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This study evaluated the phenotypic and genetic parameters of indigenous Naked Neck (NN), exotic Black Australorp (BA), and their crossbred (NNBA) chickens. A total of 270 day-old chicks (30 per group) were raised under identical conditions from day 1 to 48 weeks of age. Growth performance, including body weight, daily and total gain, feed consumption, and feed conversion ratio (FCR), was highest in BA, followed by NNBA, and lowest in NN. Carcass composition also varied significantly, with BA and NNBA having higher dressing percentages (62.98% and 62.68%, respectively) compared to NN (60.60%). BA produced the heaviest eggs (54.0 g), followed by NNBA (50.9 g) and NN (47.93 g). BA also had the best egg quality, hatchability, and FCR (3.15), with NNBA showing intermediate results. NN had the poorest performance in all traits. Age at sexual maturity was earlier in NNBA (161.23 days) compared to NN and BA. The study concluded that NNBA crossbreds outperformed NN in growth, carcass traits, and egg production, indicating their potential for enhancing rural poultry farming.

This study investigated the impact of ginger-derived phyto-protease enzyme on growth performance, immunity, gut health and nutrient digestibility in broilers. A total of 360 day-old broiler chickens were randomly assigned to four treatments with six replicates each: a control group (T1) and groups supplemented with 50 g/ton (T2), 100 g/ton (T3) and 150 g/ton (T4) of the enzyme. Over a 35-day period, birds were provided with free access to feed and water under controlled conditions. The highest feed intake was observed in T3 during the second week, while T4 showed the lowest intake overall. Body weight gain was significantly highest in T4, demonstrating enhanced growth performance. Feed conversion ratio (FCR) was lowest in T4, indicating improved feed efficiency. Carcase quality analysis revealed higher dressing percentages and organ weights (bursa, spleen and thymus) in T4 compared to the control. Gut pH levels were significantly lower in T3 and T4 across different segments of the gastrointestinal tract, enhancing nutrient absorption. Antibody titres against Newcastle disease virus were significantly higher in T4 on days 21 and 35, indicating improved immunity. Histomorphological analysis of the intestines showed increased villus height and width in T4, with reduced crypt depth, further supporting enhanced nutrient absorption. These findings suggest that the highest inclusion rate of ginger-derived phyto-protease enzyme (150 g/ton) optimally enhances growth performance, immunity, gut health and nutrient digestibility in broilers. This study highlights the potential benefits of incorporating ginger-derived phyto-protease in poultry diets to improve overall health and performance.

Two hundred and forty day-old broilers were randomly assigned to six experimental groups in a 2 x 3 factorial design. The birds were fed diets containing soybean hulls (SH) at the levels of 4% and 6% and β-Mannanase (BM) at the concentration of 0%, 0.05% and 0.1%. Results indicated significant effects of SH and BM supplementation on body weight (BW) and weight gain (WG), with birds fed 4% SH and 0.1% BM exhibiting higher (p

The objective of this study is to investigate the effects of increasing levels of soybean hulls in broiler chicken diets on growth performance, carcase composition, organ weights, nutrient digestibility, amino acid digestibility, and intestinal histomorphology to determine the optimal inclusion level for maximising poultry health and performance. A total of 680, 1-day-old male broiler chicks (Hubbard) were randomly assigned to five treatments with eight replicates, each consisting of seventeen birds, and housed in an environmentally controlled room with nipple drinkers and trough feeders. The experimental diets, containing 0%, 2%, 4%, 6%, and 8% dietary soybean hulls (SH), were fed to the broilers for 35 days. During the starter phase, the growth performance of chickens fed 2% SH was not significantly different from the control group, but differences emerged during the later stages. Chickens fed 2% SH showed significantly higher body weight and weight gain compared to higher SH levels. Carcase yield decreased with increasing SH content in the diet, while wing meat yield was highest in birds fed 0% and 2% SH. The relative weights of gizzard, jejunum, and ileum varied significantly among groups. Higher SH levels led to decreased nutrient digestibility but increased excreta nitrogen and ether extract content. Ileal amino acid digestibility varied among SH levels. Intestinal histomorphology revealed significant differences in villi height and crypt depth among groups. Overall, diets with 2% and 4% SH demonstrated superior nutrient utilisation and intestinal health compared to higher SH levels. These findings suggest an optimal inclusion level of SH in broiler diets to optimise performance and intestinal morphology.

Coccidia poses significant challenges to poultry farming, impacting productivity and welfare. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of Aloe vera supplementation in managing coccidial infection in quails. A total of 360 one-day-old quails chicks were divided into five groups (six replicates with twelve birds per replicate) and challenged with mixed sporulated oocysts of Eimeria species (E. tenella, E. nicatrix, E. maxima, E. mitis). The groups included a positive control (infected, untreated), negative control (uninfected, untreated), and three treatment groups: Amprolium (1 g/l water), Aloe vera 2% (AV2), and Aloe vera 4% (AV4). Results demonstrated significant (p

The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of different levels of Spirulina platensis in the diet on performance, immune response, hematological, activity of selected bacteria and rumen morphology of lambs. Forty-eight weaned lambs (aged 3 months) were used and then divided into four groups with 6 pens per group (2 lambs/pen), including a control group and three groups fed pelleted complete feed containing 0.20%, 0.40% and 0.80% spirulina powder, respectively. The study lasted 70 days, during which all target parameters were assessed and analysed. The results showed that spirulina powder had a positive effect on body weight and daily weight gain of lambs on days 42–70 and 1–70 (p

The study aimed to evaluate the effects of multi-strain probiotic (MSP) on broiler growth, health, and nutrient utilization under high animal protein concentrate conditions. Male Ross-308 broilers were assigned to four groups: a control (C), MSP at 50 mg/kg (MSP50), MSP at 100 mg/kg (MSP100), and Zinc bacitracin (ZB) as a positive control. MSP supplementation significantly improved feed intake, weight gain, and feed conversion efficiency, with MSP100 demonstrating the best feed conversion ratio during both starter and finisher phases. MSP also enhanced dressing percentages and positively influenced blood lipid profiles. The supplementation reduced harmful bacterial growth (E. coli, Salmonella, Clostridium perfringens) while promoting beneficial bacteria (Lactobacillus). Moreover, MSP positively impacted gut histomorphology, showing higher villus height, width, and crypt depth in the MSP100 group. Digestibility of dry matter and crude protein was enhanced in birds fed the MSP100 diet. Overall, MSP supplementation exhibited positive effects on broiler performance, health, and nutrient digestibility, indicating its potential as an antibiotic alternative for improving practices in the poultry feed industry.

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of varying levels of sorghum-based diets as an alternative to maize in broiler nutrition. A total of 320 one-day-old male Ross 708 broiler chickens were randomly allocated to four treatment groups (5 pens per treatment and 16 birds per pen), comprising a control group with a basal diet and groups receiving sorghum-based diets with 20%, 40%, and 100% maize replacement. The overall weight gain was significantly (p

The aim of the present study was to assess the effects of different levels of hempseed (HS) on growth performance, immunity and gut health in broiler chickens. A total of 192 Hubbard broiler chicks were divided into four groups and fed HS as follow: control (HS0), HS 10% (HS-10), HS 15% (HS-15) and HS 20% (HS-20). The study on HS supplementation in broilers revealed no significant impacts on feed intake during the starter (p = .2294) and finisher phases (p = .2294), or overall (p = .0944), though numerical increases were noted with higher HS levels. Body weight gain showed no significant influence in the starter and finisher phases, with overall weight gain also not significantly different (p = .0944), but numerically higher with increased HS. Feed conversion ratio was unaffected in the starter (p = .6986) and finisher phases (p = .6425), and overall (p = .2218). Dressing percentage (p = .1062) and mortality (p = .1631) were not significantly altered, but HS-20 had the highest dressing percentage and lowest mortality numerically. White blood cell counts increased significantly (p = .0377), especially in HS-15 and HS-20 groups. IgM and IgG production was higher in HS-20 on day 28 (p = .021). Gut pH (p > .05) and intestinal histomorphology (p > .05) were not significantly affected, although villus height increased numerically with higher HS levels. These results suggest potential benefits of HS, especially at higher inclusion levels. In conclusion, the obtained results indicated that HS incorporation into the diet of broilers did not affect the growth performance and gut health; however, the immune responses were significantly higher at 15 and 20% levels.

AbstractResearch on the effects of selenium nanoparticles (Se-NPs), particularly in Japanese quails, is lacking, especially regarding the potential for DNA damage. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the impact of administering 0.2 and 0.4 mg/kg of Se-NPs on the growth performance, DNA integrity, and histopathological alterations of the liver, lung, kidney, and heart in quails. A total of 480 one-day-old Japanese quails were divided into three experimental groups as follows: Group 1 served as the control and received only basic feed, while Group 2 and 3 received 0.2 mg/kg and 0.4 mg/kg of Se-NPs via oral gavage. Our results suggested that, birds fed with Se-NPs at both levels significantly (p

We identified alterations in the ruminal microbiome, metabolome, and epithelial inflammatory response due to moderate feed restriction (FR). Ruminal digesta and epithelial biopsies from seven ruminally cannulated Angus steers were initially collected during ad libitum access to feed (PRE). After a 10 day recovery, steers underwent a 3-day FR period (FRP) at 25% intake of PRE followed by a 15 day recovery (POST) phase with ad libitum access to feed. At the end of FRP and POST, ruminal digesta and epithelial biopsies were collected again for microbial DNA and tissue RNA extraction. RT-qPCR was applied for relative microbial abundance and RNA extraction. Metabolite profiling of digesta was performed via GC-MS. The abundance of Succinivibrio dextrinosolvens, Streptococcus bovis, and Bifidobacteria spp. (N124) was higher (p < 0.05) during FRP than PRE and POST, while Lactobacillus spp. (C25), Escherichia coli (EC42405), Fibrobacter succinogenes, and Megaspheara elsdenii abundances were lower in FRP than PRE (p < 0.05). The TNF and TLR2 mRNA abundance was greater in FRP than PRE (p < 0.05). Among 15 detected amino acids, glutamine, isoleucine, lysine, phenylalanine, threonine, and valine were lower (p < 0.05) in FRP than PRE. Metabolite pathway analysis revealed alterations in amino acid, fatty acid, vitamin, and energy metabolism during FRP (p < 0.05). The mRNA of the proinflammatory genes TNF and TLR2 in the epithelium peaked (p < 0.05) at FRP and remained higher at POST. Results indicated that a short FR influenced ruminal bacteria, reduced concentrations of most metabolites, and triggered an inflammatory response.

This study investigates the antibacterial efficacy of stem waste from the oyster mushroom Pleurotus ostreatus (PO) through both in vitro and in vivo models. The in vitro antibacterial activity was tested against three strains of E. coli: E. coli O78, E. coli O121, and E. coli O157. The in vivo antibacterial activity was evaluated using E. coli O78 in quails, guided by the in vitro findings. The methanolic extract of oyster mushroom stem waste exhibited antibacterial activity, creating inhibition zones of 13.36 mm, 9.75 mm, and 9.46 mm for E. coli O78, E. coli O121, and E. coli O157, respectively. These were compared with ciprofloxacin, which produced inhibition zones of 22.42 mm, 20.51 mm, and 19.60 mm, respectively. For the in vivo study, 480 one-day-old quail chicks were divided into four groups: negative control, positive control, standard (treated with ciprofloxacin), and PO group (3% Pleurotus ostreatus supplementation). Birds in all groups, except the negative control, were infected with E. coli O78. Results indicated that the PO group, fed with 3% oyster mushroom stem waste, showed improved performance, gut morphometry, and a reduction in cecal E. coli O78 counts, while increasing beneficial Lactobacillus counts. The study also assessed feed intake, weight gain, feed conversion ratio, mortality percentage, and dressing percentage, all of which improved with PO supplementation. The findings demonstrate that oyster mushroom stem waste possesses significant antibacterial properties against E. coli both in vitro and in vivo, suggesting its potential as a natural alternative to synthetic prebiotics in poultry feed.

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of herbal plants (HP) consisting of black Cumin (Bunium persicum), Ajwain (Carum copticum) and Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) on broiler performance and health. A total of 360 broilers were allocated into four groups consisting of control diet (A) or supplemented with a mixture of Ajwain, Fenugreek and black Cumin seeds at the rate of 1.5 (B), 3 (C) and 4.5 g/kg (D). Results showed that feed intake was significantly (P

In this trial, a 3 × 2 factorial design was implemented with dietary treatments consisting of Diet-1 (1.00% calcium [Ca], 0.45% available phosphorus [P]), Diet-2 (0.80% Ca, 0.35% P), and Diet-3 (0.70% Ca, 0.30% P), alongside two phytase levels: 0 and 5,000 FTU/kg. A total of 540 Ross-308 broilers were used. Significant improvements (P

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is associated with comorbidities like dyslipidemia and liver damage. Acorus calamus L. is commonly used to treat inflammatory and hepatorenal ailments. Herein, we assessed the hypolipidemic and hepatoprotective activities of A. calamus rhizome extracts in adjuvant-induced arthritis (AIA) in rats. A. calamus rhizome’s methanol (AME) and n-hexane (AHE) extracts were prepared. In vivo, fifty-four female Wistar rats were allocated into nine groups (n = 6). The AIA was induced by injecting Complete Freund’s adjuvant (100 µL, s.c.) into the rat’s right hind paw. After AIA induction, animals were orally treated with meloxicam (MEL; 3 mg/kg) and graded doses (125, 250, and 500 mg/kg) of AME and AHE for 28 consecutive days. Results showed that both plant extracts dose-dependently restored the body weight and liver index of arthritic rats. Each plant extract significantly (p

A total of 540 d-old Cobb 500 broiler chickens were randomly allocated into five groups: a control group receiving only the basal die (control), and experimental groups supplemented with exogenous protease (30,000 IU/kg) and crushed seeds of Bunium persicum, Coriandrum sativum, and Carum copticum (10 mg/kg each) for a period of 35 days. The results demonstrated that growth performance parameters, including feed intake, weight gain, and feed conversion ratio, were significantly improved (P

The aim of this study was to evaluate the carcass characteristics, meat quality and fatty acid profile of lambs fed different levels of sprouted barley (SB) compared to a control group fed a diet based on barley grain and alfalfa hay. Forty-five intact male Awassi lambs (3 months old) were included in the study and were fed for 75 days, divided equally into five feeding groups based on their average body weight. The groups were fed diets containing 25%, 50%, 75% and 100% SB replacing the control diet of barley grain and alfalfa hay (SB25, SB50, SB75 and SB100, respectively). The results showed that SB (SB25–SB75) had no effect on body weight gain while a significant gradual decrease in dry matter, crude protein and crude fat intake with the inclusion of SB (SB50–SB100). Higher rates of SB, especially 50%, 75% and 100%, resulted in a remarkable decrease in body wall fat. In addition, the treatment groups receiving SB50, SB75 and SB100 had a significantly lighter ultimate meat color compared to the control diet (p

ABSTRACTZinc (Zn) is a biologically significant trace mineral, serving as a cofactor in various metabolic functions. This study aimed to assess the relative effectiveness of organic and inorganic Zn on the growth performance, lipid peroxidation and humoral immune response in broiler chickens (Ross 308). A total of 450 d-old broilers were divided into five groups: the control group, a group receiving a basal diet with 50 mg/kg organic Zn (T1), another with 60 mg/kg organic Zn (T2), and two groups with basal diets supplemented with inorganic Zn at rates of 50 and 60 mg/kg zinc sulfate for the fourth (T3) and fifth (T4) groups, respectively. The experiment spanned 35 days. Results indicated that zootechnical characteristics such as weekly weight gain, feed intake, feed conversion ratio and dressing percentage were significantly higher (P

A total of 180 unsexed, 1-day-old quail chicks were divided into four treatments (three replicates). The treatment groups were designated as MOLE-0, MOLE-1, MOLE-2 and MOLE-3. In the MOLE-0 group, quails received a basal diet without supplementation. For MOLE-1, quails were provided with 100 mg/L of MOLE in their water, while MOLE-2 received 200 mg/L of water with MOLE supplementation. The fourth treatment, MOLE-3, received a concentration of 300 mg/L of MOLE in their drinking water. The findings revealed that MOLE-3 exhibited significantly higher weight gain and dressing percentage, along with a lower feed conversion ratio (P

Three Ca-P deficient diets viz., Diet-1 (0.85%, 0.35%), Diet-2 (0.75%, 0.30%) and Diet-3 (0.65%, 0.25%) were prepared and supplemented with either bacterial or fungal origin phytase enzymes and were compared with a control diet (1.0% and 0.45%). A total of 280 broiler (Ross 308) chicks were randomly allocated into 7 treatments having 4 replicates of 10 chicks using a completely randomized design. The effect of bacterial phytase on the growth, FCR and carcass weight was significantly (P

The effects of the inclusion of a selected herbal mixture consisting of fenugreek, garlic and coriander (FGC) in different levels of growth performance, digestibility of nutrients and blood biochemicals in broiler chickens (Cobb 500) were studied in a 42-day experiment on 360 broilers, which were grouped into 4 treatments. The dietary treatments consisted of a basal diet (control) and the same diet with the addition of FGC at rates of 1%, 2%, and 3%. The results showed that the treatment groups exhibited a significantly lower feed intake (P

Anti-helminthic drugs (Albendazole and Levamisole) trials were conducted on Indian Peafowls (n = 20) kept at Jallo Wildlife Park, Lahore, Pakistan for 15. Sampling was conducted on days 7 and 15 of treatments. The results showed that the WBC count was significantly (P

IntroductionLasalocid is a feed additive widely used in ruminant nutrition and plays a crucial role in improving livestock productivity, digestibility, immunity, and overall wellbeing. The current study was conducted to investigate the effect of different levels of lasalocid (LAS) supplementation on growth performance, serum biochemistry, ruminal fermentation profile, in vitro nutrient digestibility, and gas production of growing goats.MethodsA total of 60 growing Aardi male goats with an average body weight of ~17.12 kg (3-month-old) were used for an 84-day trial. Animals were randomly divided into four treatment groups with 5 replicates of 3 goats each. All four groups were provided with a basal diet supplemented with lasalocid (LAS) at 0 (without supplementation; LAS0), 10 (LAS10), 20 (LAS20), or 30 (LAS30) ppm LAS/kg dry matter (DM). Feed intake was measured weekly, and goats were weighed every 2 weeks for an evaluation of the performance parameters. Blood samples were collected for the measurement of biochemical variables. In vitro nutrient digestibility and gas production were evaluated.Results and discussionThe supplementation of LAS at level 30 ppm/kg DM increased (P < 0.05) the body weight gain and average daily gain without linear or quadratic effect. The serum concentrations of high-density lipoprotein were significantly (P < 0.05) higher in the LAS20 group than in other groups with linear and quadratic effects, while low-density lipoprotein concentration was significantly lower in the LAS20 group than in LAS0 and LAS30 with a linear effect. Different levels of lasalocid supplementation had no effect on the ruminal fermentation profile, in vitro gas production, and nutrient digestibility. In conclusion, the addition of LAS (20–30 ppm/kg DM) to the goat's diet can improve the growth performance and lipoprotein profile.

The aim of this study was to investigate the potential of dietary 3% oyster mushroom (Pleurotus ostreatus) waste in enhancing the anticoccidial effects in broilers challenged with Eimeria tenella infection. The experiment involved a total of 600 Japanese quails, raised from one to thirty-five days of age, which were divided into four treatment groups. These included a negative control group that received a basal diet (BD) without any anticoccidial or antibiotic supplementation in the non-challenged birds (negative control, NC); a positive control (PC) group consisting of NC birds challenged with E. tenella; a group that received the BD with an anticoccidial drug (standard); and a group that received the BD supplemented with 3% waste from oyster mushrooms (3% Pleurotus ostreatus). The results showed that the feed intake, body weight gain, and feed efficiency were significantly lower in the PC (p < 0.05). However, the growth traits were similar in the standard and 3% Pleurotus ostreatus-treated groups. Similarly, there was no difference (p < 0.05) in the mortality rate, oocyst count in the feces, and lesion score between the standard and 3% Pleurotus ostreatus groups. Based on intestinal histology evaluation, the villi height and width were significantly higher in the standard and 3% Pleurotus ostreatus-treated groups compared to those of the PC (p < 0.01). In conclusion, it was found that 3% Pleurotus ostreatus effectively mitigated the low growth rate of Japanese quails induced by coccidial infection.

This study investigated the effects of puncture vine (Tribulus Terrestris) addition on the performance, carcass and meat characteristics, selected metabolic and immunological blood indicators, some microbiota, and short-chain fatty acids. A total of 252 1-day-old broilers were distributed to three treatments with 12 cages as replicates per treatment (T1 = 0.0%, T2 = 0.08%, and T3 = 0.16% puncture vine). Performance parameters and metabolic and immunological serum indicators were measured in each feeding phase, while carcass characteristics, meat quality, cecal microflora, and short-chain fatty acids were measured at 35 days. Results showed that live weight, weight gain, production efficiency, and meat component color were lower in initial and ultimate at T3, while the percentages of the legs and gizzard were higher at T2 than T1. The relative weight of cooking loss was higher in T2 and T3, but the myofibril fragmentation index was lower than T1. Total protein and globulin were higher in T2 and T3 (14 days old), and the glucose level was lower in T2 (35 days old) than at T1. Interleukins (IL-4, IL-6, and IL-10) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) were higher in T2 than T1 and T3 (35 days old). Puncture vine has antimicrobial activity against Escherichia coli and Salmonella spp., while Lactobacillus spp. was higher in T2. The total short-chain fatty acid content was higher in chickens fed puncture vine. These results indicate that the use of puncture vine powder as a natural alternative at a dosage of 0.08% has a safe effect on the performance, carcass and meat characteristics, and health of broilers.

The availability of suitable feedstuffs for poultry nutrition is a significant challenge faced by the global poultry production industry. This issue has been exacerbated by the shift towards using grains for biofuel production, leading to a subsequent rise in feedstuff prices. The study aimed to assess the impact of different levels of dried date wastes in the diet of broiler chicks on their growth, carcass characteristics, nutrient digestibility, fecal microbiota and economics. A total of 240 day-old broiler chicks (Ross 308/Ross 308 FF) were divided into five experimental groups and fed 0, 3, 6, 9 and 12% of dietary date meal (DDM). The formulated diets were provided to chicks for a duration of 35 days. The findings of the study indicated that chicks fed with a diet containing 9% dried dates exhibited a significantly (p < 0.05) higher increase in body weight compared to the control group by the end of the study period. Additionally, dressing percentage, carcass weight, leg weight and breast weight were notably higher (p < 0.05) among birds that consumed the 9% dried dates diet. Moreover, the digestibility of dry matter, crude protein and ether extract showed a significant (p < 0.05) increase in birds that were fed a 9% dried dates diet. Furthermore, DDM at 9% experienced significantly (p < 0.05) higher levels of Lactobacillus and decreased (p < 0.05) the level of E. coli count. Similarly, economically, birds supplemented with 9% DDM exhibited significantly (p < 0.05) higher profit compared to the control. In conclusion, the results of this study suggest that broiler chicks fed with a diet including 9% dried date waste experienced improved growth performance, enhanced carcass quality, supported digestibility of nutrients, elevated the count of fecal Lactobacillus, reduced E. coli count and economics.

Scrapie is a fatal, neurodegenerative disease that affects sheep and goats, and genetic susceptibility to scrapie in sheep is associated with polymorphisms in the prion protein (PRNP) gene. The aim of this study is to identify PRNP polymorphism in Awassi sheep from Türkiye, the Palestinian Authority, and Saudi Arabia. A total of 150 healthy sheep were genotyped for PRNP, using Sanger sequencing. There were seven alleles and eleven genotypes observed based on codons 136, 154, and 171 of PRNP. The ARQ allele was predominant in all populations. The most resistant allele to scrapie, ARR, was present in all three regions. The VRQ allele, associated with the highest susceptibility to scrapie, was detected only in Türkiye at a low frequency. In this study, twenty-seven amino acid substitutions were found. Eight of them (R40Q, G65E, H88L, S98T, A118P, S138T, V192F and L250I) have not been previously reported. These data indicate that sheep breeds close to the sheep domestication center have maintained high genetic diversity in the PRNP region. Our findings on PRNP will provide valuable insights for sheep breeding programs, aiding in the selection of genotypes resistant to scrapie in Türkiye, the Palestinian Authority, and Saudi Arabia.

This study aimed to evaluate the anti-arthritic activity of curcumin and meloxicam co-loaded PLGA nanoparticles in adjuvant-induced arthritic rats. PLGA nanoparticles encapsulating curcumin (nCur) and meloxicam (nMlx) alone and in combination (nCur/Mlx) were used to characterize zeta size and potential, polydispersity index, encapsulation efficiency (%), compound–polymer interactions (FT-IR analysis), and surface morphology (SEM imaging). In vivo, Complete Freund’s adjuvant-induced arthritic rats were intraperitoneally (i.p.) administered with curcumin, meloxicam, curcumin plus meloxicam, nCur, nMlx, and nCur/Mlx for 28 consecutive days. Results showed that nCur, nMlx, and nCur/Mlx significantly (p ≤ 0.05) reduced paw swelling and arthritic score, restored body weight and the immune organ index (thymus and spleen), as well as attenuated serum inflammatory markers (RF, CRP, and PGE2) and oxidative stress parameters (MDA, SOD, and CAT) in adjuvant-induced arthritic rats compared to free compounds. In addition, mono- and dual-compound-loaded nanoparticles significantly (p ≤ 0.05) down-regulated pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6), up-regulated anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-4, IL-10, and IFN-γ), and modulated OPG and RANKL expressions in paw tissue. The aforementioned results were further confirmed through radiological and histopathological examinations. Furthermore, the anti-arthritic effect of nCur/Mlx was notably (p ≤ 0.05) enhanced compared to nCur or nMlx alone. In conclusion, the co-nanoencapsulation of curcumin could potentiate the anti-arthritic activity of meloxicam and could provide a novel therapeutic approach for the formulation of nanocarrier pharmaceutical products for the management of arthritis.

Pulicaria jaubertii (PJ) is a medicinal plant used as a synthetic antioxidant and as a traditional medicine due to its bioactive compounds. The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of PJ on carcass traits and breast meat quality parameters of broiler chickens. Two hundred and forty male broilers (1 day old) were divided into four groups (0, 3, 6, and 9 g of PJ/kg of basal diet). Performance indicators were evaluated during the feeding stages, and carcass characteristics and physiochemical and qualitative parameters of breast meat were measured at 36 days old. The results showed that PJ improved performance parameters such as weight gain, feed conversion ratio, and production efficiency index (p < 0.05) in the finishing stage. The diets supplemented with PJ were associated with better carcass characteristics (p < 0.05), but some body parts, such as legs (6 and 9 g PJ) and backs (3–9 g PJ) decreased (p < 0.05). Temperature and initial pH were decreased by PJ (p < 0.05). Meat color was not affected by PJ (p > 0.05), although the yellowness and saturation index were lower at 9 g PJ. Total saturated fatty acid content was higher at 3 g PJ, while total polyunsaturated fatty acids and unsaturated to saturated fatty acid ratio were lower at 3 and 6 g PJ (p < 0.05). Total monounsaturated fatty acid content increased at 6 and 9 g PJ. Omega-6 fatty acids and the ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 were lower at 3 g PJ. PJ resulted in higher weight loss on cooking (6 and 9 g PJ) and shear force (3–9 g PJ). In conclusion, PJ had a positive influence on performance, carcass characteristics, and fatty acid profile, and some meat quality traits were generally improved by PJ, but knowledge of its mode of action is still limited and therefore requires further investigation.

Gum Arabic, one of the soluble fibers, is considered a source of natural prebiotics that can be fermented by the activity of the intestinal microbiota and, therefore, may have a positive effect on the performance, carcass characteristics, and meat quality of broilers. Therefore, the objective of this study was to investigate the effects of gum Arabic on performance, carcass characteristics, physicochemical properties, and quality of broiler breast meat. Six dietary treatments (T1–T5) with a basal diet (CON) containing 0.12%, 0.25%, 0.5%, 0.75%, and 1.0% gum Arabic, respectively. A total of 432 one-day-old male broiler chickens were conducted for 35 days. Performance and carcass characteristics, as well as physical, qualitative, and chemical indicators of breast meat, were evaluated. The results showed that the treatments improved overall performance (p < 0.05), such as body weight, weight gain, feed conversion ratio, and performance index, except for feed intake, which was lower at T1, T2, and T5 than at CON. Carcass characteristics, body components, and breast meat color or initial pH were not affected by dietary treatments (p > 0.05), but ultimate pH (T1 and T2) and color lightness were comparatively lower, and color change (T2–T3) was comparatively higher. Cooking water loss (T2–T4) and shear force (T1–T5) were higher in the treatments. Cohesiveness and resilience were higher in T2, while gumminess and chewiness were lower in T4 and T5. T1 breast meat had higher crude protein content and lower crude fat content, but the other chemical compositions were not affected by the treatments. Some fatty acids in the breast meat were more affected by treatments compared to CON. In conclusion, the present findings showed that gum Arabic (0.12% to 0.75%) has favorable effects on growth performance and some quality indicators of breast meat (such as cooking water loss, shear force, protein, and fat content), especially at the level of 0.12% with no alterations on the carcass characteristics and body components or physical indicators of breast meat.

The aim of the present study was to find the effect of crushed wild Cumin (Bonium persicum) seeds as a feed additive in broiler diet during the starter phase on growth performance, nutrient digestibility and blood metabolites in broilers. For this purpose, 360 day old chicks were randomly divided into four groups. One group was the control while other experimental groups were supplemented with crushed wild Cumin (WC) seeds in the feed at the rate of 0.5 (WC1), 1 (WC2) and 1.5 g/kg (WC3). Results indicated that feed intake was significantly lower (p

A total of 192 one-day-old Ross 308 broiler chicks were assigned to 4 treatments with 8 replicate cages of 6 chicks (3♀ and 3♂) per cage according to a completely randomized block design. The dietary treatments were a basal diet (control) and a control diet supplemented with 1,000, 3,000, and 5,000 mg/kg Rumex nervosus leaves meal (RN). Gallic acid and some volatile compounds were detected in the RN extract. On day 10 of age, BW was improved (P = 0.016) with supplemental RN (1,000–5,000 mg/kg). On day 14 of age, dietary application of RN up to 3,000 mg/kg increased BWG (P = 0.003) compared with control, while a 1,000 mg/kg RN had the best feed conversion ratio (P = 0.016). On day 10 of age, samples were taken on a single female bird per replicate. The addition of RN (1,000–5,000 mg/kg) increased (P

We conducted a 28-day trial to evaluate the influence of Bacillus cereus and phytase supplementation on the expression of musculoskeletal strength and intestinal histological features in Japanese quail. Two-hundred day-old quail chicks were divided into four groups with five replicates (n=10): the first group served as a control and was fed only a basal diet (BD); the second group was fed BD + 0.1% B. cereus; the third group was fed BD + 0.01% microbial phytase; and the fourth group was fed BD + 0.01% microbial phytase + 0.1% B. cereus. Compared to the control, individual and combined supplementation of probiotic and phytase increased (P

Soil, water, and forage contaminated with toxic heavy metals such as Pb, Cd, and Co can affect the meat and liver quality of camels raised in this area which affect human health. This study aimed to determine the concentrations of Pb, Cd and Co in soil, water, feed and young camels’ carcass tissues (meat, liver, whole blood, rumen fluid and rumen tissue) from five districts in Saudi Arabia during the spring. All samples were wet-digested and analyzed by ICP-OES for heavy metals. In the liver, a significantly higher (p < 0.05) concentration of Pb and Co was observed in camels reared in the central and southern districts, while Cd was found significantly higher in the western and northern districts. The concentration of Pb, Cd and Co in meat of camels in the northern district was significantly higher (p < 0.05), and the meat of camels in the west had a higher (p < 0.05) concentration of Co. In addition, the Cd and Co concentrations in rumen fluid samples from camels in the eastern district were significantly higher than in the central district. A negative correlation between the concentration of Pb and Cd in rumen fluid and rumen tissue was reported. The accumulation of Cd, Pb, and Co in meat and liver was below the recommended maximum limit. Therefore, the harmful risk of human consumption of camel meat and liver is not possible.

Based on the biologically active compounds of Pulicaria jaubertii studied so far, there are no studies on the use of this plant in broilers. Therefore, the present study aims is to investigate the effect of Pulicaria jaubertii on the performance, blood biochemistry, internal organs, gene expression related to immune response, and the cecal microbiota of broiler chickens. A total of two hundred and forty male broilers were used and divided into four diet groups (T1 = 0, T2 = 3, T3 = 6, and T4 = 9 g Pulicaria jaubertii powder/kg basal diet). The performance evaluation, serum biochemical parameters, internal organ indicators, cytokines’ gene expression, and microbiota colonization were determined. The study results showed that this plant was rich in nutrients, some fatty acids, and bioactive phenolic compounds. All growth performance indicators and relative liver weight were improved by Pulicaria jaubertii levels (T2 to T4) with no effect on feed intake. T3 and T4 showed higher total protein and lower triglycerides and total cholesterol. Birds fed Pulicaria jaubertii showed immune regulation through the modulation of pre-inflammatory cytokines and increased mucin-2 and secretory Immunoglobulin A compared with the control group. Diet groups (T2 to T4) had higher quantities of Lactobacillus spp. and lower levels of Salmonella spp. than the control group. We conclude that Pulicaria jaubertii could be used as a feed supplement for broilers due to its beneficial effects on overall performance, immune response, and microbiota. Further studies are recommended to investigate the potential mechanism of Pulicaria jaubertii in broilers.

A total of 75 male Awassi (mean BW 23.5 ± 2.0 kg; 3 months old) were used in an 84-day trial to investigate the effects of different feeding regimes on productive performance, carcass characteristics, and meat quality, and the fatty acid profile of growing lambs. Animals were randomly allocated into 3 groups of 25 lambs each. The dietary treatments were as follows: (1) whole barley grain (60%) plus alfalfa hay (40%; GB-AH; the basal diet); (2) a concentrate pelleted diet plus alfalfa hay (CP-AH); and (3) a complete pelleted diet (CPD). Feed intake was measured weekly, and all lambs were weighed every two weeks for an evaluation of the productive parameters. Blood samples were collected from all lambs for the measurement of biochemical and enzymatic variables. At the end of the experiment, 13 lambs from each treatment were slaughtered to evaluate the carcass characteristics, meat quality, and fatty acid composition. The final body weight, body weight gain, average daily gain, and feed efficiency of lambs were lowest (p < 0.05) in lambs on the grain and alfalfa diet compared with the other groups. Feeding lambs either the CP-AH or CPD diets resulted (p < 0.05) in increases in slaughter weight, carcass weights (hot and cold), the percentage of liver and shoulder, carcass length, back fat thickness, and the area of longissimus thoracis muscle compared with those lambs on the GB-AF diet. The proportion of saturated fatty acids in meat was greater (p = 0.04) in lambs fed on the GA-AH diet than in those of lambs fed on the pelleted diets. Lambs on the CP-AH diet had (p < 0.05) the highest ratios of PUFA to SFA and omega 6 to omega 3, and the proportion of omega 6. The atherogenic and thrombogenic indexes were lower (p < 0.05) in the CP-AH group compared with the GB-AH group. In conclusion, the results indicate that feeding growing lambs on concentrate pellets instead of whole barley grain improves the growth rate, traits, meat quality, and fatty acid profile, which have important implications for productivity, efficiency, and profitability in the livestock industry.

Sixty male Awassi lambs were used to investigate the effects of dietary Yucca schidgera extract (YS) on the production, fecal and urinary odor emissions, and carcass traits of growing lambs fed complete pellets. Lambs were fed either a complete pelleted diet without yucca (control) or supplemented with 300 or 600 mg YS/kg dry matter (DM) during the 84-day experiment. The weights and feed consumption of the lambs were measured weekly. Blood samples were taken on days 1, 28, 58, and 84, and ruminal fluid samples were collected on day 70. On day 90, the odor emissions from feces and urine were measured. On day 84, 12 lambs were slaughtered for the evaluation of carcass and meat quality. The final values for bodyweight, bodyweight gain, and feed efficiency of lambs fed the YS300 diet were 3.40%, 6.64%, and 6.17%, respectively, higher (p < 0.05) than those fed the YS600 diet. Additionally, the percentage of dressing, myofibril fragmentation index, and ruminal isovalerate percentage of lambs treated with YS600 were higher than those treated with YS300. Compared with the control, the addition of yucca reduced odor emissions from feces and urine. In conclusion, dietary YS300 had no additional benefits on growth rate, feed efficiency, and carcass traits, while dietary YS600 improved fecal and urinary odors.

The objective of the present study was to investigate the effects of sprouted barley inclusion level on the growth performance, digestibility, volatile fatty acids, bacterial quantification, and rumen morphology of growing lambs. Five dietary treatments with sprouted barley (0, 25, 50, 75 and 100%) and nine replicates per dietary treatment were performed on forty-five Awassi lambs (90 days old). The average weight gain, intake, and digestibility of dry and organic matter were recorded. The pH, color, volatile fatty acids, bacterial quantification, and rumen histomorphometry were also determined. The results showed that the average dry and organic matter intake in T2 to T4 and the average weight gain in T4 decreased linearly. In contrast, the digestibility of dry and organic matter by sprouted barley (T2 to T4) was higher. The pH values and rumen color were not affected. Concentrations of formic acid, acetic acid, butyric acid, and the ratio of acetic acid to propionic acid were increased, while lactic acid and total volatile fatty acids were lower in all levels of sprouted barley. In addition, lambs fed T4 had a higher quantification of Anaerovibrio Lipolytica, Butyrivibrio Fibrisolvens, and Streptococcus Bovis quantification. Selenomonas Ruminantium was higher in T1, T2, and T4, whereas Megashpaera Elsdenii was lower in T1 to T3. The rumen histomorphometric was improved by sprouted barley (T2 and T3). Sprouted barley improved digestibility and rumen histomorphometry and increased the concentration of some volatile fatty acids and rumen bacteria but resulted in a decrease in average dry and organic matter intake, which negatively affected weight gain in lambs fed 100 % sprouted barley. Further studies are required to determine the potential effects on growing lambs fed sprouted barley.

Camel products are receiving great interest worldwide because of their high functional properties and nutritive values. Therefore, this study was focused on the variation of copper [Cu], zinc [Zn], manganese [Mn], selenium [Se], iron [Fe], iodine [I], and some heavy metals, cobalt [Co], lead [Pb], and cadmium [Cd], in the blood and tissues of slaughtered camels from five regions in Saudi Arabia [SA] during the summer and winter seasons, because environmental factors vary from region to region. Whole blood, meat, liver, rumen fluid, and rumen tissues were collected from the slaughterhouse in each region during the two seasons. Moreover, samples were prepared and analyzed for trace mineral and heavy metal concentrations using ICP-MS. The data were statistically analyzed as part of a complete randomized design and correlation analysis for season and location using SAS. The findings revealed a pattern in the minerals, with Ca being the only mineral that was unrelated to other minerals in the liver. For lead and cadmium, our mean value in liver [0.40 µg/g] was below the limit of the EU standard for cadmium [0.50 µg/g], while in meat and liver, lead contents [1.62 µg/g and 2.57 µg/g, respectively] were above the limit of the EU standard [0.10 and 0.20 µg/g, respectively]. For meat, the significantly highest positive correlations were observed between P and Mg [R2 = 0.928], Fe and Mn [R2 = 0.860], and Co and Mn [R2 = 0.821]. For rumen tissues, P and Mg were highly correlated [R2 = 0.958] as well as Zn and Mg [R2 = 0.857], Zn and P [R2 = 0.836], and Fe and Ca [R2 = 0.802]. As a result, a region and season reflect variations in mineral concentrations in SA during the summer and winter seasons. Further intensive research is needed to investigate the minerals’ biological mechanisms in camels under different environmental conditions.

This study was conducted to investigate the nutritional values of female camels’ milk and the minerals status, for them and their calves, when fed a total mixed ration (TMR) beside alfalfa hay during winter. Thirty-seven lactating multiparous female camels and their calves were selected at mid-lactation in the Al-Kharj region. Group one was fed only alfalfa hay ad libitum (C) and group two was supplemented with a total mixed ratio (TMR; 4 kg/head/day), primarily containing a mix of barley grain, wheat feed, palm kernel cake, soya hulls, vitamins and minerals. Milk and blood samples were collected in the middle of the winter season and analyzed for minerals using ICP-OES. A significant (p < 0.05) higher concentration was observed for protein and inorganic matter in milk from female camels supplemented with TMR in the T group. In addition, Mg, Co, Fe and Zn levels in milk significantly (p < 0.05) increased compared with the control group (C). Blood serum concentrations of Ca, P, Mg, Cu, I, Se, Zn and Cd minerals in female camels were significantly (p < 0.05) higher in the T group compared to the C group. Blood serum of the calves in the T group was significantly (p < 0.05) at higher levels for all minerals than in the control group (C); except iodine. Furthermore, significant correlations were reported between Co and Mn elements with most other minerals under investigation. In conclusion, TMR supplementation in the T group of female camels during lactation in the winter season is highly recommended since it improves the milk composition and mineral profile.

Gum Arabic (GA) belongs to the Fabaceae family and contains indigestible soluble fibers (80–85%) that could be fermented by commensal bacteria to enhance performance, immune response, and intestinal integrity. This study aimed to investigate the effects of GA on performance, serum biochemical indicators, microbiota, immune-related gene expression, and histological changes in chickens. Six GA levels (0.0, 0.12, 0.25, 0.5, 0.75, 1.0%) were allocated using a total of 432 1-day-old male chickens (12 replicates with 6 chickens each). Growth performance was evaluated on days 10 and 24 of age. Blood parameters, organ pH levels, and intestinal health were determined on day 10 of age. Results showed that GA at 0.12% increased weight gain and 0.12 to 1.0% decreased feed intake but was best in feed conversion ratio and production efficiency except for 1.0% on day 1–10 of age. There was an increase in the thymus weight at GA level 0.25 to 0.75%. GA decreased the pH value of the proventriculus (at 0.50 and 1.0%) as well as the duodenum and cecum (at 0.12 and 1.0%). Chickens fed GA between 0.25 to 1.0% had higher protein and HDL, but lower cholesterol, LDL, and creatinine. Globulin was increased at 0.50% GA, while glucose and triglycerides were decreased (at 0.25 and 0.75% GA, respectively). The immune-related gene expression was reduced, except for 0.25% GA, which increased IL-10. Furthermore, chickens fed GA (0.25 to 0.75%) had higher Lactobacillus spp. and lower Salmonella spp. and Escherichia coli. When chickens received GA, the villus length and length to crypt ratio were higher, which also improved the integrity of intestinal epithelial cells and early duodenal development. We conclude that using GA (0.25 to 0.75%) as a natural prebiotic positively affects the performance, microbiota, immune response, morphology, and gut health of post-hatched chickens. More studies are needed to determine the potential mechanism of GA on broiler chickens.

Trace minerals play an important role in animal health and productivity. They are involved also in many physiological activities, and their deficiency causes a variety of pathological problems and metabolic defects, reducing consequently the animal productivity. The demand for animal products in semi-arid areas is rapidly increasing, and the supply is still below the required level, partially due to low animal productivity. Camels (Camelus dromedarius and Camelus bactrianus) are considered one of the main sources of healthy, high-quality meat and milk for human consumption within most of the countries in the semi-arid regions. Despite their efficient adaptation to their environment, camels can suffer from the growth retardation of newborns, low feed efficiency, anemia, poor fertility, poor reproduction and many other metabolic disorders. It is well known that trace mineral deficiencies and trace mineral toxicities can influence camels’ production and reproductive efficiency, as well as many aspects of their growth and metabolism. Evaluating the trace minerals status of camels and their variability is an obvious step toward improving camels’ productivity and health. Thus, the present article reviews the data regarding the status of trace minerals (copper, zinc, iron, selenium, manganese, cobalt, iodine, fluorine, molybdenum, sulfur, bromide and nickel) in camel blood and their physiological variability, with a focus on their deficiency and toxicity effects.

The main objective of this study was to investigate the effects of freshly sprouted barley on the growth of lambs, in addition to its nutritional value and digestibility. In addition, sprouted barley digestibility and rumen fermentation were studied in vitro on a dry matter (DM) basis. A total of 45 three-month-old Awassi lambs were randomly assigned to five treatments of sprouted barley (0, 25, 50, 75, 100%) diets. Bodyweight, weight gain, feed intake and feed efficiency were recorded every two weeks. Nutrient analyses were performed on feed, faecal, and urine samples. DM and non-fibrous carbohydrates were measured. Digestibility of DM, organic matter (OM), and neutral detergent fiber (NDF), as well as gas production, pH value, ammonia-N, and volatile fatty acids (VFAs), were determined in vitro using continuous culture. The results showed that final bodyweight was lower (p < 0.05), while feed intake and the feed-to-gain ratio were increased (p < 0.05) in sprouted barley treatments. Nutrient analysis indicators of sprouted barley treatments (25 to100%) were lower (p < 0.05) for DM, crude protein, acid detergent fiber, lignin and ash, and higher for total digestible nutrients, NDF, fat, phosphorus, zinc, copper, and net energy than the traditional diet. In the in vivo study, the digestibility of nutrients in sprouted barley treatments was improved (p < 0.05), while the diet (sprouted barley 100%) had the lowest digestibility of DM, OM, and NDF compared with the other treatments in the in vitro study. In conclusion, the addition of sprouted barley improved digestibility, and fermentation characteristics, while having a negative effect on growth. Further studies are recommended for optimal growth performance.

The study was conducted to evaluate the effect of an antimicrobial growth promoter (AGP), probiotic, prebiotic and their combination (symbiotic effect) on blood biochemistry of broiler chickens challenged with Clostridium perfringens. Two hundred and forty, 1-d-old Ross 308 broilers were distributed into six groups – the negative control (basal diet), positive control (C. perfringens infection), AGP + challenge, probiotic + challenge, prebiotic + challenge and synbiotic + challenge. The results showed significant differences in total protein, albumin, globulin and glucose in AGP with no significant difference between negative and positive control. Triglyceride and total cholesterol decreased significantly among all groups compared with positive control. Heterophils and heterophils-to-lymphocytes ratio (H/L) were significantly (P

A total of 300 day old broiler chicks (Hubbard) were assigned to 30 floor pens (10 birds per pen) under cyclic heat stress. Three diets including a control, as well as two levels of grape seed powder (GSP) and zinc (OZ) at the rates of 2.5 g/kg GSP + 50 mg/kg OZ and 5 g/kg GSP + 50 mg/kg OZ, were supplied to the broilers for 35 days. According to the results, broiler feed intake improved (p < 0.05) in GSP + OZ groups from 3–5 weeks and on an overall basis compared to the control diet. Body weight increased (p < 0.05) in GSP-5 + OZ-50 during weeks 2–5 and on an overall basis. The findings indicated that feed conversion ratio (FCR) decreased (p < 0.05) during week 5 in broilers supplemented with GSP-5 + OZ-50. The antibody titer (HI) against Newcastle disease (ND) was higher (p < 0.05) in GSP + OZ groups compared to control treatment. The value of malondialdehyde (MDA) decreased (p < 0.05) under GSP + OZ diets compared to control. Moreover, paraoxonase (PON1) was higher (p < 0.05) in GSP + OZ groups compared to untreated broilers. In conclusion, GSP + OZ positively supported growth traits, reduced MDA, and augmented PON1 and HI titer against ND in broilers exposed to heat stress.

In this study, 84 pregnant ewes were used and randomly distributed to one of four treatments, as follows: C (control), total mixed ration (TMR) +12% SFH (S12), TMR +20% SFH (S20), and TMR +28% SFH (S28). Treatments had a significant (p < 0.05) effect on the daily feed intake (DFI) of the ewes during the late gestation (30 d prepartum) and post-partum period, with the S12 and S20 groups having lower feed intake (35; 60%) than the C and S28 group. The DFI was significantly (p < 0.05) low during late gestation in comparable with other periods. The results revealed that body weight (BW) at late gestation was significantly (p < 0.05) higher than the BW at 60-days postpartum and during the mating period. Body condition score (BCS) was significantly (p < 0.05) higher during late gestation in comparison with other periods. There was no significant effect of different levels of SFH on reproductive parameters except S/C, which was significantly higher in the S20 than other groups. Serum glucose level was significantly (p < 0.05) higher in the S20 group than the C, S12, and S28 groups during 30 days postpartum. S20 and S28 groups showed a significant (p < 0.05) increase in glucose levels at parturition in comparison with other reproductive periods. At late gestation, a significantly (p < 0.01) higher concentration of blood NEFA was reported for ewes from the C group compared with other groups. Furthermore, significantly lower (p < 0.05) NEFA levels at parturition were found for ewes from the S20 group compared with the S12 group. In conclusion, TMR is not preferable to be used alone in the late gestation period. Sunflower hull can be used as a cheap source of fiber in TMR without adverse effects on health or the reproductive traits of ewes. The increasing level of sunflower hull up to 28% can affect fertility and increase the number of services per conception, probably due to its high content of lignin (phytoestrogen).

In this trial, a 3 × 2 factorial design with different dietary crude protein levels (CP, 17, 19 and 21%) and two levels of exogenous protease (0 and 30,000 IU/kg) was used. A total of 540 two-week old broilers (Ross-308) was randomly allocated to experimental diets over 15–28 days of age. The interaction between dietary protein levels and enzyme supplementation showed that body weight gain was significantly (p < 0.05) higher in birds fed CP-19 (1114.7 g) and CP-21 (1108.8 g) with enzymes supplementation. Feed intake was higher (p < 0.05) in broilers fed with CP-17 than CP-19 with supplementation of the protease enzyme. Results also revealed that the feed conversion ratio (FCR) was significantly (p < 0.05) improved in birds fed with CP-19 and CP-21 and protease supplementation. Total tract N retention was lower (p < 0.05) in birds fed CP-17 with no enzyme than the other dietary groups. Similarly, the gross energy (GE) was significantly (p < 0.05) lower in birds fed CP-17 with or without the protease enzyme. Abdominal fat was higher (p < 0.05) in CP-17 (0.96%) without the protease enzyme. It was concluded that a diet at 19% CP with the protease enzyme improved the performance and nutrient digestibility in broilers over 15–28 days.

This work aimed to assess the effect of using the RNL on performance indices, carcass trait, and meat quality of broiler chicken infected with Eimeria tenella compared with commercially used anticoccidials salinomycin. Moreover, we compare these selected variables between infected medicated groups and a non-infected unmedicated group (UUT) and an infected unmedicated group (IUT). A total of 150 1-day-old Ross 308 mixed-sex broilers were divided into 6 groups. Birds in groups 1, 2, and 3 were fed basic diets supplemented with 1, 3, and 5 g of RNL/kg diet, respectively. Group 4 received a basic diet with 66 mg of salinomycin. The control groups (5 and 6) were given a basic diet with no RNL or salinomycin added. All groups except the negative controls were challenged with Eimeria tenella at 21 days old. Birds in RNL groups outperformed those in the IUT group in performance indices, and they have a similar effect to the salinomycin group. Enhancement-infected birds with RNL affected some chickens’ carcass traits. Drip loss, water-holding capacity, and meat tenderness were improved by RNL inclusion (1 g) in the diet. In conclusion, the meat of infected birds receiving 1 g RNL had increased quality attributes, with preferable tenderness and springiness when compared to the IUT group. RNL could therefore also be considered a promising non-conventional feed source in the future. Further research is needed to optimize the use of RNL to improve broilers production and meat quality in both infected and non-infected conditions.

This study investigated the effects of supplementing different levels of sunflower hulls (SFH) to the complete feed of late-gestation pregnant ewes on the nutritive and fatty acids profile of colostrum at three and 48 h postpartum. In this study, 24 primiparous lactating Naemi ewes were randomly selected at parturition from four dietary groups as follows: (1) C (control), total mixed ration (TMR; 0% SFH), (2) S12, TMR1 with 12% SFH (level 1), (3) S20, TMR2 with 20% SFH (level 2), and (4) S28, TMR3 with 28% SFH (level 3). The body condition scores were estimated 30 days prepartum. Colostrum samples were collected at three and 48 h postpartum to measure the nutritive values and fatty acids profiles. Data were analyzed as a complete randomized design with repeated measures and via Pearson’s correlation and regression analyses. The results indicated a numerical correlation (R2 = 0.42; p < 0.09) between the body condition score and both colostrum fat and total solids. SFH increased the colostrum fat % (p < 0.05), especially for S12 and S20, following a cubic trend. Additionally, the colostrum from S12 and S20 ewes had a higher proportion of unsaturated fatty acids (USFAs), omega3 and lower levels of saturated fatty acids (SFAs), other than margaric acid (C17) and stearic acid (C18), SFA/USFA, and omega 6/omega 3. Furthermore, the regression analysis of the fatty acid classes and indices indicated a quadratic relationship between the parameters and SFH levels. The results confirm that the inclusion of SFH at levels greater than 20% may have a negative effect on some fatty acid parameters as a result of the high lignin intake. In conclusion, up to 20% SFH can be used in a complete feed for pregnant ewes without negative effects on the colostrum fat content and fatty acids profiles.

The current study was conducted to evaluate the impact of grape (Vitis vinifera) seed powder and zinc-glycine complex on growth parameters and cecal health of broiler following Eimeria tenella challenge. A total of 250 day-old male broilers (Hubbard) were distributed into five treatments as follows: I—negative control (basal diet); II—positive control (E. tenella challenge); III—group infected + Amprolium; IV—group coccidial infection + organic zinc (OZ) at 50 ppm + grape seed powder (GSP) at 2.5 g/kg; V—coccidial infection + organic zinc (OZ) at 50 ppm + grape seed powder (GSP) at 5.0 g/kg. From findings, a lower (p < 0.05) feed intake was noted for positive control compared to the other treatment groups. Conversely, higher (p < 0.05) body weight, dressing percentage, and feed conversion ratio were observed in infected + Amprolium, GSP2.5 + OZ50, and GSP5 + OZ50 treatments in comparison to the positive control. Moreover, the positive control showed severe cecal lesions of thickness and hemorrhages with mild congestion. The lesion scores decreased (p < 0.05) in GSP and OZ treated groups compared to the positive control. Significant (p < 0.05) lower oocyst per gram of feces was found in infected + Amprolium, GSP2.5 + OZ50, and GSP5 + OZ50 in comparison to positive control. Supplementing diet with GSP and OZ at both levels showed restoration of intense sloughing of villi. From the present findings, it can be concluded that OZ and grape seed powder positively ameliorated the growth performance, lesion score, and oocysts shedding in broilers infected with E. tenella.