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Using 32 hens from two turkey lines; broad-breasted bronze (BBB) and bourbon red (BR), this study assessed how plumage colour affects egg production and physiological functions during (26-40) weeks of observation. A total of 32 hens, namely 16 hens from the BBB line and 16 hens from the BR line, were bred from 26 weeks up to 40 weeks of age. According to our results, BBB line significantly (p≤0.05) outperformed BR line in terms of body weight at first egg production, feed intake, and yolk diameter during the study period. A significantly (p≤0.05) higher feed conversion ratio, an increased egg mass, a higher production rate of hen-day eggs, and a higher rate of albumen was achieved by the BR line. It is, however, noteworthy that the age at first egg production, the egg weight, the egg mass, the yolk weight, the yolk percentage, the albumen weight, the shell weight percentage, the egg shell thickness, width, and length, the shape index, yolk height and yolk index were not significantly (p≥0.05) different between the two lines at 24 and 36 weeks of age. The levels of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) were not significantly (p≥0.05) different between the two lines at 24 and 36 weeks of age when eggs were produced. Both turkey lines presented in the current study can potentially be raised in Iraq, as well as used as hens to produce hatching eggs and for genetic improvement.

Using 32 hens from two turkey lines; broad-breasted bronze (BBB) and bourbon red (BR), this study assessed how plumage colour affects egg production and physiological functions during (26-40) weeks of observation. A total of 32 hens, namely 16 hens from the BBB line and 16 hens from the BR line, were bred from 26 weeks up to 40 weeks of age. According to our results, BBB line significantly (p≤0.05) outperformed BR line in terms of body weight at first egg production, feed intake, and yolk diameter during the study period. A significantly (p≤0.05) higher feed conversion ratio, an increased egg mass, a higher production rate of hen-day eggs, and a higher rate of albumen was achieved by the BR line. It is, however, noteworthy that the age at first egg production, the egg weight, the egg mass, the yolk weight, the yolk percentage, the albumen weight, the shell weight percentage, the egg shell thickness, width, and length, the shape index, yolk height and yolk index were not significantly (p≥0.05) different between the two lines at 24 and 36 weeks of age. The levels of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) were not significantly (p≥0.05) different between the two lines at 24 and 36 weeks of age when eggs were produced. Both turkey lines presented in the current study can potentially be raised in Iraq, as well as used as hens to produce hatching eggs and for genetic improvement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An alternative riboflavin source derived from the fermentation of non-genetically modified yeast Ashbya gossypii with a high native content of riboflavin has been proven as suitable for broilers in earlier studies. Based on these findings, the present study aimed to determine the effect of different riboflavin concentrations in organic diets on growth performance of an intensive (B.U.T. 6) and semi-intensive (Auburn) turkey line. A total of 384 Auburn and 384 B.U.T. 6 one-day old female turkey poults were raised for two 28 day-phases (P1 and P2). Organic diets similar in AMEN and amino acid content were offered for ad libitum consumption. The aforementioned riboflavin source was used to formulate four dietary riboflavin levels in P1 (5.4, 6.6, 8.1 and 9.2 mg/kg diet) and P2 (4.6, 6.1, 6.2 and 7.2 mg/kg diet). Each turkey line had six treatment replications with 16 birds per replicate. Statistical analysis was performed separately for each genotype. B.U.T. 6 animals fed diets with lower riboflavin level showed a higher cumulated feed consumption and in consequence a higher body weight. It was assumed, that the increased feed consumption may be a compensation for the lower riboflavin supply of the diet to reach the riboflavin storage capacity of the liver. For Auburn, the varying riboflavin concentration did not affect growth performance (P > 0.05), which indicates that the semi-intensive line was adequately provided with riboflavin even at the lowest level in both phases. In conclusion, the semi-intensive genotype Auburn requires dietary riboflavin close to the NRC (1994) and GfE (2004) recommendations. B.U.T. 6 hens were supposed to compensate for lower dietary riboflavin concentrations by increasing feed intake and therefore may require more riboflavin than recommended by NRC and GfE. However, the bioavailability of the organic riboflavin product was not detected but could be a reason for the results found. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the study was to determine whether the alternative yeast species Yarrowia lipolytica in turkey feed would have a more beneficial effect on growth performance and intestinal histology than the commonly used species Saccharomyces cerevisiae. An additional objective of the study was to test whether the addition of a probiotic to feed containing Yarrowia lipolytica or Saccharomyces cerevisiae yeast would enhance its effect on growth performance and intestinal histology in turkeys. The experiment was carried out on 480 turkey hens randomly divided into six groups. Birds from the control group (C) and group P were fed standard feeds but group P additionally received a probiotic (0.05%). Groups Y and YP received feed containing Yarrowia lipolytica fodder yeast (3%), and the YP group received also the probiotic (0.05%). Similarly, in groups S and SP, the turkeys received feed with Saccharomyces cerevisiae fodder yeast (3%), and for the SP group the probiotic was added to the feed (0.05%). Yarrowia lipolytica yeast added in the amount of 3% to the turkey feed may be an alternative to the commonly used Saccharomyces cerevisiae yeast, because it improved growth performance, and above all, had a more beneficial effect on intestinal histology. The use of Yarrowia lipolytica alone can be beneficial for growth performance, while the combined use of 3% Yarrowia lipolytica in the feed and a 0.05% addition of a probiotic containing Bacillus licheniformis and Bacillus subtilis has a more beneficial effect on gastrointestinal histology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The probiotic-prebiotic properties and chemical composition of Yarrowia lipolytica yeast (YL), predisposes it for use as a turkey feed additive. The aim of the study was to determine whether YL in the diet of turkeys would exert more beneficial effect by stimulating antioxidant reactions and increasing mineral availability than Saccharomyces cerevisiae (SC). An additional aim of the study was to test whether the addition of a probiotic bacteria to feed containing Yarrowia lipolytica or Saccharomyces cerevisiae yeast would enhance their effect. The study was conducted on turkeys from seven to 112 days of age to determine the effects of a 3% addition of YL to the diet, as an alternative to the standard SC. It was analysed whether the use of a probiotic (Bacillus licheniformis, Bacillus subtilis) together with yeast would be more effective. Both the yeast (YL or SC) and the probiotic stimulated antioxidant mechanisms (increased CAT; reduced MDA), but the addition of SC was less effective. The inclusion of YL in the feed increased the plasma content of Ca, Mg, Cu, Zn and Fe in the blood turkeys and lowered the content of cholesterol and triacylglycerols. The combined use of yeast (YL or SC) with a probiotic enhances the antioxidant effect while inhibiting of lipid peroxidation. The combined use of yeast with a probiotic can be recommended in cases of stimulation of oxidative reactions (e.g., stress or infection)

The aim of the study was to determine the most beneficial proportion of raw linseed in complete feed mixtures for turkey hens on the basis of lipid and redox indicators in the blood. In experiment 1, the turkey hens received the complete mixture with 2%, 4% or 6% linseed. On the basis of the results obtained in experiment 1, we selected the most effective proportion of linseed, which was given to the birds in the group receiving a 4% linseed additive. In experiment 2, the birds were fed mixtures with a 4% addition of raw or extruded linseed. The use of 4% raw linseed was found to improve production effects (improvement of weight gain, and lower feed conversion ratios), while extruded linseed in the diet of turkey hens did not affect growth performance. The use of linseed (4% and 6%) as a feed component for turkey hens led to an increase in indicators of antioxidant potential, that is the total antioxidant potential of the plasma, vitamins E and C, bilirubin and creatinine. A benefit resulting from the use of linseed, particularly in the amounts of 2% and 4% was a marked improvement in lipid indicators in the blood. The reduced percentage of unsaturated fatty acids (n-3) following the use of extruded linseed resulted in a decrease in lipid peroxidation (lower content of malondialdehyde, superoxide and vitamins C and E in the blood). The most effective dose and form of linseed in the diet of turkey hens is 4% raw linseed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to determine the influence of aloe preparation and 5-oxo-1,2,4-triazine on mineral composition of muscles and liver of turkey hens under conditions of stress. Groups C and C (+)stress were control that did not receive any additive. Birds from groups A and A (+)stress were administered aloe preparation in a dose of 0.70 ml/kg (BW)/day. Turkey hens from groups T and T (+)stress received 5-oxo-1,2,4-triazine in a dose of 30 μg/kg BW/day. The applied stress factors did not affect the mineral composition of the analysed tissues of turkey hens. Administration of 5-oxo-1,2,4-triazine caused a significant decrease in iron concentration and an increase in zinc concentration in thigh muscles and liver. In turn, aloe preparation contributed to an increase in tissue levels of calcium (except for shank muscles), zinc (in leg muscles and liver) and copper (in thigh muscles). A decrease in iron concentration in leg muscles and liver in birds supplemented with aloe preparation was also determined. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

It was postulated that naturally occurring phenolic compounds obtained from various plant species may have potential use as feed additives for poultry. Therefore the aim of the study was to compare extracts of hesperidin, diosmin, quercetin and resveratrol in terms of their health-promoting (particularly immunostimulatory) effect on turkeys at different ages. The experiment was conducted on 720 Big 6 turkey hens assigned to 6 experimental groups of 120 individuals (6 repetitions with 20 birds each). The turkey hens in group G-C were the control, receiving a basal compound feed with no experimental additives. The turkey hens in the remaining groups, from the first to the 16th week of life, received a basal diet containing hesperidin (group G-H), diosmin (group G-D), quercetin (group G-Q) or resveratrol (group G-R) in the amount of 200 g per tonne of feed. Ht, Hb, RBC, WBC, lysozyme activity, %PC, IgA, IL-6, GLU, TP and minerals were determined in blood samples. The addition of quercetin or resveratrol in the amount of 200 g per tonne of feed was found to have a beneficial effect on haemoglobin synthesis and phosphorus availability, and may also modulate immunity in turkey hens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to determine whether the introduction of stress affects corticosterone and malonyl dialdehyde levels and antioxidant indices of the blood of turkey hens, and whether additives used in conjunction with stress, such as aloe extract supplemented with trans-resveratrol and vitamin C or the amidrazone derivative 5-oxo-1,2,4-triazine, can mitigate adverse changes that may occur in these parameters. The experiment was carried out on 360 turkey hens allocated randomly to 6 groups of 60 birds each. Groups C and C(+)stress were the control groups and did not receive any additive. Birds from groups A and A(+)stress were administered aloe extract with the addition of trans-resveratrol and vitamin C in the amount of 0.70 ml/kg body weight (BW)/ day. The turkey hens from groups T and T(+)stress received 5-oxo-1,2,4-triazine in the amount of 30 μg/kg BW/day. Blood tests included determination of the content of corticosterone and malonyl dialdehyde (MDA), total plasma antioxidant potential (FRAP) and vitamin C, as well as activity of the antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT ) and glutathione peroxidase (PGx). The blood serum samples were also analysed for levels of zinc (Zn), copper (Cu) and iron (Fe) by atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS). The stress factors applied resulted in a significant increase in the level of corticosterone and MDA and in SOD and CAT activity in the blood plasma of the turkey hens. A significant decrease in the level of vitamin C and total plasma antioxidant potential were also recorded in the birds treated with stress. The aloe preparation supplemented with trans-resveratrol and vitamin C caused a significant increase in vitamin C, FRAP, Fe and Cu, and a decrease in the corticosterone and MDA levels in the blood plasma of the turkey hens, while in the blood plasma of birds treated with 5-oxo-1,2,4-triazine a significant increase was noted in superoxide dismutase activity and a decrease in the malonyl dialdehyde level. In order to alleviate the negative effect of stress, supplementation of diets with aloe extract supplemented with resveratrol and vitamin C may be considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to determine immunological and biochemical blood indicators of turkey hens administered feed mixtures with 3 or 6% of Yarrowia lipolytica strain yeast as a dietary nutrient. The experiment was carried out on 240 turkey hens, aged from 1 to 16 weeks. The hens were randomly assigned to 3 experimental groups of 80 birds. Group I served as a control (K) and did not receive any experimental compounds. The turkey hens from experimental groups (YL3, YL6) were administered dried Yarrowia lipolytica yeast in two doses: 3% (YL3) and 6% (YL6) in feed mixtures. The study showed that the addition of Yarrowia lipolytica yeast in a dose of 3% but mainly in a dose of 6% stimulated the body's immune defence mechanisms, which was evidenced by the increase in plasma lysozyme, % KF, IF, and reduction of monocyte ratio H/L in turkey hens. The advantage of using Yarrowia lipolytica in the nutrition of turkey hens was also a decrease in the content of blood indicators of lipid peroxidation such as CHOL, TG and LDL-cholesterol fraction, and an increase in the percentage of HDL-cholesterol fraction. The use of yeast component in the feeding of turkey hens affected the health status of birds and contributed to proper (not deviating from the reference values) biochemical indicators of metabolism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The undertaken study aimed at analysing the effect of linseed oil used in diets for turkey hens on contents of pro- and antioxidants in their tissues. Additionally, correlations were analysed between the contents of these compounds in blood, liver, and muscles of the birds. The experiment was conducted on 240 one-week-old turkey hens reared until 16 weeks of age, randomly allocated into two feeding groups. Hens from the first group received soybean oil in their complete feed mixture, whereas linseed oil was the source of fat for turkey hens from the second group. The oil content of the diet was on the level appropriate for the period of feeding: Starter - 0.5%; Grower I - 1.0%, Grower II - 2.5%; Finisher I - 3%. The redox parameters were assayed in breast and thigh muscles, blood, and liver. Introduction of PUFA n-3 high linseed oil to a feed mixture contributed to the enhancement of lipid peroxidation processes, which was indicated by a significant increase in concentrations of H2O2 and malondialdehyde in muscles, and by an increase of superoxide dismutase activity and concentrations of vitamin C and minerals (Cu+2, Zn+2, Fe+2, Se+2). This points out the need of strengthening the antioxidative defence by the use of suitable antioxidants. The use of linseed oil as a feed material for turkey hens additionally contributed to changes in parameters determining the ferric reducing ability of plasma (FRAP). The increased FRAP values resulted from a significant increase in vitamin E level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The avian inner perivitelline layer (IPVL) contains zona pellucida protein-B1 (ZPB1), zona pellucida protein-C (ZPC) and zona pellucida protein-D (ZPD). These three proteins may be involved in sperm binding to the IPVL. ZPB1 is produced by the liver and transported to the developing preovulatory follicle, while ZPC and ZPD are synthesized and secreted by the granulosa cells of the preovulatory follicle. The mRNA of ZPB1, ZPC, and ZPD was investigated in two lines of turkey hens selected for over 40 generations for either increased egg production (E line) or increased body weight (F line). Total RNA was extracted from the liver and from 1cm2 sections of the granulosa layer around the germinal disc and a nongerminal disc area of the F1 and F2 follicles of hens from each genetic line. Northern analysis was performed using chicken cDNA probes for all three ZP proteins. Hepatic mRNA for ZPB1 was greater (P <0.05) in turkey hens from the E line than the F line. Although, there was no difference in ZPC mRNA between the germinal disc and nongerminal disc region of the two largest follicles in E line hens, ZPC mRNA was greater in the nongerminal disc region compared to the germinal disc region in the two largest follicles obtained from the F line hens. There were no differences in ZPD mRNA between the germinal disc and nongerminal disc regions of the F1 and F2 follicles for either genetic line. The results suggest that the greater rates of fertility previously observed in eggs from the E line hens compared with the F line of hens may be related to differential amounts of the potential sperm binding proteins ZPB1 and ZPC. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Presents abstracts of several studies about poultry reproductive physiology. "Effect of Heat Stress on Production, Reproduction Hormone Levels, Acid-Base Statis, and Liver Expression of Heat Shock Protein-70 Observed in Three Varieties of Laying Hens," by D. J. Franco, L. Robeson, and M. M. Beck; "Melengestrol Acetate (MGA) as an Alternative Method to Induce Molting in Hens," by J. M. Koch, J. S. Moritz, D. C. Lay, Jr., and M. E. Wilson; "Chicken Sperm Motility and Metabolism are Altered Immediately by Semen Dilution," by H. M. Parker, and C. D. McDaniel; "Progesterone Injections Induce a Polycystic Ovarian Follicle Syndrome (PCOF) in Young Turkey Hens," by W. L. Bacon and H.- K. Liu.

Presents abstracts of several studies about poultry reproductive physiology. "Effect of Heat Stress on Production, Reproduction Hormone Levels, Acid-Base Statis, and Liver Expression of Heat Shock Protein-70 Observed in Three Varieties of Laying Hens," by D. J. Franco, L. Robeson, and M. M. Beck; "Melengestrol Acetate (MGA) as an Alternative Method to Induce Molting in Hens," by J. M. Koch, J. S. Moritz, D. C. Lay, Jr., and M. E. Wilson; "Chicken Sperm Motility and Metabolism are Altered Immediately by Semen Dilution," by H. M. Parker, and C. D. McDaniel; "Progesterone Injections Induce a Polycystic Ovarian Follicle Syndrome (PCOF) in Young Turkey Hens," by W. L. Bacon and H.- K. Liu.

Simple Summary: Interest in Yarrowia lipolytica (YL) arises from the fact that it grows on the crude glycerol fraction derived from the production of diesel oil, so that it constitutes a link between biofuel by-products and animal feed. Studies have already been conducted on the use of Yarrowia lipolytica as a factor affecting the gut microbiota and fattening efficiency of turkeys, and the results have been promising. However, it has not been clarified whether Yarrowia lipolytica yeast can improve the availability of minerals as well as metabolic processes associated with redox reactions like Saccharomyces cerevisiae (SC). The research shows that, Yarrowia lipolytica yeast stimulates more effectively antioxidant processes than Saccharomyces cerevisiae, and also improves the absorption of minerals. Therefore, it may be a more effective additive than the widely used Saccharomyces cerevisiae yeast in turkey feed. In addition, the experiment confirmed that the antioxidant effect of fodder yeast (especially Yarrowia lipolytica) can be enhanced by combining it with a probiotic bacteria. Hence, the combined use of yeast with a Bacillus species can be recommended in cases of the stimulation of oxidative reactions (e.g., stress or infection). The probiotic-prebiotic properties and chemical composition of Yarrowia lipolytica yeast (YL), predisposes it for use as a turkey feed additive. The aim of the study was to determine whether YL in the diet of turkeys would exert more beneficial effect by stimulating antioxidant reactions and increasing mineral availability than Saccharomyces cerevisiae (SC). An additional aim of the study was to test whether the addition of a probiotic bacteria to feed containing Yarrowia lipolytica or Saccharomyces cerevisiae yeast would enhance their effect. The study was conducted on turkeys from seven to 112 days of age to determine the effects of a 3% addition of YL to the diet, as an alternative to the standard SC. It was analysed whether the use of a probiotic (Bacillus licheniformis, Bacillus subtilis) together with yeast would be more effective. Both the yeast (YL or SC) and the probiotic stimulated antioxidant mechanisms (increased CAT; reduced MDA), but the addition of SC was less effective. The inclusion of YL in the feed increased the plasma content of Ca, Mg, Cu, Zn and Fe in the blood turkeys and lowered the content of cholesterol and triacylglycerols. The combined use of yeast (YL or SC) with a probiotic enhances the antioxidant effect while inhibiting of lipid peroxidation. The combined use of yeast with a probiotic can be recommended in cases of stimulation of oxidative reactions (e.g., stress or infection) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Presents abstracts of several studies about poultry reproductive physiology. "Effect of Heat Stress on Production, Reproduction Hormone Levels, Acid-Base Statis, and Liver Expression of Heat Shock Protein-70 Observed in Three Varieties of Laying Hens," by D. J. Franco, L. Robeson, and M. M. Beck; "Melengestrol Acetate (MGA) as an Alternative Method to Induce Molting in Hens," by J. M. Koch, J. S. Moritz, D. C. Lay, Jr., and M. E. Wilson; "Chicken Sperm Motility and Metabolism are Altered Immediately by Semen Dilution," by H. M. Parker, and C. D. McDaniel; "Progesterone Injections Induce a Polycystic Ovarian Follicle Syndrome (PCOF) in Young Turkey Hens," by W. L. Bacon and H.- K. Liu.