Average Daily Weight Gain Research Articles

Cysteine Attenuates the Impact of Bisphenol A-Induced Oxidative Damage on Growth Performance and Intestinal Function in Piglets.

Bisphenol A (BPA), a kind of environmental toxin, widely impacts daily life. Cysteine (Cys) is a nutritionally important amino acid for piglets. However, it remains unclear whether Cys can alleviate BPA-induced oxidative damage in piglets. The aim of the present study was to explore the protective effects of Cys in BPA-challenged piglets. A total of twenty-four piglets were divided into four groups that were further subdivided based on the type of exposure (with or without 0.1% BPA) in a basal or Cys diet for a 28 d feeding trial. The results showed that BPA exposure decreased the piglets' average daily weight gain by 14.9%, and decreased dry matter, crude protein and ether extract digestibility by 3.3%, 4.5% and 2.3%, respectively; these decreases were attenuated by Cys supplementation. Additionally, Cys supplementation restored BPA-induced decreases in superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione (GSH), and increases in malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, in the serum and jejunum (p < 0.05). Moreover, BPA decreased the jejunal mRNA expression of antioxidant genes, which were restored by Cys supplementation (p < 0.05). Cys also restored BPA and increased serum D-lactate levels and diamine oxidase (DAO) activity, and BPA decreased jejunal disaccharidase activity (p < 0.05). Further investigations in this study showed that the protective effects of Cys were associated with restoring intestinal barrier integrity by improving the jejunal morphology and enhancing the mRNA expression of tight junction proteins (p < 0.05). Collectively, the results herein demonstrated that Cys supplementation attenuated the impact of BPA-induced oxidative damage on growth performance, nutrient digestibility and intestinal function.

Growth Performance and Nutrients Digestibility of Weaner Rabbits FED Diets Containing Par-Boiled and Non-Parboiled Rice Milling By-Products

A feeding trial was conducted for 84-days to investigate the feeding value of rice milling by-products on growth performance, digestibility and carcass characteristics of growing rabbits in Makurdi. Forty two (42) weaner rabbits weighing between 412 – 420 g were randomly allocated to 7 treatment diets with each treatment replicated 6 times in a completely randomize design (CRD). Each rabbit constituted a replicate and each treatment was made up of three males and three females. The treatments were, D1, control, D2 contained parboiled rice offal (PRO), D3 contained parboiled rice bran (PRB), D4 contained parboiled grain rejects (PGR), D5 contained non-parboiled rice polishing (NPRP), D6 contained non-parboiled rice bran (NPRB)and D7 contained non-parboiled grain rejects (NPGR). Result of growth performance revealed that Significant (P&lt;0.05) dietary influence were observed on average daily weight gain and feed conversion ratios. In both parameters (ADWG and FCR) performances were significantly(P&lt;0.05) poor (10.97g and 6.69 respectively) in rabbits fed PRO. Result of digestibility by the rabbits fed diets containing RMBPs were similar (P&gt;0.05) to the rabbits fed the control diet and this similarity was observed across the treatment groups. No significant (P&gt;0.05) dietary influence was observed on carcass parameters measured It was concluded that, the combination of rice milling by-products (RMBPs) with other feed materials provided cheaper diets that are nutritionally adequate for enhance growth, good carcass development and yield of rabbits at levels equivalent to the reference diet. It is recommended therefore that, feed manufacturers and Rabbit farmers can incorporate up to 25% of rice offal, rice bran and rice grain rejects in the diets of rabbits.

The “Naked neck” gene and the adaptability of the native chicken to heat stress on station in Cameroon

The rational use of the native chicken genetic resource is seen a viable option for sustainably improving poultry meat production in Cameroon. This study aimed at assessing the potential of the Na gene for resilience under acute heat stress. The study was done in two trials. Firstly, a total of 180 young roosters reared in similar management conditions from the 1st to the 8th week of age were randomly distributed per genotype according to a 3 x 2 factorial design including two treatments (acute and moderate ambient temperatures) of 90 birds each and three genotypes (Na*Na, na*na and Na*na) of 30 birds per treatment. Treatments consisted of moderate and acute ambient temperatures of 25-27°C and 39 - 42°C respectively for 5 hours/day from 8 to 12 weeks of age. The genotypes within and between the treatments were compared for body weight (BW), average daily weight gain (ADG), water consumption (WC), feed consumption (FC), and feed conversion ratio (FCR). Results showed that the na*na and Na*na were statistically comparable but superior to the Na*Na genotype under moderate temperature. The three genotypes were significantly affected (P&lt;0.05) by the heat stress. However, the Na*na was less affected and maintained the highest ADG and lowest FCR. For the second trial, 90 birds including 30 birds randomly sampled per genotype were compared for the feathering intensity and five carcass characteristics and giblets at 24-week-old. The results revealed an association of the “Na” gene with 21 to 50 % feather reduction in heterozygote and homozygote respectively whereas heterozygote naked neck had greater body and carcass weight as well as giblet and head weights (P&lt;0.05). The animal model equation could clearly quantify the genotype effect. The phenotypic advantage evidenced for the Na gene is confirmed as an adaptation to heat stress whereas the significant superiority of heterozygote Na*na for most of the traits opens a window for the valorisation of potential overdominance effects for poultry breeding in hot climates.

Effect of partial replacement of agro-industrial by-products for maize on growth performance, carcass characteristics, blood profile and economy of production in local Turkey

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of incorporating three agro-industrial by-products as partial substitutes for maize on growth performance, carcass characteristics, blood profile, and economic efficiency in local Turkey. The study, which spanned a duration of fifty-six (56) days, was executed in a completely randomized design (CRD). A total of forty-eight (48) day-old local turkey poults were employed, and they were randomly assigned to four (4) dietary treatments of 12 poults per treatment, and replicated 3 times with 4 poults per replicate. The experimental diets, which contained three agro-industrial by-products, namely maize offal (MO), rice milling residue (RMR), and brewers' dried grain (BDG), were formulated with an inclusion level of 30% each of agro in by-products in the diets. At the starter phase, there were significant differences (P&lt;0.05) in the final weight gain, and average daily weight gain (ADWG), with higher values for final weight, average daily weight gain, and lower feed conversion ratio being recorded as 664.83, 14.57, 14.56, and 3.37g/bird respectively, at T3. The final weight, average daily weight gain (ADWG), and feed conversion ratio (FCR) at the grower phase were not significantly different (P&gt;0.05). However, T4 diet (30% BDG) had the highest final weight, but the lowest feed conversion ratio (FCR) of 1.42 was recorded at T1 (30% MO. The live weight, dress weight, carcass weight, dress percentage, breast, thigh, wings, back, neck, drumstick, liver, heart, and gizzard were not significantly different (P&gt;0.05) among treatment groups, except kidney, which was significantly different (p&lt;0.05) among the treatment groups. The haematological parameters measured, including packed cell volume (PCV), red blood cell (RBC), mean corpuscular haemoglobin (MCH), mean corpuscular volume (MCV), and white blood cell (WBC), were all significantly (P&lt;0.05) different. However, haemoglobin (Hb) and mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentrations (MCHC) were not significantly different (P&gt;0.05). The feed cost decreased as 30% level of each of the three agro-industrial by-products replaced maize in this study. Feed cost (N/Kg gain) followed the same trend. The findings revealed that T4 (30% BDG) was more economical for feeding turkey than the control diet (T1) containing 100% of maize and the other treatments. Therefore, it can be concluded that the replacement of maize with up to 30% BDG will offer improved growth performance, pose no health risk to turkeys, and reduce the cost of production.

Níveis de gordura inerte de palma na ração para cabritos – avaliação de desempenho produtivo e comportamento ingestivo

Fat sources represent an important component in ruminant feed, as they provide 2.25 times more energy than carbohydrates, and new sources, such as inert fats from rumen degradation, are a good option due to their fatty acid profile. The objective was to evaluate the performance and ingestive behavior of goats fed increasing levels of inert palm fat in the diet. Sixteen goats were used, distributed in an entirely randomized design, dairy crossbred, entire males, with initial ages of 60 days and 18.66 kg of live weight. The experiment was conducted in an entirely randomized design with repeated measures in time, with four treatments: 0, 25, 50 and 75 grams of inert palm fat per head and four repetitions per treatment. Dry matter (DM), mineral matter (MML) and organic matter (OML) intake was evaluated, and morphometric measurements of treatments and periods were compared by regression study (P&lt;0.05). The evaluations of weight gain were done weekly and the biometric measures, ECC and evaluation of ingestive behavior, fortnightly until the end of the experiment, which lasted 60 days. Only the treatment with the lowest inclusion of inert palm fat kept the DMC below the recommended by the NRC (2007). There was no statistical difference (P&gt;0.05) for average daily gain, weight gain, biometric variables and ingestive behavior as palm inert fat was included in the diet of goats. For the presented ECC data it is noted that it was significant (P&lt;0.05) and increasing keeping within the range for the category. Therefore, it is noted that the use of inert palm fat supplied at different levels did not promote deleterious changes in dry matter intake, morphometric measurements and ingestive behavior.

Specificities of accumulation of essential polyunsaturated fatty acids of ω-3 and ω-6 families in the tissues of bulls after supplementing their diet with the sources of fatty acids and mineral elements

Aim. To determine the intensity of growth of fattening bulls and the specificities of the accumulation of essential polyunsaturated fatty acids from the ω-3 and ω-6 families in their tissues after supplementing their diet with the sources of essential fatty acids and copper sulfate to increase their meat productivity and improve the biological value of beef. Methods. The study was conducted using the methodological approaches, common for international practice in accordance with the requirements of ISO 17025, and using the conventional methods of peer groups involving clinically healthy animals. The content of polyunsaturated fatty acids of the ω-3 and ω-6 families was determined by gas chro- matography using the Chrom-5 device. Copper content was determined by the method of atomic absorption spectro- photometry using the Selmi C-115 M1 device. Results. It was found that the introduction of linseed oil (as a source of α-linolenic acid, which is a precursor of polyunsaturated fatty acids of the ω-3 family) and sunflower oil (as a source of linoleic acid, which is a precursor of polyunsaturated fatty acids of the ω-6 family), the synthetic substance doxane (as an inhibitor of biohydrogenation processes in unsaturated fatty acids in the rumen) and pentahydrate copper sulfate (as a source of copper) to the diet of young fattening cattle caused a probable increase in the content of biologically active polyunsaturated fatty acids of the ω-3 and ω-6 family and copper in their liver and skeletal muscles. At the same time, the increase in the content of biologically active polyunsaturated fatty acids of the ω-3 and ω-6 families and copper in the abovementioned tissues due to the stimulation of metabolic processes in the body contributed to a probable increase in the average daily weight gain of young fattening animals. Thus, there was a direct relationship between the content of α-linolenic and linoleic acids and copper in the diet and their content in the tissues of experimental animals, productivity characteristics, and biological value of beef. Conclusions. The introduction of a mixture of linseed and sunflower oils into the diet of fattening bulls led to an increase in the content of α-linolenic and linoleic acids and a 1.7-fold decrease in the ratio between essential polyunsaturated fatty acids of the ω-6 family and that of the ω-3 family. The increase in the content of copper and essential polyunsaturated fatty acids of the ω-6 and ω-3 families in the diet of fattening bulls led to their accumulation in the liver and skeletal muscles, which contributed to the enhanced biological value of beef.

Sow and piglet productivity improvement in the farrowing department using milk substitutes

Modern pork production technology requires more piglets from sows to ensure the industry's profitability. The physiological reserve of sows' milk production at multiplicity above 14-18 piglets is often insufficient, which requires a constant search for ways to solve the problem of “hyperfertile sows”. The study aims to investigate the effectiveness of using milk replacers from different manufacturers in sow nests under conditions of multiple farrowings on the productivity and behaviour of suckling piglets and sow conditions. The experiment was conducted in 2023, with 36 sow nests in the farrowing shop and 513 suckling piglets. Nests with a litter of 13 or more were selected and three groups were formed. In the control group, piglets were raised without additional feeding with milk replacers. The group II piglets were fed with Alternative Milk Junior as a source of additional nutrition from 10 days of age until weaning. Piglets of group III received a Commercial Analogue of milk replacer. Group II was characterised by a higher survival rate – of 93.03% and, a higher live weight – of 7.84 kg, which led to higher values of average daily weight gain – 222.47 g. The nests of the II and III experimental groups (consuming milk replacer) were more aligned, which significantly outperformed the analogues of the control groups by 31.2% and 14.7%. Piglets of group II were in a calmer state and therefore spent the most time on rest – 60%, in contrast to animals of the control group – 50% and group II – 58%. Additional nutrition of piglets in the nests of “hyperfertile sows” reduces the load on sows during lactation allows to obtain animals in factory condition and reduces the number of unprofitable days. The practical significance of the experiment is to determine an effective milk replacer as a source of supplementary nutrition for suckling piglets in the nests of “hyperfertile” sows

94 Characterizing Yearling Beef Steers Grazing on Smooth Bromegrass Pasture Using Global Positioning Technology

Abstract Extensive grazing systems often vary in pasture size and terrain, making it challenging for ranchers to accurately locate livestock through visual appraisal. Using satellite-based global positioning systems (GPS), accurate position data can be provided to track animal movements that could inform grazing management decisions. This study aimed to: 1) assess two modern GPS devices for functionality by calculating fix success rate, and 2) evaluate the relationship between average daily distance traveled and average daily weight gain (ADG) performance on yearling steers grazing smooth bromegrass pasture using the GPS devices. Yearling steers (n = 25) grazed a 10.8-ha smooth bromegrass pasture for 156 days from May to September 2021. The temperature ranged from 4.1 to 38.8ºC with an average 22.7ºC and received 490 mm of rainfall. Cattle ADG was 0.65 ± 0.13 kg/d. Each steer was assigned two GPS collars for 28 days to compare two types of sensors. The sensors evaluated were i-gotU GT-600 travel loggers (GU) and Yabby LoRaWAN GPS sensors (YB) utilizing the IoT (Internet of Things) technology. The YB sensor possessed real-time monitoring and remote data access, while data from the GU sensor needed to be removed from the animals and manually downloaded. The YB sensors had a manufacturer declared finest positioning accuracy of 4.6 m, while that of the GU sensor being 9.1 m. With a 10-min sampling rate, battery life of the YB sensors lasted 4 weeks, while the GU sensors demonstrated unreliable battery performance that ranged between 1 to 4 weeks. Fixed success rate (FSR) was calculated for each sensor. Using PROC MIXED of SAS (v 9.4), on average the GU sensors had a 67.1% FSR and the YB sensors observed an 89.9% FSR (P &amp;lt; 0.0001). The YB sensor outweighed the GU sensor on battery life and FSR, thus was utilized throughout the duration of the grazing season. Individual animal traveled distance was calculated after converting the GPS coordinates in decimal degrees to Universal Transverse Mercator coordinates (WGS 1984 UTM zone 14N) in meters. The Euclidean distance between consecutive coordinates was calculated and summed daily to represent the daily traveled distance of an animal. Using all coordinates recorded from YB, steers traveled 2,718 ± 809 m/d. Statistical analysis was conducted using PROC CORR of SAS to determine the correlation between the daily averages of distance traveled and ADG. All values were considered significant α ≤ 0.05. There was no correlation observed between distance traveled and ADG (P ≥ 0.76). Results demonstrate that modern GPS sensors utilizing IoT technology have benefits over traditional GPS sensors and can be used as a tool for extensive grazing livestock tracking.

114 Effects of Zinc Supplementation in Gestating Sow Diets on Growth Performance of the Progeny from Birth to Market Reared Under Commercial Conditions

Abstract The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of different Zn supplementation strategies for gestating sows on growth performance of the progeny from birth to market. Pregnant sows (n = 417) were assigned to 1 of 3 dietary treatments in a randomized complete block design based on parity and body condition. Dietary treatments consisted of: 1) Control (CON), corn- soybean meal-based diet with 125 ppm of Zn/kg diet supplied by ZnO (standard basal diet), for a total daily intake of 250 ppm Zn; 2) Partial Supplementation (PS), CON diet + 625 ppm supplemental Zn top-dressed for a total daily intake of 850 ppm Zn provided from d 80 of gestation up to farrowing; and 3) Total Supplementation (TS), CON diet + 625 ppm supplemental Zn top-dressed for a total daily intake of 850 ppm Zn provided throughout the entire gestation phase. Individual body weight was recorded for all piglets at birth (n = 6,349) and at weaning (n = 5,016). A subgroup of piglets (same gender, housed in same farm) was also individually weighed at the end of nursery phase (n = 1207) and at the end of finishing phase (n = 260). Data were assessed by analysis of variance interpreted at 5 and 10% probability levels, adjusted by the Tukey-Kramer test for multiple comparisons. Piglets born from sows whose diets were supplemented with Zn throughout the entire gestational period (TS) tended (P = 0.10) to be heavier at birth compared with piglets born from CON sows (Table 1). The offspring from TS sows tended (P = 0.09) to have greater average daily weight gains during lactation and were heavier (P = 0.04) at weaning compared with the offspring from CON sows, with the offspring from PS sows being intermediate. Although there was no evidence for differences in nursery average daily weight gain, piglets from TS sows tended (P = 0.10) to be heavier at the end of the nursery compared with piglets from CON sows, with piglets from PS intermediate. Pigs from TS sows had greater (P = 0.003) average daily weight gain during the finishing phase and were heavier (P = 0.03) at slaughter. Only animals from the treatments CON and TS were evaluated at the end of the trial because no evidence for differences (P &amp;gt; 0.10) between CON and PS were found at the end of the nursery phase. In conclusion, Zn supplementation in gestating sow diet fed throughout the entire gestation period optimized the performance of the progeny from birth to market and should be considered as a viable prenatal intervention in commercial production systems.

Evaluation of different commercial feeds on Pangasianodon hypophthalmus (Striped cat fish) for optimum growth performance and attractibility of feeds.

Attractibility of fish feed was found higher in A8 over the other treatment. Average body weight and daily weight gain found more in A1 compared with other the present study showed that Dayal Aqua gold found better result as compared other commercial brands.

Virus-like particle vaccines with epitopes from porcine epidemic virus and transmissible gastroenteritis virus incorporated into self-assembling ADDomer platform provide clinical immune responses in piglets.

Porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV) and transmissible gastroenteritis virus (TGEV) are major intestinal coronaviruses that cause vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration, and mortality in piglets. These viruses coexist and lead to significant economic losses in the swine industry. Virus-like particles (VLPs) have emerged as promising alternatives to conventional inactivated vaccines due to their exceptional safety, efficacy, and ability to provide multi-disease protection with a single dose. Our study focused on specific antigenic epitopes from the PEDV S protein (SS2 and 2C10 regions) and the TGEV S protein (A and D sites) as target candidates. These epitopes were integrated into the ADDomer framework, and we successfully generated recombinant proteins AD, AD-P, AD-T, and AD-PT using the baculovirus expression vector system (BEVS). By meticulously optimizing conditions in High Five cells, we successfully expressed and purified the recombinant proteins. Subsequently, we developed the recombinant ADDomer-VLP vaccine and conducted a comprehensive evaluation of its efficacy in piglets. Following ultrafiltration concentration and sucrose gradient centrifugation purification, the recombinant proteins self-assembled into VLPs as observed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Administration of the vaccine did not result in any adverse reactions in the immunized piglets. Additionally, no significant instances of fever were detected in any of the experimental groups, and there were no notable changes in average daily weight gain compared to the control group that received PBS. The recombinant ADDomer-VLP vaccines demonstrated strong immunogenicity, effectively stimulating the production of neutralizing antibodies against both PEDV and TGEV. Moreover, the recombinant ADDomer-VLP vaccine induced elevated levels of IFN-γ, IL-2, and IL-4, and enhanced cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) activity in the peripheral blood of piglets. These recombinant VLPs have demonstrated the ability to induce strong cellular and humoral immune responses in piglets, making them an incredibly promising platform for the rapid and simplified development of epitope vaccines.

Lamb weight gain and reproductive performance of post-partum ewes supplemented with palm kernel cake and sexual stimulated by a ram

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of palm kernel cake and ram effect on reproductive activity of postpartum and lactating ewes. Twenty multiparous ewes, five to eleven days postpartum, were separated into four different treatments: control, control-ram, palm and palm-ram. Body weight, difference in body weight recorded between days 0 and 42 of the experiment, diameter of the largest follicle at day zero of the study, number of ewes bearing a corpus luteum and pregnancy rate were measured in ewes. Average daily weight gain was measured in lambs. There was no effect (p ≥ 0.05) of palm kernel supplementation, ram stimulation, or their interactions on the weights of ewes and lambs. A greater number of ewes with corpus luteum (p &lt; 0.05) were observed in ewes stimulated by rams than those not stimulated. The number of pregnant ewes was not affected by ram effect or palm kernel supplementation (p ≥ 0.05). In conclusion, the use of the ram effect increases the incidence of corpus luteum in postpartum and lactating ewes. In addition, palm kernel cake in the diet does not affect body weight of postpartum ewes and lambs.

Sugary and salty former food products in pig diets affect energy and nutrient digestibility, feeding behaviour but not the growth performance and carcass composition

Former foodstuff products (FFPs) are promising alternative ingredients for reducing the waste of natural resources and the environmental impact of food production. This study investigates the effects of salty and sugary FFPs on growth performance, apparent total tract digestibility (ATTD), and growing-finishing pigs' empty body and carcass composition. Thirty-six Swiss Large White male castrated pigs were assigned to three growing (G) and finishing (F) diets: (1) standard diet (ST), 0% FFPs; (2) 30% conventional ingredients replaced by sugary FFPs (SU); and (3) 30% conventional ingredients replaced by salty FFPs (SA). Faecal samples from 24 selected pigs were collected to assess the ATTD of gross energy, crude fibres, and CP. The BW was measured weekly, while feed intake was determined daily. Average daily gain (ADG), average daily feed intake (ADFI), feed conversion ratio (FCR), and ATTD were calculated for both the growing and finishing periods. Pigs' body composition was determined at ≥20 and ≥98 kg using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. In the growing but not finishing period, the FCR was lower (P < 0.05) in ST compared to SA and SU pigs. Considering the entire growing and finishing period, neither the inclusion level nor the type of FFPs influenced (P > 0.05) ADG, ADFI, FCR, or BW at slaughter. In both the growing and finishing periods, the gross energy ATTD was higher (P < 0.05) in the SA than in the ST group, with intermediate values in the SU group. In the growing period, the CP ATTD was higher (P < 0.05) in the SA than in the SU and ST groups. In the finishing period, the crude fibre ATTD was lower (P < 0.05) in the SA and SU than in the ST group. Throughout the overall period, the average daily fat intake was higher (P < 0.05) in pigs fed an SU diet, even though both categories of FFPs had no (P > 0.05) effects on the parameters related to the pigs' body composition (e.g., average daily fat weight gain). Finally, the carcasses of the SU group had the thickest belly fat, even though the total fat content was similar among the groups. This study confirms that including FFPs has no detrimental effects on growth performance or live body/carcass composition in growing and finishing pigs.

Effect of Supplementation with Concentrate and Groundnut Haulm in Diets on milk yield of Dairy Azawak cows

An experiment was carried out to determine the effect of feeding diet containing concentrate and graded level of groundnut haulms (GH) on the milk yield of Azawak cattle. Five concentrate-groundnut mixed diets were formulated to contain on average 15% crude protein. The ratio concentrate to groundnut was 100:0; 67:33, 50; 50, 33:67 and 0:100 respectively. Twenty Azawak multiparous lactating cow aged 5-6 years and averagely weighing 317-320 kg were randomly divided into five groups of four animals each and were allotted to the five experimental diets in a randomized complete block design. Data were collected for Dry Matter Intake (DMI), Average Daily Intake (ADI), Average Daily Weight Gain (ADWG), Total Milk Yield, Average Milk yield and Feed conversion efficiency in milk (FCEM) throughout the three months experimental period. Results indicated that the average daily weight gain was higher on diet containing 50% inclusion of groundnut haulm in concentrate diet fed to Azawak cattle. The DMI by cattle was significantly (P˂0.05) higher on diet containing 67 and 100% groundnut haulm. The ADWG of lactating cows fed concentrate mixture was significantly higher on diet containing 33 and 50% inclusion levels but the feed conversion ratio was significantly higher at 50% level of groundnut haulm inclusion level. The total milk yield, average daily milk yield, the body score condition and the feed conversion efficiency in milk were not affected by the level of Groundnut haulms in the concentrate diets, but the highest values of these parameters were obtained at 50% inclusion level. It can be recommended that concentrate diet for Azawak cattle should be supplemented with 50% legume haulm for, better body score condition, feed conversion, feed conversion efficiency of milk and enhanced milk production during the long dry season.

Influence of Select Dietary Trace Minerals and their Levels on Growth Performance, Nutrient Utilization and Minerals Balance in Male Goats.

A study was conducted on eighteen male goats to evaluate the effect of incremental levels of select dietary trace minerals on growth performance, nutrient utilization and minerals balance. Animals (16.65 ± 0.53kg average BW) were randomly divided into three groups and fed a basal diet to meet the requirement of all the nutrients except select trace minerals for 60 days. Groups were T1 (0.204 ppm Se, 35.29 ppm Zn, 7.37 ppm Cu, 39.79 ppm Mn), T2 (0.504 ppm Se, 55.29 ppm Zn, 17.37 ppm Cu, 59.79 ppm Mn), and T3 (0.804 ppm Se, 75.29 ppm Zn, 27.37 ppm Cu, 79.79 ppm Mn). Daily dry matter intake (DMI) (% BW) was lower (P < 0.05) in T3 as compared to other groups however, average daily gain (ADG) in body weight (P = 0.113) and feed: gain ratio (P = 0.102) showed subtle improvement in T2 and T3 groups. Feeding of higher levels of select trace minerals did not affect the intake and digestibility of nutrients, or plane of nutrition, however, the digestibility of non-fiber carbohydrates (NFC) increased (P = 0.004) in T2 and T3 groups than T1. The balance of N, Ca, P and Cu did not differ among the groups but balance of Zn, Mn and Se increased in T2 and T3 groups than T1 group. It is concluded that feeding higher levels of Zn (75.29 ppm), Cu (27.37 ppm), Mn (79.79 ppm) and Se (0.804 ppm) in combination, improved NFC digestibility, retention of Zn, Mn and Se and had subtle beneficial effects on the growth performance of male goats.

Effect of Feeding Milk Replacer on Growth Performance and Stress Physiology of Ghoongroo Piglets in Tropical Climate

Background: The pig is the most efficient feed-converting animal among all livestock and plays a crucial role in improving the socioeconomic status of rural masses. of India. The present study was to develop a best-suited milk replacer for piglets and its effect on growth performance and stress physiology of Ghoongroo piglets. Methods: The experiment was conducted on 20 Ghoongroo piglets divided into four groups, each containing 5 piglets, i.e., 3 treatment groups and 1 control group maintained at Livestock Farm ERS-IVRI, Kalyani. Control group (T0) piglets kept with sows and looked after under standard management practices. Whereas, three treatment groups (T1, T2 and T3) piglets were fortified with 3 different kinds of milk replacers and piglets were fed through bottle feeding for 28 days, thereafter, creep feed was started and gradually, milk replacer was stopped. Result: Significant difference (P less than 0.05) was observed in average body weight (kg) and daily body weight gain (g/day) on 56 days of age between the treatment and control groups. It was also found that feeding milk replacers had no stress on piglets. So, it can be concluded that feeding milk replacers showed improved economic return along with a higher growth rate till weaning without any stress on the piglets.

Grass Meal Acts as a Probiotic in Chicken

Probiotics can act as an alternative to antibiotics in animal feeding, but their use is minimal due to their expensive production. Dry grass is rich with bacteria beneficial for animal feeding and can be used as a probiotic. However, data about the quantitative dependence of the grass microbiome on environmental factors and seasons remain insufficient for preparing “grass-meal-based probiotics”. Four grass samples were collected in two geographically remote regions of Russia; their microbiome was characterized by metagenomic sequencing of 16S rDNA libraries and microbiological seeding, and biological testing of the grass meal was carried out on 6 groups of birds containing 20 Ross 308 cross broilers each for a period of 42 days. The positive control group (PC) obtained 16–25 mg/mL toltrazuril (coccidiostatic agent) and 0.5 mL/L liquid antibiotic enrostin (100 mg/mL ciprofloxacin and 106 MU/mL colistin sulfate in the commercial preparation) within the drinking water, while the negative control group (NC) obtained no medicines. Four experimental groups were fed the diet supplemented with 1% grass meal over the period of 7–42 days of life; no commercial medicines were used here. A spontaneous infection with Eimeria was registered in the NC control groups, which caused the loss of 7 chickens. No losses were registered in the PC group or the two experimental groups. In two other experimental groups, losses of coccidiosis amounted to 10% and 15%, respectively. All specimens of the grass meal demonstrated a significant effect on the average body weight gain compared to NC. Taken together, these observations support the hypothesis that the grass meal may substitute toltrazuril for protecting the chickens from parasitic invasion and increase average daily weight gain (ADG) as effectively as the antibiotic enrostin.

Monitoring bovine dairy calf health and related risk factors in the first three months of rearing

BackgroundRearing replacement heifers is pivotal for the dairy industry and is associated with high input costs for the preweaned calves, due to their higher susceptibility to diseases. Ensuring calf health and viability calls for systematic approaches in order to mitigate the costs induced by managing sick calves and to ensure animal welfare. The objective of this study was to develop a systematic and feasible health-monitoring tool for bovine dairy calves based on repeated clinical observations and diagnostic results of calves at three time points; the 1st (T0), the 3rd (T1) and the 12th (T3) week of age. The study included observations from 77 dairy heifer calves in nine Danish commercial dairy herds. Immunisation status was assessed by serum Brix% at T0. Clinical scoring included gastrointestinal disease (GD) and respiratory disease (RD). The average daily weight gain (ADWG) was estimated from heart-girth measurements. Pathogen detection from nasal swabs and faecal samples were analysed for 16 respiratory and enteric pathogens by means of high-throughput real time-PCR. All measures obtained in each herd were visualised in a panel to follow the health status of each calf over time.ResultsThe individual clinical observations combined with diagnostic information from immunisation and pathogen detection form each enrolled calf are presented in a herd dashboard illustrating the health status over the study period. This monitoring revealed failure of passive transfer (Brix% < 8.1) in 31% of the 77 enrolled calves, signs of severe GD peaked at T0 with 20% affected calves, while signs of severe RD peaked at T2 with 42% affected calves. ADWG over the first eight weeks was estimated to be 760 g (± 190 g). Pathogen profiles varied between herds.ConclusionsThe large variation in both clinical disease and pathogen occurrence across herds emphasizes the need for herd specific monitoring. Combining the results of the present study from measures of immunisation, health and growth from individual calves in one visualisation panel allowed for the detection of patterns across age groups in the specific herds, showing promising potential for early detection and interventions that can lead to enhanced calf health and welfare.

Отечественный ферментный препарат в комбикормах для молодняка свиней на откорме

Abstract. Rational organization of feeding is always one of the decisive factors for achieving high productivity of animals. An important task of modern pig breeding is to reduce costs by increasing the digestibility of digested feed nutrients by the animal's body. One of the significant ways that are necessary to solve the task can be considered the additional inclusion of biologically active substances in the composition of animal feed for farm animals, namely modern enzyme preparations of a new generation. The animal body needs them to increase the digestibility of nutrients coming from the feed. The purpose is to study the effect of “Feedbest P5000 GT” enzyme preparation as part of compound feeds on the growth, development and feed costs of fattened young pigs. Methods. In order to achieve this goal, a scientific and economic experiment was conducted on young pigs of large white breed aged from 60 to 210 days. For the experiment, 4 groups of young pigs of 12 heads each were formed according to the principle of analog groups, taking into account breed, gender, age, and live weight. The animals are kept in groups. To determine the effectiveness of “Feedbest P5000 GT” for the growth and development of fattened young pigs, weighings were carried out every thirty days and animal measurements were taken, in addition, the consumption of feed and residues for the next day was taken into account. The composition of compound feeds enriched with “Feedbest P5000 GT” enzyme preparation during the experiment allowed to increase the growth, development and reduce the cost of compound feed per unit of production of fattened young pigs. Results. The use of “Feedbest P5000 GT” enzyme preparation in compound feeds made it possible to increase the average daily live weight gain of young pigs by 4.8 %, 9.3 % and 6.8 %, to obtain a reduction in feed costs by 4.7 %, 8.6 % and 6.5 % compared with the young pigs of the control group. The best indicators were found in animals of the second experimental group, where the studied enzyme preparation in the amount of 90 g/t was additionally introduced into the compound feed. Scientific novelty. For the first time, studies have been conducted to determine the optimal dose of the enzyme preparation “Feedbest P5000 GT” in compound feeds for young pigs. The effect of the drug on growth, development and feed costs has been studied.

Canola meal as a supplement for grass-fed beef cattle: Effects on growth rates, carcase and meat quality, and consumer sensory evaluations

The current study examined the growth rates, carcase characteristics, meat quality, and consumer sensory evaluation of the longissimus lumborum muscle (striploin) from steers that were supplemented with either canola meal or grain-based pellets. Forty Angus and Hereford × Angus steers received one of these two supplements with ad libitum lucerne hay for 60 d prior to slaughter. Average daily weight gain was not affected by dietary treatment; however, hot standard carcase weight was significantly lower for steers offered canola meal compared with steers on the grain-based pellets. Dietary treatment did not affect the carcase characteristics, meat quality traits, and consumer sensory evaluation, irrespective of ageing periods. Therefore, canola meal can be used as an approved Pasturefed Cattle Assurance System (PCAS) supplement on moderate dry quality forages without negatively affecting carcase and meat quality traits.