Journal of Animal Production, Print ISSN: 2008-6776., Online ISSN: 2382-994X

Abstract Objective: This study was conducted to investigate the effect of palm oil, camelina oil, and whole camelina seeds on performance, nutrient digestibility, feeding behavior, and fecal score in fattening lambs.
Method: Thirty-two male lambs (mean age 3.5 months and initial weight 23.89 ± 0.48 kg) were fattened in a completely randomized design with 4 treatments and 8 replicates for 84 days. The treatments included: 1- basal diet without oil supplement (control), 2- basal diet containing 1.5% palm oil, 3- basal diet containing 1.5% camelina oil, and 4- basal diet containing 5% camelina seed. Lambs were housed individually with ad libitum fresh water. Body weight was recorded every 28 days and daily feed intake was measured. Nutrient digestibility was assessed using acid‑insoluble ash (AIA) as an internal marker during the final two weeks. Feeding behavior was observed over 24 h by instantaneous sampling every 5 min, and time spent eating, ruminating, and resting was calculated. Fecal consistency was scored weekly on a 1–5 visual scale. Data were analyzed with the General Linear Model (GLM) in SAS 9.4 and means compared by Duncan’s test (α = 0.05). All procedures followed the university’s animal‑care guidelines.
Results: Results showed that although feed intake decreased in oil-supplemented treatments (P < 0.001), yet daily weight gain and feed conversion ratio were not affected by treatments (P > 0.05). Average daily feed intake was ~12 % lower in the oil groups compared with control, while average daily gain (ADG) remained around 185 g day⁻¹ across all treatments. The digestibility of dry matter, organic matter, crude protein, and neutral detergent fiber (NDF) in treatments containing palm oil and camelina oil was significantly (P < 0.05) lower than that of the camelina seed treatment, while crude fat digestibility increased in these treatments. Lambs fed camelina seed had the longest time spent eating, ruminating, and chewing during the day (P < 0.001). Fecal score at the end of the period in treatments containing camelina (oil and seed) was significantly higher (softer) than in the palm oil and control treatments, indicating looser stools. No clinical signs of digestive disturbance were observed.
Conclusions: In general, the use of camelina seed, due to the protective effect of the seed coat on the rumen environment, led to the preservation of nutrient digestibility and improved rumination behavior, and also affected fecal consistency. The physical form of fat supply (seed vs. free oil) is a key factor in its effect on digestive processes in fattening lambs Incorporating camelina seed can increase diet energy density while maintaining fiber utilization—a practical strategy for lamb producers. Future work should test higher seed inclusion levels and assess long‑term effects on carcass composition, especially omega‑3 fatty‑acid enrichment.

Abstract Objective: The suckling calf is particularly susceptible to digestive and respiratory disease because of its immature immune system and increased mortality, making it one of the major challenges of the livestock industry. The nutritional strategy to enhance the performance of suckling calves by supplementing their diet with feed additives, such as probiotic and biochar, was evaluated in this study. Method: Twenty-eight female newborn Holstein calves (41.2 ± 3.8 kg) were used in a 2×2 factorial arrangement within a completely randomized design over a 70‑day experimental period. Experimental treatments were as follows:1- basal diet without additive (control), 2- basal diet with 2 g/day of probiotic, 3- basal diet with 1% biochar and 4- basal diet with 2 g/day of probiotic plus 1% biochar. The basal diet was formulated with a 10:90 forage-to-concentrate ratio to meet nutrient requirements. Water and starter feed were provided ad libitum throughout the experiment. Feed intake was recorded daily, body weight and skeletal growth changes were assessed every two weeks. Blood samples were collected on days 0 (birth time), 35 and 70, and fecal samples were collected to evaluate diet digestibility in the last week of the experiment from all calves. All calves were observed for three days at the end of the experiment to record their feeding behaviors (standing, lying, eating, and ruminating) and non-feeding behaviors (licking, sucking, and chewing on environmental objects). Results: Results indicated that calves that were supplemented with dietary biochar had significantly higher starter feed intake and weaning body weight compared with the non‑biochar groups (P<0.05). Wither height, hip height and abdominal circumference of the calves also increased with biochar supplementation (P<0.05). Concurrent supplementation with probiotic and biochar (treatment 4) further enhanced wither height and hip height (P<0.05). probiotic and biochar supplementation improved apparent digestibility of organic matter and crude protein (P<0.05), respectively, whereas the digestibility of other nutrients was unaffected by experimental treatments. Biochar supplementation also increased blood glucose concentration (P<0.05). Dietary treatments did not significantly affec any of the feeding behaviors. Interaction effects of probiotic and biochar were not significant on any of the parameters measured in this study. Conclusions: Overall, dietary supplementation with biochar, either alone or in combination with probiotic, showed significant positiv effects on performance, skeletal growth indices, and digestibility of nutrients in suckling calves, suggesting that biochar may be used as a functional feed additive to support early-life health and productivity.

Abstract Objective: Trace elements, particularly zinc (Zn), play a pivotal role in the metabolic processes and growth of broiler chickens. Recent technological advancements have facilitated the synthesis of novel Zn complexes engineered for enhanced nutrient delivery. Consequently, this study was designed to evaluate the effects of various dietary Zn sources on growth performance, carcass characteristics, immunological parameters, and the lipid oxidative stability of broiler meat. Method: A total of 200 one-day-old Ross 308 broiler chicks were randomly distributed into five experimental treatments, each with four replicates. The treatments consisted of a basal corn-soybean meal diet (Control) or the basal diet supplemented with 40 mg/kg of Zn-sulfate, Zn-methionine, Zn-nano sulfate, or Zn-nano methionine. Feed and water were provided for ad libitum consumption. Environmental temperature and relative humidity were strictly regulated within optimal ranges. Assessments included growth performance, carcass traits, hematological profiles, and thigh meat quality. The nano-complexes were engineered utilizing nano-chelate technology. Results: At the end of the starter period, the lowest feed intake (FI) was observed in birds supplemented with Zn-nano sulfate (P<0.05). This reduced FI resulted in diminished growth during this phase, showing a significant difference compared to the other groups (P<0.05). Over the entire experimental period (days 1 to 42), a numerical trend toward increased body weight gain (BWG) was noted among treatments (P=0.06). The most favorable feed conversion ratio (FCR) was recorded in the Zn-nano methionine group, which differed significantly from the Control and Zn-nano sulfate groups (P<0.05). Carcass yield was significantly affected by the treatments (P<0.05), with the lowest yields observed in the Control and Zn-nano sulfate groups. Furthermore, the relative weight of the abdominal fat pad was significantly higher in the Control and Zn-nano sulfate groups compared to other treatments (P<0.05). Dietary Zn sources also significantly influenced serum lymphocyte percentages (P < 0.05); the most robust cell-mediated immune response was observed in birds fed Zn-nano methionine and Zn-methionine. Regarding oxidative stability, the extent of lipid oxidation in thigh meat from the Control group was significantly higher at 50, 100, and 150 minutes post-mortem compared to all other treatment groups (P<0.05). Conclusion: In conclusion, supplementation of broiler diets with 40 mg/kg of nanoscale Zn sources, particularly Zn-nano methionine and Zn-nano sulfate, differentially influenced growth performance, selected immunological traits, and meat quality.

Abstract Objective: The objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of the fermentation processing of rice bran and wheat bran (using bacterial, fungal, rumen liquor fermentation) on performance, intestinal morphology, and cecal microbial population of Ross 308 broiler chickens. Bran (rice and wheat), is a by-product of cereal processing that can be used as an alternative feed source in poultry nutrition because it is a rich source of nutrients and crude fiber. However, bran contains anti-nutritional compounds such as fiber and phytic acid, which reduce digestibility and absorption of nutrients. Therefore, fermentation processing may allow for the maximum utilization of bran by breaking down these anti-nutritional compounds and increasing their absorbability. Method: In a completely randomized design with a factorial arrangement (2×4), 400 one-day-old commercial Ross 308 broiler chicks (mixed sex) were studied for 42 days to evaluate the effects of different processing methods (no processing, fermentation with Bacillus subtilis, fermentation with Aspergillus niger, fermentation with rumen liquor) and type of bran (wheat and rice at a 10% dietary inclusion level) on overall performance (feed intake, weight gain, feed conversion ratio (FCR)), intestinal morphology, cecal microbial population, and the pH of different parts of the gastrointestinal tract (gizzard, duodenum, jejunum, and ileum). Results: The interaction between bran type and processing method was not significant in total period feed intake and weight gain, but it was significant for FCR, in which wheat bran and rice bran fermented with fungus had the lowest FCR. For main effect of the processing method, the fermentation of bran with fungus increased feed intake compared to raw bran and bran fermented with rumen liquor. Wheat bran intake compared to rice bran improved weight gain and reduced FCR. Duodenal villus height significantly greater in the fungal fermentation method compared to raw bran and bacterial fermentation method, but there was significant difference with the rumen liquor fermentation method. The duodenal villus height to crypt depth ratio was the highest in the fungal bran fermentation method. The results indicated that wheat bran significantly increased villus height and epithelial thickness and a decreased jejunal crypt depth compared to rice bran, while the jejunal villus height to crypt depth ratio was significantly higher in both the fungal and rumen liquor fermentation methods than in the raw bran groups. The ileal villus height to crypt depth ratio was highest in the groups receiving rice bran fermented with fungus and rumen liquor, as well as wheat bran fermented with fungus and lowest in the group receiving raw rice bran. The interaction of experimental factors on cecal lactobacillus population was also significant. Birds fed wheat bran fermented with rumen liquor showed a higher cecal lactobacillus population compared to other treatments, except for rice bran fermented with fungus. Birds fed fermented bran had lower cecal Escherichia coli and coliforms compared to birds fed raw bran. Conclusion: The results indicate that the fermentation processing of wheat bran and rice bran, particularly by the fungus Aspergillus niger, may be an effective strategy in broiler chicken nutrition because of improved performance, increased villus height and reduced intestinal crypt depth, increased Lactobacillus bacteria counts, decreased pathogenic bacteria counts, and lower intestinal pH in broiler chickens.

Abstract Objective: Bacterial resistance and chemical residues in chicken meat prohibited the use of growth-promoting antibiotics in in humans. Therefore, essential oils, extracts, and powders of medicinal plants as antibiotic alternatives in poultry feed have been of interest in recent years. These include cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum) (cinnamaldehyde, eugenol, and carvacrol), garden thyme (Thymus vulgaris L) (carvacrol and thymol), clove (Caryophillium aromaticus) (eugenol), and turmeric (rhizome of the Curcuma Longa plant) (curcuminoids), all of which are plant-based products with antioxidant and antibacterial properties. Considering the substantial scientific evidence regarding the positive effects of plant extracts on improving broiler chickens performance, and considering that has climatic diversity in the growth of medicinal plants, using beneficial natural additives in broiler chickens nutrition is justified. Method: In this study, the effects of hydroalcoholic extract of mixed herbs on performance, carcass characteristics, blood parameters, antioxidant activity, and antibody titers in broiler chicks were examined using 240 one-day-old Ross 308 male broiler chicks with an average initial weight of 44±2 grams using a completely randomized design with four treatments, six replications, and 10 chicks per replication over 42 days. The treatments were 1-control group (no hydroalcoholic extract), 2-treatment one liter of hydroalcoholic extract in 1000 liters of drinking water, 3-treatment two liters of hydroalcoholic extract in 1000 liters of drinking water, and 4-treatment three liters of hydroalcoholic extract in 1000 liters of drinking water. The chicks were weighed, and feed intake was measured during the periods of 1 to 10 days, 11 to 24 days, and 25 to 42 days of age. At the end of the experiment, two chicks from each replicate with body weights close to the average weight of the replicate were selected for carcass characteristics.They were weighed again and slaughtered by the halal neck-cutting method. At 42 days of age, two birds were randomly selected from each experimental unit, and after blood collection from their wing veins, they were tested for blood parameters. Results: In the starter, finisher and total periods, feed intake in birds that received the herbal hydroalcoholic extract mixture at the level of one and two liters per 1000 liters of drinking water was higher than other treatments (P<0.05). During the grower period, feed conversion ratio in birds that received the herbal hydroalcoholic extract mixture at the level of one liter per 1000 liters of drinking water was lower than other treatments (P<0.05). Carcass percentage, breast percentage, thigh percentage, meat pH, malondialdehyde concentration and cooking loss were significantly affected by experimental treatments (P<0.05). Birds receiving the herbal hydroalcoholic extract mixture at the level of two liters per 1000 liters of drinking water showed increased glucose concentration, decreased cholesterol concentration, decreased uric acid concentration, decreased ALT concentration and increased blood catalase concentration (P<0.05). Birds that received the mixed treatment of plant hydroalcoholic extract at the level of one and two liters per 1000 liters of drinking water had antibody titer levels against infectious bronchitistreatments (P<0.05). Conclusion: Based on the current results, one liter of hydroalcoholic extract per 1000 liters of drinking water is recommended under the conditions of this experiment because of the improved feed conversion ratio during the grower period, better quantitative carcass traits, and higher antibody titer against infectious bronchitis in broiler chickens.

Abstract Objective: During the first week of life, body weight increases 2- to 3-fold, and there are significant changes in the weight and morphology of the gut and muscles. Gastrointestinal development is particularly important in early chick growth and delayed feeding during the first few days of life reduces final BW and probably affects gut health and immune function. Probiotics are live microbial feed additives and can be considereda functional nutritional approach, whereby adequate amounts of live beneficial microorganisms are administered to establish a healthy microbial environment and improved intestinal function in young chicks, resulting in stimulation of mucosal immunity, pathogen inhibition, improvedperformance, and modulation of intestinal microflora of young or stressed broilers. As such, probiotic seems to influence broiler growth performance and intestinal growth under late feeding challenge. Method: The objective of this experiment was to investigate the effect of probiotic levels on performance, blood metabolites and small intestine morphology of broiler chickens subjected to late feeding challenge (LFC). The experiment was conducted using a completely randomized design and a 3×3 factorial arrangement with 3 levels of probiotic (0, 0.2 and 0.4 g/kg feed) and 3 LFD time (0-, 12- and 24-h), 450 Ross-308 broiler chickens (one-d-old, mixed sexes) were allocated to 9 treatments, 5 replicates and 10 birds in each replicate. Results: The broiler chickens fed greater level of probiotics and immediately access to feed had the highest BW and BWG and those fed with 24h LFC and greater level of probiotic had the lowest BW at the end of the starter period; and at the end of the experiment, broiler chickens fed 0.2 g/kg probiotics with 12h LFC and those fed greater level of probiotics and immediately access to feed had the lowest FI, BW and BWG (P < 0.05). LFC time had no significant effect on the distribution parameters of chickens at 10d age and carcass parameters at 42d age. Broiler chickens fed 0.4 g/kg probiotics with 12- and 24h LFC had the lowest triglyceride and glucose concentration respectively, and at this level of probiotic with 0- LFC the lowest count of E. Coli was observed while 12 and 24h LFC decreased bifidobacteria count (P<0.05). Villous height increased with LFC time in thoese broiler chickens fed diets contatning 0 or 0.2 g/kg probiotic. The greatest villous surface area was observed in broiler chickens fed 0.2 g/kg probiotic diet with 12h LFC (P<0.05). Conclusions: In conclusion, 12- and 24h DP decreased the performance and intestinal morphometry of broiler chickens, and double recommended probiotic supplementation could not completely ameliorate the negative effects of LFC.

Abstract Objective: The poultry industry plays a vital role in providing high-quality dietary protein and addressing global food shortages. Ensuring the safety of poultry products for human consumption while minimizing environmental impact has become a key priority in modern production systems. In the past, antibiotics were widely used to enhance growth performance and prevent diseases in poultry. However, concerns over the development of antibiotic-resistant pathogens and the associated risks to public health have led to increasing restrictions on their use. The reduction or withdrawal of antibiotic use has, in some cases, contributed to the resurgence of infectious diseases and economic losses within the poultry sector. Consequently, there has been growing interest in natural alternatives that can support health and productivity. Among these alternatives, dietary immunomodulators have emerged as promising candidates. Substances such as nano-copper and propolis are recognized for their potential to act as natural growth promoters and immune enhancers in poultry production systems- Methods: In this research, 240 chickens of Ross 308 strain were used with five treatments and four replicates in a completely randomized design. The experimental treatments included the control diet, 0.05% Oxytetracycline antibiotic, 100 mg/kg Nano-copper, 125 mg/kg Propolis, and the simultaneous use of 100 mg/kg Nano-copper and 125 mg/kg Propolis. The experimental data were statistically analyzed using SAS software (version 9.4) and one-way analysis of variance, and the least squares mean of the treatments was examined at a significance level of five percent. Results: The findings of this study demonstrated that the use of propolis had significant effects on growth performance, nutrient digestibility, and certain physiological parameters of broiler chickens. During the finisher phase and over the entire rearing period, birds receiving diets supplemented with nano-copper or a combination of nano-copper and propolis consumed significantly less feed than the control group. In terms of body weight gain over the entire period, the antibiotic-supplemented group showed superior performance relative to the control group, while the propolis-treated group exhibited similar results to the antibiotic group. However, no significant differences were observed among the treatments in terms of feed conversion ratio. In terms of digestibility, the control and propolis treatments had the highest apparent digestibility of crude protein and ash. However, nano-copper supplementation, especially in combination with propolis, resulted in reduced nutrient digestibility, which may be attributed to the potential negative effects of nano-copper on intestinal function. Although some previous studies have reported positive impacts of nano-copper on protein synthesis, these effects appear to be highly dose-dependent and influenced by environmental and management conditions. Additionally, the presence of enzymes and antioxidant compounds in propolis may contribute to improved digestibility. Regarding carcass traits, no significant difference was observed among treatments in the relative weight of internal organs, indicating the relative safety of these additives at the inclusion levels used in this study. Conclusions: Considering the improvement of protein and ash digestibility by ethanolic extract of Propolis and the lack of significant difference in performance with Oxytetracycline, this supplement can be used as an alternative to antibiotics.

Abstract Objective: The future productivity and success of a dairy farm are fundamentally linked to the proper rearing of suckling calves. Accordingly, careful attention to nutritional management and disease prevention is essential, as these factors significantly influence early-life mortality rates and associated economic losses. Due to the unique structure of the bovine placenta, which prevents the transfer of immunoglobulins from dam to fetus, calves are born without circulating immunoglobulins. As a result, they are entirely dependent on the absorption of immunoglobulins from colostrum to acquire passive immunity and protection against pathogenic organisms until their own immune system matures, typically between 3 to 4 weeks of age. Adequate passive transfer provides both short- and long-term benefits, including reduced morbidity and mortality, improved growth and feed efficiency, and increased future milk yield and survival. Successful IgG transfer depends on the volume and concentration of colostrum consumed. With rising colostrum production, intake volumes have increased in some dairy operations. This study aimed to assess the impact of varying colostrum volumes (as a percentage of body weight) on growth, blood parameters, skeletal development, and passive immunity in suckling calves. Methods: This study aimed to evaluate the effects of varying colostrum volumes on performance, skeletal growth, blood parameters, and passive immune transfer in suckling calves. A total of 32 newborn calves (4 males and 4 females per group) were randomly assigned to one of four treatment groups in a completely randomized design. The treatments consisted of colostrum feeding at 14%, 16%, 18%, and 20% of body weight. The experimental period lasted for 32 days. Results: The results indicated no significant differences in daily weight gain, final body weight, wither height, or chest circumference among calves fed different levels of colostrum. Similarly, colostrum volume (as a percentage of body weight) had no effect on serum IgG concentrations at 24 and 48 hours, or 30 days post-birth. No significant effects were observed on serum total protein, glucose, cholesterol, or triglyceride levels at either 24 hours after colostrum administration or on day 30. However, a significant difference in serum albumin concentration was observed among treatment groups on day 30 (P ≤ 0.05). Conclusion: In conclusion, varying levels of colostrum intake did not produce significant improvements in growth performance, immune status, or blood biochemical parameters in suckling calves. These findings suggest that administering colostrum at 14% of body weight is sufficient to meet the physiological and immunological needs of newborn calves under the conditions of this study. 

Abstract Objective: The various challenges that cows face in late pregnancy have lasting effects, affecting aspects of the calf's metabolism at birth and post-colostrum immunity. On the other hand, the increase in oxidative stress and excessive production of free radicals during the transfer period affects the growing fetus. This effect can alter the ability of calves to defend themselves against pathogens and cope with stressors, leading to changes in body weight, performance and skeletal development during the critical first month of life. Identifying and optimizing the effect of specific nutrients in the animal health program can be an efficient management strategy to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation associated with the transition period, followed by immune disorders and impaired health and growth of calves; In this regard, vitamins and minerals are known for their anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative properties. Providing essential micronutrients to the mother during pregnancy is an effective way to meet the needs of the baby. Material and Methods: This experiment was conducted in order to investigate the effect of injecting minerals and vitamins in the late pregnancy of cows on performance, stool consistency, some blood metabolites, antioxidant status and skeletal growth indicators of their calves. For this purpose, 32 pregnant cows were selected based on the calving cycle, age, body weight and body condition score and were divided into 4 treatments and 8 repetitions in the form of a completely randomized design. Experimental treatments included: 1) control group (no vitamin and mineral supplement injection), 2) treatment receiving injectable vitamin supplement, 3) treatment receiving injectable mineral supplement and 4) treatment receiving vitamin and mineral supplement injection together. Supplements were injected 28 days before calving. After birth, calves born from each group were examined for 35 days. Blood samples were taken from calves at the end of the ex-perimental period (35 days after birth) to measure blood parameters. Results and Discussion: The results showed that birth weight, day 35 weight, daily weight gain and total dry matter consumption of calves born from mothers receiving minerals, vitamins and minerals and vitamins were increased compared to the control group (P≥0.05). In the treatments receiving minerals, vitamins, and minerals and vitamins, an increase in colostrum IgG, IgG consumed by each calf, and serum IgG of calves was observed at birth and three days after birth (P≥0.05). Also, maternal injection of minerals and vitamins improved stool consistency and reduced the number of animals suffering from diarrhea; So that the best result was obtained from the simultaneous injection of minerals and vitamins (P≥0.05). On the other hand, the concentration of glucose, total protein and albumin of calves receiving maternal minerals, vitamins and minerals and vitamins were associated with a significant change compared to the control treatment (P≥0.05). Maternal injection increased the activity of glutathione peroxidase and decreased the total antioxidant status in calves compared to control calves (P≥0.05). The superoxide dismutase enzyme activity of calves born from the group receiving minerals and vitamins at the same time was associated with an increase, and the highest change in catalase activity was related to calves receiving treatment of minerals, and minerals and vitamins. In the calves born from the treatments receiving minerals, vitamins and minerals and vitamins, the height of the withers on the 28st day was increased compared to the control calves (P≥0.05). Conclusion: In general, the simultaneous injection of minerals and vitamins to animals in the transition period before calving is recommended due to better performance and improvement of the immune system and health of their calves.

Abstract Objective: The physical characteristics and nutrient balance of feed are among the most critical factors influencing animal health, performance, and feeding behavior of livestock. These factors not only have a direct impact on meeting the nutritional requirements of livestock but also play a key role in enhancing production efficiency, improving product quality, and mitigating nutrition-related diseases. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of feed physical form during late gestation and early lactation in ewes on blood metabolites, antioxidant status, and lamb performance after birth. Materials and methods: This study was conducted using 36 Mehraban breed ewes with an average body weight of 50.17±2.09 kg and an average age of three to four years in a completely randomized experimental design. The experimental treatments included: 1- mash concentrate, 2- pelleted concentrate, and 3- pelleted total mixed ration (TMR). Experimental treatments were provided to ewes during the last two months of pregnancy and the first month of lactation. To evaluate blood biochemical parameters and antioxidant status, blood samples were collected from the ewes at three times (30 days before lambing, day of lambing, and 30 days after lambing) before the morning feeding. Milk yield and milk fat content were also assessed on day 21 postpartum. Also, the performance of the lambs was evaluated by weighing them on the day of birth and weekly until the end of the trial. Results: The results indicated that feed intake during in the pre- and post-partum periods, as well as milk production, was higher in ewes fed with pelleted TMR and pelleted concentrate compared to those fed with mash concentrate (P<0.05), while the milk fat percentage was not affected by the experimental treatments. Feeding pelleted TMR and pelleted concentrate significantly increased serum glucose and urea concentrations (P<0.05), while other blood parameters, such as cholesterol, triglycerides, total protein, and liver enzymes, were not influenced by the experimental treatments. Also, feeding ewes with pelleted feed led to a significant reduction in malondialdehyde concentration and an increase in total antioxidant capacity at certain time points (P < 0.05), indicating a reduction in oxidative stress in animals fed this type of feed. In addition, body weight and daily weight gain of lambs were affected by the physical form of the feed consumed by the ewes at certain time points. Lambs born to ewes fed with pelleted TMR and pelleted concentrate had higher weight and daily weight gain between days seven and 30 of age than those born to ewes fed with mash concentrate (P<0.05). However, no significant difference was observed in lamb birth weight between different treatments. Conclusions: Overall, the results of this study indicated that feeding ewes with pelleted TMR and pelleted concentrate during late pregnancy and early lactation can improve ewe performance, improve lamb performance, increase certain biochemical parameters, and enhance the antioxidant status of the ewes' blood. These findings emphasize the effective role of the physical form of feed as an effective tool in optimizing animal health, production performance, and welfare.

Abstract Objective: Castration is one of the management activities practiced worldwide in order to reduce aggressive behaviour, sexual activity and to facilitate management ease. Numerous studies have been conducted comparing production efficiencies and carcass traits of intact and castrated beef cattle and sheep. It has been agreed generally that castration causes less growth efficiency and produces carcasses with higher fat contents which results in increased proportion of saturated fatty acids. However, effects of castration on mentioned parameters in goats has been less investigated, despite the fact that goats genetically deposit less fat in their muscles with a more favorable fatty acid composition compared with other ruminants. Therefore, this research was conducted to evaluate the effects of castration on growth performance and carcass and meat quality attributes in Markhoz kids. Method: Sixteen male Morkhoz kids (13.2±1.6 kg live body weight, 3 months old) were used to evaluate the effects of castration on growth performance, carcass and meat quality attributes and fatty acid composition of longissimus thoracis and semimembranosus muscles based on a completely randomized design with 2 treatments and 8 replicates. Kids were castrated using ring castration in the respective treatment one week before the beginning of the experimental period. During 119 days of feeding experimental diet (formulated to meet NRC recommendations for small ruminants), growth performance of kids were recorded individually. Then, all kids were slaughtered and enough samples of each muscle were collected from the left side of each carcass, vacuum-packed and frozen at −20°C until subsequent determination of meat quality attributes including shear force, cooking loss, colour, proximate composition and fatty acids profile. The value of pH₂₄, percentages of drip loss and water holding capacity were determined immediately on the day after slaughtering. Results: Morkhoz kids castration decreased average daily feed intake and daily weight gain and increased feed conversion ratio significantly (P<0.05). However, cold carcass percentage, back fat thickness and rib eye area were not affected by castration. Fat percentage of longissimus thoracis and semimembranosus muscles increased significantly in response to castration (P<0.05), but crude protein content of muscles was similar in intact and castrated kids. Meat quality attributes of mentioned muscles, including pH₂₄, drip loss, water holding capacity and shear force were not affected by castration; however, cooking loss percentage in longissimus thoracis muscle decreased significantly by castration (P<0.05). L* and b* indexes of meat colour showed similar values in both muscles of intact and castrated groups, but the value of a* index was significantly lower in muscles of castrated kids (P<0.05). Castration had no significant effect on fatty acid composition of intramuscular fat in the longissimus thoracis muscle and only minor effects on the fatty acid composition of semimembranosus muscle were observed, including significant reduction in C14:1 cis and C18:3 cis3 fatty acids percentages (P<0.05). Conclusion: Results showed that Morkhoz kids castration, in addition to diminution of growth performance and feed efficiency, increase fat content of muscles which is not a desirable change with respect to consumers’ health. 

Abstract Objective: Recently, the inclusion of phytogenic feed additives in poultry for the purpose of supplementing gut health and positively impacting performance has received a great deal of attention and concern. Thyme is used in poultry nutrition in the form of herbal feed additive as it is known that its contents, such as thymol and carvacrol, have a positive impact on broiler performance and feed utilization, which in turn results in enhanced economic profits. This improvement in performance can be attributed to activation of the digestive system structure and function which causes an enhanced absorption and metabolism of the nutrient supplement and its ability to alter the gut microbiota.  Formulating diets based on ideal protein concept aim to reduce total N-excretions and ammonia emissionswhile meeting the nutritional needs of the animals. Poultry needs a specific quantity and balance of essential amino acids and nitrogen (for synthesis non-essential amino acids, NEAA) rather than crude protein. Chickens fed the standard levels of dietary protein can synthesize NEAA from excess essential amino acids. However, when low-protein diets are used, less EAA is available for NEAA synthesis. Reducing dietary protein in broiler feed is not a new subject. However, it is revealed that only few trials covered an entire production cycle with several feeding phases while majority of experiments focused on one phase only. Thyme improve protein afficiency Method: in this experiment, the effect two levels of Zataria multifolra (0 and 0.5 %) and two protein levels (100 (CP100) and 95 (CP95) % of Ross-308 broiler chickens’ requirement) on growth performance, physiological responses and meat quality were studied. In a completely randomized design with 2×2 factorial arrangement, 280 Ross-308 broiler chickens (one-d-old, mixed sexes) were allocated to 4 treatments, 5 replicates and 14 birds in each replicate. Growth performance, immune response, blood metabolites, blood cell count, meat quality and jejunum morphometry were considered. Results: Feed intake, BW and FCR of finisher and total period of production, carcass parameters except abdominal fat percentage were not affected by thyme poweder, protein levels or their interaction (P > 0.05) while inclusion of thyme powder on CP100 diet improved BW and BWG of broiler chickens during starter and grower periods (P<0.05). Inclusion of thyme powder on CP95 diet decreased serum cholesterol and LDL-cholesterol and increased HDL concentration. Feeding CP95 diet contatining 0.5 thyme poweder led to increase total protein concentration and decreased liver enzymes activity (P < 0.05). Also, feeding CP95 diet containing thyme powder decreased heterophile but increased lymphocyte count (P<0.05). Dietary treatments had no significant effects on humoral immune response, relative weight of lymphoid organs, breast and thigh meat pH and color, and jejunum morphometry. Conclusions: In conclusion, apart from addition of thyme powder, 5 percent protein dilution in this experiment had no negative effects on growth performance, immune response and meat quality of broiler chickens and it maybe suggestible for broiler chickens.

Abstract Introduction: In the past, the use of valine (L-Val) in broiler feeds was limited due to its high price and relatively low availability. However, L-Val is becoming more available for the feed industry, resulting in a more viable price, leading to its inclusion in feed formulas. Moreover, to decrease the dietary content of crude protein, the use of L-Val in broiler diets is becoming more attractive. Arian broiler is one of the meat strains that originated in Iran and considering that several decades have passed since the arrival of the Arian line in our country. Therefore, it is necessary to carry out continuous nutritional experiments to more accurately meet the requirement of Arian broiler with regard to optimizing growth, feed conversion ratio (FCR), and carcass efficiency by increasing the density of nutrients such as amino acids (AA). Therefore, the objective of this study was to investigate the effects of different ratios of dietary valine-to lysine on growth performance, blood parameters, immune system, carcass characteristics and economic indicators in Arian broiler chickens. Materials and Methods: This experiment was conducted for 40 days with three satges: starter (0-14 days old), growth (15-25 days old) and finisher (26-40 days old). In this study, a total of 500 Arian strain day old broiler chicks were used in a completely randomized design with five treatments, five replicates and 20 birds per each. Feed intake and body weight were measured at the end of each rearing periods and FCR was calculated. The experimental groups included: first group: control (-75; 75% ratio of valine to lysine without using synthetic L-Val), second group: +80 (ratio of 80% valine to lysine using synthetic L-Val), third group: +85 (ratio of 85% valine to lysine using synthetic L-Val), fourth group: -80 (ratio of 80% valine to lysine without using synthetic L-Val and fifth group: -85 (ratio of 85% valine to lysine without using synthetic L-Val). At 40 days of age, six birds from each replicate were randomly selected, weighed, and killed). Results and Disscution: Results showed that diets with ratios of -80 and -85% valine amino acid increased body weight at the age of 0 to 42 days (P<0.05). The diets with a ratios of -85% valine amino acid increased feed intake during the total period of experiment (P<0.05). The intake of diets with ratios of -80 and -85% valine amino acid improved FCR and decreased abdominal fat (P<0.05). The level of albumen and total protein in control treatment were higher than in all experimental groups (P<0.05). Significant differences were not observed in relative size of spleen and bursa of fabricius, antibody titer against Newcastle disease and heterophile to lymphocyte ratio between experimental groups. Conclusion: The results showed that feeding a diet containing -85% valine amino acid was more obvious on performance in the entire rearing periods, and also will improve serum lipid parameters, reduce fat storage in the abdominal area and increase profitability. Finally, the economic calculations of the project showed that it is possible to use the advantage of using synthetic valine amino acid in ration of Arian broilers.

Abstract Introduction: Vitamins play an important role in improving the performance, immune system, and growth of birds. In recent years, due to the increase of the price of synthetic vitamin supplements and also due to the limitation of the use of commercial antioxidants, plant-based antioxidant sources have been considered in the poultry industry. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the effects of herbal vitamin E supplements on production traits, humoral immune responses, and some blood parameters of broiler chickens. Material and method: In a completely randomized design 480 Arian broiler chickens (one-day-old, mixed sexes) were allocated to four treatments, four replicates, and 30 birds in each replicate. Experimental treatments included: 1. basal diet (Contains 25 IU of synthetic vitamin E), 2. basal diet + 25 IU synthetic vitamin E, 3. basal diet + 50 mg herbal vitamin E supplement, and 4. basal diet + 100 mg herbal vitamin E Supplement. In this experiment, weight gain, feed intake, and feed conversion ratio (FCR) were measured. On day 40, two birds per replicate were randomly selected, weighed, and killed, and then the entire empty carcass and parts of the carcass including breast, thigh, neck back, and wings, abdominal fat, and some organs including heart and spleen were weighed. One day 40 days, to measure the concentration of total protein, albumin, triglyceride, cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), high-density lipoprotein (HDL), and the activity of alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, and alkaline phosphatase enzymes, blood was collected from each replicate of 4 birds. On day 33 to measure antibody titer against Newcastle disease and influenza, 1 ml SRBC was injected into 4 birds in each repetition. Result and discussion:  The results showed that the experimental treatments had no effects on feed intake, body weight, and FCR. Also, carcass characteristics including carcass percentage, breast, thigh, back, and neck percentage, abdominal fat, heart, spleen, and blood parameters were not affected by experimental treatments. Antibody titer against sheep red blood cell injection had no significant effect. Conclusion: In total, according to the recommendation of commercial strains, the requirement of vitamin E is 50 IU, therefore in case of providing 25 IU of synthetic vitamin E in the diet, it is possible to provide the rest of the need up to 50 IU by using the herbal vitamin E supplement (at the rate of 50 mg per kilogram of feed) considering there are economic considerations.

Abstract In order to investigate the chemical and nutritional characteristics of pea pod silage (PPS) and its effect on the performance of fattening lambs, 24 Zandi male lambs (initial BW, 33.5 ±1.5 kg) were used in a completely randomized design over 75 days. Experimental treatments were: 1) control; (basal diet) 2- pea pod silage (PPS replaced wheat straw and alfalfa in the basal diet). The amount of dry matter (DM), crude protein, ether extract, ash, neutral detergent fiber and acid detergent fiber of PPS were determined 20, 11.8, 1.8, 8, 62 and 20.2 percent, respectively, and pH was 6.02. The rumen degradability potential of DM and in vitro gas production potential of PPS after 96 h of incubation were estimated 83 and 58.6 percent, respectively. The use of PPS in fattening lambs rations improved the final body weight and increased the daily weight gain (P<0.05). The amount of DM digestibility was affected by the treatment (P<0.05), but digestibility of other nutrients was not affected by the experimental treatment. Blood parameters (cholesterol, triglyceride, HDL and LDL) were not affected by the experimental treatments, except for the glucose, which significantly decreased by feeding PPS (P<0.05). The experimental treatments had no significant effect on carcass traits. Based on the results of this study, the use of pea pod silage as a cost-effective alternative forage in replacement with common forages such as wheat straw and alfalfa can improve the performance of fattening lambs.

Abstract In this experiment, the effect of two types of zinc-methionine (Zn-Met) chelate on performance and bone characteristics of broiler chickens were considered in a completely randomized design, using 490 Ross-308 broiler chickens (one-d-old, mixed sexes) with 7 treatments, 5 replicates and 14 birds in each replicate. Treatment consisted of: 1) control (basal diet), 2-4) control + 0.2, 0.4 and 0.8 mg/kg Zn-Meth of Zin-Pro® respectively and 5-7), control + 0.2, 0.4 and 0.8 mg/kg zn-Met synthetized by Ilam University. Results showed that as compared to group, none of zn-Met source had significant effect on broiler chickens feed intake, body weight, FCR and EPEF, carcass and breast and thigh percentages, serum glucose, triglyceride, cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol and HDL-cholesterol, triglyceride and Ca concentrations, activity of Alkaline phosphatase, Aspartate transaminase and Alanine aminotransferase enzymes and tibia characteristics including weight, dry matter and ash percentages, length, width and diameter and P and Ca percentages (P < 0.05) while broilers fed diet containing Zn-Meth had higher serum and tibia Zn concentration, higher villous height and villous height to crypt depth ratio and lower villous width in ileum and jejunum as compared to negative control group (P < 0.05). Generally, both of the chelates had similar effects on broiler chicken’s performance, small intestine morphology and tibia traits and Iranian kind of Zn-Meth has capability to substitution with foreign source of it although needs to further investigations.

Abstract Effect of different sources of probiotic and prebiotic on growth performance, carcass characteristics, intestinal microflora, and blood metabolites using 720 Ross 308 commercial male broiler chickens in a 3×3 factorial experiment with three levels of probiotic (without probiotic, probiotic type I and type 2) and three levels of prebiotic (without prebiotic, prebiotic type 1 and type II), in a completely randomized design with nine experimental groups (four replications and 20 birds were studied in each replication. Birds that were fed with diets containing type 2 probiotics had a lower conversion factor (P<0.05). Diets containing prebiotic type 1 as well as diets containing probiotic type II and diets containing probiotic type II and two prebiotics under test reduced serum cholesterol and LDL concentrations (P < 0.05). The effect of the experimental treatments on carcass fat was not significant, but the birds fed diets containing prebiotic type 1 had less abdominal fat (P<0.05). At 21 days old, the population of ٍ E. coli in the ileum and ceca of birds that received probiotics, prebiotics, and their combinations decreased (P < 0.05). At 38 days of age, feeding the birds with probiotics and prebiotics and a combination of them reduced the population of E. coli in the ceca and increased lactobacillus in the ileum (P < 0.05). The results of this experiment showed that probiotics or prebiotics assayed in this study have positive effects on the increase of beneficial intestinal bacteria (Acid lactic bacteria), blood biochemical traits, and FCR in broiler chickens.

Abstract Introduction: Minerals affect wool production in sheep by affecting feed intake, altering rumen function and affecting the flow of nutrients from the rumen or by directly disrupting the animal's metabolism. Wool has the highest concentration of sulfur, which indicates the higher need of wool-producing sheep for sulfur than other breeds. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of different levels of bentonite sulfur on yield, wool quality, blood minerals, liver enzymes and thyroid hormones of ewes.
Materials and Methods: An experiment was conducted to evaluate the use of different levels of bentonite sulfur in sheep. For this purpose, 18 Dalagh ewes (average weight 38 ± 3.5 kg) were kept individually for 42 days with three treatments and 6 repetitions. Experimental treatments included: 1) control (without bentonite sulfur), 2) treatment containing 0.15 percent of bentonite sulfur and 3) treatment containing 0.3 percent of bentonite sulfur(based on dry matter). At first, to ensure the health of all the ewes, they are subjected to a thorough and thorough examination. The bentonite sulfur used in this research contanied 90% sulfur and 10% bentonite. The diets used in this experiment were prepared and adjusted according to the tables of NRC and were given to the ewes in the morning and evening. Ewes were weighed at the beginning and the end of the period after 16 hours of starvation using a digital scale. In order to determine the quality of sheep's wool, in the initial test, the ewes were arranged uniformly on the 41st day of the experiment, and samples were taken from the left side of the ewes in a 10 x 10 cm format according to the common and standard instructions using a manual wool picker. For determination of blood parameters, on the last day of the experiment, three hours after morning feeding, blood samples were taken from the jugular vein of the ewes.
Results and discussion: The results obtained from this research showed that with the increase in the level of bentonite sulfur in the diet, the length of fibers, efficiency, strength, kemp and the coefficient of variation of fiber diameter increased (P<0.05). Also, increasing the level of bentonite sulfur increased the concentration of serum sulfur and triiodothyronine hormone (P<0.05). Bentonite sulfur supplementation had no significant effect on final weight, daily weight gain, dry matter intake and feed conversion ratio of ewes. Also, different levels of bentonite sulfur had no significant effect on Non-Medullated fibers, Medullated fibers, average diameter and fiber crude protein. copper gallate, calcium, selenium, phosphorus and serum molybdenum. Addition of bentonite sulfur had no significant effect on serum concentrations of copper, calcium, selenium, phosphorus, molybdenum as well as the concentration of liver enzymes of experimental ewes. 
Conclusion: The results of this study indicated that the use of bentonite sulfur up to the level of 0.3% of dry matter, could improve the strength and efficiency of wool fibers and it can be used in feeding ewes without having negative effects on their health and performance.

Abstract Introduction: Exposure of poultry birds to extreme temperature stressor modulates the immune responsiveness and haemato-biochemical parameters of birds. Cold temperature can increase ascites susceptibility by increasing both metabolic oxygen requirements and pulmonary hypertension. Biochar is an ash substance that is produced from the burning of biological material via pyrolysis. This study was carried out to investigate the effects of wet Litter Biochar on performance of cold-stressed broiler chickens. Material and Methods: In this experiment, the effect of wet litter biochar (WLB), probiotic and zeolite on performance, blood metabolites and small intestine morphology of broiler chickens reared under cold stress were investigated. In a completely randomized design 350 Ross-308 broiler chickens (one-day-old, mixed sexes) were allocated to seven treatments, five replicates and 10 birds in each replicate. Experimental treatments included: 1) positive control (basal diet in recommended temperature), 2) negative control (basal diet+ cold stress), 3) negative control+ %0.5 WLB, 4) negative control+ %0.75 WLB, 5) negative control+ 1% WLB, 6) negative control+ 0.02% probiotic Ecobacto-P, and 7) negative control+ 1% zeolite. In cold stress groups, house temperature decreased to 17° C from 7 d until end of the experiment (42 d). Results and Discussion: As compared to group reared in recommended house, cold stress significantly decreased broiler chickens feed intake, body weight gain (BWG), carcass and abdominal fat percentages, serum triglyceride concentration, activity of aspartate transaminase and alanine aminotransferase enzymes as well as villous width of jejunum and ileum while increased total and ascitic mortality, ileal and jejunal villous height and crypt depth to villous length ratio (P<0.05). Inclusion of 0.5 and 1% WLB and probiotic increased broiler chickens BWG, ileal and jejunal villous length and surface area, but decreased feed conversion ratio as compared to negative control group (P<0.05). Conclusion: Generally, although addition of wet litter biochar and probiotic led to improvement in performance and small intestine morphometry of cold-stressed broiler chickens, but they did not completely catch-up negative effects of cold stress on broiler chickens.

Abstract This study was conducted to investigate the chemical composition and nutritional characteristics of corn seeds exposed to gamma ray and the effect of 
its silage feeding on performance of finishing male Zandi lambs. First, the germination characteristics of control and irradiated corn seeds with 
different dosages of gamma ray (25, 50, 100, 150 and 200 gray) were measured. After determining the appropriate dose, corn seeds were irradiated 
with gamma ray at 25 gray and cultivated in the field. At the end of the growth period, corn forage was harvested and ensiled in experimental and farm 
silages. In addition, the effects of feeding experimental silages on performance and blood metabolites of finishing Zandi lambs were determined. 
Experimental treatments were: 1) control; diet containing 20% non-irradiated corn silage and 2) diet containing 20% corn silage irradiated with 25 
gray gamma ray. Irradiation with 25 dosage of gamma gray increased secondary roots, plumule and rootlet number in greenhouse condition as 
compared to other irradiation dosages (P<0.01). Irradiated corn had higher levels of soluble carbohydrates, soluble protein and chlorophyll content in 
the field condition compared to control group (P<0.01). Silage obtained from irradiated corn had higher crude protein content and lower pH compared 
to control (P<0.05). Feeding irradiated corn silage increased final body weight and average daily gain and improved feed conversion ratio of fattening 
lambs (P<0.05). Based on the results of the present study, irradiation of corn seeds with gamma ray improves corn silage quality and performance of 
fattening lambs. 

Abstract effect of these bacteriaon the performance of fattening lambs, digestibility, fermentation and blood parameters. Thirty Afshari male lambs with an average weight of 32 ± 3 kg and age of four months were used in a completely randomized design. The experimental treatments included diets containing wheat straw processed with four bacterial strains isolated from the gastrointestinal tract of horse (Paenibacillus polymyxa L11, Paenibacillus polymyxa L12Enterobacter cloacae L2 and Escherichia coli Z2) for 6 weeks; and the control treatment. The results showed that bacterial processing increased crude protein and decreased NDF, iNDF and ADF content, as well as increased organic matter digestibility (OMD) and metabolizable energy (ME) of wheat straw compared to the control. The highest amount of OMD and ME was assigned toL11. Apparent digestibility of DM, NDF and ADF, concentrations and ratios of ruminal volatile fatty acid (VFA), ruminal pH and ammonia nitrogen were affected by bacterial processing. The highest nutrient digestibility was assigned to the L11 and and the lowest amount was assigned to the control treatment. The lowest amount of ruminal ammonia nitrogen was observed in L11 treatment. Bacterial treatments increased total VFA, propionate concentration and decreased rumen acetate concentration. According to the results, processing of wheat straw with cellulolytic bacteria isolated from the horse's gastrointestinal tract (especially L11) improved nutritional value of wheat straw. Therefore, it seems that bacterial processing can be a suitable strategyfor better use of crop by-product with low nutritional value.

Abstract The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of olive leaf powder feeding in different breeding periods on immunity, intestinal bacterial population and blood biochemical parameters of Arian broiler chickens. A total of 336 one-day-old male broiler (Arian strain 386) were studied in a completely randomized design with six treatments for 42 days. The experimental treatments included: control diet (without olive leaves) and the other groups were fed a diet containing 1% olive leaves: from one to14 days, one to 21 days, one to 28 days, one to 35 days and one to days. Body weight gain, feed intake and feed conversion ratio were similar in all groups, but the mortality rate in one to 42 days treatment was lower than other treatments (P <0.01). The amount of low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol in one to 35 days and one to 42 days treatments was lower than other treatments (P <0.05). The alanine aminotransferase activity in the control treatment was higher and in the one to42 days treatment was lower than other treatments (P <0.05). Higher population of Lactobacillus were observed for treatments of one to 28 days, one to 35 days and one to 42 days in jejunum (P <0.01) and one to 21 days, one to 28 days, one to 35 days and one to 42 days in ileum. (P <0.05). The results of this experiment showed that feeding 10 gr/kg of dry olive leaves during the 42 days of the breeding period of broilers led to a reduction in mortality without any negative effect on performance and immunity.

Abstract Different types of imported and domesticatedhybrids of silkworm are rearing in different climatic conditions in Iran. The purpose of this study was to compare the performance of silkworm hybrids used in two climatic regions ofIran, namely Shaft in Guilan province and Torbat Heydariyeh in Khorasan Razavi province.For this study, four Iranian hybrids and 14 Chinese imported hybrids were used in a completely randomized block design. For the studied traitsnumber of cocoons per liter, average weight of a cocoon, and weight of cocoon produced from a box, there was a significant difference(P<0.01) between the hybrids as well as the regions. The results of the present study showed that the performance of silkworm hybrids, regardless of their origin, is more affected by the rearing environment and there is a difference between hybrids in the studied climates. Therefore, selecting the most suitable hybrids for different climates of Iran seem to be essential.
 

Abstract The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of emulsifier in diet with with energy reduction on performance, carcass characteristics and some of blood traits of broilers. A total of 540 one-day-old chicks of Ross 308 strain in a 3×3 factorial arrangement with three levels of emulsifier (0, 250 and 500 mg / kg) and three levels of dietary energy (requirement, and 45 and 90 kcal/Kg, 60 and 105 kcal/kg and 75 and 120 kcal/kg less than requirement for the starter, grower and finisher diets, respectively) in a completely randomized design with 9 treatments, 4 replications and 15 birds per replication were used. In total rearing period, feed intake increased by decreasing the dietary energy (P<0.05). Birds fed diets supplemented by emulsifier had higher weight gain and lower feed conversion ratio (P<0.05). The relative weights of the liver, ceca, and abdominal fat were not affected by different levels of dietary energy. The emulsifier × diet interaction had no significant effect on cholesterol, High-density lipoprotein (HDL), Low-density lipoprotein (LDL), cholesterol: HDL, Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and alkaline Phosphatase. Adding emulsifier to normal diets or diets with more energy deficiency increased blood triglyceride concentration (P<0.05). Supplementing diets with mild energy deficiency by emulsifier increased serum Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) (P<0.05). According to the results, the use of 250 gr/t emulsifier in low energy diets improved the performance of broiler chickens.

Abstract This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of adding different levels of a domestically produced synbiotic to drinking water on production traits, carcass characteristics and the small intestinal microbial population of broiler chickens. Four hundred one-day-old Ross 308 broilers (a mixture of two sexes with equal proportion) were used in a completely randomized design with 4 treatments, 5 replicates, and of 20 birds per each replicate. Experimental treatments included adding levels: zero (control), 50, 100 and 150 g of synbiotic (Biopoul) per 1000 liters of drinking water. At 42 days of age, the addition of 50 or 100 g of synbiotic per 1000 liters of drinking water significantly decreased feed conversion ratio (P < 0.05). The increase of production index in the group receiving 100 g of Biopoul compared to the control showed a tendency (P = 0.08). Biopoul in the levels of 50, 100 and 150 g increased the total number of lactobacilli and decreased the number of yeasts and molds, coliforms and total gram-negative bacteria in the ileum compared to the control (P<0.05). According to the obtained results, the use of 100 g of synbiotic Biopoul per 1000 liters of drinking water of broiler chickens can improve the production index while helping to balance the small intestinal microbial population.