Dietary Incorporation Research Articles

Effect of Using Prickly Pear Seed Cake (Opuntia ficus indica L.) on Growth Performance, Digestibility, Physiological and Histometric Parameters in Rabbits

Prickly pear (Opuntia ficus indica L.) could be used in rabbit nutrition in compliance with circular economy principles, global warming issues, and reduction of production costs. This study aims to evaluate the effects of dietary incorporation of prickly pear seed cake (PPSC) on growth, physiological, and histometric parameters in rabbits. A total of 105 rabbits were divided into three experimental groups (n = 35) and fed different diets: a commercial feed (C group), the same feed with alfalfa replaced by PPSC at 10% (10PP group), and at 20% (20PP group). They were group-housed in cages with 5 animals per cage from weaning until slaughtering. While body weights and weight gains were similar in all groups, the coefficients of nutrient digestibility of dry matter, fibers, and ashes, as well as the characteristics of intestinal villi, were improved in the 10PP group compared to the others (p < 0.05). The 20PP group showed a reduction in perirenal and interscapular fat (p < 0.05), as well as lower plasma concentrations of triglycerides and cholesterol compared to the C group (p < 0.001). In conclusion, PPSC can be incorporated into the diets of growing rabbits up to 20% as a partial substitute for alfalfa without the impairment of growth performance. Additionally, the inclusion of PPSC enhanced nutrient digestibility and increased the intestinal absorption surface area.

244 Comparative crude protein solubilization in yellow pea and fava bean protein concentrates in a simulated porcine gastric and intestinal digestion model

Abstract Pulses are valuable protein ingredients but unique characteristics among them are known to influence protein quality and utilization. We determined crude protein solubilization (CPS) in yellow pea (YP) and fava bean (FB) protein concentrates using simulated porcine gastric and intestinal model (Table 1). For each ingredient, 500 mg CP equivalent was incubated in triplicate with pepsin at either pH 3.5 or 4.5 for 0, 0.5, 1, and 1.5 h at 39°C and 200 r.p.m. for gastric CPS. For intestinal CPS, gastric samples (derived at pH 3.5 for 1.5 h) were incubated with pancreatin and bile extract at pH 6.8 for 0, 0.5, 2, 4 and 6 h. Intestinal CPS was categorized as CPfast, CPslow and CPresistant corresponding to CPS within the first 0.5 h, 0.5 to 4 h, and undigested after 4 h, respectively (Table 2). The concentration of CP in the supernatant was equated to CPS. Data were subjected to Proc GLIMIXX of SAS while Gompertz equation was used to describe the gastric and intestinal solubilization kinetics (A-maximum solubilized CP, Wo- initial CP solubility, Ku- solubilization rate, Ti- time to inflection). The model for gastric CPS had fixed effects of protein, incubation time, stomach pH and their interaction at 1.5 h and while fixed effects of protein was evaluated in intestinal CPS kinetics. The analyzed CP in FB and YP were 712.7 and 599.1, g/kg DM, with 3 and 4% of CP bound to NDF, respectively. Gastric CPS in FB was not influenced (P > 0.05) by pH and incubation time; however, at 1.5 h gastric CPS in FB was 40.9 and 28.44% at pH 3.5 and 4.5, respectively. Gastric CPS in YP was influenced by incubation time (P < 0.05) with increase at pH 3.5 after 1 h and at pH 4.5 after 0.5 h compared with 0 h. After 1.5 h, gastric CPS in YP was 50.0% at pH 3.5 and 33.2% at pH 4.5. Whereas YP gastric CPS at pH 3.5 and 1.5h was greater compared with FB, there were no differences (P > 0.05) between the FB and TP at pH 4.5. However, intestinal CPS tended (P < 0.10) to be greater for FB (91.7%) compared with YP (89.4%). The FP was solubilized faster (Ku; P < 0.05) than YP, supported by a (P < 0.05) higher CPfast of FB (87.8%) compared with YP (75.9%). CPresistent was found to be greater (P < 0.05) for YP (12.0%) than for FB (6.6%; Figure 1). In conclusion, fava, and pea protein concentrates had gastric protein solubilization that was dependent on pH. The less resistant protein in FB suggested a greater nutritive value than YP. Further research should determine ileal amino acids digestibility and the impact of incorporation in practical diets to characterize animal performance, health, and environment impact.

Omalizumab Implementation in Practice: Lessons Learned From the OUtMATCH Study

In February 2024, omalizumab was approved by the Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of food allergy, based on data from the landmark Phase 3 clinical trial “Omalizumab as Monotherapy and as Adjunct Therapy in Children and Adults (OUtMATCH).” In this Rostrum, OUtMATCH investigators share their perspectives on the trial results, the implications for translation into daily practice, and on remaining gaps in the field. The study met its primary and key secondary endpoints, demonstrating a large effect size in multi-allergen desensitization compared to placebo; yet there were some participants who did not respond, and the percentage of responders tolerating all 3 food allergens was lower than that for single foods. . Clinicians are likely to have many questions about appropriate patient selection, monitoring for treatment responsiveness, and how to manage off-label considerations such as dietary incorporation or co-treatment with oral immunotherapy. Additional research is needed to answer these remaining questions and ensure that the translation of omalizumab in real-world practice leads to high-quality outcomes.

Artemisia afra essential oils inclusion in diets induces desirable effects on meat quality and fatty acid profiles of broilers chickens

The effects of Artemisia afra (African wormwood) essential oil incorporation in diets on meat quality and fatty acid profilers of broilers was assessed. Four hundred Cobb500 day-old chicks were obtained and placed randomly into the following 4 diets replicated 10 times: NC-Negative control (broiler diet without antibiotics), PC-positive control (broiler diet with zinc bacitracin), AA1-broiler diet + 0.1 % A. afra essential oil and AA2 - broiler diet + 0.3% A. afra essential oil. A pen having 10 chicks was regarded as the experimental unit. From the results, all carcass traits were influenced (P < 0.01) by diet apart from the dressing out percentage. The highest slaughter weights (1846g) and hot carcass weight (1427.36g) were obtained in birds fed the AA1 diet. Highest ultimate pH value (6.24) was obtained from the birds fed the AA1 while the highest values for meat lightness (L*) were obtained in birds offered the AA1 and NC diets (55.73 and 55.82). Cooking loss was highest in birds fed the NC (31.01%) diet. Birds fed the AA2 diet (23.7mg/g)) had the highest intramuscular fat followed by the AA1 fed birds. Inclusion of A. afra essential oils in diets also increased the proportion of PUFAs, n-6 and n-3 fatty acids and the PUFA/SFA ratios. In conclusion, the incorporation of A. afra essential oil in diets improved meat quality and fatty acid composition of broiler meat for the benefit of consumers.

Chlorella vulgaris as a Nutraceutical Source for Broilers: Improving Meat Quality and Storage Oxidative Status.

This study aimed to assess the impact of Chlorella vulgaris supplementation in broilers' diet, alone or in combination with vitamin E, on meat quality parameters, nutritional value, and oxidative stability during storage time. An experiment was conducted on 180 COBB 500 broiler chickens (14 days old), assigned into six treatments, following a 2 × 3 factorial arrangement. A corn-soybean meal diet was supplemented with three levels of C. vulgaris (0% in group C1, 1% in E1, 2% in E2), two levels of vitamin E (0% in C1, 250 ppm in C2), and a combination of them (1% C. vulgaris + 250 ppm vitamin (E3), 2% C. vulgaris + 250 ppm vitamin (E4)). Dietary incorporation of C. vulgaris, including those supplemented with vitamin E, resulted in a significant increase in meat protein content. DPA and DHA levels increased by 2.01-fold and 1.60-fold in the 2% C. vulgaris + vitamin E group. The PUFA/SFA ratio was increased across all dietary treatments (p < 0.0001). HPI and h/H registered the highest values as a result of 2% C. vulgaris supplementation, being linked with a positive effect in lowering cholesterol levels. Supplementation with 2% C. vulgaris and vitamin E exhibited a 1.45-fold increase in vitamin E concentration in thigh meat compared to the control group, being the highest level registered in thigh meat in this experiment. Metmyoglobin concentrations registered lower values in the thigh meat of the experimental groups, while deoxymyoglobin increased in the same groups when compared to the control group. The inclusion of C. vulgaris (1% and 2%) in combination with vitamin E (250 mg/kg) in broiler diets exhibited the best prevention of lipid oxidation after 7 days of refrigerated storage, defined by the highest efficiency factors assessed in terms of secondary oxidation products.

Dietary incorporation of brown seaweed spent oyster mushroom substrate alters growth performance, physiological responses and meat quality parameters in Boschveld roosters

Use of brown seaweed (Ecklonia maxima) as a nutraceutical source in indigenous chicken diets is limited by high dietary fibre levels. Inoculating seaweeds with oyster mushroom (Pleurotus ostreatus) spawn (OMS) could enhance the utility of the spent mushroom substrate (SMS). This study investigated the effect of feeding incremental levels of brown seaweed SMS on growth performance, physiological responses, and meat quality parameters in Boschveld roosters. A total of 324, 4-week-old Boschveld roosters were weighed and randomly allotted to 36 pens (9 birds per pen) to produce six replicates per dietary treatment. The diets were formulated as follows: a standard grower diet (CON); and CON containing 150 g/kg of brown seaweed inoculated with OMS at 0 (SMS0), 20 (SMS20), 30 (SMS30), 40 (SMS40) and 50% (SMS50). Birds fed diet CON had the least feed intake (p < 0.05) than all the other SMS treatment levels in weeks 7, 8, 12, 14 and 15. Diet SMS40 promoted higher (p < 0.05) body weight gain (BWG) than CON in weeks 6, 7, 9 and 14. Gain-to-feed ratio linearly increased in weeks 7 [R2 = 0.288; p = 0.010], 11 [R2 = 0.581, p = 0.0001] and 14 [R2 = 0.389, p = 0.004], respectively. Quadratic responses (p < 0.05) were observed for BWG in week 5, white blood cells, heterophils, platelets, lymphocytes, monocytes, and relative spleen and large intestine weights as OMS levels increased. Linear increases were recorded for slaughter [R2 = 0.197, p = 0.017] and breast weights [R2 = 0.197, p = 0.020] as OMS levels increased. Diet SMS0 promoted higher (p < 0.05) relative caeca weights than the CON and SMS treatment groups. Neither quadratic nor linear responses (p > 0.05) were observed for breast meat quality parameters. In conclusion, feeding brown seaweed SMS improved growth performance and slaughter weight, altered some blood parameters and internal organs, without affecting breast meat quality of Boschveld roosters. Based on the quadratic response for BWG, the optimum OMS level was deduced at 20% in a brown seaweed-based Boschveld rooster diet.

Piglets performance, nutrient digestibility and gut health in response to feeding Ulva lactuca seaweed supplemented with a recombinant ulvan lyase or a commercial carbohydrase mixture.

Ulva lactuca, a green seaweed, may be an alternative source of nutrients and bioactive compounds for weaned piglets. However, it has a recalcitrant cell wall rich in a sulphated polysaccharide - ulvan - that is indigestible to monogastrics. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of dietary incorporation of 7% U. lactuca, combined with carbohydrases supplementation (commercial carbohydrase mixture or recombinant ulvan lyase), on growth performance, nutrient digestibility and gut health parameters (morphology and microbiota) of weaned piglets. The experiment was conducted over 14 days using 40 weaned piglets randomly allocated to one of four experimental diets: a control diet based on wheat-maize-soybean meal, a diet with 7% U. lactuca replacing the control diet (UL), a diet with UL supplemented with 0.005% Rovabio® Excel AP, and a diet with UL supplemented with 0.01% of a recombinant ulvan lyase. The dietary treatments had no major effects on growth performance, nitrogen balance and gut content variables, as well as histological measurements. Contrarily, dry matter and organic matter digestibility decreased with dietary seaweed inclusion, while hemicellulose digestibility increased, suggesting a high fermentability of this cell wall fraction independently of carbohydrases supplementation. Some beneficial microbial populations increased as a consequence of enzymatic supplementation (e.g., Prevotella), while seaweed diets as a whole led to an increased abundance of Shuttleworthia, Anaeroplasma and Lachnospiraceae_NK3A20_group, all related with a healthier gut. It also decreased Lactobacillus when compared to controls, which is possibly related to increased bioavailability of seaweed zinc. This study indicates that, under these experimental conditions, up to 7% dietary U. lactuca has no detrimental effect on piglet growth, despite decreasing acid detergent fibre digestibility. Carbohydrases supplementation of Ulva diets is not required at this incorporation level.

Effect of solid-state fermentation of Brewer's spent grain on digestibility and digestive function of european seabass (Dicentrarchus labrax) juveniles

This study assessed the effects of dietary inclusion of solid-state fermented (SSF) brewer’s spent grain (BSG) with Aspergillus ibericus on nutrient and energy digestibility, digestive enzyme activity, and intestinal histomorphology of juvenile European seabass (Dicentrarchus labrax). Five diets (18 % crude lipids and 45 % crude protein) were formulated, including a control diet (without BSG), two diets with 10 % and 20 % unfermented BSG (10BSG and 20BSG), and two other diets with 10 % and 20 % fermented BSG (10BSG-SSF and 20BSG-SSF). SSF affected the BSG's nutritional composition, including a 21 % increase in protein content and reductions in lipid (49 %), cellulose (30 %), hemicellulose (34 %), and lignin (7.3 %) content. Antioxidant activity and total phenolic compounds were minimal before SSF but significantly increased after SSF. Dietary incorporation of 20 % BSG-SSF increased the digestibility of dry matter (p<0.01), protein (p=0.03), isoleucine (p=0.03), glutamate (p=0.02), lipids (p=0.04) and energy (p=0.04) compared to the 20BSG diet. Moreover, SSF also modulated digestive enzyme activity, reducing total protease (p=0.03) and trypsin (p=0.01) activities in fish fed the 10BSG-SSF diet compared to the control diet. Fish fed the 20BSG diet showed changes in intestinal histomorphology compared to those fed the control diet, and SSF of BSG appeared to mitigate these effects.Overall, these results indicate that SSF is a promising technique for enhancing the nutritional quality of low-value agro-industrial by-products, such as BSG, increasing their potential use as feed ingredients and contributing to reducing the climate and environmental footprint of aquaculture production.

Anti-dyslipidemic and cardio-protective effects of dietary &lt;i&gt;Vernonia amygdalina&lt;/i&gt; leaves in monosodium glutamate intoxicated high fat diet fed Wistar rats

The study evaluated the proximate analysis, anti- dyslipidemic and cardioprotective effects of dietary incorporated Vernonia amygdalina (VA) leaves in Monosodium glutamate (MSG) intoxicated High fat diet (HFD) fed Wistar rats. The proximate analysis of the leaves revealed the highest ash and carbohydrate content in the control (basal) diet, highest protein, crude fibre and moisture content in the 10% VA incorporated HFD and the highest crude fat in the HFD only group. Dietary incorporation of VA in HFD reversed the trend of hypercholesterolemia and hypertriglyceridemia observed in experimental animals after chronic MSG, HFD and MSG + HFD administration. At the end of week 8, HFD only group produced a higher level of total cholesterol and triglyceride when compared to the basal control diet group and the MSG only group while the 10% VA HFD group produced the greatest reduction in total cholesterol and triglyceride from week 9 – week 12. Possible mechanisms include the presence of crude fibers which binds to bile acids reducing the absorption of cholesterol. Histopathology studies of the myocardial tissues at the end of the study revealed in the MSG + HFD group signs of a marked diffused edema of the myocardium which was absent in the MSG only and HFD only groups while 5% and 10% VA incorporated HFD and the standard drug Orlistat 10 mg/kg failed to reverse the observed toxicity. Conclusion: Dietary VA reversed lipid derangement observed but failed to reverse myocardial histopathologies after chronic MSG + HFD administration and could be used as an adjunct for the treatment of obesity.

Effects of supplementation of different selenium sources on lipid profile, selenium, and vitamin E concentration of yolk.

Egg preference as a source of protein also provides beneficial fatty acids, vital for human consumption. However, rich in lipid products are prone to oxidative damage. The study aims to determine the effect of supplementing biogenic selenium (Se) from Stenotrophomonas maltophilia, ADS18 (ADS18) in laying hens' diet on yolk lipid oxidation status (MDA), beta-carotene (β-carotene) content, cholesterol, fatty acids, Se, and vitamin E (VE) level. A total of one hundred and twenty (120) laying hens of Lohmann Brown strains aged 50 weeks, weighing 1500 to 2000g were reared individually in A-shape two-tier stainless-steel cages sized 30cm x 50cm x 40cm (width, depth height). The hens were randomly allotted into four treatments with six replications in a complete randomised design for the period of 12 weeks. The basal diet contains 100mg/kg VE. Treatment diets consist of basal diet as control, SS containing 0.3mg/kg sodium selenite, Se-yeast containing 0.3mg/kg selenised yeast, and VADS18 containing 0.3mg/kg of ADS18. Forty-eight eggs were collected and freeze-dried biweekly for analysis. The results of the present study showed that hens supplemented ADS18 had significantly (P < 0.05) lower MDA and cholesterol levels while their egg yolks had higher levels of Se and mono-unsaturated fatty acids (MUFA). The control group had significantly (P < 0.05) higher saturated fatty acid (SFA) contents than the VE and dietary Se-supplemented groups, while the ADS18 group had the lowest SFA contents. Conversely, in comparison to the inorganic and control groups, the VE content of the egg yolk was significantly (P < 0.05) higher in organic Se-supplemented (Se-yeast and VADS18) groups. Hens with SS supplementation had significantly (P < 0.05) higher egg yolk β-carotene content. When compared to other treatment groups, the control group had higher (P < 0.05) polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) content. The ADS18 is therefore deemed comparable to other Se sources. To prevent Se toxicity, however, a better understanding of the levels of ADS18 incorporation in poultry diets is required.

Effect of Perilla seeds inclusion on the performance, egg quality characteristics, biochemical parameters and egg yolk fatty acid composition of laying hens.

This study investigates the effect of supplementation of Perilla seeds (PS) on the performance, egg quality, blood biochemical parameters, and egg yolk fatty acids composition in the diet of egg-laying chicken. A total of 1600 Lohmann laying hens were randomly assigned to four different groups with 4 replicates each (100 chickens/replicate) and were subjected to varying PS concentrations (PS0, PS6, PS12, and PS18; 0%, 6%, 12%, and 18%, respectively) for four weeks, including an acclimation period of one week. The results showed no significant differences among the groups for average egg weight (P > 0.005). The laying rate (%), feed conversion ratio (FCR) and average feed intake (AFI) decreased significantly for birds fed on 18% PS as compared to the other treatments (P < 0.005). Haugh unit, albumin height, egg-shape index and eggshell thickness among hens fed PS diets were greater averaging 80.53, 7.00, 1.29, 0.34 compared to 76.84, 6.86, 1.25 and 0.32 from Control hen eggs (P < 0.05). Serum analysis showed a trend towards elevated levels of glucose (Glu), total protein (TP) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) among treatments. Total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) decreased for the birds fed on 6% PS. The fatty acid composition of egg yolk showed a substantial reduction for α-linolenic acid and docosahexaenoic acid increased significantly by the incorporating PS in the diet (P < 0.001). PS incorporation in diets resulted in significant improvements in both performance indicators and greater amounts of α-linolenic acid and DHA in egg yolks. These findings indicate that PS at 6% inclusion has the potential to improve fatty acid profiles of egg yolk without anyadverse effect on performance of egg quality.

Effects of Dietary Incorporation of Neem (Azadirachta indica), Moringa (Moringa oleifera), and Jute (Corchorus olitorius) Leaf Powder on Production Performance and Blood Indices of Broiler Chickens as a Substitute of Antibiotic

The study was planned to determine the effects of dietary incorporation of Neem (Azadirachta indica), Moringa (Moringa oleifera), and Jute (Corchorus olitorius) leaf powder on production performance, carcass traits, and blood indices of broiler chickens as a substitute for the antibiotic. A total of 200-day-old Cobb 500 broiler chicks were divided randomly into 5 experimental groups. Whereas groups T1, T2, T3, and T4 were offered basal feed supplemented with 2% Neem Leaf Powder (NLP), 2% Moringa Leaf Powder (MLP), 2% Jute Leaf Powder (JLP), and antibiotics, respectively. In this research, the total feed consumption of birds was significantly (P &lt; 0.05) lower in the T1 and T2 group than in the T3 and T4 group. Final live weight was significantly (P &lt; 0.05) higher in 2% MLP treated group T2 followed by T1, T3, and T0 group. Significantly (P &lt; 0.05) better feed conversion ratio (FCR) was found in the T2 group compared to T0, T3, and T4 groups. There found no significant (P &gt; 0.05) effect of treatments on the survivability percentage of birds. All the treatment groups showed an insignificant (P &gt; 0.05) effect on dressing percentage and organs (liver, heart, and gizzard) weight of broiler chicken. Weight of immune organs (spleen and bursa) and blood parameters (concentration of hemoglobin, glucose, and cholesterol) were not influenced (P &gt; 0.05) by dietary addition. Birds fed the lower amount of feed, higher body weight, and improved FCR were found in the 2% MLP treated group. In overall aspects, the effectiveness of 2% MLP addition was better than 2% NLP and 2% JLP as an antibiotic alternative.

The impact of incorporating dried cafeteria leftover food on growing APRI rabbits productivity, profitability and meat quality.

This study was conducted to investigate the effect of dried cafeteria leftover food (DCLF) incorporation in growing APRI rabbit diets on nutrient digestibility, live body weight, body weight gain, carcass traits, meat quality, blood parameters, and economic efficiency. Thirty-six APRI rabbits (6 weeks of age), after weaning, were randomly divided into three groups (12 rabbits/group, 613 ± 5 g). During the experiment, rabbits aged 6-14 weeks participated in the experiment. An approximate isocaloric and isonitrogenous composition was achieved in three pelleted experimental diets. For the rabbit groups D1 (as the control), D2, and D3, DCLF was added at doses of 0%, 17.5%, and 35%, respectively. Digestibility trails were carried out at the end of the feeding experiment to evaluate the nutritional and feeding values of the experimental diets. To examine the characteristics of the carcasses, the quality of the meat, the histopathological analysis, and the blood plasma parameters, three rabbits were slaughtered from each group. The results showed that the feeding values (TDN and DE), which had the greatest values, as well as the digesting coefficients for dry matter, organic matter, crude fiber, and ether extract between the D1 and D3 groups were significantly different (p < 0.05). On the contrary, the curde protein, nitrogen-free extract, and digestible crude protein of the examined diets showed no signifcant differences compared with the control diet. The level of DCLF incorporation in diets significantly (p < 0.05) increased the live body weight at 14 weeks; with D3 recording the highest values (2130.9 g) when compared to the D1 and D2 groups. A similar pattern was observed for both daily increase and total body gain (6-14 weeks). Feed conversion recorded insignificant differences among the experimental diets respecting the period 6-14 weeks of age. DCLF levels had a significant effect on dressing and giblet percentages. The chemical composition and color parameters of rabbit meat were similar (p > 0.05), except for fat%, which had the highest value in the D3 group (p < 0.05) compared to the D1 and D2 groups. Economic efficiency was improved by using DLCF up to 35% in terms of gross margin and feed cost/kg gain. In conclusion, using DCLF in the feeding system of rabbits could enhance productive performance, carcass traits, meat quality, and physiological function, as well as improve economic efficiency.

The impacts of dietary inclusion of soybean oil and linseed oil on growth performance, carcass yield, and health status of growing Japanese quail

Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), including n-6 and n-3 fatty acids, are essential for enhancing the performance and health of poultry. Avian species lack desaturase enzymes for endogenous synthesis of n-6 and n-3 fatty acids. This work aimed to determine the impacts of including soybean oil (SO) and linseed oil (LO) in quail diets on growth, lipid profile, hepatic and renal functions, immunity, and antioxidant status. A total of 350 Japanese quail chicks (1-week-old) were randomly arranged into seven dietary treatment groups. Seven isocaloric and isonitrogenous experimental basal diets were formed based on the nutritional requirements of growing Japanese quail. Group 1, the control, received a basal with no oils, while groups 2–7 received a basal diet containing either 1% SO, 1.5% SO, 2% SO, 1% LO, 1.5% LO, or 2% LO, respectively. Quail groups that consumed diets containing LO at all levels showed significantly greater live body weight (LBW) at 5th week of age than other experimental groups. The dietary incorporation of 1.5 or 2% SO or LO at all levels yielded significant improvements in body weight gain (BWG) and feed conversion ratio (FCR) through 3-5 and 1-5 weeks of age. Different dietary oil sources and levels have no significant impacts on feed intake (FI) and carcass yield parameters. Lipid profile parameters were improved by adding SO and LO in quail diets, with LO having a higher effect than SO. The hepatic and renal functionality were improved by adding SO and LO in quail diets. The lowest uric acid (UA) bloodstream concentrations were recorded in the quail group fed a diet with 2% LO. Values of Gamma globulins (G-GLO) and immunoglobulins (G, M, and A) were increased by adding SO or LO to quail diets. Blood levels of MDA and TAC were improved significantly by including LO in quail diets. The activity of the superoxide dismutase (SOD) enzyme was significantly increased by adding SO or LO to quail diets. Generally, adding SO or LO to growing quail diets up to 2% could yield favorable effects on growth performance, blood lipids, hepatic and renal functions, immunity, and antioxidant status; however, LO seems to have better effects than SO.

Use of dehydrated sainfoin (Onobrychis viciifolia) in rabbit feeding. 2 - Effects of a high dietary incorporation on performance and health of does and growing rabbits, under a sub-optimal breeding commercial environment

The effects of a high dietary (26%) incorporation of dehydrated sainfoin (DS) (Perly cultivar) on the performance and health of reproductive does and growing rabbits were analysed in a sub-optimal professional breeding environment (presenting previous coccidiosis), and over two non-consecutive reproductive cycles (2 replicates). Performance and health of does and growing rabbits were compared for 2 groups of 194 does and associated litters, when fed isonutritive feeds containing either 0 or 26% DS (DS0 and DS26 groups). Dietary DS incorporation had no effect on doe live weight, fertility rate, mortality, culling rate and doe coccidia excretion levels (P&gt;0.05). In replicate 1, kit growth before weaning was similar among the two groups, but was 12% lower for the DS26 group in the 2nd replicate (significant interaction). Similarly, a significant interaction was detected between the effect of the diet and the replicate for the mortality rate of kits before weaning, i.e. a higher mortality was detected for DS26 (3.3 vs. 1.8%) in replicate 1, while in replicate 2 it was lower (2.1 vs. 4.4%). After weaning, the post-weaning growth rate was improved by 4% (P=0.02) for the DS26 group, while the mortality rate decreased (7.1 vs. 4.5%, P&lt;0.001). Coccidia excretions of growing rabbits were not affected by dietary sainfoin or by replicates. A high incorporation of DS (26%) should be recommended after weaning to improve the performance of growing rabbits without impact on reproducing does.

Unchanged water stress induces growth retardation, histopathological alterations, and antioxidant-immune disruptions in Oreochromis niloticus: the promising role of dietary organic acids

Legal restrictions and consumer trends are contributing to the growing movement for fish welfare. Therefore, the aquaculture sector is a means of reducing animal stress and enhancing physiological state, which raises financial profits. Feed additives have therefore been suggested as possible dietary stress alleviation. In this trend, a 75-day feeding trial was conducted to evaluate the effects of three organic acids (formic acid (FA), lactic acid (LA), and commercial organic acids mix (COM)) as dietary additives in Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) reared under a stressful condition (unchanged water). Fish (weighing 3.95 ± 0.05 g) were randomly housed into eight groups (n = 210 fish/group; 70 fish/replicate; 3 replicates/group). The first (negative control) and second (positive control) groups were fed a basal diet without additives and with water exchange at 20% of the water volume every 2 days for the first group and without water exchange for the second. The other six groups (FA1, FA2, LA1, LA2, COM1, and COM2) were fed basal diets supplemented with OAs at two doses (1 and 2%) without water exchange during the trial. The results revealed that fish kept without water exchange (positive control) had the highest level of water-unionized ammonia and nitrite and a marked decline in growth performance (weight gain and specific growth rate). The unchanged water induced substantial decreases in the hematological profile (white and red blood cell count, hemoglobin value, and hematocrit %), protein profile indices (total protein, albumin, and globulin), and antioxidant-immune response (superoxide dismutase, catalase, lysozyme, and total immunoglobulin M). In addition, the biochemical indices (glucose, creatinine, urea, alanine aminotransferase, and aspartate aminotransferase) and lipid peroxide (malondialdehyde) were substantially increased in the positive control group. In addition to that, marked and severe histopathological alteration in the gills, liver, and intestine including hyperplasia, hemorrhage, and degenerative and necrotic changes that were associated with desquamation and sloughing were obvious in the PC group. Dietary LA1 significantly enhanced (P < 0.05) the overall measured indices; meanwhile, the dietary FA and COM recorded the worst results. Overall, our findings demonstrate that the unchanged water negatively affected the growth and physiological functions of Nile tilapia. Dietary incorporation of organic acids did not protect the fish from these hazards except the LA (1%). The latter can reduce nitrogenous compounds, enhance immune response, and alleviate these alterations for the sustainable aquaculture industry.

Enhancing Milk Quality and Antioxidant Status in Lactating Dairy Goats through the Dietary Incorporation of Purple Napier Grass Silage.

Oxidative stress resulting from an imbalance between oxidants and antioxidants can cause damage to certain cellular components. Purple Napier grass, a semi-dwarf variety, is characterized by its purple leaves and contains anthocyanins, which provide it with antioxidant properties. This study examined the effects of feeding purple Napier grass ("Prince") silage to lactating dairy goats on blood antioxidant activity, milk yield, and milk quality. Eighteen female Saanen crossbred goats, weighing 52.34 ± 2.86 kg and producing milk for 14 ± 2 days, were systematically divided into three groups based on their lactation period in the previous cycle as follows: early, mid, and late lactation. In a randomized complete block design (RCBD), treatments were randomly allocated to six animals in each block. The dairy goats were fed a total mixed ration (TMR) consisting of the three following treatments: control (100% Napier Pakchong 1 grass silage), 50% (a 50% replacement of the control with purple Napier grass silage), and 100% (100% purple Napier grass silage). The results show that goats who were fed a diet including 100% purple Napier grass silage showed higher levels of certain milk contents, especially with regard to lactose, when compared to those who were fed a control diet, as well as a diet with a 50% replacement of purple Napier grass silage. The somatic cell count (SCC) of these goats was reduced. In terms of antioxidant activity, dairy goats who were fed 100% purple Napier grass silage showed higher levels of enzymes in both plasma and milk, including glutathione s-transferase, total antioxidant capacity, superoxide dismutase, and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical, compared to the control group and the 50% replacement group. The plasma and milk of these goats showed lower levels of malondialdehyde. The dairy goats who were fed a 100% purple Napier grass silage diet showed higher concentrations of anthocyanins, including C3G, P3G, Peo3G, M3G, Cya, Pel, and total anthocyanins in milk, when compared to the control group and the 50% replacement group. The increased replacement of purple Napier grass silage led to significant differences in lactose levels, somatic cell count, glutathione S-transferase, total antioxidant capacity, superoxide dismutase, 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical, and the composition of anthocyanins. This study provides evidence to support the use of purple Napier grass silage as a beneficial source of roughage for lactating dairy goats.

Effect of Cumulative Spirulina Intake on Broiler Meat Quality, Nutritional and Health-Related Attributes.

This work aimed to assess how different cumulative levels of Spirulina (Arthrospira platensis) intake influence individual broiler meat quality parameters, nutritional value and health-related traits. The data analysed showed varying cumulative Spirulina intake levels, ranging from 3.46 to 521 g/bird, with large changes in meat traits. The key findings indicate that Spirulina intake significantly enhances meat colour, primarily due to its rich carotenoid content. However, this enhancement shows a saturation effect at higher intake levels, where additional Spirulina does not further improve the colour. Regarding the meat nutritional profile, Spirulina increases beneficial n - 3 polyunsaturated fatty acids and reduces lipid oxidation. These effects on meat, however, are not linear and become more complex at higher microalga intake levels. Regarding meat sensory attributes, moderate Spirulina levels positively influence flavour and texture. Still, higher levels may lead to changes not universally preferred by meat consumers, highlighting the need for balanced Spirulina inclusion in diets. Optimal Spirulina cumulative intake levels must be identified to balance meat's nutritional benefits with consumer preferences. Additionally, ensuring Spirulina's purity and adherence to regulatory standards is essential for consumer safety and market access. These findings provide valuable insights for poultry nutritionists and the food industry, emphasising the necessity of a balanced approach to Spirulina's incorporation in poultry diets.

Effects of dietary incorporation of sprouted and germinated barley on performance and carcass characteristics of cockerels

Effects of dietary incorporation of sprouted and germinated barley on performance and carcass characteristics of cockerels

Benefits of heat-killed Lactobacillus acidophilus on growth performance, nutrient digestibility, antioxidant status, immunity, and cecal microbiota of rabbits.

Heat-killed probiotics, as a type of inactivated beneficial microorganisms, possess an extended shelf life and broader adaptability compared to their live counterparts. This study aimed to investigate the impact of heat-killed Lactobacillus acidophilus (L. acidophilus, LA) - a deactivated probiotic on the growth performance, digestibility, antioxidant status, immunity and cecal microbiota of rabbits. Two hundred weaned Hyla rabbits were randomly allocated into five equal groups (CON, L200, L400, L600, and L800). Over a 28-day period, the rabbits were fed basal diets supplemented with 0, 200, 400, 600, and 800 mg/kg of heat-killed LA, respectively. Results revealed a significant reduction in the feed-to-gain ratio (F/G) in the L600 and L800 groups (p < 0.05). Additionally, the L800 group exhibited significantly higher apparent digestibility of crude fiber (CF) and crude protein (CP) (p < 0.05). Regarding digestive enzyme activities, enhanced trypsin and fibrinase activities were observed in the L600 and L800 groups (p < 0.05). Concerning the regulation of the body's antioxidant status, the L800 group demonstrated elevated levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) in both serum and ileal tissue (p < 0.05). In terms of immune capacity modulation, serum tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) levels were significantly lower in the L600 and L800 groups (p < 0.05), while immunoglobulin A (IgA) and immunoglobulin M (IgM) levels were higher (p < 0.05). Additionally, the L800 group exhibited a substantial increase in secretory immunoglobulin A (SIgA) levels in the intestinal mucosa (p < 0.05). In comparison to the CON group, the L800 group exhibited a significant increase in the relative abundance of Phascolarctobacterium and Alistipes in the cecum (p < 0.05). Phascolarctobacterium demonstrated a positive correlation with SIgA (p < 0.05), IgM (p < 0.01), and Glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) (p < 0.05), while displaying a negative correlation with TNF-α levels (p < 0.05). Concurrently, Alistipes exhibited positive correlations with IgA (p < 0.05), IgM (p < 0.05), SIgA (p < 0.01), GSH-Px (p < 0.05), SOD (p < 0.05), and T-AOC (p < 0.01), and a negative correlation with TNF-α (p < 0.05). In conclusion, the dietary incorporation of 600 mg/kg and 800 mg/kg of heat-killed LA positively influenced the growth performance, nutrient digestibility, antioxidant status, immune capacity and cecal microbiota of rabbits. This highlights the potential benefits of utilizing heat-killed probiotics in animal nutrition.