Albumen Height Research Articles

The effect of season on internal quality of backyard turkey eggs using discriminant canonical analysis

This study is aimed to define the effect of season on internal turkey eggs produced in backyard systems. To this goal, a total of 197 turkey eggs from Andalusian hens were continuously collected throughout 15 months to study internal quality attributes. A discriminant canonical analysis was performed considering season as the dependent variable and these quality attributes as independent variables. Yolk weight was discarded from analysis due to multicollinearity problems (VIF > 5), and then, statistically explanatory variables were obtained (p < .05). All colour yolk traits, including yolk colorimetric (lightness, redness and yellowness axes) and DSM® fan performed as discriminating variables. Moreover, the yield of egg components (yolk diameter and albumen weight) and almost every shell trait (shell strength, thickness and resistance area) were powerful explanatory variables as well. Albumen height and pH were reported explanatory variables, but possibly due to the effect of the environment from laying to egg collection. Results obtained show a great adaptation of this genotype to its traditional environment and rearing conditions. This study provides the first description of the effect of season on internal food quality attributes of turkey eggs and would provide a better understanding of egg production in organic-like systems. Moreover, the results of this study represent a step forward in the procedures for the institutional recognition of the breed. Highlights Internal egg quality attributes in turkey species vary throughout seasons and serve as explanatory variables in the discriminant canonical analysis. Eggs laid in different seasons can be successfully classified attending to the variance of their internal egg characteristics. Yolk colour attributes, particularly yolk yellowness (b*), showed great explanatory properties, which evidences different trends in pasture availability and consumption during the year. General internal quality did not decline during the summer, which evidences the great adaptation of the Andalusian turkey breed to its environment. Effects of climate change are visible in egg quality in organic-like rearing systems.

Effects of Housing Systems on Production Performance, Egg Quality, Tonic Immobility and Feather Score in Laying Hens.

This study was designed to investigate the effects of different housing systems on production performance, egg quality and welfare in laying hens. One hundred and twenty 42-week-old "Atak S" laying hens, purchased from a manufacturing company, were randomly assigned to 4 housing systems: conventional cages, furnished cages, deep-litter system and free-range. Each system housed 30 hens, which were kept in these systems for 6 weeks. Parameters regarding production performance, egg quality, plumage condition scores and tonic immobility were assessed at the end of the housing period. Egg production and egg mass were lower in cage-free rearing systems than in caged systems. Mean egg weight in free-range hens, and albumen height and Haugh unit in deep-litter hens, were lower than in other housing systems. Eggshell weight in hens housed in furnished cages was greater than in free-range hens, while eggshell strength was better compared to that of hens in conventional cages. The housing system did not impact fearfulness; however, the deep-litter housing increased the sensitivity to touch or capture. Whole body and regional plumage condition scores of free-range hens elicited more favourable results than those kept in conventional cages. Because the plumage condition indicates welfare, the results proved the superiority of free-range over conventional rearing regarding welfare. Concerning the parameters, such as egg production, animal welfare and fear level, overall data revealed the pros and cons of all housing systems investigated. We consider that this study's findings might contribute to the researchers and breeders seeking alternative housing for laying hens.

Microwave spectroscopy in a free-space arrangement for nondestructive quality assessment of chicken eggs: Comparing different measurement modes and feature selection approaches

A free-space dielectric arrangement with X-band coaxial-to-waveguide adapters was used to non-destructively assess shell egg quality. Scattering parameters in the microwave spectral range (8–12 GHz) were measured in reflectance and transmittance modes from eggs placed in three orientations. Partial least squares regression was applied to predict egg quality indices, including air cell height (ACH), yolk coefficient (YC), thick albumen height (TAH), Haugh unit (HU), and albumen pH. Prioritizing PR_S22 spectrum in horizontal 1 orientation, several feature selection methods were employed to identify the most effective frequencies. Artificial neural networks (ANNs) were then used to develop predictive models based on influential frequencies. The competitive adaptive reweighted sampling method consistently outperformed others, yielding robust ANN models with excellent residual predictive deviation values of 4.80, 4.00, 3.27, 3.03, and 3.72 for ACH, YC, TAH, HU, and albumen pH, respectively. This study demonstrates the effectiveness of free-space dielectric arrangements in predicting egg quality.

Xylanase and phytase supplementation of Moringa oleifera diets: effects on the performance, egg quality and blood profile of laying hens

Context Moringa oleifera leaves present enormous potential as an alternative feedstuff for laying hens. The utilisation of the leaves can be improved by exogenous enzymes owing to the presence of non-starch polysaccharides and phytate. Aims This study evaluated the influence of Moringa oleifera leaf meal (MOL) in diets supplemented with xylanase and phytase on laying hen performance and egg quality at peak production. Methods In total, 288 Dekalb White laying hens (32 weeks old) were distributed in a completely randomised design, following a 2 × 4 factorial arrangement (with or without MOL × 4 enzyme supplementations). Each treatment comprised six repetitions, each containing six hens. The control diet was based on ground corn and soybean meal, and the treatment diets were supplemented with 5% MOL, followed by three enzyme additives (xylanase, phytase and a xylanase + phytase blend). Key results The enzyme supplementation in MOL diets positively influenced egg production (P = 0.012), egg weight (P = 0.021) and egg mass (P = 0.009). The birds offered xylanase-supplemented diets had higher feed intakes (P = 0.015) than did those fed other diets. Moringa oleifera increased the albumen height (P &lt; 0.001) and Haugh unit (P &lt; 0.001), whereas MOL and phytase improved eggshell thickness (P &lt; 0.001) and the candling score (P = 0.049), compared with treatments without phytase supplementation. MOL and enzyme supplementation improved yolk colour intensity (L, A and R parameters) and decreased plasma total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol concentrations. The inclusion of 5% MOL in diets did not impair laying performance. However, when MOL diets were supplemented with exogenous enzymes, there was an increase in egg weight. Conclusions MOL can be included at 5% in layer diets without affecting performance. When used in combination with xylanase and phytase, they improve performance, intensify yolk colour, and improve shell thickness, candling score, as well as serum biochemical profile. Implications These findings suggest that the combination of dietary MOL + xylanase + phytase can improve performance and egg quality in laying hens at peak production.

Bile acid disorders and intestinal barrier dysfunction are involved in the development of fatty liver in laying hens

The pathogenesis of fatty liver is highly intricate. The role of the gut-liver axis in the development of fatty liver has gained increasing recognition in recent years. This study was conducted to explore the role of bile acid signaling and gut barrier in the pathogenesis of fatty liver. A total of 100 “Jing Tint 6” laying hens, 56-week-old, were used and fed basal diets until 60 weeks of age. At the end of the experiment, thirty individuals were selected based on the degree of hepatic steatosis. The hens with minimal hepatic steatosis (< 5 %) were chosen as healthy controls, while those with severe steatosis (> 33 %) in the liver were classified as the fatty liver group. Laying hens with fatty liver and healthy controls showed significant differences in body weight, liver index, abdominal fat ratio, feed conversion ratio (FCR), albumin height, Haugh unit, and biochemical indexes. The results of bile acid metabolomics revealed a clear separation in hepatic bile acid profiles between the fatty liver group and healthy controls, and multiple secondary bile acids were decreased in the fatty liver group, indicating disordered bile acid metabolism. Additionally, the mRNA levels of farnesoid X receptor (FXR) and genes related to bile acid transport were significantly decreased in both the liver and terminal ileum of hens with fatty liver. Moreover, the laying hens with fatty liver exhibited significant decreases in ileal crypt depth, the number of goblet cells, and the mRNA expression of tight junction-related proteins, alongside a significant increase in ileal permeability. Collectively, these findings suggest that disordered bile acids, suppressed FXR-mediated signaling, and impaired intestinal barrier function are potential factors promoting the development of fatty liver. These insights indicate that regulating bile acids and enhancing intestinal barrier function may become new preventive and therapeutic strategies for fatty liver in the near future.

Effects of different rapeseed varieties on egg production performance, egg quality, hormone levels, follicle development, and thyroid function in hens

This study was to evaluate the effects of rapeseed (Brassica napus L.) from China with different content of glucosinolate (Gls) and erucic acid (EA) on laying hens. A total of 600 laying hens at 33 wk of age were randomly divided into 5 treatments containing a control diet and 4 diets with 11.5% rapeseed. The 11.5% rapeseed diets varied in Gls and EA levels: 1) Deyou no. 6 (DY6) with Gls at 22.67 μmol/g and EA at 0.7%, 2) Mianbangyou no. 1 (MB1) with Gls at 43.23 μmol/g and EA at 3.5%, 3) Deyou no. 5 (DY5) with Gls at 74.66 μmol/g and EA at 16.20%, 4) Xiheyou no. 3 (XH3) with Gls at 132.83 μmol/g and EA at 44.60%. Each group had eight replicates and each replicate had 15 hens. The trial lasted for 12 wk with 4 wk withdrawal. From 1 to 8 wk of the trial, 11.5% rapeseed reduced average daily feed intake (ADFI) compared to the control group (P = 0.002), and egg-laying rate of XH3 rapeseed was lower than that of DY6 rapeseed (P = 0.006), and egg weight of MB1, DY5, and XH3 rapeseed were lower than that of the control group (P < 0.01). Egg mass was reduced by 11.5% rapeseed (P = 0.004) and egg mass of XH3 and DY5 rapeseed were lower than that of DY6 rapeseed (P < 0.01). Feed conversion ratio (FCR) of 11.5% rapeseed was higher than that the control group and FCR is higher in XH3 rapeseed than in DY6 rapeseed from 1 to 8 wk (P < 0.01). At wk 8, the lightness value of eggshell color of XH3 rapeseed was significantly lower than that of the control and DY5 rapeseed (P = 0.012). Xiheyou no. 3 rapeseed had a higher redness value of eggshell color than the control and MB1 and DY5 rapeseed (P = 0.008). Albumen height of DY5 rapeseed was lower than that of the control group at wk 8 (P = 0.012). Mianbangyou no. 1 and DY5 rapeseed decreased Haugh unit at wk 4 and 8, respectively (P = 0.011, P = 0.024). Serum E2 content was decreased by 11.5% rapeseed (P = 0.003). Thyroid index increased as the Gls and EA content increased (P = 0.008). The smallest hierarchical follicle numbers of XH3 and MB1 rapeseed were lower than that of the control group (P = 0.009). After 4 wk withdrawal, the egg weight, egg mass, and FCR did not recover (P = 0.011, P = 0.033, P = 0.024, respectively). In conclusion, 11.5% rapeseed decreased egg production performance which might be caused by decreasing hormone levels, and high Gls and EA rapeseed had a lower performance than low Gls and EA rapeseed.

Differentiation of Exotic Chicken Breeds based on Egg Quality Traits using Classification Tree Algorithm

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of breed on egg quality traits and to discriminate chicken breeds (i.e., Bovan Brouwn (BV), Fayoumi (FM) and Sasso (SS)) based on egg quality traits using classification tree algorithm (CTA). For this purpose, a total of 1696 eggs were utilized and the traits egg weight, albumen height, albumen weight, egg length, egg width, egg weight, shell weight, shell thickness, yolk colour, yolk height and yolk weight, were recorded. Significant differences (P&lt;0.05) were found in egg weight, albumen height, albumen weight, and egg width, with Bovans exhibiting the highest LSM values, indicating superior egg quality

Research Note: Genetic parameters estimation of egg quality traits in Rhode Island Red and White Leghorn chickens

The continuous increasing demand for egg quality and quantity, and the expanding market share have enabled the egg industry to achieve significant benefits through genetic improvement. This study aims to estimate the genetic parameters and explore selectable breeding traits in the purebred Rhode Island Red (RIR) and White Leghorn (WL), which are 2 high-yielding layer breeds, and better understand their underlying genetic basis and accelerate genetic progress. The DMU software was utilized to analyze 12 egg quality traits, including egg length (EL), egg width (EW), egg shape index (ESI), egg weight (EWT), albumen height (AH), yolk color (YC), Haugh unit (HU), yolk weight (YW), albumen weight (AW), albumen-to-egg weight ratio (AWR), yolk-to-albumen ratio (YAR), and yolk-to-egg weight ratio (YWR). In RIR, the heritability of egg quality traits ranged from 0.196 to 0.427, while the repeatability ranged from 0.395 to 0.668. In WL, the heritability of egg quality traits ranged from 0.203 to 0.347, and the repeatability ranged from 0.424 to 0.656. In both RIR and WL, highly strong genetic correlations were observed between AW and EW, as well as between AW and EWT. The genetic correlations for AW and EW were 0.902 in RIR and 0.864 in WL, while the genetic correlations for AW and EWT were 0.981 in RIR and 0.960 in WL. The egg quality traits in both breeds showed moderate heritability, indicating great genetic potential for improvement through selective breeding. This can help breeders meet the increasingly diverse egg preferences of consumers through genetic selection. Additionally, there is a highly strong correlation between egg width/egg weight, and albumen weight in both breeds. In practical production, it is feasible to estimate albumen weight by measuring egg width and egg weight, which can simplify the method for measuring albumen weight. In conclusions, our finding provided valuable insights into the genetic architecture of egg quality traits in RIR and WL chickens. They help our understanding of the potential for genetic improvement of these traits through selective breeding programs.

Nutritional Impacts of Dietary Selenium, Iodine and their Interaction on Egg Performance, and Antioxidant Profile in Laying Longyuan Duck Breeders.

The present study aimed to optimize the combined effect of dietary selenium (SE) and iodine (ID) on the productive and reproductive performance and antioxidant capacity of Longyuan breeding ducks. A total of 288 Longyan duck breeders aged 20 wk were randomly assigned to four groups with six replicates (n = 72 ducks/group; 12 ducks/replicate). A 2 × 2 factorial arrangement experiment was performed and included 2 supplementation levels of each SE and ID for 200 days of the experimental period. The first group (SE0/ID0) received a basal diet without SE or ID supplementation and was considered to be the control group, whereas the other three groups, SE0/ID4, SE2/ID0 and SE2/ID4, received a basal diet supplemented with 0.4 mg ID/kg, 0.2 mg SE/kg or 0.2 mg SE supplemented with 0.4 mg ID/kg, respectively. The results indicated that the albumin height of the SE2/ID0 group was lower (P < 0.05) than that of the control group, that the egg shape index of the SE2/ID4 and SE0/ID4 groups were lower (P < 0.05) than that of the control group (SE0/ID0), and that the SE concentration significantly increased (P < 0.05) in the SE2/ID0 and SE2/ID4 groups. Hatchability and embryonic mortality improved (P < 0.05) in the SE2/ID0 group. Plasma GSH-Px activity was increased (P < 0.05) by reducing the concentration of malondialdehyde (MDA) in the SE groups. In addition, the tibia length significantly increased (P < 0.05) in the ID (SE0/ID4 and SE2/ID4) groups compared with that in the control group, the plasma content of IGF-1 in the SE2/ID4 and SE0/ID4 groups were greater (P < 0.05) than that in the control group, and the bone mineral content increased (P > 0.05) in the SE2/ID0 and SE0/ID0 groups. Compared with those in the other groups, the mRNA expression of antioxidant-related genes, including Nrf2 and SHMT1 in the SE2/ID4 group was upregulated (P > 0.05), especially in the SE2/ID4 group. Overall, dietary treatment with SE2/ID4 (0.2 mg SE in 0.4 mg ID/kg diet) could be a suitable feed supplement for improving the the egg quality, health status, endogenous antioxidant content, antioxidant-related gene expression and pre-hatching quality of Longyuan duck breeders.

Fermented blueberry pomace supplementation improves egg quality, liver synthesis, and ovary antioxidant capacity of laying hens

The present study aimed to investigate the effects of dietary fermented blueberry pomace (FBP) supplementation on production performance, egg quality and nutritional value, plasma biochemical parameters, follicle number, reproductive hormones, lipid metabolism, and antioxidant capacity of laying hens during the late laying period. A total of 320 (345-d-old) Yukou Jingfen No. 8 laying hens were randomly divided into 4 groups, with eight replicates per group and 10 hens per replicate. The birds were fed a basal diet (control group) and a basal diet supplemented with 0.25, 0.5, and 1.0% FBP. The trial lasted 56 d. The results showed that FBP (0.25-1.0%) supplementation increased the egg albumen height and Haugh unit compared with the control group on d 14, while 0.5 to 1.0% FBP increased the eggshell thickness compared with the 0.25% FBP group on d 28 of the trial (P < 0.05). The methionine content in egg white was higher (P < 0.05) in the 1.0% FBP group compared with the 0.25% FBP group. The CAT activity in the ovary was increased (P < 0.05) in the FBP groups compared with the control group, while plasma GSH-PX activity was higher (P < 0.05) in the 1.0% FBP group compared with the 0.25% FBP and 0.5% FBP groups. Dietary FBP supplementation up-regulated (P < 0.05) gene expressions related to lipid metabolism in the liver (ACC, FAS, SCD1, and SREBP1) and yolk precursor synthesis (ESR2 and VTG II). Moreover, CYP11A1 expression in the ovary was up-regulated (P < 0.05) in the FBP groups compared with the control group, as well as in the 0.25% FBP group compared with the 1.0% FBP group. In summary, dietary FBP supplementation improved egg quality and nutritional value, ovarian antioxidant capacity, and yolk precursor synthesis, while 1.0% FBP had better effects than 0.25 and 0.5% doses.

Flaxseed promotes productive performance through regulating gut microbiome in ducks

BackgroundFlaxseed has been widely used in animal diets to increase the omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid content in animal products and promote overall animal health, but little known about its effects on the productive performance and the mictobita of gut of laying duck.Methods and resultsJinding duck, a Chinese indigenous breed, was used in the study. The corn-soybean basal diet supplemented with 0, 2%, 3% 4% and 5% flaxseed were provided to Control, 2% Fla, 3% Fla, 4% Fla and 5% Fla groups for 53 days, respectively. Compared with Control group, groups fed with flaxseed diets showed higher egg production, egg mass, ovary weight and more preovulatory follicles. The Docosahexaenoic Acid content of egg was extremely significantly elevated by flaxseed diets (P < 0.01), and the albumen height and haugh unit were elevated, especially in 4% Fla and/or 5% Fla group (P < 0.05). Groups 4% Fla and 5% Fla had highest ileal villus height, jejunal and ileal crypt depth. Moreover, Flaxseed diets significantly increased the levels of IgG and IgM in all Fla groups (P < 0.01), while increased IgA levels except for in 3% Fla group (P < 0.05). The results of 16s rDNA sequencing showed that flaxseed diet altered the microbial composition of gut and reduced the diversity and evenness of gut microbial communities except for 5% Fla. The correlation analysis identified Blautia, Butyricicoccus and Subdoligranulum positively associated with egg production. Genera Fourinierella, Fusobacterium and Intestinimonas positively associated with ovary weight, haught unit and album height. And Mucispirillum positively associated with haugh unit and album height.ConclusionThis study has suggested that flaxseed play a positive role in productive performance, the overall or intestinal health of laying ducks.

Genotype and dietary supplementation of ginger (Zingibar officinale) rhizome powder affect egg quality traits of layer chickens

This study evaluated the effects of ginger (Z. officinale) rhizome powder on egg qualities of aged commercial and native hens using 160 Shaver Brown (SB) and Nigerian heavy ecotype native hens (HEN). Experimental groups per genotype were control group or basal diet group, and ginger rhizome powder supplemented group (20 g/kg, ginger group). For each genotype, forty (40) hens were assigned to the control group and 120 hens to the ginger group. Each experimental group had four (4) replicates containing 10 hens each for the control groups, and 30 hens each for the ginger groups. The hens were housed individually in laying cages and fed the experimental diets at 125 g/bird/day. Water was given ad libitum and photoperiod was 12 h light and darkness. 80 eggs from SB and 40 eggs from HEN control groups, and 80 eggs/genotype from the ginger groups were used to evaluate egg qualities while 10 shell samples were used to evaluate shell mineral contents for each group. In addition, within genotypes, eggs belonging to the ginger groups were grouped into egg weight and egg shape index grades and assessed for egg qualities. SB eggs had significantly (p ≤ 0.05) higher weight (EW), length (EL), diameter (ED), surface area (ESA), volume (EV), and shape index (ESI); yolk, albumen, and shell weights (YW, AW and SW); albumen height, diameter, and ratio (AH, AD, and AR); shell volume (SV), compression fracture force (SCFF), and calcium content but lower egg specific gravity (ESG), yolk ratio (YR), yolk/albumen ratio (Y/A ratio), shell Zinc, and Phosphorus contents compared to HEN eggs. Ginger groups had higher EW, EL, ESA, EV, YW, YD, YR, AH, AI, Y/A ratio, and shell Zn but lower ESG, YH and YI compared to control groups. SB-ginger group had highest (p ≤ 0.000) AD while HEN-ginger group had highest (p ≤ 0.05) shell Zinc, and Phosphorus contents. EW grades differed significantly in EW, ESA, ESG, ESI and SCFF in the two genotypes while ESI grades differed significantly in ESI and Y/A ratio in SB but in ESI, YI and Haugh unit in HEN. In conclusion, genotype, diet, genotype x diet, EW and ESI grades influenced egg quality traits. These factors are important for egg quality evaluation and genetic improvement.

Dietary betaine supplementation improved egg quality and gut microbes of laying hens under dexamethasone-induced oxidative stress

Oxidative stress is a frequent concern in the breeding of laying hens, and limit the healthy development of poultry. Dexamethasone (DXM) has been demonstrated to induce oxidative stress. Conversely, betaine is an alkaloid with a potent antioxidant activity. The study was designed to investigate the ameliorative effect of betaine on DXM-induced oxidative stress in laying hens. The results revealed that DXM treatment significantly decreased laying rate, shell strength, albumen height, Haugh unit, egg weight, folk weight and albumen weight, alongside increased malondialdehyde (MDA) and decreased total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) in serum and liver (P < 0.05). In contrast, dietary betaine addition reversed those parameters mentioned above (P < 0.05). Hepatic RNA-seq analysis showed that there existed 110 up- and 88 down-regulated genes in DXM group when compared with the control. Meanwhile there were 117 upregulation and 169 downregulation genes in BT group when compared with DXM group. Besides, we found that dietary betaine addition significantly down-regulated cell adhesion molecules, glycerolipid metabolism and glycolysis gluconeogenesis pathways. In addition, a total of 44 and 94 differential metabolites were identified respectively from Con vs. DXM and DXM vs BT. More importantly, dietary betaine addition significantly increased the levels of pantothenic acid, gamma-Aminobutyric acid, equol and choline, all of which were related to antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Furthermore, gut microbiota analysis indicated that the Chao and Observed_species indexes were remarkably higher in BT group (P<0.05). Heatmap analysis revealed that Subdoligranulum, Prevotella, Blautia, YRC22, Bacteroides, Ruminococcus and Coprococcus were notably restored in BT group (P<0.05). Taken together, our findings collectively illustrate that dietary betaine addition could attenuate DXM-induced oxidative stress, improve egg quality and gut microbes of laying hens.

Effects of dietary rosemary ultrafine powder supplementation on aged hen health and productivity: a randomized controlled trial

Recently, poultry industry has been seeking antibiotic residue-free poultry products and safe nutritious feed additives. Whether rosemary ultrafine powder (RUP) affects productive performance by regulating the intestinal microbiome of aged layers remains unclear. Here, we investigated the effects of dietary RUP supplementation on the production performance, egg quality, antioxidant capacity, intestinal microbial structure, and metabolome of aged hens. The results indicate that RUP had no significant effect on production performance but significantly enhanced Thick albumen height, Haugh unit, yolk color (P < 0.05), daily feed intake, and qualified egg rate. Serum content of non-esterified fatty acids, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase increased significantly (P < 0.05). Furthermore, the liver total protein content was significantly increased (P < 0.05). 16S rRNA sequence analysis revealed that RUP significantly impacted both α- and β-diversity of the caecum microbiota. Linear discriminant analysis of effect size and random forest identified Bacteroides, Muribaculum, Butyricimonas, Odoribacter, and Prevotella as biomarkers in groups A and B. In comparing groups A and C, Barnesiella, Turicibacter, and Acholeplasma were critical bacteria, while comparing groups A and D highlighted Barnesiella and Candidatus Saccharimonas as differential bacteria. FAPROTAX analysis of the caecum microbiota revealed that the functional genes associated with harmful substance biodegradation were significantly increased in the RUP-fed group. Based on Spearman correlation analysis, alterations in microbial genera were associated with divergent metabolites. In summary, dietary RUP can improve egg quality and antioxidant capacity and regulate the intestinal microbiome and metabolome in aged breeders. Therefore, RUP can potentially be used as a feed additive to extend breeder service life at an appropriate level of 1.0 g/kg.

Effect of dietary supplementation of wild leek (Allium tricoccum) and garlic (Allium sativum) leaves on production, egg quality, serum lipid profile, intestinal morphology and nutrient digestibility of laying quails.

In this study, the effects of adding dried wild leek and garlic leaves to the diet of laying quails on egg quality, production performance, intestinal histomorphology, nutrient digestibility, and serum biochemical traits were evaluated. 168- 30 weeks aged- laying quails were randomly arranged into 7 treatments (control group and three different levels (0.5%, 1%, and 1.5%) of wild leek or garlic leaves), 6 replicates, and 4 quails per pen. According to the study, the highest hen-day production was achieved by adding 0.5% garlic leaves, and the egg weight was higher with 1% garlic leaves and 0.5% wild leek compared to the control group (P < 0.05). In addition, adding garlic leaves decreased the average daily feed intake and increased high-density lipoprotein concentration. However, adding both herbs did not influence yolk height, albumin height, shell thickness, and Haugh unit (P > 0.05). All supplemented treatments significantly increased the formerly Roche Yolk Color Fan (DSM) index compared to the control. Quails fed with 1% garlic leaves declined serum cholesterol, very low-density lipoprotein, low-density lipoprotein, and uric acid. Moreover, three levels of garlic leaves decreased triglyceride concentration. Adding 0.5% and 1% garlic leaves to the diet could increase the jejunal, and ileal villus height-to-crypt depth ratio. Furthermore, 1% and 1.5% garlic leaves supplementation elevated organic matter, ash, and crude protein digestibility. In conclusion, supplementing 1% garlic leaves to the quail's diet could improve egg weight, intestinal morphology, and nutrient digestibility, improving lipid profiles and reducing uric acid concentration in the serum. However, both plants were rich pigment sources, increasing the DSM index.

Evaluation of black soldier fly larvae and protease supplementation of Lohmann Brown-lite laying hens performance and egg quality

Abstract Feed costs represent up to 60-70% of the total cost of poultry production, with protein sources being the most expensive feed component. Black soldier fly larvae meal (BSFLM) shows promise as a sustainable protein source for use in animal diets. This research was conducted to determine the effects of including up to 13% defatted BSFLM and a supplementary protease-based enzyme (Concentrase-P; CBS Bio Platforms, Inc., Calgary AB, Canada) on laying hen performance and egg quality. To test this objective, 180 Lohmann Brown-Lite hens (52 weeks of age) were fed experimental diets containing 0%, 6.5%, or 13% BSFLM, with or without Concentrase-P (3 × 2 factorial arrangement of treatments). The treatments were fed over 20 weeks. Results indicated reduced feed intake and body weight in laying hens fed a 13% dietary inclusion level of BSFLM (), while other performance traits (egg production and FCR) were similar among treatments () and met industry performance standards. Shell weight and egg breaking strength did not significantly change with the dietary inclusion level of BSFLM or enzyme inclusion (), although a significant decrease in egg weight and albumen height was noted (), as well as a significant decrease in albumen height for the Concentrase-P treatments (). Yolk colours were significantly lighter and redder in birds fed diets containing high levels of BSFLM (). Results support the use of BSFLM at dietary inclusion levels up to 13% in laying hen diets. Concentrase-P does not appear to be required in combination with BSFLM in terms of growth and laying performance, although potential benefits to other physiological factors are worth consideration.

Physical Quality Parameters and Activity of Albumen Lysozyme of Eggs From Traditional Hens Bred in Poland Compared With Commercial Hybrids

Abstract The variation in egg quality parameters of traditional/native hen breeds with good freshness and antibacterial properties of egg albumen may determine the attractiveness of these eggs for modern consumers looking for high quality products. The objective of this study was to evaluate external and internal physical quality parameters and enzymatic activity of lysozyme of eggs from three traditional hens bred in Poland and to compare these egg quality parameters to those obtained from commercial hybrids kept under the same management conditions in extensive farming production system. The study was carried out on eggs collected from 4 genetic groups of hens, i.e. Polish Liliputy Bantams (PLB), native Polish Crested Chickens (PCr, CP-22 strain), Gold Laced Polish Chickens (GLP) and from Hy–Line Brown hybrids (HLB). In total 135 PLB, 75 PCr, 75 GLP and 75 HLB hens were kept on litter (3 pens) and fed commercial feed. The eggs (n = 33/genotype/age) were collected at the 33 and 55 weeks of age. The study concluded that with the age of the hens, there was an increase (P&lt;0.05) in the weight of the egg and the proportion of its main fractions, as well as a decrease (P&lt;0.05) in the quality parameters of the albumen and the eggshell. However the eggs from traditional breeds retain good parameters of albumen quality even at the end of production period. The eggs of traditional hens were characterized by higher (P&lt;0.05) yolk proportion and its color and albumen lysozyme parameters, and a lower (P&lt;0.05) eggshell and albumen height and Haugh unit score in relation to commercial hybrids. The highest (P&lt;0.05) content of lysozyme and enzymatic activity of lysozyme were found in eggs from Gold Laced Polish Chickens. Thus, eggs obtained from traditional hens may meet requirements of modern consumers because of specific physical characteristics, good albumen lysozyme activity and freshness parameters. Particularly noteworthy are Polish Liliputy Bantams eggs, characterized by the low weight and a high proportion of more intensely colored yolk and good Haugh unit score at the end of production period.

Effect of Bile Acids Supplementation in Fatty Liver Hemorrhagic Syndrome, Production Performance, Physiological and Quality Characteristics of Laying Hen Eggs.

This study aimed to investigate the effects of bile acids (BAs) supplementation on fatty liver hemorrhagic syndrome (FLHS), production performance, and physiological and quality characteristics of laying hen eggs. Sixty Sanhuang laying hens, aged 28 weeks, were randomly allocated to six dietary treatments over a 4-week period, including the control (CON) group (feeding basal diet), the high-fat diet (HFD)-treated group (basal diet containing 10% soybean oil), and HFD supplemented with 0.01% and 0.02% of chenodeoxycholic acid (CDCA) or hyodeoxycholic acid (HDCA) groups. Production performance, egg quality, liver morphology, serum biochemical indexes, antioxidant capacity, proinflammatory cytokines, and intestinal microbiota were evaluated. The average body weight in 0.01% CDCA was larger than in the HFD group (p < 0.05). Eggshell Thickness in the CON group was greater than in the HFD, 0.01% CDCA, and HDCA groups (p < 0.05). Albumen height in the 0.02% HDCA group was higher than the HFD group (p < 0.05). Eggshell weight in the HFD group was less than the CON group (p < 0.05). Haugh unit (HU) in the HDCA group was larger than the HFD group (p < 0.05). Albumen weight in the 0.02% HDCA group was greater than the CON and HFD groups (p < 0.05). In the HFD group, the levels of triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (TC), and low-density lipo-protein cholesterol (LDL-C) were surpassing the other groups (p < 0.05). The levels of catalase (CAT) and total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD) in the HFD group was smaller than the other groups (p < 0.05). The level of malondialdehyde (MDA) in the HFD group was higher than in the other groups (p < 0.05). Tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) levels were larger in the HFD group than in the other groups (p < 0.05). The 16S rRNA sequencing analysis indicated significant variations in the relative abundance of specific bacterial populations among the different treatment groups. The treatment and CON groups exhibited a higher presence of bacteria that inhibit host energy absorption or promote intestinal health such as Firmicutes, Bacteroidetes, and Ruminococcus, whereas the HFD group showed an increased prevalence of potentially pathogenic or deleterious bacteria, such as Desulfovibrio spp. In conclusion, the supplementation of BAs in poultry feed has been demonstrated to effectively mitigate the detrimental effects of FLHS in laying hens. This intervention regulates lipid metabolism, bolsters antioxidant defenses, reduces inflammation, and modulates the gut microbiota, offering a novel perspective on the application of BAs in the poultry industry.

Effects of micelle silymarin in corn-soybean meal-based diet on laying hens' performance, egg quality, and blood profile, with comparative assessment of blood absorption rates between powdered and micelle silymarin

Micelle silymarin (MS) is recognized for its diverse range of beneficial properties, which encompass anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, hepatoprotective, and antidiabetic effects. The main objective of this study was to examine the effects of micelle silymarin on the performance, egg quality, blood profile, and absorption rate of silymarin in laying hens. In experiment 1: 288 Hy-Line brown laying hens, 28 wk old, were utilized for this experiment. The hens were randomly allocated into 3 dietary treatment groups, with each group comprising eight replicates of 12 hens, each housed in individual pens with access to feed and water. Over a 12-wk feeding trial, the hens were provided with a basal diet supplemented with different levels of MS: 0, 0.03, and 0.06%. In experiment 2: For this experiment, 192 Hy-Line Brown laying hens were divided into 2 dietary treatment groups, with each group comprising eight replications of 12 hens. The dietary treatments were: TRT1, basal diet + powder silymarin 4%; TRT2, basal diet + MS 4%. From the first experiment, the findings revealed that incorporating micelle silymarin (MS) into the hens' diet significantly increased egg weight at wk 6 (P < 0.05). Similarly, at wk 12 and throughout the entire experiment, significant effects were observed on downgraded egg count, egg production, egg weight, and feed conversion ratio (FCR) (P < 0.05). Moreover, Haugh Units (HU) and albumen height showed a linear improvement (P < 0.05) at wk 4 with MS supplementation. Furthermore, there was a linear increase in egg yolk color, albumen height, and eggshell thickness at wk 8 with MS supplementation (P < 0.05). Furthermore, a layers-fed diet supplemented with MS showed a linear increase (P < 0.05) in HU, egg weight, yolk color, albumen height, eggshell strength, and eggshell thickness in wk 12. Regarding blood profile parameters, the study revealed linear reductions for aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) (P < 0.05), whereas there was a tendency for albumin, triglyceride, and cholesterol (P < 0.10). In the second experiment, it was observed that the blood absorption rate of silymarin was higher in TRT2 compared to TRT1 at 2- and 4-h intervals following administration. In summary, increasing MS supplementation in the diet of laying hens enhanced egg production, egg quality, and blood profile. Additionally, silymarin absorption was higher in its micelle form than in its powder form.

The change of albumen quality during the laying cycle and its potential physiological and molecular basis of laying hens

To elucidate the regulatory mechanisms that impact variability in albumen quality of laying hens from the peak of lay to the late production phase. A 60-week study was conducted on a cohort of 20,000 Hy-Line Brown laying hens from 20 to 80 weeks old. Before commencement at 20 weeks, the 10-week-old hens were acclimatized for ten weeks. This study examined changes in albumen quality, serum, and liver antioxidant capacity, magnum morphology, and expression of albumen-protein-related genes in the magnum. To reduce sampling error, we collected eggs (n=90) from pre-determined cages at every sampling point (5-week intervals), and 8 hens were selected at 10-week intervals for blood and tissue collection. Our findings revealed that age significantly affected most evaluated parameters. Albumen gel properties, including hardness, gumminess, and chewiness, increased significantly with age (P < 0.05). With the increasing of hens' age from 20 to 80 weeks, the albumen proportion of eggs was decreased, but eggshell proportion, yolk proportion, thick albumen proportion, thick to thin ratio, thick albumen solid content, albumen height, Haugh units, and yolk color were increased and then decreased (P < 0.05). Compared to hens aged 20-60 weeks, the hens (70-80 weeks) had significantly reduced total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and glutathione levels (GSH) in the liver and lower serum TAC and superoxide dismutase levels (SOD) (P < 0.05). The magnum mucosal folds were highest in 40-60 weeks-old hens, and the luminal diameter increased with age (P < 0.05). In the magnum, the mRNA expression levels for OVA, CPE, and NUP205 increased significantly between 30 and 40 weeks, while FBN1 expression was higher between 30 and 50 weeks (P < 0.05). At 70-80 weeks, the expression of BRCA2 was significantly downregulated (P < 0.05). Albumen height, thick albumen proportion with protein secretion-related genes, enhanced antioxidant function, and luminal diameter correlated positively. However, the thick-to-thin albumen ratio negatively correlated with BRCA2, downregulated in aged laying hens. We used principal component and cluster analysis to deduce albumen quality changes during three phases: 25-35, 40-55, and 60-80 weeks. The decline in albumen quality in aging hens is linked with decreased antioxidant capacity, magnum health, and downregulation of key genes involved in protein synthesis and secretion. These findings emphasize critical albumen quality changes in laying hens and suggest molecular pathways underlying age-related albumen quality alterations.