Commercial Protein Supplement Research Articles

Supplementation of Acacia dealbata versus Acacia mearnsii leaf-meal has potential to maintain growth performance of lambs grazing low-quality communal rangelands in South Africa

Supplementing livestock grazing communal rangelands with leaf-meals from Acacia trees, which are currently considered as problematic invasive alien plants globally, may be a sustainable way of exploiting their desirable nutritional and anthelmintic properties. The current study evaluated worm burdens and growth performance of lambs grazing low-quality communal rangelands supplemented with leaf-meals prepared from the invasive alien plant species; Acacia mearnsii or A. dealbata. Forty, three-month-old ewe lambs weighing an average of 18.9 ± 0.60 kg were randomly allocated to four supplementary diets: (1) rangeland hay only (control), (2) commercial protein supplement plus rangeland hay, (3) A. mearnsii leaf-meal plus rangeland hay and (4) A. dealbata leaf-meal plus rangeland hay. All the supplementary diets were formulated to meet the lambs’ minimum maintenance requirements for protein. All the lambs were grazed on communal rangelands daily from 0800 to 1400 after which they were penned to allow them access to their respective supplementary diets until 08:00 the following morning. The respective supplementary diets were offered at the rate of 400 g ewe− 1 day− 1 for 60 days. Lambs fed the commercial protein supplement had the highest dry matter intake followed by those fed the Acacia leaf-meals and the control diet, respectively (P ≤ 0.05). Relative to the other supplementary diets, lambs fed the commercial protein supplement and A. dealbata leaf-meal had higher (P ≤ 0.05) final body weight and average daily gains. Dietary supplementation did not affect lamb faecal worm egg counts over the study period (P > 0.05). There was no association between supplementary diets and lamb FAMACHA© scores (P > 0.05). It was concluded that supplementation of Acacia dealbata versus Acacia mearnsii has the potential to emulate commercial protein in maintaining growth performance of lambs grazing communal rangelands in the dry season.

The effects of protein supplementation, fumagillin treatment, and colony management on the productivity and long-term survival of honey bee (Apis mellifera) colonies.

In this study, we intensively measured the longitudinal productivity and survival of 362 commercially managed honey bee colonies in Canada, over a two-year period. A full factorial experimental design was used, whereby two treatments were repeated across apiaries situated in three distinct geographic regions: Northern Alberta, Southern Alberta and Prince Edward Island, each having unique bee management strategies. In the protein supplemented treatment, colonies were continuously provided a commercial protein supplement containing 25% w/w pollen, in addition to any feed normally provided by beekeepers in that region. In the fumagillin treatment, colonies were treated with the label dose of Fumagilin-B® each year during the fall. Neither treatment provided consistent benefits across all sites and dates. Fumagillin was associated with a large increase in honey production only at the Northern Alberta site, while protein supplementation produced an early season increase in brood production only at the Southern Alberta site. The protein supplement provided no long-lasting benefit at any site and was also associated with an increased risk of death and decreased colony size later in the study. Differences in colony survival and productivity among regions, and among colonies within beekeeping operations, were far larger than the effects of either treatment, suggesting that returns from extra feed supplements and fumagillin were highly contextually dependent. We conclude that use of fumagillin is safe and sometimes beneficial, but that beekeepers should only consider excess protein supplementation when natural forage is limiting.

PSX-8 Effect of Feeding Additional Whey Protein to Senior Labrador Retrievers for Maintaining Lean Mass and Minimizing Inflammation

Abstract We previously reported increases in lean mass and lean:fat ratio in senior Labrador Retrievers fed a commercial whey protein supplement after a 26-week trial with exercise regimen. Further work on this project examined the impacts of this supplement on immunity and inflammation. Thirty-six senior (>7 yr) Labrador Retrievers received a basal diet meeting AAFCO crude protein (CP) requirements (45g/1,000 kcal, 18% CP on DM basis) and were randomly assigned to one of three supplements: 1) an additional 22.5 g CP/1,000 kcal (27% CP on DM basis) sourced from hydrolyzed pea protein isolate (Pea); 2) additional 22.5 g CP/1,000 kcal (27% CP on DM basis) sourced from whey protein (Whey; Hilmar Protelyze Pet; Hilmar, CA) or 3) poultry fat and sucrose to equalize calories but provide no additional CP (Control). All dogs participated in an exercise regimen consisting of twice weekly 2.2 km runs. Blood samples were collected via jugular venipuncture at week 0 (baseline) and week 26 (end of trial) for analysis of cytokines (IL-2, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, IL-12, NGF-β, IFN-γ, TNF-α, MCP-1, VEGFA, and SCF) and immune cell proliferation. Cytokines were measured with Luminex MAGPIX analyzer. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells were isolated from whole blood, plated, challenged with pokeweed mitogen. Proliferation was evaluated with a 5-bromo-2’-deoxyuridine proliferation assay kit. Gait analysis was evaluated at weeks 0 (baseline), 4, 8, 16 and 26 using a Gait4Dogs pressure walkway (CIR Systems, Inc; Franklin, NJ). Gait data were processed to generate a FRK Total Gait Inflammation Index, calculated by the sum of the differences from the ideal scores for gait lameness score, total pressure index, step/stride ratio, and hind reach. Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA with Tukey’s post-hoc adjustments. We observed increases in IL-12 (P = 0.004), MCP-1 (P = 0.04), VEGFA (P = 0.05), and SCF (P = 0.04) in Control vs Whey at week 26, with Pea intermediate. Spontaneous immune cell proliferation was less in both Pea and Whey compared with Control (P < 0.01). Proliferation after challenge was less in Whey compared with Pea (P = 0.05), with Control intermediate. The FRK Total Gait Inflammation Index significantly increased after exercise in Control and Pea dogs, but not Whey (P < 0.01). Scores of Control dogs remained increased compared with Whey dogs from weeks 4 to 26 (P < 0.01). Dietary supplementation with whey protein at 1.5 x AAFCO minimum proved beneficial for Labrador Retrievers by maintaining more lean mass with improved lean/fat ratio, reduced inflammatory biomarkers, immune cell proliferation, and FRK Total Gait Inflammation Index after an exercise regimen when compared with seniors only consuming a 18% protein basal diet. Supplemental whey protein may better maintain senior dogs experiencing chronic inflammation from aging or disease.

The Potential for the Use of Edible Insects in the Production of Protein Supplements for Athletes.

Several types of proteins are used in athletes' supplementation; nevertheless, given the problem of protein deficiency in the world and the growing need for ecological sources of protein, it is very interesting to study the quality of alternative protein sources, such as insect protein. This study investigated the nutritional value, micronutrient content, amino acid profile, and chemical score of banded cricket protein quality in the form of flour, defatted flour, and a protein preparation, as well as popular commercial protein supplements. In addition, in vitro digestion was performed, and the antiradical activity of the hydrolysates was compared. Generally, the defatted cricket flour was the most similar to commercial supplements regarding nutritional value because it contained 73.68% protein. Furthermore, the defatted flour was abundant in essential minerals, such as iron (4.59 mg/100 g d.w.), zinc (19.01 mg/100 g d.w.), and magnesium (89.74 mg/100 g d.w.). However, the protein preparation had an amino acid profile more similar to that of commercial supplements (total content of 694 mg/g protein). The highest antiradical activity against ABTS·+ was noted for the defatted flour (0.901 mM TE/100 g) and against DPPH· for the cricket flour (2.179 mM TE/100 g). Therefore, cricket can be considered an organic protein source for the production of valuable protein supplements.

Differential effect of two dietary protein sources on time course response of muscle anabolic signaling pathways in normal and insulin dysregulated horses.

The objective of the study was to characterize the temporal changes of phosphorylation patterns of mTOR signaling proteins in response to two dietary protein sources in insulin dysregulated (ID, n = 8) and non-ID (n = 8) horses. Horses were individually housed and fed timothy grass hay and 2 daily concentrate meals so that protein was the first limiting nutrient and the total diet provided 120% of daily DE requirements for maintenance. On sample days, horses randomly received 0.25 g CP/kg BW of a pelleted alfalfa (AP) or commercial protein supplement (PS). Blood samples were collected before and 30, 60, 90, 120, 150, 180, 210, 240, 300, 360, 420, and 480 min post feeding and analyzed for plasma glucose, insulin and amino acid (AA) concentrations. Gluteus Medius muscle samples were obtained before and 90, 180, and 300 min after feeding and analyzed for relative abundance of phosphorylated mTOR pathway components using western immunoblot analysis. There was no effect of protein source on postprandial glucose and insulin responses (P ≥ 0.14) but consumption of PS elicited a 2 times larger AUC for essential AA (EAA), greater peak concentrations of EAA and a shorter time to reach peak EAA concentrations compared to AP. Abundance of phosphorylated mTOR (P = 0.08) and rpS6 (P = 0.10) tended to be ~1.5-fold greater after consumption of PS at 90 min compared to AP. Dephosphorylation patterns differed between protein sources and was slower for AP compared to PS. ID horses had a 2 times greater (P = 0.009) AUC and 3 times higher postprandial peak concentrations (P < 0.0001) for insulin compared to non-ID horses after consumption of both treatment pellets, but EAA responses were similar between groups (P = 0.53). Insulin status did not affect rpS6 or mTOR phosphorylation after consumption of either protein source (P ≥ 0.35), but phosphorylated rpS6 abundance was twice as high in ID compared to non-ID horses (P = 0.007). These results suggest that the consumption of higher quality protein sources may result in greater postprandial activation of the mTOR pathway compared to equal amounts of a forage-based protein source. Moreover, ID does not impair postprandial activation of mTOR and rpS6 proteins in horses following a protein-rich meal.

DROUGHT COPING STRATEGIES BY SMALLHOLDER CATTLE FARMERS IN ZIMBABWE

&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Background: &lt;/strong&gt;The severity of drought in sub-Saharan Africa has led to crop failure and high mortalities of cattle. For decade’s drought-induced losses have been a persistent struggle for herded animals on rangelands. Persistent droughts have caused significant cattle losses, yet drought warning signs are not communicated in time to prepare farmers for adaptation and or mitigation. &lt;strong&gt;Objective: &lt;/strong&gt;To analyse the adoption of drought coping strategies by smallholder beef farmers in Zaka District. &lt;strong&gt;Methodology:&lt;/strong&gt; The sustainable livelihood framework guided the study in assessing the community adaptive strategies. Multi-stage cluster sampling method was employed and questionnaires were used to collect data. A chi-square test was used to evaluate the association between demographic characteristics and drought copping and mitigation strategies. A logit model and maximum likelihood estimation procedure was used to analyse the factors influencing adoption. &lt;strong&gt;Results: &lt;/strong&gt;The results indicated that age and education status influenced (P &amp;lt; 0.05) drought copping strategies. Cattle disease and droughts were the major causes of cattle loses 38 and 35% respectively. Supplementary feeding, cattle disposal and lease grazing major were the adopted strategies. It was also found that farmer education level and access to agricultural training influenced adoption (P &amp;lt; 0.05). Cattle mortality, drought experience and crop losses are driving factors to adoption. Purchase of food items and its payment of medical bills are the major (P&amp;lt;0.05) reasons for selling beef cattle. &lt;strong&gt;Implications: &lt;/strong&gt;Given the forecasts of future drought cycles, it is imperative that farmer’s establishment of drought feeding schemes, forage harvesting, investing in commercial protein supplements and communal breeding programs for drought-tolerant cattle be implemented. &lt;strong&gt;Conclusion: &lt;/strong&gt;Cattle disposal, supplementary feeding and lease grazing are the adopted drought mitigatory strategies by beef communal farmers, yet these are only short term. Long term grazing strategies are recommended in order to reduce further cattle losses.&lt;/p&gt;

Protein quality assessment of commercial whey protein supplements commonly consumed in Turkey by in vitro protein digestibility-corrected amino acid score (PDCAAS)

Whey protein is preferred in sports nutrition because of its rich essential amino acids and protein digestibility rate compared to other protein sources. The purpose of this study was to determine the amino acid content and in vitro protein digestibility of whey protein supplements and evaluate their protein quality using the in vitro protein digestibility-corrected amino acid score (PDCAAS) method. The amount of amino acids were determined using high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and the protein digestibility was determined by in vitro simulated gastrointestinal tract. A high levels of glycine and very low levels of cysteine were detected in some samples. The ratio of glycine in 4 out of 14 samples ranged between 7.4 and 40.3%. The ratio of essential amino acids and branched chain amino acids in all samples were less than the reference protein. The in vitro protein digestibility of whey proteins ranged from 50.4 to 79.6%, which was very low compared with the values indicated in the literature. The PDCAAS values of whey proteins were very low and ranged from 0.08 to 0.71 in the samples. Based on these results, manufacturers should revise their processing techniques in order to provide high quality whey protein.

Effect of Partial Substitution of Corn with Whole-Grain Wheat in Fattening Lamb Diets on their Growth Performance

Summary Wheat grain is commonly used for animal feeding in some regions while it is rarely used in others. Its nutrient composition is quite similar to more commonly used corn grain, but there are some concerns regarding its effect on animal performance and health. However, it appears that usage of wheat grain in animal feeding is dominantly affected by economic rather than nutritional reasons. When used with caution, wheat can be a good alternative to corn. In order to test this, 20 Wurttemberg lambs, three months old, were randomly separated in two groups and fed diets containing 600 g of corn grain, or 300 g of corn grain and 300 g of wheat grain, for a period of one month. The used grains were whole, non processed grains. Two diets contained the same commercial protein supplement and alfalfa hay was offered ad libitum. Both groups accepted their experimental diet well and readily consumed the amounts offered. No health problems were observed. Growth rate was higher in male than in female lambs, but was not affected by wheat inclusion.

Analysis of Protein Content on Commercial Protein Supplement in Indonesia

Commercial Protein Supplements that are circulating freely nowadays are consumed not only by athletes but the wider community, especially sports activists who rely upon it to improve performance or merely for aesthetic interests. This study aims to analyze the nutritional content of the five supplements circulating freely in Indonesia to then compare it with the claims on the packaging label. We analyzed five samples of popular supplements in Indonesia obtained online and then tested in three copies for each sample. The actual total protein in the supplement sample is measured using the Kjeldahl method where the appropriate nitrogen material is converted to percentage of protein by multiplying a factor of 6.38 in duplicate. Then the research data processed and analyzed using Microsoft Excel 2016 computer programs then by Statistical Program for Social Sciences (SPSS), consecutively. Relationships between different tests were evaluated by calculating the relevant correlation coefficients (Pearson linear correlation) (p &lt;0.05). Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to compare the differences between products with different manufacturing processes (p &lt;0.05). Based on the analysis results, only two of the five samples studied has a minimum of 80% compatibility with the claim on the packaging label. Several main factors including inaccurate analysis, preparation processing on products that triggers protein denaturation, inadequate storage, and regulations that have just been set so that producers are still free to write Nutrition Value Information with a fairly low level of accuracy. This research is expected to be able to help the evaluation for producers and the government (BPOM) to be able to provide correct information to consumers so that maximum physiological benefits can be obtained.&#x0D;

Effect of resistance training exercise combined with high protein diet on body weight and muscle mass in underweight adolescent males

Introduction: Many underweight males take commercial protein supplements to increase their body weight and build muscle. Nonetheless, commercial protein supplements may cause adverse effects. This study aimed to determine the effects of resistance training exercise combined with a high protein diet on body weight and muscle mass in underweight adolescent males. Methods: A repeated measures design study was conducted on nine males aged 12-15 years with low body weight. Energy and protein requirements were calculated, and energy and protein consumptions were measured for each meal during the high protein diet without exercise (HP) period and the high protein diet with resistance exercise (HPE) period. Subjects engaged in three resistance training sessions each week during HP-E period, for eight weeks. Dietary intake, body composition, blood biochemistry, physical fitness, and self-esteem were assessed. Results: In HP-E period, resistance training exercise combined with a high protein intake (2.14 g/kg/d) increased body weight and lean tissue mass (LTM) by 0.5 kg and 0.5 kg, respectively. Resistance training during HP-E period increased arm, leg, and trunk muscle strength by 20.2%, 7.2%, and 14.5%, respectively, more than high protein diet alone during HP period. High protein intake in HP-E period did not affect blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine levels (11.0 mg/dL and 0.70 mg/dL, respectively). Conclusion: Eight weeks of resistance training combined with a high protein diet increased body weight and LTM without adverse effects. In particular, resistance exercise predominantly increased muscle strength. Kidney function was not affected by high protein consumption throughout this study.

Protein quality and safety evaluation of sarcoplasmic protein derived from silver carp (Hypophthalmichthys molitrix) using a rat model.

Consisting of 25 to 30% of protein in carp, water-soluble sarcoplasmic proteins lost in wash water, have been recovered and freeze-dried into a protein-rich powder. Study objectives were to evaluate protein quality and safety of a silver carp sarcoplasm derived protein powder (CSP) compared to commercial protein supplements, casein, and whey. In vivo protein quality assessment of CSP showed a lower (P<0.05) protein digestibility corrected amino acid score compared to the commercial protein sources. Despite greater (P<0.05) fecal amino acid excretion in casein-fed rats, there were no significant differences in liver and muscle amino acid profiles. All low (10%kcal) protein diets supported growth with the normal range. However, whey protein supplementation resulted in greater (P<0.05) adiposity. CSP, casein, or whey-fed rats showed no differences in major organ weights, renal damage biomarkers, or bone indices. Collectively, results indicated CSP was safe with protein quality comparable to casein. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: As much as 40 percent of protein in fish can be lost due to sarcoplasmic protein solubilization in processing wash water. Silver carp sarcoplasm protein powder may have similar commercial potential as a sustainable and nutritious alternative to whey and casein proteins. This project aimed to verify the protein quality and safety of this economical protein source.

Effect of Dietary Supplement, Base Mix, and/or Soybean Meal on Growing Pig Performance

A total of 60 crossbred pigs (Yorkshire × Duroc, initially 56.5 kg) were used in a 42-day trial to evaluate the effect of replacing a commercial high protein supplement with soybean meal and/or a base mix in rice bran-based diets on pig growth performance. Pigs were allotted to pens by body weight and pens were randomly assigned to dietary treatments in completely randomized design. There were 4 dietary treatments with 3 or 4 replicate pens per treatment and 4 pigs per pen. Dietary treatments were: 1) 80% rice bran with 20% high protein supplement (RBS20), 2) 95% rice bran with 5% high protein supplement (RBS5), 3) 97.5% rice bran with 2.5% base mix (RBB2.5), and 4) 92.5% rice bran with 5% soybean meal and 2.5% base mix (RBSBB). The base mix included vitamins, macro and trace minerals, L-Lysine, L-Threonine, and DL-Methionine. Overall (d 0 to 42) average daily gain was greater (P < 0.001) for pigs fed RBSBB and RBS20 diets than pigs fed the RBS5 or RBB2.5 diets. Pigs fed the RBS5 diet had reduced (P < 0.004) average daily feed intake compared to all other treatments. Similarly, feed efficiency (feed/gain) was improved (P < 0.004) for pigs fed RBSBB and RBS20 diets compared with pigs fed RBS5 or RBB2.5. For economics, income over feed cost was the greatest (P < 0.01) for the diet containing soybean meal and base mix compared to pigs fed the RBS20 diet, SBS5, and RBB2.5. In conclusion, feeding pigs a rice bran diet with base mix and soybean meal had similar growth performance and increased economic return compared to feeding a rice bran diet with high protein supplement. Use of soybean meal and base mix provides an opportunity for increased economic return for pig farmers.

PSI-26 Effects of low-moisture, sugarcane molasses-based block supplementation on feed intake and ingestive behavior of Nellore steers fed low-quality forage

Abstract We evaluated the effects of low-moisture, sugarcane molasses-based block supplementation (LMB) on dry matter and nutrients intake and measurements of feeding behavior of steers fed low quality forage. Six rumen cannulated Nellore steers (23 months, 350 ± 10 kg) were distributed in a 3 × 3 double Latin square design. The treatments were Brachiaria brizantha cv. Marandu hay ad libtum as an exclusive source of bulky and supplements: complete mineral blend with urea [UR, (urea, salt, mineral-vitamin premix)], a commercial protein supplement [PS, (corn grain, soybean meal, urea, salt and mineral-vitamin premix)] or low-moisture, cooked sugarcane molasses-based protein block [LMB, (cane molasses, cottonseed meal, soybean oil, urea, salt and mineral-vitamin premix)]. Each experimental period (3) lasted 21 days (14 days of adaptation and 7 days of data collection). The animals were fed twice a day (7:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.) and the offered and refused hay were weighed every morning to calculate DM and NDF intake. On feeding behavior measurements, trained observers assesed the animals behavior at 5-minute intervals for 24 hours. We evaluated the feeding time, water intake, rumination, idle and others. The rumination parameters and the average chewing time were observed using digital timer. The data were analyzed using Software R, having as fixed effect the treatments and as animal random effect, period, Latin square and error. The hay (P = 0.024), Total DM (g/day, P = 0.001 and % BW, P = 0.001), NDF (P = 0.027) and supplement (P &amp;lt; 0.001) intake was greater for animals supplemented with PS, besides the feeding time (P &amp;lt; 0.001). While no effect was observed on the other measurements. In summary, none of the supplements were able to increase DMI to its standard value of around 2 % of BW. Supplementation with LMB did not alter the feeding behavior in Nellore steers.

PSI-28 Effect of supplementation with low-moisture, sugarcane molasses-based block on intake and ruminal volatile fatty acid profile on steers fed low quality forage

Abstract We evaluated the effects of supplementation of molasses based on low moisture molasses (LMB) on steers fed low quality forage in DM intake and ruminal VFA. Six rumen cannulated Nellore steers (23 months, 350 ± 10 kg) were distributed in a 3 × 3 double Latin square design. The treatments were composed of Brachiaria brizantha cv. Marandu ad libtum as an exclusive source of bulks (93.65% DM, 3.97% CP and 81.76% NDF) and supplements: complete mineral blend with urea [UR, (urea, salt, mineral-vitamin premix)], a commercial protein supplement [PS, (corn grain, soybean meal, urea, salt, and mineral- vitamin premix)] or protein block based on low-moisture cooked sugarcane molasses [LMB, (cane molasses, cottonseed meal, soybean oil, urea, salt and mineral-vitamin premix)]. Before subsequent feeding, samples of orts were collected to monitor the daily intake. After 14-d adaptation period, rumen fluid samples were collected in each experimental period at 0, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12 and 14 h after feeding, to evaluate concentrations of VFA, which was determined by gas chromatography. The data were analyzed using Software R, with measures repeated in time for VFA and having as fixed effect the treatments and as animal random effect, period, Latin square and error. The intake of hay (P = 0.024), total DM (g/day, P = 0.001), NDF (P = 0.027) and supplement (P &amp;lt; 0.001) was higher for animals supplemented with PS. The total VFA and acetate ratio were not affected by the treatment (P &amp;gt; 0.05). The propionate ratio was higher for LMB (P = 0.016). The butyrate ratio (P = 0.005), valerate (P = 0.010) and A:P ratio (P = 0.017) was higher when the animals were supplemented with PS. The results indicate that the use of LMB improves propionate ratio and decrease the acetate:propionate ratio for steers fed low quality forage.

PSI-27 Excretion of purine derivatives and rumen microbial protein synthesis in Nelore steers supplemented with low-moisture, sugarcane molasses-based block and fed low-quality forage

Abstract The objective of this study was to determine the effects of supplementation of low-moisture, sugarcane molasses-based block (LMB) on steers fed low quality forage in the excretion of purine derivatives and in the synthesis of ruminal microbial protein. Six rumen cannulated Nellore steers steers (23 months, 350 ± 10 kg) were distributed in a 3 × 3 double Latin square design. The treatments were composed of Brachiaria brizantha ‘Marandu’ hay ad libtum as an exclusive source of bulky (93.65% DM, 3.97% CP and 81.76% NDF) and supplements: complete mineral blend with urea [UR, (urea, salt, mineral-vitamin premix)], a commercial protein supplement [PS, (corn grain, soybean meal, urea, salt and mineral-vitamin premix)] or low-moisture, cooked sugarcane molasses-based protein block [LMB, (cane molasses, cottonseed meal, soybean oil, urea, salt and mineral-vitamin premix)]. Each experimental period lasted 21 days (14 days of adaptation and 7 days of data collection). The total urinary volume was measured for five days in each experimental period. The urine was collected in rubber funnels fixed by elastic loops on the backs of the animals. The urine was conduct through hoses connected to a 20 L polyethylene bucket containing 250 mL of 20% H2SO4 solution. Every 24 hours, the collected urine was homogenized and the total excreted volume was measured. The data were analyzed using Software R, having as fixed effect the treatments and as animal random effect, period, Latin square and error. Supplementation with LMB lead to greater excretion of allantoin (P = 0.046), microbial nitrogen flow (P = 0.023) and higher microbial crude protein (P = 0.023) into the intestine compared to UR and PS. While no effect was observed on total purines and purines absorbed (P &amp;gt; 0.05). Thus, LMB supplementation for rumen cannulated Nellore steers fed low quality forage was effective to improve metabolizable protein supply.

Nutritional quality evaluation of commercial protein supplements

SummaryProtein supplements have received increasing attention by consumers over the last few decades. However, hundreds of them have recently exhibited irregularities including lower quantities of proteins than disclosed values. This study aimed to evaluate the nutritional quality of six commercial protein supplement powders (calcium caseinate, milk protein concentrate, egg white, pea protein isolate, whey protein concentrate and soy protein isolate). The chemical composition, amino acid content and in vitro digestibility were examined. Thus, calculate the amino acid scores corrected for amino acid and protein digestibility. In vitro digestion was also conducted and protein hydrolysis was monitored by SDS‐page. Calcium caseinate powder and whey protein concentrate were only composed of proteinogenic amino acids and exhibited the highest essential amino acid content. As regards in vitro digestibility, these two supplements perfectly meet the quality expectations of the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO). Conversely, the other four supplements exhibited a lower quality than the FAO reference protein. This was due to low digestibility (for egg white and milk concentrate) and/or lack of a specific essential amino acid (for milk concentrate and pea isolate).

Impact of diet management and composition on vitamin B12 concentration in milk of Holstein cows

As vitamin B12 is only synthesized by bacteria, ruminant products, especially dairy products, are excellent sources of this vitamin. This study aims to identify if diet and cow characteristics could affect vitamin B12 concentration in milk of dairy cows. Information on 1484 first, 1093 second and 1763 third and greater parity Holstein cows in 100 herds was collected during three consecutive milkings. During the first morning milking, all dietary ingredients given to cows were sampled and quantities offered were recorded throughout the day. Nutrient composition of ingredients was obtained by wet chemistry to reconstitute nutrient composition of the ration. Milk samples were taken with in-line milk meters during the evening milking of the 1st day and the morning milking of the 2nd day and were analyzed for vitamin B12 concentration. Milk yields were recorded and milk components were separately analyzed for each milking. Daily vitamin B12 concentration in milk was obtained using morning and evening vitamin B12 concentrations weighted with respective milk yield, then divided by daily yield. To decrease the number of interdependent variables to include in the multivariable model, a principal component analysis was carried out. Daily milk concentration of vitamin B12 averaged 3809±80 pg/ml, 4178±79 pg/ml and 4399±77 pg/ml for first, second and third, and greater lactation cows. Out of 11 principal components, six were significantly related to daily milk concentration of vitamin B12 when entered in the multivariable model. Results suggested that vitamin B12 concentration in milk was positively related to percentage of fiber and negatively related to starch as well as energy of the diet. Negative relationships were noted between vitamin B12 concentration in milk and milk yield as well as milk lactose concentration and positive relationships were observed between vitamin B12 concentration in milk and milk fat as well as protein concentrations. The percentages of chopped mixed silage and commercial energy supplement in the diet as well as cow BW were positively related to vitamin B12 in milk and percentages of baled mixed silage, corn and commercial protein supplement in the ration were negatively related to vitamin B12 concentration in milk. The pseudo-R2 of the model was low (52%) suggesting that diet and cow characteristics have moderate impact on vitamin B12 concentration in milk. Moreover, when entering solely the principal component related to milk production in the model, the pseudo-R2 was 46%. In conclusion, it suggests that studied diet characteristics have a marginal impact on vitamin B12 concentration in milk variation.

Commercial protein supplements significantly affect mouse embryo development and may impact blastocyst implantation potential

An array of protein supplementation is available for use in human embryo culture. Our objective was to analyze several types of protein for their ability to support mouse embryo development and implantation competence using an in vitro embryo culture and extended outgrowth model. Research Study. In vivo matured IVF mouse zygotes were cultured in sequential, medium containing 5 mg/ml of our standard recombinant albumin (Albix; ALB), and compared to 5 mg/mL albumin from four commercially available protein supplements: Vitrolife GMM (GMM), Vitrolife human serum albumin (HSA), Vitrolife HSA supplemented with additional fatty acids and carnitine (HSA+), or Quinn’s Serum Protein Substitute (SPS). On D3.5 of culture, morulae and blastocysts were placed into fibronectin coated dishes containing ICV1 (Cell Guidance Systems) medium for outgrowth. Media was replaced with IVC2 after 72h in outgrowth and embryo attachment assessed. At 120h (D8.5), embryos were fixed and measured for outgrowth area (n=40-56 per treatment). Outgrowth embryos were also stained with F-actin, DAPI, and POUF51, and then imaged using confocal microscopy to determine outgrowth volume, total cell number, and epiblast cell number, respectively (n=15-19 per treatment). Development to blastocyst on D3.5 was significantly lower in SPS than GMM, HSA+, and HSA (44.0±3.9%, 71.1±3.7%, 62.2±3.9%, 66.9±3.8%, respectively). Similarly, ALB, GMM, HSA+, and HSA all had significantly more hatching blastocysts than SPS (29.8±3.7%, 34.9±3.9%, 35.9±3.9%, 29.9±3.7%, 15.1±2.8%, respectively). There was a trend (p=0.07) towards larger outgrowth area in HSA+ and GMM compared to SPS (0.63±0.03mm2, 0.67±0.05mm2, 0.51±0.03mm2, respectively). More (p=0.05) HSA+ embryos had epiblast cells (94.4%) than those in GMM (57.9%), HSA (52.6%), or SPS (46.7%), although the average number of epiblast cells in these embryos, including those in ALB, was not different (197.5±57.5, 257.1±94.8, 202.5±91.0, 141.1±72.5, 332.8±133.8, respectively). Likewise, total cell number (889.0±264.4, ALB; 884.2±150.7, HSA+; 556.8±155.2, HSA; 526.9±90.1, GMM; 561.2±181.7, SPS) and total outgrowth volume (6.7±1.9x106 μm3, ALB; 6.1±1.8x106 μm3, HSA+; 3.8±1.1x106 μm3, HSA; 3.8±9.0x106 μm3, GMM; 3.6±1.2x106 μm3, SPS) were not significantly different between treatments. While differences were seen in developmental outcomes, type of protein supplementation did not have a statistically significant impact on implantation competence as measured in our extended outgrowth model. However, those embryos cultured in ALB and HSA+ successfully proliferated in outgrowth culture, suggesting that these two protein supplements better support blastocyst implantation potential—a hypothesis we are currently studying. This data could have an important translational impact on the choice of protein supplementation for use in human embryo culture media.

Effect of Fish meal and Plant protein alternatives on the histological picture of different organs on Nile tilapia in Egypt

The present study was designed to investigate the effect of utilization of Fish meal and plant proteinalternatives of commercial protein supplements in diets of Nile tilapia in the terms of histological changesin liver, gills and Musculature tissue. A total of 42 apparently healthy Nile tilapia (O.niloticus) with anaverage weight of 21.24+1.03g, randomly divided into three comparable groups (14 fish each) based ontype of diet protein supplement to be either fish meal (Gr. A), Soybean meal (Gr. B) or cotton seed meal(Gr. C). 52 days post feeding histological examination of liver showed hyperemic central vein and sinusoidwith focal pigmentation in (Gr. A), Intra cytoplasmic round circumscribed fat vacuoles in (Gr. B) andHyperemic central vein and sinusoids with focal extravasations of red cells surrounding the central veinsin (Gr. C). Musculature tissue showed Degenerated muscle bundles in (Gr. A), intact muscle bundles in(Gr. B) and Hyper-cellularity in focal manner in Gr. C. while the gills showed Focal extravasation of redcells in the arch in (Gr. A), vascular lining epithelium with hyperplasia in the gill rakers in Gr. B andHyperplasia and vacoulation the lining cells of the gill rakers in (Gr. C). In conclusion feeding Nile tilapiaon soybean meal may be the better choice as protein supplement alternative due to its positive effect onthe musculature tissue, no clinical signs beside it is much safer

In vitro digestibility of commercial whey protein supplements

Amongst the sport dietary supplements, those manufactured with whey protein (WP) represent an important amino acid source. However, as a result of product lack of uniformity, the nutritional quality of this type of product is uncertain. Thus, the aim of this study was to investigate the protein quality of WP supplements produced by U.S. (WP-USA), and Brazilian companies (WP-BRA), evaluating the in vitro protein digestibility, and the essential amino acid (EEA) composition. In addition, the amino acid (AAS) and protein digestibility-corrected amino acid (PDCAAS) scores were calculated. Although WP-USA supplement exhibited greater (P < 0.05) digestibility than WP-BRA counterparts, both WP supplements exhibited greater (P < 0.05) digestibility than soy and caseinate isolate supplements, which were used as reference. Considering the WHO/FAO/UNU protein standard for non-athletic adult, the WP-USA and WP-BRA supplements scored high AAS. In addition, the PDCAAS values on both supplement groups were >1.0, with exception of threonine and valine in WP-USA, and isoleucine and leucine in WP-BRA. However, when the calculated AAS and PDCAAS based on the suggestion for adult athletes were considered, both supplements exhibited suboptimal score values for several EAA. In addition, both WP-USA and WP-BRA supplements were unable to supply the suggested adult athlete EAA requirement.