Biology and Life Sciences Forum

4 pages, 201 KB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

by Louiza Kadja, Philippe Gérard, Said Boukhechem, Hithem Bougherara, Antonella Della Malva, Marzia Albenzio, Magali Monnoye, Nedjoua Lakhdara and Amira Leila Dib

Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2025, 49(1), 11; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2025049011 - 26 Sep 2025

Abstract

Fermented foods are defined as foods or beverages resulting from controlled microbial growth and conversion of major and minor food and enzymatic components. Once ingested, microorganisms or compounds produced during the fermentation process can affect the gut microbiome in the short and long [...] Read more.

Fermented foods are defined as foods or beverages resulting from controlled microbial growth and conversion of major and minor food and enzymatic components. Once ingested, microorganisms or compounds produced during the fermentation process can affect the gut microbiome in the short and long term. Moreover, in recent years, the health benefits of fermented foods have been intensively studied and most studies have shown a correlation between the consumption of these foods and the composition of the gut microbiota, which were recently identified as a surprising organ. Although studies conducted on the effect of fermented foods on the gut microbiota take up a large space in the literature, the number of studies that consider the mechanisms of action of these foods seems very rare compared to other experiments that test the effect of these foods on intestinal dysbiosis and the improvement of host health. The aim of this work is to synthesize data on the mechanisms of action of some fermented foods and their effect on the modulation of the intestinal microbiota. Further studies should be conducted in vitro and in vivo in order to fully understand the mechanisms of action of fermented foods on this complex ecosystem. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 11th International Seminar of Veterinary Medicine: Advances in Animal Production, Food, and Health: From Tradition to Innovation)

4 pages, 193 KB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

The Antioxidant Power of an Algerian Dry Date Variety Phoenix dactylifera L.

by Hadria Mansour-Djaalab, Imene Djaalab, Samia Haffaf and Foulla Riachi

Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2025, 49(1), 10; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2025049010 - 26 Sep 2025

Abstract

The date palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.), which is the pivot of oasian agriculture, offers a range of agricultural by-products, which remain very poorly exploited and are still used in a traditional way in animal rations. Date waste or dry dates are the [...] Read more.

The date palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.), which is the pivot of oasian agriculture, offers a range of agricultural by-products, which remain very poorly exploited and are still used in a traditional way in animal rations. Date waste or dry dates are the result of sorting after harvest, accounting for 25% of annual date production. This co-product of poor quality and low market value has been shown to be rich in various secondary metabolites endowed with antioxidant and anti-radical properties. In order to make the most of Algerian oasian flora, a potential source of bioactive natural molecules, a chemical and biological study of three parts of the fruit of the Phoenix dactylifera plant (‘N’ stone, ‘P’ pulp and ‘N + P’ whole dates) was carried out. The bioactivities of hydro-methanolic extracts were assessed by determining antioxidant activity. The date pulp ‘P’ showed better anti-free radical activity with the DPPH test (p < 0.01). The bioactive substances isolated in the stone fractions ‘N’ showed excellent antioxidant activity with the ABTS test (p < 0.05). Moreover, the raw extract of N showed excellent antioxidant activity superior to that of the standard BHT with the CUPRAC test (p < 0.001). The fruits of Phoenix dactylifera and mainly the stones ‘N’ have excellent antioxidant activity and abundant secondary metabolites, which could provide corroborating evidence in terms of the potential elimination of free radicals from the fruit. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 11th International Seminar of Veterinary Medicine: Advances in Animal Production, Food, and Health: From Tradition to Innovation)

4 pages, 166 KB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Study and Identification of Uterine Bacterial Flora of She-Camel During Postpartum

by Rabah Kelanemer, Djallel Adel, Bachir Medrouh, Amina Saidi, Ismail Gharbi, Ammar Kalem, Abedessamed Boufertala, Naima Dalal, Yasmine Rahmoune, Saad Ladjal, Fatma-Zohra Boudib, Abedelkader Touisset, Said Fettata and Hocine Ziam

Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2025, 49(1), 9; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2025049009 - 26 Sep 2025

Abstract

To identify the uterine bacterial flora and for a deeper understanding of pathologies related to the female genital tract, 10 camels were monitored during the postpartum period, and uterine swabs were collected. From the 84 samples, 354 bacterial strains were isolated and identified, [...] Read more.

To identify the uterine bacterial flora and for a deeper understanding of pathologies related to the female genital tract, 10 camels were monitored during the postpartum period, and uterine swabs were collected. From the 84 samples, 354 bacterial strains were isolated and identified, including 80.2% Staphylococcus species and 19.8% Streptococcus species. No Gram-negative bacteria could be isolated. The bacterial load was very high during the first week, and then regressed and increased by day 30. The uterine bacterial flora of the camel is rich in lactic acid bacteria, ensuring a high level of local defense of the uterus. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 11th International Seminar of Veterinary Medicine: Advances in Animal Production, Food, and Health: From Tradition to Innovation)

3 pages, 467 KB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Ultrasound Measurements of Testicular Size After Exposure to Cisplatin Chemotherapy in Adult Male Rats

by Moufida Lounis, Djahida Mahdi and Adel Aissi

Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2025, 49(1), 8; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2025049008 - 26 Sep 2025

Abstract

Ultrasound has been used to diagnose many diseases in human and veterinary medicine, with excellent results. The present study aimed to assess the effect of cisplatin on testicular size using ultrasound imaging. The study was conducted on adult male rats divided into two [...] Read more.

Ultrasound has been used to diagnose many diseases in human and veterinary medicine, with excellent results. The present study aimed to assess the effect of cisplatin on testicular size using ultrasound imaging. The study was conducted on adult male rats divided into two equal groups: a control group (C) and an experimental group (CP) which received an intraperitoneal injection (I.P.) of 5 mg/kg cisplatin once a week for two consecutive weeks on day 6 (d6) and d12 of the experiment. After a period of 3 days following each injection, an ultrasound scan was performed to measure testicular volume following exposure to cisplatin (CP). The results indicate that testicular size increased significantly after the first dose (d6) (L: 1.67 ± 0.09, W: 0.91 ± 0.10) compared with the control group (L: 1.53 ± 0.07, W: 0.92 ± 0.03) and continued to increase after the second dose (d12) (L: 1.96 ± 0.18, W: 0.98 ± 0.11). In conclusion, these results indicate that the use of ultrasound technology to monitor testicular size after each dose produced excellent and very clear results, enabling testicular lesions to be diagnosed after cisplatin chemotherapy without the need for surgery or dissection. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 11th International Seminar of Veterinary Medicine: Advances in Animal Production, Food, and Health: From Tradition to Innovation)

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8 pages, 3209 KB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Resource Efficiency of Swiss Chard Crop in Vertical Hydroponic Towers Under Greenhouse Conditions

by Manuel Felipe López-Mora, Calina Borgovan, Carlos Alberto González-Murillo, María Solano-Betancour, María Fernanda Quintero-Castellanos and Miguel Guzmán

Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2025, 47(1), 5; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2025047005 - 26 Sep 2025

Abstract

Resource efficiency is essential in today’s approach to horticulture. The global problems of water scarcity, soil pollution, biodiversity loss, and rapid growth of the global population require increased food production with fewer resources. Resource efficiency is an indicator that allows defining how much [...] Read more.

Resource efficiency is essential in today’s approach to horticulture. The global problems of water scarcity, soil pollution, biodiversity loss, and rapid growth of the global population require increased food production with fewer resources. Resource efficiency is an indicator that allows defining how much biomass an agri-food system can produce per unit of the resource used. Closed hydroponic systems, such as vertical hydroponic towers (VHTs), exhibit high resource efficiency. In these systems, the water use efficiency (WUE) and the nutrient use efficiency (NUE) can be calculated in terms of the water loss through transpiration and the ion concentration in the nutrient solution. The research aimed to determine the WUE and NUE for chard crops in VHT under greenhouse conditions and to evaluate its feasibility as an urban and peri-urban system for leafy vegetable production. Trials were carried out with chard in the fall 2024 in a tunnel-type greenhouse at the facilities of the Autonomous University of San Luis Potosi. The VHTs were built with a 20 L square lower deposit on which a cylindrical pipeline of 11.5 cm in diameter and 1.6 m in height was vertically placed. Each pipe had 45 growing containers distributed on 15 levels of three containers spaced vertically 9 cm and a density of 25 plants·m⁻². The experimental design was completely randomized with three treatments (75, 100, and 125% of Steiner’s nutrient solution) and three replications. The transpiration (Tr) of the crop (recording weight loss in the deposit) and the shoot fresh weight (SFW) of the plants were measured daily using a scale. An ANOVA and Tukey’s test for mean differentiation were performed with p < 0.05. Significant differences were found between treatments for SFW, WUE and NUE obtaining the best results at 75% of Steiner’s nutrient solution. Results show that WUE increased between 3 and 6 times, and NUE between 3 and 12 times compared to chard grown in soil. These results were equal and even higher than horizontal hydroponic systems or vertical farms. Vertical hydroponic closed towers installed in greenhouses are an optimal horticultural production system with high resources use efficiency. The implementation of VHT is feasible in areas where there is water scarcity or have a high population density. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Horticulturae)

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4 pages, 198 KB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

The Role of Plant-Derived Prebiotics in Obesity Management: Mechanisms, Efficacy, and Active Compounds

by Ilyes Ghodbane, Said Boukhechem, Hithem Bougherara, Magali Monnoye, Ibtissem Oubira, Nedjoua Lakhdara, Philippe Gerard and Amira Leila Dib

Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2025, 49(1), 13; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2025049013 - 25 Sep 2025

Abstract

Obesity, a multicausal global health disorder, requires innovative solutions beyond conventional weight control. Plant-derived prebiotics, like inulin, oligofructose, and resistant dextrin, have appeared as promising dietary interventions. These fibers nourish beneficial gut bacteria, which produce short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) that regulate appetite, enhance [...] Read more.

Obesity, a multicausal global health disorder, requires innovative solutions beyond conventional weight control. Plant-derived prebiotics, like inulin, oligofructose, and resistant dextrin, have appeared as promising dietary interventions. These fibers nourish beneficial gut bacteria, which produce short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) that regulate appetite, enhance fat combustion, and improve metabolic markers. Clinical trials show that the consumption of 8–21 g/day prebiotics for 8–24 weeks reduces body weight, BMI, waist circumference, inflammation, and insulin resistance. By exploring mechanisms, bioactive molecules, and personalized approaches, this review highlights prebiotics’ potential as natural anti-obesity agents. However, further research is needed to optimize their contribution to public health initiatives for the effective management of obesity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 11th International Seminar of Veterinary Medicine: Advances in Animal Production, Food, and Health: From Tradition to Innovation)

7 pages, 771 KB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Antioxidant Enzymatic Activity of Extracts from Hairy Roots of Root-Lesion-Nematode-Susceptible and -Resistant Cultivars of Medicago sativa

by Gonçalo Pereira, Cláudia Vicente and Jorge M. S. Faria

Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2025, 41(1), 13; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2025041013 - 24 Sep 2025

Abstract

Diseases caused by phytoparasitic nematodes are still a heavy constraint on modern farming, causing losses in crop yields as well as increased production costs due to pest management. Root-lesion nematodes (RLNs) are soil-dwelling migratory endoparasites that infect the roots of several crop species. [...] Read more.

Diseases caused by phytoparasitic nematodes are still a heavy constraint on modern farming, causing losses in crop yields as well as increased production costs due to pest management. Root-lesion nematodes (RLNs) are soil-dwelling migratory endoparasites that infect the roots of several crop species. RLNs feed and reproduce in the cortical cells of affected plant roots typically characterized by development of necrotic spots. Injuries to plant tissues result in weakened plants that become more prone to attack from opportunistic pathogens. In alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.), resistance to Pratylenchus penetrans has been linked to increased transcription of key enzymes in the biosynthesis of phenylpropanoids, important molecules for countering oxidative stress. However, the mechanisms of resistance are still unknown. The present work analyzed indicators of oxidative stress in extracts from transgenic roots of susceptible (cv. Baker) and resistant (cv. MNGRN-16) alfalfa. On extracts of susceptible alfalfa transgenic roots, levels of lipid peroxidation were more than three times higher after seven and fourteen days of growth, while activity of guaiacol peroxidase (GPX) was approximately four times higher after fourteen and twenty-one days of growth, in comparison to the resistant cultivar. This suggests that resistance response may be dependent on plant redox state. Future work will focus on metabolomic characterization of these varieties in contact with RLNs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 4th International Electronic Conference on Agronomy)

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4 pages, 381 KB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Morphometric Characterization of Algerian Fantasia Horses at a National Equestrian Competition

by Aimene Zakaria Chaabi, Said Boukhechem, Hithem Bougherara, Larbi Afoutni, Alaa-Eddine Djeghar, Maya Boukerrou, Faïza Tekkouk Zemmouchi and Amira Leila Dib

Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2025, 49(1), 7; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2025049007 - 24 Sep 2025

Abstract

This study aims to evaluate the morphometric characteristics of Algerian Fantasia horses. A sample of 25 Fantasia horses was measured, with six key morphometric parameters recorded. Body indices were calculated to analyze their structural conformation. These horses, mainly of the Barb and Arab-Barb [...] Read more.

This study aims to evaluate the morphometric characteristics of Algerian Fantasia horses. A sample of 25 Fantasia horses was measured, with six key morphometric parameters recorded. Body indices were calculated to analyze their structural conformation. These horses, mainly of the Barb and Arab-Barb breeds, exhibit variability due to breeding objectives, whether aesthetic or functional. The results showed that the withers height was 155.19 ± 2.76 cm, with a body length of 154.31 ± 4.38 cm, indicating a square-type conformation, as confirmed by a body profile index of 1.01 ± 0.02. The dactyl-thoracic index was 0.11 ± 0.004, indicating bone thickness consistent with body weight.Comparisons with existing studies highlight the unique physical characteristics of these horses. The results provide valuable data for future research and breeding programs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 11th International Seminar of Veterinary Medicine: Advances in Animal Production, Food, and Health: From Tradition to Innovation)

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4 pages, 203 KB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Effect of Supplementation of Ewes’ Diet with Date Waste and Saccharomyces cerevisiae on the Weight Performance and Growth Rate of Their Lambs

by Salha Amira Benatallah, Tarek Boussaada, Kaouthar Lakhdari, Khaled Belhamzaoui, Nedjoua Lakhdara and Abdelhamid Djekoun

Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2025, 49(1), 6; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2025049006 - 24 Sep 2025

Abstract

The aim of this study is to valorize agro-industrial by-products and to determine the effect of dietary supplementation with date waste and Saccharomyces cerevisiae on production performance, from late-gestation to lactation, of Ouled Djellal ewes and their lambs. The analysis of production performance [...] Read more.

The aim of this study is to valorize agro-industrial by-products and to determine the effect of dietary supplementation with date waste and Saccharomyces cerevisiae on production performance, from late-gestation to lactation, of Ouled Djellal ewes and their lambs. The analysis of production performance data showed that there was no significant difference in the weight performance and growth rate of lambs born from ewes supplemented with different proportions of date wastes and Saccharomyces cerevisiae. It was revealed that the new-born lambs of ewes fed with date waste and Saccharomyces cerevisiae gave results close to or even better than those of lambs in the 33CON control group fed 100% concentrate, particularly 16REB and 25REB. This indicates that ewes were provided with their nutrient requirements for maintenance and production by substituting concentrate with this date by-product at 50% and 75%. Therefore, supplementation of pregnant and lactating ewes with date wastes and Saccharomyces cerevisiae seems to have a positive effect and could be employed as a partial alternative to concentrate. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 11th International Seminar of Veterinary Medicine: Advances in Animal Production, Food, and Health: From Tradition to Innovation)

5 pages, 211 KB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Cross-Talk Between Physical Activity, Diet, Gut Microbiota and Skeletal Muscle

by Nada Malak Zaboub, Hithem Bougherara, Said Boukhechem, Antonella Della Malva, Marzia Albenzio, Sabrina Boussena, Magali Monnoye, Philippe Gérard and Amira Leila Dib

Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2025, 49(1), 5; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2025049005 - 23 Sep 2025

Abstract

Dietary nutrients are crucial for human health and the survival of gut microbes. Diet plays a central role in gut microbiota, as microbes rely on ingested nutrients for biological functions. Research highlights the connection between gut microbiota and exercise. Moderate and intense exercise [...] Read more.

Dietary nutrients are crucial for human health and the survival of gut microbes. Diet plays a central role in gut microbiota, as microbes rely on ingested nutrients for biological functions. Research highlights the connection between gut microbiota and exercise. Moderate and intense exercise are common in endurance training. Studies suggest gut microbiota may influence athlete health and performance. Athletes should consider dietary strategies like protein supplements, carbohydrate loading, probiotics, and prebiotics. The diverse gut microbiome of elite athletes produces key metabolites like short-chain fatty acids. A gut–muscle axis may exist, influencing muscle quality and gut biodiversity. This work summarizes current knowledge on diet, exercise, gut microbiota, and skeletal muscle. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 11th International Seminar of Veterinary Medicine: Advances in Animal Production, Food, and Health: From Tradition to Innovation)

3 pages, 194 KB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Health of the Locomotor System Indicator of Welfare of Algerian Dairy Cows

by Imene Djaalab, Samia Haffaf, Hadria Mansour-Djaalab, Foulla Riachi, Loutfi Ghoribi and Abdel Fattah Beghriche

Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2025, 49(1), 4; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2025049004 - 22 Sep 2025

Abstract

Animal Welfare has a significant impact on the dairy cow’s health, behaviour, productivity and milk quality. By implementing husbandry practices that respect the physical, behavioural and emotional needs of dairy cows, the dairy industry can improve the sustainability of its operations and meet [...] Read more.

Animal Welfare has a significant impact on the dairy cow’s health, behaviour, productivity and milk quality. By implementing husbandry practices that respect the physical, behavioural and emotional needs of dairy cows, the dairy industry can improve the sustainability of its operations and meet rising expectations. The aim of this study is to evaluate the impact of housing systems (free vs. tied) on dairy cow health through musculoskeletal health indicators and lameness scores. The hypothesis that dairy cows reared in free housing have a better quality of health than cows reared in restrained housing is tested. Thus, 300 dairy cows of the Holstein and Montbeliarde breeds were selected from dairy farms in five municipalities of Constantine province (eastern Algeria). The results showed that the frequency of severe lameness did not exceed 12% in stalls with restraints and more than 42% of light lameness are in free-stall housing (p < 0.001). These results reflect a lack of comfort in restricted housing, with an impact on dairy performances. Moreover, the monitoring of lame cows and the functional trimming of their hooves should be frequent. It is also important to implement a cull policy for unproductive cows. Finally, it is very important to provide adequate training to farmers in order to improve the well-being of dairy cows. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 11th International Seminar of Veterinary Medicine: Advances in Animal Production, Food, and Health: From Tradition to Innovation)

5 pages, 1065 KB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Evaluation of Key Welfare Indicators in Commercial Broilers: A Case Study from the Batna Region, Algeria

by Tarek Boussaada, Salha Amira Benatallah, Safa Boukobbal and Kaouthar Lakhdari

Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2025, 49(1), 1; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2025049001 - 19 Sep 2025

Abstract

In Algeria, with the expansion of intensive poultry farming, assessing animal welfare has become increasingly important. Our study evaluated the welfare of broiler chickens at the Tazoult poultry center using indicators from the Welfare Quality^® project. In total, 1000 chickens were randomly [...] Read more.

In Algeria, with the expansion of intensive poultry farming, assessing animal welfare has become increasingly important. Our study evaluated the welfare of broiler chickens at the Tazoult poultry center using indicators from the Welfare Quality^® project. In total, 1000 chickens were randomly selected and examined during the final week of rearing. The results indicate that pododermatitis scores were mainly distributed between scores 0, 1, and 2 (46.4%, 20%, and 32.2%, respectively). Hock burns were observed with scores of 0 and 1 (49.1% and 49.5%, respectively). However, scores of 1 and 2 were common across all ten buildings for feather condition and lameness. While the overall welfare indicators were generally acceptable, there is a need for improved rearing conditions to address the variations seen between different buildings. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 11th International Seminar of Veterinary Medicine: Advances in Animal Production, Food, and Health: From Tradition to Innovation)

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4 pages, 196 KB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Assessment of Animal Welfare in Sheep Farming in Semi-Arid Regions

by Samia Haffaf, Imene Djaalab, Bachiri Nour El Houda, Nadia Zikem, Hadria Mansour-Djaalab and Laatra Zemmouri

Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2025, 49(1), 9002; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2025049002 - 18 Sep 2025

Abstract

The welfare of farmed animals has become a major social demand in developed countries, as well as the quality of livestock products and the preservation of the environment. In Algeria, the concept of animal welfare in sheep farming remains neglected, although it has [...] Read more.

The welfare of farmed animals has become a major social demand in developed countries, as well as the quality of livestock products and the preservation of the environment. In Algeria, the concept of animal welfare in sheep farming remains neglected, although it has been the subject of several studies in developed countries. The objective of this study is to assess animal welfare at the level of sheep farms in the region of M’Sila on the basis of measurable indicators on the animal, allowing us to assess two indicators: good health and appropriate nutrition. The study was conducted between February and June 2024. It included 9622 sheep of different breeds on 55 farms. The results revealed that sheep in M’Sila Governorate enjoy a good level of well-being in most farms. This is attributed to a behavior accepted to some extent regarding the absence of prolonged hunger and thirst, something that is expressed by a good body condition (BCS) in the majority of animals (p < 0.001). It was found that the majority of animals showed (p < 0.01) no signs of illness, bodily injury (p < 0.0001), restricted breathing (p < 0.0001), or lameness (p < 0.0001), indicating their good health. Finally, it is highly recommended to assess the on-farm welfare for emphasizing the key points in improving sheep welfare in Algeria. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 11th International Seminar of Veterinary Medicine: Advances in Animal Production, Food, and Health: From Tradition to Innovation)

3 pages, 153 KB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Survey on Dystocia in Sheep Farming in Batna Region: Causes, Risk Factors, and Veterinary Interventions

by Abdennour Azizi, Sameh Baghezza, Abdelhamid Achouri, Meriem Bouzenzana, Zinelabiddine Lamine and Bilal Bitam

Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2025, 49(1), 3; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2025049003 - 18 Sep 2025

Abstract

This study investigates the occurrence of dystocia in sheep farming, particularly focusing on the Batna region in eastern Algeria. Dystocia, or difficulty in parturition, represents a significant economic challenge, contributing to high perinatal mortality rates, maternal death, and reduced reproductive efficiency in sheep. [...] Read more.

This study investigates the occurrence of dystocia in sheep farming, particularly focusing on the Batna region in eastern Algeria. Dystocia, or difficulty in parturition, represents a significant economic challenge, contributing to high perinatal mortality rates, maternal death, and reduced reproductive efficiency in sheep. This study aimed to identify the primary causes and risk factors associated with dystocia through surveys conducted with local veterinarians. The research findings suggest that fetal malposition, fetal oversize, and incomplete cervical dilation are the leading causes of dystocia. Additionally, maternal factors such as incomplete cervical dilation and uterine torsion were also a common cause. The risk of dystocia increases with parity and litter size and decreases with body score. Early veterinary intervention, including cesarean sections, reduced lamb mortality and greatly improved reproductive outcomes. These findings underline the importance of effective management strategies in preventing and managing dystocia in sheep farming. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 11th International Seminar of Veterinary Medicine: Advances in Animal Production, Food, and Health: From Tradition to Innovation)

8 pages, 1286 KB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Comparative Evaluation of Ultra-Low-Volume Nozzle Configurations for UAV Spraying in Mango Orchards Under Semi-Arid Conditions in Northern India

by Shefali Vinod Ramteke, Pritish Kumar Varadwaj and Vineet Tiwari

Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2025, 47(1), 4; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2025047004 - 12 Sep 2025

Abstract

Efficient pesticide delivery in mango orchards is hindered by tall canopies and dense foliage. This study evaluated two ultra-low-volume (ULV) nozzles—TeeJet XR and HYPRO rotary—mounted on an indigenous multirotor drone during flowering and fruit-set stages in ‘Dashehari’ mango. HYPRO achieved 14% [...] Read more.

Efficient pesticide delivery in mango orchards is hindered by tall canopies and dense foliage. This study evaluated two ultra-low-volume (ULV) nozzles—TeeJet XR and HYPRO rotary—mounted on an indigenous multirotor drone during flowering and fruit-set stages in ‘Dashehari’ mango. HYPRO achieved 14% higher lower-canopy penetration, while TeeJet provided better upper coverage. Droplet spectra differed by 58 µm. UAV-based ULV spraying reduced carrier water by 97% and CO₂-equivalent emissions by 99% compared to air-blast methods. Results underscore the importance of nozzle selection and support UAV adoption for climate-smart, resource-efficient horticulture in India. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Horticulturae)

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56 pages, 500 KB

Open AccessConference Report

The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Horticulturae

by Luigi De Bellis, Alberto Pardossi and Yuyang Zhang

Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2025, 47(1), 3; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2025047003 - 11 Sep 2025

Abstract

Yanan Hu ¹, Ruimin Li ² and Guiyan Huang ¹ [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Horticulturae)

5 pages, 361 KB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Detection and Species Distribution of Fungal Pathogens Associated with Otomycosis in a Tertiary Health Center in Kano, Nigeria

by Khadija Muhammad Kawu, Muhammad Ibrahim Getso, Taysir Ramadan, Alhassan Abdullahi Sharif, Kanishka Hrishi Das, Al-Mukhtar Yahuza Adamu and Mansur Aliyu

Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2025, 46(1), 4; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2025046004 - 22 Aug 2025

Abstract

Otomycosis is the commonest cause of otitis externa seen in otorhinolaryngology clinics, especially in tropical and subtropical regions of the world. Diagnosis is usually made clinically and confirmed by laboratory identification of fungal elements. We conducted a cross-sectional and hospital-based epidemiological study that [...] Read more.

Otomycosis is the commonest cause of otitis externa seen in otorhinolaryngology clinics, especially in tropical and subtropical regions of the world. Diagnosis is usually made clinically and confirmed by laboratory identification of fungal elements. We conducted a cross-sectional and hospital-based epidemiological study that aimed to determine the prevalence, distribution and antifungal susceptibility profile of common aetiologic agents of otomycosis in Kano, northwestern Nigeria. We collected clinical samples from 300 patients who presented with symptoms of external ear infection, out of which 117 subjects (39.0%) were mycologically positive. Aspergillus species were the predominant isolate, with 90 (77.0%), followed by Candida species at 27 (23.0%). Otomycosis accounts for 39% of otitis externa seen in our center, mostly presenting with pruritus and otalgia. Raising the awareness of the general population to the predisposing factors may significantly reduce the incidence of otomycosis. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 3rd International Electronic Conference on Microbiology)

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6 pages, 575 KB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Analysing Aquatic Invertebrate Health in Terms of Artificial Light at Night

by Farhan Jamil and Chayan Munshi

Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2025, 45(1), 3; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2025045003 - 1 Aug 2025

Abstract

Artificial Light at Night (ALAN) is a recent issue of concern for researchers primarily working on the anthropogenic impacts on animal and ecosystem health. Our concern is associated with the ALAN exposure to an aquatic ecosystem by disrupting the natural dark–light cycle, which [...] Read more.

Artificial Light at Night (ALAN) is a recent issue of concern for researchers primarily working on the anthropogenic impacts on animal and ecosystem health. Our concern is associated with the ALAN exposure to an aquatic ecosystem by disrupting the natural dark–light cycle, which is essential for maintaining the overall health of the ecosystem and its inhabitants. In this study, we have attempted to understand the adverse consequences of ALAN in inducing neuro-behavioural stress in a freshwater prawn species (aquatic arthropod) Macrobrachium lamarrei by considering grooming behaviour, a well-established indicator of neurological stress in animals. Our results show that continuous ALAN exposure (for seven days) can increase collective grooming activity in Macrobrachium lamarrei over time. In our experiment, we have used two intensities of ALAN (50 and 120 lux). Although the response (in terms collective grooming) to both intensities are apparently different, our fundamental hypothesis is confirmed, where it is evident that prolonged light exposure can induce an elevation in cumulative grooming performances in a freshwater prawn population. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 3rd International Electronic Conference on Animals)

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52 pages, 470 KB

Open AccessConference Report

Abstracts of the 3rd International Electronic Conference on Microbiology

by Nico Jehmlich

Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2025, 46(1), 3; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2025046003 - 31 Jul 2025

Cited by 1

Abstract

The current proceedings summarize the presentations delivered during the third International Electronic Conference on Microbiology (ECM 2025), which was held online from 1 to 3 April 2025, via the SciForum platform. This virtual event brought together researchers from around the world to share [...] Read more.

The current proceedings summarize the presentations delivered during the third International Electronic Conference on Microbiology (ECM 2025), which was held online from 1 to 3 April 2025, via the SciForum platform. This virtual event brought together researchers from around the world to share recent advances in microbiological sciences. The ECM 2025 highlighted recent developments across a broad spectrum of microbiological research, including antimicrobial resistance, gut microbiota, infectious diseases, and environmental microbiomes. Participants shared their work through online presentations and abstracts, with selected submissions invited for full publication. The event fostered global collaboration, promoted open-access science, and showcased innovative tools for studying and managing microbial systems in health, agriculture, and industry. The multidisciplinary program was organized into several thematic sessions: S1. Gut Microbiota and Health Disease. S2. Foodborne Pathogens and Food Safety. S3. Antimicrobial Agents and Resistance. S4. Emerging Infectious Diseases. S5. Microbiome and Soil Science. S6. Microbial Characterization and Bioprocess. S7. Microbe–Plant Interactions. This conference report presents summaries of the contributions made by participating authors over the three-day event. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 3rd International Electronic Conference on Microbiology)

Journal Description

Biology and Life Sciences Forum

Vol. 49

ISVM 2024

Vol. 48

COGS 2022

Vol. 47

IECHo 2025

Vol. 46

ECM 2025

Vol. 45

IECA 2025

Vol. 44

Cells 2025

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