Vito Laudadio - Academia.edu (original) (raw)

Papers by Vito Laudadio

Asian-australasian Journal of Animal Sciences, Aug 24, 2011

The objective of this study was to examine the effects of concentrates containing different level... more The objective of this study was to examine the effects of concentrates containing different levels of a vitamin-trace elements premix on milk yield and composition of dairy cows. The trial, which lasted 14 weeks, was conducted from January to March and used 45 multiparous Brown cows in the early phase of lactation. Cows (n = 15 per treatment) were randomly allocated to three dietary treatments: the first group (control, C-0) was fed pelleted concentrate containing background vitamins and trace elements that supplied 1.0 times cows' daily requirements; the second group were fed the same concentrate, but containing 2.5 g/kg of vitamin and trace mineral premix per kg of concentrate (C-2.5); the third group were fed the same concentrate, but containing 5 g/kg of vitamin and trace mineral premix per kg of concentrate (C-5). The daily ration included ad libitum chopped oat hay, and the cows also had 8 h/d grazing on a ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum) pasture. During the performance trial, cow milk yield was daily recorded and individual milk samples were analysed for milk composition and to determine milk renneting properties. Cows fed the intermediate premix level (C-2.5) in diet showed the highest fat-corrected milk production (p<0.05) compared to other groups. None of the milk quality parameters studied were influenced by dietary treatment, except for milk rheological parameters (rennet clotting time and curd firmness) that were positively improved in cows fed the C-2.5 diet (p<0.05). The findings from this study show that intermediate level of vitamin-trace elements premix in concentrate can be advantageously used in grazing dairy cows without negative effects on yield and quality of milk produced.

Revista Brasileira De Zootecnia, Jun 18, 2018

The objective of this study was to analyze the effect of environmental factors on egg production ... more The objective of this study was to analyze the effect of environmental factors on egg production curve traits in broiler breeders. The weekly egg production records of birds collected from four different flocks were used to estimate the egg production curve parameters using the Compartmental function (y = A(1 − exp −b(t − d))exp −ct). The coefficient of determination (R 2) obtained by the model was 0.98. Least squares analysis of variance indicated that the environmental factors such as hatchability and flock had significant effects on egg production curve traits. The highest correlation was observed between the weekly potential maximum yield and yield at the beginning of laying, whereas the lowest correlation was found between the weekly potential maximum production and production after peak yield. Associated factors with the increasing slope of egg production curves had a negative correlation with the decrease after peak. The correlation analysis showed that peak production had a negative and significant relationship with production towards peak and time to reach peak production, while there was a positive and significant correlation with the slope decrease after peak yield. The Compartmental function can be used as an alternative model to predict egg production traits in broiler breeders.

International Journal of Recycling of Organic Waste in Agriculture, Jun 5, 2019

Purpose An experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of dried sweet orange (Citrus sinensis... more Purpose An experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of dried sweet orange (Citrus sinensis) peel (DCSP) on humoral immune response of broiler chickens. Methods Four hundred 1-day-old Ross 308 broilers were distributed according to a completely randomized design into five treatments with four replicates of 20 chicks each. The following five dietary treatments were applied: control group with 0% DCSP; diet containing 1.5% DCSP from 1 to 21 days of age (starter phase) and from 1 to 42 days of age, respectively; and diet containing 3% DCSP from 1 to 21 days of age (starter phase) and from 1 to 42 days of age, respectively. Results The DCSP treatments influenced positively total anti-SRBC and IgG titers on days 28 and 42, whereas no differences were found for IgM titer. The anti-NDV titers were not affected by diets; conversely, the anti-AIV titers were different among treatments. The anti-IBD titers were different on days 14 and 42 among diets, whereas anti-IBV titers were not influenced by treatments. Average white blood cell, heterophil, lymphocyte, and monocyte counts, as well as heterophil/lymphocyte (H/L) ratio, were different among treatments. Conclusion The findings suggested that the dietary inclusion of dried Citrus sinensis promoted some effects on the immune humoral response of chickens; however, these effects were not completely effective to protect birds from the main diseases.

Archiv für Tierzucht, Oct 10, 2012

Pea (Pisum sativum L.), a protein-rich legume seed well adapted to many climatic areas and widely... more Pea (Pisum sativum L.), a protein-rich legume seed well adapted to many climatic areas and widely used for feed and food, was fed to Italian Friesian breed cows for 16 weeks to assess its effects on milk yield and production, renneting properties and metabolic responses. Cows within each group were assigned to two isonitrogenous and isoenergetic concentrates based on corn plus soybean meal or peas. Individual milk samples were collected from two consecutive milkings, composited, and then analysed for fat, protein, casein and lactose contents and somatic cells count as well as blood and milk urea and milk technological characteristics. Cow blood samples were taken and plasma were analysed for metabolites, biological enzymes, β-hydroxybutyrate (BHBA) and non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA). Peas supplementation had no effects on metabolic blood profile as well as on milk composition traits and clotting aptitude. Milk and blood from cows fed peas indicated a reduction (P<0.05) of their urea concentrations compared to those fed soybean meal. Our findings indicate that peas can replace soybean meal as protein source in diet of dairy cows without unfavourable effects on milk quality and cheesemaking properties.

Asian-australasian Journal of Animal Sciences, Aug 26, 2009

Effect of inclusion of hard vs. soft wheat bran with different particle size on diet digestibilit... more Effect of inclusion of hard vs. soft wheat bran with different particle size on diet digestibility, growth performance and some slaughter traits was evaluated in fattening rabbits. Four isonitrogenous and isocaloric diets were used according to the origin of wheat bran (hard (HWB)-Triticum durum-and soft (SWB)-Triticum aestivum) combined with wheat bran particle size sieved by 2 mm (fine: 2) or by 8 mm (coarse: 8) in a bifactorial (2×2) study. A growth trial was conducted to measure the effect of treatments on performance in one hundred and twenty New Zealand White×Californian rabbits fed experimental diets from 50 to 87 days of age. Faecal apparent digestibility was determined within the last week in twenty animals per diet. Digestibility of nutrients was higher (p<0.05) in the diet containing HWB2, except for crude protein, ether extract and ash, than fine and coarse soft wheat bran diets. Final live weight, feed intake and feed consumption of rabbits on the diet with fine hard wheat bran were higher and resulted in greater daily weight gains (p<0.01) than for animals on the other diets. The slaughter yield and percentage value of organs were not significantly (p>0.05) affected by the diets fed; however, the diet containing fine hard wheat bran led to lower (p<0.05) percentages of skin, abdominal fat and carcass drip loss than the other dietary treatments. It is concluded that fine hard wheat bran can be better included in the diet than soft wheat bran to maximize growth performance without affecting carcass traits of fattening rabbits.

Tropical Animal Health and Production, May 29, 2014

would like to apologize for their omission of not mentioning that the content of the article is i... more would like to apologize for their omission of not mentioning that the content of the article is in part based on a translation of the article of Laudadio V.

Journal of Experimental Biology and Agricultural Sciences, Dec 27, 2017

Manganese (Mn) is an important trace element in poultry nutrition and feeding due to its function... more Manganese (Mn) is an important trace element in poultry nutrition and feeding due to its function in eggshell and bone development, enzymes function and metabolism of nutrients. The nutritional adequacy of Mn is necessary for the enzyme Mn-superoxide dismutase (SOD), therefore research dealing with this enzyme is of current interest. Manganese was reported to prevent perosis in young broilers and in laying hens dietary Mn deficiency decreases egg production and shell thickness. The present review paper reports an overview on the currently available literature related to the influence of different forms of dietary Mn on productive performance, meat and egg quality, fertility and hatchability indexes in poultry (broiler chickens, laying hens, breeders and ducks). Available studies demonstrated that organic sources of Mn such as aminoacids complexes, proteinates and chelates have higher Mn bioavailability compared to commonly used inorganic Mn forms; nevertheless, existing findings remain still controversial.

Archiv für Tierzucht, Oct 10, 2013

The trial was conducted to evaluate the effect of different levels of dried sweet orange (Citrus ... more The trial was conducted to evaluate the effect of different levels of dried sweet orange (Citrus sinensis) peel on growth performance in broilers. A total of 400 male broiler chicks (Ross-308) were randomly allocated to treatments varying in supplemental DSOP. The dietary groups consisted of five diets fed for 42 days: control diet without feed additive, diet containing 1.5 % feed additive only in starter phase, diet containing 1.5 % feed additive during whole period (starter + grower), diet containing 3 % feed additive only in starter phase, diet containing 3 % feed additive during whole period. The growth responses achieved by broilers from all groups complied with the standards. However, adding up to 3 % DSOP in diet seems to depress feed intake, body weight gain increasing feed conversion ratio of both starter and growing broilers. Conversely, DSOP in the proportion of 1.5 % of feed seems to promote feed intake and weight gain in the period between the 1-21 days of age, indicating that DSOP can constitute a useful additive in the feeding of broilers. Further research is needed to assess the effects of DSOP to improve its suitability as a feed resource for poultry production.

South African Journal of Animal Science, Nov 9, 2017

The current study aimed to evaluate the effect of a dietary probiotic blend on growth performance... more The current study aimed to evaluate the effect of a dietary probiotic blend on growth performance, blood characteristics, meat quality, and faecal microbial population in growing-finishing pigs in a 12-week experiment. Pigs were assigned to two dietary treatments: a control basal-diet without probiotic blend (No-Pro) and a test-diet including the probiotic blend (Pro) according to pig bodyweight (BW) at the dose of 100 mg/kg of BW. Pigs fed the probiotics had higher final BW and increased average daily gain (ADG), as well as improved feed conversion ratio (FCR). Blood parameters of pigs were not affected by dietary probiotic complex. Meat crude protein and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) contents were increased in the group fed probiotics, whereas there were no significant differences in the other meat traits. Feeding of probiotics determined a decrease in faecal NH 3-N (+15.5%) and butyric acid concentrations, whereas no effects were observed on faecal acetic acid and propionic acid. An increased faecal Lactobacillus concentration was found when pigs fed probiotic blend. Based on our findings, feeding probiotic blend enhanced growth performance and meat quality in growing-finishing pigs, and also decreased faecal NH 3-N and butyric acid levels resulting in a viable approach to reduce animal excreta pollution.

Sustainability, Dec 21, 2020

This review article discusses the importance and effects of Selenium (Se) in sustainable dairy co... more This review article discusses the importance and effects of Selenium (Se) in sustainable dairy cows' production. The Se is an important micronutrient in dairy cows. It is one of the important feed derived antioxidants. It participates in important enzymes and enzyme reactions to improve metabolism, growth, and the defense system of the body, which results in the improved health of animals, particularly that of the mammary gland and reproductive system, thereby improving productive and reproductive performance. The Se is usually deficient in soil due to current extensive farming strategies, so its supplementation is generally advised. Supplementation of Se in organic form is generally preferred over inorganic form due to its better incorporation and uptake, resulting in improved performance. Kidneys, liver, testis, and lungs are important sites for Se storage. The Se is excreted in urine, feces, exhaled breath, loss of skin, and hair cells. Although Se supplementation plays an important role in the profitability of dairy cows, its excess intake is toxic and should be avoided.

Journal of Experimental Biology and Agricultural Sciences, May 25, 2016

Oxidative stress, a state characterized by imbalance between pro-oxidant molecules comprising rea... more Oxidative stress, a state characterized by imbalance between pro-oxidant molecules comprising reactive oxygen and nitrogen species, and antioxidant defences, has been found to play an important in poultry reproduction in both male and female Increasing evidence suggests that vitamin E plays an important role in normal reproduction in animals and humans, and vitamin E supplementation is now recommended. Vitamin E comprises eight molecules composed by a chromanol ring and a phytol side chain having same functions: four tocopherols (α, β, γ, and δ) and four tocotrienols (α, β, γ, and δ). This article reports an overview on the currently available literature on the role of reactive species and oxidative stress in avian reproductive processes. Current evidences demonstrate that dietary vitamin E supplementation may be effective in controlling the production of reactive oxygen species and continue to be explored as a potential feeding strategy to support avian reproduction.

Journal of Experimental Biology and Agricultural Sciences, May 25, 2016

The principal role of diet is to supply adequate nutrients providing energy to sustain physiologi... more The principal role of diet is to supply adequate nutrients providing energy to sustain physiologic functions and well-being. Every foods and feeds are functional and consumption of bioactive molecules is facilitated by diet. All probiotics, prebiotics and synbiotics are functional components able to exercise significant influences on human and animal wellbeing. Emphasizing these positive activities is one possible approach for improving the health image of meat and plants and developing functional products. Discovering of new prebiotic/probiotic/synbiotic functional foods is linked to the interest of the food industry to renew constantly through introduction of products with enhanced nutritional value, but also with health advantage for consumers. This review provides potential benefits of representative bioactive compounds on human and animal health and an overview of meat and plant-based functional products. Besides the increase of scientific reports, there is a necessary need to update consumers of the feeding value of novel functional foods.

Asian-australasian Journal of Animal Sciences, Oct 25, 2010

Pastures of the Apennines of Central Italy contribute to feed resources of high altitude (above 1... more Pastures of the Apennines of Central Italy contribute to feed resources of high altitude (above 1,300 m sea level) grazing systems. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of faecal extract from the yak (Bos grunnienes) as an alternative microbial inoculum to rumen fluid for estimation of digestibility of several forage species. Forage samples produced at high altitude were tested in this study: four legumes (Lathyrus sativus L., Lotus corniculatus L., Onobrychis viciaefolia L. and Trifolium pratense L.), three forbs (Achillea millefolium L., Potentilla reptans L. and Teucrium flavum L.) and one grass (Brachipodyum pinnatum L.) were incubated with yak rumen fluid or faecal extract. A large variability in chemical composition was observed among the species collected. Rumen liquor and faecal samples were collected from adult healthy yak. The Daisy II incubator was used to evaluate the nutrient digestibility of forages using rumen liquor as control and faecal extract as alternative microbial inoculum sources. Filter bags containing samples of browse species were added to the four digestion vessels along with their respective inoculum and then incubated for 48 h and dry matter (DM), organic matter (OM), crude protein (CP), neutral and detergent fiber (NDF) digestibility was determined. There was a significant relationship between estimates, indicating that faecal liquor has the potential to be used instead of rumen fluid for estimation of in vitro digestibility of plants. It is concluded that the Daisy II incubator results are appropriate for the determination of in vitro digestibility of nutrients using faecal liquor to define the potential for adaptation of yak to new pastures.

Agriculture, Nov 3, 2021

This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative... more This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution (CC BY

Tropical Animal Health and Production, 2012

The effect of total mixed ratios containing wheat middlings (WM) as a corn grain substitute on th... more The effect of total mixed ratios containing wheat middlings (WM) as a corn grain substitute on the growth performance and carcass traits of Comisana ewe lambs was evaluated. Forty ewe lambs, with average live body weight of 13±0.3 kg (mean±SEM), were allocated randomly to two isocaloric and isonitrogenous diets for 50 days. Control diet contained 400 g/kg of dry matter (DM) of corn as the main starchy source, whereas experimental diet contained 600 g/kg DM of WM. In vivo nutrient apparent digestibility of the two diets was determined using Comisana rams (mean body weight, 65±2.3 kg) and indicated significant (P<0.05) differences for neutral detergent fibre, acid detergent fibre, cellulose and hemicellulose fractions. Results from the trial using Comisana ewe lambs showed that growth traits were unaffected by dietary treatments as well as none of the carcass measurements examined (P> 0.05). These findings indicate that WM results as a suitable feed ingredient for growing ewe lambs that can be a satisfactory substitute to conventional grain source.

Agriculture, Jun 9, 2018

The present review discusses the existing research findings on the nutritional impact of forages ... more The present review discusses the existing research findings on the nutritional impact of forages in poultry diet and the significance of forages in sustainable poultry production systems. The nutritional composition and antinutritional factors of the main forages and the pros and cons of feeding forage on poultry meat and egg quality under free-range and organic production systems are also discussed. This review highlights the importance of forages and forage meals in poultry ration, considering that these feedstuffs may have greater value to the success of local poultry production in many regions of the world due to their potential of production.

European Poultry Science (EPS)

Environmental Science and Pollution Research

Genetically, modern broilers are fast-growing birds which attain the market age at the age of 5 w... more Genetically, modern broilers are fast-growing birds which attain the market age at the age of 5 weeks. To maintain optimum production, antibiotics have been commonly included in the diets as growth promoters. However, due to the increase in antimicrobial resistance, their uses have been banned worldwide. To keep the optimum level of production and health in broiler industry, the use of alternative growth promoters such as probiotics, prebiotics, enzymes, and organic acids has been proposed. Chemically, organic acids are weak acids and only partially dissociate. They are considered safe and have been used for preservation of food for centuries. Nowadays, organic acids have been reported for antibacterial, immune potentiating, and growth promoters in broilers. In this review, the effects of dietary inclusion of organic acids on growth, nutrient digestibility, intestinal integrity, immune system, and antibacterial activity in broilers are discussed.

Veterinaria italiana, 2020

Sumac (Rhus coriaria L.) is a plant species belong to Anacardiaceous family that is worldwide dif... more Sumac (Rhus coriaria L.) is a plant species belong to Anacardiaceous family that is worldwide diffused. In this study, SSP was included in broilers basal-diet to investigate the comparative effects of different levels of SSP on performance, carcass characteristics, blood parameters, immune system and ileal microorganisms. A total of 225, day-old male broilers (Ross 308) were randomly assigned to the five dietary treatments with three replicates per treatment. The experimental diets were: basal-diet (BD); and BD including 0.05, 0.10, 0.15 and 0.20% SSP, respectively. During the whole feeding period (42 days), birds fed corn-based grower (1-21 days) and finisher (22-42 days) diets, respectively. Results indicated that supplementing SSP had no effect on broiler body weight gain, feed intake and feed conversion as well as carcass characteristics (P > 0.05). Similarly, blood total protein, albumin, glucose and triglyceride were not influenced by dietary SSP. Conversely, serum total ch...

Animal Bioscience, 2020

Objective: The effect of garlic powder (GP) and phenyl acetic (PA) acid throughout the fattening ... more Objective: The effect of garlic powder (GP) and phenyl acetic (PA) acid throughout the fattening period of broiler chickens on performance, blood parameters, immune, and antioxidant parameters as well as carcass traits was evaluated.Methods: A total of 210 day-old Cobb broiler chicks were randomly distributed into seven dietary treatments having five replications with six chicks per replicate. The first group (control) fed a basal diet without supplements, whereas the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th group were fed basal diet plus 0.25, 0.50, and 0.75 g GP/kg diet, respectively and the group 5th, 6th, and 7th were fed on the basal diet plus 0.25, 0.50, and 0.75 g PA/kg diet.Results: Broiler body weight and gain at 21 and 42 days were increased (p<0.05) with diets supplemented with GP and PA. Red blood cells and hemoglobin were improved in chickens fed diets enriched with GP. Broiler chickens received diets containing either GP or PA recorded the higher values (p<0.05) of total protein, globu...

Asian-australasian Journal of Animal Sciences, Aug 24, 2011

The objective of this study was to examine the effects of concentrates containing different level... more The objective of this study was to examine the effects of concentrates containing different levels of a vitamin-trace elements premix on milk yield and composition of dairy cows. The trial, which lasted 14 weeks, was conducted from January to March and used 45 multiparous Brown cows in the early phase of lactation. Cows (n = 15 per treatment) were randomly allocated to three dietary treatments: the first group (control, C-0) was fed pelleted concentrate containing background vitamins and trace elements that supplied 1.0 times cows' daily requirements; the second group were fed the same concentrate, but containing 2.5 g/kg of vitamin and trace mineral premix per kg of concentrate (C-2.5); the third group were fed the same concentrate, but containing 5 g/kg of vitamin and trace mineral premix per kg of concentrate (C-5). The daily ration included ad libitum chopped oat hay, and the cows also had 8 h/d grazing on a ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum) pasture. During the performance trial, cow milk yield was daily recorded and individual milk samples were analysed for milk composition and to determine milk renneting properties. Cows fed the intermediate premix level (C-2.5) in diet showed the highest fat-corrected milk production (p<0.05) compared to other groups. None of the milk quality parameters studied were influenced by dietary treatment, except for milk rheological parameters (rennet clotting time and curd firmness) that were positively improved in cows fed the C-2.5 diet (p<0.05). The findings from this study show that intermediate level of vitamin-trace elements premix in concentrate can be advantageously used in grazing dairy cows without negative effects on yield and quality of milk produced.

Revista Brasileira De Zootecnia, Jun 18, 2018

The objective of this study was to analyze the effect of environmental factors on egg production ... more The objective of this study was to analyze the effect of environmental factors on egg production curve traits in broiler breeders. The weekly egg production records of birds collected from four different flocks were used to estimate the egg production curve parameters using the Compartmental function (y = A(1 − exp −b(t − d))exp −ct). The coefficient of determination (R 2) obtained by the model was 0.98. Least squares analysis of variance indicated that the environmental factors such as hatchability and flock had significant effects on egg production curve traits. The highest correlation was observed between the weekly potential maximum yield and yield at the beginning of laying, whereas the lowest correlation was found between the weekly potential maximum production and production after peak yield. Associated factors with the increasing slope of egg production curves had a negative correlation with the decrease after peak. The correlation analysis showed that peak production had a negative and significant relationship with production towards peak and time to reach peak production, while there was a positive and significant correlation with the slope decrease after peak yield. The Compartmental function can be used as an alternative model to predict egg production traits in broiler breeders.

International Journal of Recycling of Organic Waste in Agriculture, Jun 5, 2019

Purpose An experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of dried sweet orange (Citrus sinensis... more Purpose An experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of dried sweet orange (Citrus sinensis) peel (DCSP) on humoral immune response of broiler chickens. Methods Four hundred 1-day-old Ross 308 broilers were distributed according to a completely randomized design into five treatments with four replicates of 20 chicks each. The following five dietary treatments were applied: control group with 0% DCSP; diet containing 1.5% DCSP from 1 to 21 days of age (starter phase) and from 1 to 42 days of age, respectively; and diet containing 3% DCSP from 1 to 21 days of age (starter phase) and from 1 to 42 days of age, respectively. Results The DCSP treatments influenced positively total anti-SRBC and IgG titers on days 28 and 42, whereas no differences were found for IgM titer. The anti-NDV titers were not affected by diets; conversely, the anti-AIV titers were different among treatments. The anti-IBD titers were different on days 14 and 42 among diets, whereas anti-IBV titers were not influenced by treatments. Average white blood cell, heterophil, lymphocyte, and monocyte counts, as well as heterophil/lymphocyte (H/L) ratio, were different among treatments. Conclusion The findings suggested that the dietary inclusion of dried Citrus sinensis promoted some effects on the immune humoral response of chickens; however, these effects were not completely effective to protect birds from the main diseases.

Archiv für Tierzucht, Oct 10, 2012

Pea (Pisum sativum L.), a protein-rich legume seed well adapted to many climatic areas and widely... more Pea (Pisum sativum L.), a protein-rich legume seed well adapted to many climatic areas and widely used for feed and food, was fed to Italian Friesian breed cows for 16 weeks to assess its effects on milk yield and production, renneting properties and metabolic responses. Cows within each group were assigned to two isonitrogenous and isoenergetic concentrates based on corn plus soybean meal or peas. Individual milk samples were collected from two consecutive milkings, composited, and then analysed for fat, protein, casein and lactose contents and somatic cells count as well as blood and milk urea and milk technological characteristics. Cow blood samples were taken and plasma were analysed for metabolites, biological enzymes, β-hydroxybutyrate (BHBA) and non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA). Peas supplementation had no effects on metabolic blood profile as well as on milk composition traits and clotting aptitude. Milk and blood from cows fed peas indicated a reduction (P<0.05) of their urea concentrations compared to those fed soybean meal. Our findings indicate that peas can replace soybean meal as protein source in diet of dairy cows without unfavourable effects on milk quality and cheesemaking properties.

Asian-australasian Journal of Animal Sciences, Aug 26, 2009

Effect of inclusion of hard vs. soft wheat bran with different particle size on diet digestibilit... more Effect of inclusion of hard vs. soft wheat bran with different particle size on diet digestibility, growth performance and some slaughter traits was evaluated in fattening rabbits. Four isonitrogenous and isocaloric diets were used according to the origin of wheat bran (hard (HWB)-Triticum durum-and soft (SWB)-Triticum aestivum) combined with wheat bran particle size sieved by 2 mm (fine: 2) or by 8 mm (coarse: 8) in a bifactorial (2×2) study. A growth trial was conducted to measure the effect of treatments on performance in one hundred and twenty New Zealand White×Californian rabbits fed experimental diets from 50 to 87 days of age. Faecal apparent digestibility was determined within the last week in twenty animals per diet. Digestibility of nutrients was higher (p<0.05) in the diet containing HWB2, except for crude protein, ether extract and ash, than fine and coarse soft wheat bran diets. Final live weight, feed intake and feed consumption of rabbits on the diet with fine hard wheat bran were higher and resulted in greater daily weight gains (p<0.01) than for animals on the other diets. The slaughter yield and percentage value of organs were not significantly (p>0.05) affected by the diets fed; however, the diet containing fine hard wheat bran led to lower (p<0.05) percentages of skin, abdominal fat and carcass drip loss than the other dietary treatments. It is concluded that fine hard wheat bran can be better included in the diet than soft wheat bran to maximize growth performance without affecting carcass traits of fattening rabbits.

Tropical Animal Health and Production, May 29, 2014

would like to apologize for their omission of not mentioning that the content of the article is i... more would like to apologize for their omission of not mentioning that the content of the article is in part based on a translation of the article of Laudadio V.

Journal of Experimental Biology and Agricultural Sciences, Dec 27, 2017

Manganese (Mn) is an important trace element in poultry nutrition and feeding due to its function... more Manganese (Mn) is an important trace element in poultry nutrition and feeding due to its function in eggshell and bone development, enzymes function and metabolism of nutrients. The nutritional adequacy of Mn is necessary for the enzyme Mn-superoxide dismutase (SOD), therefore research dealing with this enzyme is of current interest. Manganese was reported to prevent perosis in young broilers and in laying hens dietary Mn deficiency decreases egg production and shell thickness. The present review paper reports an overview on the currently available literature related to the influence of different forms of dietary Mn on productive performance, meat and egg quality, fertility and hatchability indexes in poultry (broiler chickens, laying hens, breeders and ducks). Available studies demonstrated that organic sources of Mn such as aminoacids complexes, proteinates and chelates have higher Mn bioavailability compared to commonly used inorganic Mn forms; nevertheless, existing findings remain still controversial.

Archiv für Tierzucht, Oct 10, 2013

The trial was conducted to evaluate the effect of different levels of dried sweet orange (Citrus ... more The trial was conducted to evaluate the effect of different levels of dried sweet orange (Citrus sinensis) peel on growth performance in broilers. A total of 400 male broiler chicks (Ross-308) were randomly allocated to treatments varying in supplemental DSOP. The dietary groups consisted of five diets fed for 42 days: control diet without feed additive, diet containing 1.5 % feed additive only in starter phase, diet containing 1.5 % feed additive during whole period (starter + grower), diet containing 3 % feed additive only in starter phase, diet containing 3 % feed additive during whole period. The growth responses achieved by broilers from all groups complied with the standards. However, adding up to 3 % DSOP in diet seems to depress feed intake, body weight gain increasing feed conversion ratio of both starter and growing broilers. Conversely, DSOP in the proportion of 1.5 % of feed seems to promote feed intake and weight gain in the period between the 1-21 days of age, indicating that DSOP can constitute a useful additive in the feeding of broilers. Further research is needed to assess the effects of DSOP to improve its suitability as a feed resource for poultry production.

South African Journal of Animal Science, Nov 9, 2017

The current study aimed to evaluate the effect of a dietary probiotic blend on growth performance... more The current study aimed to evaluate the effect of a dietary probiotic blend on growth performance, blood characteristics, meat quality, and faecal microbial population in growing-finishing pigs in a 12-week experiment. Pigs were assigned to two dietary treatments: a control basal-diet without probiotic blend (No-Pro) and a test-diet including the probiotic blend (Pro) according to pig bodyweight (BW) at the dose of 100 mg/kg of BW. Pigs fed the probiotics had higher final BW and increased average daily gain (ADG), as well as improved feed conversion ratio (FCR). Blood parameters of pigs were not affected by dietary probiotic complex. Meat crude protein and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) contents were increased in the group fed probiotics, whereas there were no significant differences in the other meat traits. Feeding of probiotics determined a decrease in faecal NH 3-N (+15.5%) and butyric acid concentrations, whereas no effects were observed on faecal acetic acid and propionic acid. An increased faecal Lactobacillus concentration was found when pigs fed probiotic blend. Based on our findings, feeding probiotic blend enhanced growth performance and meat quality in growing-finishing pigs, and also decreased faecal NH 3-N and butyric acid levels resulting in a viable approach to reduce animal excreta pollution.

Sustainability, Dec 21, 2020

This review article discusses the importance and effects of Selenium (Se) in sustainable dairy co... more This review article discusses the importance and effects of Selenium (Se) in sustainable dairy cows' production. The Se is an important micronutrient in dairy cows. It is one of the important feed derived antioxidants. It participates in important enzymes and enzyme reactions to improve metabolism, growth, and the defense system of the body, which results in the improved health of animals, particularly that of the mammary gland and reproductive system, thereby improving productive and reproductive performance. The Se is usually deficient in soil due to current extensive farming strategies, so its supplementation is generally advised. Supplementation of Se in organic form is generally preferred over inorganic form due to its better incorporation and uptake, resulting in improved performance. Kidneys, liver, testis, and lungs are important sites for Se storage. The Se is excreted in urine, feces, exhaled breath, loss of skin, and hair cells. Although Se supplementation plays an important role in the profitability of dairy cows, its excess intake is toxic and should be avoided.

Journal of Experimental Biology and Agricultural Sciences, May 25, 2016

Oxidative stress, a state characterized by imbalance between pro-oxidant molecules comprising rea... more Oxidative stress, a state characterized by imbalance between pro-oxidant molecules comprising reactive oxygen and nitrogen species, and antioxidant defences, has been found to play an important in poultry reproduction in both male and female Increasing evidence suggests that vitamin E plays an important role in normal reproduction in animals and humans, and vitamin E supplementation is now recommended. Vitamin E comprises eight molecules composed by a chromanol ring and a phytol side chain having same functions: four tocopherols (α, β, γ, and δ) and four tocotrienols (α, β, γ, and δ). This article reports an overview on the currently available literature on the role of reactive species and oxidative stress in avian reproductive processes. Current evidences demonstrate that dietary vitamin E supplementation may be effective in controlling the production of reactive oxygen species and continue to be explored as a potential feeding strategy to support avian reproduction.

Journal of Experimental Biology and Agricultural Sciences, May 25, 2016

The principal role of diet is to supply adequate nutrients providing energy to sustain physiologi... more The principal role of diet is to supply adequate nutrients providing energy to sustain physiologic functions and well-being. Every foods and feeds are functional and consumption of bioactive molecules is facilitated by diet. All probiotics, prebiotics and synbiotics are functional components able to exercise significant influences on human and animal wellbeing. Emphasizing these positive activities is one possible approach for improving the health image of meat and plants and developing functional products. Discovering of new prebiotic/probiotic/synbiotic functional foods is linked to the interest of the food industry to renew constantly through introduction of products with enhanced nutritional value, but also with health advantage for consumers. This review provides potential benefits of representative bioactive compounds on human and animal health and an overview of meat and plant-based functional products. Besides the increase of scientific reports, there is a necessary need to update consumers of the feeding value of novel functional foods.

Asian-australasian Journal of Animal Sciences, Oct 25, 2010

Pastures of the Apennines of Central Italy contribute to feed resources of high altitude (above 1... more Pastures of the Apennines of Central Italy contribute to feed resources of high altitude (above 1,300 m sea level) grazing systems. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of faecal extract from the yak (Bos grunnienes) as an alternative microbial inoculum to rumen fluid for estimation of digestibility of several forage species. Forage samples produced at high altitude were tested in this study: four legumes (Lathyrus sativus L., Lotus corniculatus L., Onobrychis viciaefolia L. and Trifolium pratense L.), three forbs (Achillea millefolium L., Potentilla reptans L. and Teucrium flavum L.) and one grass (Brachipodyum pinnatum L.) were incubated with yak rumen fluid or faecal extract. A large variability in chemical composition was observed among the species collected. Rumen liquor and faecal samples were collected from adult healthy yak. The Daisy II incubator was used to evaluate the nutrient digestibility of forages using rumen liquor as control and faecal extract as alternative microbial inoculum sources. Filter bags containing samples of browse species were added to the four digestion vessels along with their respective inoculum and then incubated for 48 h and dry matter (DM), organic matter (OM), crude protein (CP), neutral and detergent fiber (NDF) digestibility was determined. There was a significant relationship between estimates, indicating that faecal liquor has the potential to be used instead of rumen fluid for estimation of in vitro digestibility of plants. It is concluded that the Daisy II incubator results are appropriate for the determination of in vitro digestibility of nutrients using faecal liquor to define the potential for adaptation of yak to new pastures.

Agriculture, Nov 3, 2021

This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative... more This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution (CC BY

Tropical Animal Health and Production, 2012

The effect of total mixed ratios containing wheat middlings (WM) as a corn grain substitute on th... more The effect of total mixed ratios containing wheat middlings (WM) as a corn grain substitute on the growth performance and carcass traits of Comisana ewe lambs was evaluated. Forty ewe lambs, with average live body weight of 13±0.3 kg (mean±SEM), were allocated randomly to two isocaloric and isonitrogenous diets for 50 days. Control diet contained 400 g/kg of dry matter (DM) of corn as the main starchy source, whereas experimental diet contained 600 g/kg DM of WM. In vivo nutrient apparent digestibility of the two diets was determined using Comisana rams (mean body weight, 65±2.3 kg) and indicated significant (P<0.05) differences for neutral detergent fibre, acid detergent fibre, cellulose and hemicellulose fractions. Results from the trial using Comisana ewe lambs showed that growth traits were unaffected by dietary treatments as well as none of the carcass measurements examined (P> 0.05). These findings indicate that WM results as a suitable feed ingredient for growing ewe lambs that can be a satisfactory substitute to conventional grain source.

Agriculture, Jun 9, 2018

The present review discusses the existing research findings on the nutritional impact of forages ... more The present review discusses the existing research findings on the nutritional impact of forages in poultry diet and the significance of forages in sustainable poultry production systems. The nutritional composition and antinutritional factors of the main forages and the pros and cons of feeding forage on poultry meat and egg quality under free-range and organic production systems are also discussed. This review highlights the importance of forages and forage meals in poultry ration, considering that these feedstuffs may have greater value to the success of local poultry production in many regions of the world due to their potential of production.

European Poultry Science (EPS)

Environmental Science and Pollution Research

Genetically, modern broilers are fast-growing birds which attain the market age at the age of 5 w... more Genetically, modern broilers are fast-growing birds which attain the market age at the age of 5 weeks. To maintain optimum production, antibiotics have been commonly included in the diets as growth promoters. However, due to the increase in antimicrobial resistance, their uses have been banned worldwide. To keep the optimum level of production and health in broiler industry, the use of alternative growth promoters such as probiotics, prebiotics, enzymes, and organic acids has been proposed. Chemically, organic acids are weak acids and only partially dissociate. They are considered safe and have been used for preservation of food for centuries. Nowadays, organic acids have been reported for antibacterial, immune potentiating, and growth promoters in broilers. In this review, the effects of dietary inclusion of organic acids on growth, nutrient digestibility, intestinal integrity, immune system, and antibacterial activity in broilers are discussed.

Veterinaria italiana, 2020

Sumac (Rhus coriaria L.) is a plant species belong to Anacardiaceous family that is worldwide dif... more Sumac (Rhus coriaria L.) is a plant species belong to Anacardiaceous family that is worldwide diffused. In this study, SSP was included in broilers basal-diet to investigate the comparative effects of different levels of SSP on performance, carcass characteristics, blood parameters, immune system and ileal microorganisms. A total of 225, day-old male broilers (Ross 308) were randomly assigned to the five dietary treatments with three replicates per treatment. The experimental diets were: basal-diet (BD); and BD including 0.05, 0.10, 0.15 and 0.20% SSP, respectively. During the whole feeding period (42 days), birds fed corn-based grower (1-21 days) and finisher (22-42 days) diets, respectively. Results indicated that supplementing SSP had no effect on broiler body weight gain, feed intake and feed conversion as well as carcass characteristics (P > 0.05). Similarly, blood total protein, albumin, glucose and triglyceride were not influenced by dietary SSP. Conversely, serum total ch...

Animal Bioscience, 2020

Objective: The effect of garlic powder (GP) and phenyl acetic (PA) acid throughout the fattening ... more Objective: The effect of garlic powder (GP) and phenyl acetic (PA) acid throughout the fattening period of broiler chickens on performance, blood parameters, immune, and antioxidant parameters as well as carcass traits was evaluated.Methods: A total of 210 day-old Cobb broiler chicks were randomly distributed into seven dietary treatments having five replications with six chicks per replicate. The first group (control) fed a basal diet without supplements, whereas the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th group were fed basal diet plus 0.25, 0.50, and 0.75 g GP/kg diet, respectively and the group 5th, 6th, and 7th were fed on the basal diet plus 0.25, 0.50, and 0.75 g PA/kg diet.Results: Broiler body weight and gain at 21 and 42 days were increased (p<0.05) with diets supplemented with GP and PA. Red blood cells and hemoglobin were improved in chickens fed diets enriched with GP. Broiler chickens received diets containing either GP or PA recorded the higher values (p<0.05) of total protein, globu...