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DEVELOPING METHODS TO DETECT MICROPLASTIC CONTAMINATION IN LIVESTOCK FEED: IMPLICATIONS FOR SUSTAINABLE ANIMAL HUSBANDRY
No full textMicroplastics, defined as plastic particles smaller than 5 mm, are increasingly detected in
components of agroecosystems, including livestock feed. Their presence in animal feeding systems raises
critical concerns related to food safety, animal health, and environmental impact. The aim of this study was
to develop a method for the detection of microplastics in livestock feed as part of the IPA INTERREG
Croatia–Serbia project “Pioneering ecosystem-based microplastics contamination reduction and climate
change resilience in the cross-border region” (Eco(Re)Act).For this purpose, various combinations of
procedures based on Fenton reactions and potassium hydroxide (KOH) digestion were evaluated. The final
protocol, achieving extraction efficiencies of up to 85% for all tested microplastic types and feed matrices,
consists of KOH digestion at moderate temperature (60 °C for 24 hours), followed by two to three cycles of
Fenton oxidation. Microplastic detection was performed using the Bruker Lumos II system. The efficiency of
the proposed method allows for the omission of additional density separation steps, significantly reducing
processing time compared to existing protocols developed for other complex matrices (e.g., soil). Future
methodological development will focus on the standardization of monitoring protocols and strategies for
reducing microplastic exposure in livestock feed. This will help safeguard animal health and support
environmental protection within the framework of integrated agroecological practices, while also
contributing to a better understanding of the actual impact of microplastic contamination on livestock
production
Expanding perennial grass bioenergy crops and influence on allergenic burden: A short review
No full textIn recent years, second-generation perennial energy grasses have gained attention for their potential role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. However, the possible health risks associated with their large-scale cultivation remain insufficiently addressed. This paper presents a narrative literature review of the potential allergenic effects of the main perennial grass energy crops (Phalaris arundinacea, Phragmites australis, Miscanthus × giganteus, Arundo donax), with Zea mays used as a reference first-generation energy crop. A structured search was conducted in major electronic databases using predefined keywords related to bioenergy crops, pollen dispersal, and allergenicity. The search identified a wide body of literature on crop biology and bioenergy potential, but only a limited number of studies addressed allergenic outcomes directly. The evidence suggests that, except for P. arundinacea, most second-generation grasses are late-flowering species. If cultivated on a larger scale near urban centers, these crops could alter the seasonal pattern of allergenic pollen exposure by shifting the allergic burden toward the late growing season (August-October). While the expected overall impact on the annual pollen load appears modest-potentially reducing the June peak typical for Europe while slightly increasing exposure later in the season-these changes warrant consideration in land-use and public health planning
Milk production traits of Simmental cows imported from Austria and their daughters reared in Serbia
No full textThe objective of this study was to examine the milk traits of
Simmental cows imported from Austria and their offspring born on the P.D.
“DMN” farm, located in the municipality of Požarevac in Serbia and to determine
the statistical significance of the differences between the milk production results of
mothers and daughters. After Germany, Austria is the second largest exporter of
pregnant Simmental heifers in both Europe and worldwide. The research included a
total of 409 cows with 572 lactations recorded from the beginning of the farm’s
operation in 2019 until the end of 2024. Production differences among animals in
standard lactations were analyzed, along with comparisons of standard lactation
results between mothers and daughters. By comparing the production results
between mother cows and their daughters in the first and second standard
lactations, a statistical significant difference in milk yield was found (p<0.001),
while in the third lactation, the differences were not statistically significant
(p>0.05). All the animals included in the research originated from the same farm,
which enabled a precise comparison between mothers and daughters due to the
combined influence of the farm and other environmental factors during the
exploitation period.Cilj ovog rada je bio da se ispitaju proizvodni rezultati krava simentalske rase
uvezenih iz Austrije i njihovog potomstva rođenog na farmi P.D. ''DMN'' koja se
nalazi u opštini Požarevac. Posle Nemačke, Austrija je drugi najveći izvoznik
steonih junica simentalske rase u Evropi i svetu. Istraživanjem je obuhvaćeno
ukupno 409 krava koje su ostvarile 572 laktacije u periodu od početka rada farme
2019. godine do kraja 2024. godine za osobine mlečnosti u standardnoj laktaciji.
Upoređene su razlike u proizvodnji između grla u standardnim laktacijama i
upoređivani su rezultati proizvodnje majka – ćerka u standardnim laktacijama.
Upoređivanjem rezultata proizvodnje između krava majki i njihovih ćerki u prvoj i
drugoj standardnoj laktaciji utvrđena je statistički značajna razlika (p<0,001) u
prinosu mleka, dok u trećoj laktaciji razlike nisu bile statistički značajne (p>0,05).
Sva grla obuhvaćena istraživanjem su sa iste farme, i u tom smislu, precizno
poređenje majki sa ćerkama bilo je moguće, zbog zajedničkog uticaja farme i
drugih faktora životne sredine u toku eksploatacije
Nitrogen Fertilization Influence on Fusarium and Deoxynivalenol Contamination of Wheat
No full textFusarium head blight (FHB) is the most devastating disease of small cereal grains worldwide caused by several Fusarium species. F. graminearum sensu stricto is the most frequently
identified FHB pathogen within the F. graminearum species complex (FGSC). This pathogen produces the mycotoxin deoxynivalenol, which reduces grain quality and poses a threat to
human and animal health. In this study, the effect of nitrogen (N) fertilizer rates (0, 50, and 100 kg N ha–1) on the incidence of Fusarium spp., levels of deoxynivalenol (DON), agronomic traits
(plant height – PH, spike length – SL, and thousand-grain weight – TGW) and grain yield (GY) in two winter wheat cultivars (Nogal and NS Ilina) over two growing seasons (2016–2017 and
2017–2018) was investigated. Among Fusarium species, FGSC strains were the most frequently isolated in both years. The incidence of FGSC strains (20.22%), DON levels (323.59 µg kg
1), PH (83.21 cm), TGW (38.68 g), and GY (8.88 t ha–1) were higher in 2017 than in 2018 (9.66%, 97.72 µg kg–1, 71.05 cm, 34.35 g, and 5.11 t ha–1, respectively). Cultivar NS Ilina had significantly higher FGSC incidence (20.11%), DON levels (302 µg kg–1), PH (85.57 cm), and SL (9.11 cm) than cultivar Nogal (9.77%, 104.71 µg kg–1, 68.68 cm, and 7.65 cm, respectively). The N rate significantly increased PH, but did not affect the other investigated parameters. Although both wheat cultivars tested were susceptible to Fusarium pathogens and DON, Nogal
displayed less susceptibility than NS Ilina. Therefore, adopting integrated disease management that focuses on FHB-resistant or less susceptible wheat cultivars can reduce the risk of pathogen
presence and DON
Carcass traits and meat quality in Balkan goats: A multivariate evaluation of crossbreeding and slaughter weight effects
No full textThis study investigated the effects of slaughter weight and breed on carcass characteristics, meat quality, and technological properties in purebred Balkan and F1 crossbred (Balkan × Saanen) male goats. A total of 48 animals, divided into four slaughter weight groups (10, 15, 18, and 22 kg), were analysed for carcass composition, muscle traits, and fat distribution. ANOVA and multivariate analyses (PCA and HCA) revealed significant effects of weight and breed on key carcass and meat quality parameters. Heavier animals exhibited higher intramuscular fat and primal cut yields with superior water-holding capacity (WHC), while lighter goats had leaner carcasses with less muscle pigment. Crossbred F1 goats demonstrated a more balanced muscle-to-fat ratio, whereas pure Balkan goats tended to accumulate fat more rapidly at higher weights. These findings indicate that optimal slaughter weight selection should align with market demands, such as producing leaner meat in lighter Balkan goats, or achieving increased marbling and better economic returns in heavier crossbred animals. Future research should explore genetic effects on muscle and fat deposition and assess consumer preferences to refine breeding and production strategies
Assessment of affective states in pre-weaning calves housed in intensive production systems
No full textEmotional states are increasingly recognized as key indicators of animal welfare, especially in early life stages when young animals are highly sensitive to stress and environmental challenges. This study explored the emotional responses of pre-weaning calves (up to one month old) on two intensive farms, involving a total of 1,168 calves (596 on Farm A and 572 on Farm B). The main differences between farms were related to housing conditions during the first week and group size between days 8 and 30. Emotions were assessed using a 20-trait scoring system (scale 0–120), supplemented by behavioral tests such as approach and touch tests, and observations of both physiological (e.g., play, social interaction) and pathological behaviors (e.g., apathy, stereotypies, cross-sucking). Traits were categorized as positive (e.g., activity, calmness, curiosity, playfulness, sociability) or negative (e.g., indifference, fear, agitation, boredom, apathy). During the first week, Farm A calves were calmer but less active and more prone to negative emotions, while Farm B calves were more curious and socially engaged, though more irritable. By day 15, Farm A calves showed greater liveliness and satisfaction, while Farm B calves still exhibited more negative
states. On days 22 and 30, Farm A calves demonstrated more activity and play, although some negative behaviors persisted. Despite fluctuations, overall emotional scores did not differ significantly between farms. Positive emotions generally dominated. These findings highlight the impact of housing on calf welfare and support the use of behavioral and physiological indicators to assess emotional well-being. Further research is needed to develop validated tools and improve husbandry in intensive systems
Wasp and Hornet Nests as Biomonitoring Tools: Elemental Composition and Temporal Trends
No full textThe rapid expansion of industrial and agricultural activities, combined with urbanization and traffic emissions, is leading to increased pollution [1]. Toxic metals are of particular concern, as they persist in ecosystems and pose risks to biodiversity and human health [2]. While social insects are increasingly used as bioindicators, their nests remain unexplored as biomonitoring matrices despite clear advantages as nests can be collected non-destructively after colony decline. Hornet (Vespa crabro) nests, which are built layer by layer during the active season, are of particular interest as they may capture temporal variations in contamination.
In this study, we compared the elemental composition of German wasp (Vespula germanica) and hornet nests collected at the same site, to determine which nests accumulate more potentially toxic metals and whether hornet nests can serve as seasonal recorders of environmental change. Element concentrations were determined using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Wasp nests were analyzed as whole samples, while hornet nests were broken down into their structural components: base (B), outer envelope (OE), and successive comb layers (L1–L10).
Our results showed clear differences between species. Wasp nests contained significantly higher concentrations of most major and trace elements, including Li, Mg, Al, P, S, K, Ca, V, Fe, Co, Ni, Zn, As, Se, Rb, Mo, Ag, Cd, and Cs, suggesting a strong accumulation capacity. In contrast, hornet nests had lower overall concentrations but clear stratification between layers. For example, Na concentrations were higher in the late comb layers (L9) than in the early ones (L2–L4), Mn and Cu were more enriched in L1–L4 than in the outer envelope, Cd was elevated in L2 compared to the envelope, and Tl showed peaks in L5–L6. Boron was the only element that was consistently more abundant in hornet nests than in wasp nests, with particularly high values in L8.
These inter- and intraspecific differences are likely due to differences in nest construction materials [3-5], prey selection, and the accumulation of larval remains such as exuviae and feces. Both V. crabro and V. germanica collect carbohydrate-rich resources (nectar, honeydew, sap, ripe fruit) and protein- and lipid-rich prey (arthropods), but their dietary preferences and feeding behavior differ, which in turn affects nest composition.
Taken together, our results show that while wasp nests have a higher absolute load of metals, hornet nests provide a unique temporal resolution, by recording seasonal variations in environmental contamination. This dual value, high accumulation in wasp nests and temporal stratification in hornet nests, suggests that social insect nests provide an ethical, practical, and highly informative resource for biomonitoring toxic elements in terrestrial ecosystems
Examination of the mass and dimensions of added elements attached to honey bee queens
No full textQueen bees are marked with various visual and functional elements for identification and apitechnical purposes. To facilitate their detection, colored and numbered tags are commonly used. Additionally, electronic markers such as RFID tags are applied for tracking and data collection. In addition, one apitechnical method, queen ringing, is used to temporarily prevent egg laying. However, the mass and dimensions of these elements vary significantly depending on the model and manufacturer.
Based on preliminary data, we analyzed the masses of commonly used elements relative to the average body weight of a queen bee. All values represent the average of five measurements. The standard plastic numbered tag weighs 2.28 mg (Ø 2.2mm). Colored decorative zircons used for improved visibility weigh 3.5 mg (Ø 1.1-2.5 mm). Newer magnetized metal tags weigh 9.12 mg (Ø2.5 mm), while electronic tags (RFID/UHF) typically weigh 5.3 mg (up to Ø 2.5 mm). Glue used for tags contributes 1.2–2.0 mg, shrinking by 10–60% depending on type. The ring, for queen ringing, weighs 55.2 mg, with a length of 7.5 mm and diameter of 6 mm.
Assuming an average queen bee weight of 200 mg, the following weight percentages were observed (including ~1 mg of dried glue): plastic tag 1.64%, zircon 2.25%, metal tag 5.06%, RFID tag 3.15%, and ring 27.6% of her total body weight. In our trial of eleven queens ringing, no mortality or abnormal behavior was recorded, suggesting that the masses of all other elements do not significantly impair the queen’s normal function
GENETIC CHARACTERISATION OF KRIVOVIRSKA PRAMENKA SHEEP
No full textOne of strategic goals in the field of improving our sheep
breeding is to preserve sheep genofund. An important aspect in that context is
genetic characterisation of our locally adapted breeds. The present research was
conducted in summer season on 30 Krivovirska Pramenka sheep aged about 3
years on average and raised in 3 different localities. The blood of these animals was
taken by venepuncture of v.jugularis into 5 ml test-tubes that were properly marked
and samples stored at 4°C in a refrigerator and transported to a laboratory. Isolation
of total genomic DNA was performed by a commercial kit for the isolation of DNA
from blood for which 100 µl blood per animal was used. For genotyping a set of 12
nucleus microsatellites recommended by the International Society for Animal
Genetics – ISAG was used. Molecular data obtained by amplifying nucleus
microsatellites were processed by means of following standard bioinformatics
packages: GenAlEx 6.5 (Peakall and Smouse 2012), HP-Rare 1.0 (Kalinowski
2005), Coancestry v.1.0.1.9 (Wang 2011) and STRUCTURE 2.3.4. (Pritchard et al.
2000). On the basis of the research conducted a relatively high level of genetic
diversity was determined in studied population as well as a small number of animal
pairs whose level of relatedness was higher than expected one. At the same time, a
low and positive inbreeding coefficient not statistically significant was detected
what indicates that examined population of Krivovirska Pramenka sheep is not
burdened by inbreeding. The results obtained are informative and with an
application of additional markers can serve for obtaining the guideliness for
preserving and sustainable breeding of Krivovirska Pramenka sheep in Serbia
Geographic Distribution of Trichothecene Chemotypes of the Fusarium graminearum Species Complex from Maize kernels in Serbia
No full textSince Fusarium species are toxic to humans and animals, a greater attention is paid to certain
species as potentially more toxigenic than pathogenic species. Results of studies of synthesis
of various mycotoxins indicate the diversity of Fusarium graminearum species complex. In view
of the synthesis of trichothecenes (chemical structures, including the position of acetyl ester
derivatives) the following two chemotypes have been described: 1) Chemotype I that
synthesises deoxynivalenol (DON) and its acetyl ester derivatives, and 2) Chemotype II that
synthesises nivalenol and fusarenon-X. Recognising chemotypes is an important information
for establishing a risk assessment strategy for the protection of human and animal health. The
aim of this study was to observe distribution of trichothecene chemotypes of F. graminearum
species originating from maize kernels in Serbia.
The belonging to trichothecene chemotypes was determined by the High-Performance Liquid
Chromatograph method (HPLC). Thirty-seven isolates of F. graminearum was collected from
maize kernels from 15 different locations in Serbia. Trichothecenes were extracted from
samples by a mixture of acetonitrile and water (21:4, v/v). Samples were purified with MycoSep
113 Trich and MycoSep 230 Niv cleanup columns (Romer Labs).
Obtained results point out to a great variability in the biosynthesis of DON derivatives. It was
determined that the highest percentages of observed isolates belonged to the 15ADON
chemotype (28/37). The 3ADON chemotype was detected in nine isolates. The concentration
ranged from 8.97 to 154.97 μg/g, i.e. from 3.18 to 159.25 μg/g in 15ADON, i.e. 3ADON isolates,
respectively. According to achieved results, there is a great diversity in the production of DON
derivatives, while none of observed isolates from Serbia belonged to the NIV chemotype