Neutral Detergent Insoluble Crude Protein Research Articles

Protein Evaluation of Feedstuffs for Horses.

The German Society of Nutrition Physiology has proposed a new protein evaluation system for horse feeds to estimate pre-cecally digestible crude protein (pcdCP) and amino acids (pcdAA) from chemical properties. A total of 71 feeds for horses were chemically tested and evaluated according to the new protein evaluation system. A feeding trial with eight horses tested whether differences in estimated pcdAA and neutral detergent soluble CP (NDSCP) in the diet were reflected by post-prandial (ppr) kinetics of plasma lysine (Lys) by feeding a complementary feed (control = CTRL) with 1.02 g Lys/100 kg body weight (BW) as well as three diets with 3.02 g Lys/100 kg BW, as follows: (i) CTRL with synthetic AA (CTRL + synAA); (ii) CTRL with soybean meal (CTRL + SBM); and (iii) lucerne pellets (LUC). In comparison to CTRL, the areas of curves (AUCs) of ppr plasma Lys differed: CTRL < CTRL + SBM (p < 0.01) < CTRL + synAA (p < 0.05). For 71 feeds, the estimated pcdCP was correlated with the CP content (p < 0.001), NDSCP (p < 0.001), and ash-free neutral detergent fiber (p < 0.001). A mean neutral detergent insoluble CP content of at least 3-5% can be assumed in horse feed. It is speculated that the predicted availability of Lys from LUC seems to be underestimated by the new protein evaluating system. The influence of chewing and microbiota in vivo needs to be considered in horses.

Effects of Sodic Water Irrigation and Neutralizing Amendments on Physiological, Biochemical, and Nutritional Quality Traits of Fodder Sorghum

This study was conducted at two farmers’ fields to assess the production potential and quality of summer fodder sorghum intervened between the rice-wheat cropping sequences (RWCS) on high residual alkalinity, i.e., residual sodium carbonate (RSC) water irrigation-induced sodic soil. The treatments were comprised of two field sites having different residual alkalinity [RSC ~5 me L−1 (RSC-1) and ~7 me L−1 (RSC-2) water irrigation in main plots, four neutralization strategies, i.e., control/unamended condition (N0), gypsum @ 7.5 t ha−1 (N1), pressmud @ 10 t ha−1 (N2) and gypsum @ 3.75 t ha−1 + pressmud @ 5 t ha−1 (N3) in sub plots and two varietal sequences of RWCS, i.e., salt tolerant varieties (CSR 30 basmati fb KRL 210) and traditionally grown varieties (PB 1121 fb HD 2967) of rice and wheat as sub–sub plots. Sorghum cv. Sugargraze (Advanta Company) was grown after the harvesting of wheat and cut for green fodder before transplanting rice during both years. Sorghum physiological and biochemical traits [relative water content (RWC), total chlorophyll content, photosynthetic rate (Pn), stomatal conductance (gS), transpiration rate (E), chlorophyll fluorescence (Fv/Fm), photon quantum yield [Y (II)] and K/Na ratio]; fodder quality traits [Crude protein (CP), and ether extract (EE)] and productivity [green fodder yield (GFY), dry matter yield, CP yield, EE yield and ash yield) and profitability (gross returns, net returns, benefit–cost ratio) significantly decreased with the increase in irrigation water RSC from 5 to 7 me L−1. Proline, total soluble sugar (TSS), total soluble protein (TSP), dry matter (DM), ash, neutral detergent fibre (NDF), acid detergent fibre (ADF), acid detergent lignin (ADL), neutral detergent insoluble CP (NDICP) and acid detergent insoluble CP (ADICP) decreased with increasing RSC of irrigation water. Sodicity neutralization considerably improved sorghum physiological adaptation mechanisms, fodder quality, productivity and profitability. The introduction of summer fodder sorghum between RWCS resulted in additional net returns (NR) (INR 13.64 to 20.79 × 103 ha−1). Our results indicate that pressmud proved a feasible alternative to replace and/or reduce the quantity of gypsum required for neutralization of RSC water irrigation. Growing summer fodder sorghum between RWCS along with neutralization of RSC water irrigation can increase the availability of quality green fodder during lean period and also increase the profitability of the rice-wheat cropping system in high residual alkalinity water irrigation conditions.

Gernik (Gacer, Kavılca) Buğdayı (Triticum dicoccum) ve Yan Ürünlerinin Ruminant Hayvanlar İçin Yem Değeri

Ancient wheat species attracts more attention recently due to their health benefits and suitability for organic farming. With this attention, the possibilities of using ancient wheat species and especially their by-products in animal nutrition are emerging. Unlike modern wheat varieties, emmer is known as one of the ancient wheat varieties, has hull covering its grains. Approximately 70% of the total plant weight consists of hulls and stalks. Looking at the literature, limited studies has been conducted regarding the evaluation of the hull and stalk parts of emmer wheat as feed. Herein, this study aims to determine the nutritional values of emmer wheat and its by-products. The feed value of the plant was analyzed in five parts (hulled grain, stalk of plant, hull, naked grain and flour). For each part, dry matter (DM), crude protein (CP), ether exract (EE), crude ash (CA), starch, crude fiber (CF), acid detergent fiber (ADF), neutral detergent fiber (NDF), acid detergent insoluble crude protein (ADICP), neutral detergent insoluble crude protein (NDICP), lignin and mineral analyzes were made. In addition, non-fiber carbohydrate (NFC), digestible dry matter (DDM), dry matter intake by animal body weight (DMIBW), total digestible nutriton (TDN1X), net energy lactation (NEL3X), metabolic energy (ME), net energy maintanence (NEM), net energy gain (NEG), energy and digestibility calculations were performed. The protein content of emmer grain was observed higher than that of modern wheat. ADF and NDF values of the emmer wheat stalks are lower than modern wheat stalks and therefore have better digestibility values. Additionally, the higher resistance to starch digestion compared to modern wheat varieties may be a reason for preference in ruminant feeding.

Nutritional Values of Industrial Hemp Byproducts for Dairy Cattle.

The objective of this experiment was to explore the nutritional components of industrial hemp byproducts (industrial hemp ethanol extraction byproduct, IHEEB; industrial hemp stalk, IHS; industrial hemp seed meal, IHSM; industrial hemp oil filter residue, IHOFR) and provide theoretical support for the application of industrial hemp byproducts in dairy cattle production. This experiment used a combination of a wet chemical method with Cornell Net Carbohydrate and Protein System, in situ nylon bag technique, and three-step in vitro method to compare the chemical composition, carbohydrate and protein composition, in situ ruminal degradability and intestinal digestibility of industrial hemp byproducts and conventional feeds (alfalfa hay, AH; soybean meal, SBM). Available energy values were estimated based on the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. The results showed that the nutritional composition of different feeds varied greatly. The two types of IHEEB were enriched with ash, crude protein (CP), neutral detergent fiber (NDF), and calcium, while the contents of neutral detergent insoluble crude protein, acid detergent insoluble crude protein, and acid detergent lignin were higher. As a result, the non-degradable carbohydrate and protein components were higher, and the effective degradation rate of rumen dry matter and protein was lower. IHS contains higher non-protein nitrogen and NDF, which enables it to provide more CP rumen effective degradation rate and carbohydrates, but the high acid detergent fiber also limits its application. IHSM possesses 296 g/kg CP and high rumen undegradable protein and intestinal digested protein, which can provide rumen bypass protein in dairy cows, making it a potentially good protein source. IHOFR had higher ether extract, rumen available protein degradation rate, and total tract digested protein, which can provide more energy and easily degradable protein for lactating cows. The available energy value of IHEEB and IHS was lower than AH, while SBM is between IHFOR and IHSM. In addition, the tetrahydrocannabinol of three industrial hemp byproducts that have not been assessed by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) was tested to evaluate their safety, and all of them were less than the limit set by ESFA. In conclusion, industrial hemp byproducts can be considered for inclusion in dietary formulations as unconventional feed sources for dairy cattle, but the purpose of use needs to be properly considered.

Evaluation of Some Forage as Feed for Ruminant Animal: Chemical Composition, In Vitro Rumen Fermentation, and Methane Emissions

This experiment aimed to evaluate chemical composition, in vitro rumen fermentation, digestibility, and methane emissions of forages including bede grass, gamal (Gliricidia sepium), Indigofera, lamtoro (Leucaena leucocephala), elephant grass, mini elephant grass and Thai elephant grass. Forage samples were dried at 60oC for 24 hours, then ground to 1 mm sieve. The ground samples were used subsequently to determine the chemical composition and in vitro rumen fermentation test. Incubation was carried out in a water bath at 39oC for 48 h without replication. The results showed that all forages contained various crude protein at a range of 9-20% DM. The proportion of neutral detergent insoluble CP (NDICP) and acid detergent insoluble CP (ADICP) in forage was generally low, but the highest was found in bede grass. The highest NH3 concentration was found in Indigofera incubation, and lowest was in bede grass. All forage samples, except for mini elephant grass and Indigofera, had IVDMD and IVOMD below 70%. We identified low methane emissions from forage at 48 hours of incubation. It was concluded that legumes had a higher crude protein than in grass species and had low methane emissions. However, the relatively low digestibility of legume may limit its utilization.

Effect of Hay Steaming on the Estimated Precaecal Digestibility of Crude Protein and Selected Amino Acids in Horses.

Steaming hay is increasingly used to treat low-quality forage because it was proven to reduce inhalable allergens such as mould spores, bacteria, and airborne dust particles. Preliminary results have shown a substantial loss of precaecal (pc) digestibility (D) of crude protein (CP) and amino acids (AA). For this purpose, six different batches of hay from central Germany were divided into four subsamples, and each one was individually steamed. Native hay and four replicates of each steamed subsample were analysed for CP, AA, neutral detergent insoluble crude protein (NDICP), neutral detergent soluble crude protein (NDSCP) as well as pepsin insoluble CP (piCP). Based on the analytical parameters, pcD of CP, protein solubility (PS), piCP (% CP) and precaecal digestible (pcd) CP and pcdAA contents were calculated. Selected Maillard reaction products (MRP), namely furosine and carboxymethyllysine (CML), were also analysed. Steaming did not affect CP content (native = 69, steamed = 67 g/kg dry matter, DM; p &gt; 0.05), but it had an impact on the insoluble part of CP. Thus, NDICP increased by 57% (native = 27, steamed = 42 g/kg DM; p &lt; 0.05) and piCP by 15% overall (native = 40, steamed = 46% of CP; p &lt; 0.05). This could be a consequence of the heat damage and the associated increase in MRP. The content of furosine rose by 67% (native = 17.6, steamed = 29.4 mg/100 g DM; p &lt; 0.05). The content of CML increased by 120% (native = 5.1, steamed = 11.3 mg/100 g DM; p &lt; 0.05). We chose to analyse these two MRPs because they represent the reaction products with the limiting AA lysine. In contrast, the soluble fractions of CP declined, while PS as a percentage of CP decreased by 38% as a result of the treatment, and NDSCP was reduced by as much as 41% (p &lt; 0.05). In line with this, the steaming process decreased the pcD of CP (native = 56%, steamed = 35%; p &lt; 0.05) and pcdCP (native = 37.9, steamed = 22.5 g/kg DM; p &lt; 0.05), respectively. The same effects were shown for selected AA; e.g., sulphuric AA pcd methionine plus pcd cysteine decreased by 45%, pcd threonine decreased by 41%, and the limited AA pcd lysine decreased by more than 50% (p &lt; 0.05). In conclusion, the high temperatures generated during steaming lead to protein damage and consequently to a reduction in the pcD of CP and essential AA. Nevertheless, steaming successfully reduces viable microorganisms and binds dust particles. Therefore, steamed hay is still a proper and sometimes the only possible roughage for horses suffering from respiratory diseases such as equine asthma. Essentially, horse diets based on steamed hay should be balanced accordingly.

In Vitro Measurements of True Digestibility and Products of Digestion Using Multiple Cultivars of Non-Extracted and CBD-Extracted Industrial Hemp Biomass (Cannabis sativa)

Since 2018, the growth of industrial hemp (Cannabis sativa) for extraction of cannabidiol (CBD) oil has increased in popularity. By-products resulting from the extraction of the oil have become more available but remain largely unutilized due to their novelty and current restrictions on animal feeding. One potential use for the leftover inflorescence may be as a feedstuff, but reports examining its nutrient quality are limited. Therefore, experiments were conducted to evaluate 9 cultivars of non-extracted and 9 separate cultivars of CBD-extracted foliage. Ground alfalfa cubes were included in experiments as a control. All samples were analyzed for ash, ether extract, crude protein, lignin, ash-free neutral detergent fiber, acid detergent insoluble crude protein, and neutral detergent insoluble crude protein. Total digestible nutrients (TDN) were calculated using summative equations. In vitro true digestibility (IVTD) was determined using a filter bag technique and 48-h digestion period. Cumulative gas production was measured in batch culture over a 48-h period, with methane and ammonia production, volatile fatty acid (VFA) formation, and dry matter disappearance (DMD) measured following this period. Substrates for gas production measurements were composed of the hemp sample, rye silage, and ground corn mixed at a 30:35:35 ratio. Grind size (0.5 vs. 2.0 mm) was evaluated using non-extracted hemp and did not influence IVTD. Nutrient composition ranges of non- and CBD-extracted samples were similar, except for a numerically higher mean ether extract (17.66% vs. 9.29%) and TDN (73.01% vs. 54.03%) in non-extracted hemp. None of the measured nutrients for alfalfa cubes fell within the observed concentration ranges of either hemp group, but TDN was numerically similar to that of CBD-extracted hemp. IVTD was numerically similar between both hemp groups and alfalfa cubes. In comparison to alfalfa cubes, VFA (both concentration and molar proportions), ammonia concentrations, pH, DMD, methane, and total gas production were numerically similar with concurrently run non- and CBD-extracted hemp groups. The results of this study serve as a foundation from which a larger database of nutrient component values for hemp may be compiled. Such databases are necessary to fully evaluate the feasibility of a feedstuff for inclusion in animal diets.

Proposal and validation of integrated alfalfa silage quality index (ASQI) method for the quality assessment of alfalfa silage for lactating dairy cows

Understanding the variability of alfalfa silage quality, milk production of lactating dairy cows fed alfalfa silage-based diets and the nexus between alfalfa silage quality and milk yield is vital for silage quality improvement while contributing to profitable milk production. This study presented and analyzed the variations of 20 silage quality parameters, including dry matter (DM), neutral detergent fiber (NDF) assayed with a heat-stable amylase and expressed exclusive of residual ash (aNDFom), pH, crude protein (CP), acid detergent fiber (ADF), acid detergent insoluble CP (ADICP), neutral detergent insoluble CP (NDICP), ammonia, lignin, indigestible NDF (iNDF), starch, ether extract (EE), 30-h in vitro neutral detergent digestibility, iNDF corrected digestible aNDFom fraction after 30-h in vitro incubation, ash, lactic acid, acetic, propionic acid, lactic: propionic acid ratio and butyric acid which were determined on 134 samples collected from dairy farms located in north and northeast China. The key silage quality parameters that best predicted milk yield of lactating dairy cows fed alfalfa silage-based diets were determined and weighted using the Multiple Regression Analysis technique and parameters were normalized using standard scoring functions. Weighted and normalized silage parameters were then integrated into the Alfalfa Silage Quality Index (ASQI). The ASQI has subsequently been converted into Alfalfa Silage Quality Scores (ASQS, 0–100). The index model consists of seven crucial parameters, i.e., CP, iNDF-corrected digestible aNDFom fraction after 30-h in vitro incubation, ADF and ash as nutritional quality parameters and ammonia-N, lactic acid and acetic acid (on DM basis) as fermentation quality parameters. Based on the index scores, silages were grouped into five quality grades; poor, fair, average, good and excellent having grade mean index scores of 16, 32, 49, 69 and 83, respectively. Overall, 85% of the experimental samples were graded as or above “average” silage quality indicating that the quality of the alfalfa silage produced in the largest dairy-producing areas in China were above average in quality. The new ASQI has a positive correlation with daily milk yield (r = 0.62) and least error in the prediction of silage quality (Root mean square error-observations standard deviation ratio, RSR = 0.31, and concordance correlation coefficient, CCC = 0.71), showing that the proposed ASQI model is an effective and practical tool for assessing silage quality.

Associations of Protein Molecular Structures with Their Nutrient Supply and Biodegradation Characteristics in Different Byproducts of Seed-Used Pumpkin.

Simple SummaryAt present, the world is faced with a shortage and rising prices of high-quality protein feed. Adequate utilization of unconventional feeds can alleviate this problem. China is the largest producer and exporter of seed-used pumpkin, and many byproducts of seed-used pumpkin need to be effectively utilized. In this study, we analyzed nutrient supply and biodegradation characteristics, and correlation and regression equations between them and protein molecular structure were established. This research provides a data basis for the utilization of byproducts of seed-used pumpkin and establishes a new method for evaluating the nutritional value of unconventional feeds.The purpose of this experiment was to explore the relationship of protein functional groups (including amide I, amide II, α-helix, and β-sheet) in byproducts of seed-used pumpkin (pumpkin seed cake, pumpkin seed coat, and seed-used pumpkin flesh) with their nutrient profiles and biodegradation characteristics. The experiment was designed to use conventional chemical analysis, combining the Cornell Net Carbohydrate and Protein System (CNCPS) and nylon bag technology to assess the nutritional value and biodegradation characteristics of seed-used pumpkin byproducts. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) was used to analyze the protein molecular structure properties of byproducts of seed-used pumpkin. In this study, we also applied correlation and regression analysis. The results showed that different byproducts of seed-used pumpkin had different in situ biodegradation, nutrient supplies, and spectral structures in the protein region. Among the byproducts of seed-used pumpkin, acid detergent-insoluble crude protein (ADICP) and neutral detergent-insoluble crude protein (NDICP) contents of the pumpkin seed coat were the highest, resulting in the lowest effective degradabilities (EDs) of dry matter and crude protein. The crude protein (CP) ED values were ranked as follows: pumpkin seed cake > seed-used pumpkin flesh > pumpkin seed coat. Significant differences were observed in the peak areas of amide I and amide II and the corresponding peak heights in the two peak areas in the molecular structure of the protein. The peak areas of amide I and amide II and the corresponding peak heights were at the highest levels for pumpkin seed cake, whereas there was no significant difference between the pumpkin seed coat and seed-used pumpkin flesh. Similarly, the peak heights of α-helices and β-sheets were highest for pumpkin seed cake. Correlation and regression results indicated that amide I and amide II area and height, α-helix and β-sheet heights, and area ratios of amide I: amide II, as well as the height ratios of amide I: amide II, and α-helices: β-sheets effectively estimated nutrient supply and that the height ratio of α-helices: β-sheets was mostly sensitive to biodegradation characteristics in different byproducts of seed-used pumpkin. There were significant differences in CP chemical composition and digestibility of different byproducts of seed-used pumpkin that were strongly related to the changes in protein molecular structures.

Effects of supplementation rate of an extruded dried distillers' grains cube fed to growing heifers on voluntary intake and digestibility of bermudagrass hay.

Our objectives were to 1) investigate the difference in chemical composition and disappearance kinetics between loose dried distillers' grains (DDG) and extruded DDG cubes and 2) evaluate the effects of supplementation rate of extruded DDG cubes on voluntary dry matter intake (DMI), rate and extent of digestibility, and blood parameters of growing beef heifers offered ad libitum bermudagrass (Cynodon dactylon) hay. To characterize the changes in chemical composition during the extrusion process, loose and extruded DDG were evaluated via near-infrared reflectance spectroscopy, and dry matter (DM) disappearance kinetics were evaluated via time point in situ incubations. Extruded DDG cubes had greater (P ≤ 0.01) contents of fat, neutral detergent insoluble crude protein, and total digestible nutrients, but lower (P ≤ 0.01) neutral and acid detergent fiber than loose DDG. Additionally, the DM of extruded DDG cubes was more immediately soluble (P < 0.01), had greater (P < 0.01) effective degradability and lag time, and tended (P = 0.07) to have a greater disappearance rate than loose DDG. In the 29-d supplementation rate study, 23 Charolais-cross heifers were randomly assigned to one of four supplemental treatments: 1) control, no supplement; 2) low, 0.90 kg DDG cubes per d; 3) intermediate, 1.81 kg DDG cubes per d; or 4) high, 3.62 kg DDG cubes per d. Titanium dioxide was used as an external marker to estimate fecal output and particulate passage rate (Kp). Blood was collected from each animal to determine supplementation effects on blood metabolites. Indigestible neutral detergent fiber was used as an internal marker to assess the rate and extent of hay and diet DM digestibility (DMD). Increasing supplementation rate increased Kp and total diet DMI linearly (P < 0.01), yet linearly decreased (P < 0.01) hay DMI. Hay DMD decreased quadratically (P < 0.01), while total diet DMD increased linearly (P < 0.01) with increased DDG cube inclusion. Supplemented heifers had greater (P = 0.07) blood urea nitrogen concentrations than control animals 4 h post-supplementation. Intermediate and high rates of supplementation resulted in lower (P < 0.01) serum nonesterified fatty acid concentrations post-supplementation than control heifers. Concentrations of serum glucose and lactate were greatest (P ≤ 0.06) 8 h post-supplementation. Our results suggest that extruded DDG cubes may be an adequate supplement for cattle consuming moderate-quality forage, and further research is warranted.

Effects of neutral detergent fiber digestibility estimation method on calculated energy concentration of canola meals from 12 Canadian processing plants.

Our aim was to determine whether the method used to estimate truly digestible neutral detergent fiber (tdNDF) affects calculated concentrations of total digestible nutrients (TDN1x) and net energy of lactation (NEL3x) of canola meal (CM). Samples were collected from 12 CM processing plants in Canada over 4 yr (2011 to 2014, n = 47) and analyzed for dry matter (DM), crude protein (CP), ether extract (EE), ash, neutral detergent fiber (NDF), acid detergent fiber (ADF), lignin (ADL), and neutral detergent insoluble CP (NDICP). Ruminal in situ incubation of CM samples was performed at 0, 24, 48, 96, and 288 h to determine NDF fractions (A, B, and C), effective ruminal NDF digestibility (ERNDFD), and indigestible NDF (iNDF) of CM. Three tdNDF-estimation methods were evaluated: 1) National Research Council (NRC) = 0.75 × (NDF - NDICP - ADL) × {1- [ADL/ (NDF - NDICP)]0.667}; 2) iNDF = 0.75 × (NDF - NDICP - NDF remaining after 288 h in situ); and 3) ERNDFD estimated from in situ NDF digestion kinetics. Resulting tdNDF values were used for calculation of TDN1x and NEL3x according to NRC (2001) equations. Data were analyzed with MIXED procedure of SAS 9.4 to determine the effect of processing plant on chemical composition, NDF degradation kinetics and NEL3x of CM. Effect of tdNDF estimation method on calculated TDN1x and NEL3x of CM was also evaluated. Model for analysis of processing plant included the fixed effect of plant and the random effect of year (plant) as replication, while analysis of tdNDF methods included the fixed effect of tdNDF estimation method and the random effects of processing plant and of year(plant) as replication. There was an effect of processing plant on DM (P = 0.03), CP (P < 0.01), EE (P < 0.01), and NDF (P < 0.01) of CM. Processing plant also had an effect on NDF fractions A (P < 0.01) and B (P = 0.02) but did not affect fraction C and ERNDFD. The tdNDF estimation method had an effect on tdNDF (P < 0.01), TDN1x (P < 0.01), and NEL3x (P < 0.01) of CM, yielding average NEL3x values of 1.72, 1.87, and 2.07 Mcal/kg for NRC, iNDF, and ERNDFD, respectively. Our results indicate that calculated energy concentration of CM according to NRC (2001) equations varies depending on the method used for estimation of tdNDF. Further research will be needed to determine the most accurate estimation method.

Estimated pre-caecal digestible crude protein for horses in forage from species-rich grasslands

The methodological procedure of the new German protein evaluation system for horses estimates protein supply at the duodenum on the level of pre-caecal digestible crude protein (pcdCP). Limited information is available on the pcdCP content of forage from species-rich grasslands, commonly used as forage for horses. A characteristic of forage from species-rich grasslands is elevated contents of specific phenolic compounds. The contents and variation of pcdCP were determined in forage samples from three long-term fertilisation field experiments located in the Swiss mountains. The samples were characterised by a large variation in the botanical composition (16–36 species) and were hence analysed by contrasting crude nutrient composition and contents of total extractable phenols (TEP), total tannins (TT) and condensed tannins (CT). The contents of neutral detergent soluble CP (NDSCP) and pcdCP were calculated and the potential influences of varying TEP contents on the pcdCP analysed. Forage (N = 64) crude protein (CP) contents ranged from 67.3–144 g/kg dry matter (DM). On average, the contents of pcdCP varied from 35.5–70.7 g/kg DM and from 260 to 634 g/kg CP. The contents of pcdCP, NDSCP and neutral detergent insoluble crude protein (NDICP) followed an unspecific pattern across all investigated swards when related to either fertilisation or growth cycle. There was a positive correlation (r = 0.4030, P < 0.05) between pcdCP (g/kg DM) and CP (g/kg DM) and between forage NDICP contents and CP (r = 0.7090, P < 0.05). Negative correlations were determined between NDICP and TEP (r = -0.2490, P < 0.05) and TT (r = -0.3550, P < 0.05). Forage NDICP and CT were negatively correlated in both forages from the generative (rg = -0.4010) or vegetative harvest (rv = -0.5570) or as a sum of both growth cycles (r = -0.3710) (P < 0.05). Therefore, the new German protein evaluation system for horses requires further evaluation in vivo to examine whether the contents of pcdCP are predicted adequately in forage with elevated contents of phenolic compounds.

​​In vitro Evaluation and Methane Production Potential of Rice Gluten Meal based Concentrate Feeds in Buffalo Inoculum

Background: There is shortage of conventional feedstuffs to feed livestock in the country. Thus, this study was intended to evaluate the chemical composition and in vitro nutrient utilization of concentrate feeds containing graded levels of rice gluten meal (RGM). Methods: Five concentrate feeds containing graded levels of RGM at 0, 6.25, 12.50, 18.75 and 25% replacing soybean meal @ 0, 25, 50, 75 and 100% on w/w basis were prepared and designated as conc-1, conc-2, conc-3,conc-4 and conc-5. In vitro evaluation of feeds was carried out by in vitro gas production technique. Data were analysed by one way ANOVA using SPSS (2012) version 21. Result: The total ash, acid detergent fibre (ADF) and acid detergent lignin (ADL) content decreased while organic matter (OM), crude protein (CP), ether extract (EE), neutral detergent fiber (NDF), hemicellulose, acid detergent insoluble crude protein (ADICP), neutral detergent insoluble crude protein (NDICP) and total carbohydrate (TCHO) content increased with increase in the inclusion of RGM in the concentrate feeds. The OM digestibility was lower (P less than 0.05) in concentrate feeds 3, 4 and 5 than concentrate feed 1 and 2. Microbial mass production (MMP), efficiency of MMP and ME availability were not affected by including RGM in feeds. NH3-N showed a declining trend with increasing level of RGM in concentrate feeds. The relative proportion of acetate decreased (P less than 0.05) while that of propionate increased (P less than 0.05) with increasing level of RGM in the concentrate feeds. Methane production varied non-significantly among the concentrate feeds. The fermentation efficiency was higher (P less than 0.05) in concentrate 4 and 5 than other concentrates.

Exploration of biodegradation traits in dairy cows and protein spectroscopic features in microwaved and moist heated tannin and non-tannin Faba bean

The objective of this study was to explore if microwave irradiation and moist autoclaving treatments could change nutritive values, nutrients availability and protein inherent spectral structural characteristics in tannin (var. Fatima) and non-tannin (var. Snowbird) faba beans. An in situ approach with four cannulated dry Holstein dairy cows was applied in this study. The results showed that beans heated with microwave and autoclaving had increased contents of ether extract and neutral detergent insoluble CP and reduced soluble CP, sugar and tannin concentrations when compared with the raw seeds. Heating reduced degradable nutrients in the rumen and increased intestinally absorbable nutrients, but it failed to improve digestibility in total tract. All the results showed heating with moisture and pressure would be stronger and severer than microwave irradiation. The variety of faba bean interacted with thermal treatment on total truly intestinally absorbed protein value which showed to be highest in the microwaved brown faba bean and lowest in the unheated Snowbird bean. The degraded protein balance (OEB) value was significantly decreased after both kinds of heating process, suggesting that heating treatments could mitigate loss of nitrogen from the rumen to a large extent. We further collected spectral data using mid-IR spectroscopy and found heat processed beans had varied peak height and area ratios compared with raw beans. However, multivariate results implied that heating process failed to completely change the whole molecular conformation in the protein amide region. Correlations were found between ADF/ADL and spectral features, and the OEB value was negatively related to protein secondary structural α-helix. In conclusion, both faba beans were more sensitive to autoclaving treatment than microwave irradiation in terms of nutrient availability in ruminants.

Effect of replacement of soybean meal with rice gluten meal on in vitro fermentation characteristics of total mixed ration

An in vitro study was conducted to assess the effect of using rice gluten meal as a substitute of soybean meal (SBM) in ruminant diet. The SBM comprising 12.5% whole diet [total mixed ration (TMR)] was substituted by rice gluten meal (RGM) on w/w basis at 0, 25, 50, 75 and 100% level. In vitro dry matter disappearance (IVDMD), organic matter disappearance (IVOMD), net gas production, methane production and fermentation efficiency of TMRs was assessed. The chemical composition of TMRs revealed decrease in total ash, acid detergent fiber and total carbohydrate contents and increase in organic matter, crude protein, ether extract, neutral detergent fiber, acid detergent lignin, hemicellulose, neutral detergent insoluble crude protein and acid detergent insoluble crude protein contents with increase in RGM in TMRs. No significant difference in net gas production, IVDMD and IVOMD was observed between the TMR treatments having graded levels of RGM and control. The NH3-N in TMRs declined with increase in RGM and was highest (P<0.05) in control. The relative proportion of propionic acid and isovaleric acid was highest in TMR 3 (50% RGM replacing SBM); whereas relative proportion of butyric acid was lowest in TMR 3. CH4 production showed decline with increase in RGM in TMRs beyond 25% level replacing SBM. The H-recovery was lowest in control TMR. The hydrogen consumed via CH4 as compared to the hydrogen consumed via VFA was lowest in TMR 3. The fermentation efficiency was highest in TMR 3. Thus, RGM could replace up to 100% of soybean meal in TMR of ruminants without any adverse effect on nutrient digestibility which is equivalent to 12.5% of whole dietary dry matter.

Evaluation of Feed Value of Barley Fodder as an Alternative Feed Ingredient

Barley is an important cereal gain which is traditionally used in some nations of Asia and North Africa, and there has been growing interest in using barley as an ingredient in food due to their nutritional value and high content of phyto-constituents. However, no study report on comparative feed value between sprouted barley, cornflake and alfalfa hay. Therefore, in this study we aimed to evaluate the chemical composition, amino acid profile and mineral content of 6 day sprouted barley fodder (SBF) compared with cornflake and alfalfa hay using by AOAC method, as an alternative feed ingredient. Results showed that SBF had higher content of crude protein, acid detergent insoluble crude proteins and neutral detergent insoluble crude protein than alfalfa hay and cornflake; cornflake had higher crude fiber, neutral detergent fiber content than SBF and alfalfa hay; alfalfa hay had higher crude fiber, crude ash, acid detergent fiber, neutral detergent fiber and lignin level than SBF and cornflake. Also, significant differences were found on amino acid content among them (p<0.01). The most abundant amino acid in SBF was glutamate (123 g/kg DM), which is higher than in alfalfa hay (1.27%) or cornflake (1.58%). However, methionine (1.33%) and cysteine (1.53%) were the least abundant amino acids in SBF compared with cornflake or alfalfa hay. Furthermore, our study results exhibited that SBE comprise a good sources of minerals including ferrous (90.01 mg/kg) followed by zinc (20.50 mg/kg), magnesium (0.20 mg/kg) and sodium (0.03 mg/kg) as compared to cornflake and alfalfa hay. The present research findings, confirmed that the nutritional values of SBF are comparable to those of cornflake and alfalfa hay. Hence, SBF can be a better alternative feed ingredient for cornflake or alfalfa hay. However, feeding trials will be required to determine acceptability of SBF for ruminant production.

Effects of inoculation of corn silage with Lactobacillus hilgardii and Lactobacillus buchneri on silage quality, aerobic stability, nutrient digestibility, and growth performance of growing beef cattle.

This study evaluated the effects of inoculation of whole crop corn silage with a mixture of heterofermentative lactic acid bacteria (LAB) composed of Lactobacillus hilgardii and Lactobacillus buchneri on ensiling, aerobic stability, ruminal fermentation, total tract nutrient digestibility, and growth performance of beef cattle. Uninoculated control corn silage (CON) and silage inoculated with 3.0 × 105 cfu g-1 of LAB containing 1.5 × 105 cfu g-1 of L. hilgardii CNCM I-4785 and 1.5 × 105 cfu g-1 of L. buchneri NCIMB 40788 (INOC) were ensiled in silo bags. The pH did not differ (P > 0.05) between the two silages during ensiling but was greater (P < 0.001) for CON than INOC after 14 d of aerobic exposure (AE). Neutral detergent insoluble crude protein (NDICP) content (% of DM and % of CP basis) of terminal INOC silage was greater (P ≤ 0.05) than that of CON. In terminal silage, concentrations of total VFA and acetate were greater (P < 0.001), while water-soluble carbohydrates were lower (P < 0.001) for INOC than CON. Yeast and mold counts were lower for INOC than CON (P ≤ 0.001) in both terminal and aerobically exposed silages. The stability of INOC was greater (P < 0.001) than that of CON after 14 d of AE. Ruminal fermentation parameters and DMI did not differ (P > 0.05) between heifers fed the two silages, while there was a tendency (P ≤ 0.07) for lower CP and starch digestibility for heifers fed INOC than CON. Total nitrogen (N) intake and N retention were lower (P ≤ 0.04) for heifers fed INOC than CON. Dry matter intake as a percentage of BW was lower (P < 0.04) and there was a tendency for improved feed efficieny (G:F; P = 0.07) in steers fed INOC vs. CON silage. The NEm and NEg contents were greater for INOC than CON diets. Results indicate that inoculation with a mixture of L. hilgardii and L. buchneri improved the aerobic stability of corn silage. Improvements in G:F of growing steers fed INOC silage even though the total tract digestibility of CP and starch tended to be lower for heifers fed INOC are likely because the difference in BW and growth requirements of these animals impacted the growth performance and nutrient utilization and a greater proportion of NDICP in INOC than CON.

The effect of crude protein content of the diet on renal energy losses in horses

Renal energy losses of horses are high in comparison with other species. In the present study, more data were obtained on this parameter to improve predictive equations for renal energy losses. Four adult ponies (247-344kg body weight [BW]) were fed with eight different diets based on first cut hay, second cut hay, early first cut fresh grass, late cut herbs-grass mix, early cut clover-grass mix, sugar beet pulp, rice bran and straw. Feed intake was measured, and urine and faeces were quantitatively collected for 3×12hr at daytime and afterwards 3×12hr at nighttime. Feed was analysed for crude nutrients, gross energy, amino acids and neutral-detergent-insoluble crude protein (NDICP); faeces were analysed for crude nutrients and gross energy; and urine was analysed for nitrogen (N) and gross energy. Renal energy losses per gram dry matter (DM) intake (y; kJ/g DM) were strictly correlated to protein content in DM (x; g/kg DM): y=0.325+0.00431x; r2 =.81; n=38; p<.001. The data suggest that the intercept represents energy losses by detoxification products such as hippuric acid and the regression coefficient by protein metabolites such as urea.

Content of neutral-detergent insoluble crude protein of alfalfa depending on the phases of its vegetative development

The results of chemical analysis of alfalfa samples in different phases of its vegetative development are presented. These studies have shown that the content of neutral detergent insoluble crude protein fluctuates depending on the mowing phase within the rate of 17—25.6 %. The content of neutral-detergent fiber exceeds the content of saturated fiber by 18—22 %, which must be considered when balancing cattle diets.

In vitro Evaluation of Corn Germ Meal as Ruminant Feed

The present study was taken up to assess the chemical composition and in vitro nutritional worth of corn germ meal (CGM) in comparison to conventional oilseed cakes used in livestock feeding. The CP content of protein sources varied from 18.59% in CGM to 49.41% in soybean meal (SBM). CGM had the highest ether extract (EE) content, neutral detergent fibre (NDF), acid detergent fibre (ADF) and total carbohydrates. However, total ash, acid detergent insoluble crude protein (ADICP) and neutral detergent insoluble crude protein (NDICP) was lowest in CGM. In vitro net gas production in CGM (267.91 ml/g DM/24 h) was higher (P<0.05) than other conventional oil cakes. The digestibility of organic matter varied from 85.12% in DMC (deoiled mustard cake) to 96.19% in SBM. The ME availability was highest (P<0.05) in CGM (9.63 MJ/kg DM). Ammonical nitrogen in CGM was lower (P<0.05) than SBM and GNC (groundnut cake).The total volatile fatty acids (TVFA) production (mM/dl) was highest (P<0.05) in GNC (12.56) and lowest (P<0.05) in CGM (9.31). Methane production was lowest (P<0.05) in CGM than other conventional oil cakes. Hydrogen recovery (%) was higher (P<0.05) in CGM (65.76) and SBM (65.78) than other protein sources tested. Fermentation efficiency (%) was higher (P<0.05) in SBM (77.02) and GNC (76.75) while volatile fatty acids utilization index (VFA UI) was higher (P<0.05) in CGM (2.92) and DMC (2.84) than other protein sources tested. The results revealed that CGM can be used as a potential protein source for ruminants.