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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

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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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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

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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)

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

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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, 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

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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)

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

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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)

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

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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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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

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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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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

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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)

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

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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, 201 KB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Fermented Food and Microbiota

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

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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, 559 KB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Culinary Preparation and Consumption Habits of Osbana: An Algerian Cooked Sausage-like Traditional Meat Product

by Lydia Achou, Oumeïma Touidjini, Chaima Tolba and Mohammed Gagaoua

Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2025, 49(1), 12; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2025049012 - 30 Sep 2025

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Abstract

Osbana, also known as Osbane, is a cooked sausage-like product prepared from edible by-products and is one of the most popular Algerian traditional meat products. However, there is a lack of knowledge regarding its culinary preparation and consumption habits. Therefore, this [...] Read more.

Osbana, also known as Osbane, is a cooked sausage-like product prepared from edible by-products and is one of the most popular Algerian traditional meat products. However, there is a lack of knowledge regarding its culinary preparation and consumption habits. Therefore, this study explores these aspects within the Algerian population. Using an online questionnaire, we surveyed the people who prepare (n = 581) along with those who consume Osbana (n = 928 consumers). The survey allowed us to establish a preparation diagram of Osbana following the traditional methods involving cleaning, boiling, confecting balls/sausages, cutting, seasoning, stuffing, closing balls/sausages, conserving, and cooking. Overall, the results showed that Osbana is usually prepared from lamb, using mainly white offal (intestines, stomach, and lungs) as the main component, generally stuffed in a cleaned rumen that is not scraped of its dark layer. The rough side of the rumen is frequently put on the outside of the balls/sausages. However, regional variations in its preparation have been observed. Osbana seemed to be well appreciated by 51.7% of respondents, owing to its typical sensory properties. Interestingly, it is frequently consumed at home, at most 3 times a year (79% of consumers), but mainly served during religious and social celebrations, especially for Eid El-Adha. The common dishes used for its consumption depend on the region, but overall, it is consumed with Couscous or in a sauce. Variations in the preparation of Osbana influence the way it is consumed, hence creating typical recipes in each region. Also, these differences in its preparation may lead to differences in its nutritional and sensory properties, which require further investigation. 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, 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

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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)

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

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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)

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