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SUMMARY: The significant surge in poultry production observed in recent years has compelled scientists to devise strategies for more secure and cost-effective output. However, due to complete or gradual restrictions on the use of antimicrobial growth promoters (AGPs), enteric diseases that were formerly contained with success have now resurfaced, posing difficulties for the global poultry industry. Necrotic enteritis (NE) is a highly significant enteric bacterial disease that causes significant economic losses ($2–6 billion annually) to the poultry industry worldwide. The disease is caused by an anaerobic spore-forming bacterium, Clostridium perfringens type A, C and G strains. Several factors predispose the disease, including coccidiosis, poor management and biosecurity. Necrotic enteritis is distributed worldwide in both clinical and subclinical forms. The clinical form causes ruffled feathers, diarrhoea, weight loss, pseudomembrane formation, Turkish towel-like appearance of the intestinal mucosa, foul-smelling gases, and high mortality. The subclinical form has less noticeable symptoms, such as poor nutrient digestion and absorption, poor FCR and cholangiohepatitis. Poultry researchers are continuously seeking for novel and viable antibiotic alternatives to prevent and control this important disease. Several non-antibiotic alternatives, including prebiotics, probiotics, synbiotics, postbiotics, organic acids, enzymes, phytogenic substances, bacteriophages, egg yolk antibodies, and vaccines have been utilised, with varying degrees of success and limitations. Choosing the most optimal alternative method to combat NE is challenging due to the variable influence on disease control and potential effects on cost-efficiency. However, an integrated approach that takes into account the utilisation of suitable alternatives to antibiotics, the composition of the diet and effective husbandry practices may yield highly promising outcomes. The current review provides comprehensive details of the concept, effects and mechanisms associated with the application of different non-antibiotic alternatives that have been employed for the management of NE in broilers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Natural herbs are excellent alternatives to synthetic compounds to enhance the growth performance and health status of fish. This study was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of black cardamom (Amomum subulatum) extract (BCE) as an herbal supplement in improving the growth, antioxidant status, haematology, and serum biochemistry of Catla catla. The acclimatized fish (N = 900; average initial weight = 14.44 ± 0.33 g) were allocated into five groups (60 fish/group in triplicate) in hapas (4 × 2 × 2.5 ft) and provided with feed containing 0 (control), 0.5, 1, 2 and 4 g/kg BCE for 90 days before being subjected to 8 days of crowding stress. After 90 days, significantly higher feed utilization and growth were observed in all BCE‐fed treatments compared to the control; however, the maximum values of these parameters were noted in the 2 g/kg BCE‐fed treatment. Moreover, the BCE‐fed groups exhibited a significant increase in antioxidant indices (glutathione peroxidase, superoxide dismutase and catalase), with a significant reduction in malondialdehyde levels, indicating a higher antioxidant capacity compared to the control. Significant improvements in haematological parameters, such as an increase in haematocrit, haemoglobin and red blood cells and a decrease in white blood cells, were observed in BCE‐fed treatments compared to the control. Furthermore, BCE‐fed groups showed a significant decrease in serum glucose, cortisol and triglycerides, while total protein, globulin and albumin levels were significantly higher compared with the control. During the feeding trial of 90 days, no mortality was observed; however, the lowest cumulative mortality was noted in the 2 g/kg BCE group after crowding stress of 8 days. In conclusion, the use of BCE in feed can enhance the growth performance, antioxidant status, haematology, and serum biochemistry of C. catla and improve the resistance against crowding stress. The optimum levels of BCE for C. catla were estimated based on weight gain % (1.78 g/kg; R2 = 0.97), feed conversion ratio (1.65 g/kg; R2 = 0.98), MDA content (1.66 g/kg; R2 = 0.93) and serum lysozyme activity (1.72 g/kg; R2 = 1) using broken‐line regression analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study described the daily MY in buffalo and cow under restricted feeding conditions using the five growth models (Brody, Von Bertalanffy, Logistic, Gompertz and Wood). In addition, the species-wise differences in lactation parameters were also tested. These models were fitted to the lactation data of four whole lactations (two buffaloes and two cows) using 1200 unadjusted MY records. Fitting of the model was evaluated through appropriate fitness indicators such as the adjusted R2, Akaike's Information Criterion (AIC), Bayesian Information Criterion (BIC) and Root Means Squared Error (RMSE). The Wood's model provided the best fit of the lactation curves with logical values of parameter estimates owing to higher R2 and lower AIC, BIC and RMSE than other equations. The Wood's model had a better fit of lactation data of cows than of buffaloes. The average estimated values for the initial MY (a), ascending phase before peak MY (b) and descending phase after peak MY (c) were 4.75, 0.238 and 0.004, and 2.56, 0.321 and 0.006 kg/day for buffaloes and cows, respectively. The magnitude of lactation parameters remained higher (P<0.05) in buffaloes for a, peak MY, persistency and lactation yield than in cows. The Woods' model fairly accurately described the lactation data than other equations under restricted feeding conditions, with poor fitting in buffaloes to moderate fitting in cows. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The bullseye snakehead (Channa marulius) is considered as an affordable and robust freshwater fish for farming in Asia. However, there is limited knowledge on the species' full nutritional requirements to date with extensive gaps in our knowledge and particularly in precision aspects of protein requirements. Therefore, a three-month feeding trial was conducted under semi-intensive farming conditions to determine the protein requirement of bullseye snakehead using test diets containing 40 (P40), 45 (P45), 50 (P50), and 55% (P55) crude protein levels. The growth performance results revealed that the 55% dietary protein group (P55) had the highest final mean weight (14.09 g fish-1), and net weight gain (12.82 g fish-1). When compared to other dietary treatments, the final weight (R2 = 0.921), and weight gain (R2 = 0.913), displayed a linear increasing trend as dietary protein is raised. The lowest FCR was observed in 50% (1.94±0.01) and 55% (1.97±0.01) CP diet groups compared to dietary treatments. Further analysis has shown that the body protein content also significantly increased as dietary protein was raised to 55%. Although, a reverse trend was found in body lipid levels with increasing protein in the diet. The incremental dietary protein also elevated proximal intestinal protease activity but decreased amylase and lipase activity. The overall essential and non-essential amino acids levels of snakehead fillet muscle reflected an increase in dietary protein. Overall, this study has shown that the fish fed a diet with 55% crude protein attained the highest growth performance and nutrient profile of the whole fish when compared to other dietary treatments tested. It would appear we did not obtain the maximum potential for growth under the present experimental conditions due to the upper protein constraint of 55% in the diet. Further quantitative studies are suggested. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to evaluate the influence of different physical forms of complete diets on performance, feeding behaviour, digestibility, ruminal health, blood and carcass indices in fattening lambs. A randomised complete block design was used to assign thirty male Lohi lambs (300 ± 15 d old) with an initial body weight of 33 ± 1.4 kg in ten replications to one of three physical forms of the diet. For different treatments, the dietary ingredients were ground and mixed as (I) ground conventional mash (CM), (II) whole corn grains were mixed with the remaining pelleted ingredients as a texturised diet (TX), and (III) whole corn grains and the remaining ingredients were mixed as an unprocessed diet (UP). During the 60-d growth trial and 7-d digestibility experiment, individually housed lambs were fed ad libitum. Feeding diet UP improved (p < 0.05) dry matter intake, average daily gain and feed-to-gain ratio of fattening lambs. The ruminal pH tended to be lower in group TX compared with the other groups. The incidence of loose faeces consistency was 3.5 times higher (p < 0.05) in group TX compared to group UP. The daily intakes of dry matter (DM) and neutral detergent fibre (NDF), the rumination time and chewing activities were highest (p < 0.05) for lambs fed on the UP diet. The digestibility of DM, NDF and ether extract were greater (p < 0.05) for diet UP as compared to diet TX. The chilled and hot carcass weights were highest (p < 0.05) for group UP. The papillae density tended to be greater for group UP. However, blood metabolites, intestinal morphology, carcass marbling, tenderness, meat pH, cooking loss, and meat composition were similar across the treatments. It can be concluded that the unprocessed diet based on whole corn grain and soybean hulls improved growth performance, feeding behaviour and carcass yield through better nutrient utilisation and a stable ruminal environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A study was conducted to determine the artificial breeding response, embryonic and larval development of giant snakehead, Channa marulius, with the application of various dosages of stimulatory hormones: Suprefact® (LHRH) agonist and Ovaprim® (GnRH + dopamine inhibitor). First and second hormonal dosages of Suprefact® (diluted) and Ovaprim® (0.3, 0.4, and 0.5 ml for male and 0.8, 0.9, and 1.0 ml for females per kilogram body weight) were used. There were three treatments T1, T2, and T3 and each treatment had three replicates. Male fish were treated with T1 (0.3), T2 (0.4), T3 (0.5) ml kg−1 of body weight while female fish with T1 (0.8), T2 (0.9), T3 (1.0) ml kg−1 of body weight. The results showed that fish stimulated with T3 (1.0) obtained better fecundity rate (2951.7) followed by T2 (0.4) (2678.3), while the lowest fecundity (466.7) was recorded in T1. The numerically higher values of gonado‐somatic index (males and females) and fertilization rate appeared in T2. The highest survival rate (97.1%) was found in T3 followed by T2 (97.0%), while the lowest (32.2%) in T1. In conclusion, the application of Suprefact® and Ovaprim® at 0.4 and 0.5 ml kg−1 body weight for male and 0.9 and 1.0 ml kg−1 for female fish successfully stimulated snakehead fish induced breeding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Antibiotic supplementation in feed has been continued for the previous 60 years as therapeutic use. They can improve the growth performance and feed efficiency in the chicken flock. A favorable production scenario could favor intestinal microbiota interacting with antibiotic growth promoters and alter the gut bacterial composition. Antibiotic growth promoters did not show any beneficial effect on intestinal microbes. Scope and Approach. Suitable and direct influence of growth promoters are owed to antimicrobial activities that reduce the conflict between host and intestinal microbes. Unnecessary use of antibiotics leads to resistance in microbes, and moreover, the genes can relocate to microbes including Campylobacter and Salmonella, resulting in a great risk of food poisoning. Key Findings and Conclusions. This is a reason to find alternative dietary supplements that can facilitate production, growth performance, favorable pH, and modulate gut microbial function. Therefore, this review focus on different nutritional components and immune genes used in the poultry industry to replace antibiotics, their influence on the intestinal microbiota, and how to facilitate intestinal immunity to overcome antibiotic resistance in chicken. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A total of 896 1-day-old straight-run (Ross-308) broilers were used to investigate the interactive effects of protein source (PS), diet structure (DS) and butyric acid (BA) on live performance and carcass characteristics, gut development and its morphology and apparent ileal digestibility (AID) of protein and amino acids (AA). Eight experimental diets comprising 8 replicates with 14 birds each were tested in a 2 × 2 × 2 factorial arrangement with complete randomized design by two levels of BA (0 and 0.1%), two forms of DS (whole vs. ground wheat) and two PS, i.e., soybean meal and canola meal (SBM vs. CM). Throughout the entire experimental period (0 to 35 d), broilers fed SBM-based diets exhibited better (p < 0.05) growth performance (feed intake (FI), body weight gain (BWG) and feed conversion ratio (FCR)), carcass parameters (p < 0.05), gut health (p < 0.05), and nutrient digestibility (p < 0.05) than CM-fed broilers. Dietary whole wheat (WW) positively affected FI (p = 0.001), BWG (p = 0.004) and FCR (p = 0.035) during the overall experimental period. Broilers fed WW had 6, 5, 8, 11 and 10% lower empty relative weights of crop, proventriculus, jejunum, ileum and colon and 25 and 15% heavier gizzard and pancreas, respectively, with longer villus height (p < 0.001), reduced crypt depth (p = 0.031) and longer villus height-to-crypt depth ratio (p < 0.001) than those fed ground-wheat-based diets. Broilers fed WW had greater (p < 0.05) AID of CP and most of the AA. Butyric acid supplementation resulted in improved (p < 0.05) growth performance and digestibility of threonine, valine, leucine, isoleucine, phenylalanine, serine and aspartate. The broilers consuming SBM had 28% lower abdominal fat than those fed CM-based diets. In conclusion, harmful consequences of a less digestible PS can partially be compensated by the inclusion of WW, and supplementation of BA further reduces these detrimental effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to optimize the organic selenium (Se) requirements of intensively reared silver carp (Hypophthalmichthys molitrix). A total of n = 300 juveniles silver carp 11.40±0.52 cm long, and average weighing 25.28±0.18 grams were randomly assigned to 15 aquaria (20 fish/100L aquaria) and subjected to five different dietary Se levels in a completely randomized design. The diets were pelleted supplemented with exogenous Se methionine @ 0.0, 0.3, 0.6, 0.9 and 1.2 mg/kg of the diet. The fourteen days of aquaria acclimatization was given to fish and then an 84-day feeding trial was conducted. The group supplemented with 0.9 mg/kg Se had greater feed intake, gain in length, body weight %, and specific growth rate with a better feed conversion ratio as compared to those fed on the rest of the dietary levels or control (P<0.05). The deposition of Se was greater in the liver, and kidneys of the fishes fed on diets containing 0.9 and 1.2 mg Se levels than in the rest of the treatments (P<0.05). However, dietary Se levels had no effects on the bioaccumulation of Se in muscle tissues (P>0.05). The proximate analysis showed that dry matter, crude protein, and fat contents of meat were not changed (P>0.05) by dietary treatments. Similarly, values of TBARS, RBCs, Hb, and blood glucose contents were similar (P>0.05) across the treatments. However, the concentration of WBCs, HCT, and MCHC was greater in those groups fed on 0.9 and 1.2 Se levels than in those fed on 0.6, 0.3, and 0.0 Se levels respectively (P<0.05). The activities of ALT, AST, and ALP were lowered in the 0.9 mg Se supplemented fishes compared with the rest of the treatments (P<0.05). The SOD, catalases, and GPx levels for muscle, liver, and whole body were greater (P<0.05) in the Se-supplemented groups than in the control. These outcomes indicated that up to 0.9 mg/kg inclusion of methionine-based Se in the diet of juvenile silver carp improved the growth performance, feed conversion ratio, organs Se enrichment, and antioxidant status without any compromise on meat quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In a previous study with LSL-LITE layers (-23 to 30-week-old), isoleucine at 0.72% and 0.84% produced values for FCR at 1.45 and 1.44, respectively and shared significance with 0.78% isoleucine (1.49). Considering that FCR is an important standard in the poultry industry due to the cost for adding feed ingredients such as synthetic amino acids and the low FCR of 1.45, 0.72% isoleucine was chosen for further study with LSL-LITE layers (n = 490 at 33- to 40-week-old) to determine effects on production and egg quality. The study included 7 diets (2730 Kcal kg metabolizable energy and constant isoleucine at 0.72%) containing varying quantities of valine [0.72 (Control), 0.75, 0.78, 0.81, 0.84, 0.87 or 0.90%] x 7 replicates x 10 hens/replicate. Significance at P ≤ 0.05 and P < 0.10 was determined. Level and week were significant for feed intake, egg production, and FCR; the interaction of level x week (L*W) was significant for feed intake and FCR. An isoleucine:valine of 1.233 corresponding to 0.72% isoleucine and 0.87% valine produced the lowest FCR of 1.30 (a 2.26% decrease compared to the Control at 1.33 ± 0.04). All measurements for external egg quality, except shape index and eggshell thickness, were significant for level. Week was significant for all parameters except shell thickness; L*W was significant for external quality measurements except shape index and shell thickness. Level, week, and L*W were significant for internal egg quality measurements. Serum protein and H1 titer were significant for level. Various production, egg quality, and biochemical measurements were significantly different from the control (0.72% isoleucine and 0.72% valine) at 0.81 to 0.87% valine. Findings of this study will aid researchers and commercial producers in narrowing the range of isoleucine, valine, and leucine needed for effects on particular parameters. Knowledge gained from this and others studies will eventually lead to an understanding of synergistic and antagonistic effects of branched chain amino acids in feed for various genetic types of layers throughout their productive lifetime. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lipids (fats and oils) are a concentrated source of energy in poultry diets that improves palatability, feed consistency, provides essential fatty acids and increases the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins. Fresh oil is an expensive energy source and its exposure to air, heat, metallic catalyst during storage and processing may lead to its oxidative deterioration. This review highlights the response of modern poultry to dietary oxidized oil on growth performance, nutrients digestibility, gut health, carcass characteristics, meat quality, blood chemistry and tissue oxidative status. Literature shows that in moderately (peroxide value (PV): 20 to 50 meq kg−1) and highly (PV: 50 to 100 meq kg−1 or above) oxidized oils, lipid peroxidation causes rancid odours and flavours that negatively affect feed palatability, reduces intestinal villus height that decreases the surface area available for nutrients absorption. The oxidation products also damage fat soluble vitamins (A, D, E and K) in blood resulting in an oxidative stress. The use of oxidized oil in poultry diets has no significant effect on dressing percentage, pH and meat colour, whereas carcass weight decreases and drip loss of meat increases. Overall, there is a contradictory data regarding the influence of oxidized oil in poultry feed depending on the PV and inclusion levels. The reviewed literature shows that the use of mildly oxidized (PV < 20 meq kg−1) oil in poultry feed with 4 to 5% inclusion level decreases the feed cost and ultimately cost of poultry production without compromising their growth performance. It can, therefore, partially replace fresh oil as an efficient, cost effective and sustainable energy source in poultry diets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In total, 240 three-weeks-old sexed birds (191.06±6.01g), 120♂+ 120♀ from Lakha, Mushki, Peshaweri and Mianwali varieties of local Aseel were used to determine the influence of selenium forms on growth during three growth phases. Birds were divided into four equal groups, 60 birds/variety (30♂ + 30♀), further subdivided into A, B and C treatment groups, 10 bids/ treatment. Each group was allocated starter, grower and finisher diets. Group A was offered the diet supplemented with 0.3 ppm Se-enriched yeast and the diet of group B included 0.3 ppm sodium selenite, while group C was fed with un-supplemented control diet. Birds were maintained individually for 18 weeks. Feed intake was decreased, while, body weight gain, feed conversion ratio (FCR) and body weight gain were improved in males and females of Lakha, while best results detected in males during all growth phases in Se-enriched yeast fed groups. In conclusion, Se-enriched yeast had the positive effect in improving growth parameters of native Aseel. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Selenium was believed to be toxic to animals, however, in 1957, selenium was reported as a dietary vital nutrient. Selenium is available in inorganic and organic forms. In 1974, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulated the supplementation of selenium in poultry diets. In 1994, the National Research Council recognized selenium as a dietary essential nutrient for laying hens. The maximum allowed selenium addition level is 0.30 mg/kg. One of the most common supplements used is sodium selenite (SS), the inorganic selenium source. However, in 2000, the FDA approved the use of the organic source of selenium, Se-enriched yeast (SY) in poultry diets. Selenium has valuable effects on animal immune status, growth parameters, production and reproduction. Experimentally, it has been indicated that SY benefits more than that of SS due to its more bioavailability. Selenium inclusion in food-animal diets has an extra nutritional advantage to human consumers of Seenriched food-animal products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of study was to determine the impact of different selenium sources on blood biochemical picture of Aseel. Threeweeks- old 240 Aseel chickens (120♂ and 120 ♀) from Lakha, Mushki, Peshaweri and Mianwali varieties were randomly distributed into four groups; 60 birds/variety (30♂ and 30♀ ). The birds of each group of either sex were further subdivided into A, B (experimental) and C (control) treatment groups with 10 birds each. Group A and B were fed the diet containing 0.3 mg/kg Se-yeast and sodium selenite, respectively, while group C was fed diet without selenium (control diet). Birds were maintained individually in cages from 4 to 21 weeks. In blood serum, glutathione peroxidase (GPx) levels increased (P≤0.05) while, total cholesterol and thyroxin (T4) levels decreased (P≤0.05) in Se-yeast supplemented group than sodium selenite supplemented or control group. The study concluded that Se-yeast gave the superior performance to improve blood biochemical profile of Aseel. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A study to investigate the influence of selenium on final body weight and slaughter traits of Aseel was conducted. Threeweeks- old 120 cockerels from Lakha, Mushki, Peshaweri and Mianwali varieties of Aseel were randomly selected and distributed into four groups, 30 cockerels each, subdivided into 3 treatment groups A, B (experimental groups), and C (control group) with 10 cockerels in each treatment. Birds were assigned three experimental diets. The diet for the birds of group A incorporated 0.3 mg/kg Se-enriched yeast and group B included 0.3 mg/kg sodium selenite, while C was fed the diet without Se (control diet). Final body weight, dressed weight, dressing%, eviscerated weight, eviscerated%; chest, thigh and giblets weight; selenium content in chest and thigh in Se-yeast fed birds were significantly increased than those got sodium selenite or control diet. The study concluded that Se-enriched yeast is more effective in improving body weight and slaughtering characteristics of Aseel. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted to evaluate the impact of selenium sources on egg and hatching traits of native Aseel chicken. Selenium-treated 21-weeks-aged 84 pullets and 12 cockerels from Lakha, Mushki, Peshaweri and Mianwali varieties (21 pullets and 3 cockerels per variety) were divided into three treatment groups A, B and C (7 pullets and 1 cockerel per group). Group A and B were experimental and C was control. Ration for group A was included 0.3 mg/kg Se-yeast, B was included 0.3 mg/kg sodium selenite and C with No selenium. Se-yeast supplementation presented increased egg weight, shell thickness, yolk index, Haugh units; enhanced egg length, breadth, volume, shape index and surface area; decreased dead germ%, dead in shell%, clear egg% and enhanced hatchability%, the hatch of fertile% and chick weight. Present study concluded that Se-yeast is a superior supplement in improving egg quality, geometry and hatching features of indigenous Aseel varieties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present project was envisaged by using rice husk as a substrate for processing with the objective to produce a nutritionally enriched bulk feed ingredient and to explore its potential as wheat bran replacer in total mixed rations for the ruminants. For this purpose rice husk was subjected to different processing techniques using acid, alkali, water treatment and fermentation to prepare processed moiety on pilot scale. All these processed materials were included in experimental ration at a fixed level (20 %). All iso-caloric and iso-nitrogenous rations were offered to experimental animals (n=36, 22 male 14 female Lohi sheep almost evenly distributed in experimental groups) having almost uniform body weight (BW). During 60 days of the trial, no significant difference (p =0.067) in the daily feed intake among the different experimental groups was recorded. Maximum feed consumption was recorded in HT (hydrothermal treatment) 1096.69±26.8 (mean± SE) while lowest in NC (untreated husk) 974.91±18.8 followed by 1069±28 in FT (Fermented), 1045.81±27.7 in BT 1042.47±33 in AT and 1032.17±32 in PC group. A significant difference (p=0.039) in the weekly body weight gain (BWG) was recorded among the experimental groups. The highest weight gain was found in PC (0.977±0.75) followed by FT (0.972±0.71), AT (0.931±0.65) and BT (0.92± 0.53) while lowest was recorded in HT (0.70±0.603) and NC (0.808±0.088). The FCR calculated was found to be significantly (p=.000) different in all the six experimental groups. Minimum FCR was found in HT (7.68±0.64) followed by an ascending trend in AT (8.0 ±0.675), BT (8.09±0.833), NC (9.92±0.64), HT (10.645±0.675) and in PC (11.684±0.804) group. No mortality was observed. It can be concluded that rice husk can be successfully processed and can replace the wheat bran. Moreover, fermented husk by using Pleurotus florida can process rice husk into a nutritionally dense ingredient. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The experiment to test the selenium impact on body measurements of Lakha, Mushki, Peshaweri and Mianwali varieties of Aseel was conducted. A total of 240 three-weeks-aged birds were selected and divided into four groups, 60 birds per variety (30♁ + 30♂). These birds were subdivided into three treatment groups A, B, and C with 10 birds from each sex. Birds of group A were fed the diet supplemented with 0.3 mg/kg Se-yeast, B with 0.3 mg/kg sodium selenite and C with No selenium. Improved body measurements in the birds fed Se-yeast included diet were recorded compared to those received sodium selenite incorporated or control diet. Interaction of varieties and selenium sources presented increased breast width, keel length, wing spread, shank length, shank circumference, drumstick length and drumstick circumference in the birds of Lakha got Se-yeast supplemented diet. The study concluded that Se-yeast was more effective in enhancing body measurements of Aseel. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two hundred-forty 3-weeks-old Aseel birds from Lakha, Mushki, Peshaweri and Mianwali varieties of indigenous Aseel were chosen (60 birds/variety, 30 males and 30 females) to evaluate the influence of selenium supplements on growth performance. The birds of either sex were divided according to randomized complete block design into A, B and C treatment groups (10 birds/treatment); A and B were experimental, while C was control. Se-enriched yeast (organic selenium) and sodium selenite (inorganic selenium) were supplemented @ 0.3 mg/kg in the basal diets of group A and B, respectively, while, group C was fed without additional selenium. Birds were maintained individually in battery cages from 4-21 weeks. Statistically, the results showed the reduced (P>0.05) feed intake, while enhanced (P≤0.05) nutrient utilization for dry matter, crude protein, crude fiber, crude fat and ash; superior feed conversion ratio; higher live final body weight; lower (P≤0.05) mortality and rearing cost in Se-enriched yeast fed birds, chiefly in the males of Lakha variety than those received sodium selenite supplemented or control diet. The study concluded that the organic selenium supplement (Se-enriched yeast) had a major influence in improving the overall growth performance of Aseel. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A study to examine the impact of selenium forms on productive traits and egg selenium deposition in Aseel was conducted. A total of 96 selenium-treated 21-week-aged Aseel birds were used, 84 females (1726.25 ± 121.65 g) and 12 males (1973.17 ± 182.84 g) from Lakha, Mushki, Peshaweri and Mianwali varieties. Birds were distributed into four experimental groups (21 females and 3 males/variety), further subdivided into three treatment groups A, B and C with 8 birds each, 7 females and 1 male (4 varieties ×3 Se treatments ×8 birds/treatment). Group A and B were the experimental while, C was a control group. Ration for the birds of group A included 0.3 ppm Se-enriched yeast, group B with 0.3 ppm sodium selenite, while, group C received a basal ration containing no selenium. Experimental birds were maintained separately in battery cages from 22 to 42 weeks. The pullets received Se-enriched yeast (organic source of selenium) supplemented ration gained the sexual maturity earlier (168.61 ± 0.64 d) and represented increased (p ≤ .05) body weight (1973.56 ± 3.43 g); egg production (38.17 ± 1.27%); egg mass (112.52 ± 2.63 g); FCR/dozen eggs (3.26 ± 0.06); FCR/kg egg mass (6.77 ± 0.23) and the selenium contents in the whole egg (11.70 ± 0.01 μg), in egg yolk (8.31 ± 0.01 μg) and in egg albumen (3.33 ± 0.01 μg). It is concluded that Se-enriched yeast is more potent than sodium selenite and is a key supplement used to improve production performance and egg-selenium status of Aseel. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The impacts of dietary levels of oxidized vegetable (sunflower) oil on growth performance, gut morphology, nutrients utilization, serum cholesterol and meat fatty acid profile were evaluated in Ross 308 straight-run (n = 192) day-old broilers. The broilers were arbitrarily distributed among four dietary treatments including; FVO: fresh vegetable oil (1 mEq kg−1), LOO: low oxidized (20 mEq kg−1), MOO: moderately oxidized (40 mEq kg−1), and HOO: highly oxidized vegetable oil (60 mEq kg−1) with 5% inclusion containing six replicates. Results revealed that the broilers consuming MOO and HOO based diets showed reduced (p = 0.05) feed intake, body weight gain and carcass weight accompanied by a poorer feed conversion ratio than those consuming FVO. Villus height, villus height to crypt depth ratio, ileal digestibility of crude protein (p = 0.041), crude fat (p = 0.032) and poly unsaturated fatty acids (p = 0.001) in thigh muscles were decreased, whereas crypt depth (p = 0.001), serum cholesterol levels (p = 0.023) and short chain fatty acids (p = 0.001) were increased (p < 0.001) by increasing dietary oxidation level. In conclusion, MOO and HOO exerted deleterious effects on growth, carcass weight, gut development and nutrients utilization. Low oxidized vegetable oil (20 mEq kg−1), however, with minimum negative effects can be used as a cost effective energy source in poultry diets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The growth of small ruminant production is critical as the increasing human population continues to consume meat. An intensive and sustainable fattening system requires faster gains and fewer labor requirements at a lower cost. The current experiment was planned to evaluate the effects of pelleted and conventional total mix ration (TMR) with 15% and 25% wheat straw on growth performance, nutrient digestibility, nitrogen balancing, liver enzymes, blood metabolites, and complete blood counts. The feed intake and growth performance improved in both pelleted TMR treatments. The rumen pH was comparatively higher in those goats fed conventional TMR; however, in pelleted TMR the pH was greater than the threshold level set for subacute ruminal acidosis. Nutrient digestibility, nitrogen balancing, blood metabolites, complete blood count, and liver enzymes were not influenced by straw level or physical form of diet. The inclusion of straw in high concentrate total mixed rations (TMRs) of male fattening goats can provide the necessary fiber to prevent ruminal acidosis and maintain growth. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of the physical form (PF) of the diet (pelleted vs. conventional) and the straw level (SL) of wheat straw (WS) (15% versus 25%) in total mixed rations on feed intake, growth, total tract digestibility, and blood metabolites of fattening goats. Thirty-two male Beetal goats (27.4 ± 0.28 kg body weight (BW)) were divided randomly into the following four dietary treatments with a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement (n = 8/treatment): (1) CTMR15 (conventional TMR containing 15% WS), (2) CTMR25 (conventional TMR containing 25% WS), (3) PTMR15 (pelleted TMR containing 15% WS), and (4) PTMR25 (pelleted TMR containing 25% WS). Both conventional and pelleted 15% WS TMR had 33.7% neutral detergent fiber (NDF) and 19.3% acid detergent fiber (ADF), whereas in 25% WS TMR the NDF and ADF contents were 38.7% and 22.9%, respectively. The experimental diets were formulated to be iso-nitrogenous (crude protein (CP) = 15%). The dry matter intake (DMI) (1.265 vs. 1.044 kg/day) and average daily gain (ADG) (0.176 vs. 0.143 kg/day) were higher (p < 0.05) in pelleted vs. conventional TMR-fed goats. Irrespective of the PF of the TMR, the 15% WS-fed animals had greater (p < 0.05) DMI (1.206 vs. 1.102 kg/day) and ADG (0.172 vs. 0.144 kg) when compared to those fed on 25% WS diets. Furthermore, feed-to-gain ratio (F:G) was higher (p < 0.05) in the 25% WS-fed goats when compared with the 15% WS-fed animals. Digestibility coefficients, nitrogen balancing, hepatic enzymes, blood metabolites, and hematological parameters were similar (p > 0.05) across all treatments. In conclusion, feeding pelleted TMR with WS improved DMI and growth performance as compared to those fed conventional TMR, and 15% WS performed better than 25% WS without exerting any adverse effects on blood metabolites, liver enzymes, or hematological parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Aflatoxin M1 (AFM1) occurs in milk and dairy products, resulting from metabolism of ingested aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) in contaminated feedstuffs. The toxic effects of AFM1 include carcinogenesis, reduced protein synthesis, and immunosuppressant effects. The aim of this study was to determine the levels of aflatoxin M1 in milk and milk products of Punjab, the major milk producing province in Pakistan. Two hundred thirty two milk samples from local shops, household farms, and large scale farms; and 138 sweets (Mithae) from local shops were collected from the 36 districts of Punjab province. These samples were analyzed for aflatoxin M1 by ELISA technique. The AFM1 incidence rates in milk and sweets were 76.3% and 97%, respectively. Average AFM1 concentration in milk was 0.252 μg/L and in sweets was 0.48 μg/kg. Results were compared with the European Union permissible levels of aflatoxin M1 in milk (0.05 μg/L) and milk products (0.05 μg/kg). Contamination level in 75 milk and 108 sweets sample was higher than these levels. No positive correlation was observed between the level of AFM1 in milk and the level of AFM1 in sweets samples, which was likely caused by the large variations in milking and sweets processing. The results indicated that the community is constantly exposed to these toxins. Regulatory mechanism should be implemented to control the toxins in milk and milk products. As feed is the main source of AFM1 in milk the level of aflatoxins in livestock feeds should also be kept to the minimum. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The inclusion of straw in high concentrate total mixed rations (TMRs) of male fattening goats can provide the necessary fiber to prevent ruminal acidosis and maintain growth. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of the physical form (PF) of the diet (pelleted vs. conventional) and the straw level (SL) of wheat straw (WS) (15% versus 25%) in total mixed rations on feed intake, growth, total tract digestibility, and blood metabolites of fattening goats. Thirty-two male Beetal goats (27.4 ± 0.28 kg body weight (BW)) were divided randomly into the following four dietary treatments with a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement ( n = 8/treatment): (1) CTMR15 (conventional TMR containing 15% WS), (2) CTMR25 (conventional TMR containing 25% WS), (3) PTMR15 (pelleted TMR containing 15% WS), and (4) PTMR25 (pelleted TMR containing 25% WS). Both conventional and pelleted 15% WS TMR had 33.7% neutral detergent fiber (NDF) and 19.3% acid detergent fiber (ADF), whereas in 25% WS TMR the NDF and ADF contents were 38.7% and 22.9%, respectively. The experimental diets were formulated to be iso-nitrogenous (crude protein (CP) = 15%). The dry matter intake (DMI) (1.265 vs. 1.044 kg/day) and average daily gain (ADG) (0.176 vs. 0.143 kg/day) were higher ( p < 0.05) in pelleted vs. conventional TMR-fed goats. Irrespective of the PF of the TMR, the 15% WS-fed animals had greater ( p < 0.05) DMI (1.206 vs. 1.102 kg/day) and ADG (0.172 vs. 0.144 kg) when compared to those fed on 25% WS diets. Furthermore, feed-to-gain ratio (F:G) was higher ( p < 0.05) in the 25% WS-fed goats when compared with the 15% WS-fed animals. Digestibility coefficients, nitrogen balancing, hepatic enzymes, blood metabolites, and hematological parameters were similar ( p > 0.05) across all treatments. In conclusion, feeding pelleted TMR with WS improved DMI and growth performance as compared to those fed conventional TMR, and 15% WS performed better than 25% WS without exerting any adverse effects on blood metabolites, liver enzymes, or hematological parameters.