Chopped Straw Research Articles

The Influence of Previous Treatment of Wheat Straw from Bales on the Intensity of Biogas Outlet

The purpose of the research is the experimental determination of the effect of preliminary mechanical and additional magnetic treatment of wheat straw from bales on the intensity of biogas output. This goal is achieved by solving the following problems: determining the physical-chemical properties and component composition of winter wheat straw from packs; obtaining chopped straw by grinding on a laboratory grinder to a fraction of 5–25 mm in length; processing soaked straw in water in an extruder to form 15 pre-treatment samples; calculation the carbon-nitrogen ratio for mixture of straw of certain pretreatment option and inoculum; determination the specific energy intensity of the extrusion process; conducting fermentation experiments and studies of the biogas output process for 42 days for various options for pre-treatment of winter wheat straw from packs, in particular the option with the simultaneous action of constant magnetic field. The most important results of the research are: experimental proof of the effectiveness of the method of preliminary mechanical-magnetic treatment of winter wheat straw from bales in the production of biogas, which forms a synergetic effect; with a one-time extrusion of straw and treatment with constant magnetic field of 1.8 mT, the biogas output increases, which makes it possible to obtain the same amount of biogas as with 5-fold extrusion, but with energy costs for extrusion reduced by 4.28 times. At the same time, sufficient productivity of the biogas production process is maintained, the lag phase is reduced, and the biomethane output increases by approximately 5.5%. The significance of the obtained results is that the proposed approach to the formation of biogas technology with using mechanical-magnetic processing of wheat straw ensures the intensification of biogas output and an increase in the level of production.

Aftereffect of Seven Years of Straw Handling on Soil Sustainability and Vitality

Straw, as organic material, contains macronutrients and a wide range of micronutrients. Properly treated straw can become a valuable source for soil improvement and crop nutrition needs. The field experiment was carried out at the Institute of Agriculture, Lithuanian Research Centre for Agriculture and Forestry, in 2014–2021 on Cambisol. On a shallow ploughless tillage background, eight treatments were investigated: chopped straw + ammonium nitrate (CSA), chopped straw + ammonium nitrate + NPK (CSA+F), chopped straw + microorganisms (CSM), chopped straw + microorganisms + NPK (CSM+F), straw removed, not fertilized (SR), straw removed, fertilized (SR+F), chopped straw, not fertilized (CS), chopped straw, fertilized (CS+F). We hypothesized that treatment of straw with microbiological products in combination with mineral NPK fertilizers is a more efficient technology than treatment/non-treatment of straw with ammonium nitrate, either with or without NPK fertilizers. The aim of this work was to investigate the aftereffects of seven years use of mineral NPK fertilizers and bioproducts containing soil bacteria and microscopic fungi (Bacillus megaterium, Acinetobacter calcoaceticus, and Trichoderma reesei) in combination with straw management on soil sustainability (soil C sources, soil water release characteristics, pore-size distribution, aggregate stability, crop yielding capability) and soil vitality (CO2 exchange rate-NCER). It was revealed that NCER was highest in the treatment CSM+F (Bacillus megaterium, Acinetobacter calcoaceticus, and Trichoderma reesei + NPK). It was 32.95% higher than in CSA (chopped straw without fertilizers) and 45.34% higher than in CSA+F (chopped straw + ammonium nitrate + NPK). Bioproducts applied favored soil vitality in general by exhibiting higher soil microbiological activity. As a result, a healthy and more viable Cambisol produced a higher winter wheat grain yield.

PSV-B-20 Effect of Physically Effective Neutral Detergent Fiber, and Undigested Neutral Detergent Fiber on Eating Behavior, Ruminal pH, Ruminal Motility, and Total Tract Permeability for Finishing Cattle

Abstract This study evaluated the effects of physically effective neutral detergent fiber (peNDF), and undigested neutral detergent fiber (uNDF) on dry matter intake (DMI), eating behavior, ruminal fermentation, and total tract permeability for finishing cattle. Simmental heifers (n=6; 667.8±28.4 kg) were used in a replicated 3×3 Latin square (21-d periods) balanced for carry-over effects. Barley grain-based diets were formulated to provide treatments with: low peNDF and low uNDF (95% barley and supplement, and 0% straw; 0FOR); low peNDF but high uNDF (85% barley and supplement, 10% pelleted straw; PEL); or high peNDF with high uNDF (85% barley and supplement, 10% chopped straw; ST). Treatment did not affect DMI (P=0.93). Heifers fed 0FOR spent less (P< 0.01) time eating vs. ST, where PEL was intermediate. Time spent ruminating was greater (P=0.01) for ST than 0FOR, with PEL not differing. Heifers fed 0FOR had fewer meals/d than ST (P< 0.01) and meal size was greater for 0FOR than PEL and ST (P< 0.01). Feeding 0FOR reduced (P=0.02) mean ruminal pH (5.65 vs. 6.07) and increased (522 vs. 288 min/d, P=0.02) the duration that pH was < 5.5 relative to ST with PEL being intermediate (5.82 and 504 min/d, respectively). Heifers fed 0FOR had greater (112.5 vs. 59.9 sec, P=0.05) time between contractions and lesser (61.45 vs. 94.58 mmHg′sec, P=0.05) contraction area compared with cattle fed ST, while PEL remained intermediate (76.73 sec and 73.29 mmHg×sec, respectively). Permeability of the gastrointestinal tract to Cr-EDTA and intestine to Co-EDTA did not differ (P≥0.11) among treatments. The data suggest that increasing uNDF improved ruminal function, but increasing uNDF with peNDF is needed to decrease the risk of ruminal acidosis in finishing cattle. The results further suggest that the use of uNDF and peNDF may provide useful information over NDF inclusion when evaluating fiber adequacy of finishing diets.

Enhancement of Straw Bale Performance Using Gum Arabic

Background: The negative impacts of the construction industry are compelling arguments for embracing technology that contributes to carbon footprint reduction and resources conservation. Toward the achievement of objective 9 of the Sustainable Development Goals, the development of new building’s materials like straw bale has advanced in the construction industry. As demonstrated in the literature, straw bale is an eco-friendly material that presents many advantages, like its contribution towards a circular economy. However, it has low compressive strength and displays high displacement under compression load. So far, no attempt has been made in order to enhance the strength of straw bales. Objective: This study aimed to develop alternative material to straw bale using chopped straw stems mixed with a binder (gum Arabic) and determine its stress-strain characteristic. Methods: The manufacturing process of the new material involved the use of chopped straw and gum Arabic to form straw blocks. Results: Results obtained show that the compressive strength of straw block (1.25MPa) is greater than the strength of straw bale (0.02MPa). Also, the average displacement recorded during compression load on straw blocks (29mm) was 2.8 times smaller than the displacement in straw bale (80mm). In terms of shape and size, straw blocks match with conventional materials like cement or compressed block. This will facilitate their use in construction compared to straw bales that require skilled laborers for pre-compression and plastering. Conclusion: The use of gum arabic helps in holding straw stems together and forms a compact material with improved strength compared to straw bale. Performance improvement of the characteristics of load-bearing straw bale walls can be addressed by using straw blocks.

The Effects of Refilling Additional Rooting Material on Exploration Duration and Tail Damages in Rearing and Fattening Pigs

Pigs housed in commercial barns with slatted floors cannot fully perform their natural behavioral needs such as rooting or exploring. Enrichment materials can stimulate these behaviors in pigs. Here, we investigated whether exploration can be stimulated by offering additional enrichment material, i.e., chopped straw, once compared to four times daily. In two replicates each with four rearing and eight fattening pens, a total of 192 pigs with undocked tails continuously received chopped straw from a dispenser, while a stimulus to explore was given by filling the rooting area of the dispenser either once (R1) or four times (R4) daily with additional chopped straw. The dispensers were equipped with an ultra-high-frequency radio-frequency-identification (UHF-RFID) system in order to record the exploration durations of each individual pig at the dispenser. At four times throughout rearing and fattening, pigs were weighted and tail injuries and length losses were assessed. This resulted in three temporal sections within each replicate, for each of which the difference in tail length to the previous section (Δ-tail length) was calculated. Exploration durations did not change in long-term but increased from rearing throughout fattening. The refillings in which additional chopped straw was offered (R1 vs. R4) did not affect the overall exploration duration during rearing (linear mixed effects model (LME),P= 0.85) or fattening (LME,P= 0.66). However, descriptive evaluations showed that exploration durations decreased within the first 10-min sequences within the hour after refilling the rooting area with additional chopped straw in both treatments (R1 and R4). Exploration durations were affected by week, day, and hour within day during rearing (LME, all factors,P< 0.0001) and fattening (LME, all factors,P< 0.0001). Neither tail injuries nor length losses were affected by the refilling treatment (R1 vs. R4) during rearing (GLMM, bothP> 0.1) or fattening (GLMM, bothP> 0.1). Offering additional straw four times compared to once a day had no advantage in the present setting with regard to exploration duration and tail damages of pigs. However, refilling the rooting area with additional chopped straw triggered a short-term increase of exploration that decreased within 1 h, thus, exploration was more spread over the day.

Requirements Of Balling Chopped Rice Straw

This study aimed to identify the effect of the rice straw chopping process on the bales storage capacity. Chopping process of straw rice was carried out under three drum speeds, three feeding rates and three moisture contents of straw. Baling process was used to press chopped straw with three frequency speeds of plunger to press chopped straw, three feeding rates for chopped rice straw and different cutting lengths for chopped rice straw. The results were obtained the lowest average cutting length was7.88 mm with increasing speed of drum from 4.71 to 10.5m/s, and the minimum moisture content at 12%. The highest bale density was 144.6 kg / m³,under the frequency of press speed 0.45 m /s, for cutting length averages of less than 10 mm. The lowest storage capacity was 16.46 m³/fed, with a maximum compressing speed of 0.45 m /s and a feeding rate of 1.5Mg /h with the use of cutting averages less than 10mm. For the chopping process, the lowest energy requirement was8.9 kW.h/Mg at 4.71m/s and 12% moisture content with feed rate of 1.5Mg /h. Otherwise for the baling process, the lowest energy requirement was 5.67 kW.h /Mg at a compression speed of 0.24 m /s, feed rate of 3Mg/h and average cutting lengths greater than 20.5mm. The lowest production cost obtained when chopping straw was79.7LE /Mg with a speed of 4.71m/s, a moisture content of 12% and a feed rate of 1.5 Mg/h. The lowest production cost obtained when baling chopped straw was 98.5LE/ Mg with a speed of 0.24m /s and feeding rate of 3Mg /h.

Effect of organic mulch and LEDs light colors on green bean plants (Phaseolus vulgaris L.)

Studying the positive role of applying organic mulch and different colors of LEDs light, on the growth and yield of green bean plants, were carried out during 2019/2020 and 2020/2021 seasons, at a privet farm within Suez Governorate. Seedlings of Bronco cultivar were transplanted at the 15th of October of both seasons. Two types of organic mulch i.e., chopped maize straw and chopped rice straw, addition to bare soil (control) were tested as a soil mulch treatment (factor 1). In addition, LEDs light colors i.e., red, blue and "red + blue" and without LED light were also tested (factor 2). Finally, interaction between both studied factors was also studied. Studied factors were arranged in split plot design with three replicates. Organic soil mulches were arranged in the main plots. However, LEDs light colors were arranged within the sub main plots. Vegetative growth parameters i.e., plant height, number of leaves/plant, stem diameter, number of branches/plant, fresh and dry weight of plants were measured. Moreover, percentages of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium contents in leaves, as well as, chlorophyll reading (SPAD) were also measured. In addition, pod characteristics i.e., number of pods/plant, average pod weight and fiber content in pods, were studied as well. Finally, both early and total yield of green bean were studied. Changes in soil temperature under organic mulch treatments, as well as, bare soil were daily measured during the growing seasons. Results indicated that, in general, applying tested types of organic mulch modified soil temperature. Moreover, both tested factors were enhanced measured characters of vegetative growth, leaves content of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium, as well as yield and its components. Furthermore, both treatments of chopped maize straw and "red + blue" LEDs light, as well as the interaction between both treatments were the most suitable for increasing productivity and quality of green bean plants.

Nitrogen and residue management effects on performance of happy seeder sown wheat

A field experiment was conducted during rabi 2016-17 and 2017-18 to evaluate the influence of different residue and nitrogen management practices on soil physico-chemical properties, root density, weed growth and grain yield of happy seeder sown wheat. Experiment was conducted in randomized block design consisting of eleven residue and nitrogen management treatments in four replications. The results inferred that weed biomass was significantly less in chopped straw treatments (C) as compared to unchopped treatments (NC). Treatments receiving 150 kg N/ha had higher root density than 125 kg N/ha treatments at all soil depths during both years. Soil physical and chemical properties were not significantly affected but there was improvement in these properties after two years of residue retention. Grain yield (5.42 and 5.36 t/ha) was maximum in treatment where 150 kg N (30 kg at chopping of straw and 120 kg as per recommendation) was applied along with 5 t/ha FYM (C+N30+120+FYM5), which was significantly better than NC + N125, C + N125, C + FYM5 + N125 and C + N20+105 treatments but statistically at par with rest of the treatments.

Effects of the straw inclusion in the diet of dairy calves on growth performance, rumen fermentation, and blood metabolites during pre- and post-weaning periods.

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of the inclusion of chopped straw into a diet with pelleted starter feed on starter intake, growth performance, fermentation and blood metabolites of dairy calves during the pre- and post-weaning periods. Forty-four Holstein-Friesian female dairy calves were randomly assigned to four treatments: control (CON, starter without straw; n=11), low straw (LS, starter feed containing 10% dry matter basis straw; n=11), medium straw (MS, starter feed containing 15% dry matter basis straw; n=11) and high straw (HS, starter feed containing 20% dry matter basis straw; n=11). Starter intake and total dry matter intake were recorded daily, and bodyweight weekly until 84days of age. The highest starter intake and total dry matter intake were noted in the LS and MS treatments during the post-weaning, and overall experiment periods. Also, the average daily gain was greater during the pre-weaning period for LS and MS than HS. Increasing chopped straw content in the starter feeds from 0% to 15% increased ruminal pH, especially at day 28, and molar concentration of acetate, and decreased concentrations of total volatile fatty acids and propionate throughout the trial. Concentrations of butyrate in the rumen were lower at day 28, and higher at day 56 and 84 in straw-supplemented calves compared to the CON treatment. Increasing chopped straw content in the starters feeds from 0% to 15% increased the total counts of bacteria and protozoa, but then this counts decreased with the content of 20% chopped straw. In conclusion, the inclusion of chopped triticale straw from 10% to 15% in the diet with pelleted starter feed can improve performance, and rumen fermentation in calves; however, increasing the dietary inclusion of straw to 20% can negatively affect growth performance.

Effect of solid feed level and types of roughage on passage kinetics of milk replacer, concentrate, and roughage in veal calves

This study aimed (1) to provide estimates of total mean retention times of milk replacer (MR), concentrates, and roughage in veal calves fed a mixed diet; (2) to determine the effect of level and type of solid feed (SF) on passage kinetics of MR, concentrates, and roughages in veal calves; and (3) to compare passage kinetics in veal calves using the fecal excretion curves of indigestible markers and a noninvasive 13C tracer breath test approach to determine whether the latter technique can serve as an alternative. At the start of the trial, 48 Holstein-Friesian calves (6 wk of age; 68 ± 7.7 kg of body weight; BW) were assigned to 1 of 4 dietary treatments (for statistical analysis, only 39 calf observations were used). Three treatments contained chopped wheat straw as roughage in the SF mixture in a concentrate:roughage ratio of 90:10 (dry matter basis). The SF level was 20 g/kg of metabolic BW per day (low straw), 30 g/kg of metabolic BW per day (middle straw), or 40 g/kg of metabolic BW per day (high straw). The fourth treatment (high hay) contained long perennial ryegrass hay as roughage in the SF mixture in a concentrate:roughage ratio of 70:30 (dry matter basis, at 40 g/kg of metabolic BW per day). The quantity of MR was fixed for the high straw treatment, whereas the amount of MR for the other treatments during the adaptation period was adjusted based on a pair gain strategy (i.e., exchanging ration components but keeping similar net energy). At the end of the adaptation period, calves ranged from 12 to 15 wk of age with an average BW of 123 ± 8.6 kg. Passage kinetics of concentrates were estimated by measuring 13C enrichment excess of CO2 in breath from a pulsed-dose of [1-13C]octanoate. Passage kinetics of roughage, concentrates, and MR were also estimated using fecal excretion curves obtained after ingestion of chromium-mordanted roughage, Yb2O3, and Co-EDTA, respectively. We conclude that [1-13C]octanoate cannot serve as a measure for oro-duodenal transit of concentrates because of unrealistic estimates. Based on the fecal excretion curves, we concluded that the total mean retention time of MR (i.e., time to peak; the moment that the excretion curve reaches peak concentration) was, on average, 12.4 h, and that the passage kinetics of MR was not affected by the level or type of SF. The mean retention time of concentrates was shorter (21.4 h) than that of both straw (59.1 h) and hay (36.8 h), and was not affected by the level or type of SF. Also, the mean retention time of the slowest compartment (i.e., the rumen) was shorter for concentrates (39.6 h) than that of straw (110.0 h) and hay (59.2 h). Contrary, the passage of roughage was affected by level and type of SF. Long hay increased time to peak by 22.3 h and decreased ruminal mean retention time by 50.8 h relative to chopped straw, indicating that the passage rate of long hay is faster than that of chopped straw. We conclude that the level and type of SF only affects the passage kinetics of roughage and not that of MR and concentrates.

Effect of plant-based enrichment materials on exploration in rearing and fattening pigs (Sus scrofa domesticus)

When pigs cannot perform innate species-specific behaviours (e.g. rooting or chewing), behavioural disorders, like tail biting, can occur. However, it seems that various enrichment materials enhance the pigs to perform exploration behaviour and therefore can help to reduce and prevent tail biting. The aim of this study was to identify such highly explored plant-based enrichment material for undocked pigs during rearing and fattening. Furthermore, we evaluated the impact of the offered enrichment materials on tail length and injuries. Therefore, we continuously recorded the individuals’ exploration durations in 20 groups by using an ultra-high-frequency radio-frequency identification system, installed at material dispensers. Lucerne pellets (LP), straw pellets (SP), chopped hay (CH) and chopped straw (CS) were offered in a systematically alternating order for two-week sections, respectively. At weaning and at days of material change (i.e. eight times in total), animals were weighed and scored for tail length losses and tail injuries. For analysis, the changes in tail length compared to the previous section were calculated as Δ-tail-length losses. Our study revealed that the different offered plant-based enrichment materials affected the duration of exploration behaviour (e.g. rooting, nosing or chewing) during rearing (4 groups, LME, p < 0.0001) and fattening (16 groups, LME, p < 0.0001). In piglets, exploration duration was higher for pelletized materials (LP, SP) than for chopped materials. Fattening pigs explored materials of hay (CH) more often compared to straw-based materials (CS, SP). Daily weight gains of rearing pigs were affected by the type of enrichment material offered in the respective section (LME, p < 0.0001). The highest daily weight gains were achieved when CH was offered. Exploration duration during rearing and fattening was affected by section (LME, both p < 0.0001 for rearing and fattening). Exploration duration during rearing was highest in section 4 and continuously increased from the first section to the last section during fattening. During rearing, the plant-based enrichment materials affected tail injuries (GLMM, p < 0.0001) and Δ-tail-length losses tended to be affected (GLMM, p = 0.057). Fewest tail injuries and Δ-tail-length losses occurred when SP was offered. During fattening, section affected tail injuries (GLMM, p = 0.01). Most injuries occurred during sections 1 and 2. Our results show that pigs of different ages seem to prefer different plant-based enrichment materials. High exploration durations do not necessarily maintain intact tails if material is changed biweekly. However, exploration durations can be maintained at high levels from rearing through fattening period by regularly alternating the provided plant-based enrichment materials.

Addition of straw to the early-lactation diet: Effects on feed intake, milk yield, and subclinical ketosis in Holstein cows

This study evaluated feed intake, milk yield, and subclinical ketosis in dairy cows in early lactation fed 2 different diets postpartum. Cows are typically offered a high-energy ration immediately after calving. We compared a conventional high-energy total mixed ration (TMR) with a transition ration that contained chopped straw. We predicted that adding chopped straw would increase dry matter intake, milk production, and indicators of energy metabolism during the first 3 wk of lactation compared to cows fed a conventional high-energy TMR. We also predicted that carryover effects would be likely for at least 2 wk after treatment ended. A total of 68 mixed-age Holstein cows were enrolled in the study 3 wk before their expected calving. All cows were managed on a single high-forage diet during the dry period. At calving, cows were allocated to 1 of the 2 diets: half to the conventional high-energy TMR (CTMR; n = 34; net energy for lactation = 1.61 Mcal/kg; neutral detergent fiber = 31.7%), and the other half to a high-forage TMR containing chopped wheat straw, equivalent to 4.27% dry matter (STMR; n = 34; net energy for lactation = 1.59 Mcal/kg; neutral detergent fiber = 33.7%) for 3 wk after calving. Cows on STMR were then shifted to CTMR for the next 2 wk to study short-term residual effects on the performance of cows. Treatments were balanced for parity, body condition score, and body weight. Feed intake was measured daily from 2 wk before to 5 wk after calving using automatic feed bins. Blood was sampled twice weekly from 2 wk before to 5 wk after calving, and β-hydroxybutyrate and glucose were measured in serum samples. Subclinical ketosis was identified using a threshold of β-hydroxybutyrate ≥1.0 mmol/L in wk 1 after calving and ≥1.2 mmol/L in wk 2 to 5 after calving. Cows were milked twice daily, and weekly samples (composite samples of morning and afternoon milkings) were analyzed to determine total solids, fat, protein, lactose, and somatic cell count. Data were analyzed in 2 separate periods: the treatment phase (wk +1, +2, and +3) and the post-treatment phase (wk +4 and +5). The addition of straw to the TMR negatively affected the dry matter intake of STMR cows during wk 2 and 3 of lactation. Daily milk yield during the first 5 wk of lactation was lower in STMR cows than in CTMR cows. Concentrations of β-hydroxybutyrate were higher in CTMR cows than in STMR cows during wk 1, but this effect was reversed during wk 2 and 3 of lactation. By 21 d in milk, STMR cows had a greater risk of developing subclinical ketosis than CTMR cows. Adding chopped wheat straw to the TMR during the first 21 d after calving lowered dry matter intake and provided no metabolic or production benefits to lactating dairy cattle.

PSV-12 Impact of grain processing and undegradable fiber on chewing behavior and feed sorting of finishing beef cattle

Abstract The objective was to investigate the effects of processing index (PI, weight after processing/weight before processing × 100) of barley grain and dietary undegradable fiber (uNDF, 240 h of incubation in rumen) concentration on chewing behavior (3 days, video recording) and feed sorting of finishing beef cattle. Six ruminally cannulated beef heifers (BW=715 kg) were used in a 6 × 6 Latin square design with 3 PI (65, 75 and 85%; fine, medium, coarse, respectively) × 2 uNDF concentrations (low and high; 4.6 vs. 5.6% of DM) factorial arrangement. Heifers were fed ad libitum a TMR consisting of 10% barley silage (low uNDF) or 5% silage and 5% chopped straw (high uNDF), 87% dry-rolled barley grain, and 3% vitamin and mineral supplement. An interaction of PI with uNDF occurred (P &amp;lt; 0.01) for DM intake, ruminating and total chewing time. Intake of DM (kg/d) did not differ (12.1) between low and high uNDF diets with 65 or 75% PI, whereas it was greater (P &amp;lt; 0.05) for high (12.7) than low (12.1) uNDF diets with 85% PI. Eating time (min/d) was not affected by PI but eating time (106 vs. 95 min/d; P = 0.03) and eating index (9.3 vs. 8.0 min/kg DM; P = 0.02) were greater with high than low uNDF diets. Ruminating (305 vs. 258 min/d) and total chewing (406 vs. 357 min/d) times were greater (P &amp;lt; 0.05) with high than low uNDF at 65% PI, with no effect of uNDF at 75 and 85% PI. Moreover, no interaction between PI and uNDF and no effect of PI on sorting index was observed. Heifers fed high vs. low uNDF diets sorted (P &amp;lt; 0.01) against long particles (&amp;gt;19 mm). These results suggest that when cattle are fed finely processed barley, increasing uNDF concentration of the diet may promote chewing and benefit rumen health.

Influence of bulking materials on theorganic matter degradation during composting of cattle manure

This study aimed to understand the degradation pattern of cattle manure with different types of bulking materials during composting. For this purpose, a composting experiment was conducted with three bulking materials e.g., T1 (composting with dry chopped straw), T2 (composting with dry tree leaves) and T3 (composting with saw dust) with 3 replications. Parameters studied were dry matter (DM), organic matter (OM), ash, organic carbon (OC), total nitrogen (TN), crude fiber (CF), carbon nitrogen ratio (C/N) and pH at different days of intervals. Results showed that the bulking materials have a significant influence on the quality of the final compost. The highest DM content was observed in T3 (48.17%) and the lowest DM content was observed in T2 (38.36%) after 45 days of composting. There were significant (p<0.01) higher reduction rate of OM, OC and CF were found in T3 compared to T1 and T2 and the differences were also significant (p<0.01) among days intervals over 45 days of experimental period. TN content gradually decreases with the increase of time. But there was no significant difference in TN alteration among the treatments along with time intervals. There were significant differences (P<0.01) in C/N among treatments and a gradual increment of C/N was found with the advancement of the composting operation. There was a little change in pH of all the treatments but those treatments were not followed a trend during the total experimental period. Finally, it may be concluded that CF and OM degradation rate is faster in T3compared to T1 and T2. These might be indicated that saw dust might be used as an efficient bulking material that enhances OM degradation during composting of cattle manure.

Effect of Substitution of Urea With Different Type and Levels of Ruminant Manure on Nutritive Value of Rice Straw Silage

This study was conducted in Nutrition Lab. to investigate the effect of the type and level of substitution of urea with ruminant manure, M (sheep, cow and buffalo) on basis of nitrogen (N) content on the nutritive value of rice straw silage (RSS). Accordingly silages were nominated as, S-RSS, C-RSS and B-RSS. Urea (U) was substituted with dried manure at 6 combinations, 100:0, 90:10, 80:20, 70:30, 60:40 and 50:50 of U:M. Silage samples were prepared by treating chopped straw with pre-treated solution contained 10% low quality debis and 2% urea. Results showed that lower (P˂0.01) DM loss (11.4%) was observed in S-RSS, and with addition of urea only (3.6%). &#x0D; Samples of S-RSS and C-RSS recorded higher (P˂0.01) Fleig points (Fp) as compared with those prepared by the addition of B-RSS, 60.42, 55.58 and 49.59 respectively. Reduction (P˂0.01) in this parameter was noticed in samples prepared with a combination of 100:0. Aerobic stability (AS) was a reduced (P˂0.01) in samples prepared by addition of S-RSS by 15 and 13 hours in comparison with samples of C-RSS and B-RSS respectively. Samples prepared with combination of 100:0 were prior (P˂0.01) as compared with other samples.&#x0D; Results also showed an increase (P˂0.01) in in vitro digestibility of organic matter (IVOMD) in samples of S-RSS in comparison with samples prepared by addition of C-RSS and B-RSS, 49.99, 44.59 and 42.77% respectively. Samples prepared with combination of 100:0 recorded lower (P˂0.05) in vitro digestibility of dry matter (IVDMD) as compared with combinations of 70:30 and 60:40 of U: M, 40.52, 45.36 and 45.94% respectively.

Effect of Substitution of Urea with Different Types and Levels of Ruminant Manure on Microbial Evaluation of Rice Straw Silage

This study was conducted in Nutrition Lab. Department of Animal Production, College of Agriculture, Al-Qasim Green University to investigate the effect of type and level of substitution of urea with ruminant manure (sheep, cow and buffalo) on basis of nitrogen content on microbial composition of rice straw silage. Urea was substituted with dried manure at six combinations, 100:0, 90:10, 80:20, 70:30, 60:40 and 50:50. Silage samples were prepared by treating chopped straw with pre-treated solution contained 10% low quality juice and 2% urea. Treated straw was packed in double plastic bags which were closed tightly and fermented for 60 days in bits. Results revealed that samples prepared by addition of cow manure were characterized with higher number of total anaerobic (P?0.05) and lactic acid bacteria (P?0.01), 9.22 and 8.62 log CFU.g-1 FM respectively. Whereas, lower (P?0.01) number of molds and yeasts were detected in those prepared with addition of buffalo manure, 3.51 and 4.54 log CFU.g-1 FM respectively. Significant increases were also observed in the total number of anaerobic bacteria and lactic acid bacteria with lower (P?0.01) numbers of total aerobic bacteria due to substitution of urea with manure, however, lower (P?0.01) number of molds and yeasts, 3.49 and 4.51 log CFU.g-1 FM were detected in samples prepared with a combination of 100:0 of urea: manure.

Effect of litter type and perches on footpad dermatitis and hock burn in broilers housed at different stocking densities

The aim of the study was to assess the effect of litter type and environmental enrichment on the occurrence of footpad dermatitis and hock burns in broilers housed at low and high stocking densities. Chopped straw and sand were used as litter, and perches as environmental enrichment. Low and high stocking density implied 12 chickens/m 2 and 20 chickens/m 2 , respectively. The study sample was divided into four groups of 50 birds, which were observed during a six-week fattening period. A significantly higher rate of severe footpad dermatitis was recorded in the group of chickens raised on sand at high stocking density, compared with low stocking density, whereas no significant difference was found between the groups of chickens raised on straw at different stocking densities. The rate of footpad dermatitis was also significantly higher in the group of chickens raised on sand at high stocking density, compared with chickens raised on straw at the same stocking density. There were no group differences in the occurrences of hock burns and perching. However, a significant negative correlation was recorded between perching and the occurrence of footpad dermatitis and hock burns. According to the occurrence of footpad dermatitis and hock burns, the study results suggested that chopped straw and sand were equally acceptable as litter for broilers, yet sand should be avoided at high stocking densities. There was no effect of stocking density and litter type on perching, but perches as a form of environmental enrichment proved efficient in reducing the rate of footpad dermatitis and hock burns. Keywords: chickens, contact dermatitis, environmental enrichment, housing, sand

Determination of Phosphorus and Nitrogen Environmental Load From Six Different Bedding Types Used in an Equine Facility

The objective of this study was to determine the environmental load of phosphorus (P) and nitrogen (N) from six different bedding materials used in an equine facility. Six horses were housed on six bedding materials—peat moss (PM), wood shavings (WS), wood pellets (WP), straw (ST), chopped straw (CS), and corn cob hulls (CC)— for 7 days each in a Latin Square design. Waste was removed once daily, weighed, mixed, and a 10% sample was saved. At the end of each 7-day period, all samples were pooled, mixed, and a representative sample was analyzed for concentration of P and N. Daily waste removed was highest in ST, followed by CS, WS, WP, PM, and CC (21.1 kg/day, 17.8 kg/day, 16.7 kg/day, 15.5 kg/day, 10.6 kg/day, and 10.5 kg/day, respectively; P < .01). Concentration of P in the waste bedding removed was highest in PM, followed by CC, CS, WS, WP, and ST (3.5 mg/kg, 3.2 mg/kg, 2.2 mg/kg, 2.2 mg/kg, 1.9 mg/kg, and 1.7 mg/kg, respectively; P < .01). Concentration of N in the waste bedding removed was highest in PM, followed by WP, CC, CS, ST, and WS (20.9 mg/kg, 16.4 mg/kg, 14.3 mg/kg, 13.2 mg/kg, 11.6 mg/kg, and 10.6 mg/kg, respectively; P < .01). These results reveal differences in contribution of P and N to the environmental load of six typical bedding materials used in horse facilities. The knowledge gained from these results can be used to improve nutrient management practices in horse facilities.

Early intervention with enrichment can prevent tail biting outbreaks in weaner pigs

Tail biting is a serious animal welfare problem in the modern pig production. A frequently studied preventive measure is enrichment materials, and increasing levels of enrichment materials, especially litter materials, reduces the risk of tail biting. However, permanent access to litter materials, can cause blockage of the slurry system and increase production cost. The aim of the present study was, therefore, to investigate if providing extra enrichment material, when observing the first tail damage could reduce the prevalence of tail biting outbreaks. The study included 1804 weaner pigs from 7 to 30 kg distributed in 60 pens with intact tails. As basic enrichment material, pens were equipped with two wooden sticks and daily provided with approximately 400 g of fine chopped straw. From outside the pen pigs were checked for tail damages three times weekly. When the first tail damage (fresh or scabbed) was recorded, the pen was assigned to one of four treatments; chopped straw (approximately 200 g/pen) on the floor (straw), haylage in a spherical cage (haylage), hanging rope with a sweet block (rope) or no extra material (control). From first treatment day and until a tail biting outbreak, tails were scored three times weekly. A tail biting outbreak occurred when four pigs in a pen had a tail damage, irrespective of wound freshness. The experiment was designed to compare the prevalence of tail biting outbreaks in each of the extra material group with the control group. A treatment was carried out in 44 of the 60 pens: 10 pens with straw, 8 pens with haylage, 7 pens with rope and 19 control pens. The risk of a tail biting outbreak was significantly lower in pens with haylage and straw compared with control pens (P < 0.05), and there tended to be fewer tail biting outbreaks in rope-pens compared with control pens (P = 0.08). The results should, though, be interpreted with caution due to the relatively small sample size. In control pens with no intervention, a tail biting outbreak developed in 42% of the pens within two to five days after the first tail damage was observed, whereas a tail biting outbreak did not occur in 32% of the control pens. In conclusion, a regular tail inspection and the use of extra enrichment material, when the first minor tail damage occur, could be one way to reduce the prevalence of tail biting outbreaks.

Performance of broiler chickens raised in boric acid amended chopped rice straw and paddy husk

A research study was carried out to evaluate the effects of boric acid amended chopped paddy straw and paddy husk on performance of broiler chickens. Total of 120, day-old, broiler chicks were randomly allocated into four treatment groups; CS= birds raised in chopped paddy straw, PH=birds raised in paddy husk, CS+H3BO3=birds raised in boric acid treated chopped paddy straw and PH+H3BO3=birds raised in boric acid treated paddy husk, with three replicates of ten birds each. The birds were fed with commercial diets. Boric acid was applied to the litter surface at the rate of 0.4 kg/9.3 m2 in weekly basis. Body weight gain and feed consumption were recorded weekly and feed conversion ratio (FCR) was calculated. On day 42, the carcass characteristics and the relative organ weights were measured. The birds raised on boric acid amended chopped straw and paddy husk had significantly increased (p<0.05) overall body weight gains, feed consumption, live body weight and carcass weight over the untreated groups. The FCR of birds kept on boric acid treated chopped straw was significantly (p<0.05) lower than untreated chopped straw and paddy husk. The dressing percentage was lowest (p<0.05) in the birds kept on untreated chopped straw than others. The birds raised on untreated chopped straw had higher (p<0.05) spleen weight and lower gizzard weight than those of untreated paddy husk regardless of boric acid amendment. Therefore, the boric acid amendment to chopped straw and paddy husk increases the growth performance of broiler chickens.