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We are delighted to announce that Iranian Journal of Applied Animal Science (IJAS) has been indexed in Emerging Sources Citation Index (ESCI) by ISI Thomson Reuters.
Emerging Sources Citation Index (ESCI) is a new edition of Web of Science which launched in November 2015 by ISI Thomson Reuters. It will make our content discoverable and citable in Web of Science.
About IJAS
The Iranian Journal of Applied Animal Science (IJAS), a new broad-based journal, is an open access journal founded on two key tenets: To publish the most exciting research in all areas of animal sciences and to provide the most rapid system for reviewing and publishing, and to disseminate the articles freely for teaching and reference purposes. All articles published in IJAS are peer-reviewed.
The Iranian Journal of Applied Animal Sciences (IJAS) is published quarterly (one volume per year) in March, June, September, and December by Islamic Azad University, Rasht Branch, Rasht, Iran.
Types of Paper
- Research Articles: These should describe new and carefully confirmed findings, and experimental procedures should be given in sufficient detail for others to verify the work. The length of a full paper should be the minimum required to describe and interpret the work clearly.
- Short Communications: A Short Communication is suitable for recording the results of complete small investigations or giving details of new models or hypotheses, innovative methods, techniques or apparatus.
- Review Articles: Submissions of Review Articles covering topics of current interest are welcome and encouraged. Review Articles are also peer-reviewed.
This journal is following of Committee on Publication Ethics (COPE) and complies with the highest ethical standards in accordance with ethical laws.
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Recent Articles
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Open Access Article
1 - Importance of Water Quality in Small Ruminants’ Productivity
A. Cervantes G. López F.J. Monge A. Estrada A. PlascenciaIssue 1 , Vol. 14 , Winter 2024Successful breeding and raising of sheep and goats depend on appropriate sanitary and nutritional manage-ment, where water plays a crucial role. Alterations in water quality and availability might lead to alterations in animal productivity. Small ruminants are capable o MoreSuccessful breeding and raising of sheep and goats depend on appropriate sanitary and nutritional manage-ment, where water plays a crucial role. Alterations in water quality and availability might lead to alterations in animal productivity. Small ruminants are capable of ingesting water in a wide range of qualities with little or no effect on health and performance, however; some elements and microorganisms present in high concentrations can produce a negative effect on health status and weight gain performance, being the qual-ity of water, an essential factor affecting the profitability of small ruminant production. The effects on cat-tle's productive performance of compounds like total dissolved solids, sulfates, and sulfur in drinking water have been documented. However, there needs to be more information available on the effect on sheep and goats, being necessary to increase the efforts to carry out studies to evaluate the effect of the physicochemi-cal and microbiological quality of drinking water on the health and productive performance of small rumi-nants. Water quality affects the efficiency of diet energy utilization in lambs. However, there is scares in-formation about this topic to reevaluate the qualification of water as “well water”. This review presents the effects of drinking water's different physicochemical and microbiological characteristics on the productivity of small ruminants. Also, it addresses water quality and its effect on productivity from an energy perspec-tive. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
2 - The Developmental Competence of the Bovine Embryos Processed in IVC-Stroebech Medium vs. Mcr2aa Medium
M. Zandi A. Ghaedrahmati L. StroebechIssue 1 , Vol. 14 , Winter 2024Fetal bovine serum (FBS) is preferred for its ability to provide a variety of molecules that can support the growth of embryos. However, the use of serum can lead to the development of large offspring syndrome, which is a significant problem. This study aimed to examine MoreFetal bovine serum (FBS) is preferred for its ability to provide a variety of molecules that can support the growth of embryos. However, the use of serum can lead to the development of large offspring syndrome, which is a significant problem. This study aimed to examine bovine embryo development derived from in vitro fertilized oocytes in two culture media: IVC-Stroebech medium, a chemically defined medium; and the modified medium of Charles Rosenkrans with amino acids (mCR2aa), an undefined medium containing serum. The process of in vitro maturation was carried out at 38.5 ˚C in IVC-Stroebech medium. The process of in vitro fertilization was carried out for 18 hours using Bracket and Oliphant's (BO) medium. As to the experiment, cumulus-free presumptive zygotes were randomly assigned to two different culture medium treatments. The first treatment was a two-step culture system using mCR2aa medium. The first step in-volved using mCR2aa medium without FBS for the first 48 hours of culture. After that, for the remaining days of culture, the second-step mCR2aa, which is composed of 10% FBS, replaced the medium. The em-bryos were incubated at 38.5 ˚C under 5% CO2 5% O2 and 90% N2 for 10 days. Statistical analysis re-vealed a significantly higher hatched blastocyst rate in the IVC-Stroebech medium in comparison with the mCR2aa medium. There was not any significant difference (P>0.05) in the formation rate of morulas and blastocysts between the IVC-Stroebech medium and the mCR2aa medium. Findings recommended the use of IVC-Stroebech medium for bovine in vitro embryo culture. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
3 - The Effects of Feeding Iranian Propolis Extracts to Holstein Dairy Cows on Blood Metabolites, Milk Composition and Rumen Microbial Population
S. Ehtesham A.R. Vakili M. Danesh Mesgaran V. BankovaIssue 1 , Vol. 14 , Winter 2024The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of feeding Iranian propolis extract on perform-ance of Holstein dairy cows. In this study 18 dairy postpartum Holstein cows (120 days in milk (DIM) and body weight of 577±37.54 kg) were used. The experiment was car MoreThe purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of feeding Iranian propolis extract on perform-ance of Holstein dairy cows. In this study 18 dairy postpartum Holstein cows (120 days in milk (DIM) and body weight of 577±37.54 kg) were used. The experiment was carried out in a period of 29 d (10 d adaptation and 19 d sample collection). The data was analyzed considering a completely randomized design by the GLM procedure of SAS 9.1. In this experiment 3 treatments [A: TMR diet, B: TMR diet + Iranian propolis extract (IPE) 50% (67.50 g/day/animal) and C: TMR diet + IPE 75% (67.50 g/day/animal)] were used. The results of this study showed that adding different concentrations of IPE to dairy cow ration did not have any significant effect (P>0.05) on ruminal pH, but significant de-crease (P0.05) change some the blood parameters while statistically changed (P<0.05) the blood concentrations of aspartate ami-notransferase, albumin, glucose and protein. The phenolic compounds in propolis changed rumen ni-trogen ammonia, rumen short chain fatty acids, rumen microbial population, some blood parameters and fatty acid composition in the milk. These changes improve fermentation process and consequently affect significantly fatty acid composition in milk. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
4 - Strategic Protein Supplementation to Increase Milk Production in Crossbreed Cows Grazing on Tropical Pastures
J.R.M. Ruas P.R.M. Conceição D.S. Queiroz V.M. Gomes M.D. da Costa V.J.G. Mota M.A.S. Novaes G. Virginio Junior E.A. da SilvaIssue 1 , Vol. 14 , Winter 2024This study aimed to evaluate the production and milk composition of crossbreed F1 Holstein × Zebu (1/2 H×Z) cows grazing on Marandu grass (Urochloa brizantha cv. Marandu) or Tifton-85 (Cynodon spp.) sup-plemented with different protein concentrate. 36 H × Z cows (±514 k MoreThis study aimed to evaluate the production and milk composition of crossbreed F1 Holstein × Zebu (1/2 H×Z) cows grazing on Marandu grass (Urochloa brizantha cv. Marandu) or Tifton-85 (Cynodon spp.) sup-plemented with different protein concentrate. 36 H × Z cows (±514 kg of body weight) were used. The cows had ± 65 days in milk and were distributed in a randomized block design, in a 2 × 3 factorial arrange-ment, i.e., two types of grass (Marandu and Tifton-85 grass), three types of protein supplementation (2.0 kg of concentrate with low rumen degradable protein; 2.0 kg of concentrate with high rumen degradable pro-tein; and no concentrate feed). Both grass produced similar amounts of forage mass, kg.h-1. The nutritional value for both grasses was also similar in all the variables analyzed, such as crude fat, crude protein, carbo-hydrates, non-fiber carbohydrates, neutral detergent fiber, and, acid detergent fiber. The milk yield was not affected by the different grasses used for grazing. Only the lactose content was higher in cows grazing on marandu grass than in Tifton-85 grass (P=0.032). The cows that did not receive concentrate had lower daily milk yield (P=0.010) and a lower percentage of lactose (P=0.011). In conclusion, both grasses can be used for grazing F1 ½ H × Z cows, and protein supplementation, regardless of its ruminal degradability, in this situation is necessary to increase milk production. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
5 - Investigating the Effect of Using Vitamin AD3E on the Reproductive Performance of Afshari Sheep
M. Eisapour S. Yousefizadeh M. Shamsollahi F. Fatahnia Y. MohammadiIssue 1 , Vol. 14 , Winter 2024Nutrition during mating is one of the most important factors affecting the reproductive performance of ewes. The aim of this experiment was to investigate the effect of vitamin AD3E injection around mating on body weight (BW), body condition score (BCS), plasma hormones MoreNutrition during mating is one of the most important factors affecting the reproductive performance of ewes. The aim of this experiment was to investigate the effect of vitamin AD3E injection around mating on body weight (BW), body condition score (BCS), plasma hormones, minerals, metabolites, vitamins, anti-oxidant enzymes and reproductive performance of Afshari ewes. Eighty-eight Afshari ewes were divided into 2 groups (n=44) based on age (2-4 years), BW (average 40 kg) and BCS (mean 2.75) and assigned randomly to one of the two experimental treatments. Experimental treatments consisted of control (C; no vitamin AD3E injection) and AD3E injection (AD3E) groups. Ewes in AD3E group received 5 mL of vita-min AD3E solution subcutaneously at the beginning of the experiment, the day of CIDR insertion, the day of CIDR removal, and one week after mating. Two weeks after the start of the experiment, the estrous cy-cles of all ewes were synchronized using intravaginal 12-day CIDRs. The BW, BCS and plasma minerals and metabolites concentrations of ewes did not influence by experimental treatments (P>0.05). Ewes re-ceived AD3E had lower estrogen (E2) and progesterone (P4) and higher testosterone concentrations at the day of CIDR removal (P0.05) between the treatment groups in reproductive outcomes including estrous response, fertility rate, lambing rate, twining rate and lamb sex and birth weight. These results indicated that vitamin AD3E injection around mating improved antioxidant enzyme status but had no significant effect on reproductive performance of Afshari ewes. Further researches are needed to evaluate the effect of different levels of vitamin AD3E injection around mating on reproductive performance of Afshari ewes. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
6 - Effectiveness of Magnetic Bentonite Nanocomposites as Mycotoxin Binders in Dairy Baluchi Ewe's Diets: Impact on Milk Yield, Composition, Blood Chemistry, and Aflatoxin M1 Levels
E. Ibrahimi Khoram Abadi S. HeydariIssue 1 , Vol. 14 , Winter 2024Bentonite is considered the most effective adsorbent for aflatoxin (AF) decontamination, and recent studies have shown that changing its structure in nano form improves its physicochemical properties and chemical stability. This study was aimed to evaluate the effective MoreBentonite is considered the most effective adsorbent for aflatoxin (AF) decontamination, and recent studies have shown that changing its structure in nano form improves its physicochemical properties and chemical stability. This study was aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of different types of bentonites as binders on performance, plasma metabolites, and aflatoxin M1 (AFM1) levels in contaminated milk of Baluchi ewes. The study was conducted with 12 ewes randomly assigned to four different experimental diets. The experi-mental diets were: (1) control (the basal diet had no supplements and contained bakery waste naturally con-taminated with AF); (2) control diet supplemented with natural bentonite (NB) (5 g/kg DM); (3) control diet supplemented with modified bentonite (MB) (5 g/kg DM) and (4) control diet supplemented with magnetic bentonite nanocomposite (MBNC) (5 g/kg DM). The study found that adding bentonite clays to the diet of ewes resulted in increased milk yield (P0.05). The study also found that increasing aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) intake resulted in a decreased carryover of AFB1 into AFM1 (P<0.01), with MBNC having the lowest carryover compared to other treatments (P<0.01). These results suggest that modification of bentonite structure in nanocomposite form improves chemical stability, physicochemical properties, and efficiency as novel toxin binders for crops and animal products. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
7 - Genome-Wide Scanning for Signatures of Selection Revealed Karakul Sheep Breed in Compared to other Iranian Breeds
A. Mirzapour-Abibagloo N. Hedayat R. Khalkhali-Evrigh R. Seyedsharifi H. Abdi-Benemar R. Hassanzadeh A. Tanveer HussainIssue 1 , Vol. 14 , Winter 2024Karakul (KAR) is one of the resistant sheep breeds to harsh desert conditions, which is also known for its excelent lamb pelt quality. This study was performed to identify the signature of selections in the KAR breed using whole-genome sequencing data (WGS) compared wit MoreKarakul (KAR) is one of the resistant sheep breeds to harsh desert conditions, which is also known for its excelent lamb pelt quality. This study was performed to identify the signature of selections in the KAR breed using whole-genome sequencing data (WGS) compared with five other Iranian native sheep. Three methods, including population differentiation index (Fst), nucleotide diversity (π), and cross-population extended haplotype homozygosity (XP-EHH) applied to detect the genomic signature of selection. Data analysis leads to identifying 38 shared genes among three methods as positively selected genes for the KAR breed. The most of mentioned genes were associated with coat color (KIT, DVL3, YPEL3, ERBB4, ZNF451, and CTSO), fat and energy metabolism (GDPD3, STARD13, ZNF106, MAPK3, RGS6, PHYH, AP2M1, SPAG9, DNAH9, NDUFAF6, and ARSK), muscle function (MYOCD and MCTP1), growth (CPNE4), altitude adaptation (DNAH9 and SERGEF), and reproduction (TBX6, PHYH, SPAG9, and ARSK). Based on our results, these candidate genes may have a positive effect on the adaptation of the KAR breed to a desert environment. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
8 - Physicochemical Characteristics and Fatty Acid Profile of Meat and Adipose Tissue from Lambs Fed Diets with Different Levels of Pomegranate Seed Oil
A.R. Karampour R. Naseri Harsini F. KafilzadehIssue 1 , Vol. 14 , Winter 2024Twenty-one male Sanjabi lambs (body weight (BW)=27.5±2.6 kg, 3-month-old), were used to study the effects of diet supplementation with pomegranate seed oil (PSO) on the performance, carcass and meat quality, and fatty acid composition of muscle and subcutaneous fat. Lam MoreTwenty-one male Sanjabi lambs (body weight (BW)=27.5±2.6 kg, 3-month-old), were used to study the effects of diet supplementation with pomegranate seed oil (PSO) on the performance, carcass and meat quality, and fatty acid composition of muscle and subcutaneous fat. Lambs were randomly distributed be-tween three treatments (0, 2, and 4% of dry matter (DM) pomegranate seed oil) and were fed for 90 days before slaughter. Average daily feed intake (g/d) increased by pomegranate seed oil inclusion in diet (P<0.05). Hot carcass weight (HCW) and cold carcass weight (CCW), weight of fat depots, subcutaneous fat depth, longissimus thoracis area and weight of carcass cuts, were not affected by pomegranate seed oil. Colour lightness (L*) index and fat content of longissimus thoracis muscle increased by 4% pomegranate seed oil supplementation (P<0.05); however, moisture, protein and ash content of muscle did not affect. Addition of pomegranate seed oil to lamb’s diet slightly affected fatty acid profile of longissimus thoracis muscle and couldn’t change the total amount of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), and the n-6/n-3 or polyunsaturated fatty acids/saturated fatty acids (SFA) ratios. Pomegranate seed oil supplementation sig-nificantly increased total polyunsaturated fatty acids n-3 and n-6 content and significantly decreased n-6/n-3 ratio in subcutaneous fat (P<0.05). In conclusion, the results obtained in current study suggest that addition of up to 4% pomegranate seed oil to fattening lambs diet have potential to increase some polyunsaturated fatty acids content and decrease n-6/n-3 ratio of carcass deposited fats without negative impact on fattening performance, carcass traits, and colour stability of meat. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
9 - Effect of Selenium-Enriched Yeast Supplementation on Microbial Spoilage and Lambs’ Meat Quality during Shelf Life
G. Velázquez-Garduño M.D. Mariezcurrena-Berasain M.A. Mariezcurrena-Berasain E.D. Archundia-Velarde D. Giron-OrozcoIssue 1 , Vol. 14 , Winter 2024The aim of the current research was to evaluate the effect of selenium-enriched yeast supplementation on microbial spoilage and the biochemical quality of lamb meat during shelf life. Nine Pelibuey lambs (Ovis aries) were randomly assigned to one of three treatments: a MoreThe aim of the current research was to evaluate the effect of selenium-enriched yeast supplementation on microbial spoilage and the biochemical quality of lamb meat during shelf life. Nine Pelibuey lambs (Ovis aries) were randomly assigned to one of three treatments: a control without selenium supplementation (T1), and two supplemented with selenium enriched yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae Selyeast 3000TM enriched yeast, LFA Lesaffre) with either 0.35 mg/kg (T2) or 0.60 mg/kg of selenium (T3), respectively, for 60 days. Microbiological spoilage and biochemical characteristics were evaluated during 0, 3, 6, and 9 days post-slaughter under refrigeration conditions (4 ˚C). Immediately after slaughter, no significant differences were found in aerobic plate count, fecal coliforms count, psychrophiles, pH, a* (Redness), and b* (Yellowness) among treatments. However, statistical differences (P<0.05) were observed within treatments in Psychro-philic, pH, L*(Lightness), and b* along the storage period; pH values decreased in all groups during stor-age, nevertheless higher doses of Se kept the highest pH values by the end of the observation period. As expected, there was a significant positive high correlation between day and b* (rxy=0.83; P<0.001), and a negative high correlation between pH and b* (rxy=-0.82; P<0.001). Selenium antioxidant and antimicrobial effect on meat did not result as expected and it’s hypothesized that an extreme care of animal and meat sanitary manipulation minimized its effect. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
10 - Growth Performance and Energy Utilization of broilers fed High and Low Metabolizable Energy Diets Supplemented with Multi-Enzyme
S.A. Moftakharzadeh H. Janmohammadi Samira Kian S. Sadeghi S. YousefiIssue 1 , Vol. 14 , Winter 2024This experiment was determined to investigate the effects of exogenous-enzyme addition to the high and low levels of metabolizable energy (ME), on performance, energy utilization and body composition of broiler chickens fed corn-soybean meal diets from 0 to 21 days of a MoreThis experiment was determined to investigate the effects of exogenous-enzyme addition to the high and low levels of metabolizable energy (ME), on performance, energy utilization and body composition of broiler chickens fed corn-soybean meal diets from 0 to 21 days of age. 240 one-d-old male Ross 308 broil-ers were used in a completely randomized 2 × 2 factorial design, with six replicate cages per treatment. Two metabolizable energy level: 3150 or 2750 kcal/kg and two enzyme (with xylanase beta-glucanase, and phy-tase activity) level: 0 and 200 mg/kg dry matter (DM) were used. There was a main effect of energy (P<0.05) on feed intake of broilers and feeding 2750 kcal/kg ME diet increased feed intake (FI) of broilers in the whole period. The addition of enzyme to 2750 kcal/kg ME diet significantly (P<0.05) improved the average daily gain (ADG) and feed conversion ratio (FCR) of broiler chickens on 0-21 days of age (P<0.05). While net energy for production (NEp), NE, ME, organic matter, and dry matter digestibility were improved (P<0.05) by supplementing both energy level diets with enzyme at 21 d, only addition of enzyme to 2750 kcal/kg ME diet reduced heat production (HP) of broilers in the total trial (P<0.05). On day 21, the amount of NE improvement by enzyme supplementation was greater than ME for 2750 and 3150 kcal/kg, respectively. This study showed that NE is a more sensitive energy utilization measure than ME for evaluating the response of broilers to enzyme supplementation, and the energy retained as fat and protein in the body carcass was higher for the birds fed lower energy diet supplemented with enzyme. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
11 - Effects of Replacing Canola Meal with Soybean Meal in Broiler Chicken Diet on Growth Performance, Carcass Traits, and Liver Enzymes during Different Rearing Periods
M. Mohammadian Amiri B. Dastar R. Mirshekar O. AshayerizadehIssue 1 , Vol. 14 , Winter 2024Soybean meal is more beneficial than canola meal (CM) due to the better balance of amino acids in the nutrition of broilers. Three experiments were conducted to assess the impact of replacing soybean meal with CM at different levels during the rearing stages of Ross 308 MoreSoybean meal is more beneficial than canola meal (CM) due to the better balance of amino acids in the nutrition of broilers. Three experiments were conducted to assess the impact of replacing soybean meal with CM at different levels during the rearing stages of Ross 308 male broilers on performance, carcass traits, and liver enzyme concentrations. In the first experiment, 420 one-day-old chicks received starter diets with six graded levels of CM from 0 to 15% for 10 days. In the second experiment, 360 eleven-day-old chicks were fed six experimental grower diets varying in CM from 0 to 25% over 14 days. In the third experiment, three hundred 25-day-old chicks were subjected to six finisher diets ranging in CM from 0 to 40% over 18 days. The findings revealed that the inclusion of the CM at the examined levels had no adverse effects on broilers' performance, carcass traits, and liver enzymes in the first and second experiments (P>0.05). Die-tary CM inclusion of more than 32% in the third experiment had significant adverse effects on the perform-ance, European broiler index, and liver enzymes of broilers (P<0.05). In conclusion, the CM can be in-cluded in broiler diets at levels up to 15% during the starter and 20% during the grower periods without adversely affecting growth performance and carcass traits. Nonetheless, an inclusion level of CM exceeding 32% of the diet during the finisher period resulted in decreased weight gain and harmful effects on liver function. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
12 - Effect of Dietary L-Carnitine Supplementation on Characteristics of Cobb's Semen
A. Shadmanesh A. FattahIssue 1 , Vol. 14 , Winter 2024Good semen quality plays a very important role in promoting poultry breeding programs; due to its antioxi-dant properties and role in fat metabolism, L-carnitine seems to be effective in improving semen quality. Therefore, this study was performed to evaluate the effect MoreGood semen quality plays a very important role in promoting poultry breeding programs; due to its antioxi-dant properties and role in fat metabolism, L-carnitine seems to be effective in improving semen quality. Therefore, this study was performed to evaluate the effect of dietary L-carnitine supplementation on the motility parameters and qualitative traits in semen Cobb breed roosters. A total of twenty roosters, 24 weeks-old Cobb roosters randomly assigned to four experimental groups. The experimental design was conducted in a completely randomized design with 4 experimental treatments (T1: 0, T2: 125, T3: 250, and T4: 500 mg L-carnitine per kg diet) with 5 replications and sampling twice (semen collection) with an in-terval of 14 days. The collected semen was immediately evaluated for motility parameters and sperm qual-ity traits. The results showed that there is no significant difference between the levels of 250 and 500 mg of L-carnitine in semen parameters, but there are significant differences with other groups (P≤0.05). Semen collection time did not affect sperm parameters (P≤0.05). In conclusion, the addition of L-carnitine at a rate of 250 mg/kg diet can improve motility parameters and sperm quality traits in the Cobb rooster. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
13 - Egg Characteristics, Blood Parameters and Tibia Mineralization of Laying Hens Fed Varying Dietary Levels of Limestone and Periwinkle Shell
N.W. Anizoba N.E. Ikeh C. Ezenwosu B.C. Amaefule A.L. Obinna S.O.C. UgwuIssue 1 , Vol. 14 , Winter 2024The effect of feeding varying dietary levels of limestone (LS) and periwinkle shell (PS) on laying perform-ance, egg characteristics, blood parameters and bone mineralization of hens was studied. A total of 108 sixteen-weeks-old pullets (weighing 1.2±2.00 kg) were allot MoreThe effect of feeding varying dietary levels of limestone (LS) and periwinkle shell (PS) on laying perform-ance, egg characteristics, blood parameters and bone mineralization of hens was studied. A total of 108 sixteen-weeks-old pullets (weighing 1.2±2.00 kg) were allotted to 6 treatments with 3 replicate groups of 6 birds in each pen. The LS and PS were supplemented in the diets at three levels (3.00%, 3.75% and 4.50%) each for a period of 12 weeks. Birds fed 3.75% PS had the highest (P<0.05) feed intake and hen-day egg production with an improved feed conversion ratio. The inclusion levels of PS significantly (P<0.05) im-proved most of the external and internal egg quality parameters studied with the best result recorded among the laying hens fed 3.75% PS and 4.50% PS. Some of the blood parameters and bone mineralization were better (P<0.05) for hens fed 3.00% PS and 3.75% PS. On the other hand, the source of calcium and its lev-els had no significant effect on initial body weight, final body weight, total weight gain, average daily weight gain, egg weight, egg surface area, yolk height, yolk index, total protein, alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, bone phosphorus, tibia weight and dry defatted bone. Based on the results ob-tained from the present study, it was concluded that 3.75% PS was appropriate for laying hens without ad-verse effect on performance and the inclusion of PS in layer rations as calcium source is more beneficial than LS. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
14 - Effect of Lighting Schedule during Incubation on Embryonic Development and Bone Gene (Col10a1, Spp1, Bglap, and Alp) Expression in Broiler Hatchlings
S.M. Hashemian M.J. Zamiri Z. Khaksar Z. Ansari Pirsaraei H.R. MoradiIssue 1 , Vol. 14 , Winter 2024We studied the effect of lighting during 19 days of incubation on embryonic bone characteristics, gene ex-pression, thyroid hormones, and glucose in Cobb broiler hatchlings. Eggs (2160) were incubated under darkness (control) and green and white lighting (16D:8L and 12D MoreWe studied the effect of lighting during 19 days of incubation on embryonic bone characteristics, gene ex-pression, thyroid hormones, and glucose in Cobb broiler hatchlings. Eggs (2160) were incubated under darkness (control) and green and white lighting (16D:8L and 12D:12L). On 19th day, tibiotarsal length in-creased under eight hours of white light, and femoral ossified length was longer under eight hours of white and green light. In femur, expression of Alp, Col10a1, and Spp1 increased by 12 h white and 8 h green lighting, and Bglap expression decreased under white. In tibiotarsus, expression of Alp decreased by 8 h lighting (green or white) while Bglap increased by 12 h lighting (green or white). Tibiotarsal expression of Col10a1 increased by 12 h lighting (white and green), and in 8 h green lighting, and Spp1 expression was higher under light illumination. The hatchling blood triiodothyronine concentration in 8 h green lighting was higher than that in control, whereas, thyroxine concentration was lower under 12 h white lighting com-pared with other treatments. Femoral organic matter to mineral (OM:M) ratio and calcium concentration were higher in the eight-hour white light group than in the control, but tibiotarsal OM:M ratio and calcium and phosphorus concentrations were higher under 12 h white light. The findings indicated that lighting dur-ing incubation may impact, both positively and negatively, bone morphology and gene expression. More studies are needed to find the most beneficial lighting system during incubation in chickens. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
15 - Long Term Feeding Effects of a Vaccine against of Endotoxemia (ENDOVAC-Beef) on Growth Performance and Carcass Characteristics of Growing-Finishing Calf-Fed Holstein Steers
B.C. Latack P.H. Carvalho A. Plascencia R.A. ZinnIssue 1 , Vol. 14 , Winter 2024The objective was to evaluate the long-term effects of vaccination against endotoxemia on calf-fed Holstein steer growth performance, dietary energetics, and carcass characteristics. Fifty Holstein steer calves were used in a 322 d trial. Calves (134±5 kg) were randomly MoreThe objective was to evaluate the long-term effects of vaccination against endotoxemia on calf-fed Holstein steer growth performance, dietary energetics, and carcass characteristics. Fifty Holstein steer calves were used in a 322 d trial. Calves (134±5 kg) were randomly assigned to treatments within weight groups to 10 pens (5 steers per pen). Five pen groups received an endotoxemia vaccination on d 28 and 56 of the study (EV), and the remaining 5 pens did not receive vaccination. Calves were weighed (off-truck weight, no shrink applied) at start of the study, and on days 122 and 322 (shrunk 4% to account for gut fill). All steers were fed with a steam-flaked corn-based diet. Vaccination did not affect (P≥0.10) live weight, average daily gain, and dry matter intake during the experiment. Although vaccination increased (P=0.04) gain efficiency during the initial 112 d, differences in gain efficiency from d 112 to 322, and during the cumulative feeding period (1 to 322 d) was not appreciable (P≥0.14). Vaccination did not affect (P≥0.31) hot carcass weight, dressing percentage, or marbling score. However, vaccination increased (P<0.01) longissimus muscle area (86.5 vs. 76.8 cm2) and retail yield (51.3 vs. 50.4); but, also tended to increase (P=0.07) carcass fat thick-ness. Morbidity and pink eye rate infection were low and not affected by treatment (P≥0.18). We conclude that whereas vaccinating Holstein calves with EV at days 28 and 56 from arrival did not have an overall effect on growth-performance, it increased (13%) longissimus area and retail carcass yield (1.8%). Manuscript profile
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Open Access Article
1 - Induced Termination of Pregnancy in Domestic Farm Animals
G.N. Purohit C. Shekher P. Kumar K. SolankiIssue 1 , Vol. 2 , Winter 2012Induced abortion may be desired during a normal or abnormal pregnancy. The methods of induced abortion differ between species mainly because of different sources for progesterone production during pregnancy between species and within a species according to different sta MoreInduced abortion may be desired during a normal or abnormal pregnancy. The methods of induced abortion differ between species mainly because of different sources for progesterone production during pregnancy between species and within a species according to different stages of gestation. In cows and buffaloes, pregnancy can be effectively terminated from 5 to 150 days by administration of luteolytic doses of prostaglandin F2 alpha (PG). From 150 days onwards and till term bovine and bubaline pregnancies can be safely terminated by administration of a combination of PG and dexamethasone. During the last month of pregnancy in these two species, pregnancy can be successfully terminated by using either a PG or dexamethasone. In goats pregnancy can be terminated during the entire gestation by administration of luteolytic doses of prostaglandins. In sheep pregnancies up to 55 days can be terminated by administration of 100 µg cloprostenol or 10-12 mg of dinoprost. From day 55 onward the termination of sheep pregnancies requires the administration of single or multiple injections of dexamethasone. Early pregnancy (day 5-34) termination in the mare can be achieved by physical methods or administration of PG. The same treatment is effective in terminating pregnancies between day 35-120 but repeated injections are required and because the endometrial cups continue to exist for a couple of days after pregnancy termination, mares do not return to estrus for prolonged periods. The termination of equine pregnancy after 4 months is difficult till term. The results of administration of PG or corticosteroids is suboptimal and manual disruption of the fetus after dilation of the cervix with PGE2 creams is more reliable method of pregnancy termination. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
2 - Methods of Embryo Sexing in Cattle Breeding: A Review
و. ساچان ب. کومار جی. کومار آگراوال آ. کومار آ. ساکسناIssue 1 , Vol. 10 , Winter 2020Different livestock sectors as beef industries get benefit from the production of male animals while dairy industries get benefit from the milk production by the female animals. Therefore, it is obvious need to produce the animals of desired sex which can be achieved by MoreDifferent livestock sectors as beef industries get benefit from the production of male animals while dairy industries get benefit from the milk production by the female animals. Therefore, it is obvious need to produce the animals of desired sex which can be achieved by predetermining the sex of conceptus at the time of conception i.e. pre determination of sex may be of great economic importance. Control of the sex ratio by sex prediction of the of pre implanted embryo would be beneficial not only in relation to the aspect of management, production and breeding programmes of livestock but also in diagnosing the genetic disorders at prenatal stage. Pre-implantation sexing of embryos not only improves efficiency of embryo transfer but also facilitate the transfer of embryos of desired sex. Sex-sorted sperm is a one of the technique fulfilling the requirement but it is well expensive and less efficient. Another concept of getting genetically improved animals of desired sex is embryo sexing. Embryo sexing has great potential to maximize the efficiency of dairy production through controlling the sex ratio of domestic species. There are many methods to determine the sex of embryo categorized as invasive and non-invasive techniques with varying efficiency and merits. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
3 - Dietary Supplementation of Enzymes: An Approach to Mitigate Ammonia Emission during Broiler Production
S. Sugiharto I. Agusetyaningsih E. Widiastuti H.I. Wahyuni T. Yudiarti T.A. SartonoIssue 4 , Vol. 13 , Autumn 2023Environmentalists are now becoming very concerned about issues related to air pollutants especially ammonia emissions from the broiler industry. Ammonia produced by broiler farms not only has a detrimental effect on the health and productivity of broiler chickens, but a MoreEnvironmentalists are now becoming very concerned about issues related to air pollutants especially ammonia emissions from the broiler industry. Ammonia produced by broiler farms not only has a detrimental effect on the health and productivity of broiler chickens, but also has a severe influence on the environment. The ammonia emissions from broiler chicken houses can be effectively reduced by lowering the protein content of the feed, although broiler growth performance can suffer as a result. To improve protein digestibility and utilization in broiler chickens, enzymes can be used as feed additives. Hence, enzymes can avoid feeding with excessive protein content to broilers. Due to its ability to improve digestion and retention of N in the body, enzymes especially protease can reduce N excretion through excreta so that it has an impact on reducing ammonia emissions from broiler chicken houses. This present review provides an overview of the role of enzymes in reducing ammonia emissions from broiler farms. The mechanism of how enzymes reduce ammonia emissions from broiler farms is also discussed in this review. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
4 - Importance of Water Quality in Small Ruminants’ Productivity
A. Cervantes G. López F.J. Monge A. Estrada A. PlascenciaIssue 1 , Vol. 14 , Winter 2024Successful breeding and raising of sheep and goats depend on appropriate sanitary and nutritional manage-ment, where water plays a crucial role. Alterations in water quality and availability might lead to alterations in animal productivity. Small ruminants are capable o MoreSuccessful breeding and raising of sheep and goats depend on appropriate sanitary and nutritional manage-ment, where water plays a crucial role. Alterations in water quality and availability might lead to alterations in animal productivity. Small ruminants are capable of ingesting water in a wide range of qualities with little or no effect on health and performance, however; some elements and microorganisms present in high concentrations can produce a negative effect on health status and weight gain performance, being the qual-ity of water, an essential factor affecting the profitability of small ruminant production. The effects on cat-tle's productive performance of compounds like total dissolved solids, sulfates, and sulfur in drinking water have been documented. However, there needs to be more information available on the effect on sheep and goats, being necessary to increase the efforts to carry out studies to evaluate the effect of the physicochemi-cal and microbiological quality of drinking water on the health and productive performance of small rumi-nants. Water quality affects the efficiency of diet energy utilization in lambs. However, there is scares in-formation about this topic to reevaluate the qualification of water as “well water”. This review presents the effects of drinking water's different physicochemical and microbiological characteristics on the productivity of small ruminants. Also, it addresses water quality and its effect on productivity from an energy perspec-tive. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
5 - Insights of Herbal Supplements during Transition Period in Dairy Animals: An Updated Review
K.R. Sriranga A.K. Singh K.R. Harini A. Kumar I. Mukherjee A.B. Durge K.P. MohantaIssue 3 , Vol. 11 , Summer 2021There have been unsatisfactory results from antibiotic supplementation in long run for dairy animals. Antibiotic supplementation has been reported to accelerate the risk of antibiotic residues along with posing a potential threat to both human and animal health through MoreThere have been unsatisfactory results from antibiotic supplementation in long run for dairy animals. Antibiotic supplementation has been reported to accelerate the risk of antibiotic residues along with posing a potential threat to both human and animal health through compromised food safety. Therefore, there was a need of some alternative and safe supplementation to the dairy animals which may improve their production, reproduction, health, body condition, energy balance, and oxidative status. Herbal feed supplements are being widely used these days and scientists in the field of animal production are continuously devising the incorporation of some un-conventional herbal feed stuff in the diet of dairy animals. Herbal feed supplementation has been found comparatively much safer than any antibiotic or other inorganic feed supplements in farm animals. Transition management of dairy animals for improved post-partum performances has been a prime focus of most of the animal scientists. Transition period has far reaching effects on the post partum performances in regard to production, reproduction, health, body condition, energy balance, and oxidative status of dairy animals. Herbal supplements during transition period are anticipated to bring desired changes in the production, reproduction, health, body condition, energy balance, and oxidative status of dairy animals. Therefore, this review was framed with an aim of presenting a concise yet an informative discussion over the effects of supplementing herbal feed additives to the dairy animals to overview its effects on different production, reproduction and health parameters. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
6 - Potential Relevance of Pomegranate (<i>Punica granatum</i>) Peel in the Nutrition, Health, and Quality Products of Poultry
E.A. Akuru C.I. Chukwuma C.E. Oyeagu T.C. Mpendulo F.B. LewuIssue 4 , Vol. 13 , Autumn 2023Poultry farmers constantly source for alternative feed additives for feeding poultry birds to improve the quality and health benefits of their meat and egg. It is common knowledge that synthetic feed additives (antibiotic growth promoters) are accompanied by some limita MorePoultry farmers constantly source for alternative feed additives for feeding poultry birds to improve the quality and health benefits of their meat and egg. It is common knowledge that synthetic feed additives (antibiotic growth promoters) are accompanied by some limitations. These limitations include amongst others, the detrimental residual effects accompanying the consumption of the meat and egg products of poultry birds fed antibiotic growth promoters. Also, they cause resistance to some bacteria both in poultry and humans. Recently, increased efforts have been put into utilizing plant-based feed additives in the nutrition of poultry birds, due to their minimal toxicity concerns and holistic functional attributes. Pomegranate is an important fruit that cannot be overlooked among the spectrum of natural feed additives. The potential of pomegranate fruit peel to replace in-feed antibiotic growth promoters in poultry nutrition is quite promising. The current review provides an overview of the usefulness and potential utilization of pomegranate peel as a natural and alternative growth promoter in the nutrition of poultry birds. The pomegranate fruit peel promotes growth, stimulates immune responses, enhances the shelf-life of meat, improves egg quality, increases nutrient release. It also improves bone quality, and ensures the release of odorous gases from poultry manure, which may be linked to its rich antioxidant and bioactive phenol and tannin constituents. Tannin is one of the anti-nutrients that limits the performance of poultry when it is included in the diet. Despite huge benefits of pomegranate inclusion in poultry performance, its tannin content may be a source of worry and these concerns needs to be addressed through further research in order to maximize the full potentials of pomegranate. However, pomegranate shows potential to provide nourishment to poultry birds and positively enhance the health indicators of human consumers of the products (meat and egg). Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
7 - Costs and Benefits of Beef Cattle Fattening Schemes in some Selected Areas of North West Tanzania
J.L. Malole R.J.M. Kadigi A.Z. SangedaIssue 4 , Vol. 4 , Autumn 2014This study highlights the costs and benefits of indigenous beef cattle fattening schemes in Shinyanga Urban and Kishapu Districts in Tanzania. Specifically, in this study the net profit (NP) for fatteners between beef cattle fattening schemes has been determined. The sc MoreThis study highlights the costs and benefits of indigenous beef cattle fattening schemes in Shinyanga Urban and Kishapu Districts in Tanzania. Specifically, in this study the net profit (NP) for fatteners between beef cattle fattening schemes has been determined. The schemes were divided into two main categories, scheme 1 in which the animals were fed on cottonseed hulls (CSHL) based diets and scheme 2 on cottonseed cake (CSC) based diets.The survey was carried out using a sample of 144 respondents. The tools for data collection were structured questionnaire, interview, personal observation, communication, documentary reviews (e.g. from internet, libraries) and key informants. Data were analysed using descriptivestatistics and quantitative statistics and standard procedure of theassociation of official analytical chemists.Results show that the positive net profit was relatively higher in scheme 2 (Tanzanian shilling (TAS) 119512.87 / USD 76.03 per fed animal per quarter a year) than that in scheme 1 (TAS 92993, 90 / USD 59.17 per fed animal per quarter a year). This implies that the fattening business is more feasible, profitable and efficient for sustainable implementation in scheme 2. Furthermore, the average daily gains (ADG) of 1.5, 1.3 and 1.0 for Tanzania Short Horn Zebu (TSHZ) males, steers and females were higher than the 1.2, 1.0 and 0.9 for TSHZ males, steers and females in scheme 1, respectively. Additionally, the feed conversion ratios (FCRs) of about 5.0, 5.5, 6.3 for TSHZ males, steers and females in scheme 2 were lower than 7.2, 8.6, 8.6 for TSHZ males, steers and females in scheme 1. Therefore, scheme 2 was economically feasible, profitable and therefore is recommended for implementation and monetary support for improved income, livelihoods, poverty reduction and commercialisation of the beef industry. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
8 - The Effect of Climate Change on Milk Yield in New Zealand: A Case Study of Fonterra
Z. Shaheen Ali Z. LiIssue 3 , Vol. 12 , Summer 2022Climate change affects milk yield, which may have a profound impact on the dairy industry. Taking Fonterra as an example, this study analyses the climate data of 99 consecutive months from June 2012 to August 2020 and the corresponding monthly milk yield data of North I MoreClimate change affects milk yield, which may have a profound impact on the dairy industry. Taking Fonterra as an example, this study analyses the climate data of 99 consecutive months from June 2012 to August 2020 and the corresponding monthly milk yield data of North Island and South Island. The results show that the monthly milk yield correlates with the monthly mean temperature, the monthly extreme maximum temperature, the monthly extreme minimum temperature, the monthly mean relative humidity, and the monthly mean temperature and humidity index (THI). In addition, with the increase of annual mean temperature in New Zealand, the annual milk yield of North Island decreases with the increase of temperature. Fonterra needs to take measures to mitigate the negative impact of climate warming on milk yield. However, in the recent nine years, South Island's annual milk yield increases with annual mean temperature. Furthermore, regression equations with climate factors as independent variables and monthly milk yield as dependent variables are established for North Island and South Island. In North Island, the monthly milk yield changed periodically with time. The findings of the study show that the annual milk yield will decrease with the increase of temperature due to global warming in North Island. However, South Island needs to deal with the negative impact of high temperature on milk yield in summer. Therefore, Fonterra needs to take immediate measures to deal with the negative impact of climate change. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
9 - Importance of Phosphorus in Farm Animals
S. Manopriya A.A.A.U. Aberathna D.A. Satharasinghe L.J.P.A.P. Jayasooriya M.M.M.G.P.G. Mantilaka C.A.N. Fernando B.P.A. Jayaweera W.A.D.V. Weerathilake G.A. Prathapasinghe J.A. Liyanage J.M.K.J.K. PremarathneIssue 2 , Vol. 12 , Spring 2022Nutrition is a crucial factor in animal production. Feeding animals with a well-balanced diet is beneficial economically and promotes animal welfare. Mineral supplements are the third most costly component in animal feed. Phosphorus (P) is one of the key minerals respon MoreNutrition is a crucial factor in animal production. Feeding animals with a well-balanced diet is beneficial economically and promotes animal welfare. Mineral supplements are the third most costly component in animal feed. Phosphorus (P) is one of the key minerals responsible for skeletal development, energy metabolism, cell signaling and is a constituent of nucleotides. An animal’s P requirement varies with species, production trait, age and management practices. Dietary P should meet the growth, maintenance, and production requirements of animals. Deficiency in dietary P causes severe impacts on skeletal development and growth in young animals and long-term deficiencies can impact both animal welfare and production parameters. Overfeeding of P can lead to nutritional disorders related to Ca metabolism. Therefore, maintaining the balance between Ca and P in the diet is crucial in feeding. Excess P is not retained in the body and excreted with faecal matter. Through the homeostasis process, animals are able to balance the mineral composition in their bodies. The primary P source in the diet comes as organic P from plants and inorganic P from supplements. The bioavailability of the P varies within animals according to physiological and functional variabilities. Understanding the physiology as well as functional and production variabilities in animals is beneficial in managing the economic and environmental aspects of animal husbandry. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
10 - The Effects of Acidic and Alkaline Hydrolysis Process on some Physical and Chemical Properties of Broiler Chicken Feathers
م.ای. سید ف.ن. یولیآتی م. سوکماIssue 3 , Vol. 9 , Summer 2019The objective of this study was to evaluate the physical and chemical properties of the broiler feather concentrate (BFC) in different hydrolysis processes. The raw materials in the form of broiler feather waste (BFW) were hydrolyzed into broiler feather concentrate (BF MoreThe objective of this study was to evaluate the physical and chemical properties of the broiler feather concentrate (BFC) in different hydrolysis processes. The raw materials in the form of broiler feather waste (BFW) were hydrolyzed into broiler feather concentrate (BFC) products in the form of feather meal. A total of 1000 g of dry feather samples were used in this study. The study was designed up to 4 treatments with 5 repetitions. Each treatment unit requires 50 g of dry feather samples. The repetition of the sample was the number of times the hydrolysis process. The sample was hydrolyzed using NaOH or HCl. The treatments were applied, namely: H-1) without hydrolysis; H-2) 1M-NaOH 20% (b/v); H-3) 1M-HCl 20% (v/v); H-4) 1M-NaOH 10% (b/v) + 1M-HCl 10% (v/v) (the treatment in H-4 was carried out sequentially). The results showed that the application of chemical processes to produce amino acid profiles of BFW was similar to BFC. The microstructure of the broiler feather differs in each chemical process. The composition of the BFC products was dominated by the compounds of SO3, SiO2, and Al2O3. An application of the chemical hydrolysis process to the BFC increases the value of the water and the ash content, but it decreases the fat and fiber content. The process of chemical hydrolysis using the H-2 treatment 1M-NaOH (20% (b/v) is the best hydrolysis process compared to other treatments. Manuscript profile
