Kcal ME Research Articles

Growth and feed utilization of Boer x Kacang crossbred goats offered total mixed rations of different protein and energy levels

The aim of this study was to evaluate the growth of and feed utilization by Boer x Kacang crosses goats fed on total mixed ration differing in protein and energy levels. Four total mixed rations combination were formulated to contain 16 and 18% crude protein and 2650 and 2850 Kcal ME/ kg DM (dried matter) energy density. Twenty-eight male Boer x Kacang crosses goats (14.5 ± 1.14 kg) and of age ranging from 4 to 5 months were randomly allocated to one of these four TMRs (total mixed rations) (7 animals/TMR). The effects of dietary treatment were assessed using the general linear model and significance of the diet effects was detected using Duncan’s multiple range test. Dry matter intake increased as metabolizable energy density of diet increased from 2650 to 2850 Kcal/kg DM, but it is not affected by increasing crude protein level from 16 to 18%. The average daily gains were not improved (P>0.05) as the crude protein levels and metabolizable energy density of diet increased. Crude protein levels and ME density did not affect (P>0.05) the DM, OM and energy digestibility, but NDF digestibility was affected by the ME density of diets (P<0.05). Daily N intakes were greater (P<0.0%) in goats received diets higher in the crude protein and metabolizable energy levels. At this high rate of feed intake this type of goats are able to gain optimally when offered feed with crude protein level of 16% and metabolizable energy density of 2850 Kcal/kg DM.

Qualitative and quantitative characteristics of SenSi-1 Agrinak chicken

<p>One of local chicken breeds develop in Indonesian Research Institute for Animal Production (IRIAP) is local SenSi-1 Agrinak chicken. This new improved local-meat-type breed was released with Ministry Agriculture Decree Number 39/Kpts/PK.020/1/2017 on 20<sup>th</sup> January 2017. SenSi-1 Agrinak was originally selected from native Sentul chicken breed obtained from Ciamis district in West Java Province. Selection criteria were two feather colors of grey or black spotted white (pucak), which were applied to both males and females. Pea-comb type was also one criterion for males, applied at the age of 10 weeks. Live weight at the age of 10 weeks with the selection intensity of 25% was applied to each generation of males chicken. Selection proceeded for six generations. Selection program was carried out under standard feed formulae containing around 17% crude protein with 2850 kcal ME/ kg, and containing other nutrients following the ones recommended for modern chicken of White Leghorn. Observation was conducted on each of about 2000 young chickens of grey and of Pucak SenSi-1 Agrinak both males and females age of 10 and 84 weeks. Results showed that grey SenSi-1 Agrinak chicken in total population, had: i) Grey feather color distribution of 55.51% in males, and 60.77% in females; ii) Yellow shank color of 52.51% in males, and 33.33% in females; iii) Pea type comb of 90.98% in males, and 89.23% in females; iv). Ten weeks live weight of 886.38+142.93 g/bird in males, and 739.17+ 118.87 in females. Pucak SenSi-1 Agrinak chicken in total population, had: i) Pucak feather color of 75.65% in males, and 8330% in females; ii) Yellow shank color of 51.91% in males, and 36.59% in females; iii) Pea type comb of 91.55% in males, and 92.28% in females; iv) Ten weeks live weight of 908.76+ 130.98 g/bird in males, and 750.53+ 110.56 g/bird in females. Whilst for grey SenSi-1 Agrinak male chicken after selection had live weight at 10 weeks old of 1015+107 g/bird, and for Pucak SenSi-1 Agrinak male chicken was 1051+76 g/bird. This initial performance information for those two breeds of considerably improved local chicken can be used as the base of information for SenSi-1 Agrinak breed for male line of meat type of local chicken breeding.</p>

RESPONSE OF JAPANESE QUAIL TO FEED BY ORGANIC COMPOUNDS

The experiment was carried out at the Poultry Farm, Facultyof Agriculture, Fayoum University (middle Egypt). This study aims toshow the effect of dietary malic acid (MA) supplementation as a growthpromoter on Japanese quail performance, carcass characteristics,intestinal villi and pH, bacteria enumeration, some blood parameters anddigestibility coefficients. A total number of 360 unsexed one day-oldJapanese quail chicks (Coturnix coturnix japonica) were equally dividedinto four groups of six replicates each. Two starter-grower corn-soybeanmeal (C-SBM) basal diets were formulated to contain 24 % CP and2900 kcal ME /kg diet and 22 % CP and 2750 kcal ME /kg diet,respectively. Also, two layer C-SBM basal diets were formulated tocontain 20 % CP and 2900 kcal ME /kg diet and 18 % CP and 2750 kcalME /kg diet, respectively. Each of the four basal diets was eitherunsupplemented or supplemented with 0.15% (1.5 kg/ton) dietary malicacid. Therefore, four experimental treatments were used in both startinggrowing and laying periods. Each chick group fed one of the fourexperimental diets. At 35 days of age, a slaughter test was performed todetermine carcass traits, edible giblets, lymphoid organs and intestinalvilli, microflora count and pH. Blood samples were taken and assayed todetermine some serum blood parameters. Digestibility trials wereconducted to determine nutrients digestibility for starter-growerexperimental diets. At laying period, egg number, weight, mass andproduction rate as well as feed intake and feed conversion wererecorded. At the end of the 90-day period, egg samples were taken andbroken out to determine internal egg quality and analysis. Fromnutritional of view, it was observed that using malic acid at a level of0.15% (1.5 kg/ton) in Japanese quail diets containing sub-optimalenergy and protein levels helped in reducing microflara count,particularly pathogens and in turn, improved quail performance andimmunity. However, using MA at a level of 0.15% (1.5 kg/ton) inJapanese quail diets containing optimal energy and protein levels causedan increase in egg mass and a decrease in feed intake.

Ileal starch digestibility of different cereal grains fed to growing pigs.

The objective of the present study was to determine, in growing pigs, the ileal starch digestibility and ileal digestible starch content of 8 different genotypes of barley, rye, triticale, and wheat each. Therefore, 4 experiments were conducted with 34 ileally cannulated growing pigs (initial BW of 24 to 32 kg) in total. The experimental diets were formulated to contain 1 of the 8 genotypes of each cereal grain at an inclusion level of 95%. Cereal grains were ground through a 2-mm sieve and were the sole dietary source of starch. All diets were supplemented with plant oil, minerals and vitamins, and titanium dioxide as an indigestible marker. The experiments were arranged either as a row-column design with 8 periods of 6 d each and 9 pigs (for barley and wheat) or according to an 8 × 8 Latin square design with 8 periods of 6 (rye) or 7 d (triticale) and 8 pigs. Experimental periods comprised 4 (barley, rye, and wheat) or 5 d (triticale) for adaptation followed by 2 d for ileal digesta collection. The daily feed intake amounted to 4% of pigs' average BW, corresponding to about 3 times the animals' energy requirement for maintenance (106 kcal of ME [as-fed basis]/kg of metabolic BW). Ileal starch digestibility was different ( < 0.05) within barley and triticale genotypes, with values ranging between 90.1 and 95.0% for barley and between 96.5 and 98.1% for triticale and tended to differ within rye genotypes ( < 0.1). Ileal digestible starch content was different ( < 0.05) within all cereal grains. On average, ileal starch digestibility amounted to 92.7, 95.0, 97.3, and 92.2% for barley, rye, triticale, and wheat, respectively, and was different among cereal grains ( < 0.001). Average ileal digestible starch content was greatest ( < 0.001) in triticale (68.3%, DM basis) followed by wheat (66.1%, DM basis), rye (61.1%, DM basis), and barley (57.6%, DM basis). Differences in ileal starch digestibility and ileal digestible starch content within and among grain genotypes may reflect variations in contents of several fiber fractions such as NDF, ADF, and nonstarch polysaccharides (NSP). For most cereal grains, ileal starch digestibility and ileal digestible starch content decreased ( < 0.05) with increasing contents of soluble, insoluble, and total NSP. In conclusion, in the present study, triticale is superior when compared with the other cereal grains due to its relatively low fiber and high starch content and its high ileal starch digestibility values.

Efficacy of 1,3-diacylglycerol as a fat emulsifier in low-density diet for broilers

An experiment was conducted to study the effects of dietary supplementation of 1,3-diacylglycerol (DAG) as an emulsifier in a low-density diet on growth performance, nutrient digestibility, blood characteristics, and meat quality in broilers. A total of 480 1-day-old male 308 Ross broiler chicks were randomly allocated into 1 of the following 5 treatments: Control, fed a basal diet (CON), basal diet minus 100 kcal ME diet (LE), T1 (LE + 0.075% 1,3-DAG), T2 (LE + 0.10% 1,3-DAG), and T3 (LE + 0.15% 1,3-DAG).The supplementation of low energy diet to broilers reduced (P < 0.05) feed intake compared to CON diet during wk 1 of the experiment. The supplementation of LE diet with 0.075, 0.10, and 0.15% 1,3-DAG linearly increased (P = 0.09) body weight gain (BWG) and decreased (P = 0.08) feed intake (FI) during wk 1. During wk 2 to 3 and overall (0 to 5 wk), there was linear increase (P < 0.05) in BWG and decrease in feed conversion ratio (FCR) in LE diet supplemented with graded levels of emulsifier. The LE diet reduced (P < 0.05) dry matter (DM) and energy digestibility (P = 0.07) compared with CON diet. Supplementing energy-reduced diet with different levels of 1,3-DAG linearly increased (P < 0.05) DM, and energy digestibility, but no significant differences were observed in blood profiles, meat quality (except drip loss) of broilers.In conclusion, DAG positively affected growth performances and nutrient digestibility in broilers. However, meat quality and serum profiles were unaffected in broilers fed an energy-reduced diet supplemented with DAG.

Effect of Reduced Dietary Crude Protein with Balanced Limiting Amino Acids on Egg Weight and Reproductive Performance of Swarnadhara Layers

A study was conducted in Swarnadhara (SD) layers to find out the effect of reducing crude protein (CP) with supplementation of limiting amino acids to compensate the deficiency of CP. Egg weight and reproductive parameters such as fertility, hatchability, number of saleable chicks and day one old chick weight were studied in 240 SD layers in a completely randomized design in 5 treatments with 6 replications of 8 birds in each. The control diet (T1) was based on corn soy bean meal formulated with 16% CP and 2700 Kcal ME following the ICAR (2013) specifications recommended for improved native chicken breeds. The diets T2 to T5 were made isocaloric to control and composed with 15.5, 15.0, 14.5 and 14.0% CP, respectively. The levels of limiting amino acids namely methionine, lysine, threonine and tryptophan were met as that of control by adding synthetic preparation wherever necessary. Egg weight showed similar effects in all treatments at 32, 36 and 40 weeks of age. Reproductive parameters were recorded in four consecutive hatches and were statistically analyzed. Results showed similar performances in T1, T2, T3 and T5, but were different in T4 in terms of fertility, hatchability and number of saleable chicks. There was no significant difference in progeny chick weight among different treatment groups indicating amino acid supplementation supported equal performance in low CP diets in all the reproductive parameters.

BEEF TALLOW AND EMULSIFIER IN GROWING-FINISHING PIG DIETS.

Two trials were aimed to evaluate beef tallow in diets with and without emulsifier on performance of pigs at growing-finishing phases. In the first trial, 15 barrows (22.03±0.62 kg) were distributed among three treatments: reference diet; test diet 1 (5% beef tallow) and test diet 2 (10% beef tallow). Beef tallow presented average value of 7130.97 kcal ME/kg. For the performance trail, 30 barrows (24.85±1.18 kg) were distributed among five treatments: T1 - diet with soybean oil and 3230 kcal ME /kg; T2 - diet with beef tallow and 3230 kcal ME/kg; T3 - diet with beef tallow and 3080 kcal ME/kg; T4 - diet with beef tallow, 3080 kcal/kg and 0.1% emulsifier; T5 - diet with beef tallow, 2930 kcal ME/kg and 0.1% emulsifier. Feed conversion was worse in animals fed diet with 3080 kcal ME/kg containing beef tallow and with 2930 kcal ME/kg with beef tallow and emulsifier. For economic availability, animals fed diet with beef tallow and 3230 kcal ME/kg and those fed diet with 3080 kcal ME/kg containing beef tallow and emulsifier, did not differ from animals fed diet with soybean oil, which enables the reduction up to 150 kcal ME/kg be compensated by emulsifier addition.

Interaction of floor space, dietary energy level and feed enzyme influencing growth performance of growing turkey

A biological experiment was conducted (2×3×2 factorial design) involving 2 floor spaces (1.25 and 1.90 sq. ft), 3 dietary energy levels (2400, 2600 and 2800 ME kcal/kg) with or without supplementation of commercial multi- enzyme (@ 250g/ton feed) in iso-proteinic diet (protein, 20%) to evaluate growth performance in ‘White turkey’ (CARI Virat) during 8–16 weeks of age. The levels of critical amino acids (lysine and methionine) remained similar in all the diets.Straight-run 120 poults were randomly distributed into twelve experimental groups with four replicate in experimental battery cages (1.64 ft × 2.30 ft) at two different floor spaces (1.25 and 1.90 ft2/bird) from 8th to 16th week of age. The total number of birds per cage were 2 and 3 respectively. Out of 4 replicates, 1 replicate was maintained for the replacement of the dead birds, if any, so as to keep the effective floor space constant throughout the experimental period. Results indicated that body weight, body weight gain, feed intake and feed conversion ratio did not differ significantly due to floor space or enzyme supplementation. Performance index was significantly higher in 1.25 sq. ft. floor space. Overall body weight gain did not differ significantly due to energy levels. Feed intake and feed: gain ratio was significantly lower in group having 2,800 kcal/kg. Performance index was significantly higher in groups fed with 2,600 and 2,800 kcal/kg. Final body weight and cumulative feed intake differed significantly due to interaction between space and energy. Feed enzyme supplementation did not improve performance.Thus the optimum floor space in battery cages for rearing growing turkey poults (8–16 wk) and dietary energy level were 1.25 sq. ft/bird and 2,600 kcal ME per kg diet, respectively.

Prediction of the metabolizable energy requirements of free-range laying hens.

This experiment was conducted with the aim of estimating the ME requirements of free-range laying hens for maintenance, weight gain, and egg production. These experiments were performed to develop an energy requirement prediction equation by using the comparative slaughter technique and the total excreta collection method. Regression equations were used to relate the energy intake, the energy retained in the body and eggs, and the heat production of the hens. These relationships were used to determine the daily ME requirement for maintenance, the efficiency energy utilization above the requirements for maintenance, and the NE requirement for maintenance. The requirement for weight gain was estimated from the energy content of the carcass, and the diet's efficiency energy utilization was determined from the weight gain, which was measured during weekly slaughter. The requirement for egg production was estimated by considering the energy content of the eggs and the efficiency of energy deposition in the eggs. The requirement and efficiency energy utilization for maintenance were 121.8 kcal ME/(kg∙d)and 0.68, respectively. Similarly, the NE requirement for maintenance was 82.4 kcal ME/(kg∙d), and the efficiency energy utilization above maintenance was 0.61. Because the carcass body weight and energy did not increase during the trial, the weight gain could not be estimated. The requirements for egg production requirement and efficiency energy utilization for egg production were 2.48 kcal/g and 0.61, respectively. The following energy prediction equation for free-range laying hens (without weight gain) was developed: ME /(hen ∙ d) = 121.8 × W + 2.48 × EM, in which W = body weight (kg) and EM = egg mass (g/[hen ∙ d]).

Inclusion of phytogenic blends in different nutrient density diets of meat-type ducks

A total of 160 1-day-old ducklings (average initial body weight of 53 g), were used in a 42-d feeding trial to evaluate the effects of reducing nutrient density of diets, and supplementing the diets with a phytogenic blend (quillaja, anise, and thyme) on their growth, carcass quality, and nutrient digestibility. After checking body weight on d 1, the birds were sorted into pens with 5 birds/pen and 8 pens/treatment. The treatments were: T1, Basal diet; T2, T1 + 150 ppm phytogenic blend; T3, T1 – (1% CP, 0.04% Lys, 0.05% Met+Cys, 0.02% Ca, and 0.02% P, and 50 kcal ME); T4, T3 + 150 ppm phytogenic blend. The results indicated that reducing nutrient density of the diets had an adverse effect (P < 0.05) on body weight gain (BWG) on d 1 to 21, d 21 to 42, and the overall experimental period. Supplementing the diets with the phytogenic blend improved (P < 0.05) BWG and feed conversion ratio (FCR) on d 21 to 42 and the overall experimental period. Feed intake was not affected by treatments. Low nutrient density diets increased (P < 0.05) the cooking loss percentage of breast meat. Supplementing the diets with the phytogenic blend decreased (P < 0.05) the lightness of breast meat. The percentage of drip loss was influenced (P < 0.05) by nutrient density and the phytogenic blend on d 1 and d 7. The relative weights of breast meat, abdominal fat, gizzard, liver, spleen, and bursa of Fabricius, pH, and TBARS values were not affected by the treatments. The digestibility of dry matter, energy, nitrogen, ADF, and NDF was decreased (P < 0.05) by reducing nutrients density of the diets, but addition of the phytogenic blend alleviated (P < 0.05) the negative effects of lowering the nutrient density. The results indicated that the ducks fed high nutrient density diets supplemented with the phytogenic blend showed higher BWG and nutrient digestibility and lower FCR, cooking loss, drip loss, and TBARS value, without any negative effect on meat quality and relative organs weights.

EFFECT OF ATRIPLEX NUMMULARIA LEAVES MEAL AS A NON-TRADITIONAL FEEDSTUFF IN LOCAL GROWING HENS UNDER SOUTH SINAI CONDITIONS

A total number of 180 Sina growing hens 10 weeks of age were used in an experiment till 18 weeks of age. The experiment aimed to study effect of feeding growing hens different levels of Atriplex nummularia leaves meal (ALM) on their performance and feed cost under South Sinai conditions. Experimental birds were divided randomly into four equal experimental treatments (45 in each treatment) and randomly divided into three equal replicates (15 hens each).The first group was fed the basal diet as a control treatment (0 % ALM), while the other three treatments were fed diets containing either 4,8 or 12 % ALM, respectively. Experimental diets were formulated to be iso-caloric (2800 kcal ME /kg diet) and iso-nitrogenous (15% crude protein), iso-fibrous (3.15%) and were formulated in granular form. The inclusion of 8% ALM showed improve in live body weight, weight gain and feed conversion ratio with .greater net return and economical efficiency in the diet compared to the other levels. while, decrease (P < 0.05) in live body weight, weight gain and feed intake with the inclusion of 12% ALM in the diet compared to the other levels, Increasing 12% ALM level in the diets significantly decreased (P<0.05) digestion coefficients of OM, CP, CF, NFE% and nutritive values expressed as DCP, TDN % and ME(kcal/kg) up to 12%. However, 12% of ALM significantly increased (P<0.05) digestion coefficient of EE. In conclusion, from the nutritional and economical efficiency stand points of view, up to 8% ALM could be recommended to be used successfully and safely when formulating diet for Sina local growing hens without adversely affecting their performance.

Effects of Dietary Protein, Energy and Lysine Intake on Growth Performance and Carcass Characteristics of Growing Japanese Quails

The present study was performed to investigate the effect of dietary levels of protein, energy and Lys on growth performance and carcass traits of growing Japanese quails during 1-5 weeks of age. A factorial design 3×2×2 arrangement was performed including three levels of crud protein (CP; 22, 23.5 and 25%), two levels of metabolizable energy (ME; 2900 and 3000 kcal ME kgG 1 ) and two levels of total lysine (Lys; 1.3 and 1.45%). Live Body Weight (LBW) at 3 weeks of age and Body Weight Gain (BWG) during 1-3 weeks of age were significantly (p#0.01) maximized when chicks were fed 22% CP compared to those received 23.5 and 25% CP. LBW at 3 and 5 weeks of age as well as BWG through 1-3 and 1-5 weeks of age were statistically (p#0.05) decreased with increasing dietary energy from 2900-3000 kcal ME kgG 1 diet. LBW at 3 weeks of age and BWG during 1-3 weeks of age were maximum when chicks were fed 1.45% Lys compared with group received 1.3% Lys level. Interaction between protein and energy levels significantly (p#0.01) affected LBW at 3 weeks of age and BWG through 1-3 weeks of age. Also, LBW at 5 weeks of age and BWG through 1-5 weeks of age were statistically (p#0.05) influenced by the interaction between ME and Lys levels. Increasing dietary ME level from 2900 to 3000 caused significant improvements in FCR at all studied ages except period 1-3 weeks of age. The present results did not show any significant effect on all carcass characteristics due to different dietary CP, ME and Lys or their interactions, except carcass percentage was higher in chicks fed diet contained 1.3% Lys. Also, giblet percentage was significantly (p#0.01) affected by energy levels and the interaction among dietary CP, ME and Lys levels. Moreover, dressing percentage was significantly (p#0.01) influenced by CP and Lys levels. It can be concluded that, diet formulated in 22% CP, 2900 kcal ME kgG 1 and 1.3% Lys can adequately ensure the growth performance in Japanese quails.

Response of Growing Egg Type Pullets (CARI Priya) to Variable Dietary Energy and Critical Amino Acids Levels

An experiment was conducted involving egg type chicks (CARI Priya) reared in battery cages to optimize energy to limiting amino acids profile ratio during different phases of growth in winter months. Day-old chicks (n=225) were distributed into five dietary treatments formulated with different levels of energy (kcal ME/kg) viz. T1: 2850, T2: 2700, T3: 2600, T4: 2500 at the fixed ratio with concentration of limiting amino acids, and T5: 2600 kcal ME with altered lysine and methionine concentration. Each dietary treatment was offered to four replicated groups of 11 to 12 each. In a second experiment, 112 growing pullets of 6-wk age were distributed to four dietary treatments formulated with different levels of energy (kcal ME/kg) viz. T1: 2700, T2: 2600, T3: 2500 with the fixed energy to amino acids ratio, and T4: 2500 kcal ME with altered lysine and methionine concentration to assess the optimum requirements for 6–12 weeks growth phase, Each dietary treatment was offered to four replicated groups of seven each. Successively, in the third experiment, the same 112 growing pullets of 12-wk of age were switched over to four dietary treatments consisting of different levels of energy (kcal ME/kg) viz. T1: 2900, T2: 2700, T3: 2500 with the fixed energy to amino acids ratio and T4: 2500 kcal ME with altered lysine and methionine. Each dietary treatment was offered to four replicated groups of 7 each upto 20 wk of age. The results indicated that the optimum levels of energy, CP, lysine, methionine and threonine were 2850 kcal ME/kg, 17.7%, 0.85%, 0.31% and 0.68% for gain and feed conversion efficiency during 0–6 wk of age. A diet with 2600 kcal ME/kg, 14.6% CP, 0.62% lysine, 0.28% methionine and 0.56% threonine was optimum for growing pullets during 6–12 weeks of age. Whereas, the optimum concentration in diet of pullets during 12–20 weeks of age was energy 2700 kcal ME/kg, lysine 0.48%, methionine 0.26%, methionine + cystine 0.52% and threonine 0.47%.

Analysis of Feed for Digestibility Bali Cow in Group "Simantri" Program in Bali on Different Topographic

This study aims to determine the availability of feed ingredients, types and diversity as well as the proportion, relation to digestibility, VFA production and N-NH3 for Bali cow holding in the group Simantri program in Bali on the different topography. Retrieving data using the method of observation at 27 group Simantri, at 3 altitude / topography (lowland, medium and high). Variables measured: feed amount given, type and diversity of feed ingredients and proportions, sampling of feed materials, and take the liquid contents rumen. Sampling feed material to determine the nutrient content and digestibility of the ration, while knowing VFA rumen fluid contents (total and partial) and N-NH3. The results showed the higher the percentage of a natural grass in the lower ration. This condition causes the higher topography and diversity of the types of feed materials more and more. The proportion of shrub legume Gliricidia leaves of trees, especially in the diet is relatively small (6.6%), while the potential of Gliricidia leaves pretty much at all altitude. Judging from the fulfillment of nutrients, Bali cow rations at all topographic meet the needs/head/day in the range of 6.10 to 8.14 kgDM, protein (CP) ± of 750,2g and energy ± 12 526 kcal ME. In the test VFA rumen fluid obtained from 71.68 to 85.07 mMol in the category enough, while N-NH3: 5,21-6,11mMol still relatively low . From this study we can conclude supply of feed for Bali cow in the group Simantri program in Bali nutrient content rations have to meet the needs. The higher the proportion of legume shrub tree ( Gliricidia leaves) the digestibility, VFA production and N-NH3 getting better.

Performance and morphometry of the intestinal mucosa of laying hens fed diets containing xylanase

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of dietary energy level reduction and xylanase inclusion on the performance and on intestinal mucosa morphometry of two- to six-week-old laying hens. In total, 400 Hy-line W36 laying hens were distributed according to a completely randomized design in 2 x 2 factorial arrangement (energy level x inclusion of xylanase), totaling four treatments with 10 replicates of 10 birds per experimental unit. The following treatments were evaluated: positive control (balanced diet); positive control + xylanase; negative control (diet with of 100 kcal ME reduction /kg); negative control + xylanase. Body weight, weight gain, feed conversion ratio, uniformity and livability were not influenced by diets with metabolizable energy reduction and xylanase inclusion; however, the addition of xylanase to the diets resulted in shallower crypts depth and greater villus:crypt ratio in the ileum. The energy reduction of the diet associated with the supplementation of xylanase did not influence performance, but increased the feed intake of 2- to 6-week-old laying hens and increased villus height in the ileum of 6-wk-old hens. Xylanase reduces crypt depth in the ileum of 6-week-old hens.

Bioquímica sanguínea y concentración plasmática de corticosterona en pollo de engorde bajo estrés calórico

Las altas temperaturas ambientales propician susceptibilidad al estrés calórico en los pollos de engorde, lo que genera cambios metabólicos. Se buscó determinar los cambios en la bioquímica sanguínea y la concentración plasmática de corticosterona del pollo de engorde sometido a estrés calórico crónico y a las condiciones de temperatura ambiental del piedemonte amazónico colombiano, sobre las concentraciones plasmáticas de corticosterona, glucosa, proteínas totales, albumina, globulina, sodio, cloro, potasio, magnesio, fósforo y calcio. Se utilizaron pollos machos de 2 estirpes de 21 días de edad, distribuidos en un diseño experimental irrestrictamente al azar, en un esquema bifactorial, con 4 tratamientos. Se hicieron 5 repeticiones por tratamiento y 25 animales por unidad experimental. Las aves fueron alimentadas con una dieta básica de maíz y torta de soya con 3,100 Kcal de EM y 19,5 % de proteína hasta los 42 días de edad. El factor estirpe no tuvo efecto en las variables evaluadas (p ≥ 0,05). No obstante, existió diferencia estadística significativa (p ≤ 0,05) en todas las variables evaluadas al ser comparadas las concentraciones de los metabolitos de las aves en condiciones de estrés calórico crónico con las de las aves expuestas a las condiciones de temperatura del piedemonte amazónico colombiano. Se concluyó que la bioquímica sanguínea sufrió modificaciones significativas bajo las 2 temperaturas experimentales, con mayor detrimento fisiológico de las aves con estrés calórico crónico. La concentración de corticosterona se constituyó en el indicador más sensible y constante de la condición fisiológica de estrés crónico por calor.

Evaluation of the Effects of a Therapeutic Renal Diet to Control Proteinuria in Proteinuric Non‐Azotemic Dogs Treated with Benazepril

BackgroundAngiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs) are currently used to control proteinuria in dogs with chronic kidney disease. Renal diets (RDs) have beneficial effects in the management of azotemic dogs, but its role in proteinuric non‐azotemic (PNAz) dogs has been poorly documented.HypothesisAdministration of a RD to PNAz dogs treated with benazepril (Be) improves proteinuria control compared with the administration of a maintenance diet (MD).AnimalsTwenty‐two PNAz (urine protein/creatinine ratio [UPC] >1) dogs.MethodsRandomized open label clinical trial design. Dogs were assigned to group‐MD (5.5 g protein/100 kcal ME)/Be or to group‐RD (3.7 g protein/100 kcal ME)/Be group during 60 days. Dogs with serum albumin (Alb) <2 g/dL received aspirin (1 mg/kg/12 hours). A physical examination, systolic blood pressure (SBP) measurement, complete blood count (CBC), biochemistry panel, urinalysis, and UPC were performed at day 0 (D0) and day 60 (D60).ResultsAt D0, there were no significant differences between groups in the evaluated variables. During the study, logUPC (geometric mean (95% CI) and SBP (mean±SD mmHg) significantly decreased (paired t‐test, P = 0.001) in Group‐RD (logUPCD0 = 3.16[1.9–5.25]; UPCD60 = 1.20 [0.59–2.45]; SBPD0 = 160 ± 17.2; SBPD60 = 151 ± 15.8), but not in Group‐MD (UPCD0 = 3.63[2.69–4.9]; UPCD60 = 2.14 [0.76–6.17]; SBPD0 = 158 ± 14.7; SBPD60 = 153 ± 11.5). However, RM‐ANOVA test did not confirm that changes were consequence of dietary modification. Weight and Alb concentration did not change significantly in any group.Conclusion and Clinical RelevanceThe administration of a RD to PNAz dogs treated with Be might help to control proteinuria and SBP compared with the administration of a MD, without inducing clinically detectable malnutrition, but more studies are warranted.

Growth and physiological responses of growing pigs to wheat–corn distillers dried grains with solubles

Gaining a detailed knowledge on the impact of a feedstuff on pig growth and physiological responses is critical for its effective utilization. Thus, the purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of distillers dried grains with solubles derived from co-fermentation of wheat and corn (wcDDGS) on performance, carcass and visceral organ weights, whole-body O2 consumption and heat production (HP) in growing barrows. The experimental diets were as follows: corn-soybean meal diet (Control), Control + 15% wcDDGS and Control + 30% wcDDGS. In Exp. 1, 48 pair-housed pigs of average BW 18.6 ± 1.5 kg (mean ± SD) were allotted to the 3 diets (n = 8). Pigs had free access to water and feed for a 28-day period during which ADG and ADFI were calculated weekly. Thereafter, 1 pig/pen was killed to measure carcass and visceral organ weights. Overall, wcDDGS linearly decreased (p < 0.05) ADFI and ADG but had no effect on G:F (p > 0.10). The ADFI was 1.55, 1.45 and 1.36 kg/day for diets containing 0, 15 and 30% wcDDGS respectively; corresponding values for ADG were 0.79, 0.75 and 0.67 kg/day respectively. A linear decline (p = 0.01) in eviscerated hot carcass weight was observed as dietary wcDDGS increased. In Exp. 2, 18 pigs of average BW 20.4 ± 2.4 kg (mean ± SD) were individually housed in metabolism crates and fed the 3 diets (n = 6) at 550 kcal ME kg BW(-0.60) day for a 16-day period followed by measurement of O2 consumption using an indirect calorimeter. Diet had no effect (p > 0.10) on whole-body O2 consumption and HP. In conclusion, increasing wcDDGS content in growing pig diets linearly reduced ADFI, ADG and eviscerated hot carcass weight but had no effect on G:F, visceral organ weights or HP.

Effect of dietary fiber, genetic strain and age on the digestive metabolism of broiler chickens

In this study, 360 male broilers, out of which 240 of a fast-growing strain (Cobb500), and 120 of a slow-growing strain (Label Rouge), were used to evaluate the effect of dietary fiber on digesta transit time and digestive metabolism during the period of 1 to 42 days of age. A completely randomized experimental design with a 3x2 factorial arrangement was applied, consisting of three groups of birds (slow-growing – SG; fast-growing fed ad libitum – FGAL; and fast-growing pair-fed with SG broilers – FGPF) and two iso-protein diets (a 3100 kcal ME/kg low-fiber diet –LFD- and a 2800 kcal ME/ kg high-fiber diet –HFD- with 14% wheat bran and 4% oat hulls). HFD-fed birds presented lower ME retention (p < 0.001) and lower dry matter metabolizability (DMM) (p < 0.001), which is possibly related to the shorter digesta transit time observed in these birds (p < 0.001). DMM was reduced with age, whereas metabolizable energy remained almost constant (p < 0.001) independently of strain. This may be related to the increase in feed intake as birds age. The slowgrowing strain did not present better utilization of the high-fiber diet as compared to the fast-growing strain in none of the analyzed ages, even though showing a significant better use of fiber and dietary energy from 31 days of age.

Effect of Sources of Fibre on Performance of Growing Snail

The proximate and physicochemical properties of cassava leaf and peel meals were evaluated with a view to possible replacement of wheat offal which is the conventional source of fibre in animal feed, with these meals. The effect of feeds produced with cassava leaf and peel meals on the performance of growing snails was also investigated. Feeds (F1, F2 and F3) were formulated to contain 240, 235 and 230 g/kg cassava root meal each and 85, 85 and 90 g/kg cassava peel meal, wheat offal meal and cassava leaf meal respectively. The formulated feeds contain approximately 18.0% crude protein, 7.5% ash, 3% fat, 6.0% crude fibre 8%, calcium, 0.7% phosphorus, and energy level of 2400 kcal ME / kg. A total of 54 growing snails ( Archachatina marginata ) were used to investigate the nutritive potential of the formulated feeds on performance of growing snails for 15 weeks. Concentrations of the crude protein, crude fat, crude fibre, ash and calcium in cassava leaf meal were higher than those of wheat offal and cassava peel meal, with the exception of nitrogen free extract which was highest (70.01%) in cassava peel meal. Feed intake was 576 g 569 g and 581 g for snails fed with cassava leaf meal, cassava peel meal and wheat offal respectively but the corresponding weight gain ranged between 123.35 and 134.81 % being highest for F1. The feed conversion ratio shows that F1 > F3 > F2 indicating better conversion of feed to edible meat in F1. The results show that cassava leaves and peels have a strong potential to substitute the traditional wheat offal and can therefore be adapted as commercial feed ingredients.