Digestibility Coefficients Of DM Research Articles

Effect of dietary replacement of alfalfa with urea-treated almond hulls on intake, growth, digestibility, microbial nitrogen, nitrogen retention, ruminal fermentation, and blood parameters in fattening lambs.

The objective of this study was to assess the effect of dietary replacement of alfalfa with urea-treated almond hulls (UAH) on DM and nutrients intakes, growth performance, diet digestibility, microbial N supply (MNS), N retention, rumen fermentation parameters, and blood metabolites in fattening male Shall lambs (29.9 ± 1.9 kg initial BW). Three diets, with equal ME and CP concentrations and a forage-to-concentrate ratio of 40 to 60, were formulated in which alfalfa was replaced by different levels (0, 200, or 400 g/kg of diet DM) of UAH. Experimental diets were randomly assigned to the 3 groups ( = 8/group) in a completely randomized design for a 74-d period (14 d for adaptation and 60 d for data collection). Diets were offered as a total mixed ration to ensure 10% orts. Dry matter and nutrients intakes, animal growth, diet digestibility, MNS, N retention, rumen fermentation parameters, and plasma metabolites were determined. The dietary substitution of UAH for alfalfa had no effects on DMI (linear, = 0.96; quadratic, = 0.86), ADG (linear, = 0.35; quadratic, = 0.19), and G:F (linear, = 0.66; quadratic, = 0.13). In vivo digestibility coefficients of DM (linear, = 0.82; quadratic, = 0.42), OM (linear, = 0.73; quadratic, = 0.95), CP (linear, = 0.24; quadratic, = 0.66), and ash-free NDF (linear, = 0.69; quadratic, = 0.74) were not affected by the dietary treatment. Feeding lambs on diets containing UAH instead of alfalfa had no effects on MNS (linear, = 0.63; quadratic, = 0.68) and N retention (linear, = 0.44; quadratic, = 0.17). Rumen pH (linear, = 0.26; quadratic, = 0.071), ammonia N (linear, = 0.39; quadratic, = 0.13), and VFA (linear, = 0.091; quadratic, = 0.86) concentrations, acetic acid-to-propionic acid ratio (linear, = 0.93; quadratic, = 0.62), and protozoa population (linear, = 0.62; quadratic, = 0.22) were not influenced by the experimental diets. Substituting alfalfa with UAH had no effects on the plasma concentrations of glucose (linear, = 0.55; quadratic, = 0.91), triglycerides (linear, = 0.97; quadratic, = 0.44), cholesterol (linear, = 0.71; quadratic, = 0.70), urea N (linear, = 0.084; quadratic, = 0.12), total protein (linear, = 0.53; quadratic, = 0.96), albumin (linear, = 0.43; quadratic, = 0.39), and globulin (linear, = 0.39; quadratic, = 0.25). It is concluded that UAH can be fed to fattening Shall lambs as a total replacement (400 g/kg of diet DM) for alfalfa without negative effects on animal performance. This byproduct can be a safe feedstuff to use in sheep diets and could help to reduce environmental pollution.

EFFECT OF FLAXSEED OIL ON DIGESTIBILITY, BLOOD PARAMETERS, IMMUNO-RESPONSE AND PRODUCTIVE PERFORMANCE OF SUCKLING FRIESIAN CALVES

Aim of this study was to investigate the effect of flaxseed oil supplementation on the digestion, immunoglobulin concentration, some blood parameters, average daily gain, feed conversion and economic efficiency of suckling Friesian calves. A total of 28 newly born Friesian calves with weighing 31.42±1.9 kg were divided into two similar groups, 14 calves in each group. The first group (G1) was served as a control, while the second group (G2) was supplemented with 0.2 ml/kg LBW from flaxseed oil in suckling milk from birth up to weaning. Results showed that digestibility coefficients of DM, OM, CP, CF, EE and NFE and feeding values as TDN and DCP as well as feed intakes as TDN and DCP were higher (P<0.05) in G2 than in G1. Blood plasma immunoglobulins concentrations were higher (P<0.05) during different suckling intervalsin G2 than in G1. Red and white blood cells count, percentages of monocytes, neutrophils and package cell volume, and haemoglobin concentration increased (P<0.01) in G2 than in G1. Percentages of basophils, eosinophils and lymphocytes were not affected by supplementation. Concentration of total protein, albumin and globulin in plasma were increased (P<0.05-P<0.01), while, albumin to globulin ratio and concentration of total lipids, creatinine and urea-N concentrations decreased (P<0.01) in G2 than in G1. Plasma glucose concentrations and AST and ALT activities were nearly similar in both groups. Live body weight, average daily gain and feed conversion improved (P<0.001) in G2 than in G1. Economic efficiency was higher (P<0.05) in G2 than in G1. It could be concluded that flaxseed oil supplementation in milk of suckling Friesian calves (0.2 ml/kg LBW) during the suckling period improved growth performance and economic efficiencies as well as immune-response of Friesian calves without adversity effects on digestibility, haematological and biochemical parameters.

EFFECT OF THIAMIN OR NIACIN SUPPLEMENTATION INTO THE RATIONS OF GROWTH FATTENING CALVES ON THEIR PRODUCTIVE PERFORMANCE

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of feeding supplemented diets by two levels of thiamin or niacin on the productive performance of growing – fattening calves. A feeding trial was conducted using twenty five yearling Friesian calves of an initial weight ranged from 200 – 250 kg/head. Animals were divided into five similar groups (5 each) using the randomized complete block design. They were fed individually about 180 – d of an experimental period on a basal concentrate – roughage ration that consisted of approximately 56% concentrate feed mixture (CFM), 28% rice straw (RS) and 16% corn silage (CS), on DM basis, wherein T1 (control) had no supplement, T2 and T3 had 200 or 500 mg thiamin/h/d and T4 and T5 had 500 and 1000 mg niacin/h/d, respectively. Animals were fed according to NRC,(1984) standard for beef cattle. At the same time, five digestibility trial were conducted to determine the digestibility and feeding value of the experimental rations. Results indicated that digestion coefficients of DM and OM were insignificantly increased with all supplemented rations except that of high level – niacin ration (T5) which significantly increased, compared with control. Most nutrients digestibility were markedly improved by both supplements, the highest value (p<0.05) was occurred with the high level of niacin supplement (T5). Similar trend for the feeding values (TDN, DCP and DE) was found among dietary treatments. Showing the highest feeding value with (T5) total live body gain and daily gain were significantly increased due to both supplements (thiamin & niacin) and its levels, being 158.8, 187.6, 164.6, 167.6 and 188.8 kg total gain versus 882, 1042, 914, 931 and 1049/gm as daily gain for T1, T2, T3, T4 and T5, respectively. Feed conversion as DM: gain was slightly improved for calves fed rations whose supplemented by low level thiamin and both levels of niacin. Blood total protein and albumin concentrations were significant higher for all supplemental rations than those of unsupplemented one. Economically, the best net revenue was occurred with low thiamin and high niacin supplemented rations, being 12.10 and 12.70 LE /head/ day, respectively. The corresponding economical efficiency values were 112 and 114% based on control ration (100%). It cloud be concluded that using either thiamin or niacin as feed additive in ration formulation of growing and fattening Friesian calves tended to improve productive performance and economical efficiency for fattening calves, with the best results are associated with niacin supplement.

INCLUSION OF DRIED AGRO-INDUSTRIAL STRAWBERRY BY- PRODUCTS IN GROWING RABBIT DIETS

This experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of using dried strawberry by-product (ASB) in growing rabbit diets on growth performance, nutrients digestibility coefficients, some blood parameter and relative economic efficiency. Seventy two weaned male New Zealand White rabbits at 6 weeks received diets containing 0, 25, 50 and 75% ASB as a replace of berseem hay. The growth trial lasted for 8 weeks. Results obtained could be summarized as follows: There were significant increases in body weight gain with increasing ASB levels in the diets. Whereas, feed consumption and feed conversion ratio were not significantly affected by ASB feeding. Ether extract digestibility coefficients were significantly decreased with increasing dietary level of ASB, while the digestibility coefficients of DM, OM, CP and CF were higher in treatments containing ASB, while the digestibility coefficients of OM, CP and CF were significantly higher in treatments containing ASB. Dressing percentages of rabbits were significantly higher with 75% ASB feeding compared with other treatments. Dietary ASB treatments had no significant effects on meat chemical analysis (moisture, DM and CP contents). But EE and ash contents were decreased with ASB feeding. Blood plasma concentrations of triglycerides, cholesterol, LDL, vLDL and total lipids were significantly decreased with increasing the level of ASB in rabbit diets. Feeding ASB had a significant positive effect on blood plasma antioxidant profile. Leveling up dietary ASB inclusion rate decreased MDA level and increased the TAC capacity in an incremental manner with increasing ASB of the diet. Using ASB as a feed ingredient improved the relative economic efficiency of diets. It could be concluded that ASB can be used in the growing rabbit diets with no adverse effects on performance and health status of the rabbit. Besides, ASB could reduce the cost of the diet.

Effect of dietary supplementation of mannan-oligosaccharides on performance, blood metabolites, ileal nutrient digestibility, and gut microflora in Escherichia coli-challenged laying hens

The present study was carried out to investigate the effect of dietary supplementation of different levels of mannan-oligosaccharides (MOS) on performance, egg quality, immune responses, and gut microflora in laying hens exposed to Escherichia coli (E. coli) challenge. A total of 180 Hy-Line W-36 laying hens, 55 wk of age, were randomly distributed among 5 dietary treatments with 6 replicates of 6 hens each. Experimental diets consisted of 5 graded levels of MOS (0, 0.05, 0.1, 0.15, and 0.2% of diet). The study lasted 77 d including 7 d for adaptation and 70 d as the main experimental period subdivided into two 35-d periods. The results showed increases (P < 0.05) in egg production percentage and egg mass, and a decrease (P < 0.05) in feed conversion ratio (FCR) in birds fed the diets containing 0.1 and 0.15% MOS compared with control birds during the first 35-d period. In addition, there were significant differences between dietary treatments for egg mass and FCR during the second 35-d, with the best (P < 0.05) values observed for hens fed on 0.1% MOS-supplemented diet. Feed intake and egg weight, however, were not influenced by dietary treatments throughout the experimental period. Compared to control birds, supplemental MOS resulted in 9.8% (P < 0.01) and 8.1% (P < 0.05) increases in hen-day egg production and egg mass, respectively, during the entire experimental period. Dietary supplementation with 0.1 to 0.2% MOS decreased (P < 0.01) serum triglycerides concentration compared with control birds. In addition, serum concentration of low-density lipoproteins was reduced (P < 0.001) by all supplemental MOS levels. In contrast to Newcastle antibody titer, primary antibody response against sheep red blood cell was significantly (P < 0.05) affected by supplemental MOS. Supplementation of MOS into the diet caused increases in digestibility coefficients of DM (P < 0.05) and CP (P < 0.01). In addition, there was a significant (P < 0.01) difference between dietary treatments for ileal ether extract digestibility, with the highest digestibility values assigned to the hens supplemented with 0.05% MOS. Although dietary MOS supplementation had no effect on ileal E. coli and total bacteria enumerations, it resulted in a decrease (P < 0.01) in Salmonella count and increased Lactobacillus. The present findings indicate that MOS supplementation of laying hens under bacterial challenge could improve productive performance probably through modification of intestinal bacterial populations and improving nutrient digestibility.

Levedura seca integral na alimentação de vacas lactantes

Os efeitos da inclusão de levedura seca de cana-de-açúcar (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) na dieta de vacas lactantes foram avaliados com base no fornecimento de quatro dietas constituídas de diferentes níveis de substituição do farelo de soja pela levedura de cana-de-açúcar (0,00; 0,33; 0,67 e 1,00kg/kg de MS). O delineamento utilizado foi o quadrado latino 4 × 4. Não houve efeito dos tratamentos sobre o consumo de MS, MO, EE, FDNi e NDT, porém ocorreu redução linear no consumo de PB e FDNcp e aumento do consumo de CNF. Diferenças estatísticas não foram verificadas para os coeficientes de digestibilidade aparente da MS, MO, PB, CNF e NDT; no entanto os coeficientes do FDNcp e do EE decresceram linearmente. Não foi observado efeito sobre a produção e eficiência de síntese microbiana, utilização dos componentes nitrogenados e produção e composição do leite. Conclui-se que a levedura seca pode substituir 100% o farelo de soja na alimentação de vacas lactantes.

Effect of deep-stacking broiler litter on pathogenic bacteria, intake, digestibility, microbial protein supply and rumen parameters in sheep

To assess the effectiveness of the deep-stacking process on pathogenic bacteria in broiler litter (BL), the raw BL was deep-stacked in 1×1×1.5m plastic bins with 250 or 350g moisture/kg at the depths of 30, 60 and 120cm for a period of 21 days. The chemical composition and microbial populations in raw and deep-stacked BL (DBL) were determined. The effect of feeding DBL on nutrient intakes, digestibility, microbial protein supply (MPS) and rumen parameters was assessed using different levels (0, 70, 140 or 210g/kg diet dry matter [DM]) of DBL with 350g moisture/kg in the diet of male Moghani sheep (four sheep per treatment), in a 28-day experiment. The deep stacking process of BL increased the contents of ash and ash-free neutral detergent fibre (NDFom), and decreased the crude protein (CP) and non-fibre carbohydrates (NFC) (P<0.05). Increasing moisture content resulted in increase of ash and reduction of NFC concentration in DBL (P<0.001). Compared to the raw BL, the populations of total bacteria, Escherichia coli, and other Coliforms in DBL were decreased (P<0.05), with the exception of depth 120cm at 250g moisture/kg. No Salmonella population was observed at depths 30 and 60cm with 250 and 350g moistures/kg, and at depth 120cm with 350g moisture/kg (P<0.05). Dietary inclusion of DBL resulted in linear increase of the DM, organic matter (OM) and CP intakes and quadratic increases of the NDFom and ash-free acid detergent fibre intakes (P<0.05). The digestibility coefficients of DM, NDFom and CP were increased linearly (P<0.05), and OM digestibility increased quadratically (P=0.036) as the dietary level of DBL was raised. The MPS increased quadratically (P=0.011) with dietary inclusion of DBL. Adding DBL to the diet linearly decreased (P<0.05) the ruminal ammonia-N concentration and acetate to propionate ratio, and linearly increased (P<0.05) the total volatile fatty acids. The counts of total protozoa and sub-family Entoniniinae were decreased linearly (P<0.05) as the level of DBL in the diet was raised. Overall, to obtain a safe feedstuff, BL should be deep stacked at 350g moisture/kg, as this led to a decrease in pathogenic bacteria numbers to a safe level for ruminant consumption. Compared to the control group, feeding sheep with DBL containing 350g moisture/kg, up to 210g/kg diet DM, improved feed intake, digestibility, MPS and ruminal fermentation, without any adverse effects on animal health. However, the maximum animal response was observed in the sheep fed 140g DBL/kg diet DM.

EFFECT OF USING SPIRULINA PLATENSIS AND CHLORELLA VULGARIS AS FEED ADDITIVES ON GROWING RABBIT PERFORMANCE

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of dietary inclusion of microalga Spirulina platensis (SP) and Chlorella vulgaris (CV) as feed additives in balanced diets formulated for growing rabbits on digestibility, growth performance, carcass traits, some blood parameters of rabbits. Sixty New Zealand White (NZW) rabbits (five weeks old with an average initial live body weight (626.85 g) were divided into five experimental groups (12 in each) for the feeding trail where rabbits in control group was fed 100% complete feed diet without algae supplements (T1), while both kinds of algae were added at 0.75 or 1.5g/Kg diets as T2 and T3 for spirulina diets and at the same two levels T4 and T5 for chlorella supplement, respectively. Rabbits fed the experimental diets till twelve weeks old and then digestibility trail was carried out using three animals for each group. Slaughtered test for carcass characteristics evaluation was done in addition some blood parameters were determined as well. Results indicated that the final LBW was significantly higher with both levels of SP supplement (T2&T3) than that of control (T1), but the other two levels of CV supplement (T4 &T5) were insignificantly higher than of control, with the highest value being occurred with T3. Similarly , total body weight gain was significantly higher with both levels of SP during the whole experimental period than that of control group , while the value of the two levels of CV were insignificant higher than that of control one . The highest value was associated with T3 followed in descending order by T2, T4, T5 and lastly the lowest value with control (T1). Only feed intake was significant affected by the addition of high level of SP, while the other tested dietary treatments did not significantly influenced, over the whole experimental period , compared with control . Feed conversion was improved significantly due to all algae treatments except that of the high level of CV supplement (T5) which nearly equal to that of control group. Non significant differences among treatments were found in respect of digestion coefficients of DM, OM, CP, CF, EE and NFE nutrients. Concerning the results of slaughter test , slaughter weight for the two levels of SP- diets had significant higher values than those of CV-diets and control one. Similar trend was observed respecting hot carcass weight among experimental treatments. However, both weights and percentages of liver, kidney, heart and total giblet, didn't significant affected by dietary treatments. Also no significant differences among treatments respecting the dressing percentage was found. The lowest significant (P≤0.05) cholesterol value (37.64 mg/dl) was obtained by rabbits fed diet with high level of SP compared with the control (52.74 mg/dl). Rabbit fed diets supplemented with both levels of SP and also the low CV- diet had performed more economically than the other treatments. Conclusively, results indicated that both levels of Spirulina – diets markedly improved growth performance of growing rabbits and in addition reduced liver enzyme activities, cholesterol and total lipids concentration in blood compared with control and the chlorella algae supplement

Effect of energy sources on the apparent total tract digestibility and excretion of nutrients by bovine cattle

ABSTRACTObjective. To evaluate the effect of three energy sources on the intake, total apparent digestibility and excretion of nutrients in cattle diet. Materials and methods. Six ruminally cannulated cows (730 ± 70 kg) were distributed into three treatments in a replicated 3x3 Latin square experimental design, where: (I) Control: Low ether extract diet (3.50% EE); (II) Soybean: High ether extract diet (5.30% EE) with inclusion of 15% soybean and (III) Citrus pulp: Low ether extract diet (3.00% EE) and high pectin involvement with inclusion of 15% citrus pulp. To determine the digestibility of DM and its fractions, chromic oxide was used as a marker. Nutrient excretion was calculated from the digestibility coefficient of each fraction. Results. The soybean treatment reduced (p&lt;0.05) dry matter, crude protein, nitrogen-free extract and organic matter intake and increased ether extract intake. There was no effect (p&gt;0.05) of the energy source on the digestibility coefficients of DM, CP, NDF, EE, NFE or OM. The TDN value was higher for the soybean treatment. The excretion of DM, NFE and OM was lower (p&lt;0.05) for the soybean treatment. All energy sources influenced the excretion of crude protein. Conclusions. The energy sources used did not affect the digestibility of the diets and are indicated as high potential sources to be used in cattle.

Effect of Chemical Treatment of Sesame Stover with NaOH and Urea on Chemical Composition and &lt;i&gt;In vivo&lt;/i&gt; Rumen Digestion in Sheep

This study tested the effect of urea, urea sodium hydroxide (NaOH) and NaOH + urea on chemical composition and total tract nutrition in sheep. Treated stovers were prepared by mixing stovers with aqueous solution of urea (SU, 3g in 100 ml water /100 g DM), NaOH (SN, 4g in 100 ml water /100g DM) and urea + NaOH (SUN). Five male Balouchi sheep (30 ±1.4 kg) were used in a change-over design. In vivo experimental diets were as follows: alfalfa hay (AH), alfalfa hay + S (AHS), alfalfa hay + SU (AH SU), alfalfa hay + SN (AHSN) and alfalfa hay + SUN (AHSUN). The NDF content significantly (P&lt;0.05) decreased when sesame stover was treated by urea and NaOH. However, the change in ADF and OM was not significant (P&gt;0.05) in urea and NaOH. The urea caused a significant (P&lt;0.05) increase in CP content of sesame stover. The digestibility coefficients of DM, OM, NDF and ADF increased with chemically treatment of sesame stover. Furthermore, rumen pH was not affected by the chemical treatment, while rumen NH3- N (P&lt;0.05) concentration was enhanced by urea +NaOH treatment. These results suggest that digestibility of DM, OM, CP, NDF and ADF could be improved by chemical treatment with urea and NaOH.

Effects of Dietary Supplementation of Barodon, an Anionic Alkali Mineral Complex, on Growth Performance, Feed Utilization, Innate Immunity, Goblet Cell and Digestibility in Olive Flounder (Paralichthys olivaceus).

A 15-wk feeding trial was conducted to examine the supplemental effects of Barodon on growth performance, gastrointestinal histology, feed digestibility and innate immunity in olive founder. A basal commercial diet was used as a control and two other diets were prepared by spraying 0.1% or 0.2% of Barodon. Triplicate groups of fish (BW, 145 g) were fed one of the test diets to apparent satiation twice daily. At the end of the feeding trial, fish growth performance was not significantly affected by dietary treatments; however, feed utilization was significantly improved (linear and quadratic, p<0.05) by Barodon supplementation. Significantly higher (p<0.05) survival rates were obtained in fish fed Barodon containing diets. Hepatosomatic index increased significantly in Barodon treated groups. Also, the use of Barodon resulted in significant increase (linear and quadratic, p<0.05) of intestine length and number of goblet cells. Significantly higher (Quadratic, p<0.05) apparent digestibility coefficient of DM was obtained by supplementation of Barodon. Lysozyme and myeloperoxidase activities increased quadratically and linearly, respectively, in Barodon treated fish. Also, significantly higher (linear and quadratic, p<0.05) superoxide dismutase activity was found in Barodon fed fish. The findings in this study show that inclusion of Barodon in diets for olive flounder improves feed utilization and digestibility, and positively affects digestive tract histology and innate immunity.

Consumo, digestibilidade dos nutrientes e características ruminais de cordeiros alimentados com níveis crescentes de concentrado em ambiente tropical no Vale do Alto Guaporé - MT

The objective was to evaluate the use of concentrate in the diet of lambs on intake and total digestibility coefficient (DC) of nutrients, ruminal characteristics, rectal and body temperature. It was used four lambs without breed defined (SRD), entire, with average body weight (BW) of 19.3 ± 2.07 kg using a Latin square design, 4 x 4. The animals were housed in metabolism cages and were fed twice a day with diet consisting of corn silage and concentrate at a ratio of 20, 40, 60 and 80% dry matter in the diet, composite of corn grains and soybean meal. Leftovers were measured daily and the feces were collected through bags. Data from variables studied were submitted to ANOVA and regression analysis at 5% probability. The increasing levels of concentrate in lamb diets affected (P&lt;0.05) of linear form decreasing the intake of NDF, ADF and quadratic of DM, OM, CP, EE, NFC and TCH intake. There was no effect (P&gt;0.05) of concentrate levels on digestibility coefficient of DM, OM, EE, NDF, ADF, NFC and TCH. However, the digestibility coefficient of CP showed a quadratic effect (P&lt;0.05). The pH and ammonia nitrogen showed a quadratic effect (P&lt;0.05) for the time after feeding. The rectal and body temperature of lambs was not affected (P&gt;0.05) by dietary concentrate. It can be concluded that 38% of concentrate in diets of lambs favors the maximum dry matter intake, organic matter and crude protein. The digestibility coefficient of the nutrients, except for protein, are not altered with the addition up to 80% concentrate in diet for lambs, as well as, this does not affect the pH and ammonia nitrogen concentration of ruminal fluid, rectal and body temperature.

SPROUTED ZEA MAYS ON DATE PALM LEAVES AND POTATOES PEEL WASTE MIXTURE AND ITS EFFECTS ON PERFORMANCE OF DESERT GOATS UNDER DRY SEASON IN SINAI.

The objectives of this study were to evaluate Sprouted techniques by planting white corn seeds (Zea Mays L.) on four roughage mixtures of date palm leaves (Phoenix dactylifera L.) and potatoes peels waste (Solanum tuberosum). Twenty five desert male goats averaged (eighteen months old) 22.76 ±1.29 kg live body weight were divided randomly into five equal groups (5 animals each) to receive one of the following experimental roughages R1: alfalfa (Medicago sativa) hay (control), R2: 75% potatoes peel waste (PPW) + 25% date palm leaves (DPL), R3: 50% potatoes peel waste (PPW) + 50% date palm leaves (DPL), R4: 25% potatoes peel waste (PPW) +75% date palm leaves (DPL) and R5: 100% date palm leaves (DPL). Goats were used in feeding trial lasted about fourty five days. The metabolism trial was conducted after the feeding trial to get the most nutritious sprouts green fodder (SGF) with concentrate feed mixture (CFM). Results showed that sprouting corn seeds on potatoes peel waste (PPW) and date palm leaves (DPL) as a media had increased CP, EE, C.CHO and ash contents while decreased OM, CF, NDF and ADF contents as compared with none sprouted media. Sprouted corn seeds on PPW or DPL revealed a significant (P≤0.05) improvement in digestibility coefficients of DM, EE and C.CHO. Nutritive values expressed as TDNg/Kg B.W. and DCP% increased significantly (P≤0.05) in sprouted mixtures as compared with control (R1). Goats fed R3 had (P≤0.05) lowest total feed intake and highest digestibility coefficients of DM, CP, EE, C.CHO and DCP. Also, goats fed the treated mixture R3 retained higher (P≤0.05) nitrogen values and nitrogen intake comparable with other studied groups. Goats fed sprouted mixtures had improved (P≤0.05) values of total water intake and decreased urinary water execration. Sprouted corn seeds had improved Na and K balances (g/kg BW) as compared with control group (R1). Goats fed sprouted mixtures had significantly higher (P≤0.05) values of total volatile fatty acids (VFA), ruminal ammonia (NH3- N), serum total proteins, albumin, globulin, urea and creatinin compared with control group. In conclusion we can produce green fodder by utilizing dried potatoes peel waste (PPW) and date palm leaves (DPL) as a media mixture (50% PPW and 50% DPL) by simple methodology using sprouts corn without any harmful effect on desert goats under dry season.

EGG YOLK CHOLESTEROL AND PRODUCTIVE PERFORMANCE OF LAYING HENS INFLUENCED BY DIETARY CRUDE FIBER LEVELS UNDER DRINKING NATURAL SALINE WATER

This study was conducted to investigate the influenced of four levels of dietary crude fibers (CF) on egg yolk cholesterol, productive and physiological performance of laying hens under drinking natural saline water (2000 ppm total dissolved solids). A total number of 120 White Leghorn layers from 44 to 56 weeks of age randomly divided into four equal groups (30 hens of each). Four levels of CF (3, 4, 5 and 6 %) as substitution of alfalfa meal. The treatments were tested for 12 weeks. The results showed that under condition of drinking natural saline water (2000 ppm total dissolved solids), feeding laying hens control diet which contained 3 % crude fiber had (P<0.05) highest egg number, egg mass and feed consumption (g/day) (17.97, 30.99 g and 67.80 g, respectively) compared with other three groups which recorded no significant differences among each other's.Hens fed the highest-fiber diet (6 %) laid eggs with greatest shell, albumin and yolk weights % (4.53, 58.00 and 36.19, respectively) compared with other experimental groups. Feeding hens diet contained higher crude fiber level above 3 % had higher (P<0.05) values of albumen height (mm) and shape index values with no significant differences in yolk index (%) and Haugh units. There were a gradual (P<0.05) decrease in digestion coefficients of DM, OM, CP, ash, CF, NFE and EE with increasing crude fiber levels in hens diets; while, there were no significant differences in digestibility of fiber fractions (NDF, ADF and hemicelluloses). Water intake (ml/ bird/day) and water/feed intake increased (P<0.05) with increasing crude fiber levels. So, hens fed 6 % CF consume more water being 236.00 ml/bird/day and 3.45 ml/g feed intake. Inclusion of graded levels of CF in laying hen diets tended to decrease (P<0.05) concentrations of total lipids, triglycerides, phospholipids, cholesterol, total cholesterol, and low-density lipoproteins (LDL) in egg yolk. Hens fed diet contained 6 % CF decreased the egg yolk concentrations of the same respective parameters by 25.10, 22.22, 26.61, 22.38, 19.51 and 23.33 %, respectively compared to the control group. There were a significant decrease in serum total lipids (g/dl), cholesterols (mg/dl), triglyceride (mg/dl) and HDL values with increasing CF levels; however, AST and ALT activity was within a normal physiological range. Gizzard (%), edible giblets (%), digestive tract weight and digestive tract length had significantly increased with increasing dietary CF level; while, there were non-significant increases in carcass, liver and heart (%). The best value for economic efficiency and relative economic efficiency (117 %) had been recorded by hens fed diet contained 6 % CF as compared with the control (3 % CF). It was concluded that, we can used crude fiber by up to 6 % in laying hens diets (44 to 56 weeks of age) reared under drinking natural saline to achieve acceptable productive and physiological performance and reduce the egg yolk cholesterol.

Growth Performance of Rabbits Fed Diets Containing Different Levels of Energy and Mixture of Some Medicinal Plants

A total number of 48 male growing New Zealand rabbits were used to study the effect of two different levels of ration energy supplemented with mixture of Lupinus albus L, Trigonella foenum-graecum L and Cassia senna L as feed additives. Rabbits were classified into four equal groups (G1-G4). The 1st and 3rd groups received basal ration with 100 % and 90 % energy requirement and served as first and second control respectively. The 2nd and the 4th groups received basal ration with 100 % and 90 % energy requirement supplemented with mixture at the level of 1.5 %, respectively. The results showed that decreasing energy requirements level by 10% in rabbit diets significantly (P<0.05) increased the digestibility coefficients of DM, OM, CP and NFE & DCP values. The 90% energy level insignificant increased (P>0.05) CF and EE digestibility coefficients and TDN value. The 90% energy requirement with 1.5 % additives mixture (G4) recorded the best digestibility coefficients of DM, OM, CP, CF, EE, NFE and nutritive values of TDN and DCP. The 90% energy level significantly (P<0.05) improved feed conversion (g intake /g gain) of DM, CP, DCP, TDN and DE, respectively compared to control. Adding mixture at 1.5 % level significantly (P<0.05) improved feed conversion (g intake /g gain) of DM, CP, DCP, TDN and DE, respectively compared to control. The 90% energy with 1.5% additives mixture (G4) recorded the best values of final body weight, body weight gain, and average daily gain as well as feed conversion. Additives mixture at 1.5% level significantly (P>0.05) increased the total inedible offal's (weight and % of SW) and Dm contents of the 9, 10 and 11th ribs. The 90% energy level with 1.5% additives mixture (G4) diet recorded the highest value of relative economic efficiency (145.1%) and the lowest value of feed cost/ kg live body weight (3.97 LE). It can be concluded that this mixture of medicinal plants can be considered as growth promoter that is effective for improving the utilization of low energy diet by lowering circulating glucose levels through enhancing insulin sensitivity.

Response of Growing Rabbits to Diets Containing Different Levels of Protein and Radish (Raphanus sativus L) Seeds

This work aimed to study the effect of two different levels of ration protein supplemented with Radish (Raphanus sativus L) seeds (RS). Rabbits were classified into four equal groups (G1-G4). The1st and 3rd groups received basal ration with 100 % and 90 % of protein requirement level and served as first and second control respectively. The 2nd and the 4th groups received basal ration with 100 and 90% of protein supplemented with RS at the level 1.5%, respectively. The 90% of protein level significantly (P<0.05) increased the DM, OM, CP, CF and EE digestibility and TDN value as well as significantly (P<0.05) decreased the digestible CP in comparison with the100% requirements. The 90% of protein level significantly (P<0.05) increased the TDN intake. The 100% of protein level significantly (P<0.05) improved the feed conversion (g intake /g gain) of DM, TDN and DE (kcal/h/d). The 90% of protein level insignificantly (P>0.05) improved the final weight, total body weight gain, ADG (g), feed intake as DM, DCP, DCP (g/day) and DE (kcal/h/d) and feed conversion (g intake /g gain) of CP in comparison with the 100% of protein requirements. Radish seeds (RS) at 1.5% level significantly (P<0.05) increased all nutrient digestibility coefficients and nutritive values compared to the control diet. There were significant (P<0.05) interactions between the protein and RS levels on all nutrient digestibility coefficients (DM, OM, CP, CF, EE and NFE) and nutritive values of TDN and DCP. The 90% of protein level + 1.5 % (RS) showed the best digestion coefficients of DM, OM, CP, CF, EE and NFE and TDN value. The 100% of protein level + 1.5 % Radish seeds (G2) showed the highest value of DCP. Supplementation Radish seeds at 1.5% level significantly (P<0.05) improved feed intake as DCP and TDN (g/day) while, it significantly (P<0.05) decreased feed conversion (g intake /g gain) of TDN. Adding Radish seeds at 1.5% level insignificantly (P>0.05) increased the final weight, total body weight gain, average daily gain (ADG); feed intake as DM, CP (g/day) and DE (kcal/h/d) and feed conversion (g intake /g gain) of DM, CP and DE (kcal/h/d) compared to the control diet. The 90% of protein requirement with supplementation Radish seeds at 1.5% level recorded the best values of final weight, total body weight gain, average daily gain, feed intake (g/h/day) of DM, DCP, TDN and DE and feed conversion feed conversion of DM, CP and TDN (g intake/ g gain) and DE (Kcal intake /g gain). There were interactions between protein and supplementation levels on DM, DP, TDN and DE intakes and feed conversion (g intake/ g gain) of DM, CP, TDN and DE. There were significant (P<0.05) interactions between protein and supplementation levels on carcass characteristics such as digestive tract; edible offal's weight (head and testes, weight and % of SW) and dressing percentages expressed as CW1/ SW and DM of the 9, 10 and 11th ribs. Rabbits fed on diet containing the 90% of protein requirements with 1.5% (RS) showed the highest values of net revenue, economical efficiency and relative economic efficiency, Supplementation of radish seeds in rabbit diets improved all nutrient digestibility, growth performance, dressing percentages and economical efficiency indicating that radish seeds can be used as growth promoter for improving the utilization of low protein in rabbit diets.

Response of Growing Rabbits to Diets Containing Different Levels of Protein and Mustard Seeds (Sinapisalba Linn)

A total number of 54 male growing New Zealand rabbits were used to study the effect of two different levels of ration protein supplemented with Mustard seeds (Sinapis alba Linn) . Rabbits were classified into six equal groups (G 1 -G 6 ). The 1 st and 4 th groups received basal ration with 100 % and 90 % protein requirement and served as first and second control respectively. The 2 nd and the 3 rd groups received basal ration with 100 % protein requirement supplemented with Sinapisalba Linn at the level of 0.5 and 1.0 %, respectively. The 5 th and 6 th groups received basal ration with 90 % protein requirement with Sinapisalba Linn at the level of 0.5 and 1.0 %, respectively. The low level of protein (90% of protein requirement containing diet) significantly increased (P<0.05) DM, OM, CP, CF and NFE digestibility and TDN value compared to 100% of protein requirement. The high level of supplementation (1% Mustard seeds) significantly (P<0.05) improved all nutrient digestibility coefficients and nutritive values. The 90% protein ration with 1 % mustard seeds (G 6 ) showed the best digestion coefficients of DM, OM, CP, EE and NFE and TDN value. However, the 100% of protein requirement with 1 % mustard seeds containing diet (G 3 ) showed the high value of DCP. Inclusion Mustard seeds at 1% in rabbit diets significantly (P<0.05) increased all nutrient digestibility and nutritive values compared to control diet. Inclusion Mustard seeds at 0.5% significantly (P<0.05) increased the DM and EE digestibility and total digestible nutrient compared to control diet. The interaction between the protein and mustard seeds levels significantly (P<0.05) increased the all nutrient digestibility coefficients (DM, OM, CP, CF, EE and NFE) and nutritive values (TDN and DCP). Inclusion Mustard seeds at 0.5% or 1% significantly (P<0.05) improved the final or weight, total body weight gain, average daily gain and feed conversion compared to control diet. On the other hand inclusion of Mustard seeds at 1% significantly (P<0.05) increased the total body weight gain and average daily gain by 24.3% while at 0.5% significantly (P<0.05) increased the total body weight gain and average daily gain by 14.5% compared to the control group. The 90% of protein with 1% mustard seeds recorded the best values of final weight, total body weight gain, average daily gain and feed conversion. The interaction between the protein and mustard seeds levels significantly (P<0.05) increased the final weight, weight gain, average daily gain and feed conversion. Inclusion mustard seeds in rabbit diets clearly decreased the dressing percentages by increasing the level of mustard seeds in rabbit diets. Dietary 90% of protein requirements with 0.5% or 1% mustard seeds showed the higher value ofnet revenue, economical efficiency and relative economic efficiency, as well as the lower value of feed cost/ kg live body weight (LE).

Performance of Rabbits Fed Diets Containing Different Levels of Energy and Lesser Galangal (Alpinia Officinarum)

This work aimed to study the effect of two different levels of ration energy supplemented with Alpinia officinarum. Rabbits were classified into six equal groups (G1-G6). The 1st and 4th groups received basal ration with 100 % and 90 % energy requirement and served as first and second control respectively. The 2nd and the 3rd groups received basal ration with 100 % energy requirement supplemented with Alpinia officinarum at the level of 0.5 and 1.0 %, respectively. The 5th and 6th groups received basal ration with 90 % energy requirement with Alpinia officinarum at the level of 0.5 and 1.0 %, respectively. The 90% energy containing diet showed significant increased (P<0.05) in DM and CF digestibility, while EE digestibility was significantly (P<0.05) decreased. Lesser galangal as feed additives showed significant (P<0.05) increased in DM, OM, CF, NFE digestibility and TDN value. There were significant interaction values between energy and supplementation levels on digestibility coefficient of DM, OM, CF, EE, NFE and TDN value. Supplementation of Lesser galangal at 0.5 % or 1% significantly increased final body weight gain, ADG, feed conversion, while slightly decreased feed intake. The 90% energy and 1% lesser galangal (G6) recorded the best values of final body weight, body daily weight gain and feed conversion. The interaction values between energy and lesser galangal levels significantly increased (P<0.05) the carcass weight, dressing percentages and carcass cuts. The 90% energy and 1% lesser galangal (G6) recorded the best values of carcass weight, dressing percentages and carcass cuts. Lesser galangal significantly (P<0.05) decreased the lungs (weight and % of SW); content of stomach and empty of small intestine (weight and % of SW). The interaction values between energy and lesser galangal levels significantly (P<0.05) increased the liver and total internal offal's (% of SW); lungs, full and content of stomach as well as digestive tract content (weight, g and % of SW). Dietary 90% energy requirements with 0.5 % or 1% lesser galangal showed the high values of net revenue, economical efficiency and relative economic efficiency, while recorded the low value of feed cost/ kg live body weight (LE). Rabbits received the 90 % energy requirement with 0.5 % lesser galangal recorded the highest value of relative economic efficiency (111.4%) and the lowest value of feed cost/ kg live body weight (5.45 LE).

EFFECTS OF SODIUM BICARBONATE SUPPLEMENT ON THE NUTRITIVE VALUE, RUMEN FERMENTATION AND PERFORMANCE OF GROWING FRIESIAN CALVES RATIONS.

Twelve 7 month old male Friesian calves with an average body weight of 111+ 8.4 kg were used is this study. Calves were distributed into three groups similar in number. The experimental rations were formulated as follows : ration 1 (R1) 64% concentrate feed mixture (CFM) + 36% clover hay (CH) (control), ration 2 (R2) : 64.12% CFM + 34.36% CH + 1.52% sodium bicarbonate (SB) and ration 3 (R3) : 60.61% CFM + 36.19% CH + 3.2% SB. The digestibility coefficients of DM, OM, CP, NFE, NDF and ADF and the value of TDN, ME, (Mj / kg), NE (Mcal / kg), DDM% and RFV were higher (p<0.05) for R2 than R1 and R3, while there was no significant difference between R1 and R3. The CF and NFC digestibility coefficients were increased (p<0.05) when feeding on R2 compared with R1, while there was no significant difference between R1 and R3 or between R2 and R3. The predicted values for starch and sugar fermentations using CNCPS were (640 and 274 g/d, respectively) with feeding R1,(475.8 and 276.8 g/d, respectively) for R2 and ( 431.7 and 267 g/d, respectively) for R3 , and the total microbial protein was 815 , 825 and 775 g/d when feeding on R1 , R2 and R3 , respectively. The DM intake was increased when feeding on R2 than R1 or R3 because the passage rate was higher when feeding on R2 (8.5 %/h) than feeding on R1 (7.6 %/h) or R3 (7.8 % g/h). The mean values for total VFA were higher (p<0.05) with feeding R1 or R2 than R3. The mean values were 9.67, 9.88 and 8.05 ml eq / 100 ml RL for R1, R2 and R3, respectively. The mean values for NH3-N concentration decreased (p<0.05) when feeding R2 than R3, but without significant effect with feeding R1. the mean values were 10.96, 9.36 and 13.5 mg/100ml RL when feeding on R1, R2 and R3, respectively. The mean values of blood parameters were not significantly affected by feeding R1 or R2 or R3. The mean values of ADG were 0.62, 0.69 and 0.66 kg for steers fed on R1, R2 and R3, respectively. Concerning to the amino acids composition of the tested rations, the AAs composition were less than the requirements except for tryptophan. The mean balance AA values (% of requirement) were 70.45 , 68.14 and 71.73 with feeding on R1, R2 , R3 , respectively. The production efficiency was lower when feeding on R2 than feeding on R1 or R3 (16.77, 18.74 and 18.85% respectively), and the economic efficiency, was also lower when feeding on R2 than feeding on R1 or R3. In general, the data indicated that feeding ration at a level 64.12% CFM + 34.36% CH + 1.52% sodium bicarbonate for growing Friesian calves increased the nutritive values of the ration than using 3.0% sodium bicarbonate.

Performance of goats fed rations containing whole sunflower seeds.

ABESTRACTThis study consisted of two major trials, to evaluate milk productin and the other for digestability estimate. Thirty Zaraibi goats of 4-5 years old and 41.041.19 kg average body weight were used for milk production trial while 9 Zaraibi bucks were used for digestability trial. Animals were randomly distributed into three groups and fed ration formulated of 50% concentrate feed mixture and 50% berseem hay. Goats in group 1 acted as a control group (G1) ; goats in group 2 were fed the control group ration but 5% of concentrate mixture was replaced with sunflower seeds (Halianthus annuus) (G2) and goats in group 3 were fed the control ration but 10% of concentrate mixture was replaced with sunflower seeds (G3). The digestion coefficients of DM, CP and NFE are slightly increased by adding sunflower but the differences were not significant among treatment groups. There were no significant differences between groups in ruminal pH, NH3-N and TVFA's values as a result of experimental treatment during the same collected time. Milk yield was higher (p<0.05) in G2 and G3 than in G1 group. Addition of sunflower seeds in the goats rations increased (p<0.05) milk fat, protein and total solids while decreased lactose percent. Addition of 10% sunflower seed showed higher serum total lipid, triglyceride than those of 5% sunflower seed or control with significant differences (P<0.05) during suckling and lactation periods while, The concentration of serum chlesterol was significantly lower in treated groups than control group espesialy with 10 % sunflower. The goats in control group had nearly the same mean serum glucose level compared to the other two groups, while the serum glucose concentration was slightly higher in suckling periob than lactation period in all groups.