Animals

2024

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17 pages, 1711 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Determining the Optimal Harvesting Moment of Green Forage from Guizotia abyssinica Cultivated as a Catch Crop on Silage and Its Quality Form, Fresh or Wilted Green Material, in the Two Following Years

by Anna Szuba-Trznadel, Tomasz Hikawczuk, Anna Jama-Rodzeńska, Joanna Kamińska, Zlatko Svecnjak, Zygmunt Król and Bogusław Fuchs

Animals 2024, 14(17), 2455; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14172455 - 23 Aug 2024

Viewed by 793

Abstract

Guizotia abyssinica is currently being used for soil improvement; however, owing to its rapid growth and high productivity, it may have value as feed for ruminants, although this has not been well studied. Thus, this research aimed to evaluate the silage quality of [...] Read more.

Guizotia abyssinica is currently being used for soil improvement; however, owing to its rapid growth and high productivity, it may have value as feed for ruminants, although this has not been well studied. Thus, this research aimed to evaluate the silage quality of Guizotia abyssinica grown during the short season (July–October) as a catch crop in northern Europe when harvested 58, 68, and 90 days after sowing (DAS) over two production years. Ensiled material was analyzed to compare silage quality for the three different DAS. Two factors were analyzed factorially in the experiment: the silage preparation year (2018 or 2019) and the form of the ensiled material (fresh or wilted). We used 36 replications, 18 for each variant of the experimental factor. Harvesting at 58 DAS resulted in unsatisfactory forage fermentability, even after wilting. At 68 DAS, silage quality was satisfactory, but the dry matter content before ensiling was below 20% for both fresh and wilted forage, indicating limitations for silage use without additional wilting for that DAS harvest time. Dry matter content and water-soluble carbohydrates consistently increased as harvest was delayed. Thus, the highest silage quality was obtained from forage harvested 90 DAS regardless of differences in dry matter content. Therefore, it is possible to prepare silage at lower temperatures when the wilting process is limited by environmental conditions. Full article

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17 pages, 1743 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effects of Dietary Pterostilbene on the Immune Response, Antioxidant Function, and Jejunal Structure of Broilers

by Zesheng Yin, Xue Sun, Xuehong Chai, Xin Zhou, Yingjie Wang, Mengru Liu and Xingjun Feng

Animals 2024, 14(13), 1851; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14131851 - 22 Jun 2024

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1054

Abstract

This experiment was carried out to investigate the effect of pterostilbene (PTE) supplementation in feed on Arbor Acres broilers in terms of serum biochemical parameters, immune and inflammatory responses, antioxidant status, and intestinal morphological structure. For a duration of 42 days, a total [...] Read more.

This experiment was carried out to investigate the effect of pterostilbene (PTE) supplementation in feed on Arbor Acres broilers in terms of serum biochemical parameters, immune and inflammatory responses, antioxidant status, and intestinal morphological structure. For a duration of 42 days, a total of 480 1-day-old Arbor Acres broilers were randomly divided into four groups. Each group was assigned to receive either the basal diet or the basal diet supplemented with 200, 400, or 600 mg/kg of PTE. Each treatment consisted of eight replicates, with 15 chicks per replicate. In comparison with the control group, three PTE treatments significantly increased the lymphocyte transformation rate in the spleen of broilers. The automated biochemical analysis, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and RT-qPCR analysis kits found that 400 mg/kg of PTE significantly increased the serum levels of complement C3, IL-4, and iNOS; reduced the serum levels of IL-6, TNF-α, and mRNA levels of the genes IL-6, IL-8, TNF-α, NLRP3, and IFN-γ; significantly improved the activities of antioxidant enzymes including CAT, GSH-Px, and T-SOD in the jejunum; and significantly reduced the MDA contents in the serum and jejunum of broilers. Nikon microscope observations and ImagePro Plus 6.0 measure results found that 400 mg/kg of PTE supplementation significantly reduced the relative length and weight of the jejunum and improved the jejunal villi structure, resulting in increased intestinal villi, deepened crypt, and an enhanced ratio of villi height to crypt depth (VH/CD). RT-qPCR and Western blot found that dietary PTE also resulted in increased mRNA levels of the genes Claudin-2, Occludin, ZO-1, and Sirt1, and decreased NF-κB protein levels in the jejunum. The results of this study demonstrated that dietary PTE improved the immune function and intestinal health of broilers by reducing inflammation and increasing the antioxidant capacity of the animals. Full article

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18 pages, 342 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of the Addition of Trichoderma reesei Cellulase to Broiler Chicken Diets for a 21-Day Period

by Francisco dos Santos Perim, Weslane Justina da Silva, Dênia Oliveira de Souza, Cirano José Ulhoa, Camila Ferreira Rezende, Ludmilla Faria dos Santos, Fabiana Ramos dos Santos, Fabiano Guimarães Silva and Cibele Silva Minafra

Animals 2024, 14(10), 1467; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14101467 - 15 May 2024

Viewed by 1125

Abstract

The cellulose present in the cell wall of vegetables prevents the greater release of nutrients to the animal. Therefore, the use of the cellulase enzyme is a viable strategy as it is capable of breaking cellulose bonds, releasing nutrients such as glucose, increasing [...] Read more.

The cellulose present in the cell wall of vegetables prevents the greater release of nutrients to the animal. Therefore, the use of the cellulase enzyme is a viable strategy as it is capable of breaking cellulose bonds, releasing nutrients such as glucose, increasing dietary energy, and thus improving the productive performance of birds. Trichoderma reesei is efficient in the production of cellulase, which is produced via submerged fermentation followed by purification, formulation, and drying. Therefore, an experiment was carried out using 240 male broilers of the Cobb-500^® lineage to verify the effects resulting from the addition of powdered (500 g/t and 1000 g/t) and liquid (500 mL/t) cellulase over a period of 1 to 21 days. A completely randomized experimental design was used, consisting of four treatments with six replications and ten birds per replication that were housed in an experimental cage. It was observed that performance and digestibility results were significantly different with cellulase supplementation. Also, the relative weight of the large intestine in the period between one and seven days increased when cellulase was added at 1000 g/t. In the period of between eight and 14 days of life, the birds that consumed only the basal diet obtained higher levels of liver protein than those that received the treatments with the addition of the enzyme. However, 15 and 21 days, the consumed feed effect did not occur between thus, it is not conclusive whether hepatotoxicity occurs with the addition of cellulase. For the blood parameters, at 21 days, the diets with added cellulase were not significantly different regarding electrolytes. It was concluded that this cellulase produced by Trichoderma reesei can be included in the animals’ diet. Full article

2023

Jump to: 2024, 2022, 2021, 2020

22 pages, 1615 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effect of Microbial Inoculum and Urea Supplements on Nutritive Value, Amino Acids Profile, Aerobic Stability and Digestibility of Wheat and Corn Silages

by Philip Wagali, Ira Pelech, Chris Sabastian, Julius Ben Ari, Haim Tagari and Sameer J. Mabjeesh

Animals 2023, 13(13), 2197; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13132197 - 4 Jul 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1807

Abstract

Wheat and corn silages are widely used as ruminant feed in Israel due to their availability and cost-effectiveness. To ensure long-term preservation without compromising nutritional quality, effective methods must be employed. The inclusion of additives during harvest and ensiling can enhance efficiency and [...] Read more.

Wheat and corn silages are widely used as ruminant feed in Israel due to their availability and cost-effectiveness. To ensure long-term preservation without compromising nutritional quality, effective methods must be employed. The inclusion of additives during harvest and ensiling can enhance efficiency and address preservation challenges. In the current study, the effects of microbial inoculum (MI) and urea on the chemical composition, amino acid profiles, aerobic stability, and in vitro digestibility of wheat and corn silages were investigated. Samples of wheat and corn were subjected to four treatments: control, MI, urea and a combination of MI + urea. The treatments were ensiled in anaerobic conditions and opened after 1, 7, 14 or 28 days. The results showed that additives improved the quality parameters of wheat and corn silages. The inclusion of MI produced the most aerobically stable silages. The inclusion of urea in silages decreased aerobic stability. Additives improved in vitro cell wall carbohydrates’ digestibility in both silages and was the best when MI was combined with urea. These results imply that additives could be incorporated in silages to enhance their nutritional value, aerobic stability and digestibility. Nonetheless, increased CP content with additives was not accompanied with a parallel increase in amino acids’ content in corn silage. Full article

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16 pages, 292 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effect of Reduced Crude Protein on Growth Performance, Nutrient Digestibility, and Meat Quality in Weaning to Finishing Pigs

by Young-Geol Han, Geon-Il Lee, Sung-Ho Do, Jae-Cheol Jang and Yoo-Yong Kim

Animals 2023, 13(12), 1938; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13121938 - 9 Jun 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2607

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate optimal crude protein (CP) levels based on the National Research Council guidelines from 1998 and 2012 and their impacts on growth performance, fecal score, blood profiles, nutrient digestibility, and carcass characteristics of weaning to finishing pigs. Four diets [...] Read more.

This study aimed to evaluate optimal crude protein (CP) levels based on the National Research Council guidelines from 1998 and 2012 and their impacts on growth performance, fecal score, blood profiles, nutrient digestibility, and carcass characteristics of weaning to finishing pigs. Four diets were established in this experiment: high-protein (HP), medium-high-protein (MHP), medium-low-protein (MLP), and low-protein (LP). The HP diet followed the NRC (1998) guidelines, while the MHP diet reduced the CP content by 1%. The MLP diet had 1.5% lower CP content than the HP diet. The LP diet followed the NRC guideline of 2012, which suggests less protein than the NRC guideline of 1998. There were no significant differences in body weight, average daily feed intake, or nutrient digestibility. However, the average daily gain (ADG) of pigs fed the LP diet at 7–10 weeks was lower than in the other treatments, whereas the ADG of the pigs fed the LP diet was higher compared with that of pigs fed the other diets, showing compensatory growth in finishing periods (p < 0.05). The blood urea nitrogen of pigs fed the LP diet showed the lowest value, whereas the highest value was found in pigs fed the HP diet, and the other two diets were similar to the HP diet or positioned between the HP and LP diets (p < 0.05). Water holding capacity, cooking loss, shear force, and pH in the longissimus muscle were not influenced by varying dietary CP levels (p > 0.05), but the hunter values L and b were increased in pigs fed the LP diet (p < 0.05). Conclusively, a low-protein diet did not negatively affect growth performance, nutrient digestibility, or meat quality. Full article

18 pages, 1030 KiB

Open AccessReview

Effects of Various Feed Additives on Finishing Pig Growth Performance and Carcass Characteristics: A Review

by Zhong-Xing Rao, Mike D. Tokach, Jason C. Woodworth, Joel M. DeRouchey, Robert D. Goodband and Jordan T. Gebhardt

Animals 2023, 13(2), 200; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13020200 - 5 Jan 2023

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 4036

Abstract

Feed additives have shown benefits throughout the literature in improving grow–finish pigs’ growth performance and carcass characteristics. However, the results have not been well summarized. Therefore, this review summarizes the available research (402 articles) on 14 feed additive categories fed to grow–finish pigs. [...] Read more.

Feed additives have shown benefits throughout the literature in improving grow–finish pigs’ growth performance and carcass characteristics. However, the results have not been well summarized. Therefore, this review summarizes the available research (402 articles) on 14 feed additive categories fed to grow–finish pigs. The categories were acidifiers, betaine, Cr, conjugated linoleic acids, Cu, direct-fed microbials, carbohydrases, proteases, phytases, multi-enzymes, essential oils, L-carnitine, yeasts, and Zn. Qualified articles were collected and selected based on inclusion and exclusion criteria from online databases. The percentage difference for each response variable between the treatment and control group was calculated and summarized. Most results were positive for each feed additive; however, the magnitude of improvement varied, and most were not statistically significant. For ADG, DFM, Cu, L-carnitine, and multi-enzymes showed relatively large positive effects (>2.1% improvement) across a reasonable number of articles. Acidifiers, betaine, CLA, multi-enzymes, DFM, L-carnitine, and yeasts showed relatively large positive effects (>2.5% improvement) on improving G:F. Moreover, except for betaine, Cr, CLA, and L-carnitine, most feed additives showed little and non-significant effects on BF thickness (<1.7% improvement). This review provides a descriptive analysis for commonly used feed additives in the hope of better understanding feed additives’ effects on grow–finish pigs. Full article

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17 pages, 1988 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Inclusion of Soybean Hulls (Glycine max) and Pupunha Peach Palm (Bactris gasipaes) Nanofibers in the Diet of Growing Rabbits: Effects on Zootechnical Performance and Intestinal Health

by Geovane Rosa de Oliveira, Carla de Andrade, Isabela Cristina Colaço Bez, Antonio Diego Brandão Melo, Vivian Vezzoni Almeida, Washington Luiz Esteves Magalhães, Saulo Henrique Weber, Cristina Santos Sotomaior, Fernando Bittencourt Luciano and Leandro Batista Costa

Animals 2023, 13(2), 192; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13020192 - 4 Jan 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2137

Abstract

This study evaluated the inclusion of nanofibers from soybean hulls and pupunha peach palm heart sheaths in the diet of growing rabbits. Twenty-four New Zealand White rabbits (male and female) were allocated in three experimental groups: control, fed a basal diet; Nanosoy, fed [...] Read more.

This study evaluated the inclusion of nanofibers from soybean hulls and pupunha peach palm heart sheaths in the diet of growing rabbits. Twenty-four New Zealand White rabbits (male and female) were allocated in three experimental groups: control, fed a basal diet; Nanosoy, fed a diet containing 7% soybean-hull nanofibers; and Nanopupunha, fed a diet containing 7% pupunha palm heart-sheath nanofibers. The Nanosoy-group rabbits showed poorer final weight, daily feed intake, and daily weight gain than those in other groups. In the duodenum, villus height, total mucosal thickness, and villus width were higher in rabbits that received nanofiber-supplemented diets than in the controls. Higher villus density and wall thickness were observed in Nanopupunha-fed rabbits than in the controls. In the jejunum, although the crypt depth was higher in Nanosoy-fed rabbits, the villus height:crypt depth ratio was higher in the Nanopupunha-fed group. Nanosoy-fed animals exhibited increased count Enterobacteriaceae populations. Rabbits in both nanofiber-fed groups exhibited higher lactic-acid bacterial counts than those in the control-diet group. Therefore, although the inclusion of 7% Nanopupunha in the diet of rabbits did not alter the performance, it improved intestinal health and increased the lactic-acid bacterial count in the cecum of growing rabbits. Full article

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2022

Jump to: 2024, 2023, 2021, 2020

13 pages, 3212 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Pelleted and Extruded Feed on Growth Performance, Intestinal Histology and Microbiota of Juvenile Red Swamp Crayfish (Procambarus clarkii)

by Jinjuan Wan, Qinkai Xi, Jianqing Tang, Tianji Liu, Cong Liu, Hongqin Li, Xizhang Gu, Meifang Shen, Meiqin Zhang, Jinguang Fang and Xianglong Meng

Animals 2022, 12(17), 2252; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani12172252 - 31 Aug 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2531

Abstract

The study was conducted to evaluate the extruded and pelleting feed production on growth performance, intestinal histology and microbiome analysis of juvenile red swamp crayfish, Procambarus clarkii. Crayfish were fed either pelleted or extruded feeds that were made using the same formula. [...] Read more.

The study was conducted to evaluate the extruded and pelleting feed production on growth performance, intestinal histology and microbiome analysis of juvenile red swamp crayfish, Procambarus clarkii. Crayfish were fed either pelleted or extruded feeds that were made using the same formula. Crayfish fed extruded feed had a lower feed conversion ratio, as well as significantly higher levels of trypsin and amylase (p < 0.05) than those fed pelleted feed. However, other growth indices and the activity of lipase were not significantly influenced by the feed processing technique (p > 0.05). In comparison with the pelleted feed group, the lamina propria thickness of crayfish fed extruded feed was significantly lower (p < 0.05). Additionally, the abundance of intestinal microbiota in the extruded feed group was higher than that in the pelleted feed group. The dominant phyla in the intestine of both groups were Proteobacteria, Tenericutes, and Firmicutes, and the relative abundance of Proteobacteria in the extruded feed group was significantly higher than that in the pelleted feed group (p < 0.05). These results revealed that P. clarkii fed extruded feed had higher feed utilization and better intestinal health. Full article

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19 pages, 629 KiB

Open AccessReview

Blood Trace Element Status in Camels: A Review

by Mutassim M. Abdelrahman, Ibrahim A. Alhidary, Riyadh S. Aljumaah and Bernard Faye

Animals 2022, 12(16), 2116; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani12162116 - 18 Aug 2022

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 4380

Abstract

Trace minerals play an important role in animal health and productivity. They are involved also in many physiological activities, and their deficiency causes a variety of pathological problems and metabolic defects, reducing consequently the animal productivity. The demand for animal products in semi-arid [...] Read more.

Trace minerals play an important role in animal health and productivity. They are involved also in many physiological activities, and their deficiency causes a variety of pathological problems and metabolic defects, reducing consequently the animal productivity. The demand for animal products in semi-arid areas is rapidly increasing, and the supply is still below the required level, partially due to low animal productivity. Camels (Camelus dromedarius and Camelus bactrianus) are considered one of the main sources of healthy, high-quality meat and milk for human consumption within most of the countries in the semi-arid regions. Despite their efficient adaptation to their environment, camels can suffer from the growth retardation of newborns, low feed efficiency, anemia, poor fertility, poor reproduction and many other metabolic disorders. It is well known that trace mineral deficiencies and trace mineral toxicities can influence camels’ production and reproductive efficiency, as well as many aspects of their growth and metabolism. Evaluating the trace minerals status of camels and their variability is an obvious step toward improving camels’ productivity and health. Thus, the present article reviews the data regarding the status of trace minerals (copper, zinc, iron, selenium, manganese, cobalt, iodine, fluorine, molybdenum, sulfur, bromide and nickel) in camel blood and their physiological variability, with a focus on their deficiency and toxicity effects. Full article

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14 pages, 805 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Impact of Enhancing Diet Quality or Dietary Supplementation of Flavor and Multi-Enzymes on Primiparous Lactating Sows

by Li Zhe, Rui Zhou, Peter Kappel Theil, Uffe Krogh, Lunxiang Yang, Yong Zhuo, Yan Lin, Shengyu Xu, Xuemei Jiang, Lingjie Huang, Lianqiang Che, Bin Feng, De Wu and Zhengfeng Fang

Animals 2022, 12(12), 1493; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani12121493 - 8 Jun 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2370

Abstract

This study was aimed to explore how a high-quality diet or a flavor plus multi-enzyme diet affects the feed intake, nutrient digestibility and antioxidation capacity of lactating sows and the growth of their progeny. Thirty primiparous sows were randomly assigned to three treatments [...] Read more.

This study was aimed to explore how a high-quality diet or a flavor plus multi-enzyme diet affects the feed intake, nutrient digestibility and antioxidation capacity of lactating sows and the growth of their progeny. Thirty primiparous sows were randomly assigned to three treatments from d 2 of lactation until weaning (d 21): control (CON), with a basal diet; high quality (HQ), with 200 kcal/kg higher net energy than CON; or the CON diet supplemented with 500 mg/kg flavor and 100 mg/kg multi-enzymes (F + E). Sows fed with the HQ or F + E diets improved piglets’ live weight (p < 0.05) and average daily weight gain (p < 0.10), litter weight gain (p < 0.10) and piglet growth to milk yield ratio (p < 0.10). Compared with CON, the HQ and F + E groups increased the digestibility of ether extract, ash, neutral detergent fiber, crude fiber and phosphorus (p < 0.10), and the HQ group also increased dry matter, gross energy, crude protein, acid detergent fiber and energy intake (p < 0.05). Compared with CON, the F + E group decreased serum urea nitrogen and aspartate aminotransferase (p < 0.05) and enhanced superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione peroxidase, but it decreased malondialdehyde in milk supernatant (p < 0.05). Full article

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15 pages, 351 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Selection of Forage Resources by Juvenile Goats in a Cafeteria Trial: Effect of Browsing Experience, Nutrient and Secondary Compound Content

by Gabriel Andrés Ortíz-Domínguez, Cindy Goretti Marin-Tun, Rafael Arturo Torres-Fajardo, Pedro Geraldo González-Pech, Concepción Manuela Capetillo-Leal, Juan Felipe de Jesús Torres-Acosta, Javier Ventura-Cordero and Carlos Alfredo Sandoval-Castro

Animals 2022, 12(10), 1317; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani12101317 - 21 May 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2212

Abstract

We evaluated the effect of browsing experience, nutritional quality and secondary compounds of forage resources, and the interaction between these factors on the selection and intake of goats in a cafeteria trial. Twelve juvenile Criollo goats from 7 to 9 months of age, [...] Read more.

We evaluated the effect of browsing experience, nutritional quality and secondary compounds of forage resources, and the interaction between these factors on the selection and intake of goats in a cafeteria trial. Twelve juvenile Criollo goats from 7 to 9 months of age, weighing 22 ± 3 kg, were divided into two groups: (a) browser goats group (n = 6, BG), and (b) naïve goats group (n = 6, NG), formed according to their previous browsing experience (with and without, respectively). Animals were housed in individual pens. The cafeteria experiment lasted 21 days considering pen adaptation, foliage adaptation, and measurements, which included the selection index (SI) of experimental forage resources (Chesson’s alpha) and their dry matter intake (DMI/Kg^0.75), using a multiple Latin square design. Furthermore, correlation and regression analyses were used to assess the relationship between the aforementioned factors. The NG did not show any selection pattern, while the BG selected Piscidia piscipula and Senegalia gaumeri (p = 0.0002). The BG consumed smaller amounts of secondary compounds compared to NG (p = 0.0001). In the BG, the flavonoids affected negatively their selection (R² = 97.51, p = 0.0001), while the DMI was affected by in vitro DM digestibility and flavonoids (R² = 99.85; p = 0.0001). For the NG, the crude protein and organic matter contents were associated with DMI, but none had a significant relationship with SI. The BG selected and consumed forages with suitable nutritional quality avoiding those with high content of secondary compounds such as flavonoids. Conversely, NG did not show a clear pattern for their selection or intake. Full article

2021

Jump to: 2024, 2023, 2022, 2020

15 pages, 867 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Hydrolysable Tannin with or without Condensed Tannin on Alfalfa Silage Fermentation Characteristics and In Vitro Ruminal Methane Production, Fermentation Patterns, and Microbiota

by Lei Chen, Xueyan Bao, Gang Guo, Wenjie Huo, Qingfang Xu, Cong Wang, Qinghong Li and Qiang Liu

Animals 2021, 11(7), 1967; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani11071967 - 30 Jun 2021

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 4997

Abstract

This study was conducted to evaluate the potential of hydrolysable tannin (chestnut tannin, CHT) without or with condensed tannin (quebracho tannin, QT) for modulating alfalfa silage fermentation characteristics and in vitro ruminal methane (CH₄) production, fermentation profile, and microbiota. Alfalfa (235 [...] Read more.

This study was conducted to evaluate the potential of hydrolysable tannin (chestnut tannin, CHT) without or with condensed tannin (quebracho tannin, QT) for modulating alfalfa silage fermentation characteristics and in vitro ruminal methane (CH₄) production, fermentation profile, and microbiota. Alfalfa (235 g/kg fresh weight) was ensiled with no tannins (control), 2% CHT (CHT2), 5% CHT (CHT5), the combination of CHT and QT at 1% each (CHQ2), and CHT and QT at 2.5% each (CHQ5) of forage dry matter (DM). The CHQ2 treatment was more effective in reducing DM losses, pH, and ammonia–nitrogen to total nitrogen ratios of alfalfa silage than CHT2 and CHT5 treatments. All tannin treatments decreased ruminal CH₄ production, and the magnitude of the decrease was greater for the combinations than the individual ones. Total volatile fatty acid (VFA) concentrations and DM degradation decreased by tannin treatments, but microbial protein (MCP) synthesis increased. The total VFA concentrations and DM degradation were lower with CHQ2 treatment than with CHT5 and CHQ5 treatments, but the MCP concentrations were comparable among these treatments. Tannin inclusion decreased the abundance of the anaerobic fungi Ruminococcus albus and Ruminococcus flavefaciens, but enhanced Fibrobacter succinogenes. The combination of CHT and QT alleviated the inhibition of CHT supply alone in Butyrivibrio fibrisolvens, Ruminobacer amylophilus, and Prevotella ruminicola as well as protease. The results revealed that a combination of HT from CHT and CT from QT at a low level can reduce proteolysis and CH₄ production of alfalfa silage without impairing ruminal fermentation and microbiota. Full article

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13 pages, 678 KiB

Open AccessReview

Omega-6 Fatty Acids: A Sustainable Alternative to Improve Beef Production Efficiency

by Bruno Ieda Cappellozza, Reinaldo Fernandes Cooke and Kelsey Margaret Harvey

Animals 2021, 11(6), 1764; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani11061764 - 12 Jun 2021

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 4844

Abstract

Global beef production must increase in the next decades to meet the demands of a growing population, while promoting sustainable use of limited natural resources. Supplementing beef cattle with omega-6 fatty acids (FAs) is a nutritional approach shown to enhance production efficiency, with [...] Read more.

Global beef production must increase in the next decades to meet the demands of a growing population, while promoting sustainable use of limited natural resources. Supplementing beef cattle with omega-6 fatty acids (FAs) is a nutritional approach shown to enhance production efficiency, with research conducted across different environments and sectors of the beef industry. Omega-6 FA from natural feed ingredients such as soybean oil are highly susceptible to ruminal biohydrogenation. Hence, our and other research groups have used soybean oil in the form of Ca soaps (CSSO) to lessen ruminal biohydrogenation, and maximize delivery of omega-6 FA to the duodenum for absorption. In cow–calf systems, omega-6 FA supplementation to beef cows improved pregnancy success by promoting the establishment of early pregnancy. Cows receiving omega-6 FA during late gestation gave birth to calves that were healthier and more efficient in the feedlot, suggesting the potential role of omega-6 FA on developmental programming. Supplementing omega-6 FA to young cattle also elicited programming effects toward improved adipogenesis and carcass quality, and improved calf immunocompetence upon a stress stimulus. Cattle supplemented with omega-6 FA during growing or finishing periods also experienced improved performance and carcass quality. All these research results were generated using cattle of different genetic composition (Bos taurus and B. indicus influenced), and in different environments (tropical, subtropical, and temperate region). Hence, supplementing omega-6 FA via CSSO is a sustainable approach to enhance the production efficiency of beef industries across different areas of the world. Full article

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22 pages, 1648 KiB

Open AccessReview

Energy Requirements of Beef Cattle: Current Energy Systems and Factors Influencing Energy Requirements for Maintenance

by Edward H. Cabezas-Garcia, Denise Lowe and Francis Lively

Animals 2021, 11(6), 1642; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani11061642 - 1 Jun 2021

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 8672

Abstract

The present review compared features of the UK system for predicting energy requirements in beef cattle with a number of feeding systems developed from research institutes consortiums around the world. In addition, energy requirements for maintenance calculated from studies conducted at the Agri-Food [...] Read more.

The present review compared features of the UK system for predicting energy requirements in beef cattle with a number of feeding systems developed from research institutes consortiums around the world. In addition, energy requirements for maintenance calculated from studies conducted at the Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute (AFBI) in Northern Ireland since the 1990s were compared with compiled data from recent peer-review papers published over the last decade (2009–2020). The mean metabolisable energy requirement for the maintenance (ME_m) of growing cattle was 0.672 MJ/kg^0.75 according to values obtained from calorimetry studies conducted at AFBI. This value is respectively 8.2 and 19.5% greater than the ME_m values obtained by the Agricultural and Food Research Council (AFRC), and the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine (NASEM) equations, but it is in close agreement with the Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique (INRA) approach, when assuming a Bos taurus bull (300 kg LW) and an efficiency for converting energy for maintenance (k_m) of 0.65. Most of the literature data on energy requirements for the maintenance for this animal category were obtained from studies conducted with Bos indicus animals and their crossbreds in Brazilian conditions with this confirming lower requirements of these animals when compared to pure Bos taurus cattle. A simulation of the total ME requirements calculated for an Angus × Friesian steer (LW = 416 kg) offered good quality grass silage, indicated that both AFRC and NASEM systems overestimate (38.5 and 20.5%, respectively) the observed efficiency of converting ME for growth (k_g). When the total ME requirements (maintenance + growth) were assessed, both systems underpredicted total ME requirement in 15.8 and 22.1 MJ/d. The mean ME_m requirements for suckler cows obtained from the literature (0.596 MJ/kg^0.75) is on average 19.1% greater than predictions given by both AFRC and INRA (lactation) equations when considering a 550 kg cow and a k_m value of 0.72. Although no differences in net energy requirements for maintenance (NE_m) were detected between dry and lactating suckler cows, as expected the later displayed greater variation as a result of differences in milk production. On this regard, the INRA model recognise increased NE_m requirements for lactating animals compared to dry cows. The re-evaluation of the concept of diet metabolisability and the analysis of existing data on compensatory growth responses are recommended for future updates of the British system (AFRC) having in to account the particularities of grass-based systems in the UK. Full article

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6 pages, 231 KiB

Open AccessCommunication

Effect of Dried Mealworms (Tenebrio molitor), Larvae and Olive Leaves (Olea europaea L.) on Growth Performance, Carcass Yield and Some Blood Parameters of Japanese Quail (Coturnix coturnix japonica)

by Asma Ait-Kaki, Jean-Luc Hornick, Samira El Otmani, Youssef Chebli and Nassim Moula

Animals 2021, 11(6), 1631; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani11061631 - 31 May 2021

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 4513

Abstract

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of Tenebrio molitor meal (TM) and/or olive leaf powder (OL) supplementation to quail diet on animal performance, carcass yield and some blood parameters. One hundred and forty-four 1-day-old Japanese quails (body weight: 29.9 [...] Read more.

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of Tenebrio molitor meal (TM) and/or olive leaf powder (OL) supplementation to quail diet on animal performance, carcass yield and some blood parameters. One hundred and forty-four 1-day-old Japanese quails (body weight: 29.9 ± 0.46 g) were divided into four groups of 36 chicks, receiving four different diets, i.e., G1: Standard commercial (SCD); G2: SCD + 3% TM; G3: SCD + 3% OL; and G4: SCD + 3% TM + 2% OL. Feed and water were provided ad-libitum. The results showed that TM and OL inclusion promoted quail body weight at 5 weeks of age; p = 0.001. Feed conversion ratio (FCR) of G3 was significantly (p < 0.01) reduced compared to the other groups. Overall mortality was not different, at around 6.25%, between groups. Carcass [(71.5–74.3%)], gizzard [(2.5–2.7%)], heart [(1.1–1.2%)] and giblet [(6.8–6.9%)] yields were not influenced by the diet. No significant effect of the diet was observed for serum proteins, creatinine, urea and lipids. To conclude, the mixture of an incorporation of TM and OL in quail diet showed no adverse effects on growth performance, carcass constituent yields and serum constituents. Full article

13 pages, 251 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Dietary Supplementation of Two-Stage Fermented Feather-Soybean Meal Product on Growth Performance and Immunity in Finishing Pigs

by Hsien-Juang Huang, Bor-Chun Weng, Yan-Der Hsuuw, Yueh-Sheng Lee and Kuo-Lung Chen

Animals 2021, 11(6), 1527; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani11061527 - 24 May 2021

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 3030

Abstract

This study investigates the effects of two-stage fermented feather meal-soybean meal product (TSFP) on growth performance, blood characteristics, and immunity of finishing pigs. Firstly, feather meal-soybean meal is subjected to aerobic fermentation with Bacillus subtilis var. natto N21, B. subtilis Da2 and Da15, [...] Read more.

This study investigates the effects of two-stage fermented feather meal-soybean meal product (TSFP) on growth performance, blood characteristics, and immunity of finishing pigs. Firstly, feather meal-soybean meal is subjected to aerobic fermentation with Bacillus subtilis var. natto N21, B. subtilis Da2 and Da15, B. amyloliquefaciens Da6, Da16 for two days, and anaerobic fermentation with B. coagulans L12 for three days. Then, the fermented product is air-dried into an end product—TSFP. Eighty hybrid pigs (Duroc x KHAPS) with equal numbers of both sexes are randomly assigned into 3% fish meal, 0%, 2.5%, or 5.0% TSFP groups with five replicates per group. Our results show that the average daily feed intake and feed conversion rate of TSFP groups are significantly better than the other groups at 0–3 weeks (p < 0.05). The 5% TSFP group significantly increased HDL-C in the blood (p < 0.05), and decreased LDL-C and blood urea nitrogen content (p < 0.05). The lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and concanavalin A (ConA) in 5% TSFP group and interferon-γ (IFN-γ) content in 2.5% and 5% TSFP groups are significantly higher than the other groups (p < 0.05). The phagocytic oxygen burst capacity and serum IgA content of the 5% TSFP group are significantly higher than those of the fishmeal group (p < 0.05). The CD3, CD4, and CD4 + CD8 + T cells subsets in 2.5% and 5% TSFP groups are significantly higher than the control group (p < 0.05). In conclusion, TSFP has a positive effect on the growth performance and immunity of finishing pigs with the best performance on 5% TSFP. Full article

13 pages, 762 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Safety of Mealworm Meal in Layer Diets and their Influence on Gut Morphology

by Ondrej Stastnik, Jakub Novotny, Andrea Roztocilova, Petr Kouril, Vojtech Kumbar, Julius Cernik, Libor Kalhotka, Leos Pavlata, Lubor Lacina and Eva Mrkvicova

Animals 2021, 11(5), 1439; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani11051439 - 18 May 2021

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 3555

Abstract

The main objective of this study was to verify the safety of mealworm meal in the feed of laying hens from 17 to 42 weeks of age. Therefore, the feed mixtures were tested in terms of microbiological stability, fungal and mycotoxin content and [...] Read more.

The main objective of this study was to verify the safety of mealworm meal in the feed of laying hens from 17 to 42 weeks of age. Therefore, the feed mixtures were tested in terms of microbiological stability, fungal and mycotoxin content and selected parameters of hens’ intestinal morphology and physiology were monitored. The experiment was carried out with 30 Lohmann Brown Classic hens. Hens were divided by body mass into three equal groups with 10 replicates per treatment. The two experimental groups received feed mixtures containing 2% and 5% yellow mealworm (Tenebrio molitor L.) meal. The third group was a control group which had 0% of mealworm meal in the diet. Diets with 2% and 5% of mealworm meals did not affect the length of villi and microbiome of the caecum. The highest digesta viscosity from the ileum was found in the group with 5% mealworm, which may indicate a slower passage of the digesta through the digestive tract. Based on our results, it may be concluded that the proportion of mealworm meals does not deteriorate the quality of feeds. Mealworm meal does not negatively affect microbial stability in experimental feeds. Therefore, it can be recommended the two and (or) five percent of mealworm meal inclusion in hen’s diet. Full article

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13 pages, 251 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Replacing Alfalfa with Paper Mulberry in Total Mixed Ration Silages: Effects on Ensiling Characteristics, Protein Degradation, and In Vitro Digestibility

by Rongrong Li, Mingli Zheng, Di Jiang, Pengjiao Tian, Menghu Zheng and Chuncheng Xu

Animals 2021, 11(5), 1273; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani11051273 - 28 Apr 2021

Cited by 20 | Viewed by 2823

Abstract

To develop an alternative high-protein forage resource to alleviate ruminant feed shortages, we investigated the effects of replacing alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) with different ratios of paper mulberry (Broussonetia papyrifera L., RY) on fermentation quality, protein degradation, and in vitro digestibility [...] Read more.

To develop an alternative high-protein forage resource to alleviate ruminant feed shortages, we investigated the effects of replacing alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) with different ratios of paper mulberry (Broussonetia papyrifera L., RY) on fermentation quality, protein degradation, and in vitro digestibility of total mixed ration (TMR) silage. The TMR were made with alfalfa and RY mixtures (36.0%), maize meal (35.0%), oat grass (10.0%), soybean meal (7.5%), brewers’ grain (5.0%), wheat bran (5.0%), premix (1.0%), and salt (0.5%) on a dry matter basis, respectively. The alfalfa and RY mixtures were made in the following ratios of dry matter: 36:0 (RY0), 27:9 (RY9), 18:18 (RY18), 9:27 (RY27), and 0:36 (RY36). After ensiling for 7, 14, 28, and 56 days, fermentation quality, protein degradation, and microbial counts were examined, and chemical composition and in vitro digestibility were analyzed after 56 days of ensiling. All TMR silages, irrespective of the substitution level of RY, were well preserved with low pH and ammonia nitrogen content, high lactic acid content, and undetectable butyric acid. After ensiling, the condensed tannin content for RY18 silages was higher than the control, but non-protein nitrogen, peptide nitrogen, and free amino acid nitrogen contents was lower, while the fraction B1 (buffer-soluble protein) was not different among all the silages. Dry matter and crude protein digestibility for RY27 and RY36 silages was lower than the control, but there was no difference between control and RY18 silages. This study suggested that ensiling RY with alfalfa inhibited true protein degradation, but decreased in vitro dry matter and crude protein digestibility of TMR silages, and that 18:18 is the optimal ratio. Full article

16 pages, 1053 KiB

Open AccessReview

Adverse Effects of Heat Stress on the Intestinal Integrity and Function of Pigs and the Mitigation Capacity of Dietary Antioxidants: A Review

by Arth David Sol Valmoria Ortega and Csaba Szabó

Animals 2021, 11(4), 1135; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani11041135 - 15 Apr 2021

Cited by 23 | Viewed by 5726

Abstract

Heat stress (HS) significantly affects the performance of pigs by its induced stressors such as inflammation, hypoxia and oxidative stress (OS), which mightily strain the intestinal integrity and function of pigs. As heat stress progresses, several mechanisms in the intestinal epithelium involved in [...] Read more.

Heat stress (HS) significantly affects the performance of pigs by its induced stressors such as inflammation, hypoxia and oxidative stress (OS), which mightily strain the intestinal integrity and function of pigs. As heat stress progresses, several mechanisms in the intestinal epithelium involved in the absorption of nutrients and its protective functions are altered. Changes in these mechanisms are mainly driven by cellular oxidative stress, which promotes disruption of intestinal homeostasis, leading to intestinal permeability, emphasizing intestinal histology and morphology with little possibility of recovering even after exposure to HS. Identification and understanding of these altered mechanisms are crucial for providing appropriate intervention strategies. Therefore, it is this papers’ objective to review the important components for intestinal integrity that are negatively affected by HS and its induced stressors. With due consideration to the amelioration of such effects through nutritional intervention, this work will also look into the capability of dietary antioxidants in mitigating such adverse effects and maintaining the intestine’s integrity and function upon the pigs’ exposure to high environmental temperature. Full article

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17 pages, 463 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Feeding Forage Mixtures of Ryegrass (Lolium spp.) with Clover (Trifolium spp.) Supplemented with Local Feed Diets to Reduce Enteric Methane Emission Efficiency in Small-Scale Dairy Systems: A Simulated Study

by Maria Danaee Celis-Alvarez, Felipe López-González, Carlos Manuel Arriaga-Jordán, Lizbeth E. Robles-Jiménez and Manuel González-Ronquillo

Animals 2021, 11(4), 946; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani11040946 - 27 Mar 2021

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2809

Abstract

In cattle, greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and nutrient balance are influenced by factors such as diet composition, intake, and digestibility. This study evaluated CH₄ emissions and surpluses of crude protein, using five simulated scenarios of supplementation in small-scale dairy systems (SSDS). In [...] Read more.

In cattle, greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and nutrient balance are influenced by factors such as diet composition, intake, and digestibility. This study evaluated CH₄ emissions and surpluses of crude protein, using five simulated scenarios of supplementation in small-scale dairy systems (SSDS). In addition, two pasture managements (cut-and-carry versus grazing) and two varieties of legumes (red clover vs. white clover) were considered. The diets were tested considering similar milk yield and chemical composition; CH₄ emission was estimated using Tier-2 methodology from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), and the data were analyzed in a completely randomized 5 × 2 × 2 factorial design. Differences (p < 0.05) were found in predicted CH₄ emissions per kg of milk produced (g kg⁻¹ FCM 3.5%). The lowest predicted CH₄ emissions were found for S3 and S4 as well as for pastures containing white clover. Lower dietary surpluses of CP (p < 0.05) were observed for the control diet (1320 g CP/d), followed by S5 (1793 g CP/d), compared with S2 (2175 g CP/d), as well as in cut-and-carry management with red clover. A significant correlation (p < 0.001) was observed between dry matter intake and CH₄ emissions (g⁻¹ and per kg of milk produced). It is concluded that the environmental impact of formulating diets from local inputs (S3 and S4) can be reduced by making them more efficient in terms of methane kg⁻¹ of milk in SSDS. Full article

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9 pages, 262 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Introducing Mediterranean Lupins in Lambs’ Diets: Effects on Growth and Digestibility

by Mariana Almeida, Sofia Garcia-Santos, Ana Nunes, Sara Rito, Jorge Azevedo, Cristina Guedes, Severiano Silva and Luís Ferreira

Animals 2021, 11(4), 942; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani11040942 - 26 Mar 2021

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2038

Abstract

Lupins are suitable candidates to replace soybean meal in livestock feeding in the Mediterranean area, presenting a solution for the European Union’s dependence on soybean importations. This study aimed to assess the effect of incorporating Lupinus albus and Lupinus luteus into Churra da [...] Read more.

Lupins are suitable candidates to replace soybean meal in livestock feeding in the Mediterranean area, presenting a solution for the European Union’s dependence on soybean importations. This study aimed to assess the effect of incorporating Lupinus albus and Lupinus luteus into Churra da Terra Quente lambs’ diets on growth performance and digestibility. Two trials were conducted over two years. In trial 1, two experimental diets containing 50 g/kg Lupinus albus and 50 g/kg Lupinus luteus were tested. In trial 2, lambs were fed with diets containing higher incorporations of Lupinus luteus (100, 150, and 200 g/kg: LL10, LL15, and LL20, respectively). Total dry matter, hay dry matter, and crude protein intake were calculated, as well as average daily gains. At the end of the growth trials, dry matter, organic matter, and NDF digestibility was determined. Incorporating 50 g/kg of lupins did not affect (p > 0.05) the performance. Lambs fed on LL20 diets presented the lowest HDMI and CPI values (p < 0.05). The highest intakes (p < 0.05) were observed from LL15 lambs. No differences were found in apparent digestibility coefficients between diets (p > 0.05), except for NDF digestibility which was highest (p < 0.05) for LL20. The optimum level of lupin inclusion in lambs’ diets seems to be 150 g/kg. Full article

13 pages, 1456 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Chitosan Inclusion and Dietary Crude Protein Level on Nutrient Intake and Digestibility, Ruminal Fermentation, and N Excretion in Beef Heifers Offered a Grass Silage Based Diet

by Stuart F. Kirwan, Karina M. Pierce, Eleonora Serra, Michael McDonald, Gaurav Rajauria and Tommy M. Boland

Animals 2021, 11(3), 771; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani11030771 - 10 Mar 2021

Cited by 23 | Viewed by 3368

Abstract

Nitrogen (N) use efficiency in beef cattle is low (10–20%), resulting in large amounts of N excreted into the environment. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of chitosan inclusion and dietary crude protein (CP) level on nutrient intake and [...] Read more.

Nitrogen (N) use efficiency in beef cattle is low (10–20%), resulting in large amounts of N excreted into the environment. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of chitosan inclusion and dietary crude protein (CP) level on nutrient intake and digestibility, ruminal fermentation, and N excretion in beef heifers. Eight Belgian Blue × Holstein Friesian cross beef heifers (752 ± 52 kg BW) were used in a 4 × 4 Latin square with a 2 × 2 factorial design. Factors were dietary CP concentration—high CP, 16% (HP) or low CP, 12% (LP)—and chitosan inclusion—0 or 10 g kg⁻¹ dry matter (DM) offered at 50:50 forage concentrate ratio on a dry matter (DM) basis. Apparent total tract digestibility of DM, organic matter (OM), and CP were reduced (p < 0.001) with chitosan inclusion, whereas offering the HP diets increased apparent total tract digestibility of CP (p < 0.001). Offering the HP diets increased urinary N excretion (p < 0.001), while chitosan inclusion increased N excretion in faeces (p < 0.05). Ruminal pH was increased with chitosan inclusion (p < 0.01). There was a CP × chitosan interaction for rumen ammonia (NH₃) concentrations (p < 0.05). Including chitosan in the HP diets increased ruminal NH₃ concentration while having no effect on the LP diets. Urinary N excretion was increased with increased levels of CP, but chitosan inclusion increased the quantity of N excreted in the faeces. Full article

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16 pages, 800 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Replacing Ensiled-Alfalfa with Fresh-Alfalfa on Dynamic Fermentation Characteristics, Chemical Compositions, and Protein Fractions in Fermented Total Mixed Ration with Different Additives

by Run Gao, Ying Luo, Shengyang Xu, Musen Wang, Zhiqiang Sun, Lei Wang and Zhu Yu

Animals 2021, 11(2), 572; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani11020572 - 22 Feb 2021

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2589

Abstract

Alfalfa (Medicago sativa) is one of the high protein ingredients of fermented total mixed ration (FTMR). Additionally, FTMR is widely used to satisfy the nutrition requirements of animals. This study was conducted to confirm the fermentation characteristics, chemical compositions and protein [...] Read more.

Alfalfa (Medicago sativa) is one of the high protein ingredients of fermented total mixed ration (FTMR). Additionally, FTMR is widely used to satisfy the nutrition requirements of animals. This study was conducted to confirm the fermentation characteristics, chemical compositions and protein fractions changes when replacing ensiled-alfalfa with fresh-alfalfa in FTMR with additives. Three additives were separately applied to fresh-alfalfa total mixed ration (TMR) and ensiled-alfalfa TMR, including molasses (MOL), Lactobacillus plantarum (LP) and MOL plus LP (MOL+LP). The same volume of distilled water was sprayed onto the prepared TMR as performed for the control (CK). Each treatment included 18 repetitions and opened 3 repetitions at each fermenting day (1, 3, 7, 15, 30 and 60 d). The results showed that fresh-alfalfa FTMR (F-FTMR) exhibited slight changes in the fermentation characteristics during the first 7 d and showed similar trends in terms of the pH and organic acids content to ensiled-alfalfa FTMR (E-FTMR). The lactic acid contents of F-FTMR were significantly lower than those of E-FTMR at 60 d fermentation and the ammonia nitrogen contents were lower than E-FTMR during the entire fermenting period. The crude protein of the F-FTMR was enhanced after 60 d of fermenting. F-FTMR supplemented with MOL+LP exhibited a lower nonprotein nitrogen content, variable to slow protein and indigestible protein contents, and higher fast degradable protein and true protein degraded intermediately contents at 60 d fermenting, indicating that it effectively inhibited protein degradation. Full article

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12 pages, 274 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Alternative Protein Sources vs. GM Soybean Meal as Feedstuff for Pigs—Meat Quality and Health-Promoting Indicators

by Marcin Sońta, Anna Rekiel, Justyna Więcek, Martyna Batorska and Kamila Puppel

Animals 2021, 11(1), 177; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani11010177 - 13 Jan 2021

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 3213

Abstract

This study aimed to explain the possibility of partial replacement of genetically-modified soybean meal (SBM GM) with pea seeds and rapeseed meal (RSM) in complete feed mixtures for growing-finishing pigs and to determine its impact on meat quality and health-promoting indices. The pigs [...] Read more.

This study aimed to explain the possibility of partial replacement of genetically-modified soybean meal (SBM GM) with pea seeds and rapeseed meal (RSM) in complete feed mixtures for growing-finishing pigs and to determine its impact on meat quality and health-promoting indices. The pigs (n = 50) were randomly divided into five groups, 10 animals each (gilts and barrows, 1:1, 3-breed: ♀ (landrace × yorkshire) × ♂ duroc), including the control group (C) and four experimental groups (E1, E2, E3, E4), and fed complete feed mixtures. The SBM GM was the only protein source in feed mixtures for control pigs. In feed mixtures for E1–E4 groups, it was partially replaced with pea seed doses of 5.0%, 10.0%, 15.0%, and 17.5% in groups E1, E2, E3, and E4, respectively. The feed mixtures were iso-energetic and iso-protein. After completed fattening, the animals were slaughtered. M. longissimus lumborum was sampled for analyses of the chemical and physical traits. The fatty acid profile determined in intramuscular fat (IMF) was used to compute the values of the health-promoting indices. The chemical and physical characteristics of meat were comparable in all groups. The study showed a dietetically-beneficial decrease in the values of atherogenicity index (AI), thrombogenicity index (TI), and saturation (S/P) in the meat of the experimental pigs vs. control group. The values of most of the analyzed quality attributes of pork justify using alternative protein sources as partial SBM GM replacers in diets for growing-finishing pigs in sustainable animal production. Full article

17 pages, 624 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Consequences of Increases in Ambient Temperature and Effect of Climate Type on Digestibility of Forages by Ruminants: A Meta-Analysis in Relation to Global Warming

by Mehluli Moyo and Ignatius Nsahlai

Animals 2021, 11(1), 172; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani11010172 - 13 Jan 2021

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 2551

Abstract

This meta-analysis evaluated the effects of ruminant feeding type, ambient temperature (AT), and climatic region on the rumen digestibility of feeds. A dataset on nylon bag degradability parameters bearing the chemical composition of roughages, grains, leaves, stems, fruits, concentrates and diets given to [...] Read more.

This meta-analysis evaluated the effects of ruminant feeding type, ambient temperature (AT), and climatic region on the rumen digestibility of feeds. A dataset on nylon bag degradability parameters bearing the chemical composition of roughages, grains, leaves, stems, fruits, concentrates and diets given to animals, climate type, and AT were compiled. Data were analysed using mixed model regression and simple linear regression methodologies. Negative correlations between AT and degradability parameters were observed. Potential degradability (PD) and slowly degradable fraction (‘b’) were higher for concentrates and mixed diets compared to roughages. Intermediate feeders had slower rates of degradation (‘c’) compared to grazers. Potential degradability was highest for studies carried out in cold and temperate climates compared to tropical and arid climates. A 1 °C increase in AT decreased PD by 0.39% (roughages), 0.76% (concentrates), and 2.41% (mixed diets), with an overall decrease of 0.55% for all feed types. The “b” fraction decreased by 0.1% (roughages), 1.1% (concentrates), 2.27% (mixed diets), and 0.35% (all feed types) for every 1 °C increase in AT. Increasing AT by 1 °C increased the neutral detergent fibre content of feeds by 0.4%. In conclusion, increases in AT increased the neutral detergent fibre content of feeds, lowering PD, “b”, and “c” of dry matter in the rumen. Full article

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2020

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13 pages, 250 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Evaluation of the Nutrient Composition, In Vitro Fermentation Characteristics, and In Situ Degradability of Amaranthus caudatus, Amaranthus cruentus, and Amaranthus hypochondriacus in Cattle

by Kim Margarette C. Nogoy, Jia Yu, Young Gyu Song, Shida Li, Jong-Wook Chung and Seong Ho Choi

Animals 2021, 11(1), 18; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani11010018 - 24 Dec 2020

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 3338

Abstract

The amaranth plants showed high potential feed value as forage for ruminants. An in-depth study of this plant, particularly in cattle, will help extend its utilization as an alternative protein and fiber feed source in cattle feeding. In this study, the nutrient compositions [...] Read more.

The amaranth plants showed high potential feed value as forage for ruminants. An in-depth study of this plant, particularly in cattle, will help extend its utilization as an alternative protein and fiber feed source in cattle feeding. In this study, the nutrient compositions of three different species of amaranth, Amaranthus caudatus L., Amaranthus cruentus L., and Amaranthus hypochondriacus L.—two varieties for each species, A.ca 74, A.ca 91, A.cu 62, A.cu 66, A. hy 30, and A. hy 48—were evaluated. The in vitro technique was used to evaluate the fermentation characteristics such as total gas production, total volatile fatty acids (VFA) concentration, pH, and ammonia concentration of the rumen fluid. Moreover, the effective degradabilities of dry matter (EDDM) and crude protein (EDCP) of the amaranth forages were determined through in situ bag technique. The amaranth forages: A. caudatus, A. cruentus, and A. hypochondriacus showed better nutritive value than the locally produced forages in Chungcheong province of Korea. The CP of the amaranth ranged from 11.95% to 14.19%, and the neutral detergent fiber (NDF) and acid detergent fiber (ADF) contents ranged from 45.53% to 70.88% and 34.17% to 49.83%, respectively. Among the amaranth varieties, A. hypochondriacus 48 showed the most excellent ruminant feed nutrient quality (CP, 14.19%; NDF, 45.53%; and ADF, 34.17%). The effective degradabilities of dry matter (EDDM; 33–56%) and crude protein EDCP (27–59%) of the amaranth were lower compared to other studies, which could be due to the maturity stage at which the forages were harvested. Nonetheless, A. hypochondriacus 48 showed the highest EDDM (56.73%) and EDCP (59.09%). The different amaranth species did not differ greatly in terms of total VFA concentration or molar proportions, total gas production, or ammonia-N concentration. The high nutrient composition, and highly effective degradability of dry matter and crude protein, coupled with the favorable fermentation characteristics, suggest that the amaranth forages showed good to excellent feed quality for cattle. Full article

13 pages, 2328 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of the Application of Lactobacillus plantarum Inoculant and Potassium Sorbate on the Fermentation Quality, In Vitro Digestibility and Aerobic Stability of Total Mixed Ration Silage Based on Alfalfa Silage

by Yixiao Xie, Shengyang Xu, Wenqi Li, Musen Wang, Zhe Wu, Jinze Bao, Tingting Jia and Zhu Yu

Animals 2020, 10(12), 2229; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani10122229 - 27 Nov 2020

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 3075

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of the application of an inoculant and a preservative on the fermentation quality, in vitro digestibility, and aerobic stability of alfalfa silage-based fermented total mixed ration (TMR). The TMR was ensiled with (1) no additives (control), [...] Read more.

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of the application of an inoculant and a preservative on the fermentation quality, in vitro digestibility, and aerobic stability of alfalfa silage-based fermented total mixed ration (TMR). The TMR was ensiled with (1) no additives (control), (2) Lactobacillus plantarum (LP), or (3) potassium sorbate (PS). The V-scores of all silages were higher than 80 points during the 30 days of ensiling. The addition of LP and PS had no effects on the in vitro parameters, such as in vitro digestibility and in vitro gas production (p > 0.05). LP-treated silage showed similar fermentation quality and comparable aerobic stability to the control (110 h). The LP only decreased the ammonia nitrogen (NH₃-N) content (p < 0.05) during ensiling. The PS significantly increased the pH of TMR silages (p < 0.05). Meanwhile, the addition of PS improved the aerobic stability (>162 h) of TMR silage, indicated by the higher water-soluble carbohydrate content and lower NH₃-N content in comparison with those in the control after aerobic exposure (p < 0.05). The improvement in fermentation quality is extremely small in terms of applying LP in TMR silage based on a large percentage of other silage ingredients. The PS is effective in conserving unpacked TMR silage and showed the potential to reduce the risk of ruminal acidosis in livestock. Full article

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16 pages, 13876 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Phlorotannins from Brown Seaweeds on the In Vitro Digestibility of Pig Feed

by Lauren Ford, Chloe Curry, Mairead Campbell, Katerina Theodoridou, Gary Sheldrake, Jaimie Dick, Lorenzo Stella and Pamela J. Walsh

Animals 2020, 10(11), 2193; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani10112193 - 23 Nov 2020

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 3482

Abstract

Phlorotannins have been reported to have positive effects on pig health, including improved gut health and digestibility. In this study, we investigate the effect of phenolics found in two brown seaweeds, Ascophyllum nodosum and Fucus serratus, on in vitro dry matter digestibility [...] Read more.

Phlorotannins have been reported to have positive effects on pig health, including improved gut health and digestibility. In this study, we investigate the effect of phenolics found in two brown seaweeds, Ascophyllum nodosum and Fucus serratus, on in vitro dry matter digestibility of seaweeds and commercial pig feed. Phlorotannin extracts and whole seaweeds were supplemented into pig feed to test their effect on digestibility. Solid-phase extraction was used to purify the phenolics to phlorotannins. The results showed a slight decrease in the digestibility of pig feed that was found to be significant when phlorotannin extracts were added from either seaweed. However, when whole A. nodosum was added to the pig feed, the effect on digestibility was less pronounced. Specifically, no significant difference in digestibility was observed at inclusion rates up to 5%, and thereafter results varied. A difference in digestibility was also observed in the same species at the same inclusion rate, collected from different seasons. This suggests that other compounds, e.g., polysaccharides, are having an effect on digestibility when whole seaweeds are supplemented to animal feed. This research has also highlighted the need to base supplementation on phenolic concentration as opposed to a standardised percentage inclusion of seaweeds to ensure that digestibility is not adversely affected. Full article

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13 pages, 1839 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Skin Pigmentation in Gilthead Seabream (Sparus aurata L.) Fed Conventional and Novel Protein Sources in Diets Deprived of Fish Meal

by Domitilla Pulcini, Fabrizio Capoccioni, Simone Franceschini, Marco Martinoli and Emilio Tibaldi

Animals 2020, 10(11), 2138; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani10112138 - 17 Nov 2020

Cited by 21 | Viewed by 3681

Abstract

The pattern of yellowish pigmentation of the skin was assessed in gilthead seabream (Sparus aurata) fed for 12 weeks iso-proteic (45%) and iso-lipidic (20%) diets deprived of fish meal and containing either a blend of vegetable protein-rich ingredients or where graded [...] Read more.

The pattern of yellowish pigmentation of the skin was assessed in gilthead seabream (Sparus aurata) fed for 12 weeks iso-proteic (45%) and iso-lipidic (20%) diets deprived of fish meal and containing either a blend of vegetable protein-rich ingredients or where graded levels of the vegetable protein blend were replaced by insect (Hermetia illucens—10%, 20% or 40%) pupae meal, poultry by-product meal (20%, 30% or 40%), red swamp crayfish meal (10%) and marine microalgae (Tisochrysis lutea and Tetraselmis suecica—10%) dried biomass. Digital images of fish fed diets differing in protein sources were analyzed by means of an automatic and non-invasive image analysis tool, in order to determine the number of yellow pixels and their dispersion on the frontal and lateral sides of the fish. The relationship between the total carotenoid concentration in the diet and the number of yellow pixels was investigated. Test diets differently affected gilthead seabream skin pigmentation both in the forefront and the operculum, due to their carotenoid content. The highest yellow pixels’ number was observed with the diet containing microalgae. Fish fed poultry by-product meal were characterized by the lowest yellow pixels’ number, diets containing insect meal had an intermediate coloring capacity. The vegetable control, the microalgae mix diet and the crayfish diet had significantly higher values of yellow pixels at both inspected skin sites. Full article

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24 pages, 1385 KiB

Open AccessReview

Potential of Mulberry Leaf Biomass and Its Flavonoids to Improve Production and Health in Ruminants: Mechanistic Insights and Prospects

by Faiz-ul Hassan, Muhammad Adeel Arshad, Mengwei Li, Muhammad Saif-ur Rehman, Juan J. Loor and Jiaxiang Huang

Animals 2020, 10(11), 2076; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani10112076 - 9 Nov 2020

Cited by 62 | Viewed by 11471

Abstract

Leaf biomass from the mulberry plant (genus Morus and family Moraceae) is considered a potential resource for livestock feeding. Mulberry leaves (MLs) contain high protein (14.0–34.2%) and metabolizable energy (1130–2240 kcal/kg) with high dry matter (DM) digestibility (75–85%) and palatability. Flavonoid contents [...] Read more.

Leaf biomass from the mulberry plant (genus Morus and family Moraceae) is considered a potential resource for livestock feeding. Mulberry leaves (MLs) contain high protein (14.0–34.2%) and metabolizable energy (1130–2240 kcal/kg) with high dry matter (DM) digestibility (75–85%) and palatability. Flavonoid contents of MLs confer unique antioxidant properties and can potentially help alleviate oxidative stress in animals during stressful periods, such as neonatal, weaning, and periparturient periods. In addition, mulberry leaf flavonoids (MLFs) possess antimicrobial properties and can effectively decrease the population of ruminal methanogens and protozoa to reduce enteric methane (CH₄) production. Owing to its rich flavonoid content, feeding MLs increases fiber digestion and utilization leading to enhanced milk production in ruminants. Dietary supplementation with MLFs alters ruminal fermentation kinetics by increasing total volatile fatty acids, propionate, and ammonia concentrations. Furthermore, they can substantially increase the population of specific cellulolytic bacteria in the rumen. Owing to their structural homology with steroid hormones, the MLFs can potentially modulate different metabolic pathways particularly those linked with energy homeostasis. This review aims to highlight the potential of ML and its flavonoids to modulate the ruminal microbiome, fermentation, and metabolic status to enhance productive performance and health in ruminants while reducing CH₄ emission. Full article

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8 pages, 575 KiB

Open AccessCommunication

Effects of Wheat Bran Applied to Maternal Diet on the Intestinal Architecture and Immune Gene Expression in Suckling Piglets

by Julie Leblois, Yuping Zhang, José Wavreille, Julie Uerlings, Martine Schroyen, Ester Arévalo Sureda, Hélène Soyeurt, Frédéric Dehareng, Clément Grelet, Isabelle P. Oswald, Bing Li, Jérôme Bindelle, Hongfu Zhang and Nadia Everaert

Animals 2020, 10(11), 2051; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani10112051 - 6 Nov 2020

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3041

Abstract

The strategy of improving the growth and health of piglets through maternal fiber diet intervention has attracted increasing attention. Therefore, 15 sows were conducted to a wheat bran (WB) group, in which the sows’ diets included 25% of WB in gestation and 14% [...] Read more.

The strategy of improving the growth and health of piglets through maternal fiber diet intervention has attracted increasing attention. Therefore, 15 sows were conducted to a wheat bran (WB) group, in which the sows’ diets included 25% of WB in gestation and 14% in lactation, and a control (CON) group, in which the sows’ diets at all stages of reproduction did not contain WB. The results show that maternal high WB intervention seems not to have an impact on the growth of the offspring or the villus height of the duodenum, and the ratio of villi/crypts in the duodenum and jejunum were all higher in piglets born from WB sows, which may indicate that WB piglets had a larger absorption area and capacity for nutrients. The peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) and interleukin 6 (IL6) expression levels were notably upregulated in the ileal mucosa of WB piglets, while no immune-related genes in the colonic mucosa were affected by the maternal WB supplementation. In conclusion, adding a high proportion of wheat bran to the sow’s gestation and lactation diet can affect the intestinal architecture and the expression of some inflammation genes, to some extent, in the ileal mucosa in the progeny. Full article

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15 pages, 1026 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Evaluation of Stylosanthes scabra Accessions as Forage Source for Ruminants: Growth Performance, Nutritive Value and In Vitro Ruminal Fermentation

by Thamsanqa Doctor Empire Mpanza, Abubeker Hassen and Abiodun Mayowa Akanmu

Animals 2020, 10(11), 1939; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani10111939 - 22 Oct 2020

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2615

Abstract

Feed shortage is the main cause of poor production performance in livestock under smallholder farmer’s in South Africa. Therefore, this study evaluated the growth performance, nutritive value and in vitro ruminal fermentation of Stylosanthes scabra accessions in climatic condition of Pretoria, South Africa [...] Read more.

Feed shortage is the main cause of poor production performance in livestock under smallholder farmer’s in South Africa. Therefore, this study evaluated the growth performance, nutritive value and in vitro ruminal fermentation of Stylosanthes scabra accessions in climatic condition of Pretoria, South Africa as potential forage sources in order to improve feed quality and subsequently livestock production. Stylosanthes scabra accessions were planted in 6 m² plots following a complete randomized block design with three replicates per accession. The plants were allowed to grow to full maturity after which forage was harvested and yield, chemical composition, phenolic compounds, in vitro organic matter digestibility (IVOMD) and in vitro ruminal fermentation characteristic were determined. Forage yield of accessions ranged between 4.3 to 5.3 t ha⁻¹ in dry matter (DM), and only twelve accessions were identified to be adaptable over the three-year evaluation under rain-fed. Accessions 140, 9281, 11,252, 11,595, 11,604 and 11,625 were consistent in terms of forage yield over the three years. Significant differences among accessions were observed for crude protein (CP), neutral detergent fiber (NDF), IVOMD, metabolizable energy, metabolizable energy yield, gas production, total phenols, total hydrolysable tannins and total condensed tannins. Principal component and clustering analysis showed that accessions 11,255 and 11,625 are distinct in their characteristics as compared to the rest of the accessions, and both accessions are suitable forage source for animals since they contain low NDF with good forage production and crude protein content. However, there is a need for further study to integrate these accessions into the feeding systems in order to improve livestock production. Full article

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18 pages, 1062 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Optimal Combination of Dietary Starch, Non-Starch Polysaccharides, and Mannan-Oligosaccharide Increases the Growth Performance and Improves Butyrate-Producing Bacteria of Weaned Pigs

by Hua Zhou, Bing Yu, Jun He, Xiangbing Mao, Ping Zheng, Jie Yu, Junqiu Luo, Yuheng Luo, Hui Yan and Daiwen Chen

Animals 2020, 10(10), 1745; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani10101745 - 25 Sep 2020

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 3071

Abstract

The present experiment was conducted to dissect the effects of different carbohydrate combinations on the growth performance, nutrient digestibility, and microbial communities in weaned pigs. The combination was optimized by constructing L₉(3⁴) orthogonal design. Three factors include starch (amylose [...] Read more.

The present experiment was conducted to dissect the effects of different carbohydrate combinations on the growth performance, nutrient digestibility, and microbial communities in weaned pigs. The combination was optimized by constructing L₉(3⁴) orthogonal design. Three factors include starch (amylose to amylopectin (AM/AP) ratio 2:1, 1:1, 1:2), non-starch polysaccharides (NSP) (1%, 2%, 3%, a mixture of inulin with cellulose by 1:1), and mannan-oligosaccharide (MOS) (400, 800, 1200 mg/kg) were investigated and nine combinations were implemented under different levels of these factors. One hundred and sixty-two weaned pigs were randomly assigned to nine dietary treatments with six replicates per treatment and three pigs per replicate. Results exhibited that different combinations of starch, NSP, and MOS affected the gain to feed (G:F) (p < 0.05), diarrhea incidence (p < 0.10), nutrient digestibility (p < 0.05), microbial communities, and short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) concentrations (p < 0.05). In the present study, taking into account three-way ANOVA, range, and direct analysis, we found that the optimal carbohydrate combination was starch AM/AP 1:1, NSP 3%, MOS 400 mg/kg for weaned pigs. Moreover, feeding this combination diet could promote the growth performance and nutrient digestibility, increase the butyrate-producing bacteria, and to some extent improve lipid metabolism. This study provided a novel way to evaluate the carbohydrate quality in swine production. Full article

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13 pages, 1205 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Assessment of Gastrointestinal Parasites and Productive Parameters on Sheep Fed on a Ration Supplemented with Guazuma ulmifolia Leaves in Southern Mexico

by Emelyne Le Bodo, Jean-Luc Hornick, Nassim Moula, Serrano Aracely Zuñiga and Juan Carlos Martínez-Alfaro

Animals 2020, 10(9), 1617; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani10091617 - 10 Sep 2020

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2948

Abstract

This study aimed at evaluating the impact of a diet supplemented with Guazuma ulmifolia leaves on the productive performance and gastrointestinal parasites (GI) eggs/oocysts shedding of sheep (Pelibuey breed). Twenty-two non-lactating ewes were used. They were randomly allocated to two similar groups in [...] Read more.

This study aimed at evaluating the impact of a diet supplemented with Guazuma ulmifolia leaves on the productive performance and gastrointestinal parasites (GI) eggs/oocysts shedding of sheep (Pelibuey breed). Twenty-two non-lactating ewes were used. They were randomly allocated to two similar groups in terms of age, weight, body condition score (BCS), and GI parasites status. For 30 days, while the control group (G0) was given basic forage hay of Cynodon nlemfuensis, the test group (G1) received a blend of G. ulmifolia fresh foliage and C. nlemfuensis hay (respectively 30 and 70% of the diet on a DM basis). Animals were housed in separate covered pens. Quantitative coprological analysis was performed. Weight and BCS were evaluated. The daily feed amounts given and refused were measured in order to assess nutrient components intake (minerals, energy, and nitrogen). The results showed no significant differences between G1 and G0 regarding the anthelmintic and anticoccidial effects (p = 0.57, p = 0.91, respectively). Similarly, no significant overall impact on weight and BCS during the experiment (p = 0.77, p = 0.32, respectively) was observed. Nevertheless, concerning the bromatological analysis of G. ulmifolia, its use as a diet supplement to address protein and mineral deficits due to a poor-quality diet is fully justified. Full article

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16 pages, 1461 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Sustainable Food Production and Nutraceutical Applications from Qatar Desert Chlorella sp. (Chlorophyceae)

by Rihab Rasheed, Imen Saadaoui, Touria Bounnit, Maroua Cherif, Ghamza Al Ghazal and Hareb Al Jabri

Animals 2020, 10(8), 1413; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani10081413 - 13 Aug 2020

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 3794

Abstract

Microalgae isolated from the Qatari desert was identified as thermotolerant, with a rich metabolite profile that is appropriate for use as food and health supplements. In this research, a species of Chlorella, QUCCCM3, from the Qatar University Culture Collection of Cyanobacteria and [...] Read more.

Microalgae isolated from the Qatari desert was identified as thermotolerant, with a rich metabolite profile that is appropriate for use as food and health supplements. In this research, a species of Chlorella, QUCCCM3, from the Qatar University Culture Collection of Cyanobacteria and Microalgae, was investigated for its growth characteristics and metabolite compositions for use as potential feedstock for food production. The strain was cultivated at 30, 35, and 40 °C, covering the annual average low and high temperatures in Qatar. The highest growth rates were recorded for cultures at 30 °C with 0.64 ± 0.04 day⁻¹, followed by a growth rate of 0.54 ± 0.06 day⁻¹ at 40 °C, indicating its thermotolerance ability. The biomass exhibited a high protein content (43 ± 2.3%), with existence of lysine (4.13%) as an essential amino acid, and docosahexaenoic acid, linoleic acid, and alpha-linolenic acid as important omega fatty acids present. On the other hand, Chlorella sp. QUCCCM3 also exhibited a high capacity for scavenging free radicals with an antiproliferative effect against chronic myeloid leukemia K562 cancer cells. The results indicate that Chlorella sp. QUCCCM3 is a promising candidate that can be produced year-round, in the Qatar environment, for commercial applications such as feed and nutraceutical supplements. Full article

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21 pages, 1128 KiB

Open AccessReview

Evaluation of the Relationship between Adipose Metabolism Patterns and Secretion of Appetite-Related Endocrines on Chicken

by Wen Yang Chuang, Yun Chen Hsieh, Li Wei Chen and Tzu-Tai Lee

Animals 2020, 10(8), 1282; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani10081282 - 27 Jul 2020

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3502

Abstract

In addition to the influence of genes, the quality of poultry products is mainly controlled by the rearing environment or feed composition during rearing, and has to meet human use and economical needs. As the only source of energy for poultry, feed considerably [...] Read more.

In addition to the influence of genes, the quality of poultry products is mainly controlled by the rearing environment or feed composition during rearing, and has to meet human use and economical needs. As the only source of energy for poultry, feed considerably affects the metabolic pattern of poultry and further affects the regulation of appetite-related endocrine secretion in poultry. Under normal circumstances, the accumulation of lipid in adipose reduces feed intake in poultry and increases the rate of adipose metabolism. When the adipose content in cells decreases, endocrines that promote food intake are secreted and increase nutrient concentrations in serum and cells. By regulating the balance between appetite and adipose metabolism, the poultry’s growth and posture can maintain a balanced state. In addition, increasing fiber composition in feed can effectively increase poultry welfare, body weight, lean composition and antioxidant levels in poultry. According to this, the concept that proper fiber content should be added to feed should be considered for better economic benefits, poultry welfare and meat productivity. Full article

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16 pages, 780 KiB

Open AccessArticle

In Vitro Fermentation Patterns and Methane Output of Perennial Ryegrass Differing in Water-Soluble Carbohydrate and Nitrogen Concentrations

by M. Jordana Rivero, Juan P. Keim, Oscar A. Balocchi and Michael R.F. Lee

Animals 2020, 10(6), 1076; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani10061076 - 22 Jun 2020

Cited by 20 | Viewed by 3224

Abstract

The objective of this study was to determine the effect of perennial ryegrass (PRG) forages differing in their concentration of water-soluble carbohydrates (WSC) and crude protein (CP), and collected in spring and autumn, on in vitro rumen fermentation variables, nitrogen (N) metabolism indicators [...] Read more.

The objective of this study was to determine the effect of perennial ryegrass (PRG) forages differing in their concentration of water-soluble carbohydrates (WSC) and crude protein (CP), and collected in spring and autumn, on in vitro rumen fermentation variables, nitrogen (N) metabolism indicators and methane (CH₄) output, using a batch culture system. Two contrasting PRG pastures, sampled both in autumn and spring, were used: high (HS) and low (LS) sugar pastures with WSC concentrations of 322 and 343 g/kg for HS (autumn and spring), and 224 and 293 g/kg for LS in autumn and spring, respectively. Duplicates were incubated for 24 h with rumen inocula in three different days (blocks). Headspace gas pressure was measured at 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 10, 12, 18, and 24 h, and CH₄ concentration was determined. The supernatants were analysed for individual volatile fatty acids (VFA) concentrations, and NH₃-N. The solid residue was analysed for total N and neutral detergent insoluble N. Another set of duplicates was incubated for 4 h for VFA and NH₃-N determination. The HS produced more gas (218 vs. 204 mL/g OM), tended to increase total VFA production (52.0 mM vs. 49.5 mM at 24 h), reduced the acetate:propionate ratio (2.52 vs. 3.20 at 4 h and 2.85 vs. 3.19 at 24 h) and CH₄ production relative to total gas production (15.6 vs. 16.8 mL/100 mL) and, improved N use efficiency (22.1 vs. 20.9). The contrasting chemical composition modified in vitro rumen fermentation tending to increase total VFA production, reduce the acetate:propionate ratio and CH₄ concentration, and improve N use efficiency through lower rumen NH₃-N. Full article

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11 pages, 272 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Comparative Study of Intake, Apparent Digestibility and Energy and Nitrogen Uses in Sahelian and Majorera Dairy Goats Fed Hay of Vigna unguiculata

by Fafa Sow, Khady Niang, Younouss Camara, El Hadji Traoré, Nassim Moula, Jean François Cabaraux, Ayao Missohou and Jean-Luc Hornick

Animals 2020, 10(5), 861; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani10050861 - 15 May 2020

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2821

Abstract

This study aimed to compare digestive and metabolic characteristics in Sahelian (S) and Majorera (M) goat breeds. Six lactating females from each breed, with an average weight 27.0 ± 1.93 and 23.7 ± 1.27 kg, respectively, were used. Cowpea hay, variety 58/74, was [...] Read more.

This study aimed to compare digestive and metabolic characteristics in Sahelian (S) and Majorera (M) goat breeds. Six lactating females from each breed, with an average weight 27.0 ± 1.93 and 23.7 ± 1.27 kg, respectively, were used. Cowpea hay, variety 58/74, was offered as sole feed ingredient, at a rate of 2 kg of fresh matter per animal per day. The animals were placed in metabolic cages and a digestibility test was conducted according to an adaptation period of 15 days and a collection period of 7 days. The daily chemical components offered and refused and recovered faeces, urine and milk were measured in order to assess energy and nitrogen utilization. The M and S goats had similar levels of dry matter (DM) intake as well as nutrient digestibility. On a metabolic weight basis, dry matter intake, gross energy intake, metabolizable and energy intake, digestible energy and energy lost as methane production were significantly higher (p < 0.01) in M than in S goats. Urinary energy excretion was similar (p = 0.9) between breeds, while faecal energy output was higher in M than in S goats. The milk energy output from the M goats was higher than that the S goats (p < 0.05). However, metabolizable to net energy conversion efficiency (klm) was not affected by breed (p = 0.37), while N intake, milk N yield and faecal N losses, relative to metabolic weight, were significantly higher (p < 0.05) in M than in S goats. Similarly, the percentage of dietary N intake excreted in urine (UNIN) was higher in S than in M breeds. The breed factor had no effect on N retained, N digestibility, urinary N and N use efficiency. In conclusion, the M and S goats were similar in terms of energy and nitrogen use efficiency, despite higher daily milk production and DM consumption in the M goat. This suggests that the M breed is possibly more dependent on a dense nutrition diet than the S breed but requires less maintenance nitrogen. Full article

11 pages, 777 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Comparison of Selenium Source in Preventing Oxidative Stress in Bovine Mammary Epithelial Cells

by Lingling Sun, Fang Wang, Zhaohai Wu, Lu Ma, Craig Baumrucker and Dengpan Bu

Animals 2020, 10(5), 842; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani10050842 - 13 May 2020

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 2634

Abstract

Oxidative stress can cause cell damage. Hydroxy-selenomethionine (HMSeBA) is an organic Se source with emerging antioxidant advantages. The objective of this study was to compare the effects of HMSeBA, selenomethionine (SeMet) and sodium selenite (SS) on the antioxidant response and the ability to [...] Read more.

Oxidative stress can cause cell damage. Hydroxy-selenomethionine (HMSeBA) is an organic Se source with emerging antioxidant advantages. The objective of this study was to compare the effects of HMSeBA, selenomethionine (SeMet) and sodium selenite (SS) on the antioxidant response and the ability to resist oxidative stress in bovine mammary epithelial cells (BMEC). The BMEC were treated with 0 (Control), 20, 50, 100 and 150 nM HMSeBA, 100 nM SeMet and100 nM SS for 48 h. The results showed that HMSeBA and SeMet treatments had higher glutathione peroxidase (p < 0.01) and catalase (p = 0.01) activities and mRNA abundance of GPX3 (p = 0.02), but lower superoxide dismutase activity compared with SS (p = 0.04). The catalase activity (p < 0.05) and mRNA abundance of GPX3 (p = 0.04) changed in a quadratic manner with the increase of HMSeBA levels. To assess the potential protection of different Se sources against oxidative stress on BMEC, 0 or 50 μM H₂O₂ was added to BMEC culture for 3 h after Se pre-treatment for 48 h. The results showed that HMSeBA and SeMet, which did not differ (p > 0.05), but further decreased malondialdehyde and reactive oxygen species production compared with SS (p < 0.05). In conclusion, HMSeBA showed an enhanced cellular antioxidant status to resist oxidative damage induced by H₂O₂ when compared with SS, whereas the effects were similar to SeMet. Full article

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19 pages, 1242 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Dry-Period Diet on the Performance and Metabolism of Dairy Cows in Early Lactation

by Julien Soulat, Emilie Knapp, Nassim Moula, Jean-Luc Hornick, Céline Purnelle and Isabelle Dufrasne

Animals 2020, 10(5), 803; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani10050803 - 6 May 2020

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2583

Abstract

The objective of this work was to observe the effect of three different dry-period diets on blood metabolites (p = 9) and the production and fatty acid (FA) profile of milk (p = 19) in the peripartum period. In this study, [...] Read more.

The objective of this work was to observe the effect of three different dry-period diets on blood metabolites (p = 9) and the production and fatty acid (FA) profile of milk (p = 19) in the peripartum period. In this study, 32 Holstein dairy cows, during their dry period, were divided in 3 different diet groups, as follows: the CONC diet (n = 11) was based on concentrate meal and straw, the CORN diet (n = 11) was based on corn silage, and the MIXED diet (n = 10) was based on corn and grass silages. According to our results, the variations of C18:2n-6, C18:3n-3, non-esterified fatty acid (NEFA), NEFA/cholesterol ratio, and albumin were significantly (p < 0.05) different, according to the dry diet. The dry-period diet also had a significant effect on the concentrations of urea and vitamin B₁₂ in the blood. In early lactation, this work showed that blood metabolites were more sensitive to changes in the dry diet than the production and FA profile of milk. Full article

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