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In the poultry industry, there is an urgent need to evaluate and introduce natural, effective, and safe alternatives for synthetic antibiotics, which have been banned in most countries. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of dietary supplementation with Piper sarmentosum extract (PSE) on the growth performance, intestinal barrier function, and metabolism of growing chickens. A total of 400 seven-day-old female chicks were randomly assigned to four dietary treatments, each of which consisted of five replicates and twenty birds each. The four experimental treatments were fed a basal diet containing 0, 100, 200, and 300 mg PSE/kg (BC, PSE1, PSE2, and PSE3 groups), respectively. The experiment lasted for 28 days. The results showed that dietary supplementation with PSE had no significant effects on the final body weight, average daily gain (ADG), average daily feed intake (ADFI), and the ratio of ADFI to ADG (F/G) (p > 0.05). Compared with the BC group, dietary supplementation with 200–300 mg/kg PSE increased the villus height in the jejunum and ileum of chickens (p < 0.05). The PSE-treated groups significantly increased the mRNA expression of Occludin, ZO-1, and Claudin-1 in the ileal mucosa of chickens (p < 0.05). In addition, a significant decrease in ileal TNF-α and IL-8 mRNA expression (p < 0.05) and a significant increase in IL-22 (p < 0.05) were observed in the PSE2 treatment compared to the BC group. Additionally, three gut metabolites (i.e., citrate, isocitrate, and spermine) showed significant differences among treatments (p < 0.05) and were involved in the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle, the transfer of acetyl groups into mitochondria, and spermidine and spermine biosynthesis, respectively. In conclusion, the findings obtained here indicate that supplemental PSE can enhance the anti-inflammatory capacity and intestinal mucosal barrier function of chickens.

Seed dispersal has become an important component in understanding plant–animal interaction. Recently, there have been concerns about the role of ruminants, particularly browsers, in the dispersal of woody plant seeds. This study aimed to determine whether including Vachellia nilotica seeds in livestock, diets could reduce the spread of viable seeds in the rangelands and control bush encroachment. The shoots and seed pods of Vachellia nilotica were harvested and analyzed for fiber, protein, and mineral nutrients at different seed pods inclusion rates, with or without a feed additive. Six diets were selected for feeding 24 goats and quantifying seed recovery and germination after ingestion. Results indicated that including seed pods and feed additives to Vachellia nilotica shoots significantly improved the quality of the fodder. Chipping the seed pods prior to including them in the diet resulted in 13% intact seed recovery, and approximately 2% of these seeds were recovered after ingestion. These recovered seeds were mostly still viable but were still dormant as seed coats were not sufficiently damaged after ingestion. Therefore, viable seeds may still be dispersed in the rangeland, leading to further bush encroachment.

Mycotoxins are toxic compounds produced by certain strains of fungi that can contaminate raw feed materials. Once ingested, even in small doses, they cause multiple health issues for animals and, downstream, for people consuming meat. It was proposed that inclusion of antioxidant-rich plant-derived feed might diminish the harmful effects of mycotoxins, maintaining the farm animals’ health and meat quality for human consumption. This work investigates the large scale proteomic effects on piglets’ liver of aflatoxin B1 and ochratoxin A mycotoxins and the potential compensatory effects of grapeseed and sea buckthorn meal administration as dietary byproduct antioxidants against mycotoxins’ damage. Forty cross-bred TOPIGS-40 hybrid piglets after weaning were assigned to three (n = 10) experimental groups (A, M, AM) and one control group (C) and fed with experimental diets for 30 days. After 4 weeks, liver samples were collected, and the microsomal fraction was isolated. Unbiased label-free, library-free, data-independent acquisition (DIA) mass spectrometry SWATH methods were able to relatively quantify 1878 proteins from piglets’ liver microsomes, confirming previously reported effects on metabolism of xenobiotics by cytochrome P450, TCA cycle, glutathione synthesis and use, and oxidative phosphorylation. Pathways enrichment revealed that fatty acid metabolism, steroid biosynthesis, regulation of actin cytoskeleton, regulation of gene expression by spliceosomes, membrane trafficking, peroxisome, thermogenesis, retinol, pyruvate, and amino acids metabolism pathways are also affected by the mycotoxins. Antioxidants restored expression level of proteins PRDX3, AGL, PYGL, fatty acids biosynthesis, endoplasmic reticulum, peroxisome, amino acid synthesis pathways, and, partially, OXPHOS mitochondrial subunits. However, excess of antioxidants might cause significant changes in CYP2C301, PPP4R4, COL18A1, UBASH3A, and other proteins expression levels. Future analysis of proteomics data corelated to animals growing performance and meat quality studies are necessary.

This study reports the outcomes of a survey on the use of additives in 120 Egyptian grow-out farms carried out between 2018 and 2019. The survey focused on farms rearing Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) in the biggest tilapia farming region in Egypt (Kafr El-Sheikh). Results were analysed to explore whether any type of additive was used, whether they were feed- or water-based and the frequency of use. A range of farm characteristics and farm management practices were used as independent variables to explain observed additive use patterns reported by farmers. The survey also gathered production data to explore a potential relationship between the use of additives and total marketable yield or mortality. The results of this survey display very low use of any sort of additive in this tilapia farming region (

The present study investigated the protective efficacy of dietary supplementation with clove essential oil (CEO), its main constituent eugenol (EUG), and their nanoformulated emulsions (Nano-CEO and Nano-EUG) against experimental coccidiosis in broiler chickens. To this aim, various parameters (oocyst number per gram of excreta (OPG), daily weight gain (DWG), daily feed intake (DFI), feed conversion ratio (FCR), serum concentrations of total proteins (TP), albumin (ALB), globulins (GLB), triglycerides (TG), cholesterol (CHO) and glucose (GLU), serum activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione s-transferase (GST), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx)] were compared among groups receiving CEO supplemented feed (CEO), Nano-CEO supplemented feed (Nano-CEO), EUG supplemented feed (EUG), Nano-EUG supplemented feed (Nano-EUG), diclazuril supplemented feed (standard treatment, ST), or basal diet [diseased control (d-CON) and healthy control (h-CON)), from days 1–42. Chickens of all groups, except h-CON, were challenged with mixed Eimeria spp. at 14 days of age. Coccidiosis development in d-CON was associated with impaired productivity (lower DWG and higher DFI and FCR relative to h-CON; p < 0.05) and altered serum biochemistry (decreased TP, ALB, and GLB concentrations and SOD, GST, and GPx activities relative to h-CON; p < 0.05). ST effectively controlled coccidiosis infection by significantly decreasing OPG values compared with d-CON (p < 0.05) and maintaining zootechnical and serum biochemical parameters at levels close to (DWG, FCR; p < 0.05) or not different from (DFI, TP, ALB, GLB, SOD, GST, and GPx) those of h-CON. Among the phytogenic supplemented (PS) groups, all showed decreased OPG values compared with d-CON (p < 0.05), with the lowest value being measured in Nano-EUG. All PS groups showed better values of DFI and FCR than d-CON (p < 0.05), but only in Nano-EUG were these parameters, along with DWG, not different from those of ST. Furthermore, Nano-EUG was the only PS group having all serum biochemical values not different (or even slightly improved) relative to ST and h-CON. In conclusion, the tested PS diets, especially Nano-EUG, can limit the deleterious effects of coccidiosis in broiler chickens, due to anticoccidial activity and possibly their reported antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, thereby representing a potential green alternative to synthetic anticoccidials.

This study was conducted to provide alternative high-quality feed and to reduce methane production using a mixture of the minimum effective levels of Euglena gracilis, EG, and Asparagopsis taxiformis, AT. This study was performed as a 24 h in vitro batch culture. Chemical analysis demonstrated that EG is a highly nutritive material with 26.1% protein and 17.7% fat. The results showed that the supplementation of AT as a feed additive at 1 and 2.5% of the diet reduced methane production by 21 and 80%, respectively, while the inclusion of EG in the diet at 10 and 25% through partially replacing the concentrate mixture reduced methane production by 4 and 11%, respectively, with no adverse effects on fermentation parameters. The mixtures of AT 1% with both EG 10% and EG 25% had a greater reductive potential than the individual supplementation of these algae in decreasing methane yield by 29.9% and 40.0%, respectively, without adverse impacts on ruminal fermentation characteristics. These results revealed that the new feed formulation had a synergistic effect in reducing methane emissions. Thus, this approach could provide a new strategy for a sustainable animal production industry.

Antibiotics can promote livestock growth but have side effects, so the search for safe and effective alternatives to antibiotics is urgent. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of supplementing cattle feed with tea saponins on ruminal bacteria and fungi. Sixteen Qinchuan beef cattle with a live body weight of 250 ± 10 kg were divided into four groups (four animals in each group) using a completely randomized experimental design. Four different levels of tea saponins were provided to the Qinchuan cattle as treatments, including 0 g/cattle per day control, CON), 10 g/cattle per day (low-level, LT), 20 g/cattle per day (medium-level, MT) and 30 g/cattle per day (high-level, HT). The pre-feeding period was 10 days and the official period was 80 days in this experiment. After 90 days of feeding, the rumen fluid from sixteen Qinchuan beef cattle was collected using an oral stomach tube for evaluating changes in ruminal microbiota and rumen fermentation parameters. Results indicate that the total VFAs and proportions of propionate in the LT group was significantly higher than that in the CON and HT groups (p < 0.05). For ruminal bacteria, results indicate that the Chao1 index of the MT group was significantly lower than the CON and HT groups (p < 0.05). The phyla Bacteroidetes and Firmicutes were found to be the most abundant in all treatment groups, with the LT group having significantly increased relative abundances of Proteobacteria, Actinobacteria and Ascomycota at the phylum level (p < 0.05). The relative abundance of Bacteroides was found to be relatively lower in the LT, MT and HT treatment groups compared with the CON treatment group at the genus level (p < 0.05). For ruminal fungi, the LT treatment group was found to have higher relative abundances of Saccharomyces and Aspergillus, and lower relative abundances of Succiniclasticum and Bacteroides at the at the phylum level (p < 0.05). Compared with the CON treatment group, a significant increase in the relative abundance of Saccharomyces and Aspergillus were observed in the LT treatment group at the genus level (p < 0.05). PICRUSt analyses identified pathways associated with Xenobiotic biodegradation and metabolism and glycolysisIII to be significantly enriched in the LT and HT treatment groups (p < 0.05). These findings could provide insights on how tea saponins may influence ruminal bacteria and fungi, providing a theoretical basis for replacing antibiotics with tea saponins for promoting growth in cattle.

This work aims to determine the impact of dietary supplementation of polysaccharide, extracted from brown seaweeds Sargassum dentifolium on growth indices, feed utilization, biochemical compositions, microbial abundance, expressions of growth and immunity-related genes, and stress genes of the Pacific Whiteleg shrimp Litopenaeus vannamei. A total of 360 post-larvae of L. vannamei were randomly distributed into a 12-glass aquarium (40 L of each) at a stocking density of 30 shrimp with an initial weight of (0.0017 ± 0.001 g). During the 90-day experiment trial, all shrimp larvae were fed their respective diets at 10% of total body weight, three times a day. Three experimental diets were prepared with different seaweed polysaccharide (SWP) levels. The basal control diet had no polysaccharide level (SWP0), while SWP1, SWP2, and SWP3 contained polysaccharides at concentrations of 1, 2, and 3 g kg−1 diet, respectively. Diets supplemented with polysaccharide levels showed significant improvements in weight gain and survival rate, compared to the control diet. Whole-body biochemical composition and the microbial abundance (the total count of heterotrophic bacteria and Vibrio spp.) of L. vannamei showed significant differences among polysaccharide-treated diets compared to the control. At the end of the feeding experiment, the dietary supplementation of polysaccharide levels enhanced the expression of growth-related genes (Insulin-like growth factors (IGF-I, IGF-II), immune-related genes (β -Glucan-binding protein (β-Bgp), Prophenoloxidase (ProPO), Lysozyme (Lys), and Crustin), and stress genes (Superoxide dismutase (SOD) and Glutathione peroxidase (GPx) in the muscle tissue of L. vannamei. However, the current study concluded that the inclusion rate of 2 g kg–1 of polysaccharide as a dietary additive administration enhanced both weight gain and survival rate of L. vannamei, while the incorporation level of 3 g kg–1 reduces the abundance of pathogenic microbes and enhances the growth-, immunity- and stress-related gene expressions of L. vannamei.

Post Weaning Diarrhea (PWD) is the most important multifactorial gastroenteric disease of the weaning in pig livestock. Phytogenic (PHY) natural extracts are largely studied as alternatives to antibiotic treatments in combating the global concern of the antimicrobial resistance. The aim of this study was to evaluate the protective effect of innovative phytogenic premix with or without short and medium chain fatty acids (SCFA and MCFA) in O138 Escherichia coli challenged piglets. Twenty-seven weaned piglets were allotted into four groups fed different diets according to the following dietary treatments: CTRL (n = 13) group fed basal diet, PHY1 (n = 7) fed the basal diet supplemented with 0.2% of phytogenic premix, PHY2 (n = 7) fed the basal diet supplemented with 0.2% of phytogenic premix added with 2000 ppm of SCFA and MCFA. After 6 days of experimental diet feeding, animals were challenged (day 0) with 2 × 109 CFU of E. coli and CTRL group was divided at day 0 into positive (challenged CTRL + ; n = 6) and negative control group (unchallenged CTRL-; n = 7). Body weights were recorded at -14, -6, 0, 4 and 7 days and the feed intake was recorded daily. E. coli shedding was monitored for 4 days post-challenge by plate counting. Fecal consistency was registered daily by a four-point scale (0–3; diarrhea > 1) during the post-challenge period. Tissue samples were obtained for gene expression and histological evaluations at day 7 from four animals per group. Lower average feed intake was observed in CTRL + compared to PHY2 and CTRL during the post-challenge period. Infected groups showed higher E. coli shedding compared to CTRL- during the 4 days post-challenge (p p = 0.066). In conclusion, dietary supplementation of PHY plus SCFA and MCFA revealed encouraging results for diarrhea prevention and growth performance in weaned piglets.

В опыте на цыплятах-бройлерах кросса Смена 9, выращиваемых в клеточных батареях типа Р-15 с первых суток по 35 день, была определена эффективность применения ферментного препарата Агропрот протеолитического действия в количестве 100, 200 и 300 г/т комбикорма растительного типа, содержащего 10% гороха. Более высокий прирост живой массы отмечался у бройлеров, получавших ферментный препарат в количестве 200 г/т, данный показатель превышал контрольное значение на 6,2%. Содержание протеина в грудных мышцах цыплят повышалось на 2,23%, а сырого жира снижалось на 1,57%. При этом затраты корма за период выращивания сократились на 7,37% за счет улучшения переваримости и использования питательных веществ., The effectiveness of supplementation of vegetable diets containing 10% of peas with proteolytic enzyme preparation Agroprot was studied in a trial on four treatments of broilers (cross Smena 9, 1–35 days of age; doses of enzyme 100, 200, and 300 ppm) housed in cage batteries R-15. The highest average daily weight gains at 35 days of age were found in the treatment fed 200 ppm of the enzyme, higher in compare to control by 6.2%. This dose of the enzyme also increased content of protein in breast muscles of broilers by 2.23% in compare to control, decreased crude fat content in breast muscles by 1.57%, and decreased feed conversion ratio at 35 days by 7.37% due to better digestibility and assimilation of dietary nutrients., Комбикорма, Выпуск 1 2023

Aquaculture has been steadily increasing global production; however, there remains a progressively greater demand for sustainable sources of protein, whilst the prevalence of disease represents a major constraint to industry growth. Feed additives are gaining traction as useful tools to help combat disease and promote health, and previous research has documented benefits to the mucosal surfaces and microbial communities within a range of teleost species. Three experimental in vivo feeding trials were undertaken using a range of in-depth analyses, such as growth performance, haematology, immunology, intestinal histology, intestinal gene expression and intestinal bacterial 16S rRNA sequence libraries. Studies were conducted on three important aquaculture species: rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss), Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) and Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus). All three experiments revealed that dietary B-GOS® applications modulated the intestinal bacterial communities and intestinal gene expression. Some of these modulations may have potential benefits at the localised level for the hosts. However, no significant improvements of growth performance metrics were observed at the whole organism level, where FCR, SGR, survival, weight gain, condition factor and body composition remained unaffected by treatment. Despite the lack of statistical significance, numerical improvements indicated that GOS at the inclusion rate of 4g kg¯¹ was the optimal concentration. Results from the experimental in vivo trials conducted during this research have provided evidence that a novel GOS tested in three commercially important teleost species had scope to improve localised intestinal health but offered little benefit to growth performance of fish reared with highly nutritious diets and excellent rearing conditions. Further research should prioritise the 4g kg¯¹ B-GOS® inclusion level for further investigation in these fish species whilst under pathogenic or environmental challenge, as this concentration presented the most potential to improve fish health and growth performance.

The bachelor thesis describes the antenatal period, delivery, treatment of the cow and calf after birth. Most attention is paid to nutrition and rearing of calves. The topic deals with the nutrition of the calf from the first days of life, as this period is the most important for the transmission of good immunity.The next period is dairy nutrition, which is associated with a good development of the digestive system, using starter feeds. Other chapters cover the basics of zoohygiene, disease agents and the overall nutrition of calves using feed additives such as probiotics and phytobiotics

An in vitro study was conducted to investigate the effects of soybean meal (SBM) treated with two commercially available quebracho (QUE) and chestnut wood (CWE) extracts, at three different concentrations (15, 30 and 60 g/kg SBM) on the extent and rate of gas and short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) production. During the incubation, the gas production was measured at regular intervals from 0 to 48 h and the data were fitted with the Gompertz model to model gas production dynamics. After 24 h volumes of two syringes per substrate were analysed for individual SCFA contents. Treatment of SBM with CWE and QUE at the lowest concentration significantly increased (P < 0.05) gas production at 24 h of incubation (Gas24) and total SCFA production, but did not affect the proportions of individual SCFA. At higher concentrations (30 and 60 g/kg SBM), only the CWE significantly decreased (P < 0.05) Gas24, while both tannins significantly decreased (P < 0.05) the maximum fermentation rate. Both higher concentrations of CWE and QUE also did not affect total SCFA production, yet CWE significantly increased (P < 0.05) the proportion of acetic acid, while QUE tannins did not affect the proportions of individual SCFA. Obtained results suggest that the low doses of QUE and CWE have a stimulating effect on rumen microorganisms, enhancing the extent and rate of fermentation, while higher doses of CWE and QUE decrease the rate of fermentation however, only CWE affects the fermentation pattern of rumen microorganisms by changing the proportions of individual SCFA.

Purpose. To study the effect of addition of hulless oats during the growing period on the qualitative and quantitative indicators of replacement-brood stock of carp. Methodology. The replacement-brood stock of Lubin intra-breed type of Ukrainian scaly carp strain, which were kept in ponds of State Enterprise Experimental Fish Farm of Lviv Research Station of the Institute of Fisheries of the National Academy of Agrarian Sciences of Ukraine (IFNAASU) was used for the study. The stocking density was 1000 fish/ha. The experiment was based on four experimental groups. Carps of the first experimental group were fed during the entire growing period with a feed mixture with the addition of hulles oats in the amount of 10 %, while carps of the second group were fed with a feed with the addition of 30 % of hulless oats. The third experimental group received a feed mixture in June – July, and hulless oats in August. The control group of carp was fed with the feed mixture throughout the entire growing period. The stocking density of fish was 1000 fish/ha. Piscicultural studies were conducted in accordance with current methods. Sampling of water for chemical analysis and its processing in the laboratory was carried out according to O. Alokin according to the Standard of the Ministry of Agrarian Policy of Ukraine. Haemoglobin content was determined by the haemoglobin-cyanide method. Blood erythrocytes were counted in a Goryaev chamber. Abundance and weight of natural feeds in ponds were determined according to I.A. Kyseliov, V.I. Zhadin. Zooplankton biomass was determined using tables of individual weights of F.D. Mordukhai-Boltovskoi. Analytical processing of the material was performed using MS Excel. The criteria for the analysis of indicators were their mean (M) and mean deviation (m). Findings. Peculiarities of growth, development of carp and efficiency of feed usage with the addition of hulless oats on the background of similar satisfactory growing conditions were studied. It was found that additional feeding of carp with hulless oats at an amount of 30% was effective. In particular, its addition resulted in an increase in individual weight by 31.1% and survival rate by 2.33%. Studies of the physiological functions of the body of experimental fish during the growing period after adding the hulless oats into the main diet provided an opportunity to recommend its use in the feeding process of age–1+carp in order to increase fish productivity. Originality. The advisability of using hulless oats in the feeding of replacement-brood stock of juvenile carp was studied in Ukraine for the first time. The analysis of productive, physiological and economic indicators has been carried out. Practical value. The results of a comprehensive assessment of piscicultura; and biological parameters provide recommendations for the use of hulless oats in the feeding of replacement-brood stock of juvenile carp.

The aim of the scientific work was to define the strength of bone tissue of broiler chickens and the concentration of calcium and phosphorus in their bone tissue while adding such two feed additives as a mineral feed additive (MFA) and a protein-and-mineral feed additive (PMFA) to broiler chicken ration. The feed additives are made of milled marine hydrobionts remnants after their initial processing (Patents of Ukraine No. 34634 and No. 42687). MFA is made of Mediterranean mussel shells (Mytilus galloprovincialis) and sea water. PMFA contains big mussel shells, small mussel bodies, red algae Phyllophora (Phyllophora nervosa) and sea water. Shin bones of 42-day-old chickens served as the material for the present scientific research. The experiment was conducted on the basis of 5 groups of Ross 308 broiler chickens. Chickens of the control group received only the main ration (MR) that was well-balanced in the main nutrients. Chickens of the experimental groups that were aged from 20-day-old to 42 day-old were given feed additives along with the main ration. Chickens of the D-1 and D-2 groups received mineral feed additive (MFA), while the D-3 and D-4 groups were given protein-and-mineral feed additive (PMFA). Broiler chickens of the D-1 and D-3 groups received only 93% of the main ration and 7% MFA and PMFA correspondingly; broiler chickens of the D-2 and D-4 groups in addition to the main ration (100%) received 7 % MFA and PMFA correspondingly. Feeding broiler chickens with feed additives contributed to the increase of their bone tissue mineralization. Thus, the concentration of non-organic calcium and total phosphorus in the bones of the D-1 group of chickens increased correspondingly by 19,9 and 34,1 % (р≤0,01), the D-2 group by 23,6 % (р≤0,05) and 43,0 % (р≤0,001), the D-3 group by 16,8 % и 43,6 % (р≤0,001), the D-4 group by 34,2 % (р≤0,05) and 70,9% (р≤0,01). Using feed additives led to the improvement of broiler chicken shin bones strengths. The mechanical bending tension of bones that corresponds to the strength indicator was higher: the D-1 group of chickens by 10,9 %, the D-2 group by 48,9 % (р≤0,001), the D-2 group by 10,8 % (р≤0,001) and the D-4 group by 52,2 % (р≤0,05). Thus, the broiler chickens who received feed additives along with the main ration had more bone strength, higher calcium and phosphorus concentration in their bone tissues than the broiler chickens that were given feed additives as a part of their main ration

Purpose. The aim of the work was to study certain morpho-physiological parameters of carp as a result of additional introduction of a mycotoxin sorbent to a feed with signs of spoilage. Methodology. During 2019–2020, two experiments were conducted in the laboratory. The first one included 7 groups-analogues of age-1+ Nyvky carp, 20 fish in each group, with an average weight of 22.5 g. The control group of fish was fed for 24 days with a compound feed with signs of spoilage, «Mykosorb» was additionally added to the diet of the experimental groups in the amounts of 0.05, 0.1; 0.15; 0.2; 0.25 and 0.4%, respectively. The second group included 4 groups of age-1+ fish, 12 fish in each group, with an average weight of 20.0 g. The diet of the control group was identical to that of the first experiment, and the experimental groups with the addition of 0.05, 0.075 and 0.1% of «Mycosorb», respectively. During the study, optimal conditions for keeping fish were provided. Fish after were measured and weighed at the end of the experiment and their weight gains were analyzed according to generally accepted methods in fish farming. The activity of antioxidant enzymes and the content of lipid peroxidation products depending on the composition of the diet were studied. Findings. The studies used compound feed with signs of spoilage as a result of violation of their storage technology, which identified three groups of toxins: Aflatoxin B1, Zearalenone and Deoxynivalenol. As a result of the first stage of the study, the rates of application of mycotoxin sorbent into the diet of carp at amounts of 0.05 - 0.2% were determined. At the same time, there was no clear proportional pattern of changes in the average weight of fish depending on the amount of introduction of «Mycosorb», the value increased in all experimental groups compared to the control by 0.4 – 15.2%. Muscles of age-1+ fish were found to have higher (p

Background: Inclusion of urea and calcium oxide (CaO) during sugarcane ensilage has been hypothesized to improve dairy cow performance. Objective: To evaluate the use of urea and calcium oxide as additives to preserve sugarcane silage quality and determine whether they improve dairy cow performance and metabolic efficiency. Methods: Four diets were used: sugarcane silage without additive (SS), sugarcane silage with 10 g/kg urea (SU), sugarcane silage with 5 g/kg urea + 5 g/kg CaO (SUC), and sugarcane silage with 10 g/kg CaO (SC). Eight crossbred cows at approximately 100 days of lactation were distributed in two 4x4 Latin squares, and their diets were formulated to reach an average milk production of 15 kg/day. Results: Dry matter, non-fibrous carbohydrates, organic matter, total carbohydrates, and total digestible nutrient intake were the highest (p

The aim of this study was to monitor the effect of Bifidobacterium bifidum (BB) and the combination of Lactobacillus sporogenes, Enterococcus faecium, and Bifidobacterium bifidum (LEB) on the health status and weight gain of calves, and the utilisation of nitrogenous substances. The experiment was performed in the period from April 2020 to September 2020. A total of 90 Holstein heifers, which were one to 56 days old, were used as experimental animals. Differences in live weight gain were significant if we compared the LEB vs. BB group and the LEB vs. C, the control group (86.23 ± 5.49 kg vs. 84.72 ± 6.22 kg, p < 0.05; 86.23 ± 5.49 kg vs. 82.86 ± 5.35 kg, p < 0.01). Considering the live weight gain, group BB was heavier than group C only (84.72 ± 6.22 kg vs. 82.86 ± 5.35 kg, p < 0.05). An effect on reducing the incidence and duration of diarrheal diseases was not demonstrated in this study (p = 0.1957). The administration of feed additives had no statistically significant effect on the amount of N excreted in the feces. The values of hematological and biochemical parameters were unaffected except for the first sampling of urea. Other blood parameters were not affected by the addition of probiotic feed additives. The bacterial populations in the feces 5 days and 56 days after birth were not affected by the inclusion of feed additives.

The article presents results of studies of the effectiveness of the organomineral feed additives from natural raw materials using in the raising young cattle in the conditions of Yakutia. The research was carried out on cattle, which were divided into three equal groups. The selection of animals was carried out taking into account the method of analogs, where such parameters as age, live weight, clinical indicators were taken into account. In accordance with the research program, cattle from two experimental groups consumed experimental feed additives, while animals from the control group were solely given the basic ration. The inclusion of organomineral feed additives into the ration of gobies made it possible to increase the live weight at the end of rearing by 3.3% and 5.47%. These changes are best expressed in growth rate over periods. In the experimental groups the growth rate indicators improved in the 9-12-month-old period by 2.42% and 3.23%, at the 12-15 months of age by 0.57% and 0.85%, and at 15-18 months of age by 16.01% and 24.47%. Thus, the use of organomineral feed additives from natural raw materials in feeding of young cattle in Yakutia it possible to improve the efficiency of their rearing.

Macronutrient and micronutrient deficiencies in the fish diet can affect fish growth rate, ability to resist disease, and fillet quality. Determination of effective dose of developed feed additives consisting of chelate compounds of biogenic elements and probiotic preparation based on Bacillus subtilis. Young rainbow trout were divided into four groups consisting of 100 fish each. The control group received standard food; the experimental groups received food with chelates and probiotics in different concentrations. At the end of the experiment (30 days), the middle intestine histology and morphometric parameters were studied. The use of chelated compounds alone affected the state of the intestinal villi and the infiltration of the epithelium by lymphocytes. The addition of a probiotic had a positive effect on the migration of immune cells in the intestinal villi; however, the probiotic in high concentrations contributed to a decrease in the number and area of goblet cells. Synergistic effects of chelated compounds and probiotic preparations on the morphometric parameters of the medium intestine were observed. In the proper doses, the studied feed additives might be recommended for rainbow trout farming under industrial aquaculture conditions. Resumo As deficiências de macronutrientes e micronutrientes na dieta dos peixes podem afetar a taxa de crescimento dos peixes, a capacidade de resistir a doenças e a qualidade do filé. Determinação da dose efetiva de aditivos alimentares desenvolvidos constituídos por compostos quelatos de elementos biogênicos e preparação probiótica à base de Bacillus subtilis. As trutas arco-íris jovens foram divididas em quatro grupos de 100 peixes cada. O grupo controle recebeu ração padrão; os grupos experimentais receberam alimentos com quelatos e probióticos em diferentes concentrações. Ao final do experimento (30 dias), a histologia do intestino médio e os parâmetros morfométricos foram estudados. O uso de compostos quelados sozinho afetou o estado das vilosidades intestinais e a infiltração do epitélio por linfócitos. A adição de um probiótico teve um efeito positivo na migração de células imunes nas vilosidades intestinais; entretanto, o probiótico em altas concentrações contribuiu para a diminuição do número e da área das células caliciformes. Efeitos sinérgicos de compostos quelados e preparações probióticas sobre os parâmetros morfométricos do intestino médio foram observados. Nas doses adequadas, os aditivos alimentares estudados podem ser recomendados para a criação de trutas arco-íris em condições de aquacultura industrial.

It has been established that the level of blood parameters in the body of sheep is not always stable and often depends on the breed, sex, their physiological state, the level of productivity, feeding and housing conditions. Among the factors that determine the optimal sheep nutritional level, not the last place is occupied by their provision with a sufficient amount of essential amino acids, especially lysine, methionine, cystine, and vitamins, given their physiological importance for the animal body. The overwhelming amount of them is able to be synthesized in the sheep rumen with the help of microorganisms of the gastrointestinal tract, however, some of them are irreplaceable, that is, those whose balance must be replenished through feed rations. The article describes the use of the vitamin-amino acid complex "Аlphabet for Animals" in sheep, containing a complex of fat-and water-soluble vitamins, as well as amino acids, which contribute to the normalization of metabolism in the body of small ruminants, increase its resistance, have a positive effect on productivity, safety and reproductive animals functions. During the research, the effect of this feed additive on hemocytopoiesis and the exchange of essential micronutrients in ewes were studied. After a double use of the additive, an increase in the processes of erythrocytopoiesis was established, as evidenced by an increase in the number of blood erythrocytes by 21.2% and the hemoglobin content by 11.2%, stabilization of the size and degree of saturation of erythrocytes with hemoglobin, as evidenced by a decrease in MCH and MCV indices. There were no significant changes in the content of essential micronutrients in the blood serum of sheep under the influence of the "Alphabet for Animals", and a slight increase of zinc content in the blood was noted in sheep after the second injection of the drug. At the same time, in the blood of experimental animals group a significant increase the iron content on average up to 129.5±7.33 μg/100 ml (p

The article is devoted to preventive measures to eliminate the problem of dysmicroelementosis in order to increase the productivity of young sheep. The article presents the results of studies of the influence of feeding rations on the growth and development of young sheep of the Edilbaev breed, on the level of their meat productivity and the qualitative characteristics of biologically fortified lamb. Feed additives based on Yoddar-Zn and DAFS-25 were added to the main ration of lambs at the age of four months, once a day, being added into a fodder mixture with concentrates. For the experiment the herd of lambs was divided to four groups of 25 heads each.The changes in live weight at the age of four, five, six and seven months were analyzed, and it was found that at the age of seven months, the absolute average weight gain in the experimental groups varied from 3.45 kg to 4.49 kg, in the control group it was 3.1 kg, while the largest live weight gain was recorded in group III which received both feed additives based on Yoddar-Zn and DAFS-25.There were no significant differences in the parameters of body measurements, with the exception of group III, where the chest circumference increased by 7.2%, and the height of a lamb at the withers increased in average by 8.1%. It was found that group III had the highest meat density coefficient, equal to 3.9, and the cross-sectional area of m. Longissimus dorsi was equal to 13.61 cm2. It was noted that the amount of free amino acids of the lamb group III is 18.8% higher than the meat of the control group. The lamb obtained from the animals of the experimental groups showed a higher protein content and less fat. The ratio of water to protein in all samples was slightly higher than 3.7, which corresponds to the Federa number for meat raw materials. Enriching the rations of the Edilbaevskoy sheep with feed additives Yoddar-Zn and DAFS-25 promotes the stimulation of growth and development of animals, increases the productivity and nutritional value of lamb.

Aim: This study aimed to analyze biological and microbiological parameters of Clarias gariepinus bred at Chundzha natural hot spring in the Almaty region of Kazakhstan, a new feed additive, namely, the prebiotic "Ceobalyk." Materials and Methods: Two groups (50 heads each) of fish of the same age were established and kept in specialized rectangular pools of AsylTasEngineering LLP. The experiment lasted 61 days. We used the feed additive "Ceobalyk", developed based on natural minerals. Feed additive was added to the feed of the experimental group of fish in an amount of 10% per 1 kg of the main diet. Laboratory studies were conducted at the laboratories of the Kazakhstan-Japan Innovation Center. The quality of the fish was studied in accordance with the standards of the Republic of Kazakhstan and interstate standards. Results: In biological and microbiological studies of all samples of African sharptooth catfish, which received a new type of feed additive "Ceobalyk", the pH values of fish meat in the experimental groups were normal and varied in the range from 6.5 to 6.7. When setting up the reaction with copper sulfate, the reaction was positive. During bacterioscopy, there was a noticeable decrease in the number of microbes (2-3 bacteria less) in comparison with the control. An increase in the indices of the absolute body length and body width was observed by the end of the study. The body length in the experimental group was significantly greater (by 2.12% on average) than that in the control group. In the experimental variant, the average weight of fish was 21.8% higher. As a result of organoleptic studies, it was revealed that the musculature of the fish of the experimental groups was dense and elastic; when pressed on the skin with a finger, a fossa did not remain; the smell was specific, fresh. When tested by cooking, the broth was transparent and aromatic. Conclusion: This feed additive "Ceobalyk" does not cause deviations in the physiological status of fish and can be used as part of the main diet.

A sixteen-week study was carried out in order to investigate the effects of different herbal-mix feed additives (Moringa, Basil and Neem) on serological parameters, tibia bone characteristics and gut morphology of growing pigs. Eighty-one Large White breed of pigs with a mean weight of 15.35 ± 1.07 were grouped on weight equalization basis into three treatments with 9 replicates per treatment and 3 pigs per replicate in a completely randomized design. Pigs on treatment 1 were fed a ration without integration of herbal-mix feed additives, those in treatments 2 and 3 were offered a diet that contained moringa-basil leaf meal and neem-basil leaf meal respectively. Blood samples were collected from the experimental pigs on the 12th week of the study for the determination of serum levels, while 1 pig from each replicate group whose weight was close to the mean replicate weight was chosen at the end of the study, fasted for 12 hours, sacrificed and the small intestine and left tibia bone were harvested and used for gut and bone morphology evaluation. These data generated from the study were subjected to a 1-way analysis of variance (ANOVA). The results indicated that herbal-mix feed additives influenced some of the serological parameters, i.e., globulin, glucose, total cholesterol, high- and low-density lipoproteins, and aspartate aminotransferase. These parameters decreased with integration of different herbal-mix in the pigs’ diets except high density lipoprotein that increased statistically. The tibia characteristics such as tibia breaking strength, medial thickness and lateral thickness were also positively impacted by the dietary inclusion of the herbal-mix. Likewise, the villus height of the jejunum was positively enhanced by dietary inclusion of the herbal-mix feed additives. This study concluded that herbal-mix feed additives can be utilized in pigs’ nutrition in enhancing some serological parameters, tibia bone and gut characteristics of growing pigs.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the potential effects of γ-irradiated date palm fruit (Phoenix dactylifera), which is rich in phenolic acids and has important and varied biological bioactivities, on growth performance, mucosal immunity and liver antioxidant status in goldfish (Carassius auratus). The antioxidant activity, alongside the phenolic and flavonoid contents, were also determined in irradiated palm fruit extracts (IPFE). The results showed that IPFE5 had a higher antioxidant activity as well as heightened phenolic and flavonoid contents compared to IPFE10 and IPFE0. Meanwhile, goldfish specimens were randomly divided into three groups with three replicates in each. Subsequently, skin immunity and antioxidant activity in the livers of the goldfish were studied. The growth rates of fish fed with IPFE5 and IPFE10 were significantly higher (p < 0.05) compared to the CTR group. In addition, fish fed with the IPFE5 diet demonstrated increased mucosal immunity compared to the CTR group (p < 0.05). Lipid peroxidation levels as well as antioxidant enzyme activities were also higher in all the IPFE-fed groups compared to the CTR group (p < 0.05). These data showed that 40-day dietary administration of γ-irradiated date extract, especially IPFE5, improved growth performance, mucosal immunity, and liver antioxidant capacity in goldfish. The suitability of administrating this additive in the diet of farmed fish is discussed.

Twenty-four Merino lambs were allocated to three dietary treatment groups to determine the effects of a dietary starch and protein binding agent and heat stress on methane (CH4) emissions and rumen parameters. The diets were a wheat-based diet (WD), a 2% Bioprotect™ (Bioprotect™, RealisticAgri, Rutland, UK) treated wheat-based diet (BD), and a maize-based diet (MD) for 3 periods of 1-week duration. During Period 1 (P1) the lambs were maintained under thermoneutral conditions and at a 1.7 × Maintenance (M) level. During P2 and P3, the lambs were maintained under cyclic heat stress conditions and fed at 1.7 × M and 2.0 × M, respectively. Total CH4 production was lower for the BD diet than the WD diet, which in turn was lower than the MD diet (p < 0.001). Total CH4 production was lower during P2 than P1 with P3 intermediate (p = 0.04). Rumen total volatile fatty acid (TVFA) concentrations were higher for the WD diet than the MD diet with the BD diet intermediate (p = 0.01). Rumen TVFA concentrations were lower during heat stress than under thermoneutral conditions (p < 0.001). Whole tract starch digestibility was higher for the BD and WD diets than the MD diet (p < 0.001). In conclusion, feeding Merino lambs the BD diet reduces CH4 emissions without reducing starch digestibility.

The present study aimed to evaluate the effects of SOD (superoxide dismutase)-rich melon feed supplement on some performance parameters, serum biochemical and antioxidant indexes, and meat quality characteristics of weaned Tuj lambs. An independent measures design (between groups) was used to determine these effects of treatment. After one week of the adaptation period, twenty-four weaned lambs at the age of 60 ± 5.0 days with a body weight of 23.14 ± 0.5 kg were divided into two groups, i.e., the control group (CON) fed basal diet and experimental group (EXP) fed with basal diet + SOD-rich melon (n = 12 per group). The results revealed a decrement in the (p < 0.05) feed efficiency ratio (5.88 ± 0.40 vs. 6.59 ± 0.86 kg weight gain/kg feed) and higher carcass yield (61.76 ± 0.80 vs. 60.11 ± 1.07%) in the EXP group as compared to the CON group. Additionally, the EXP group showed a significant increase (p < 0.05) in serum glucose and high-density lipoprotein levels, while there was a reduction in cholesterol, triglyceride, and low-density lipoprotein levels when compared to the CON group. The serum malondialdehyde was lowered (5.53 ± 0.47 vs. 5.98 ± 0.79 mmol/L) significantly (p < 0.05), while glutathione concentration was higher (p < 0.05) in the EXP group (17.82 ± 1.51 mmol/L) when compared to the CON group (16.54 ± 1.59 mmol/L). The cooking loss was also significantly (p < 0.05) lower in the EXP group when compared to the CON group. In conclusion, the results indicate that SOD-rich melon supplement (30 g/ton of the concentrate feed) can considerably improve carcass yield, some serum biochemical parameters, and meat quality characteristics in Tuj lambs. Thus, the supplementation of lamb diets with a SOD-rich melon additive may be used as an effective nutritional approach to improve their performance and health.

Antimicrobial resistance leads to failure of clinical antimicrobial therapy, and has raised urgent global public health concern. Humans can acquire antimicrobial resistance from drugs through the food chain or the environment (contaminated water, air, soil, or manure). While antimicrobials have been regular supplements in animal feed that maintain health and improve productivity of livestock, their over-use in feeding forage has led to a rise in antibacterial resistance. This review summarizes the current use of antimicrobials in livestock, the harmful effects of antimicrobial resistance, and the comprehensive combat measures.

Nowadays, the development of phytobiotics, an antibiotic-replacing agent, has attracted a considerable attention as poultry feed additive. The present study aims to develop the microcapsules loaded with a blend of essential oils (thyme, peppermint, savoury, and black pepper), and evaluate its health-promoting activity among the Clostridium perfringens-challenged broiler chickens. Based on the results, the spherical microcapsules containing a blend of thyme, summer savoury, peppermint, and black pepper essential oils had the particle size of 158.6 µm and encapsulation efficiency of 94.2%. The major bioactive compounds were thymol, carvacrol, p-cymene, and γ-terpinene. The microencapsulation of essential oil effectively prevented the release of bioactive phenolic compounds in the upper parts of the GIT. Additionally, it increased the delivery of the phenolic compounds to the lower segments of the GIT in the broiler chickens. The administration of the essential oil-loaded microcapsules (0.5, 1, and 2 kg/ton) in the C. perfringens-infected broiler chickens enhanced growth parameters, total feed intake, FCR, body antioxidant status, ileum morphostructure, and intestinal microbial population. Further, this treatment resulted in regulating the antioxidant and inflammation genes in ileum tissue. Consequently, the essential oil-loaded microcapsules can be considered as a promising phytobiotic against C. perfringens infection in broiler chickens.HIGHLIGHTS The spherical microcapsules containing a blend of EO had the particle size of 158.6 µm and encapsulation efficiency of 94.2%. The microencapsulation of essential oil effectively prevented the release of bioactive phenolic compounds in the upper parts of the GIT. The EO-loaded microcapsules led to an improvement in growth parameters, body antioxidant status, ileum morphostructure, and intestinal microbial population. The microcapsules regulated the antioxidant and inflammation genes in ileum tissue.

This study determined the dietary effects of pomegranate peel powder meal (PPPM) supplementation on growth performance, digestibility, carcase and organ weights, serum, and some meat antioxidant enzyme indices of Cobb 500 birds. Birds (n = 432) were randomly assigned to six experimental groups of four replicates each and were fed either diets supplemented with 2, 4, 6 and 8 g/kg of PPPM (PPPM2, PPPM4, PPPM6 and PPPM8), 0% additives (Negative control; NEGCON), or with α-Tocopherol acetate at 200 g/tonne (Positive control; POSCON). The diet × week interaction effect on feed intake (FI) and feed conversion ratio (FCR) showed that the POSCON diet promoted a better FI and FCR at week 3. However, the FCR of the POSCON birds was comparable to that of the NEGCON, PPPM4 and PPPM6 birds. The average final body weight and average daily weight gain was highest in the PPPM2 and PPPM4 birds, whereas, PPPM2 birds had improved FCR and protein efficiency ratio compared with the POSCON birds. Thigh weight was highest in the PPPM4 group, whereas PPPM8 birds had the highest breast weight compared with the POSCON. Birds fed the PPPM4 diet also had improved nutrient digestibility compared with the POSCON birds. Spleen and gizzard weights were highest in PPPM4 birds compared with the NEGCON group. The concentration of serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST) was decreased in PPPM4 birds, whereas meat from PPPM8 group had the highest catalase enzyme activity. It can be concluded that birds fed 4 g/kg PPPM outperformed the birds that were fed α-tocopherol supplemented (POSCON) diets in terms of performance, digestibility, carcase and organ indices. The effect of pomegranate peel powder meal supplementation was also pronounced in decreasing the concentration of AST at 4 g/kg and increasing the activity of catalase enzyme at 8 g/kg compared with the POSCON and NEGCON diets.Highlights Dietary pomegranate peel powder can improve performance in broilers. Dietary pomegranate peel powder can enhance the enzyme activity of broiler meat.

This study was conducted to evaluate the growth performance and carcass characteristics of finishing steers fed diets containing different feed additives: control (CTL; no feed additives); monensin [26 mg/kg dry matter (DM); MON]; a blend of cinnamaldehyde, eugenol, and capsicum (120 mg of a commercial product/kg DM; XT), or the combination of monensin and the blend of cinnamaldehyde, eugenol, and capsicum (26 mg/kg DM and 120 mg of a commercial product/kg DM, respectively; MON + XT). A total of 860 steers [initial body weight (BW) = 334 kg] were fed the basal diet (7% alfalfa hay and 93% concentrate; DM basis) containing the treatments during 154 days. Feed additives did not affect final BW, DM intake, average daily gain, and feed efficiency of finishing steers (P ≥ 0.12). Dressing percentage was lower for MON + XT than MON and XT (P = 0.01). Feeding XT tended to increase the percentage of the carcass with a small marbling score compared to MON (P = 0.09). The proportion of carcass grading premium choice tended to be greater for steers fed MON compared to XT (P = 0.07). The feed additives evaluated herein did not affect the growth performance of finishing beef steers and had little effects on carcass characteristics.

This experiment explored the dietary effects of green tea (Camellia sinensis) in feed supplementation on the development of broiler chicks. Totally, two hundred and seventy‐day‐old male broiler chicks were assigned to 27 broiler groups each with 10 individuals (initial mean body weight 44.2 ± 1.3 g) in a 4 × 2 factorial arrangement. Each chicken group was supplemented with the feed additives of green tea powder. The trial data were measured and obtained based on the records of carcass traits and intestine characteristics of broiler chicken fed with four different additive levels of green tea (0.25%, 0.50%, 0.75%, and 1.00%). The experiment lasted for two trial periods of 21 days and 42 days for each treatment of the green tea supplement with full records of broiler traits. There were interesting results recorded in the majority of broiler intestinal traits between the two trial periods. There are a few significant differences (p, This experiment explored the dietary effects of green tea (Camellia sinensis) in feed supplementation on the development of broiler chicks. Significant statistics of broiler chicken intestine traits of colon diameter and jejunum width were affected by different additive levels of green tea at the 42nd day of age. The trial results suggest that there are some significant improvements in two traits, i.e. colon diameter (overall p = .022) and jejunum width (overall p = .01) among broiler chicks fed with green tea.

Introduction. The present research featured biochemical and microstructural features of thyroid glands obtained from lambs raised on various feeds enriched with essential elements. The article focuses on iodine as the most important physiologically active microelement. Iodine participates in the synthesis of thyroid hormones, namely thyroxine and triiodothyronine, which are known to regulate metabolic processes. Iodine deficiency may impair reproductive function and cause such diseases as endemic goiter. Study objects and methods. The study involved thyroid glands from lambs of the Edilbaev breed aged seven months. The lambs were divided into four experimental groups, ten animals in each. The lambs received several feed additives. Ioddar-Zn and DAFS-25 had a balanced protein and carbohydrate content, while the mineral feed of Coretron brand contained such trace elements and minerals as iodine, selenium, and silicon. Results and discussion. The experiment made it possible to describe the microstructural profile of the thyroid glands extracted from seven-month-old lambs raised on feeds enriched with iodine and selenium. Ioddar-Zn and DAFS-25 did not harm the structure of the thyroid tissue, while causing its functional activation in some cases. The morphological parameters of the thyroid glands indicated some breed differences. The iodine concentration in the thyroid glands obtained from the experimental animals was five or six times higher than that in the control group. The content of mono- and diiodotyrosine depended on the accumulation profile of organic iodine. Conclusion. Diets enforced with DAFS-25, Ioddar-Zn, silicon, and a protein-carbohydrate complex produced no negative effect on the structure of the thyroid tissue. It fact, the diet increased the organic iodine content in the thyroid glands in the form of iodotyrosines. The gland structure revealed some cubic epithelium or follicular cells. The mass spectrometric studies confirmed the presence of covalently bound iodine in the form of mono- and diiodotyrosine. Thus, the abovementioned feed additives can be recommended for industrial use.

Post-weaning diarrhea (PWD) and associated mortality in commercial swine production remain a significant challenge for antibiotic-free meat production. With the ban on the usage of subtherapeutic and pharmacological doses of antimicrobial growth promoters such as antibiotics and zinc oxide (ZnO) in livestock production, probiotics have gained a lot of attention as a potential alternative. However, strain and host specificity limit their efficacy. In this research, I tested probiotic potential of a novel Bacillus subtilis, BS9 and its impact on growth performance and gut health of weaning piglets. The in vitro studies established that BS9 displayed a strong survival ability in gastrointestinal environment and with no cytotoxicity to intestinal cells. Using a Enterotoxic E. coli challenge model in swine intestinal cells, a strong contact dependant antimicrobial and cytoprotective activity of BS9 was revealed. Supplementation of BS9 through water in weaning piglets significantly reduced PWD and feed conversion ratio (FCR) in the overall study comparable to pharmacological zinc oxide. Although no significant increase in body weights were reported, a significant increase in average daily gain (ADG) was observed in the second period (Week3-4) in BS9 supplemented group. Average daily feed intake (ADFI) was also not affected by BS9 supplementation. Like zinc oxide group, BS9 supplementation significantly reduced fecal E. coli and coliform and increased fecal lactic acid bacteria and bacillus spp. in weaning piglets. It also appeared to positively impact gut health by modulating intestinal immune markers, intestinal mucosal gene expression of gut health related genes and modulating fecal metabolic signature compared to the negative control group. In conclusion, this research shows the novel Bacillus subtills- 9 may be an effective alternative additive to pharmacological zinc oxide, although it appears that BS9 and zinc oxide influence the gut in distinct mechanisms to enhance piglet performance, and therefore further studies, perhaps in a larger sample size are recommended to evaluate confirm these findings. SIP (swine cluster) (2018-2022)- 053878 and OMAFRA (2021-2024)- 030537

Rabbit meat has outstanding nutritional characteristics—it is a lean meat with low fat, cholesterol and sodium content, with high-biological-value proteins, potassium, phosphorus, selenium, iron and vitamin B12 level. The dietary inclusion of natural bioactive compounds can improve the quality of rabbit meat. The present study evaluated the effect of enterocin 7420 (Ent 7420) and sage (Salvia officinalis) extract on the quality and mineral content of rabbit meat. A total of 96 Hyla rabbits (aged 35 days) were divided into E (Ent 7420; 50 µL/animal/d), S (sage extract; 10 µL/animal/d), E + S (Ent 7420 and sage in combination) and control (C) groups. Additives were administrated in drinking water for 21 days. A significant increase in meat iron (p < 0.01) content was noted; phosphorus and zinc levels were also elevated in experimental groups, compared with control data. Ent 7420 and sage treatment reduced the calcium and manganese (p < 0.01) contents. The physico-chemical traits of rabbit meat were not negatively influenced by treatment. Based on these results, diet supplementation, mostly with Ent 7420 but also in combination with sage, could enhance the quality of rabbit meat mineral, with a focus on its iron, phosphorus and zinc contents.

High fiber levels (165 g neutral detergent fibre (NDF)/kg DM) in Moringa oleifera leaf powder (MOLP) could limit its utilization as a nutraceutical source in Jumbo quail diets. Pre-treating MOLP with exogenous fibrolytic multi-enzymes could reduce the nutrient-encapsulating effect of non-starch polysaccharides and subsequently increase nutrient and bioactive compound utilization. Thus, this study investigated the effect of pre-treating dietary MOLP with an exogenous fibrolytic enzyme mixture on some physiological parameters and meat quality characteristics in Jumbo quail. A total of 396 Jumbo quail were randomly distributed to 6 experimental diets, with 6 replicate pens each and 11 birds per replicate. The experimental diets were: CON = a standard grower diet (156.5 g NDF /kg) without MOLP; ENZ0 = CON + 10% MOLP; and CON + MOLP pre-treated with 0.25% (ENZ25), 0.50% (ENZ50), 0.75% (ENZ75) and 1% (ENZ100) fibrolytic enzymes. There were no significant linear or quadratic effects on growth performance parameters and carcass characteristics in response to incremental levels of fibrolytic enzymes. However, neutrophils linearly increased, while breast meat lightness and 24 h hue angle linearly declined with enzyme levels. Quadratic effects were observed on gizzard weights and 1 h hue angle in response to enzyme levels. All the hemato-biochemical values fell within the normal ranges for healthy quail. It was concluded that the maximum fibrolytic multi-enzyme application rate of 1% may not have been adequate to enhance feed utilization and positively affect weight gain in Jumbo quail, thus higher levels may need to be investigated further.

[ES] La acuicultura es una de las principales actividades en el ámbito de la producción animal. Su progreso está delimitado por la dependencia de materias primas de origen tanto marino como terrestre, ambas necesarias para la elaboración de piensos destinados a la alimentación de las especies en cultivo. La introducción de nuevas materias primas o sustancias destinadas a la mejora de la fisiología de la especie (piensos funcionales) puede comprometer la palatabilidad de los piensos, su consumo y por extensión el crecimiento de los animales. El objetivo principal de esta tesis fue encontrar aditivos sensoriales (saborizantes) que puedan sobrepasar los efectos negativos sobre la palatabilidad de los piensos inducidos por la inclusión de materias vegetales en la elaboración de los piensos para cultivo de la dorada (Sparus aurata). Para ello, evaluamos la funcionalidad de los sistemas de auto-demanda en el estudio del comportamiento alimenticio de esta especie, profundizando en su posible utilidad en la discriminación sensorial/gustativa de los piensos. Evaluamos el efecto de estrógenos y andrógenos no aromatizables sobre la ingesta como posibles factores anti-nutricionales presentes en los piensos de sustitución. Estudiamos el efecto de dos saborizantes sobre la ingesta y dinámica de crecimiento de la dorada y finalmente estudiamos el posible efecto de estos sobre la anorexia inducida por el estrés. Los resultados demuestran que la dorada se adapta bien a los sistemas de auto-demanda y estos pueden ser utilizados para el estudio de su comportamiento alimenticio. Utilizando estos sistemas hemos demostrado que la dorada puede discriminar entre diferentes piensos en función de la presencia de elementos fuertemente amargos o de elementos saborizantes que pueden además ayudar a sobrepasar los efectos negativos del estrés sobre la ingesta. Finalmente, demostramos que esta especie es especialmente sensible a la presencia de estrógenos o andrógenos no aromatizables en la composición del pienso sugiriendo que los elementos estrogénicos o androgénicos pueden actuar como elementos anti-nutricionales., [CA] L'aqüicultura és una de les principals activitats en l'àmbit de la producció animal. El seu progrés està delimitat per la dependència de matèries primeres d'origen tant marí com terrestre, totes dues necessàries per a l'elaboració de pinsos destinats a l'alimentació de les espècies en cultiu. La introducció de noves matèries primeres o substàncies destinades a la millora de la fisiologia de l'espècie (pinsos funcionals) pot comprometre la palatabilitat dels pinsos, el seu consum i per extensió el creixement dels animals. L'objectiu principal d'aquesta tesi va ser trobar additius sensorials (saboritzants) que puguen sobrepassar els efectes negatius sobre la palatabilitat dels pinsos induïts per la inclusió de matèries vegetals en l'elaboració dels pinsos per a cultiu de l'orada (Sparus aurata). Per això, avaluem la funcionalitat dels sistemes d'auto-demanda en l'estudi del comportament alimentari d'aquesta espècie, aprofundint en la seua possible utilitat en la discriminació sensorial/gustativa dels pinsos. Avaluem l'efecte d'estrògens i andrògens no aromatizables sobre la ingesta com a possibles factors anti-nutricionals presents en els pinsos de substitució. Estudiem l'efecte de dos saboritzants sobre la ingesta i dinàmica de creixement de l'orada i finalment estudiem el possible efecte d'aquests sobre l'anorèxia induïda per l'estrés. Els resultats demostren que l'orada s'adapta bé als sistemes d'auto-demanda i aquests poden ser utilitzats per a l'estudi del seu comportament alimentari. Utilitzant aquests sistemes hem demostrat que l'orada pot discriminar entre diferents pinsos en funció de la presència d'elements fortament amargs o d'elements saboritzants que poden a més ajudar a sobrepassar els efectes negatius de l'estrés sobre la ingesta. Finalment, vam demostrar que aquesta espècie és especialment sensible a la presència d'estrògens o andrògens no aromatizables en la composició del pinso suggerint que els elements estrogènics o androgènics poden actuar com a elements anti-nutricionals., [EN] Aquaculture is one of the main activities within the animal production. Its progress is constricted by the dependency raw materials with marine and terrestrial origin both critical for the production of feed diets for cultured species. The incorporation of new raw materials or functional substances driven to the improvement of animal physiology (functional feed) can compromise the palatability of diets, consumption and by extension animal growth. The main issue of this thesis was to find sensorial enhancers that can overcome the negative effects on diet palatability induced by the inclusion of vegetal rows in the elaboration of feed for seabream culture (Sparus aurata). To that end we test the functionality of self-feeding systems in the study of feeding behaviour of this species deepening in the study of sensory/gustatory feed discrimination. We also evaluate the effect of both oestrogens and no-aromatized androgen on food intake as potential anti-nutritionals included in the substitution diets. In addition, we studied the effect of flavourings on seabream feeding behaviour and growth performance and finally we studied the potential effect on stress-induced anorexia. Results demonstrated that seabream adapts perfectly to self-feeding systems that can be used for the study its feeding behaviour. Using self-feeding systems, we have also demonstrated that seabream can discriminate between different diets by association to potent sour deterrents of flavourings that can help to overcome the negative effects of stress on feeding behaviour. Finally, we demonstrate that seabream is especially sensible to the presence of oestrogen or androgens in the diet compositing suggesting its potential role as anti-nutritional elements.

It is established that antibiotics are one of the most important medical discoveries of 20th century and will remain an utmost way of treating disease of animals as well as of human beings. We, the human beings, get meat, milk, egg, etc. from animals being very important and inevitable part of our daily nutrition. The irrational, consecutive and extensive use of antibiotics in food producing animals particularly for growth promotion has lead to antibiotic resistance, microbial resistance and possible the drug residual threat for human beings due to consumption of milk, meat, egg, etc. It was found out that during the normal physiology the animals undergo various types of stresses mainly including environmental, pathogenic, etc which suppress the immune system as well as the GIT of animals and due to this the animals become vulnerable to different diseases which leads to immunosuppression, poor health status, increased mortality and decreased production. Due to this ban on using synthetic antibiotics in animals as antibiotic growth promoters (AGP), an alternative approach is to use phytochemicals in animals’ feed for growth promotion, optimum production and enhancing or modulating the immunity level of animal. These phytogenic feed additives are important and have many properties i.e. anti-fungal, antibiotic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antiviral, etc which, when supplemented with diet and fed to animals, ensure the protection and improvement of health condition, integrity of GIT and enhance the immunity level of animal. This review illustrates the importance of plant-based feed additives supplemented with other feedstuff and fed to animals particularly their role in immunomodulation to boost the immunity level on animal under stress conditions. Key words: feed additives, phytobiotics, alternative to antibiotics, animal feeding, immunity.

The aim of the study was to analyse the effect of selected feed additives (pro-, pre- and synbiotics) on the health of mink, morphometric parameters of their digestive tract, and microbiological identification of its contents. The observations were made on pastel mink assigned to the following dietary treatments: group I – standard farm feed without supplements, group II – probiotic-supplemented feed, group III – prebiotic-supplemented feed, and group IV – synbiotic-supplemented feed. The feed additives were found to affect the growth and weight gains of the mink. Body weight at winter fur priming ranged from 1.45 to 2.54 kg in females and from 2.70 to 4.20 kg in males. During the rearing period (weaning to slaughter), the highest weight gains were observed in the group receiving prebiotics – on average 760 g in females and 1970 g in males. Analysis of the morphometric parameters of the digestive tract showed highly significant differences between means for the groups, except for the weight of the lungs and spleen and the length of the stomach. The mean concentration of total bacteria in the intestinal contents was similar in groups II and III (8.5-9.4 x 104 CFU/g), higher in group IV, and highest in the control group (5.9 x 106 CFU/g). Among the bacteria identified, Corynebacterium was dominant in all groups. The total fungal count in the intestinal contents was lowest in the mink receiving prebiotics. The dominant fungi were Candida, particularly Candida glabrata. The proportion of fungi of this genus varied between groups from 84.5% to 89.5%. The other fungi identified in the digesta were Rhizopus spp. and Aspergillus spp.

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of fermented Caragana korshinskii feed on meat quality in three muscle tissues (longissimus dorsi m., triceps brachii and biceps femoris) in Tan sheep. Sheep were randomly divided into two groups: the control group was fed a basic diet, and the experimental group was fed the basic diet supplemented with 10% fermented Caragana korshinskii. The results for the meat quality characteristics showed that the fermented Caragana korshinskii group had significantly greater more crude protein in all three muscles and more ash in the longissimus dorsi m. and triceps brachii than the control group. The fermented Caragana korshinskii group had a significantly higher ultimate pH in the biceps femoris and triceps brachii than the control group. The fermented Caragana korshinskii group had greater inosinic acid content in the longissimus dorsi m. and triceps brachii than the control group. The fermented Caragana korshinskii group had significantly higher levels of Asp, Thr, Glu and Ser in the triceps brachii than the control group. The fermented Caragana korshinskii group had significantly higher levels of C12:0 in the triceps brachii, of C15:0 and C16:0 in the biceps femoris, of C16:1 in the longissimus dorsi m. and triceps brachii, of C18:0 in the triceps brachii than the control group. Therefore, adding 10% fermented Caragana korshinskii to the diet of the sheep significantly improved the crude protein, ash, inosinic acid, partial amino acid and fatty acid contents as well as the ultimate pH and L* values in Tan sheep muscles.HIGHLIGHTS Fermentative caragana korshinskii was partially substituted for corn stalk to feed Tan sheep could significantly improve crude protein, ash, ultimate pH, L* value, inosinic acid, partial amino acid and fat acid species and content of Tan sheep. It was provided scientific basis for the rational utilization of caragana korshinskii resources by studying its effect on meat quality of Tan sheep. Fermented Caragana korshinskii solves the problem of lack of forage resources in China and the imbalance of forage supply in winter and spring in China.

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of multienzyme+probiotic (MEP) supplementation on carcass characteristics and serum biochemistry of broiler chickens fed fermented shea butter cake meal (FSBCM) based diets. A total of two hundred and sixty (260), 28-day-old broiler chicks were distributed into four treatments, with five replicates of 13 birds each using a completely randomized design and reared on deep litter system from 28 to 56 days of age. The four treatments were: positive control – T1 (corn-soybean based diet); negative control – T2 (20% FSBCM replacement for corn in T1); diet 3 – T3 (T2 diet + 0.05% MEP) and diet 4 – T4 (T2 diet + 0.10% MEP). On day 56, two birds per each pen were selected for carcass and organ evaluation and other two birds per replicate were selected for serum biochemical analysis. The results indicated that addition of MEP to FSBCM diet caused a significant (p0.05) between birds fed PC and MEP treated diets but significantly (p0.05) affected by the MEP supplementation. Therefore, MEP supplementation in FSBCM based diet improved live weights and carcass attributes without any detrimental effect on blood composition of the broiler chickens.

The contamination of animal feed with mycotoxins is a worldwide problem in the animal husbandry, but it also represents a serious threat for the whole food chain. The health of both animals and humans is potentially endangered. From this point of view aflatoxins are a class of mycotoxins especially well known. Therefore, new strategies to combat these natural contaminants are constantly being developed. The most applied method to protect animals against aflatoxicosis is the utilization of feed additives aimed to adsorb aflatoxins. In order to estimate adsorbing potential of feed additive “MycoStop DUPLO”, designed for the prevention and/or alleviation of adverse effects of aflatoxin B1 in animal nutrition, in vitro trial was conducted. As a result of the experiment, conducted at pH 5 during 120 minutes of incubation at 37°C, the optimal formulation of the adsorbent was revealed. This product, in low concentration and in the presence of high amounts of toxin, met the stringent European regulation requirements for minimum 90% aflatoxin binding efficiency (90.1% achieved with 0.02% adsorbent and 4 mg/L toxin concentration). In higher adsorbent (0.2%), and lower toxin (0.2 mg/L) conditions, adsorption was 99.6%. Such outcome indicated the validity of in vitro experimental approach which can serve as a reliable fast tool for triage of adsorbents and preselect them for in vivo tests.

This experiment was on 350 uniform sized Cobb broiler hatching eggs (60 g) to assess the response of trace mineral supplementation (Zinc and copper) on growth performance and gastrointestinal tract development in broiler chicken. The fertile eggs were divided into groups with in ovo trace mineral solution containing zinc (80 µg) and copper (16 µg) and without in ovo administration. After hatching, the chicks were further divided into four groups: Group I served as control without in ovo and without post-hatch supplemented diet (WoINOVO-WoPHS), birds in Group II were without in ovo and with post-hatch supplemented diet (WoINOVO-WPHS) (100 % higher level of zinc 200 ppm, copper 30 ppm in diet), birds in Group III had in ovo (zinc, 80 µg; copper,16 µg) and without post-hatch supplemented diet (WINOVO-WoPHS) and birds in Group IV had in ovo and with post-hatch supplemented diet (WINOVO-WPHS). Data collected were subjected to completely randomized design. Hatchability, live weight gain, feed intake and feed conversion ratio at 0–3 wk were not affected (p > 0.05) by in ovo administration of the mineral. Post-hatch supplementation of zinc and copper without in ovo supplementation showed better feed conversion ratio at 3–5 wk of age. It could be recommended that for improved post-hatch performance, broiler chickens diets could be supplemented with inorganic zinc and copper.

The study aimed to determine the peculiarities of the chemical composition of meat and bone meal (MBM) from different manufacturers as raw materials for the production of animal feed. To characterize feed additives of imported origin. To ensure the achievement of the goal, a mass fraction of protein, fat, mineral elements, amino acid composition of meat and bone meal from poultry farm “Ular” was established. The results obtained were compared with the mass fraction of protein, fat, mineral elements, amino acid composition of meat and bone meal (MBM) of other manufacturers. The composition of feed additives of imported origin was described with the possibility of their use in feed technology for non-productive animals. We studied the meat and bone meal (MBM) from Poland and Ukraine manufacturers and concentrated feed additives manufactured by the company “PashemKemos Sp. J.” (Poland), "Pet Kea" (Poland), and “Rovimix TM Folik 80 SD” (Belgium). The MBM of Ukraine (Ular Farm, sample 3) was not inferior to MBM from poultry of other producers. It contains 56.3% of protein, 11% of fat, 5.5% of moisture, P, Ca, and Na, which concentrations were 0.5, 1.0, and 0.2 mg/100 g respectively. The protein share of MBM absorbed by the animals was 85%. Pet Kea additives includes poultry meat, offal processing products, soybean meal, and antioxidant, therefore it could significantly enrich the chemical composition of the product with minerals. Folic acid, which is part of the “Rovimix TM Folik 80 SD”, could ensure the normal development of the animals. Termoks TM BPS and Termoks TM are able to keep the nutritional properties of the feed and extend the shelf life.

The rapid expansion of nanotechnology has been transforming the food industry by increasing market share and expenditure. Although nanotechnology offers promising benefits as feed additives, their usage in equines is primarily geared toward immunotherapy, hyper-immunization techniques, drug delivery systems, grooming activities, and therapeutic purposes. Nanoparticles could be engaged as alternatives for antibiotic feed additives to prevent foal diarrhea. Gold nanoparticles are proved to provide beneficial effects for racehorses by healing joint and tendon injuries. Because of the poor bioavailability of micro-sized mineral salts, the usage of nano-minerals is highly encourageable to improve the performance of racehorses. Nano-Vitamin E and enzyme CoQ10 for equines are no longer a simple research topic because of the increased commercial availability. Employing nanotechnology-based preservatives may offer a promising alternative to other conventional preservatives in preserving the quality of equine feed items, even during an extended storage period. While nanoparticles as feed additives may provide multitudinous benefits on equines, they could elicit allergic or toxic responses in case of improper synthesis aids or inappropriate dosages. The safety of nano-feed additives remains uninvestigated and necessitates the additional risk assessment, especially during their usage for a prolonged period. To adopt nano-feed additives in horses, there is an extreme paucity of information regarding the validity of various levels or forms of nanoparticles. Further, the currently available toxicological database on the topic of nano-feed additives is not at all related to equines and even inadequate for other livestock species. This review aims to provide new insights into possible future research pertaining to the usage of nano-feed additives in equines.

Safety and sustainability of animal feeds is a pillar of the safety of the entire food chain. Feed additive assessment incorporates consumer safety as well as animal health and welfare, which, in turn, can affect productivity and hence food security. The safety of feed users and the environment are other important components of the assessment process which, therefore, builds on a One Health perspective. In several instances the assessment entails a balanced assessment of benefits and risks for humans, animals and/or the environment. Three case studies are selected to discuss issues for a consistent framework on Risk-Benefit Assessment (RBA) of feed additives, based on EFSA opinions and literature: (a) Supplementation of feeds with trace elements with recognized human toxicity (cobalt, iodine) - RBA question: can use levels, hence human exposure, be reduced without increasing the risk of deficiency in animals?; (b) Aflatoxin binders in dairy animals - RBA question: can the use reduce the risk for human health due to aflatoxin M1, without unexpected adverse effects for animals or humans?; (c) Use of formaldehyde as preservative in feedstuffs to prevent microbial contamination - RBA question: is the reduction of microbiological risks outweighed by risks for the consumers, farmed animals or the workers? The case studies indicate that the safety of use of feed additives can involve RBA considerations which fit into a One Health perspective. As in other RBA circumstances, the main issues are defining the question and finding “metrics” that allow a R/B comparison; in the case of feed additives, R and B may concern different species (farm animals and humans). A robust assessment of animal requirements, together with sustainability considerations, might be a significant driving force for a RBA leading to a safe and effective use.

Mycotoxicosis is a severe challenge in the aquafeed industry and is involved in low productivity and high economic loss. On this occasion, available dietary supplements, including probiotics, may relieve the impacts of mycotoxicosis on the performances of aquatic animals. In this study, four test diets were prepared to test the effects of Bacillus subtilis (BS), ochratoxin A (OTA), and their mixture (BS/OTA) on the performances of Mullet (Liza ramada). Fish of similar initial weight (11.38 ± 0.24 g) were divided into four groups stocked in triplicate hapas (0.5 ×0.5 ×1 m) at 15 fish per hapa. Fish fed the control diet (without BS or OTA), BS (2 × 106 CFU/g), OTA (1 mg/kg) or BS (2 × 106 CFU/g) and OTA (1 mg/kg) (BS/OTA). After eight weeks, the final weight (FBW) and specific growth rate (SGR) were markedly enhanced by dietary BS and reduced by OTA contamination, while the feed conversion ratio (FCR) was meaningfully reduced by dietary BS and increased by OTA. The hemoglobin (Hb), packed cell volume (PCV), red blood cells (RBCs), and white blood cells (WBCs) were markedly lowered by OTA toxicity. Fish fed BS, or BS/OTA diets showed no significant differences with the control in terms of Hb, PCV, RBCs, and WBCs (p ˃ 0.05). The BS-fed fish showed the same normal intestinal and liver structure with an improved appearance of intestinal villi. The OTA-exposed fish showed deterioration of intestinal mucosa and stunted growth of intestinal villi with severe liver vascular dilatation and congestion in addition to hepatocytes degeneration. The combination of BS with OTA alleviated the pathological effect of individual OTA on the intestinal villi, improved intestinal morphology, and restored the normal hepatic structures with mild periductal inflammatory reaction around the bile duct. The blood total protein and albumin levels were markedly increased by dietary BS and lowered by OTA. Fish fed BS/OTA diet had higher alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and urea than fish fed the control but lower than those contaminated with OTA. The catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) were markedly increased by dietary BS and lowered by OTA toxicity. However, the malondialdehyde (MDA) level was decreased by dietary BS and increased by OTA toxicity. Interestingly, fish fed the control and BS/OTA diet had similar FBW, SGR, FCR, survival rates, Hb, PCV, RBCs, WBCs, creatinine, CAT, GPx, SOD, and MDA levels. In conclusion, dietary B. subtilis relieved the negative impacts of OTA contamination via protecting fish's intestine, liver, and kidney function.

Maca plant contains rich nutrients and in addition, it has various bioactive substances (N-benzyl-palmitamide, benzyl isothiocyanate, glucosinolates and phenolics). It is used to improve reproductive properties and has antioxidant effects for both humans and animals. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of adding maca plant powder to the ration at different levels on growth, slaughter carcass, partial egg production and some reproductive characteristics in Japanese quail (Coturnix coturnix japonica). The experimental groups were formed by adding 0% (control), 0.05% and 0.1% maca powder to the diet, and a total of 300 birds were used. Growth (weekly body weights, parameters of Gompertz growth function), feed efficiency and carcass characteristics of quails in the 42-day fattening trial were determined. Reproductive characteristics were measured up to 22 weeks of age. Addition of maca powder to the diet increased the feed consumption (p < 0.05) but did not affect body weights at 35 and 42 days of age, β0 and β1 parameters or point of inflection weight of the Gompertz model, carcass traits, partial egg production or fertility. It may be advisable to add 0.1% maca powder to the diets of breeders. Besides, maca powder reduced embryonic deaths and improved chick quality (both p < 0.05). It is thought that different results for reproductive traits can be obtained if maca powder is used for a longer period in the diets of breeder quail flocks.

The fastidious nature of Brachyspira hyodysenteriae limits an accurate in vitro pre-screening of conventionally used antibiotics and other candidate alternative antimicrobials. This results in a non-judicious use of antibiotics, leading to an exponential increase of the antibiotic resistance issue and a slowdown in the research for new molecules that might stop this serious phenomenon. In this study we tested four antibiotics (tylosin, lincomycin, doxycycline, and tiamulin) and medium-chain fatty acids (MCFA; hexanoic, octanoic, decanoic, and dodecanoic acid) against an Italian field strain of B. hyodysenteriae and the ATCC 27164 strain as reference. We determined the minimal inhibitory concentrations of these substances, underlining the multidrug resistance pattern of the field strain and, on the contrary, a consistent and stable inhibitory effect of the tested MCFA against both strains. Then, sub-inhibitory concentrations of antibiotics and MCFA were examined in modulating a panel of B. hyodysenteriae virulence genes (tlyA, tlyB, bhlp16, bhlp29.7, and bhmp39f). Results of gene expression analysis were variable, with up- and downregulations not properly correlated with particular substances or target genes. Decanoic and dodecanoic acid with their direct and indirect antimicrobial property were the most effective among MCFA, suggesting them as good candidates for subsequent in vivo trials.