Azeri water buffalo is a species of great interest due to the high quality of its products such as milk. Due to the decreasing trend of its number and risk of extinction in the future, our attention is directed towards ensuring the preservation of its genetic reserves by keeping its sperm. Using antioxidants in semen extender is one of the ways to reduce the detrimental effects of freezing process on post-thawed quality of spermatozoa. This study was conducted to determine the effect of κ-carrageenan (k-CRG) and C60HyFn supplemented semen extender on the quality of post-thawed Azari water buffalo spermatozoa. A total of 30 semen samples were obtained from three buffaloes using an artificial vagina (twice a week for five weeks = 10 replicates). The samples (n = 3) from each replicate were pooled and divided into equal aliquots to prepare 14 extender groups, including control (C), k-0.2, K-0.4, K-0.6, K-0.8 (containing 0.2, 0.4, 0.8 mg K-CRG/mL, respectively), C-0.1, C-0.2, C-0.4, C-0.8, C-1, C-5, C-10, C-20, and C-40 (containing 0.1, 0.2, 0.4, 0.6, 0.8, 1, 5, 10, 20, 40 μM C60HyFn, respectively), and then frozen. After thawing, motility and velocity parameters, plasma membrane integrity (PMI) and functionality (PMF), DNA damage, Hypo-osmotic swelling (HOS) test, malondialdehyde (MDA), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase glutathione activities and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging were evaluated. In vivo fertility was compared between k-0.6, C-1 and control groups. 60 buffalo were inseminated 24 h after the onset of estrus. The diagnosis of pregnancy was performed rectally at least 60 days after fertilization. Total and progressive motility and velocity parameters were improved by k-0.4, k-0.6, k-0.8, C-0.4, C-0.8, C-1, C-5, and C-10 groups) compared to the other groups. Plasma membranes integrity and PMF were improved by k-0.4, k-0.6, C-0.4, C-0.8, C-1, C-5, and C-10 groups compared to other groups, while in terms of sperm DNA damage K-0.4, K-0.6, K-0.8, C-0.2, C-0.4, C-0.8, C-1, C-5, and C-10 groups showed better results compared to the control group. The evidence also showed that k- 0.4, k-0.6, k-0.8, C-0.4, C-0.8, C-1, C-5, and C-10 groups could improve TAC, and decrease MDA levels. Also, k-0.4, k-0.6, k-0.8, C-0.2, C-0.4, C-0.8, C-1, C-5, and C-10 groups could improve GPx, CAT, and GSH levels, but no significant difference was found regarding SOD compared to the other groups. DPPH scavengers were tested by K-0.6, K-0.8 and C-1, C-5, C-10, C-0.8, C-0.4 and C-0.2 groups and compared to other groups improved. The fertility rate [70% (14/20)] was higher in C-1 than other groups. To conclude that k-CRG and C60HyFn supplementation can increase the quality parameters of cryopreserved buffalo semen after thawing and that 1 M C60HyFn can increase in vivo fertility of buffalo semen.

This study was conducted to investigate the effect of semen extenders enriched with glutathione (GSH) on in vitro quality parameters and fertility of post-thawed turkey. In experiment 1, pools of semen diluted in glucose-based extender containing 0.5, 1, and 2 mM of GSH were cryopreserved. During the next step, a different variable such as motility and motion parameters, plasma membrane integrity (PMI) and functionality (PMF), DNA integrity, lipid peroxidation (MDA), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity were determined in the post-thawed samples. In the second experiment, artificial insemination was used to evaluate the fertility and hatchability performances of the post-thawed semen. The results of the first experiment showed that the extenders supplemented with 2, 1 and 0.5 mM of GSH had higher levels (p ≤ 0.05) of motility and motion parameters, PMI, PMF, TAC, CAT and SOD activity and lower abnormal morphology, DNA damage, and lipid peroxidation respectively in comparison to the control group (only extender with semen). Notably, the second experiment showed a higher rate of fertility (p ≤ 0.05) in 2 mM of GSH compared to the control group. It can be concluded that adding 2, 1 and 0.5 mM of glutathione leads to an improvement in the survival of the post-thawed turkey, while 2 mM of GSH can increase the fertility strength of the turkey sperm; hence it can be used to improve fertility and hatchability performance.

An experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of copper oxide (Cu2O) and potentiated zinc oxide (ZnO) on performance, intestinal morphology, oocyst excretion, coccidial lesion scores, and antioxidant properties in broilers during an Eimeria spp. challenge. A total of 288 1-day-old male broiler chickens (Ross 308) were divided into 18 treatments. Treatments included three levels of Cu (0, 15, or 150 mg/kg) from Cu2O and three levels of Zn (0, 80, or 160 mg/kg) from potentiated ZnO which were added to the basal diet and fed to broilers with or without challenge, using a completely randomized design in a factorial arrangement for 42 days. Live body weight, feed intake, mortality, and the cause of death were recorded weekly and histomorphology of jejunum was measured at the end of the experiment. Results showed that birds fed Cu and Zn linearly decreased (P < 0.0001) oocyst shedding. The number of excreted oocysts was reduced eight times in broilers fed a diet containing 150 mg/kg copper from Cu2O and 160 mg/kg zinc from potentiated ZnO, compared to the infected group without Cu and Zn supplementation (P < 0.0001). Microscopic features of both non-challenged and challenged broiler jejunum revealed significant improvement along with increased Cu2O and potentiated ZnO doses. Supplementation of Cu2O and potentiated ZnO decreased the jejunum structure damages and intestinal lesion score (P < 0.002). Eimeria caused a decrease (P < 0.006) in total antioxidant capacity. Superoxide dismutase increased by dietary zinc supplementation (P < 0.05). Results suggested that a combination of Cu2O and potentiated ZnO could exhibit efficient anticoccidial activity.

The effects of dietary live Saccharomyces cerevisiae as a probiotic on milk production, oxidant/antioxidant status, and lipid metabolism of Holstein dairy cows through the transition and early lactation period during the summer season were investigated. Twelve lactating multiparous dairy cows were randomly allocated to two dietary treatments (n=6) including a control and probiotic-fed groups. Blood samples were collected on days-21, 0, 14, 28, 42, 60 days relative to parturition and analyzed for calcium, iron, cholesterol, triglyceride, low-density lipoprotein, high-density lipoprotein, total antioxidant capacity, malondialdehyde, and albumin. Serum concentrations of triglycerides, cholesterol, and low-density lipoprotein were lower in the probiotic-fed cows compared to those offered the control diet. Albumin concentration did not differ be-tween the groups. The contents of total antioxidant capacity and high-density lipoprotein in the yeast-fed group was greater than the control group (P=0.01 and 0.02, respectively). In addition, serum calcium and iron tended to be higher in the yeast-fed group (P=0.08). Malondialdehyde level did not change between groups, but there was a decrease at calving time in the probiotic-fed group. Yeast-fed cows produced more milk and had higher concentrations of milk fat and non-fat solids than control cows (P < 0.05). Rectal temperature was lower in the probiotic-fed group on parturition day. In conclusion, dietary supplementation of Saccharomyces cerevisiae in dairy cows may be a beneficial strategy to alleviate the heat stress and improve the antioxidative defense system and milk production during the transition and the early lactating period.

This study was carried out to investigate the trends in the reproductive performance of Holstein dairy cows in Iranian commercial dairy herds. The potential effect of year, season, herd, the number of parturitions, and their interaction on reproductive performance traits were investigated on 200644 records obtained from six herds from 2007 to 2018. A nonlinearly increasing trend in calving interval (CI; 414 +/- 1.7 to 418 +/- 0.74 days) and days open (DO; 132 +/- 1.48 to 136 +/- 0.58 days) were observed. Services per conception (SPC) increased from 1.94 +/- 0.03 to 2.59 +/- 0.01 in dairy cows but altered in a fluctuating manner in heifers. The number of days from calving to first service (DFS) was decreased (P<0.05) from 79 +/- 0.54 to 66 +/- 0.24 days. The conception rate (CR) declined in dairy cows (67 +/- 0.68 to 58 +/- 0.31; P 0.05%), but no difference was observed in heifers (P 0.05). A decreasing trend was also recorded in age at first service (AFS) and age at the first calving (AFC) of heifers over time. Herd, season, and the number of parturitions had a significant effect on reproductive traits. Reproductive performance was higher during winter and spring compared to summer and autumn (P<0.05). Cows with a number of parturitions less than four had the highest reproductive performance (P<0.05). A similar trend is presented in fertility parameters of Holstein dairy cows showing a reduction in reproductive performance in Iranian dairy herds. Although the exact reason(s) beyond these changes are not clear, it may be due to the increment of metabolic and environmental stressors which in turn disturb the biology of reproductive system. Our results are in line with the global decline in fertility of dairy cows and emphasize on need for adopting more efficient strategies to improve reproduction status in Iranian dairy cows, especially during summer and after third parturition.

The current study evaluated the effects of cryopreservation medium supplementation with folic acid as an antioxidant on post-thawed semen quality in bulk. Semen samples were collected from four proved Iranian Mahabadi bulls and diluted in extender containing 1.5% soybean lecithin. The diluted semen was assigned into six parts and supplemented with different doses of folic acid as follows: FA0 (extender without folic acid), FA0.05, FA0.1, FA0.2, FA0.4, and FA0.8 (extenders containing 0.05, 0.1, 0.2, 0.4, and 0.8 mM folic acid, respectively). Then, the semen samples were cryopreserved in liquid nitrogen. Sperm motility and velocity parameters, membrane integrity, abnormal morphology, viability, and lipid peroxidation were evaluated after thawing. In the results, FA0.05 presented higher (p≤0.05) total motility, progressive motility, membrane integrity, and viability and lower lipid peroxidation compared to other groups. Abnormal morphology was not affected (p>0.05) by treatments. In conclusion, supplementation of cryopreservation medium with 0.05 mM folic acid is a helpful method to conserve the quality of post-thawed semen in bulk.

Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC) K99 is one of the major pathogens associated with calf diarrhea. The induction of passive immunity in animals by immunoglobulin Y and using probiotics are inexpensive alternatives to antibiotics for the prevention and treatment of a number of bacterial infections, including diarrhea. Hence, the aim of this research was to evaluate the impact of dietary probiotics and ETEC K99-specific egg yolk antibody supplements, alone and in combination with each other, on health and growth parameters, diarrhea incidence and immune stimulation in newborn Holstein calves. One hundred and twenty neonatal calves were allocated randomly into 4 dietary groups (n = 30 per group) received colostrum/milk without any additives (control group), or supplemented with egg yolk powder contained E. coli K99-specific antibody (Ab group; 1 g/day), a commercial probiotic, Hypro-calves (Pro group; 3 g/day), and theircombi nation (Ab + Pro group), from day (d) 1 to d28 of age. Analyses of the growth parameters, feed efficiency, fecal score, and microbiota and immune function were carried out on dO, 14, 21, and 28 of the experiment. Calves in Ab or Ab + Pro group had higher (P <0.05) average daily gain compared to control and Pro groups during 0-14d. Feed efficiency of calves in Ab and Ab + Pro groups was significantly higher than that in control group during the period of 0-14d; however, no significant differences were observed in 0-28d period. Diarrhea prevalence and fecal score in Ab - Pro group were lower than control group (P < 0.05). Calves in Ab Pro group had the lowest number of fecal E. coli in comparison to other groups on d28 (P < 0.05). Feeding Ab + Pro supplement increased (P < 0.05) concentrations of blood IgA and serum CD4 compared to the control group. Likewise, calves in Pro group had higher CD4 levels as compared to the control calves (P < 0.05). Serum concentration of interferon-gamma in control group was lower than other groups (P < 0.05). Overall, these data suggest that feeding a combination of probiotic and specific antibody against ETEC to neonate Holstein calves enhances feed efficiency, boosts immunity, and reduces diarrhea prevalence. (C) 2020 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. on behalf of The Animal Consortium.

1. This study was performed to evaluate the effects of dietary supplementation of coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) on laying rate, body weight, plasma metabolites and some liver gene expression in broiler breeder hens. 2. A total of 128 broiler breeder hens (Arbor Acres Plus, 47 weeks of age) were randomly distributed to four dietary groups supplemented with different levels of CoQ10 (0, 300, 600 or 900 mg/kg diet) with four replicates of eight hens each. During 47-54 weeks of age, laying rate, egg mass and body weight were recorded weekly. To assay plasma biochemical indicators, blood samples were collected at 54 weeks of age. At the end of the experiment, for evaluating the abdominal fat weight, liver weight and expression of the adiponectin and proliferator-activated receptor-α (PPAR-α) genes in the liver, eight hens per treatment were selected, weighed and humanely killed by decapitation. 3. Dietary supplementation of CoQ10 linearly decreased abdominal fat weight, alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) activities by increased levels of CoQ10. The plasma levels of glucose, cholesterol and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity were quadratically decreased by increased levels of CoQ10. The best plasma levels of glucose, cholesterol and ALP activity were estimated at 562.5, 633.3 and 517.8 mg CoQ10/kg diet, respectively. Adiponectin and PPARα gene expression exhibited a linear increased by increased levels of CoQ10. 4. In conclusion, addition of CoQ10 to the diet influenced lipid metabolism and expression of the adiponectin and PPAR-α genes, which might be partially due to the improvement in mitochondrial metabolism and energy production. However, further studies are necessary to determine the effects of CoQ10 on these indicators in broiler breeder hens during ageing.

Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli K99 is one of the dominant pathogens associated with diarrhea of calves. Immunoglobulin Y (IgY), has been used as an inexpensive alternative to antibiotics for the prevention and therapy of several bacterial infections. The study aimed to prepare IgY antibodies against E. coli K99 and to investigate its in vitro effectiveness. E. coli K99 was grown in the tryptic soy broth, and the bacterial suspension was inactivated by formaldehyde. Thirty White Leghorn hens allocated to control and treatment groups. 1 mL of the prepared bacterial suspension or sterilized physiological serum emulsified with Freund’s complete adjuvant was injected at two weeks interval to the hens in treated or control group. The total IgY was purified with polyethylene glycol (PEG) 6000 from egg yolks (EY). Purified IgY fractions were processed for protein concentrations by Bradford assay. Sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis was used to analyze purified IgY fractions. An indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method was used to measure the specific IgY titers in serum and EY. The ability of non-specific and anti-E. coli K99 IgY antibody at 100 and 200 mg/mL concentration was evaluated by growth inhibition assay in vitro. According to the ELISA data, total IgY concentration in serum and EY of control was relatively constant, while increased in the treatment group (P<0.05). The level of binding activity of specific IgY in serum and EY increased in immunized hens (P<0.05). Specific IgY had the highest activity for bacterial inhibiting growth at the level of 200 mg/mL. These results suggested the prepared IgY antibodies could inhibit E. coli K99 in vitro growth.

There was evaluation of effects of biotin administration on oviductal abundance of transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta) and carbonic anhydrase (CA) mRNA transcript in younger and older broiler hens of relatively lesser and greater fertility lines. Additionally, effects of biotin supplementation on attenuation of age-related subfertility were evaluated. Hens from the relatively greater (Line D, n = 60) and lesser (Line B, n = 60) fertility rate line were randomly assigned to three treatment groups. Biotin was not or was administered in drinking water from 30 to 33 (younger age) and 53 to 56 (older age) wk of age to have access to no biotin (T-0), or 0.3 (T-1), or 0.45 (T-2) mg/L of biotin. There was assessment the relative oviductal abundances of TGF-beta and CA mRNA transcript abundances. Supplemental biotin and age had no effect on the relative abundance of oviductal TGF-beta mRNA transcript in hens of Line D. There, however, was a ten-fold greater abundance of TGF-beta in hens of the T-0 group of Line B compared with Line D. Relative abundance of TGF-beta mRNA transcript was greater in younger hens of Line B; however, biotin supplementation of older hens of the T-2 group of Line B resulted in a similar TGF-beta abundance to that of younger hens. Inconstant with the TGF-beta abundance, CA abundance in hens of Line B was not affected by supplemental biotin or bird age. Overall, differences in TGF-beta or CA abundances did not affect fertility of broiler hens.

1. This study examined whetherin vitroproliferation and maintenance of cockerel spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) could be improved by adding different combinations of growth factors (GFs), including glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF), basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) or leukaemia inhibitory factor (LIF) into the culture medium. 2. The SSCs were isolated from the testes of immature cockerels. For short-term cultures, a medium supplemented with different combinations of GFs for 7 d in 5 replicates was used. The groups were classified as follows: without GF (control group); with GDNF (G group); with GDNF and bFGF (GF group); and with GDNF, bFGF and LIF (GFL group). The number of colonies and cells per colony, as well as the transcript abundance ofSTRA8andOCT4genes, was determined 7 d after the initial culturing. Immunofluorescence staining of SSEA-1, SSEA-3 and VASA protein markers, besides periodic acid-Schiff (PAS) staining, was carried out. 3. The number of colonies and cells per colony increased in the G, GF and GFL groups, compared to the control group (P < 0.01); however, the highest proliferation and colony formation were observed in the GFL group. The positive immunofluorescence staining of SSEA-1, SSEA-3 and VASA protein markers, as well as PAS staining, confirmed the self-renewal and colonisation of cockerel SSCs. The proliferation results were supported by the increasedSTRA8andOCT4transcript abundance in the treated groups (G, GF and GLF), compared to the control group. The SSC proliferation was associated with the higher transcript abundance ofSTAR8andOCT4genes in the GFL group, compared to the G and GF groups (P < 0.01). 4. The results showed that proliferation and colony-forming capacity of cockerel SSCs were positively improved by GDNF, bFGF and LIF. However, the most significant effect was observed when the medium was supplemented with LIF in combination with GDNF and bFGF.

Adding antioxidants to semen extenders could reduce post-thaw sperm damages. Glutathione is an important intracellular antioxidant that has free radicals scavenging properties and multiple effects on DNA and protein synthesis. In the present study, effects different levels of reduced glutathione (GSH) containing 0 (control), 1.0, 2.5, or 5.0 mM in a nanomicelle-based extender on post-thaw quality of bovine sperm were investigated. Initially, lecithin was added to a tris-based extender containing GSH. The mixture was then emulsified by slowly shaking and sonification so that nano size of particles was obtained. Thirty-six ejaculates from six Holstein bulls were used. The post-thaw quality parameters including computer-assisted sperm analysis of motility, plasma membrane functionality, membrane integrity, acrosome integrity, morphology and level of apoptosis were measured. Compared to the control medium, the total motility and membrane integrity were significantly better in samples containing 2.5 mM GSH (67.3 +/- 1.2% vs. 73 +/- 1.2% and 71.3 +/- 1.5% vs. 77.6 +/- 1.5%, respectively). The extender supplemented with 2.5 mM GSH had the highest percentage of viable sperm during apoptotic test. In conclusion, supplementation of lecithin nanomicelle-based extender with 2.5 mM GSH reduced damages to bovine sperm during cryopreservation.

High ambient temperature induces an increase in bovine body temperature above the physiological homeothermic point, leading to impaired reproductive performance. Belgian Blue bulls are more susceptible to heat stress compared with most other cattle breeds. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate whether high ambient temperature affected bull semen quality and subsequent embryo development. For this purpose, semen samples were collected from six Belgian Blue bulls during August (14-28 days after three consecutive warm days with temperature-humidity index between 63.8 and 83.7) and March 2016 (temperature-humidity index between 35.9 and 47.4). After semen collection, volume, sperm concentration, and motility of fresh semen were assessed. Furthermore, frozen sperm samples were used to assess the motion parameters and morphological abnormalities using computer-assisted sperm analysis, viability and reactive oxygen species (hydrogen peroxide and superoxide) production using flow cytometry, and acrosome integrity and chromatin condensation using fluorescence microscopy. Afterward, blastocysts were produced (r=4) by conventional invitro methods for assessment of embryo development (Wydooghe et al. 2014 Reprod. Fertil. Dev. 26, 717-724; https://doi.org/10.1071/RD13043). Cleavage rate was determined 48h after fertilisation, and the blastocyst rates were determined on Days 7 and 8 postinsemination. Moreover, Day 8 blastocysts underwent differential staining in order to determine the numbers of the inner cell mass, trophectoderm, total cell number, and apoptotic cells ratio. The data set was analysed using the GLM procedure of SAS (SAS Institute Inc.). Normal distribution was checked using the UNIVARIATE procedure, and the Shapiro-Wilk test and arcsine square root transformation were used when required. Furthermore, Duncan's test was applied to determine the significant differences (P=0.05). In fresh semen, samples from the non-heat-stressed (NHS) group showed a higher sperm concentration compared with samples from the heat-stressed (HS) group (P=0.05), whereas semen volume and motility were not affected by heat stress (P>0.05). In frozen-thawed semen, total and progressive motility and straight-line velocity were lower in the HS group compared with the NHS group (P=0.05), whereas the generation of H2O2, percentages of aberrant chromatin condensation, total morphological abnormality, spermatozoa with bent tails, and distal protoplasmic droplets were higher in the HS group compared with the NHS group (P=0.05). The cleavage rate and blastocyst rates on Days 7 and 8 were higher (P=0.05) in the NHS group (70.4±1.13, 25.4±1.84, and 40.3±1.15, respectively) compared with the HS group (62.8±1.49, 15.4±1.56, and 23.3±1.84, respectively). However, there were no significant differences in hatched or hatching rate of two treatments (P>0.05). The total cell number and trophectoderm were higher in NHS-derived blastocysts than in HS-derived blastocysts (P=0.05), whereas the apoptotic cells ratio was lower (P<0.001) in NHS blastocysts (2.16±0.48% vs. 5.21±0.52%). In conclusion, these findings show that elevated ambient temperature during summer as a consequence of climate change can lead to decreased quality of fresh and frozen-thawed bull spermatozoa and subsequent embryo development.

1. Deleterious effects from the freeze-thawing process on post-thawed sperm quality attributes are main limiting factors in cryopreservation. The current study was conducted to determine the effect of semen extender containing zinc oxide (ZnO) on post-thaw rooster sperm quality indices.2. Semen samples from six, 60-week-old broiler breeder roosters were collected weekly during five successive weeks. The samples were mixed and divided into three equal parts and diluted with semen extender containing different levels of ZnO; 0 (ZnO-0), 1 (ZnO-1) or 2 (ZnO-2) µg/ml. After thawing, motility and velocity parameters, plasma membrane functionality, apoptotic like changes, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), and DNA fragmentation index (DFI) were evaluated.3. Results showed that the addition of ZnO in the extender quadratically affected (P < 0.01) total motility (TM), progressive motility (PM), and average path velocity (VAP) with the highest values were noted in the ZnO-1 group. Levels of ZnO quadratically affected percentages of live (P < 0.01), apoptotic (P < 0.03) and dead (P < 0.10) spermatozoa, where the highest percentage of live, and the lowest percentage of apoptotic or dead spermatozoa was for the ZnO-1 group. Although adding ZnO quadratically affected plasma membrane functionality and MMP (P < 0.01), it did not affect (P > 0.05) DFI.4. In conclusion, there were some beneficial effects of ZnO supplementation in semen extender on post-thawed rooster sperm quality which may result in a better freezability.

BACKGROUND:The immune response of aged broiler breeder hens is influenced by many factors including obesity and aged lymphatic organs, but may improve by increasing the bioavailability of various nutrients such as zinc (Zn). Dietary supplementation of phytase can improve Zn availability in senescent broiler breeder hens.AIMS:The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of supplementary zinc oxide (ZnO) and phytase in a maize-soybean meal-based diet on immune responses of broiler breeder hens.METHODS:In a 2 × 4 factorial arrangement, a total of 128 hens were randomly assigned into eight groups. The birds received two levels of phytase (0 or 300 U/kg diet) and four levels of ZnO (30, 60, 90, and 120 mg/kg diet) for 13 successive wk (59-72 wk of age).RESULTS:Results showed that phytase supplementation significantly increased immunoglobulin M (IgM), cutaneous basophil hypersensitivity (CBH) responses, total number of leukocytes, percentage of lymphocytes, and heterophil to lymphocyte ratios. The percentage of basophils and monocytes, however, decreased with phytase supplementation. Supplementation of ZnO increased anti-sheep red blood cells (SRBC) antibody titer, IgM, CBH responses, the total number of leukocytes, and the percentage of lymphocytes. Dietary supplementation of ZnO decreased the percentage of heterophil, and heterophil to lymphocyte ratio. A significant interaction effect of phytase and ZnO was found on the total number of leukocytes and percentage of lymphocytes.CONCLUSION:Dietary supplementation of ZnO (90 mg/kg diet) and phytase had some positive effects on improving immune responses in broiler breeder hens.

The objectives were to determine effects of feeding a live yeast supplement on the productive performance, blood metabolic profile, the immune function, and insulin sensitivity traits of transition dairy cows under the hot months of summer. From 21 d before expected date of calving until d 60 postpartum, two groups of multiparous Holstein cows (6 cows per treatment) were fed a diet without or with live yeast supplement (4 g yeast/d/head). Blood was collected on d - 14, 0, 14, 28, and 60 d relative to parturition and analyzed for nonesterified fatty acids, beta-hydroxybutyrate, glutamic pyruvic transaminase, glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase, creatinine, urea N, triiodothyronine, and thyroxine. Plasma concentrations of histamine and heat shock protein 70 (Hsp70) were also determined on d 21, 14, 28, and 49 relative to parturition. An intravenous glucose challenge was made on d 14 postpartum. The cell-mediated immune and humoral responses were established through phytohemagglutinin challenge and ovalbumin immunization, respectively. Prepartum DM intake was greater in yeast-fed cows; however, this difference disappeared after parturition. Cows receiving yeast supplement produced more milk ( + 1.40 kg/d) and had greater concentrations of milk fat and total solid than those receiving no yeast. Loss of body condition score from calving to d 21 postpartum tended to be lower in yeast-fed cows than control cows. Yeast supplementation had no effect on the response variables to the glucose tolerance test. Plasma concentration of Hsp70 was also lower on d 14 and 28 after parturition in yeast-fed cows. Yeast supplementation enhanced cellular immune function; however, it had no effect on immunoglobulin G secretion against ovalbumin immunization. Overall, live yeast supplementation benefited milk production and milk composition, lowered plasma level of Hsp70, and enhanced the lymphocyte proliferative response in transition dairy cows, which may suggest an immunomodulatory effect of yeast supplement.

Published data on the beneficial effect of short-term administration of thyroxine (T4) in broiler breeder hens to reduce the ascites incidence in their progeny chicks raises the question as to what extent might the long-term maternal administration of T4 affect the blood hematological and biochemical attributes in breeder hens. A total of 70 broiler breeder hens (47-wk-old) were randomly allotted to control or thyroxine treated (T4) groups. Pure T4 (0.3 mg/bird per day) was orally administered to T4 birds for 14 successive weeks, whereas the control group received the drinking water only. Blood samples were obtained from the brachial vein prior to the initiation of the trial as well as weeks 50, 53, 55, 57, 59, and 61 of age. Body weight was decreased but egg production was not affected by T4 treatment. Plasma concentration of T4, but not triiodothyronine (T3), was increased in T4-treated hens (P < 0.05). The total number of leukocytes and erythrocytes were also higher in T4 birds. A significant effect of time was observed for erythrocyte number and plasma cholesterol concentration (P < 0.05). The long-term administration of T4 did not affect the concentrations of serum calcium and plasma total protein, albumin, globulin, cholesterol, triglyceride, high density lipoprotein, low density lipoprotein, very low density lipoprotein, alanine amino transferase, and aspartate amino transferase (P > 0.05). However, serum concentrations of phosphorus, glucose, and alkaline phosphatase were higher in T4 hens as compared to their control counterparts. In spite of differences in circulatory concentrations of a number of traits between the experimental groups, the recorded values were within their reference ranges. Therefore, the administration of T4 for an extended period of time had no apparent adverse effect on the clinical profile in subjected hens, which may practically support the implementation of this preventative treatment as an approach to decrease the ascites incidence; however, a lower incidence rate in the progeny chicks produced from hens receiving T4 for long-term periods of time remains to be elucidated.

A 4-week-long administration of extra thyroxine in broiler breeder hens was suggested to reduce the cold induced ascites in their offspring. In the present study the hypothesis was tested to disclose the plausible adverse effects of long-term maternal hyperthyroidism (100 days) on blood plasma biochemical attributes, indicators of oxidative stress, and markers of liver function in the exposed breeder hens. Also, the association between egg production rate and egg shell strength with alkaline phosphatase activity of plasma were tested. Seventy 47-week-old Cobb 500 breeder hens were randomly allotted to two treatment groups as control (CON) and hyperthyroid (HYPER), each consisting of five replicates of seven birds. Thyroxine (T-4; 0.3 mg/bird/d) was orally administered to the HYPER group for 100 consecutive days; whereas the CON group received the drinking water only. Blood sampling was done every 5 week from 47 to 64 week of age for quantification of plasma T-4 and T-3, and biochemical attributes as well as indicators of oxidative stress. Results indicated that plasma concentration of T-4 was greater for the HYPER birds (P < 0.05); however, that of T-3 was not different between the experimental groups. Total cholesterol, HDL, LDL, and VLDL, and triglyceride concentrations were not affected by T-4 administration. Induced hyperthyroidism had no apparent effect on in vitro plasma lipoperoxidation indices, including CDmax CDAuc, and CD lag phase; whereas, CD oxidation rate and MDA were greater in HYPER group as compared with their CON counterparts. The effect of oral T-4 on plasma aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase was not significant although the plasma level alkaline phosphatase was higher in HYPER birds (P > 0.05). No significant treatment effect was observed on egg production. Hens belonging to HYPER group recorded a higher egg shell thickness than those of the CON birds, although the correlation coefficient of egg shell thickness with plasma concentration of alkaline phosphatase was not significant. Overall, apart from the changes in parameters evaluated, the values were within their biological ranges. Therefore, it might be stated that the long term administration of T-4 did not adversely affect the biochemical characteristics of broiler breeder hens. Future studies are needed to make a final decision on use of this treatment to reduce the ascites incidence in offspring.

A hypothesis was tested that long-term administration of thyroxine (T4) in broiler breeder hens would affect fertility, sperm penetration rate, and the duration of fertility. Relative abundance of oviductal TGF-β4 and HSP70 mRNA was determined to ascertain whether T4 treatment affected these genes, and modulated the sustained storage of spermatozoa within the uterovaginal sperm storage tubules of hens. A total of 70, 47-week-old Cobb 500 breeder hens was randomly allotted to two treatment groups (T4 treatment (ET) and control). The T4 was orally administered to the ET group (0.3 mg T4/bird/day) for 100 consecutive days; whereas the control group was not administered T4 during the experimental period. Breeder hens were artificially inseminated to evaluate specific reproductive variables. On the last day of the treatment period two hens /replicate were randomly killed to estimate oviductal gene expression. The T4 treatment resulted in an increase in plasma concentration of T4; however, the T3 concentration was not affected. The long term administration of T4 had no effect on fertility; however, it resulted in a decreased sperm penetration rate and decreased the duration of fertility compared with the control group. The relative abundance of TGF-β4 and HSP70 mRNA in the SST was not influenced by T4 supplementation. The correlation coefficients between fertility and sperm penetration rate with relative abundance of TGF-β4 and HSP70 were not significant. Overall, among the diverse reproductive variable assessed in the current study, the sperm penetration rate and the duration of fertility were most responsive to long-term treatment with T4.

Two experiments were conducted to investigate the effects of dietary supplementation with live yeast culture on hormonal profile, ovarian follicular dynamics and reproductive performance of lactating dairy cows exposed to high ambient temperature. In Expt. 1, Holstein cows were fed a diet with (n = 6) or without (n = 6) 4 g yeast/h/d from 21 d before expected calving date until 8 weeks postpartum. Concentrations of glucose, insulin, insulin like growth factor-I (IGF-I), estradiol-17 beta (E-17 beta) and progesterone (P4) were determined in plasma, and transrectal ultrasonography was used to monitor ovarian follicular dynamics. In Expt. 2, 150 Holstein cows (75/dietary group) received same diets as Expt. 1 with the exception that diets were fed from d 1 to d 70 postpartum. The effect of dietary treatments on reproductive performance was examined. In Expt. 1, plasma IGF concentrations during dietary treatment were higher (P = 0.05) in cows fed diets supplemented with yeast. On d 60 postpartum, average plasma concentrations of glucose (48.3 vs. 41.0 mg/dL) and insulin (0.90 vs. 0.23 mu U/mL), were also greater in cows fed diets supplemented with yeast compared to that in cow fed diets without supplementation. Similarly, plasma concentrations of E-17 beta at estrus (P = 0.016) and P4 on d 10 of the estrous cycle (P = 0.021) were greater in yeast-supplemented cows. Moreover, yeast supplementation resulted on average in an estrous cycle 2.6 d shorter (P = 0.05) and in the development of larger ovulatory follicles (18.4 vs. 17.2 mm in diameter; P < 0.01). In Expt. 2, days open were fewer and the proportion of pregnant cows at 120 and 150 d postpartum were greater (P < 0.01) in cows fed diets supplemented with yeast compared to those receiving diets without yeast. In summary, cows fed diets supplemented with yeast had greater plasma IGF-I, E-17 beta and P4 concentrations, larger ovulatory follicles, shorter estrous cycles, and improved reproductive performance. Therefore, live yeast dietary supplementation could enhance lactating dairy cow's fertility during heat stress through improvement in hormonal profile and development of larger ovulatory follicles. (C) 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.