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Mattioli S, Angelucci E, Castellini C, Cartoni Mancinelli A, Chenggang W, Di Federico F, Chiattelli D, Dal Bosco A. Effect of genotype and outdoor enrichment on productive performance and meat quality of slow growing chickens. Poult Sci 2024; 103:104131. [PMID: 39111239 PMCID: PMC11350495 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2024.104131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2024] [Revised: 07/15/2024] [Accepted: 07/24/2024] [Indexed: 09/22/2024] Open
Abstract
The optimization of animal welfare, meat quality, environmental impact, and economic sustainability in alternative poultry farming can be achieved by modulating several productive factors and improving the synergy between the chicken genotype and the outdoor environment. The objective of the study was to characterize 4 slow-growing chicken genotypes reared in free range conditions. Eight hundred chickens (SGs; 25 chickens/replicates/genotype/enrichment) belonging to the following genotypes, Red JA57 (RJ), Naked Neck (NN), Lohmann Dual meat-type (LD), and an Italian crossbreed (Robusta Maculata x Sasso, CB). were utilised and slaughtered at 81 d: The grazing areas were alternatively provided with enrichment constituted by strips of sorghum plants (ENR) or only grass (NO ENR). Productive performance (daily weight gain, daily feed intake, feed conversion ratio, live weight) were recorded weekly. Behaviour observations (walking and grass pecking), carcass and meat quality of breast and drumstick were also assessed in 15 chickens/replicate/genotypes/enrichment. Results demonstrated that both LD and CB showed the highest walking activity, but the different strains were differently capable of using the foraging resources (eating grass). The better productive performance was recorded in RJ followed by NN, CB and LD. In LD and CB, the different walking activities also affected the physico-chemical profiles (lower pHu, WHC, and lipids) of the breast and drumstick. The oxidative status was worse in CB than in the other groups (lower tocols, higher carbonyls), in both meat cuts. Fatty acid profile was also related to the genetic strain: a higher amount of n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids was recorded both in the breast and drumstick of RJ and NN. The Healthy Fatty Index resulted excellent in all the chicken genotypes. In conclusion, the environment/animal interaction resulted as an important factor affecting the adaptability of genotypes to an extensive rearing system. All four genotypes, to different extents, showed good adaptability and production performance, with the exception of LD and CB, which were too light for the commercial supply chain requirements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simona Mattioli
- Department of Agricultural, Environmental and Food Science, University of Perugia, Perugia 06124, Italy.
| | - Elisa Angelucci
- Department of Agricultural, Environmental and Food Science, University of Perugia, Perugia 06124, Italy
| | - Cesare Castellini
- Department of Agricultural, Environmental and Food Science, University of Perugia, Perugia 06124, Italy
| | - Alice Cartoni Mancinelli
- Department of Agricultural, Environmental and Food Science, University of Perugia, Perugia 06124, Italy
| | - Wei Chenggang
- Department of Agricultural, Environmental and Food Science, University of Perugia, Perugia 06124, Italy
| | - Francesca Di Federico
- Department of Agricultural, Environmental and Food Science, University of Perugia, Perugia 06124, Italy
| | - Diletta Chiattelli
- Department of Agricultural, Environmental and Food Science, University of Perugia, Perugia 06124, Italy
| | - Alessandro Dal Bosco
- Department of Agricultural, Environmental and Food Science, University of Perugia, Perugia 06124, Italy
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Bist RB, Bist K, Poudel S, Subedi D, Yang X, Paneru B, Mani S, Wang D, Chai L. Sustainable poultry farming practices: a critical review of current strategies and future prospects. Poult Sci 2024; 103:104295. [PMID: 39312848 PMCID: PMC11447413 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2024.104295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2024] [Revised: 08/24/2024] [Accepted: 08/31/2024] [Indexed: 09/25/2024] Open
Abstract
As global demand for poultry products, environmental sustainability, and health consciousness rises with time, the poultry industry faces both substantial challenges and new opportunities. Therefore, this review paper provides a comprehensive overview of sustainable poultry farming, focusing on integrating genetic improvements, alternative feed, precision technologies, waste management, and biotechnological innovations. Together, these strategies aim to minimize ecological footprints, uphold ethical standards, improve economic feasibility, and enhance industry resilience. In addition, this review paper explores various sustainable strategies, including eco-conscious organic farming practices and innovative feed sources like insect-based proteins, single-cell proteins, algal supplements, and food waste utilization. It also addresses barriers to adoption, such as technical challenges, financial constraints, knowledge gaps, and policy frameworks, which are crucial for advancing the poultry industry. This paper examined organic poultry farming in detail, noting several benefits like reduced pesticide use and improved animal welfare. Additionally, it discusses optimizing feed efficiency, an alternate energy source (solar photovoltaic/thermal), effective waste management, and the importance of poultry welfare. Transformative strategies, such as holistic farming systems and integrated approaches, are proposed to improve resource use and nutrient cycling and promote climate-smart agricultural practices. The review underscores the need for a structured roadmap, education, and extension services through digital platforms and participatory learning to promote sustainable poultry farming for future generations. It emphasizes the need for collaboration and knowledge exchange among stakeholders and the crucial role of researchers, policymakers, and industry professionals in shaping a future where sustainable poultry practices lead the industry, committed to ethical and resilient poultry production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramesh Bahadur Bist
- Department of Poultry Science, College of Agricultural & Environmental Sciences, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA; Biological and Agricultural Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR 72701, USA
| | - Keshav Bist
- Department of Electronics and Computer Engineering, Institute of Engineering, Tribhuvan University, Pokhara 33700, Nepal
| | - Sandesh Poudel
- College of Engineering, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - Deepak Subedi
- Department of Poultry Science, College of Agricultural & Environmental Sciences, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - Xiao Yang
- Department of Poultry Science, College of Agricultural & Environmental Sciences, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - Bidur Paneru
- Department of Poultry Science, College of Agricultural & Environmental Sciences, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - Sudhagar Mani
- College of Engineering, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - Dongyi Wang
- Biological and Agricultural Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR 72701, USA
| | - Lilong Chai
- Department of Poultry Science, College of Agricultural & Environmental Sciences, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA.
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Lebedev S, Kazakova T, Marshinskaia O. Cytokine and immunoglobulin profiles of Arbor Acres broiler chickens at different stages of physiological development. Vet World 2024; 17:988-993. [PMID: 38911092 PMCID: PMC11188882 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2024.988-993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Background and Aim Modern scientific research focuses on a detailed study of the immune system, the mechanisms of immunosuppression, and the search for an effective means to restore disturbed immune homeostasis in farm animals. The present study examined the cytokine and immunoglobulin (Ig) profiles of healthy broiler chickens during physiological development. Materials and Methods Arbor Acres broilers (n = 28) were used in the study to achieve this objective. The immune status of broiler chickens was assessed on 7, 14, 28, and 42 days of age, including serum levels of cytokines, Igs, and lysozyme by enzyme immunoassay. Results We observed a decrease in the efficiency of immune system functioning of birds with increasing age. The most pronounced immunological deficiency in the body of broiler chickens is noted at the age of 7-14 days, which is associated with immaturity of the immune system and is characterized by the fact that non-specific humoral and specific cellular defense factors are at a rather low level. The levels of lysozyme, interleukin (IL)-2, IL-10, and IgA in blood serum at this age were minimal; starting from 28 days of age, there is a specific humoral immune deficiency, which is compensated by strengthening of cellular defense factors. The serum level of IgY intensively decreases against the background of an increase of lysozyme, IL-2, IL-4, and IL-10. Conclusion During postnatal ontogenesis, the immune system of broiler chickens undergoes dynamic changes that have an age direction and phase character. Changes in the immune system may affect immunocompetence, disease susceptibility, and, consequently, productivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Svyatoslav Lebedev
- Federal Research Center of Biological Systems and Agrotechnologies of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 460000, Orenburg, Russia
| | - Tatiana Kazakova
- Federal Research Center of Biological Systems and Agrotechnologies of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 460000, Orenburg, Russia
| | - Olga Marshinskaia
- Federal Research Center of Biological Systems and Agrotechnologies of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 460000, Orenburg, Russia
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Kang TH, Lee SI. Establishment of a chicken intestinal organoid culture system to assess deoxynivalenol-induced damage of the intestinal barrier function. J Anim Sci Biotechnol 2024; 15:30. [PMID: 38369477 PMCID: PMC10874546 DOI: 10.1186/s40104-023-00976-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 02/20/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Deoxynivalenol (DON) is a mycotoxin that has received recognition worldwide because of its ability to cause growth delay, nutrient malabsorption, weight loss, emesis, and a reduction of feed intake in livestock. Since DON-contaminated feedstuff is absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract, we used chicken organoids to assess the DON-induced dysfunction of the small intestine. RESULTS We established a culture system using chicken organoids and characterized the organoids at passages 1 and 10. We confirmed the mRNA expression levels of various cell markers in the organoids, such as KI67, leucine-rich repeat containing G protein-coupled receptor 5 (Lgr5), mucin 2 (MUC2), chromogranin A (CHGA), cytokeratin 19 (CK19), lysozyme (LYZ), and microtubule-associated doublecortin-like kinase 1 (DCLK1), and compared the results to those of the small intestine. Our results showed that the organoids displayed functional similarities in permeability compared to the small intestine. DON damaged the tight junctions of the organoids, which resulted in increased permeability. CONCLUSIONS Our organoid culture displayed topological, genetic, and functional similarities with the small intestine cells. Based on these similarities, we confirmed that DON causes small intestine dysfunction. Chicken organoids offer a practical model for the research of harmful substances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tae Hong Kang
- Department of Animal Science and Biotechnology, Kyungpook National University, Sangju, Gyeong-Sangbuk-Do, 37224, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang In Lee
- Department of Animal Science and Biotechnology, Kyungpook National University, Sangju, Gyeong-Sangbuk-Do, 37224, Republic of Korea.
- Research Institute for Innovative Animal Science, Kyungpook National University, 37224, Sangju, Gyeong-Sangbuk-Do, Republic of Korea.
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Hu P, Li K, Peng X, Yao T, Zhu C, Gu H, Liu HY, Sun MA, Hu Y, Ennab W, Luo X, Cai D. Zinc intake ameliorates intestinal morphology and oxidative stress of broiler chickens under heat stress. Front Immunol 2024; 14:1308907. [PMID: 38259441 PMCID: PMC10800777 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1308907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Zinc (Zn), an essential trace element for poultry, plays a crucial role in promoting growth, improving feed conversion efficiency, enhancing antioxidant activity, and preventing disease. This study investigated the impact of different levels and sources of dietary Zn supplementation on the growth performance, intestinal morphology and antioxidant activity of broiler chickens under heat stress conditions. In this experiment, 1024 Xueshan chickens were divided into eight groups and subjected to heat stress conditions with different levels of Zn supplementation (30 mg/kg, 60 mg/kg, and 90 mg/kg) using organic or inorganic sources. Our findings indicated that dietary Zn supplementation significantly increased the feed-to-weight ratio of broilers during the experimental period under heat stress. Moreover, Zn supplementation positively increased the villus height and villus width in the jejunum and ileum at 74 and 88 days old, with the 60 and 90 mg/kg groups outperforming other groups, and organic Zn was more effective than inorganic Zn. Furthermore, Zn supplementation significantly increased serum antioxidant levels, with higher superoxide dismutase (SOD), malondialdehyde (MDA), and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-px) activities, and organic Zn was more effective than inorganic Zn. This study concludes that Zn supplementation is beneficial in mitigating the detrimental impacts of heat stress on broilers. The findings suggest that employing Zn as a strategy can enhance productivity in the poultry industry by positively influencing intestinal morphology and bolstering antioxidant activity to counteract potential stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ping Hu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Kaiqi Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Xiaoxu Peng
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Tongjia Yao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Chuyang Zhu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Haotian Gu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Hao-Yu Liu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
- International Joint Research Laboratory in Universities of Jiangsu Province of China for Domestic Animal Germplasm Resources and Genetic Improvement, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Ming-an Sun
- Institute of Comparative Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Yun Hu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Wael Ennab
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
- Department of Veterinary Biomedical Sciences, Botswana University of Agriculture and Agriculture and Natural Resources, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - Xugang Luo
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Demin Cai
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
- International Joint Research Laboratory in Universities of Jiangsu Province of China for Domestic Animal Germplasm Resources and Genetic Improvement, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
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Jung HR, Lim SK, Lee YJ. Comprehensive analysis of biosecurity practices and antimicrobial use in broiler chicken production by integrated operations in Korea. Poult Sci 2023; 102:102994. [PMID: 37634331 PMCID: PMC10474487 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2023.102994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Integrated broiler operations that allow producers to combine various biosecurity and sanitation practices account for approximately 97.6% of chicken meat production in Korea, but it is not well known about the biosecurity level or compliance with regulations for each operation. Therefore, the objective this study was to analyze the current adoption of biosecurity practices and trends in antimicrobial use in 74 farms from 5 major integrated broiler chicken operations (A-E). The highest stock densities of more than 65 birds per 3.3 m2 (0.5 birds/ft2) showed in 66.7 and 33.3% of the farms in operations A and C, respectively. Also, the livability rate of 98% or less was observed in 73.3 and 93.4% of the farms, in operation A and C, respectively, which lower than other operations. Moreover, it was observed that 60.0 and 40.0% of farms in operations B and C reused litter 3 or more times. Among the 74 farms, the most common antimicrobials prescription frequency was 2 times (39.2%), and the prescription to β-lactams antibiotics (45.3%) showed the significantly highest (P < 0.05). The highest administration of antimicrobials was at 15 to 22-days old (42.7%), and most of them were recommended by veterinarian (80.7%). Footbath disinfectant and spraying outside the poultry house were performed in most of the farms (64.9 and 83.8%, respectively), but the use of quicklime (36.5%) and drinking water disinfectant (18.9%) was low in farms. Most of the farms washed vehicles for transportation of poultry (87.8%) and feed (100%) before arriving at the farms, however, 40.5% of the farms used little or no disinfectants when washing the transport vehicles. Moreover, wild birds, and cats and dogs were well controlled on most of the farms (each 94.6%), but only 74.3% of farms offered rodent control programs. Also, only 27.0% of the farms used farm-specific shoes and clothing as well as footbath disinfection for entrance. These findings can be useful in developing policies and guidelines for sustainable and responsible broiler chicken production and reduction of antimicrobial use in Korea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hye-Ri Jung
- College of Veterinary Medicine & Zoonoses Research Institute, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, Republic of Korea
| | - Suk-Kyung Lim
- Bacterial Disease Division, Animal and Plant Quarantine Agency, Gimcheon-si 39660, Gyeongsangbuk-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Young Ju Lee
- College of Veterinary Medicine & Zoonoses Research Institute, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, Republic of Korea.
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Neethirajan S. Digital Phenotyping: A Game Changer for the Broiler Industry. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:2585. [PMID: 37627376 PMCID: PMC10451972 DOI: 10.3390/ani13162585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2023] [Revised: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
In response to escalating global demand for poultry, the industry grapples with an array of intricate challenges, from enhancing productivity to improving animal welfare and attenuating environmental impacts. This comprehensive review explores the transformative potential of digital phenotyping, an emergent technological innovation at the cusp of dramatically reshaping broiler production. The central aim of this study is to critically examine digital phenotyping as a pivotal solution to these multidimensional industry conundrums. Our investigation spotlights the profound implications of 'digital twins' in the burgeoning field of broiler genomics, where the production of exact digital counterparts of physical entities accelerates genomics research and its practical applications. Further, this review probes into the ongoing advancements in the research and development of a context-sensitive, multimodal digital phenotyping platform, custom-built to monitor broiler health. This paper critically evaluates this platform's potential in revolutionizing health monitoring, fortifying the resilience of broiler production, and fostering a harmonious balance between productivity and sustainability. Subsequently, the paper provides a rigorous assessment of the unique challenges that may surface during the integration of digital phenotyping within the industry. These span from technical and economic impediments to ethical deliberations, thus offering a comprehensive perspective. The paper concludes by highlighting the game-changing potential of digital phenotyping in the broiler industry and identifying potential future directions for the field, underlining the significance of continued research and development in unlocking digital phenotyping's full potential. In doing so, it charts a course towards a more robust, sustainable, and productive broiler industry. The insights garnered from this study hold substantial value for a broad spectrum of stakeholders in the broiler industry, setting the stage for an imminent technological evolution in poultry production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suresh Neethirajan
- Department of Animal Science and Aquaculture, Faculty of Computer Science, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada
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Fiorilla E, Birolo M, Ala U, Xiccato G, Trocino A, Schiavone A, Mugnai C. Productive Performances of Slow-Growing Chicken Breeds and Their Crosses with a Commercial Strain in Conventional and Free-Range Farming Systems. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:2540. [PMID: 37570348 PMCID: PMC10417706 DOI: 10.3390/ani13152540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2023] [Revised: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 08/05/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Local chicken breeds play a vital role in promoting sustainability by preserving genetic diversity, enhancing resilience, and supporting local economies. These breeds are adapted to local climates and conditions, requiring fewer external resources and inputs for their maintenance. By conserving and utilizing local chicken breeds, sustainable farming practices can be incentivized, maintaining ecosystem balance and ensuring food security for future generations. The present study aimed at evaluating the growth performance and slaughter traits of two local Italian chicken breeds (Bionda Piemontese and Robusta Maculata) and their crosses with a medium-growth genotype (Sasso chicken®) reared in conventional and free-range farming systems. The conventional system used a high-energy high-protein diet in a closed barn with controlled temperature, humidity, and lighting, and a stocking density of 33 kg/m2. The free-range system used a low-input diet (low-energy low-protein diet composed of local and GMO-free feed ingredients), uncontrolled environmental conditions, and a stocking density of 21 kg/m2 in a barn with free access to an outdoor area. The birds were slaughtered at 84 days of age in both systems. The crossbred chickens showed the best results for growth performance in both farming systems compared to local breeds. Within genotype, the final live weight of chickens was similar in the two farming systems. In conclusion, slow-growth crossbreeds should be used in alternative farming systems, demonstrating better performance than pure local breeds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edoardo Fiorilla
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, Largo Braccini 2, 10095 Grugliasco, Italy; (U.A.); (A.S.); (C.M.)
| | - Marco Birolo
- Department of Agronomy, Food, Natural Resources, Animals and Environment, University of Padova, Viale dell’Università, 16, 35020 Padova, Italy; (M.B.); (G.X.); (A.T.)
| | - Ugo Ala
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, Largo Braccini 2, 10095 Grugliasco, Italy; (U.A.); (A.S.); (C.M.)
| | - Gerolamo Xiccato
- Department of Agronomy, Food, Natural Resources, Animals and Environment, University of Padova, Viale dell’Università, 16, 35020 Padova, Italy; (M.B.); (G.X.); (A.T.)
| | - Angela Trocino
- Department of Agronomy, Food, Natural Resources, Animals and Environment, University of Padova, Viale dell’Università, 16, 35020 Padova, Italy; (M.B.); (G.X.); (A.T.)
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padova, Viale dell’Università, 16, 35020 Padova, Italy
| | - Achille Schiavone
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, Largo Braccini 2, 10095 Grugliasco, Italy; (U.A.); (A.S.); (C.M.)
| | - Cecilia Mugnai
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, Largo Braccini 2, 10095 Grugliasco, Italy; (U.A.); (A.S.); (C.M.)
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