Higher Levels Of Crude Protein Research Articles

The Impact of Juniper Removal on Shrubs and Understory Vegetation and its Implications for Sagebrush Dependent Vertebrate Herbivores

The expansion of trees into previously grass- and shrub- dominated ecosystems is a global phenomenon threatening ecosystem integrity and function in encroached systems, including the North American sagebrush biome. This ecosystem is currently in peril, threatened in part by juniper (Juniperus sp.) encroachment. Sagebrush (Artemisia sp.) ecosystems contain a diversity of forage, including grasses, forbs, and shrubs, that serve as a key food source for vertebrate herbivores. Removal of encroached juniper has been used by land managers as a widespread restoration technique in sagebrush ecosystems, however, the long-term impact of this restoration action on shrubs and understory vegetation has not been thoroughly examined in the context of sagebrush dependent vertebrate herbivores. In 2020 and 2021, we studied shrub and understory vegetation response to juniper treatment in the sagebrush of northern Nevada and northeastern California. Juniper treatments completed between 2008 and 2020 were surveyed and sampled to assess the impact of this restoration action on grasses, forbs, and shrubs over time. Forage biomass was higher in old treatments than untreated reference sites, which was a trend that persisted across all vegetation functional groups. Differences in plant cover were slight or had inconsistent nonlinear trends between reference sites and treatments. Forage from treated sites had higher crude protein levels than forage from untreated sites, although the nutritional difference was slight. Our results suggest that juniper treatments that increase forage quantity and improve forage quality may benefit sagebrush dependent wildlife or domestic livestock in conifer-encroached ecosystems.

Extraction and Nutritional Value of Soybean Meal Protein Isolate

The increasing protein demand driven by global population growth necessitates the search for an alternative protein source. Soybean meal (SM), with approximately 47–49% proteins, is a viable option. Soymeal protein isolate (SMPI) is a cost-efficient protein source with a well-balanced amino acid profile, making it suitable for addressing this demand. This study attempts to address the lack of information regarding the extractability and nutritional potential of SMPI obtained utilizing a weak base and recoverable solvent. In this work, the structural and compositional studies of SMPI, as well as the aqueous extractability of ammonium hydroxide (NH4OH), are investigated. Furthermore, we examined the effects of heat treatment during oil extraction, where a comparison between protein isolates from soymeal and whole soybeans was carried out. The maximum extraction yield of 24.1% was achieved by increasing the concentration of NH4OH from 0.25–1%. In comparison to the soy protein isolate from whole soybeans (SPI), the compositional analysis report revealed that SMPI had higher levels of crude protein, moisture, and ash content, but lower levels of fat and carbohydrates. Furthermore, the examination of the amino acid composition confirms the existence of vital amino acids in SMPI. The amino acid score indicates that methionine, lysine, and threonine are the limiting amino acids. SMPI and SPI share structural and functional group similarities, as demonstrated by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy. Gel electrophoresis using sodium dodecyl sulfate–polyacrylamide shows that the protein molecular weight distributions of SPI and SMPI are similar. This in-depth evaluation emphasizes the advantages of SM by advocating its application in other sectors beyond conventional animal feed, such as nutritional supplements and bio-based products, and by improving the environmental sustainability and global food chains.

Morphological Differentiation, Yield, and Cutting Time of Lolium multiflorum L. under Acid Soil Conditions in Highlands.

Livestock production in the basins of the northern macro-region of Peru has as its primary source pastures of Lolium multiflorum L. 'Cajamarquino ecotype' (ryegrass CE) in monoculture, or in association with white clover Ladino variety, for feeding. The objective of this research work was the morphological characterisation, yield evaluation, and cutting time evaluation of two local genotypes (LM-58 and LM-43) of Lolium multiflorum L. in six locations. An ANOVA was performed to compare fixed effects and interaction. It was determined that the LM-58 genotype is intermediate, growing semi-erect, with a dark green colouring and 0.8 cm broadleaf, and can reach an average stem length of 46 cm, up to 1.6 cm. day-1, achieving fourth-leaf growth at 28 days under appropriate management conditions. Despite the differentiated characteristics, according to BLASTn evaluation, the ITS1 sequences showed a greater than 99.9% similar identification to Lolium multiflorum L., characterising it as such. It was determined that the LM-58 genotype outperforms LM-43, achieving a forage yield of 4.49 Mg. ha-1, a seed production of 259.23 kg. ha-1, and an average of 13.48% crude protein (CP). The best biomass yield (49.10 Mg. ha-1.yr-1) is reached at 60 days; however, at 30 days, there is a high level of CP (14.84%) and there are no differences in the annual protein production at the cutting age of 60 and 45 days. With the results of the present study, LM-58 from a selection and crossbreeding of 680 ryegrass EC accessions emerges as an elite genotype adapted to the conditions of the northern high Andean zone of Peru.

Effect of various supplements on productive performance of honey bees, in the south Wollo Zone, Ethiopia.

The productivity and well-being of honey bee colonies are greatly influenced by the nutrients present in the hives. A study was conducted to evaluate different supplemental feeds on honey bee productive performance during dearth periods. Thirty colonies were grouped into five (four treatment groups and one control group) and each group contained three sub-groups (2 weak, 2 strong, and 2 very strong). Control groups were not given any supplementation. Treatment diets were T1 (50% sugar syrup + 14% roasted barley powder (beso) + 36% roasted spiced pea powder (Shiro)), T2 (50% powder sugar + 14% white sorghum powder + 36% bakery yeast, T3 (50% powder sugar + 14% white sorghum powder + 36% skimmed milk powder), T4 (50% sugar syrup with infusion of stinging nettle and 1% kerefa + 50% white sorghum powder). Feed was given on the entrance sides. The performance of experimental colonies was measured every 21 days in two phases during the dry season (from 3_2_2021 to 27_4_2021) and the rainy season (from 28-7_2021 to 1_10_2021). Feed intake, space (cm2) of pollen, nectar, and honey in the comb were measured using a frame-sized transparent grid meter. The study revealed significant differences (p<0.0001) in all measured parameters among the various treatments. The diet provided by T4 showed the highest levels of crude protein (18.15%) and carbohydrates (92.15%), whereas the diet presented by T3 had the lowest crude protein content (6.66%) and the diet offered by T1 had the lowest carbohydrate content (61.91%). In general, colonies that received T4 showcased superior performance compared to others. They exhibited a feed intake of 98.3%, a nectar area of 54.3 cm2, a pollen area of 68.7 cm2, a honey area of 311.2 cm2, and a honey yield of 7 kg. Consequently, their net profit amounted to 51.54 USD. On the other hand, the colonies that received T1 had the lowest performance indicators. They demonstrated a feed intake of only 54.7%, a nectar area of 37.6 cm2, a pollen area of 48.8 cm2, a honey area of 254.3 cm2, a honey yield of 2.8 kg, and a net profit of 18.81 USD. The significance of this study was to enable the beekeepers in realizing the effects of feed supplements on the productivity and profitability of honeybee colonies.

Circadian rhythm of salivary and serum urea concentration in alpacas and sheep receiving diets with different levels of protein.

All vertebrates possess a daily rhythm, encompassing a comprehensive set of physiological, cognitive, and behavioral patterns that manifest throughout a 24-hour period. The aim of this study was to compare the effect of crude protein (CP) levels in the diet on the daily rhythm of urea in serum (US) and saliva in alpacas and sheep. Ten alpacas and ten sheep, adult, clinically healthy males, were used; they were maintained in natural light conditions and fed ad libitum with two levels of CP (16 and 7%). Blood and saliva samples were taken every 4h for 48h. A two-way ANOVA was conducted to analyze the parameters, including adjusted mean rhythm (MESOR), amplitude, and acrophase. It was found that both US and saliva urea exhibited circadian rhythms with a peak during the midday (10:59 - 12:16h). The MESOR with low CP diets was higher (P < 0.05) in alpacas. The MESOR of urea levels in saliva was greater (P < 0.05) at the highest level of CP in the diet, with no differences between alpacas and sheep (P > 0.05). The amplitude was greater (P < 0.05) in alpacas and at the high level of CP compared to the low level of CP in the diet. Our findings reveal that both serum and saliva urea levels in alpacas and sheep follow a daily rhythm and the MESOR of US was higher in alpacas when they consume food with low CP content, and this difference disappears when CP levels are increased in the diet.

Effects of Cissus quadrangularis L. Powder on Proximate Composition, Physicochemical and Textural Properties of Tteokgalbi.

We investigated Cissus quadrangularis L. powder (C) use as a natural additive to Tteokgalbi, a traditional Korean meat-based dish. Five distinct Tteokgalbi samples were treated: one without any additives (negative control, NC), one with 1.00% C (C1), 2.00% C (C2), 4.00% C (C3), and 0.10% ascorbic acid (positive control, PC). C addition resulted in changes in composition, quality, and sensory attributes. Moisture content decreased with higher C levels; crude protein varied among the groups, with C1 having the highest crude protein levels and C3 the lowest. Crude fat decreased with increasing C concentration, whereas the carbohydrate content increased. The water-holding capacity notably decreased in the C3 group, resulting in increased cooking loss with higher C concentrations. C treatment altered color and texture, reducing CIE L* and increasing CIE a* before cooking and increasing CIE L* and CIE a* after cooking. CIE b* decreased before cooking but increased thereafter. C-treated Tteokgalbi was less cohesive, chewy, and brittle compared to the NC. The C treatment increased the total phenolic and flavonoid contents and enhanced radical scavenging capacities. It also affects storage characteristics, lowers pH, and increases 2-thiobarbituric acid reactive substances values. The microbial counts were lower in C2 and C3 after 11 days. These findings suggest the potential use of C as a natural meat additive.

Performance of Philippine Native Pig Fed with Ensiled Pongapong

Native animals are regarded as an essential component of most agricultural production systems in rural settings. Amorphophallus campanulatus can be used as food and animal feed, however its application is limited due to its high oxalate concentration and low crude protein level. Fermentation with oxalolytic bacteria, such as Bacillus subtilis, which produces the oxalate decarboxylase enzyme, has been utilized to boost the nutritional value of pongapong. This study aims to determine the growth performance of native pig fed with fermented pongapong as feed supplement. Specifically, to determine the effect of fermented/ensiled pongapong on the body weight-gain in weight, growth increment, feed conversion efficiency and feed conversion ratio on Philippine native pigs; determine the best level of silage pongapong to growth of Philippine Native pigs; determine the nutrient composition of fermented Amorphophalus campanulatus; and determine the economics of fermented pongapong as feed supplement for native pigs in one production cycle. The Complete Randomized Design (CRD) was utilized in the study. The treatments were follows:T1=Formulated feeds ,T2=75% Formulated feeds + 25% silage AC ,T3=50% Formulated feeds 50% silage AC, T4=25% Formulated feeds + 75% silage AC, T5= Pure ensiled AC. Based on the analysis of variance shows insignificant among the treatments as to the initial weight, feed conversion efficiency and growth rate. Also, there are significant differences in the body weight, gain weight and feed conversion ration while it shows highly significant feed consumption throughout the duration of the study. Thus, 75% formulated feeds and 25% fermented pongapong and 50% Formulated feeds + 50% fermented pongapong results to best growth. It demonstrates that feeding native pigs with formulated feed including fermented pongapong was employed as an alternative diet that is potentially cost effective and useful in native pig production in the province. This information could help growers reduce feed costs.

Bioactive metabolites, antioxidant, and antidiabetic activities of fermented local rice (Pare ambo) by Pleurotus spp.: In-vitro and in-silico approach

Pare ambo, a local black rice variety popular in Tana Toraja (South Sulawesi), is recognized for its health benefits, especially for those managing diabetes or aiming to prevent obesity due to its antioxidant-rich composition. This study explored the impact of Pleurotus spp. Fermentation on pare ambo, examining its nutritional transformation. Proximate analysis indicated higher levels of crude protein (9.67 ± 0.73%), crude fat (3.36 ± 0.84%), and fiber (1.67 ± 0.33%) in P. cystidiosus fermentation compared to P. ostreatus and P. djamor. Antioxidant and antidiabetic activities significantly improved in all fermentations at 500 ppm concentration. Pare ambo fermented by all three Pleurotus species contained citric acid and trimethyl ester compounds, displaying superior antioxidant and antidiabetic activities, interacting with antioxidant receptor 5O0x (−7.2 kcal/mol) and antidiabetic receptor 3w37 (−8.2 kcal/mol) compared to the unfermented sample. Fatty acid profiling identified 32 compounds, predominantly FAMEs with ester groups. Pleurotus cystidiosus and P. djamor fermentations contributed 20 compounds, while P. ostreatus contributed 18 compounds. Prominent interactions were visualized between naphthalene, and decahydro-2,6-dimethyl, with 5O0x and 3w37. Anthocyanins were detected through HPLC separation in P. cystidiosus and P. ostreatus fermentation outputs. This study shows pare ambo as a promising functional food, abundant in natural antioxidants and antidiabetic compounds, highlighting the potential of Pleurotus spp. Fermentation to enhance the nutritional profile and bioactivity of indigenous rice varieties.

Effects of fermented sweet potato residue on nutrient digestibility, meat quality, and intestinal microbes in broilers

This study aimed to investigate the effects of different proportions of dietary fermented sweet potato residue (FSPR) supplementation as a substitute for corn on the nutrient digestibility, meat quality, and intestinal microbes of yellow-feathered broilers. Experiment 1 (force-feeding) evaluated the nutrient composition and digestibility of mixtures with different proportions of sweet potato residue (70%, 80%, 90%, and 100%) before and after fermentation. In Experiment 2 (metabolic growth), a total of 420 one-day-old yellow-feathered broilers were randomly allocated to 4 groups and fed corn-soybean meal-based diets with 0, 5%, 8%, and 10% FSPR as a substitute for corn. The force-feeding and metabolic growth experiments were performed for 9 and 70 d, respectively. The treatment of 70% sweet potato residue (after fermentation) had the highest levels of crude protein, ether extract, and crude fiber and improved the digestibility of crude protein and amino acids (P < 0.05). Although dietary FSPR supplementation at different levels had no significant effect on growth performance and intestinal morphology, it improved slaughter rate, half-chamber rate, full clearance rate, and meat color, as well as reduced cooking loss in the breast and thigh muscles (P < 0.05). Dietary supplementation with 8% and 10% FSPR increased the serum immunoglobulin M and immunoglobulin G levels in broilers (P < 0.05). Furthermore, 10% FSPR increased the Shannon index and Ruminococcaceae_UCG-014, Ruminococcaceae_UCG-010 and Romboutsia abundances and decreased Sutterella and Megamonas abundances (P < 0.05). Spearman's correlation analysis showed that meat color was positively correlated with Ruminococcaceae_UCG-014 (P < 0.05) and negatively correlated with Megamonas (P < 0.05). Collectively, 70% sweet potato residue (after fermentation) had the best nutritional value and nutrient digestibility. Dietary supplementation with 8% to 10% FSPR as a substitute for corn can improve the slaughter performance, meat quality, and intestinal microbe profiles of broilers. Our findings suggest that FSPR has the potential to be used as a substitute for corn-soybean meals to improve the meat quality and intestinal health of broilers.

Effects of dietary Thalassodendron Ciliatum supplementation on biochemical-immunological, antioxidant and growth indices of Oreochromis niloticus exposed to ammonia toxicity

Aquatic plants are potent antioxidants that might promote health and reduced oxidative damage induced by a variety of ecological pollutants in aquatic organisms. The privileges of dietary Thalassodendron Ciliatum intervention were assessed in Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) pre- and post-acute ammonia exposure. A total of 160 healthy male juveniles (weighing 12.4 ± 0.01 g) were allocated randomly into four equal groups (each group containing four replicates). The feeding trial lasted for 8 weeks; the first group served as a control (fed a basal diet), while, the remaining three groups were fed diets supplemented with 1, 3 or 5% T. ciliatum extract (TCE1%, TCE3% and TCE5% respectively). By the end of the feeding trial, all fish groups had been exposed to a 6-h acute ammonia exposure with 5 mg TAN per Liter, relying on pH level and water temperature degree. Prior to the ammonia toxicity test, all performance data indicated that a low dosage of TCE (1 or 3%) resulted in significant improvements (P > 0.01 or 0.001). Meanwhile, fish assigned TCE5%-rich diets reported the highest levels of crude protein and lowest lipid percentages when compared to the control group. Furthermore, fish administered a high dose of TCE had significantly (P < 0.001) higher serum protein constituents, interleukin-1 (IL-1), immunoglobulins M and G, and lysozyme levels and reduced liver enzyme and total necrosis factor-2α contents pre- and post-ammonia exposure. Pre- and post-ammonia toxicity, TCE incorporation into fish diet significantly (P < 0.001) promoted the antioxidant activity along with stimulating the transcription of the IL-8, GSH and CAT genes. Moreover, the TCE5% fish group showed higher effectiveness in mitigating the ammonia toxicity risks on the gill structure and displayed apparently normal structure. Finally, although it may be suggested that including small quantities of TCE (1 to 3%) into fish diets might promote growth under conventional aquaculture systems, higher TCE levels (5%) were proven to be essential in triggering immunological and antioxidant responses under intensive culture systems.

Exploring the impact of culture media on life history characteristics of the house fly, Musca domestica L. (Diptera: Muscidae)

Insects, particularly house fly pupae (M. domestica L.), are increasingly promoted as a rich and sustainable protein source, presenting a practical solution for organic waste management. These insects possess the capability to transform animal waste into valuable biomass, underscoring the necessity to evaluate housefly larval growth on diverse waste mixtures. The primary objective was to comprehend how different culture media influence the life history traits of this species. To address this, the research aimed to assess the growth and development performance of housefly larvae reared on various waste mixtures. Adult house flies (M. domestica) were sourced from meat and fish markets in Rajshahi city, Bangladesh, employing systematic sampling from different market sections for a representative selection. Experimental diets were formulated with combinations of cattle blood, cattle manure, rice bran, wheat bran, and kitchen waste, categorized into Diet-A (kitchen waste:cattle manure:wheat bran), Diet-B (cattle blood:rice bran), Diet-C (cattle manure:wheat bran), and Diet-D (cattle blood:kitchen waste:rice bran). Additionally, a control group comprised a mixture of waste materials, including yeast, egg white, milk powder, and wheat bran. The findings revealed that larvae, pupae, and adults reared on Diet-B, incorporating cattle blood and rice bran, demonstrated increased length compared to other diets. This varied diet also produced the heaviest larvae, pupae, and adults, exhibiting the highest morphometric parameters. The moisture content of pupae varied across the different diets, ranging from 53.23±0.17 % to 65.47±1.32 %. The pupae reared on Diet-B had the highest levels of crude protein (53.44±0.05 %, p < 0.05), while those reared on Diet-C had the highest levels of fat (18.56±0.05 %, p < 0.05 except for diet A). The findings demonstrate that housefly larvae can be reared on diets containing rice bran and cattle blood, which have different nutritional profiles and biological capacities. However, the ideal rearing strategy should depend on how M. domestica will be utilized in the future. The study highlights insects, especially housefly pupae, as a sustainable protein source and an organic waste management solution. Therefore, the results of this study contribute to the broader understanding of Musca domestica and offer practical implications for both scientific research and pest management practices.

Effects Of Crude Fiber, Organic Mater, And Crude Protein Contents In Sorgum Silage Of Samurai 2 First Ratoon

Samurai 2 Ratun 1st sorghum silage’s crude protein, organic matter, and fiber content will be examined in this research to see how curing time affects them. The experiment used a completely randomized design (CRD) with five treatments and four replications. In this study, the medications P1 (7 days of relief), P2 (14 days of restoration), P3 (21 days of restoration), P4 (28 days of restoration), and P5 (35 days of restoration) were tested. Samurai sorghum silage 2‘s rough fiber, natural matter, and unrefined protein content all showed a significant (P<0.01) effect of the restoration time on the results of the variety analysis. During the 35-day ripening period, the crude fiber content was higher, according to HSD’s subsequent tests. Non significantly different (P>0.05) after ripening for 28 days and significantly different (P<0.01) after ripening for 7 days, 14 days, and 21 days. Crude protein levels were found to be significantly (P<0.01) higher at 28 days of ripening than at 7 days and 14 days, but not significantly (P>0.05) different from those at 21 days and 21 days in the BNJ follow-up test. 35 days. When subjected to the P4 treatment for 28 days, the samurai variety 2 ratun to 1 sorghum silage produced the highest levels of crude protein, organic matter, and crude fiber, according to the study’s findings.

Fodder Yield and Quality of Azolla pinnata Cultivated under the Different Water Sources.

Background: Azolla is a nature’s gift and regenerates within 24 hours and has tremendous uses like supplementary feed to livestock. It is one of the most nutritive animal feeds and also can be used by livestock farming communities. Azolla has several times higher levels of crude protein than other forage crops and is also rich in minerals. The aim of the current study is to study growth in various water sources and their quality as supplementary feed to livestock. Methods: A study was conducted in a randomized block design (RBD) with five different treatments and replicated five times to minimize the error. The study was carried out to explore the yield and nutritive value of Azolla pinnata cultivated under different water sources like well water, river water, bore well water, sewage water and drainage water. The duration of the study was three years from Jan 2019 to March 2022. The silpauline plastic bed having dimensions 12 × 4 ft size was used. Every alternate day, the fresh Azolla was harvested and recorded the weight. Result: The pooled data for three years (2019 to 2022) showed a higher yield of 0.31 kg/day of fresh Azolla pinnata in Mula Mutha river water (T2) and 0.30 kg in well water (T1) and sewage water (T4) crude protein content was highest (28.07 %) in sewage water (T4).

Chemical Composition And Surface Images Of Untreated And Urea-Treated Rice Straw As Inf uenced By Days After Threshing

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the chemical composition and changes in the surface structure of rice straw as affected by the number of days of exposure to the field prior to processing. A total of 24 packs of rice straw samples collected at 1 day after threshing (DAT), 4 DAT, and 7 DAT field exposure untreated and treated with urea for 10 days were analyzed for its chemical changes using proximate analysis and surface structure of the fiber compounds through scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Results (%DM basis) showed that 1DAT untreated rice straw obtained the highest dry matter (DM) concentration at 94.61%. Seven DAT untreated rice straw contain the highest amount of Ash at 20.92%. Likewise, 1 DAT and 7 DAT untreated rice straw contains higher levels of crude protein (CP) at 9.60% and 9.79%, respectively. Ether extract (EE) was observed highest in 1DAT untreated rice straw at 1.97%. Considerable breakdown of cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin fractions of rice straw was attained in 4DAT and 7DAT untreated, and 1 to 7 DAT urea-treated rice straw (UTRS) as evident by its lower NDF, ADF, and ADL values. Changes in the surface structures of microfibers efficiently captured using SEM showed the differences in the morphology of the fibers as influenced by number of days exposed to the field prior to treatment. Therefore, in order to optimize the protocol to improve the feeding and nutritional quality of rice straw, it is suggested that the number of days of exposure to the field be considered prior to processing. Likewise, UTRS is an effective method to disintegrate the complex fibrous compounds of the cell wall of rice straw.

Postprandial metabolism of Australian hybrid abalone (Haliotis laevigata × H. rubra) in relation to temperature and dietary protein manipulation

Understanding the physiological responses of abalone to culture conditions and nutritional inputs is paramount to maintain optimal performance under densely stocked farming conditions. High water temperature (>24 °C) is widely accepted as a key contributor to elevated summer mortality. High crude protein levels in modern abalone diets may interact with elevated water temperature to produce detrimental effects on abalone physiological processes but have received scant attention. This study measured the energy used in the digestion, absorption, and assimilation (i.e., specific dynamic action (SDA)) of hybrid abalone (Haliotis laevigata x H. rubra) after four months of acclimation to three protein levels (32, 38 and 44%) at three culture temperatures (12, 17 and 22 °C). Hybrid abalone exhibited significant stepwise increases in meal size as temperature increased from 12 through to 22 °C, contributing to significantly different SDA between the temperature treatments. Resting (standard) aerobic metabolic rate and peak metabolism (peak ṀO2) during SDA both increased with temperature, while SDA duration was lowest at 17 °C. No effect of dietary protein was observed within the temperature treatments for the SDA metrics. Abalone held at 12 °C exhibited significantly higher rates of gonad maturation, particularly among females. When 22 °C-acclimated abalone were exposed to a simulated summer heatwave up to 26 °C, they exhibited similar mortality and metabolic responses across protein treatment groups and there was a trend of steadily decreasing ṀO2 with sustained 26 °C water temperature, probably due to fasting. These results help to inform best farming practices to ensure optimal diet, growth, metabolic performance, and survival of hybrid abalone in the dynamic farm environment.

Assessment of the Nutritive and Anti-Nutritive Values of Some Selected Browse Plants in Mayo-Ine, Fufore LGA of Adamawa State, North-Eastern Nigeria

The study was conducted to evaluate the nutritional value of some selected semi-arid browse forages. Ten browse forages consumed by ruminants were selected for the study. They were subjected to chemical, mineral and anti-nutritional analysis as well as rumen degradation. Results revealed that the browse species had high levels of crude protein that varied among the species ranging from 8.15% in Vitellaria paradoxa to 21.07% in Acacia senegal. The mean rumen degradability of the browses showed 17.79%, 33.38%, 45.65%, 50.17%, 54.31% and 62.21% at 0, 6, 12, 24, 48 and 72 hours of incubation respectively. All the browses had degraded over 50% at 48 hours of incubation except Detarium microcarpum (49.90%) and Magnifera indica (49.70%). Therefore, all the browse plants studied can be used to support ruminant nutrition.&#x0D;

The effect of maternal supply of rumen-protected protein to Holstein Friesian cows during the dry period on the transfer of passive immunity and colostral microbial composition

The objective of this study was to analyze if maternal supply of rumen-protected protein during the dry period can affect the IgG concentration and microbial composition of colostrum and the IgG absorption and fecal microbial composition in the calf. Seventy-four multiparous Holstein Friesian (HF) dairy cows were stratified per parity and randomly assigned to one of 2 different dry period diets, a diet with a low crude protein (CP) level (LP) and a diet with a high CP level (HP) by addition of rumen-undegraded protein (RUP; formaldehyde-treated soybean meal, Mervobest, Nuscience, Drongen, Belgium). Colostrum was collected within 1 h after calving and IgG concentration was quantified by radial immunodiffusion analysis. Forty-nine calves (23 female and 26 male) were enrolled in the trial with a 2 × 2 factorial design, with prenatal and postnatal treatment as the 2 independent variables. This led to 4 experimental groups: LPLP, LPHP, HPLP, and HPHP, in which the first 2 letters refer to the prenatal treatment (diet of the dam) and the last 2 refer to the postnatal treatment (diet of the colostrum-producing cow). Calves received 3× 2 L of colostrum within 2, 6, and 24 h after birth. Meconium and feces were collected solely from female calves (n = 18) by digital palpation of the rectum, immediately after birth and before colostrum administration and at d 3 of age. Microbial DNA was extracted from meconium (n = 9), feces (n = 15), and colostrum (n = 49). Amplicon sequencing of the bacterial V3-V4 region of the 16S rRNA gene was performed for characterization of the bacterial communities. Colostrum IgG concentration was higher in cows that were supplemented with RUP, especially in cows entering their second lactation (LSM ± SEM 61.3 ± 2.3 vs. 55.2 ± 2.8 g of IgG/L). Calves born out of LP cows that received colostrum from HP cows (LPHP) had a lower serum IgG level compared with HPHP and LPLP calves (LSM ± SEM 14.2 ± 1.3 vs. 18.8 ± 1.2 and 20.9 ± 1.3 g of IgG/L in HPHP and LPLP, respectively). The most abundant phyla in colostrum were Proteobacteria (48.2%), Firmicutes (24.8%), Bacteroidetes (9.5%), and Actinobacteria (5.0%). The most abundant phyla in calf meconium and feces were Firmicutes (42.5 and 47.5%), Proteobacteria (21.7% and 33.7%), Bacteroidetes (16.8% and 15.7%), and Actinobacteria (2.9% and 3.1%). There was no difference in the overall microbial communities between colostrum from HP and LP cows. However, 2 genera (both members of the family Lachnospiraceae) were more abundant in colostrum from HP cows compared with LP cows. The microbial composition of meconium, feces and colostrum differed from each other. Fecal samples were more similar to each other and are characterized by a lower intersample diversity compared with colostrum and meconium samples. To conclude, increasing the CP level by addition of RUP in the dry period diet affected the colostrum IgG concentration and the transfer of passive immunity, but did not change the overall microbial composition of colostrum nor of meconium and feces in the calf.

Aquafeed fermentation improves dietary nutritional quality and benefits feeding behavior, meat flavor, and intestinal microbiota of Chinese mitten crab (Eriocheir sinensis).

Normally, proper fermentation can be an efficient and widely used method to improve feed quality in animal rearing; however, the studies on crustaceans, especially Eriocheir sinensis, remain limited. This study aimed to investigate whether feed fermentation could meliorate dietary nutritional value and benefit E.sinensis rearing. First, non-fermented feed (NFD) and fermented feed (FD) were produced and assessed, respectively. Then, the "Y" maze feed choice behavior test (180 times; 30 times, 6 rounds) was conducted to assess the attractiveness of these 2 feeds for crabs. Finally, a total of 80 crabs (44.10±0.80g) were randomly assigned into 2 groups with 4 replicates, and fed the experimental diets for 8 weeks to evaluate the effects of each feed on growth, antioxidant capacity, meat flavor, and intestinal microbiota. In this study, FD showed higher levels of crude protein (P<0.01), soluble protein (P<0.01), amino acids (P<0.05), lactic acid (P<0.001), and lower levels of crude fiber (P<0.05) and antinutritional factors (agglutinin, trypsin inhibitor, glycinin, and β-conglycinin) (P<0.001) than NFD. Additionally, FD was more attractive to crabs than NFD (P<0.01) and it stimulated the appetite of crabs more than NFD (P<0.05). The growth performance, feed efficiency, and digestive enzyme activity of FD-fed crabs were significantly higher than those of NFD-fed crabs (P<0.05). The electronic sensory measurements and free amino acid profiles revealed that the FD diet had positive impacts on the meat flavor of crabs, particularly in "sweet" and "umami" tastes. Moreover, the antioxidant capacity of FD-fed crabs was significantly higher than that of NFD-fed crabs (P<0.05). Fermented feed also affected the diversity and composition of intestinal microflora. The functional prediction of microbial communities showed that crabs fed FD had a better microecological environment in the intestine. In conclusion, the fermentation of aquafeed could be an effective approach to enhance feed quality and therefore benefit E.sinensis rearing.

Impact of Cassava Leaf Meal as a Rice Bran Substitute and Enzyme Supplementation on Lymphoid Organ Weight and Digestibility in Broiler Chickens

Cassava leaves are a potential alternative feed ingredient due to their high levels of crude protein and energy. However, their utilization in poultry feed is constrained by factors such as cyanic acid, fiber content, and nutrient digestibility. This study aimed to investigate the impact of including cassava leaf meal (CLM) as a rice bran substitute and enzyme supplementation on lymphoid organ development and metabolizable energy parameters in broiler chickens. A 2x3 completely randomized factorial design was conducted using 48 Cobb-strain broilers unsexing at 35 days old. The treatments included different levels of CLM and enzyme (NSP and protease) supplementation at a dose of 250 g/ton of feed. The treatments consisted of R0E0: 0% CLM without enzyme, R0E1: 0% CLM with enzyme, R1E0: 1.5% CLM without enzyme, R1E1: 1.5% CLM with enzyme, R2E0: 3% CLM without enzyme, and R2E1: 3% CLM with enzyme. The variables assessed were lymphoid organ development (thymus, bursa Fabricius, and spleen) and metabolizable energy parameters (Apparent Metabolizable Energy (AME), True Metabolizable Energy (TME), Apparent Metabolizable Energy Corrected to Nitrogen (AMEn), and True Metabolizable Energy Corrected to Nitrogen (TMEn)). The data were subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) with post-hoc tests conducted for significant differences. Results indicated no interaction between CLM and enzymes in lymphoid organ development and energy metabolizable. The inclusion of CLM led to a reduction in AME and TME (p&amp;lt;0.05). However, enzyme supplementation significantly increased the relative weight of lymphoid organs (thymus, bursa Fabricius, spleen) and metabolizable energy parameters (AME, TME, AMEn, and TMEn) (p&amp;lt;0.05). Importantly, the inclusion of CLM up to a level of 3.0% did not negatively impact the health of broiler chickens. Furthermore, the addition of enzymes effectively mitigated the negative effects associated with CLM inclusion in the feed, suggesting their potential as a strategy to improve feed utilization in broiler production systems.

Comparison of Growth Performance and Muscle Nutrition Levels of Juvenile Siniperca scherzeri Fed on an Iced Trash Fish Diet and a Formulated Diet

To assess the possibility of using a formulated diet instead of an iced trash fish diet for feeding spotted mandarin fish (Siniperca scherzeri), a 20-week feeding trial was conducted. The objective of the study was to examine the effects of the formulated diet (FG) and the iced trash fish diet (XG) on the growth performance and muscle nutrient composition of the fish. The results showed that the spotted mandarin fish fed with an XG had slightly higher survival rates, weight gain rate, fullness, hepatic index, and viscera index compared to those fed with an FG, although the differences were not significant (p &gt; 0.05). Additionally, in terms of muscle composition, the FG group had higher levels of crude protein and ash content in the fish muscle compared to the XG group (p &lt; 0.05). On the other hand, the crude fat content showed the opposite trend. Among the seventeen amino acids analyzed, only lysine and proline levels differed significantly between the FG and XG groups (p &lt; 0.05). In terms of muscle-hydrolyzed fatty acids, fifteen fatty acids were detected in both groups, with arachidonic acid being exclusive to the FG group. Furthermore, significant differences in the levels of thirteen fatty acids were observed between the two groups (p &lt; 0.05). The FG group had lower levels of saturated fatty acids compared to the XG group (p &lt; 0.05), while monounsaturated fatty acids, polyunsaturated fatty acids, and EPA + DHA contents were higher. This study demonstrates the potential of using a formulated diet as a substitute for an iced trash fish diet in the rearing of spotted mandarin fish. However, further optimization of the formulated diet is necessary to improve the growth of spotted mandarin fish in future research.