Net Energy Value Research Articles

189 Evaluation of Hybrid Rye on Growth Performance, Carcass Traits, and Efficiency of Net Energy Utilization in Finishing Steers

Abstract Predominately Angus steers (n = 240, initial shrunk BW 404 ± 18.5 kg) were used in a 117d feedlot experiment to evaluate the effect of hybrid rye (KWS Cereals USA, LLC, Champaign, IL; Rye) as a replacement for dry-rolled corn (DRC) on growth performance, carcass traits, and comparative net energy value in diets fed to finishing steers. Rye from a single hybrid (KWS Bono) with an ergot alkaloid concentration of 392 ppb was processed with a roller mill to a processing index (PI) of 78.8 ± 2.29. Four treatments were used in a completely randomized design (n = 6 pens/treatment, 10 steers/pen) where DRC (PI = 86.9 ± 4.19) was replaced by varying proportions of Rye [DRC:Rye, DM Basis (60:0), (40:20), (20:40), and (0:60)]. Liver abscess scores and carcass characteristics were collected at the harvest facility. Carcass-adjusted performance was calculated from HCW/0.625. Performance-adjusted NE was calculated using carcass-adjusted ADG, DMI, and mean equivalent shrunk BW with the comparative NE values for Rye calculated using the replacement technique. Data were analyzed using the GLIMMIX procedure with pen as the experimental unit. Means were separated using linear and quadratic contrasts. Replacing DRC with Rye linearly decreased (P ≤ 0.01) carcass-adjusted final BW, ADG, DMI and G:F. Feeding Rye linearly decreased HCW and LM area (P ≤ 0.04). Distributions of liver scores and USDA grades for quality and yield were unaffected by treatment (P ≥ 0.09). Using observed performance from d 19 to d 117 (period when steers were on final diet), the estimated replacement NEm and NEg values for Rye were 1.93 and 1.26 Mcal/kg, respectively. Rye can be a suitable feed ingredient in finishing diets for feedlot steers with the optimal inclusion in this experiment at 20% of DM. Complete replacement of DRC with Rye depressed DMI, ADG, and G:F.

PSIX-15 Intake of corn stover plant parts by feedlot beef steers

Abstract Corn stover supports feedlot operations in intensive corn producing regions. A single-pass corn grain and stover harvest system was developed to increase efficiency of field operations and capture different anatomical fractions than are typically harvested with conventional corn stover. The objectives were to feed beef steers diets that included a roughage component consisting of harvested corn residue in chopped form from conventional corn stover bales (CST) or single-pass bales (SPB). Whole-plant corn silage (WPCS) served as a control. Steers (n = 90, 5 pens/treatment) were fed during Grow (84 d) and Finish (66 d) phases to assess consumption of corn plant botanical fractions and calculate net energy values of the stover feeds. Cattle consumed a larger proportion of stover as cob (P < 0.001) and less as stalk (P = 0.001) when stover was offered as SPB rather than CST. These differences are consistent with the fractional distribution of botanical components offered. During the Grow phase, cattle fed WPCS had greater (P = 0.018) daily gains (1.27 kg d-1) than cattle fed the SPB (1.14 kg d-1) and CST (1.08 kg d-1), and were more efficient than CST cattle. Steers sorted corn stover during both phases and consumed 52.5% of corn stover offered. SPB cob intake was 70% greater than CST cob intake (P < 0.01) indicating if more cob fraction is available, cattle will consume more. There was no treatment effect on final body weight (P = 0.37) or growth rate (P = 0.12) during the Finish phase. Stover NEm and NEg were calculated using Dairy NRC (2001) methods for SPB (1.04 and 0.49 Mcal kg-1) and CST (0.98 and 0.44 Mcal kg-1), respectively. In conclusion, there is evidence that CST and SPB can substitute for WPCS in beef feedlot diets without adverse effects on overall steer performance.

Optimal integration of an Organic Rankine Cycle to a process using a heuristic approach

Energy integration among processes has been one of the most relevant approaches in the field of process synthesis, allowing for better energy use and leading to positive environmental and economic impacts in industrial terms. Since the Organic Rankine Cycle (ORC) is a power cycle indicated for using low quality heat as the heat source, this study aims at integrating an ORC with process streams to use the recovered waste heat as the heat source for the cycle. A thermoeconomic optimization in terms of net power produced was proposed and, by means of a case study, an improvement of 6% in specific net energy was achieved over the best value reported in the literature using n-hexane as the working fluid. For working fluids pentane and benzene, improvements of 4.7% and 8.5% were obtained relative to the best specific net energy value presented so far.

Quality variation in comminuted forest fuels delivered during the winter in north Sweden

ABSTRACT Swedish legislation stipulates the precision required for estimates of parameters used to determine the value of various forest fuels. The net energy value of fuel, as it is received, is often used to set the trade price. The estimate of energy content is based on the moisture content of samples taken from each truckload and the weight of the biomass; the ash content and net calorific value are measured a few times each year. Hence, it is necessary to know the variation in moisture content to ensure that a sufficient number of samples are taken, a number based on the allowed variation and precision of estimates, as defined in the legalization. In this study, the variation in moisture content was measured by taking samples from 18 truckloads of comminuted forest fuels during the winter. The results showed that the current sampling regime, i.e., manually taking four samples from each truckload, is sufficient for deliveries with 10 truckloads for logging residue chips and 4 for stem wood chips. The number of samples should be increased to 12–43, 8–21, and, 17–82 depending on assortment for what the measuring act defines as large deliveries (>=50 tonnes; >=3 truckloads), medium-sized deliveries (<50 – >25 tonnes; 2 truckloads) and single truck deliveries (<= 25 tonnes; 1 truckload), respectively. Current research into fast online sampling and analysis methods could resolve this issue for small deliveries.

Oat bran and wheat bran impact net energy by shaping microbial communities and fermentation products in pigs fed diets with or without xylanase

BackgroundDietary fiber can be fermented in gut of pigs and the end products of fermentation were short-chain fatty acids (SCFA). The SCFA had positive effects on gut bacteria and host immune system. In addition, SCFA can provide a part of available energy for pigs. However, there were limited reports on the relationship between dietary fiber, gut bacteria, and energy metabolism. Therefore, this study investigated how dietary fiber and enzyme addition impacted energy metabolism by acting on the microbial community and SCFA.MethodsWheat bran (WB) was added to the corn-soybean meal-based diet at the levels of 12% and 27%, and oat bran (OB) at 15% and 36%. One of each diet was supplemented with or without 5000 U/kg feed of xylanase, so a total of 10 diets were allotted to 60 growing pigs (initial body weight: 27.2 ± 1.2 kg) using a randomized complete block design. The experiment was conducted in 10 consecutive periods using 6 similar open-circuit respiration chambers. Each pig was used for one 20-day period. During each period, six pigs were allowed 14 d to adapt to the diets in metabolic cages followed by 6 d (from d 15 to d 20) in respiration chambers to measure heat production (HP).ResultsPigs fed 36% OB diets had greater (P < 0.05) nutrient digestibility and net energy (NE) values compared to those fed 27% WB diets. Apparent digestibility coefficients of dry matter (DM) and crude protein (CP) were lower (P < 0.05) in pigs fed 27% WB diets compared with those fed 12% WB diets. Enzyme addition improved (P < 0.05) the NE values (11.37 vs. 12.43 MJ/kg DM) in diets with 27% WB. Supplementation of xylanase did not affect NE values for basal diets, OB diets and 12%WB diets. Compared with diets with 36% OB, pigs fed 27% WB-based diets excreted more total SCFA, acetate and propionate (expressed as g/kg feed DM) in fecal samples of pigs (P < 0.05). Pigs in the WB diets had greater proportion of phylum Bacteroidetes while phylum Firmicutes were greater in pigs fed OB diets (P < 0.05). Pigs fed WB diets had greater (P < 0.05) abundance of Succinivibrio and Prevotella, which were associated with fiber degradation and SCFA production.ConclusionOur results indicated diets supplied by high level of OB or WB promote the growth of fiber-degrading bacteria. The differences in fiber composition between WB and OB led to differences in nutrient digestibility and bacterial communities, which were ultimately reflected in energy metabolism. Enzyme supplementation improved nutrient digestibility as well as NE values for 27% WB diets but not for other diets, which indicated that effects of enzyme were related to type and level of dietary fiber in diets.

Grease trap waste (griddle grease) as a feed ingredient for finishing lambs: growth performance, dietary energetics, and carcass characteristics

Forty-eight (37.7 ± 3.4 kg, initial shrunk live weight) lambs were used in a 61 d experiment to evaluate the energy value of grease trap waste (GT) at four levels of supplementation (0%, 2%, 4%, and 6%). Supplemental GT replaced cracked corn in the basal diet. The GT contained 6.4% moisture, 3.1% impurities, and 79.8% total fatty acids (FA). Increasing GT level in diets did not affect dry matter intake and daily weight gain but linearly increased gain efficiency and estimated dietary net energy (NE). However, the ratio of observed-to-expected diet NE decreased with increased levels of GT. The estimated NE values for GT based on FA intake were in close agreement (98% and 102% of predicted, respectively) with those NE values determined by replacement technique for 2% and 4% supplementation level. However, the observed NE value for GT supplemented at the 6% level was 9% lower than predicted. Kidney–pelvic–heart fat increased as level of GT supplementation increased; otherwise, carcass characteristics and shoulder composition were not affected. We conclude that GT is a suitable alternative to conventional feed fats in diets for finishing lambs. The estimated NE of GT is 93% the energy value assigned by current standards for tallow and yellow grease.

Powdered edible locust enhances nitrogen excretion and presents a low-energy value in growing rats

Abstract Edible insects are increasingly recommended as novel sustainable protein sources, but the nutritional properties of edible insects have not been well studied. We investigated whether locust powder can be used as a nutritionally functional food resource with a low energy value using a rat model. Twenty-five male Wistar rats (4-week-old) were fed a basal diet (12 g daily) to which a fixed amount of locust powder (0, 0.5, 1.0, or 2.0 g) was added for 20 days (L0, L0.5, L1.0, and L2.0 groups, respectively). In the sucrose standard group, rats received 12 g of the basal diet daily and 2.0 g of sucrose daily for 20 days (S2.0 group). Body-weight gain and the nutritional composition of the carcasses and feces were determined to estimate the available energy value of locust powder. The L0.5 group had the lowest carcass fat content and energy accumulation, but these values were increased by locust powder in a dose-dependent manner. The net energy value of locust powder was estimated to be 2.78 kcal/g, which was expected to be lower than the calculated theoretical value (4.25 kcal/g) and that of sucrose (3.94 kcal/g). Fecal nitrogen excretion was increased by dietary locust powder in a dose-dependent manner (correlation coefficient, R = 0.98), and the carcass nitrogen percentage was not changed, regardless of the dietary content of the locust powder, indicating an increased excretion of proteins or other non-protein nitrogen compounds derived from the locust powder. These findings suggest that locust powder can be used as a novel food material with a low energy value for humans.

The Impact of Soil Water Content on Yield, Composition, Energy, and Water Indicators of the Bioenergy Grass Saccharum spontaneum ssp. aegyptiacum under Three-Growing Seasons

Raising water and energy productivity in agriculture can contribute to reducing the pressure on the limited freshwater availability and non-renewable energy sources. Bioenergy perennial grasses are efficient from a water perspective and can afford a low-energy cultivation system; however, crop selection and cultivation practices for minimizing land use change and maximizing resource use efficiencies remain a challenging task in view of sustainable bioeconomy development. The present work investigated the soil water effect on a long-term plantation of Saccharum (Saccharum spontaneum ssp. aegyptiacum), a bioenergy perennial grass holding great promise for semiarid Mediterranean areas. The plantation was in its 13th year following establishment and was subjected to three levels of irrigation for three successive growing seasons. Regression models between crop water use (CWU) and productivity, biomass composition, energy, and water indicators showed different prediction curves. Raising CWU (from 230 to 920 mm) enhanced the dry biomass yield (from 14.8 to 30.1 Mg ha−1) and the net energy value (from 257.6 to 511 GJ ha−1). On the same CWU range, unirrigated crops improved the energy efficiency (from 99.8 to 58.5 GJ ha−1), the energy productivity (from 5.6 to 3.4 Mg GJ−1) and the water productivity (from 114.5 to 56.1 MJ m−3) by reducing the water footprint (from 8.7 to 17.8 m3 GJ−1). Biomass composition was also superior in unirrigated crops, as the lower heating value, structural polysaccharides, and the acid detergent lignin were higher, while ash and soluble compounds were lower. Present findings demonstrated the good yield levels and persistence of Saccharum, improving our knowledge of plant responses to changing soil water availability to maximize energy and conserve natural resources, paving the way for sustainable bioeconomy development in the Mediterranean area.

Energy input-output analysis of rice production in Nigeria

Abstract Energy input-output assessment for crop production processes is becoming increasingly important due to increased energy demand. Efficient use of energy can help achieve an environmentally, economically and socially viable sustainable crop production system now and for the future in general. This paper explores the energy inputs and consumption patterns for rice production system in Nigeria. Energy related data were collected through field surveys, direct measurements, interview with farmers and structured questionnaires for two growing seasons in nine (9) rice farms, comprising of three small, medium and large farms, respectively. Energy requirement for land preparation, planting, crop maintenance (fertilization and weed control), threshing, and harvesting were calculated using standard equations. The average energy input for rice production in small, medium and large farms were 14813, 14543 and 14067 MJ/ha, respectively, while the average yield obtainable were 6695, 7060 and 7364 kg/ha, respectively. There is a significant difference among the three farm categories in respect to input energy and agronomical managements such as transplanting date and land preparation. Energy input in fertilizer application was the highest with 73.80, 75.11 and 76.90% of the total energy input in small, medium and large farm, respectively. The net energy values were 82733, 88321 and 93226 MJ/ha, respectively. Energy ratio in small, medium and large farms were 6.58, 7.07 and 7.62, respectively. Large farms had better energy efficiency due to better management of energy resources. Minimizing input energy through increased level of mechanisation will boost rice production in Nigeria.

Evaluation of hybrid rye on growth performance, carcass traits, and efficiency of net energy utilization in finishing steers.

Crossbred beef steers with a high percentage of Angus ancestry [n = 240, initial shrunk body weight (BW), 404 ± 18.5 kg] were used in a 117-d feedlot experiment to evaluate the effect of hybrid rye (Rye; KWS Cereals USA, LLC, Champaign, IL) as a replacement for dry-rolled corn (DRC) on growth performance, carcass traits, and comparative net energy (NE) value in diets fed to finishing steers. Rye from a single hybrid (KWS Bono) with an ergot alkaloid concentration of 392 ppb was processed with a roller mill to a processing index (PI) of 78.8 ± 2.29. Four treatments were used in a completely randomized design (n = 6 pens/treatment; 10 steers/pen), where DRC (PI = 86.9 ± 4.19) was replaced by varying proportions of Rye [DRC:Rye, dry matter (DM) basis (60:0), (40:20), (20:40), and (0:60)]. Liver abscess scores and carcass characteristics were collected at the abattoir. Carcass-adjusted performance was calculated from hot carcass weight (HCW)/0.625. Performance-adjusted NE was calculated using carcass-adjusted average daily gain (ADG), DM intake (DMI), and mean equivalent shrunk BW with the comparative NE values for rye calculated using the replacement technique. Data were analyzed using the GLIMMIX procedure of SAS 9.4 (SAS Inst. Inc., Cary, NC) with pen as the experimental unit. Treatment effects were tested using linear and quadratic contrasts, as well as between diets with and without Rye. Replacing DRC with Rye linearly decreased (P ≤ 0.01) carcass-adjusted final BW, ADG, DMI, and gain:feed (G:F). Feeding rye linearly decreased HCW and longissimus muscle area (P ≤ 0.04). Distributions of liver scores and USDA grades for quality and yield were unaffected by treatment (P ≥ 0.09). Estimated replacement NE for maintenance (NEm) and gain (NEg) values for rye, when included at 60% of diet DM, were 1.90 and 1.25 Mcal/kg, respectively. Rye can be a suitable feed ingredient in finishing diets for feedlot steers. Estimated replacement values of Rye when fed at 60% of diet DM closely agreed with current tabular standards but, when included at 20% of diet DM, estimated NEm and NEg values of Rye were increased 9.5% and 12.8%, respectively. Net energy value of Rye for gain is approximately 84% compared to DRC; thus, the complete replacement of DRC with Rye depressed DMI, ADG, G:F, and carcass weight.

In-Silico structural analysis of wild-type human hemoglobin and its mutation resulting in sickle cell anemia

Background: Hemoglobin (HbA) is a metalloprotein having a heme prosthetic group, two α-globin chains, and two β-globin chains. A point mutation in the 6th position of wild-type HBB gene (GAG&gt;GTG) substitutes Glutamic acid (E) to Valine (V) in the β-chains of hemoglobin molecule (HbS) resulting in Sickle Cell Anemia. Structural deformities in the β-globin gene leads to disruptive conformation of red blood cells, disturbs the oxygen transportation and causes functional abnormalities.&#x0D; Aims and Objective: The purpose of the study was to understand the structural, genetic and metabolic effect of the point mutation on HBB gene that causes sickle cell disease.&#x0D; Materials and Methods: The 3D structures of HbA and HbS proteins were retrieved from PDB and the changes in their physical properties were analyzed using Swiss PDB viewer and Molegro molecule viewer. Gene networks were constructed using GeneMANIA server to study genetic and metabolic interactions of the HBB gene.&#x0D; Results: In-silico studies showed that the normal bond length between Glu6-Glu7 in HbA molecule is 1.32Å and that of HbS is 1.33Å. After comparing the two proteins, it was observed that sickle cell hemoglobin suffers a change in bond angle from 122.4º in HbA to 119.35º in HbS. Comparative energy minimization of Glu6 and Val6 in wild-type and mutant hemoglobin respectively yielded 8.78 and -9.083 KJ/mol net energy values, suggesting a more reactive HbA and less reactive HbS. Gene networks were determined on the basis of physical, genetic and co-expressive interactions of HBB gene which revealed a strong connection between HBB and HBA1 genes within the association constituted of various metabolic functions.&#x0D; Conclusion: Sickle cell disease results from a sequence of events which start with a single nucleotide substitution that ultimately leads to severe anemia and other cardiovascular problems. Incorporation of computational exercises correlates to a better probability of discovering precision medicine through target site-specific drug designing.

Life cycle assessment for bioethanol production from whole plant cassava by integrated process

A new integrated process is proposed to convert whole plant cassava to bioethanol. It could improve the utilization of straw and contribute to the industrial production of cellulose ethanol. The key technologies were the by-products organic acids enhanced pretreatment of straw, and the mixed liquefaction and fermentation of cassava root starch and cassava straw sugar. Process simulation technology and life cycle assessment were employed to simulate and analyze the bioethanol processes from the cassava root, cassava straw and whole plant cassava, respectively. The results showed that cassava root ethanol had the lowest process energy consumption as 4186 MJ/1000L ethanol. Cassava straw bioethanol had a negative net energy value as −1329 MJ/1000L ethanol. The whole plant cassava bioethanol showed a competitive net energy ratio = 1.45, the highest reproducibility = 2.35–2.55, and the lowest environmental emissions. The effects of fermentation efficiency and straw utilization rate on the integrated process were further investigated, which would help the practical application of the integrated process. When the fermentation efficiency was maintained at more than 80%, the straw utilization rate was more conducive to improving the renewability and environmental friendliness of bioethanol. Moreover, the influence of the process simulation deviation on life cycle assessment was determined by Monte Carlo Analysis. The net energy analysis and environmental impact assessment proved that the proposed integrated process was beneficial for energy utilization and cleaner production.

Metabolizable and net energy values of corn stored for 3 years for laying hens

The apparent metabolizable energy (AME), AME corrected to zero-nitrogen retention (AMEn), and net energy (NE) values of 2 corn samples both stored for 3 yr were determined in laying hens with reference diet substitution method. Reference diet was formulated according to standard layer requirement, and test diets contained 50% of corn samples and 50% of the reference diet. Fifty-four Hy-Line Brown hens at the age of 36 wk were used. The heat production and energy metabolism of birds were measured in open-circuit respiratory chambers with 6 replicates (3 birds per replicate) per diet in a randomized design. Birds were fed experimental diets for 7 D in the chamber as adaptation. During the following 3 D, feed intake, metabolizable energy value, nitrogen balance, energy balance, egg production, O2 consumption, CO2 production, and energy efficiency were determined. The AME values of corn 1 and corn 2 were 3,485 and 3,675 kcal/kg DM, respectively. The corresponding AMEn values were 3,452 and 3,596 kcal/kg DM, and the NE values were 2,575 and 2,693 kcal/kg DM, respectively. The NE:AME ratios of corn 1 and corn 2 were 74.4 and 73.3%, respectively. The NE:AMEn ratios of corn 1 and corn 2 were 75.0 and 74.9%, respectively. The AME, AMEn, and NE values of the 2 corn samples both stored for 3 yr were lower than the literature values for fresh corn.

Nutritive value of carinata meal and cold-pressed canola expellers for pigs

Carinata meal, a co-product from carinata seed oil extraction plants, is available for livestock feeding. Also, cold-pressed canola expellers (Cold-pressed CME), a co-product from canola seed oil extraction plants, is available for livestock feeding. The nutritive value of carinata meal for pigs has not been reported. Also, there is limited information on the nutritive value of cold-pressed CME for pigs. The objective of this study was to determine standardized ileal digestibility (SID) of amino acids (AA) and net energy value of carinata meal and Cold-pressed CME for growing pigs. Eight ileal-cannulated barrows (initial body weight = 32.7 ± 1.46 kg) were fed 3 diets a replicated 3 × 3 Latin square design in combination with a 3 × 2 Youden square design, to give 8 replicates/diet. The diets were cornstarch-based, containing Cold-pressed CME or carinata meal as sole protein source, and N-free. Digestibility of AA in feedstuffs was determined by the direct method. Energy digestibility in Cold-pressed CME and carinata meal was determined by difference from the N-free diet. On dry matter basis (DM), Cold-pressed CME and carinata meal contained 396 and 502 g/kg crude protein, 207 and 268 g/kg neutral detergent fiber, 160 and 8.8 g/kg ether extract, 23.2 and 18.2 g/kg lysine, 7.4 and 9.6 g/kg methionine, 16.3 and 18.9 g/kg threonine, and 5.0 and 6.4 g/kg tryptophan, respectively. The Cold-pressed CME compared with carinata meal, had greater (P < 0.05) SID of lysine (0.744 vs. 0.601). Conversely, Cold-pressed CME compared with carinata meal, had lower (P < 0.05) SID of methionine (0.821 vs. 0.878) and tryptophan (0.818 vs. 0.898), and tended to be lower (P = 0.078) in SID of threonine. The Cold-pressed CME and carinata meal did not differ in coefficient of apparent ileal digestibility of gross energy (0.433 vs. 0.376). The Cold-pressed CME had lower (P < 0.05) coefficient of apparent total tract digestibility of GE than carinata meal (0.573 vs. 0.671). The Cold-pressed CME and carinata meal did not differ in digestible energy (12.99 vs. 12.83 MJ/kg). However, Cold-pressed CME had greater (P < 0.05) net energy value than carinata meal (8.20 vs. 6.74 MJ/kg DM). In conclusion, carinata meal has lower energy value than Cold-pressed CME, however, the former had greater SID of most AA than the latter. Both Cold-pressed CME and carinata meal can serve as alternative oilseed co-product feedstuffs for pigs.

Prediction of net energy values in expeller-pressed and solvent-extracted rapeseed meal for growing pigs.

ObjectiveThe objective of this study was to determine net energy (NE) of expeller-press (EP-RSM) and solvent-extracted rapeseed meal (SE-RSM) and to establish equations for predicting the NE in rapeseed meal (RSM) fed to growing pigs.MethodsThirty-six barrows (initial body weight [BW], 41.1±2.2 kg) were allotted into 6 diets comprising a corn-soybean meal basal diet and 5 diets containing 19.50% RSM added at the expense of corn and soybean meal. The experiment had 6 periods and 6 replicate pigs per diet. During each period, the pigs were individually housed in metabolism crates for 16 days which included 7 days for adaption to diets. On day 8, pigs were transferred to respiration chambers and fed their respective diet at 2,000 kJ metabolizable energy (ME)/kg BW0.6/d. Feces and urine were collected, and daily heat production was measured from day 9 to 13. On days 14 and 15, the pigs were fed at 890 kJ ME/kg BW0.6/d and fasted on day 16 for evaluation of fasting heat production (FHP).ResultsThe FHP of pigs averaged 790 kJ/kg BW0.6/d and was not affected by the diet composition. The NE values were 10.80 and 8.45 MJ/kg DM for EP-RSM and SE-RSM, respectively. The NE value was positively correlated with gross energy (GE), digestible energy (DE), ME, and ether extract (EE). The best fit equation for NE of RSM was NE (MJ/kg DM) = 1.14×DE (MJ/kg DM)+0.46×crude protein (% of DM)–25.24 (n = 8, R2 = 0.96, p<0.01). The equation NE (MJ/kg DM) = 0.22×EE (% of DM)–0.79×ash (% of DM)+14.36 (n = 8, R2 = 0.77, p = 0.018) may be utilized to quickly determine the NE in RSM when DE or ME values are unavailable.ConclusionThe NE values of EP-RSM and SE-RSM were 10.80 and 8.45 MJ/kg DM. The NE value of RSM can be well predicted based on energy content (GE, DE, and ME) and proximate analysis.

Growth performance of weaned pigs fed raw, cold-pelleted, steam-pelleted, or extruded field pea

Field pea is an alternative starch and protein source for swine; however, feeding raw field pea to weaned pigs may reduce feed efficiency (G:F). Growth performance of weaned pigs fed field pea processed using treatments with heat and friction is unknown. To explore the effects of feed processing, field pea was ground (4.0-mm sieve), then either cold-pelleted (70–75 °C), steam-pelleted (80–85 °C) or extruded (115 °C) and then re-ground (3.2-mm sieve). Diets included 400 g per kg raw, cold-pelleted, steam-pelleted or extruded field pea replacing 300 g soybean meal (SBM) and 100 g wheat grain and were formulated to provide 10.0 MJ net energy (NE)/kg and 12.1 g standardised ileal digestible lysine/kg. In total, 236 pigs (weaned at 20 days of age) were housed in 60 pens in 4 rooms and fed 1 of 5 diets starting 2 weeks post-weaning [initial body weight (BW): 10 kg] for 3 weeks. The CATTD of gross energy and crude protein, digestible energy and predicted NE value were lower (P < 0.001) in field pea diets than in SBM diets and were not affected by processing of field pea. Overall (day 1–21), average daily feed intake of pigs fed raw or processed field pea diets (853–882 g/day) was greater (P = 0.001) than pigs fed SBM diet (813 g/day). Average daily gain did not differ between SBM diet and field pea diets, nor did it differ among field pea treatments. Thus, G:F was lower (P < 0.001) for pigs fed field pea diets (0.60–0.63) than for pigs fed SBM diet (0.68), but did not differ among field pea treatments. Final BW of pigs fed raw, cold-pelleted, steam-pelleted, extruded field pea and SBM diets were 21.0, 21.1, 21.3, 21.4 and 21.7 kg respectively. Final BW was not affected (P > 0.05) by feeding or processing of field pea. To conclude, weaned pigs fed 400 g field pea/kg diet in substitution of SBM could maintain growth performance. Greater ADFI for field pea diets than SBM diet indicated that pigs compensated for the reduced energy value of field pea diets. Raw field pea can be included in late nursery diets without thermal treatment to replace 300 g SBM and 100 g wheat grain/kg diet.

Increasing hay inclusion in silage-based receiving diets and its effects on performance and energy utilization in newly weaned beef steers.

The influence of grass hay (GH) inclusion in replacement of corn silage in receiving diets on growth performance and dietary net energy (NE) utilization was evaluated in newly weaned beef steers (n = 162 Charolais-Red Angus cross steers; initial body weight [BW] = 278 ± 13.4 kg). Treatments were (DM basis): 1) 0% GH, 2) 10% GH, or 3) 20% GH inclusion in replacement of corn silage in receiving diets fed to newly weaned beef steers for 56 d. The study was conducted from October to December of 2019. Data were analyzed as randomized complete block design with pen serving as the experimental unit for all analyses. Increasing dietary inclusion of hay had no influence (P ≥ 0.11) on final BW, ADG, gain:feed or observed/expected dietary NEM and NEG, observed/expected dry matter intake (DMI), or observed/expected ADG. GH inclusion increased (linear effect, P = 0.01) DMI. Observed DMI for all treatments was approximately 15% to 17% less than anticipated based upon steer growth performance and tabular NE values. Evaluation of observed/expected ADG was 31% to 37% greater than expected for the steers in the present study. Particles less than 4 mm increased (linear effect, P = 0.01) and greater than 4 mm decreased (linear effect, P = 0.01) as GH replaced corn silage in the receiving diet. As the proportion of particles greater than 4 mm increased, cumulative ADG was decreased. These data indicate that GH should be considered in corn silage-based receiving diets to improve DMI. In high-risk calves, improved DMI could result in a lesser incidence of morbidity, although no morbidity was observed in any steers from the present study.

Feed intake patterns nor growth rates of pigs are affected by dietary resistant starch, despite marked differences in digestion

Current feed evaluation systems often assume that fermented starch (i.e. resistant starch (RS)) yields less energy than digested starch. However, growth rates of pigs fed low and high RS diets are often the same when feed is available ad libitum. This may be explained by its effect on digestive processes changing feeding behavior, and consequently energy utilization. This study aims to investigate the effect of RS on nutrient digestion and digesta passage rate in pigs, in combination with its effect on feeding behavior and growth performance under ad libitum conditions. In experiment 1, 20 male pigs (40 ± 2.82 kg) were fed diets containing either 50% waxy maize starch (low in RS (LRS)) or high-amylose maize starch (high in RS (HRS)), and soluble and insoluble indigestible markers. After 14 days of adaptation to the diets, pigs were fed hourly to reach steady state (6 h), dissected, and digesta were collected from eight segments. From the collected samples, nutrient digestion and passage rate of the solid and liquid digesta fraction were determined. In experiment 2, 288 pigs (80 ± 0.48 kg; sex ratio per pen 1 : 1; boar : gilt) were housed in groups of 6. Pigs were ad libitum-fed one of the experimental diets, and slaughtered at approximately 115 kg. Feed intake, growth and carcass parameters were measured. Ileal starch digestibility was greater for LRS-fed than for HRS-fed pigs (98.0% v. 74.0%; P < 0.001), where the additional undigested starch in HRS-fed pigs was fermented in the large intestine. No effects of RS on digesta passage rate of the solid or liquid digesta fraction and on feeding behavior were observed. Growth rate and feed intake did not differ between diets, whereas feed efficiency of HRS-fed pigs was 1%-unit higher than that of LRS-fed pigs (P = 0.041). The efficiency of feed used for carcass gain did not differ between diets indicating that the difference in feed efficiency was determined by the non-carcass fraction. Despite a 30% greater RS intake (of total starch) with HRS than with LRS, carcass gain and feed efficiency used for carcass gain were unaffected. RS did not affect digesta passage rate nor feeding behavior suggesting that the difference in energy intake between fermented and digested starch is compensated for post-absorptively. Our results indicate that the net energy value of fermented starch currently used in pig feed evaluation systems is underestimated and should be reconsidered.

Factors affecting energy metabolism and evaluating net energy of poultry feed

Different energy evaluating systems have been used to formulate poultry diets including digestible energy, total digestible nutrients, true metabolizable energy, apparent metabolizable energy (AME), and effective energy. The AME values of raw materials are most commonly used to formulate poultry diets. The net energy (NE) system is currently used for pig and cattle diet formulation and there is interest for its application in poultry formulation. Each energy evaluating system has some limitations. The AME system, for example, is dependent on age, species, and feed intake level. The NE system takes AME a step further and incorporates the energy lost as heat when calculating the available energy for the production of meat and eggs. The NE system is, therefore, the most accurate representation of energy available for productive purposes. The NE prediction requires the accurate measurement of the AME value of feed and also an accurate measurement of total and fasting heat production using nutritionally balanced diets. At present, there is limited information on NE values of various ingredients for poultry feed formulation. The aim of this review is to examine poultry feed energy systems with the focus on the NE system and its development for chickens.

PSXII-5 Feed processing-induced changes in protein molecular structure in relation to nutrient utilization and availability of warm-season Sorghum grain (Sorghum bicolor) in ruminants

Abstract The objective of this study was reveal heat related processing (HP) induced changes in protein molecular structure in relation to nutrient utilization and availability of warm-season sorghum grain (Sorghum bicolor) in dairy cows. Three new warm-season genotypes of sorghum grain (Sorghum bicolor) were studied. The nutrient utilization and availability of sorghum grain (Sorghum bicolor) in dairy cows include: protein subfractions, energy values, rumen degradation, and intestinal digestibility of rumen undegraded protein. The protein structure change on molecular level were revealed with cutting edge non-invasive vibrational ATR-FTIR molecular spectroscopy. The warm-season sorghum grains were either maintained in their raw state (as control) or treated with for 80 min at 121°C with the Lindberg/Blue M™. The RCBD data were analyzed using SAS9.4 with Mixed model procedure. Tukey method was used for mean separation. The results showed that compared with the control, the HP treatment altered (P &amp;lt; 0.05) nutrient profiles and utilization and availability in dairy cows and increased (P &amp;lt; 0.05) metabolizable energy and net energy values in dairy cows. The HP treatment also altered (P &amp;lt; 0.05) the protein molecular structure profile of the warm-season sorghum grain. It increased (P &amp;lt; 0.05) the ratio of protein Amide I and Amide II height and decreased (P &amp;lt; 0.05) the ratio of α-helix to β-sheet. In conclusion, the HP treatment altered molecular structure and nutrient profiles without negatively affecting the nutritive value and digestion of warm-season sorghum grain. The molecular spectral profiles revealed by rapid and non-invasive ATR-FTIR molecular spectroscopy could be used as a fast predictor for the warm-season sorghum grain utilization and digestion in dairy cows.