Search Results (9,962)

Background/Objectives: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a significant threat to global health and the economy, with projected costs ranging from $300 billion to $1 trillion annually and an estimated 10 million deaths per year by 2050. The food chain, from primary production to retail, represents a critical entry point for antimicrobial resistant bacteria into communities. This underscores the need for a coordinated “One Health” approach, integrating efforts in animal production, environmental health, and human healthcare to address this global concern. This study aimed to characterize the global resistome in Spanish primary production by sequencing 6222 bacterial genomes from animal origin. Methods and Results: Whole genome sequencing was performed on bacterial isolates collected from various farms and analyzed using a validated bioinformatic pipeline. The analysis revealed a diverse range of bacterial species, with Enterobacteriaceae being the most prevalent family. Escherichia coli was the most common species, followed by Salmonella enterica and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. This study identified 1072 antimicrobial resistance genes coding for 43 different classes of resistance, potentially conferring resistance to 81 antimicrobials. Additionally, 79 different plasmid types were detected, highlighting the potential for horizontal gene transfer. Conclusions: The resistome analysis revealed genes conferring resistance to various antibiotic classes, as well as antiseptics, disinfectants, and efflux pump-mediated resistance. This comprehensive characterization of AMR genes circulating in bacteria from primary production provides crucial insights into the ecology of AMR in Spanish livestock. Full article

Efficient farm practices are crucial for livestock health and performance, and cold stress is a major challenge for cattle in winter. This study aimed to preliminarily investigate the effects of cold and warm water intake in winter on the growth performance, thermal stress indicators, serum hormones and metabolites, rumen fermentation parameters, rumen fiber degrading enzyme, and rumen microflora of yellow cattle during winter. Eight Wandong Bulls (Bos taurus) were divided into two groups: group C, which received cold water (6.36 ± 1.99 °C), and group E, which received warm water (32.00 ± 3.12 °C) for 30 d. The results showed that warm water intake significantly increased ADG (p = 0.024) and DMI (p = 0.046) and decreased (p = 0.047) the ratio of feed intake to weight gain. Furthermore, the heat production, respiratory rate, surface temperature, and rectal temperature of cattle did not alter with water temperature, but the heat production value of the bulls increased (29.64 vs. 25.76 MJ/W^0.75 h⁻¹) with cold water intake compared to warm water. The concentrations of thyroxine (p = 0.021), serum urea nitrogen (p = 0.025), and glucose (p = 0.011) increased for the bulls drinking cold water compared to those drinking warm water. The concentrations of NH₃-N (p = 0.048), total VFA (p = 0.010), acetate (p = 0.009), propionate (p = 0.009), cellulase (p < 0.01), and xylanase (p < 0.05) were lower in group C compared to group E. Total bacterial abundance, as well as specific species including Ruminococcus flavus, Ruminococcus albus, and Prevotella ruminicola, were lower (p < 0.05) in group C compared to group E. In conclusion, drinking warm water during winter enhanced growth performance by influencing energy metabolism, regulating serum hormones and metabolites, and modulating ruminal microflora of bulls compared to cold water intake. Full article

Horses have close interactions with humans and are important as working animals and livestock. In contrast to smaller companion animals like cats and dogs, there is only little information available about their skin microbiome. The objective of this study was to identify and characterize the culturable cutaneous microbiome of healthy horses. Samples were taken from 14 horses from Southern Germany which were randomly enrolled in this study. Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) was used as a method to detect the culturable microorganisms of horse skin. The most abundant culturable species of horse skin identified in this study include Bacillus cereus, Bacillus pumilus, Carnobacterium inhibens, Exiguobacterium sibiricum, Macrococcus carouselicus, Macrococcus goetzii and Staphylococcus equorum. Analyses of the bacteria across different body regions indicated the specific preferences of species for certain skin areas. In addition, our data hinted to an influence of the age of the horses tested and an influence between the four stables studied. Full article

The use of non-invasive methods can contribute to the development of predictive models for measuring carcass yield (CY) and hot carcass weight (HCW) in domestic ruminants. In this study, in vivo measurements of subcutaneous fat thickness (SFT) and ribeye area (REA) were performed on 111 Nellore heifers using ultrasound imaging. The animals were managed in crop–livestock integrated systems with different supplementation levels (SL). Four multiple regression equations were developed to estimate CY and HCW, using five predictor variables: SFT, REA, REA per 100 kg of body weight (REA100), live weight (LW), and SL. For the CY prediction models, when ultrasound measurements (SFT, REA, and REA100) were considered, the generated equations showed low R² and concordance correlation coefficient (CCC) values, indicating low predictive capacity for this trait. For HCW, the predictor variables stood out due to their high R² values. Additionally, the equation based solely on ultrasound measurements achieved a CCC greater than 0.800, demonstrating high predictive capacity. Based on these results, it can be concluded that ultrasound-derived measurements are effective for generating useful models to predict HCW. Thus, it will be possible to estimate the amount of carcass that will be produced even before the animals are sent to slaughterhouses. Full article

Background: Quantifying and controlling the inbreeding level in livestock populations is crucial for the long-term sustainability of animal husbandry. However, the extent of inbreeding has not been fully understood in sheep populations on a global scale. Methods: Here, we analyzed high-depth genomes of 210 sheep from 20 worldwide breeds to identify the pattern and distribution of genome-wide runs of homozygosity (ROH) and detect candidate selected genes in ROH islands for agronomic and phenotypic traits. Results: Leveraging whole-genome sequencing data, we found a large number of short ROH (e.g., <1.0 Mb) in all breeds and observed the overall higher values of ROH statistics and inbreeding coefficient in European breeds than in Asian breeds and Dorper sheep. We identified some well-known candidate genes (e.g., CAMK4, HOXA gene family, ALOX12, FGF11, and MTOR) and 40 novel genes (e.g., KLHL1, FGFRL1, WDR62, GDF6, KHDRBS2, and PAX1) that are functionally associated with fecundity, body size, and wool-related traits in sheep. Based on the candidate genes, we revealed different genetic bases for the fecundity traits of European and Asian sheep. Conclusions: This study improves the resolution of ROH detection and provides new insights into genomic inbreeding and trait architecture in sheep as well as useful markers for future breeding practice. Full article

In spite of its strong increase and relevant position in the evolution of international maritime routes, the global livestock trade is still a poorly treated topic in the maritime business domain of research. Aiming to cover this gap, the authors are focused on revealing the livestock logistics technology in intermodal transports, approaching both equipment reliability and operation flow design, applying the business processes modeling method to map the most relevant stages in animals’ port operation, transfer, and maritime transportation. This paper examines the intricate logistics of maritime livestock transportation through a case study on the Port of Midia, administrated by the Constanța Maritime Port Administration, one of Romania’s primary export hubs for livestock operations, using BPM software, seeking to identify the most important deficiencies and alternatives in improving the technical and technological effectiveness. Key findings indicate that improving ramp availability, automating document verification, and implementing RFID-based animal tracking systems could significantly enhance operational efficiency. By integrating workflow models, real-time monitoring, and simulation-based optimization, the study offers a comprehensive framework for streamlining multimodal livestock transportation. The implications extend to policymakers, port authorities, and logistics operators, emphasizing the necessity of digital transformation, regulatory harmonization, and technological integration in livestock maritime transportation. This research contributes to the expansion of intermodal transportation studies, providing practical recommendations for enhancing livestock logistics efficiency while ensuring compliance with European animal welfare regulations. The findings pave the way for further research into AI-driven risk assessments, smart logistics solutions, and sustainable livestock transportation alternatives. Full article

Livestock wastewater reuse could be a potential source for the distribution of antibiotics, antibiotic resistance bacteria (ARB), and antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) in agricultural soil. In this study, soil samples were collected from different depths (0–60 cm) of farmland that has been subjected to long-term application of livestock wastewater. The vertical distribution of antibiotics, bacterial communities, and ARGs were assessed to identify the driving factors that could potentially influence the distribution of ARB and ARGs. The results demonstrated distinguished distributions of antibiotics along the soil depths, with tetracyclines (TCs) mainly found in the top 10 cm of the soil (0.11–0.31 μg/kg), while quinolones (QNs), sulfonamides (SAs), and macrolides (MLs) were detected in all 60 cm of soil depth (0.01–0.22 μg/kg). The selection pressure of antibiotics to microorganisms led to the proliferation of ARB, especially tetracycline-resistant bacteria and erythromycin-resistant bacteria. In terms of the distribution/abundance of ARGs, novA and tetA (58) were relatively higher in 0–10 cm surface soil, while vanRM and vanRF were mainly detected in the deeper soil. Different ARGs may have the same host bacteria, which lead to the emergence of multidrug resistant bacteria, such as Ilumatobacter sp., Aggregatilinea sp., Rhabdothermincola sp., and Ornithinimicrobium sp. Soil pH, electrical conductivity (EC), and moisture content (MC) could affect the distribution and proliferation of ARB and were found negatively correlated with most of the ARGs except macB. Therefore, it is potentially possible to eliminate/inhibit the spread of ARGs by adjusting these soil parameters. These findings provide insights into the distribution and dissemination of antibiotics, ARB, and ARGs in agricultural practices of livestock wastewater irrigation and provide effective mitigation strategies to ensure the safe use of livestock wastewater in agriculture. Full article

The diversity and composition of the gut microbiota are widely recognized as fundamental factors influencing the well-being and productivity of domestic animals. Advancements in sequencing technologies have revolutionized studies in this research field, allowing for deeper insights into the composition and functionality of microbiota in livestock. Ruminants and monogastric animals exhibit distinct digestive systems and microbiota characteristics: ruminants rely on fermentation, while monogastrics use enzymatic digestion, and monogastric animals have simpler stomach structures, except for horses and rabbits, where both processes coexist. Understanding the gut microbiota’s impact and composition in both animal types is essential for optimizing production efficiency and promoting animal health. Following this perspective, the present manuscript review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the gut microbiota in ruminants (such as cattle, sheep, and goats) and monogastric animals (including horses, pigs, rabbits, and chickens). Full article

Background/Objectives: Fosfomycin, a critically important antibiotic, is widely used to treat urinary tract infections (UTIs) caused by multidrug-resistant (MDR) Escherichia coli, particularly those producing extended-spectrum β-lactamases (ESBLs). However, its increasing use in livestock has raised concerns about resistance development and global dissemination. This study investigated fosfomycin resistance in E. coli isolates from 400 fecal samples collected at Brazilian broiler farms. Methods: The samples were tested for their minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), screened with PCR for specific resistance genes, and selected isolated were whole genome sequenced. Results: Phenotypic resistance to fosfomycin was detected in 19% (75/400) of the isolates, while the fosA3 gene, encoding enzymatic resistance, was identified in 4% (16/400) via PCR screening. Long-read sequencing of seven fosA3-positive isolates revealed the presence of fosA3 on IncFII and IncX plasmids, often co-located with bla_CTX-M-55 within a conserved IS26-flanked transposon. Comparative genomic analysis of 133,541 global E. coli genomes from EnteroBase showed that 35% harbored similar transposon structures, with 2% carrying fosA3. These fosA3-positive isolates were significantly associated with South America and exhibited high co-carriage of ESBL genes, particularly in environmental and poultry-associated isolates. Phylogenetic analysis demonstrated no clustering by host or geographic origin, highlighting the global dissemination of these resistance determinants. Conclusions: Our findings emphasize the role of poultry production in the spread of fosfomycin and ESBL resistance, driven by transmissible plasmids and co-selection with third-generation cephalosporins. Improved antimicrobial stewardship, surveillance programs, and alternative management strategies are urgently needed to mitigate the dissemination of resistance and preserve fosfomycin’s efficacy in human medicine. Full article

Digestive enzymes, such as proteases and lipases, are widely recognized for their crucial roles in the ripening and production of fermented foods. Digestive enzymes are also used as supplements in nonruminant livestock to enhance feed digestion and promote animal growth. However, information on the effects of exogenous digestive enzymes on gut health and disease remains limited. Notably, recent studies show that consuming proteases and lipases can increase the levels of beneficial bacteria and short-chain fatty acids in rodent gut. These findings led us to hypothesize that intestinal proteases and lipases play beneficial roles by enriching beneficial bacteria. To examine this hypothesis, we reviewed recent studies on the potential effects of exogenous digestive enzymes on gut microbiota composition and overall health. Consistent with the hypothesis, all 13 studies in this review reported significant improvements in animal gut microbiota composition with the dietary supplementation of proteases and lipases. Additionally, the possible mechanisms of the prebiotic-like effects of the enzymes through increased nutrient digestion were discussed. This review explores how exogenous proteases and lipases influence gut microbiota composition and overall health. This is the first review to provide insights into the potential roles of exogenous digestive enzymes as prebiotics. Full article

Assessing water demand is essential for urban planning, aligning with socio-economic and climatic needs. The territorial water footprint identifies water requirements across sectors and detects sources of consumption. This aids in mitigating impacts and evaluating alternative water sources like reclaimed water. In Gavà, water impacts were assessed for residential, commercial, municipal, tourism, industrial, agricultural, and livestock sectors. The total water footprint is 6,458,118 m³, comprising 3,293,589 m³ from blue water, 2,250,849 m³ from green water, and 913,680 m³ from grey water. Agriculture (54.2%), residential (30.9%), and industrial activities (5.8%) are the main water footprint contributors. A key methodological advancement of this study is the refinement of grey water footprint calculations for livestock facilities within the RWF framework, allowing for a more precise assessment of their environmental impact. Integrating geographic information systems with land use mapping helps localize impacts, detect hotspots, and identify infrastructure improvement opportunities. Full article

Infectious bronchitis virus (IBV) is an enveloped, positive-sense, single-stranded RNA virus belonging to the genus Gammacoronavirus. It primarily infects avian species, causing respiratory and renal disease and irreversible damage to the oviduct, which can lead to high mortality rates in chickens. The lack of rapid and reliable diagnostic tools for on-farm IBV detection hampers timely disease management and control measures. The introduction of DNA biosensors offers a promising approach for the sensitive and specific detection of IBV, facilitating rapid identification and intervention. In this study, an electrochemical DNA biosensor with a multi-walled carbon nanotube (MWCNT)-modified gold electrode was developed for IBV detection. The biosensor targeted the target-specific 5′ untranslated region (5′-UTR) of the IBV genome. Under optimal conditions, the immobilization and hybridization efficiencies were evaluated by cyclic voltammetry (CV) and differential pulse voltammetry (DPV), with methylene blue as a redox indicator. The developed DNA biosensor demonstrated a dynamic detection range from 2.0 × 10⁻¹² to 2.0 × 10⁻⁵ mol L⁻¹, with a limit of detection (LOD) of 2.6 nM and a limit of quantification (LOQ) of 0.79 nM. Validation using a small subset of clinical samples, including crude complementary DNA, and polymerase chain reaction products, showed high recovery rates ranging from 95.41% to 99.55%. While these findings highlight the potential of the proposed DNA biosensor as an innovative diagnostic tool for IBV detection, this study remains a proof of concept. However, further validation using a large number of clinical samples is essential to assess its feasibility, robustness, and practical application in a real-world farm setting Full article

This study evaluated the effects of a botanical supplement (a formulated proprietary blend of turmeric, capsicum, and black pepper oleoresin in a fat carrier; PHYT), fed pre- and post-calving, on colostrum and milk yield and the quality, passive transfer of immunity, and performance of cow–calf pairs. Twenty-three (BW = 532 ± 9.13 kg; age 36 mo) crossbred Angus cows were randomly assigned to three treatment groups: (1) not supplemented (CON, n = 7); (2) supplemented with 250 mg/head/day (PHYT250, n = 8); or (3) supplemented with 500 mg/head/day (PHYT500, n = 8) of the botanical supplement. The cows were individually fed the supplement from 30 days (±6 days) pre-calving to 60 days post-calving. Colostrum was collected on d 0 (pre-suckling), and d 1, d 2, and d 3 post-calving. The total milk from all quarters was collected 45 and 90 d post-calving and at weaning. Colostrum and milk volumes were recorded, and samples were analyzed for percentages of fat, protein, milk urea nitrogen, other solids, and lactose. Colostrum samples were analyzed for concentrations of IgG, IgA, and IgM, and milk samples were analyzed for IgG concentration using radial immunodiffusion. Blood samples were collected from dams and calves, and serum was analyzed for concentrations of IgG (cows and calves) and IgA (calves). Cow and calf BW were measured periodically until weaning. Supplementation with PHYT linearly increased fat in colostrum (CON = 3.29, PHIT250 = 4.23, and PHYT500 = 4.17 ± 0.77%; p = 0.05) and IgA in calf serum (96.91, 151.69, and 183.42 ± 29.78 mg/dL for CON, PHYT250, and PHYT500, respectively; p = 0.04) and tended to linearly increase concentrations of fat in milk (CON = 3.84, PHYT250 = 4.05, and PHYT500 = 4.71 ± 1.04%; p = 0.07), IgG in calf serum (2082.31; 2196.29; and 2577.78 ± 213.08 mg/dL for CON, PHYT250, and PHYT500, respectively; p = 0.09), and IgM in colostrum (CON = 179.04; PHYT250 = 170.79; PHYT500 = 218.30 ± 16.08 mg/dL; p = 0.09). A quadratic response was observed for calf ADG (p = 0.03), where CON (0.99 ± 0.03 kg/d) was less than PHYT250 (1.10 ± 0.03 kg/d), and intermediate values were observed for PHYT500 (1.01 ± 0.03 kg/d). In summary, supplementation with PHYT led to a linear increase in colostrum fat and IgA levels in calf serum. Additionally, supplementation tended to linearly elevate fat concentrations in milk, IgG levels in calf serum, and IgM levels in colostrum. Our results suggest that supplementing beef cows in late gestation and early lactation with 250 or 500 mg/head/d of PHYT improves colostrum quality and calf health and performance. Further investigation is needed to determine both the biological significance and the economic benefits of botanical additives in beef production. Full article

Sainfoin (Onobrychis viciifolia) is a type of leguminous plant with high feeding value. It contains a high concentration of tannins at all growth stages, which can precipitate soluble proteins and form a large number of persistent foams in the rumen, so that ruminant livestock will not develop dilatation disease during green feeding and grazing. The germination rate of O. viciifolia seeds is very low under natural conditions. The preliminary experiment showed that 600 mg/L GA₃ treatment significantly improved the germination rate and seed vitality of sainfoin seeds. In comparison to CK, GA₃ significantly decreased the relative content of endogenous inhibitors, with the most notable reduction observed in 4-nitroso-N-phenyl-benzenamine. Therefore, we selected the dry seed stage (GZ), imbibition stage (XZ), split stage (LK), and radicle emergence stage (MF) of four different germination stages treated with GA₃ for transcriptome analysis. RNA-seq identified 1392, 2534 and 4284 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in GZ vs. XZ, XZ vs. LK, and LK vs. MF, respectively. During seed germination, DEGs are mainly enriched in hormone signaling and phenylalanine biosynthesis pathways, and up-down-regulation of these DEGs may alter hormone and secondary metabolite levels to promote germination. The results of weighted gene co-expression network construction (WGCNA) also indicate that plant hormone signal transduction and phenylpropanoid biosynthesis play a dominant role in GA₃-induced seed germination. In conclusion, the combined analysis of transcriptomic and physiological indicators provided new insights into seed germination and a theoretical basis for further study of candidate genes. Full article