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16 pages, 4972 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Polysaccharide of Atractylodes macrocephala Koidz Alleviates Cyclophosphamide-Induced Thymus Ferroptosis in Gosling

by Xiangying Zhou, Nan Cao, Danning Xu, Yunbo Tian, Xu Shen, Danli Jiang, Yunmao Huang, Wanyan Li and Bingxin Li

Animals 2022, 12(23), 3394; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani12233394 - 2 Dec 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1720

Abstract

The present study aimed to explore the mechanism by which PAMK alleviates cyclophosphamide (CTX)-induced ferroptosis in thymocytes. One-day-old goslings were divided into four groups (10 goslings/group). The CON and CTX groups were fed a basic diet. The PAMK and CTX + PAMK groups [...] Read more.

The present study aimed to explore the mechanism by which PAMK alleviates cyclophosphamide (CTX)-induced ferroptosis in thymocytes. One-day-old goslings were divided into four groups (10 goslings/group). The CON and CTX groups were fed a basic diet. The PAMK and CTX + PAMK groups were fed the basic diet mixed with PAMK (400 mg/kg). Moreover, the CTX and CTX + PAMK groups were given a daily injection of 40 mg/kg BW of CTX (at 19, 20, and 21 days of age). On the other hand, the CON and PAMK groups were given 0.5 mL of sterilized saline into the leg muscle (at 19, 20, and 21 days of age). The goslings were fed for 28 days. The ferroptosis pathway was enriched in transcriptome sequencing. Compared to the CON group, the thymus in the CTX group underwent injury, and the mitochondria of thymocytes showed features of ferroptosis. PAMK treatment alleviated ferroptosis in thymocytes and thymus injury, and CTX-induced elevated levels of oxidative stress and iron content restored GPX4 protein expression (p < 0.05) and inhibited the CTX-induced activation of the ferroptosis pathway (p < 0.05). Conclusively, PAMK could reduce thymus injury by alleviating CTX-induced thymocyte ferroptosis in gosling to alleviate the immunosuppression caused by CTX in the organism. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New and Potential Feedstuffs and Additives in Livestock)

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11 pages, 270 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Evaluation of Rosmarinic Acid on Broiler Growth Performance, Serum Biochemistry, Liver Antioxidant Activity, and Muscle Tissue Composition

by Rongsheng Shang, Lifei Chen, Yizhen Xin, Guiying Wang, Rong Li, Shaojin Li and Lusheng Li

Animals 2022, 12(23), 3313; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani12233313 - 27 Nov 2022

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 1969

Abstract

The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of dietary supplementation with different doses of rosmarinic acid (RA) on the growth performance, serum biochemical indices, liver antioxidant activity, and muscle nutritional component of broiler chickens during 1–20 days of age. [...] Read more.

The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of dietary supplementation with different doses of rosmarinic acid (RA) on the growth performance, serum biochemical indices, liver antioxidant activity, and muscle nutritional component of broiler chickens during 1–20 days of age. A total of 1000 1-day-old Cobb 500 white-feathered broilers were divided into five groups. Each group included four replicates and 50 birds per replicate. The control group was the basic fodder group fed with a basal diet. The experimental groups included four levels of RA (100, 200, 300, and 400 mg/kg RA added to the basal diet, respectively). The results showed that a quadratic increase in final body weight (BW) and average daily gain (ADG) and a quadratic decrease in the feed/gain (F/G) ratio were observed with increasing dietary RA levels. At 200 mg/kg RA supplementation, growth performance was significantly improved. Moreover, under this RA treatment, the highest levels of total protein and globulin were detected in the serum, the activities of total superoxide dismutase and catalase in the liver of broilers were significantly increased, and the malondialdehyde content was significantly decreased, indicating a higher antioxidant capacity of the liver when 200 mg/kg RA was added to the basal diet. The flavor of the muscle meat was improved by dietary supplementation with 200 mg/kg RA. Therefore, adding 200 mg/kg of RA to the diet could significantly improve the growth performance of broilers, improve liver antioxidant capacity, and improve muscle quality, etc. The addition of RA to broiler feed as a natural antioxidant has great prospects. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New and Potential Feedstuffs and Additives in Livestock)

15 pages, 1991 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Supplementation of Paraformic Acid as a Substitute for Antibiotics in the Diet Improves Growth Performance and Liver Health in Broiler Chickens

by Qinjin Wang, Jiaxing Niu, Yang Liu, Ning Jiao, Libo Huang, Shuzhen Jiang, Lei Yan, Weiren Yang and Yang Li

Animals 2022, 12(20), 2825; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani12202825 - 18 Oct 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1868

Abstract

The current study aimed to explore the effects of supplementing paraformic acid (PFA) into broilers’ diet on growth performance, inflammatory responses, and liver protection. A total of 567 healthy one-day-old broilers were used in a 42-d study, and they were randomized into three [...] Read more.

The current study aimed to explore the effects of supplementing paraformic acid (PFA) into broilers’ diet on growth performance, inflammatory responses, and liver protection. A total of 567 healthy one-day-old broilers were used in a 42-d study, and they were randomized into three groups. Broilers were fed a basal diet (CON group) or the basal diet supplemented with either 50 mg/kg aureomycin (AB group) or 1000 mg/kg PFA (PFA group). The results showed that the PFA and AB groups had a higher feed conversion rate than the CON group from day 21 to 42 (p < 0.05). Dietary PFA or aureomycin supplementation decreased serum levels of interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, IL-10, alanine transaminase, diamine oxidase, and D-lactate, and significantly increased serum concentrations of immunoglobulin (Ig) A, IgM, and complement C4 (p < 0.05). Moreover, dietary PFA or aureomycin supplementation decreased hepatic levels of caspase-1, NOD-like receptor family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3), tumor necrosis factor-alpha, IL-6, and IL-18, as well as NF-κB mRNA expression (p < 0.05). Above all, PFA supplementation into the broilers’ diet improved growth performance, inhibited inflammatory responses, and benefited liver protection. The protective effects of PFA on the liver might be related to inhibition of caspase-1-induced pyroptosis via inactivating the NF-κB/NLRP3 inflammasome axis in broiler chickens. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New and Potential Feedstuffs and Additives in Livestock)

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11 pages, 286 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Use of Removed Mesquite Brush as a Fiber Replacement in Silage Production

by William Taylor Fair, Jeffrey Bryan Breeden, Thomas Wayne Atchley, Barry Don Lambert, Zhan Aljoe, Walter Franklin Owsley and William Brandon Smith

Animals 2022, 12(20), 2795; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani12202795 - 16 Oct 2022

Viewed by 1340

Abstract

Mesquite (Prosopis L.) is considered an invasive browse species in most of the American Southwest. Mechanical intervention removes yields an excess of organic debris. Anecdotal evidence in the past has supported using such browse as feed for livestock. Thus, our objectives were [...] Read more.

Mesquite (Prosopis L.) is considered an invasive browse species in most of the American Southwest. Mechanical intervention removes yields an excess of organic debris. Anecdotal evidence in the past has supported using such browse as feed for livestock. Thus, our objectives were to (1) determine the nutritive value and fermentation characteristics of silage produced with mesquite biomass, and (2) evaluate solvent treatment of mesquite biomass prior to ensiling. In Experiment 1, we evaluated mesquite inclusion rate (0, 250, 500, 750, or 1000 g kg⁻¹ DM), length of fermentation (28, 56, or 84 d), and silage inoculant. In Experiment 2, we evaluated the effects of mesquite pre-treatment with acid (H₂SO₄) or alkali (NaOH) solutions. Concentrations of NDF, ADF, and ADL, as well as IVTD, decreased (p < 0.05) with increasing mesquite inclusion. However, 250 g mesquite kg⁻¹ DM did not differ from grass silage. There was no effect (p > 0.05) of inoculation, though increasing length of incubation did increase (p < 0.05) VFA production and decrease (p < 0.05) silage pH. Solvent treatment did not improve ensiling properties. Results are interpreted to mean that mesquite biomass may be effectively incorporated into silage at levels up to 250 g kg⁻¹. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New and Potential Feedstuffs and Additives in Livestock)

13 pages, 827 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Bioprocessing of Two Crop Residues for Animal Feeding into a High-Yield Lovastatin Feed Supplement

by Amaury Ábrego-García, Héctor M. Poggi-Varaldo, M. Teresa Ponce-Noyola, Graciano Calva-Calva, Cutberto José Juvencio Galíndez-Mayer, Gustavo G. Medina-Mendoza and Noemí F. Rinderknecht-Seijas

Animals 2022, 12(19), 2697; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani12192697 - 7 Oct 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2483

Abstract

This work aimed to evaluate the lovastatin (Lv) production by solid-state fermentation (SSF) from selected crop residues, considering the post-fermented residues as feed supplements for ruminants. The SSF was performed with two substrates (wheat bran and oat straw) and two A. terreus strains [...] Read more.

This work aimed to evaluate the lovastatin (Lv) production by solid-state fermentation (SSF) from selected crop residues, considering the post-fermented residues as feed supplements for ruminants. The SSF was performed with two substrates (wheat bran and oat straw) and two A. terreus strains (CDBB H-194 and CDBB H-1976). The Lv yield, proximate analysis, and organic compounds by GC–MS in the post-fermented residues were assessed. The combination of the CDBB H-194 strain with oat straw at 16 d of incubation time showed the highest Lv yield (23.8 mg/g DM fed) and the corresponding degradation efficiency of hemicellulose + cellulose was low to moderate (24.1%). The other three treatments showed final Lv concentrations in decreasing order of 9.1, 6.8, and 5.67 mg/g DM fed for the oat straw + CDBB H-1976, wheat bran + CDBB H-194, and wheat bran + CDBB H-1976, respectively. An analysis of variance of the 2² factorial experiment of Lv showed a strong significant interaction between the strain and substrate factors. The kinetic of Lv production adequately fitted a zero-order model in the four treatments. GC–MS analysis identified only a couple of compounds from the residues fermented by A. terreus CDBB H-194 (1,3-dipalmitin trimethylsilyl ether in the fermented oat straw and stearic acid hydrazide in the fermented wheat bran) that could negatively affect ruminal bacteria and fungi. Solid-state fermentation of oat straw with CDBB H-194 deserves further investigation due to its high yield of Lv; low dietary proportions of this post-fermented oat straw could be used as an Lv-carrier supplement for rumen methane mitigation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New and Potential Feedstuffs and Additives in Livestock)

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10 pages, 306 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Performance, Feeding Behavior and Immune Response in Nellore and Angus × Nellore Steers Fed Whole Shelled Corn Diets with or without Fiber

by Aline Castro Rodrigues, Priscilla Dutra Teixeira, Daniel Rume Casagrande, Ana Paula Peconick, Tamara Cristina Coelho, Pedro Veiga Rodrigues Paulino and Márcio Machado Ladeira

Animals 2022, 12(19), 2692; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani12192692 - 6 Oct 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1906

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate performance, to evaluate performance, carcass traits, feeding behavior, and humoral immune response in Nellore and Angus × Nellore steers fed whole shelled corn diets. Sixteen Nellore and 16 Angus × Nellore steers with 353 ± 25.3 kg were [...] Read more.

This study aimed to evaluate performance, to evaluate performance, carcass traits, feeding behavior, and humoral immune response in Nellore and Angus × Nellore steers fed whole shelled corn diets. Sixteen Nellore and 16 Angus × Nellore steers with 353 ± 25.3 kg were randomly assigned into 2 feeding groups, whole shelled corn without forage (WSC) or whole shelled corn and sugarcane bagasse (WSCB). The data were analyzed using the MIXED procedure of SAS (SAS Inst. Inc., Cary, NC, USA). Angus × Nellore steers had greater final BW, DMI, ADG, and subcutaneous fat thickness than Nellore. Moreover, Nellore steers had lower neutral detergent fiber (NDF) intake but spent more time ruminating and had a greater rumination rate of NDF. Regarding the diets, steers fed the WSCB had greater DMI and spent more time chewing and ruminating. Nellore × Angus steers had a greater haptoglobin concentration. The concentration of D-Lactate tended to be greater in the Nellore steers regardless of diet. In conclusion, the use of sugarcane bagasse in WSC diets increases DMI and ADG without affecting feed efficiency or the carcass traits of the steers. Although Angus × Nellore steers have increased haptoglobin concentration, this effect was not enough to reduce the performance of these animals. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New and Potential Feedstuffs and Additives in Livestock)

15 pages, 3425 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Chitosan Oligosaccharide Supplementation Affects Immunity Markers in Ewes and Lambs during Gestation and Lactation

by Marefa Jahan, Cara Wilson, Shawn McGrath, Nidhish Francis, Peter C. Wynn, Yuguang Du, Bruce Allworth and Bing Wang

Animals 2022, 12(19), 2609; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani12192609 - 28 Sep 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2103

Abstract

Chitosan oligosaccharide (COS) is derived through deacetylation of chitin from crustacean shells. Previous studies reported the benefits of COS to gut microbiota, immunity and health of host species. In this study, 120 pregnant composite ewes were subdivided into treatment and control groups in [...] Read more.

Chitosan oligosaccharide (COS) is derived through deacetylation of chitin from crustacean shells. Previous studies reported the benefits of COS to gut microbiota, immunity and health of host species. In this study, 120 pregnant composite ewes were subdivided into treatment and control groups in duplicate. COS was supplemented via a loose lick to provide an estimated intake of COS @100–600 mg/d/ewe for five weeks pre-lambing until lamb marking. Body weight was recorded pre-treatment for ewes, and at lamb marking and weaning for both ewes and lambs. Serum immunity markers immunoglobulin G (IgG), immunoglobulin M (IgM), immunoglobulin A (IgA), secretory immunoglobulin A (sIgA), interleukin (IL)-2, IL10 and faecal sIgA were determined for ewes and lambs at lamb marking and weaning by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). We found that COS can be incorporated in sheep feed without compromising palatability. Maternal COS supplementation did not influence the body weight of ewes or lambs. It did, however, significantly increase the concentrations of serum IL2 in ewes at marking and weaning (p < 0.001). In lambs, COS also significantly increased the IL2 concentration at making (p = 0.018) and weaning (p = 0.029) and serum IgM at marking (p < 0.001). No significant effect was observed in the concentration of any other immune marker or cytokine in either ewes or lambs. In conclusion, maternal COS supplementation significantly modulated some immunity markers in both ewes and lambs. The short duration of maternal COS supplementation and optimal seasonal conditions during the trial may explain the lack of significant body weight in ewes and lambs from the COS supplementation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New and Potential Feedstuffs and Additives in Livestock)

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11 pages, 861 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Poultry Meat Quality in Antibiotic Free Production Has Improved by Natural Extract Supplement

by Raffaella Rossi, Francesco Vizzarri, Sabrina Ratti and Carlo Corino

Animals 2022, 12(19), 2599; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani12192599 - 28 Sep 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1692

Abstract

Modern consumers are conscious of the relationship between meat quality and animal welfare. Today, slow-growing chickens are associated with a higher broiler welfare. The present work aims to evaluate the effect of dietary natural extract supplementation with polyphenols and seaweed mixtures (PPE) on [...] Read more.

Modern consumers are conscious of the relationship between meat quality and animal welfare. Today, slow-growing chickens are associated with a higher broiler welfare. The present work aims to evaluate the effect of dietary natural extract supplementation with polyphenols and seaweed mixtures (PPE) on breast and thigh muscles quality parameters in Hubbard JA57 slow growth chicken in antibiotic-free production. Five hundred Hubbard female chickens (250 from control and 250 from experimental group) were housed on floor pens (10 pens/treatment, 25 birds/pen) and assigned to two experimental groups: a control group (CON) receiving a commercial diet and another group receiving the same diet supplemented with 0.3% of polyphenols and seaweed mixtures (PPE). Dietary supplementation with PPE did not affect (p > 0.05) growth performances. The breast pH tended to be lower (p = 0.062) in PPE groups. The protein content of breast muscles resulted higher in PPE samples (p < 0.05) than controls. The thigh muscles from PPE group showed a lower (p < 0.05) malondialdehyde content than CON during refrigerated storage. In conclusion, the PPE supplement improves breast muscle protein content and oxidative stability of thigh muscle. This feeding practice is suggested to enhance the nutritional and technological parameters of meat Hubbard slow growth chicken in antibiotic-free production. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New and Potential Feedstuffs and Additives in Livestock)

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12 pages, 269 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Feeding Corn Oil in a Nanoemulsified Form Alters the Unsaturated Fatty Acids in the Milk of Zaraibi Dairy Goats

by Mahmoud Atef Yousef, Mohammed Hamdy Farouk, Hossam H. Azzaz, Mostafa S. A. Khattab, Ahmed M. Abd El Tawab and Mohamed El-Sherbiny

Animals 2022, 12(19), 2559; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani12192559 - 25 Sep 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1927

Abstract

Oil in water nanoemulsion represents a new and unstudied form of oil supplementation to the ruminant diet; that is why the aim was to evaluate the potential of nanoemulsified corn oil in dairy goats’ diets on milk productivity and fatty acid proportion. Twenty-four [...] Read more.

Oil in water nanoemulsion represents a new and unstudied form of oil supplementation to the ruminant diet; that is why the aim was to evaluate the potential of nanoemulsified corn oil in dairy goats’ diets on milk productivity and fatty acid proportion. Twenty-four lactating Zaraibi goats in early lactation were randomly allocated to the following treatments: control—a basal diet without any supplementation, CO—the control diet + corn oil supplied at 3% on a dry matter basis (DM), NCO—the control diet + nanoemulsified corn oil provided at 3% on a DM basis. A completely randomized design that lasted 30 days (25 days of adaptation + 5 days of sampling) was used with eight goats in each treatment. The control diet consisted of 50% concentrate and 50% Egyptian berseem clover. The NCO increased the milk production, fat percentage, and yield compared to the CO and the control. The proportions of oleic, linoleic, and linolenic acids were higher in the NCO compared to the control and CO. The NCO had less effect on the biohydrogenation intermediates’ profile than the CO; noticeably, higher proportions of unsaturated fatty acid (UFA) were associated with the NCO. In conclusion, the NCO increased milk production and decreased the transformation rate of UFA to saturated fatty acids in the biohydrogenation environment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New and Potential Feedstuffs and Additives in Livestock)

10 pages, 259 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Fatty Acid Composition of Muscle and Adipose Tissue in Pigs Fed with Addition of Natural Sorbents

by Piotr Domaradzki, Bożena Nowakowicz-Dębek, Łukasz Wlazło, Mateusz Ossowski, Małgorzata Dmoch and Mariusz Florek

Animals 2022, 12(13), 1681; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani12131681 - 29 Jun 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1809

Abstract

The fatty acid composition of meat and fat was studied in Choice Genetics line pigs fed a diet with three natural sorbents. Control (C1 and C2), biochar (D, 0.5%), bentonite–montmorillonite (A, 1.5%) and zeolite–clinoptilolite (B, 1.5%) diets were used in two trials. The [...] Read more.

The fatty acid composition of meat and fat was studied in Choice Genetics line pigs fed a diet with three natural sorbents. Control (C1 and C2), biochar (D, 0.5%), bentonite–montmorillonite (A, 1.5%) and zeolite–clinoptilolite (B, 1.5%) diets were used in two trials. The samples of back fat, kidney fat and Longissimus lumborum (MLL) and Semimembranosus (MSM) muscle were examined. All sorbents (D, A and B) had no effect on fatty acid composition in MLL, whereas in MSM turned out to be very limited and inconsistent. Although A and B sorbents had a significant impact on the fatty acid profile of kidney fat, their effect was often opposite. Sorbent B’s effects were less beneficial due to a significantly higher proportion of saturated fatty acids, higher value of thrombogenic and atherogenic indexes, n-6/n-3 ratio but lower h/H ratio. Sorbent A’s effects significantly increased polyunsaturated fatty acids, and positively influenced lipid health quality indices. In summary, the feeding of natural sorbents slightly modified the fatty acid profile of muscle tissue, kidney fat and back fat; however, it did not have a negative effect on the indices of nutritional and pro-health quality of adipose tissue of pigs during fattening. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New and Potential Feedstuffs and Additives in Livestock)

14 pages, 312 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Replacing the Concentrate Feed Mixture with Moringa oleifera Leaves Silage and Chlorella vulgaris Microalgae Mixture in Diets of Damascus Goats: Lactation Performance, Nutrient Utilization, and Ruminal Fermentation

by Ahmed E. Kholif, Gouda A. Gouda, Amgad A. Abu Elella and Amlan K. Patra

Animals 2022, 12(12), 1589; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani12121589 - 20 Jun 2022

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 2775

Abstract

Exploring suitable alternatives for high-cost concentrate feeds is a critical factor for successful livestock production. The present experiment aimed to evaluate the dietary inclusion of Moringa oleifera silage and Chlorella vulgaris microalgae (at 1% of total diet, DM basis) in a quintuplicate 3 [...] Read more.

Exploring suitable alternatives for high-cost concentrate feeds is a critical factor for successful livestock production. The present experiment aimed to evaluate the dietary inclusion of Moringa oleifera silage and Chlorella vulgaris microalgae (at 1% of total diet, DM basis) in a quintuplicate 3 × 3 Latin square design for milk production performance, nutrient utilization and ruminal fermentation in Damascus goats. Fifteen lactating Damascus goats were divided into three groups to be fed a diet composed of a concentrate mixture and rice straw at 60:40 (DM basis) in the control group and fed for 30 days in each period. The concentrate mixture in the control treatment was replaced with M. oleifera silage and C. vulgaris microalgae at 20% (MA20 treatment) or 40% (MA40 treatment). Treatments did not affect total feed intake but increased (p < 0.01) crude protein (CP) and fiber intakes while decreasing nonstructural carbohydrates intake. The digestibility of CP and acid detergent fiber increased due to silage supplementation compared to the control treatment. Treatments increased (p < 0.05) ruminal pH and the concentrations of total volatile fatty acids, acetate, and propionate; however, they decreased (p < 0.05) the concentrations of ammonia-N. Treatments increased (p < 0.05) the concentrations of serum glucose and antioxidant capacity. Both MA20 and MA40 treatments increased the daily milk production, the concentrations of milk fat and lactose, and feed efficiency compared to the control treatment. Additionally, MA20 and MA40 treatments increased the proportions of total polyunsaturated fatty acids and total conjugated linoleic acids. It is concluded that the concentrate feed mixture in the diet of lactating goats can be replaced up to 40% (equals to 24% of total diet) with M. oleifera silage to improve feed intake and nutrient utilization, and milk production performance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New and Potential Feedstuffs and Additives in Livestock)

9 pages, 1035 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Ecofriendly Usability of Mushroom Cultivation Substrate as a Ruminant Feed: Anaerobic Digestion Using Gas Production Techniques

by Valiollah Palangi, Adem Kaya, Ali Kaya and Ilias Giannenas

Animals 2022, 12(12), 1583; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani12121583 - 19 Jun 2022

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 3679

Abstract

The current study was carried out to evaluate the nutritive value of mushroom-uncultivated and -cultivated substrates, and their in vitro gas and methane production. The experiment was conducted in a completely randomized design, and analyzed with GLM using SAS 9.4. Analysis of the [...] Read more.

The current study was carried out to evaluate the nutritive value of mushroom-uncultivated and -cultivated substrates, and their in vitro gas and methane production. The experiment was conducted in a completely randomized design, and analyzed with GLM using SAS 9.4. Analysis of the structural morphology of mushroom-cultivated substrate was performed using a scanning electron microscope. Mushroom cultivation led to lower ether extract, acid detergent fiber, and crude fiber level of substrate (p < 0.05). Mushroom-cultivated substrate showed higher in vitro cumulative gas production (p < 0.05). Moreover, mushroom cultivation led to a higher sample surface, and improved the microorganisms’ access to feed materials, thus stimulating rumen fermentation and increasing methane production (p < 0.05). The organic matter digestibility, metabolizable energy, and net energy lactation values were higher for mushroom-cultivated substrate than uncultivated substrate. The results demonstrate that mushroom-cultivation not only increases the contact surface of cellulose, leading to higher ruminal microorganisms’ access to feedstuff, but could also had higher nutritive value; this material might be used in ruminant ration formulation, to reduce environmental pollution and feed costs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New and Potential Feedstuffs and Additives in Livestock)

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14 pages, 306 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Utilization of Waste Date Palm Leaves Biomass Ensiled with Malic or Lactic Acids in Diets of Farafra Ewes under Tropical Conditions

by Gouda A. Gouda, Ahmed E. Kholif, Hatem A. Hamdon, Ayman Y. Kassab and Amlan K. Patra

Animals 2022, 12(11), 1432; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani12111432 - 1 Jun 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2234

Abstract

The aim of the current study was to evaluate the ensiling of date palm leaves (DPL) with organic acids (lactic or malic acid) for 45 day as a feed for lactating ewes under desert conditions. Two weeks before expected parturition, 50 multiparous lactating [...] Read more.

The aim of the current study was to evaluate the ensiling of date palm leaves (DPL) with organic acids (lactic or malic acid) for 45 day as a feed for lactating ewes under desert conditions. Two weeks before expected parturition, 50 multiparous lactating Farafra ewes (mean ± SD: 2 ± 0.3 parity, 34 ± 1.9 kg bodyweight, 25 ± 2.4 months of age, and 555 ± 13.0 g/day of previous milk production) were equally divided into five treatments in a completely randomized design for 90 day. The ewes in the control treatment were offered a diet composed of a concentrate feed mixture and DPL at 60:40 on a dry matter (DM) basis ensiled without additive. In the other treatments, DPL (ensiled without organic acids) in the control treatment was replaced with DPL ensiled with lactic or malic acid (at 5 g/kg DM) at 50 or 100% levels. Organic acids linearly and quadratically increased (p < 0.01) DPL and total intakes and digestibilities of DM, organic matter, crude protein, and nonstructural carbohydrates without affecting fiber digestibility. Malic and lactic acid treatment also increased the concentrations of ruminal total volatile fatty acids, acetate, propionate, and ammonia-N. Additionally, malic and lactic acid-treated DPL increased serum glucose concentration and total antioxidant capacity. Without affecting daily actual milk production, treatments increased (p < 0.001) the daily production of energy-corrected milk (ECM), fat-corrected milk (FCM), milk energy output, milk contents of fats, and feed efficiency. Organic acid-treated DPL increased (p < 0.05) the proportions of total polyunsaturated fatty acids and total conjugated linoleic acids and the unsaturated to saturated fatty acid ratio in milk. It is concluded that feeding DPL ensiled with malic or lactic acid at 20 or 40% of total diet DM increased daily ECM and FCM production, nutrient utilization efficiency, and milk quality. No differences were observed between lactic and malic acid treatment of DPL during ensiling; therefore, both of them are recommended to treat DPL for silage preparation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New and Potential Feedstuffs and Additives in Livestock)

14 pages, 299 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Feeding Date-Palm Leaves Ensiled with Fibrolytic Enzymes or Multi-Species Probiotics to Farafra Ewes: Intake, Digestibility, Ruminal Fermentation, Blood Chemistry, Milk Production and Milk Fatty Acid Profile

by Ahmed E. Kholif, Hatem A. Hamdon, Gouda A. Gouda, Ayman Y. Kassab, Tarek A. Morsy and Amlan K. Patra

Animals 2022, 12(9), 1107; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani12091107 - 25 Apr 2022

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 2292

Abstract

The present experiment evaluated the feeding of date palm leaves (DPL) ensiled with fibrolytic enzymes (ENZ) or multi-species probiotics (MSP) on nutrient utilization and lactational performance of ewes. Fifty multiparous lactating Farafra ewes were used in a completely randomized design for 90 d. [...] Read more.

The present experiment evaluated the feeding of date palm leaves (DPL) ensiled with fibrolytic enzymes (ENZ) or multi-species probiotics (MSP) on nutrient utilization and lactational performance of ewes. Fifty multiparous lactating Farafra ewes were used in a completely randomized design for 90 d. The treatments consisted of the control diet with a concentrate feed mixture and date palm leaves (at 60:40, DM basis) ensiled without additive (control) or DPL ensiled with ENZ or MSP replacing control DPL at 50 or 100%. Both ENZ and MSP increased (p < 0.01) DPL and total intakes, digestibility of all nutrients, concentrations of ammonia, total volatile fatty acids, acetate and propionate in the rumen. Increased milk production, concentrations of fat, lactose and energy in milk, and feed efficiency were observed with MSP and ENZ compared to the control treatment. Moreover, ENZ and MSP increased (p < 0.05) the concentrations of total n3, n6 fatty acids, polyunsaturated fatty acids and conjugated linoleic acids and decreased (p < 0.001) the atherogenicity. The differences between ENZ and MSP and between the low and high replacement levels were minor for all measured parameters. Ensiling of DPL with MSP or fibrolytic enzymes is recommended to improve feed efficiency and improve lactational performance of ewes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New and Potential Feedstuffs and Additives in Livestock)

10 pages, 961 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Capsicum Oleoresin Supplementation on Lactation Performance, Plasma Metabolites, and Nutrient Digestibility of Heat Stressed Dairy Cow

by Zhigao An, Xinxin Zhang, Shanshan Gao, Di Zhou, Umair Riaz, Mohamed Abdelrahman, Guohua Hua and Liguo Yang

Animals 2022, 12(6), 797; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani12060797 - 21 Mar 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 4018

Abstract

The present study investigates the effect of Capsicum oleoresin (CAP) supplementation on the dry matter intake, milk performance, plasma metabolites, and nutrient digestibility of dairy cows during the summer. Thirty-two lactating Holstein dairy cows (n = 32) were randomly divided into four [...] Read more.

The present study investigates the effect of Capsicum oleoresin (CAP) supplementation on the dry matter intake, milk performance, plasma metabolites, and nutrient digestibility of dairy cows during the summer. Thirty-two lactating Holstein dairy cows (n = 32) were randomly divided into four groups. The CAP was dissolved in water and added to the total mixed ration with graded levels of CAP (0, 20, 40, and 80 mg/kg of dry matter). The trial period consisted of seven days for adaptation and thirty days for sampling. Data were analyzed using the MIXED and GLM procedure SAS. The linear and quadratic effects were tested. The milk yield, milk fat, and milk urea nitrogen increased linearly with the dietary addition of CAP (p < 0.05). The dry matter intake increased linearly in the 20CAP group (p < 0.05). Additionally, the 4% fat-corrected milk, energy-corrected milk, milk fat yield, and milk fat to milk protein ratio increased quadratically (p < 0.05), while the rectal temperature decreased quadratically (p < 0.05). Serum total cholesterol and non-esterified fatty acids increased linearly (p < 0.05); glucose and β-hydroxybutyrate tended to increase quadratically with the dietary addition of CAP (p = 0.05). Meanwhile, CAP supplementation did not affect the milk protein yield, blood concentration of triglyceride, insulin, lipopolysaccharide, immunoglobulin G, or heat shock protein 70 expression level (p > 0.05). In addition, nutrient digestibility was comparable among groups (p > 0.05). These findings indicated that CAP supplementation could enhance the lactation performance of dairy cows during the summer. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New and Potential Feedstuffs and Additives in Livestock)

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11 pages, 7904 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Evaluation of Antimicrobial Activity in the Extract of Defatted Hermetia illucens Fed Organic Waste Feed Containing Fermented Effective Microorganisms

by Kyu-Shik Lee, Eun-Young Yun and Tae-Won Goo

Animals 2022, 12(6), 680; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani12060680 - 8 Mar 2022

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2801

Abstract

Hermetia illucens (black soldier fly) larvae (HIL) are considered useful industrial insects for the production of feed for livestock, eco-friendly fertilizer from organic wastes, and biodiesel. Therefore, we evaluated the antimicrobial activity in the extract of crude-oil-extracted crushed HIL powder prepared from HIL [...] Read more.

Hermetia illucens (black soldier fly) larvae (HIL) are considered useful industrial insects for the production of feed for livestock, eco-friendly fertilizer from organic wastes, and biodiesel. Therefore, we evaluated the antimicrobial activity in the extract of crude-oil-extracted crushed HIL powder prepared from HIL fed organic waste containing fermented effective micro-organisms for biodiesel production. The result showed that antimicrobial activity was not fully induced in HIL fed L. casei-containing feed. In contrast, increased antimicrobial activity was observed in defatted HIL extract prepared from crude-oil-extracted crushed HIL powder. We found that the extract effectively inhibited the growth of pathogens and antimicrobial-peptide-resistant bacteria, such as three kinds of Salmonella species, and Enterococcus faecalis, Streptococcus mutans, Candida albicans, Serratia marcescens, and Pseudomonas tolaasii, with a minimum inhibitory concentration of 200–1000 µg/100 µL. Furthermore, no cytotoxicity to CaCO-2 human intestinal cells was observed in the extract. We also found that the production fee of extract equivalent to the antimicrobial activity of melittin was approximately 25-fold less than the production fee of melittin. Therefore, the results demonstrate that crude-oil-extracted crushed HIL powder prepared from HIL fed organic waste containing fermented effective micro-organisms for biodiesel production should be used as the feedstock for synthetic, preservative-free livestock feed and food additives. Taken together, the present study supports the usefulness of HIL as an eco-friendly feedstock in the biodiesel, agricultural, food, and feed industries. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New and Potential Feedstuffs and Additives in Livestock)

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14 pages, 2202 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Compound Probiotics Improve the Diarrhea Rate and Intestinal Microbiota of Newborn Calves

by Bo Liu, Chunjie Wang, Simujide Huasai, Aricha Han, Jian Zhang, Lina He and Chen Aorigele

Animals 2022, 12(3), 322; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani12030322 - 28 Jan 2022

Cited by 18 | Viewed by 4173

Abstract

We evaluated the effects of probiotic compounds on the composition of the gut microbiota. Forty newborn calves were random allocated to the lactic acid bacteria + yeast group (LS group), lactic acid bacteria group (L group), yeast group (S group), and control group [...] Read more.

We evaluated the effects of probiotic compounds on the composition of the gut microbiota. Forty newborn calves were random allocated to the lactic acid bacteria + yeast group (LS group), lactic acid bacteria group (L group), yeast group (S group), and control group (D group). Probiotics containing Lactococcus lactis subsp. lactis, Pediococcus pentosaceus, Lactobacillus plantarum, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, and Kluyveromyces marxianus were fed to calves in the three treatment groups for 15 days. The feeding process lasted 15 days. Fecal samples were collected from all calves at the end of the trial and analyzed using high-throughput 16S rRNA sequencing. Totals of 1,029,260 high-quality reads and 420,010,128 bp of sequences were obtained. Among the four groups, the alpha diversity of gut microbes was significantly higher in newborn cattle in the LS group than in those in the L, S, and D groups. Overall, the dominant phyla were Firmicutes, Actinobacteria, and Bacteroidetes, whereas Bifidobacterium was the most abundant phylum in the gut of cattle in the LS group. Newborn calves from the compound probiotic groups had closely clustered gut bacterial communities and had lower rates of diarrhea. Overall, compound probiotics regulated the intestinal microbiota community structure of newborn calves and improved intestinal health. New information relevant to the prevention of diarrhea is provided by our research in newborn calves. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New and Potential Feedstuffs and Additives in Livestock)

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Review

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20 pages, 418 KiB

Open AccessReview

Yeast-Derived Products: The Role of Hydrolyzed Yeast and Yeast Culture in Poultry Nutrition—A Review

by Vera Perricone, Silvia Sandrini, Nida Irshad, Giovanni Savoini, Marcello Comi and Alessandro Agazzi

Animals 2022, 12(11), 1426; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani12111426 - 31 May 2022

Cited by 20 | Viewed by 4898

Abstract

Yeasts are single-cell eukaryotic microorganisms that are largely employed in animal nutrition for their beneficial effects, which are owed to their cellular components and bioactive compounds, among which are mannans, β-glucans, nucleotides, mannan oligosaccharides, and others. While the employment of live yeast cells [...] Read more.

Yeasts are single-cell eukaryotic microorganisms that are largely employed in animal nutrition for their beneficial effects, which are owed to their cellular components and bioactive compounds, among which are mannans, β-glucans, nucleotides, mannan oligosaccharides, and others. While the employment of live yeast cells as probiotics in poultry nutrition has already been largely reviewed, less information is available on yeast-derived products, such as hydrolyzed yeast (HY) and yeast culture (YC). The aim of this review is to provide the reader with an overview of the available body of literature on HY and YC and their effects on poultry. A brief description of the main components of the yeast cell that is considered to be responsible for the beneficial effects on animals’ health is also provided. HY and YC appear to have beneficial effects on the poultry growth and production performance, as well as on the immune response and gut health. Most of the beneficial effects of HY and YC have been attributed to their ability to modulate the gut microbiota, stimulating the growth of beneficial bacteria and reducing pathogen colonization. However, there are still many areas to be investigated to better understand and disentangle the effects and mechanisms of action of HY and YC. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New and Potential Feedstuffs and Additives in Livestock)

14 pages, 463 KiB

Open AccessReview

Potential Role of Protocatechuic Acid as Natural Feed Additives in Farm Animal Production

by Shad Mahfuz, Hong-Seok Mun, Muhammad Ammar Dilawar, Keiven Mark B. Ampode and Chul-Ju Yang

Animals 2022, 12(6), 741; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani12060741 - 16 Mar 2022

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3019

Abstract

Restriction on using antibiotics in animal feed that generates demand for antibiotics alternatives in animal breeding. Providing safe food to humans free from the residual effects of antibiotics is a great challenge to animal producers and food-producing industry owners. Medicinal plants and their [...] Read more.

Restriction on using antibiotics in animal feed that generates demand for antibiotics alternatives in animal breeding. Providing safe food to humans free from the residual effects of antibiotics is a great challenge to animal producers and food-producing industry owners. Medicinal plants and their extracts as feed supplements have been used to promote the growth and health of farm animals for centuries. Protocatechuic acid (PCA) is a phenolic compound that originated from natural plants. For years, the health-promoting role of PCA has been becoming an attraction of research in nutrition and pharmacy. Thus, it can be used as an active natural feed additive while synthetic antibiotics are illegal to use in animal breeding. However, the practical application of PCA in view of dosages in animal nutrition, together with its mode of action on animal health, is not well known. In this regard, this review study has explored the mode of action of PCA and the feasibility of using those compounds in animal nutrition. This review study concludes that phenolic-rich protocatechuic acid as a natural feed additive may be useful in enhancing antioxidant status, immune function, antimicrobial, intestinal health and growth performance of farm animals. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New and Potential Feedstuffs and Additives in Livestock)

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