Exogenous protease supplementation of poultry by-product meal-based diets for broilers: Effects on growth, carcass characteristics and nutrient digestibility

An experiment was conducted to investigate the effects of three levels (0%, 3% and 6%) of poultry by-product meal (PBM) with or without protease on broiler growth, carcass characteristics and nutrient digestibility from 1 to 35 days. Two hundred and forty birds (n = 240) were fed equi-caloric and equi-nitrogenous (ME 2850 kcal/kg; CP 20%) diets throughout the experiment. The enzyme supplementation increased feed intake (p < .01) and body weight gain (p < .01), but feed:gain remained unaffected (p > .05) from 1 to 21 days. Increasing level of PBM decreased feed intake (p < .05), but body weight gain was improved (p < .05) at 3% PBM level during 1 to 21 days. The feed:gain was improved (p < .05) in birds fed diets containing 3% PBM. The feed:gain was also improved in birds fed diets containing 3% PBM from 1 to 35 days. However, feed intake and body weight gain in birds fed diets containing PBM remained unaffected. An interaction (p < .01) on feed intake between enzyme and PBM was noticed during 1 to 21 days. However, no interaction was recorded for body weight gain and feed:gain. The per cent carcass yield improved (p < .01) in birds fed diets supplemented with enzyme. The per cent breast meat yield was depressed (p < .005) in birds fed diets containing PBM. Apparent metabolizable energy (p < .001), nitrogen retention (p < .01), apparent metabolizable energy corrected for nitrogen (p < .001), and apparent digestibility coefficient for nitrogen (p < .01) improved in birds fed diets containing enzyme; however, a reverse was noticed in those fed diets containing only PBM. In conclusion, inclusion of 3% PBM along with supplementation of exogenous protease improved performance and nutrient digestibility in broilers.

Significant effect of NSP-ase enzyme supplementation in sunflower meal-based diet on the growth and nutrient digestibility in broilers

The response of broiler chickens to 3 levels of sunflower meal and 2 levels of NSP-ase enzyme combination (with and without) was investigated in 3 × 2 factorial arrangement under complete randomized design (CRD). A total of 240 Hubbard broiler chicks were fed on practical mash diets having 2950 kcal of ME and 21% CP from 1 to 42 days of age. The BW gain was not significantly reduced when 25% SFM was added in the diets during 1 to 42 days of age. Supplementation of NSP-ase in broiler diets (day 1-42 overall) demonstrated non-significant differences (p < 0.05) across the treatments in terms of FI and BWG. The difference in feed:gain at 15% or 20% SFM was observed to be non-significant. Replacement of SBM with SFM or inclusion of SFM at higher level (25%) increased/deteriorated FCR. The addition of exogenous NSP-ase showed a significant improvement (p < 0.01) in feed:gain. The improvement was clearly demonstrated when SFM was added to the experimental diet at 15% or even 20%. Supplementation of NSP-ase at the 25% inclusion level could not, however, sustain the beneficial effect, which was possibly due to excessively high dietary CF. No difference was noted across the treatments regarding carcass response. Relative gizzard weight and intestinal weight were observed to be improved in birds consuming higher levels of SFM (p = 0.00). The digestibility of CF was observed to improve when SFM was used at 20% and 25% in the diets. No improvement in the digestibility of CF was observed with NSP-ase supplementation, which meant other factors were clearly involved. Supplementation of NSP-ase improved FCR up to 20% SFM. At 25% SFM, no improvement in the digestibility of CF was observed with NSP-ase supplementation.

Effect of potassium chloride supplementation in drinking water on broiler performance under heat stress conditions

The effect of water supplementation of KCl on performance of heat-stressed Hubbard broilers was evaluated in the present experiment. The 3 experimental treatments (i.e., control, 0.3 and 0.6% KCl) were allocated to 3 replicates of 15 birds each. The control group was kept on dugout tap water, whereas the other 2 groups were supplied water supplemented with 0.3 and 0.6% KCl (wt/vol) by supplementing 3 and 6 g of KCl, respectively, per liter of drinking water. Broilers were provided ad libitum access to feed and water for the experimental period of 7 to 42 d of age and kept in open-sided house. The birds were reared under continuous thermostress (minimum 28.2 +/- 1.02 and maximum 37.5 +/- 0.78 degrees C) environment. Supplementing drinking water with 0.6% KCl reduced panting-phase blood pH to 7.31 and significantly increased live BW gain by 14.5 (P = 0.036) and 7.9% (P = 0.029) at 28 and 42 d of age, respectively, relative to control. An improved (P = 0.04) feed:gain and lowered body temperature were noted in groups supplemented with 0.6% KCl as compared with control and 0.3% KCl. Enhanced physiological adaptation with 0.6% KCl was evidenced by a more favorable pH during the panting phase in the present study. These findings demonstrated a possibility of better broiler live performance through KCl supplementation under conditions of severe heat stress (35 to 38 degrees C).

Influence of Canola Meal-Based Diets Supplemented with Exogenous Enzyme and Digestible Lysine on Performance, Digestibility, Carcass, and Immunity Responses of Broiler Chickens

The response of broiler chickens to 2 levels of endo-1,4-beta xylanase and endo-1,3-beta glucanase combination (with and without), 3 levels of digestible Lys (0.8, 0.9, and 1.0%), and 2 levels of canola meal (CM; 20 and 30%) were evaluated in 2 x 3 x 2 factorial arrangement. A total of 2,448 male Hubbard broiler chicks were fed on practical mash diets having 2,750 kcal of ME.kg(-1) and 19.6% CP from 1 to 42 d of age. The BW gain was significantly reduced when 30% CM was added in the diets during 1 to 21 d. Feed:gain and mortality were also observed to be high. No significant effect of enzyme addition or Lys level was observed on feed intake, BW gain, feed:gain, and mortality during the starter phase. When the data were pooled for 42 d, BW gain and feed:gain were unaffected by enzyme addition or Lys levels. A depression in breast weight was observed due to 30% CM or 0.8 and 0.9% digestible Lys at 43 d. Leg weights were significantly depressed by enzyme addition or increasing digestible Lys to 1.0% of the diets. The AME, nitrogen digestibility, and antibody titers against Newcastle and infectious bursal diseases were also unaffected by the dietary treatments. In conclusion, the 30% CM is not recommended in broiler diets especially during starter phase (1 to 21 d). However, the CM may be used up to 30% of the diets during finishing phase. The digestible Lys can be lowered to 0.8% when amino acids in proportion to digestible Lys follow the ideal AA ratio. The glucanase and xylanase cocktail have no pronounced effect on the growth performance, nutrient digestibility, and carcass characteristics.

Effect of different non-chloride sodium sources on the performance of heat-stressed broiler chickens

1. One hundred and eighty 1-d-old broiler chicks were used to evaluate the effect upon broiler performance during severely hot summer months of three different sodium salts: sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3), sodium carbonate (Na2CO3) and sodium sulphate (Na2SO4), in starter and finisher diets having an identical electrolyte balance (DEB) of 250 mEq/kg. 2. The non-chloride sodium salts were added to contribute the same amount of sodium and were substituted at the expense of builder's sand in the basal diets containing common salt (NaCl) as Na and Cl source. 3. Each diet was fed to three experimental units having 15 chicks each until 42 d of age. Severe heat-stress conditions, maintained in the rearing room, were indicated by high average weekly room temperature (minimum 29.3 degrees C; maximum 38.0 degrees C). 4. Diets containing sodium salts gave better body weight gain, feed intake and feed to gain ratio than the control diet. Sodium salts also enhanced water intake as well as water to feed intake ratio. This effect was more pronounced in broilers fed NaHCO3 supplement (with NaCl in the basal diets). 5. The increased water intake resulted in lower body temperature in heat-stressed birds fed NaHCO3 supplemented diet than in birds fed other sodium salts. A lower mortality rate was noted with NaHCO3 (15.15%), Na2CO3 (13.64%) and Na2SO4 (15.15%) supplements than with the control (33.33%) treatment. 6. Better carcase and parts yield were observed in sodium supplemented broilers. Sodium salts reduced the alkalotic pH and enhanced the blood sodium content, which ultimately improved the blood electrolyte balance and overall performance of heat-stressed broilers. 7. Supplementing broiler diets with sodium salts improved the live performance of heat-stressed broilers and better productive performance was noted with NaHCO3 than other sodium supplements.

Serum Profiles of Luteinizing Hormone, Oestradiol and Cholesterol and Ovarian Functions in Layer Poultry Birds (Gallus domesticus) Fed Diets Containing Furazolidone

This study was carried out to assess the serum profiles of luteinizing hormone (LH), oestradiol, cholesterol and ovarian functions in layer poultry birds (Rhode Island Red: Gallus domesticus) fed a diet containing various concentrations of furazolidone (FZ). A total of 40 birds were randomly assigned to receive FZ 0, 200, 400 or 800 mg/kg feed (ppm) daily during the pre-laying age, i.e. 13-18 weeks (for 5 weeks). Blood samples were collected at weekly intervals. Concentrations of LH and oestradiol in serum were estimated at alternate weeks using radioimmunoassays. Serum cholesterol levels were analysed by an enzymatic calorimetric method. Furazolidone administration was terminated at the 18th week of age. The birds were sacrificed at 22nd week of age and ovarian tissues were processed for morphometric studies. Serum LH, oestradiol and cholesterol levels were affected by age (p < 0.001) and FZ dose (p < 0.001). Serum LH and oestradiol levels were lower (p < 0.05) in birds receiving FZ 800 mg/kg feed daily compared with the controls, whereas serum cholesterol profiles were lower (p < 0.05) in all FZ-administered groups than in the control group. The mean weight of ovaries having no yolky follicles observed in the group receiving FZ 400 or 800 mg/kg feed per day was reduced (p < 0.05) compared with the control group. Dosing FZ at 800 mg/kg feed per day reduced (p < 0.05) the mean volume of ovaries having no yolky follicles compared with the control group. In birds receiving FZ 800 mg/kg feed per day, the mean length of the oviduct was reduced (p < 0.05) as compared with the control group. Morphometric studies revealed that the mean number of oocytes with diameter in the range 401-800 microm decreased (p < 0.05) in birds fed FZ 400 or 800 mg/kg feed per day. Initial egg production was affected by age (p < 0.001) and dose (p < 0.001) of FZ. The mean number of eggs laid by different groups revealed that egg production was reduced (p < 0.05) in birds receiving FZ 800 mg/kg feed per day as compared with the controls. The present data suggest that FZ causes suppression in serum profiles of LH, oestradiol, cholesterol and ovarian functions in Rhode Island Red layer poultry birds. Therefore, great care must be taken with use of FZ in layer poultry birds (Gallius domesticus) with regard to dosage and duration of administration.

Effect of subclinical uterine infection on cervical and uterine involution, estrous activity and fertility in postpartum buffaloes

Nili-Ravi buffaloes (n=29) that calved normally between August and November and did not develop any clinical reproductive disorder after calving were studied for the incidence of sub-clinical bacterial infection of the uterus and its effects on postpartum reproductive efficiency. The incidence of subclinical uterine infection was 24% (7/29). Involution of the cervix and uterus was slower (P < 0.01) in the infected group than in the normal group (45.6 vs 31.1 days and 46.3 vs 35.8 days), respectively. The mean diameters of cervix and gravid horn on Day 12 post partum and on completion of involution did not differ between buffaloes of the two groups. However, the rate of involution of the cervix and the gravid horn was lower in buffaloes of the infected group (2.2 vs. 2.7 mm/day and 2.6 vs. 3.2 mm/day). The mean interval to first post partum ovulation was similar in buffaloes in the infected (35.5 days) and the normal group (33.8 days). The life span of corpus luteum formed after first ovulation was shorter (11 days) in buffaloes of both groups than that of a normal estrous cycle (15 to 17 days). The incidence of silent ovulation was apparently higher in buffaloes of the infected group (83 vs. 60%) but the difference was not significant. For the first four months after calving, the mean interval to first postpartum estrus was longer in buffaloes of the infected group (73.0 vs. 47.7 days; P < 0.01). Similarly, the average service period was longer in buffaloes of the infected group (91.0 vs. 64.8 days; P < 0.05). The overall pregnancy rate for the first four months after calving did not differ between buffaloes of the two groups. We conclude that subclinical bacterial infection of the postpartum uterus delays the cervical and uterine involution which can, in turn, delay the occurrence of first postpartum estrus and prolong the service period in buffaloes.

Fluoride ion release from two methacrylate polymer systems

The release of fluoride ions from two room-temperature polymerising systems containing sodium and potassium fluoride, respectively, has been studied. The polymer systems comprised poly(ethyl methacrylate) powder (PEM), with tetrahydrofurfuryl methacrylate (THFM), and n-butyl methacrylate (nBM), respectively. The water uptake of these systems was drastically increased by the presence of fluorides, the increase being much higher with the PEM/THFM system. In both cases, uptake was a monotonic function of the molarity of the fluoride added. The uptake process was in general non-Fickian. However, for all systems, the fluoride release process was Fickian, and diffusion coefficients could be calculated. The amount of fluoride released, and the diffusion coefficients obtained, appeared unrelated to the extent of water uptake of the parent polymers.

Carpal tunnel syndrome associated with macrodactyly

This is a case report of a 17-year-old youth with carpal tunnel syndrome and congenital macrodactyly.

Newer techniques of carpal tunnel release

In this article, after a brief account of the history and evolution of endoscopic carpal tunnel release, limited incision techniques, and an overview of the relevant anatomy, the authors describe various methods and instrumentation. The results, complications, and contraindications are noted. Subsequent discussion of the objections to and the special requirements of new techniques leads to judgement on the choice of methods by the authors.

Rates of seroconversion in the progeny of Brucella abortus seropositive and seronegative cattle and buffalo

The authors estimated the rates of development of serum antibodies against Brucella abortus, between January 1987 and December 1990, in female Jersey cattle and buffalo weaned from seropositive and seronegative dams, and used logistic regression analysis to examine the epidemiological relationship of these rates with the serum antibody status of dams. The offspring from both seropositive and seronegative dams were reared together in calf pens, while separate pens were used for bovine and buffalo calves. Each of the bovine calves was manually fed two litres of bulked milk (pooled from seronegative and seropositive cows) twice a day, in the morning and evening. The buffalo calves, however, were allowed to suckle their respective dams before and after manual milking of each buffalo, in the morning and evening. Bovine calves and buffalo calves were weaned at approximately six months of age and moved to sheds for young livestock. At maturity, the female offspring were artificially inseminated, and pregnancy was subsequently diagnosed by rectal palpation. The rate of seroconversion in the progeny of seropositive Jersey cattle was 26.4% (14 of 53 animals) compared to 14.3% (11 of 77 animals) in the progeny of seronegative cattle; this difference was non-significant (P = 0.1342). In buffalo, however, the rate of seroconversion in the progeny of seropositive dams (43.3% = 13/30) was significantly higher (P = 0.0002) than in the progeny of seronegative buffalo (8.8% = 6/68). The logistic regression analysis revealed that the progeny of seropositive buffalo were approximately 6.2 times more likely to have developed serum antibodies by the time of first calving than the progeny of seronegative buffalo (adjusted odds ratio [OR]) = 6.2; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.5, 36.4). This relationship was non-significant, however, for the progeny of seropositive cattle (adjusted OR = 2.1; 95% CI = 0.6, 7.4). The implications of these results and potential sources of bias are discussed.

Palmar uniportal extrabursal endoscopic carpal tunnel release

A new technique of endoscopic carpal tunnel release using a 1.5-cm longitudinal palmar incision was used in 280 cases. The incision allows identification of the superficial palmar arch as well as the median nerve and its branches. A new knife/sleeve device that attaches to a standard 4-mm endoscope was created to simplify the procedure. The flexor retinaculum is endoscopically divided proximally into the distal forearm; the "interthenar fascia" (fascia superficial to transverse carpal ligament) can be preserved. Early postoperative results include a mean overall return to work and full activity of 14 days. Postoperative pinch and grip strengths were near or at the preoperative level by 8 weeks after surgery. One third of patients required no postoperative analgesics with minimal scar, ulnar pillar, and radial pillar tenderness.

Sunflower meal as a major vegetable protein source in layers' ration

An experiment was conducted with Starcross layers to evaluate the replacement value of sunflower meal (SFM) for cotton seed meal (CSM) and sesame meal (SM). The birds (aged 24 weeks) were given 4 isonitrogenous and isocaloric rations containing 0, 5, 10 and 15% dehulled sunflower meal. The substitution of SFM for CSM and SM did not generally affect the egg production, feed consumption, feed conversion nor did it have any effect on the quality of eggs as measured by Haugh Units (HU) and yolk index. Egg shell thickness, however, improved by increasing dietary levels of SFM. The feed costs per hen were generally lower for the SFM group since SFM was cheaper than CSM and SM.

Neurotoxic esterase activity in brain, spinal cord and platelets of certain birds and mammals

The level of neurotoxic esterase in brain, spinal cord and platelets of certain birds and mammals has been determined. The enzyme activity for the birds was maximal in hens and for the mammals was maximal in rats. The activity decreased progressively in the cerebral cortex, corpus striatum, spinal cord and blood platelets of the birds as well as the mammals. The difference in the susceptibility of birds and mammals to organophosphate-induced delayed neurotoxicity may be related to differences in the relative concentrations of the enzyme in the different species.

Convulsions as the etiology of lactic acidosis in acute diazinon toxicity in rats

Diazinon, in acute doses (40 mg/kg, i.p.) in rats produced tremors and convulsions with lactic acidosis which was accompanied by depletion of glycogen and activation of glycogen phosphorylase activity in triceps and diaphragm muscles, 2 h after its administration. Prevention of convulsions with phenobarbitone administered immediately before diazinon, resulted in neither the development of lactic acidosis nor mobilization of muscle glycogen or activation of glycogen phosphorylase. Lactic acidosis was due to depletion of glycogen through enhanced activity of glycogen phosphorylase in muscles on account of tremors and convulsions induced by diazinon in rats.

Adenovirus DNA synthesis is coupled to virus assembly

The relationship between viral DNA synthesis and virion assembly was studied in adenovirus type 2 infected HEp2 cells. When cells were infected at the restrictive temperature with ts3, an assembly-negative mutant which permits normal viral DNA and protein synthesis, labeled and shifted to the permissive temperature, only de novo synthesized nonradioactive viral DNA was encapsidated. This suggested that only concurrently synthesized DNA is encapsidated. Blocking protein or DNA synthesis with cycloheximide or hydroxyurea after the temperature shift inhibited virus assembly. Therefore efficient virus assembly requires both concurrent protein and DNA synthesis. When DNA synthesis was arrested by shifting ts125 infected cells to the restrictive temperature, protein synthesis continued but assembly was completely blocked. Sucrose gradient sedimentation analysis of nuclear extracts of wt and ts3 infected cells provided evidence in support of a physical coupling between replication complexes and virus assembly complexes. Further evidence of coupling was also shown by preferential pulse labeling of the molecular right end of the genome isolated from reversibly cross-linked assembly intermediate particles. While DNA replication is not dependent on concurrent virion assembly, at least some significant proportion of replication complexes appear to be coupled to and are prerequisite for virion assembly.

Replantation of a transmetacarpal amputation. A case report

A case is presented of a 23-year-old male who sustained a traumatic transmetacarpal amputation of his nondominant hand. The injury consisted of complete severance of structures distal to the midpalm. Microsurgical reconstruction involved the primary repair of arteries, veins, nerves, extensor and flexor tendons, and metacarpal fractures. Skeletal reconstruction also employed a primary Swanson prosthesis for the fifth metacarpophalangeal (MP) joint. Early postoperative range-of-motion exercises were encouraged, with the achievement of a functionally capable replanted extremity. The general management of an amputation injury is also discussed, as it applies to a community hospital environment.

Inverted-U incision for exploration of the distal phalanx

A representation of a modified inverted-U incision over the dorsal aspect of the distal phalanx is presented. The incision consists of a curved, proximally based U-shaped flap and provides direct exposure of the extensor terminal tendon and distal joint articulation. Since the flap is proximally based, there is no danger of vascular compromise. It gives an excellent exposure without having to struggle with retractors, and it can be performed without the aid of an assistant. In our series, there has not been a single incident of complication, and the favorable appearance after healing makes this incision one of our favorites.

Isolated rupture of the tibialis anterior tendon associated with a fracture of the tibial shaft: a case report

A case is presented wherein a 19-yearold woman sustained a spontaneous rupture of the tibialis anterior tendon following the fracture of her distal tibia in a motorcycle accident. The details of the operative procedure are described, as well as a discussion of the historic and contemporary treatment modalities for this injury. Subsequent to the tendon reconstruction, the patient underwent a vigorous physical therapy program to correct the dorsiflexion deficit. This effort resulted in the patient walking and running without discomfort, and the achievement of excellent range of motion and dorsiflexion of the injured leg.

Organization and implementation of a community hospital microsurgical service for the management of amputation injuries

The genesis of a voluntary referral system with the establishment of a microsurgical replantation center in a community hospital is described. Specific hospital and emergency care protocols are outlined, along with the percentage distribution of peripheral hospitals utilizing this service. Over the initial 6-year period, a success rate greater than 85% has been achieved in those cases that have satisfied the criteria for revascularization and replantation.

Structure of adenovirus chromatin

The structure of adenovirus type 2 chromatin isolated from wild-type and ts1 virions was investigated by micrococcal nuclease digestion and electron microscopy. Partial digestion of wild-type and ts1 chromatin with micrococcal nuclease generated a multimeric DNA smear devoid of the 200 basepair nucleosome repeating pattern characteristic of cellular chromatin. However, 11 S monomer cores of 150 basepairs were detectable. The chromatin of ts1 (39 degrees C) was more resistant to digestion by micrococcal nuclease. Two-dimensional electrophoresis of the monomer core showed that wild-type core contained protein VII while ts1 (39 degrees C) core contained PVI and PVII. Protein V appears to be located on the variable-length intermonomer region. Crosslinking studies suggest that proteins PVII and VII exist in dimeric form within the monomer core. Electron microscopy revealed a 5.5-fold-condensed two-micron-long beaded structure with about 200 monomer particles spaced irregularly. Based on these observations, a model for adenovirus prochromatin and chromatin is proposed that differs in important aspects from the model proposed previously (Corden, J., Engelking, H.M. and Pearson, G.D. (1976) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 73, 401-404).

Uncoating of adenovirus type 2

The uncoating of adenovirus type 2 and a temperature-sensitive mutant, tsl, was studied. HEp-2 cells were infected with 32P- OR 125I-labeled purified virions for various lengths of time, and the nuclear and cytoplasmic fractions were analyzed by sucrose gradient velocity sedimentation and sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacryl-amide gel electrophoresis. Within 1 h of infection, virions were converted into three subviral structures: (1) subviral structures in the cytoplasm with a density greater than virions but which qualitatively still contained all virus polypeptides; (ii) corelike structures associated with both the nuclear and cytoplasmic fractions and composed of viral DNA and polypeptides VIa2, V and PVII; and (iii) putative DNA-terminal protein complexes in the nuclei. The kinetic and compartmentalization studies suggested that the DNA-terminal protein complex is the end product of uncoating. The virions which were synthesized by tsl at the nonpermissive temperature and contained the precursor polypeptides PVI and PVII were found to be blocked in uncoating at the corelike stage. This block in uncoating provides the explanation for the lack of infectivity of these virions. A model for the uncoating of adenovirus is proposed.