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4 pages, 163 KiB

Open AccessEditorial

Nutritional Value Evaluation and Processing Technology of Feed and Nutrition Regulation Measures for Ruminants

by Dingfu Xiao and Tiantian Meng

Animals 2024, 14(21), 3153; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14213153 - 2 Nov 2024

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Abstract

In the context of modern livestock farming, particularly in the ruminant industry, feed is a crucial factor that affects both the efficiency of production and animal health [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutritive Value or Bioutilization Technology of Alternative Forages for Ruminant Nutrition)

Research

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16 pages, 2474 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Dietary Benzoic Acid Supplementation on Growth Performance, Rumen Fermentation, and Rumen Microbiota in Weaned Holstein Dairy Calves

by Haonan Dai, Qi Huang, Shujing Li, Dewei Du, Wenli Yu, Jia Guo, Zengyuan Zhao, Xin Yu, Fengtao Ma and Peng Sun

Animals 2024, 14(19), 2823; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14192823 - 30 Sep 2024

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Abstract

Supplementation with benzoic acid (BA) in animal feed can reduce feeds’ acid-binding capacity, inhibit pathogenic bacterial growth, enhance nutrient digestion, and increase intestinal enzyme activities. This study aimed to investigate the effects of different doses of BA on the growth performance, rumen fermentation, [...] Read more.

Supplementation with benzoic acid (BA) in animal feed can reduce feeds’ acid-binding capacity, inhibit pathogenic bacterial growth, enhance nutrient digestion, and increase intestinal enzyme activities. This study aimed to investigate the effects of different doses of BA on the growth performance, rumen fermentation, and rumen microbiota of weaned Holstein dairy calves. Thirty-two Holstein calves at 60 days of age were randomly assigned into four groups (n = 8): a control group (fed with a basal diet without BA supplementation; CON group) and groups that were supplemented with 0.25% (LBA group), 0.50% (MBA group), and 0.75% (HBA group) BA to the basal diet (dry matter basis), respectively. The experiment lasted for 42 days, starting at 60 days of age and ending at 102 days of age, with weaning occurring at 67 days of age. Supplementation with BA linearly increased the average daily gain of the weaned dairy calves, which was significantly higher in the LBA, MBA, and HBA groups than that in the CON group. The average daily feed intake was quadratically increased with increasing BA supplementation, peaking in the MBA group. Supplementation with BA linearly decreased the feed-to-gain (F/G) ratio, but did not affect rumen fermentation parameters, except for the molar proportion of butyrate and iso-butyrate, which were linearly increased with the dose of BA supplementation. Compared with the CON group, the molar proportions of iso-butyrate in the LBA, MBA, and HBA groups and that of butyrate in the HBA group were significantly higher than those in the CON group. Supplementation with BA had no significant effect on the alpha and beta diversity of the rumen microbiota, but significantly increased the relative abundances of beneficial bacteria, such as Bifidobacterium, and reduced those of the harmful bacteria, such as unclassified_o__Gastranaerophilales and Oscillospiraceae_UCG-002, in the rumen. Functional prediction analysis using the MetaCyc database revealed significant variations in the pathways associated with glycolysis across groups, including the GLYCOLYSIS-TCA-GLYOX-BYPASS, GLYCOL-GLYOXDEG-PWY, and P105-PWY pathways. In conclusion, BA supplementation improved the composition and function of rumen microbiota, elevated the production of butyrate and iso-butyrate, and increased the growth performance of weaned Holstein dairy calves. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutritive Value or Bioutilization Technology of Alternative Forages for Ruminant Nutrition)

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16 pages, 1092 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effects of Lactobacillus plantarum and Lactobacillus buchneri on the Fermentation Quality, In Vitro Digestibility, and Aerobic Stability of Silphium perfoliatum L. Silage

by Yitong Jin, Peng Wang, Fuhou Li, Meng Yu, Jiarui Du, Tianyue Zhao, Qixuan Yi, Hongyu Tang and Bao Yuan

Animals 2024, 14(15), 2279; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14152279 - 5 Aug 2024

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Abstract

In this experiment, Lactobacillus plantarum and Lactobacillus buchneri were added individually or in combination to Silphium perfoliatum L. (SP) silage to investigate the effects of different fermentation types of lactobacilli on the fermentation quality, in vitro digestibility, and aerobic stability of SP-silage, with [...] Read more.

In this experiment, Lactobacillus plantarum and Lactobacillus buchneri were added individually or in combination to Silphium perfoliatum L. (SP) silage to investigate the effects of different fermentation types of lactobacilli on the fermentation quality, in vitro digestibility, and aerobic stability of SP-silage, with a view to providing a certain scientific basis and technical support for obtaining high-quality SP-silage in production. The experiment comprised a non-additive group (control), an L. plantarum group (LP), an L. buchneri group (LB), and an L. plantarum and L. buchneri mixed treatment group (LPLB). Samples were taken after 60 days of fermentation and analyzed for the fermentation quality, in vitro digestibility, and aerobic stability of the SP-silage. The results showed that the addition of LP, LB, and LPLB significantly reduced the pH and proportion of ammonia nitrogen to total nitrogen and significantly increased the lactic acid, in vitro dry matter digestibility, and in vitro crude protein digestibility in the SP-silage (p < 0.05). Compared to the control group, the dry matter and crude protein contents of the LB and LPLB groups were significantly increased, while the neutral detergent fiber and acid detergent fiber contents were significantly reduced (p < 0.05). The SP-silage supplemented with LPLB had the highest dry matter and crude protein contents. The gross and digestible energies of the SP-silage in the LB and LPLB groups were significantly higher than those in the control and LP groups (p < 0.05). The aerobic stability of the SP-silage was significantly reduced by 24.14% in the LP group and increased by 58.62% and 34.48% in the LB and LPLB groups, respectively, compared to the control group (p < 0.05). It was shown that adding a combination of LP and LB resulted in the best fermentation quality, nutritional value, and in vitro digestibility of the SP-silage. LB was effective in improving the aerobic stability of SP-silage. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutritive Value or Bioutilization Technology of Alternative Forages for Ruminant Nutrition)

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15 pages, 2897 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Guanidinoacetic Acid on Production Performance, Serum Biochemistry, Meat Quality and Rumen Fermentation in Hu Sheep

by Huayun Jin, Zhijian Du, Xiaoyu Fan, Liwen Qin, Weiwei Liu, Yan Zhang, Jingnan Ren, Changchuan Ye and Qinghua Liu

Animals 2024, 14(14), 2052; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14142052 - 12 Jul 2024

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Abstract

Guanidinoacetic acid (GAA) can effectively improve the metabolism of energy and proteins by stimulating creatine biosynthesis. We present a study exploring the impact of GAA on production performance, serum biochemistry, meat quality and rumen fermentation in Hu sheep. A total of 144 weaned [...] Read more.

Guanidinoacetic acid (GAA) can effectively improve the metabolism of energy and proteins by stimulating creatine biosynthesis. We present a study exploring the impact of GAA on production performance, serum biochemistry, meat quality and rumen fermentation in Hu sheep. A total of 144 weaned male Hu sheep (body weight 16.91 ± 3.1 kg) were randomly assigned to four groups with three replicates of twelve sheep in each group. The diets were supplemented with 0 (CON), 500 (GAA−1), 750 (GAA−2) and 1000 mg/kg (GAA−3) of GAA (weight of feed), respectively. After a comprehensive 90-day experimental period, we discovered that the supplementation of GAA had a remarkable impact on various muscle parameters. Specifically, it significantly enhanced the average daily growth (ADG) of the animals and improved the shear force and fiber diameter of the muscle, while also reducing the drip loss and muscle fiber density. Furthermore, the addition of GAA to the feed notably elevated the serum concentrations of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL−C), total protein (TP) and globulin (GLB), as well as the enzyme activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH−Px). Concurrently, there was a decrease in the levels of triglycerides (TG) and malondialdehyde (MDA) in the serum. In addition, GAA decreased the pH and the acetate-to-propionate ratio and increased the total volatile fatty acids (TVFA) and ammoniacal nitrogen (NH₃−N) levels of rumen fluid. Additionally, GAA upregulated acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACC) gene expression in the Hu sheep’s muscles. In conclusion, our findings suggest that GAA supplementation not only enhances muscle quality but also positively affects serum biochemistry and ruminal metabolism, making it a potential candidate for improving the overall health and performance of Hu sheep. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutritive Value or Bioutilization Technology of Alternative Forages for Ruminant Nutrition)

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15 pages, 290 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Nutritional Evaluation of Milk Thistle Meal as a Protein Feedstuff for Diets of Dairy Cattle

by Modinat Tolani Lambo, Rui Liu, Xianglong Zhang, Yonggen Zhang, Yang Li and Manji Sun

Animals 2024, 14(13), 1864; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14131864 - 24 Jun 2024

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Abstract

The objective of this work is to investigate the chemical and nutritional value of milk thistle meal (MTM) in order to improve it and to provide theoretical support for its application in dairy cattle production. MTM was assessed in comparison with seven conventional [...] Read more.

The objective of this work is to investigate the chemical and nutritional value of milk thistle meal (MTM) in order to improve it and to provide theoretical support for its application in dairy cattle production. MTM was assessed in comparison with seven conventional protein feed sources, namely, soybean meal (SBM), cottonseed meal (CS), canola meal (CN), palm kernel meal (PK), rice bran meal (RB), corn germ meal (CG), and sesame meal (SS). The chemical composition of these feedstuffs was assessed using wet chemical analysis, the Cornell Net Carbohydrate and Protein System was used to evaluate the carbohydrate and protein fractions, and the in situ nylon bag technique and the modified three-step in vitro method were used to assess the rumen degradation and intestinal digestibility. Additionally, Fourier transform infrared technology was used to determine the feedstuff protein spectral molecular structure and its amino acid profile was also assessed. The result showed that MTM acid detergent fiber, lignin, unavailable nitrogen, and non-degradable carbohydrate content were higher than those of the other feedstuffs. It had a 17% and 36% rumen effective degradation rate of neutral detergent fiber and dry matter, respectively, and had the lowest small intestinal rumen undegradable protein digestibility rate. It was low in leucine, histidine, arginine, and proline, but high in methionine. The total area of amide I and amide II in the protein secondary structure was similar to that of CN and CS, and the amide I and II ratio was not different from that of RB. To sum up, MTM has a poor carbohydrate composition and is high in fiber but, in comparison to most other protein feeds, has a higher crude protein rumen effective degradation rate, similar to that of SBM, and it is a good source of methionine, a limiting amino acid. Hence, its nutritional value can be further improved for application in dairy feeding through processes such as microbial or enzymatic fermentation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutritive Value or Bioutilization Technology of Alternative Forages for Ruminant Nutrition)

16 pages, 2614 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Impact of Different Dietary Ratios of Soluble Carbohydrate-to-Neutral Detergent Fiber on Rumen Barrier Function and Inflammation in Dumont Lambs

by Shufang Li, Tian Ma, Yawen An, Yu Zhang, Xiaodong Yang, Aiwu Gao and Hairong Wang

Animals 2024, 14(11), 1666; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14111666 - 2 Jun 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1027

Abstract

Appropriate soluble carbohydrate (SCHO)-to-NDF ratios in the diet are essential for rumen health. The effects of different SCHO-to-NDF ratios (1.0, 1.5, and 2.0) on rumen barrier function and inflammation in Dumont lambs (n = 18, 6 replicates per treatment) was investigated. The SCHO:NDF [...] Read more.

Appropriate soluble carbohydrate (SCHO)-to-NDF ratios in the diet are essential for rumen health. The effects of different SCHO-to-NDF ratios (1.0, 1.5, and 2.0) on rumen barrier function and inflammation in Dumont lambs (n = 18, 6 replicates per treatment) was investigated. The SCHO:NDF ratio was altered by replacing the forage (Leynus chinensis) with corn grain. With an increase in the proportion of SCHO, the final body weight (FBW), average daily gain (ADG), soluble carbohydrate intake (SCHOI), and LPS level increased; and the neutral detergent fiber intake (NDFI), ruminal papillae height, papillae area, and pH decreased (p < 0.05, p_lin < 0.05). The medium CHO:NDF group had increased claudin-1 mRNA (p < 0.05, p_lin = 0.005, p_quad = 0.003) and protein (p < 0.05, p_quad < 0.001) levels; the high CHO:NDF group had increased occludin mRNA and protein (p < 0.05, p_lin = 0.001) levels. The level of the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 was significantly greater in the medium CHO:NDF group than in the high CHO:NDF group (p < 0.05, p_quad < 0.001). With an increase in the ratio of SCHO, the mRNA level and concentration of the proinflammatory cytokines IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α linearly increased (p < 0.05, p_lin < 0.05), and those in the high CHO:NDF group were significantly greater than those in the low CHO:NDF group. The levels of phosphorylated p65 (p_lin = 0.003), IκB-α (p_lin < 0.001), and JNK (p_lin = 0.001) increased linearly, and those in the high CHO:NDF group were significantly greater than those in the other two groups (p < 0.05). Therefore, when the SCHO-to-NDF ratio was increased to 1.5, the rumen epithelium was not affected, but when the ratio was increased to 2.0, NF-κB and MAPK were activated in the rumen epithelium, leading to impaired barrier function and inflammation. The suitable NFC:NDF ratio for the short-term fattening of Dumont lambs was found to be 1.50. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutritive Value or Bioutilization Technology of Alternative Forages for Ruminant Nutrition)

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17 pages, 3565 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

In Vitro Evaluation of Chito-Oligosaccharides on Disappearance Rate of Nutrients, Rumen Fermentation Parameters, and Micro-Flora of Beef Cattle

by Jianfu He, Jing Li, Qian Gao, Weijun Shen, Wenchang Liu, Min Xia, Haixiang Xiao and Dingfu Xiao

Animals 2024, 14(11), 1657; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14111657 - 31 May 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 854

Abstract

The study aimed to investigate the effect of dietary chitosan oligosaccharides (COS) meal levels on the nutrient disappearance rate, rumen fermentation, and microflora of beef cattle in vitro. A total of 24 fermentation tanks were randomly divided into four treatments containing 0% COS [...] Read more.

The study aimed to investigate the effect of dietary chitosan oligosaccharides (COS) meal levels on the nutrient disappearance rate, rumen fermentation, and microflora of beef cattle in vitro. A total of 24 fermentation tanks were randomly divided into four treatments containing 0% COS (CON), 0.02% COS, 0.04% COS, and 0.08% COS for an 8-day experiment period, with each treatment comprising six replicates. The disappear rates of DM, CP, EE, and total gas production were quadratically increased with increasing COS levels. The disappear rates of DM, CP, EE, and ADF were greatest, whereas the total gas production was lowest in the 0.08% COS group. The pH, NH₃-N, MCP, the content of propionate, isobutyrate, butyrate, valerate, and the A/P were quadratically increased with increasing COS levels, while the A/P were linearly decreased. The pH, MCP, and the content of propionate, and butyrate were highest, whereas the NH₃-N and the content of acetate, isobutyrate, valerate, and the A/P were lowest in the 0.08% COS group. Microbiomics analysis showed that the rumen microbial diversity was not altered between the CON and the 0.08% COS group. However, the relative abundance of Methanosphaera, Ruminococcus, Endomicrobium, and Eubacterium groups was increased, and the relative abundance of pathogenic bacteria Dorea and Escherichia-Shigella showed a decrease in the 0.08% COS group. Overall, the 0.08% COS was the most effective among the three addition levels, resulting in an increase in the disappearance rate of in vitro fermented nutrients and improvements in rumen fermentation indexes and microbial communities. This, in turn, led to the maintenance of rumen health. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutritive Value or Bioutilization Technology of Alternative Forages for Ruminant Nutrition)

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13 pages, 1922 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Impact of 5–20% Hydroponic Wheat Sprouts Inclusion on Growth and Metabolic Parameters of Growing Ewes

by Li Min, Yong Tuo, Dagang Li, Changjiang Zang, Guzalnur Amat, Zhijun Zhang and Tongjun Guo

Animals 2024, 14(11), 1630; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14111630 - 30 May 2024

Viewed by 872

Abstract

The aim of this study was to assess the impact of varying proportions (5–20%) of hydroponic wheat sprouts in the diet of growing four-month-old Hu ewes on their productive performance, metabolic profiles, rumen fermentation, and alterations in microflora. Compared with the control group [...] Read more.

The aim of this study was to assess the impact of varying proportions (5–20%) of hydroponic wheat sprouts in the diet of growing four-month-old Hu ewes on their productive performance, metabolic profiles, rumen fermentation, and alterations in microflora. Compared with the control group (CON), the optimum final weight of ewes has been presented in the group of substitution 15% (S15) of the basal diet with hydroponic wheat sprouts. Furthermore, 1–30 d the average daily gain (ADG), 31–60 d ADG, and average feed intake were both significantly improved in S15 compared with CON (p < 0.05). Feeding hydroponic wheat sprouts can significantly increase high-density lipoprotein and interleukin-2 (p < 0.05) accompanied by the numerical increase of the content of interferon-γ, suggesting its positive effect on ewes’ health and immune systems. In this process, it is noteworthy that feeding hydroponic wheat sprouts results in an increase in relative abundance of Olsenella, Limosilactobacillus, Shuttleworthia, and Prevotella_7, and a decrease in relative abundance of Succinimonas, Pseudobutyrivibrio, and Anaerovibrio in the rumen of growing ewes. It implies that the response of rumen microflora adapted to the change of dietary ingredients, as well as the relationship between rumen microflora changes and the improvement of productive performance and immune system in growing ewes. Considering the usage cost and application effect, S15 of the basal diet with hydroponic wheat sprouts could be the appropriate application solution for growing ewes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutritive Value or Bioutilization Technology of Alternative Forages for Ruminant Nutrition)

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17 pages, 2004 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Enhancing Rumen Fermentation and Bacteria Community in Sika Deer (Cervus nippon) through Varying Levels of Dragon Fruit Peel Polyphenolic Extract: An In Vitro Study

by Chao Ban, Xingzhou Tian, Qi Lu, Pipat Lounglawan and Guilan Wen

Animals 2024, 14(8), 1139; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14081139 - 9 Apr 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1107

Abstract

The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of dragon fruit peel polyphenolic extract (DFPE) on gas production, rumen fermentation, and bacterial communities in sika deer using an in vitro technique. Three treatments with different DFPE levels (DFPE0, base diet; DFPE5, [...] Read more.

The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of dragon fruit peel polyphenolic extract (DFPE) on gas production, rumen fermentation, and bacterial communities in sika deer using an in vitro technique. Three treatments with different DFPE levels (DFPE0, base diet; DFPE5, base diet + 5 mg/g DFPE; DFPE10, base diet + 10 mg/g DFPE, respectively; n = 6) were implemented. The phenolic composition of DFPE, gas production (GP), ammonia nitrogen (NH₃-N), volatile fatty acid (VFA), and bacteria communities was evaluated after 24 h of incubation. The results showed that GP and NH₃-N were reduced by DFPE supplementation. Total VFA, isovaleric acid, and valeric acid were increased (p < 0.05) by the addition of DFPE. No changes (p > 0.05) were observed in pH, acetic acid, propionic acid, isobutyric acid, butyric acid, and the ratio of acetic acid to propionic acid. Additionally, the alpha indexes, including Sobs, Shannon, and Ace, were increased by DFPE supplementation. Moreover, at the phylum level, DFPE supplementation increased (p = 0.01) Bacteroidota but reduced (p < 0.01) Firmicutes. At the genus level, compared to DFPE0, the DFPE10 had increased relative abundances of Rikenellaceae_RC9_gut_group (p < 0.01), norank_f_Muribaculaceae (p = 0.01), Lachnospiraceae_NK3A20_group (p < 0.01), Christensenellaceae_R-7_group (p < 0.01), and NK4A214_group (p < 0.01), decreased relative abundances of Streptococcus (p < 0.01), Oribacterium (p = 0.01), and Enterococcus (p < 0.01). Compared to DFPE0, DFPE5 had no change (p > 0.05) in all bacteria at the genus level except for decreased relative abundance of Enterococcus (p < 0.01). These results indicated that DFPE may be able to be used as a feed additive to enhance fermentation parameters and improve ruminal bacteria communities in Sika deer. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutritive Value or Bioutilization Technology of Alternative Forages for Ruminant Nutrition)

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14 pages, 1028 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Differences in Chemical Composition, Polyphenol Compounds, Antioxidant Activity, and In Vitro Rumen Fermentation among Sorghum Stalks

by Xingzhou Tian, Jixiao Qin, Qingyuan Luo, Yiqing Xu, Shuanglong Xie, Rui Chen, Xu Wang and Qi Lu

Animals 2024, 14(3), 415; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14030415 - 27 Jan 2024

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1648

Abstract

The aim of the study was to examine the differences in the chemical composition, polyphenol compounds, antioxidant activity, and in vitro rumen fermentation among six varieties of sorghum stalks. The results show that maoliangnuo 1 (M1) contained a higher (p < 0.05) [...] Read more.

The aim of the study was to examine the differences in the chemical composition, polyphenol compounds, antioxidant activity, and in vitro rumen fermentation among six varieties of sorghum stalks. The results show that maoliangnuo 1 (M1) contained a higher (p < 0.05) level of dry matter, and jinzhong 405 (J4) contained a higher (p < 0.05) level of crude protein content. The concentrations of neutral detergent fiber, acid detergent fiber, and cellulose were significantly higher (p < 0.05) in stalk jinliangnuo (JN). The levels of chlorogenic acid, homoorientin, isovitexin, vitexin, rhoifolin, genistin, quercetin, apigenin, aloe emodin, emodin, and total polyphenols were all significantly (p < 0.05) higher in maohongnuo 6 (M6) than in the other stalks. Moreover, stalk M6 contained higher (p < 0.05) levels of total antioxidant capacity (TAC), glutathione peroxidase (GPX), catalase (CAT), and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free-radical scavenging capacity. There were significant (p < 0.05) positive correlations between total polyphenols and TAC, superoxide dismutase, GPX, CAT, and DPPH free-radical scavenging capacity. The total gas production was significantly (p < 0.05) influenced by the sorghum stalk variety and incubation time. Stalk J4 displayed higher values for the (p < 0.05) immediately soluble fraction and the potential extent of gas production, while stalk M6 exhibited a significantly lower (p < 0.05) insoluble fraction level. Furthermore, stalk M6 exhibited a significantly higher level of (p < 0.05) ruminal fluid propionic acid, but its level of butyric acid and its ratio of acetic acid to propionic acid were both significantly lower (p < 0.05). Taken together, the results reported in this paper indicate that the chemical composition, polyphenol compounds, antioxidant activity, and in vitro rumen fermentation all vary greatly among different varieties of sorghum stalks. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutritive Value or Bioutilization Technology of Alternative Forages for Ruminant Nutrition)

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14 pages, 1290 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Protective Effects of Niacin on Rumen Epithelial Cell Barrier Integrity in Heat-Stressed Beef Cattle

by Bicheng Zou, Fan Long, Fuguang Xue, Chuanbin Chen, Xian Zhang, Mingren Qu and Lanjiao Xu

Animals 2024, 14(2), 313; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14020313 - 19 Jan 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1645

Abstract

The present study investigates the theoretical basis for maintaining normal physiological functions in heat-stressed beef cattle by exploring the effects of niacin supplementation on the permeability of the rumen epithelial cell barrier. Herein, 12 Jinjiang bulls with an average weight of approximately 400 [...] Read more.

The present study investigates the theoretical basis for maintaining normal physiological functions in heat-stressed beef cattle by exploring the effects of niacin supplementation on the permeability of the rumen epithelial cell barrier. Herein, 12 Jinjiang bulls with an average weight of approximately 400 ± 20.0 kg were randomly divided into three groups, thermoneutral (TN), heat-stressed (HS), and heat-stressed niacin-supplemented (HN) groups, with 4 bulls in each group. The experiment spanned 70 days, and the plasma concentrations of D-lactic acid, diamine oxidase (DAO), lipopolysaccharides (LPSs), and inflammatory cytokines were analyzed. Additionally, we assessed the gene expression of tight junction proteins to understand the effect of niacin supplementation on heat-stressed beef cattle. Our results revealed that heat stress significantly increased the D-lactic acid and LPS levels in beef cattle plasma on days 30 and 45 of the experiment (p < 0.05). Moreover, it led to a significant rise in DAO levels on day 30 (p < 0.05). Niacin supplementation significantly reduced the LPS levels on day 30 (p < 0.05). Heat stress significantly elevated the plasma concentrations of inflammatory cytokines interleukin-1β (IL-1β), IL-2, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) (p < 0.05), while reducing the IL-4 concentration (p < 0.05). However, niacin supplementation effectively mitigated the concentrations of these inflammatory factors by reducing IL-1β, IL-2, IL-6, and TNF-α concentrations and increasing IL-4 concentrations. The mRNA expressions of tight junction proteins zonula occluden-1 (ZO-1), claudin-1, claudin-4, and claudin-7 were significantly downregulated (p < 0.05) in the HS group compared to those in the TN group, and those of ZO-1 and occludin were significantly upregulated (p < 0.05) in the HN group compared to those in the HS group. Notably, no significant differences were observed in ruminal papillae length and width among the studied groups (p > 0.05). Our findings indicate that heat stress adversely impacted the tight junction structure of the rumen epithelium, leading to a significant reduction in the expression of tight junction protein mRNA. Consequently, heat stress impaired the rumen mucosal barrier function, resulting in increased intestinal permeability. The mechanism underlying this effect may be associated with the decreased expression of tight junction protein genes in the rumen epithelial cells. However, niacin supplementation mitigated the detrimental effects of heat stress on intestinal permeability in beef cattle and increased the expression of tight junction protein genes in the rumen epithelium, thereby effectively protecting the rumen barrier in heat-stressed beef cattle. These results highlight the potential of nicotinic acid as a protective agent against the negative impacts of heat stress on intestinal integrity in beef cattle. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutritive Value or Bioutilization Technology of Alternative Forages for Ruminant Nutrition)

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16 pages, 5814 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of High-Concentrate-Induced SARA on Antioxidant Capacity, Immune Levels and Rumen Microbiota and Function in Goats

by Siqin Fan, Mengli Zheng, Ao Ren, Hongxiang Mao, Donglei Long and Lingyuan Yang

Animals 2024, 14(2), 263; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14020263 - 15 Jan 2024

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1434

Abstract

This study aims to explore the antioxidant, immune, and enzyme metabolism aspects in goats experiencing subacute ruminal acidosis (SARA). Furthermore, we seek to elucidate the relationship between the symbiotic microbiota of goats and their metabolic function. Sixteen goats were equally divided into two [...] Read more.

This study aims to explore the antioxidant, immune, and enzyme metabolism aspects in goats experiencing subacute ruminal acidosis (SARA). Furthermore, we seek to elucidate the relationship between the symbiotic microbiota of goats and their metabolic function. Sixteen goats were equally divided into two groups and fed a normal-concentrate diet (NC, 55% concentrate) or a high-concentrate diet (HC, 90% concentrate) for five weeks. We found that the HC diet reduced the total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) (p = 0.022) and increased interleukin-1β (IL-1β) (p = 0.015), interleukin-4 (IL-4) (p = 0.008) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) (p = 0.002) concentration of goats. Simultaneously, the HC diet significantly increased the concentrations of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and amylase (AMY) in the blood and rumen fluid of goats (p < 0.05). Microbial analysis in the rumen of goats revealed that the HC diet decreased bacterial richness and diversity, as evidenced by the changed observed species, Chao 1, PD whole tree and Shannon when compared to the NC diet (p < 0.01). The proportion of Proteobacteria increased while that of Spirochaetes and Fibrobacteres significantly decreased with the HC diet (p < 0.05). The Christensenellaceae_R-7_group and Ruminococcaceae_UCG-010 in rumen was notably decreased when a diet was switched from 55% concentrate diet to 90% concentrate diet (p < 0.05). Additionally, microbial functional potentials deduced that the HC diet significantly increased the abundance of the citrate cycle (TCA cycle) (ko00020) associated with carbohydrate metabolism (p = 0.028). Furthermore, the HC diet significantly increased the glutathione metabolism (ko00480) associated with the metabolism of other amino acids (p = 0.008). Our findings suggested that SARA reduced the total antioxidant capacity and increased levels of inflammatory factors in goats, as well as decreased rumen bacterial species and abundance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutritive Value or Bioutilization Technology of Alternative Forages for Ruminant Nutrition)

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15 pages, 3651 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Expansion Improved the Physical and Chemical Properties and In Vitro Rumen Digestibility of Buckwheat Straw

by Xiaohui Cao, Sasa Zuo, Yanli Lin, Rui Cai, Fuyu Yang, Xuekai Wang and Chuncheng Xu

Animals 2024, 14(1), 29; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14010029 - 21 Dec 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1135

Abstract

The hard texture and poor palatability of straw are important factors that hinder its application in feed. Expansion is a technology that can improve the utilization of biomass, but few studies have comprehensively revealed how to change physicochemical characteristics to improve nutritional value. [...] Read more.

The hard texture and poor palatability of straw are important factors that hinder its application in feed. Expansion is a technology that can improve the utilization of biomass, but few studies have comprehensively revealed how to change physicochemical characteristics to improve nutritional value. In this study, mechanical and chemical methods were combined to study the texture properties, rheological properties, and physicochemical structures of straw, and its utilization value was evaluated by in vitro rumen digestion. Expansion caused hemicellulose degradation, cellulose separation, and lignin redistribution, resulting in a decrease in crystallinity. The hardness and chewiness of expanded straw were reduced by 55% to 66%, significantly improving palatability. The compressive stress could be reduced by 54–73%, and the relaxation elasticity was reduced by 5% when expanded straw was compressed. The compression deformation of expanded straw was doubled compared to feedstock, and the compacting degree was improved. Expanded straw significantly improved digestibility and gas production efficiency, which was due to the pore structure increasing the attachment of rumen microorganisms; besides that, the reduction of the internal structural force of the straw reduced energy consumption during digestion. The lignin content decreased by 10%, the hardness decreased further in secondary expansion, but the digestibility did not improve significantly. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutritive Value or Bioutilization Technology of Alternative Forages for Ruminant Nutrition)

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Open AccessArticle

The Effect of Replacing Whole-Plant Corn Silage with Daylily on the Growth Performance, Slaughtering Performance, Muscle Amino Acid Composition, and Blood Composition of Tan Sheep

by Junli Zhang, Fen Li, Rina Na, Xue Bai, Yanfen Ma, Yuwei Yang, Yun Ma and Xiuqin Wang

Animals 2023, 13(22), 3493; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13223493 - 12 Nov 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1240

Abstract

The shortage of high-quality coarse feed resources is the main factor that restricts the development of animal husbandry in many developing countries. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of replacing corn silage with daylily silage on the growth performance, slaughter performance, [...] Read more.

The shortage of high-quality coarse feed resources is the main factor that restricts the development of animal husbandry in many developing countries. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of replacing corn silage with daylily silage on the growth performance, slaughter performance, blood biochemical indicators, meat quality, and muscle amino acid composition of Tan sheep. A total of 72 healthy Tan sheep were randomly assigned to four groups. In each group, 0%, 20%, 40%, and 60% of corn silage were replaced with daylily silage (denoted as CON, HC20, HC40, and HC60, respectively). Tan sheep fed with daylily silage showed no significant adverse effects on their growth performance, meat quality, and muscle amino acid composition (p > 0.05). Some increase was observed in the carcass fat content value (GR-value, p < 0.05), thickness of backfat (p < 0.05), and the blood urea level (p < 0.05). These findings indicate that the utilization of daylily silage instead of whole-plant corn silage has no adverse effects on the growth performance and meat quality of Tan sheep, thus indicating that it can partially replace whole-plant corn feed as a feed resource for Tan sheep. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutritive Value or Bioutilization Technology of Alternative Forages for Ruminant Nutrition)

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