Kcal ME Research Articles

PSLBI-18 Isoleucine requirements of young adult and senior Labrador retrievers

Abstract Age-appropriate diets that meet the unique nutritional needs of aging are in greater demand as senior dogs represent an increasing percentage of the pet population. Studies targeting the specific amino acid requirements of the aging canine are important because they may inform dietary formulations for this specific life stage. In this study, the indicator amino acid oxidation (IAAO) technique was used to determine the minimum requirements for isoleucine (Iso) in young adult and senior Labrador retrievers. After 2-d adaptation to Iso-adequate basal diet (Iso = 0.608% dry matter), dogs underwent individual IAOO studies. In brief, all dogs were randomly fed one of six test diets with varying levels of isoleucine ranging from deficient to sufficient (final Iso content in experimental diets were 0.244, 0.285, 0.326, 0.532, 0.57 and 0.608% dry matter). Test diet was divided into 13 equal meals; at the 5th meal, a tracer amino acid was supplied (a bolus L-[1-13C] phenylalanine based on body weight was first given, followed by [1-13C] Phe doses every 30 min spanning a 4 h period), and breath samples were collected via respiration mask every 30 min. CO2 production was determined via indirect calorimetry and production of 13CO2 at each dose was measured by enrichment of 13C in breath samples via isotope ratio mass spectrometry (IRMS). Results for IRMS data were converted to atom percent excess (APE) and analyzed using segmented linear regression. The Four Rivers mean and population requirements for isoleucine were 898 ± 71 mg/1,000 kcal ME (mean ± 2 SD) for young adults and 885 ± 91 mg/1,000 kcal ME (mean ± 2 SD) in senior dogs, which is slightly greater than the National Research Council’s minimum requirement. As the pet food industry offers more specialized diets for aging canines, updating the amino acid requirements for such animals is increasingly important.

Effect of L-Glycine on Carcass Parameters, Blood Biochemicals, and Jejunal Histomorphometry of Commercial Broiler Chicken

A study was conducted for duration of six weeks on 240, day-old Cobb-430Y broiler strain chicks and randomly distributed to four groups each containing three replicates and 20 chicks per replicate. Group A was Negative Control (NC) contained 3% Low Protein (LP) diet containing 19.50, 18.00 and 16.50% crude protein (CP) for broiler pre-starter, starter and finisher phases, respectively. Positive Control (PC) group B contained standard protein 22.50, 21.00, and 19.50% CP as per breeder recommendation. No L-Glycine was added to NC and PC diets. Group C (NC+Gly1) was formulated by adding 0.640, 0.810, and 0.630% L-Glycine in NC diet to arrive 2.30, 2.30, and 2.00% digestible (Dig.) Gly + Ser levels while group D (NC+Gly2) was formulated by supplementation of 0.755, 0.985, and 0.740% L-Glycine in NC diet to arrive 2.40, 2.40, and 2.10% digestible Gly + Ser levels in broiler pre starter, starter and finisher diets respectively. Digestible Gly + Ser levels of NC group were 1.71, 1.56 and 1.43%; and of PC group were 2.02, 1.91 and 1.76%, respectively for broiler pre starter, starter and finisher diets. Ratio of dig. Met, Thr, Trp, Arg, and Val. ratioed to Lys. were balanced in all diets. All diets were isocaloric (3010, 3100, and 3200 kcal ME /kg) for broiler pre starter, starter and finishaer phases, respectively. Results showed that the L-Glycine supplementation in AA-balanced 3% LP diet did not affect per cent eviscerated yield, giblet yield, ready-to-cook yield, and breast meat yield but helped to reduce abdominal fat without altering serum biochemical parameters. Dig. Gly + Ser levels of 2.30, 2.30, and 2.00% (L-Glycine levels of 0.640, 0.810, and 0.630%) in 3% low protein (19.50, 18.00, and 16.50% CP) for broiler pre starter, starter and finisher diets helps to improve jejunal crypt depth leads to increasing cell renewal rate and maturation in the gut. Incorporation of L-Glycine is recommedded to maintain Dig. Gly + Ser levels of 2.30, 2.30, and 2.00% in broiler pre starter, starter and finisher phases with reduction of 3% CP in breeder recommended commercial broiler diet. Reducing dietary crude protein using L-Glysine without harming broiler performance could be economical.

PSI-14 Effect of dietary xylanase supplementation on growth performance, nutrient digestibility, and digesta viscosity of weaned pigs fed wheat-soybean meal-based diets

Abstract Xylanase supplementation can improve nutrient digestibility in pig diets by degrading cell wall non-starch polysaccharides and reducing digesta viscosity as well as promoting intestinal health of pigs after weaning. This study determined the effects of dietary xylanase supplementation on growth performance, apparent ileal digestibility (AID) and apparent total tract digestibility (ATTD) of nutrients, and digesta viscosity in different digestive sites of weaned pigs. A total of 312 weaned pigs [body weight (BW) = 5.1 ± 0.9 kg] were weaned into 48 pens and assigned to one of six dietary treatments, each treatment with 8 pens, 6 to 7 pigs per pen, and sex ratios maintained within BW blocks. Experimental diets were formulated in a 3-phase nursery feeding program: Phase 1 (d 0 - d 7), Phase 2 (d 8 - d 21), and Phase 3 (d 22 – d 42). Experimental diets consisted of a wheat/soybean meal-based diet formulated to meet pig requirements (positive control, PC), the PC diet with reduction of 100 kcal of ME (negative control, NC), and the NC diet supplemented with either 900, 1,800, 3,600, or 7,200 units of xylanase. Feed disappearance and body weight were measured at d 7, 14, 21, and 42. Pen fecal score was assessed daily during d 0 to 14 and three times a week during d 15 to 28. On d 21 to 24 of the experiment (12 pigs per day), one pig per pen was selected for sample collection: ileal, cecal, and mid-colon digesta for viscosity and ileal digesta and feces for nutrient digestibility. Orthogonal polynomial contrasts were used to determine the linear and quadratic effects of increasing levels of xylanase in NC diets. Contrast analysis was used to compare PC and NC groups with xylanase-supplemented groups. Fecal score data were analyzed using the PROC FREQ procedure. Supplementing xylanase to NC diets did not improve pig growth performance (P > 0.05) through the nursery period. In wk 2 and wk 3, pigs fed the PC and NC diets had a greater (χ2 < 0.05) incidence of fecal scores 3 & 4 (diarrhea) than the xylanase-supplemented pigs. The AID of DM and ATTD of crude protein, gross energy, and NDF were greater (P < 0.05) in the PC and 900-xylanase supplemented diets than in the other dietary treatments. In addition, the ATTD of NDF and ADF increased linearly (P < 0.1) in response to xylanase supplementation. Xylanase supplementation (900 to 7,200 U) decreased digesta viscosity in colon when compared with PC and NC diets. Overall, xylanase supplementation can improve nutrient digestibility, particularly at total tract level, and reduce viscosity in the hindgut, which could be related with decreasing the occurrence of looseness. However, the effects on growth performance were not expressive when xylanase was supplemented to wheat-soybean meal-based diets with reduction of 100 kcal of ME.

Controlling the photoperiod to raise the melatonin content of sheep milk. Photoperiod control and milk melatonin content

The aim of this study was to determine the effect of changing photoperiod time on the melatonin content of sheep milk. The animal material of the study consisted of 40 heads of Awassi sheep that gave birth in May 2021. The sheep were given roughage containing dry matter with 2.5% of their body weight and concentrated feed (2400-2600 kcal ME and 15-16% Crude Protein) as the 40% of their milk yield each day during the lactation period. The experimental ewes were randomly assigned into two groups with 20 animals in each. While the control group sheep were managed with normal day-time length during the lactation, the photoperiod restriction group were kept in the shed with 16 hours of darkness and 8 hours of daylight for 2 months. At the end of the two months, ewes of the both groups were managed in normal daylight until the end of lactation period. During the photoperiod restriction term, milk samples were taken at an interval of 15 days, while the milk composition was determined by a milk analyser and melatonin contents were determined by using LC MS/MS. In addition, lactation milk yield and lactation periods were estimated for all sheep. Statistical evaluation of the obtained data was done by using the SPSS package program. At the end of the study, the application of the extended dark period was found to be affected milk yield (P<0.05) as well as melatonin amount in the milk (P<0.001). Significantly higher melatonin amount was observed in the milk of sheep kept in a long-term dark environment compared to those exposed to normal photoperiod (11.1±7.24 pg/ml vs 6.1±4.55 pg/ml; P<0.001). As a result, it was determined that the prolonged dark period during a day increases the milk melatonin content. It can be also stated that the sheep's milk to be produced with this application could be a product that could take place in the functional food market.

PSX-7 Determination of Tryptophan Requirements of Adult and Senior Labrador Retrievers Using the Indicator Amino Acid Oxidation Technique

Abstract Nutritional requirements vary across the life stages of canines, and the consumer demand for advanced diets that meet the age-appropriate needs of their pets has steadily increased. Availability of veterinary care and high-quality nutrition has led to a longer average lifespan in companion animals, and although senior dogs represent a significant proportion of the pet population, few studies have targeted the specific amino acid requirements of the aging canine. In this study, the indicator amino acid oxidation (IAAO) technique was used to compare the tryptophan (Trp) requirements of young adult and senior Labrador retrievers. After 2-day adaptation to Trp-adequate basal diet (Trp = 0.256% dry matter), dogs underwent individual IAOO studies. In brief, all dogs were randomly fed one of six test diets with varying levels of tryptophan ranging from deficient to sufficient (final Trp content in experimental diets was 0.05, 0.1, 0.15, 0.224, 0.25 and 0.256% dry matter). Test diet was divided into 13 equal meals; at the 5th meal, a tracer amino acid was supplied (a bolus L-[1-13C] Phe based on body weight was first given, followed by [1-13C] Phe doses every thirty minutes spanning a four-hour period), and breath samples were collected via respiration mask every 30 minutes. Total production of 13CO2 during isotopic steady state was determined by enrichment of 13CO2 in breath samples and total CO2 production measured via indirect calorimetry and isotope ratio mass spectrometry (IRMS). Results for IRMS were converted to atom percent excess (APE) and analyzed using segmented linear regression. The Four Rivers mean and population requirements for tryptophan were 377.7 ± 31.9 mg/1,000 kcal ME (mean ± 2SD) in the young adults and 362.9 ± 31.5 mg/1,000 kcal ME for senior dogs, which are greater than the currently recommended amounts by NRC and AAFCO. As the pet food industry offers more specialized diets for aging canines, updating the amino acid requirements for such animals is increasingly important.

238 Leucine Supplementation Enhances Protein Synthesis in Lean Tissue Through a Sestrin2-GATOR2 and Raga-mTORC1 Signaling Pathway in a Preterm Piglet Model

Abstract Extrauterine growth restriction is common in preterm infants and is associated with reduced lean growth and long-term morbidities. We previously showed that leucine (Leu) acts as a nutrient signal to stimulate protein synthesis, and that in neonatal pigs born at term intermittent parenteral Leu pulses during continuous feeding increases skeletal muscle mTORC1 signaling and protein synthesis. The objective of this study was to determine the validity of the hypothesis that leu pulsing during continuous feeding enhances mTORC1 signaling via a Sestrin-mediated pathway to increase protein synthesis in lean tissue in the preterm piglet. Pigs delivered by cesarean section at 105 d gestation were continuously fed a protein and energy balanced milk-replacer diet [195 kcal ME and 13.5 g protein (kg body weight; BW)-1·d-1)]. Pigs (n = 11-12) were randomly assigned to Leu (LEU) or Alanine (ALA, isonitrogenous control) groups and treatments were administered as a pulse (1.6 mmol·kg BW-1·h-1) for 1 h every 4 h for 21 d. Indices of amino acid signaling and mTORC1 activation were determined postprandially, 60 min after initiation of the last pulse on day 24. Final body weight was greater (P < 0.05) and longissimus muscle weight was heavier in LEU than ALA pigs (P = 0.01). Upstream of mTORC1 activation, the abundance of the Sestrin2-GATOR2 complex was less and the RagA-mTORC1 complex was greater in longissimus muscle and gastrocnemius muscle of LEU compared with ALA pigs (P < 0.05). Downstream of mTORC1, the phosphorylation of S6K1 and 4EBP1 and abundance of the eIF4E-eIF4G complex were greater in longissimus muscle and gastrocnemius muscle of LEU compared with ALA pigs (P < 0.05). Fractional rates of protein synthesis in longissimus muscle and gastrocnemius muscle were greater in LEU compared with ALA pigs (P < 0.05). These results show that leucine supplementation enhances mTORC1-activated translation initiation in skeletal muscle of the preterm piglet via a Leu-sensing pathway mediated bySestrin2 and the Rag proteins. This leucine-mediated cascade promotes skeletal muscle and body weight gain by increasing muscle protein synthesis.

Efficacy of Best Prelay Diet on Production Performance of White Leghorn Layers Fed with Different Layer Diets

Background: Feeding high nutrient density best prelay diet (BPD) 2-3 weeks before egg production is beneficial and may allow to reduce layer diet nutrient density. Methods: Total 180, 16-week-old White Leghorn pullets were assigned to six-layer feeding strategies (kcal ME per kg/%CP/%Ca) during 19-40 weeks. Treatments were T0 (BIS control-2600/18.0/3.0), T1 (2500/18.0/3.0), T2 (2500/18.0/4.0), T3 (2500/17.0/4.0), T4 (2500/16.0/4.0) and T5 (2500/15.0/4.0). These layers were fed with same BPD (2700/18.0/2.5) during 16-18 weeks. Performance parameters were recorded during the study. Result: Feeding BPD did not influence pullets (16-18 woa) CaI, PI and MEI. The 3.0% layer Ca (T0 and T1) decreased (p less than 0.01) CaI than 4.0% (T2 to T5) and layer diet CP reduction from 18.0 to 15.0% decreased PI but 2500 or 2700 kcal ME/kg layer diet did not affect MEI (19-40 woa). BPD did not support 16 or15% layer diet CP (T4 and T5) but allowed to reduce CP (T3) by 1.0% (18.0 to 17.0%) to support production. BPD (2700/18.0/2.5) with BIS (2007) layer diet in T0 (2600/18.0/3.0) is the best combination for supporting BWG without affecting FC and improving EN, HDEP, FCDE, EFPR and PEI in layers.

The Effect of Dietary Protein Concentration on the Fecal Microbiome and Serum Concentrations of Gut-Derived Uremic Toxins in Healthy Adult Cats.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of feeding healthy adult cats with foods containing variable protein concentrations on the fecal microbiome and serum concentrations of the gut-derived uremic toxins indoxyl sulfate, p-cresol sulfate (pCS), and trimethylamine-n-oxide. Twenty healthy young adult cats were randomized into two groups and fed either a low-protein diet (LPD; 7.4 g/100 kcal ME) or a high-protein diet (HPD; 11.0 g/100 kcal ME) for a 12-week period. Serum uremic toxin concentrations were measured via liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry, and the fecal microbiome was characterized using shallow sequence shotgun metagenomics. Cats that consumed the HPD had higher pCS concentrations at 8 weeks (p = 0.028) when compared to baseline. After 12 weeks, cats fed the HPD had higher fecal alpha diversity indices at both the taxonomic and functional levels and lower fecal Bifidobacterium relative abundance compared to those cats fed the LPD. In conclusion, a change in diet and dietary protein concentration shifted the fecal microbial community and microbial function. Feeding cats a high amount of protein increased serum concentrations of the uremic toxin pCS; however, the effect was short-lived.

Effect of low crude protein breeder diets with balanced limiting amino acids on progeny chick quality and juvenile growth performance in Swarnadhara birds

A study was carried out to evaluate the effects of low crude protein diets supplemented with limiting amino acids on progeny chick quality and growth performance utilizing Swarnadhara laying hens. The feeding trial was done in 240 Swarnadhara layers from 29 to 40 weeks in a completely randomized design in five treatment groups with six replications of eight birds. The first treatment consisted of control diet (T1) based on corn soybean meal formulated at 16% CP and 2700 kcal ME meeting the ICAR (2013) requirements for CP and ME and also for the first four limiting amino acids at the following concentrations: methionine 0.35%, lysine 0.75%, threonine 0.52%, and tryptophan 0.16%. The other treatment diets (T2 to T5) were made isocaloric with control while reducing CP content to 15.5, 15, 14.5, and 14%, respectively, incorporating synthetic amino acids in sufficient quantities to match control amino acid levels. Chick quality was evaluated by grading chicks for appearance, activity and down conditions replicate-wise and individual chick hatch weights were recorded in 5 different breeder diet groups. The chicks in all the replicates were fed with the same basal diet containing 21% CP and 2800 kcal/kg ME as per ICAR (2013) requirements during first six weeks of age. The data on chick quality, body weight, feed consumption and feed efficiency showed no significant difference. Hence it can be concluded that the crude protein content of the Swarnadhara breeder diet could be reduced to 14% with essential amino acid supplementation without affecting the progeny performance.

Effect of Different Nutrient Density Prelay Diets on Production Performance of White Leghorn Layers

Background: Transitional phase of 2-3 weeks (prelay) before onset of egg production is extremely important for efficient layer. This study evaluates different nutrient density prelay diets on the subsequent performance of White Leghorn layers. Methods: Total 180, 16-week-old White Leghorn pullets assigned to six-prelay feeding strategies (kcal ME per kg/%CP/%Ca) during 16-18 weeks. Treatments were T0 (BIS control-2500/16.0/1.0), T1 (2700/16.0/1.0), T2 (2700/16.0/2.0), T3 (2700/16.0/2.5), T4 (2700/18.0/2.0) and T5 (2700/18.0/2.5). Subsequently, pullets were fed with same layer diet (2600/18.0/3.0) during 19-40 weeks. Various growth and production parameters were recorded. Result: The 18% CP (T4 and T5), 2.0-2.5% Ca (T2 to T5) and 2700 kcal ME/kg (T1 to T5) in prelay diet significantly increased pullets daily metabolic energy (p less than 0.05), protein (p less than 0.05) and calcium (p less than 0.01) intake during 16-18 weeks than 2600 kcal ME/kg (T0), 16.0% CP (T0 to T3) and 1.0% Ca (T0). Prelay diet (T5) improved egg number, per cent egg production, feed efficiency, performance efficiency index and egg feed price ratio without affecting weight gain and feed consumption suggesting that prelay diet is a compromise between grower and layer diets.

Assessment of nutrient digestibility in four dry dog foods containing different levels of protein, fat and carbohydrate

A study was undertaken in switch over design to find out the effects of four different treatment combinations of protein, fat and carbohydrates in dry dog foods on the apparent digestibility of nutrients. Four medium sized healthy adult nondescript dogs of about one to two years of age and around 10 to 15 kg body weight were selected and allotted to four dietary treatments- T1 (40 per cent CP, 23 per cent fat, 30 per cent carbohydrate and 3626 kcal ME), T2 (35 per cent CP, 20 per cent fat, 38 per cent carbohydrate and 3528 kcal ME), T3 (26 per cent CP, 15 per cent fat, 52 per cent carbohydrate and 3475 kcal ME) and T4 (20 per cent CP, 11 per cent fat 62 per cent carbohydrate and 3370 kcal ME). The feeding trial was conducted in switch over model of design with one week in between the periods to nullify carry over effect. Results revealed that levels of nutrients in diet had a significant influence on nutrient digestibility in the experimental animals. Among the dietary treatments, T1 with higher fat and protein levels had better dry matter digestibility while T3 diet containing 26 per cent protein, 15 per cent fat and 52 per cent carbohydrate had better crude protein and ether extract digestibility, hence can be recommended.

Effect of Different Nutrient Density Prelay Diets on Egg Qualities of White Leghorn Layers

Background: Currently prelay nutrition has gained attention in layer industry. Consumer concern attracted researchers to study on different egg qualities. The study was aimed to investigate the impact of different nutrient density prelay diets on egg qualities. Methods: Total 180, 16-week-old White Leghorn pullets assigned to six-prelay feeding strategies (kcal ME per kg/%CP/%Ca) during 16-18 weeks. Treatments were T0 (BIS control-2500/16.0/1.0), T1 (2700/16.0/1.0), T2 (2700/16.0/2.0), T3 (2700/16.0/2.5), T4 (2700/18.0/2.0) and T5 (2700/18.0/2.5). Subsequently, pullets were fed with same layer diet (2600/18.0/3.0) during 19-40 weeks. Various egg quality parameters were recorded during 24-40 weeks of age. Result: Inclusion of 18.0% CP, 2700 kcal ME/kg significantly improved 40th week egg weight (p less than 0.05) and albumen index while reduced yolk weight (p less than 0.01). Prelay diet did not influence shape index and yolk index. The 18.0% prelay CP significantly (p less than 0.01) improved albumen weight and haugh unit. Inclusion of 2.0-2.5% prelay Ca significantly (p less than 0.01) improved shell weight and shell thickness than 1.0%. It is recommended to use 18.0% CP, 2700 kcal ME/kg and 2.5% Ca in prelay diet during 16-18 weeks along with BIS (2007) layer diet during 19-40 weeks age in White Leghorn Layers.

255 Leucine Supplementation During Continuous Feeding Enhances Lean Growth in a Preterm Piglet Model

Abstract Extrauterine growth restriction is a common complication of preterm birth and is associated with reduced lean growth and long-term morbidities. We previously showed that intermittent pulses of leucine during continuous orogastric feeding increases mTORC1 signaling to protein synthesis in skeletal muscle of neonatal pigs born at term. The objective of this study was to determine the extent to which leucine pulses during continuous feeding would promote lean growth by enhancing mTORC1 signaling in a preterm piglet model. Pigs delivered by cesarean section at 105 d gestation were continuously fed a protein and energy balanced milk-replacer diet [195 kcal ME and 13.5 g protein (kg body weight; BW)-1·d-1)]. Pigs (n=11-12) were randomly assigned to Leucine (LEU) or Alanine (ALA, isonitrogenous control) groups and treatments were administered as a pulse (1.6 mmol·kg BW-1·h-1) for 1 h every 4 h for 21 d. Body composition was determined by DXA and indices of amino acid signaling and mTORC1 activation were determined postprandially, 60 min after initiation of the last pulse. LEU pigs had a 10% greater average daily gain (ADG) (P < 0.05) than ALA pigs. Total lean mass tended to be greater (+13%; P < 0.06) in LEU compared with ALA, and longissimus dorsi muscle weight was 17% heavier in LEU than ALA pigs (P=0.01). Indices of mTORC1 activation, i.e., phosphorylation of S6K1 and 4EBP1 and abundance of the eIF4E-eIF4G complex, were increased in longissimus dorsi and gastrocnemius muscle of LEU compared with ALA pigs (P < 0.05). These results show that leucine supplementation during continuous feeding enhances mTORC1-activated translation initiation in skeletal muscle leading to an increase in muscle mass and lean growth in a preterm piglet model. Research was supported by NIH and USDA.

Evaluation of the Effect of Different Dietary Lipid Sources on Dogs' Faecal Microbial Population and Activities.

Simple SummarySaturated fatty acids might be a valuable source of energy to guarantee all physiological functions in companion animals. Polyunsaturated fatty acids are essential in several metabolic processes and structural body functions. In this regard, hemp oil can be used as a rich source of polyunsaturated fatty acids in animal diets. In this study, hemp seed oil and swine tallow were added to a commercial canned diet. These high-lipid-content diets (hemp diet: 55.1 g/100 kcal ME; tallow diet: 65.1 g/1000 kcal ME) were compared with one rich in starch. Following the recruitment of 12 dogs, three experimental groups were set up. At 30 days of diet administration, faeces samples were collected from each group to perform an in vitro trial and faecal bacteria count. In the first evaluation, the faecal inoculum obtained from dogs fed a diet supplemented with hemp showed higher fermentation activity and lower gas production at 24 h of incubation. The bacterial count demonstrated an increase in Lactobacillus when hemp group faeces were tested. Both in vivo and in vitro acetic acid production increased. The results obtained suggest an influence of the fatty acid profile on the microbial population.Lipids represent a significant energy source in dogs’ diets. Moreover, dogs need some essential fatty acids, such as linoleic and α-linolenic fatty acids, because they are not able to produce them endogenously. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of different dietary lipid sources on faecal microbial populations and activities using different evaluations. Hemp seed oil and swine tallow were tested as lipid supplements in a commercial canned diet at a ratio of 3.5% (HL1 and HL2, respectively). These diets were compared with one rich in starch (HS). Twelve dogs were recruited and equally divided into three groups. Faeces samples at 30 days were used as inoculum and incubated with three different substrates (MOS, inulin, and cellulose) using the in vitro gas production technique. The faecal cell numbers of relevant bacteria and secondary metabolites were analysed (in vivo trial). In vitro evaluation showed that the faeces of the group fed the diet with hemp supplementation had better fermentability despite lower gas production. The in vivo faecal bacterial count showed an increase in Lactobacillus spp. In the HL1 group. Moreover, a higher level of acetate was observed in both evaluations (in vitro and in vivo). These results seem to indicate a significant effect of the dietary fatty acid profile on the faecal microbial population.

Lamb development traits and phenotypic correlations between different body measurements and fattening performance characteristics in Awassi sheep

Aims: The aim of this study was to investigate lamb growth from birth to weaning and the relationships between different body measurements with fattening characteristics for Awassi sheep lambs.Methods and Results: This study was carried out with Awassi sheep lambs reared in Kilis province of Türkiye. Lambs are weaned at 60 days of age. Twenty head of male lambs, with similar weaning weights and approximately 3 months of age (between 80-95 days) were selected in order to determine the fattening performance of the lambs born in the flock. The lambs were weighed at 14-day intervals in the fattening period, which continued for 70 days. The lambs consumed the concentrate containing 16% crude protein and 2600 kcal ME and alfalfa hay as ad lib. Birth and weaning weights of the lambs were determined as 4.29±0.061 kg and 12.93±0.209 kg, respectively. The daily weight gain and feed conversion ratio were calculated as 241.0±9.83 g and 5.4, which continued for 70 days of fattening period. Conclusions: Positive and significant phenotypic correlations were determined between the live weights of the dams and the birth weights of the lambs. In addition, a positive and high phenotypic correlation was determined between body length and live weight at the end of the fattening for the lambs.Significance and Impact of the Study: At the end of the study, it was determined that the birth season affects the development of the lambs, there is a positive relationship between body length and final fattening weight for the lambs. For this reason, spring births in Awassi sheep production can be recommended to the breeders. In addition, it may be recommended to consider body length for choosing fattening material.

Effect of Low Protein Diets Balanced with Limiting Amino Acids on Production Efficiency and Egg Characteristics in Swarnadhara Layers

The effect of reducing crude protein (CP) with supplementation of limiting amino acids was evaluated in an experimental trial using Swarnadhara layers. Egg production parameters and egg quality were studied in 240 layers in a completely randomized design in 5 treatments with 6 replications of 8 birds in each. ICAR 2013 specifications for improved native chicken breeds were followed for formulating the control diet (T1) which was based on corn soya bean meal with 16% CP and 2700 kcal ME. The diets T2 to T5 were made isocaloric to control and composed with 15.5,15,14.5 and 14% CP respectively, ensuring the levels of limiting amino acids namely methionine lysine, threonine as that of control by adding synthetic preparation. The data on egg production parameters are presented on the basis of hen day egg number, feed efficiency on a dozen egg basis, and period-wise egg weight (EW) during 29- 40 weeks remained statistically non-significant among various dietary groups. The values for eggshell thickness recorded in CP reduced groups (T3, T4, and T5) were comparable with control (T1) except T2 and also comparable among themselves. The mean shape index, albumen index, yolk index, and Haugh Unit score did not show any significant difference among various dietary treatments. In summary, the crude protein content of the Swarnadhara layer diet can be reduced to 14% by limiting AA fortification without any adverse effect on egg production and egg quality during 29-40 weeks of age.

PSX-A-5 Late-Breaking: Branched chain amino acid and threonine requirements for puppy (>14 wk-9mo) Labrador Retrievers using the indicator amino acid oxidation (IAAO) technique

Abstract Branched chain amino acids are heavily involved in protein synthesis and turnover, emphasizing the need to establish requirement for growing animals. On the other hand, threonine is vital for supporting proteins necessary for gut health. Thus, it is very important to supply branched chain amino acids and threonine in appropriate amounts to growing animals. In this experiment, the indicator amino acid oxidation (IAAO) technique was utilized to determine valine, isoleucine, leucine, and threonine requirements in six puppy Labrador Retrievers (>14wk-9mo). Puppies were subjected to diets ranging from deficient to excess, with each of the indispensable amino acids formulated at 1.6x NRC values. The control diet was fed for two days of adaptation, followed by one experimental day in which the test diet was fed. On the test day, a breath sample was collected using a using a respiration mask (Oxymax, Columbus Instruments). A priming dose of L-[1-^13C]phenylalanine (Cambridge Isotope Laboratories, Inc.) based on body weight was supplied to each puppy, followed by [1-^13C]Phe doses every 30 minutes, for a four hour period. ^13CO[2] was collected after each dose and enrichment was determined by isotope ratio mass spectrometry (IRMS). Results from IRMS were converted to atom percent excess (APE) and analyzed using a segmented line model (JMP^® Pro 16). Each of the Four Rivers mean and population requirements were as follows: 1.72 ± 0.11 g/1000 kcal ME for valine; 1.43 ± 0.24 g/1000 kcal ME for isoleucine; 2.25 ± 0.15 g/1000 kcal ME for leucine; 1.74 ± 0.16 g/1000 kcal ME for threonine (mean ± 2SD). The knowledge gained from this study is highly useful as the lean mass deposited as a puppy influences the animal throughout their lifetime.

LAYING PERFORMANCE, HEALTH STATUS and SOME PHYSIOLOGICAL TRAITS of MANDURAH LAYING CHICKENS AFFECTED BY THE ADDITION OF DIFFERENT LEVELS of ANISE AND CARAWAY SEED POWDER

This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of varying levels of Anise and Caraway seeds powder on laying performance, some blood constituents, egg quality traits, yolk cholesterol content, immunity response and total count aerobic bacteria of Mandurah laying chicken. For this purpose, a total number of 140 Mandurah laying chickensat 26 weeks of age were used in this experiment having a completely randomized design, with 7 equal treatment groups, which replicated 4 times with 5 hens per replicate. Each bird was housed in individual wire cage measuring (50 × 50 × 45Cm2), where each bird in each cage allowing 510 Cm2 space/hen). A basal control diet was formulated and supplemented with 0.1, 0.2 and 0.3 % Anise and 0.1, 0.2 and 0.3 % Caraway seeds in powder form. Birds were fed on isocaloric (2751 Kcal ME /Kg) and isonitrogenous (16.14% CP) diets. Results showed that laying performance significantly (P<0.05) improved when inclusion Anise and Caraway seeds powder compared with the control group. However, it was clearly observed that plasma lipids were significantly reduced (P <0.05) by supplementing diets with different levels of anise and caraway seeds. In the same trend, the addition of Anise and Caraway seeds powder led to a clear and significant decrease in egg yolk and blood cholesterol compared with the control group (P<0.05). However, Anise and Caraway seed powder incorporation caused positive effects on the parameters related to immune response and overall total antioxidant capacity (TAC) compared with the control group. While, total count aerobic bacteria significantly (P < 0.05) decreased for birds fed diets inclusion Anise and Caraway seeds powder as compared with the control group. Conclusively, Anise and Caraway seeds powder can be included in the diet of laying hens as a safe and effective feed additive to improve laying performance and reduce total blood lipids and thus reduce cholesterol content in egg yolk.

EFFECT OF DIETARY CITRIC, ACETIC ACIDS OR THEIR MIXTURE ON BROILER CHICKS PERFORMANCE, CARCASS CHARACTERISTICS AND SOME INTESTINAL HISTOMORPHOLOGICAL PARAMETERS

A total number of 120, 1d old unsexed chicks were randomly distributed and divided equally into 4 dietary treatment groups with 3 replicates each. All broiler chickens were kept under similar managerial conditions. Basal starter and finisher diets were supplemented with two types of organic acids as follows: T1: basal diet (control, without supplementation), T2: basal diet + 2% citric acid (CA), T3: basal diet + 1% acetic acid (AC) and T4: basal diet + 1% citric acid + 0.5% acetic acid. Two corn-soybean based basal diets were formulated to be fed during starter (1 to 21 d, 22.13% CP and 3088 Kcal ME/ kg diet) and finisher (22 to 42 d, 19.82% CP and 3154 Kcal ME/ kg diet) periods. Growth performance parameters, feed conversion ratio, some carcass characteristics and some lymphoid organs were estimated. Some blood parameters (total protein, albumin, total cholesterol, creatinine, ALT and AST) and histomorphological samples and parameters were determined at 42 day. Also, European productive and economic efficiency were calculated. Results indicated that; chicks fed diets supplemented with a mixture of citric acid (1%) and acetic acid (0.5%) had significantly (P ≤ 0.05) the highest values of body weight, body weight gain and the best feed conversion ratio, while recorded the lowest feed intake compared to the other treatments. Moreover, using mixture of supplementation significantly (P ≤ 0.05) improved performance index (PI) in comparison with the control treatment. A significant (P ≤ 0.05) beneficial effect of citric acid and acetic acid or their mixture as feed supplementation were found concerning dressing, giblets and some immune organs percentages at 42d of age compared to the control group. Mixture of citric acid and acetic acid supplementation significantly (P ≤ 0.05) increased some serum biochemical constituents (total protein, albumin, globulin and liver enzyme; ALT), while, total lipids and cholesterol concentrations were significantly (P ≤ 0.05) decreased. Histomorphological sections of the small intestine revealed villi height and villi widths were significantly (P ≤ 0.05) increased with the supplementation of organic acid alone or in their mixture compared to the control group. Also, the mixture of 1% CA + 0.5% AC supplementation had beneficial effects on economical efficiency. In conclusion, there are some beneficial effects of using a mixture of citric acid and acetic acid (1% citric acid + 0.5% acetic acid) in the diets of chicks on productive performance, carcass traits, with no harm effect on health under experimental conditions.

EFFECT OF DIFFERENT ENERGY LEVELS OF COCOA HUSK-BASED DIETS ON PRODUCTIVE PERFORMANCE OF JAPANESE QUAILS

Cocoa husk-based diets were used to assess the effect of different energy levels on the growth performance, economics of production and dressing percentage of Japanese quail (Coturnix coturnix japonica) in South Western Nigeria. The assessment period was at 4 to 7 weeks of age. Four isonitrogenous (22% crude protein) diets incorporating graded levels (0, 3, 5, 7.0 and 14%) of cocoa husk meal (CHM) as replacement for maize, were used in the trial which involved 360, 3-week-old quail chicks. The diets had the followjng corresponding ME levels, viz: Diet 1, 2800; Diet 2, 2700; Diet 3, 2600 and Diet 4, 2500 kcal/kg. Each dietary treatment was similar (P &gt; 0.05) among the diets while feed intake was higher (P &lt; 0.05) on Diet 4 than Diets 1 and 2. Caloric intake, feed conversion and calorific efficiency did not differ significantly (P &gt; 0.05) among the treatments. Though feed cost and feed price/100 kcal ME decreased numerically across treatment, feed cost/kg gain was similar (P &gt; 0.05). Dressing percentage was not influenced (P &gt; 0.05) by dietary energy levels. Results of this study indicated that dietary energy levels of 2500 to 2800kcal/kg ME of cocoa husk-based diets are suitable for overall acceptable productive performance of Japanese quails during 4 – 7 weeks of age in South Western Nigeria.