Search

The study evaluated the effect of Vachellia erioloba leaf meal in diets containing ammoniated maize stove on growth performance, methane emission and heath of growing lambs. Thirty-two female lambs were allocated to the following four dietary treatments: total mixed ration (TMR, control), 20% inclusion of untreated maize stover (UMS), 20% inclusion of ammoniated maize stover (AMS), and combined inclusion of 10% ammoniated maize stover and 10% Vachellia erioloba leaves (AMSVL). Each treatment was replicated 8 times and a lamb in an individual pen was regarded as an experimental unit in a completely randomized design. Feed intake was higher (P < 0.05) in lambs fed the AMS and AMSVL diets compared to those fed UMS. Final body weights were higher in lambs fed the AMS and AMSVL diets. Both average daily gain (ADG) and feed convention ratio (FCR) were not affected by diet. In comparison with the AMS and AMSVL diets, the lambs fed the UMS diet had the highest (P < 0.05) methane emission. Overall, lambs fed the control diets had the lowest (P < 0.05) methane gas emission. Blood hematological values were affected by diet with the AMSVL fed lambs having the highest (P < 0.05) mean platelet volume (MPV) and procalcitonin (PCT) values. Furthermore, total albumin, amylase and total bilirubin were the highest (P < 0.05) in lambs fed on the AMSVL diet. Lambs fed on AMS diet had the highest (P < 0.05) serum urea levels. It can be concluded that combined inclusion of ammoniated maize stover and Vachellia leaves improved feed value and lamb performance when compared to the individual inclusion of both UMS and AMS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to study the effects of corn stalk silage with different energy levels on apparent digestibility, serum biochemical indexes, slaughter performance and meat quality of Jia county red bull. Sixty healthy Jia county red bulls (half male and half female) with similar body weight and month age were selected and divided into three treatment groups: A (low energy group), B (middle energy group) and C (high energy group) according to the single factor random block design, with 20 replicates in each group and 1 cow in each replicate. The experiment is divided into 7 d pre-trial period and 120 d positive trial period, in which the positive trial period includes three stages: the early 40 d, the middle 40 d and the end 40 d.The crude protein (CP) level of group A, B and C was 12.0%, and the average comprehensive net energy (NEmf) was 6.46, 6.37 and 6.47 MJ/kg, respectively. In the middle stage, the dietary CP levels in groups A, B and C were all 11.58%, and the average NEmf was 6.58, 6.64 and 6.62 MJ/kg, respectively. At the end of the period, the dietary CP levels in groups A, B and C were all 11.02%, and the average NEmf was 6.73, 6.83 and 6.93 MJ/kg respectively. The results showed that the average daily gain and dry matter intake of group B were the highest, which were significantly higher than those of group C (P<0.05), and the feed-to-weight ratio was the lowest, but there was no significant difference between the groups. The crude fat, crude protein, acidic detergent fiber, neutral detergent fiber, calcium and total phosphorus in group B were the highest, and there was no significant difference between groups. Cholesterol, low density lipoprotein cholesterol and high density lipoprotein cholesterol in group C were significantly higher than those in group A (P<0.05). Slaughter rate, carcass meat yield, eye muscle area and back fat thickness increased with the increase of energy level, and there was no significant difference between groups. The back label thickness of group C was significantly higher than that of group A (P<0.05). Energy level has no significant effect on pH, cooking loss, water loss rate, shear force and meat color, and the increase of energy level has a tendency to improve beef quality. The economic benefit of weight gain was the highest in group B. The results showed that appropriate dietary energy level could improve the production performance, meat quality and economic benefits of Jia county red bull. In this study, group B with medium energy has the best effect on production performance, apparent digestibility of nutrients, serum biochemical indexes and meat quality of Jia county red bull, and the economic benefit of breeding is the highest. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Effect of sunflower oil (SFO) + linseed oil (LnO) (1:1) blend as a replacement for fish oil (FO) in the diet of Labeo rohita (initial weight 20.37 ± 0.16 g) was evaluated for a 90-day feeding trial. Five isonitrogenous (30% crude protein) and isolipidic (11% crude lipid) experimental diets with different levels of SFO + LnO (0, 25, 50, 75, and 100%) were formulated. Growth performance, survival, and feed utilization were not significantly affected by the dietary treatments. Similarly, FO replacement did significantly influence hepatosomatic index (HSI), viscerosomatic index (VSI), and the whole body proximate composition. However, significant changes were observed in fatty acid composition (P < 0.05). In the muscle and liver, saturated fatty acids (SFA) and n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) decreased, while monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) and n-6 PUFAs increased with the increasing rate of replacement. Despite the reduction in eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) as a result of the replacement of dietary FO, these fatty acids were still detected in considerable amounts even after total replacement. Hematology parameters, serum biochemistry, serum lipid profile, and plasma stress biomarkers were not significantly influenced by the dietary treatments. Antioxidant enzyme activities did not significantly change; however, lipid peroxidation level was significantly reduced by the FO replacement with SFO + LnO blend. In conclusion, substituting fish oil with SFO + LnO blend demonstrated promising results, maintaining growth, feed efficiency, and overall health status in L. rohita. Replacement of dietary FO with SFO + LnO resulted in a significant reduction in LC-PUFAs such as EPA and DHA in fish; however, these fatty acids were still detected in a considerable amount even at total replacement, which confirmed the capacity of L. rohita to bioconvert dietary LNA to EPA and DHA in fish. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fermented traditional Chinese medicines (TCMs) have been identified as a low-cost and promising feed additive to to alleviate weaning stress in young livestock and poultry effectively. This study investigated the impact of probiotic fermentation on the metabolite content of BanQi (Radix Isatidis and Astragalus membranaceus) extract while also examined the effects of both fermented-BanQi (FBQ) and unfermented-BanQi (UBQ) on growth performance, serum biochemistry, intestinal villi, and gut microbiota in weaned lambs. This study demonstrated that compared with UBQ, FBQ contained significantly higher levels of free amino acids (e.g., phenylalanine and isoleucine), short peptides (e.g., Val–Leu–Pro–Val–Pro–Gln and Gly–Leu), and the active ingredients (e.g., vindesine and reserpine) (P < 0.05). The addition of FBQ to the diet significantly increased the final body weight and average daily gain of weaned lambs (P < 0.05). In addition, FBQ significantly increased the total protein level in the serum and the villus length of the jejunum and ileum in lambs, while significantly reduced the levels of aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and urea (P < 0.05). Sequencing of the intestinal flora showed that FBQ improved the diversity of intestinal flora and promoted the enrichment of beneficial bacteria in the lamb intestine, such as Mogibacterium and Butyrivibrio, compared to NC or UBQ groups (P < 0.05). Fermentation with Bacillus subtilis can enhance the content of free amino acids, peptides, and active ingredients in BanQi extract, making it an effective method to improve the efficacy of traditional Chinese medicine. Adding FBQ to the diet can improve the growth performance of weaned lambs, and its mechanism may be related to increasing the height of intestinal villi and increasing the diversity of intestinal flora. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This experiment aimed to compare the effects of Fe-sucrose with Fe-fumarate and Fe-Gly on blood parameters, serum biochemistry and organ index in piglets, and the theoretical basis for the application of Fe-sucrose was also provided. In this experiment, 32 healthy 35-day-old crossbred weaned male piglets were selected and randomly divided into 4 treatments each of which included 8 replicates of 1 pig. Pigs were reared in single cages to ensure that the difference in body weight between treatments was not significant (P>0.05). Treatment 1 was the control and the iron source was ferrous sulphate monohydrate, while the iron sources for treatments 2, 3 and 4 were Fe-fumarate, Fe-Gly and Fe-sucrose, respectively. The level of iron was 100 mg/kg (as iron) for all treatments. Feeding trials were conducted for 7 d adaptation period and 42 d experiment period. The results showed that: ① compared to ferrous sulphate monohydrate, Fe-sucrose significantly increased the average daily weight gain and apparent digestibility of nutrients (dry matter, organic matter and crude protein) in piglets, significantly reducing the feed-to-weight ratio (P<0.05). ② Fe-sucrose significantly decreased serum triglyceride and urea nitrogen content (P<0.05), serum total protein content was significantly increased (P<0.05) in Fe-Gly group. ③ Fe-Gly and Fesucrose significantly increased total glutathione and reduced glutathione content in serum and jejunum (P<0.05), respectively. Fe-fumarate increased the content of total glutathione, oxidized glutathione and reduced glutathione in jejunum (P<0.05), respectively. ④ Fe-sucrose significantly increased the spleen index (P<0.05), whereas Fe-Gly and Fe-sucrose significantly increased the lung and duodenal index of piglets (P<0.05). In conclusion, compared with inorganic iron, organic iron improved growth performance, apparent digestibility of nutrients, blood parameters, serum biochemistry, and organ index in piglets to some extent. Under the conditions of this study, the order of effectiveness of different iron sources was: Fe-sucrose>Fe-Gly>Fe-fumarate>ferrous sulphate monohydrate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since bucks are raised mainly for meat, there is a need for castration to optimize meat production. In this study, we conducted a comparative evaluation of the serum biochemical profiles of red Sokoto bucks following Burdizzo castration, in situ spermatic cord ligation, and orchidectomy. Sixteen red Sokoto bucks aged 6 months to 1 year old and 11-12 kg body weight were used for this study. The bucks were randomly divided into 4 groups of 4 bucks each as follows; group A (Burdizzo), B (in situ spermatic cord ligation), C (orchidectomy), and D (control). Blood was collected pre-castration, and at immediate, 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 32, 48, and 72 hours post-castration (HPC) into labeled tubes without anticoagulant, serum was harvested and used for serum biochemical analyses. The outcomes showed non-significant changes in total protein, sodium, chloride, calcium, and potassium levels in all groups of bucks. Glucose levels were significantly increased at immediate PC in groups A, B, and C, followed by a decline from 4 HPC to normal values by 16 HPC (group B) and 20 HPC (group A). The serum creatinine levels increased significantly at immediate PC, peaked at 20 HPC, and declined from 24 HPC. The blood urea nitrogen level increased significantly from immediate PC up to 72 HPC. The activities of superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, catalase, and malondialdehyde levels increased significantly from 4 HPC, peaked at 16 to 20 HPC, and decreased from 24 to 72 HPC. There were less severe serum biochemical changes by Burdizzo castration and in situ spermatic cord ligation compared to orchidectomy in the red Sokoto bucks.

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of silymarin on diclofenac-induced acute liver and kidney poisoning in domestic pigeons (Columba livia). The use of NSAIDs leads to adverse drug effects, such as cardiovascular and gastrointestinal hemorrhage and renal side effects. The vast amount of pharmacological attributes possessed by silymarin describes the remarkable content of research aimed at understanding its effect in the remedy of diverse diseases. Fifteen pigeons were randomly assigned into three groups (1, 2, and 3). Group 1 pigeons served as the negative control group and only were given tap water. Groups 2 and 3 were administered diclofenac (15 mg/kg PO q12h) since the start of the study for 24 h. The third group of pigeons was treated with silymarin (35 mg/kg) plus diclofenac, beginning 12 hours after diclofenac exposure, with the silymarin treatment continuing q12h for 48 h. Blood samples were taken from the birds at times 0, 12 h, 24 h, and 48 h of the experiment for serum biochemistry analysis. The results indicated that the treatment of pigeons with silymarin reduced the serum level of AST, ALT, UA, and urea while increasing ALB and TP. Clinical observations also indicated the presence of toxication symptoms, including loss of appetite, diarrhea, and lethargy. These symptoms improved faster in the silymarin group. It can be concluded that silymarin reduces acute liver and kidney damage caused by diclofenac in pigeons.

Abstract Fermented traditional Chinese medicines (TCMs) have been identified as a low-cost and promising feed additive to to alleviate weaning stress in young livestock and poultry effectively. This study investigated the impact of probiotic fermentation on the metabolite content of BanQi (Radix Isatidis and Astragalus membranaceus) extract while also examined the effects of both fermented-BanQi (FBQ) and unfermented-BanQi (UBQ) on growth performance, serum biochemistry, intestinal villi, and gut microbiota in weaned lambs. This study demonstrated that compared with UBQ, FBQ contained significantly higher levels of free amino acids (e.g., phenylalanine and isoleucine), short peptides (e.g., Val–Leu–Pro–Val–Pro–Gln and Gly–Leu), and the active ingredients (e.g., vindesine and reserpine) (P

Objective This study aims to investigate the interactive effect of a glycine equivalent (Glyequi) and standardized ileal digestible threonine (SID Thr) levels in low crude protein diets on performance, blood biochemistry, pectoral muscular creatine content and oxidative stability of meat in broiler chickens from 21 to 42 days. Methods A total of 1,500, twenty-one-day-old Cobb-Vantress male broiler chickens were distributed in a completely randomized 5×3 factorial arrangement of Glyequi×SID Thr with five replicates of 20 birds each. Fifteen dietary treatments of 16.5% CP were formulated to contain five levels of total Glyequi (1.16%, 1.26%, 1.36%, 1.46%, and 1.56%) and three levels of SID Thr (0.58%; 0.68% and 0.78%). Results Interaction effects (p

Simple Summary: This study investigates how different housing systems affect daily step counts and their impact on body conformation, carcass traits, meat quality, and serum biochemical parameters of Jiuyuan Black chickens. Chickens were monitored from 60 to 150 days old, with step counts recorded using pedometers. The study showed that free-range chickens with high step counts had significantly higher daily and total steps compared to other groups, as well as higher heart weight, lower abdominal fat, and better meat quality, but lower intramuscular fat. The CK and LDH levels in chickens exhibited an almost consistent upward trend as exercise levels increased. Overall, free-range chickens with more exercise volume improved heart weight and reduced fat but negatively impacted some body measurements and meat quality. These findings help in choosing housing systems for Chinese indigenous chickens. This study aims to investigate the dynamic changes in daily step counts under different housing systems and further explore the effects of housing system on the body conformation, carcass traits, meat quality, and serum biochemical parameters of a Chinese indigenous chicken breed. At 60 d of age, 300 Jiuyuan Black male chickens with similar body weights in each housing system were further raised until the age of 150 d. At 90, 120, and 150 d of age, in both cage-reared and free-range systems, the top 20 chickens with the highest step counts measured using pedometers and the bottom 20 chickens with the lowest step counts were designated as the cage high-steps group (CHS), the cage low-steps group (CLS), the free-range high-steps group (FHS), and the free-range low-steps group (FLS), respectively. The results show that, at any age stage, the average daily steps (ADS) and total steps (TS) of the FHS group are significantly higher than the other three groups (p < 0.05). The TS of almost all groups showed an overall downward trend as the age increased. Increased exercise volume results in reduced shank length (90 d), breast width (90 d), and keel length (150 d) (p < 0.05). Only birds at 90 d of age from the FHS and FLS groups exhibited lower live body weight, carcass weight, half-eviscerated weight, eviscerated weight, breast muscle weight, leg muscle weight, and percentage of eviscerated weight than the CLS group (p < 0.05). Birds from the FHS group showed the highest heart weight values but the lowest abdominal fat weight values among these four groups (p < 0.05). Both the breast and leg muscle samples from the FHS group displayed higher dry matter and shear force than those from the CHS and CLS groups (p < 0.05). The FHS group displayed the lowest intramuscular fat among the four groups (p < 0.05). The creatine kinase (CK) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) levels in chickens of all age stages were almost observed to rise with increased physical activity. In conclusion, free-range chickens with more exercise volume exhibited an elevated heart weight and reduced abdominal fat but showed negative effects on some body measurements and carcass traits. These results can provide a theoretical basis for the selection of different housing systems for Chinese indigenous chickens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: This present study was carried out to investigate the benefits of introducing Spirulina platensis (SP), a highly nutritional microalgae, into the diets of laying hens. Our objective was to investigate the impact of varying quantities of SP (2.5 g/kg, 5 g/kg, and 10 g/kg) on egg production, egg quality, and the overall health of the laying hens. During a period of six weeks, we observed significant enhancements in the weight and mass of eggs from chickens that were given SP. Additionally, these hens exhibited darker yolk color and higher quality albumen, which are indicative of eggs' freshness. The addition of SP to hens' diet improved their liver function and elevated the protein level in their blood serum. Furthermore, the eggs from these hens exhibited improved shelf life in terms of quality stability during storage for 21 days. The findings indicate that introducing 2.5 g/kg and 5 g/kg of SP into the diet of hens can enhance productivity, boost egg quality and shelf life, and contribute to better health, thus increasing the sustainability and efficiency of chicken farming. This study emphasizes the potential of SP as a beneficial supplement for laying hens, which can enhance food production for society. Enhancing the sustainability of chicken farming involves improving health and productivity and product qualities. This study explores the influence of Spirulina platensis (SP) supplementation on the productivity, egg quality, shelf life during storage, and blood biochemistry of laying hens. A total of 192 thirty-nine-week-old White Leghorn hens were randomly divided into 4 dietary groups: a control group and 3 treatment groups receiving 2.5 g/kg, 5 g/kg, or 10 g/kg of SP, respectively. The study was conducted for six weeks with measuring feed intake, feed conversion ratio, egg production, egg quality, shelf life, and blood biochemistry. The results demonstrated significant enhancements in egg weight (p < 0.05) and egg mass (p < 0.05) in the treatment of SP groups. The SP treated hens showed significant improvements in yolk color (p < 0.05) and Haugh unit scores (p < 0.05). The SP supplementation showed a hepatoprotective effect, as indicated by significant reduction in Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) (p < 0.05) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) (p < 0.05) levels; however, increases in total protein, albumin, and globulin levels were observed. Furthermore, the egg quality of stored eggs for 21 days linearly increased with increments in the SP levels. In conclusion, it can be speculated that adding SP at 2.5 g/kg and 5 g/kg can significantly improve the productivity of laying hens, eggs' quality, shelf life, and blood biochemistry, thereby contributing to a more sustainable and efficient chicken production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Animal & Poultry Production is the property of Egyptian National Agricultural Library (ENAL) and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Measuring trace element concentrations in tissue can be a valuable approach to monitor animal health status. Temporal variation in the absorption, transport, and storage of elements between different tissues can, however, complicate the assessment of element-health relationships. Here, we measured concentrations of selected essential (copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), selenium (Se)) and non-essential (arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb)) trace elements within blood, liver, kidney, and hair of fallow deer (Dama dama; N=20) and red deer (Cervus elaphus; N=21). Using multivariate regression and structural equation models, we estimated direct and indirect linkages between tissue-specific trace element profiles and long- (body condition) and short-term (serum protein biomarkers for acute inflammation, infection, and malnutrition) health indicators. Trace element concentrations varied markedly and were weakly correlated among tissues, with the exception of Se. After accounting for sex- and site-differences in trace element concentrations, body condition of red deer was directly, and positively, associated to trace element status in liver and hair, but not in kidney. For both deer species, trace element status in blood was directly linked to serum protein status with an indirect positive association to deer body condition. For fallow deer, no direct association between trace element status and body condition was detected in any of the tissues, possibly because of elemental homeostasis, and because all individuals were in good clinical health. This study shows that hair can serve as an effective, non-invasive, biomarker in deer health assessments, yet, to fully uncover trace element-health relationships a variety of sample matrices is preferred. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Although donkeys and horses share many similarities, their clinical presentations of disease and other physiological attributes can be quite different. Veterinarians working on donkeys can find it quite challenging to definitively diagnose their disease condition based on physical examination findings alone and must frequently rely on clinical pathology data from bloodwork. This study aimed to utilize healthy adult captive and free-roaming donkeys from across the United States to create robust reference intervals for complete blood count and serum biochemistry values. The findings from this study will help veterinarians with the interpretation of these common clinical pathology diagnostic tests in this unique equid species. Previous hematologic and serum biochemistry reference interval (RI) values have been established for donkeys in various geographic regions, life-stages, or for specific donkey breeds. The last extensive investigation establishing RIs for adult donkeys in the United States (U.S.) was published over three decades ago. We aimed to establish updated robust RIs using a reference population of apparently healthy adult donkeys from across the U.S. Standard sized (n = 102), miniature (n = 17), and mammoth (n = 1) donkeys from four different states were enrolled, with 20% of the study population including donkeys captured directly from the wild in Death Valley National Park, CA. RIs were established in accordance with the American Society for Veterinary Clinical Pathology and Clinical Laboratory Standards Institute guidelines. The findings will assist practitioners with the interpretation of their complete blood count and biochemistry panel results in U.S. donkeys. This study also highlights a comparison of results for some important analytes in U.S. donkeys compared to U.S. horses and previously established donkey RIs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was aimed to estimate the haemato-biochemical alterations in dogs suffering from chronic gastritis presented to Teaching Veterinary Clinical Complex of Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Jammu for one year. A total of 30 clinically affected dogs presented with a history of chronic vomiting were included in the study and 6 healthy dogs were kept as a control group. Based on etiological factors, the diseased animals were divided into five groups: G1 (Foreign body), G2 (Renal failure), G3 (Hepatic origin), G4 (Diabetic origin), and G5 (Pyometra origin) with six animals in each group. Blood sampling was done on the day of presentation for all the groups to estimate haemato-biochemical parameters. Haemograms of dogs revealed low Hb, PCV and TEC in chronic gastritis due to renal, hepatic, diabetic and pyometra origin, and a significant increase in chronic gastritis due to gastric foreign body. A neutrophilic leukocytosis was observed in the foreign body, hepatic, diabetic, and pyometra groups, and neutropenia in the renal failure group. The biochemical parameters revealed a varied picture of reduced total protein and albumin and elevated BUN in the renal, diabetic, and pyometra groups. Creatinine and glucose levels revealed a significant increase in the renal and diabetic groups, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study aims to investigate the interactive effect of a glycine equivalent (Glyequi) and standardized ileal digestible threonine (SID Thr) levels in low crude protein diets on performance, blood biochemistry, pectoral muscular creatine content and oxidative stability of meat in broiler chickens from 21 to 42 days. Methods: A total of 1,500, twenty-one-day-old Cobb-Vantress male broiler chickens were distributed in a completely randomized 5×3 factorial arrangement of Glyequi×SID Thr with five replicates of 20 birds each. Fifteen dietary treatments of 16.5% CP were formulated to contain five levels of total Glyequi (1.16%, 1.26%, 1.36%, 1.46%, and 1.56%) and three levels of SID Thr (0.58%; 0.68% and 0.78%). Results: Interaction effects (p<0.05) of Glyequi and SID Thr levels were observed for weight gain, carcass yield, pectoral muscular creatine content and serum uric acid. Higher levels of Glyequi increased (p = 0.040) weight gain in 0.58% and 0.68% SID Thr diets compare to the 0.78% SID Thr diet. The SID Thr level at 0.68% improved (p = 0.040) feed conversion compared to other SID Thr diets. Levels of Glyequi equal to or above 1.26% in diets with 0.78% SID Thr resulted in birds with higher (p = 0.033) pectoral muscular creatine content. The breast meat yield observed in the 0.68% SID Thr diet was higher (p = 0.05) compared to the 0.58% SID Thr diet. There was a quadratic effect of Glyequi levels for pectoral pectoral muscular creatine content (p = 0.008), breast meat yield (p = 0.030), and serum total protein concentrations (p = 0.040), and the optimal levels were estimated to be 1.47%, 1.35%, and 1.40% Glyequi, respectively. The lowest (p = 0.050) concentration of malondialdehyde in the breast meat was found in 0.68% SID Thr diets at 1.36% Glyequi. Conclusion: The minimum dietary level of Glyequi needed to improve performance in low crude protein diets is 1.26% with adequate SID Thr levels for broiler chickens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bee bread is exceptional product of the beehive by its composition and a unique production by honeybees. Since the legislation prohibits the use of growth stimulants in animal husbandry, there is a growing interest in improving the yield of meat and eggs, and its quality parameters after applying various natural products. The impacts of bee bread supplementation on laying performance, eggshell chemical composition, serum biochemical parameters of Japanese quails were studied. Antioxidant activity, polyphenols, flavonoids, phenolic acids from bee bread, feeding mixture and combination was determined. A total of 45 female quails were involved in the experiment. The quails were divided into three groups as follows: group with 0.2% addition of bee bread into feeding mixture (E1, n = 15), group with 0.6% addition of bee bread into feeding mixture (E2, n = 15), and the control without additives (C, n = 15). The groups were kept under the standard conditions. After 180 days the animals were slaughtered, blood samples were collected. Addition of 0.6% bee bread in group E2 significantly decreased TAG level compared to group E1, without affecting laying performance. We noticed significant increase in Cd, Pb levels in eggshell in group E1 compared to control group. On the other side, 0.6% addition of bee bread caused significant reduction in Pb, Cd levels in eggshell compared to group with 0.2% addition of bee bread. The incorporation of bee bread into feeding mixture added improved antioxidant activity along with polyphenols and flavonoids. The results indicate that the effect of bee bread was dose dependent. The effective dosage estimation of additives used in feed for Japanese quails plays important role. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, anti-urolithic potentials of epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), a constituent of green tea polyphenols and quercetin, individually as well as in combination, was evaluated in animal model. In vivo evaluation was carried out on male Sprague-Dawley rats, which were divided into seven groups i.e., Group 1 animals (controls) were fed regular chow and drank water ad libitum; group 2 animals were fed chow containing 3% sodium oxalate with the administration of gentamicin (40 mg/kg) and drank water ad libitum; group 3-7 animals were fed the same diet as group 2 with gentamicin administration and administered with standard drug i.e., allopurinol, EGCG, quercetin and EGCG: quercetin (1:1). All the study animals were sacrificed after 4 weeks of treatment after a 24-hour urine collection, and blood and kidneys were removed for urine and serum biochemical analysis, tissue anti-oxidant, miR-21 as well as morphological examination. We found that administration of Sodium oxalate induced induced oxidative stress, alteration in the serum as well as urinary biochemical alterations as well as spiked expression of miR-21. The alterations were reversed in all the treatment group especially EGCG and EGCG-Quercetin. The reversal potentials of combinational therapy were found to be more effective than the standard drug, Allopurinol. The histopathological analysis also confirmed the same. Although, EGCG has a potent inhibitory effect on urinary stone formation, and the antioxidative action of EGCG is considered to be involved. The combinational activity was enhanced along with quercetin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The purpose of the current study was to examine the effectiveness of green macroalgae as a novel, natural feed additive for broilers that have a greater concentration of active ingredients. Materials and Methods: Four experimental groups of 180-day-old male broiler chicks (Cobb-500) were randomly assigned, with three replicates in each group: the control group [T0, maintained only with basal diet] and three treatment groups supplemented with macroalgae for 35 days along with basal diet [T1 = 0.05% (w/w); T2 = 0.1% (w/w); T3 = 0.2% (w/w) macroalgae]. Live weight, carcass weight, and organs' weight were noted at the conclusion of the experiment. The meat quality was examined using the muscles of the thighs and breasts, and blood serum was obtained for biochemical assessment. Results: The results revealed that dietary supplementation of green macroalgae (0.1%) in broiler rations significantly (p < 0.05) improved the growth performance compared to other treated groups and controls. With increasing weight, it enhanced meat quality traits assessed by increased water holding capacity, ultimate pH, redness and yellowness, and decreased lightness of muscles in the thighs and breasts. Both the levels of serum cholesterol and abdominal fat decreased and showed no unwholesome effects on liver and kidney functions. Conclusions: For the production of safe and high-quality poultry meat, marine green macroalgae (Enteromorpha intestinalis) could be used as a potential feed additive. It enhanced the growth rate in broilers and improved meat quality and serum biochemical parameters for supplying healthy meat in the human food chain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A feeding trial was conducted to evaluate growth, body composition, serum biochemistry, digestion and metabolism, and oxidation resistence of S. schlegelii fed 9 diets in a 3×3 factorial design (protein levels: 44 %, 48 %, 52 %; lipid levels: 6 %, 10 %, 14 %), to optimize protein and lipid levels for practical feed formula. Rockfish (114.25 g) were stocked into 27 cages in an offshore system and fed test diets to satiation twice daily for 8 weeks. Growth increased but feed conversion rate decreased with dietary protein increasing. Increasing dietary protein to >48 % led to reduced feeding intake but increased protein efficiency ratio. Lipid efficiency ratio increased with dietary protein increasing but decreased with dietary lipid increasing. Hepatosomatic index decreased coupling with the increases in condition factor and liver lipid content as dietary lipid increased to 14 %. Intraperitoneal fat ratio increased with dietary lipid increasing. Increasing dietary protein to > 48 % significantly elevated serum total protein and glucose concentrations, hepatic glycogen synthase activity. High-protein (52 %) diets elevated serum albumin and urea nitrogen concentrations, hepatic pyruvate kinase and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) activities but downregulated hepatic growth-hormone (GH) receptor. Activities of trypsin, lipase, serum superoxide dismutase and total antioxidant capacity decreased with the dietary lipid increasing. Increasing dietary lipid to > 10 % reduced serum GH concentration, and high-lipid (14 %) diets significantly enhanced serum triglyceride concentration and hepatic transaminases activities, and resulted in a visual increase of adipocytes in liver. Serum cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein decreased as dietary protein increased to 48–52 % or dietary lipid >10 %. Hepatic succinate dehydrogenase activity and serum IGF-1 significantly increased while hepatic fatty acid synthetase decreased as dietary protein increased to >48 % or dietary lipid >10 %. High-protein (52 %) diet or high-lipid (14 %) diet elevated serum malonaldehyde concentration. These findings suggested 48 % protein and 10 % lipid were the optimal in diet for subadult S. schlegelii.

Gut microbiome plays a key role in maintaining the health of broilers by stimulating the development of immune system, improving the uptake of nutrients and inhibiting several enteric pathogens. “Antibiotic growth promoters (AGPs)” are generally used to inhibit the proliferation of pathogenic gut microbiota. Despite its beneficial characteristics, AGPs could cause severe adverse consequences, one of them is development of antibiotic resistance in bacteria which posed major threat to public health. Whereas, the use of AGP from natural origin could be risk free or low toxicity. A research trial was conducted to investigate the effects of supplementation of various natural prebiotics including inulin and chicory (Cichorium intybus) root powder on performance, carcass traits, serum biochemistry, intestinal histology, immune response and gut ecology in broiler chick of Ross308 strain. One-day-old chicks (n = 200) were randomly allocated to five dietary treatments. Growth performance, intestinal histomorphology, antibody titer against ND, ileal Lactobacillus count were significantly (P 0.05) which indicates that no physiological dysfunction was induced in treated birds. In conclusion Cichorium intybus root powder and inulin may be considered as risk free alternative to chemically synthesized antibiotic growth promoters.

Objective: The purpose of the current study was to examine the effectiveness of green macroalgae as a novel, natural feed additive for broilers that have a greater concentration of active ingredients. Materials and Methods: Four experimental groups of 180-day-old male broiler chicks (Cobb-500) were randomly assigned, with three replicates in each group: the control group [T0, maintained only with basal diet] and three treatment groups supplemented with macroalgae for 35 days along with basal diet [T1 = 0.05% (w/w); T2 = 0.1% (w/w); T3 = 0.2% (w/w) macroalgae]. Live weight, carcass weight, and organs' weight were noted at the conclusion of the experiment. The meat quality was examined using the muscles of the thighs and breasts, and blood serum was obtained for biochemical assessment. Results: The results revealed that dietary supplementation of green macroalgae (0.1%) in broiler rations significantly (p < 0.05) improved the growth performance compared to other treated groups and controls. With increasing weight, it enhanced meat quality traits assessed by increased water holding capacity, ultimate pH, redness and yellowness, and decreased lightness of muscles in the thighs and breasts. Both the levels of serum cholesterol and abdominal fat decreased and showed no unwholesome effects on liver and kidney functions. Conclusions: For the production of safe and high-quality poultry meat, marine green macroalgae (Enteromorpha intestinalis) could be used as a potential feed additive. It enhanced the growth rate in broilers and improved meat quality and serum biochemical parameters for supplying healthy meat in the human food chain. [J Adv Vet Anim Res 2024; 11(2.000): 524-533]

Background and Aim: Melioidosis is a notable zoonotic disease in Thailand that can affect both humans and animals. Although dogs are one of the most popular pets worldwide, there is a remarkable lack of information on the prevalence and knowledge of canine melioidosis. This study aimed to estimate the seroprevalence of melioidosis in sheltered dogs and its relationship with the blood profile and blood pathogens. Materials and Methods: Melioidosis in 156 dogs was analyzed using an indirect hemagglutination assay. Hematology and serum biochemistry tests were performed using an automated system. Blood pathogens (e.g., Ehrlichia, Anaplasma, Hepatozoon, and Babesia) were diagnosed using conventional polymerase chain reaction. Results: The seroprevalence rates of canine melioidosis and blood pathogen infection were 5.77% (9/156) and 50.64% (79/156), respectively. Seropositive dogs generally have higher lymphocyte counts and aspartate aminotransferase levels but lower total white blood cell, neutrophil, and platelet (PLT) counts than seronegative dogs. No statistically significant difference (p > 0.05) was observed between the seropositive and seronegative dogs' hematology and serum biochemistry findings. Neither the correlation between melioidosis and blood pathogen infection nor the association between melioidosis and thrombocytopenia was statistically significant (p > 0.05). Remarkably, dogs that had coinfections with both melioidosis and blood pathogens demonstrated a significantly reduced PLTcount (49,167 ± 7,167) compared with dogs that tested positive for melioidosis but negative for blood pathogens (139,333 ± 29,913) (p < 0.01). Conclusion: In southern Thailand, the prevalence of canine melioidosis was low but the prevalence of blood pathogens was high. Coinfection with blood pathogens can significantly reduce PLT counts, which may have a potentially serious impact. Future research should focus on conducting seroprevalence studies in the general dog population.

The present study investigates the effects of dietary alfalfa, Medicago sativa leaves, on growth performance, carcass composition, enzymatic activity, biochemical indices, intestinal histomorphometry, and disease resistance in fingerlings of common carp, Cyprinus carpio L. A feeding trial of 60 days was carried out in which common carp fingerlings were fed on experimental diets supplemented with alfalfa extract at rates of 0.0% (T0) control, 0.25% (T1), 0.50% (T2), 0.75% (T3), and 1.0% (T4). At the end of the feeding trial, specific growth rate, protein efficiency ratio, and feed conversion ratio improved significantly (P < 0.05) in groups fed on diet supplemented with alfalfa in a dose-dependent manner. The blood biochemical parameters and the activity of the digestive enzymes were significantly (P < 0.05) elevated in the alfalfa supplemented groups in a dose-dependent manner. Additionally, T4 had significantly (P < 0.05) more protein in fish carcasses than the control group. Intestinal histomorphometry and the relative percent survival following the challenge trial with Aeromonas hydrophila were also significantly (P < 0.05) enhanced by dietary alfalfa. The study concludes that alfalfa extract possesses antioxidant and immune-enhancing potential, which by improving growth and increasing the capacity to combat bacterial infections in fish proves beneficial for sustainable aquaculture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study comprised 24 recently calved Dangi cows of the university farm with a body condition score of 3.0 ± 0.5, and parity 2-5, which were randomly divided into four groups. Group I (n=6) was the untreated control fed as per routine farm feeding schedule, while groups II, III and IV (n=6 each) were fed an additional 30 gm chelated minerals and vitamins supplement, 100 gm energy supplement (Bypass fat) and both 100 gm energy with 30 gm chelated minerals-vitamins, respectively, daily for 50 days postpartum. Supplementation of energy, chelated minerals, and vitamins had significant impact on serum biochemical parameters like glucose, urea, albumin, globulin and Mg levels, except Ca, P levels. All the cows in group IV showed postpartum ovarian activity earlier than in other groups. The first postpartum estrus (PPE) was observed in 6/6, 5/6, 4/6, and 3/6 cows in groups IV, III, II, and I, with an average day of 68.50±0.60, 72.00±0.49, 71.25±0.49 and 88.67±0.55, respectively, the differences were statistically non-significant. The first service conception rate was highest in group IV (66.66%) followed by group II (50%), group III (40%), and group I (33.33%). The number of days open were 91.00±00, 75.5±0.31, 85.00±0.63, and 70.00±0.60 in groups I, II, III, and IV, respectively, which did not differ significantly. Although the results were non-significant, it suggests that implementing chelated minerals, vitamins, and energy supplements could be a promising strategy to improve reproductive efficiency in postpartum cows. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Veterinaria is the property of University of Sarajevo, Veterinary Faculty and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

This study scrutinized the nutritional quality and serum biochemical indices of grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idellus) cultivated in traditional pond intercropping (TPI) and in-pond raceway system (IPRS) aquaculture setups. The findings showed that the TPI group exhibited a superior water-holding capacity, while the IPRS showcased heightened crude lipid content and levels of textural properties such as springiness. Moreover, significant differences emerged in the fatty acid profiles, with the TPI group manifesting higher total polyunsaturated fatty acids (ΣPUFAs), EPA, DHA, and Σn-3, while the IPRS group exhibited elevated total saturated fatty acids (ΣSFAs). In terms of amino acids, valine and histidine levels were notably higher in the IPRS group, whereas lysine levels were reduced. Volatile compound analysis revealed significant variations, with the IPRS group containing more volatile substances with a better aroma, resulting in a better odor. The IPRS group performed better in serum biochemistry analysis. Additionally, grass carp in the IPRS group displayed an improved structure and greater coverage area of the visceral peritoneum, appearing lighter in color compared to the TPI group. TPI mainly influences nutritional elements; IPRSs primarily affect muscle texture, serum biochemistry, and overall health. This study aims to fill the gap in quality comparison research and provide an important scientific basis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maternal probiotic supplementation has been found to have a positive impact on the gut health of piglets, not only during the lactation period, but also after weaning. Providing probiotics to nursery pigs is also a common strategy for supplementation. The goal of this study was to evaluate which would be the most effective strategy to improve nutrient digestibility, energy metabolism, and intestinal health in weaned pigs considering the maternal or nursery options. A total of 32 newly weaned pigs were randomly split into a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement considering maternal probiotic supplementation (with or without) in gestation-lactation and probiotic supplementation in the nursery period (with or without). After weaning, experimental diets were provided for 22 days. Total fecal and urine collection was performed from day 15 to 21. Blood samples were collected from all pigs on days 3 and 22 of the experiment to assess serum biochemistry and intestinal permeability. All pigs were euthanized on day 22 for intestinal tissue collection. Pigs born from probiotic-fed sows had greater (p < 0.05) total tract digestibility of dry matter (+1%) and gross energy (+1.3%), and greater (p < 0.05) metabolizable energy coefficient (+1.3%), which resulted in a 46 kcal/kg increase (p < 0.05) in the metabolizable energy content of the diet. Nitrogen intake (p = 0.035), uptake (p = 0.007), and retention (p = 0.012) were all increased in these pigs. Fecal moisture was reduced in pigs born from probioticfed sows and pigs fed the probiotic diet only in the nursery (p < 0.05). Pigs born from probiotic-fed sows had reduced intestinal permeability by 16% (p < 0.05), whereas pigs fed the probiotic diet in the nursery only tended to improve this response (p < 0.10). The villus:crypt ratio of pigs born from probiotic-fed sows was greater compared to the control (p < 0.05), while serum levels of alanine aminotransferase were lower (p < 0.05). Pigs born from probiotic-fed sows had increased nutrient digestibility and improved gut health. Therefore, it is concluded that supplementing the sow diets with probiotics rather than just providing diets in the nursery phase is an advantageous strategy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Phytate poses a significant challenge in poultry nutrition due to its anti- nutritional properties. Phytate is one of the antinutritional factors that is considered harmful to broilers. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of incorporating phytase enzymes on the health of chickens and their ability to digest nutrients from the baobab seed meal. Materials and methods: A total of 240 broiler chickens of mixed sexes, averaging 980 grams in weight, were allocated to the four dietary treatment groups, each replicated four times, with 15 birds per replicate. Enzyme supplementation was administered at 0 and 200 ppm levels, while cooked baobab seed meal (CBSM) inclusion levels were set at 0 and 20%, respectively. Treatment 1 (T1) served as the negative control, containing zero enzyme and CBSM. Treatment 2 (T2) acted as the positive control, comprising 200 ppm of enzyme without CBSM. Treatment 3 (T3) contained 20% CBSM without enzyme supplementation, and Treatment 4 (T4) comprised 20% CBSM supplemented with 200 ppm of enzymes. Results: The results indicated that incorporating cooked CBSM into broiler diets at a 20% inclusion level led to an increase in crude protein content from 19.08% to 19.19% in finisher diets. Notably, supplementation with 200 ppm of phytase significantly enhanced total albumin levels (from 21.30 to 25.56 g/dl). Moreover, the interaction between phytase and CBSM resulted in elevated levels of total cholesterol (4.35 mmol/l), total albumin (26.62 g/dl), and Uric acid (295.95 μmol/l). However, the addition of CBSM led to decreased crude fiber digestibility (from 58.82% to 53.42%) and nitrogen-free extract (from 69.74% to 65.64%). The interaction between phytase and CBSM further diminished dry matter, ether extract, crude fiber, and nitrogen-free extract, particularly evident in the treatment group receiving 20% CBSM with 0 ppm of phytase. However, when the diet supplemented with 200 ppm of phytase, the interaction maintained statistically similar results throughout compared to T1 (0% CBSM + 0 ppm). Regarding microbial count, T4 exhibited lower levels of Escherichia coli and no detectable Shigella species. Conclusion: Twenty percent CBSM plus phytase enzyme supplementation resulted in the improvement of total cholesterol, total albumin, and Uric acid. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Balikesir Health Sciences Journal / Balıkesir Sağlık Bilimleri Dergisi is the property of Balikesir Health Sciences Journal (BAUN Health Sci J) and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

An experiment was conducted to investigate the effect of air-dried Moringa oleifera leaf meal (MLM) on the growth and physiology of African catfish. Air-dried MLM was incorporated into a diet D1 (19.64MJ/kg) at 0, 2, and 6% resulting in three diets. Each diet in the D1 group was fed to African catfish fingerlings (13.35 ± 0.02) at 5% body weight in triplicate group for 56 days. Weight gain was significantly (p<0.05) higher in the control diet (0% MLM) compared to MLM-based diets. White blood cell (WBC) counts were significantly (p<0.05) higher in fish-fed 2% MLM relative to those of the control and 6% MLM. Red blood cell (RBC), Haemoglobin (Hb), Mean cell volume, mean corpuscular haemoglobin and mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration decreased with increasing MLM inclusion levels. Higher levels of RBC and Hb were related to higher weight gain. Levels of liver enzymes-alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) decreased with increasing MLM inclusion levels. Decreases in ALT, AST, and ALP were not different (p<0.05) among the treatments. Serum total protein, albumin, and globulin levels increased in MLM-based treatments, 2% MLM were similar (p<0.05) to those of the control treatment while 6% MLM was different. Low dietary inclusion of air-dried MLM boosts WBC and increases serum proteins with no negative effect on liver enzymes. Regression of weight gain on MLM levels suggests an optimum range of 0.5 - 1% dietary inclusion can sustain growth making it a suitable feed additive. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Acori Tatarinowii Rhizoma (ATR) is a well-known traditional Chinese medicine that is used for treating neuropathic diseases. However, there is little information about the safety of ATR. Methods: The present study evaluated the acute and subacute oral toxicity of a water extract of ATR in Institute of Cancer Research (ICR) mice. In acute trials, a single administration of extract at a dose 5,000 mg/kg body weight led to no clinical signs of toxicity or mortality, indicating that the lethal dose (LD50) exceeded 5,000 mg/kg. A subacute toxicity test was done using daily doses of 1,250, 2,500, and 5,000 mg/kg of the ATR extract for 28 days, which did not show any adverse clinical symptoms or mortality. However, the male renal organ index and urea level in mice given 5,000 mg/kg was obviously abnormal, which was consistent with pathological results and suggested that this dose might cause kidney injury. Results: Doses of ATR lower than 2,500 mg/kg could be regarded as safe, although the potential cumulative effects of long-term use of high doses of ATR need to be considered. Discussion: The study highlights the function of ATR in reducing blood lipids and provides a new idea for its widespread clinical use in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: ε-polylysine hydrochloride (ε-PLH) is a naturally occurring antimicrobial peptide extensively utilized in the food and medical industries. However, its impact on animal husbandry remains to be further explored. Therefore, the present study aimed to determine the effect of ε-PLH on laying hens' health and laying performance. RESULTS: Dietary supplementationwith ε-PLH to the diet significantly increased average egg weight during weeks 1-8. Meanwhile, compared with the control group, supplementation with ε-PLH decreased the feed egg ratio during weeks 9-12 and egg breakage rate during weeks 9-16, whereas it increased eggshell strength during weeks 1-4 and 13-16 . The ε-PLH 0.05% group increased yolk percentage during weeks 5-8 and yolk color during weeks 1-4 . Furthermore, ε-PLH supplementation significantly increased the concentrations of total protein, albumin, globulin and reproductive hormones estradiol, as well as decreased interleukin-1 beta and malondialdehyde in the serum. Compared with the control group, supplementation with 0.05% ε-PLH significantly increased the relative abundance of Cyanobacteria and Gastranaerophilales and decreased the abundance of Desulfovibrio and Streptococcus in the cecum microbiota. In addition, ε-PLH 0.1% supplementation also increased acetic acid content in the cecum. CONCLUSION: Dietary supplementation with ε-PLH has a positive impact on both productive performance and egg quality in laying hens. Furthermore, ε-PLH can also relieve inflammation by promoting the immunity and reducing oxidative damage during egg production. ε-PLH has been shown to improve intestinal morphology, gut microbial diversity and intestinal health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of the experiment was to study the effects of Panax notoginseng stems and leaves extract on the growth performance, serum biochemical indexes, and intestinal health of weaned piglets. Twenty-four 26-day-old weaned piglets were randomly divided into three groups with eight replicates in each group and one piglet in each replicate. The control group was fed with a basal diet, while the low dose group and high dose group were fed with 0.2% and 0.4% of Panax notoginseng stems and leaves extract, respectively. The trial period was 21 days. The results showed that compared with the control group, the average daily gain of weaned piglets in the high dose group increased significantly (P<0.05), while the activities of lactate dehydrogenase, aspartate oxaloacetic aminotransferase, and the ratio of aspartate oxaloacetic aminotransferase to aspartate oxaloacetic aminotransferase in the low and high dose groups decreased significantly (P<0.05). The high dose group could significantly increase the villus height of duodenum, jejunum, and ileum (P<0.05), and significantly increase the villus-concealed ratio of duodenum and ileum (P<0.05). The mRNA expression of colonic interleukin-12 p35 (IL-12 p35), interleukin-12 p40 (IL-12 p40), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and interferon-γ (IFN-γ) decreased significantly in the low dose group and high dose group (P<0.05). The results show that adding Panax notoginseng stems and leaves extract in diet can improve the growth performance and intestinal health of weaned piglets, and adding 0.4% Panax notoginseng stems and leaves extract is more suitable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aims: Melioidosis is a notable zoonotic disease in Thailand that can affect both humans and animals. Although dogs are one of the most popular pets worldwide, there is a remarkable lack of information on the prevalence and knowledge of canine melioidosis. This study aimed to estimate the seroprevalence of melioidosis in sheltered dogs and its relationship with the blood profile and blood pathogens. Materials and Methods: Melioidosis in 156 dogs was analyzed using an indirect hemagglutination assay. Hematology and serum biochemistry tests were performed using an automated system. Blood pathogens (e.g., Ehrlichia, Anaplasma, Hepatozoon, and Babesia) were diagnosed using conventional polymerase chain reaction. Results: The seroprevalence rates of canine melioidosis and blood pathogen infection were 5.77% (9/156) and 50.64% (79/156), respectively. Seropositive dogs generally have higher lymphocyte counts and aspartate aminotransferase levels but lower total white blood cell, neutrophil, and platelet (PLT) counts than seronegative dogs. No statistically significant difference (p > 0.05) was observed between the seropositive and seronegative dogs' hematology and serum biochemistry findings. Neither the correlation between melioidosis and blood pathogen infection nor the association between melioidosis and thrombocytopenia was statistically significant (p > 0.05). Remarkably, dogs that had coinfections with both melioidosis and blood pathogens demonstrated a significantly reduced PLTcount (49,167 ± 7,167) compared with dogs that tested positive for melioidosis but negative for blood pathogens (139,333 ± 29,913) (p < 0.01). Conclusion: In southern Thailand, the prevalence of canine melioidosis was low but the prevalence of blood pathogens was high. Coinfection with blood pathogens can significantly reduce PLT counts, which may have a potentially serious impact. Future research should focus on conducting seroprevalence studies in the general dog population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of incorporating an extract from olive leaves (Olea europaea), known as OLEx, as a natural additive in the diets of growing Japanese quail. The study examined various aspects of the quails' performance, including their productivity, levels of digestive enzymes, lipid profiles, liver functions, antioxidant levels, immune response, and gut ecology. A total of 360 Japanese quail chicks were divided into four treatment groups, each consisting of six replicates of 15 birds. The first group was given a standard diet without OLEx (control group), while the second through fourth groups were given the basal diet along with different concentrations of OLEx, being 150, 300, and 600 ppm, respectively. The findings revealed that quails fed diets supplemented with OLEx at concentrations of 300 and 600 ppm exhibited significantly higher body weight, body weight gain, and best feed conversion ratio. They also displayed a faster growth rate and had the best performance index compared to the control group. Furthermore, quails treated with OLEx at 300 and 600 ppm consumed less feed compared to the control quails. The lipid profiles (excluding HDL), plasma malondialdehyde levels, liver enzyme levels (ALT and AST), thiobarbaturic acid-reactive substances, and the population numbers of Salmonella and Escherichia coli were significantly lower in quails fed diets containing OLEx at levels of 300 and 600 ppm. Additionally, these quails exhibited higher antioxidant levels (GSH-PX and SOD), immune indices (IgG, IgA, IgM), and population numbers of Lactobacilli compared to the control group. In conclusion, the incorporation of OLEx at concentrations of 300 and 600 ppm resulted in improved productivity, antioxidant capacity, blood biochemical and immunological indices, as well as intestinal microbiota in growing Japanese quails. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Miranda's donkey is a breed from the north of Portugal, considered endangered. Knowledge of its physiological and pathological conditions is essential to assist in the conservation of this breed. The objective of our study was to determine reference intervals for twenty-one blood biochemistry parameters and to evaluate the influence of gender and age on these parameters. Several parameters were influenced by gender and age, emphasizing the importance of taking these factors into account during the interpretation of clinical results by veterinarians. The RIs described here can be used to evaluate and monitor the health status of animals and herds, thus contributing to the preservation of this breed. Miranda's donkey is an endangered, autochthone breed from Northern Portugal. Understanding the physiological and pathological conditions of Miranda's donkey is crucial for the conservation of the breed. Our study aimed to establish reference intervals (RIs) for blood biochemistry parameters and to evaluate the influence of gender and age on these parameters. Blood samples from 75 clinically healthy animals were analyzed for 21 blood biochemistry parameters using Respons® 920 and Start® 4-Diagnostica-Stago. RIs were calculated according to the ASVCP guidelines, utilizing Reference Advisor software V. 2.1 and the statistical program SPSS version 29 to analyze the effects of gender and age. Significant gender-related differences (p < 0.05) were observed in cholesterol, chlorine, creatinine (CREA), glucose (GLU), sodium, and triglycerides (with higher values in females) and in aspartate aminotransferase, creatine phosphokinase (CK), gamma-glutamyl transferase, potassium, magnesium (Mg), and urea (with higher values in males). Age-related differences (p < 0.05) were noted for alkaline phosphatase, CK, fibrinogen, GLU, and phosphorus (higher in young animals) and for globulin, Mg, and total protein (higher in adults). The RIs described here are invaluable for assessing and monitoring the health status of individual animals and herds. Our study highlights the importance of considering gender and age in the interpretation of biochemical parameters, providing critical insights for the conservation and management of this endangered breed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Objective] This experiment was conducted to investigate the effects of different energy and protein levels on growth performance, slaughter performance, serum biochemical and metabolome of Jingyuan chickens during breeding period, and to provide evidence for determining the appropriate dietary energy and protein levels of Jingyuan chickens during breeding period. [Method] A total of 540 7-week-old male Jingyuan chickens were divided into 9 groups with 6 replicates per group and 10 chickens per replicate. 2 factor x3 levels were used to conduet. Factor 1 was the dietary energy level, which was set as 11.28, 11.70 and 12. 12 MJ/kg in low, medium and high energy groups. Factor 2 was the dietary protein level, which was set to 14.00%, 15.50% and 17.00%. The experiment lasted for 77 days. (Result) (i) Final weight, average daily gain, average daily feed intake and ratio of feed to gain were significantly affected by dietary energy and protein levels and their interactions (P<0.05, the same as below). Final weight and average daily gain were the highest in medium energy-medium protein group (ME-MP group), and the ratio of feed to gain was the lowest; The low energy-high protein group (LE-HP group) had the lowest average daily feed intake, (ii) Dietary energy level significantly affected breast muscle rate and leg muscle rate, and the breast muscle rate and leg muscle rate were the highest in medium energy group. The interaction of dietary energy and protein had significant effects on carcass rate and half evisceration rate, and the carcass rate, breast muscle rate and leg muscle rate were the highest in medium energy-medium protein group (ME-MP group). (iii) Dietary energy level significantly affected the urea content, and the urea content in the medium energy group was the lowest. Dietary protein level significantly affected blood glucose, and the high protein group had the highest blood glucose content. The interaction between dietary energy and protein significantly affected serum total and albumin protein, and free fatty acid. The serum total protein content was the highest in the medium energy-medium protein group (ME-MP group), the serum albumin content was the highest in the high energy-high protein group (HE-HP group), and the free fatty acid content was the highest in the medium energy-high protein group (ME-HP group), (iv) A total of 16 metabolites with significant differences were screened through blood metabolomics analysis, mainly concentrated in B-alanine metabolism, arachidonic acid metabolic pathway, phenylalanine, tyrosine and tryptophan biosynthesis, primary bile acid biosynthesis, valine, leucine, isoleucine degradation and other pathways. [Conclusion] Dietary energy and protein levels can significantly affect the growth performance and slaughter performance of male Jingyuan chickens at breeding period, which may be related to the regulation of serum biochemical indexes and metabolic pathways. The combination of energy and protein requirements indicates that the level of medium energy-medium protein is suitable for the nutritional requirements of male Jingyuan chickens at breeding period. The recommended levels are 11.70 MJ/kg and 15.50% protein [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Edwardsiella tarda is one of the serious pathogens of catfish. The most promising methods of disease control nowadays in aquaculture are to strengthen the defence mechanisms in fish through prophylactic administration of immunostimulants. This study assessed the effects of dietary yeast extract (YE) on the innate immunity, viz., respiratory oxidative burst activity, lysozyme, ceruloplasmin, myeloperoxidase and in-vitro nitrite production and serum biochemistry, viz., glucose, cortisol, alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, lactate dehydrogenase and C-reactive protein of yellowtail catfish Pangasius pangasius and its resistance against E. tarda challenge. The YE-diet primed the non-specific immune parameters in catfish in 30 days of feeding and provided prolonged resistance to E. tarda infection compared to control. A decreasing trend in serum biochemistry profile was observed in catfish in 30 days of feeding with the YE-diet, which confirmed its ability to relieve stress. In both control and YE-diet groups, the E. tarda challenge caused a significant increase in biochemistry profile, however, the increment was the least in the YE diet-fed group. The collective observations posit that prophylactic administration of dietary yeast extract can stimulate different innate defence factors of catfish, relieving stress and infection induced by E. tarda challenge, thus, making them more resistant to bacterial infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nowadays, there is a global shortage in feed supply for animal nutrition; however, there are a considerable amount of agro-industrial co- and by-products that may offer a reasonable solution. Flaxseed cake (FSC) is a by-product of flaxseed for oil extraction rich in n-3 α-linolenic acid (ALA). Thus, the dietary inclusion of FSC on laying performance, egg quality, and serum and egg trace elements (Se, Zn, and Fe) was evaluated using Hisex White hens. The hens were distributed to three equal experimental treatments and provided diets including 0%, 5%, or 10% FSC from 48 to 58 weeks of age. Findings clarified that up to 10% FSC in the laying hen diet had no detrimental effect on laying rate, egg mass, and feed utilization. It was found that FSC resulted in a valuable source of protein, energy, macro- (Ca and P), micro- (Se, Zn and Fe) elements, and essential amino acids, with arginine being the highest. Dietary FSC did not negatively influence the egg quality traits, as well as egg sensory attributes. Including 5% or 10% FSC in diet did not significantly affect serum total protein and renal function in terms of creatinine, uric acid, and uric acid-to-creatinine ratio. Different FSC levels did not influence the chemical composition of eggs and trace elements in serum and eggs. It could be concluded that FSC is a valuable feedstuff that can provide a good source of energy, protein, amino acids, and macro- and micro-elements for hens’ nutrition. The inclusion of up to 10% of FSC in hens diet did not adversely influence egg laying performance, egg quality of both fresh and stored eggs, sensory attributes, and nutritional composition, as well as Se, Zn, and Fe in serum and eggs due to balanced nutrient profile of FSC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluated the safety of the ethnomedicinal plant, Combretum. dolichopetalum methanol extract (CDME) in Wistar rats using the sub-acute toxicity model. Twenty-four adult male Wistar rats were randomly divided into 4 groups of 6 rats each. Group A (control) received 5% dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO) at 5 ml/kg, while groups B -D received CDME at 50, 100 and 200 mg/kg, respectively. All treatments were administered orally and once daily for 28 consecutive days. The haematological profile, liver and kidney function tests, lipid profile as well as antioxidant status were evaluated. The 50 mg/kg extract significantly (P<0.05) reduced the red blood cell count, packed cell volume, haemoglobin, but had no effect on leucocytic profile of rats. There was no significant difference (P>0.05) in leucocyte profile between the control and groups given the extract. At 200 mg/kg, CDME significantly (P<0.05) increased total protein, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and aspartate transaminase (AST) compared to the control group. Triglyceride, high density lipoprotein (HDL-C) and very low density lipoprotein (VLDL-C) were significantly (P<0.05) increased by the extract at both 100 and 200 mg/kg while low density lipoprotein (LDL-C) was significantly (P<0.05) decreased by the extract at those doses compared to the control. Urea level was significantly higher (P<0.05) in rats dosed at 100mg/kg while creatinine levels was not increased by the extract. The antioxidants Superoxide dismutase and glutathione reductase were significantly (P<0.05) higher in rats at all doses of the extract while serum catalase level was significantly lower (P<0.05). We conclude that Combretum dolichopetalum could cause a reduction in erythrocyte parameters and should be administered with caution in anaemic conditions as well as in liver diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the effects of nanocurcumin on acetaminophen-induced acute hepatorenal toxicity in domestic pigeons (Columba livia) were investigated. Fifteen pigeons were randomly assigned into three groups. Group I was served as a negative control group and received tap water as a placebo. Pigeons in groups II and III were administered acetaminophen at the beginning of the experiment (hr 0). Group III was further treated with nanocurcumin, at 12 hr after acetaminophen administration, being continued every 12 hr for two days. The birds were observed for clinical signs of acute drug toxicity. Blood samples were collected from the pigeons at hr 0, 12, 24 and 48 of the experiment for biochemical analysis of the serum. The results showed that acetaminophen toxicity increased the serum levels of aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, urea and uric acid in the pigeons. Nanocurcumin treatment of acetaminophen intoxicated pigeons attenuated increases in biomarkers of the liver and kidney functions towards control levels. Also, the consumption of nanocurcumin minimized histopathological changes in the liver and kidney. A mortality of 60.00% was seen in the acetaminophen-induced toxicity group; while, none of the birds treated with nanocurcumin died. It can be concluded that nanocurcumin alleviates the acetaminophen-induced acute toxic liver and kidney damages, which can lead to pigeon mortality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT To determine the digestible valine (dVal) requirement and dVal to digestible lysine ratio (dVal: dLys) for laying hens, this experiment was performed on three hundred sixty Hy-Line W36 hens during the peak egg production phase (28 to 40 weeks of age), based on a completely randomized design with six treatments and five replicates of 12 birds each. The six dietary treatments were graded levels of dVal: dLys ratios: 0.82 (basal diet), 0.86, 0.90, 0.94, 0.98, and 1.02. The dVal: dLys ratio of 0.82 led to the lowest performance, indicating that valine is the first limiting amino acid in this ratio. The graded increase in the dietary dVal: dLys ratio improved egg weight (EW, p

Clinical metrics of baseline health in sentinel seabird species can offer insight into marine ecosystem dynamics, individual and population health, and assist in wildlife rehabilitation and conservation efforts. Protein electrophoresis is useful for detecting changes in acute phase proteins and immunoglobulin levels that may indicate subtle inflammatory responses and/or infectious disease. Serum biochemistry can highlight nutritional status, metabolic derangements, and organ injury and function. However, baseline values for such health parameters are largely unknown for many seabird species. Therefore, the objective of this study is to establish baseline clinical health reference intervals for serum protein electrophoresis, acute phase proteins including serum amyloid A and haptoglobin, and biochemistry parameters in the rhinoceros auklet (Cerorhinca monocerata), a key sentinel species in the North Pacific. From 2013 to 2019, 178 wild, apparently healthy breeding adult rhinoceros auklets were captured across four breeding colonies in British Columbia, Canada (Lucy Island, Pine Island, Triangle Islands, and SGang Gwaay) and from one colony in Washington, United States (Protection Island). Reference intervals were calculated for protein electrophoresis fractions and acute phase proteins (n = 163), and serum biochemistry (n = 35) following established guidelines by the American Society of Veterinary Clinical Pathology. Animals were also assessed for the presence of antibodies to the influenza A virus. Approximately 48% (70/147) of sampled birds were seropositive for influenza A virus, with a prevalence of 50% (6/12) in 2013, 75% (47/63) in 2014, and 24% (17/72) in 2019. This work provides clinical baseline health metrics of a key North Pacific sentinel species to help inform marine ecosystem monitoring, recovery, and rehabilitation efforts in the Pacific Northwest.

ABSTRACT The purpose of this study was to assess the impact of a blend of essential oils from eucalyptus, citrus, bromohexene HCl, thymole and camphor on the growth performance, carcass characteristics, meat quality, intestinal morphology, serum biochemistry, and immune response of broiler chickens. A total of 240 day-old chicks were divided into four groups, each with six replicates containing ten birds. The experiment was conducted under a completely randomized design (CRD). Different concentrations of the oil blend (0mL/kg, 0.15mL/kg, 0.30mL/kg and 0.45mL/kg) were added to the diet. The findings showed that, in comparison to the other groups, the birds that were given a blend of essential oils at concentrations of 0.30 and 0.45 mL/kg showed improved weight gain, feed efficiency, carcass yield, villus height, crypt depth, and greater immune response against Newcastle disease vaccination (p

This study evaluated the health effects of feeding diets of different feed particle sizes supplemented with multienzyme to broiler chickens. Cobb500 (n = 450) broiler chicks (as hatched) were randomly distributed to nine treatments, with each treatment consisting of five replicates of ten birds. The experiment was arranged in a 3 × 3 factorial (three feed particle sizes [3, 4, and 5 mm] and three multienzyme supplementations [0, 1, and 2 g/kg]). The blood indices of the chickens were evaluated. The data were subjected to Analysis of Variance (ANOVA), and means were compared using the Tukey Test at a 5 % probability level. The correlation between the growth performance and blood indices was also calculated. Birds fed the 3 mm particle sizes had decreased (p < 0.05) red blood cell (RBC) and lymphocyte counts with increased multienzyme at the starter phase, while the other haematological indicators increased as the multienzyme supplementation increased. Feeding the 4 mm particle size yielded similar (p < 0.05) total protein, triglyceride, and uric acid for all multienzyme inclusions. An increase in the multienzyme inclusion increased (p < 0.05) the RBC of birds fed the 5 mm particles with a decreased (p < 0.05) white blood cell (WBC) and eosinophil counts. At the finisher phase, serum albumin increased (p < 0.05) while alkaline phosphatase (ALP) decreased (p < 0.05), with increased multienzyme inclusion in birds fed the diet of 3 mm particles. Birds fed 4 mm particles had increased (p < 0.05) ALP and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) with increased multienzyme, while those fed the 5 mm particle size had increased (p < 0.05) albumin, aspartate transaminase (AST) as multienzyme supplementation increased. The correlation between growth performance and blood indices showed that feed intake (FI) has a significant (p < 0.05) impact on the blood profile of broiler chickens. The study concluded that other growth performance indicators, except the feed intake, have no impact on the blood profile of broilers. Feed particle sizes impact feed intake in broiler chickens which consequently impacts their blood composition. Therefore, the size of broiler feed particles has an impact on the health and well-being of the birds.

Background and Aim: Successful rearing of laying hens to achieve optimal egg production is an endeavor that often faces various constraints and challenges, such as infectious diseases, environmental stressors, and fluctuations in feed quality. The incorporation of essential oils (EOs) into the diet of laying hens has attracted considerable attention in recent years. Therefore, our study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of EO inclusion in laying hen diets by considering the effects of production phase and breed on performance, egg quality, serum biochemistry, gut health, and antioxidant activity. Materials and Methods: The articles were obtained from the Web of Science, Scopus, Science Direct, and PubMed using the search terms “essential oils,” “laying hens,” and “phytobiotics.” Data from 27 articles and 71 experiments were grouped according to laying hen production phase and breed in the database. The EO levels ranged from 0 to 1000 mg/kg, with thymol and carvacrol being the major EOs. A mixed model was used to analyze the data. Random effects were applied to the treatment, and fixed effects were applied to EO level, production phase, and breed. Results: Egg production, feed intake, feed efficiency, eggshell quality, villus height, crypt depth, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione peroxidase levels increased linearly (p = 0.05) and egg weight and mass increased quadratically (p < 0.05) with increasing EO concentrations. An interaction was observed between the EO level egg production and feed conversion ratio (p = 0.05). Serum glucose, cholesterol, and malondialdehyde levels decreased with increasing EO concentrations (p < 0.05). Conclusion: The inclusion of EOs effectively increased egg production, feed efficiency, egg weight, egg mass, eggshell quality, oxidative enzymes, and intestinal health. In addition, the proportion of dietary EOs in lightweight laying hens was higher than that in semi-heavy-weight laying hens in improving egg production and feeding efficiency.