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The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of dry turmeric rhizomes on in vitro biogas production and diet fermentability. Turmeric rhizomes were included at gradually increased levels: 0, 0.5, 1, 1.5 and 2% of a diet containing per kg dr matter (DM): 500 g concentrate feed mixture, 400 g berseem hay and 100 g rice straw, and incubated for 48 h. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis showed that ar-turmerone, α-turmerone and β-turmerone were the major bioactive compounds in the rhizomes. Turmeric rhizomes increased (p < 0.01) asymptotic gas production (GP) and rate and lag of CH4 production and decreased (p < 0.01) rate of GP, lag of GP, asymptotic CH4 production and proportion of CH4 production. Turmeric rhizome administration linearly increased (p < 0.01) DM and fiber degradability and concentrations of total short-chain fatty acids, acetic and propionic acids and ammonia-N and quadratically (p < 0.05) decreased fermentation pH. It is concluded that including up to 2% turmeric rhizomes improved in vitro ruminal fermentation and decreased CH4 production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To protect ruminants from the harmful effects of mycotoxins, anti-mycotoxin agents can be added to the dietary ration, thus guaranteeing animal health and production. Therefore, the objective of this study was to evaluate the in vitro ruminal initial sequestration (weak binding) and subsequent desorption (strong binding) of an anti-mycotoxin agent based on a mixture of adsorbing material, turmeric and milk thistle extracts and yeast-based components to adsorb or bio-convert aflatoxins (AF), fumonisins B1 and B2 (FB), trichothecene deoxynivalenol (DON), T-2 and HT-2 toxins, and zearalenone (ZEN). Two doses were tested: Dose 1 simulated 30 mg/cow/d, while Dose 2 simulated 90 mg/cow/d of the anti-mycotoxin agent. Each treatment involved three analytical replicates at each of three incubation times (1, 4, and 24 h post-incubation), with two independent experimental runs providing experimental replicates. Analytical methods, including UHPLC-HRMS and multivariate analyses, were used to both quantify mycotoxin concentrations and reveal dose-dependent reductions, with statistical validations indicating significant changes in mycotoxin levels across both dose and time. The results indicated that the anti-mycotoxin agent was able to highly bind AFB1, T2, and HT-2 toxins since its concentration was always under the limit of detection (<1 ppb). Regarding ZEN (weak binding mean: 94.6%; strong binding mean: 62.4%) and FBs (weak binding mean: 58.7%; strong binding mean: 32.3%), orthogonal contrasts indicated that the anti-mycotoxin agent was able to effectively bind these toxins using Dose 1 (p < 0.05). This finding suggests that Dose 1 may be sufficient to achieve the targeted effect and that a further increase does not significantly improve the outcome. Regarding DON, a strong linear relationship was observed between dose and adsorption. However, the complex interactions between the mycotoxin, the ruminal environment, and the anti-mycotoxin agent made it difficult to establish a clear dose–effect relationship (p > 0.10). UHPLC-HRMS analysis identified over 1500 mass features in rumen samples, which were further analyzed to assess the effects of the anti-mycotoxin agent. Hierarchical clustering analysis (HCA) revealed significant changes in the untargeted metabolomic profiles of samples treated with mycotoxins compared to control samples, particularly after 24 h with the anti-mycotoxin treatments. Clear differences were noted between strong binding and weak binding samples. Further analysis using orthogonal partial least squares discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA) highlighted distinct metabolomic profiles, with stronger predictive ability in the strong binding group (Q2 cumulative value of 0.57) compared to the weak binding group (0.30). The analysis identified 44 discriminant compounds in the strong binding model and 16 in the weak binding model. Seven compounds were common to both groups, while silibinin, known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, was found among the unique compounds in the weak binding group. Overall, the findings suggest that both doses of the anti-mycotoxin agent significantly influenced the chemical profiles in the rumen, particularly enhancing the binding of mycotoxins, thereby supporting the role of phytogenic extracts in mitigating mycotoxin effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heat stress can disrupt the balance between the heat poultry release into the environment and the heat they generate. Pequi oil has antioxidant properties, which may mitigate the heat stress effects. This study aimed to investigate the response of laying hens to pequi oil supplementation under heat stress using a proteomic approach. A total of 96 Lohmann White laying hens with 26 weeks old were housed in a completely randomized design with a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement. They were housed in two climate chambers, thermal comfort temperature ± 24.04 °C with the relative humidity ± 66.35 and heat stress (HS) ± 31.26 °C with the relative humidity ± 60.62. They were fed two diets: a control diet (CON), basal diet (BD) without additives, and with Pequi oil (PO), BD + 0.6% PO. After 84 days, plasma samples were analyzed using Shotgun and LC-MS/MS. Proteins related to anti-inflammation, transport, and the immune system were differentially expressed in hens fed PO and CON under heat stress compared to those in thermoneutral environments. This helps protect against oxidative stress and may support the body's ability to manage heat-induced damage, stabilizing protein expression under stress conditions. The ovotransferrin proteins, fibrinogen isoforms, apolipoprotein A-I, Proteasome activator subunit 4, Transthyretin, and the enzyme serine Peptidase Inhibitor_Kazal Type 5, which presented Upregulated (Up) equal to 1, present characteristics that may be crucial for enhancing the adaptive responses of hens to thermal stress, thereby increasing their tolerance and minimizing the negative effects of heat on egg production. The data presented in this manuscript provides new insights into the plasma proteome alterations of laying hens fed a diet supplemented with pequi oil during heat stress challenges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mycotoxins are a major threat to animal and human health, as well as to the global feed supply chain. Among them, aflatoxins, fumonisins, zearalenone, T-2 toxins, deoxynivalenol, and Alternaria toxins are the most common mycotoxins found in animal feed, with genotoxic, cytotoxic, carcinogenic, and mutagenic effects that concern the animal industry. The chronic negative effects of mycotoxins on animal health and production and the negative economic impact on the livestock industry make it crucial to develop and implement solutions to mitigate mycotoxins. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge of the mycotoxicosis effect in livestock animals as a result of their contaminated diet. In addition, we discuss the potential of five promising phytogenics (curcumin, silymarin, grape pomace, olive pomace, and orange peel extracts) with demonstrated positive effects on animal performance and health, to present them as potential anti-mycotoxin solutions. We describe the composition and the main promising characteristics of these bioactive compounds that can exert beneficial effects on animal health and performance, and how these phytogenic feed additives can help to alleviate mycotoxins' deleterious effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To reduce the use of antibiotics and chemicals in aquaculture, an edible herb, Bidens pilosa, has been selected as a multifunctional feed additive. Although there has been considerable research into the effects of B. pilosa on poultry, the wider effects of B. pilosa, particularly on the growth and gut microbiota of fish, remain largely unexplored. We aimed to investigate the interactive effects between the host on growth and the gut microbiota using transcriptomics and the gut microbiota in B. pilosa-fed tilapia. In this study, we added 0.5% and 1% B. pilosa to the diet and observed that the growth performance of tilapia significantly increased over 8 weeks of feeding. Comparative transcriptome analysis was performed on RNA sequence profiles obtained from liver and muscle tissues. Functional enrichment analysis revealed that B. pilosa regulates several pathways and genes involved in amino acid metabolism, lipid metabolism, carbohydrate metabolism, endocrine system, signal transduction, and metabolism of other amino acids. The expression of the selected growth-associated genes was validated by qRT–PCR. The qRT–PCR results indicated that B. pilosa may enhance growth performance by activating the expression of the liver igf1 and muscle igf1rb genes and inhibiting the expression of the muscle negative regulator mstnb. Both the enhancement of liver endocrine IGF1/IGF1Rb signaling and the suppression of muscle autocrine/paracrine MSTN signaling induced the expression of myogenic regulatory factors (MRFs), myod1, myog and mrf4 in muscle to promote muscle growth in tilapia. The predicted function of the gut microbiota showed several significantly different pathways that overlapped with the KEGG enrichment results of differentially expressed genes in the liver transcriptomes. This finding suggested that the gut microbiota may influence liver metabolism through the gut–liver axis in B. pilosa-fed tilapia. In conclusion, dietary B. pilosa can regulate endocrine IGF1 signaling and autocrine/paracrine MSTN signaling to activate the expression of MRFs to promote muscle growth and alter the composition of gut bacteria, which can then affect liver amino acid metabolism, carbohydrate metabolism, endocrine system, lipid metabolism, metabolism of other amino acids, and signal transduction in the host, ultimately enhancing growth performance. Our results suggest that B. pilosa has the potential to be a functional additive that can be used as an alternative to reduce antibiotic use as a growth promoter in aquaculture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Enteric greenhouse gas (GHG) emission remains a challenge in modern livestock production as it relates environmental perspectives to animal production. In view of this, constant attempts are made to use ingredients that reduce enteric GHG emission and improve energy efficiency. This study aimed to investigate the effect of lupin seeds as a functional feed additive on in vitro ruminal fermentation, and methane (CH4) and carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. Lupin seed lowered the proportion of CH4 in the total biogas production. Also, lupin seed increased fiber digestibility, total short-chain fatty acids, acetic acid, propionic acid, and microbial protein. Lupin seed at 2.0% supplementation increased gas production, enhanced nutrient degradability, and reduced the proportion of methane in every volume of biogas produced. The results suggest that lupin seed can be an ecofriendly ingredient that can be added to ruminant diet. The inevitable enteric gas emission from ruminants is considered a modern-day problem from an environmental perspective. Addressing this problem requires nutritional approaches such as the use of phytogenic additives in ruminant diets. In this regard, lupin seed (LS) can be a useful additive due to its phytochemical constituents. Therefore, this study investigated the effects of lupin (Lupinus angustifolius) seed supplementation as a functional and sustainable feed additive in sheep diet (50:50 concentrate-to-forage ratio) on in vitro gas production (GP; mL/g DM), methane (CH4; mL/g DM) and carbon dioxide (CO2; mL/g DM) emissions, fermentation parameters, and nutrient degradability (g/kg DM incubated). Gas production and CH4 were measured per gram of incubated dry matter (DM), degradable DM (dDM), degradable neutral detergent fiber (dNDF), and degradable acid detergent fiber (dADF). Lupin seeds were included at 0 (control), 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, and 2% of the diet. The seeds contained 3.27% essential oils (DM basis), with eucalyptol as the main phytochemical. The highest GP per gram of DM and dDM was observed (p < 0.01) with 2.0% LS supplementation level. While 1.0% LS had the highest GP per gram of dNDF, 0.5% lupin diet had the highest GP per gram of dADF. Asymptotic GP and CH4 emissions linearly and quadratically increased (p < 0.01) with increasing LS level, while lag time decreased. Despite increased CH4 production, the proportion of CH4 in total biogas was lower (p = 0.008) for LS treatments than the control, with the 0.5% LS showing the lowest CH4 proportion. Production of CO2 increased with lupin seed treatments, with 0.5% LS producing the highest proportion (p = 0.027). Degradability of DM, NDF, and ADF was greater (p < 0.01) for the high LS supplementation level, while 0.5% supplementation level decreased ADF degradability. Total short-chain fatty acids, acetic acid, and propionic acid increased (p < 0.05) with LS supplementation level, leading to a reduced acetate:propionate ratio. Rumen pH decreased (p = 0.036) with LS supplementation, while ammonia-N decreased (p = 0.045) and estimated metabolizable energy increased (p < 0.001) linearly. Calculated microbial protein synthesis (p = 0.005) and gas yield (p = 0.047) increased with LS supplementation level. LS supplementation at 2.0% of diet (DM basis) increased GP and CH4 emission (mL/g DM) and enhanced nutrient degradability, suggesting its potential use as a functional feed additive for ruminants when supplemented at a 2.0% level into diet. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The bioactive compounds of Artemisia annua have been used as feed supplements due to their pharmacological activities. The present study examined the effect of short-term feeding with a supplemented diet on the growth, feed efficiency, intestinal morphology, stress, immune system, and antioxidant biomarkers of juvenile Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) to evaluate the efficacy of using an alcoholic extract of A. annua (ae-Aa) as an additive in fish feed. Juvenile fish (200 fish, 30.43 ± 0.54 g) were distributed in 10 tanks (400 L, 20 fish/tank) corresponding to two treatments, each with five replicates. The fish were fed either a control diet (37% protein, 11% lipid: ae-Aa free) or an equivalent diet containing 0.5% ae-Aa to satiation for 15 days. Subsequently, blood, liver, and intestine samples were obtained from 10 fish per treatment group (2 fish per tank). Dietary supplementation with ae-Aa affected the leukocyte count (27.9 vs. 19.7 × 103 µL−1, ae-Aa group vs. control group), leukocyte respiratory activity (0.3 vs. 0.2 DO), and serum lysozyme concentration (28.1 vs. 22.4 ng dL−1) but not blood cells or the oxygen-carrying capacity. Treatment with ae-Aa reduced the plasma cortisol level (11.0 vs. 15.1 µL−1) but did not affect the levels of either glucose or chloride. Dietary ae-Aa influenced hepatic catalase (453.2 vs. 255.7 µmol H2O2 mg pt−1 min−1), glutathione-S-transferase (406.9 vs. 279.8 nmol mg pt−1 min−1), glutathione (4.5 vs. 2.9 nmol mg pt−1), and superoxide dismutase activity (22.4 vs. 20.1 U mg pt−1) and thus affected the antioxidant capacity, as reflected by reductions in lipid peroxidation (21.3 vs. 34.4 nmol mg pt−1) and DNA damage (26.7 vs. 32.2 µg DNA mg pt−1). Dietary ae-Aa increased the intestinal villus area and improved growth (body mass, 24.2 vs. 20.7 g; body length, 2.0 vs. 1.6 cm). Based on the above-described results, the administration of dietary ae-Aa, even for a short period, may have beneficial effects on immunity and oxidant defences and enhance the growth rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The use of water supplements, such as phytogenics and organic acids, in poultry research, especially in Pekin ducks, has been very limited. Due to commercial Pekin ducks consuming a higher amount of water compared to chickens, it is hypothesized that water supplementation may prove more beneficial than standard feed supplementation. Oregano oils and organic acids have been popular feed additives in poultry diets due to their antimicrobial properties and gut health benefits. This study found significant benefits with both water additives mentioned for improving duck production, gut health, and reducing stress susceptibility. Therefore, water supplementation with either oregano oils or organic acid provides a possible alternative to antibiotic use in commercial Pekin ducks to improve production and animal well-being. This study evaluated duck growth, health, and welfare in response to water supplementation with organic acid (OA) and oregano oils (OOs) in Pekin duck. The treatments used in this study included a control (CON) treatment with no water additives given, an OA treatment (ProPhorce Exclusive NC®), and an OO treatment (Nubiotic 4X Concentrate®). The OA and OO improved the feed conversion ratio (FCR) and body weight (BW) (p < 0.01) compared to the control (CON). Both OA and OO showed differences (p < 0.05) in villus height and crypt depth compared to the CON. But only OA showed an increase (p < 0.01) in villus height and villus height/crypt depth ratio. On D 35, the total plasma corticosterone levels, heterophil-to-lymphocyte ratios, and asymmetry scores for OA and OO were decreased (p < 0.05) compared to CON, indicating lower stress susceptibility. The pH levels of OA ceca and jejunum were lower (p < 0.05) compared to CON. Tibia breaking strength was increased (p = 0.02) for OA compared to CON, while no differences were found with OO (p > 0.05). In conclusion, these experiments indicate that OA and OO can be used to improve duck growth, feed efficiency, stress susceptibility, and bird welfare. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of dietary administration of combination of hydro-alcoholic extracts of turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) and thyme (Zataria multiflora Boiss) on growth performance, nutritional parameters, digestive enzymes activity and antioxidant properties of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) was investigated. Three experimental diets including basal diet (control group) and diets containing 0.5% and 1.5% of combination of turmeric and thyme (ratio of 1:2) extracts were prepared. A total of 234 juveniles of rainbow trout were randomly divided into three experimental groups in triplicates (providing 26 fish per replicate) and reared for eight weeks. Feeding diets contained 0.5 % of the extract increased the feed efficiency ratio and condition factor of rainbow trout compared to the control group (P<0.05). Supplementing 1.5 % plant extract increased the Average Daily Growth (ADG) of the fish in comparison to control group (P<0.05). Both dietary levels of the extracts increased protein productive value and lipid productive value of fish compared to control group (P<0.05). Viscerosomatic and hepatosomatic index were affected by both dietary extract levels compared to control group (P<0.05). Dietary plant extract inclusion significantly increased the activity of amylase and lipase (P<0.05). Similarly, the activity of superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase significantly increased in the liver tissue of rainbow trout following feeding on diets containing the extracts, while malondialdehyde content of the tissue decreased in comparison to the control group (P<0.05). Therefore, considering the promising effects of dietary supplementation of turmeric and thyme extracts, inclusion of 0.5% of the extracts in rainbow trout feed is recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Exposure to heat stress significantly impairs the productive performance of growing pigs. Supplementing their diet with phytogenic solutions, especially those containing Capsicum spp., can boost their thermal tolerance due to the activities of its principal active metabolite, capsaicin. This improvement aids in better nutrient consumption and efficient utilization for growth. In this study, we explored the effectiveness of a Capsicum spp.-based dietary phytogenic solution in alleviating the effects of heat stress on pigs. Our findings showed that this supplementation notably enhanced the pigs' performance under heat stress conditions by increasing feed intake and improving feed efficiency. It also positively affected thermoregulatory responses, as evidenced by lowered body temperatures. Moreover, the supplement improved antioxidant defenses and heat shock protein responses and bolstered intestinal integrity and post-absorptive metabolism. Overall, the results indicate that a dietary phytogenic solution derived from Capsicum spp. can effectively counteract some of the detrimental effects of heat stress in pigs, leading to improved overall productive performance. Exposure to heat stress (HS) detrimentally affects pig performance. This study explored whether a dietary phytogenic solution based on Capsicum spp. (PHY) could enhance the thermal tolerance of heat-stressed growing pigs. Forty-two individually housed pigs were randomly assigned to three treatments: thermoneutral pigs on a control diet (TN-C) and pigs subjected to HS fed the control diet either without (HS-C) or with supplemental PHY (HS-PHY). The TN-C group exhibited increased average daily gain (ADG) and feed intake (FI) compared to both HS-C (p < 0.01) and HS-PHY pigs (p < 0.05) and better feed efficiency compared to HS-C pigs only (p < 0.01). However, the HS-PHY pigs showed significantly higher FI (p < 0.01) and ADG (p < 0.05) compared to HS-C pigs. HS pigs displayed higher body temperatures (BTs) than TN pigs (p < 0.01), yet HS-PHY pigs experienced a lesser increase in BT compared to HS-C pigs (p < 0.05). Supplementation with PHY mitigated some effects of HS, increasing serum superoxide dismutase and catalase activity, reducing HSP90 expression in longissimus dorsi muscle, and elevating jejunal villus height compared to HS-C pigs (p < 0.05), reaching levels akin to TN-C pigs. Additionally, PHY supplementation resulted in lower serum urea levels than HS-C pigs (p < 0.01) and similar myosin gene expression to TN-C pigs (p > 0.1), suggesting enhanced amino acid post-absorptive utilization for lean tissue growth. In conclusion, dietary PHY supplementation partially offset the adverse effects of HS on pig performance by improving thermal tolerance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The increase in global temperature and consumers' welfare has increased the use of phytogenic feed additives (PFA) to mitigate the negative effects of heat stress on chickens in recent years. Various bioactive compounds capable of improving the thermotolerance of broiler chickens during exposure to thermal challenges have been identified in different plant species and parts. This review is an overview of the roles of bioactive compounds of different PFA, such as polyphenols and flavonoids, antioxidants, growth‐promoting and immune‐modulating agents, in heat stress management in broiler chickens. Common PFA in use, particularly in tropical environments, are also discussed. An understanding of the roles of the PFA in chickens' thermotolerance could further stimulate interest in their use, thereby improving the birds' productivity and addressing consumers' concerns. This review collates the existing data on the roles of herbs in mitigating heat stress on chickens and highlights future research perspectives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ruminants are considered a major producer of methane (CH4). Therefore, the present study aimed to determine the ability of dry fennel seeds to affect in vitro gas production and fermentation. Fennel seeds were included at 0% (Control), 0.5%, 1%, 1.5%, and 2% DM of a diet containing per kg DM: 500 g concentrate feed mixture, 400 g berseem hay, and 100 g of rice straw. The incubations lasted 48 h. Fennel seeds increased (P < 0.001) the asymptotic gas production and decreased its rate, while decreasing the production and proportion of CH4 (P < 0.05) and increased its rate. Moreover, fennel seed increased DM and neutral detergent fiber (P < 0.01) degradability, and increased total production of short‐chain fatty acids, acetate, and propionate (P < 0.05). Compared to the control, fennel seeds increased (P < 0.01) metabolizable energy, partitioning factor, and microbial crude protein production. Overall, fennel seeds can be included up to 2% DM in ruminant diets as an environmentally friendly product in animal farming due to its ability to improve feed utilization, ruminal fermentation and while reducing CH4 production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Phytogenics such as ginger, wild marjoram, and cloves, along with their active components, have been shown to be effective and safe in animal production and thus serve as potential substitutes that could replace antibiotic growth promoters. This review delineates their common mechanisms and summarizes the results of recent studies on the growth performance of poultry production—with emphasis on broilers—to combat necrotic enteritis. Necrotic enteritis is a devastating disease in chickens mainly caused by Clostridium perfringens—particularly, Net-B toxin-producing strains. In order to combat necrotic enteritis in broiler production, natural growth promoters, as well as anti-inflammatory and non-antibiotic remedies, were developed for anti-microbial resistance due to its status as a global pandemic. Herein, phytogenic ginger, wild marjoram, and cloves were reviewed as potential alternatives to antibiotics for their anti-microbial functions. These phytogenics contain active ingredients that efficiently modulate the immune response and improve intestinal morphology and overall growth performance, even under stress and infection conditions. Most of the beneficial effects can be attributed to their anti-inflammatory functions, primarily the inhibition of the NF-κB and MAPK pathways. Phytogenics and their active ingredients represent potential substitutes for antibiotic growth promoters, further serving as anti-microbial remedies in the treatment of birds with infections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work studied the potential of a combination of pungent spices (capsicum, black pepper, ginger, and cinnamaldehyde) to be used as a supplement in diets of gilthead seabream (Sparus aurata; 44.1 ± 4.2 g). During 90 days, fish were fed three experimental diets with low inclusion of fish oil and containing poultry fat as the main source of lipids, supplemented with graded levels of the tested supplement: 0 (control), 0.1 (SPICY0.1%), and 0.15% (SPICY0.15%). As a result, the pungent spices enhanced the growth performance, the activity of the bile-saltactivated lipase in the intestine, and decreased fat deposit levels within enterocytes. The SPICY0.1% diet reduced the feed conversion ratio and the perivisceral fat index and lipid deposits in the liver. Moreover, the ratio of docosahexaenoic acid/eicosapentaenoic acid in fillet increased in fish fed the SPICY0.1% diet, while the hepatic levels of docosahexaenoic acid and total n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids increased in fish fed the SPICY0.15% diet. Furthermore, there was an effect on the expression of some biomarkers related to lipid metabolism in 2-h postprandial fish (fasn, elovl6, scd1b, cyp7a1, lpl, and pparb), and in 48 h fasted-fish fed with the SPICY0.1% diet, a regulation of the intestinal immune response was indicated. However, no significant differences were found in lipid apparent digestibility and proximate macronutrient composition. The spices did not affect biomarkers of hepatic or oxidative stress. No differences in microbial diversity were found, except for an increase in Simpson's Index in the posterior intestine of fish fed the SPICY0.1% diet, reflected in the increased relative abundance of the phylum Chloroflexi and lower relative abundances of the genera Campylobacter, Corynebacterium, and Peptoniphilus. In conclusion, the supplementation of gilthead seabream diets with pungent spices at an inclusion of 0.1% was beneficial to enhance growth performance and feed utilization; reduce fat accumulation in the visceral cavity, liver, and intestine; and improve the fish health status and condition. Results suggest that the tested supplement can be used as part of a nutritional strategy to promote a more judicious use of fish oil in fish diets due to its decreasing availability and rising costs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study was carried out to evaluate the effect of P. guineense and G. africanum inclusion in the diet of broiler chickens as alternatives to antibiotic growth promoters (AGPs). A total of 408 day-old Ross broiler chicks were allotted randomly to eight dietary treatments each replicated thrice, with 17 chicks per replicate in a completely randomized design. P. guineense and G. africanum were included at 0 g (T1), 250 g, 500 g and 750 g respectively (T2-T7) while oxytetracycline was used as a positive control (T8). Data were collected on growth, haematological and antioxidant activities. Data collected were subjected to analysis of variance and significant differences among treatment means were compared using Tukey procedures. The growth performance result showed that final weight, weight gain, feed conversion ratio and feed cost per kg gain were significantly (p<0.05) better in birds fed diets containing oxytetracycline and P. guineense at 250 g and G. africanum at 500 g/100kg diets at both the starter and finisher phases. Haematological parameters were significantly improved and were within normal range reported for healthy chickens. Superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase contents were increased (p<0.05) while catalase content was reduced as levels of P. guineense and G. africanum in the diet increases. P. guineense and G. africanum inclusion in broiler chickens diets at 250g and 500g/100kg diets, respectively significantly improved growth performance and antioxidant activities with no adverse effect on haematological parameters; hence, can be included in broiler chickens’ diet at 250g and 500g/100kg diets as an alternative to synthetic AGPs for improved performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this experiment was to investigate the effects of dietary supplementation of Eucalyptus camaldulensis essential oil (ECEO) on the growth performance, nutrient digestibility and caecal fermentation of weaned rabbits. Sixty clinically healthy weaned cross breed male rabbits (Chinchilla x Newzealand white) of about 4 weeks with initial body weight (BW) of 430.81 ± 0.81 g were used for the study. Rabbits were stratified based on their body weight and randomly distributed into four treatment groups of fifteen rabbits each in a completely randomized design. Treatment 1 (T1): Basal diet without Eucalyptus camaldulensis essential oil (ECEO); T2: basal diet with 200 mg/kg ECEO; T3: basal diet with 400 mg/kg ECEO; T4: basal diet with 600 mg/kg ECEO. Average daily weight gain were higher (P<0.05) in T2, T3 and T4 relative to T1. There was no effect of treatments in the average daily feed intake and mortality rate (P>0.05) while feed conversion ratio were greater in T2, T3 and T4 than in T1 (P<0.05). Dry matter, crude protein, crude fibre, nitrogen free extracts, organic matter and ether extract digestibility were significantly (P<0.05) influenced by the treatments. Improved nutrient absorption were improved in rabbits fed diet supplemented with ECEO compared to control group. Volatile fatty acid, acetate, butyrate, propionate and ammonia nitrogen were significantly (P<0.05) different among the treatments. Results revealed that ECEO can be supplemented up to 600 mg/kg without posing no harm on rabbit's body physiology and health status. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Husbandry practices in aquaculture production may lead to stress processes and oxidative stress damages on fish tissues. Functional ingredients have profiled as suitable candidates for reinforcing the fish antioxidant response and stress tolerance. In addition, selective breeding strategies have also demonstrated a correlation between fish growth and stress reactiveness, which may be a key component in species domestication. The present study evaluates the potential of three different functional additives for gill endogenous antioxidant capacity and stress relief in a growth selected genotype of European sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax) juveniles fed low-FM/FO diets. For this purpose, after 72 days of a feeding trial, all fish were subjected to an oxidative stress challenge consisting of a 1 h bath exposure to hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) at a total concentration of 50 ppm. The functional additives induced a better recovery from the stress process, with a higher reduction in fish circulating plasma cortisol 24 h after oxidative stress. In addition, the functional additives induced higher catalase gill gene expression in response to the oxidative stress insult. Functional ingredients have profiled as suitable candidates for reinforcing the fish antioxidant response and stress tolerance. In addition, selective breeding strategies have also demonstrated a correlation between fish growth performance and susceptibility to stressful culture conditions as a key component in species domestication processes. The aim of the present study is to evaluate the ability of a selected high-growth genotype of 300 days post-hatch European sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax) juveniles to use different functional additives as endogenous antioxidant capacity and stress resistance boosters when supplemented in low fish meal (FM) and fish oil (FO) diets. Three isoenergetic and isonitrogenous diets (10% FM/6% FO) were supplemented with 200 ppm of a blend of garlic and Labiatae plant oils (PHYTO0.02), 1000 ppm of a mixture of citrus flavonoids and Asteraceae and Labiatae plant essential oils (PHYTO0.1) or 5000 ppm of galactomannan-oligosaccharides (GMOS0.5). A reference diet was void of supplementation. The fish were fed the experimental diets for 72 days and subjected to a H2O2 exposure oxidative stress challenge. The fish stress response was evaluated through measuring the circulating plasma cortisol levels and the fish gill antioxidant response by the relative gene expression analysis of nfΚβ2, il-1b, hif-1a, nd5, cyb, cox, sod, cat, gpx, tnf-1α and caspase 9. After the oxidative stress challenge, the genotype origin determined the capacity of the recovery of basal cortisol levels after an acute stress response, presenting GS fish with a better pattern of recovery. All functional diets induced a significant upregulation of cat gill gene expression levels compared to fish fed the control diet, regardless of the fish genotype. Altogether, suggesting an increased capacity of the growth selected European sea bass genotype to cope with the potential negative side-effects associated to an H2O2 bath exposure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Saponins are active compounds found in plants, with both positive and negative roles in animal nutrition. They are efficient natural rumen modifiers for manipulating ruminal microbial populations, as well as their composition and fermentation. They suppress ruminal ciliate protozoa and may thus enhance microbial protein-synthesis efficiency while abating methane production. The impact of saponins or saponins-containing plants on the ruminal microflora and fermentation depends on the saponin type and level, diet composition, and the microbial community's composition and adaptation to saponins. Saponins are more effective at enhancing the performance of animals consuming fibrous diets and may be useful to smallholder livestock farmers in developing countries. Saponins are steroid, or triterpene glycoside, compounds found in plants and plant products, mainly legumes. However, some plants containing saponins are toxic. Saponins have both positive and negative roles in animal nutrition. Saponins have been shown to act as membrane-permeabilizing, immunostimulant, hypocholesterolaemic, and defaunating agents in the rumen for the manipulation of ruminal fermentation. Moreover, it has been reported that saponins have impair protein digestion in the gut to interact with cholesterol in the cell membrane, cause cell rupture and selective ruminal protozoa elimination, thus improving N-use efficiency and resulting in a probable increase in ruminant animal performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phytogenic feed additives are plausible alternatives to antibiotics and serve as growth promoters in aquafeed. This research aims at finding the effects of varying inclusions of natural antioxidants like hibiscus (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.) and turmeric (Curcuma longa) on the growth, hematology, and nutrient utilization of Clarias gariepinus after 60 days of feeding. This research used six feeds labeled as F1-F6 that varied in the composition of C. longa and H. sabdariffa. The weight (g) inclusions of C. longa and H. sabdariffa were as follows, F1 0:250, F2 50:200, F3 100:15, F4 150:100, F5 200:50 and F6 250:0. Juvenile African catfish stocked at 9 catfish per 15L aquaria per 3 replicate aquariums (27/treatment feed) were fed for 60d. The catfish fed with F1 (250g H. sabdariffa) had the best specific growth rate of 5.76 ± 0.04 % day-1, lowest feed conversion ratio of 1.01 ± 0.01, weight gain of 31.65 ± 0.13 g, and protein efficiency ratio of 0.96 ± 0.07. The growth of African catfish increased with the increasing inclusion of hibiscus supplements. Hematobiochemical parameters ALT, AST was better for catfish fed high hibiscus supplements. We noticed that hibiscus inclusion was inversely proportional to cholesterol and total triglyceride levels of fish. The deposit of adipose tissues in the catfish was higher, with increasing inclusion of hibiscus than turmeric supplement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is need to reduce usage of antibiotics in favor of prebiotics and phytogenic in aquafeed production. The study evaluated effects of mushroom on growth, gut histology and haematological variables of Clarias gariepinus. Five treatment feeds were made to vary in inclusion of solvent extracted oyster mushrooms, Lentinus sajor-caju as follows: Feed 1, 0%; Feed 2, 4%; Feed 3, 8%; Feed 4, 12% and Feed 5, 16%. The diets were made isonitrogenous (42%) and isolipidic (6.0%). The growth performances, gut histology and haematological profile of the fish were estimated using standard procedures. The essential amino acid (EAA) contents of the mushroom and feeds were analyzed following standard methods. Ingredients were mixed according to proportions, preconditioned and steam pelleted. African catfish of average weight 9.48g were stocked in three replicates 20liter aquarium, at 113.76g/aquarium and fed with the experimental diets for 90days. Results showed that mushroom had good array of EAA especially lysine (7%). The haematobiochemical parameters and growth of the catfish were best at 8% mushroom extract inclusion. Histological sections showed significant increase in length and width of the mucosal fold microvilli as mushroom extract inclusion increased up to 8%. Similarly, red blood cell counts, packed cell volume, hemoglobin and total white blood cell counts of the catfish increased up to 8%. Fish fed Feed 3 had the best specific growth rate (3.00±0.06% day-1), food conversion ratio (1.54±0.01), weight gain, (128.67±0.02g) and protein conversion ratio of 0.3±0.04. Catfish fed with higher than 8% inclusion of mushroom had reduced growth rates, hemato-biochemical and histological parameters. This may be probably due to the high polysaccharides and beta-glucans present in mushroom. Thus, mushroom extracts should be included in catfish feed but not beyond 8%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Post-weaning diarrhea in piglets is caused by intestinal dysbiosis, characterized as an undesirable disruption of the physiological intestinal microbiota, which is associated with several stress factors, such as the isolation of piglets from sows, the adaptation to new environment and morphological changes in the intestine due to the transition from milk to solid feed intake. Pharmaceutical zinc oxide has been effectively used to alleviate these effects. However, since the dietary supplementation with pharmaceutical doses of zinc oxide (ZnO) in weaning pigs has been recently phased out in EU, this study aimed to determine the effect of a natural phytogenic formulation on growth performance, nutrient digestibility and faecal microbiota composition and metabolic activity. Dietary inclusion of the natural phytogenic formulation significantly increased piglet performance and nutrient digestibility and reduced the E. coli and C. perfringens counts as well as the molar ratios of branched chain volatile fatty acids in faeces. In summary, the results of this study indicate that the tested natural phytogenic formulation could be considered as an effective alternative to pharmaceutical doses of ZnO to alleviate the challenges commonly occurring after weaning. A natural phytogenic formulation (NPF) was tested as an alternative to pharmaceutical zinc oxide (ZnO) in weaned piglets with respect to growth performance, apparent total tract digestibility and faecal microbiota composition and metabolic activity. Two dietary NPF levels (NPF: 1000 and 2000 mg/kg diet) were compared to a positive control (ZnO: 3000 mg ZnO/kg diet) and a negative control (CON: no added ZnO or NPF) using 84 weaned piglets from 29 d to 78 d (days of age). Feed conversion ratio was improved (p < 0.05) in ZnO and NPF piglets were compared to CON at 50 d. Dry matter, organic matter and crude protein (p < 0.05) digestibility was improved in NPF piglets compared to CON at 57 d. Compared to CON, NPF inclusion reduced E. coli (p < 0.05) and increased C. leptum subgroup (p < 0.01) at 57 d and 78 d, and reduced C. perfringens subgroup (p < 0.05; at 78 d). The ZnO reduced (p < 0.001) E. coli and C. perfringens subgroup (p < 0.01) compared to CON at 78 d. Moreover, ZnO and NPF reduced molar ratios of branched chain volatile fatty acids (p < 0.05) compared to CON, while NPF also increased butyric acid (p < 0.05) at 78 d. In conclusion, the NPF appeared to be a promising alternative to pharmaceutical doses of ZnO. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The use of antibiotic growth promoters (AGP) in poultry production not only promotes the emergence of pathogenic multi-drug resistant bacteria, but it also compromises product quality, threatens animal and human health, and pollutes the environment. However, the complete withdrawal of AGP without alternatives could result in uncontrollable disease outbreaks that would jeopardize large-scale poultry intensification. Thus, the use of phytogenic products as potential alternatives to in-feed AGP has attracted worldwide research interest. These phytogenic products contain numerous biologically active substances with antioxidant and antimicrobial activities that can enhance poultry health, growth performance, and meat quality characteristics. In addition, the incorporation of phytogenic products as feed additives in poultry diets could result in the production of high-quality, drug-free, and organic poultry products that are safe for human consumption. Thus, this review examines the current evidence on the antioxidant and antimicrobial properties of a selection of phytogenic products, their effects on nutrient utilization, and physiological and meat quality parameters in poultry. The paper also reviews the factors that could limit the utilization of phytogenic products in poultry nutrition and proposes solutions that can deliver efficient and sustainable poultry production systems for global food and nutrition security. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of the study was to assess the comparative effects of Vernonia amygdalina leaf meal (VALM) and zinc (Zn) on the serum proinflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines as well as DNA damage of cocks-fed aflatoxin B1 (AFB 1 ) contaminated diets. A total of 250 sexually mature Isa White cocks of 24 weeks old were randomly distributed into five groups (treatments) with each containing 50 birds, which was replicated five times with 10 birds per replicate. Cocks in group A were fed basal diet only, group B was fed basal diet contaminated with 1 mg AFB1/kg diet, group C received diet B (basal + 1 mg/kg AFB1) with 50 mg/kg Zn, group D was fed diet B with 2.5 g/kg VALM, and group E received diet B with 5.0 g/kg VALM, respectively. Feed and water were supplied ad libitum with fresh feed added to the feed troughs at 6:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. respectively. While serum tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin 1 beta (IL-1β), 8-hydroxy-2ʹ-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG), and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) were significantly (P  < 0.05) elevated among the cocks on diet B, significant (P  < 0.05) reductions were recorded among cocks on diets C, D, and E. Conversely, birds in group B had significant (P  < 0.05) depression in serum interleukin 4 (IL-4) and interleukin 10 (IL-10) while improvements (P  < 0.05) were recorded among cocks in groups C, D, and E, respectively. Therefore, the inclusion of VALM offset the adverse physiological effects of AFB1 observed among group B birds. The effects were comparable with the results presented by the cocksfed diet containing Zn. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Under intensive aquaculture conditions, fish are subjected to a wide variety of stressors, making fish prone to suffering chronic stress and impairing fish growth performance and immune response. Fishmeal (FM) and fish oil (FO) replacement by raw terrestrial materials may induce nutritional imbalances, leading to a chronic stress status and oxidative stress processes. The functional ingredients have been profiled as suitable candidates to face these negative side effects by reinforcing fish immune response, attenuating fish stress response and reducing fish oxidative stress. The present study evaluates the effects of two different functional ingredients, plant origin galactomannan-oligosaccharides (GMOS) and a mixture of garlic and labiate plant essential oils (PHYTO), as potential boosters of gill endogenous antioxidant capacity in European sea-bass (Dicentrarchus labrax) juveniles fed low-FM/FO-based diets. After a confinement stress challenge (C challenge) or confinement combined with an in vivo infection with the pathogen Vibrio anguillarum (CI challenge), the functional ingredients induced a controlled pro-inflammatory response against the stressor. The functional ingredients attenuated fish stress response, leading to a stable energy metabolism and an ameliorated antioxidant status, altogether indicating the potential of both functional additives to reduce the associated negative effects of stress in European sea bass fed a low-FM/FO diet. The aim of the present study is to evaluate the potential of two functional additives as gill endogenous antioxidant capacity boosters in European sea-bass juveniles fed low-FM/FO diets when challenged against physical and biological stressors. For that purpose, two isoenergetic and isonitrogenous diets with low FM (10%) and FO (6%) contents were supplemented with 5000 ppm plant-derived galactomannan–oligosaccharides (GMOS) or 200 ppm of a mixture of garlic and labiate plant essential oils (PHYTO). A control diet was void from supplementation. Fish were fed the experimental diet for nine weeks and subjected to a confinement stress challenge (C challenge) or a confinement stress challenge combined with an exposure to the pathogen Vibrio anguillarum (CI challenge). Both GMOS and PHYTO diets attenuated fish stress response, inducing lower circulating plasma cortisol and down-regulating nfκβ2 and gr relative gene-expression levels in the gill. This attenuated stress response was associated with a minor energetic metabolism response in relation to the down-regulation of nd5 and coxi gene expression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of phytogenic extracts is considered a sustainable strategy for the prevention of fish diseases, including Alliaceae as a potential option due to their variety of bioactive compounds. In this study, we analyzed the antibacterial and antiparasitic potential of propyl-propane-thiosulfinate (PTS) and propyl-propane-thiosulfonate (PTSO) from onions. The in vitro activity against Pseudomonas anguilliseptica, Tenacibaculum maritimum, and Photobacterium damselae of both compounds was tested. In addition, the viability of Sparicotyle chrysophrii larvae was evaluated. Moreover, a diet that consisted of a blend of PTS/PTSO (ALLIUM) was used. A total of 90 gilthead sea bream juveniles were tested against P. damselae subsp. Piscicida after 12 weeks of dietary administration. Furthermore, 150 fish with a rate of 10–15 parasites/fish were fed for 21 days and the number of gill parasites was recorded. All strains were sensitive to both compounds. PTSO showed the highest inhibitory effect against all target strains, while PTS showed higher effectiveness against S. chrysophrii. Fish from ALLIUM group presented the highest probability of survival, increasing up to 91.1%, whereas in the control group, the probability of survival was 66.7%. The number of parasites in the gilthead sea bream decreased in the ALLIUM group over time. These results suggest the inclusion of PTS and PTSO in feed as a natural strategy to prevent antibacterial and antiparasitic fish diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We have evaluated the impacts of supplementing diets with Moringa oleifera leaf extract (MOL) on growth, intestine histomorphometry, immunity, liver antioxidants and expression of immune genes in Nile tilapia raised in hapas mounted in earthen pond. Four MOL supplementation doses (0.0, 5.0, 7.0 and 9.0 g/kg) were used to make four experimental diets defined as reference (CONT), MOL5, MOL7 and MOL9 respectively. Fish (⁓61.5 g) were allocated in 4 triplicate groups and were fed the corresponding diets for consecutive 60 days. The highest final weight, weight gain, weight gain % and specific growth rate were found in the MOL5 group among all experimental groups. Feed conversion ratio was not changed by dietary MOL. When compared with the CONT group, there was a significant decline in MDA levels along with a significant rise in hepatic CAT, SOD and GPx enzymes in all MOL‐supplemented groups. Serum lysozyme activities, IgM levels and complement C3 were elevated in MOL groups than the CONT group. Moreover, dietary MOL preserved the normal histomorphology of the intestines of the treated Nile tilapia along with a significant improvement in some intestinal morphometric indices. There was significant increase in the mRNA expressions of inf‐γ, il‐10 and tnf‐α genes in the spleen tissue of MOL groups. However, the mRNA expression levels of il‐1β were significantly decreased in MOL groups. Of interest, the second‐order polynomial regression clarified that a 5.80 g MOL/kg diet is the optimum dietary supplementation level for better growth and no side effects on the health condition of fish. Altogether, dietary MOL could be recommended as a practical feed supplement to enhance growth, intestinal health, antioxidant capacity and immunity of Nile tilapia reared in hapas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Phytogenics are plant-based compounds with beneficial actions in feed technology and/or animal health. These so-called plant secondary metabolites are very diverse and with wide possible applications in humans and animals. Among them, essential oils (EOs) are the most used in feed for livestock and pets. Lately, melatonin has acquired new and interesting applications in dogs. Recent studies using EOs and/or melatonin in dog feeding and their involvement in health aspects are presented. The use of nutraceuticals or functional ingredients is increasingly widespread in human food; their use is also widespread in animal feed. These natural compounds generally come from plant materials and comprise a wide range of substances of a very diverse chemical nature. In animals, these compounds, so-called phytogenics, are used to obtain improvements in feed production/stability and also as functional components with repercussions on animal health. Along with polyphenols, isoprenoid compounds represent a family of substances with wide applications in therapy and pet nutrition. Essential oils (EOs) are a group of complex substances with fat-soluble nature that are widely used. Melatonin is an indolic amine present in all living with amphiphilic nature. In this work, we present a review of the most relevant phytogenics (polyphenol, isoprenoid, and alkaloid compounds), their characteristics, and possible uses as nutraceuticals in dogs, with special emphasis on EOs and their regulatory aspects, applied in foods and topically. Additionally, a presentation of the importance of the use of melatonin in dogs is developed, giving physiological and practical aspects about its use in dog feeding and also in topical application, with examples and future projections. This review points to the combination of EOs and melatonin in food supplements and in the topical application as an innovative product and shows excellent perspectives aimed at addressing dysfunctions in pets, such as the treatment of stress and anxiety, sleep disorders, alopecia, and hair growth problems, among others. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: This study aimed to characterize the critical points for determining the development of dysbiosis associated with feed intolerances and ruminal acidosis. Methods and Results: A metabologenomics approach was used to characterize dynamic microbial and metabolomics shifts using the rumen simulation technique (RUSITEC) by feeding native cornstarch (ST), chemically modified cornstarch (CMS), or sucrose (SU). SU and CMS elicited the most drastic changes as rapidly as 4 h after feeding. This was accompanied by a swift accumulation of d‐lactate, and the decline of benzoic and malonic acid. A consistent increase in Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus as well as a decrease in fibrolytic bacteria was observed for both CMS and ST after 24 h, indicating intolerances within the fibre degrading populations. However, an increase in Lactobacillus was already evident in SU after 8 h. An inverse relationship between Fibrobacter and Bifidobacterium was observed in ST. In fact, Fibrobacter was positively correlated with several short‐chain fatty acids, while Lactobacillus was positively correlated with lactic acid, hexoses, hexose‐phosphates, pentose phosphate pathway (PENTOSE‐P‐PWY), and heterolactic fermentation (P122‐PWY). Conclusions: The feeding of sucrose and modified starches, followed by native cornstarch, had a strong disruptive effect in the ruminal microbial community. Feed intolerances were shown to develop at different rates based on the availability of glucose for ruminal microorganisms. Significance and Impact of the study: These results can be used to establish patterns of early dysbiosis (biomarkers) and develop strategies for preventing undesirable shifts in the ruminal microbial ecosystem. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reports of the underlying mechanisms of dietary grape extract (GE) in overcoming weaning challenges in piglets have been partly inconsistent. Furthermore, evaluations of the effects of GE at weaning in comparison to those of widely used therapeutic antibiotics have been scarce. To explore the mode of action of GE in selected tissues and plasma, we evaluated gut morphology, antioxidant and inflammation indices. Accordingly, 180 weaning piglets were allocated to three treatment groups: negative control (NC), NC and antibiotic treatment for the first 5 days of the trial (positive control, PC), and NC and GE (entire trial). The villus surface was positively affected by GE and PC on day 27/28 of the trial in the jejunum and on day 55/56 of the trial in the ileum. In the colon, NC tended (p < 0.10) to increase crypt parameters compared to PC on day 55/56. The PC group tended (p < 0.10) to increase catalase activity in the ileum and decrease Cu/Zn-SOD activity in the jejunum, both compared to NC. There were no additional effects on antioxidant measurements of tissue and plasma, tissue gene expression, or plasma acute-phase proteins. In conclusion, GE supplementation beneficially affected the villus surface of the small intestine. However, these changes were not linked to the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of GE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 10-week trial was undertaken to evaluate the effects of a phytogenic feed additive (Digestrom P.E.P) on growth, proximate chemical composition, hematological, and immunological indices of juvenile beluga sturgeon Huso huso (159.5 ± 0.2 g initial weight). Twelve 800 L tanks were stocked with 15 fish in each, with three tanks being used for each feed treatment. The fish were fed to satiation (4 meals day−1) for 70 days, during which time they were given either a control feed (40.7% protein, 16.1% fat, 12.5% moisture, and 9.1% ash) without Digestrom P.E.P (diet 0) or a feed containing 10, 20, or 40 g kg−1 Digestrom P.E.P. After 70 days, a significantly higher (p <.05) final individual weight was recorded for fish given the feed with 20 g kg−1 Digestrom P.E.P (ca 435 g) than for fish given the other feeds (range ca 397–417 g). There were no significant effects on feed intake, feed conversion ratio, fish condition factor, and survival rate (p >.05). Fish given the feed with 20 g kg−1 Digestrom P.E.P had significantly higher carcass crude protein (ca 18.9%) than fish provided with the other feeds (carcass protein range ca 14.8–17.8%), but there were no significant effects on carcass fat, ash, and moisture contents. Moreover, no changes were observed in the number of red blood cells, hemoglobin, hematocrit value, mean corpuscular volume, mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration, lymphocytes, monocytes, and eosinophils among the treatments (p >.05). We observed the highest number of white blood cells (11.5 ± 0.1 × 103 mm−3) and neutrophils (31.0 ± 0.8%) in fish fed with 20 g kg−1 Digestrom P.E.P. Furthermore, among the non-specific parameters, fish fed with 10 and 20 g kg−1 Digestrom P.E.P had the highest lysozyme activity compared to other treatments (p <.05). Based on the results, we can conclude that Digestrom P.E.P at the level of 20 g kg−1 as an immunostimulant in the diet of juvenile beluga sturgeon can enhance growth performance and innate immune system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of pre-treating Moringa oleifera leaf powder (MOLP) with different levels of polyethylene glycol (PEG) on the growth performance, serum biochemistry, hematology, and meat quality parameters of Jumbo quail was evaluated. Two-week-old quail chicks (n = 432; 239.6 ± 6.48 g live-weight) were randomly allocated to six diets formulated by incorporating (10% w/w) untreated MOLP (PEG0) or MOLP pre-treated with PEG at 2.5% (PEG25), 5% (PEG50), 7.5% (PEG75), and 10% (PEG100) (w/w) into a standard grower diet (CON). Overall feed intake linearly increased with PEG levels. At week 4, significant quadratic trends were recorded for weight gain and feed conversion efficiency (FCE) but, at week 5, FCE linearly declined as PEG levels increased. Hemoglobin, phosphorus, and albumin showed quadratic trends, while calcium and chroma (1 h post-mortem) linearly declined in response to PEG levels. Diet PEG50 promoted a higher shear force value (2.41) than diets PEG0 and PEG25. The PEG50 diet promoted a similar (p > 0.05) shear force as diet CON. Based on the quadratic response for weight gain, the optimal PEG pre-treatment level was calculated to be 5.9%. It was concluded that MOLP condensed tannins negatively affect growth performance and should be ameliorated to enhance the utility of this nutraceutical source for Jumbo quail. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The predominant saturated fatty acids (FA) in the tested juices were palmitic, the predominant monounsaturated FA were palmitoleic and oleic, and linoleic and linolenic the predominant polyunsaturated FA, confirming literature reports [[23]]. Chemical Composition of Wheat and Barley Grass Juice The profile of non-polar (fatty acids FA) and polar compounds in wheat grass juice (WGJ) and barley grass juice (BGJ) are presented in Supplementary Materials Tables S1 and S2. By comparison, there was a better saturated FA/total unsaturated FA ratio of BGJ (0.83) due to the fact that the content of decanoic and palmitic acids (the main saturated FA) was lower and the content of palmitoleic, linoleic and linolenic acids (the main unsaturated FA) was higher (Supplementary Materials, Table S3). [Extracted from the article]

Nile tilapia were fed four levels (0, 0.25, 0.5, and 1 ml/kg) of a liquid blend of herbal essential oils (EOs) containing carvacrol, oregano, 1,8 cineol, thymol, pinene, pinene β, limonene, and propylene glycol for 60 days. The results showed higher final weight, weight gain, and specific growth rate (P<0.05) in fish delivered 0.25 and 0.5 ml EOs/kg than the control. However, the feed conversion ratio was markedly reduced in fish fed 0.5 and 1 ml EOs/kg (P<0.05). Lipase showed enhanced activity in fish subjected to a blend of EOs, while fish fed 0.5 ml/kg of EOs blend had higher amylase activity (P<0.05) than the other levels. Lysozyme activity and superoxide dismutase showed a higher value in fish that received 0.5 ml EOs/kg. Additionally, phagocytic and catalase activities were enhanced in fish that received 0.5 and 1 ml/kg while phagocytic index was enhanced in fish fed 1 ml/kg (P<0.05). Interestingly, the total immunoglobulin level was markedly higher, while malondialdehyde was lower in EOs-subjected fish (P<0.05) than in control. The histomorphology appearance of the intestine, liver, and spleen was enriched in EOs-treated fish compared to the control fish. In conclusion, the growth performance, feed efficiency, and blood bio-immunological indices were best in fish fed 0.5–1 ml of EOs blend per kg. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This experiment was carried out to investigate the effect of diet containing herbal blend (HB) of turmeric (Curcuma longa), scent leaf (Ocimum gratissimum), and moringa leaf (Morinda lucida) supplemented with or without L-arginine (L-Arg) on growth performance, intestinal morphology, and caecal microflora of guinea fowls. Three hundred and sixty 28-day-old male guinea fowls were randomly allotted in a completely randomized design to six treatment groups of sixty birds; each treatment group consisted of six replicates of ten birds each. Dietary treatments were laid out in a 3 x 2 factorial arrangement of the basal diet (control), diet containing enrofloxacin (1 g/kg), HB (1 g/kg diet), and each supplemented with or without L-Arg at 1 g/kg. Notwithstanding dietary supplementation with L-Arg, guinea fowls fed the diets with HB, and their counterparts fed the diets with antibiotics had similar weight gain during the growing period. Dietary L-Arg supplementation with HB increased (p<0.05) feed intake. Feed conversion ratio (p<0.05) was improved in guinea fowls fed the diets with HB and their counterparts fed with antibiotic supplemented or not with L-Arg. L-Arg supplementation of the diet with HB resulted in the longest (p<0.05) duodenal villi height and the shortest (p<0.05) duodenal apical width in young turkeys. The caeca content of growing guinea fowls fed the diet with HB supplemented with L-Arg had the least (p<0.05) Clostridium count and the highest (p<0.05) Lactobaccillus count. In conclusion, guinea fowls fed the diet with HB supplemented or not with L-Arg had similar growth performance with those fed with an antibiotic. L-Arg supplementation of the diet with HB resulted in increased caecal Lactobacillus counts of growing birds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to assess the ability of vegetable oil of Pistacia lentiscus L. (lentiscus oil) in stimulating growth performance of broiler chickens and protecting them against coccidiosis. For this purpose, an in vitro test was first carried out to evaluate the destructive effect of this oil on Eimeria spp oocysts. On the other hand, an in vivo study was carried out to evaluate, once again, the capacity of the vegetable oil of Pistacia lentiscus L. in stimulating broilers growth performance and reducing the coccidiosis clinical signs. Thus, day old chicks were randomly divided into four equal groups: (1) uninfected and not-supplemented control (NI NS); (2) uninfected and supplemented (NI S); (3) infected and not supplemented (I NS); (4) infected and supplemented (IS). Each group was divided into three replicates containing each of them two subjects. The experimental groups (2 and 4) are supplemented with lentiscus oil by force-feeding at the rate of 1 mL per day from the 18th day until the end of the experiment. The chicks of the third and the fourth group are inoculated orally with sporulated oocysts (6.5 × 105 oocysts of Eimeria spp) on the day 20 of age. The results showed that lentiscus oil has an anticoccidial dose-dependent effect as shown by oocysts counting and released substances measurement at 273 nm. The growth performance of the (NI S) group was found better with an improvement percentage of 9.14% compared to the control (p < 0.05). Likewise, the weight gain of the (I S) group seems slightly higher than that of the control one (1316 g and 1235 g, respectively) (p < 0.05). In conclusion, the vegetable oil of Pistacia lentiscus L. has shown, not only, a promising growth effect in broiler chickens, but also, it seems to have a protective effect against coccidiosis sequels caused by Eimeria acervulina infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The intense pressure on the poultry sector to promote safe chicken meat and egg has sparked interest in the use of natural and consumer- accepted phytogenic feed additives. The majority of literature on the benefits of turmeric (Curcuma longa) and Negro pepper (Xylopia aethiopica) is focused on layers and there is no evidence of turmeric and Negro pepper interactive effects. Therefore, this study was conducted to evaluate the effect of turmeric and Negro pepper mixture on serum biochemical and haematological constituents of broiler chicks fed for 48 days. A total of 96 one-day-old Arbor acres chicks of mixed sexes were used for the experiment. The birds were randomly assigned to four treatment groups and replicated three times in a completely randomized design. The milled turmeric and Negro pepper were mixed in the ratio of 50:50 (50%) and used in the formulation of turmeric and Negro pepper mixture (TNPM) diets. The four experimental diets were formulated to contain 0.00, 0.50, 1.00, and 1.50% dietary levels of inclusion of TNPM at the starter phase and 0.00, 1.50, 3.00, and 4.50% inclusion levels at the finishing phase respectively. Blood samples were collected from the brachial wing vein on the 24th and 48th days of the experiment and were evaluated for serum biochemical and haematological constituents. At the starter phase, red blood cells (RBC) was significantly (P <0.05) improved at a 1.50% dietary level of TNPM. Haemoglobin (Hb) was better (P <0.05) in 0.50 and 1.50% inclusion levels. Mean cell haemoglobin concentration (MCHC) and White blood cells were enhanced (P <0.05) among the treatment groups compared to the control. Total protein, albumin, uric acid and cholesterol concentrations were reduced significantly (P <0.05) in 1.50% inclusion. Alkaline phosphatase value was significantly (P <0.05) lower in birds fed 1.00% TNPM. At the finishing phase, packed cell volume was significantly (P <0.05) higher in 1.50 and 3.00%. RBC was significantly (P <0.05) higher in birds fed 1.50 and 4.50% TNPM. Hb and mean cell volume values were significantly (P <0.05) higher in 1.50% when compared to 0.00%. MCHC was better (P <0.05) among birds fed 1.50% in comparison with those fed 0.00 and 4.50%. WBC was generally improved (P <0.05) among the treatment groups. Total protein and cholesterol values were higher (P <0.05) in the control. Albumin was higher (P <0.05) in 0.00 and 1.50%. Globulin produced a significantly (P <0.05) lower value in 1.50%. Aspartate aminotransferase produced significantly (P <0.05) higher value in T2. It was concluded that up to 1.50 and 4.50% of TNPM could be included in starting and finishing broiler diets without any detrimental effect on serum biochemical and haematological constituents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An effective replacement for fish meal (FM) and fish oil (FO) based on plant-based raw materials in the feed of marine fish species is necessary for the sustainability of the aquaculture sector. However, the use of plant-based raw materials to replace FM and FO has been associated with several negative health effects, some of which are related to oxidative stress processes that can induce functional and morphological alterations in mucosal tissues. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of dietary oligosaccharides of plant origin (5,000 ppm; galactomannan oligosaccharides, GMOS) and a phytogenic feed additive (200 ppm; garlic oil and labiatae plant extract mixture, PHYTO) on the oxidative stress status and mucosal health of the gills of juvenile European sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax). The experimental diets, low FM and FO diets (10%FM/6%FO) were supplemented with GMOS from plant origin and PHYTO for 63 days. GMOS and PHYTO did not significantly affect feed utilization, fish growth, and survival. GMOS and PHYTO downregulated the expression of β-act , sod , gpx , cat , and gr in the gills of the fish compared with that in fish fed the control diet. The expression of hsp70 and ocln was upregulated and downregulated, respectively, in the GMOS group compared with that in the control group, whereas the expression of zo-1 was downregulated in the PHYTO group compared with that in the GMOS group. The morphological, histopathological, immunohistochemical, and biochemical parameters of the fish gills were mostly unaffected by GMOS and PHYTO. However, the PHYTO group had lower incidence of lamellar fusion than did the control group after 63 days. Although the tissular distribution of goblet cells was unaffected by GMOS and PHYTO, goblet cell size showed a decreasing trend (−11%) in the GMOS group. GMOS and PHYTO significantly reduced the concentration of PCNA+ in the epithelium of the gills. The above findings indicated that GMOS and PHYTO in low FM/FO-based diets protected the gill epithelia of D. labrax from oxidative stress by modulating the expression of oxidative enzyme-related genes and reducing the density of PCNA+ cells in the gills of the fish. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Consumer demand is driving the swine industry to review the use of both antibiotic and ionophore-type antimicrobial agents in feed due to concerns of antimicrobial resistance. Additionally, when a feed mill is manufacturing feed for multiple species including those that are sensitive to ionophore contamination or toxicity such as horses, turkeys and game birds, additional vigilance is required which may deter use of ionophore-type antimicrobials in swine feed. Naturally, a large push has been toward the use of phytogenic additives that may also have some antimicrobial benefits. CAPS C2PG (Probiotech International Inc.) is a phytogenic feed additive comprised of a proprietary blend of spice oleoresins. The aim of this experiment was to evaluate CAPS C2PG as an alternative to the ionophore, salinomycin, in growfinish pigs. Pigs (n = 1056 Improvest injected males) were housed in 48 pens distributed in 4 rooms (12 pens/room) of a compound building fully equipped with an automatic and computerized Gestal Feed system. Each pen (22 pigs/pen, with a starting density of 7.3 ft2/pig) was equipped with a single 2-space Crystal Spring feeder. During grow-finish (98.3 ± 0.6 days), pigs were allotted to three different treatments (16 repetitions/treatment): salinomycin (25 ppm; Sal.), CAPS C2PG (35 ppm; CAPS.), or a combination treatment (25 ppm Sal. + 35ppm CAPS C2PG; Sal. + CAPS.). Growth performances variables were measured with feed intake monitored per pen daily, and ADG assessed every 3 weeks based on pen weight. All dead or culled pigs were weighed upon removal. Data were analyzed by an ANOVA model (Statistix 8.0; Analytical Software, FL) including treatment and pen as fixed and random effects, respectively. Pairwise comparisons were completed with a Chi-square test. Results are presented in Table 1. There were no differences (P > 0.05) in any of the performance parameters measured throughout the grow-finish period. The lack of difference in performance variables of grow-finish pigs consuming Sal. versus CAPS. demonstrates the potential to substitute an antimicrobial ionophore-type with a phytogenic based on a blend of spice oleoresins. The lack of an additive effect of combining Sal. and CAPS. requires further investigation. With current CAD prices, 25 ppm of salinomycin are between CAD 1.75-2.00 per medicated tonne of feed, whereas 35 ppm of CAPS C2PG are about CAD 1.50 per supplemented tonne of feed. Thus, CAPS C2PG may be an economical and consumer-friendly option in grow-finish pig diets compared with salinomycin. Further research is warranted on the use of this product in other phases of pig production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant‐derived products have been suggested to partially replace fishmeal in aquafeed; however, often at decreased growth performance, inflammatory responses, and increased susceptibility to diseases. This study assessed the effects of the commercial phytogenic feed additive Digestarom PEP MGE on the growth, nutritional performance, and immune response of L. vannamei. Juvenile shrimp (N = 540) were stocked in 36 tanks (V = 100 L) for 63 days and fed one of the four experimental diets: (i) standard formulation (control, 24% fishmeal), (ii) low fishmeal diet (5%), (iii) low fishmeal diet plus 0.2 g/kg Digestarom PEP MGE, and (iv) low fishmeal diet plus 0.4 g/kg Digestarom PEP MGE. The results obtained after 63 days of feed supplementation suggest that the blend of essential oils tested compensated for the negative performance and health consequences of the low fishmeal diet. Particularly, the survival, FCR, total hemocyte count, and respiratory burst of the shrimp fed a low fishmeal diet supplemented with this phytogenic improved up to the levels recorded for shrimp fed a high fishmeal diet. Overall, results suggest that Digestarom PEP MGE can be incorporated into shrimp low fishmeal diets to compensate for the negative performance and immunological effects of partially replacing fishmeal with plant‐based protein. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coccidiosis remains a major disease and economic challenge for the global poultry industry. Coccidiosis in chickens is caused by seven Eimeria species that target specific regions of the gastrointestinal tract and cause malabsorptive or haemorrhagic disease. These Eimeria species infect segment-specific epithelial cells and thus need to navigate the host's indigenous microbiome and intestinal defences to establish an infection and cause disease. Good husbandry practices, prophylactic use of anticoccidial drugs and/or live parasite vaccination have been the primary control measures employed but there are challenges with vaccination and growing constraints on anticoccidial drug use. This review, therefore, considers available information on the key steps of the infection process, notable microbiome- or host-related changes occurring, and the (potential) influence of dietary 'alternatives' to anticoccidial drugs. There is good available evidence to indicate that some phytogenics, prebiotics, probiotics, betaine, n-3 fatty acids, as well as carbohydrase enzymes and anti-IL-10 antibodies, can (beneficially) modulate at least some of these features in coccidiosis-specific challenge studies. As a minimum, these anticoccidial drug 'alternatives' could support the establishment of a desirable host microbiome and optimum immune system development. It is important to better understand the potential of these 'alternatives' in commercial production and how they can complement, or reduce, the use of anticoccidial drugs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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This study assessed the effects of Irvingia gabonensis kernel powder (IKP) and Ocimum gratissimum leaf powder (OLP) dietary supplementation on performance of broiler chicken. A basal diet divided into four portions, designated diet 1 (the control) and diets 2, 3 and 4 supplemented with 2.5g.kg-1 IKP, OLP and IKP+OLP composite mix 1:1 (IOCM), respectively. Two hundred and forty 1-day broiler chicks were randomly assigned to the four experimental diets (60 birds/diet; 10 birds per/replicate) using a Completely Randomised Design. At the finisher phase, the body weight gain and feed conversion ratio of the birds fed diets 2 and 4 were better (P < 0.05) than those fed the diets 1 and 3. During the overall period, the body weight gain of birds fed diet 4 was similar to those fed diet 2 but higher than those fed diets 1 and 3, while the feed conversion ratio of birds in diets 2 and 4 was better (P < 0.05) than those fed diets 1 and 3. The slaughtered and dressed weights of the birds fed diets 2 and 4 were significantly (P < 0.05) better than those birds fed the diets 1 and 3. The dressing percentage of the birds fed diets 2 and 4 were higher (P < 0.05) than those fed diet 1. White blood cells, granulocytes and lymphocytes counts were (P < 0.05) higher in birds fed diet 4 compared to those on other diets. Serum cholesterol concentration and meat lipid peroxidation activities were significantly (P < 0.05) lower in the birds fed diets 2, 3 and 4 compared to diet 1. The catalase concentration in the birds fed diets 3 and 4 were (P < 0.05) higher than those chickens fed diet 1, while the glutathione peroxidase concentration in the birds fed the diets 2 and 4 were (P < 0.05) higher than those fed diet 1. Glutathione concentration was higher (P < 0.05) in meat from birds fed diets 2, 3 and 4, compared to the birds fed diet 1. The meat cholesterol concentration recorded in the birds fed diet 4 was comparable (P > 0.05) to diets 2 and 3, but lower (P < 0.05) than diet 1. The IKP and IOCM supplementation improved the growth performance of the broiler chickens. The overall health status and meat quality were also improved by the phytogenic supplements in this study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Effects of pawpaw leaf and seed meals composite mix (PCM) supplementation on broiler chickens were assessed. A total of 396-day-old Arbor Acres broiler chicks were distributed to six diets: 1 = 0 g/kg PCM; 2 = 2 g/kg PCM; 3 = 4 g/kg PCM; 4 = 6 g/kg PCM; 5 = 8 g/kg PCM; and 6 = 10 g/kg PCM. Body weight gain and feed conversion ratio of the birds fed diet 5 was similar to those fed diets 4 and 6 but better than (P < 0.05) those fed diets 1, 2 and 3 at grower phase and overall period of the feeding trial. Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) concentration decreased in the birds with an increase in the dietary PCM supplementation level such that ALT concentration reduction (P < 0.05) was recorded in the birds fed diets 5 and 6 when compared to those fed diet 1. The serum cholesterol in birds fed diets 3, 4, 5 and 6 was similar to the level recorded for birds fed diet 2 but lower (P < 0.05) than the level in birds fed the control diet. The superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase serum concentration improved (P < 0.05) in the birds fed PCM-supplemented diets (2 to 6) compared to those fed diet 1. Catalase serum concentration in birds fed diet 5 was similar to those fed diets 3, 4 and 6 but higher (P < 0.05) than the concentration in birds fed diets 1 and 2. The PCM dietary supplementations (6 g/kg to 10 g/kg) did not affect on the performance and health status of the broiler chickens negatively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The success of nutritional strategies for the prevention of subacute ruminal acidosis (SARA) and the related microbial dysbiosis still remains unpredictable due to the complexity of the rumen ecosystem. The rumen epimural community, due to proximity, has the greatest opportunity to influence host gene expression. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of two separate feed additives on the rumen epimural community and host epithelial gene expression. Eight rumen cannulated Holstein cows were randomly assigned to one of three feeding groups: autolyzed yeast (AY), phytogenics (PHY) and control (CON) using a 3 × 3 Latin square design. Cows were fed an intermittent SARA model that started with 100% forage diet (Baseline) followed by two 65% concentrate-diet induced SARA challenges (SARAI, SARAII), separated by 1 week of forage only feeding. Rumen papillae samples were collected via the cannula during the Baseline, SARAI and SARAII periods. Microbial DNA was extracted and sequenced targeting the 16S rRNA gene and host RNA was analyzed using RT-qPCR. Analysis of the taxonomic composition at the genera level showed a tendency to increase in the relative abundances of Pseudobutyrivibrio (P = 0.06), Selenomonas (P = 0.07) and significantly increase in SHD-231 (P = 0.01) in PHY treated animals, whereas Succiniclasticum tended to decrease in both PHY and AY treated animals compared to the control. Linear discriminant analysis effect size testing was performed and based on treatment × feeding phase interaction, a number of biomarker genera were identified including the previously identified Succiniclasticum. Supplementation with AY correlated positively with CD14 and DRA expression and negatively to CLDN1 , MyD88 , and MCT4 expression. Supplementation with PHY showed a negative correlation to CLDN4 gene expression. Anaerovibrio showed the highest positive Pearson correlations to biogenic amines tested in the rumen fluid including putrescine (r = 0.67), cadaverine (r = 0.84), and tyramine (r = 0.83). These results show that supplementing feed additives to high grain diets can have a positive influence on the stability of the epimural populations, and that changes in the epimural community are correlated with changes in host epithelial gene expression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the study is to use meta-analytical procedure to resolve uncertainty, identify knowledge gaps, and create new insights using published data on the phytobiotic effect of dietary pepper intervention on daily feed intake (DFI), average daily gain (ADG), and feed conversion ratio (FCR) in broiler chickens. The authors accessed AGORA, Scopus, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar databases for primary studies published between 2011 and 2018 using combinations of different search terms. Fifteen studies were included to assess phytobiotic effect of pepper on DFI, FCR, and ADG in broiler chickens. Random-effects model (REM) was used to generate pooled effect estimates at 95% confidence intervals (CI). Analysis was performed using Open Meta-analyst for Ecology and Evolution (OpenMEE) software, while publication bias and source of heterogeneity were assessed using standard methods. Dietary pepper supplementation enhanced ADG (standardized mean difference (SMD) = 0.576, 95% CI 0.444 to 0.707, p < 0.001) and FCR (SMD = 0.325, 95% CI − 0.453 to − 0.196, p < 0.001) considering the presence of heterogeneity and publication bias. DFI (SMD = 0.052, 95%CI − 0.069 to 0.173, p = 0.403) was not significantly influenced by dietary pepper supplementation. Restricted subgroup analysis revealed that both black and red pepper increased ADG (p < 0.001). Broilers on black pepper intervention had better FCR (p = 0.002) than broilers on red pepper treatment. Higher (p < 0.05) DFI was obtained on broilers fed pepper-based diet at the rate of > 6 g/kg feed for 35 days. There was no association between DFI and explanatory variables (broiler strain used and number of broilers used), whereas study country influenced DFI (p < 0.001). Furthermore, there was an association between outcome of interests (ADG and FCR) and explanatory variables (supplementation level, study country, number of broilers used per treatment group, and broiler strain used). Broilers on dietary pepper intervention for 42 days had higher ADG (SMD = 62.2 g/bird/day, p < 0.001) than those on dietary pepper intervention for 56 days (SMD = 35.7 g/bird/day, p = 0.002). There is evidence of heterogeneity, and meta-regression analysis showed that study country, supplementation level, and broiler strain used explained most of the sources of heterogeneity. The results of the present study revealed the potential of dietary pepper intervention to improve production efficiency in broiler chickens. The current meta-analysis also set the steps for standardized experimental designs on the use of dietary pepper intervention in broiler feeding trials in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of feed additives to improve the efficiency of growth and/or eggs production, prevent disease and improve feed utilization is a strategy to improve the efficiency of the poultry industry. Feed additives may not enter the market in Europe unless authorisation has been given following a scientific evaluation. The use and development of enzymes, phytogenics, prebiotics and probiotics has gained momentum in poultry feeding. The enzymes widely used by the industry are the non-starch polysaccharidases that cleave the non-starch polysaccharides in viscous cereals, microbial phytases that target the phytatecomplexes in plant ingredients. Proteases are of interest to improve protein and amino acid digestibility, particularly in very young animals. Phytogenics are an alternative to in-feed antibiotics to prevent the risk of developing pathogens and also to satisfy consumer demand for a food chain free of drugs. Probiotic feed additives generally consist of one single strain or a combination of several strains of bacteria, Bacillus spores or yeasts species. Prebiotics are non-digestible food ingredients, such as fructo-oligo-saccharides, xylo-oligo-saccharides, mannan-oligo-saccharides and galacto-oligo-saccharides that are also used in feeds to protect poultry against pathogens. Future research needs to be directed towards understanding how combinations of these additives can be used to improve the effi ciency of poultry production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phytogenics have been reported to improve growth performances in farm animals and are thereby considered as potential key solutions for antibiotic-free livestock nutrition. Yet, their effects on meat quality are still not well defined; therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the effects of 5 experimental phytogenic additives (3 dietary and 2 water supplements) on growth and meat quality in broilers. One-dayold broiler chicks (n = 576) were assigned to 48 floor pens and divided into 6 treatments (Control, AV/HGP/16 premix [AVHGP], Superliv concentrate premix [SCP], bacteriostatic herbal growth promotor [BHGP], AV/SSL/12 [AVSSL], and Superliv Gold [SG]) in a complete randomized design (8 pens/treatment with 12 birds/pen, and 96 birds/group). Feed intake and BW were recorded, and birds were processed at 42 d to evaluate carcass traits. Breast muscle tissues were excised to determine stress- and antioxidant-related genes expression. Both AVSSL- and SG-treated broilers produced heavier (P < 0.05) slaughter weights compared with the control-fed broilers, whereas AVSSL supplementation decreased (P < 0.05) fat pad size and increased (P < 0.05) breast weights compared with the control-fed broilers. Although pH and a* values remained unchanged, L* was decreased (P < 0.05) in all treatment and b* was reduced (P < 0.05) in SG when compared with controls. The trained sensory panelists detected more (P < 0.05) green herb flavor in the breast meat from AVHGP than SCP, SG, and control birds. The expression of superoxide dismutase 2, extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2, and JNK gene was upregulated in AVHGP and BHGP compared with the control (P < 0.05). Together, these results indicated that phytogenic additives might improve meat quality of broilers through modulation of stress- and antioxidant-related pathways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Environmental stressors like pathogens and toxins may depress the animal immune system through invasion of the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) tract, where they may impair performance and production, as well as lead to increased mortality rates. Therefore, protection of the GIT tract and improving animal health are top priorities in animal production. Being natural-sourced materials, phytochemicals are potential feed additives possessing multiple functions, including: anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal, anti-viral and antioxidative properties. This paper focuses on immunity-related physiological parameters regulated by phytochemicals, such as carvacrol, cinnamaldehyde, curcumin, and thymol; many studies have proven that these phytochemicals can improve animal performance and production. On the molecular level, the impact of inflammatory gene expression on underlying mechanisms was also examined, as were the effects of environmental stimuli and phytochemicals in initiating nuclear factor kappa B and mitogen-activated protein kinases signaling pathways and improving health conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A comparative evaluation of the two commercial essential oils of oregano in broiler diets on growth performance and immune responses was the purpose of this experiment. A total of 200-d-old Ross 308 chicks were used in a completely randomized design with 4 treatments and 5 replicates, with 10 birds in each. Dietary treatments included: (1) control (without phytogenic), (2) commercial blend of phytogenics (CBP; 150 ppm), (3) oregano essential oil (OEO; 300 ppm), and (4) OEO (500 ppm). During the entire period, ADFI was lower (P < .05) in CBP-fed birds than control, but was not different among CBP and either level of OEO (P > .05). European production efficiency factor was greater (P < .05) for broilers fed 300 ppm OEO than those fed control diet or CBP. Broilers fed 300 ppm OEO produced higher secondary total antibody titre against sheep red blood cell (P < .01) and their Immunoglobulin G titre was higher (P < .05) than those fed control or CBP. Serum heterophil counts (P < .01) and heterophils to lymphocytes ratio (P < .05) were lower in birds fed 300 ppm OEO or CBP than the control. Supplementation of OEO at the rate of 300 ppm in diet led to beneficial effects on performance and immune response of broilers. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]