Advanced Research in Life Sciences Feed

Correction

Thu, 21 May 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Campylobacter jejuni: a Comprehensive Review of a Leading Foodborne Zoonotic Pathogen

Fri, 10 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Campylobacter jejuni is the main bacterial cause of gastroenteritis around the world and poses a major public health challenge. This bacterium lives in the digestive tracts of many animals and is a key zoonotic agent. Poultry are the main source, but cattle, sheep, wild birds, and pets also play a role in spreading it to the environment and people. People usually get infected through the fecal-oral route, most often by eating undercooked poultry, drinking unpasteurized milk, consuming contaminated water, or having direct contact with infected animals. Symptoms of C. jejuni infection can be mild or lead to serious long-term effects, such as Guillain–Barré syndrome. Because it spreads between animals and humans, C. jejuni shows how animal health, food safety, and human health are closely linked. This review brings together current knowledge about C. jejuni, focusing on its impact on public health, its microbiology, how it causes disease, how it interacts with hosts, and the growing issue of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). It pays special attention to how the bacteria persist, including forming biofilms, adapting their metabolism, and changing their characteristics to survive in animals, food processing environments, and the outside world. The increase in multidrug-resistant strains, often due to antibiotic use in food animals, highlights the urgent need for control strategies that consider animal, human, and environmental health together. The review also looks at advances in genomics and new ways to prevent and treat infection, such as vaccines and alternative antimicrobials, as important tools to help reduce the global impact of campylobacteriosis.

Complex Air Handling of Closed Livestock Buildings

Mon, 06 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Our current animal husbandry has to meet many conditions, e.g. animal welfare, disease control, environmental protection and of course sustainable economic operation. When modernizing traditional farms or building new farms, if we implement closed housing (pigs, poultry, rabbits), one of the most important factors is to create a microclimate condition close to the environmental optimum for the animal (temperature, humidity, air exchange). Air handling equipment is now available for animal husbandry and can replace previous heating, cooling and ventilation solutions, and their operation can be fully automated. The aim of the work was to theoretically assemble an air handling unit consisting of modular elements, suitable for livestock farms.

Inflorescence Rot of Date Palms in the Mzab Valley (Northern Algerian Sahara)

Mon, 06 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMT

The date palm heritage of the Mzab region is renowned for its remarkable biodiversity and the presence of numerous cultivars. However, the palm groves in this area create an environment that is highly conducive to the spread of fungal diseases. This study investigates inflorescence rot in date palms (Phoenix dactylifera L.) within the Mzab Valley, a condition predominantly caused by the fungus Mauginiella scaettae Cavara. This pathogen may pose a significant socio-economic threat to oasis agriculture in Algeria. Field surveys were conducted at three sites in the Mzab Valley: Laâdira and El-Ghabet (Ghardaïa commune), and Ahbas (El-Atteuf commune). The study focused on six predominant cultivars of the region: Tamdjouhert, Tdalt, Tazerzayt, Ighes n Wutchidhen, Ut Qbala, and Deglet-Nour. These cultivars were monitored to assess their response to inflorescence rot, commonly referred to as El-Khamedj. Laboratory investigations included fungal isolation and detailed macro- and micro-morphological analyses.The findings highlighted notable differences in the resistance and susceptibility of the cultivars to the disease. Deglet-Nour, Ighes n Wutchidhen, and Ut Qbala were identified as the most affected cultivars, while Tazerzayt and Tdalt exhibited greater resistance. Among the studied cultivars, Deglet-Nour from the Ahbas site was found to be the most vulnerable to inflorescence rot.

Reaction of Chamomile to Organic Fertilisation

Mon, 06 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMT

The increasing and growing interest in chamomile essential oil is leading to a rise in cultivated areas outside of Europe. Currently, the amount of produced chamomile flowers and essential oil cannot meet market needs. The reason for this is the lack of good and sustainable agricultural practices. This study aims to determine how fertilisation with organic fertilisers Bioazoto N12® and Plonar Active® affects the quantitative and qualitative indicators of the chamomile variety Lazur. The field trial was set up in the region of Stambolovo (41.767°N 25.65°E) over a period of three years (2023-2025). The experiment was arranged based on the randomised complete block design in three replications and an individual plot size of 25m2. Two organic fertilisers have been included in the study: Bioazoto N12® at a rate of 400 kg ha−1 and Plonar Active® in a dose of 120 kg ha−1. The products have been applied in the autumn before the main soil tillage. The results indicated that the organic product Plonar Active® positively influenced the agricultural performance of chamomile and achieved the highest yields of fresh flowers and essential oil. Moreover, the product stimulated the synthesis of β-farnesene, chamazulene, α-bisabolol, α-bisabolol oxide A, and α-bisabolol oxide B. These findings allow the organic fertilisers Plonar Active® to be recommended for sustainable chamomile production.

Agronomic Performance of Lavender after Application of a Novel PGRs

Mon, 06 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMT

In recent years, interest in lavender has been increasing, as it has become not only a subject of agronomic research but also a significant economic factor for various regions, particularly in countries with a Mediterranean climate. To achieve high yields and quality products, it is essential not only to choose the right variety and consider the climatic conditions of the year, but also to implement appropriate sustainable agronomic practices. The present study aims to evaluate how two novel plant growth regulators are affecting the quantitative and qualitative parameters of the lavender variety Yubileyna. The experiment was conducted with a lavender plantation located in the region of the village Tazha (42°38’42.0”N 25°04’49.8” E) over a period of three years (2023-2025). The trial was organised according to the randomised complete block design in three replications and an individual plot size of 25m2. Both plant growth regulators, SpeedB® applied in a dose of 3 l ha−1 and Alga900® applied in a dose of 250g ha−1, were introduced three times in the spring with the start of the active vegetation before the flowering stage at an interval of 10 days. During the trial period, the products have a positive effect on lavender biometric parameters and productivity by an average of 8% (SpeedB®) to 12% for Alga900® compared to the control. Gas chromatographic analysis shows that the product Alga900 improves the quality of the essential oil by helping to synthesise the largest amount of linalyl acetate.

Internal Efficiency of Macronutrients in Barley Depending on Nitrogen Nutrition

Mon, 06 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Bulgarian barley varieties Emon, Obzor, Krami, Kristi and Kaskadior were studied at three levels of nitrogen nutrition 0, 200 400 mg N.kg−1 soil in a pot experiment. The nitrogen levels were created by adding NH4NO3 dissolved in water. Each experimental treatment was studied in four replicates. Ten plants of each variety were grown in plastic pots filled with 5 kg alluvial-meadow soil under greenhouse conditions. The Internal efficiency (IE) of the absorbed nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P2O5), potassium (K2O), calcium (CaO) and magnesium (MgO) was studied in relation to the grain (IEg) and biomass (IEb) formation. The internal efficiency was calculated as the ratio of the grain yield or biomass yield to the total absorbed nutrient at maturity (g.g−1). It was established that the internal efficiency of macronutrients proven decreased in parallel with increased nitrogen input into the soil. Higher reduction of the internal efficiency of nitrogen by 25.5% for grain and by 29.4% for biomass was found at N400 level, compare to N0. The studied barley varieties did not show proven differences in the internal efficiency of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium for grain and biomass formation. A trend was found indicating the Kristi variety as more efficiently using the accumulated nitrogen for both grain (NIEg=43.9 g.g−1 N) and biomass formation (NIEb=106.7 g.g−1 N), regardless of the soil nitrogen. The Kaskadior variety could be referred to as less efficient. A strong negative relationship was found between the soil nitrogen level and the internal efficiency of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium for grain and biomass formation, as well as a significant negative relationship (r=-0.536*) with the internal efficiency of magnesium for grain. Index of NIEg was in a strong positive correlation with the internal efficiency of phosphorus, potassium and magnesium for grain and biomass formation.

Alphafold Modeling and Molecular Docking of Pseudomonas fluorescens Cutinase with Agrochemicals

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Cutinases (E.C. 3.1.1.74) are versatile enzymes produced by bacteria and fungi, known for their ability to hydrolyze cutin, a protective plant polyester. These enzymes have gained attention for their potential in agricultural biotechnology, particularly in bioremediation and sustainable pest management. Building upon our previous in silico characterization of Pseudomonas fluorescens cutinase using homology modeling (Phyre2), this study employed AlphaFold, an AI-driven structure prediction tool, to generate a more accurate 3D model of the enzyme. The refined structure was validated using PROCHECK tool, with 93.8% of residues in favored Ramachandran regions, confirming its reliability for molecular docking studies. To assess the enzyme’s potential interactions with agrochemicals, CB-DOCK2 was used to dock the cutinase against eight ligands, including widely used insecticides (chlorpyrifos, malathion, diazinon, cypermethrin, deltamethrin) and herbicides (2,4-D butyl ester, glyphosate, propanil). Comparative analysis revealed strong binding affinities for cypermethrin (−9.8 kcal/mol) and deltamethrin (−9.5 kcal/mol), while moderate interactions were observed with chlorpyrifos (−6.4 kcal/mol), diazinon (−6.5 kcal/mol), and the herbicide propanil (−7.2 kcal/mol). The natural substrate, Cutin-1, exhibited a binding score of −8.0 kcal/mol, providing a reference for evaluating pesticide interactions. These findings suggest that P. fluorescens cutinase may play a role in the binding or degradation of certain synthetic pesticides, particularly pyrethroids and organophosphates. Future studies should include molecular dynamics simulations to assess binding stability and enzymatic assays to validate hydrolysis activity. Additionally, exploring cutinase engineering for enhanced pesticide degradation could open new avenues for eco-friendly bioremediation strategies. This work advances our understanding of bacterial cutinases and highlights their potential applications in sustainable agriculture.

Antimalarial and Antioxidant Activities of Sub-fractions of Capsicum frutescens L. in Plasmodium berghei-Infected Mice

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Oxidative stress induced by malaria parasites significantly impacts the host microenvironment, exacerbated by resistance to existing antimalarial agents. This has prompted malaria-endemic settlements—especially those in sub-Saharan settlements—to adopt medicinal plants for the treatment of fever and malaria since they are readily available and affordable. This research evaluated the antimalarial and antioxidant activities of sub-fractions of Capsicum frutescens L. fruit (CFL) in Plasmodium berghei (NK65)-parasitized mice as potential leads for antimalarial drug development. Maintaining the same controls for the sub-fractions, combined sexes of 85 mice weighing 23.7±3.5 g were randomly grouped into seven (n=5) and inoculated intraperitoneally by 0.2 mL parasitized erythrocytes. Group A received 10 mL/kg normal saline (control), Group B received 10 mg/kg chloroquine, while Groups C to G received 0.5, 1.0, 2.0, 4.0, and 8.0 mg/kg body weight per sub-fraction, respectively. On 6 and 10 days post-inoculation (dpi), mice per group were euthanized. The in vivo test, selenium, vitamins C and E levels, 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), superoxide ion, and peroxide ion-scavenging concentrations, as well as ferric-reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), were done using standard procedures. Treatment with CLF sub-fractions revealed low parasite clearance on 6 dpi but significantly suppressed parasites (p<0.05) on 10 dpi for the three sub-fractions and increased survival in mice. This was more pronounced in sub-fraction B (SFB). Out of the three sub-fractions, SFB compared favourably with butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) for the scavenging activities of DPPH, peroxide ion, and superoxide ion, as well as the FRAP. This efficacy of SFB was also evident in the low EC50 obtained. Therefore, CFL sub-fractions—SFB in particular— possess antiplasmodial and antioxidant activities against fever and malaria, suggesting its potential as a lead fraction for developing novel plant-derived antimalarial therapies.

Biochemical and Behavioral Analysis of Aging in Wistar Rats: A Longitudinal Case Study

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Aging processes involve complex physiological and behavioral changes that require systematic investigation. This study examined biochemical and behavioral alterations in male Wistar rats during the transition from youth to maturity. Five healthy male Wistar rats were monitored longitudinally from 12 weeks (youth) to 24 weeks (maturity) in controlled laboratory conditions. Primary outcomes included HDL cholesterol, non-HDL cholesterol, triglycerides, and plasma glucose levels. Secondary outcomes assessed rearing behavior and locomotion patterns. Mature rats showed significantly decreased HDL cholesterol (2.3±0.6 vs 25.9±4.5 mg/dL), increased non-HDL cholesterol (83.2±24.5 mg/dL), and elevated triglycerides (311.4±84.8 mg/dL) compared to young rats. Plasma glucose remained unchanged. Rearing behavior significantly decreased in mature rats (9.6±7.5 vs 29±9.8 events), while locomotion was unaffected. The study demonstrates significant age-related biochemical and behavioral changes in Wistar rats, providing valuable insights for biomedical research and animal welfare considerations.

Evaluating The Effect of Castanea sativa on Functional Egg Traits Under Protein-Restricted Diets of Laying Hens

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 00:00:00 GMT

This study investigates the effects of Castanea sativa (chestnut) supplementation on egg quality in laying hens fed low-protein diets. Three dietary treatments were evaluated: control (CON), low-protein diet (LPD), and low-protein diet supplemented with Castanea sativa (LPC). Egg physical traits, internal and external quality parameters, chemical composition, antioxidant profile, and shelf-life under two storage temperatures (5°C and 22°C) were assessed. Castanea sativa demonstrated notable nutritional and antioxidant properties, with high levels of vitamin E (124.80 mg/kg), total phenolic content (45.68 mg/g GAE), and DPPH antioxidant activity (167.52 mM Trolox). Castanea sativa supplementation improved total polyphenol content in egg yolks (LPC = 0.52 mg/g GAE vs. CON = 0.25 mg/g GAE), increased eggshell breaking strength (LPC = 5.14 kgF vs. CON = 4.07 kgF), and maintained comparable levels of crude protein and fat. After 30 days at 22°C, LPC eggs retained higher albumen height (3.61 mm) and Haugh units (53.35) compared to CON (3.12 mm and 48.28, respectively), indicating better freshness. Similarly, yolk index was more stable in LPC (0.24) versus CON (0.22). At 5°C, all groups preserved quality better, but LPC still showed advantages in shell strength and yolk height (17.14 mm vs. 16.57 mm in CON). Compared to initial values, egg weight and albumen quality as expected, declined during storage across all treatments, especially at 22°C. However, LPC eggs exhibited the least deterioration, highlighting the protective role of Castanea sativa. These findings suggest that chestnut supplementation enhances egg antioxidant stability, maintains structural integrity, and egg quality during storage, offering a functional nutritional strategy for hens on protein-restricted diets.

Assessment of Farmers’ Adoption of Released Drought-Tolerant Maize Varieties in Northern Nigeria

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Maize (Zea mays L.) ranks as the second most widely cultivated crop in Nigeria, valued for its adaptability to diverse agro-climatic conditions and its multifaceted role in food security, animal feed, and industrial uses. This study explores farmers’ preferences for and adoption of drought-tolerant maize varieties (SAMMAZs), developed and issued by Ahmadu Bello University’s Institute for Agricultural Research (IAR), and cultivated widely across Northern Nigeria, a region responsible for over 75% of the country’s maize production. With reference to cross-sectional data gathered from 850 maize farmers (715 men and 135 women) during the 2019-2024 farming seasons and with aid of descriptive statistic and regression models, the study highlights notable differences in varietal preferences. Male farmers prioritized high grain yield (90.6%), drought tolerance (79%), and low fertilizer input (54.8%). Meanwhile, female farmers showed greater preference for uniform growth (85.3%), high grain yield (72.1%), and low fertilizer requirements (59.4%). Statistical t-test indicated a significant yield advantage for the SAMMAZ51 (4,987.02 kg/ha) compared to farmer varieties (1,718.27 kg/ha), at 1% level of probability. The multivariate Probit regression models using Maximum likelihood with complete information (FIML) and endogenous switching regression model (ESRM)established key socioeconomic and institutional variables that determined choice of SAMMAZs, and factors that influenced productivity and gross margin of these products. Tobit regression analysis identified primal factors that influenced intensity of adoption to encompass the availability of extension and research services, closeness to input centers, credit availability, and assistance from both public and private entities. These results highlight how crucial it is to match farmers’ practical demands with crop breeding initiatives, particularly when it comes to qualities like market value, drought resilience, and yield potential.

Effects of an Indoor Lifestyle on Selected Serum and Urine Biomarkers in Domestic Cats

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 00:00:00 GMT

This study aimed to assess stress in indoor and free-ranging domestic cats by measuring biomarkers (serotonin, cortisol, dopamine) in serum and urine, along with urinary hippuric acid levels, and to examine their correlation with exposure to industrial substances, particularly toluene-containing materials. A total of 244 cats underwent physical and laboratory assessments, including anamnesis, physical examination, laboratory analyses (urine analysis, urine sediment analysis, urine bacterial culture, venous blood gas analysis, complete blood count (CBC), serum biochemistry), and abdominal ultrasonographic examination. After applying inclusion/exclusion criteria, 16 cats were categorized into two groups: Free-ranging (n = 8) and Indoor (n = 8). Serum and urine serotonin, cortisol, dopamine, and urinary hippuric acid concentrations were measured to assess exposure to indoor materials. Indoor cats had a higher respiratory rate and significantly greater bladder wall thickness (0.28 ± 0.07 cm vs. 0.19 ± 0.02 cm, p = 0.002). Urine pH was lower in indoor cats, and hippuric acid crystals were found in their urine sediment. Serum serotonin levels were lower in free-ranging cats (p = 0.006), while urinary serotonin (p = 0.005), cortisol (p = 0.012), dopamine (p = 0.003), and hippuric acid (p = 0.033) levels were higher in indoor cats. The findings suggest that indoor confinement may be associated with increased physiological stress and greater exposure to toluene-containing materials, which could potentially contribute to stress-related conditions and elevate the risk of toluene-associated effects.

Official Controls to Ensure the Legitimate Application of Plant Protection Products

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Plant protection products (PPPs) are widely used in plant production to prevent plants from several threats and thus ensure the supply with plant based food and animal feed. To minimise adverse effects of PPPs on human and animal health as well as the environment there are strict rules for the authorisation of plant protection, their placing on the market, use and control within the EU. Article 68 of REGULATION (EC) No 1107/2009 [1] points out that the member states shall carry out official controls in order to enforce compliance with these rules. Official controls can follow different ways. This article describes the method of taking samples of soil, plant material, spray solution, etc. and running chemical analysis to monitor and ensure the legitimate application of plant protection products.

Identification and Detection of Citrus Psorosis Virus (CPsV) In Citrus Varieties And Rootstocks Cultivated In Mitidja Region, Algeria

Tue, 03 Dec 2024 00:00:00 GMT

Psorosis is one of major graft-transmissible diseases of Citrus; the virus was reported to occur in different Citrus cultivated areas and constitutes a serious threat to Citrus establishment and development. This study focuses on the identification of Citrus Psorosis Virus (CPsV) by tow diagnostic methods; biological indexing in indicator seedling and serological test (DAS-ELISA). Thereby, different varieties of sweet orange (Citrus sinensis (L.) Osbeck), mandarin (Citrus × Deliciosa), lemon (Citrus × limon), Grapefruits (Citrus × Paradisi), clementine (Citrus × Clementine) and tow rootstocks sour orange (Citrus × aurantium L.) and trifoliate orange (Poncirus trifoliata) that exhibit typical symptoms of Psorosis disease have been detected and collected from five different orchards located in the regions of Mitidja (Algeria). All collected samples were subjected to biological testing and double antibody sandwich ELISA (DASELISA) as diagnostic tests. The serological method, specifically DAS-ELISA, yielded positive results on varieties from the prospect station, indicating the presence of psorosis in Algeria. The typical symptoms of psorosis were observed through the indexed seedlings and grafts.

AlphaFold Modeling and Computational Analysis of a PHA Synthase from Actinophytocola algeriensis

Mon, 12 Aug 2024 00:00:00 GMT

Environmental challenges related to plastic waste underscore the urgent need for innovative solutions. Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA) have emerged as sustainable alternatives to conventional plastics, particularly in packaging, due to their biodegradability and biocompatibility. However, the cost of PHA production and certain physical limitations compared to synthetic polymers remain significant barriers to widespread adoption. Within this context, Actinophytocola algeriensis, an Actinobacteria species isolated from the Sahara desert in Algeria, holds promise for its biotechnological potential and bioactive molecules. Despite this, our understanding of its enzyme profile, notably the PHA synthase (EC 2.3.1.304), the key enzyme in PHA biosynthesis, remains limited. In this study, the 3D structure of PHA synthase was modeled utilizing the artificial intelligence program AlphaFold, followed by the structural refinement and validation. In addition, physicochemical properties and functional characterization were conducted using various bioinformatics tools. This research signifies a substantial advancement in comprehending the molecular mechanisms underlying PHA biosynthesis in A. algeriensis, thereby fostering the development of innovative biotechnological applications for sustainable biopolymer production.

Exploring the Anti-Inflammatory Potential of Phytochemicals from Anvillea radiata: In Vitro Assay, Molecular Docking, and Molecular Dynamics Simulations

Sat, 16 Mar 2024 00:00:00 GMT

This study delves into the comprehensive evaluation of phytochemicals extracted from Anvillea radiata, with a focus on their potential anti-inflammatory applications. High-performance liquid Chromatography analysis reveals the dominance of catechin in the aqueous extract, alongside other compounds such as syringic acid, 3,4-dihydroxybenzoic acid, and vanillic acid, as well as quercetin-3-β-D-glucoside and rutin in smaller quantities. An in vitro anti-inflammatory assay demonstrates the superior effectiveness of A. radiata aqueous extract at lower concentrations compared to Aspirin, raising possibilities for reduced side effects and enhanced cost-effectiveness. Drug-likeness predictions emphasize the potential of catechin, syringic acid, and vanillic acid for drug development due to their molecular characteristics. Toxicity risk assessment indicates that catechin, quercetin-3-β-D-glucoside, and rutin exhibit low toxicity risks and favorable drug-likeness properties. Molecular docking analysis highlights promising interactions between the identified compounds and crucial anti-inflammatory (COX-2, MPO, IL1β, IL6, and TNFα.) target proteins. Notably, catechin demonstrates a strong binding affinity to these proteins. Molecular dynamics simulations further support catechin’s potential, revealing significant deformability in complexes with COX-2 and MPO, indicating high structural flexibility. The variance map shows higher cumulative variances and the elastic network map yields satisfactory outcomes, further reinforcing the potential of A. radiata aqueous extract compounds, with catechin as a standout candidate for anti-inflammatory drug development.

An Efficient Protein Extraction Method from Astragalus armatus Willd. Roots for Proteomic Analysis

Sat, 16 Mar 2024 00:00:00 GMT

The first step of the proteomic study is the extraction and the success of this technique was based mainly on the choice of the best extraction. The purpose of this study was to determine the simplest and lowest-cost method of total protein extraction. Initially, various extraction methods were performed for protein extraction from roots of Astragalus armatus Willd. The methods employed were extraction by RIPA buffer, hypotonic buffer and distilled water. After determination of protein concentration by Bradford method and SDS PAGE electrophoretic analysis, the quantity and quality of extracted proteins using different protocols from A. armatus were determined and compared. The protein yield of RIPA buffer method was higher than the yields of hypotonic buffer method and distilled water method. The best protein patterns were produced by RIPA buffer method. The extract obtained by RIPA buffer was the optimal protocol for protein extraction.

Hematological and Biochemical Indices of a Local Rabbit Does Population Fed Diet Incorporated with Jujube Pulp (Ziziphus lotus)

Sat, 16 Mar 2024 00:00:00 GMT

Rabbit feed in Algeria is still based exclusively on commercial pelleted diets, but the recent use of non-conventional ingredients in feed formulation is becoming more frequent, and several studies were carried out on the incorporation of local raw materials in rabbit feed worldwide. However, studies related to the incorporation of Jujube are nonexistent. In this context; this experimental trial assessed the impact of Jujube pulp on local populations’ rabbits’ hematological and biochemical parameters during three physiological stages: non-pregnancy, pregnancy, and lactation. 72 rabbits were divided into 18 groups of 04 rabbits each one, three groups of non-pregnant females fed 100 % commercial pelleted diet, three groups of non-pregnant females fed 50 % commercial pelleted diet with 50 % Jujube, three groups of pregnant females fed 100 % commercial pelleted diet, three groups of pregnant females fed 50 % commercial pelleted diet with 50 % Jujube, three groups of lactating females fed 100 % commercial pelleted diet, and three groups of lactating females fed 50 % commercial pelleted diet with 50 % Jujube. The levels of white blood cells (WBC), hemoglobin concentration (Hb), lymphocytes (L %), mean corpuscular volume (MCV) and Platelets (PLT) recorded in pregnant and lactating rabbits fed a diet incorporating Jujube were greater than those found in females fed 100 % commercial pelleted diet. The results revealed also that 79 % of the variations in ALP, 79 % in creatinine and 57 % in Tb expressed were related to variations in diet and physiological stage. The hematological and biochemical profile of the experimental animals indicated that Jujube is nutritionally appropriate without any deleterious effect on the female rabbits.

Fire Risk Mapping for Holm Oak Forests in El Hassasna Region as Part of the Ecosystem Restoration Programme

Sat, 16 Mar 2024 00:00:00 GMT

In the context of the restoration of the holm oak forest ecosystem, which has suffered damage from wildfires, and with the aim of reducing the wildfire risk, the primary threat to these natural habitats, this study seeks to establish a systematic approach to map areas at risk of forest fires. This approach relies on the use of remote sensing data, including Landsat 8 satellite images and digital elevation models using Geographic Information System (GIS). Factors influencing the ignition and spread of forest fires were assessed, including vegetation cover, topography, and human factors. A forest fire risk map has been created for the Holm oak forest in the Al Hassasna region (Saida province), enabling local authorities and forest managers to implement more effective fire prevention and management measures.