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This document contains summaries of various research studies related to poultry production. The first study investigated the effects of feeding sprouted barley to hens and found that increased levels of sprouted barley decreased laying rate and feed intake. The second study examined the effects of antioxidant feed stabilizers on broiler performance and meat yield, showing that supplementation improved feed conversion ratio and breast meat yield. The third study explored broiler farmers' perceptions of slow-growing broiler production, finding positive interest but also barriers to adoption. These summaries provide valuable insights for researchers and farmers interested in poultry production. [Extracted from the article]

Simple Summary: Broiler meat is widely consumed around the globe. To fulfill consumer demand, broiler farmers are using antibiotic growth promoters for improved efficiency. However, these antibiotics have been banned in developed countries due to antimicrobial resistance. Therefore, plant supplements in the form of essential oils (EOs) have gained acceptability due to their excellent antibacterial properties. The next step is to encapsulate the EO for better delivery to target organs in broilers, which was investigated in vivo. The novelty of this study is to encapsulate volatile compounds of EOs in nanoemulsion (NE). This study has observed a positive effect of NE in terms of broiler growth performance, suggesting that cumin EO NE (CEONE) can be used as a substitute for the prophylactic administration of synthetic antibiotics. This research characterized and explored the effect of cumin essential oil nanoemulsion (CEONE) on broiler growth performance, serum biochemistry, hematological parameters, and cecal microbial count. Day-old (n = 96) broilers (Ross 308) were randomly assigned to six treatments with five replicates of three broilers each. The dietary treatments consisted of negative control (only basal diet), positive control (basal diet + 200 µL of enrofloxacin), 25 µL (basal diet + 25 µL of CEONE), 50 µL (basal diet + 50 µL of CEONE), 75 µL (basal diet + 75 µL of CEONE), and 100 µL (basal diet + 100 µL of CEONE). The broiler's body weight gain (BWG) after 42 days of treatment exhibited increased weight in the CEONE group (976.47 ± 11.82–1116.22 ± 29.04). The gain in weight was further evidenced by the beneficial microbe load (107 log) compared to the pathogenic strain. All the biochemical parameters were observed in the normal range, except for a higher level of HDL and a lower LDL value. This safety has been validated by pKCSM toxicity analysis showing a safe and highly tolerable dose of cuminaldehyde. In conclusion, this research observed the potential of CEONE as a multifunctional agent. It is a valuable candidate for further application in combating bacterial infections and enhancing animal health and growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, we advance the good farmer literature by assessing how farmers' understanding of what it is to be a good farmer is formed in relation to a less visible (enclosed) species (poultry). Findings demonstrate how the materialities of poultry bodies lead to similar practices across the three sites. These practices reflect the small size and rapid growth of poultry bodies and illustrate the multiple senses: visual, olfactory and tactile, which are encompassed in skilled role performance. The differing 'rules of the game' between the countries lead to distinctive 'moral capitals' attached to antimicrobial use, including stigma (Sweden), care‐full farming (France) and moral obligation (Vietnam). We argue that although cultural capital is not accrued in the same way as for more visible species, farmers mobilise their social capital to express cultural capital. Farmers clearly respond to changing 'rules of the game' in the form of government regulations, developing normative expectations. Deployment of the 'good farmer' concept in Sweden demonstrates the potential to mobilise cultural capital through benchmarking. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: A typical broiler production program includes three feeding phases: Pre-starter (from day 1 to 10), Starter (11-21 days), and Grower (from day 22 to slaughter). The program should allow the bird to express its genetic potential and respond to the nutritional challenges. Objective: To determine the effect of duration of the starter and grower phases on growth performance parameters (feed intake and feed conversion), mortality, skin pigmentation, and carcass yield in broiler chickens. Methods: A total of 1,500 Ross 308 AP male broilers were randomly assigned to five feeding programs with different duration, feed presentation (pellet vs. crumble), and anticoccidial (narasin + nicarbazin vs. salynomicin). The variables evaluated were growth performance (body weight, feed intake, and feed conversion), carcass (weight and yield), breast weight and yield, and skin pigmentation. Statistical evaluations were conducted on d 28 and 40 of age. Results: On d 28 of age, differences (p<0.05) were observed for body weight and feed conversion, but not for feed intake. T4 and T5 resulted in the best weight and feed conversion. Differences (p<0.05) were recorded on d 40 for body weight, with higher values in T4 and T5 compared to T1. Carcass weight differed between T1 and T4 (p<0.05), without difference for carcass or breast performance. The statistical analyses of carcass pigmentation showed an effect on redness ("a") and yellowness ("b") at d 28. Conclusions: Body weight and feed conversion of broilers from d 22 to 28 improve by extending the starter phase one week, using pelleted feed added with an ionophore anticoccidial. Skin pigmentation of broilers at slaughter is not affected by restricting pigment intake for one week. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

1. This study evaluated the efficacy of maize differing in particle size in low-density protein diets on performance, the digestive tract and litter characteristics in broilers. Four dietary treatments; control commercial diet with a typical crude protein content 22.50% (CON); CON + 20% maize with particle size 350 µm (M350), crude protein 19.90%; CON + 20% maize with particle size 2600 µm (M2600), crude protein 19.90%; CON + 20% whole maize (WM), crude protein 19.90%, were fed ad libitum to broiler chicks up to 21 d of age. 2. No differences in body weight gain, feed intake and FCR were found between the WM and CON. WM increased body weight gain compared to M350 and M2600. M350, M2600 and WM increased (p = 0.004) gizzard relative weight compared with CON on day 14. Both WM and M2600 reduced (p = 0.001) gastric isthmus diameter on d 14 and 21 compared with CON and M350. 3. No differences were seen in mucosa for the Lamina propria and the extent of Tunica muscularis of gizzard on d 21 and ileum mucosal depth on d 14 between WM and CON diets. However, WM reduced villus-to-crypt ratio compared with CON on d 21. The M350 reduced (p < 0.05) gizzard digesta particle size compared with CON, M2600 and WM on d 14. 4. Both WM and M350 decreased (p < 0.05) nitrogen excretion compared to birds fed CON. Feeding WM increased nitrogen efficiency compared with M350 and M2600 diets, but was similar to birds fed CON. Feeding M350, M2600 or WM decreased (p < 0.05) litter moisture and footpad dermatitis (FPD) scores compared with results from birds fed CON. 5. Overall, diluting the protein level in broiler diets with whole maize appeared better than fine or coarse maize in terms of growth performance, digestive tract development, nitrogen excretion and litter parameters. This may lead to economic benefits by reducing grinding costs and dependence on rich protein resources contributing to sustainable meat production and food security. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: There has been an exponential increase in demand for poultry meat and eggs worldwide. Therefore, it is essential to keep coccidiosis under control in broilers to fulfill the increase in demand for protein. The objective of this study was to assess the efficacy of two ionophore coccidiostats against coccidiosis and their impact on broiler gut health and performance. Both the ionophores were effective in treatment against coccidiosis, and out of the two, narasin demonstrated superiority in terms of improved performance parameters compared with salinomycin. This finding is highly important as it significantly focuses on sustainable poultry and, in turn, can help prevent economic losses and maintain broiler health. The objective of this study was primarily to assess the different performance impacts of two ionophore coccidiostats (narasin and salinomycin) used to manage coccidiosis. While both products may be efficacious in controlling disease challenges, previous literature has suggested that some ionophores are less well tolerated by the broiler chickens. In this study, we were particularly interested to know how the use of different coccidiostat programs translates into broiler health and performance, as measured by zootechnical parameters such as the feed conversion ratio, average daily gain, and final body weight. A total of 352 male Ross 308 one-day-old broilers were randomly divided into two treatment groups (T1 and T2). Treatment 1 included a basal diet (BD) + nicarbazin/narasin (Maxiban®, Elanco) at 100 ppm 0–24 days, narasin at 70 ppm 25–42 days, and (2) Treatment 2 included basal diet + nicarbazin/narasin at 100 ppm 0–24 days, salinomycin (Sacox®, Huvepharma) at 70 ppm 25–42 days. Efficacy and performance parameters, slaughter analysis, dry matter (DM) in litter, and intestinal integrity (I2) were measured for the broilers from both treatment groups. The findings demonstrated more favorable results for broilers reared in the group diet fed with narasin (in the finisher phase), including higher daily body weight gain, higher final body weight, lower feed conversion ratio value (improved feed efficiency), and higher European Production Efficiency Factor value, compared with the salinomycin-supplemented group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Wheat bran inclusion beneficially affects the gut health of broilers at low inclusion levels, along with the supplementation of feed additives such as with a stimbiotic It was hypothesized that the coarse or fine particle size of the wheat bran has a significant influence and interaction with stimbiotic on the performance of, and gut-health beneficial effects, in broilers. Coarse- or fine-wheat-bran inclusion or stimbiotic inclusion increased the feed intake and FCR for younger broilers; however, fine wheat bran and stimbiotic inclusion increased the overall weight gain of broilers without influencing their feed intake and FCR. Fine-wheat-bran inclusion increased the jejunum villi height and ileal nutrient digestibility compared to coarse wheat bran or diets without wheat bran in broilers at day 18. Stimbiotic supplementation increased ileal nutrient digestibility at day 42. The particle size of the wheat bran or stimbiotic supplementation had no effects on the cecal total short-chain fatty acid concentration; however, stimbiotic supplementation or wheat bran inclusion tended to decrease the branched-chain fatty acid concentration. Stimbiotic supplementation and inclusion of wheat bran with a reduced particle size into broiler diets have beneficial effects on the overall performance and ileal nutrient digestibility. A 42-day study was conducted with 720-day-old Cobb male broiler chicks allocated to treatments in a 3 × 2 factorial, with the factors as wheat bran (WB) inclusion (no WB, 50 g/kg coarse WB, or 50 g/kg fine WB) and stimbiotic (STB) supplementation in corn-based diets. The inclusion of WB (p < 0.05) or STB supplementation (p < 0.05) increased the FCR and feed intake in the day 0–10 phase. During the day 0–28 phase, coarse-WB inclusion increased (p < 0.05) the FCR, compared to fine WB or diets without WB. In the day 0–42 phase, WB marginally decreased weight gain in diets without STB supplementation, but the STB-supplemented diet, weight gain was greater (p < 0.05) the diet with fine WB compared with diets with coarse WB. Fine-WB inclusion increased the ileal nitrogen and energy digestibility determined at day 18 compared to coarse WB or diets without WB. Supplementation with STB (p < 0.05) or fine WB (p < 0.05) inclusion increased the villi height compared to diets without STB supplementation or coarse WB, or the diet without WB. Coarse or fine WB decreased (p < 0.05) cecal branched-chain fatty acids compared to diets without WB. In conclusion, stimbiotic supplementation to fine WB improved the performance and nutrient digestibility of broilers compared to coarse WB with no effects on the caeca total SCFA concentration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

1. This study compared two broiler housing models with different technologies (conventional versus fully automated climate control) to verify their performance and carcass characteristics at slaughter, as well as the economics of production.2. A database regarding 20 443 flocks of heavy broilers produced in an integrated operation during the years 2020 and 2021, in eight Brazilian regions was used in the analysis. The dependent variables included feed conversion, average live weight gain, total and partial carcass condemnation and the total mortality. For economic analysis, the production cost of each technology including feed, labour, energy, heating and depreciation was calculated.3. The technology used in the broiler houses had a significant effect on the technical indicators which were positive for fully automated climate control in most geographical regions. One important exception was the effect on total and partial carcass condemnations, with better results seen for conventional housing. The total cost per ton of broiler meat delivered, deducting condemnation losses, was lower in the automated climate controlled housing compared to conventional housing.4. In conclusion, there was a reduction in broiler chicken production costs for birds raised in fully automated climate controlled housing, indicating better economic results for this model in Brazil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Heat stress (HS) is one of the most significant environmental stressors on poultry production and welfare worldwide. Identification of innovative and effective solutions is necessary. This study evaluated the effects of phytogenic feed additives (PHY) containing Terminalia bellirica and Andrographis paniculata on behavioral patterns, hematological and biochemical parameters, Oxidative stress biomarkers, and HSP70, I-FABP2, IL10, TLR4, and mTOR genes expression in different organs of broiler chickens under chronic HS conditions. A total of 208 one-day-old Avian-480 broiler chicks were randomly allocated into four treatments (4 replicate/treatment, 52 birds/treatment): Thermoneutral control treatment (TN, fed basal diet); Thermoneutral treatment (TN, fed basal diet + 1 kg/ton feed PHY); Heat stress treatment (HS, fed basal diet); Heat stress treatment (HS, fed basal diet + 1 kg/ton feed PHY). Results: The findings of the study indicate that HS led to a decrease in feeding, foraging, walking, and comfort behavior while increasing drinking and resting behavior, also HS increased red, and white blood cells (RBCs and WBCs) counts, and the heterophile/ lymphocyte (H/L) ratio (P < 0.05); while both mean corpuscular volume (MCV), and mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH) were decreased (P < 0.05). In addition, HS negatively impacted lipid, protein, and glucose levels, liver and kidney function tests, and oxidative biomarkers by increasing malondialdehyde (MDA) levels and decreasing reduced glutathion (GSH) activity (P < 0.05). Heat stress (HS) caused the upregulation in HSP70, duodenal TLR4 gene expression, and the downregulation of I-FABP2, IL10, mTOR in all investigated tissues, and hepatic TLR4 (P < 0.05) compared with the TN treatment. Phytogenic feed additives (PHY) effectively mitigated heat stress's negative impacts on broilers via an improvement of broilers' behavior, hematological, biochemical, and oxidative stress biomarkers with a marked decrease in HSP70 expression levels while all tissues showed increased I-FABP2, IL10, TLR4, and mTOR (except liver) levels (P < 0.05). Conclusion: Phytogenic feed additives (PHY) containing Terminalia bellirica and Andrographis paniculata have ameliorated the HS-induced oxidative stress and improved the immunity as well as the gut health and welfare of broiler chickens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to determine the ileal digestible energy (IDE), apparent metabolizable energy (AME), and nitrogen-corrected AME (AMEn) of three typical cereals for quail chicks with two age periods (day 15–21 and 22–28). The experimental diets comprised a corn–soybean meal reference diet (RD), and three test diets (TD) that were fed to quail chicks in a completely randomized design with five replicates per diet and 15 birds each. The TD comprised corn, wheat, and barley that partly replaced the RD at 300 g/kg (70% reference diet + 30% test ingredient). Age did not influence the IDE, AME, and AMEn values, while the effect of ingredient type was highly significant on the energy estimates (p < 0.001). The IDE values of corn, wheat, and barley were estimated as 2924, 3440, and 3184 kcal/kg, respectively. The AME values of corn, wheat, and barley were 3519, 2979, and 2710 kcal/kg, respectively. The estimated AMEn values of corn, wheat, and barley were 3255, 2676, and 2281 kcal/kg, respectively. These findings are crucial for optimizing diet formulations to support quail growth and performance effectively, as they provide valuable insights into the energy content of different cereals for quail production. Notably, the high IDE and AME values of wheat suggest its potential as a valuable energy source for quail diets. Understanding these values can aid in formulating diets that meet the energy requirements of quail chicks, leading to improved growth rates, feed efficiency, and overall productivity in quail production systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study investigated the effect of supplementing a multi-carbohydrase enzyme complex (MCE) in corn–soy-based diets of Pekin ducks. The treatments were as follows: positive control (PC, 2980 and 3120 kcal/kg for starter and grower, respectively); negative control (NC, −132 kcal/kg energy reduction to PC achieved by reduction of fat and wheat middlings as filler); NC + MCE at 75 ppm (E75); 100 ppm (E100); and 125 ppm (E125) randomly distributed in 10 replicate pens with 25 birds each. Performance was evaluated after 14 and 35 d. On day 36 of the trial, five ducks/pen were processed to evaluate carcass traits. During days 1–14, the PC had a lower (p < 0.01) feed intake compared to all other treatments. At 14 and 35 d of age the NC decreased (p < 0.001) the body weight (BW) of the ducks compared to the PC by −8.3% and −5.3%, respectively. The NC BW was lower (p < 0.001) compared to all MCE-supplemented treatments at 14 and 35 d. The BW of E75, E100, and E125 treatments was not different (p > 0.05) from the PC at both evaluation periods. Cumulatively (1–35 d), the NC resulted in a weight-adjusted FCR increase (p = 0.001) of 9.9% compared to the PC, and the FCR of E75, E100, and E125 were able to recover 72.3%, 66.4%, and 63.5%, respectively, compared to the PC. The carcass and breast weights were lower (p < 0.001) in the NC compared to all other treatments, and no differences (p > 0.05) were observed between the MCE-supplemented treatments and the PC. In conclusion, these results suggest that the MCE supplementation can maintain duck growth performance with no negative effects on carcass traits in energy-reduced corn–soybean meal-based diets. From the results of the trial, 75 ppm MCE delivered the best performance recovery and 125 ppm MCE supplementation had the best % breast yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antimicrobial resistance has become a major threat to human health globally. One of the reasons for this increase is the abuse and misuse of antibiotics in the poultry industry as a growth promoter. This practice has resulted in the rise of the spread of antimicrobial resistance within the environment as poultry waste is used as manure in the growth of vegetables. With reduced enthusiasm on the part of the pharmaceutical industries to embark on developing new antimicrobial agents in the face of increasing resistance evolution, few options are available in the armamentarium to combat bacterial infections. The study aimed to determine if domestically grown leafy vegetables and soil amended with poultry manure constitute a possible reservoir of antibiotic resistance and assessed their ability to transfer resistance via conjugation experiment. Twenty-seven leafy vegetable samples and poultry manure-enriched soils were collected from some Delta State, Nigeria farms under aseptic conditions. Standard bacteriological methods were used to isolate and identify isolates, then examined for their susceptibility to fifteen antibiotics and potential for resistance transfer via conjugation experiment. Of the 76 bacterial isolates recovered, 52 originated from vegetables, while 24 were from poultry manure-enriched soil. Escherichia coli (14.5%) and Bacillus subtilis (7.9%) were the most prevalent isolates in vegetables and soil, respectively. The antibiotic resistance profiles of the isolates indicated very high resistance levels in Gram-negative isolates obtained from the soil to all tested antibiotics. The resistance profile of Grampositive isolates from both vegetables and soil showed = 50% resistance in tetracycline. Also, high level of resistance of between 50% to 100% was detected in Bacillus spp. and Enterococcus spp. to erythromycin, tetracycline, and chloramphenicol. Multidrug-resistant (MDR) isolates served as donor cells, while standard Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Bacillus spp. and Staphylococcus aureus served as recipient strains. The rate of antibiotic resistance transfer was generally high, particularly for tetracycline (57.1%) and chloramphenicol (61.9%). The high rate of antibiotic resistance transfer observed in this study highlights the risk of MDR spreading through poultry manure use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An experiment investigated the effects of early qualitative feed restriction and barrier perch provision on the morphometric and biomechanical measurements of the bones in broiler chickens. A total of 504 one-day-old Ross 308 male broiler chickens were randomly assigned to a completely randomized design with a 2×2 factorial arrangement (three replicate pens/group;42 chickens/pen) of qualitative feed restriction (presence- QFR+/absence-QFR-) and the provision of barrier perch (presence-BP+/absence-BP-). On days 21 and 42, morphometric and biomechanical parameters were measured. As a result of this study, barrier perch presence showed no significant impact on morphometric and biomechanical measurements. In the QFR- group, the weight and length of femur bones in 42-day-old broiler chickens were found to be higher (P<0.0001, P=0.034, respectively), alongside increased weight (P=0.001), inner (mediolateral P=0.002 and craniocaudal P=0.040) and outer (mediolateral P=0.047) diameter of the tibiotarsus bones. Furthermore, weight-length index values of the femur and tibiotarsus bones were higher (P=0.001, P<0.0001, respectively) in the QFR- group, while robusticity index values were lower (P=0.029, P=0.006, respectively) on the 42nd day. Regarding biomechanical parameters, the ultimate force level of tibiotarsus bones was statistically higher (P=0.030) at 42 days in the QFR- group. In summary, early protein and energy restriction caused slight decreases in some measurements of the femur and tibiotarsus bones. Strong correlations were observed between specific morphometric and biomechanical parameters, demonstrating their potential to predict biomechanical measurements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Nutritional cues during embryonic development significantly impact growth, although the mechanism behind this influence remains unclear. Amino acids such as leucine can affect the nutrient-sensing pathway that regulates growth. We injected 2.5 mg of leucine or saline into Japanese quail eggs on the tenth day of incubation. Treatment groups showed no significant difference in hatching success, body mass, gastrointestinal length, and morphological traits (wing, tarsal, and head lengths). However, from day 3 to day 7 post-hatch, chicks hatching from leucine-treated eggs showed increased wing length, body mass, tarsal length, and head and intestinal lengths, which lasted up to 21 days. Similarly, the growth-related genes in the liver were upregulated in leucine-treated quail chicks. However, protein degradation genes remained unchanged. These results suggest that the slight increase in embryonic leucine can promote growth, highlighting the potential for improvement in poultry growth performance. Nutritional cues during embryonic development can alter developmental trajectories and affect postnatal growth. However, the specific mechanisms by which nutrients influence avian growth remain largely unknown. Amino acids can directly interact with the nutrient-sensing pathways, such as the insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1)/mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathways, which are known to regulate growth. We examined the effects of embryonic leucine on gene expression and phenotypic growth in Japanese quails by injecting 2.5 mg leucine or saline (control) into Japanese quail eggs on the tenth day of incubation and incubating them under standard conditions. The treatment groups had similar hatching success and size at hatching. However, between 3 and 7 days post-hatching, quails treated with embryonic leucine showed increased growth in body mass and wing, tarsus, head, and intestinal lengths, lasting up to 21 days. The hepatic expression of IGF1, IGF1R, mTOR, and RPS6K1 was upregulated in leucine-treated quails, while the expression of FOXO1 remained unaffected. In conclusion, a subtle increase in embryonic leucine may induce developmental programming effects in Japanese quail by interacting with the IGF-1/mTOR nutrient-sensing pathway to promote growth. This study highlights the role of embryonic amino acids as crucial nutrients for enhancing growth. It provides valuable insight into nutrient intervention strategies during embryonic development to potentially improve poultry growth performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heat stress has adverse effects on the health and performance of broilers. This study was conducted to investigate the protective effects of black seed (BS) supplementation on broilers subjected to heat stress (HS). A total of 500 (day- old) Ross-308 male broiler chicks were randomly assigned into five groups with five replicated pens (20 broilers per pen): thermoneutral (TN), heat stress (HS), and HS with a diet supplemented with three different levels of black seed (Nigella sativa) powder (BSP (at rates of 5g/kg (BSP-5), 10 g/kg (BSP-10), and 15 g/kg (BSP-15. Exposure to HS reduced feed intake, and weight gain and elevated feed conversion ratio (FCR), mortality (P < 0.05). Also, low antioxidant enzyme activity (such as glutathione peroxidase, superoxide dismutase, and catalase) and high malondialdehyde levels in serum, liver, and spleen were observed in the birds of the heat stress group compared to the TN treatment (P < 0.05). Moreover, HS elevated interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor-α and lowered interleukin-10 levels in serum, liver, and spleen (P < 0.05). In addition, heat stress causes an increase in ALT, AST, ALP, triglycerides, and cholesterol levels compared to the TV group (P < 0.05). Compared with the HS group, broilers in the BSP-10 group had a higher body weight gain, a lower feed conversion ratio, and mortality (P < 0.05). Broilers in the BSP-10 and BSP-10 groups showed higher levels of antioxidant enzyme activities and lower malondialdehyde in serum, liver, and spleen compared to the HS group. BSP supplementation at 10 and 15 mg/kg reduced TNF-α and interleukin-6 levels and enhanced interleukin-10 in serum, liver, and spleen compared to the HS group. Additionally, BSP supplementation at 15 mg/kg reduced the effect of the heat stress on ALT, AST, ALP, triglycerides, and cholesterol compared to the HS group. Obtained results showed that BSP in diet during heat stress may have a role in the reduction of the changes exerted by heat stress in broiler chickens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The impacts of cumulative Chlorella vulgaris intake (proportion of microalga in the diet multiplied by the total feed consumed by each bird) on broiler carcass traits, meat quality and oxidative stability were reviewed to identify the optimal intake levels for maximising benefits. Our findings indicate that a cumulative intake of 8.73 g/bird significantly enhances thigh yield, while levels ranging from 8.73 to 401 g/bird optimise carcass weight and overall meat quality. However, higher cumulative levels may reduce carcass dressing percentage due to metabolic inefficiencies. Furthermore, C. vulgaris intake improves the oxidative stability of broiler meat by increasing antioxidant levels and balancing pro- and antioxidants. Including C. vulgaris in broiler diets boosts total carotenoid content, and antioxidant assays confirm that it enhances meat oxidative stability, with low to moderate cumulative intake levels (8.73 to 401 g/bird) providing the best balance of benefits. Optimal oxidative stability and antioxidant properties were observed at a cumulative intake level of 401 g/bird, showing significant improvements in meat antioxidant capacity. Higher levels may lead to diminishing returns or potential negative effects due to the digestibility issues of the microalga. Future research should refine intake models, understand the bioavailability of C. vulgaris nutrients and explore cost-effective methods to enhance its digestibility, to ensure its viability and sustainability as a feed additive. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The experiment was to study the effects of crude extract of Flos sophorae and Fructus sophorae on the growth performance, immunity, and antioxidant capacity of broiler chickens. A total of 300 one-day-old AA broilers were randomly divided into four groups, with five replicates in each group and 15 chickens in each replicate. Group A (control group) was fed a basal diet, and groups B, C and D were fed the basal diet supplemented with 100, 150, 200 mg/kg crude extract of Flos sophorae and Fructus sophorae, respectively. The experimental period was 42 days. The results showed that 1~42 days, compared with the control group, the average daily weight gain of broilers in the experimental group was significantly increased (P<0.05), and the feed to gain ratio was significantly reduced (P<0.05). Compared with the control group, the yellowness of the pectoral and leg muscles and the shear force in the group D were significantly decreased (P<0.05). Compared with the control group, the thymus index, bursa index, and serum IgG in the groups C and D were significantly increased at 21 and 42 days (P<0.05), and the antibody titers of Newcastle disease and avian influenza in the groups C and D at 28 days were significantly increased (P<0.05). The content of serum TNF-α in the groups C and D was significantly decreased (P<0.05), and the content of serum IL-10 was significantly increased (P<0.05). Compared with the control group, the T-AOC, T-SOD and GSH-Px activity in the serum of the experimental groups were significantly increased (P<0.05), and the content of MDA in the serum was significantly reduced (P<0.05). The study indicates that that adding crude extract of Flos sophorae and Fructus sophorae to the feed can promote the growth and development of broilers, improve meat quality, enhance the body's immune system, and strengthen antioxidant functions, with the addition of 200 mg/kg Flos sophorae and Fructus sophorae rude extract showing better results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oligodeoxynucleotides containing CpG motifs (CpG-ODN) can promote antimicrobial immunity in chickens by enriching immune compartments and activating immune cells. Innate memory, or trained immunity, has been demonstrated in humans and mice, featuring the absence of specificity to the initial stimulus and subsequently cross-protection against pathogens. We hypothesize that CpG-ODN can induce trained immunity in chickens. We delivered single or multiple administrations of CpG-ODN to birds and mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) and glycolysis of peripheral blood mononuclear cells were quantified using Seahorse XFp. Next, chickens were administered with CpG-ODN twice at 1 and 4 day of age and challenged with Escherichia coli at 27 days of age. The CpG-ODN administered groups had significantly higher mitochondrial OXPHOS until 21 days of age while cellular glycolysis gradually declined by 14 days of age. The group administered with CpG-ODN twice at 1 and 4 days of age had significantly higher survival, lower clinical score and bacterial load following challenge with E. coli at 27 d of age. This study demonstrated the induction of trained immunity in broiler chickens following administration of CpG-ODN twice during the first 4 days of age to protect birds against E. coli septicemia at 27 days of age. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The number of birds or their total live weight in relation to a given area is known as stocking density; higher stocking densities will cause more stress to the birds, which may have an impact on their physiological state, productivity, carcass quality, growth performance, immunity, metabolism, and meat quality. The present study aimed to investigate the potential impact of 2 different stocking densities on growth performance, carcass characteristics, meat quality, serum, and expression of Insulin like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), muscle regulatory genes expression and serum biochemical indicators of broilers supplemented with essential oils (EO). In total, 784-day-old chicks of Ross 308 were randomly assigned into 4 different groups with 7 replicates for each: Normal feed (no essential oils [EO] added) and normal stocking as 9 bird/m2, (NSD). Normal feed (no essential oils [EO] added) and high stocking as 14 bird/m2, (HSD). Feed with essential oils (Digestarom DC® 150 g/Ton of feed) and normal stocking as 9 birds/m2, (NSD + EO). Feed with essential oils (Digestarom DC® 150 g/Ton of feed) and high stocking as 14 birds/m2, (HSD + EO) for 35 days. Bodyweight was recorded at the beginning of the trial and then at the end of each week, feed intake was recorded at the end of each week as well. A total of 28 birds (7 birds per treatment) birds were slaughtered at 35 days of age to evaluate each parameter. The HSD group had the lowest (P < 0.05) feed intake. The NSD groups showed the highest (P < 0.05) body weight gain compared to HSD groups. The HSD + EO had lower adjusted FCR (P < 0.05) compared to HSD. The legs % was the highest (P < 0.05) for NSD group, while HSD + EO had the highest (P < 0.05) Fat Pad percentage. Moreover, HSD had the highest CL%, and the lowest WHC and Warner–Bratzler shear force. For biochemical indicators, (IGF-1) was the lowest (P < 0.05) HSD group. Also, Mammalian Target of Rapamycin (mTOR) and Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) were higher (P < 0.05) in the EO supplemented groups. Regarding gene expression, the results showed that Myogenin (MyoG) and IGF-1 were lower in HSD while MSTN was higher in the same group, (P < 0.05). In brief, essential oil supplement has improved the performance of broilers under high stocking density situation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antibiotics in poultry feed to boost growth performance are becoming increasingly contentious due to concerns over antimicrobial resistance development. Essential oils (EOs), as natural, plant-derived compounds, have demonstrated antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. EOs may potentially improve poultry health and growth performance when included in poultry feed. Nevertheless, the incorporation of EOs as nutritional additives is hindered by their high volatility, low water solubility, poor intestinal absorption, and sensitivity to environmental conditions. Recently, nanoencapsulation strategies using nanoformulations have emerged as a potential solution to these challenges, improving the stability and bioavailability of EOs, and enabling targeted delivery in poultry feed. This review provides an overview of the antioxidant and antibacterial properties of EOs, the current limitations of their applications in poultry feed, and the recent advancements in nano-engineering to overcome these limitations. Furthermore, we outline the potential future research direction on EO nanoformulations, emphasizing their promising role in advancing sustainable poultry nutrition. Highlights • Essential oils (EOs) are known as powerful antioxidants and antibacterial agents. • EOs have a high potential to replace antibiotics as feed additives. • Nanoformulations of EOs have shown improved bioactivity and storage stability of EOs. • Nanoformulation promotes the bioavailability and gut adsorption of EOs as feed additives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to explore the intervention effect of cecropin on the inflammatory exudation caused by coinfection with H9N2 subtype avian influenza virus (AIV) and pathogenic avian Escherichia coli (APEC), providing a reference for the effective prevention and treatment of clinical co-infections of H9N2 subtype AIV and APEC. The experiment selected 150 white-feathered broilers at 14 days old, randomly divided into five groups, with three replicates per group and 10 chickens per replicate. The control group was administered 0.2 mL of sterile saline nasally. The APEC infection group was administered 0.2 mL of broth containing 2.09×109 CFU of APEC O2 strain nasally. The H9N2 infection group was administered 0.2 mL of H9N2 viral allantoic fluid (approximately 105 EID50 H9N2 virus) nasally. The H9N2 + APEC infection group was administered 0.2 mL of the pellet from the centrifugation of APEC O2 broth mixed with 0.2 mL of H9N2 viral allantoic fluid nasally. The H9N2 + APEC intervention group was treated in the same way as the H9N2 + APEC infection group and fed with cecropin in drinking water (300 mg/kg) + basic feed. The rest of the groups were fed with normal water + basic feed. The formal experimental period was 21 days. The results showed that the H9N2 + APEC infection group had very obvious clinical symptoms and a significantly increased mortality rate (P<0.05), with the most severe tracheal and pulmonary lesions. Compared with the H9N2 + APEC infection group, the H9N2 virus copy number and APEC load on the 3rd, 7th, 14th, and 21st days after infection were significantly reduced in the H9N2 infection group and the APEC infection group (P<0.0 5), the H9N2 + APEC infection group, the H9N2 virus copy number on the 3rd, 7th, 14th, and 21st days after infection was significantly reduced (P<0.05), and the APEC load on the 7th, 14th, and 21st days after infection was significantly reduced (P<0.05). The study showed that cecropin can significantly alleviate respiratory symptoms caused by H9N2 subtype AIV, APEC, and their co-infection, and reduce mortality rates. Its mechanism is related to the reduction of pathogen load in tissues and the repair of the respiratory system, improving respiratory function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Poultry diets consist of several ingredients contributing specific amounts of nutrients and it is assumed that the supply from each ingredient is additive when diets are formulated. However, the additivity of apparent metabolisable energy (AME) and ileal amino acid digestibility in broiler diets combining sorghum with different protein sources has not been examined. Aims: To determine the additivity of AME along with ileal digestibility values for protein and amino acids in diets combining sorghum with different protein sources. Methods: The digestibility assays, based on semi-purified diets containing sorghum, sunflower meal (SFM), meat and bone meal (MBM), soybean meal (SBM), canola meal (CM), and cottonseed meal (CSM), were fed individually, or sorghum was combined with the different protein sources. Each diet was fed to three cages of 12 17-day-old broilers for 7 days. Excreta was collected for the final 3 days and at the end of the assay, digesta was collected from the terminal ileum for digestibility determination. Key results: When sorghum was mixed with the different protein sources, all predicted values for protein digestibility were additive, but for AME only the value for sorghum + SFM was additive. All other predicted AME values for sorghum combinations were different (P < 0.05) from the determined value. There were significant (P < 0.05) differences between predicted and determined amino acid digestibility coefficients, but amino acids showing associative effects varied among the different sorghum protein source combinations. Conclusions: Overall, the present results indicated that caution should be exercised when predicting the AME and apparent ileal amino acid digestibility values for sorghum-based diets from values determined with individual feed ingredients. Implications: The study indicated that positive and negative interactions are likely to occur among dietary ingredients in mixed diets, which has implications for both energy and protein utilisation. Sorghum-fed broilers has reduced performance compared with those fed corn- and wheat-based diets. This difference has been attributed to the presence of anti-nutritional factors in sorghum. The present findings showed that anti-nutritional factors in sorghum and protein meals have an impact on the additivity of digestible nutrients in mixed diets, giving rise to associative effects. This article belongs to the Collection Sustainable Animal Agriculture for Developing Countries 2023. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim: With the increasing cost of bulk raw materials and advancements in the feed enzyme industry, corn distillers dried grains with solubles (DDGS) have shown more opportunities for use in broiler diets. Supplementation with multiple enzymes could mitigate anti-nutritional factors in DDGS, enhance nutrient digestibility, and thereby increase its utilization in broiler diets, leading to reduced feed costs. This study evaluated the effects of multienzyme supplementation on growth performance, nutrient utilization, intestinal morphology, and pellet quality in broiler chickens fed diets containing conventional levels of DDGS (C-DDGS) and higher levels of DDGS (H-DDGS). Materials and Methods: A total of 800 1-day-old Cobb 500 chicks was assigned to four dietary treatments with eight replicates of 25 birds each: C-DDGS (5% DDGS in Starter and 10% in Grower), C-DDGS + Enzyme (C-DDGS diet supplemented with multienzyme), H-DDGS (10% and 20%) + Enzyme (H-DDGS diet supplemented with multienzyme, 10% DDGS in Starter and 20% in Grower), and H-DDGS (15% and 30%) + Enzyme. Results: The C-DDGS + enzyme diet increased (p < 0.05) body weight gain (BWG), reduced the feed conversion ratio, enhanced (p < 0.05) digestibility of dry matter (DM), crude protein, and hemicellulose (HC), and improved (p < 0.05) intestinal villus height and villus: crypt ratio of broilers. The H-DDGS (10% and 20%) + enzyme diet exhibited no difference in (p > 0.05) growth performance, nutrient digestibility (except HC), and intestinal morphological parameters, whereas the H-DDGS (15% and 30%) + enzyme diet decreased (p < 0.05) feed intake and BWG and reduced (p < 0.05) energy and DM digestibility by impact (p < 0.05) intestinal morphology compared with the C-DDGS enzyme-free diet. The H-DDGS diet had lower (p < 0.05) pellet hardness and poorer durability than the C-DDGS diet. Conclusion: Supplementing multienzyme in the C-DDGS (5% and 10%) diet improved growth performance from day 0 to 28 and diminished growth performance in the H-DDGS (15% and 30%) diet by influencing intestinal morphology and feed pellet quality in broiler chickens. In addition, when supplemented with multienzyme, the dietary DDGS level can be safely included at levels of 10% in 0-7 days and 20% in 8-28 days of age. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study investigated the effects of dietary supplementation with lysolecithins (LPC) on growth performance, nutrient digestibility, blood profiles, immunity, and liver health in broiler chickens. Methods: A cohort of 240 one-day-old male Arbor Acres broilers of comparable weight was divided into four treatment groups, each comprising six replicates of 10 birds. The groups were defined as follows: positive control with recommended metabolizable energy (PC+ME), negative control with 90 kcal/kg reduced ME (NC+ME), PC supplemented with 300 mg/kg LPC (PC+LPC), and NC supplemented with 300 mg/kg LPC (NC+LPC). Results: LPC supplementation led to a statistically significant reduction in the feed conversion ratio (p = 0.05) and a decrease in the proportion of abdominal fat and the liver (p<0.05). Digestibility of dry matter was also enhanced (p<0.05). Malondialdehyde concentrations in the liver were significantly reduced by LPC (p<0.01), with a noteworthy interaction between energy levels and LPC affecting this reduction (p<0.05). Serum levels of interleukin-6 were reduced on day 21, and both endotoxin and interleukin-6 levels were lower on day 42. Notably, a significant interaction was observed between the energy levels and LPC on relative liver weight and endotoxin concentrations in the serum (p<0.05). Conclusion: The study concluded that LPC positively affects growth performance, nutrient digestibility, immune response, and antioxidative capacity in broiler chickens, affirming its value as a beneficial feed additive in poultry nutrition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Thermographic monitoring of the back surface of broiler grillers and the environment are accurate indicators of thermal comfort, allowing production to be enhanced and ensuring the quality of the final product. In this scenario, infrared thermography was used to evaluate chickens' thermophysiological state related to bird density, lineage, age, and time of day, isolated or integrated, on dorsal surface temperature, performance and carcass condemnations of broiler grillers reared in a Dark House system. The main results revealed that the dorsal surface temperature in the broiler grillers was affected by the combined effects of age and time of day, lineage and density, and lineage and age. The increase in the density of broiler grillers did not negatively influence mortality, average daily weight gain, and carcass condemnation. However, partial condemnations and arthritis condemnations were influenced by the lineage. The aims of this study were (i) to evaluate the effect of density, lineage, age, and time of day on dorsal surface temperature and (ii) to evaluate the effect of density and lineage on performance and carcass condemnations in broiler grillers. The evaluations were carried out in barns with the Dark House system, with two densities, 17 and 19 chickens/m2 and two lineages, Cobb and Ross. The dorsal surface temperature of the chickens was measured by infrared thermography at 7, 14, 21, 23, 25 and 27 days of age, four times a day. The average daily weight gain, feed conversion, mortality, partial carcass condemnations, as well as those due to arthritis and dermatosis were also evaluated. The highest dorsal surface temperatures were observed in Cobbs housed at a density of 17 chickens/m2, and in Ross housed at a density of 19 chickens/m2. Cobbs housed at a 17 chickens/m2 density showed the lowest feed conversion compared to Ross at the same density. Ross showed higher dorsal surface temperatures when compared to Cobbs at 14, 21, and 27 days. Cobbs showed higher percentages of partial carcass condemnation and arthritis compared to Ross. The higher density of broiler grillers in the Dark House system does not influence the dorsal surface temperature, performance, dermatosis, arthritis, and partial carcass condemnations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study describes three clinical cases of infection with Avibacterium spp.. In case no. 1, respiratory clinical signs and high mortality (0.7–4.2% daily; total 21.2%) in Ross 308 broiler chickens were shown to be caused by coinfection with sequence type 9 of O. rhinotracheale presumptive serotype A and A. paragallinarum presumptive serotype B. The identical (pulsed-field gel electrophoresis) restriction pattern (pulsotype) of seven A. paragallinarum isolates indicated that infectious coryza in broilers was caused by the same clone. In cases 2 and 3, sudden increased deaths in Ross 308 broiler breeders (especially males) with lesions in the endocardium (valvular or mural endocarditis) were shown to be caused by A. endocarditis. Among nine antibiotics tested, florfenicol was the only antibiotic to which all A. paragallinarum and O. rhinotracheale isolates were susceptible. Out of the eight antibiotics tested, 11 A. endocarditis isolates from both clinical cases of infective endocarditis were susceptible to penicillin, amoxicillin, doxycycline and florfenicol. The A. endocarditis isolates tested in both clinical cases had different PFGE patterns (pulsotypes), but identical within a case. The causes of infectious coryza and infective endocarditis in the cases presented have not been determined. In the prevention of infectious diseases in large-scale livestock farming, it is very important to follow the rules of biosecurity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

1. A stimbiotic (STB) is any feed additive that stimulates caeca fibre fermentation, although the additive itself contributes little to the caeca short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) production. A 42 d experiment investigated the interactive effects of STB and wheat bran (WB) in broiler chickens receiving maize or wheat-based diets. 2. The treatments were arranged in a 2 × 2 × 2 factorial (eight replicates each), the dietary factors being diet (maize-SBM or wheat-SBM), STB (with or without) and WB (0 or 50 g/kg). Jejunal tissue, gizzard, jejunal and ileal digesta and caecal contents were collected on d 18 and 42. 3. Gizzard pH tended to decrease with STB (p = 0.06) supplementation and was lower in birds fed wheat- compared to maize-based diets on d 18 (p < 0.05). Birds receiving diets with WB had higher jejunum pH on d 18 (p < 0.05). 4. Total short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) in the caeca on d 18 and isobutyrate on d 42 were higher (p < 0.05) for maize compared with wheat-based diets. However, on d 42, acetate, butyrate and total SCFA were higher (p < 0.05) for wheat-based compared with maize-based diets. 5. On d 18, STB and WB inclusion increased villi height (VH; p < 0.05) and VH to crypt depth ratio (VH/CD), respectively (p < 0.05). On d 42, VH (p < 0.05) and VH/CD were higher in wheat-based diets (p < 0.05). The VH/CD ratio was lower with STB supplementation (p < 0.05). Marker-corrected pentose oligosaccharides (Pent)4 and (Pent)5 concentrations in the ileal digesta were reduced (p < 0.05) with STB supplementation. In addition, STB decreased (Pent)3 concentration in maize-, but not wheat-based diets (p < 0.05). 6. In conclusion, both WB and STB influenced gastrointestinal pH and jejunum histomorphology of broilers without increasing oligosaccharide concentration in the ileum and SCFA in the caeca. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bacterial chondronecrosis with osteomyelitis (BCO) lameness is a major welfare issue for broiler production worldwide affecting approximately 1.5% of broilers over 42 days old. Excessive body weight gain causes mechanical stress on long bones, leading to micro-fractures. This condition induces a bacterial infection of fractures, resulting in bone necrosis and eventual BCO lameness. Increasing gut integrity and supporting Calcium metabolism contribute to the optimal bone structure and subsequently reduce BCO lameness. Probiotics thus provide an excellent strategy for alleviating BCO due to the improvement of intestinal integrity and barrier function. Accordingly, the present study investigated the lameness reduction through the feed supplementation of a selected probiotic. Broiler chickens were assigned to three treatments, including a control litter group (FL), a PoultryStar®Bro probiotic fed group (BRO), and a control wire-flooring group (CW) designed to induce BCO lameness. The probiotic significantly decreased lameness by 46% compared to the control group (p < 0.05). The most predominant bacteria identified from the BCO lesions were Staphylococcus cohnii and Staphylococcus lentus. Moreover, significant increments of tight junction gene expression in jejunum and ileum, plus numerical improvements of body weight gain (BW; +360 g) and feed conversion ratio (FCR; −12 pts) were observed in BRO-supplemented birds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The composition of the intestinal microbiota can influence the metabolism and overall functioning of avian organisms. Therefore, the objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of three different probiotics and an antibiotic on the microbiomes of 1.400 male Cobb® broiler raised for 42 days. The experiment was conducted with the following treatments: positive control diet (basal diet + antibiotic); negative control diet (basal diet without antibiotic and without probiotic); basal diet + Normal Avian Gut Flora (NAGF); basal diet + multiple colonizing strain probiotics (MCSPs); and basal diet + non-colonizing single strain probiotics (NCSSPs). The antibiotic (enramycin—antibiotic growth promoter) and probiotics were administered orally during all experiment (1 to 42 days), mixed with broiler feed. To determine the composition of the microbiota, five samples of ileal digesta were collected from 42-day-old chickens of each experimental group. The alpha and beta diversity of the ileal microbiota showed differences between the groups. MCSPs presented greater richness and uniformity compared to the positive control, negative control, and NCSSPs treatments, while the negative control exhibited greater homogeneity among samples than NCSSPs. MCSPs also showed a higher abundance of the genus Enterococcus. There were differences between the groups for low-abundance taxa (<0.5%), with NAGF showing higher levels of Delftia, Brevibacterium, and Bulleidia. In contrast, NCSSPs had a higher abundance of Ochrobactrum, Rhodoplanes, and Nitrospira. It was concluded that the treatments analyzed in this study induced modulations in the ileal microbiota of the chickens examined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was carried out to determine the effect of Xylopia aethiopica fruit powder on broiler chickens' haematological and serum biochemical indices. A total of two hundred broiler chickens (Abor acre) at twenty-eight days of age was used for the experiment. Five experimental diets were formulated and labelled T1, T2, T3, T4 and T5. Treatment one contained no X. aethiopica fruit powder while T2, T3, T4 and T5 contained X. aethiopica fruit powder at 100, 200, 300 and 400 g per 100 kg feed respectively. The broiler chickens were divided into five groups of forty birds and each group was assigned one of the treatment diets in a completely randomised design (CRD). Each group was further divided into four replicates of ten birds per replicate. Feed and water were supplied ad libitum. Blood was collected for haematological and Serum biochemistry analysis on the (28) twenty-eight days of the experiment. The blood samples collected were analysed for haematological parameters and Serum biochemical parameters. The results showed that the diets did not significantly affect all the haematological parameters (p>0.05). There are significant reductions (p<0.05) in the values of cholesterol, triglyceride, low-density lipoprotein, and very low-density lipoprotein, as the level of X. aethiopica fruit powder increased in the diet. In contrast, a significant increase (p<0.05) was observed in high-density lipoprotein. Therefore, it may be concluded that including X. aethiopica fruit powder at 400 g/100 kg, feed enhanced Serum biochemical parameters in broiler chickens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 28-day experiment was conducted to examine the effect of additive ginger meal (GM) as a phytobiotic in the diets of broiler chickens in terms of feed intake (FI), body weight gain (BWG) and feed conversion ratio (FCR). 96 four-weeks-old broiler chickens were assigned randomly to four dietary treatments each replicated thrice (eight birds per replicate). Four experimental diets were formulated with the control (D1) without GM (0%). Bird's group on diets D2, D3 and D4 were fed with GM supplemented at 0.1, 0.2 and 0.3% levels respectively. The FI of birds fed a 0.2% GM-supplemented diet was significantly higher (p<0.05) compared to birds fed 0, 0.1 and 0.3% GM-supplemented diets The BWG of birds fed a 0.2% GM-supplemented diet was significantly higher (p<0.05) compared to those on 0, 0.1 and 0.3% GM-supplemented diets. The BWG of birds fed 0.1 and 0.3% GMsupplemented diets were similar (p>0.05) but significantly lower (p<0.05) compared to control. The FCR of birds fed 0.2% GM-supplemented was statistically better (p<0.05) compared to those fed 0, 0.1 and 0.3% GM-supplemented diets. The FCR of birds fed 0.1% and 0.3% GM-supplemented diets were similar (p>0.05) but significantly (p<0.05) lower compared to the control diet. Feed cost (N) per kg gain increases with increased levels of GM supplementation in the diets. It is concluded that the feeding of broiler finisher chickens with GM supplemented at 0.2% improves performance and can be a viable alternative to antibiotic feed additives in the diets of broiler finisher chickens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the effect of feed form and conical feeder openings on broiler chickens' performance and organ characteristics. 180 starter broiler chickens four weeks old were allotted to two treatments in a 2 x 3 factorial experimental design (two feed forms - mash and pellet; three conical feeder openings - 1.5, 2.0 and 2.5 cm) were used for the investigation that lasted four weeks. Broiler chickens were fed ad libitum. Daily feed intake was recorded, and the birds' weight changes and feed conversion ratio (FCR) were determined during the feeding trial. At eight weeks of feeding, 32 birds were randomly selected and slaughtered for organ characteristics. The result showed that the final weight (3795.56 ± 39.25 g) and weight gain (2342.22 ± 34.66 g) of birds fed pelleted feed were significantly different (p<0.01) from those on mash. The FCR was significantly lower (p<0.01) for broilers fed pellet (2.57 ± 0.04) compared with those offered mash (2.85 ± 0.02). The growth performance of broiler chickens fed pelleted feed in a 1.5 cm conical feeder opening was best (p<0.05) compared with other treatments. The relative organs had no significant (p>0.01) effect except for the large intestine which was significantly lower in birds fed mash feed form compared to the pelleted group. It is concluded that feeding broiler chicken finishers with pelleted feed and a feeder opening of 1.5 cm greatly influenced the feed intake and performance of the broiler chickens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Global population continuous growth and increasing consumers' demands for protein-rich diets have posed sustainability challenges for traditional livestock feed sources. Consequently, exploring alternative and sustainable protein sources has become imperative to address the environmental burden and resource limitations associated with conventional ingredients. With respect to food security assurance, insects have emerged as a promising solution due to their exceptional nutritional profile, rapid reproduction rates, and low environmental impact. In the present pilot study, 10% of a soybean meal-based diet was replaced by adult mosquitoes harvested from rice fields. The objective was to assess the effect of this partial substitution on meat quality aspects and consumer acceptance. A total of 40 Cobb hybrid broiler chickens were randomly placed in a control and a mosquito-fed group. The study was conducted for 42 days and carcass physicochemical, nutritional, and microbiological characteristics, as well as sensory attributes were evaluated. Overall, results regarding quality attributes were comparable between the control and the treatment group. The organoleptic evaluation showed that the thighs from the mosquito-fed group had the highest overall consumer acceptance. These outcomes indicate that mosquitoes could be successfully used as a protein source for broiler feed without compromising the quality and acceptability of the meat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The outbreak of clade 2.3.4.4b H5 highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in North America that started in 2021 has increased interest in applying vaccination as a strategy to help control and prevent the disease in poultry. Two commercially available vaccines based on the recombinant herpes virus of turkeys (rHVT) vector were tested against a recent North American clade 2.3.4.4b H5 HPAI virus isolate: A/turkey/Indiana/22-003707-003/2022 H5N1 in specific pathogen free white leghorn (WL) chickens and commercial broiler chickens. One rHVT-H5 vaccine encodes a hemagglutinin (HA) gene designed by the computationally optimized broadly reactive antigen method (COBRA-HVT vaccine). The other encodes an HA gene of a clade 2.2 virus (2.2-HVT vaccine). There was 100% survival of both chicken types COBRA-HVT vaccinated groups and in the 2.2-HVT vaccinated groups there was 94.8% and 90% survival of the WL and broilers respectively. Compared to the 2.2-HVT vaccinated groups, WL in the COBRA-HVT vaccinated group shed significantly lower mean viral titers by the cloacal route and broilers shed significantly lower titers by the oropharyngeal route than broilers. Virus titers detected in oral and cloacal swabs were otherwise similar among both vaccine groups and chicken types. To assess antibody-based tests to identify birds that have been infected after vaccination (DIVA-VI), sera collected after the challenge were tested with enzyme-linked lectin assay-neuraminidase inhibition (ELLA-NI) for N1 neuraminidase antibody detection and by commercial ELISA for detection of antibodies to the NP protein. As early as 7 days post challenge (DPC) 100% of the chickens were positive by ELLA-NI. ELISA was less sensitive with a maximum of 75% positive at 10DPC in broilers vaccinated with 2.2-HVT. Both vaccines provided protection from challenge to both types of chickens and ELLA-NI was sensitive at identifying antibodies to the challenge virus therefore should be evaluated further for DIVA-VI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Soybean meal is the main constituent of poultry feed, and the global supply of soybeans has decreased because of an imbalance between its demand and supply, primarily caused by the growing world population and reduced cultivation area. Therefore, a cheap and environmentally sustainable alternative protein source is urgently needed to maintain the sustainability of poultry production. In this study, we demonstrated that substituting 12% of soybean meal with either fall armyworm larvae or black soldier fly larvae enhances the growth, blood haematology, gut morphometry, and meat quality of broiler chickens. Consequently, soybean meal can be substituted with protein-rich insects in the poultry feed. The primary challenge facing the global animal industry is the scarcity of protein feed resources. Various insects are gaining prominence as innovative feed sources due to their economic, environmentally friendly, and nutritious attributes. The purpose of the present study was to determine the effects of a partial replacement of soybean meal with fall armyworm Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) and black soldier fly Hermetia illucens (Diptera: Stratiomyidae) on the growth performances, blood parameters, gut histology, and meat quality of broilers. A total of 350 1-day-old (40 ± 0.15 g) male chicks (Ross 308) were randomly assigned to seven experimental meals. Each treatment was repeated five times with 50 birds per dietary treatment. The seven dietary treatments included 4, 8, and 12% replacements of SBM with larvae of S. frugiperda and H. illucens. SBM was the basal diet considered the control. The data showed that broilers fed 12% S. frugiperda or H. illucens exhibited a significantly higher (p < 0.05) live weight, average daily weight gain, and improved the feed conversion ratio. Meals with 12% S. frugiperda or H. illucens significantly enhanced (p < 0.05) haematological and gut histological parameters, including villus height, crypt depth, villus width, and villus height/crypt depth ratios. The meat of broilers fed the 12% S. frugiperda diet showed significantly higher (p < 0.05) lightness and yellowness. Replacing soybean meal up to 12% with either S. frugiperda or H. illucens larvae improves the growth performance, blood haematology, gut morphometry, and meat quality traits of broilers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eimeria spp. are the pathogen that causes coccidiosis, a significant disease that affects intensively reared livestock, especially poultry. Anticoccidial feed additives, chemicals, and ionophores have routinely been employed to reduce Eimeria infections in broiler production. Therefore, the shift to antibiotic-free and organic farming necessitates novel coccidiosis preventive strategies. The present study evaluated the effects of potential feed additives, liver free and chitosan, against Eimeria tenella infection in White Leghorn broiler female chickens. One hundred sixty-five 1-day-old White Leghorn broiler female chicks were divided into 11 groups (15 female chicks per group), including the positive control group (G1), the negative control group (G2), a chitosan-treated group (G3), a chitosan-treated-infected group (G4), the liver free-treated group (G5), the liver free-treated-infected group (G6), the liver free-and-chitosan-treated group (G7), the liver free-and-chitosan-infected group (G8), the therapeutic liver free-and-chitosan-treated-infected group (G9), the sulfaquinoxaline-treated group (G10), and the sulfaquinoxaline-treated-infected group (G11). Chitosan was fed to the chicks in G3 and G4 as a preventative measure at a dose of 250 mg/kg. The G5 and G6 groups received 1.5 mg/kg of Liverfree. The G7 and G8 groups received chitosan and Liverfree. The G10 and G11 groups were administered 2 g/L of sulfaquinoxaline. From the moment the chicks arrived at Foshan University (one-day-old chicks) until the completion of the experiment, all medications were given to them as a preventative measure. G8 did; however, receive chitosan and liver free as therapeutic supplements at 7 dpi. The current study showed that the combination of liver free and chitosan can achieve better prophylactic and therapeutic effects than either alone. In E. tenella challenged chickens, G8 and G9 chickens showed reduced oocyst shedding and lesion score, improved growth performance (body weight, body weight gain, feed intake, feed conversion ratio, and mortality rate), and cecal histology. The current study demonstrates that combining liver free and chitosan has superior preventive and therapeutic benefits than either alone, and they could also be used as alternative anticoccidial agents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the dietary effect of curcumin (CUR) on amino acid, 5′-nucleotides, fatty acid, and volatile compound profiles of chicken meat. A total of 400 healthy 1-day-old broiler male chicks were divided into 4 groups (n = 10) and fed either a basal diet or a diet with the addition of CUR with concentrations of 100 mg/kg, 150 mg/kg, and 200 mg/kg for 43 days. The results show that the addition of CUR in chicken diets is conducive to promoting the deposition of amino acids and increasing the content of 5′-nucleotides in chicken meat, reducing the contents of saturated fatty acid (SFA) and C20:4 n6 but increasing the ratio between polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) and SFA. In addition, the volatile compound profile shows that the main volatile compounds in chicken meat are aldehydes (including hexanal, heptanal, octanal, and nonanal), with significant increases in their contents observed among chickens in the CUR-intake group. Moreover, it has been found that (E, E)-2,4-nonadienal, trans-2-decenal, benzaldehyde, and trans-2-octenal in chicken meat can significantly increase its overall aroma, and the addition of CUR with 150 mg/kg had the best effect on improving nutritional quality and flavor of chicken meat. This study provides a basis for the comprehensive utilization of CUR as a feed additive with the potential to substitute antibiotics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A total of 23 studies were identified in a literature search performed in the Scopus, Science Direct and Google Scholar databases for meta‐analysis. The criteria used include studies that were published from 2015 to 2023 and those reporting the effects of insect meal utilisation in poultry diets. Data on live weight (LW), carcass weight (CW), moisture, meat pH, lightness (L*), redness (a*), yellowness (b*), proximate composition (protein, fat and ash content) and shear force in broilers were subjected to OpenMEE software, and data were pooled using a random‐effect model. Subgroup analysis and meta‐regression were performed to ascertain the influence of dietary insect meals on the response of meat aspects and the source of heterogeneity, respectively, using the following moderators (insect species, dosage level, feeding duration and age at slaughter). The results indicated that dietary insect meal did not affect LW, CW, meat L*, pH, shear force, moisture, fat and ash content. In contrast, dietary insect meal increased the a* of the meat (standardised mean differences (SMDs) = 1.03; 95% confidence intervals (CIs) = 0.484–1.578; p ≤ 0.001), b* (SMD = 1.117; 95% CI = 0.334–1.90; p = 0.005), and meat protein content (SMD = 0.365; 95% CI = 0.031–0.7; p = 0.032). The subgroup analysis showed that insect meal dosage of ≤10% and age at slaughtered ≤35 days had improved the LW, CW and meat L*. In addition, the meat a*, protein and ash content were also influenced by insect species, dosage levels and age at slaughter. In conclusion, ≤10% of either Hermetia illucens or Tenebrio molitor can be included in broiler diets without compromising the LW, CW, meat pH, colour, shear force, moisture, fat and ash content in broilers. The study therefore indicated that insect meals have a bright future as an alternative protein source in poultry diets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Campylobacter jejuni gastroenteritis is the most commonly reported zoonosis within the EU, with poultry products regarded as the primary source of transmission to humans. Therefore, finding strategies to reduce Campylobacter colonization in broilers holds importance for public health. Recent studies suggest that supplementation of broiler feed with brown algal extracts, particularly laminarin, can provide beneficial effects on broiler gut health, growth performance, and gut microbiota. However, its effect on gut microbiota development and subsequent reduction of Campylobacter loads in broiler caeca during the later stages of the birds' lives remains unclear. Methods: Experimental colonization of Ross 308 broilers with two different strains of C. jejuni was conducted, with groups fed either a basal diet or the same basal diet supplemented with 725 ppm algal extract from Saccharina latissima to provide 290 ppm laminarin. Fecal samples were collected for bacterial enumeration, and caecal samples were obtained before and after the C. jejuni challenge for the determination of microbiota development. Results and discussion: No significant differences in fecal C. jejuni concentrations between the groups fed different diets or exposed to different C. jejuni strains were observed. This suggests that both strains colonized the birds equally well and that the laminarin rich algal extract did not have any inhibitory effect on C. jejuni colonization. Notably, 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing revealed detailed data on the caecal microbiota development, likely influenced by both bird age and C. jejuni colonization, which can be valuable for further development of broiler feed formulations aimed at promoting gut health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The usage of fluoroquinolones in Norwegian livestock production is very low, including in broiler production. Historically, quinolone-resistant Escherichia coli (QREC) isolated from Norwegian production animals rarely occur. However, with the introduction of a selective screening method for QREC in the Norwegian monitoring programme for antimicrobial resistance in the veterinary sector in 2014; 89.5% of broiler caecal samples and 70.7% of broiler meat samples were positive. This triggered the concern if there could be possible links between broiler and human reservoirs of QREC. We are addressing this by characterizing genomes of QREC from humans (healthy carriers and patients) and broiler isolates (meat and caecum). Results: The most frequent mechanism for quinolone resistance in both broiler and human E. coli isolates were mutations in the chromosomally located gyrA and parC genes, although plasmid mediated quinolone resistance (PMQR) was also identified. There was some relatedness of the isolates within human and broiler groups, but little between these two groups. Further, some overlap was seen for isolates with the same sequence type isolated from broiler and humans, but overall, the SNP distance was high. Conclusion: Based on data from this study, QREC from broiler makes a limited contribution to the incidence of QREC in humans in Norway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Globally and locally, the poultry industry is one of the fastest growing sectors. That is why in recent years new alternatives have been sought. The use of Moringa oleifera is an alternative food supplement in such production, addressing the problem of the growing demand for animal protein and the need to reduce the use of antibiotics. The importance of this research is highlighted in the context of the growth of the poultry sector in the country and its relevance for food security and animal welfare. This article has theoretical support from the various scientific databases, as well as the management and selection of key documents. The results of this research are expected to provide solid information on the use of Moringa oleifera meal as a viable alternative in broiler chicken feed, thus contributing to sustainable development and efficiency in poultry production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The objective of the study was to determine the effects of feeding fermented cassava leaf meal (FCLM) on growth performance, carcass characteristics and meat sensory evaluation of broiler chickens. Methods: A total of 160 Cobb-500 chickens were used during the phases of growing (21 days of age; initial weight 0.39±0.025 kg/bird) and finishing (35 days of age; initial weight 1.023±0.164 kg/bird). The whole experiment lasted for four weeks. The FCLM was included in starter and finishing diets at 0, 50, 100, and 150 g/kg inclusion levels. Total feed intake (TFI), weight gain (WG), feed conversion ratio, and nutrient digestibility were recorded. Sensory evaluation of breast meat was used to determine the eating quality of the meat prepared using roasting and boiling methods. Results: The TFI and WG decreased (p<0.05) with increasing inclusion levels of FCLM in the diets of growing chickens. Crude protein digestibility for chickens fed 0 and 50 g/kg FCLM was higher (p<0.05) than for chickens subjected to a diet with 150 g/kg FCLM. During the finishing phase, TFI increased linearly (p<0.05) with increasing inclusion level of FCLM in chicken diets, while WG decreased (p<0.05) with inclusion level of FCLM. Treatment diets had no effect (p>0.05) on the eating qualities of breast meat. However, juiciness was significant (p<0.05) for the cooking method and treatment interaction. At 50 g/kg inclusion level, boiled meat had a higher (p<0.05) juiciness score than roasted meat. Tenderness, on the other hand, was significant (p<0.05) for the interaction of gender and treatment. Females considered the boiled meat to be more tender than the males at 150 g/kg inclusion level. Using principal component analysis, a positive correlation was observed between teeth adhesion and fibrousness, flavour and juiciness, and springiness and tenderness. Conclusion: From the study, it can be concluded that FCLM can be used as an ingredient in the diets of broiler chickens. Inclusion level of 50 g/kg can be used in chicken diets during the growing phase, whereas in the finishing phase, inclusion level of 150 g/kg FCLM can be used. The FCLM did not affect the eating quality of breast meat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The goal of the current study was to investigate the impact of various concentrations of xylanase in energy-deficient corn-based diets on the growth performance, carcass characteristics, nutrient digestibility, and digesta viscosity in broilers from 7 to 35 days of age. Methods: A total of 280 seven-day-old Ross 308 broilers were randomly allocated to one of the five dietary treatments following a completely randomized design with 8 replicates and 7 birds per cage. The treatments were: i) positive control (PC, without xylanase); ii) NC1 (80 kcal/kg ME reduced from PC); iii) NC2 (100 kcal/kg ME reduced from PC); iv) NCX1 (NC1 + 2,000 U/kg xylanase); and v) NCX2 (NC2 + 3,000 U/kg xylanase). Body weight, weight gain, feed intake, and feed conversion ratio were determined weekly to evaluate growth performance. One bird per pen was sacrificed for ileal digesta collection to determine the viscosity and digestibility of energy, dry matter, crude protein on days 24 and 35, however breast and leg meat samples were obtained for proximate analysis (moisture, crude protein, fat, and ash) on day 35. Results: Birds fed diets supplemented with xylanase regardless of the amount had higher (p<0.05) body weights, daily gains, and improved feed efficiency compared to NC diets all throughout the experimental period. Feed intake was not affected (p>0.05) by the addition of xylanase. Moreover, lowered (p<0.05) viscosity of the ileal digesta were observed upon xylanase inclusion in the diets compared to the birds fed NC diets on day 24. Ileal nutrient digestibility and meat proximate composition were not affected (p>0.05) by xylanase. Conclusion: The present study indicated that the xylanase at 2,000 U/kg and 3,000 U/kg levels compensates for the 80 kcal/kg and 100 kcal/kg dietary energy levels, respectively, without having adverse effects on the growth performance, carcass characteristics, nutrient digestibility, and digesta viscosity of broilers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Grape seed oil (GSO) is a rich source of unsaturated fatty acids, antioxidants, and phenolic compounds that have been shown to affect physiological disorders associated with chronic diseases positively. The article demonstrates GSO's chemical structure and health benefits, including its ability to alleviate oxidative stress, modulate cytokines, exhibit antimicrobial activity, and potentially prevent cancer. The review highlights the positive impact of GSO on livestock growth and products quality, particularly when combined with grape pomace in broiler and rabbits diets. Including grape seed extract in animals' diets improved carcass traits under oxidative stress conditions. It may also help reduce total lipid levels and lower LDL cholesterol levels, benefiting heart health. The article emphasizes the need for more studies to better understanding of the optimal bioactivity of GSO and to determine the recommended doses of GSO for human consumption. The review suggests that GSO could be a promising natural feed additive for improving poultry health and product quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This experiment was conducted to determine the growth performance, blood profile and carcass characteristics of broilers fed yellow maize stored in Polypropylene (PP) and ZeroFly® Hermetic (ZFH) storage bags for six months. Two hundred unsexed day-old Cobb-500 broiler chicks were randomly allocated to 2 treatments (2 storage bags) with 100 chicks per treatment in a Completely Randomized Design experiment. Each treatment had four replications with 25 birds per replicate. The experimental diets were formulated using the same quantities of maize stored in the PP and ZFH bags. The study was in three phases, that is, starter, grower and finisher phases and each had 22%, 20% and 18% crude protein (CP), respectively. The experiment lasted for six weeks. Feed and water were offered ad libitum. Statistical analyses were performed with SAS Version 9.4. Effects of storage bags were assessed using a one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA). Tukey's Honestly Significant Difference test was used as an option in the Mixed Procedure to determine differences between means (p < 0.05). Broilers on the ZFH bag dietary treatment recorded significantly (p = 0.035) higher weight gain in grams (2395.11 ± 32.15), than their counterparts on the PP treatment (1980.30 ± 82.19). The feed conversion ratio, measured as feed: gain ratio, was better (p = 0.041) for the ZFH birds (1.74 ± 0.03) than the PP birds (2.24 ± 0.19). Birds fed the ZFH diet had higher (p < 0.05) dressing percentage (74.05 ± 0.24), percentage whole thigh (14.45 ± 0.10) and percentage drumstick (9.22 ± 0.16) than their PP counterparts. All the blood profile parameters measured were similar except total cholesterol and aspartate aminotransferase in which birds on the ZFH maize recorded higher values (p < 0.05). It was concluded that maize stored in ZeroFly® hermetic storage bags could be fed to broilers for better feed efficiency and carcass yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The range of synthetic medications and growth promoters fed to broilers is expensive, negatively impacts the health of the birds and has long-term side effects. Refocusing their efforts, poultry farmers are looking for herbal extracts that have therapeutic properties and may be used safely to boost productivity. This study was conducted to assess the effect of Garlic (Allium sativum), Ginger (Zingiber officinale) and Cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum) on the growth performance of broiler chickens. Methods: One hundred and forty day old broiler chicks were distributed randomly into seven treatment groups viz., T0 (Control: basal diet), T1 (basal diet + 0.5% Garlic), T2 (basal diet + 0.5% Ginger), T3 (basal diet + 0.5% Cinnamon), T4 (basal diet + 0.25% Garlic + 0.25% Ginger), T5 (basal diet + 0.25 % Garlic + 0.25% Cinnamon), T6 (basal diet + 0.25% Ginger + 0.25% Cinnamon) having 70 chicks in each group with 10 replicates. Result: The results (0-6 weeks) of present study indicated that supplementation of a combination of 0.25% garlic and 0.25% ginger to the basal diet of broilers (T4 ) significantly improved overall average daily gain (ADG), better feed conversion ratio (FCR) and broiler performance efficiency index (BPEI) and body weight (BW) of broilers followed by diet supplemented with combination of 0.25% ginger and 0.25% cinnamon (T6 ) compared to control and other groups. Highest profit per bird (Rs. 25.17) and benefit cost ratio (1.59) was observed in T4 followed by T6 . It can be concluded that dietary supplementation of garlic (0.25%) along with ginger (0.25%) has the potential to improve growth performance of broiler chickens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

New and different approaches are needed to raise the productivity and well-being of chickens. Adding zeolite and magnetizing the drinking water is one of these approaches. 120 male day-old Cobb broiler chickens were used to investigate the potential benefits of magnetized water and zeolite treatments on poultry growth performance, intestinal morphology, meat quality, histopathological examination and gene expression of PepT-1, APN, SGLT1, GHr, IGF-1, SOD, CAT, TNF-α and IL-6. The birds were divided into four experimental groups; the control group had access to conventional roof-top tank water, while the other groups received magnetic treated water, zeolite treated water, and a combination of both, respectively. The current results revealed significant physico-chemical and bacteriological changes. Magnetic water increased pH, Ca2+, and Na+ levels, while zeolite and combined treatments notably reduced hardness, ammonia, and turbidity. Magnetic water decreased total and fecal coliform counts, whereas zeolite water excelled in lowering ammonia levels but increased total bacterial counts. Zeolite treatment alone improved final weight and body weight gain in broilers with increased feed conversion which is associated with upregulation of PepT-1, APN, SGLT1, GHr and IGF-1 expression. Also, intestinal morphometric analysis showed a notable increase in duodenal crypts depth and width with increased jejunal villi length and crypt depth in the group receiving zeolite treated water. Additionally, better meat quality was noted in the zeolite treated group. However, there were nonsignificant changes in the expressions of SOD, CAT, TNF-α and IL-6 among different experimental groups. To increase the antioxidant capacity and immune status of the birds, a higher dose of zeolite may be needed. Nonsignificant pathological alteration was seen in different experimental groups except of mild to moderate degree of lymphoid depletion in spleen and bursa birds received magnetic water, respectively. The current findings strongly suggest the addition of zeolite for better performances. To the best of our knowledge, there are no previous reports on the genetic expression of PepT-1, APN, GHr, IGF-1, SOD, CAT, TNF-α and IL-6 in broilers received magnetized water or zeolite. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Black soldier fly (BSF) larva meal has the potential to become an alternative source of protein for broiler rations due to its high protein content. This study aimed to evaluate broiler chicken performance, carcass characteristics, viscera organs, and economic aspects when substituting poultry concentrate protein with different levels of BSF larva meal. A total of 200 Cobb broiler chicks were randomly put into four treatments and five replications, with ten birds per replicate then reared for 35 days. The treatment diets given in the finisher period consisted of R0 (a commercial finisher diet), R1 (R0+0% BSF larva meal), R2 (R0+7.5% BSF larva meal), and R3 (R0+15% BSF larva meal). The result showed that the treatment diet had a significant effect (P<0.05) on BW, ADG, and FI during the finisher period, while FCR did not have a significant effect (P>0.05). No significant differences in carcass characteristics and income over feed cost were observed among treatments. However, the inclusion of BSF larva meal (7.5% and 15%) significantly increased (P<0.05) gizzard weight compared to the R0 treatment. The use of 15% BSF larva meal in the finisher diet is a viable alternative protein source for broiler chickens, positively impacting gizzard percentage while maintaining comparable carcass characteristics and feed conversion efficiency. Additionally, it offers cost-saving potential compared to non-BSF diets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The addition of microbial phytase is crucial for lowering the reliance on inorganic forms of phosphorus and enhancing the absorption of various minerals. The present investigation sets out to ascertain the optimal outcomes of dose-dependent phytase supplementation on production performance, economic efficiency, physical meat quality, and intestinal histomorphometry in Hubbard broiler chickens. A total of 270-days-old Hubbard broilers were distributed randomly among six groups. The experimental setup consisted of: Group 1 (G1) served as the control and was provided with standard basal diets, while G2, G3, G4, G5, and G6 were supplemented with standard basal diets containing 50, 75, 100, 150, and 200gm/ton of phytase, respectively. Weekly recordings of productive performance were conducted throughout the experimental duration. At the end of the study, specimens of both intestine and meat were collected from every pen. The best outcomes regarding body weight, weight gain, and feed conversion ratio were noted for G5 and G6. The economic appraisal revealed that G6 had the lowest feed costs per kilogram of body weight and the highest revenue and economic efficiency. Intestinal morphological examination supported these findings, showed that phytase supplementation significantly improved villi length and crypt depth, with the greatest enhancement seen in groups G5 and G6. Water holding capacity and shear force exhibited notable increases in G5 and G6. In conclusion, incorporating a higher dosage of phytase (200 g/ton) in broiler diets has the potential to decrease overall feed costs per kilogram of body weight gain, enhance growth performance, economic efficiency, and intestinal histomorphometry, and have no adverse effects on meat quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Effects of dietary non-starch polysaccharides-degrading enzymes (NSPase) and phytase complex on performance, carcass, bone minerals, litter, and gene expression (IGF, IL-1β, IL-10, TLR-4, CPT1A) were determined in broilers fed corn-soybean nutrient-reduced diets. Totally, 1200 Ross-308 one-day-old broiler chicks were randomly assigned into 4 treatments, with 6 replicates of 50 birds each; (G1) Control group received nutrient- adequate diet without enzymes supplementation; (G2) received energy-reduced diet (-100 kcal/kg) with NSPase (100 g/ton Econase®) + phytase enzymes (100 g/ton Quantum Blue®; 5,000 FTU/g); (G3) received energy-reduced diet (-80 kcal/kg) with NSPase (250 g/ton Enziver®) + phytase enzymes (100 g/ton Phytonex®; 5,000 FTU/g); (G4) received as G3 diet with a 0.5% decrease in crude protein (CP). For all energy-reduced diets, the nutritional matrix of phytase with reductions of phosphorus (P) (0.15%), and calcium (Ca) (0.165%) was considered. Dietary NSPase and phytase supplementation to a low-energy diet significantly (P<0.05) enhanced body weights, weight gain, feed conversion ratio, and litter quality (lowered nitrogen, phosphorous, and calcium excretion in broiler manure), with constant bone mineralization. No significant effects (P>0.05) on carcass or blood biochemistry. Energy and CP-reduced diet showed better feed intake, immune organ weights, and mineral bioavailability by decreasing Alkaline phosphatase activity. Moreover, upregulated gene expression of IGF-1 in muscles, inflammatory cytokines (IL-1B and IL-10), immune-related genes (TLR-4) in the liver, and (CPT1A) responsible for energy production. Conclusively, dietary NSPase with phytase enzymes compensated for up to 0.5% CP, 100 kcal ME/kg, and 0.15% and 0.165% units of Av.P and total Ca, with improving broiler performance and environmental impacts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]