Search

Objective: Hyperketonemia remains a major metabolic issue of serious milk production and a major health concern in early lactation cows. Oral supplementation of glucose precursors (GP) can be used to prevent hyperketonemia in dairy cows. The objective of this study was to compare the beneficial effects of orally supplementing a mixture of GP on metabolic health indicators and milk production status of primiparous (PP) and multiparous (MP) dairy cows.Methods: Twenty-eight Holstein cows were blocked by expected date of parturition, previous lactation yield, and parity. The cows were randomly allocated to one of the four treatment groups (n = 7 cows/group) based on their parity and GP supplementation: i) PP cows fed basal diet only (PP-CON), ii) PP cows with oral supplementation of GP (PP-GP), iii) MP cows fed basal diet only (MP-CON), and iv) MP cows with oral supplementation of GP (MP-GP). Glucose precursor (glycoline liquid) was orally drenched (300 mL/d) in GP cows from 7 days prepartum through 7 days postpartum. Other than GP supplementation, all cows were fed similar pre- and postpartum basal diets.Results: In both pre- and postpartum periods, serum glucose concentration was increased, whereas β-hydroxybutyrate and free fatty acids were decreased in GP cows compared with the CON cows. Milk yield and milk components were statistically not different between GP and CON cows over the first 9 week of lactation. The yield of actual milk, energy-corrected milk, 63-days cumulative milk, colostrum yield, and calf birth weight remained higher in MP cows compared with PP cows.Conclusion: Oral drenching of GP around calving can be recommended to successfully improve the metabolic health and reduce the negative effects of hyperketonemia not only in MP but also in PP dairy cows.

Holstein Friesian cows are known for their high milk yield. They are popular in the commercial dairy sector of Pakistan. Heat stress is a major challenge for these animals owing to the longer summer season with high ambient temperatures (35 - 40 °C) and relative humidity (30 - 50%) in the area (Butt et al., 2020). Mitigating the effects of heat stress requires substantial investments in energy and water. Spraying dairy cows with water in the holding pen or at the feed bunk is common practice as it lowers body temperature and respiration rate (Kendall et al., 2007; Chen et al., 2013; 2016), and improves feed intake and milk yield (Keister et al., 2002). Owing to the recent decrease in global groundwater, studies have focused on strategies to reduce the use of water to cool dairy cows (Chen et al., 2016). Sprinkler flow rates of 1.3 and 4.9 L/min had similar effects on physiological responses of cows to heat load but produced a 73% difference in water use (Chen et al., 2016). Similarly, Tresoldi et al. (2019) concluded that a sprinkler flow rate of 4.9 L/min had poor efficiency compared with 3.3 L/min, as the additional water did not result in increased biologically relevant cooling. These studies were conducted in Mediterranean climates with an average temperature humidity index in the range of 76 to 78. A recent study with Nili Ravi buffaloes revealed a sprinkler flow rate 1.25 L/min was more efficient than one of 2.0 L/min during subtropical summers (Bah et al., 2021). Because water is projected to be scarce in Pakistan by 2030 (Mustafa et al., 2013), holistic strategies for water conservation in the dairy sector are important nationally. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of various sprinkler flow rates on the performance of lactating Holstein Friesian cows in a typical corporate dairy farm setting during the subtropical summer. Performance of these cows was assumed to be similar, irrespective of the sprinkler flow rates.

Organic acids have exhibited great potential as an antibiotic replacement and as an additive work tremendously for health maintenance of broiler chicken. To explore more about organic acids, a total of 900 day-old broiler chicks (Cobb-500) were procured from a local hatchery and distributed into 9 treatment groups having 5 replicates of 20 birds each; duration of the biological trial was of 35 days. Group T1 served as control group without any dietary supplementation. Other groups T2 and T3 were boosted with different levels (125 g/ton and 250 g/ton) of enramycin (antibiotic), T4, T5, and T6 were supplemented with different levels (2 kg/ton, 3 kg/ton, and 4 kg/ton) of ammonium formate and ammonium propionate, and T7, T8, and T9 were fed with different levels (2 kg/ton, 3 kg/ton, and 4 kg/ton) of calcium formate and calcium propionate. The findings declared significant improvement (P 0.05) in body weight gain and FCR in groups T3, T5, and T9 while feed intake was not affected. Carcass evaluation depicted significantly better (P 0.05) dressed and eviscerated weight along with carcass yield (T5, T7, T8, T9). Broilers fed organic acid supplemented diet had significantly lower (P 0.05) total bacterial count (T3, T5, T8, T9) and positively improved (P 0.05) villi length (T5, T6, T9) as compared with control group. However, total protein, globulin, HDL, and LDL levels were determined to be non-significant (P 0.05) among different organic acids treatments. Hence, organic acids can be utilized as a better replacement for antibiotics. Supplementation of organic acids at a dose rate of 3 kg/ton and 4 kg/ton is recommended for efficient performance of broilers.

An experiment was executed to test the hypothesis that supplementation of dietary threonine (d-Thr), above NRC recommendation to diets containing poorly digestible protein source (PS) may compensate its detrimental effects on overall performance of broilers. In total, nine hundred 1-day-old mixed sex broilers (Ross-308) were randomly distributed over 6 (2 × 3) experimental diets comprising 5 replicates of 30 broilers each for 35 d. The experimental diets contain either soybean meal (SBM) or canola meal (CM) with 3 levels (100, 110, and 120% of NRC recommendation) of d-Thr. During the course of the trial (0 to 35 D), interactions (P < 0.05) between PS and d-Thr were observed for feed intake (FI), body weight gain (BWG), feed conversion ratio (FCR), carcass, and gut health parameters. The broilers fed recommended level (100%) of d-Thr had 7 and 5% poorer FCR compared with those fed diets with 110 and 120% d-Thr, respectively. For villus height (VH), an interaction (P = 0.007) was found between PS and d-Thr level. Broilers consuming SBM diets had 22% longer villi, 10% deeper crypts, and 30% greater VH to crypt depth ratio (VCR) compared to those fed CM. The broilers fed 110% d-Thr diets had 9% lower crypt depth (CD) and 15% greater VCR compared with those fed diets containing NRC recommended levels. CM resulted in 9% lower protein digestibility with lower (P < 0.05) of some AA, whereas it was improved by 7% in broilers fed 120% d-Thr supplemented diets. The bursa and spleen weights were positively affected (P < 0.001) by PS. Threonine supplementation (10%) resulted in 25% greater thymus, 18% heavier bursa, and 30% greater infectious bursal disease titer. In conclusion, supplementation of d-Thr, above NRC recommendation, resulted in a better growth performance and carcass traits, improved ileal digestibility of protein and amino acids, better gut health, and immunity in broilers.

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of different cooling strategies on milk yield and physiological and behavioral responses of Nili Ravi buffaloes during subtropical summer in Pakistan. Thirty Nili Ravi buffaloes were randomly assigned to three treatments: (1) CNT buffaloes cooled with the application of water using handheld hosepipe twice daily, 3 min each with a water flow rate of 40 L/min; (2) 2SS, buffaloes cooled with sprinklers twice daily; (3) 3SS, buffaloes cooled with sprinklers thrice daily. Each of the sprinkler sessions lasted for 1 h with a 12-min cycle (3 min water on, 9 min off). The trial was carried out from mid-July until the end of September 2019. The average ambient afternoon temperature humidity index was 86.9. The results indicated that the buffaloes in the 3SS group had lower respiration rate and rectal temperature than those in the CNT and the 2SS groups (P 0.01). The 3SS group had more daily milk yield (P = 0.019) and milk fat % (P 0.01) than the CNT and 2SS groups. The lying time and the lying bout length were significantly longer in the 3SS than in the CNT and 2SS groups. The blood cortisol levels tended to be lower in the 3SS group than in the CNT and 2SS groups (P = 0.051). In conclusion, the 3SS cooling strategy had more milk yield, more milk fat, and better welfare than the CNT strategy using less groundwater and both performed better than the 2SS strategy.

Protein imbalance in dairy rations affects N balance and milk N efficiency (MNE) resulting in extra N excretion to the environment. The objective of this study was to investigate the changes in N balance, milk production, and plasma metabolites of lactating buffaloes in response to different dietary crude protein (CP) supplies. Six multiparous Nili Ravi buffaloes in mid-lactation were used in this experiment in a 3 × 3 Latin square design. The treatments were diets with 9.26, 10.0, and 11.4% of CP on DM basis. All the diets were iso-caloric (2.05 Mcal metabolizable energy/kg of DM), whereas oat silage was mixed with the respective concentrate and offered once daily as total mixed ration. Milk fat content and yields of actual milk, 4% fat corrected milk, milk fat, protein, and lactose increased by 3.97, 9.63, 11.8, 6.23, and 6.57%, respectively. Milk protein content tended to increase linearly with increasing dietary CP levels. Milk N secreted as g/d increased, while as percent of N intake decreased. The resulting decrease in MNE (13.7%) was 3.45 greater than the increase in milk yield observed by increasing dietary CP from 9.26 to 11.4% of DM. Total manure N increased linearly in terms of g/d and tended to increase as percent of N excreted. Excretion rate of N also increased linearly by 32%. In conclusion, milk yield, milk fat, protein, and lactose yields increased; however, decreased MNE indicates relatively greater N losses as observed by increased N excretion rate when CP level increased from 9.26 to 11.4% in the diet of lactating buffaloes.

2 experiments were conducted to explore nutrient composition, AME, AMEn, standardized ileal digestibility (SID) of CP, and amino acids (AA) of 4 indigenous protein sources including canola meal (CM), rapeseed meal (RSM), guar meal (GM), and sunflower meal (SFM) collected from 2 different locations, Multan (MUL; n = 3) and Sukkur (SKR; n = 3), of Pakistan. Higher (P 0.05) dry matter (DM), CP, and gross energy (GE), whereas lower (P 0.05) ash contents were found in SKR, CM, and RSM compared with those from MUL. The MUL GM had higher (P 0.05) crude fiber (CF) and CP, whereas lower (P 0.05) GE compared with those from SKR. The SFM from MUL had higher DM, whereas lower CF and CP contents than SKR. In the first experiment, 216 21-d-old male broilers (Ross 308) were distributed over 8 test diets (4 ingredients × 2 locations) and 1 basal diet, with 4 replicates containing 6 birds each (9 × 4 × 6), in a complete randomized design to determine AME and AMEn. The results indicated higher (P 0.05) AME and AMEn in MUL CM than SKR. In the second experiment, 216 21-d-old male broilers (Ross 308) were raised in 36 cages (6 birds each) to determine SID of CP and AA in a complete randomized design. 8 test diets (4 ingredients × 2 locations) and a protein-free diet, with 4 replicates each, were tested. The SID of CP and some AA were higher (P 0.05) in MUL CM and RSM than SKR. The SKR GM had a higher (P 0.05) SID of CP, arginine, methionine, threonine, valine, and cysteine compared with that from MUL. The SFM from MUL had higher (P 0.05) SID of CP, arginine, histidine, methionine, valine, alanine, aspartate, cysteine, and serine than SKR. In conclusion, major differences do exist between CM, GM, RSM, and SFM from different locations in terms of nutrients, AME, digestible CP, and AA contents for male broilers.

SUMMARY Millet, an indigenous grain in the Indo-Pak subcontinent, is used as an energy source in poultry diets. There are several varieties of millet, each having specific value of dry matter, apparent metabolizable energy (AME), and crude protein for poultry. Other extrinsic (growing conditions, storage) and intrinsic (carbohydrates and protein contents) factors also influence its AME, digestibility, and hence poultry performance. This review provides a synopsis of those factors that influence the nutritive value of millet regarding its origin (variety, growing conditions, and post-harvest storage), its chemical composition (carbohydrates and protein), physical form of the grain (whole grain or mash), and their influence on zootechnical performance in poultry.

Objective This study aimed to determine the effect of different cooling sessions as a water conservation strategy on physiological, and production responses and welfare in Holstein Friesian cows during subtropical summer in Pakistan. Methods Twenty-one cows were subjected to three cooling sessions in a completely randomized design. The treatments were: 1) 11 hours continuous cooling with sprinklers - Control (CNT), 2) Four cooling sessions (4CS), and 3) Two cooling sessions (2CS). The CNT represented the practices of the commercial dairy farms in the area, while the other cooling sessions were used as water reduction strategies. Each cooling session lasted for 1 h with a 12 min cycle (3 min water on and 9 min off) with a sprinkler flow rate of 1.25 L/min. Results The average temperature humidity index of the shed and the outside open area were 81.9 and 82.5, respectively. The results showed that both physiological responses were highest in the 2CS group followed by the CNT and the 4CS (P = 0.001). The CNT and 4CS groups had similar milk yield (P = 0.040). The 4CS group had more lying and eating times than the CNT and 2CS groups (P = 0.000). The cortisol level in the 2CS group was 2.0 and 2.2 µg/dL more than the CNT and the 4CS groups, respectively (P = 0.000). Conclusion In conclusion, the 4CS was more efficient in cooling the cows and had better welfare, as it yielded similar milk yield, and better physiological responses than the CNT despite using 90% less water.

The aim of present study was to determine the effects of supplementation of either synbiotic or probiotic on growth performance and carcass characteristics, gut health, cecal microbiota prolife and apparent ileal digestibility of protein, amino acids, and energy in broilers. Two hundred and forty-day-old straight-run broilers (Ross 308) were allotted randomly to 1 of 5 dietary treatments including basal diet (control), supplemented with either synbiotic (Nutromax P) or probiotic (Actera), each at 0.5 and 1 g/kg of the diet for 5 weeks. The overall findings of the study indicated better (p < 0.05) growth performance of broilers by synbiotic supplementation (1 g/kg) compared with those fed probiotic (1 g/kg) supplemented and control diets. The broilers consuming diet supplemented with 1 g/kg synbiotic has an increased carcass yield in comparison with those fed control diet. The findings of gut health indicated significantly increased villus height and goblet cells, by synbiotic supplementation (1 g/kg), compared with control diet in broilers. The broilers fed 1 g/kg synbiotic supplemented diets had 18% increased protein, 9 to 31% higher amino acid, and 34% better energy digestibility, whereas 8.4% decreased protein digestibility in broilers fed probiotic (1 g/kg) supplemented compared with control diet in broilers. The broilers fed synbiotic (1 g/kg) supplemented diets had increased cecal Lactobacillus and decreased Salmonella, E. coli, and Clostridium count compared with those fed control diet. In conclusion, synbiotic supplementation (1 g/kg) resulted in improved production performance, balanced cecal microbial composition, and better digestibility of nutrients in broilers compared with those fed control and diets supplemented with probiotics.

SUMMARY The aim of the present study was to explore the effect of 3 different rearing systems (free-range [FR], semi-intensive [SI], and confinement) on egg quality traits in 4 varieties of Aseel hens (Lakha, Mushki, Peshawari, and Sindhi). A total of 252, 29-week-old Aseel hens was allotted to 12 treatment groups, in a 3 × 4 factorial arrangement under randomized complete block design, replicated 3 times with 7 birds each. Data regarding egg physical and internal quality traits were recorded fortnightly and analyzed by using the ANOVA technique under a factorial arrangement. The results indicated higher (P 0.05) on egg quality traits. Interaction of the rearing system and Aseel variety exhibited variations (P 0.05). It can be concluded that Sindhi and Lakha hens demonstrated better egg physical and internal qualities. Likewise, no adverse effect of the FR system on egg quality was observed, and small poultry farmers can raise Aseel hens in alternative rearing systems (SI and FR) to earn their livelihoods.

Objective The objective of the study was to determine the effects of increasing levels of metabolizable protein (MP) on lactation performance and nitrogen (N) efficiencies in lactating dairy cows. Methods Nine multiparous cows in mid lactation [113±25 days in milk] received three treatments in a 3×3 Latin square design with a period length of 21 days. The treatments were three diets, designed to provide similar energy and increasing supply of MP (g/d) (2,371 [low], 2,561 [medium], and 2,711 [high] with corresponding crude protein levels [%]) 15.2, 18.4, and 20.9, respectively. Results Increasing MP supplies did not modify dry matter intake, however, it increased milk protein, fat, and lactose yield linearly. Similarly, fat corrected milk increased linearly (9.3%) due to an increase in both milk yield (5.2%) and milk fat content (7.8%). No effects were observed on milk protein and lactose contents across the treatments. Milk nitrogen efficiency (MNE) decreased from 0.26 to 0.20; whereas, the metabolic efficiency of MP decreased from 0.70 to 0.60 in low to high MP supplies, respectively. The concentration of blood urea nitrogen (BUN) increased linearly in response to increasing MP supplies. Conclusion Increasing MP supplies resulted in increased milk protein yield; however, a higher BUN and low MNE indicated an efficient utilization of dietary protein at low MP supplies.

A study was conducted to investigate the effects of 3 different rearing systems [free range ( FR: ), semi-intensive ( SI: ), and confinement ( CF: )] on blood biochemical profile and immune response in 4 varieties of Aseel chicken [Lakha ( LK: ), Mushki ( MS: ), Peshawari ( PW: ) and Sindhi ( SN: )] for 10 wk duration (7 to 16 wk). At the age of 6 wk, in total, 180 cockerels were assigned to 12 treatment groups, 3 (rearing system) × 4 (Aseel chicken variety) factorial arrangement in 7 randomized complete blocks, replicated 3 times with 5 birds in each replicate (45 birds of each variety; 60 birds in each rearing system; 36 total replicates). Blood samples were collected through brachial vein at the end of wk 16. After laboratory analysis, the recorded data for blood biochemical profile and immune response were analyzed by using 2-way ANOVA under factorial arrangement. The results showed higher (P 0.05) plasma glucose and total protein in birds under CF. Titer against Newcastle disease virus ( NDV: ) and infectious bronchitis virus ( IBV: ) was found to be greater (P 0.05) in SI and FR, respectively. Peshawari birds indicated higher (P 0.05) concentration of glucose, total protein, albumin, uric acid, creatinine, and titers to NDV and IBV. Birds of LK and SN varieties also indicated maximum antibody titer against NDV and IBV, respectively. Cholesterol level was found to be greater (P 0.05) in birds of LK and SN. Interaction of SN with FR revealed maximum (P 0.05) cholesterol whereas interaction of PW with SI indicated maximum antibody titer against NDV. The results highlight that CF rearing system expediently affects glucose and total protein levels in birds; SI and FR confer maximum antibody titers to NDV and IBV. Birds of PW variety indicated higher glucose, total protein, albumin, uric acid, and creatinine, the lowest cholesterol under FR and the enhanced antibody titer against NDV and IBV.

This study evaluated the effects of hay-based total mix ration (TMR) in pelleted or unpelleted form on intake, weaning age, performance parameters, blood metabolites, and cost-effectiveness in crossbred dairy calves during the preweaning period under hot climatic conditions. Thirty calves (4 &plusmn, 1 days (d) old), were assigned to one of the three dietary treatments in a randomized complete block design. Treatments assigned were: (1) conventional calf starter (CCS), without hay (2) TMR containing 85% calf starter and 15% chopped oat hay (OH) and (3) pelleted TMR (PTMR) containing 85% calf starter and 15% OH. Colostrum-fed calves were offered four liters (L) of whole milk each, during the first week, followed by six L daily. Calves were weaned off milk gradually on the basis of targeted starter intake of 200, 600, and 800 grams, after which they were considered weaned. Environmental temperature, feed intake, and health scores were recorded daily. The calves experienced heat stress with an average temperature-humidity index (THI) of 80.06 &plusmn, 3.42. Results revealed that average daily dry matter intake (DMI), average daily gain (ADG), and feed efficiency (FE) were not different (P &gt, 0.05) among the treatments. Changes in body measurements, rumen development parameters, and blood metabolites were also not affected by the treatments (P &gt, 0.05). Average weaning age in PTMR was 5.4 d earlier as compared to CCS. Feed cost per unit gain tended to be lower for PTMR compared with CCS-fed (86%) calves. Feeding pelleted TMR containing 15% OH tended to reduce the weaning age and feed cost per unit gain without affecting growth performance, intake, FE, and health parameters in crossbred calves under heat stress conditions.

Objectives of the experiment were to determine effects of dietary hay concentration in a dry total mixed ration and its carryover effects on intake, growth performance, faecal score, and feed efficiency of weaned dairy calves. Eighteen Friesian × Jersey weaned calves (n = 6 calves/treatment) were randomly assigned to three rhodes grass hay treatments (RG13, RG26, and RG39). The experimental diets were rhodes grass hay-based total mixed rations containing 13%, 26%, and 39% chopped hay on a DM basis. The experiment had two phases of four weeks each. In phase 1 (weeks 1–4), weaned calves were fed RG13, RG26, or RG39. Then, in phase 2 (weeks 5–8), all calves were shifted to a maize silage-based diet. All the diets were iso-nitrogenous and were fed ad libitum. Calves were housed in individual pens and had free access to water and feed. Average daily gain and daily dry matter intake were analysed as repeated measures, whereas bodyweight and feed efficiency were analysed using one-way ANOVA. In phases 1 and 2 dry matter intakes were similar. Growth rate decreased linearly with increasing concentration of hay in phase 1. Overall, daily dry matter intake, average daily gain, change in body condition score and structural measurements were not affected by dietary treatments. However, overall feed efficiency was improved for calves fed RG26 compared with RG13 and RG39. Thus, feeding a moderate level of hay had positive impacts on the transition to a silage-based TMR. Keywords: dietary transition, total mixed ration, intake, growth, feed efficiency, body condition score, faecal score

Water buffaloes wallow in water to combat heat stress during summer. With the decreasing reservoirs for wallowing, the farmers use sprinklers to cool the buffaloes in Pakistan. These sprinklers use a large quantity of groundwater, which is becoming scarce. The objective of the current study was to determine the effect of different sprinkler flow rates on the physiological, behavioral, and production responses of Nili Ravi buffaloes during summer. Eighteen buffaloes were randomly subjected to three sprinkler flow rate treatments in a double replicated 3 &times, 3 Latin square design. The flow rates were 0.8, 1.25, and 2.0 L/min. During the study, the average afternoon temperature humidity index was 84.6. The 1.25 and 2.0 L/min groups had significantly lower rectal temperature and respiratory rates than the 0.8 L/min group. Water intake was significantly higher in the 0.8 L/min group. Daily milk yield was higher in the 1.25 and 2.0 L/min groups than in the 0.8 L/min group. These results suggested that the sprinkler flow rates &gt, 0.8 L/min effectively cooled the buffaloes. The sprinkler flow rate of 1.25 L/min appeared to be more efficient, as it used 37.5% less water compared to the 2.0 L/min.

Current study evaluated the effects of feeding straw source and energy supplementation during prepartum period on postpartum production performance and changes in blood metabolites of crossbred dairy cows. Twenty-eight crossbred (Holstein × Sahiwal) cows were randomly assigned to one of the following four dietary treatments: (1) wheat straw and corn grain (WSCG), (2) wheat straw and wheat bran (WSWB), (3) oat straw and corn grain (OSCG) and (4) oat straw and wheat bran (OSWB) in a 2 × 2 factorial experiment. Iso-nitrogenous diets fed as ad libitum total mixed ration contained 25% wheat straw (WS) or oat straw (OS) and 10% corn grain (CG) or wheat bran (WB). Experimental duration was 42 days before and 56 days after calving. After calving, all animals were fed a similar lactation diet. Pre- and postpartum dry-matter intake % of BW was not affected by treatments. Prepartum energy balance (EBAL) was higher for OS than WS and higher for CG than WB animals. Postpartum EBAL was higher in the WSCG than OSCG treatment. Milk production and composition were not affected by straw source or energy concentrate. Milk yield at Weeks 1, 2 and 3 was higher in the WSWB than WSCG and OSWB treatments. Total solids and feed efficiency were higher in the WSWB than WSCG treatment. Postpartum plasma concentration of non-esterified fatty acids was higher in the WS than the OS diet; however, the measured values were within normal limits. Postpartum plasma β-hydroxybutyrate concentration was not affected by straw source or energy concentrate. Cows fed WSWB prepartum were in positive EBAL, before and after calving, closer to the recommended requirements. Moreover, cows fed WSWB had a lower incidence of health disorders and subclinical ketosis, higher milk production and better feed conversion efficiency during first 3 weeks after calving.

The effects of feeding rumen-inert fat sources on production responses of lactating dairy cows have been well reported but less thoroughly described in lactating dairy buffalo. The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of oil and 2 different rumen-inert fat sources on dry matter intake, milk yield, milk composition, and milk fatty acid (FA) profile in Nili Ravi buffalo. Twelve multiparous mid-lactating Nili Ravi buffaloes received 4 treatments in a 4 × 4 Latin square design with a period length of 21 d. The treatments were (1) the basal diet without supplementation of oil or fats (CTRL), (2) the basal diet supplemented with canola oil (CO), (3) the basal diet supplemented with calcium salts of palm FA (Ca-FA), and (4) the basal diet supplemented with high palmitic acid (PA). Dry matter intake was decreased by 4.4% in the CO compared with Ca-FA and PA. Milk yield and milk fat yield were increased by 7.8 and 14.3%, respectively, in CO, Ca-FA, and PA compared with the CTRL. Milk fat content increased by 7.5%, whereas milk fat yield tended to increase with the supplementation of Ca-FA and PA compared with CO. No effect on milk yield and milk composition was observed in Ca-FA versus PA treatments. The yield of medium-chain FA was increased by Ca-FA and PA versus CO. The CO treatment increased the yield of long-chain FA compared with Ca-FA and PA treatments. Plasma glucose level was higher in CO, Ca-FA, and PA compared with the CTRL. In conclusion, feeding rumen-inert fats in the lactating buffalo diet proved to be a useful strategy to increase the 3.5% fat-corrected milk yield due to the higher milk fat content in this study.

The linkage disequilibrium (LD) is an important tool to study quantitative trait locus (QTL) mapping and genetic selection. In this study, we identified the extent of linkage disequilibrium (LD) in Sahiwal (n = 14) cattle using the bovine high density single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) BeadChip. After data filtering, 500,968 SNPs comprising 2518.1 Mb of the genome, were used for the LD estimation. The minior allele frequency (MAF) was 0.21 in a substantial proportion of SNPs and mean distance between adjacent markers was 4.77 ± 2.83 kb. The overall mean LD between adjacent markers was 0.18 (r 2 ) and 0.55 (|D'|), respectively. The LD (r 2 ) values reduced with the increase in distance between adjacent markers from 1 kb (0.35) to 100 kb (0.12) and |D'| specified distinct decay of the LD. Chromosomes 1, 27, 28 and 29 presented the LD at some distance between markers. The extent of LD was higher, except these four chromosomes, for markers separated by 20 kb. At < 3 kb distance, the upper value of the linkage disequilibrium (LD) was observed at 0.30. High level of the linkage disequilibrium (LD) between markers was observed at high minor allele frequency (MAF) threshold (0.15), at the short distance between markers. The results of this study revealed that the Bovine high density SNPs BeadChip will be informative for the estimation of breeding value in Sahiwal cattle. Keywords: Breeding value, linkage disequilibrium, minor allele frequency, molecular marker

The objective of the current study was to determine the effects of partial replacement of soybean meal with corn gluten meal on lactation performance and nitrogen (N) efficiency in lactating Holstein dairy cows. Nine multiparous lactating cows in mid lactation (109 ± 19 days in milk) received three treatments in a 3 × 3 Latin square design for 21 days. The three treatments consisted of i) Ctrl: low protein diet with 15.2% crude protein (CP); ii) SBM: soybean meal-based diet with 18.4% CP; and iii) CGM: soybean meal partially replaced with corn gluten meal with 18.3% CP. Two pre-planned orthogonal contrasts were used to compare the treatments: i) Prot compared Ctrl and average of SBM and CGM to see the effect of increasing protein supplies; and ii) Rep compared SBM and CGM treatments. Increasing CP supplies did not affect dry matter intake, whereas it significantly increased milk protein and lactose yield by 3.6% and 3.3%, respectively. Increasing CP supplies decreased milk nitrogen efficiency (MNE) by 10.9%. The milk yield, milk component yield, milk composition and feed efficiency were similar in the SBM and CGM treatments. Similarly, no difference was observed on dry matter, N and net energy for lactation (NEL) intakes between SBM and CGM treatments. However, MNE significantly decreased by 4.8% in the CGM treatment compared with SBM. The results indicated that soybean meal could be partially replaced with corn gluten meal without negatively affecting productive performance. Keywords : Dairy cows, feed efficiency, nitrogen utilization, production performance, protein sources

The objective of this study was to explore the effects of free-range (FR), part-time free-range (PTFR), and cage system (CS) on behavioral repertoire in Lakha (LK), Mushki (MS), Peshawari (PW), and Sindhi (SN) varieties of Aseel chicken during the growing phase (9 to 18 wk of age). In total, 144 Aseel pullets were allotted to 12 treatment groups in a 3 × 4 (rearing system × Aseel variety) factorial arrangement, according to a randomized complete block design (RCBD). Each treatment group was replicated 3 times with 4 birds in each replicate (12 birds per treatment group). The pullets were randomly marked weekly for identification, and their behavior was observed through the focal animal sampling method. Time spent on different behavioral activities was recorded and converted to a percentage. The data were analyzed using 2-way ANOVA under a factorial arrangement using SAS 9.1, and the behavioral parameters were evaluated. The results indicated greater (P

The concept of dietary electrolyte balance (DEB) was evaluated using 1-d-old straight-run Hubbard broiler chicks (total, 1472) and 4 dietary K (dK) levels (0.86%, 1.02%, 1.18%, and 1.34%) and 2 sources of dK salt (K 2 CO 3 and K 2 SO 4 ) in a 4×2 factorial arrangement of treatments. The 4 dK levels corresponded to DEB values of 200, 240, 280, and 320 mEq/kg, respectively. Each of the 8 dietary treatments was randomly allocated to 4 replicates with 46 birds per replicate. The experimental diets were prepared separately for each phase, i.e., prestarter (d 1–10), starter (d 11–20), grower (d 21–33), and finisher (d 34–42). Analyzed water characteristics (pH, temperature, salinity, dissolved oxygen, electrical conductivity, and total dissolved solids) and electrolytes were found within the recommended range. Feed intake ( P =0.05), daily water intake ( P =0.04), and mortality ( P =0.02) were increased by replacing K 2 CO 3 with K 2 SO 4 . The source and level interaction was found to affect litter moisture ( P =0.04). Either varying levels or replacing salts of dK did not result in improved growth performance that was mainly associated with the simultaneously reduced capacity of the digestive (gizzard and proventriculus) and lymphoid (bursa and spleen) organs of the body. The dK and changing salt (K 2 CO 3 with K 2 SO 4 ) resulted in a greater dressing percentage ( P =0.008), abdominal fat ( P =0.03), and blood pH ( P =0.01) but did not affect body, breast, and thigh weights. Increasing serum K, Na, and HCO 3 were compensated with reduced serum Ca and Cl in higher dK diets. It is inferred that lower levels of dK (i.e., 0.86%) could be used to enhance broiler growth. The supplementation of K 2 SO 4 improved feed and water intake, but reduced livability. The increasing supplementation of dietary K from K 2 SO 4 improved carcass responses and reduced the digestive and lymphoid organ capacity.

A basal diet (0.8 g/kg dNa) was formulated in which each of the two sources (NaHCO3 and Na2SO4) were supplemented in such a way to attain four levels (1.7, 2.6, 3.5, and 4.4 g/kg) of total dNa, respectively, under 4×2 factorial arrangement. Eight dietary treatments were replicated four times, with 40 birds in each replicate (n = 1,280). The diets supplemented with Na2SO4 to attain higher levels of dNa showed highest BW gain and feed intake (FI) during d 1 to 10 (interaction effects) while 2.6 g/kg dNa exhibited improved BW gain and gain:feed (FG) during d 11 to 20. Linear rise in daily water intake (DWI) was associated with diets containing increasing dNa during d 1 to 42 (p≤0.036). During the first 10 d, DWI:FI was found highest in NaHCO3 diets while Na2SO4 diets showed highest DWI:FI during last 10 d of the experiment (p≤0.036). Increasing dNa and changing Na2SO4 with NaHCO3 salt increased pH and resulted in poor growth performance. Dressing weight (p≤0.001) and abdominal fat (p≤0.001; quadratic effect) were reduced, whereas breast (p≤0.001) and thigh (p

Electrolytes (sodium, potassium and chloride) are compounds that dissolve into positive and negative particles in solution. The relationship between these compounds, known as the ‘dietary electrolyte balance’ (DEB), is affected by either electrolyte or its supplemental salt source. The National Research Council recommended 0.20% sodium, chloride, and 0.30% potassium for starter phase and lower doses of sodium and chloride for the finisher phase of broilers. However, these requirements are increased under heat stress conditions, and birds perform better when increasing levels of these electrolytes are offered, maintaining a DEB of preferably 250 mEq/kg. Increased levels of these electrolytes, especially sodium, were found effective for growth but caused increased water consumption and ultimately higher litter moisture in summer. Potassium and chloride were found effective in the diets of heat-stressed broilers. Sodium bicarbonate and potassium chloride have been recognised as the best choice in salt selection for broiler diets, particularly under hot summer conditions. In conclusion, a combination of the electrolytes with higher levels of cations and lower level of anions is recommended. Furthermore, the requirements of these electrolytes should be explored, with reference to current poultry housing systems and modern genetics.

The requirements of different electrolytes (sodium, potassium and chloride), dietary electrolyte balance (DEB) and salt source in broilers have considerably changed in recent times. The increasing level of sodium (Na), potassium (K) and DEB are associated with higher pH (i.e. alkalosis) while lower levels of chloride (Cl) and DEB are linked with a lower pH (i.e. acidosis). A narrow range of DEB (150-250 mEq/kg) is recommended to overcome the variations in acid base homeostasis and normal blood chemistry especially in summer conditions. The supplementation of suitable salts like NaHCO3 and KCl are proven to be beneficial to sustain viability of various biochemical processes. The cations usually alleviate whereas anions exacerbate the lysine:arginine antagonism. In most cases, the electrolytes and their balance (DEB) are considered ineffective in order to influence carcass and related traits; however, the supplementation of their respective salts, particularly NaHCO3 and KCl under heat stress, showed contrary but potentially useful results. The role of electrolytes in combination with coccidiostats is still ambiguous; however, the level of both entities (electrolytes and coccidiostats) should be kept low and studied in detail for mutual compatibility. The inclusion level of electrolytes from various salt sources changes whenever there is change in coccidiostat and environmental condition. Keeping in mind environmental constraints, it is recommended to use the lowest dosage of NaHCO3/ NaCl alongside ionophores. Consequently, it is recommended to supplement electrolytes through a combination of NaHCO3 and KCl, and maintaining dietary electrolyte balance (150-250 mEq/kg) is mandatory to exploit improved physiological responses of broilers for maximum growth response.

Requirements of dietary chloride (dCl) and chloride salts were determined by using 4×2 factorial arrangement under four phase feeding program. Four levels (0.31, 0.45, 0.59 and 0.73%) and two sources (NH4Cl and CaCl2) of the dCl were allocated to 1,472 chicks in eight dietary treatments in which each treatment was replicated four times with 46 birds per replicate. The four phase feeding program was comprised of four dietary phases: Prestarter (d 1 to 10), Starter (d 11 to 20), Grower (d 21 to 33) and Finisher (d 34 to 42); and diets were separately prepared for each phase. The cations, anions, pH, dissolved oxygen (DO), temperature, electrical conductivity (EC), total dissolved solids (TDS) and salinity were analyzed in drinking water and were not affected by dietary treatments. BW gain (BWG; p≤0.009) and feed:gain (FG; p≤0.03) were improved in CaCl2 supplemented diets during d 1 to 10. The maximum response of BWG and FG was observed at 0.38% and 0.42% dCl, respectively, for d 34 to 42. However, the level of dCl for BWG during d 21 to 33 (p≤0.04) and d 34 to 42 (p≤0.009) was optimized at 0.60% and 0.42%, respectively. The level of dCl for optimized feed intake (FI; p≤0.006), FG (p≤0.007) and litter moisture (LM; p≤0.001) was observed at 0.60%, 0.38% and 0.73%, respectively, for d 1 to 42. Water intake (DWI) was not affected by increasing dCl supplementation (p0.05); however, the ratio between DWI and FI (DWI:FI) was found highest at 0.73% dCl during d 1 to 10 (p≤0.05) and d 21 to 33 (p≤0.009). Except for d 34 to 42 (p≤0.006), the increasing level of dCl did not result in a significant difference in mortality during any phase. Blood pH and glucose, and breast and thigh weights (percentage of dressed weight) were improved while dressing percentage (DP) and gastrointestinal health were exacerbated with NH4Cl as compared to CaCl2 supplemented diets (p≤0.001). Higher plasma Na(+) and HCO3 (-) and lower Cl(-) and Ca(++) were observed in NH4Cl supplemented diets (p≤0.001). Increasing supplementation of dCl increased plasma Cl(-) (p≤0.04; quadratically) and linearly reduced plasma K(+) (p≤0.001), Ca(++) (p≤0.003), HCO3 (-) (p≤0.001), and Na(+) (p≤0.001; quadratically). Consequently, higher requirements of dietary chloride are suggested for feed intake; nevertheless, lower levels of dietary chloride are sufficient to support optimal BWG and FG with increasing age. The NH4Cl supplemented diets ameliorate breast and thigh meat yield along with overall energy balance (glucose).

A comparative study was conducted to evaluate yeast sludge cell wall (YSCW) and commercial toxin binders against different levels of aflatoxins B1 (AFB1) in broilers. A total of 390 one day old (1-d-o) chicks were divided into 13 groups with treatments (three replicates / treatment ten birds in each). Negative control (NC) contained no AFB1 and toxin binder in feed. Positive control (PC) was offered with different AFB1 levels (100, 200 and 300 µg/kg) in feed which were being produced in the laboratory earlier. The remaining treatments included YSCW, bentonites, combination of bentonites and glucomannan (Bent + Gluc) at different AFB1 levels in factorial arrangement from 8th to 28th days of age. Among positive control, 200 and 300 µg/kg AFB1 levels showed 37.42% and 36.38% decrease in weight gain causing 1.41 and 1.35 times increase in feed conversion ratio (FCR) compared to NC. YSCW and Bent + Gluc showed better weight gain (87.9, 83.45 and 75.48% for YSCW and 83.37, 82.83 and 78.35 for Bent + Gluc vs 66.26, 62.6 and 63.6% for PC as compared to NC) at 100, 200 and 300 µg AFB1/kg, respectively. The dietary treatments, aflatoxin levels and toxin binders showed non-significant effect for feed intake, serum alanine aminotransferase (ALAT) and significant on albumin and uric acid. It was concluded that AFB1 affect the growth at different levels significantly. Like other toxin binders, YSCW was found to nullify the deleterious effects of AFB1 and showed non-significant effect among themselves at different AFB1 levels.

Prebiotics are being used as an alternative to antibiotic growth promoters in poultry industry with a variable degree of success. This trial was conducted to investigate the effect of dietary mannan-oligosaccharide (MOS) supplementation on growth performance, selected colonic bacterial population, and immune response in maternally-isolated rock pigeons. The pigeons (n = 36) were randomly distributed in 4 treatment groups (n = 9 per group) with 3 replicates or pens (n = 3) in each group. Birds were fed either a corn/wheat-based basal diet (control group/CON) or the same diet supplemented with 0.1%, 0.2%, or 0.5% MOS for 35 d. On d 35, birds were killed to collect visceral organs, colonic contents, and serum. Colonic contents were used to enumerate selected microbiota and serum was used to detect antibody titer against the Newcastle disease virus. Cell-mediated immunity was determined by measuring the skin thickness following 2,4-dinitrochlorobenzene challenge. Results showed that supplementation did not affect the BW of birds. During wk 4, feed intake was significantly higher in the 0.2% (187.9 ± 0.86) and the 0.5% (186.4 ± 0.86) MOS-supplemented groups compared with the CON group (180.7 ± 0.86). Gizzard weights (with and without digesta) were significantly higher in the MOS 0.1% (10.67 ± 0.33 and 8.22 ± 0.26) and the MOS 0.2% (9.91 ± 0.33 and 7.94 ± 0.26) groups compared with the CON group (7.56 ± 0.33 and 6.25 ± 0.26). Small intestinal weight was significantly higher in the MOS 0.2% group (14.71 ± 0.56) compared with the CON group (9.56 ± 0.56). Lengths of small intestine (MOS 0.1% = 92.56 ± 1.69, MOS 0.2% = 90.79 ± 1.69, MOS 0.5% = 90.57 ± 1.69) in all the MOS-fed groups and large intestine in the 0.1% (3.50 ± 0.02) and the 0.5% (3.47 ± 0.02) MOS-fed groups were significantly higher than the CON group (small intestine = 77.63 ± 1.69, large intestine = 2.41 ± 0.02). Weights of heart, liver, pancreas, and large intestine remained unaffected. Feeding of MOS did not influence colonic population of Escherichia coli, Clostridia, and Bifidobacteria. Lactobacilli count was significantly higher in the 0.2% MOS-fed group (9.77 ± 0.12) compared with the CON group (9.19 ± 0.16). Mannan-oligosaccharide did not affect the immune response of the birds as antibody titer against the New Castle disease virus and the cell-mediated immunity remained similar in all the treatment groups. In conclusion, dietary MOS supplementation influenced only the colonic lactobacilli population without any apparent effects on the production performance in growing pigeons.

The sensory attributes and consumer acceptance of eggs from flax seed-fed hens were evaluated by trained and untrained panelists. Hens were fed diets containing 0% flax seed (control), 10% flax seed (flax), 10% flax seed+100 IU/kg of vitamin E (flax+α-tocopherol), or 10% flax seed+100 mg/kg of butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) (flax+BHT). Fresh eggs collected within 24 h were hard-boiled, coded, and were offered to trained panelists in 4 testing sessions. Sensory traits evaluated were aroma, flavor, off-flavor, and overall difference. The trained panelists rated flax, flax+α-tocopherol, and flax+BHT eggs to be different from control eggs (P0.001). In a second study, sensory attributes were tested by untrained panelists. The majority (75 to 80%) of the panelists could not distinguish flax seed-fed versus control eggs for aroma and flavor. A consumer preference test was also conducted to gauge end-user response to flax seed-fed eggs. Consumer acceptance testing did not find any significant difference (P0.05) between control and flax seed-fed eggs. These results suggest that flax seed when incorporated at 10% in the layer diet can produce eggs that are acceptable to untrained panelists and consumers. However, trained panelists are able to detect differences in flavor, aroma, and off-flavor and overall difference in eggs from hens fed flax seed. Antioxidant supplementation (vitamin E, BHT) did not enhance the acceptability of flax seed-fed eggs by trained panelists.

SUMMARY The present study was conducted to investigate the effect of feeding flaxseed and 2 types of antioxidants [α-tocopherols (Toc), butylated hydroxy toluene (BHT)] at 3 levels (50, 100, and 150 IU or mg/kg) on production performance, egg quality, fatty acid profile, Toc, and egg cholesterol content. Twenty-four 1-wk-old ISA Brown Leghorn laying hens (n = 96) were kept in cages and were fed a corn- and soybean meal-based diet for 56 d: control (no flax, no antioxidant), 10% flax with no antioxidant, or 10% flax + antioxidants. The flax-based diets had no effect on egg production, egg weight, egg mass, or feed conversion (P > 0.05) when compared with the control diet. Feed intake was reduced in hens fed the flax diets (P 0.05). Lower levels of saturated fat were observed in eggs of hens fed the flax + Toc and flax + 50 mg of BHT diets when compared with hens fed the other diets (P 0.05). Inclusion of Toc led to more than 4.5- to 12-fold increases in Toc in eggs from hens fed flax-based diets. These data demonstrate that eggs with increased n-3 fatty acids and Toc can be produced by minor diet modifications without affecting egg quality parameters.

The storage of rice polishing (RP) with and without addition of antioxidant for sixteen weeks and its effect on rancidity and metabolizable energy values during the summer season was determined. Fifteen Single Comb White Leghorn cockerels of approximately uniform age and weight were procured and kept in metabolic cages under standard feeding and management practices. Five force feeding trials were conducted. In the first trial, fresh RP with 0 weeks of storage (diet 1 and 2) was used followed by four feeding trials with 4 (diet 3, 4), 8 (diet 5, 6), 12 (diet 7, 8), and 16 (diet 9, 10) weeks of storage of RP. The same birds were used in all trails. The birds were fasted for a period of 21 h, followed by force feeding of 20 g of RP with and without antioxidant for all storage periods. The control/fasting group was also maintained to measure endogenous fecal losses. Excreta were collected after 48 h for the determination of AME and TME values of RP. Along with the biological trials, laboratory assay of the RP stored with and without antioxidant was conducted to measure the extent of rancidity in terms of Thiobarbituric acid value (TBA). The TBA values were affected (p

Three hundred day-old commercial broiler chicks were reared in 10 groups to examine the effects of indigenous sodium bentonite (SB) as a sodium bentonite simple, sodium bentonite + gention violet and sodium bentonite + acetic acid on two levels 0.5 and 1% of feed, along with two market products Sorbatox and Klinofeed on two levels of aflatoxin 0 and 100 mcg/kg. Each group was replicated three times. The aflatoxins (AF) were incorporated in a standard commercial broiler ration and fed to chicks for 6 week. Body weight and feed consumption was recorded weekly. At the end of the experiment two birds from each group were slaughtered to note the relative weight of heart, liver, gizzard and dressing percentage. Titre against Newcastle disease (ND) was monitored at day 21st, 28th, 35th and 42nd of the experiment. Statistical analysis indicated that aflatoxin in diet negatively affected (P

The study was conducted to improve the nutritive value of defatted rice polishing (DRP). DRP was treated with various concentrations of HCl, NaOH, H2O2 and Kemzyme-H F ® and the effect on its chemical composition and nutritive value in broiler chicks was observed. The treatments levels of 0.4 N HCl, 0.2 N NaOH and 6% H2O2 were selected from many concentrations of HCl, NaOH and H2O2 tried earlier on DRP. The selection was made on the basis of release of nutrients from DRP. The Kemzyme-H F  was used at rate of 0.1% of DRP. The selected concentrations of HCl, NaOH, and H2O2 were then used for treatment of DRP that was used in biological experiments. Two hundred and forty, day-old Hubbard male broiler chicks (38-40 g) were randomly divided into 48 experimental units with five chicks each. Each chemically treated DRP was incorporated into broiler diets at 10, 20 or 30% levels replacing yellow corn from the control feed and thus sixteen experimental feeds were prepared. These feeds were randomly assigned to 48 experimental units such that there were three replicates of chicks on each diet. The results of the study suggest that DRP can be effectively used in broiler diets at 20% level. The best weight gain and feed conversion ratio were observed with diet containing 20% level of DRP treated with 6% H2O2. The diets containing 30% levels of treated DRP were uneconomical, as excess use of oil was required to compensate the energy needs of the birds. (Asian-Aust. J. Anim. Sci. 2003. Vol 16, No. 6 : 873-879)

A study was conducted to determine the effect of commercial enzyme (Natugrain) supplementation on the nutritive value and inclusion rate of guar meal in broiler rations. Eight isocaloric and isonitrogenous starter rations were prepared having ME 2800 Kcal/kg and CP 20%. In similar way 8 isocaloric and isonitrogenous finisher rations were prepared having ME 2900 Kcal/kg and CP 19%. 240 one day old broilers were divided into two groups I and II. Group I was further divided into 4 sub groups A, B, C and D which were fed enzyme supplemented rations containing 0, 5, 10 and 15% guar meal, respectively. The dose of enzyme was 100 gram/ton of feed. Group II was also divided into 4 sub groups E, F, G and H which were fed rations without enzyme supplementation containing 0, 5, 10 and 15% guar meal, respectively. Each sub group had 30 chicks, 3 replicates of 10 chicks. For groups A, B, C, D, E, F, G and H average values of feed consumption were 3631.2, 3797.16, 3601.0, 3086.56, 3664.33, 3736.2, 3604.93 and 3254.83 grams, average values of weight gain were 1817.77, 1813.6, 1648.77, 1169.0, 1796.1, 1723.9, 1538.44 and 1265.9 grams, average values for FCR were 1.97, 2.0, 2.17, 2.64, 1.99, 2.14, 2.33 and 2.56, values of dressing percentage were 67.5, 64.13, 64.07, 61.73, 66.20, 63.33, 63.70 and 61.33%, cost per kg live weight gain was Rs. 25.94, 26.82, 28.27, 35.36, 26.16, 27.65, 29.98 and 33.69, respectively and mortality percentage in these groups was 3.33, 0, 0, 13.33, 3.33, 0, 3.33 and 6.66%, respectively. It was concluded that guar meal reduced weight gain, dressing percentage of chicks and deteriorates FCR. Furthermore, addition of enzyme did not result in significant improvement in feed consumption, weight gain, FCR and dressing percentage, however economics was improved with enzyme addition but 15% guar meal with enzyme prove to be least efficient.

The study was conducted to ascertain the effect of "Norponin 200 Liquid" on urease activity and development of ascites in broiler chickens. Two commercial broiler rations were prepared containing 2810 Kcal/kg metabolizable energy and 20 % crude protein starter and 2900 Kcal/kg metabolizable energy and 18.50 % crude protein, finisher ration. 240 chicks were divided into four groups i.e. A, B, C and D, respectively. Each group had 60 birds and groups were further subdivided into 6 replicates having 10 birds each. Each group offered different concentrations of Norponin 200 Liquid. Group A was control group i.e. without medication. Groups B, C and D were offered 2.5, 5.0 and 7.5 ml Norponin 200 liquid/100 liter of drinking water, respectively. The data regarding feed consumption, weight gain, FCR, urease activity inside the intestine and in the excreta, mortality and economics were recorded. It was concluded that group D offered Norponin 200 Liquid at 7.50 ml/100 liter of drinking water had comparatively better results than groups B and C offered 2.5 ml and 5.0 ml Norponin 200 liquid/100 liter of drinking water and control group A.

The project was carried out to elucidate the effect of defatted rice polishing after treatment with HO on the performance of broiler chicks. Six starter and six finisher 2 2 experimental rations were prepared designated as A, B, C, D, E and F. The rations A, B and C containing 15, 20 and 25% defatted rice polishing (DFRP) were treated with H O , while 2 2 D, E and F were not treated (control) containing similar levels of DFRP. These rations were provided to 240 day-old broilers divided into six groups. Non significant differences were observed in weight gain, feed consumption, feed efficiency and dressing percentage of birds fed various experimental rations. Inclusion of DFRP up to 25% levels had not adverse effect, but proved uneconomical due to addition of extra oil to compensate energy.

Experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of weaning age on growth performance, feed intake, feed efficiency (FE) and blood metabolites in Nili-Ravi male buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) calves. Twenty-four male buffalo calves were assigned to one of the three treatment groups: continuous milk feeding (CMF), limited milk feeding (LMF) and early weaning (EW), and weaned off milk at 12, 10 and 8 weeks of age, respectively. For the first 3 days after birth, calves in all three treatments were fed colostrum, and were then moved to individual milk feeding at 10% of BW for the next 6 weeks. Thereafter, the provision of milk to the CMF group was gradually tapered to zero through week 12, using week 6 intakes as a base. The LMF calves were fed milk at 7.5%, 5.0%, 3.5%, and 1.5% of BW during weeks 7 to 10, respectively. Lastly, calves in the EW group were fed milk at 5.0% and 2.5% of BW at weeks 7 and 8, respectively. Calf starter (CS) feed was also provided ad libitum from weeks 2 to 12 and individual intakes were recorded on a daily basis. Blood samples were taken from weeks 6 to 12, on a weekly basis; whereas, the BW, heart girth, withers height and hip width were measured at the start of experiment and later on a weekly basis. Weight gain, average daily gain, and body measurements were the same across all three groups. Milk intake was lower (P < 0.05), whereas CS intake was greater (P < 0.05) in the EW calves compared with the other treatment groups. Dry matter intake was greater (P < 0.05) in the EW and LMF calves compared with the CMF calves. The FE was greater (P < 0.05) in the CMF calves compared with the LMF and EW treatment groups. Blood glucose concentration was similar among the treatments; however, blood urea nitrogen was greater (P < 0.05) in the EW calves compared with the CMF and LMF groups. Plasma concentration of non-esterified fatty acids was higher (P < 0.05) in the EW calves compared with the CMF calves. In light of these results, it is evident that buffalo calves can be successfully weaned as early as 8 weeks of age without negatively affecting their growth performance.

Early lactating Sahiwal cows (n=24) of approximately similar yield and lactation were selected and randomly divided into four groups of six cows in each. These groups were fed ad libitum four iso- energetic and iso- proteic diets with different rumen undegradable protein (RUP) sources: diet A 30% RUP, diet B 40% RUP, diet C 50% RUP and diet D 60% RUP in a completely randomized design. Among nutrients intake, dry matter (DM) and crude protein (CP) intake was significantly (P

The study was designed to compare the efficacy of different feed additive anticoccidials and coccidiosis vaccines. A total of 240 day-old-broiler chicks were purchased and raised for 42 days under good husbandry and hygienic conditions. The birds were randomly divided into eight groups i.e. A, B, C, D, E, F, G and H comprising of 30 birds each. Group A was uninfected unmedicated control while group B was infected unmedicated control. Groups C, D, E and F were given commercial feed having anticoccidials Coxistac, Sacox, Elancoban and Avatec respectively. Groups G and H were given unmedicated feed and were vaccinated at day 3 and 10. All the groups except that of group A were given primary and challenge doses of infection on day 22 and 35 . The nd th

The anticoccidial efficacy of a herb, neem fruit (Azadirachta indica) is compared with an ionophorus anticoccidial Kokcisan (salinomycin sodium) against coccidiosis in broilers. Two hundred and forty one-day-old broiler chicks were reared for 42 days. These birds were divided into 6 groups i.e. A,B,C,D,E and F comprising of 40 birds each. There were six treatments, 25 gm salinomycin sodium/50 kg feed (A), 50 gm ground neem fruit/50 kg feed (B), 100 gm ground neem fruit /50 kg feed (C), 150 gm ground neem fruit/50 kg feed (D), infected non-medicated (E), non-infected non-medicated (F). Groups A,B,C,D and E were given a challenge dose of coccidial oocyst at the age of 22 days. Weight gain, feed consumption, oocysts in the faeces, clinical findings and mortality were recorded. The result revealed that the birds of non-infected non-medicated group had better (P 0.05). Moreover, neem fruit 150 gm/50 kg feed had excellent performance in terms of oocyst count and lower mortality as compared to othe r treated groups.

The study was conducted to determine the effect of long term use of bovine somatotropic hormone (bST) on days to first oestrus post-partum, number of services per conception, pregnancy rate, lactation length, dry period and calving interval for a period of three years, from 2004 to 2007. Thirty Nili-Ravi lactating buffaloes with approximately similar milk yields and stage of lactation were selected and randomly allocated to two treatments, A and B, with 15 animals in each group. Group A served as control while animals in group B were given injections of bovine somatotropic hormone (250 mg intramuscular per animal) at intervals of 14 days over a period of three years. The calving interval, dry period and lactation length were shorter by 71, 63.9 and 7 days, respectively, in the treated compared with the control group. The days to first oestrus post-partum, service period and services per conception were 160 ± 56.9 vs.98.2 ± 76.4 days, 207.0 ± 85.0 vs. 115.1 ± 107.0 days and 1.47 ± 1.1 vs. 1.31 ± 0.5 in group A vs. B, respectively. Statistically, differences were significant for post-partum oestrous and service period but for services per conception the difference was non-significant. Prevalence of mastitis was significantly higher in the treated animals while differences in body weights of the animals in the groups were not significant.

The aim of the study was to determine optimum dietary energy level during the last trimester of pregnancy for Sahiwal heifers in subtropical Pakistan. Sixteen Sahiwal heifers, 5-6 months pregnant, were assigned to four dietary treatments with four heifers on each treatment. Isonitrogenous (CP = 14.1%) diets having varying energy, namely, ME 88%, ME 100% (Control), ME 112% and ME 124% of NRC recommended level for pregnant heifers, were fed until calving. All were fed a similar diet after calving. Precalving weight gain was highest (P < 0.05) in heifers fed ME 112 and 124% (486 ± 13 and 497 ± 5 g/day, respectively) followed by ME 100% (444 ± 7 g/day), and the lowest weight gain was recorded for ME 88% (397 ± 8 g/day). A similar trend was observed for feed efficiency. Body condition score at calving in groups ME 124% and ME 112% was higher than ME 88% and ME 100%. Nutrient digestibility, birth weight of calves and milk composition except fat content were not influenced by energy levels. The highest daily milk yield was observed in heifers fed ME 100% followed by ME 112, 124, and 88%. We conclude that the NRC recommendation is applicable to the subtropical region.

For this study, 240 one-day-old broiler chicken were used to test the anti-coccidial efficacy of a herbal drug Coxigon® compared with a chemical synthetic Diclazuril® against Coccidiosis in broilers. These birds were divided into six groups (A, B, C, D, E, F) of forty birds each. There were six treatments, non-infected non-medicated (A), infected non-medicated (B), infected and medicated with Coxigon® at 3 g/1 kg of feed (C) infected and medicated with Diclazuril® at 0.20 g/1 kg of feed (D), non-infected but treated with Coxigon® at 3 g/50 kg of feed (E), and non-infected but treated with Diclazuril® (F) at 0.20 g/1 kg of feed. Groups B, C, and D were given a challenge dose of coccidial oocysts at the age of 22 days. Weight gain, feed consumption, oocysts count in the faeces, clinical findings and mortality were recorded. The mean values of birds feed intake during experimental period (0-6 weeks) were 3770.4, 3206.5, 3493.3, 3333.3, 3751.5 and 3764.1 g for the groups A, B, C, D, E and F, respectively. The results revealed that the birds of group E had better (P

The study was conducted to determine the effect of long term use of bovine somatotropic hormone (bST) on days to first oestrus post-partum, number of services per conception, pregnancy rate, lactation length, dry period and calving interval for a period of three years, from 2004 to 2007. Thirty Nili-Ravi lactating buffaloes with approximately similar milk yields and stage of lactation were selected and randomly allocated to two treatments, A and B, with 15 animals in each group. Group A served as control while animals in group B were given injections of bovine somatotropic hormone (250 mg intramuscular per animal) at intervals of 14 days over a period of three years. The calving interval, dry period and lactation length were shorter by 71, 63.9 and 7 days, respectively, in the treated compared with the control group. The days to first oestrus post-partum, service period and services per conception were 160 ± 56.9 vs .98.2 ± 76.4 days, 207.0 ± 85.0 vs . 115.1 ± 107.0 days and 1.47 ± 1.1 vs . 1.31 ± 0.5 in group A vs. B, respectively. Statistically, differences were significant for post-partum oestrous and service period but for services per conception the difference was non-significant. Prevalence of mastitis was significantly higher in the treated animals while differences in body weights of the animals in the groups were not significant .

To determine the effect of forage moisture content on intake and digestion kinetics in sheep, a metabolism trial was conducted using 16 mature wethers (44 kg BW) in a completely randomized design. Forage was harvested at two maturities in early spring from a naturalized pasture composed of temperate grass and legume species. Herbage was harvested at either 8 (early) or 16 cm (late) in height and fed after freezing (high-moisture) or as a dried hay. Intakes of DM (grams/[kilogram BW.75.day]), NDF, ADF, and CP (grams/day) (P < .05) and coefficients for DM, NDF, and ADF digestibilities were greater (P < .01) for hay than for high-moisture forage. Mean particulate retention times (MRT) were shorter (P < .05) for high-moisture forage (23.3 h) than for hay (30.7 h) diets. Early-harvested forages had shorter (P < .05) MRT values (23.9 h) than late-cut forages (30.1 h). Fractional passage rates of 1-mm nylon particles of specific gravity (SG) .90, 1.14, and 1.32 through the alimentary tract were influenced by moisture content of the forage (P < .10) and were faster for frozen forages and increased (P < .01) with an increase in SG. Nitrogen retention was greater (P < .01) for the hay than for the high-moisture forage. In situ DM digestion rates, determined using four ruminally fistulated wethers, showed no differences (P = .67) among forages. The results of this study indicate that differences in digestibilities between hays and high-moisture forages are most likely due to differences in digesta passage rates.