Deoxynivalenol and T-2 toxin cause liver damage and egg quality degradation through endoplasmic reticulum stress in summer laying hens.

The present study aimed to find whether low doses of mixed mycotoxins would affect egg quality in laying hens, and to explore the oxidative stress induced liver damage through endoplasmic reticulum during summer stress. A total of 96 Jinghong laying hens, 36 wks of age, were divided into four treatments, with eight repetitions per treatment and three hens per repetition. All the hens were raised in summer (average temperature: 31.3 ± 0.5℃; average humidity: 85.5 ± 0.2%) for 28d. One treatment was fed a basal diet as control (CON), and the other three treatments were fed the same diets containing 3.0 mg/kg deoxynivalenol (DON), 0.5 mg/kg T-2 toxin (T-2), and 1.5 mg/kg DON + 0.25 mg/kg T-2 toxin (Mix). Albumen height and Haugh unit were decreased (P < 0.05) in the Mix group on day 14 and 28. The activity of total antioxidant capacity, glutathione peroxidase, catalase, and superoxide dismutase were decreased (P < 0.05) in the DON, T-2, and Mix groups. The alkaline phosphatase level in DON, T-2, and Mix groups was significantly increased (P < 0.05). The level of interleukin-1ß, interferon-γ, and tumor necrosis factor-α in the Mix group were higher (P < 0.05) than CON, DON, and T-2 groups. Mix group upregulated the mRNA expressions of protein kinase RNA-like ER kinase, activating transcription factor4, IL-1ß, nuclear factor-κ-gene binding, and nuclear respiratory factor 2 in the liver (P < 0.05). The results showed that low doses of DON and T-2 toxin could cause oxidative stress in the liver, but DON and T-2 toxin have a cumulative effect on virulence, which can reduce egg quality and cause endoplasmic reticulum stress in the liver.

Interaction of blood calcium with milk yield, energy metabolites, subclinical mastitis, and reproductive performance in crossbred dairy cows.

Limited literature is available on the consequences of postpartum low blood calcium (Ca) concentration in crossbred cows. The research aimed to investigate the correlation between postpartum serum Ca levels and various parameters, including milk yield, serum energy metabolites, milk somatic cell count, and reproductive factors in crossbred cows. Following parturition, a total of 45 potential high-yielding F2 (HF × Sahiwal; Genotype: 75:25) dairy cows were enrolled . These cows were categorized based on plasma calcium concentrations into three groups: a low calcium group (Ca-L) with a calcium concentration of <5 mg/dL, a medium calcium group (Ca-M) with a calcium concentration ranging from 5 to 8.5 mg/dL, and a high calcium group (Ca-H) with a calcium concentration exceeding 8.5 mg/dL. The study parameters were measured over an 8-week period. The results indicated that overall milk yield and blood glucose were significantly higher in the Ca-H group compared to Ca-M and Ca-L (p < .01). Blood cholesterol was significantly higher in Ca-M (p < .01), while blood triglyceride was significantly lower in both Ca-M and Ca-H. Overall, blood cortisol did not show a significant change between these groups (p < .01); however, progesterone levels were higher (p < .01) in Ca-M and Ca-H cows. Furthermore, somatic cell count (SCC) significantly (p < .01) decreased in cows with Ca-H compared to Ca-L. Additionally, postpartum oestrous interval and interestrus interval decreased significantly (p < .01) in Ca-M and Ca-H compared to Ca-L. These findings suggest that cows with blood calcium levels exceeding 8.5 mg/dL exhibited significantly higher milk yield, blood metabolite levels, a lower likelihood of subclinical mastitis, and earlier reproductive activity after calving.

Evaluation of blood minerals and oxidative stress changing pattern in prepartum and postpartum Achai and Holstein Friesian dairy cows.

This research focused on evaluating blood mineral levels and malondialdehyde (MDA) as an indicator of oxidative stress before and after giving birth in Achai and Holstein Friesian (HF) dairy cows. Blood samples were obtained from a total of 50 cows representing both breeds on the third, second, and first week prior to calving, as well as on the day of calving (day 0). Subsequently, samples were collected on the 1-3 weeks postpartum to allow a comprehensive evaluation of blood parameters throughout the peripartum period. Results showed a significant (p < .01) decrease in serum zinc (Zn) levels on the day of parturition in both breeds. Additionally, HF cows exhibited higher (p < .01) Zn levels on week 2 before giving birth. Interestingly, blood selenium (Se) concentration increased (p < .01) in HF cows on weeks 2 and 3 after calving. In contrast, Achai cows showed a rise (p < .01) in blood Se on week 3 of parturition. Blood copper (Cu) levels were higher (p < .01) on weeks 2 and 3 after parturition in HF cows and on third week before parturition compared to Achai cows, where serum Cu remained high on week 1 of parturition. The findings indicated that blood magnesium (Mg) was higher (p < .01) on third week before parturition in Achai cows and on weeks 2 and 3 after parturition. Serum calcium (Ca) was higher (p < .01) in both HF and Achai cows on weeks 2 and 3 after parturition, and lower (p < .01) on third week before giving birth in both breeds. The mean blood MDA levels in Achai cows were lower (p < .01) on weeks 1 to 3 postpartum or 3 weeks before giving birth. In HF cows, serum MDA increased (p < .01) just before 2 weeks of parturition and remained elevated until 3 weeks of parturition. Thus, both breeds exhibited a similar pattern of mineral fluctuations; yet, Achai cows demonstrated greater resilience to oxidative stress compared to HF cows during the transition period.

Emerging trends and applications in health-boosting microorganisms-specific strains for enhancing animal health.

Recent advancements in specific strain of probiotics have shown promising trends and applications in both ruminant and non-ruminant animal health. This study emphasizes the importance of tailored probiotics for these animal categories, discussing their potential benefits in improving nutrient utilization, growth performance, and disease management. The study also explores the different routes of probiotics administration, highlighting the various methods of delivery. Specifically, it highlights the benefits of probiotics in ruminant production performance, including enhanced rumen health, growth rates, milk production, and reduced digestive disorders. Additionally, it discusses the advantages of probiotics in non-ruminant farming, such as improved feed conversion efficiency, nutrient absorption, growth rates, immune responses, and reduced gastrointestinal issues, leading to increased productivity and profitability. In conclusion, recent advancements in specific strain of probiotics offer promising prospects for improving animal health. Tailored probiotics have shown potential in enhancing growth, nutrient utilization, and disease prevention, contributing to sustainable and effective animal husbandry practices.

Physiological dynamics in broiler chickens under heat stress and possible mitigation strategies.

High ambient temperature has emerged as a major constraint for the future development of the poultry industry, especially in the tropics and subtropics. The scarcity of resources coupled with harsh environmental conditions is the most crucial predicaments in the way to rationalize optimum production of broiler. Heat stress disturbs the physiological biochemistry of the broiler which ultimately reduces feed intake and feed efficiency which ultimately results in reduced performance and productivity. Under hot environmental conditions, feed utilization is disturbed by the deposition of fat and oxidative stress. In addition, changes in blood cells, acid-base balance, immune response, liver health, and antioxidant status are some of the major dynamics altered by heat stress. The broilers have a narrow range of temperatures to withstand heat stress. In this review, we have discussed the various physicochemical changes during heat stress, their possible mechanisms, and mitigation strategies to reduce heat stress.

Dietary vitamin D: growth, physiological and health consequences in broiler production.

Vitamins are needed in trace amounts in dietary formulations for poultry; however, they are critical for the health, maintenance, and performance of important body organs. Broilers have a lot of leg issues because of their rapid development and lack of exercise. Because of commercial broilers have limited access to direct sunlight, vitamin D supplementation in the feed is critical to reducing the risk of bone deformation and maximizing development. Vitamin D deficiency causes skeletal abnormalities, which may lead also to financial problems. The latest scientific findings on the source, metabolism, mechanisms of action, and functions of vitamin D in broilers are the subject of this review paper.

Blood metabolic pattern and somatic cells dynamic in Achai and Holstein Friesian cows during transition period.

This study focused on assessing blood metabolites and somatic cell count (SCC) during the transition period in Achai and Holstein Friesian cows. Blood samples were collected from cows of both breeds on days -21, -14, -7 (pre-partum period), on day 0 (parturition day) and then on days 7, 14 and 21 (post-partum period). Additionally, milk samples were obtained on the day of parturition and on days 7, 14 and 21 post-partum for SCC assessment. Among Holstein cows, blood glucose levels showed a significant increase on day -21 before calving, and a decrease on the 14th and 21st days post-partum. Similarly, the blood triglycerides concentration exhibited a significant rise in Holstein cows 21 days before calving, while Achai cows experienced a significant decline in blood triglycerides on the day of parturition and throughout the entire post-partum period. Comparing Holstein and Achai cows, blood cholesterol was significantly higher in Holstein cows on day -21 before calving, whereas Achai cows had significantly lower blood cholesterol levels on the day of parturition. Regarding blood protein, Holstein cows exhibited significantly higher levels on day 14 post-partum, while Achai cows had lower protein levels 7 days before calving. The results further demonstrated that SCC was significantly elevated in Holstein cows on day 21 of parturition and lower on the day of parturition in Achai cows. Overall, the metabolic profile trend and SCC were comparable, yet the studied parameters were more pronounced in Holstein Friesian compared to Achai cows.

Dietary organic zinc and probiotic alleviate induced Eimeria tenella infection in Japanese quails model of coccidiosis.

The current study was conducted to evaluate the impact of organic zinc (OZn) and probiotic on growth performance, oocysts number, and histological features of cecum of quails following Eimeria tenella challenge. A total of 480 Japanese quails were distributed into six treatments as follows: untreated uninfected; untreated infected; E. tenella challenge + amprolium; E. tenella challenge + OZn; E. tenella challenge + probiotic; and E. tenella challenge + OZn + probiotic. Except untreated uninfected, all groups were orally gavaged at day 8 with 5 × 104 E. tenella sporulated oocysts. Supplementation of OZn + probiotic improved (P = 0.001) growth performance compared to the untreated infected group. Lesion score of intestine and mortality was lower (P < 0.01) in quails supplemented with OZn + probiotic. Moreover, oocysts per gram (OPG) and histological dimensions of cecum in challenged birds were alleviated in OZn + probiotic. The histological findings of quails supplemented with OZn + probiotic showed normal intestinal villi with gentle sloughed epithelium. We concluded that OZn + probiotic may be safely included in the diet of Japanese quails to control coccidiosis.

Effect of dietary supplementation of wildCumin (Bunium persicum) seeds on performance, nutrient digestibility and circulating metabolites in broiler chicks during the finisher phase.

The objective of the present study was to evaluate the impact of inclusion of wild cumin seeds (WCS) on performance, nutrient digestibility and blood profile in broilers during the finisher phase. For this purpose, 360, 14 days old chicks were randomly divided into four groups designated as CONT (control), 0.5WCS, 1.0WCS and 1.5WCS with 5 replicates, which were supplemented with WCS at the rate of 0, 0.5, 1, and 1.5% respectively. On the overall, feed intake was significantly (p < 0.01) higher in the CONT compared to the 1.0WCS. At the end of the finisher phase, and overall basis, body weight and feed conversion ratio were significantly (p < 0.05) higher in 0.5WCS. Crude protein apparent digestibility in the ileum was significantly (p < 0.05) higher in 0.5WCS compared to the CONT, while crude fat digestibility was significantly (p < 0.01) higher in 0.5WCS and 1.5WCS compared to the control. Similarly, serum triglyceride was significantly (p < 0.05) lower in 0.5WC but high density lipoprotein was significantly (p < 0.05) higher in the same group. It was concluded that wild Cumin at the rate of 0.5% was superior compared to the other treatments in the diet to improve the performance, nutrient digestibility and blood metabolites in broiler during the finisher phase.

Role of dietary Moringa oleifera leaf extract on productive parameters, humoral immunity and lipid peroxidation in broiler chicks.

The plants originated from an agroforestry system have gained immense importance in livestock health and production. The trial was planned to examine the effects of Moringa oleifera leaf extract (MLE) supplementation on the performance, blood metabolites, immunity and lipid peroxidation in broiler chicks. A total of 350 day old broiler chicks were divided into negative control (MLE0), positive control (antibiotic; AB-enro), M. oleifera supplementation at the concentration of 60 (MLE60), 90 (MLE90) and 120 mL/L (MLE120) of drinking water. Performance parameters such as feed intake, body weight and feed conversion ratio, antibody titer against Newcastle disease and infectious bronchitis, heterophils and lymphocytes ratio, blood glucose, protein, and malanodialdehyde were determined. The results showed that carcass yield was significantly (p < 0.05) higher in MLE90 followed by MLE120 and AB-enro. MLE60 and MLE90 showed significant (p < 0.05) increase in antibody titer against New-castle (ND) and Infectious-bronchitis (IB) respectively. Significantly (p < 0.05) lower Heterophil to lymphocyte (H:L) ratio was observed in MLE90 and MLE120 compared to the negative control. Significantly (p < 0.05) lower blood glucose concentration and significantly (p < 0.05) higher mean serum protein value were found in MLE120. The MLE120 showed significantly (p < 0.05) lower concentration of malanodialdehyde (MDA). It was concluded that M. oleifera leaf extract supplementation at the concentration of 120 mL/L of drinking water improved carcass yield, immunity, blood metabolites and reduced lipid peroxidation in broiler chicks.HighlightsMoringa improved the carcass yield of broilerMoringa is an excellent immune potentiating agent in broilerMoringa enhanced the antioxidant potential of broiler.

Interaction of blood calcium with luteal activity, energy metabolites and somatic cells count in post-partum dairy cows.

The aim of the research was to assess whether there was a link between serum calcium (Ca) after calving and serum progesterone, milk somatic cells count and Ca, and other blood metabolites in Achai and crossbred cows. Based on blood calcium level shortly after calving, thirty cows from both breeds were divided into a moderate group (≤10.0 mg/dl of Ca) and a high group (>10.0 mg/dl of Ca), with samples collected at 0, 7, 14, 21, 28 and 35 days post-partum, respectively. On day 35 of the post-partum, crossbred and Achai cows with high blood Ca recorded significantly (p < .01) higher serum progesterone, glucose, triglyceride and milk Ca compared with moderate blood Ca group; however, serum cholesterol was significantly (p < .01) higher in both breeds under high blood Ca. Incidence of subclinical mastitis was significantly (p < .01) higher in crossbred and Achai cows under high blood Ca. The results showed that blood progesterone (OR=2.095), glucose (OR=1.024), triglyceride (OR=4.571), cholesterol (OR=1.111) and milk Ca (OR=1.141) resulted in a greater concentration in crossbred compared to Achai cows. A significant (p < .01) correlation was found between blood Ca and other blood metabolites (progesterone, glucose, triglyceride and cholesterol) in both breeds. In conclusion, greater serum Ca concentration after calving is associated with greater serum progesterone, glucose, triglyceride and milk Ca in crossbred cows; however, the incidence of subclinical mastitis increased.

Association among metabolic status, oxidative stress, milk yield, body condition score and reproductive cyclicity in dairy buffaloes.

The aim of this study was to determine the metabolic status, stress and ovarian activity through progesterone profile in dairy buffalo as influenced by post-partum days, body condition score (BCS) and lactation number. A total of 45 dairy buffaloes were involved and divided into three factors based on their BCS (2.5, 3.0 and 3.5, respectively), lactation number (1, 2 and 3, respectively), and post-partum intervals (14, 28, 42 and 56, respectively). Based on findings, from day 14 to day 56 after parturition, blood glucose, cholesterol and triglyceride levels increased significantly (p < .01), while malondialdehyde (MDA) and cortisol levels decreased significantly (p < .05) on day 56 of the trial. With increased BCS levels, milk yield, blood metabolites and progesterone improved significantly (p < .05), whereas stress indicators decreased significantly (p < .01). Blood metabolites, progesterone and milk production were significantly (p < .01) higher and stress indicators (MDA and cortisol) were significantly (p < .01) lower in lactation stage. Buffaloes with a greater lactation stage and growing post-partum stage had better blood metabolite and progesterone concentrations and less stress. It was concluded that better BCS and increased lactation stage have significant impact on milk yield, stress reduction and restoration of ovarian activity in buffaloes during post-partum period.

Influence of dietary L-carnitine and lysine-methionine levels on reproductive performance and blood metabolic constituents of breeder ducks.

The present study aimed to evaluate the influence of dietary supplementation of different levels of L-carnitine and/or lysine-methionine (Lys-Met) on reproductive performance of breeder ducks. Three L-carnitine (0, 75 and 150 mg/kg) and three lysine-methionine (100%, 110% and 120% above the NRC (Nutrient requirements of poultry, 1994, National Academy Press) recommendations) levels were fed to 180 breeder ducks (144 females and 36 males) in a completely randomized design for 49 days. Laying performance and reproductive traits were evaluated; additionally, uric acid, total protein total, triglycerides, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein, high-density lipoprotein, aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) were assessed. The Lys-Met above 100% NRC (Nutrient requirements of poultry, 1994, National Academy Press) recommendations with or without L-carnitine improved feed utilization (p < .05). Furthermore, Lys-Met above 100% recommendations without L-carnitine improved egg fertility and hatchability. Fertility and hatchability improved in breeders fed on L-carnitine with 120% Lys-Met (p < .05). Serum glucose increased and total cholesterol reduced on 100% Ly-Met without L-carnitine or 110% Ly-Met with 150 mg L-carnitine (p < .05). Glucose was reduced, while total cholesterol increased on 75 mg L-carnitine and 100% Lys-Met (p < .05). Increasing Lys-Met without L-carnitine reduced serum protein (p < .05). Albumin and ALT increased on 75 mg L-carnitine-100% Lys-Met and reduced on 150 mg L-carnitine-120% Lys-Met (p < .05). There were no interaction effects on globulin, uric acid and AST (p > .05). Thus, based on findings, breeder ducks responded to dietary Lys-Met more efficiently than L-carnitine; however, more research is needed to evaluate also economic aspects related to L-carnitine dietary supplementation.

Effect of supplementation of oilseeds co-products on production performance and fatty acids composition of Beetal goats.

This study evaluated the effect of different oilseed co-product supplementations on feed intake, nutrient digestibility, N retention, yields of milk and milk constituents, and milk fatty acid (FA) profile of Beetal goats. In the lactation trial, thirty-six lactating multiparous Beetal goats (45 ± 2.04 kg; 15 ± 2.3 days in milk) were assigned to four experimental rations according to randomized complete block design. The blocks were balanced for daily milk yield, parity, and body weight. The goats were either fed a maize silage and wheat straw-based basal ration ad libitum (control) or the control ration was supplemented with cotton seed cake, mustard seed cake, or maize oil cake on an iso-N basis. At the end of lactation trial, four goats (44 ± 0.8 kg BW; producing 1250 ± 110 g milk/day) were selected and moved to individual metabolism crates for a digestibility and N balance experiment, using a Latin square design (4 × 4). Supplementation of the co-products increased intakes of forage mixture (P = 0.002), total dry matter (DM; P < 0.001), neutral detergent fibre (NDF; P = 0.003), and crude protein (CP; P < 0.001). The additional N supplied by the co-products increased (P < 0.001) N retention, yields of milk, fat, protein, and lactose. Further comparison of the rations supplemented with the co-products revealed that the greatest (P < 0.05) increase in yields of milk (240 g/day), milk protein (11.6 g/day), fats (16.3 g/day), and lactose (11.2 g/day) was recorded for maize oil cake, as compared to the control. Except C8:0, supplementation of the co-products decreased (P < 0.01) the contents of all de novo-synthesized saturated FAs (SFAs) and increased (P < 0.001) the contents of health beneficial C18:1n-9, C18:1 tans-11, C18:2n-6, C18:3n-3, C20:2n-6, C20:5n3, and total unsaturated FAs in milk fat. Our findings demonstrated that the oilseed co-product inclusion in dairy goat rations significantly improves forage biomass utilization, yields of milk and milk constituents, and milk FAs' profile, with the largest impact being observed for maize oil cake.

Effects of different levels of spirulina (Arthrospira platensis) supplementation on productive performance, nutrient digestibility, blood metabolites, and meat quality of growing Najdi lambs.

In a 90-day study, 32 growing lambs aged 3 months were utilized to evaluate the effects of various levels of spirulina dietary supplement on productive performance, nutritional digestibility, and meat quality in growing Najdi lambs. The lambs were put into 4 groups of 8 lambs each at random. The diet consisted of a total mixed ration (TMR) without spirulina (CONT), and the TMR diet supplemented with spirulina at the levels of 2 ppm (SPP2), 4 ppm (SPP4), and 8 ppm (SPP8). The treatment groups, especially SPP8, showed a significant (p < 0.05) increase in body weight and average daily gain (p < 0.05) compared to the CONT group. Dry matter intake and acid detergent fiber were also significantly (p ≤ 0.05) higher in SPP8 compared to other treated groups and CONT. The N absorption, N retention, and percentage of N digestibility coefficient were greater (P < 0.05) in lambs in the treatment groups than in the CONT. Blood biochemistry variables were not significantly (p ≤ 0.05) affected by the treatments, with the exception of the serum concentration of triglyceride and bilirubin. Carcass profile and meat quality, including back fat, body wall fat, and cooking loss, were increased significantly (p ≤ 0.05) with dietary spirulina. From the results of the present study, it was concluded that spirulina dietary supplementation at the level of 8 ppm increased weight gain, nutritional digestibility, nitrogen utilization, and meat composition in growing Najdi lambs.

Impact of varying housing systems on egg quality characteristics, fatty acid profile, and cholesterol content of Rhode Island Red × Fyoumi laying hens.

The present study was designed to study the effects of conventional and free range systems on egg quality attributes, fatty acid profile, and cholesterol contents of laying hen. Two hundred and forty R1 cross of Rhode Island Red (RIR) × Fyoumi (F) layers during the peak production were divided into two groups and reared in two different housing systems (free range vs. conventional systems). The statistical analysis of the results revealed that the housing system (modification of diet) significantly (p < 0.05) affected egg quality, fatty acid profile, and cholesterol contents. The highest (p < 0.05) whole egg and albumen weights were recorded for eggs produced in a conventional system and higher yolk weight and shell thickness were recorded in free range hens. Significantly (p < 0.05) lower concentration of saturated and higher concentration of mono- and polyunsaturated fatty acids were observed in eggs produced under a free range system. In addition, higher level of total omega-3 fatty acids and higher ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids were observed in free range eggs as compared to those in the conventional system. From the results of the present study, we concluded that eggs produced from Rhode Island Red × Fyoumi laying hens in a free range system are qualitatively superior compared to those in the conventional system.

Interactive effect of exogenous protease enzyme and dietary crude protein levels on growth and digestibility indices in broiler chickens during the starter phase.

This study was conducted to study the effect of protease as well as three dietary crude protein levels on growth and nutrient digestibility in broilers. The broiler chickens (n = 540) were assigned to six dietary treatments with six replicates. Three dietary crude protein (CP) levels (17, 19, and 21%) along with two levels of protease (0 and 30,000 IU/kg) were investigated in 3 × 2 factorial arrangement during the starter phase. Body weight was higher (P < 0.05) in group fed with CP-21; however, feed intake was significantly (P < 0.05) lower in CP-19 and CP-21. Resultantly, FCR was significantly (P < 0.05) improved in birds fed with CP-21. Similarly, body weight, feed intake, and FCR were significantly (P < 0.05) improved in enzyme-treated birds compared to the untreated birds. For practical purpose, birds fed CP-19 with protease enzyme resulted in improved FCR compared to birds fed with CP-21. The results revealed that CP and apparent metabolizable energy (AME) were significantly (P < 0.05) higher in birds fed with CP-21 along with supplementation of enzyme while abdominal fat was significantly (P < 0.05) lower in the same group compared to birds fed with CP-17. These results indicated that a diet having 21% CP supplemented with 30,000 IU/kg protease enzyme was superior in improving the performance and digestibility of nutrients in broiler during the starter phase.

Effect of diet supplemented with coconut essential oil on performance and villus histomorphology in broiler exposed to avian coccidiosis.

The current research study was designed to determine the inclusion of 2% dietary essential coconut oil with and without coccidiosis challenge on performance, carcass characteristics, and intestinal histomorphology in broilers. A total of 560 broiler chicks were divided into 4 groups and then subdivided into 5 replicates. Coconut oil was used at 2% in feed, whereas coccidiosis challenged was introduced using 30,000 oocysts. The other four groups were designated as G1 (without coconut oil and without oocysts), G2 (without coconut oil with oocysts), G3 (with coconut oil without oocysts), and G4 (with coconut oil and with oocysts). The results revealed that the overall feed consumption was significantly (P < 0.01) increased in G1 and G2 than G3 and G4 groups. Overall weight gain was significantly (P < 0.01) higher in G3 compared with all other groups. Significantly (P < 0.01) better feed conversion ratio was recorded at the finisher phase in G3 and G4 groups in comparison with G1 and G2. The villus length, width, and surface area were higher (P < 0.01) in G3 compared with G2. Based on the findings of the present study, it was concluded that the use of 2% coconut oil in broiler feed improved growth performance and villus histology during coccidial challenge.

Zinc source modulates zootechnical characteristics, intestinal features, humoral response, and paraoxonase (PON1) activity in broilers.

The current experiment was performed to find the potential effect of inorganic and organic forms of zinc (Zn) on growth, intestinal histomorphology, immune response, and paraoxonase (PON1) activity in broiler. In this experiment, a total of 450 broiler chickens were assigned to four experimental and control groups. The birds received organic Zn at the rate of 50 mg/kg (OZ-50) and 60 mg/kg (OZ-60) or inorganic Zn at the rate of 50 mg/kg (IZ-50) and 60 mg/kg (IZ-60) for an experimental period of 30 days. Significantly (P < 0.05) higher feed consumption, body weight, feed conversion ratio, and production efficiency factor (PEF) were recorded in OZ-50. Similarly, antibody titer against infectious bronchitis (IB) and PON1 activity was higher (P < 0.05) in OZ-50 compared with the control group. In addition, significantly (P < 0.05) higher villus dimensions and goblet cell count were recorded for the group OZ-50 compared with other treatments. It was concluded that the organic form of Zn was superior in improving the growth, histological features of intestines, humoral response, and PON1 activity in broiler.

Dietary supplementation of milk thistle (Silybum marianum): growth performance, oxidative stress, and immune response in natural summer stressed broilers.

The aim of the study was to investigate the influence of dietary supplementation of various levels of milk thistle (MT) on growth performance, oxidative stress, and immune response of natural summer stressed broilers. A total of 120 1-day old broiler chicks were distributed into 4 treatments: MT-0 (control), MT-5 (5 g/kg of MT), MT-10 (10 g/kg of MT), and MT-15 (15 g/kg of MT), each with 3 replicates having 10 birds per replicate. Results showed that overall feed intake, body weight, feed conversion ratio (FCR), and dressing percentage were significantly (P < 0.5) higher with MT-15 as compared with the other experimental treatments. Unlikely, significantly lower level of malondialdehyde (MDA) was observed with MT-15. Dietary supplementation of MT had no significant effect on paraoxonase activity in broiler. Antibody titer was significantly (P < 0.05) higher with MT-15 while it was lower with the control treatment. It was concluded that dietary supplementation of MT at the rate of 15 g/kg can significantly lower the negative effects of natural summer stressed broilers.