Showing papers in "Tropical Animal Health and Production in 2020"

Effect of dietary supplementation of Bacillus subtilis spores on growth performance, oxidative status, and digestive enzyme activities in Japanese quail birds.

Abstract: The present trial investigated the feeding effect of B. subtilis spores on growth performance, blood metabolites, antioxidative status, and digestive enzyme activities in growing quails. A total of 750 1-day-old Japanese quail chicks were randomly allotted equally into five experimental groups: control (BS0) fed a maize-soybean basal diet with no additives, the others were supplemented with: B. subtilis spores with the levels of 1 × 103 (BS3), 1 × 105 (BS5), 1 × 107 (BS7), and 1 × 109 (BS9)/kg diet. Quails fed on B. subtilis diets exhibited linearly increasing live body weight and body weight gain and decreased feed-to-gain ratio compared with the control group. Daily feed intake was not significantly altered. Increasing levels of B. subtilis led to a linear increase in serum total protein and albumin levels, and a linear decrease in concentrations of glucose, creatinine, urea-N, aspartate aminotransferase, and alanine aminotransferase. Hypolipidemic impact of feeding B. subtilis spores was greatly observed and enhanced by increasing its dietary inclusion level. Triiodothyronine and thyroxine activities were significantly elevated in treated groups. Glutathione content and catalase activities were linearly increased in groups BS7, BS9, and BS5, while lipid peroxidation was decreased in all treatment groups. Duodenal proteolytic, lipolytic, and amylolytic activities as well as nutrient digestibility were linearly increased in treated groups. In conclusion, dietary supplementation of B. subtilis spores almost at all studied levels was able to promote the antioxidative status and digestive enzymes activities, while only the high concentrations (BS7 and BS9) could improve the nutrient digestion and growth performance of growing Japanese quail.

Acaricide resistance in Rhipicephalus microplus collected from selected districts of Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh and Punjab states of India.

Abstract: The isolates of Rhipicephalus microplus collected from Madhya Pradesh (MP), Punjab (PJB) and Uttar Pradesh (UP) states of India were characterized using laboratory standardized adult immersion test (AIT) against macrocyclic lactone (ivermectin), synthetic pyrethroids (cypermethrin and deltamethrin), organophosphates (coumaphos and diazinon) and phenylpyrazole compounds (fipronil). Out of the six isolates tested, five isolates except MTH were resistant to deltamethrin and cypermethrin at level II with RF ranging from 16.4 to 24.02 and 7.05 to 13.2, respectively. In case of organophosphates, coumaphos was less effective showing resistance level II (RF 8.52–11.2) in all the six populations compared with diazinon to which three isolates (MHW, RWA and AGS) were resistant at level II. Except MTH, other five isolates were categorized at level I with RF ranging from 1.53 to 3.02 against ivermectin. The phenylpyrazole compound however was found effective, and none of the isolates could survive at a discriminating concentration. The possible strategy for the management of multi-acaricide-resistant ticks in the surveyed districts was discussed in the present study.

The use of yellow mealworm (T. molitor) as alternative source of protein in poultry diets: a review

Abstract: Protein sources are known to be the second largest component in the poultry sector. Traditionally, fish and soya-bean meals are known to supply very good protein; however, these are restricted in supply and more expensive than energy sources. The prices of soya-bean meal are currently high and tend to fluctuate with changes in climatic conditions and social situations in the countries where it is produced. Developing countries like South Africa have made enormous investments in soya-bean production, despite that the country still imports considerable volumes of this crop and is not self-sufficient. This then means that there is an urgent need to seek for alternative and cost-effective protein sources that can provide the same nutrients as soya-bean and fish meal for poultry production. Tenebrio molitor L. which is commonly known as yellow mealworm has a huge potential to substitute commonly used protein sources in poultry diets. Mealworms are easy to breed and do not require large area for production. Moreover, they have high nutritional value comparable to that of soya-bean and fishmeal. However, the only limiting nutrient for mealworms is calcium which can be easily supplemented in the diets. Therefore, this review sets out to explore the importance of replacing soya bean with mealworms in poultry diets. Furthermore, the life cycle of meal worms will also be discussed.

Camelids: New players in the international animal production context

Abstract: The Camelidae family comprises the Bactrian camel (Camelus bactrianus), the dromedary camel (Camelus dromedarius), and four species of South American camelids: llama (Lama glama), alpaca (Lama pacos) guanaco (Lama guanicoe), and vicuna (Vicugna vicugna). The main characteristic of these species is their ability to cope with either hard climatic conditions like those found in arid regions (Bactrian and dromedary camels) or high-altitude landscapes like those found in South America (South American camelids). Because of such interesting physiological and adaptive traits, the interest for these animals as livestock species has increased considerably over the last years. In general, the main animal products obtained from these animals are meat, milk, and hair fiber, although they are also used for races and work among other activities. In the near future, climate change will likely decrease agricultural areas for animal production worldwide, particularly in the tropics and subtropics where competition with crops for human consumption is a major problem already. In such conditions, extensive animal production could be limited in some extent to semi-arid rangelands, subjected to periodical draughts and erratic patterns of rainfall, severely affecting conventional livestock production, namely cattle and sheep. In the tropics and subtropics, camelids may become an important protein source for humans. This article aims to review some of the recent literature about the meat, milk, and hair fiber production in the six existing camelid species highlighting their benefits and drawbacks, overall contributing to the development of camelid production in the framework of food security.

Seroprevalence of bovine leukemia virus in cattle, buffalo, and camel in Egypt.

Abstract: Bovine leukemia virus (BLV) is the causative agent of enzootic bovine leukosis. It causes significant economic losses associated with losses due to slaughter and eradication of infected animal from infected area and other indirect economic losses such as restriction on importation of animals and semen from infected area. The main objective of this study was to determine the seroprevalence of BLV antibodies in cattle, buffaloes, and camels in Egypt using ELISA test. Serum samples were collected from 350 cattle, 100 buffaloes, and 100 camels during 2018. The seropositivity for BLV-specific antibody was 20.8%, 9%, and 0% in cattle, buffaloes, and camels, respectively. The result revealed significant association (p 4 years (24%) compared with those 0.05). Furthermore, the age, pregnancy state, and herd size had significant effect on seroprevalence of BLV infection in buffaloes. This study contributes that BLV is detected in cattle and buffaloes in Egypt and confirms that the camels has resistance against BLV infection. Hence, the control measures are very necessary to combat the transmission of the disease and reduce its economic impact.

Effect of dietary supplemental ascorbic acid and folic acid on the growth performance, redox status, and immune status of broiler chickens under heat stress.

Abstract: This experiment was conducted to investigate the effects of dietary supplemental L-ascorbic acid (AA) and folic acid (FA) on broiler chickens under heat stress (HS) conditions when supplemented either alone or in combination. For this aim, the effect of these supplements on the broilers’ growth performance, some blood parameters, antioxidant, and immune status were evaluated. Hatchling Cobb-500 broilers (total = 240) were fed either corn and soybean meal-based diet (control group) or basal diet supplemented with 200 mg AA/kg diet, 1.5 mg FA/kg diet, or 200 mg AA plus 1.5 mg FA/kg diet, for 35 days during the summer months (n = 6 replicates/group, 10 birds/replicate). The minimum and maximum average temperatures ranged from 84.5 to 96.2 °F, and the relative humidity ranged from 68.5 to 76.5%. Supplemented vitamins either alone and (or) in combination increased (P < 0.01) broilers’ growth performance, thyroid hormones levels, insulin growth factor1, blood hemoglobin, total protein, albumin, globulin, heat shock protein70, total antioxidant capacity, catalase enzyme activity, superoxide dismutase enzyme activity, antibody titer against Newcastle disease virus, and decreased (P < 0.01) heterophil/lymphocytes. The effects (P < 0.01) of the supplemented vitamins on the analyzed parameters were better when they were added in combination. In conclusion, the combination of AA and FA at 200 and 1.5 mg/kg, respectively, increased the broilers’ antioxidant status with coordinated improvement in the growth performance and health status under HS.

The prebiotic potential of brewers' spent grain on livestock's health: a review.

Abstract: The increasing interest from the feed as a source of energy towards specific nutrient-yielding compounds in feeds is amongst the latest developments from scientific and industrial communities. Apart from brewers' spent grain (BSG) being relatively inexpensive feed source, nutritious with high crude protein and minerals, recent studies have explored its potential as a source of prebiotics. Prebiotics are certain feeds that are comprised of non-digestive polysaccharides that can be fed to animals and modulate the balance and activities of microbial populations in the gut. The BSG contains arabinoxylans and β-glucans whereby when consumed by animals, they promote the activity of beneficial bacteria particularly species from three genera of Bifidobacterium, Enterococcus, and Lactobacillus. The increased degradation of fibrous feed accelerates the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) which serve as the primary energy sources for the anaerobic microbes. This elevated concentration of SCFA stimulates numerous physio-biological functions which include intestinal nutrients absorption, glucose balance, improvement of immunity, lipid metabolism, and suppression of pathogens such as Salmonella and Escherichia coli. To capitalize on the prebiotic potential of BSG, certain considerations need to be well taken care of and these include possible microbial dysfunctions such as rumen acidosis, different responses rates of animals due to variations in health status, age, and species as well as feed safety issues especially mycotoxin contamination which can jeopardize its inherited prebiotic benefits.

Impact of dietary supplementation with Echinacea purpurea on growth performance, immunological, biochemical, and pathological findings in broiler chickens infected by pathogenic E. coli

Abstract: This study is aimed to appraise the impact of dietary supplementation with Echinacea purpurea (EP) in broiler chickens infected by pathogenic E. coli. Eighty-one-day-old chicks of both sexes, commercial Hubbard chicks, were divided into 4 groups. The first was kept as normal control, the second was supplemented by EP (5 mg/kg feed) from the first day to the end, where the third was infected orally by 1 ml E. coli O78 at 107 CFU intra-crop at 7 days old, while the last group was supplemented by EP and infected by the E. coli O78 as previously described . E. coli-infected chicks disclosed severe symptoms with mortality 30%. Where, the infected and EP supplemented group showed less clinical symptoms and 15% mortality. EP-supplemented groups showed a significant improvement in their body weight in comparing with infected group. E. coli-infected chickens revealed a significant drop in lymphocytes’ number with a significant elevation in monocyte and heterophils with non-significant changes in total leucocyte count when matched with gp. (1), while the fourth group revealed non-significant changes in total leucocyte with a significant drop in heterophils and monocyte and a significant elevation in the lymphocytes matching with the 3rd group. Serum biochemical markers of liver, kidneys, and immunological parameters showed sever adverse alterations associated with E. coli infection. Dietary supplementations with Echinacea purpurea improve the final body weight and immune response of non-infected chicks and have a respectable effect for facing E. coli infection. EP improves hematological and serum biochemical adverse effects occured by E. coli infection. Histopathology of liver, kidneys, intestines, and spleen confirms these alterations.

Coronaviruses in cattle.

Abstract: Bovine coronaviruses are spread all over the world. They cause two types of clinical manifestations in cattle either an enteric, calf diarrhoea and winter dysentery in adult cattle, or respiratory in all age groups of cattle. The role of coronaviruses in respiratory infections is still a hot topic of discussion since they have been isolated from sick as well as healthy animals and replication of disease is rarely successful. Bovine coronavirus infection is characterised by high morbidity but low mortality. The laboratory diagnosis is typically based on serological or molecular methods. There is no registered drug for the treatment of virus infections in cattle and we are limited to supportive therapy and preventative measures. The prevention of infection is based on vaccination, biosecurity, management and hygiene. This paper will cover epidemiology, taxonomy, pathogenesis, clinical signs, diagnosis, therapy, economic impact and prevention of coronavirus infections in cattle.

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

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

Prevalence and risk factors for agents causing diarrhea (Coronavirus, Rotavirus, Cryptosporidium spp., Eimeria spp., and nematodes helminthes) according to age in dairy calves from Brazil

Abstract: The present study attempted to verify the prevalence of and risk factors for diarrhea-causing agents in dairy calves from Brazil. Additionally, ages with a higher risk of occurrence for each agent were verified by means of the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. The collections were performed on 39 farms, belonging to 29 municipalities located in eight states of Brazil. It was possible to conclude that the prevalence of Coronavirus, Rotavirus, Cryptosporidium spp., Eimeria spp., and nematodes was 7.20% (95% CI 4.54–9.78), 6.37% (95% CI 3.85–8.89), 51.52% (95% CI 45.26–55.57), 3.46% (95% CI 2.24–4.67), and 3.46% (95% CI 2.24–4.67), respectively. Ages with higher probabilities of occurrence of these diseases in calves were 8, > 6, > 37, and > 36 days, respectively. Diarrhea occurred more significantly (P < 0.0001) in animals less than 21 days old and mainly on those receiving milk through automatic feeders (P < 0.001). Cryptosporidium spp. were a risk factor for the occurrence of Rotavirus, and vice versa (P = 0.0039) and presented a positive correlation with Coronavirus (P = 0.0089). Calves that drink water from rivers, streams, and ponds had a higher chance of being infected by Eimeria spp. (P < 0.0001), as well as developing infection by nematodes (P < 0.0001). The results found in this study highlight the importance of studying the agents of diarrhea together, once they act as coinfection where the losses triggered for the owners will involve some of these agents simultaneously.

Economic impact of the liver condemnation of cattle infected with Fasciola hepatica in the Peruvian Andes

Abstract: Fasciolosis is a zoonotic food- and waterborne infection related to great economic losses on ruminant production. In order to determine the prevalence of bovine liver condemnations due to fasciolosis in an abattoir at the Central Andes of Peru, we evaluated the records of an authorized slaughterhouse in Huancayo, at 3300 m above sea level, over 16 months. Subsequently, the average weights of condemned viscera and carcasses were also estimated to determine the direct and indirect economic losses. Fasciolosis was the main cause of liver condemnation, with a prevalence of 55.72% (3926/7046; CI 95%: 56.88–54.56%). The livers infected were more than double the amount of livers supplied to markets in this period. Although the average price of liver in the Peruvian Andes is very cheap, approximately 16.45 tons of livers were destroyed, estimating a direct economic loss of US$ 35,080 (CI 95%: US$ 29,178–40,938). The indirect loss due to decreased body weight gain (calculated using 10% of the average weight of a healthy animal carcass) was estimated at US$ 354,570 (CI 95%: US$ 387,908–US$ 321,227). Fasciolosis is an important zoonotic disease that threatens food security in the Andean region, with major repercussions on the income of the livestock industry and the availability of cheap protein sources.

Estimation of genetic parameters for growth traits and Kleiber ratios in Boer x Central Highland goat

Abstract: Accurate performance evaluation and genetic parameters estimation are the prerequisites for any successful genetic improvement program. This study was conducted to estimate genetic parameters for growth and Kleiber ratio traits in Boer x Central Highland goats. On-station data collected from 2009 to 2018 were utilized for the study. A general linear model procedure of the Statistical Analysis System (SAS, version 9.0) was used to analyze fixed effects, and genetic parameters were estimated using the WOMBAT software fitted animal model. The log-likelihood ratio test was used for selecting the best fitted model. Based on best fitted models, the total heritability (h2t) estimate for birth weight (BWT), weaning weight (WWT), six-month weight (SMWT), nine-month weight (NMWT), and yearling weight (YWT) were 0.38, 0.12, 0.05, 0.30, and 0.28, respectively. The total heritability (h2t) estimates for weight gain from birth to weaning (ADG1), 3 to 6 months (ADG2), 6 to 9 months (ADG3), and 9 to 12 months of age (ADG4) were 0.09, 0.08, 0.16, and 0.14, respectively. The heritability estimates for Kleiber ratios in different growth phases were found to be low (0.09 to 0.18) based on the selected models. Even with this figure, including the Kleiber ratio in the selection criteria would be imperative to improve the feed efficiency of crossbred goats. The direct genetic correlation estimates among growth traits range from 0.60 ± 0.14 to 0.97 ± 0.12. Except for NMWT, ADG4, and Kleiber ratio from 9 months to yearling age, the maternal effect had a significant influence on all considered traits. However, the contribution of the maternal genetic effect was more important for early growth traits. Thus, considering both the direct additive genetic effect and the maternal genetic effect is imperative for accurate genetic evaluation and for high selection response. The moderate heritability estimates for most of the growth traits implies the possibility of selection in conjunction with crossbreeding for a better genetic response. The positive and high genetic correlation estimates among growth traits confirm the possibility of a selection of goats at an early age.

Effect of zinc oxide nanoparticles on broilers’ performance and health status

Abstract: The current study investigated the effects of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZONPs) and oxytetracycline (OTC) supplementation on broilers’ behavior, performance, carcass quality, biochemical parameters, and intestinal microbial populations and birds’ response to Newcastle disease (ND) vaccine. A total of 336 seven-day-old IR broiler chicks were randomly allotted to six dietary treatments containing 0, 10, 20, 30 and 40 ppm ZONPs or 50 ppm OTC. Each diet was fed to 7 replicates (8 birds/pen). The results clarified that 10 ppm ZONPs significantly improved the body weight gain and feed conversion in comparison to the control. No changes in behavior were recorded. The 10 ppm and 30 ppm ZONPs and OTC significantly reduced the gizzard weight in comparison to the control. While, 10 ppm ZONPs significantly increased the spleen weight, and all ZONPs doses increased bursa weight in comparison to the control and OTC groups. 20 ppm ZONPs increased the eviscerated yield and edible yield in comparison to the control and OTC groups. 40 ppm ZONPs increased pH, reduced meat color and overall acceptability in comparison to the control. In addition, results revealed that the 20 ppm ZONPs increased Calcium (Ca), High density low cholesterol (HDL-C), reduced urea (UA) and triglyceride (TG). Also, 40 ppm ZONPs and OTC increased creatinine (Cr) and reduced ND-HI titer in comparison to the control. For microbial population, OTC group was significantly lower than ZONPs groups in the total anaerobic, aerobic and lactobacilli count. In conclusion, the dietary inclusion of ZONPs can be applied as antibiotic growth promoter substitutions in broilers’ diet. However, further investigations are still needed.

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

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

Meta-analysis of the influence of phytobiotic (pepper) supplementation in broiler chicken performance

Abstract: The aim of the study is to use meta-analytical procedure to resolve uncertainty, identify knowledge gaps, and create new insights using published data on the phytobiotic effect of dietary pepper intervention on daily feed intake (DFI), average daily gain (ADG), and feed conversion ratio (FCR) in broiler chickens. The authors accessed AGORA, Scopus, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar databases for primary studies published between 2011 and 2018 using combinations of different search terms. Fifteen studies were included to assess phytobiotic effect of pepper on DFI, FCR, and ADG in broiler chickens. Random-effects model (REM) was used to generate pooled effect estimates at 95% confidence intervals (CI). Analysis was performed using Open Meta-analyst for Ecology and Evolution (OpenMEE) software, while publication bias and source of heterogeneity were assessed using standard methods. Dietary pepper supplementation enhanced ADG (standardized mean difference (SMD) = 0.576, 95% CI 0.444 to 0.707, p 6 g/kg feed for 35 days. There was no association between DFI and explanatory variables (broiler strain used and number of broilers used), whereas study country influenced DFI (p < 0.001). Furthermore, there was an association between outcome of interests (ADG and FCR) and explanatory variables (supplementation level, study country, number of broilers used per treatment group, and broiler strain used). Broilers on dietary pepper intervention for 42 days had higher ADG (SMD = 62.2 g/bird/day, p < 0.001) than those on dietary pepper intervention for 56 days (SMD = 35.7 g/bird/day, p = 0.002). There is evidence of heterogeneity, and meta-regression analysis showed that study country, supplementation level, and broiler strain used explained most of the sources of heterogeneity. The results of the present study revealed the potential of dietary pepper intervention to improve production efficiency in broiler chickens. The current meta-analysis also set the steps for standardized experimental designs on the use of dietary pepper intervention in broiler feeding trials in the future.

On-station performance evaluation of improved tropically adapted chicken breeds for smallholder poultry production systems in Nigeria.

Abstract: Availability of appropriate genetics is important for the development of smallholder poultry (SHP). The biological potential of improved dual purpose chicken germplasms was evaluated in Nigeria. A total of six breeds (Fulani, FUNAAB Alpha, Kuroiler, Noiler, Sasso, and Shika-Brown) were tested on-station, in deep litter houses at two test centres (Public and private facility) for 504 days. Birds were fed ad libitum for the first 140 days after which restricted feeding was practised. Lowest and highest hatchability of eggs set was 55% (FUNAAB Alpha) and 89% (Sasso), respectively. At 140 days, male live weights were 200%–300 % higher than the local chickens (975 g) except Shika-Brown (152%) and Fulani (135%). Lowest (p < 0.05) age at first egg was 119 days for Shika-Brown and 120 days for FUNAAB Alpha and Kuroiler. Highest hen-housed egg production was 192 for Shika-Brown, and feed intake per dozen eggs was lowest (p < 0.05) for Shika-Brown (2.9 kg) and FUNAAB Alpha (2.9 kg). Mortality rate of the locally sourced breeds (Fulani, FUNAAB Alpha, Noiler, and Shika-Brown) was significantly lower (p < 0.05) than the foreign-sourced breeds (Kuroiler, Sasso) during brooding, growing and laying. Results from this study identified FUNAAB Alpha and Noiler as being more suitable for dual-purpose functions (egg and meat), while Sasso and Kuroiler (meat) and Shika-Brown (egg) were observed to be better suited for single purpose functions. These findings could guide the introduction of smallholder poultry-specific hybrid germplasms for the development of the smallholder poultry production systems in Nigeria.

Spirulina inclusion levels in a broiler ration: evaluation of growth performance, gut integrity, and immunity

Abstract: Spirulina has been used as a food source from many years for human and animals because of its superior profile of nutrition. Spirulina (SPA) having antiviral activities can boost immune system, and better nutritional profile can increase growth performance by improving gut morphology. This study was conducted to investigate the impact of spirulina supplementation in ration on the humoral and cellular immune response, gut histomorphology, and economics of broiler production. A total of 120 day-old chicks were assigned to 4 dietary treatment; SPA0, SPA1, SPA2, and SPA3, each with 3 replicates having 10 birds in each replicate until 42 days of age. Treatment SPA0 was kept as control, and the birds were fed on basal ration, while the other treatments SPA1, SPA2, and SPA3 were supplemented with 1, 1.5, and 2 g spirulina/kg feed, respectively. Dietary supplementation of SPA3 significantly (P < 0.05) improved feed intake (8.95%), weight gain (12.5%), feed conversion ratio, and dressing percentage than that of control. Dietary treatment of SPA had comparatively low level of heterophil and higher level of lymphocytes than the control treatment. Spirulina supplementation had significant (P < 0.05) effect over antibody titer, against ND vaccine. The supplementation of SPA in diet at all levels has a significant effect on lengths of villi, and it increased number of goblet cells. The SPA3 showed significant increase in net and gross return of birds followed by SPA2, SPA1, and SPA0. It was concluded that spirulina improved growth performance, gut integrity, and immunity with better economics in broiler production.

Farmers' choice of genotypes and trait preferences in tropically adapted chickens in five agro-ecological zones in Nigeria.

Abstract: This study aimed at determining chicken genotypes of choice and traits preference in chicken by smallholder farmers in Nigeria. Data were obtained from a total of 2063 farmers using structured questionnaires in five agro-ecological zones in Nigeria. Chi square (χ2) statistics was used to explore relationships between categorical variables. The mean ranks of the six genotypes and twelve traits of preference were compared using the non-parametric Kruskal–Wallis H (with Mann–Whitney U test for post hoc separation of mean ranks), Friedman, and Wilcoxon signed-rank (with Bonferroni’s adjustments) tests. Categorical principal component analysis (CATPCA) was used to assign farmers into groups. Gender distribution of farmers was found to be statistically significant (χ2 = 16.599; P ≤ 0.002) across the zones. With the exception of Shika Brown, preferences for chicken genotypes were significantly (P ≤ 0.01) influenced by agro-ecological zone. However, gender differentiated response was only significant (P ≤ 0.01) in Sasso chicken with more preference by male farmers. Overall, FUNAAB Alpha, Sasso, and Noiler chicken were ranked 1st, followed by Kuroiler (4th), Shika Brown (5th), and Fulani birds (6th), respectively. Within genotypes, within and across zones and gender, preferences for traits varied significantly (P ≤ 0.005 and P ≤ 0.01). Traits of preference for selection of chicken breeding stock tended towards body size, egg number, egg size, and meat taste. Spearman’s rank order correlation coefficients of traits of preference were significant (P ≤ 0.01) and ranged from 0.22 to 0.90. The two PCs extracted, which explained 65.3% of the variability in the dataset, were able to assign the farmers into two groups based on preference for body size of cock and hen and the other ten traits combined. The present findings may guide the choice of appropriate chicken genotypes while the traits of economic importance may be incorporated into future genetic improvement and conservation programs in Nigeria.

The first detection of anti-West Nile virus antibody in domestic ruminants in Egypt.

Abstract: West Nile virus (WNV) is a mosquito-borne disease, usually present as a symptomatic disease but can cause various clinical signs ranged from mild fever to severe encephalitis and death in various animals and humans In Egypt, the epidemiological data about WNV infection in different animal species particularly in domestic ruminants are scarce The present study aimed to investigate the seroprevalence of WNV in cattle, buffalo, camel, sheep, and goats at some Governorates northern Egypt In total, 360 serum samples (100 cattle, 50 buffalo, 50 camels, 85 sheep, and 75 goats) were examined using ELISA The results revealed that the seroprevalence of WNV among ruminants was highly significant (P = 003) at Kafr El Sheikh Governorate (176%) in comparison with other the Governorates Besides, the seroprevalence of WNV antibodies significantly differed between the examined species (P = 00001); it was 22%, 0%, 40%, 35%, and 53% in cattle, buffalo, camel, sheep, and goats, respectively This is the first study to confirm that domestic ruminants act as a reservoir in the epidemiology of WNV infection and represent a risk for human and equine infections in Egypt

Productivity and nutritional value of BRS capiaçu grass (Pennisetum purpureum) managed at four regrowth ages in a semiarid region.

Abstract: The objective of this study was to evaluate the productivity, productive efficiency, and nutritional value of the elephant grass cultivar BRS capiacu (Pennisetum purpureum Schum.), managed at four regrowth ages during winter in the semiarid region of northern Minas Gerais, Brazil. A completely randomized design with the elephant grass cultivar BRS capiacu was submitted to four cut intervals (30, 60, 90, and 120 days) in the winter with ten replications, for a total of 40 plots, each with a useful area of 6 × 5 m. There was a linear increase of 76.25% (P < 0.01) in the height of BRS capiacu grass when cut from 30 to 120 days. Green matter production (P < 0.01) and dry matter production (P < 0.01) increased daily by 1081 kg/ha and 237 kg/ha, respectively. The annual dry matter production was 72 t/ha. Efficiency in water use changed (P < 0.01) from 7.91 kg of dry matter (DM)/mm at 30 days to 57.59 kg of DM/mm at 120 days of regrowth. There was a reduction in the ash content (P < 0.01), crude protein (P < 0.01), and the total digestible nutrient content (P < 0.01) with the increase in the age of the cut. The readily soluble fraction of DM (fraction A, P < 0.01), degradation rate “c” of insoluble fraction “B” (P = 0.01), potential degradability (PD; P < 0.01), and degradability (ED; P < 0.01) decreased linearly as the regrowth age increased. Harvesting is recommended at 90 days of regrowth during the winter season in this semiarid region.

Genome-wide discovery of SNPs in candidate genes related to production and fertility traits in Sahiwal cattle

Abstract: The present study was carried out to identify genome-wide genetic markers and variants in candidate genes for production and reproduction traits in Sahiwal cattle using a cost-effective reduced representation sequencing method. A total of 258,231 genome-wide SNPs were identified in Sahiwal cattle with reference to Bos indicus genome, of which 150,231 were novel SNPs. Among the high-confidence SNPs identified, 91.86% and 27.30% were genotyped in 50% and 100% of the samples. Mapping of the identified SNPs revealed 525 SNPs in candidate genes related to production traits while 333 SNPs were mapped to candidate genes related to reproduction traits. The SNPs identified in this study will facilitate further insights on tropical adaptation, domestication history and population structure of indigenous cattle. The variants in candidate genes identified in this study will serve as useful genetic tools, in the quest for phenotype modifying nucleotide change and help in designing appropriate genetic improvement programs.

Seroprevalence and risk factors assessment of the three main infectious agents associated with abortion in dairy cattle in Isfahan province, Iran

Abstract: This study aimed to determine the seroprevalence and identify the risk factors associated with Neospora caninum, Bovine herpesvirus type 1 (BHV-1), and Bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) infection on industrial Holstein dairy cattle farms in Isfahan province, Central Iran. Blood samples were taken from 216 apparently healthy cattle from 16 randomly selected Holstein dairy farms in the North, South, East, and West of Isfahan in the summer of 2017. The antibodies to N. caninum, BHV-1, and BVDV were detected using a commercially available ELISA kit. The overall seroprevalence for N. caninum, BHV-1, and BVDV was 19%, 72.2%, and 52.8%, respectively. The significant major risk factors of BHV-1 in cattle were identified as farm direction, age groups, parity, and milk yield by the univariate analysis (p < 0.05). The significant major risk factors of BVDV in cattle were identified as age groups, parity, milk yield, and stage of pregnancy (p < 0.05). The only significant major risk factor of N. caninum was farm direction (p < 0.05). A significant association of concurrent infection with BVDV and BHV-1 has shown in the current study (p < 0.05). This study is the first to report the risk factors for N. caninum, BHV-1, and BVDV infection in the central part of Iran and allows us to conclude that these agents are widely distributed in this region.

Fermented mulberry leaf meal as fishmeal replacer in the formulation of feed for carp Labeo rohita and catfish Heteropneustes fossilis —optimization by mathematical programming

Abstract: Search for cost-effective, eco-friendly and sustainable plant resources as potential feedstuff to replace fishmeal in the formulation of feed for fish has been in the forefront of aquaculture researches since the last few years. In this study, experiments were conducted to evaluate if replacement of fishmeal by the fermented leaf meal of mulberry (Morus indica) was viable in the formulation of feed for carp fish Labeo rohita and catfish Heteropneustes fossilis. Four iso-proteinous, iso-lipidic and iso-energetic experimental feed were formulated by replacing 0, 25, 50 and 75% of fishmeal by the fermented mulberry leaf meal (FMLM), and both species were grown on these feeds for 8 weeks. Since the results revealed differences in response to fishmeal replacement level between parameters, we determined optimum fishmeal replacement level (OFRL) for each parameter from the polynomial curve equation. While maximum weight gain and specific growth rate and minimum feed conversion ratio was found at 30–32% OFRL for L. rohita and at 52–53% OFRL for H. fossilis, other parameters responded differently in both fish. Therefore, we applied a two-phase fuzzy goal programming technique using all parameters, which showed overall OFRL for L. rohita and H. fossilis as 30.95% and 52%, respectively. We also applied the concept of ‘decision tree’ to identify the key factor behind utilization of FMLM. It was concluded that activity of amylase and subsequent utilization of carbohydrate was the key factor in utilizing FMLM. Interestingly, H. fossilis was found more efficient in utilizing carbohydrate of FMLM than L. rohita.

Importance of livestock diseases identified using participatory epidemiology in the highlands of Ethiopia

Abstract: Livestock are a major cornerstone for livelihoods of smallholders in the highlands of Ethiopia. However, infectious diseases are a key constraint in livestock production affecting productivity and food security. This study aimed to understand livestock producers’ perception on importance and epidemiology of livestock diseases. Participatory tools using focus group discussions were used to identify and rank livestock species, major livestock diseases, and their epidemiological patterns in smallholder systems. The study covered 17 districts in four regions, with two or three kebeles (smallest administrative unit) included in each district. To capture views of women and men, separate focus group discussions (FGD) were conducted. Data collected through proportional piling were used in generalized linear model analysis. Taking sheep as a reference, cattle were significantly the most preferred species with the odds of cattle scoring higher than sheep being 2.08 times (P = 0.000). Sheep and poultry were equally the second most important livestock, followed by goat and equine. There were no statistically significant differences between men and women FGD groups and between the four regions in their preference for livestock species. Twelve out of 28 identified livestock diseases were mentioned by at least 10% of FGDs in their list of five most important diseases. Blackleg, foot, and mouth disease, lumpy skin disease, anthrax, and bovine pasteurellosis were ranked as the top five diseases by both men and women focus groups. Reasons for high scores included suddenness of death, zoonosis risks, animal age groups and species affected, frequency of occurrence, rate of transmission in herds, curability, and inefficient vaccination. Seasonality and agro-ecology were also factors associated with disease occurrence. The study also documents that adult men and women are more involved in activities related to disease transmission compared with other family members. When asked about impacts of diseases, loss of livelihood, displacement, and infection with zoonoses were mentioned, with women considered equally affected as men. In conclusion, participatory tools allowed understanding disease priorities of and their perceived epidemiology in smallholder systems. The perceptions and priorities of men and women are very similar, and both need to be involved in designing health management interventions. Based on the findings of this study, the intervention strategies listed in the 2013 animal health strategy of Ethiopia (MoA and ILRI 2013) seem pertinent and need to be implemented to overcome the challenges of diseases.

Molecular characterization of pathogenic Escherichia coli isolated from diarrheic and in-contact cattle and buffalo calves.

Abstract: Escherichia coli field isolates from calves were characterized and categorized into the most significant diarrheagenic pathotypes using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays with different specific primers. The used PCR systems were designed to detect sequences representing the group-specific virulence genes encoding fimbriae f5 (K99), Shiga toxins (stx1 and stx2), heat-stable enterotoxins (st), heat-labile enterotoxins (lt), intimin (eae), hemolysin (hylA), and EAEC heat-stable enterotoxin (astA). In the present work, a total of 150 E. coli field isolates were recovered from 150 fecal swabs collected from 100 diarrheic and 50 apparently healthy in-contact cattle and buffalo calves under 3 months old. Out of these 150 isolated E. coli, 106 isolates from 77 diarrheic and 29 in-contact calves harbored one or more of the investigated virulence genes. The pathotyping of the isolates could classify them into shigatoxigenic E. coli (STEC), enteropathogenic E. coli (EPEC), enterotoxigenic E. coli (ETEC), and enteroaggregative E. coli (EAEC) with a 30.7, 2.7, 12.7, and 7.3% distribution, respectively. Meanwhile, the detection rates of f5, stx1, stx2, st, lt, eae, hylA, and astA genes were 17.3, 27.3, 6.7, 10, 37.3, 17.7, 9.3, and 20.7%, respectively. These virulence genes were found either single or in different combinations, such as stx/eae, stx/st/f5, eae/st/f5, or st/lt/f5. Four attaching-effacing shigatoxigenic E. coli isolates (AE-STEC) harboring stx/eae were retrieved from diarrheic calves. Although none of the stx-or eae-positive isolates was verified as O157:H7, STEC isolates detected in apparently healthy calves have potential pathogenicity to humans highlighting their zoonotic importance as reservoirs. Atypical combinations of ETEC/STEC and ETEC/EPEC were also detected in percentages of 14.7 and 2.7%, respectively. Most of these atypical combinations were found more in buffalo calves than in cattle calves. While STEC and EPEC isolates were detected more in cattle calves than in buffalo calves, ETEC isolates were the same in the two species. The pathogenic E. coli infection in calves was recorded to be higher in the first weeks of life with the largest numbers of virulence factor-positive isolates detected at the age of 4 weeks. Histopathological examination of five intestinal samples collected from four dead buffalo calves revealed typical attaching and effacing (AE) lesion which was correlated with the presence of intimin encoding virulence gene (eae). Other lesions characterized by hemorrhagic enteritis, shortening and fusion of intestinal villi and desquamation of the lining epithelium of intestinal mucosa had also been detected.

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

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

Genetic polymorphism association analysis of SNPs on the species conservation genes of Tan sheep and Hu sheep.

Abstract: For further understanding the genetic control mechanisms of growth and development in Tan sheep, and culturing good traits on meat performance, which is very important to both in developing local species and improving economic efficaciously. In our study, we recruited a total of 250 Tan sheep and 174 healthy Hu sheep to detect 32 SNPs in GH, GHR, NPY, Leptin, H-FABP, MSTN, and CAST by using direct sequencing techniques, in order to explore genetic marking loci which were an association with growth characters. From the results, we found different SNPs with an obvious difference for the growth traits. In the different genetic model analysis, we found SNP12, SNP29, SNP41, SNP8, SNP34, SNP35, SNP9, SNP10, SNP36, SNP45, and SNP39 were a significantly negative association with the two kinds of sheep. And SNP46, SNP42, and SNP69 with the positive association between the different trait in sheep were analyzed. From the LD and haplotype analysis, we found three blocks with the positive association in growth traits between Tan sheep and Hu sheep. The block of SNP29, SNP32, SNP34, SNP35, SNP36, SNP39, SNP41, SNP42, SNP45, and SNP46 with the genotype "AATCTACTTA" is the most significantly association with the traits. In summary, the study initially explored the genes for growth and reproduction between Tan sheep and Hu sheep and found some statistically significant results which demonstrate that there are genetic differences. These differential molecular markers may provide a scientific theoretical basis for the preferred species of Tan sheep which with good meat performance and better utilization of species resources.

Carcass characteristics, physicochemical attributes, and fatty acid and amino acid compositions of meat obtained from different Japanese quail strains

Abstract: The objective of the current study was to assess the carcass traits and meat quality in three different Japanese quail strains. A total of 90 1-day-old Japanese quail chicks of three different strains; 30 of each of white, black, and brown were used. Quails were slaughtered at 10 weeks of age. Carcass traits such as carcass weight and carcass yield were recorded. At 24 h postmortem, breast and leg meat samples were detached, vacuum packaged and stored at − 20 °C until meat quality, nutritional composition, fatty acid and amino acid profile analyses. The results indicate no differences (p > 0.05) in the physicochemical properties of meat among different quail strains. Hot and cold carcass weights were higher (p 0.05) between quail strains. Nonetheless, meat quality differ (p < 0.05) between muscles in quails. Due to high carcass yields, brown quail strain may be preferred for meat production purposes.

Genetic diversity and relationships among three Southern African Nguni cattle populations.

Abstract: The Nguni cattle breed has distinct populations that are adapted to the different ecological zones of Southern Africa. This study was carried out to assess genetic diversity and establish the relationships among South African (SA), Mozambican (Landim), and Swazi Nguni cattle populations, using 25 microsatellite markers. Genotypic data were generated from deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) samples of 90 unrelated individuals of the three cattle populations, collected from government conservations and stud herds. DNA profiles of five local beef breeds were used as the reference populations. Most of the 25 microsatellite markers were highly polymorphic across the studied populations, with an overall polymorphic information content (PIC) mean of 0.676. Genetic diversity within populations was high with expected heterozygosity varying from 0.705 ± 0.024 (Landim) to 0.748 ± 0.021 (SA Nguni) and mean number of alleles being highest in the SA Nguni (7.52 ± 0.42). Average observed heterozygosity (0.597 ± 0.046) compared to the expected heterozygosity (0.719 ± 0.022) was lowest for the Swazi Nguni, which also had a high number of Hardy-Weinberg Equilibrium (HWE) deviated loci (13), confirming the relatively high level of inbreeding (0.158 ± 0.058) in that population. Analysis of molecular variance revealed only 9.61% of the total variation between the populations and 90.39% within populations. A short genetic distance (0.299) was observed between Landim and Swazi Nguni, with the SA Nguni (> 0.500) being the most genetically distant population. The distant relationship between SA Nguni and the other two Nguni cattle populations was further confirmed by a principal coordinates analysis. The three Nguni populations clustered independently from each other, despite some evidence of admixture. Therefore, it can be concluded that SA Nguni, Landim, and Swazi Nguni populations in Southern Africa exhibit high levels of genetic diversity and are genetically distant; with the two latter populations being less genetically apart. These results present useful information for the development of strategies for regional management of animal genetic resources, through conservation and sustainable utilisation.