.000+00:00https://sciendo.com/article/10.2478/aoas-2024-0086<abstract> <title style='display:none'>Abstract</title> <p>The present study evaluated the effectiveness of the synergy of <italic>Streptomyces kunmingensis</italic> XK9 and galactooligosaccharides (GOS) in improving growth performance, nonspecific immunity, and protection of striped catfish (<italic>Pangasianodon hypophthalmus</italic>). Seven feed regimens were tested in striped catfish fingerlings, including commercial pellets supplemented with preparations S7, S8, and S9 containing XK9 at 10⁷ CFU/mL, 10⁸ CFU/mL, and 10⁹ CFU/mL, respectively; G5 containing 5% GOS; S7G5, S8G5, and S9G5 including 5% GOS and XK9 at different doses of 10⁷ CFU/mL, 10⁸ CFU/mL, and 10⁹ CFU/mL, respectively. After 3 months of treatment with different dietary regimens, weight gain, specific growth rate, weight gain rate, and feed conversion ratio were greatly improved in fish-fed diets containing S9, S8G5, and S9G5 (p&lt;0.05). Nonspecific immune parameters, including total white blood cell, phagocytic activity, and phagocytic index, increased consistently in fish that were fed diets containing synbiotics S8G5 and S9G5 (p&lt;0.05). Lysozyme and complement activity increased substantially in fish that were fed diets supplemented with S9G5 (p&lt;0.05). The protective effect of XK9 and GOS on striped catfish was evaluated after 15 days of challenge with <italic>Edwardsiella ictaluri</italic>. The results achieved show that the cumulative mortality rate sharply decreased in fish fed a diet containing the synbiotic S9G5, down 2.17 times compared to the control group; pathogen density was lowest in tanks of fish that were fed regimens containing S8G5, S9G5, and S9 (p&lt;0.05). The results suggest that synbiotics, including <italic>S. kunmingensis</italic> XK9 and GOS, have the potential to be applied in sustainable farming for the striped catfish industry.</p> </abstract>ARTICLEtruehttps://sciendo.com/article/10.2478/aoas-2024-00862024-09-07T00:00:00.000+00:00https://sciendo.com/article/10.2478/aoas-2024-0087<abstract> <title style='display:none'>Abstract</title> <p>Yersiniosis or enteric redmouth (ERM) is responsible for significant mortalities among rainbow trout and other salmonids. Hence, its prevention and/or control has become a research hotspot. Antibiotics are effective for control; however, accumulating evidence indicates that unrestricted use of antibiotics harms fish, human beings, and the environment. Thus, finding safe, efficacious, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly substitutes is of great interest. Reports showed that dietary supplementation with functional additives with health-promoting and immunostimulatory functions could be a promising strategy. Herein, we provide an overview of the non-antibiotic feed-based strategies for combating EMR in rainbow trout without resorting to antibiotic usage. For this issue, the uses and application of some vitamins, probiotics, prebiotics, synbiotics, quorum quenching probiotic strains, algae, or organic acids, are included in the article. The roles of phytobiotics (herbal supplements), their phytochemicals, and the essential oils extracted from them will also be elucidated. Some emerging nano-based feed supplements are also discussed. Considering their advantages, literature declared that the dietary supplementation of these supplements could enhance the overall health condition, haemato-immunity, and disease resistance and conferred high protection of trout experimentally infected with yersiniosis. Given this perspective, this article presents the current situation and the latest knowledge on these supplements, emphasizing not only their roles to support immunity and decrease the effects of EMR but also to minimize antibiotic usage in aquaculture. Limitations and future perspectives on their effectiveness and efficacy are also discussed. This review will help enhance aquaculture sustainability and improve the health and welfare of rainbow trout.</p> </abstract>ARTICLEtruehttps://sciendo.com/article/10.2478/aoas-2024-00872024-09-07T00:00:00.000+00:00https://sciendo.com/article/10.2478/aoas-2024-0094<abstract> <title style='display:none'>Abstract</title> <p>Intestinal permeability has been extensively studied, particularly in gastrointestinal diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease, food allergy, visceral disease, celiac disease, and Crohn’s disease. These studies have established that changes in intestinal permeability contribute to the pathogenesis of many gastrointestinal and systemic diseases. While numerous works in the 20th century focused on this topic, it remains relevant for several reasons. Despite the development of new research techniques, it is still unclear whether changes in intestinal permeability are the primary mechanism initiating the disease process or if they occur secondary to an ongoing chronic inflammatory process. Investigating the possibility of stabilizing the intestinal barrier, thereby reducing its permeability preemptively to prevent damage and after the damage has occurred, may offer new therapeutic approaches. Increased intestinal permeability is believed to lead to reduced nutrient absorption, resulting in decreased immunity and production of digestive enzymes.</p> </abstract>ARTICLEtruehttps://sciendo.com/article/10.2478/aoas-2024-00942024-09-07T00:00:00.000+00:00https://sciendo.com/article/10.2478/aoas-2024-0085<abstract> <title style='display:none'>Abstract</title> <p>As climate change increasingly impacts the aquaculture industry, it poses challenges to production quality, management, and sustainability. This study provides a scientometric analysis of 47 years of research on aquaculture and climate change, analysing 4,785 articles and 224,895 references through CiteSpace software. The study highlights enduring themes such as “ocean acidification” and “global warming,” alongside emerging concerns like “deforestation” and “nutrient runoff,” reflecting new research directions. Notably, “seasonal variations” persist as a key focus due to their significant impact on aquaculture practices. Fourteen research clusters were identified, revealing a diverse array of topics from environmental performance to the effects of blue food systems and ocean acidification on marine life. Clusters related to “carbon sequestration,” “seaweed farming,” and “integrated multi-trophic aquaculture (IMTA)” emphasise the shift toward innovative practices aimed at mitigating climate impacts and enhancing sustainability. The analysis shows a need for more collaborative research, particularly from leading contributors such as the USA, Europe and Australia with underrepresented regions like Southeast Asia and Africa, to develop resilient aquaculture systems capable of adapting to climatic challenges. It advocates for the integration of new technologies and the exploration of sustainable aquaculture practices that minimise environmental impacts while enhancing global food security. This approach sets a direction for future research to promote adaptive strategies and technological innovations in aquaculture.</p> </abstract>ARTICLEtruehttps://sciendo.com/article/10.2478/aoas-2024-00852024-09-07T00:00:00.000+00:00https://sciendo.com/article/10.2478/aoas-2024-0081<abstract> <title style='display:none'>Abstract</title> <p>Worldwide, the production of agricultural residues exceeds five billion metric tons per year. Regardless of their many applications and substantial potential to increase crop and animal productivity, many crop residues, particularly in Asian, African, and Arabian nations, are burned. This detrimental practice limits the recycling of soil nutrients while increasing air pollution and wellness risks. Enhancing feed efficiency while simultaneously lowering production costs and increasing animal protein is a key objective of nutritional supplements in livestock feeding. Antibiotics have been utilized in farm animals at sub-therapeutic levels to increase feed use effectiveness and digestion, as well as animal welfare and performance. However, the present ban on antibiotics as nutritional supplements has boosted the search for substitutes, with natural feed additives considered cutting-edge options. On the other hand, feed that has undergone biological treatment improves animal productivity, feed intake, and digestibility. Nevertheless, the absence of agents and expertise and substrate weight decrease may result in a 40% dry matter loss limits application. In this review, we look at the importance of detrimental residue administration and the advancement and adoption of technologies to handle surplus residue.</p> </abstract>ARTICLEtruehttps://sciendo.com/article/10.2478/aoas-2024-00812024-09-07T00:00:00.000+00:00https://sciendo.com/article/10.2478/aoas-2024-0082<abstract> <title style='display:none'>Abstract</title> <p>A 14-weeks feeding trial was conducted to employ polynomial regression analysis to establish the optimal dosage of <italic>Lactobacillus plantarum</italic> (Lac) for enhancing the growth performance, digestive enzyme activities, and blood biochemical, redox balance, and immunity response of <italic>Litopenaeus vannamei</italic> shrimp (initial body weight = 2.94 ± 0.03 g). A total of 240 healthy <italic>Litopenaeus vannamei</italic> shrimp were randomly distributed into four equal groups and were fed diets containing 0, 200, 400 and 800 mg Lac /kg diet respectively for 98 days. Increasing the levels of dietary Lac cubically improved growth performance and feed utilization (<bold><italic>p</italic></bold>&lt;0.01), the optimal doses were established at 600 and 650 mg Lac/kg diet, respectively. Muscles thickness decreased significantly in all treated group compared to the control (<bold><italic>p</italic></bold>&lt;0.05). The dietary treatment quadratic ally affected total protein (<bold><italic>p</italic></bold>&lt;0.0001), tri-glycerides (<bold><italic>p</italic></bold>&lt;0.0001), and cortisol (<bold><italic>p</italic></bold>=0.0097), the optimal responses were observed at 650, 700, and 600 mg Lac/kg diet, respectively. Meanwhile the activities of liver enzymes (ALT and AST), the levels of blood urea and digestive enzymes (amylase and proteases) were cubically enhanced by the treatment, the optimal dosages were at 600 and 650 mg Lac/kg diet for liver enzymes, and urea concentration, respectively and at 650 and 700 mg Lac/kg diet for the activities of amylase and protease, respectively. With regards to redox balance, increasing the levels of Lac caused a quadratic decrease in the levels of malondialdehyde (<bold><italic>p</italic></bold>=0.0398) and a cubic increase in the activities of superoxide dismutase (<bold><italic>p</italic></bold>=0.0265), and catalase (<bold><italic>p</italic></bold>=0.0163), the corresponding dose–response curves showed that the optimal dose was at 650 mg/kg diet. However, the levels of total antioxidant capacity were in a quadratic increase (<bold><italic>p</italic></bold>=0.0372), maximizing at a level of 600 mg Lac / kg diet. Concerning the immunity response, both of lysozyme and IgM significantly affected by the dietary treatment (<bold><italic>p</italic></bold>=0.0002 and 0.0001, respectively), maximizing at 600 and 650 mg Lac/kg diet, respectively. Dietary supplementation of Lac had significant and substantial impacts on the economic efficiency (<bold><italic>p</italic></bold>&lt;0.0001). In conclusion, the dietary inclusion of 600-700 mg Lac /kg diet can be used as an effective and practical feeding strategy to enhanced growth performance, feed efficacy, redox balance and nonspecific immune responses in <italic>Litopenaeus vannamei</italic> shrimp.</p> </abstract>ARTICLEtruehttps://sciendo.com/article/10.2478/aoas-2024-00822024-09-07T00:00:00.000+00:00https://sciendo.com/article/10.2478/aoas-2024-0084<abstract> <title style='display:none'>Abstract</title> <p>This work aimed to examine the impacts of dietary <italic>Bacillus subtilis</italic> (BS) supplementation on several parameters. Twelve groups of six hundred-day-old male Ross chicks were created for the study. Each treatment was allotted into five replicates, with ten birds each. Four distinct diet treatments were provided for 42 days: diet A served as the control, whereas diets B, C, and D had 125, 250, and 500 mg of BS per kg of feed. Every diet was fed in three stages: continuous (days 1-42) and starter only (days 1–21), finisher only (days 22–42), and both. The results showed that the D-3 and C-3 groups had significantly higher feed intake (FI), body weight gain (BWG), feed conversion ratio (FCR), livability, and European Production Efficiency Factor (EPEF).juo09 The D-3 and C-3 groups also showed the largest relative weights of the liver, gizzard, pancreas, bursa, and spleen, as well as the enhanced weights of these organs. Groups D-3 and C-3 had high villus height, decreased crypt depth, and enhanced VH: CD in the ileum, jejunum, and duodenum. The high levels of BS (D-3 and C-3) eliminated <italic>Salmonella</italic>, <italic>C. perfringens</italic>, and <italic>E. coli</italic> from the ileum, caecum, and colon. From the results above, a conclusion could be drawn that dietary BS supplementation could be a safe substitute for AGPs in broiler diets.</p> </abstract>ARTICLEtruehttps://sciendo.com/article/10.2478/aoas-2024-00842024-09-07T00:00:00.000+00:00https://sciendo.com/article/10.2478/aoas-2024-0083<abstract> <title style='display:none'>Abstract</title> <p>The aim of the study was to determine the impact of protein feeding from Fabaceae plants and the final slaughter weight on the quality of meat of native Złotnicka Spotted pigs. The experiment was carried out on 96 fattening pigs (48 barrows and 48 gilts) of the Złotnicka Spotted breed. Animals were divided into 4 feeding groups: group A – control cereal-soybean mixture, and 3 experimental mixtures containing different types of domestic protein sources (groups B - lupin, C - faba beans and D - peas). All diets were isoproteic and isoenergetic within the fattening phase, i.e. grower and finisher. In addition, pigs were fattened to 3 different slaughter weights: 120, 130 and 140 kg. The type of protein had no effect on fattening and slaughter traits. These traits (feed intake [kg], gaily gain during fattening [g/day], mean backfat thickness [mm]) were influenced by the body weight of the pigs at slaughter (p&lt;0.01). It was found a statistically significant interaction effect between feeding group and body weight on the fat, the fatty acid profile of meat (<italic>longissimus lumborum</italic>) and on oxidative stability (thiobarbituric acid reactive substances - TBARS) of meat. Increasing the slaughter weight to 140 kg affects increasing the fat content (p&lt;0,05) of meat (<italic>longissimus lumborum</italic>) primarily in groups of pigs fed on cereal-soy mix (A) and faba beans (C). In addition, fat up to 140 kg and feeding with faba beans (C) and peas (D) has a beneficial effect by reducing the proportion of PUFA n-6/n-3 in meat (p&lt;0,05). Finally, the benefit of feeding pigs with faba beans (C) up to a slaughter weight of 140 kg is the reduction of TBARS of meat (p&lt;0,05). In conclusion, increasing the slaughter weight up to 140 kg and the use in the feed mixture of faba beans improves the nutritional value and oxidation durability of pork.</p> </abstract>ARTICLEtruehttps://sciendo.com/article/10.2478/aoas-2024-00832024-09-07T00:00:00.000+00:00https://sciendo.com/article/10.2478/aoas-2024-0080<abstract> <title style='display:none'>Abstract</title> <p>The article contains a literature review of facts and views on the strategies of sexual behaviour in mammals, taking into account the role of the animal’s species, sex, and position in the herd. The role of the senses, brain, and hormones in the expression of animals’ sexual behaviour is discussed, as well as the role of induction of the coitus reflex and social behaviour in the reproduction of present-day wild and domesticated animals. The analysis shows that the predominant strategy of sexual behaviour in females is to attract multiple potential partners to acquire the best male. The predominant strategies in the sexual behaviour of males of most mammalian species are aimed at fertilizing as many females as possible. Expression of sexual behaviour requires the generation of a set of characteristic sexual reflexes that indicate readiness to copulate and are sexually stimulating. Animals are differ in expressing their sexual behaviour. Some individuals react quickly and dynamically to sexual stimuli and immediately begin coitus, while others require longer preparation for successful coitus. Sexual behaviour influences the status of individuals in some species. Wild mammals with high expression of the sexual behaviour typical of a given species usually occupy a dominant position, which gives them an advantage in the search for breeding partners, access to food, and the expression of preferred social behaviour. Expression of sexual behaviour is stimulated by stimuli from potential sexual partners, which induce copulatory reflexes. These reflexes have been described in numerous animal species. They should be generated in the proper order and proceed without disruption for successful coitus and fertilization to occur.</p> </abstract>ARTICLEtruehttps://sciendo.com/article/10.2478/aoas-2024-00802024-09-07T00:00:00.000+00:00https://sciendo.com/article/10.2478/aoas-2024-0075<abstract> <title style='display:none'>Abstract</title> <p>The current work investigates the prospective applications of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the aquaculture industry. AI depends on collecting, validating, and analyzing data from several aspects using sensor readings, and feeding data sheets. AI is an essential tool that can monitor fish behavior and increase the resilience and quality of seafood products. Furthermore, AI algorithms can early detect potential pathogen infections and disease outbreaks, allowing aquaculture stakeholders to take timely preventive measures and subsequently make the proper decision in an appropriate time. AI algorithms can predict ecological conditions that should help aquaculture farmers adopt strategies and plans to avoid negative impacts on the fish farms and create an easy and safe environment for fish production. In addition, using AI aids to analyze and collect data regarding nutritional requirements, nutrient availability, and price could help the farmers to adjust and modify their diets to optimize feed formulations. Thus, using AI could help farmers to reduce labor costs, monitor aquatic animal’s growth, health, optimize feed formulation and reduce waste output and early detection of disease outbreaks. Overall, this review highlights the importance of using AI to achieve aquaculture sustainability and boost the net profits of farmers</p> </abstract>ARTICLEtruehttps://sciendo.com/article/10.2478/aoas-2024-00752024-08-29T00:00:00.000+00:00https://sciendo.com/article/10.2478/aoas-2024-0076<abstract> <title style='display:none'>Abstract</title> <p><italic>Artemisia annua</italic> L. (<italic>A. annua</italic>), renowned for its medicinal properties, was investigated for its effects on broiler performance, biochemistry, antioxidant capacity, meat composition, and organ histology. A total of 90 one-day-old chicks were divided into four groups, each with three replicates. The chicks were fed either a basal diet or a basal diet supplemented with <italic>A. annua</italic> leaves meal at levels of 0.3%, 0.6%, or 0.9% over a period of 42 days. <italic>A. annua</italic> decreased mortality, final body weight, feed intake, and feed conversion ratio, but improved dressing percentages and liver/gizzard weights (<italic>P</italic>&lt;0.05). Serum analysis revealed reduced alanine/aspartate aminotransferase, cholesterol, triglycerides, and LDL, while total protein, albumin, globulin, high-density lipoprotein (HDL), and IgM levels increased (P&lt;0.05). Malondialdehyde (MDA) decreased, while total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) increased (P&lt;0.05), confirming <italic>A. annua</italic>'s antioxidant activity. Meat analysis showed decreased moisture, fat, and fiber but increased protein content (P&lt;0.05). Sensory evaluation revealed improved taste, color, texture, and overall acceptability. Mild histopathological lesions were observed in <italic>A. annua</italic>-treated groups. Conclusively, <italic>A. annua</italic> in broiler diets has antioxidant, hypolipidemic, and immune-enhancing potential. Further studies are needed to evaluate its long-term safety and optimal dose.</p> </abstract>ARTICLEtruehttps://sciendo.com/article/10.2478/aoas-2024-00762024-08-29T00:00:00.000+00:00https://sciendo.com/article/10.2478/aoas-2024-0077<abstract> <title style='display:none'>Abstract</title> <p>Alternative protein source discovery is one of the main objectives of all researchers in the nutrition field because the world population is increasing rapidly. Insects are currently on top of the list of alternative protein sources. Grasshoppers and locusts meals are from that category. Grasshoppers and locusts, commonly consumed in insect-eating communities, are among the most promising insects as food and feed. Therefore, this review aims to summarize available data on their nutritional composition including crude fibre (2.5-17.7%), chitin (4-11%), crude ash (1.8-6.7%), crude protein (16.6-77.3%), crude fat (2.6-54.9%), and energy (157-527 kcal/g) of grasshoppers varying between these ranges. The essential amino acids (AA) profile reflects methionine (0.9-3.9%), lysine (2.9-7.1%), threonine (1.6-5.3%), leucine (4.6-12.7%), tryptophan (0.4-3.2%), and valine (4.1-0.2%). The fatty acids (FA) profile is oleic acid (3.4-40.9%), linoleic acid (0.8-45.6%), linolenic acid (1.4-13.1%), and lauric acid (0.3-1.3%). The polyunsaturated FA (PUFA) (17.5-67.4%) and saturated FA (SFA) (22.1-56.8%) are present in the range quoted in brackets. The PUFA content richness is beneficial for human consumption. The huge diversity in the chemical composition of grasshoppers is mainly due to the substrate chemical composition on which grasshoppers propagate. Some allergic reactions have been reported in the literature, but the removal of wings, legs, and antennae overcame the allergenicity problem. In conclusion, this review summarizes the nutritional composition of grasshoppers and locusts in scientific literature.</p> </abstract>ARTICLEtruehttps://sciendo.com/article/10.2478/aoas-2024-00772024-08-29T00:00:00.000+00:00en-us-1