Pad Score Research Articles

Are turkey hens affected by light flicker? Effects on performance and health

Light flicker is a commonly overlooked factor of artificial light sources. This study aimed to determine the impacts of light-flicker frequency on performance, general health, and mortality of 11-wk Nicholas Select turkey hens. The experiment consisted of 2 trials (block) in a randomized complete block design, with 3 light-flicker frequency treatments (30, 90, or 195 Hz). Turkeys (n = 364 per replicate) were randomly placed into environmentally controlled rooms (3 room replicates per treatment per trial). Group body weight (BW) and feed consumption were measured at 0, 4, 8, and 11 wk, and feed efficiency (mortality corrected feed-to-gain; F:Gm) was calculated for each period. Mortality and culls were collected twice daily. Flock uniformity, feather condition and cleanliness, footpad score, and mobility were evaluated at 10 wk (30 birds per room). Litter quality and ocular weight and dimensions were evaluated (11 wk; 4 birds per room). Data were analyzed using Proc Mixed (SAS 9.4) and significance was declared when P < 0.05. At 8 wk, BW was lower under 30 Hz compared to 195 Hz (P = 0.03). Feed consumption was lowest under 30 Hz (0-4 wk and 4-8 wk; P < 0.01). Mortality-corrected F:G was improved under 30 Hz for 8 to 11 wk and 0 to 11 wk (P = 0.05 and P = 0.04, respectively). Total mortality was lower under 195 Hz compared to 30 Hz (P = 0.02). Uniformity, gait score, feather condition, and litter quality were unaffected by flicker. Footpad scores were improved under 90 Hz (P = 0.01), leading to an improved average footpad score (P = 0.02). Feather cleanliness was improved under 90 Hz compared to both 30 Hz and 195 Hz (P<0.01). Right eyeball dimensions differed across lighting treatments, with the dorso-ventral diameter being larger in birds under 30 Hz compared to 195 Hz (P = 0.05). The anterior-posterior size also increased in birds under 30 Hz compared to 90 Hz (P = 0.03). Light flicker impacted turkey hens, with the results demonstrating negative impacts on early growth and changes to ocular characteristics.

Perch use in 11-wk-old turkey hens: impact on performance, health, and behavior

Commercial turkeys are traditionally reared in floor barns, however, like most poultry species, turkeys display a natural desire to perch when given the opportunity. Perch use has typically been evaluated in laying hens, however due to size, weight, and postural differences, turkeys may have different preferences in perch design. The objectives were to examine perching preferences of turkey hens reared to 11 wk, as well as to examine the impact of perch use on hen health and performance. Nicholas Select (n=620) 11-d old turkey hens were randomly allocated to 20 pens (4 pen replicates/treatment) and assigned 1 of 5 perch design treatments (no perch (NP), 5 cm round dowel (5Rnd), 5 × 5 cm (5Sq), 10 × 5 cm (10Rec), or 15 × 5 cm (15Rec)). Data were analyzed via ANOVA as a complete randomized design, with significance declared when P≤0.05. Perch design did not affect hen performance or keel bone deviations and no fractures were found. Perching treatment had no effect on gait or footpad score at wk 7. At wk 11 gait scores were poorer in NP hens compared with 5Rnd (P=0.04) and footpad scores were poorer in NP hens compared with 15Rec (P=0.02). There were more turkey hens on the perch, as perch width increased at both 9 and 11 wk of age, demonstrating a preference for wider and flat perches. The results of this study demonstrate that turkeys will utilize perches when given the opportunity, with no detrimental effects seen on performance or bird health.

Quantitative analysis of biochemical characteristics and anti-cancer properties in MCF-7 breast cancer cell line: a comparative study between Ziziphus jujube honey and commercial honey.

There is increasing evidence that honey has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-cancer effects. This study aims to assess and contrast the cytotoxic, anti-metastatic, and apoptotic effects of Ziziphus jujube honey and commercial honey on MCF7 cells. Two honey samples, Ziziphus jujube (JH) and commercial honey (CH), were categorized into high and low groups based on their phenolic content, antioxidant capacity, and diastase activity(PAD score). The viability and migration ability of MCF-7 cells treated with JH and CH were evaluated. Also, quantitative polymerase chain reaction (Q-PCR) was performed to assess the effect of the two honey samples on the expression of Bax, p53,p21 and Bcl-2 genes. JH had a total phenolic content of 606.4 ± 0.1µg gallic acid equivalent/mg, while CH had a value of 112.1 ± 0.09µg gallic acid equivalent/mg. The total antioxidant capacity of the two samples was compared. It was 203.5 ± 10.5µM/l in JH and 4.6 ± 10.5 µM/l in CH. In addition, JH had a diastatic activity of 524.1 ± 0.25 U/l, while CH had a value of 209.7 ± 0.56 U/l. According to the results, JH had a high PAD value, while CH had a low PAD value. Cell viability was measured using the results of the MTT assay. The results showed that JH inhibited the growth of MCF-7 cells more strongly (IC50 of 170 ± 4.2µg/ml) than CH (IC50 of 385.3 ± 4.5µg/l). The scratch assay showed that treatment with JH decreased the migration rate of MCF-7 cells in a dose-dependent manner compared to the CH and control groups. In addition, the results of q-PCR analysis showed significant upregulation of Bax, p53 and p21genes and downregulation of Bcl-2 gene in the JH-treated group compared to the CH and control groups. These results showed that honey with an increased content of phenolic compounds, antioxidant capacity, and diastatic activity has anticancer properties by effectively suppressing tumor development. This suppression occurs via several mechanisms, including suppression of proliferation and metastasis, and promotion of apoptosis.

Use of wheat dilution to improve digestive function in broilers: application in low protein diets

ABSTRACT 1. This study evaluated the effect of wheat dilution increasing in particle size in low crude protein diets on growth performance, digestive tract, nitrogen efficiency and litter quality in broiler chickens. 2. Ross 308 male broiler chicks (n = 336) were allocated to one of four dietary treatments (each with 7 pens, 12 chicks per pen); Control (CON; commercial pellet diet with standard crude protein, CP: 22.50%), W578 (CON +20% wheat of geometric mean diameter (GMD) of 578 µm; CP: 20.25%), W1326 (CON +20% wheat of GMD 1326 µm; CP: 20.25%) and WW (CON +20% whole wheat, CP: 20.25%), from d 0 to 21 of age. 3. Body weight gain was increased (P < 0.05) for birds fed CON compared to the low crude protein diets. However, WW increased (P < 0.05) body weight gain compared to W578 and W1326, while feed intake and feed conversion ratio on CON and WW were similar (P > 0.05). Birds fed W1326 showed the poorest (P < 0.05) FCR compared to CON, W578 and WW. 4. Gizzard relative weight (g/kg body weight) was increased (P < 0.05) on WW compared to CON on d 14 and 21, whereas gastric isthmus diameter was significantly reduced on W1326 and WW compared with CON and W578. 5. There were no differences (P > 0.05) in the depth of gizzard mucosa of lamina propria between CON and WW at d 14 and 21. Birds fed WW increased (P < 0.05) gizzard tensile strength compared to W578 and W1326, whereas no difference was observed between WW and CON on d 14. 6. No significant differences were seen for ileum villus height and mucosal layer between CON and WW on d 21, however, feeding CON increased the extent of the mucosal layer compared to W578 and W1326. 7. Nitrogen excretion (g/kg BWG) was significantly lower (P > 0.05) on W1326 and WW compared with CON and W578. Litter nitrogen, moisture, and footpad scores significantly decreased (P < 0.05) for birds fed WW compared with CON. 8. Diluting dietary protein content from 22.50 to 20.25% resulted in lower body weight gain in broilers. However, dilution with whole wheat resulted in comparable FCR, reduced nitrogen excretion, litter moisture and footpad dermatitis compared with a standard protein diet.

Efficacy of oat hulls varying in particle size in mitigating performance deterioration in broilers fed low-density crude protein diets

Dietary fibres with increased particle size may develop foregut more efficiently in meat poultry fed diets moderately low in crude protein. The study investigated the performance of broilers fed low-density crude protein diets with the inclusion of oat hulls increasing in particle size. Ross 308 male broiler chicks (n=336) were divided into 48 pens, 12 pens per treatment (7 chicks per pen). Pens were allocated to 4 dietary treatments in mash form; positive control (PC), a standard crude protein diet, negative control (NC), around 5% lower in protein with 5% celite as an inert material, OH400: 5% lower protein diet with 5% oat hulls of geometric mean diameter (GMD) 400 µm, OH850: 5% lower protein diet with 5% oat hulls of GMD 850µm. Birds were fed ad libitum from d 1 to 35 in 3 phases; starter: d 0 to 10, grower: d 10 to 24 and finisher: d 24 to 35. Growth performance was calculated at the end of the trial. Two birds per pen were sampled on d 24 and 35 to collect data on proventriculus and gizzard weights and pooled ileal digesta. Apparent ileal digestibility of amino acids on d 24, and metabolizable energy on d 24 and 35 were recorded for each pen. Litter was sampled from each pen on d 34 to analyze litter N and moisture content. Footpad dermatitis scores of all birds per pen were recorded on d 35. Overall, no difference (P > 0.05) in body weight gain and feed intake was found between the treatments. However, NC and OH400 showed poorer FCR than PC, whereas FCR on PC and OH850 was similar (P > 0.05). Gizzard absolute weight and relative to body weight, and gizzard to proventriculus ratio were higher (P < 0.05) on OH850 compared to PC and NC on d 24 and 35. Gizzard digesta particle size was reduced (P < 0.05) on OH850 compared to all other diets on d 24 and 35. Amino acids digestibility coefficients for aspartic acid and valine increased (P < 0.05) in birds fed OH850 compared to PC, whereas coefficients for several other amino acids were improved compared to NC and OH400. The apparent ileal digestibility of metabolizable energy was similar (P > 0.05) between PC and OH850. Litter moisture and nitrogen, and footpad dermatitis scores were reduced (P < 0.05) on OH850 compared to PC. In conclusion, the inclusion of coarse oat hulls of GMD 850 µm in low-density crude protein diets can be beneficial for the broilers in developing the foregut, utilizing the nutrients efficiently and reducing litter nitrogen and moisture, and footpad scores.

Influence of Insoluble Dietary Fibre on Expression of Pro-Inflammatory Marker Genes in Caecum, Ileal Morphology, Performance, and Foot Pad Dermatitis in Broiler.

Simple SummaryThe objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of three different insoluble dietary fibre sources regarding their effect on growth performance, as well as foot pad dermatitis and physiological relevant parameters of the gastro-intestinal tract. The results showed that in the grower phase, supplementation of each fibre source improved body weights and weight gain. Moreover, the intestinal morphology and foot pad dermatitis were positively affected by moderate amounts of dietary fibre. Hence, this study indicates that the supplementation of moderate amounts of insoluble dietary fibre to diets, low in dietary fibre, triggers positive effects on foot pad dermatitis, ileal morphometrics, and specific performance parameters.In a low-fibre diet destined for broilers, the effects of two lignocellulose products and soybean hulls were evaluated regarding their effect on ileal morphometric parameters, caecal gene expression, foot pad dermatitis, and performance. A total of 5040-day-old broilers (Ross 308) were allotted to four treatments and fattened for 36 days applying a three-phase feeding program. The control diet consisted of corn, wheat, and soybean meal. Experimental diets were supplemented with 0.8% lignocellulose product 1, 0.8% lignocellulose product 2, or 1.6% soybean hulls. Tissue samples for caecal expression of inflammation-related genes and ileal morphometries were collected on day 21. Gizzard pH and weights were recorded, and foot pad scores were evaluated at day of slaughter (day 36). In starter (day 1–10) and finisher phase (day 28–36), no effect on the performance was observed. In grower phase (day 11–27), fibre-supplemented diets showed significantly heavier body weights and daily weight gains (p < 0.05). Daily feed intake, feed conversion ratio, and gene expression analysis were unaffected by dietary fibre supplementation. Positive effects regarding ileal morphometrics (higher villi) and foot pad health occurred in fibre-supplemented diets. In conclusion, fibre supplementation improved performance in grower phase and showed beneficial effects regarding ileal morphology and foot pad dermatitis.

Increasing mud levels in a feedlot influences beef cattle behaviours but not preference for feedlot or pasture environments

Public scrutiny surrounds the intensive feedlot finishing of beef cattle, likely due to the assumption that cattle cannot perform their full repertoire of natural behaviours. However, it is not well-known how certain aspects of the environment influence both cattle perception of a feedlot environment and the behaviours they perform within it, particularly with increasing levels of mud. The objective of this study was to perform a Y-maze test to assess the preference of Angus steers for either a pasture environment or a feedlot at three pad scores, which were based on increasing mud depth relative to the cattle’s hoof and leg. Cattle were tested both morning and afternoon for ten consecutive days, with lying behaviours and number of steps measured using IceQube® accelerometers. Here we show that day affected cattle’s preference for pasture versus feedlot environments, with choice alternating between consecutive days (P < 0.001), and cattle also exhibited a preference for pasture at night (P = 0.04). Although the paddock environment was preferred at all pad scores, increasing mud level did not significantly influence the preference of cattle for either environment (P = 0.39), and it is likely that both environments contained rewarding stimuli. There was a significant interaction between pad score and location for lying behaviours and number of steps taken (all P < 0.001), with the highest pad score being associated with reductions in these behaviours within the feedlot. Evidence of a rebound effect for lying behaviours in the paddock for this pad score indicates that high levels of mud may negatively impact welfare when no alternative space to lie is provided.

Influence of Using Perforated Plastic Flooring Beneath the Waterline on Growth Performance, Litter Quality, and Footpad Health of Broiler Chickens: A Field Study.

Simple SummaryThe standard housing method in Europe’s poultry farming is to keep broilers on a littered concrete floor. Therefore, wood shavings are used to catch moisture to prevent wet litter. In particular, the broilers frequently visit the wet area beneath the waterline, where the wet litter causes the main problem in footpad health and animal welfare. The current study tested the impact of slatted flooring beneath the waterline by dividing the barn into three areas (drinkers, feeders, comfort) in terms of growth performance, litter quality, and footpad health of the broilers. The quality of the litter was assessed on the basis of different parameters, for example, dry matter. No effect on growth performance between a littered floor and partially slatted flooring was noted. However, the litter parameters show a small positive impact on the litter quality, especially in the areas of drinkers and comfort, while using partially slatted flooring. Nevertheless, the slatted flooring had an impact on the footpad health of the broilers, with a lower FPD score at the end of the fattening period.The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of slatted flooring beneath waterlines in broiler barns on litter quality and, subsequently, footpad health. The hypothesis tested was that installing slatted flooring underneath waterlines helps to improve litter quality and thus reduces footpad diseases, enhancing animal welfare as a result. Five experimental runs with two groups were conducted. Each run was defined as one fattening period of 32 days and consisted of 15,000 broiler Ross 308 of both sexes. Every barn was divided into three areas (drinkers, feeders, and comfort area) for weekly sampling. No influence on growth performance was noted. The slatted flooring influenced the litter quality by preventing the litter in the experimental group (EG = 690 ± 167 g/kg DM) from becoming moisture until day 14 of the fattening period compared to the control group (CON = 636 ± 198 g/kg DM). The footpad health was also influenced by using slatted flooring, with lower camera-based footpad scores in the EG (8.80) compared to CON (22.0) at the slaughterhouse (p = 0.0258). Installing slatted flooring beneath the waterline reduced the moisture of the litter compared to the control barn in the first two weeks of age and showed a positive effect on the footpad health of the broilers at the end of fattening, which indicates an improvement in animal welfare.

Perch use in commercial broiler breeders – Preference for perch material and effect of age

Unlike for laying hens in most European countries, few broiler breeders have access to perches, and there is a need for more knowledge on perching behavior in broiler breeders. The aim of this study was to investigate the overall use of perches by broiler breeders throughout the production period and to investigate preferences for different perch materials in a commercial setting. Four breeder flocks (Ross 308, n = 2, Ranger Gold, n = 1, Hubbard JA 757, n = 1) were each given five different perches. Four of the perches (each 6 m long) were placed on the elevated slats; steel round, steel square, plastic and wooden perch, while the three Siesta perches (plastic, 15 cm high) were placed in the litter area. From week 30, one of the Siesta perches (3 m long) was placed on the elevated slats. Perch use was recorded by counting number of birds on the perches during the last hour before the light went off, once in week 20, 25, 30, 40, 45 and 50. Footpad dermatitis were scored at end of lay in 100 random hens across the house. Overall, perching behavior was constant with age, and there were no significant differences between the flocks with regards to perch use (birds/m perch). At 20 weeks of age, the square steel perches were most used (0.90 birds/m perch) and the wooden perches were the least used (0.41 birds/m perch) (P = 0.09). From week 30, more birds were perching on the Siesta perches on the slats (1.6 birds/m perch) compared to all other types of perches (P < 0.003). There was no relationship between body weight and footpad score (P > 0.05). The average perch use in the present study was only 0.44 birds/m perch which is a capacity utilization of less than 10 %. The Siesta perch on the elevated slats was the most popular perch, possibly due to its height. In conclusion, broiler breeders use perches, but perch type and placement of the perches must be considered carefully.

Lighting programme as a management tool for broilers raised without antibiotics – impact on productivity and welfare

ABSTRACT 1. This study investigated the impact of photoperiod on the productivity and welfare of broilers reared without antibiotics (RWA). 2. A total of 8,064 mixed sex Ross 308 broilers were allocated to two trials. Lighting treatments were 14L:10D, 17L:7D, 20L:4D or 23L:1D. 3. Significance defined when P ≤ 0.05 and trends noted when P ≤ 0.10. Highest body weights and feed consumption were found in the 4D treatment. Longer dark periods resulted in improved feed conversion. Uniformity was improved with 1D. 4. Heterophil/lymphocyte ratios were highest in birds reared on 1D. Longer photoperiods negatively impacted gait and footpad scores. Birds spent more time performing feeding behaviours under longer photoperiods. Birds reared under 1 and 10D spent more time standing while those under 4 and 7D spent more time preening. Birds raised on 4D spent more time environmental pecking, while object pecking occurred more under 10D. Condemnations were lowest in birds reared under 7D. 5. In conclusion, rearing RWA broilers on longer photoperiods negatively impacted welfare, as indicated by poorer mobility, higher stress, more severe footpad lesions, and altered behaviour.

Evaluating the effects of stocking density on the behavior, health, and welfare of turkey hens to 11 weeks of age

Nicholas Select hens (n = 3,550 poults in each of 2 experimental trials) were randomly placed in 1 of 4 stocking density (SD) treatments of 30, 40, 50, or 60 kg/m2 until 11 wk. Birds were housed in open rooms (67.5 m2) with 4 replications per treatment. Ventilation was adjusted in each room independently to ensure air quality measures did not differ across replicate rooms. At wk 8 and 11, footpad lesions, mobility, feather cover and cleanliness, behavior (recorded), and litter moisture were evaluated. Incidences of aggressive pecking were recorded daily. Heterophil/lymphocyte (H/L) ratios were evaluated at 3, 5, 8, and 11 wk. Data were analyzed using regression analyses in SAS 9.4 (Proc Reg and Proc RSReg; SD as independent variable). Differences were considered significant when P ≤ 0.05. Gait scores were not affected by SD. Average footpad scores worsened with increasing SD at wk 8 (linear) but were not affected at wk 11. Total feather cover scores and average feather cleanliness were poorer at high SD (linear) at wk 8 and 11. The incidence of aggressive pecking and culls for aggressive damage decreased linearly as SD increased. At 5 (linear) and 11 (quadratic) wk, H/L ratios increased as SD increased. At 8 wk, H/L ratios were highest in the 40 kg/m2 treatment (quadratic). At 8 wk, the percentage of birds at the feeder, resting, and total disturbances linearly increased as SD increased. The percentage of birds standing, walking, and litter pecking decreased linearly with increasing SD, while total aggressive behaviors (sum of fighting and aggressive pecking) decreased (quadratic). At 11 wk, the percentage of birds at the drinker, and decreased with increasing SD while resting, feather pecking, and severe disturbances increased as SD increased. Litter moisture increased linearly with increasing SD (wk 11). Turkey hen health and welfare were negatively impacted by higher SD. At low SD, there was notably more aggression which may also impact welfare.

Feeding guanidinoacetic acid to broiler chickens can compensate for low dietary metabolisable energy formulation

ABSTRACT 1. This study compared the responses of broilers to diets supplemented with the same level of guanidinoacetic acid (GAA) but formulated to have different N-corrected apparent metabolisable energy (AMEn) contents. The study involved 1280, one-day-old Ross 308 broilers, in 64 pens comprising 32 pens of males and 32 pens females, (20 birds in each) aged from 0 to 42 d. 2. Commercial AME levels of 12.55 MJ/kg, 12.97 MJ/kg and 13.18 MJ/kg in the starter, grower and finisher diets, respectively, were set for the positive control (PC) feed. Four dietary treatments were prepared: PC (as above); negative control 1 (NC; PC – 0.21 MJ ME /kg); NC1 + 0.06% GAA; NC2 (PC – 0.42 MJ ME/kg + 0.06% GAA). Each diet was provided in 16 pens (eight male and eight female), following randomisation. 3. Overall, birds fed NC1 had lower feed intakes (FI) compared to birds fed the PC and NC2+ GAA, lower weight gain (WG) compared to all the other diets and lower final body weight than birds fed the GAA diets (P < 0.05). There was a diet x sex interaction (P = 0.039), whereby feeding NC+GAA to female birds improved feed efficiency compared to being fed NC2 and NC1+ GAA, but not in males. Birds fed diets with GAA had a higher poultry efficiency factor (P < 0.001) than those fed NC1. 4. There were no effects of treatment or sex on litter moisture, footpad score, white striping, wooden breast, AMEn, dry matter and fat retention (P > 0.05). However, the diet NC1+ GAA had 11.2% higher nitrogen retention coefficient compared to the NC1 diet (P = 0.038). 5. Overall, the results implied that lower performance induced by a reduction of dietary AMEn in the range of 0.21 to 0.42 MJ/kg was more than compensated by supplementing 600 g/t GAA to the feed.

Spirulina platensis meal inclusion effects on broilers fed a reduced protein diet

Apart from soybean meal, alternative sources of protein are a long-term concern facing commercial broiler producers. These alternative protein sources must be rich in protein, have a balanced amino acid profile, be highly digestible, be nutritionally safe for the bird, and ideally contain some other intrinsic value. Spirulina platensis is a microalgae that is growing in popularity due to its high protein level, health benefits, and environmental impact. Two experiments (in female and male Ross 708 broilers) were conducted to determine the effect of Spirulina inclusion in reduced crude protein diets on broiler growth, carcass yields, breast fillet color, breast myopathy, and footpad quality. The results showed that lowering crude protein impaired carcass yield in both experiments, while hindering growth performance more in male birds than female birds. Spirulina inclusion at 10% in a reduced protein diet improved footpad score in male broilers and increased meat and skin pigmentation in all birds. The inclusion of Spirulina into a commercial setting will always be driven by costs, but this study aids in expanding fundamental research to make that possible.

Effect of light sources on productivity, welfare aspects, and economic evaluation of commercial layers

The present study was aimed to evaluate the influence of incandescent, fluorescent, and light emitting diode (LED) lights on the productive efficiency and economic aspects of laying hens. For this, 216 laying hens were distributed into three groups of light sources with six replicates each. Each replicate consisted of 12 birds. The data were analyzed in SAS 9.1 (SAS InstituteInc., Cary, NC, USA) by applying one-way ANOVA technique, and significant means were compared through least significant difference test. In the present study, LED light significantly improved the body weight, body weight gain, percentage of egg production, FCR per dozen and FCR per kg egg mass. All parameters for egg quality (excluding egg yolk index and Haugh unit) and egg geometry (including egg shape index, egg surface and volume) were affected by light sources at 24th week, while significant effects were recorded at egg quality (excluding egg Haugh unit and yolk index) and egg geometry (excluding egg volume) at 32nd weeks. Physiological norms (except heartbeat) and welfare aspects (except footpad score) were not affected by light sources; however, footpad score at 32nd week and heartbeat at 17th and 32nd week were significantly better in the pullets under LED lights. Reproductive hormones and metabolic enzymes (T3, T4, GnRH, LH, FSH, and cortisol including catalase enzyme) were significantly better in the birds kept under LED light at the 20th and 32nd weeks. The present findings suggested that productive parameters and reproductive traits, welfare aspects, hormonal profile as well as overall economics of layer production varied significantly based on light sources, and LEDs positively exceeded the fluorescent as well as incandescent light sources.

Orange corn diets associated with lower severity of footpad dermatitis in broilers

Footpad dermatitis (FPD), damage and inflammation of the plantar surface of the foot, is of concern for poultry because FPD affects the birds' welfare and production value. Footpad dermatitis is painful and causes costly chicken paw downgrades, carcass condemnations, and reduced live weights. However, a universal preventative has not been found. The hypothesis was that diets containing orange corn, when compared with diets containing yellow or white corn, would reduce the severity of footpad dermatitis in broiler chickens on wet litter. When compared with yellow and white corn, orange corn contains higher quantities of carotenoids, antioxidant pigments, believed to play a role in skin and feather health. This experiment was a randomized block, 3 × 2 factorial design: orange, yellow, and white corn diets with birds raised on wet or dry litter (control group). Female Ross 708 broilers (n = 960) were used to create 4 replicates of each diet x litter treatment combination. Footpads were scored at day 19, 27, 35, and 42, following the Global Animal Partnership standard's 0–2 scale of visual increasing severity: 0 indicates minimal damage and 1 and 2 indicate mild to severe lesions and ulceration, dark papillae, and/or bumble foot. At 42 d of age, birds on the wet litter had greater severity of FPD, scores 1 and 2, compared with the control group (88 vs. 13% respectively; P < 0.0001). At 42 d of age, prevalence of more severe footpad scores, 1 or 2, was lowest on the orange corn diet (33%), followed by white corn (56%) and yellow corn (63%). Birds fed the orange corn diet had higher BW throughout the study (P = 0.004) and had fat pads and livers with higher yellow pigment deposition (P < 0.005). Litter moisture content altered microbiome composition but corn type did not. In conclusion, the main determinant of FPD in this study was exposure to wet litter. When compared with yellow and white corn, orange corn was associated with improved bird growth and reduced severity of footpad dermatitis, especially at later time points.

Infrapatellar fat pad abnormalities are associated with a higher inflammatory synovial fluid cytokine profile in young adults following ACL tear

To evaluate the degree of knee fat pad abnormalities after acute anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear via magnetic resonance fat pad scoring and to assess cross-sectionally its association with synovial fluid biomarkers and with early cartilage damage as quantified via T1ρ and T2 relaxation time measurements. 26 patients with acute ACL tears underwent 3T MR scanning of the injured knee prior to ACL reconstruction. The presence and degree of abnormalities of the infrapatellar (IPFP) and the suprapatellar (SPFP) fat pads were scored on MR images along with grading of effusion-synovitis and synovial proliferations. Knee cartilage composition was assessed by 3T MR T1ρ and T2 mapping in six knee compartments. We quantified concentrations of 20 biomarkers in synovial fluid aspirated at the time of ACL reconstruction. Spearman rank partial correlations with adjustments for age and gender were employed to evaluate correlations of MR, particularly cartilage composition and fat pad abnormalities, and biomarker data. The degree of IPFP abnormality correlated positively with the synovial levels of the inflammatory cytokine markers IFN-γ (ρpartial=0.64, 95% CI (0.26-0.85)), IL-10 (ρpartial=0.47, 95% CI (0.04-0.75)), IL-6 (ρpartial=0.56, 95% CI (0.16-0.81)), IL-8 (ρpartial=0.49, 95% CI (0.06-0.76)), TNF-α (ρpartial=0.55, 95% CI (0.14-0.80)) and of the chondrodestructive markers MMP-1 and -3 (MMP-1: ρpartial=0.57, 95% CI (0.17-0.81); MMP-3: ρpartial=0.60, 95% CI (0.21-0.83)). IPFP abnormalities were significantly associated with higher T1ρ and T2 values in the trochlear cartilage (T1ρ: ρpartial=0.55, 95% CI (0.15-0.80); T2: ρpartial=0.58, 95% CI (0.18-0.81)) and with higher T2 values in the medial femoral, medial tibial as well as in patellar cartilage (0.45≤ρpartial≤0.59). Correlations between SPFP abnormalities and synovial markers were not significant except for IL-6 (ρpartial=0.57, 95% CI (0.17-0.81)). This exploratory study suggests that acute ACL rupture can be associated with damage to knee tissues such as the inferior fat pad of the knee. Such fat pad injury could be partially responsible for the apparent post-injury pro-inflammatory response noted in ACL-injured individuals. However, future longitudinal studies are needed to link ACL-rupture associated fat pad injury with important patient outcomes such as the development of posttraumatic osteoarthritis.

사료 에너지 수준과 깔짚 종류가 한협 3호 육계의 암·수별 성장, 육질, Foot Pad Score에 미치는 영향

사료 에너지 수준과 깔짚 종류가 한협 3호 육계의 암·수별 성장, 육질, Foot Pad Score에 미치는 영향

Effects of different litter substrates and induced molt on production performance and welfare quality parameters of white Leghorn hens housed in multi-tiered aviary system.

More than 90% of the commercial egg production in the United States is pledged to be in cage-free systems by 2025. Management practices like induced molting and litter area management have come under scrutiny because of the housing system change. The aim of this study was to determine the welfare and production implications of different litter substrates and also evaluate induced molting of hens in a cage-free system. Bovan White hens were housed in a multi-tier aviary system with daily access to open litter area of either Astroturf (AT), wood shavings (SH), or straw (ST) and bare concrete floor (CO) serving as control. At 68 wk of age, molt was induced in half of the hens whereas the other half continued without molting to 116 wk. Production and welfare parameters were measured periodically throughout first and second cycles. Litter substrate did not influence hen-day production and case-weight measurements. However, CO had the lowest total number of eggs produced during the first cycle (P < 0.05). Hen-day percentage was approximately 14% greater in molted hens during the second cycle with egg case weight being heavier in non-molt hens toward the end of second cycle (P < 0.05). The only welfare parameter influenced by litter substrate during the first cycle was a greater crop feather loss in AT than ST at mid-lay (P < 0.05). Keel deformations increased with age irrespective of the litter substrate with 91.5% of palpated hens having keel deformations at the end of first cycle (P < 0.05). Molting did not influence the keel palpation and footpad scores whereas frequency of moderate comb wound was greater in molt hens during molt (P < 0.05). Severe feather loss was seen in non-molt hens during the second cycle (P < 0.05). Litter substrate does not affect production and physical parameters of welfare of hens in a multi-tier aviary system. Additionally, induced molting can be successfully carried out in the multi-tier cage-free system.

Testicular histomorphometrics including Sertoli cell quantitation for evaluating hatchability and fertility issues in commercial breeder-broiler roosters

Testicular histomorphometric methods were developed for the investigation of fertility and hatchability problems in commercial broiler-breeder roosters. Sertoli cell (SC) evaluations were emphasized in view of their role in influencing embryonic testicular organogenesis and spermatogenesis in adults. H&E stained sections prepared from formalized tissues were examined. SC evaluations were mostly made from computer generated images using image analysis software, but were also compared to direct counting with ocular grid reticle. Other measurements were germinal epithelial and total seminiferous tubule widths, quantification of individual spermatozoa and sperm clusters, and determinations of stromal area. Age-associated changes in SC occurred between 15 to 54 wk of age. A significant reduction in SC concentration occurred at 29 wk of age (P < 0.001) that corresponded with the histologic initiation of spermatogenesis. Expanded morphometric evaluations were performed on 59-week-old roosters comparing a flock having good body condition and footpad scores with normal testicular and body weights (optimal profile or OP group) to a second flock demonstrating relatively poor expression of these parameters and decreased fertility (sub-optimal profile or SOP group). Significant reductions (P < 0.05) in SC concentration, spermatozoa, and tubular widths, but an increased percentage of stroma area occurred in SOP compared to OP flocks. SC results also correlated well with testes weight. A unique finding was a significant relationship between decreasing SC concentration and increasing severity scores for footpad lesions. Differences in all histomorphometric parameters occurred between flocks demonstrating good hatchability compared to flocks exhibiting either low or decreasing hatchability. Significant reductions in SC and other morphometric parameters were observed for the poor relative to good hatchability group. A strong positive association was observed for SC results using computer generated images and direct reticle ocular counting (R = 0.80). Replicate counts on control sections demonstrated generally good reproducibility of methods between experiments. The findings are supportive of the value of testicular histomorphometrics for evaluations of hatchability issues in commercial roosters.

Prevalence of foot disorders in captive Sardinian partridges (Alectoris barbara barbara Bonnaterre, 1790) as useful indicators of fitness to natural environment.

Foot health represents an issue in wild avifauna breeding practices. In particular, prevalence of digital ulceration (DU) and foot pad dermatitis (FPD) are valid indicators of welfare in wildlife conservation centres and may be interpreted as to fitness for bird's reintroduction into the wild. This study meant to test the effects of raising practices on foot pad health in captive Sardinian partridges (Alectoris barbara barbara Bonnaterre, 1790) reared for biodiversity conservation, to assess welfare and fitness to reintroduction into nature. A total of 22 couples were allotted into two experimental groups. In one group, 10 couples were housed in 10 cages for breeding partridges, consisting of two animals each, with metal wire flooring system, above trays where droppings were collected. The remaining 12 couples were housed in six aviaries, consisting of four animals each, on natural (earth and stones) ground. In both groups, partridges were fed identical diets. No significant differences of food pad scoring were found between birds housed in cages (2.3±0.4) and those reared in aviaries on natural ground (2.5±0.6). Moreover, scores of male foot pads for both groups (2.4±0.6) had no significant differences in comparison with female foot pads, independently on housing (2.5±0.4). Body mass (BM) was higher (+4.36%) than average BM reported for wild Sardinian partridges. Digital ulceration was found in the 20% of females, exclusively from the cage group. Body mass of females in cages with metal wire flooring appeared to be significantly (p<.001) and negatively correlated (r=-.528) with DU prevalence. These results suggest that housing conditions impacts differently on behaviour of females and males in one same couple, and this relates to foot health, in particular as to DU prevalence.