Additional Supplementation Research Articles

A Review: The Utilization of Indigofera Zollingeriana as Animal Feed Additional Supplements

A Review: The Utilization of Indigofera Zollingeriana as Animal Feed Additional Supplements

Orange (Citrus sinensis) essential oil inclusion in high-energy diets for feedlot lambs: productivity, eating behavior, carcass characteristics, rumen morphometry, and fatty acid profile of the meat

This study evaluated the effect of different orange essential oil (OEO) inclusion rates on live weight gain, eating behavior, carcass characteristics, morphology of the ruminal epithelium, and fatty acid profile in the meat of feedlot lambs. Forty uncastrated Dorper × Santa Inês ram lambs with an initial average body weight of 21.8 ± 4.7 kg and average age of 86 ± 15 days were allocated to one of five dietary treatments in a randomized complete block design. Dietary treatments consisted of a 90:10 concentrate-to-forage ratio total mixed ration supplemented as follows: 1. non-additive supplementation (Control), and 2. additive supplementation with 100, 500, and 1000 mg OEO/kg diet DM (OEO100, OEO500, and OEO1000) or with 25 mg sodium monensin/kg diet DM (MON). The feeding lasted 84 d. Supplementation with OEO increased linearly dry matter intake (DMI), growth rate and feed efficiency (FE). Because of the linear increases in growth rate and the efficiency of energy utilization of the diet, lambs receiving OEO exhibited a greater (increasing linear effect) hot carcass weight (HCW), Longissimus muscle area (LMA), subcutaneous fat thickness (SFT), and body wall thickness (BWT) than lambs fed with Control. Lambs fed MON had lower DMI, growth rate and FE than Control and OEO. Compared to Control and OEO supplemented, lambs that received MON showed lower HCW, LMA, SFT, and BWT. Lambs fed with MON had lower oocyst counts than lambs fed with all other treatments. Lambs fed with MON spent more time eating and ruminating, with higher chewing rates than lambs fed all other diets. Rumen morphometry was unaffected by dietary treatment. The OEO supplementation increased the sum of monounsaturated fatty acids, improved the human health promotion index (HP index), and reduced the thrombogenicity index in the meat relative to lambs fed the MON treatment. Under the conditions in which the experiment was conducted, the inclusion of up to 1000 g/kg diet DM in high-energy finishing diets promotes DMI and improved growth performance and FE. Improvements in the carcass (HCW, LMA, and BTF) with OEO supplementation were mainly due to improvements in growth rate rather than effects on gain composition. Based on growth performance and carcass characteristics, OEO was a superior feed additive to sodium monensin. The OEO supplementation has a discreet effect on the fatty acid profile of the meat, but it is sufficient to improve the HP index. These findings highlight its potential as an effective additive for enhancing lamb productivity.

Influence of Supplementation of Phytogenic Feed Additives on Egg Quality of Layer Quail

Influence of Supplementation of Phytogenic Feed Additives on Egg Quality of Layer Quail

Utilization of Differently Processed Sesame Seed Meal as a Source of Methionine in Guinea Fowls Diets

An experiment was conducted to evaluate the impact of different processing methods on sesame seeds meal as a source of methionine for guinea fowls. The research took place at the Teaching and Research Farm of the Department of Animal Health and Production in Jigawa State, Nigeria. Seventy-two guinea fowls of mixed sexes were raised under intensive management conditions for the experiment. Sesame seeds were divided into three groups: raw, soaked, and roasted, then ground into meal and incorporated into four experimental diets. Proximate analysis of the experimental diets was conducted at the Nutrition laboratory of the Department of Animal Science. Data generated were subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) using statistical analysis system (SAS) package. Results indicated that processing methods significantly reduced anti-nutritional factors without adverse effects on some of the performance parameters. Performance improved with all processed sesame seed meals compared to the control diet, suggesting their potential as methionine sources without additional supplementation. Raw, soaked, and roasted sesame seed meal can be incorporated at 15% level of inclusion in the diet of guinea fowls without negative impacts on their general performance. Overall, the study concludes that processing methods enhanced sesame seed's suitability as a methionine source for guinea fowls and recommends their inclusion in diets of guinea fowls at 15% level.

Towards a circular economy - Repurposing side streams from the potato processing industry by Chlorella vulgaris

Common wastewater treatment strategies in the food industry do not include efficient remediation strategies for nitrogen, phosphorous and organic carbon. Incorporating microalgae in water treatment plants is rising in popularity because of their high nutrient and trace element uptake driven by light. In this study, four different side streams from an Austrian potato processing company have been screened for their applicability of microalgal cultivation. The side streams were assessed for Chlorella vulgaris growth and their requirement of any additional pretreatment or media supplementation. One side stream specifically, called blanching water II, a stream generated by boiling the potatoes for ease of peeling, turned out very useful to cultivate Chlorella vulgaris and concomitantly remedy the wastewater. Compared to a state-of-the-art cultivation in BG11, cultivating Chlorella vulgaris in blanching water II led to a 45 % increase in specific growth rate of 1.29 day−1 and a 48% increase in biomass productivity to 294.6 mg/L/day, while all nitrogen and phosphate present in the side stream were metabolized. Overall, the results demonstrate that the water remediation process for blanching water II shows vast potential in regard to water purification and waste to value approaches.

Marine red yeast supplementation improves laying performance by regulating small intestinal homeostasis in aging chickens

Recent studies have shown that age-related aging evolution is accompanied by imbalances in intestinal homeostasis. Marine red yeast (MRY) is a functional probiotic that has been shown to have antioxidant, immune and other properties. Therefore, we chose 900 healthy Hy-Line Brown hens at 433 d old as the research subjects and evaluated the correlation between intestinal health, laying performance, and egg quality in aged hens through the supplementation of MRY. These laying hens were assigned into 5 groups and received diet supplementation with 0%, 0.5%, 1.0%, 1.5%, and 2% MRY for 12 weeks. The results showed that MRY supplementation increased egg production rate, average egg weight, and egg quality, and decreased feed conversion ratio and daily feed intake (P < 0.05). The MRY supplement improved antioxidant indicators such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), stimulated villus height, and increased the villus height to crypt depth ratio (V/C ratio) in the intestine (P < 0.05). It also regulated the expression of intestinal inflammatory factors (transforming growth factor-β [TGF-β], interleukin [IL]-1β, IL-8, tumor necrosis factor-α [TNF-α]) while increasing serum immunoglobulin G (IgG) levels (P < 0.05). Furthermore, MRY supplementation upregulated the mRNA expression of tight junction proteins (occludin and zonula occludens-1 [ZO-1]), anti-apoptotic gene (Bcl-2), and autophagy-related proteins (beclin-1 and light chain 3I [LC3I]) in the intestine (P < 0.05). The MRY supplement also led to an increase in the concentration of short-chain fatty acids in the cecum, and the relative abundance of the phylum Bacteroidetes, and genera Bacteroides and Rikenellaceae_RC9_gut_group. The LEfSe analysis revealed an enrichment of Sutterella and Akkermansia muciniphila. In conclusion, the results of this experiment indicated that the additional supplementation of MRY can improve the production performance of laying hens and may contribute to the restoration and balance of intestinal homeostasis, which supports the application potential of MRY as a green and efficient feed additive for improving the laying performance in chickens.

The role of ruminant urine and faeces in the recycling of nutrients by forages

This study addresses the effect of using animal excreta on the nutritional content of forages, focusing on macro- and micro-element concentrations (nitrogen; N, phosphorus; P, sulphur; S, copper; Cu, zinc; Zn, manganese; Mn, selenium; Se) from animal feed to excreta, soil, and plants. Data were collected from pot and field trials using separate applications of sheep or cattle urine and faeces. Key findings indicate that soil organic carbon (SOC) and the type of excreta significantly influences nutrient uptake by forages, with varied responses among the seven elements defined above. Although urine contributes fewer micronutrients compared to faeces (as applied at a natural volume/mass basis, respectively), it notably improves forage yield and micronutrient accumulation, thus potentially delivering positive consequences at the farm level regarding economic performance and soil fertility when swards upon clayey soil types receive said urine in temperate agro-climatic regions (i.e., South West England in the current context). In contrast, faeces application in isolation hinders Se and Mn uptake, once again potentially delivering unintended consequences such as micronutrient deficiencies in areas of high faeces deposition. As it is unlikely that (b)ovine grazing fields will receive either urine or faeces in isolation, we also explored combined applications of both excreta types which demonstrates synergistic effects on N, Cu, and Zn uptake, with either synergistic or dilution effects being observed for P and S, depending largely on SOC levels. Additionally, interactions between excreta types can result in dilution or antagonistic effects on Mn and Se uptake. Notably, high SOC combined with faeces reduces Mn and Se in forages, raising concerns for grazed ruminant systems under certain biotic situations, e.g., due to insufficient soil Se levels typically observed in UK pastures for livestock growth. These findings underscore the importance of considering SOC and excreta nutritional composition when designing forage management to optimize nutrient uptake. It should be noted that these findings have potential ramifications for broader studies of sustainable agriculture through system-scale analyses, as the granularity of results reported herein elucidate gaps in knowledge which could affect, both positively and negatively, the interpretation of model-based environmental impact assessments of cattle and sheep production (e.g., in the case of increased yields [beneficial] or the requirement of additional synthetic supplementation [detrimental]).

Exogenous iron caused osteocyte apoptosis, increased RANKL production, and stimulated bone resorption through oxidative stress in a murine model

Iron overload is a risk factor for osteoporosis due to its oxidative toxicity. Previous studies have demonstrated that an excessive amount of iron increases osteocyte apoptosis and receptor activator of nuclear factor κ-B ligand (RANKL) production, which stimulates osteoclast differentiation in vitro. However, the effects of exogenous iron supplementation-induced iron overload on osteocytes in vivo and its role in iron overload-induced bone loss are unknown. This work aimed to develop an iron overloaded murine model of C57BL/6 mice by intraperitoneal administration of iron dextran for two months. The iron levels in various organs, bone, and serum, as well as the microstructure and strength of bone, apoptosis of osteocytes, oxidative stress in bone tissue, and bone formation and resorption, were assessed. The results showed that 2 months of exogenous iron supplementation significantly increased iron levels in the liver, spleen, kidney, bone tissue, and serum. Iron overload negatively affected bone microstructure and strength. Osteocyte apoptosis and empty lacunae rate were elevated by exogenous iron. Iron overload upregulated RANKL expression but had no significant impact on osteoprotegerin (OPG) and sclerostin levels. Static and dynamic histologic analyses and serum biochemical assay showed that iron overload increased bone resorption without significantly affecting bone formation. Exogenous iron promoted oxidative stress in osteocytes in vivo and in vitro. Additional supplementation of iron chelator (deferoxamine) or N-acetyl-l-cysteine (NAC) partially alleviated bone loss, osteocyte apoptosis, osteoclast formation, and oxidative stress due to iron overload. These findings, in line with prior in vitro studies, suggest that exogenous iron supplementation induces osteoclastogenesis and osteoporosis by promoting osteocyte apoptosis and RANKL production via oxidative stress.

Effects of intraoperative fluid management on hemodynamics and tissue oxygenation according to the Pleth Variability Index in thoracic surgery.

The aim of this study was to compare the total fluid volume performed by noninvasive Pleth Variability Index in thoracic surgery patients in comparison to conventional fluid management. In this prospective randomized controlled study conducted between May 2019 and May 2020, 80 patients (68 males, 12 females; mean age: 58.5±6.7 years; range, 18 to 65 years) were divided into two groups: control (Group C) and the Pleth Variability Index (Group P). After performing routine anesthesia and Pleth Variability Index monitoring for all patients, fluids were given at a rate of 2 mL/kg/h with the standard anesthesia technique. Additional fluid supplementation was provided based on hemodynamic data in Group C. In Group P, 250 mL bolus crystalloid fluid was provided when Pleth Variability Index was >14%. Mean arterial pressure, heart rate, oxygen saturation, arterial blood gas, and blood biochemistry were recorded. Total fluid volumes and urinary output were also recorded. There was no significant difference between the groups in terms of total fluid volumes or urinary output. In the postoperative period, the oxygen saturation and mean arterial pressure of Group P were found to be higher than those of Group C. The postoperative creatinine and lactate values of Group P were lower than those of Group C. Although there was no significant difference in the total fluid given to the patients, fluid management by Pleth Variability Index monitoring had a positive effect on mean arterial pressure, oxygen saturation, lactate, and creatinine levels.

Effect of strategic supplementation of a novel feed supplement on zoo-technical attributes, metabolic profile, production and reproduction performance of buffaloes

The present experiment aimed to establish the efficacy of a novel feed supplement (NFS) on nutrient intake, energy status, metabolic profile, milk yield, reproductive performance and its socio economic impact on problematic post-partum buffaloes under field condition. Twenty four post-partum buffaloes were randomly and equally assigned to CON and NFS groups for 120 days of experimental feeding period. The animals in CON group were fed on basal roughages and concentrate mixture @ 20% of DMI as per the farmers’ practices, whereas, buffaloes in NFS group were fed according to CON with additional novel feed supplement @ 0.25% of BW. The voluntary feed intake and average daily gain in body weight were increased in NFS than CON group. The buffaloes fed NFS diet exhibited higher Hb, haematocrit, serum glucose and lower NEFA. Serum minerals (Ca, iP, Zn, Cu, Fe, Mn), metabolic hormones (T3, T4, GH, IGF-1) and total anti-oxidant capacity were enhanced in NFS group. The milk yield and conception rate were also improved significantly following strategic supplementation of NFS. Analyses of cost benefit of milk yield revelled that the benefit-cost ratio was improved in NFS fed buffaloes. Thus, it can be concluded that strategic supplementation the novel feed supplement @ 0.25% of BW significantly improved the nutrient intake, energy balance, metabolic profile, milk yield and reproduction performance of problematic buffaloes under field condition during early post-partum period.

Bridging the gap: Navigating the impact of dietary supplements on abdominal aortic aneurysm progression- A systematic review.

Vitamins D, E, A, B, C, and Omega-3 play crucial roles in modulating inflammatory and oxidative stress pathways, both implicated in abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) development. Recent research has explored the potential impact of dietary supplements on AAA progression. The systematic review aims to assess interventional studies investigating the effects of various dietary supplements on the development and severity of abdominal aortic aneurysms. A systematic search using relevant keywords related to abdominal aortic aneurysm and dietary supplements was conducted across four databases (PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science). Quality assessment for animal studies employed SYRCLE and the Cochrane Collaboration Risk of Bias Tool for randomized control trials. The study protocol is registered in PROSPERO under the registry code CRD42023455958. Supplementation with Omega-3, Vitamins A, C, D, E, and the Vitamin B family exhibited positive effects in AAA progression. These supplements contributed to a reduction in AAA diameter, elastin degradation, inflammatory responses, and reactive oxygen species. Additional supplements such as Zinc, methionine, and phytoestrogen also played roles in mitigating AAA progression. The findings of this study underscore the potential role of dietary supplements in the progression of AAA. Predominantly based on animal studies, the results indicate that these supplements can limit AAA progression, primarily evidenced by their ability to mitigate inflammatory processes and oxidative stress pathways.

Stearic acid enhanced starch nanocrystal integration in cassava starch film

SummaryStarch nanocrystals (SNCs) have emerged as promising biodegradable nanomaterial for the enhancement of biopolymer films' properties. Nevertheless, using SNCs alone is difficult due to restricted capacity for nanocrystal integration within the film's matrix. The objective of this study was to enhance the properties of biopolymer films using waxy corn starch nanocrystals supplemented with stearic acid. Cassava starch films containing varying proportions of SNCs (0–20 wt.% starch) and steric acid (2%) were prepared and characterised. The inclusion of stearic acid substantially improved SNC integration from 5% to 15%, yielding nanocomposite films with better tensile strength, thermal stability and barrier properties than those prepared with native starch or starch‐fatty acid alone. The improvement in film properties was attributed to V‐amylose complexes formation, increased crystallinity and hydrophobicity. Microscopy images revealed homogenous film surfaces, depicting greater nanocrystal dispersibility. The supplementation of lipid additives offers a valuable strategy to improve the integration of SNCs in film matrices.

Mechanism of Bile Acid in Regulating Platelet Function and Thrombotic Diseases.

Platelets play a key role in physiological hemostasis and pathological thrombosis. Based on the limitations of current antiplatelet drugs, it's important to elucidate the mechanisms of regulating platelet activation. In addition to dissolving lipid nutrients, bile acids (BAs) can regulate platelet function. However, the specific mechanisms underlying BAs-mediated effects on platelet activation and thrombotic diseases remain unknown. Therefore, the effects of BAs on platelets and intracellular regulatory mechanisms are explored. It is showed that the inhibitory effect of secondary BAs is more significant than that of primary BAs; lithocholic acid (LCA) shows the highest inhibitory effect. In the process of platelet activation, BAs suppress platelet activation via the spleen tyrosine kinase (SYK), protein kinase B (Akt), and extracellular signal-regulated kinase1/2 (Erk1/2) pathways. Nck adaptor proteins (NCK1) deficiency significantly suppress the activity of platelets and arterial thrombosis. Phosphorylated proteomics reveal that LCA inhibited phosphorylation of syntaxin-11 at S80/81 in platelets. Additional LCA supplementation attenuated atherosclerotic plaque development and reduced the inflammation in mice. In conclusion, BAs play key roles in platelet activation via Syk, Akt, ERK1/2, and syntaxin-11 pathways, which are associated with NCK1. The anti-platelet effects of BAs provide a theoretical basis for the prevention and therapy of thrombotic diseases.

Vitamin D prophylaxis in persons with epilepsy?

Limited guidelines exist regarding osteoporosis prevention in the general population. Despite being a subject of controversy, the majority of research suggests that decreased vitamin D levels correlate with increased bone turnover, that is, an important risk factor for osteoporosis development. In most guidelines, daily vitamin D supplementation is recommended. In persons with epilepsy (PWE), the situation is more complex, as other factors can increase the chance of being vitamin D deficient. Currently, there are no internationally accepted guidelines regarding monitoring bone health in PWE. Our aim was to review the existing evidence in PWE on: (1) risk factors for vitamin D deficiency, (2) the identification of higher risk groups, and (3) the optimal ways to monitor bone health. Our narrative review shows that: (1) anti-seizure medication (ASM) use, especially enzyme-inducing ASM (EIASM) and valproic acid, is identified as an important risk factor for impaired bone health (e.g., increased risk for osteoporosis/fractures and/or vitamin D deficiency); (2) higher risk groups within the PWE population are present: intellectual or physical disability, institutionalized patients, puberty, early onset epilepsy and developmental epileptic encephalopathies, postmenopausal women, and use of multiple ASM/concomitant drugs (e.g. corticosteroids); and (3) a monitoring scheme can be suggested including laboratory tests, bone density measurements, managing of risk factors, and/or vitamin D supplementation. Overall, regular vitamin D measurement in PWE is a cost-effective and practical method for monitoring vitamin D deficiency, whereas in high-risk patients the combination of vitamin D measurement and bone densitometry is recommended. There is not enough evidence to advocate continuous vitamin D supplementation in all PWE. Children with epilepsy should receive the recommended daily intake of vitamin D for age and additional monitoring and supplementation if at higher risk of deficiency. There is a need for prospective trials exploring the potential benefit of vitamin D supplementation in PWE.

Protein Intake and Bone Health in the Elderly

AbstractProtein plays an important role in muscle and bone metabolism. This is of great importance for optimal bone health, especially in the elderly, in sarcopenia and osteoporosis. Adequate protein intake is a prerequisite for optimal musculoskeletal health and efficient strength training. Protein is one of the macronutrients and besides calcium the most abundant structural component of our musculoskeletal system. However, elderly subjects often consume too little protein. In 2017, the revised reference values in the D-A-CH region were increased for adults&gt;65 years to 1.0 g protein/kg (ideal) body weight [BW]/ day and ESPEN even advocates for an intake of 1.0–1.5 g protein/kg BW/ day. Many elderly people, especially women do not meet these targets. In our experience, there is a fundamental misconception that protein needs can only be met consuming animal products. Many studies have investigated whether sufficient protein intake has a positive effect on bone. In this short review, the importance of protein for bone and the problem of inadequate protein intake in sarcopenia will be discussed and the most relevant clinical guidelines and studies will be presented. For practical use, we give examples of omnivore and vegetarian meal plans and important protein sources (plant and animal origin) are given. Usually, the minimal demands can easily be met with simple nutritional advice. Sometimes however, additional protein supplements (often liquids, puddings, powders) are needed, especially in nursing home residents, and when poor appetite or dysphagia impair appropriate caloric and protein intake.

Purple sweet potato antioxidants for oxidative stress caused by intense physical exercise

Background: Intense exercise increases ROS and reactive nitrogen species, leading to oxidative stress and potential health issues. Balancing free radical production and antioxidant defence is crucial. Endogenous antioxidants help neutralise ROS, but additional supplementation is required to prevent cell damage. Objective: This literature review explores the potential of purple sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas L.) as an antioxidant source to counteract exercise-induced oxidative stress. Method: Scientific articles from various platforms were collected using keywords such as "Physical exercise," "Oxidative stress," "Purple sweet potato," and "Antioxidant”. Result: Purple sweet potato, rich in anthocyanins and vitamin C, exhibits potent free radical scavenging properties. Consumption of purple sweet potato enhances superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels, reduces lipid peroxidation (MDA), inhibits the NF-kB signalling pathway, and prevents increased heat shock protein 72 (HSP72) expression. These findings suggest that purple sweet potato consumption promotes cellular health and mitigates oxidative stress caused by intense physical exercise. Conclusion: In conclusion, incorporating purple sweet potato into the diet shows promise in countering exercise-induced oxidative stress, promoting overall well-being, and preventing chronic diseases. Further research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms and optimal dosage for combating oxidative stress during rigorous physical training.

A soft carbon materials with engineered composition and microstructure for sodium battery anodes

Sodium-ion batteries (SIBs) have advantages in high sodium resources, providing powerful supplement to the current energy storage system. However, the lack of low-cost and high-performance anode materials still limits its practical application. Herein, a soft carbon anode derived from petroleum coke was successfully synthesized by engineering its composition and microstructure through resin and sodium phosphate compositing with optimal heat treatment process, delivering significant merits over existing composite anode in term of price density, initial Coulombic efficiency (ICE) and carbon yield. Resin helps to increase micropores and inhibit graphitization. Na3PO4 contributes to expand layer spacing and increase reversible groups, meanwhile facilitates the cross-linking of graphite microcrystalline and provides additional sodium supplement with improved ICE and conductivity. Through the synergistic effect by the additives, the optimized sample (P-ONH-1200) exhibits a superior reversible charge specific capacity of 311.9 mAh g−1 with high cycling stability, ICE (90.7 %) in SIBs, and high carbon yield (70 %). It also gains rate performance of 209.7 mAh g−1 at 4 C with 98 % retention after 1000 cycles. The full cell with Na3V2(PO4)3 (NVP) cathode at 1.05 N/P ratio exhibits an excellent stability with a capacity retention of 70 % after 500 cycles at 1 C. It provides a model reference for the microstructure regulation of petroleum coke and a revenue for preparation high-performance soft carbon anode for SIBs.

Pemanfaatan Game Edukasi Berbasis Speech Recognition untuk Mengurangi Language Anxiety pada Mata Pelajaran Bahasa Inggris

SMK ICB (Yayasan Insan Cinta Bakti), located at Jl. Pahlawan No.19B, Cihaur Geulis, Kec. Cibeunying Kaler, Kota Bandung, Jawa Barat 40122, faces significant challenges related to English language anxiety among students. An initial survey revealed that 85% of the total 180 students experience difficulties in English subjects. To address this issue, a prototype educational game based on Speech Recognition, developed by a team of lecturers and students from Telkom University, will be tested to help reduce language anxiety among students. This game integrates with the microphone on a laptop/computer, detecting and recording accurate sentences spoken by the students as scores. The utilization of this prototype educational game is expected to serve as an additional supplement for English learning and help reduce language anxiety for SMK ICB students.

The effect of twice daily 3-nitroxypropanol supplementation on enteric methane emissions in grazing dairy cows

Although 3-nitroxypropanol (3-NOP) has been proven to reduce enteric methane (CH4) by ∼30% in indoor systems of dairying when the additive is mixed throughout a TMR, very limited research has been done to date in grazing systems in which the most convenient method of additive supplementation is at milking twice daily. To investigate the effect of twice daily 3-NOP supplementation on enteric CH4 emissions, a 12-wk study was undertaken in which treatment cows (n = 26) were supplemented with 3-NOP (80 mg/kg DMI) twice daily at morning and evening milking, and control cows (n = 26) received no additive supplementation. Enteric CH4, hydrogen (H2) and carbon dioxide (CO2) were measured using GreenFeed units, and milk production, BW, BCS, and DMI were monitored to determine the effect of 3-NOP supplementation on productivity. No significant effect was observed for 3-NOP supplementation on any of the aforementioned parameters with the exception of CH4 and H2 production, respectively. Cows supplemented with 3-NOP produced 1.6-fold more H2 (P < 0.001) across a 24-h period, with reductions in CH4 production of 28.5% recorded in the 3 h after additive consumption (P < 0.001), however, levels of CH4 production returned to that of the control group thereafter. When CH4 production was considered across the entire 24-h period, the cows offered 3-NOP produced ∼5% less CH4 than the control (P < 0.050). Future research should focus on methods to increase the efficacy of the additive throughout the day which would include the deployment of a slow-release form or an out-of-parlor feeding system that allows animals consume the product at additional time points.

Effects of Sweet and Forge Sorghum Silages Compared to Maize Silage without Additional Grain Supplement on Lactation Performance and Digestibility of Lactating Dairy Cows.

This study investigated the effects of replacing maize silage (MZS) with high-sugar sorghum silage (HSS) or forage sorghum silage (FSS) without additional grain supplement in the diets of dairy cows on nutrient digestibility, milk composition, nitrogen (N) use, and rumen fermentation. Twenty-four Chinese Holstein cows (545 ± 42.8 kg; 21.41 ± 0.62 kg milk yield; 150 ± 5.6 days in milk) were randomly assigned to three dietary treatments (n = 8 cows/treatment). The cows were fed ad libitum total mixed rations containing (dry matter basis) either 40% MZS (MZS-based diet), 40% HSS (HSS-based diet), or 40% FSS (FSS-based diet). The study lasted for 42 days, with 14 days devoted to adaptation, 21 days to daily feed intake and milk production, and 7 days to the sampling of feed, refusals, feces, urine, and rumen fluid. Milk production was measured twice daily, and digestibility was estimated using the method of acid-insoluble ash. The data were analyzed using a one-way ANOVA in SPSS 22.0 according to a completely randomized design. Dietary treatments were used as fixed effects and cows as random effects. The results indicate that MZS and HSS had greater crude protein but less neutral detergent fiber (NDF), acid detergent fiber (ADF), acid detergent lignin (ADL), and a lower pH than FSS (p ≤ 0.04). High starch contents in MZS and water-soluble carbohydrate (WSC) contents in HSS were observed (p < 0.01). While the highest starch intake was observed for the MZS-based diet, the highest WSC intake was noted for the HSS-based diet, and the highest NDF, ADF, ADL intake was observed for the FSS-based diet (p ≤ 0.05). The diets, including MZS and HSS, had greater digestibility than that of FSS (p ≤ 0.03). Feeding MZS- and HSS-based diets increased the yield, fat, and protein content of the milk, as well as feed conversion efficiency (p ≤ 0.03). However, feeding the MZS- and HSS-based diets decreased the contents of milk urea N, urinary urea N, and urinary N excretion more than the FSS-based diet (p ≤ 0.05). The N use efficiency tended to increase relative to diets containing MZS and HSS compared with FSS (p = 0.06 and p = 0.09). Ruminal ammonia-N and pH were lower, but total volatile fatty acids, acetate, and propionate were higher in cows fed the HSS- and MZS-based diets compared to those fed the FSS-based diet (p ≤ 0.03). It appears as though replacing MZS with HSS in the diet of cows without additional grain supplements has no negative influence on feed intake, milk yield, N utilization, or ruminal fermentation.