Effects of Clostridium butyricum on Production Performance and Bone Development of Laying Hens.

Probiotics are safe, inexpensive, and effective feed additives, and Clostridium butyricum (CB) has been reported to regulate bone health in addition to having conventional probiotic effects. The bone health of laying hens is closely related to their production performance. Here, we investigated the effects of CB supplementation on the bone health and performance of laying hens. We added CB to the feed of green-shell laying hens, Luhua laying hens, and Hy-line Brown laying hens and examined changes in body weight, feed intake, egg production performance, and egg quality to determine the impact of CB on production performance. The impact of CB on the bones of laying hens was determined by analyzing the bone index, bone bending strength, bone calcium and phosphorus content, and bone mineral density. The study found that CB had little effect on the body weight and feed intake of laying hens. Feed additions of 108 and 109 CFU/kg CB can significantly increase the tibia index and bone mineral density of four-week-old green-shell laying hens. Feed additions of 107 and 108 CFU/kg CB can significantly increase the average egg weight, eggshell weight, and tibia index of 26-week-old Luhua laying hens, but 107 CFU/kg CB will reduce the egg production rate. Adding 108 CFU/kg CB to feed can significantly increase the average egg weight, eggshell weight, and tibia bending strength of 40-week-old Hy-line Brown laying hens. In summary, adding 108 CFU/kg CB is beneficial to the bone and production health of laying hens.

Effect of different levels of single cell protein and probiotic microorganisms on performance, immunological responses, and intestinal histology in laying hens.

An experiment was conducted to evaluate the effects of single-cell protein (SCP), as a valuable by-product and substitute for soybean meal, and multistrain probiotics on the performance, blood biochemistry, intestinal histomorphology, ileal microbiota, and immune responses in laying hens. Leghorn laying hens were randomly assigned to nine experimental treatments with eight replicates of five birds each. Dietary treatments consisted of three levels of replacement of soybean meal with SCP (0.0%, 30%, and 60%) and three levels of probiotics (0.0, 50, 100 mg/kg) offered through 70 days of main recording. The result indicated that replacing 30% soybean meal with SCP in the diet significantly increased the eggshell weight, thickness, and strength; however, hens receiving 60% SCP replacement showed lower productive performance. During the second 35-d trial, hens receiving at least 50 mg/kg probiotics produced higher eggshell weight, thickness, and strength than the control hens. Remarkable lower levels of serum cholesterol content were observed in the SCP and probiotic-supplemented diets. The significant reduction in the ileal pH, Escherichia coli and Clostridium spp. enumerations and a remarkable increase in Lactobacillus count was observed after feeding incremental levels of probiotics. The highest villus height to crypt depth ratio, antibody titer against sheep red blood cells (in secondary response) and Newcastle disease vaccine, as well as egg production and egg mass, were found in the hens that received 30% SCP replacement in combination with 50 or 100 mg/kg probiotic (SCP × Probiotic). The present study concluded that feeding SCP, as a cheap protein alternative source, along with probiotics while reducing production costs can support productive performance via modulating the intestinal microbiomes and health indices and fortifying the immune system in laying hens.

Chinese herb ultrafine powder supplementation improves egg nutritional value and quality in laying hens.

This study evaluates the effects of dietary Chinese herb ultrafine powder (CHUP) supplementation in late-phase laying hens on the quality and nutritional values of eggs. A total of 576 Xinyang black-feather laying hens (300-day-old) were randomly allocated into eight groups for a 120-day feeding trial. Each group contained eight replicates with nine hens per replicate. The experimental groups included the control (basal diet) and different levels of CHUP groups (details in 'Materials and methods'). The results showed that the eggshell strength was increased (p < 0.05) in the L, LF, L-LF, L-T, and LF-T groups on day 60 of the trial. In addition, the plasma estradiol level in the L-LF, LF-T, and L-LF-T groups and unsaturated fatty acids concentrations in egg yolk of the CHUP groups (except LF-T group) were increased, whereas total cholesterol (T, L-LF, L-T, and L-LF-T groups) in egg yolk and the atherogenicity (T, L-T, and L-LF-T groups) and thrombogenicity (T, L-LF, L-T, and L-LF-T groups) indexes were decreased (p < 0.05) on day 60 of the trial compared with the control group. Moreover, bitter amino acids in egg albumen were decreased (p < 0.05) in the L-LF group on day 60 and the L-LF-T group on day 120 of the trial. Collectively, these findings indicate that dietary CHUP supplementation could improve eggshell quality and increase plasma reproductive hormone, fatty acid and amino acid composition, and nutritional values of eggs, especially L-LF and L-LF-T.

Effects of dietary supplementation of polysaccharide from Agaricus blazei Murr on productive performance, egg quality, blood metabolites, intestinal morphology and microbiota of Korean quail.

Objective: This study aimed to investigate the effects of dietary supplementation with Agaricus blazei polysaccharide (ABP) at varying concentrations on the performance, egg quality, blood biochemistry, intestinal morphology, and microflora of quail. Methods: The study involved a total of 2,700 Korean quails, which were randomly divided into three groups. The measured variables encompassed productive performance, egg parameters, carcass parameters, serum metabolites, immune response parameters, antioxidative properties, and gut microbiome. Results: The addition of ABP did not have a significant effect on average daily feed intake. However, it was found to increase the average daily egg weight and egg production rate, reduce the feed-egg ratio. There were no significant impacts on egg quality measures such as egg shape index, egg yolk index and color, egg yolk and protein content. However, ABP supplementation significantly increased the Hough Unit (HU) (p<0.01) and decreased the rate of unqualified eggs(p<0.01). Regarding serum parameters, the inclusion led to an increase in total protein concentration(p<0.05) and a reduction in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) (p<0.05). There were no significant effects observed on immune indicators such as immune globulin A (IgA) and immune globulin M (IgM). ABP supplementation increased the levels of serum antioxidant indicators, including glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD) (p<0.05), and total antioxidant capacity colorimeter (T-AOC) (p<0.05). Furthermore, ABP supplementation significantly elevated the intramuscular fatty acid content in quail meat. Additionally, ABP supplementation demonstrated a significant improvement in the diversity of gut microbiota and induced alterations in the composition of the gut microbiota. Conclusion: The findings of this study indicate that dietary supplementation of ABP enhanced production performance and antioxidant capacity while increasing the levels of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) in quail muscle.

Laying hen responses to multi-strain Bacillus-based probiotic supplementation from 25 to 37 weeks of age.

Objective: Investigate the efficacy of Bacillus-based probiotics supplemented at two different levels to modulate the productive performance, egg quality, tibia traits, and specific cecal bacteria counts of Hy-Line Brown layers from 25 to 37 weeks of age. Methods: A total of 216 twenty-five-week-old hens were randomly distributed into 3 experimental diets with 12 replicates of 6 birds per cage. Diets included basal diet supplemented with 0 (CON), 3 × 108 (PRO1), or 3 × 109 (PRO2) CFU of the test probiotic containing Bacillus subtilis PB6, Bacillus subtilis FXA, and Bacillus licheniformis G3 per kilogram of feed. Results: Improved egg weights and mass at 29 weeks; and feed intake at 31 weeks (p < 0.10) were noticed with the probiotic-supplemented PRO1 and PRO2 diets. Considering egg quality, the shell thickness, Haugh units, and yolk color were improved; but yolk cholesterol was lowered (p < 0.05) with PRO1 and PRO2 diets at 29 weeks. At both 33 and 37 weeks, the egg-breaking strength, shell color and thickness, albumen height, Haugh units, and yolk color were improved; but yolk cholesterol was similarly lowered (p < 0.05) with the PRO1 and PRO2 diets. Improved tibia Ca, ash, weights, and density; and raised cecal counts of Bifidobacteria and Lactobacilli (p < 0.05) were noticed with PRO1 and PRO2 diets. Improved tibia P but reduced Clostridia counts (p < 0.10) were also observed with the PRO1 and PRO2 diets. Conclusion: Probiotic supplementation of Bacillus subtilis PB6, Bacillus subtilis FXA, and Bacillus licheniformis G3 at 3 ×108 CFU/kg of feed is adequate to significantly improve egg quality, lower yolk cholesterol, enhance several tibia traits, and raise the populations of beneficial cecal bacteria. Modest improvements in several productive parameters and tibia P but reduced Clostridia were also observed; and could warrant further investigation of probiotic effects beyond the current test period.

Alpiniae oxyphyllae fructus improves production performance and egg quality of laying breeder hens by regulating reproductive hormones, antioxidant function, immunity and intestinal health.

Alpiniae oxyphylla fructus was extensively utilized both as dietary supplements and traditional herbal medicines for healthcare functions and has exhibited a positive impact on animal health. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of Alpiniae oxyphyllae fructus powder (AOP) on production performance, egg quality, egg yolk fatty acid composition, reproductive hormones, antioxidant capacity, immunity, anti-apoptosis ability, and intestinal health in hens. A total of 252 Hainan Wenchang laying hens (30-wk-old) were randomly divided into 3 groups with 6 replicates, a basic diet with 0 (CON), 1 g/kg AOP (AOP1), and 3 g/kg (AOP3) mixed AOP. The AOP supplementation was found to decrease the feed conversion ratio and embryo mortality but to increase the laying rate, average egg weight, and oviduct index linearly (p < 0.05). Furthermore, AOP treatment reduced the total saturated fatty acids and palmitic acid (C16:0) in the egg yolk while increasing eggshell strength, albumen height, and Haugh unit (p < 0.05). The serum levels of albumin and phosphorus were increased, whereas total cholesterol, triglycerides, and glucose levels decreased as a result of AOP treatment (p < 0.05). The inclusion of 3 g/kg AOP had higher 17 ß-estradiol and follicle-stimulating hormone levels in serum, while it up-regulated follicle-stimulating hormone receptor and gonadotropin-releasing hormone expression in ovary (p < 0.05). Dietary AOP strengthened the expression of nuclear factor erythroid2-related factor 2 in ovary and increased the activity of superoxide dismutase and total antioxidant capacity, but had a lower malondialdehyde content in serum (p < 0.05). AOP at 3 g/kg up-regulated superoxide dismutase 1 and heme oxygenase 1 expression in jejunum and ovary (p < 0.05). Meanwhile, AOP supplementation down-regulated p53 expression in ovary and bcl-2-associated x expression in liver and jejunum, especially 3 g/kg of AOP had lower caspase-8 concentrations and down-regulated bcl-2-associated x and caspase-3 expression in ovary (p < 0.05). AOP treatment increased serum levels of immunoglobulin A and immunoglobulin M and upregulated interleukin-4 expression in the liver, while decreasing interleukin-1ß expression in liver and ovary and nod-like receptor protein 3 expression in jejunum (p < 0.05). Dietary AOP increased the ratio of villus height to crypt depth but decreased crypt depth in jejunum, especially when 1 g/kg AOP increased expression levels of occludin, mucin-2, peptide-transporter 1, and sodium glucose cotransporter 1 in jejunum (p < 0.05). AOP treatment altered the composition of the cecal microbial community, as evidenced by increased abundance of Oscillospira and Phascolarctobacterium and reduced richness of Clostridiaceae_Clostridium. Dietary AOP supplementation enriched lipid, amino acid, and propanoate metabolism. Spearman's correlation analysis revealed that the genera Oscillospira, Blautia, and Megasphaera were related to laying performance and intestinal integrity. In brief, supplementation of AOP, especially at 3 g/kg, could improve production performance and egg quality of hens via modulating reproductive hormones, antioxidant capacity, immunity, intestinal barrier, and cecal microbiota. Overall, the present work recommends the dietary inclusion of AOP as a beneficial additive for improving the performance of hens.

The oocyte microenvironment is altered in adolescents compared to oocyte donors.

Study question: Are the molecular signatures of cumulus cells (CCs) and follicular fluid (FF) of adolescents undergoing fertility preservation differ from that of reproductively adult oocyte donors? Summary answer: The microenvironment immediately surrounding the oocyte, including the CCs and FF, is altered in adolescents undergoing fertility preservation compared to oocyte donors. What is known already: Adolescents experience a period of subfecundity following menarche. Recent evidence suggests that this may be at least partially due to increased oocyte aneuploidy. Reproductive juvenescence in mammals is associated with suboptimal oocyte quality. Study design size duration: This was a prospective cohort study. Adolescents (10-19 years old, N=23) and oocyte donors (22-30 years old, N=31) undergoing ovarian stimulation and oocyte retrieval at the Northwestern Fertility and Reproductive Medicine Center between November 1, 2020 and May 1, 2023 were enrolled in this study. Participants/materials setting methods: Patient demographics, ovarian stimulation, and oocyte retrieval outcomes were collected for all participants. The transcriptome of CCs associated with mature oocytes was compared between adolescents (10-19 years old, n=19), and oocyte donors (22-30 years old, n=19) using bulk RNA-sequencing. FF cytokine profiles (10-19 years old, n=18 vs. 25-30 years old, n=16) were compared using cytokine arrays. Main results and the role of chance: RNA-seq analysis revealed 581 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in cumulus cells of adolescents relative to oocyte donors, with 361 genes downregulated and 220 upregulated. Genes enriched in pathways involved in cell cycle and cell division (e.g., GO:1903047, p= 3.5 × 10-43; GO:0051983, p= 4.1 × 10-30; GO:0000281, p= 7.7 × 10-15; GO:0044839, p= 5.3 × 10-13) were significantly downregulated, while genes enriched in several pathways involved in cellular and vesicle organization (e.g., GO:0010256, p= 1.2 × 10-8; GO:0051129, p= 6.8 × 10-7; GO:0016050, p= 7.4 × 10-7; GO:0051640, p= 8.1 × 10-7) were upregulated in CCs of adolescents compared to oocyte donors. The levels of 9 cytokines were significantly increased in FF of adolescents compared to oocyte donors: IL-1 alpha (2-fold), IL-1 beta (1.7-fold), I-309 (2-fold), IL-15 (1.6-fold), TARC (1.9-fold), TPO (2.1-fold), IGFBP-4 (2-fold), IL-12-p40 (1.7-fold) and ENA-78 (1.4-fold). Interestingly, 7 of these cytokines have known pro-inflammatory roles. Importantly, neither the CC transcriptomes or FF cytokine profiles were different in adolescents with or without cancer. Large scale data: Original high-throughput sequencing data will be deposited in Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) before publication, and the GEO accession number will be provided here. Limitations reasons for caution: This study aims to gain insights into the associated gamete quality by studying the immediate oocyte microenvironment. The direct study of oocytes is more challenging due to sample scarcity, as they are cryopreserved for future use, but will provide a more accurate assessment of oocyte reproductive potential. Wider implications of the findings: Understanding the underpinnings of altered immediate oocyte microenvironment of adolescent patients may provide insights into the reproductive potential of the associated gametes in the younger end of the age spectrum. This has implications for the fertility preservation cycles for very young patients. Study funding/competing interests: This project was supported by Friends of Prentice organization SP0061324 (M.M.L and E.B.), Gesualdo Family Foundation (Research Scholar: M.M.L.), and NIH/NICHD K12 HD050121 (E.B.). The authors have declared that no conflict of interest exists.

Mulberry branch fiber improved lipid metabolism and egg yolk fatty acid composition of laying hens via the enterohepatic axis.

BACKGROUND: The utilization of mulberry branch fiber (MF), the largest by-product of the sericulture industry, is an important issue. Supplementation with MF as a dietary fiber for poultry may serve as a useful application. However, little is known about the effects of MF on liver lipid metabolism and egg yolk fatty acid composition of laying hens and their underlying mechanisms. In this study, we performed a multi-omics investigation to explore the variations in liver lipid metabolism, egg yolk fatty acid composition, gut microbiota, and the associations among them induced by dietary MF in laying hens. RESULTS: Dietary MF had no harmful effects on the laying performance or egg quality in laying hens. The enzyme activities associated with lipid metabolism in the liver were altered by the addition of 5% MF, resulting in reduced liver fat accumulation. Furthermore, dietary 5% MF induced the variation in the fatty acid profiles of egg yolk, and increased the polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) content. We observed a significant reduction in the diversity of both gut bacteria and changes in their compositions after the addition of MF. Dietary MF significantly increased the abundance of genes involved in fatty acid biodegradation, and short-chain fatty acids biosynthesis in the gut microbiota of laying hens. The significant correlations were observed between the liver lipid metabolism enzyme activities of hepatic lipase, lipoprotein lipase, and total esterase with gut microbiota, including negative correlations with gut microbiota diversity, and multiple correlations with gut bacteria and viruses. Moreover, various correlations between the contents of PUFAs and monounsaturated fatty acids in egg yolk with the gut microbiota were obtained. Based on partial-least-squares path modeling integrated with the multi-omics datasets, we deduced the direct effects of liver enzyme activities and gut bacterial compositions on liver fat content and the roles of liver enzyme activities and gut bacterial diversity on egg yolk fatty acid composition. CONCLUSIONS: The results indicate that dietary MF is beneficial to laying hens as it reduces the liver fat and improves egg yolk fatty acid composition through the enterohepatic axis. Video Abstract.

An investigation into the influence of fermented cottonseed meal on the productive performance, egg quality, and gut health in laying hens.

The present study investigates the effects of replacing soybean meal (SBM) with either cottonseed meal (CSM) or fermented cottonseed meal (FCSM) on the productive performance, egg quality, blood biochemistry parameters, gut bacterial population, and small intestinal morphology of laying hens. A total of 648 Hy-Line W36 laying hens aged 40 weeks were randomly assigned to 9 treatments, with 6 replicates each and 12 birds per replicate. The feeding trial lasted 12 weeks. The treatments consisted of a control diet based on corn and SBM, as well as 8 experimental diets in which 7.5, 15, 22.5, and 30% of the SBM in the control diet was replaced with either CSM or FCSM. Laying hens fed diets with different levels of FCSM had higher egg production and egg mass than those fed with CSM diets at weeks 46 to 51 (P < 0.05). Diets containing FCSM also significantly improved the feed conversion ratio at weeks 40 to 45 and 46 to 51 (P < 0.05). Eggshell strength was significantly greater in birds fed diets containing FCSM than those fed other dietary treatments at 51 weeks of age (P < 0.05). Hens fed diets containing FCSM had higher calcium and lower cholesterol in serum than those on other diets (P < 0.05). Replacing SBM with FCSM decreased the egg yolk cholesterol content (P < 0.05). Additionally, feeding diets containing different levels of FCSM increased villus height and villus height to crypt depth in the jejunum (P < 0.05). Diets containing FCSM also reduced pH and coliform population in the ileum, and ceca and increased lactic acid bacteria count in the crop and ceca (P < 0.05). Overall, the present data showed that including FCSM in the diet of laying hens can positively affect productive performance compared to CSM. Moreover, substituting SBM with FCSM, can improve eggshell quality, promote gut health, and reduce egg yolk cholesterol concentration.

Dietary inclusion of micelle silymarin enhances egg production, quality, and lowers blood cholesterol in Hy-line brown laying hens.

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of micelle silymarin (MS) supplementation on productive performance, egg quality, and blood biochemical parameters in laying hens. A total of 384 (Hy-Line brown, 28-week-old) laying hens were randomly distributed into one of four dietary treatment groups (eight replication per treatment; 12 hens per replicate) for a 12-week long feeding trial. Hens were fed a basal diet with the addition of 0%, 0.02%, 0.04%, and 0.06% of MS respectively. The results expressed that egg production percentage and egg weight were linearly (p < 0.05) enhanced at Weeks 0-6, 7-12, and 0-12, when 0%, 0.02%, 0.04%, and 0.06% of MS were added to laying hen diets. The feed conversion ratio and feed intake improved (p < 0.05) linearly at Weeks 0-6, 7-12, and 0-12 with increasing levels of MS supplementation in laying hens. The eggshell thickness and eggshell strength were linearly (p < 0.05) improved at weeks 4, 8, and 12 with an MS-supplemented diet. Additionally, eggshell colour, Haugh unit, and albumin height had no significant (p > 0.05) difference throughout the experimental period with different levels of MS-supplemented diet. The yolk colour of eggs showed significant (p < 0.05) differences at weeks 8 and 12 with levels of the MS-supplemented diet. However, at the end of the trial, the blood profile indicated that cholesterol levels decreased (p < 0.05) linearly, and triglyceride levels showed a tendency to decrease (p < 0.10) with MS supplementation. In conclusion, increasing the level of MS addition in the laying hen diet improved the egg production percentage and egg quality, reducing cholesterol levels in Hy-Line brown hens. However, this study indicates that MS can be added to the diet of laying hens up to 0.06% for improved egg production and egg quality.

Effects of Supplementing Selenium-Enriched Cardamine violifolia to Laying Hens on Egg Quality and Yolk Antioxidant Capacity during Storage at 4 °C and 25 °C.

Oxidative stress occurs in the process of egg storage. Antioxidants as feed additives can enhance egg quality and extend the shelf life of eggs. Selenium-enriched Cardamine violifolia (SEC) has strongly antioxidant properties. The objective of this study was to assess the effects of dietary supplementation with SEC on egg quality and the yolk antioxidant capacity of eggs stored at 4 °C and 25 °C. Four hundred fifty 65-week-old, Roman hens that were similar in laying rate (90.79 ± 1.69%) and body weight (2.19 ± 0.23 kg) were divided into 5 groups. The birds were fed diets supplemented with 0 mg/kg selenium (Se) (CON), 0.3 mg/kg Se from sodium selenite (SS), 0.3 mg/kg Se from Se-enriched yeast (SEY), 0.3 mg/kg Se for selenium-enriched Cardamine violifolia (SEC) or 0.3 mg/kg Se from Se-enriched Cardamine violifolia and 0.3 mg/kg Se from Se-enriched yeast (SEC + SEY) for 8 weeks. The eggs were collected on the 8th week and were analyzed for egg quality and oxidative stability of yolk during storage at 4 °C or 25 °C for 0, 2, 4, or 6 weeks. Dietary SEC and SEC + SEY supplementation increased the Haugh unit (HU) and albumen foam stability in eggs stored at 4 °C and 25 °C (p < 0.05). SS and SEC supplementation increased the yolk index in eggs stored at 25 °C (p < 0.05). SEC or SEC + SEY slowed down an increase in albumen pH and gel firmness in eggs stored at 4 °C and 25 °C (p < 0.05). Moreover, SEC or SEC + SEY alleviated the increase in malonaldehyde (MDA), and the decrease in total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) level and total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD) activity in yolks stored at 4 °C and 25 °C (p < 0.05). These results indicate that SEC mitigated egg quality loss and improved the antioxidant capacity of yolks during storage. SEC supplementation would be advantageous to extend the shelf life of eggs.

Effects of 28 h ahemeral light cycle on production performance, egg quality, blood parameters, and uterine characteristics of hens during the late laying period.

This study aimed to systematically determined the effect of 28 h ahemeral light cycle on production performance, egg quality, blood parameters, uterine morphological characteristics, and gene expression of hens during the late laying period. At 74 wk, 260 Hy-Line Brown layers were randomly divided into 2 groups of 130 birds each and in duplicates. Both a regular (16L:8D) and an ahemeral light cycle (16L:12D) were provided to the hens. The oviposition pattern in an ahemeral cycle shifted into darkness, with oviposition mostly occurring 3 to 5 h after light out. Production performance was unaffected by light cycle (P > 0.05). Nonetheless, compared to the normal group, the ahemeral group exhibited increased egg weight, eggshell weight, eggshell percentage, yolk percentage, eggshell thickness, and eggshell strength (P < 0.05). There were rhythmic changes in the uterine morphological structure in both cycles, however, the ahemeral group maintained a longer duration and had more uterine folds than the normal group. In the ahemeral cycle, the phases of the CLOCK and PER2 genes were phase-advanced for 3.96 h and 4.54 h compared to the normal cycle. The PHLPP1 gene, which controls clock resetting, exhibited a substantial oscillated rhythm in the ahemeral group (P < 0.05), while the expression of genes presenting biological rhythm, such as CRY2 and FBXL3, was rhythmically oscillated in normal cycle (P < 0.05). The ITPR2 gene, which regulates intracellular Ca2+ transport, displayed a significant oscillated rhythm in ahemeral alone (P < 0.05), while the CA2 gene, which presents biomineralization, rhythmically oscillated in both cycles (P < 0.05). The ahemeral cycle caused 2.5 h phase delays in the CA2 gene compared to the normal cycle. In conclusion, the 28 h ahemeral light cycle preserved the high condition of the uterine folds and changed the uterine rhythms of CLOCK, PER2, ITPR2, and CA2 gene expression to improve ion transport and uterine biomineralization.

Effects of different supplemental levels of protease DE200 on the production performance, egg quality, and cecum microflora of laying hens.

This study aimed to investigate the effects of different levels of the protease DE200 on the performance, egg quality, organ index, and cecum microflora of Hy-line W36 laying hens. In this experiment, a total of 180 laying hens aged 300 d were randomly divided into three treatment groups and fed diets containing 0, 100, or 200 g/t DE200. The experimental period was 8 wk, including 2 wk of prefeeding and 6 wk of the formal experiment. Regular feeding was performed thrice a day and eggs were collected twice daily, and the feed intake and the egg quality were recorded. The results showed that in terms of production performance, dietary supplementation with different levels of DE200 significantly increased egg production (EP; P < 0.05) and significantly decreased the feed conversion ratio (FCR; P < 0.05) and average daily feed intake (ADFI; P < 0.05) without affecting egg weight (EW). In addition, the addition of DE200 significantly reduced the egg breakage rate (P < 0.05) and tended to increase the Haugh unit and decrease the water content of the yolk (P > 0.05). In the cecal microflora, the addition of DE200 increased the proportions of Bacteroidetes and Firmicutes at the phylum level while reducing the proportion of Fusobacteria. Furthermore, at the genus level, the addition of DE200 increased the proportions of Bacteroides and Faecalibacterium and reduced the proportion of Megamonas. This study suggested that the protease DE200 can be used as a feed supplement to improve the production performance of laying hens.

In the production of laying hens, improving the efficiency of dietary protein utilization is important. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of the protease DE200 on the performance, egg quality and cecal microflora of Hyline white laying hens. A total of 180 laying hens aged 300 d were randomly divided into three treatment groups and fed diets containing 0, 100, or 200 g/t DE200 for 56 d. The results showed that supplementation with 100 or 200 g/t DE200 in the basal diet improved the production performance and egg quality of laying hens. DE200 (100 g/t) improved the balance of the cecal microflora, and DE200 (200 g/t) increased the richness and diversity of the cecal microflora of laying hens. Dietary supplementation with DE200 can improve the intestinal health and nutrient utilization efficiency of laying hens by improving the intestinal flora.

Effects of dietary supplementation of glycerol monolaurate on laying performance, egg quality, antioxidant capacity, intestinal morphology and immune function in late-phase laying hens.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of different levels of glycerol monolaurate (GML) on laying performance, egg quality, antioxidant capacity, intestinal morphology and immune function in late-phase laying hens. A total of 480 Hy-Line Variety Brown hens (age 54 wk) were randomly assigned to 5 treatments: the control group (basal diet) and 4 GML groups (basal diet supplemented with 100, 200, 300, and 400 mg/kg GML). Each treatment consisted of 8 replicates with 12 hens each and the trial lasted for 8 wk. The results showed that dietary inclusion of GML increased the ADFI in the entire experimental period and the average egg weight in wk 5 to 8 and wk 1 to 8 of the experiment (linear, P < 0.05). Dietary GML addition linearly increased albumen height, Haugh unit and yolk color, and quadratically increased eggshell thickness (P < 0.05). The serum SOD activity, T-AOC and IgG concentrations in the 200 mg/kg GML group, and GSH-Px activity in 200 and 300 mg/kg GML groups were increased, while the MDA concentration in 200 and 300 mg/kg GML groups was decreased than those in the control group (P < 0.05). The jejunal villus height and villus height: crypt depth in 300 mg/kg GML group were higher than that in the control group (P < 0.05). The mRNA expression of TLR4, IL-1ß and TNF-α in spleen and jejunum decreased with the increase of dietary GML concentration (linear, P < 0.05). In conclusion, dietary GML supplementation could improve egg quality, antioxidant capacity, intestinal morphology and immune function in late-phase laying hens, and dietary 300 mg/kg GML inclusion is suggested.

Effect of the storage temperature on the quality of eggs inoculated with Salmonella Enteritidis onto shell.

This study explored the temperature-dependent effect on the growth characteristics of Salmonella Enteritidis (SE) on eggshell toward identifying an appropriate storage temperature for unwashed eggs in an actual distribution environment. Among the test storage temperatures (10 °C, 25 °C, and 35 °C), 25 °C was determined to be an appropriate storage temperature, with no effect of changing temperature on the control of SE on eggshell. Regarding the effect of the temperature on egg quality, the quality indicators of egg such as Haugh unit, yolk index, albumin index, and albumin pH were significantly maintained. These results indicated that unwashed eggs should be distributed at 25 °C for SE control, and the storage temperature should be below 10 °C from at least day 4 onward after the start of distribution to maintain egg quality. This study will assist for safety management of unwashed egg in an actual distribution environment.

Effect of crossbreeding on egg quality, incubation, and hatching activities of the pure and reciprocal cross between the Sasso and Wassache chickens.

Understanding the effect of crossbreeding on egg quality and incubation is essential for the selection of superior genetic combinations in breeding programs. This study evaluated the effect of crossbreeding on egg quality and incubation activities of the Sasso and Wassache chickens in a pure (Sasso X Sasso [SS]; Wassache X Wassache [WW]) and reciprocal cross (Wassache X Sasso [WS]; Sasso X Wassache [SW]) design. A total of 1431 eggs were incubated while 400 eggs were selected for egg quality. Fertility, hatchability, and hatching activities were expressed in percentage, while egg quality traits were determined. The crosses with Sasso hens laid similar (P > 0.05) but heavier (P < 0.05) eggs with higher (P < 0.05) egg components compared to the crosses with Wassache hens. The SS, SW, and WW genotypes recorded similar (P > 0.05) early embryonic mortality (EEM) and were lower (P < 0.05) compared to the WS genotype. Late embryonic mortality (LEM) between the reciprocal crosses and SS was similar (P > 0.05) and lower (P < 0.05) compared to the WW. The hatchability and hatchability of fertile eggs between the purebreds and the SW cross were comparable (P > 0.05), while those of the WS genotype was lower compared to the SS cross. Hatch duration in the crossbreds was shorter (P < 0.05) compared to the pure Sasso. Mortality between the SW and WW was similar (P > 0.05) while the WS cross recorded a higher (P < 0.05) mortality compared to the purebreds. Crossbreeding improved egg quality, reduced LEM, and accelerated crossbred hatching events. The SW cross is recommended for better performance.

A systematic review of potential productivity, egg quality, and animal welfare implications of extended lay cycles in commercial laying hens in Canada.

Lay cycle lengths in the Canadian egg industry are currently 50 to 52 wk (68-70 wk of age). In light of increased productivity in commercial laying hens over the last few decades, the much longer lay cycle lengths already implemented in other countries, extending lay cycle lengths in Canada, should be considered with careful attention to potential environmental, economic, and animal welfare implications. However, there is a lack of information in the public domain that provides robust evidence of performance levels and potential trade-offs to support comprehensive consideration of the desirability of extending lay cycles beyond current Canadian norms. Hence, a systematic literature review using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) methodology was undertaken. Data collection focused primarily on information related to feed-, flock management-, and hen genetics/physiology-related interventions that were studied in literature to support extension of lay cycles (review objective 1), and compiling and analyzing productivity, egg quality, and animal welfare outcomes reported at 70 wk of age or beyond (review objective 2). Several feed-related interventions such as high-protein diets, and probiotics supplements, and flock management interventions such split-feeding were found to potentially improve productivity, and especially egg quality, outcomes in the late laying phase. More studies with bigger flock sizes and in commercial lay facilities need to be undertaken before any of these interventions can be definitively recommended for commercial egg production. Under objective 2, productivity was found to be at acceptable levels well beyond 70 wk of age. Performance on most egg quality traits and animal welfare indicators were also at acceptable levels past 70 wk of age but increased variability was observed beyond ∼80 wk of age. There were also inconclusive indications on how hens in caged housing and white laying hens fare relative to hens in noncaged housing and brown-type layers during the late laying phase. Economic data were limited but suggested that lay cycle lengths beyond 90 wk might not generated net economic benefits.

Effects of Dietary Supplementation of Essential Oils, Lysozyme, and Vitamins' Blend on Layer Hen Performance, Viral Vaccinal Response, and Egg Quality Characteristics.

Maintaining respiratory tract health is crucial for layers, impacting gut health, laying performance, and egg quality. Viral diseases and standard vaccinations can compromise tracheal epithelium function, leading to oxidative stress. This study assessed the impact of a blend of feed additives, predominantly lysozyme (L), essential oils (EO), and vitamins (VIT) (referred to as L + EO + VIT), on young layers during an oral vaccination schedule. The supplementation significantly enhanced antibody titers for Newcastle Disease Virus (NDV) and Infectious Bronchitis Virus (IBV) after vaccination, trachea functionality and intestinal health in the jejunum, increased egg production, and exhibited a trend toward higher egg weight. Although feed intake showed no significant difference, egg quality remained consistent across experimental groups. Moreover, L + EO + VIT supplementation elevated total phenolic content in eggs, improving oxidative stability in both fresh and stored eggs, particularly under iron-induced oxidation. Notably, it substantially reduced yolk lipid peroxidation and albumen protein carbonyls. In conclusion, water supplementation with L + EO + VIT may enhance humoral immune response to IBV and NDV, positively impacting hen productivity. These findings indicate improved tracheal function and enhanced oxidative stability, emphasizing the potential of this blend in promoting overall health and performance in layers.

Enhancing the Production Performance and Nutrient Utilization of Laying Hens by Augmenting Energy, Phosphorous and Calcium Deficient Diets with Fungal Phytase (Trichoderma reesei) Supplementation.

A ten-week trial was conducted to evaluate the enhancement of production performance and nutrient utilization of laying hens through augmenting energy, phosphorous, and calcium deficient diets with fungal phytase (Trichoderma reesei) supplementation. 720 Hy-line Brown hens aged 28 weeks were randomly divided into 5 groups; each group had 8 replicates of 18 hens. Five experimental diets were prepared and fed to corresponding groups. A positive control (PC) diet contained 3.50% of calcium (Ca), 0.32% of non-phytate phosphorus (NPP), and apparent metabolic energy (AME) of 11.29MJ/kg, while a negative control (NC) diet contained 3.30% of Ca, 0.12% of NPP, and lower AME of 300 kJ/kg. The other three diets were supplemented with 250 FTU/kg phytase (PHY-250), 1000 FTU/kg phytase (PHY-1000), and 2000 FTU/kg phytase (PHY-2000) in addition to a regular NC diet. Results indicated that the positive control (PC) diet group had higher body weight gain, egg weight, and average daily feed intake. However, laying rate, egg mass, and FCR were most improved in the PHY-2000 group, followed by the PHY-1000 and PHY-250 groups (p < 0.05). Improved yolk color was most notable in laying hens fed the diet with PHY-1000 as opposed to the PC and NC groups (p < 0.05), but no overall difference was found among all of the phytase treated groups. The apparent availability of dry matter, energy, phosphorus, and phytate P was significantly higher in the PHY-2000 group than in the PC and NC groups (p < 0.05). Compared to the PC group, nitrogen retention was significantly higher in the PHY-1000 group, while calcium availability was higher in the PHY-250 group. The results suggested that the addition of phytase to diets with low P, Ca, and AME improved laying performance and apparent availability of dietary nutrients. Thus, it was concluded that the laying hen diet could be supplemented with 1000-2000 FTU/kg phytase for improving laying production and nutrient availability and mitigating the negative impact of reduced nutrient density in laying hen diets.

Effects of Dietary Supplementation with Caesalpinia sappan Linn. Extract for Promoting Flock Health and Performance in Late-Phase Laying Hens.

The present study investigated the effects of dietary supplementation of Caesalpinia sappan Linn Extract (CSE) on the health and productive performance of late-phase laying hens on farms. Proximate composition and antioxidant markers of CSE powder revealed favorable characteristics with high total dry matter; phenolic content, and antioxidant potency. Three hundred and sixty (64-week-old) Hy-line Brown hens were divided into five groups with 0 (control diet), 250, 500, 1000, and 2000 mg/kg CSE, respectively. The laying performance and egg quality of the CSE supplementation groups demonstrated significant improvements in egg weight and albumin weight (p < 0.05), and a tendency for enhanced egg mass and feed conversion ratio. Additionally, the intestinal morphostructural indices in the 2000 mg CSE/kg diet group showed the greatest statistical significance (p < 0.05), with a detectable trend suggesting an increase in the villus height to crypt depth ratio. In addition, significant downregulation of proinflammatory genes occurred in their liver tissues, coupled with a greater expression of genes linked to antioxidants and anti-inflammatory processes. Furthermore, the blood biochemical parameters and the organ weights may suggest a favorable safety profile of CSE supplementation. These findings highlight the potential of CSE as a dietary supplement to enhance the productive performance and flock health of late-phase laying hens. Further research is warranted to explore the long-term effects and optimal dosage of CSE supplementation for laying hens in farming practices.