Responses of growing rabbits to supplementing diet with a mixture of black and red pepper oils as a natural growth promoter

The current study was explored to examine the impacts of dietary inclusion of mixture of black (BPO) and red pepper (RPO) oils as growth promoters on growth, carcass, blood haematology, serum chemistry, immunity and antioxidative status of New Zealand White rabbits (NZW). A number total of 100 5‐week‐old NZW growing weaned rabbits were randomly allocated into four treatment groups in a complete randomized experiment. The dietary treatment groups were as follows: control: basal diet; BRP0.5: basal diet + 0.25 g BPO + 0.25 g RPO/kg diet; BRP1.0: basal diet + 0.50 g BPO + 0.50 g RPO/kg diet; and BRP1.5: basal diet + 0.75 g BPO + 0.75 g RPO/kg diet. Rabbits fed the highest level of BRP mixture were the heaviest, while the control rabbits were the lightest. During 5–9 weeks of age, a gradual improvement in feed conversion ratio (FCR) was noticed with increasing BRP level. The control group excelled all BRP groups regarding the majority of blood haematological parameters. Liver function was better in rabbits fed BRP enriched diets than the control. A gradual depression (p < 0.05 or 0.01) in serum lipids regardless high‐density lipoprotein (HDL) were recorded with elevating BRP level in the diet. The supplementation of BRP mixture enhanced the immune function and serum superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities and depressed serum malondialdehyde (MDA) in comparison with control. It could be concluded that dietary BRP mixture can affect some of growth traits, improve the immunity and antioxidant parameters, lower lipid profile and lipid peroxidation. Based on the study results, the recommended level of BRP mixture is 1.5 g/kg diet.     

Effect of dietary Moringa stem meal level on growth performance,slaughter performance and serum biochemical parameters in geese

Moringa stem meal (MSM) with a high level of crude fibre (CF) might be developed and utilized in herbivorous geese as an unconventional feedstuff. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of the MSM level in the diet on the growth performance, slaughter performance, breast meat quality and serum biochemical parameters in geese from 22 to 70 days of age. A one-factor completely randomized design was adopted in our study. A total of one thousand eight 21-day-old geese were randomly divided into six groups, with six replicates per group and 28 birds per replicate. The geese were fed diets containing MSM levels of 0, 20, 40, 60, 80 or 100 g/kg during day 22–70. The dietary MSM level had no effect (p > .05) on the final body weight (BW), average daily gain (ADG) or average daily feed intake (ADFI). The feed/gain ratio (F/G) increased linearly (p < .001) as the dietary MSM level increased. No differences (p > .05) were observed in the slaughter performance, meat quality and the relative organ weight (except for thymus) of the geese (p > .05). The relative weight of the thymus in the geese fed diets with supplementation of MSM was higher than that in the non-supplemented MSM control group (p < .05). In addition, 100 g MSM/kg of diet decreased the serum glucose (GLU) level (p < .05) and increased the alanine transaminase (ALT) enzyme activity (p = .03). Dietary MSM levels of no more than 60 g/kg had no effects on the growth performance and slaughter performance, whereas diets with 100 g MSM/kg increased the F/G and serum ALT enzyme activity, as well as decreasing the serum GLU level. Therefore, MSM provided at a reasonable level could be developed as an unconventional feedstuff for geese at the finisher period.     

Potential toxicity of cyanogenic glycoside amygdalin and bitter apricot seed in rabbits—Health status evaluation

Amygdalin is one of the most studied secondary metabolites of Prunus genus. It is a cyanogenic glycoside which was initially obtained from the bitter almonds seeds and is a major component of the seeds of plants, such as apricots, almonds, peaches, apples and other rosaceous plants. The views of scientists on the use of amygdalin have been contradictory for many years, partly because toxicokinetics and metabolism of amygdalin still have not been adequately explored. The present in vivo study was designed to reveal whether pure amygdalin intramuscularly injected or apricot seeds oral consumption induce changes in overall health status of rabbit as a biological model. A total of 60 adult rabbits were randomly divided into five groups. The control group received no amygdalin while the two experimental groups E1 and E2 received a daily intramuscular injection of amygdalin at doses 0.6 and 3.0 mg/kg bw. The experimental groups E3 and E4 were fed crushed bitter apricot seeds (Prunus armeniaca L.), at doses 60 and 300 mg/kg bw, mixed with commercial feed for rabbits. Blood collection was carried out after 14 days. Biochemical, haematological and antioxidant enzymes activity analysis were performed and statistically evaluated. A short‐term amygdalin administration had negligible impact on biochemical parameters—mainly level of urea, bilirubin, cholesterol. Haematological profile of rabbits was influenced very slightly—non‐significant platelet count and platelet percentage increase, erythrocytes count and haemoglobin decrease. SOD activity of rabbits decreased significantly (p > 0.05) after apricot seeds consumption (102.3 U/ml) in comparison to control (117.4 U/ml). Differences might be connected to diverse metabolism by different administration routes and at the same time by the presence of other substances in apricot seeds (phytosterols, polyphenols, fatty acids). However, a short‐term consumption had only slight effect on health status of rabbits and at recommended doses did not represent risk for their health.     

Effect of dietary calcium level and source on mineral utilisation by piglets fed diets containing exogenous phytase

Calcium and phosphorus are essential minerals, closely linked in digestive processes and metabolism. With widespread use of low P diets containing exogenous phytase, the optimal dietary Ca level was verified. The 40‐day study evaluated the effects of Ca level (4, 7 and 10 g/kg diet) and Ca source (Ca from CaCO₃ and from Lithothamnium calcareum) on mineral utilisation in 72 piglets (7.9 ± 1.0 kg BW) fed an exogenous phytase containing diet with 2.9 g digestible P/kg. Measured parameters were growth performance, stomach mineral solubility, bone breaking strength and urinary, serum and bone mineral concentration. The apparent total tract digestibility of minerals was also assessed in the two diets with 7 g Ca/kg, using 12 additional pigs. Regardless of Ca source, increasing dietary Ca impaired feed conversion ratio, increased urinary pH, increased serum and urinary Ca, decreased serum and urinary P, decreased serum Mg and increased urinary Mg, increased serum AP activity, decreased bone Mg increased bone Zn. Bone breaking strength was improved with 7 compared to 4 g Ca/kg. Compared to CaCO₃, Ca from Lithothamnium calcareum increased serum Mg and with, 10 g Ca/kg, it limited body weight gain. The dose response of Ca in a diet with 2.9 g digestible P/kg and including exogenous phytase indicated that: (i) a low dietary Ca was beneficial for piglet growth, but was limiting the metabolic use of P; (ii) a high dietary Ca level impaired P utilisation; (iii) the optimal P utilisation and bone breaking strength was obtained with a dietary Ca‐to‐digestible P ratio of 2.1 to 2.4:1; (iv). Increasing dietary Ca reduced Mg utilisation, but not Zn status, when fed at adequate level. Finally, Ca from Lithothamnium calcareum had similar effects on Ca and P metabolism as CaCO₃, but impaired growth when fed at the highest inclusion level.     

Effects of Moringa oleifera leaves as a substitute for alfalfa meal on nutrient digestibility,growth performance,carcass trait,meat quality,antioxidant capacity and biochemical parameters of rabbits

This contribution reports the effects of Moringa oleifera leaves (MOLs) meal on the growth performances, nutrient digestibility, carcass trait, meat quality, antioxidant capacity and biochemical parameters of growing New Zealand white rabbits. The MOL was substituted for alfalfa meal at levels of 0, 10%, 20% and 30% to obtain respective diets MOL0, MOL10, MOL20 and MOL30. Each treatment was replicated five times with 10 rabbits per replicate. Results showed the average daily weight gain (ADWG) and feed conversion ratio (FCR) of rabbits fed MOL20 diet were significantly better (p < 0.05) than those of other three dietary groups. Liver and spleen index of rabbits fed MOL20 and MOL30 diets was significantly higher (p < 0.05) than that of the groups fed with lower M. oleifera leaves (MOL0, MOL10). The meat drip loss of rabbits fed with diet MOL10 was significantly lower (p < 0.05) than that of rabbits fed other diets. All rabbits fed MOL dietary groups had lower (p < 0.05) shear force of longissimus dorsi than the group without M. oleifera leaves. No significant differences were found in the digestibility of crude fibre (CF), crude fat (EE), ash, crude protein (CP) and nitrogen‐free extract (NFE) among the dietary groups. Moringa oleifera leaves also have a significant impact on serum albumin (ALB), low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDLC), triiodothyroxine (T₃) and tetraiodothyroxine (T₄) values and the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) in serum and liver. The results indicated that M. oleifera leaves could be developed as a good feed source, and it not only could substitute for alfalfa meal well but also has a significant effect on growth performance, meat quality, antioxidant and biochemical parameters of rabbits.     

Effects of dietary red yeast (Sporidiobolus pararoseus) on production performance and egg quality of laying hens

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of dietary red yeast (Sporidiobolus pararoseus) on production performance and egg quality of laying hens. A total of 200 Esa Brown laying hens (23 weeks of age) were allocated equally to negative control group (no yeast supplement); positive control group (2 g/kg of Saccharomyces cerevisiae); 0.5, 1, 2 g/kg red yeast respectively. The experiment was lasted for 12 weeks. Feed intake, hen‐day egg production and egg weight were not different between control and supplemented groups. However, yeast‐supplemented groups were significantly improved feed efficiency (p < .05). Incremental levels of red yeast increased the colour score of egg yolk (p < .05). The cholesterol and triglyceride of serum and yolk were significantly (p < .05) lower in the laying hens fed dietary administration red yeast compared to the control diet; however, no significant (p > .05) differences among yeast‐supplemented groups were observed. The hepatic hydroxymethylglutaryl‐coenzymeA (HMG‐CoA) reductase activity was significantly lower (p < .05) in the 2 g/kg red yeast‐supplemented group compared to the control and other red yeast‐supplemented groups. Concentrations of caecal short‐chain fatty acids was increased (p < .05) in laying hens fed 1 and 2 g/kg red yeast as compared to the control group. Dietary administration of 2 g/kg red yeast (S. pararoceus) significantly improved egg yolk colour, decrease serum and egg yolk cholesterol levels.     

Randomized control trial to test the effect of a feed additive on Campylobacter contamination in commercial broiler flocks up to slaughter

A randomized controlled trial (RCT) was carried to evaluate the effect of a feed additive on Campylobacter contamination of broilers reared in commercial conditions. Twenty‐four broiler flocks naturally contaminated with Campylobacter were enrolled in the RCT: 12 were assigned to a control group (C) fed with a conventional finishing feed from 4 weeks of age to slaughter (around 35 days), and the other group of 12 flocks (S) was fed with a finishing feed supplemented with 250 ppm of a patented feed additive (an ion‐exchanged clay compound) previously proven to reduce Campylobacter contamination in broiler caeca under experimental conditions. Enumeration of Campylobacter colonies in caeca (8 per flock) was carried out following ISO standards before feed distribution and at slaughter. Before treatment, the caecal Campylobacter load tended to be lower in C flocks (7.1 ± 1.9 log CFU/g, CI_95% [6.6–7.5]) than in S flocks (7.7 ± 1.0 log UFC/g, CI_95% [7.5–7.9]) (p = .05). At slaughter, the bacterial load was similar in the S (7.7 ± 1.0 log CFU/g, CI_95% [7.5–7.9]) and C groups (7.5 ± 1.2 log CFU/g, CI_95% [7.2–7.8]) (p = .73). Therefore, the feed additive had no significant effect on the caecal Campylobacter load at slaughter under the tested conditions. The logistical constraints inherent in field trials and the natural variability of Campylobacter contamination in naturally infected broiler flocks make it difficult to reproduce experimental results in in situ farm conditions. RCT testing of an intervention strategy in commercial situation is therefore a key step in evaluating pre‐harvest interventions against food‐borne pathogens.     

Effects of polyphenolic extract from Eucommia ulmoides Oliver leaf on growth performance,digestibility, rumen fermentation and antioxidant status of fattening lambs

To investigate the effects of polyphenolic extract from Eucommia ulmoides Oliver leaf (PEEU) on growth performance, digestibility, rumen fermentation and antioxidant status of fattening lambs, 30 weaned male Huzhou lambs were equally divided into three treatments and fed the basal diet supplemented with 0 (CON), 5 (PEEU5) or 10 (PEEU10) g/kg PEEU. Dietary PEEU supplementation did not affect growth performance and apparent digestibility of nutrients. Compared with the CON group, lambs in the PEEU10 group had lower ammonia nitrogen concentration (p < .01) and acetic acid to propionic acid ratio (p < .05) and higher the molar proportion of propionate (p < .05) in rumen fluid. Ammonia nitrogen concentration (p < .01) and the molar proportion of propionate (p < .05) were affected by an interaction between PEEU and sampling day. Dietary PEEU supplementation at 10 g/kg increased total antioxidant capacity (p < .05), superoxide dismutase (p < .05) and glutathione peroxidase (p < .01) activities in serum and glutathione peroxidase activity (p < .05) in liver and decreased (p < .05) malondialdehyde content in serum and liver compared with the CON group. In conclusion, dietary PEEU supplementation affected rumen fermentation patterns and improved antioxidant status of fattening lambs.     

Effects of dietary supplementation of synbiotics on growth performance,intestinal morphology,sIgA content and antioxidant capacities of broilers

Today, several strategies are being used to decrease the serious effects of antibiotics abuse on broilers industry and public health, among which synbiotics are one of the most promising antibiotic alternative. This study was undertaken to assess the effects of synbiotics, which composed of probiotics (Bacillus subtilis) and prebiotics (xylooligosaccharide and mannanoligosaccharide), on growth performance, intestinal morphology, sIgA content and antioxidant parameters of broilers. Four hundred and fifty one‐day‐old commercial Cobb48 broilers were assigned to five treatments consisting of six replicates of 15 birds each pen. Five dietary treatments include basal diets (control), basal diets plus antibiotics (4 mg/kg Xanthomycin), basal diets plus 1 g of probiotics B. subtilis product/kg of diets (4 × 10⁸ cfu/kg), basal diets plus 150 mg/kg xylooligosaccharide (35%) and 1 g/kg mannanoligosaccharide (75%), and basal diets plus synbiotics (1 g of probiotics B. subtilis product/kg of diets (4 × 10⁸ cfu/kg), 150 mg/kg xylooligosaccharide (35%) and 1 g/kg mannanoligosaccharide (75%). The results demonstrated that on 21 and 42 days, dietary supplementation of the synbiotics significantly increased daily weight gain (p < 0.05), feed efficiency (p < 0.05), the villus height and villus:crypt ratio in the duodenum, jejunum and ileum (p < 0.05), as well as intestinal mucosa sIgA content (p < 0.05), serum T‐SOD activity (p < 0.05) and lysozyme content (p < 0.05), comparing with control group. In conclusion, synbiotics (B. subtilis and xylooligosaccharide and mannanoligosaccharide) is one of the safe and ideal dietary supplementations to increase broilers' growth performance by improving small intestinal morphology, sIgA content and antioxidant capabilities.     

Growth performance and blood profile of West African Dwarf (WAD) goats fed varying levels of treated sweet orange peels

Fifteen West African Dwarf grower bucks of about 6–8 months of age and average weights of 8.39 kg were used in a 70-day study to assess the intake and blood profile of West African Dwarf (WAD) goats fed diets containing graded levels of treated sweet orange peel meal (TSOPM), in a completely randomized design. Sweet orange peels were collected from sweet orange retailers within Makurdi, Benue State, Nigeria. The peels were packed into synthetic bags, compressed, and allowed to ferment for 12 h before sun-drying. The sun-dried peels were crushed into a meal and used to compound four treatments diets which consisted of 0, 60, and 80% TSOPM, designated diets A, B, and C respectively. Results showed that there were no significant differences (P?>?0.05) among the treatments in all the performance parameters except in the total forage intake values in which treatment A (19.74 kg) was significantly lower (P?<?0.05) than treatment B (21.77 kg) and treatment C (21.96 kg). But between treatment B and treatment C, there was no difference. Effect of treatments was also not apparent on the haematological indices measured, but the serum biochemical parameters showed significant difference (P?<?0.05) among the treatments for total protein values. The total protein value for treatment C (8.02 g/dl) was significantly higher (P?<?0.05) than treatments A (7.10 g/dl) and B (6.62 g/dl). The study showed that treated sweet orange peel meal can be used up to 80% level to replace maize offal in the diets of goats without adverse effects on the performance blood indices.

     

Effects of two different rearing protocols for Holstein bull calves in the first 3 weeks of life on health status,metabolism and subsequent performance

The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of weight gain of calves within the first 3 weeks of life on health status and subsequent performance. Holstein bull calves were reared either intensively (IR; individual hutches and ad libitum milk feeding for the first 3 weeks of life; n = 24), or according to the established protocol [ER; 4 l milk/day in hutches during week 1 and 720 g/day milk replacer (MR) from day 8 to 21 in a group pen; n = 24]. Water, hay and concentrates were freely available to all calves. From week 4, calves of both groups were housed together in a group pen and fed 720 g MR/day; step‐down weaning was performed between week 5 and 10. Key metabolic blood parameters were analysed on day 2, 12, 21 and 70 of life. After weaning, all animals were fed concentrates and corn silage until slaughter at an age of 8 months. Within the first 3 weeks, average daily weight gain was threefold higher in IR calves in relation to ER calves (1.28 vs. 0.38 kg/day, p < 0.001). Neither incidence nor duration of scouring differed significantly between groups. Starter intake (week 4–10) was higher in IR calves in relation to ER calves (49.7 vs. 38.0 kg/calf, p = 0.006). Serum glucose, urea, albumin and insulin were higher at an age of 21 days in IR calves in relation to ER calves; no differences were obvious at an age of 70 days. Plasma GH and IGF‐I concentrations revealed an uncoupling of the somatotropic axis in ER calves within the first 3 weeks of life. At slaughter, body weight of IR calves tended to be higher than that of the ER calves (320 vs. 309 kg, p = 0.07). In conclusion, intensive feeding and individual housing during the first 3 weeks of life had positive long‐term effects on subsequent performance.     

Quantification of dietary calcium requirement of fingerling Heteropneustes fossilis based on growth,feed conversion efficiency,mineralization and serum alkaline phosphatase activity

Seven isonitrogenous (400 g/kg crude protein) and isocaloric (17.89 kJ/g gross energy) purified diets (casein‐gelatin based) with different concentrations of calcium (0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 g/kg) supplemented with calcium lactate at the levels of 0, 5.4, 10.8, 16.3, 21.8, 27.27 and 32.73 g/kg were prepared and fed for 12 weeks to triplicate groups of Heteropneustes fossilis (7.46 ± 0.03 g) to determine the optimum dietary calcium requirement. Analysed values of calcium in the diets were 2.41, 3.82, 4.56, 5.99, 6.71, 7.40 and 8.19 g/kg, respectively. Absolute weight gain, specific growth rate, protein retention efficiency, protein gain and feed conversion ratio of fish fed diets with increasing levels of dietary calcium improved up to 5.99 g/kg and then levelled off. Whole‐body protein, moisture and ash contents improved up to 5.99 g/kg dietary calcium and stabilized thereafter. However, whole‐body fat exhibited reverse pattern and decreased with incremental levels of dietary calcium up to 5.99 g/kg. Whole‐body and vertebrae mineralization was also significantly affected (p < .05) by the increasing dietary calcium levels. Alkaline phosphatase activity improved significantly (p < .05) up to 6.71 g/kg, and no change was recorded beyond this level. Serum calcium and phosphorus concentrations were not influenced (p > .05) by dietary calcium levels. The Ca–P ratio remained static in the whole body, vertebrae and serum. Broken‐line regression analysis of data obtained on growth, mineralization and serum ALP activity against increasing levels of dietary calcium reflected the optimum calcium requirement between 5.77–6.81 g/kg diet.     

Influence of On‐farm pig Salmonella status on Salmonella Shedding at Slaughter

The risk of Salmonella shedding among pigs at slaughter with regard to their previous on‐farm Salmonella status was assessed in a group of pigs from a farm from NE of Spain. A total of 202 pigs that had been serologically monitored monthly during the fattening period and from which mesenteric lymph nodes (MLN) and faecal (SFEC) samples were collected at slaughter for Salmonella isolation were included. A repeated‐measures anova was used to assess the relationship between mean OD% values during the fattening period and sampling time and bacteriology on MLN and SFEC. Pigs were also grouped into four groups, that is pigs seronegative during the fattening period and Salmonella negative in MLN (group A; n = 69); pigs seronegative during the fattening period but Salmonella positive in MLN (B; n = 36); pigs seropositive at least once and Salmonella positive in MLN (C; n = 50); and pigs seropositive at least once but Salmonella negative in (D; n = 47). Pigs shedding at slaughter seroconverted much earlier and showed much higher mean OD% values than non‐shedders pigs. The proportion of Salmonella shedders in groups A and D was high and similar (26.1% and 29.8%, respectively), but significantly lower than that for groups B and C. The odds of shedding Salmonella for groups B and C were 4.8 (95% CI = 1.5–15.5) and 20.9 (3.7–118) times higher, respectively, when compared to A. It was concluded that a large proportion of Salmonella seronegative pigs may shed Salmonella at slaughter, which would be likely associated to previous exposure with contaminated environments (i.e. transport and lairage). For pigs already infected at farm, the likelihood of shedding Salmonella was much higher and may depend on whether the bacterium has colonized the MLN or not. The odds of shedding Salmonella spp. were always much higher for pigs in which Salmonella was isolated from MLN.     

Administration of ginger and/or thyme has ameliorative effects on liver and kidney functions of V‐line rabbits: Histological and biochemical studies

This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of Zingiber officinale and Thymus vulgaris aqueous extracts as a natural antioxidant on liver and kidney functions and antioxidant status of growing rabbits. A total of 24 V‐line male rabbits, 3 months old, 1.465 ± 0.12 kg average body weight (BW) were used in a complete randomized design. The rabbits were weighed individually and assigned randomly to four groups (6 animals/each). The first group (G1) was taken fresh water and served as control, rabbits of the second group (G2) were taken 100 mg/kg BW in drinking water of the Z. officinale aqueous extract daily. The third group (G3) was taken 50 mg/kg BW in drinking water of the T. vulgaris aqueous extract daily and the fourth group (G4) was taken 100 mg/kg BW of the Z. officinale aqueous extract plus 50 mg/kg BW of the T. vulgaris aqueous extract in drinking water daily. The oral administration of ginger and/or thyme aqueous extracts increased (p < .001) serum protein profile compared with control group. Moreover, results of group 2 showed significant (p < .001) decrease in cholesterol, triglyceride and very low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol compared with group 3 and 4. Serum urea, uric acid and creatinine levels were significantly (p < .001) decreased in treated groups compared with control group. Oral administration of ginger and/or thyme aqueous extracts to growing rabbits increased (p < .001) total antioxidant capacity and glutathione content and the activity of superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione‐S‐transferase compared with the control group. In conclusion, the current study showed that oral administration of ginger and thyme aqueous extracts to growing rabbits showed no adverse effects on liver and kidney function parameters, histological structures and improved antioxidant status.     

Haematological and serum biochemical parameters of West African Dwarf goats fed dried cassava leaves-based concentrate diets

The study was conducted to investigate the effects of feeding different levels of dried cassava leaves at 0%, 20%, 40% and 60%, respectively, using guinea grass as basal feed, on the haematological and serum biochemical parameters of West African Dwarf (WAD) goats. The study lasted for 116 days during which haematological and serum biochemical parameters were monitored in 40 male goats before and after, using a completely randomized design. At the start of the experiment, packed cell volume (PCV) ranged from 21.5% to 25.5% while haemoglobin concentration (Hb) and RBC significantly (P < 0.01) ranged from 7.3 to 8.6 g/dl and 10.4 to 13.2 × 10¹²/l, respectively. White blood cells reduced significantly (P < 0.05)) from 16.4 to 11.7 × 10⁹/l) as dried cassava leaves increased in the diets. At the end of the trial, there was a slight increase in the values of PCV and Hb in the diets (P > 0.05). Lymphocyte reduced significantly (P < 0.05) from 50.0% to 63.5% in the diets. Neutrophils, however, increased (P > 0.05) at the 0% to 40% levels and reduced at the 60% level of dried cassava leaves inclusion. At the start of the experiment, values for glucose significantly (P < 0.05) ranged from 40.1 to 56.0 mg/dl. Total protein and albumin values ranged significantly (P < 0.05) from 56.0 to 68.5 g/dl and 30.6 to 38.4 g/dl, respectively. At the end of the experiment, serum creatinine increased significantly (P < 0.05) as the level of dried cassava leaves increased from 0% to 60% in the diets. The study revealed that inclusion of dried cassava leaves in the diets of West African Dwarf goats had no deleterious effects on the haematological and serum biochemical parameters of WAD goats and could therefore be included in ruminant diets up to 60%.     

The effects of naturally deoxynivalenol-contaminated oats on the clinical condition,blood parameters,performance and carcass composition of growing pigs

A feeding trial with naturally deoxynivalenol (DON)-contaminated oats included in feed mixtures at graded levels was conducted in growing pigs. The DON concentrations were 0, 0.7, 1.7, and 3.5 mg/kg of complete feed mixture givenad libitum to different groups. The data recorded were feed consumption, body weight gain, slaughter weight, biochemical and haematological data including serum immunoglobulin A, clinical condition and post-mortem pathology including histopathology.Significantly decreasing body weight gain throughout the experimental period, decreased slaughter weight and reduced feed utilization efficiency were observed for the group fed a diet containing 3.5 mg/kg of DON. At the same DON concentration, there were increased liver weights and decreased concentrations of serum protein and albumin, and a temporary fall in packed blood cell volume, serum calcium and serum phosphorus. For the groups fed diets containing 1.7 and 3.5 mg/kg of DON, a statistically significant, dose-related decrease in daily feed consumption was observed. No other effects on haematological, biochemical or immunological parameters were recorded. The carcass quality was not affected in any group.It was concluded that significant effects in growing pigs may be observed at a dietary DON concentration of 1.7 mg/kg, originating from naturally contaminated oats included in a diet that was otherwise adequate and contained only minor traces of other mycotoxins.Abbreviations ALAT alanine aminotransferase - ASAT aspartate aminotransferase - CFU colony-forming units - DON deoxynivalenol - 3-ac-DON 3-acetyl-deoxynivalenol - F.U. feed unit - FUS-X fusarenon-X - HPLC high-pressure liquid chromatography - IgA immunoglobulin A - NFSA nutrient-free sporulation agar - NIV nivalenol - PDA potato dextrose agar     

Effects of p.o. administered xylitol in cats

Xylitol is commonly used as sugar substitute in households. While it has numerous beneficial effects on human health, it is highly toxic to dogs. The goal of this study was to examine whether xylitol has similar deleterious effects, such as hypoglycaemia and acute hepatic failure, on cats. Our research included six healthy middle‐aged cats. Xylitol was dissolved in deionized water and administered p.o. at three doses (100, 500 and 1,000 mg/kg body weight). These dosages have been considered toxic and can cause liver failure or even death in dogs. After every xylitol administration, the basic health status and the blood glucose of cats were observed regularly. Additionally, prior to and 6, 24 and 72 hr after xylitol administration, blood samples were taken to check complete blood count, clinical biochemical parameters and enzymes such as ALT, ALKP, GGT, GLDH, bile acids, BUN, creatinine, phosphate, total protein, albumin, sodium and potassium. There were no significant changes (p > .05) in any of the haematological or biochemical parameters. Blood glucose concentrations did not show any significant alterations, except at 1,000 mg/kg dose, where a mild but significant increase was observed, but it was in physiological range. Based on our results, xylitol did not induce toxic effects on cats.     

Dietary effect of dried bay leaves (Laurus nobilis) meal on some biochemical parameters and on plasma oxidative status in New Zealand white growing rabbit

Effects of dietary supplementation of Laurus nobilis on selected biochemical parameters and plasma oxidative status in growing rabbits, fed with and without enriched‐fat diet, integrated with and without dried bay leaves meal, were investigated. In the test, 120 New Zealand white 35‐day‐old male rabbits were divided into four homogeneous groups of 30 animals each. A negative control group (CON) received a feed that met the animal nutrient requirement; a positive control group (CG) receiving a supplement of 2.5% pig fat in feed; an experimental group (GA) feeding an integration of 2.5% pig fat and 1 g/kg of dried bay leaves (Laurus nobilis) in feed; an experimental group (CA) with dried bay leaves at the rate of 1 g/kg in feed. The dietary integration with dried bay leaves meal have resulted in a significant decrease in the blood lipid profile, glycemic profile and liver enzymes, with reduced levels of ALT and AST, glucose, total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, triglycerides and increased HDL cholesterol. Plasma oxidative status markers have statistically improved with an increase in blood total phenols, SOD, ORAC, the FRAP and lipo‐vitamin concentration, together with a significant reduction in ROMs and the MDA values. The results of present research underline that the dietary treatment with bay leaves meal, in the extend of 1 g/kg feed, confirms the lowering cholesterol activity and the epato‐protective and ipo‐glycemic effect in enrich‐fat diet, controlling the oxidative status of plasma markers.     

A comparison of finishing systems and duration for spring-born Aberdeen Angus × Holstein-Friesian and Belgian Blue × Holstein-Friesian steers

In Ireland, the majority of dairy cows calve in spring and the male progeny are reared for beef as steers. Over half of all dairy calves are beef crosses with Aberdeen Angus and Belgian Blue representing two extremes in maturity type. The objective of this study was to compare different finishing systems in the autumn/winter of their second year for spring-born steers of contrasting maturity type. A total of 80 spring-born calves, 40 Aberdeen Angus × Holstein-Friesian (AA) and 40 Belgian Blue × Holstein-Friesian (BB) were reared together to 16 months of age. They were then blocked on live weight within breed type and assigned to a pre-experimental slaughter group and to four finishing groups namely: (i) pasture only for 94 days to slaughter, (ii) concentrates ad libitum indoors for 94 days to slaughter, (iii) pasture only for 94 days followed by concentrates ad libitum indoors for 95 days to slaughter, and (iv) concentrates ad libitum indoors for 189 days to slaughter. After slaughter, the 6–10th ribs joint was separated into its component tissues and a sample of m. longissimus was chemically analysed. Mean slaughter weights and carcass weights per day from arrival were 922 and 957 (s.e. 10.6)g, and 476 and 511 (s.e. 6.1) g for AA and BB, respectively. Corresponding carcass weights, kill out proportions, ribs joint fat and muscle proportions, and m. longissimus lipid concentrations were 300 and 322 (s.e. 3.9) kg, 515 and 534 (s.e. 2.4) g/kg, 181 and 121 (s.e. 4.2) g/kg, 605 and 666 (s.e. 4.5) g/kg, and 42 and 25 (s.e. 2.5) g/kg, respectively. Mean daily live weight gains for the finishing treatments as listed were 714, 1539, 999 and 1186 (s.e. 32.0) g, respectively. Corresponding mean daily carcass gains, carcass weights, ribs joint fat proportions and m. longissimus lipid concentrations were 416, 901, 645 and 774 (s.e. 24.6) g, 252, 296, 336 and 359 (s.e. 5.5) kg, 76, 165, 154 and 210 (s.e. 5.9) g/kg, and 13, 34, 32 and 55 (s.e. 3.5) g/kg. It is concluded that BB had heavier carcasses of better conformation with less ribs joint fat and less intramuscular lipid than AA. Neither breed type had acceptably finished carcasses after 94 days on pasture, but both breed types had acceptably finished carcasses following concentrate feeding for 94 days. The carcasses of the BB animals on pasture for 94 days and then finished on concentrates were not acceptably finished and m. longissimus lipid concentration was < 25 g/kg. In contrast, the carcasses of the AA animals finished on concentrates for 189 days were over fat and m. longissimus lipid concentration was > 65 g/kg.     

Comparison of Different Commercial Serological Tests for the Detection of Toxoplasma gondii Antibodies in Serum of Naturally Exposed Pigs

Toxoplasma gondii is the aetiological agent of the zoonotic disease toxoplasmosis and transmitted among other ways by chemically and physically untreated, that is, raw pork to humans. The detection of Toxoplasma gondii is impossible by currently practiced meat inspection, but serological tests can be used to detect Toxoplasma gondii antibodies in pig herds and can consequently be helpful to identify potentially contaminated pork. Therefore, appropriate serological tests are required. In this study, serum samples of 1368 naturally exposed slaughter pigs from 73 Austrian farms were collected. Serum samples of at least 16 slaughter pigs per farm were tested. The prevalence of Toxoplasma gondii antibodies in serum was measured by a commercial available modified agglutination test (MAT) and compared to three different commercial available enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA). The MAT detected 6.5%, ELISA I 6.7%, ELISA II 4.8% and ELISA III 4.3% of the pigs as Toxoplasma gondii antibody positive. The agreement, according to the kappa coefficient (κ), was substantial between the MAT and ELISA I (κ = 0.62), II (κ = 0.64) and III (κ = 0.67). A better agreement was determined between ELISA I and II (κ = 0.715), ELISA I and III (κ = 0.747) and ELISA II and III (κ = 0.865). At least one pig per farm was detected Toxoplasma gondii antibody positive in 17 (23.3%) farms by the MAT, 26 (35.6%) farms by ELISA I, 16 (21.9%) farms by ELISA II and 11 (15.1%) farms by ELISA III. Pig farms with a high number of Toxoplasma gondii antibody‐positive pigs or high antibody titres were identified by all of the four used serological tests. Concerning the occurrence of Toxoplasma gondii antibodies in Austrian pig farms, a monitoring and surveillance programme would be reasonable to find high‐risk farms.