Apparent Total Tract Digestibility Of Nutrients Research Articles

Effects of particle size reduction of meadow hay on feed intake, performance, and apparent total tract nutrient digestibility in dairy cows

ABSTRACT Forage-based diets are encouraged in organic dairy cattle production as this can increase the net human food supply, but their voluminous nature can limit dry matter intake (DMI) and performance. This study investigates the effects of a substantial particle size reduction of hay on dairy cows’ feed intake, performance, and body characteristics, as well as on apparent total tract digestibility (ATTD). Eighteen lactating Holstein cows were allocated to two balanced feeding groups. The control group received long stem hay with a conventional particle size (CON), the experimental group received chopped hay (RED). Both groups were supplemented with concentrates (3.6 kg/d, DM basis). After 14 adaptation days, data were collected for 20 consecutive days. A covariate period of 21 days preceded the experimental feeding period. Particles retained on the 19-, 8- and 4-mm screens and on the pan of the Penn State Particle Separator accounted for 21%, 20%, 20% and 39% of the RED hay. CON hay consisted of 72% large particles, followed by 8%, 7% and 13% retained on the other screens. Average DMI levels of cows in the CON group reached 20.8 kg/d, with a nonsignificant increase (+1.05 kg/d) in the RED group (p = 0.28). Intakes of both NFC (+0.65 kg/d, p = 0.01) and CP (+0.28 kg/d, p = 0.05) were significantly greater in the RED group, resulting in a slightly increased milk yield (+0.8 kg energy corrected milk/d) (p = 0.45), likely because the ATTD decreased significantly when feeding RED hay. No impact was observed on energy balance (103.7 vs 103.9%, p = 0.95), feed conversion efficiency (kg ECM/kg DMI), or N use efficiency. Overall, the results indicate increases in intake of NFC and CP in the RED group when feeding a hay-based (>83%, DM basis) diet, but also a decrease in nutrient digestibility, likely due to increased passage rate, potentially because of the high fraction of hay particles < 4 mm. In conclusion, hay-based rations with a lower proportion of fine particles should be tested to exploit the potential of particle size reduction in terms of improving hay use efficiency.

Evaluation of the Available Energy Value and Amino Acid Digestibility of Brown Rice Stored for 6 Years and Its Application in Pig Diets.

Long-term storage may reduce the nutritional quality of brown rice, so the present study aimed to evaluate the nutritional values of long-term-stored nutrition in pig diets. In Exp. 1, 18 Landrace × Yorkshire (L × Y) barrows with an initial body weight (IBW) of 25.48 ± 3.21 kg were randomly assigned to three treatments, including a corn-based diet, one-year-stored brown rice (BR1) diet, and six-year-stored brown rice (BR6) diet, to determine the digestible energy (DE) and metabolizable energy (ME) values of stored brown rice. In Exp. 2, 24 barrows (L × Y; IBW: 22.16 ± 2.42 kg) fixed with ileal T-cannula were randomly allotted to four dietary treatments, including a corn diet, two stored brown rice diets, and a nitrogen-free diet, to evaluate the amino acid (AA) digestibility of the stored brown rice. In Exp. 3 and 4, 108 crossbred weaned piglets (L × Y; IBW: 9.16 ± 0.89 kg) and 90 crossbred growing pigs (L × Y; IBW: 48.28 ± 3.51 kg) were allotted to three treatment diets, including a control diet and two stored brown rice diets, respectively, to investigate the application of stored brown rice in weaned piglets and fully grown pig diets. The results indicated that there was no significant difference in the DE and ME values between corn and stored brown rice (p > 0.05), while the apparent ileal digestibility (AID) of arginine, histidine, asparagine + aspartic acid (Asx), and the standardized ileal digestibility (SID) of arginine and histidine were higher in the stored brown rice diet compared to the corn diet (p < 0.05). Compared to the corn, the stored brown rice showed no significant effects on growth performance, nutrient-apparent total tract digestibility (ATTD), and serum biochemical indices (p > 0.05) but showed decreased activity in the various digestive enzymes in the duodenum, jejunum, and ileum of the weaned piglets (p < 0.05). Also, the stored brown rice diet showed no significant effects on growth performance, carcass traits, meat quality, as well as the fatty acid profiles in the longissimus dorsi muscle of fully grown pigs compared with the corn diet (p > 0.05). In conclusion, the brown rice stored for 6 years under good conditions had no obvious changes in the available energy and nutrient values. Although it may reduce digestive enzyme activity in the small intestines of the piglets, the stored brown rice showed no obvious adverse effects on growth performance and meat quality and can be effectively used in pig diets.

306 Nutrient Digestibility and Dietary Energy Values in Growing Pigs Fed a Corn Distillers Dried Grains with Soluble (Cddgs)-Based Diet with Multi-Enzyme Supplementation

Abstract Dietary enzyme supplementation may enhance the digestibility and utilization of non-starch components of the diet by pigs. This study was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of a multi-carbohydrase enzyme (ENZ) in growing pigs for apparent ileal digestibility (AID) of amino acids (AA), apparent total tract digestibility (ATTD) of nutrients and energy values in a corn distillers dried grains with solubles (cDDGS)-based diet. A total of 12 ileal-cannulated pigs [initial body weight (BW) = 31.7 kg ± 3.04] were housed in individual metabolic crates for 21 days (Period 1) and subsequently transferred to individual floor pens for additional 28 days (Period 2). These animals were assigned to 2 diets (n = 6) in a completely randomized design (CRD). The diets were formulated on corn, soybean meal and cDDGS (30%) without (CON) or with ENZ supplementation. The ENZ (Proprietary xylanase/cellulase product, Kerry Inc.) was included in the diets at 200 g/tonne. Feeds were formulated to 1.15% SID lysine and met or exceeded nutrient requirements for growing pigs (NRC, 2012). Pigs were fed diets at three times maintenance energy requirement based on BW, which was assessed at every 2 weeks intervals throughout the study, Titanium dioxide was added to the diets as an indigestible marker. In period 1, pigs had 14 d of adaptation, followed by 4 d fecal and urine using the total collection method and 2 d ileal digesta collection. In period 2, pigs had 23 days adaptation, followed by 2 d fecal collection and 2 d illeal digesta collection. The AID of AA and gross energy (GE) and ATTD of nutrients and GE were calculated by an index method. Data were analyzed as a CRD, using pig as the experimental unit and enzyme supplementation as the main effect. Overall, average daily gain and gain:feed ratio of pigs were 857 and 918 g/d and 0.52 and 0.54 for CON and ENZ, respectively (P &amp;gt; 0.05). In period 1, ENZ supplementation improved (P &amp;lt; 0.05) the ATTD of dry matter (DM), ash, organic matter (OM), neutral detergent fiber (NDF), and GE by 4.4%, 26.8%, 2.8%, 11.3%, and 3.6%, respectively. Also, ENZ tended to improve (P &amp;lt; 0.10) the ATTD of crude protein (CP) by 7.4% and AID of threonine, CP, and GE by 6.6%, 7.6%, and 13.7%, respectively. In period 2, ENZ improved (P &amp;lt; 0.05) the ATTD of DM, ash, OM, CP, NDF, and GE by 5%, 30.1%, 3.4%, 4.1%, 19.6%, and 4.2%, respectively. similarly, EMZ improved (P &amp;lt; 0.05) the AID of threonine, CP, and GE by 4.2%, 6.0%, and 6.4%, respectively. In conclusion, multi-carbohydrase supplementation in a corn-SBM diet with 30% cDDGS increased the digestibility of nutrients and energy in growing pigs and may represent a useful strategy to optimize the utilization of such raw material.

Doses of orange (Citrus sinensis) essential oil for Nellore steers fed with a forage-based diet

The aim was to evaluate whether the doses of orange essential oil supplementation impact on dry matter intake (DMI), ruminal fermentation parameters, apparent nutrient digestibility, and methane production in Nellore steers fed with forage-based diet. A total of 32 rumen-cannulated Nellore steers (initial BW= 335±25 kg; age= 20±1 month) were assigned to individual pens in a randomized complete block design. Within block, steers were randomly assigned to treatments: CON= diet without orange essential oil (EO); 100EO= CON diet plus 100 mg orange EO/kg DM diet; 200EO= CON diet plus 200 mg orange EO/kg DM diet; and 500EO= CON diet plus 500 mg orange EO/kg DM diet. The main active compounds of the orange EO used were limonene (88.0 %) and myrcene (5.79 %). The experimental period lasted 28d, with 22d for adaptation and 6d for sample collection. From d23 to 27, samples of haylage, concentrate, and total fecal production were collected to determine the total tract apparent nutrient digestibility. Ruminal fluid was obtained from d28 at 0, 6, and 12 h after feeding to determine ruminal fermentation parameters and methane production. The difference was considered significant when P ≤ 0.05. No treatment effects were detected (P>0.05) to DMI or specific nutrient intake. The increasing levels of EO did not affect (P>0.05) the total apparent nutrient digestibility. No treatment effects were detected (P>0.05) for ruminal fermentation parameters in vivo. In ex situ, there was a treatment effect for acetate, total short-chain fatty acids (SCFA), methane, and relative energy loss (REL). For acetate, an increasing linear effect was observed for treatments that received EO for the variables production (g/kg) (P = 0.002) and gross energy (MJ/kg) (P = 0.002), with a higher concentration for the 500EO. For the total production of SCFA, there was an increasing linear effect of treatment with a higher concentration for 500EO for the variables production (g/kg) (P = 0.001) and gross energy (MJ/kg) (P = 0.001). For methane, a quadratic treatment effect was observed for the variables production (g/kg) (P = 0.045) and gross energy (MJ/kg) (P = 0.046), with lower concentrations for the 200EO. There was a decreasing linear treatment effect for REL(%) (P<0.001). The results for the use of orange EO as a manipulator of ruminal fermentation were promising and the dose of 500 mg/kg of DM showed a greater capacity to increase the energy efficiency of fermentation, with greater production of acids and lower production of methane, without affecting the voluntary intake of steers.

Feeding rumen-protected Capsicum oleoresin to dairy cows during the transition period and early lactation: Effects on nutrient digestibility, blood metabolites, and performance

Capsicum oleoresin (CAP), a plant extract derived from chili pepper plants, contains bioactive compounds reported to influence the energy metabolism in dairy cows. This study investigated the effects of feeding rumen-protected CAP during the transition period and early lactation on total-tract apparent digestibility of nutrients, serum metabolites [glucose, urea-N, non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA), and beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB)], and milk yield and composition in dairy cows. Twenty-four healthy Holstein cows (12 multiparous and 12 primiparous) were enrolled to this study at − 4 wk from the expected calving date. Animals were blocked according to parity and expected calving date. Cows within block were randomly assigned to a control (CON) treatment without feed additives or to the CAP treatment, dietary supply of rumen-protected CAP at 100 mg/d. Pre-partum and post-partum data were analyzed separately. Dry matter intake and related dietary variables were not affected by treatments during the pre- or post-partum period. No differences were detected on digestibility of DM, organic matter, or crude protein during the pre-partum and post-partum periods. Serum metabolite concentrations were similar between treatment groups either during the pre-partum or post-partum periods. Milk yield tended to be greater (P = 0.07) in cows fed CAP than CON (31.7 and 28.5 kg/d, respectively). Fat-corrected milk yield was increased (P = 0.03) by feeding CAP. Milk fat yield (1.20 vs. 1.05 kg/d) and feed efficiency (1.72 vs. 1.50 kg milk/kg DM intake) were significantly greater (P ≤ 0.03) in cows fed CAP than CON. Feeding rumen-protected CAP at 100 mg/d during the transition period and early lactation increased fat-corrected milk yield, and improved milk fat and feed efficiency of dairy cows.

Effect of short-term abomasal corn starch infusions on postruminal fermentation and blood measures

It is possible that some of the systemic responses to subacute ruminal acidosis (SARA) may be caused by increased intestinal starch fermentation. The objective of this experiment was to evaluate the effect of abomasal infusion of up to 3 g of corn starch/kg body weight (approximately 1.6 kg of starch/d) on fecal measures of fermentation, plasma acute phase proteins, and white blood cell populations. Six ruminally cannulated cows in late lactation were randomly assigned to duplicate 3 × 3 Latin squares with 21-d periods. Cows were fed a 20.6% starch TMR twice daily and during the last 7 d of each period cows were abomasally infused with corn starch at 0 (CON), 1 (ST1), or 3 (ST3) g/kg body weight split into 2 bolus infusions, provided every 12 h. Fecal samples were collected at 0, 6, 12, and 18 h following feeding on d 21 and were analyzed for pH, VFA, lactic acid, and lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Composite fecal samples were used to estimate apparent total-tract nutrient digestibility using undigested neutral detergent fiber as an internal marker. Blood samples were collected at 0 and 6 h relative to feeding on d 14, 18, and 21 of each period. Concentrations of haptoglobin and serum amyloid A in plasma were measured in all samples, 0 h samples on d 14 and 21 were used to measure white blood cell populations, and 0 h samples from d 14, 18, and 21 were used for flow cytometric analysis of γδ T cells. Data were analyzed in SAS using models that included fixed effects of treatment and period and the random effects of cow and square. For blood measures, d 14 samples collected before the initiation of abomasal infusions were included as covariates. Time (d or h) was added as a repeated measure in variables that included multiple samples during the abomasal infusion period. A contrast was used to determine the linear effect of increasing abomasal corn starch. Abomasal corn starch linearly decreased fecal pH and linearly increased fecal total VFA and LPS, but effects were modest, with fecal pH, total VFA, and LPS changing from 6.96, 57.7 mM, and 4.14 log10 endotoxin units (EU) per gram for the CON treatment to 6.69, 64.1 mM, and 4.58 log10 EU/g for the ST3 treatment, respectively. This suggests that we did not induce hindgut acidosis. There were no effects of treatment on apparent total-tract starch digestibility or fecal starch content (mean of 96.9% and 2.2%, respectively). Treatment did not affect serum acute phase proteins or most circulating white blood cells, but the proportion of circulating γδ T cells tended to linearly decrease from 6.69% for CON to 4.61% for ST3. Contrary to our hypothesis, increased hindgut starch fermentation did not induce an inflammatory response in this study.

Propionic acid-based additive with surfactant action on the feeding value of rehydrated corn grain silage for dairy cows performance

Eighteen Holstein cows with 218 ± 106 days in milk (mean ± SD) and average daily milk yield of 22 ± 7.6 kg (mean ± SD) were assigned to six 3 × 3 Latin squares to evaluate the effects of using a propionic acid-based additive with surfactant action (Mycoflake™; Kemin South America, Indaiatuba, SP, Brazil) at the ensiling of rehydrated corn grain on its nutritional value and animal performance. Dry ground corn grain (998 μm) was rehydrated to reach 400 g/kg fresh matter of moisture, with or without the additive, and ensiled in 200-L plastic drums. Treatments were prepared as follows: rehydrated corn grain silage (RCGS) stored for 30 d as a negative control (30CON), RCGS stored for 60 d as a positive control (60CON) and RCGS treated with Mycoflake™ at 2 L/t and stored for 30 d (30MYC). The animals were offered a total mixed ration containing 399 g/kg whole-plant corn silage, 98 g/kg Tifton haylage, 207 g/kg RCGS (according to treatment), 98 g/kg citrus pulp, 173 g/kg soybean meal and 25 g/kg mineral-vitamin mix in total diet dry matter (DM). Ruminal DM disappearance (DMD) of RCGS was evaluated in situ using two canulated Holstein cows after 12, 24 and 48 h of incubation. Total tract apparent digestibility (TTAD) of nutrients was determined using the indigestible neutral detergent fiber content as a marker measured after 288 h of incubation in a canulated Holstein cow. Although no change in soluble protein content was observed for the 30MYC silage, its NH3-N content was greater than 30CON in both DM (P = 0.01) and total N (P = 0.02) basis, and did not differ from 60CON. The proportion of NH3-N in soluble N of 30MYC was the highest compared to both 30CON (P = 0.02) and 60CON (P < 0.01). The 30MYC RCGS presented lower geometric mean particle size and greater surface area than both 30CON (P < 0.01) and 60CON (P < 0.01). Although the pH of 30MYC RCGS did not differ from 30CON and 60CON, its lactic acid content (11.9 g/kg DM) was greater than both 30CON (9.28 g/kg DM; P = 0.05) and 60CON (8.10 g/kg DM; P = 0.01). No changes in ruminal DMD were observed for 30MYC RCGS against 30CON. There were no changes on dairy cows performance fed the 30MYC RCGS against 30CON. Cows fed 30MYC RCGS presented a different pattern of sorting behavior against 30CON and 60CON, resulting in lower intake of physically effective fiber than both 30CON (P = 0.01) and 60CON (P = 0.02), although no effect on ruminating and chewing activities was observed. No effect on TTAD of nutrients was observed for cows fed 30MYC RCGS against 30CON. Mycoflake™ hampered the formation of aggregates in RCGS, and did not enhance proteolysis. Despite changes in sorting behavior, the additive did not affect performance of dairy cows.

Supplementing sodium butyrate to limit-fed heifers: Effects on growth, coccidiosis, urinary purine derivatives, and apparent total-tract nutrient digestibility

The objective of this study was to assess the growth, apparent total-tract digestibility of nutrients, the prevalence of coccidia, and purine derivatives (PD) in post-weaned heifers when limit-fed a diet supplemented with sodium butyrate (SB). A 12 wk randomized complete block experiment was conducted using 24 Holstein heifers [92.8 d ± 1.9 d of age and initial body weight (BW) of 99.6 ± 15.2 kg (mean ± SD)]. Treatments were 100 g soybean meal (control; CON) and 0.75 g of SB/kg of BW + 100g soybean meal (SB). Diets were formulated to contain 16.4% crude protein (CP), 2.27 Mcal/kg metabolizable energy (ME), and fed at a feed out rate of 2.15% of BW on a dry matter basis. Intakes were recorded daily while growth measurements and BW were recorded weekly. Urine and fecal samples were taken biweekly. On d 42 through d 49 an apparent total-tract digestibility phase took place using acid detergent insoluble ash as a marker. Growth measurements were similar among treatments except CON heifers grew longer and tended to be taller at the withers. A trend was observed for CON animals to have lower levels of coccidian oocytes by week. Heifers fed SB had lower blood glucose levels and higher levels of ketones in their blood. Urinary volume was greater for heifers fed SB throughout the 12 wk study. Total purine derivatives (PD) were greater in CON heifers. Dry matter, organic matter and acid detergent fiber digestibilities were greater for heifers fed SB compared with CON heifers. Crude protein, neutral detergent fiber, and ash digestibilities tended to be greater in heifers fed SB than in CON heifers. These results suggested no growth benefit of supplementing SB to limit-fed heifers, however apparent total-tract fiber, ash and crude protein digestibilities were improved in the SB fed heifers likely due to improved ruminal and intestinal development.

Feeding lower-protein diets based on red clover and grass or alfalfa and corn silage does not affect milk production but improves nitrogen use efficiency in dairy cows

Reducing the dietary crude protein (CP) concentration can decrease the financial cost and lower the environmental impact of milk production. Two studies were conducted to examine the effects of reducing the dietary CP concentration on animal performance, nutrient digestibility, milk fatty acid (FA) profile, and nitrogen use efficiency (NUE; milk N/N intake) in dairy cows fed legume silage-based diets. Thirty-six multiparous Holstein-Friesian dairy cows that were 76 ± 14 (mean ± SD) days in milk and 698 ± 54 kg body weight were used in a 3 × 3 Latin square design in each of 2 studies, with 3 periods of 28 d. In study 1, cows were fed diets based on a 50:50 ratio of red clover to grass silage [dry matter (DM) basis] containing 1 of 3 dietary CP concentrations: high (H) = 175 g of CP/kg of DM; medium (M) = 165 g of CP/kg of DM; or low (L) = 150 g of CP/kg of DM. In study 2, cows were fed 175 g of CP/kg of DM with a 50:50 ratio of alfalfa to corn silage (H50) or 1 of 2 diets containing 150 g of CP/kg of DM with either a 50:50 (L50) or a 60:40 (L60) ratio of alfalfa to corn silage. Cows in both studies were fed a total mixed ration with a forage-to-concentrate ratio of 52:48 (DM basis). All diets were formulated to meet the MP requirements, except L (95% of MP requirements). In study 1, cows fed L ate 1.6 kg of DM/d less than those fed H or M, but milk yield was similar across treatments. Mean milk protein, fat, and lactose concentrations were not affected by diet. However, the apparent total-tract nutrient digestibility was decreased in cows fed L. The NUE was 5.7 percentage units higher in cows fed L than H. Feeding L also decreased milk and plasma urea concentrations by 4.4 mg/dL and 0.78 mmol/L, respectively. We found no effect of dietary treatment on the milk saturated or monounsaturated FA proportion, but the proportion of polyunsaturated FA was increased, and milk odd- and branched-chain FA decreased in cows fed L compared with H. In study 2, DM intake was 2 kg/d lower in cows receiving L50 than H50. Increasing the alfalfa content and feeding a low-CP diet (L60) did not alter DMI but decreased milk yield and milk protein concentration by 2 kg/d and 0.6 g/kg, respectively, compared with H50. Likewise, milk protein and lactose yield were decreased by 0.08 kg/d in cows receiving L60 versus H50. Diet had no effect on apparent nutrient digestibility. Feeding the low-CP diets compared with H50 increased the apparent NUE by approximately 5 percentage units and decreased milk and plasma urea concentrations by 7.2 mg/dL and 1.43 mmol/L, respectively. Dietary treatment did not alter milk FA profile except cis-9,trans-11 conjugated linoleic acid, which was higher in milk from cows receiving L60 compared with H50. We concluded that reducing CP concentration to around 150 g/kg of DM in red clover and grass or alfalfa and corn silage-based diets increases the apparent NUE and has little effect on nutrient digestibility or milk performance in dairy cows.

Replacing alfalfa hay with industrial hemp ethanol extraction byproduct and Chinese wildrye hay: Effects on lactation performance, plasma metabolites, and bacterial communities in Holstein cows.

This trial was designed to investigate the effects of industrial hemp ethanol extraction byproduct (IHEEB) and Chinese wildrye hay (CWH) replacement of alfalfa hay (AH) on digestibility, and lactation performance, plasma metabolites, ruminal fermentation, and bacterial communities in Holstein dairy cows. Nine healthy multiparous Holstein cows (parity = 3) with similar body weights (584 ± 12.3 kg), days in milk (108 ± 11.4), and milk yields (30 ± 1.93 kg; all mean ± standard deviation) were used in a replicated 3 × 3 Latin square design with 3 periods of 21 d. During each period, each group consumed 1 of 3 diets: (1) 0% IHEEB (0IHEEB); (2) 6.0% IHEEB and 1.7% Chinese wildrye hay (6IHEEB); (3) 10.8% IHEEB and 4.3% Chinese wildrye hay (11IHEEB). The diets in each group were isocaloric and isonitrogenous, with similar contents of concentrate and silage but different ratios of IHEEB and CWH to replace AH. The results showed that increasing the substitute did not affect the total-tract apparent nutrient digestibility. There was no difference in lactation performance of dairy cows fed the three diets, except for the cows' somatic cell count (SCC), which decreased with the increase in the amount of the substitute. Cannabidiol and tetrahydrocannabinol were not detected in milk samples of dairy cows in the different treatment groups. 6IHEEB and 11IHEEB-fed cows showed a linear decrease in total volatile fatty acids (VFA) and butyrate compared to the 0IHEEB cows. Plasma IL-1β content quadratically decreased with feeding IHEEB and CWH, and other blood parameters were unaffected. The rumen fluid's relative abundances of Bacteroidota, Fibrobacterota, and Prevotellaceae quadratically increased, while Firmicutes tended to decrease quadratically as the substitution increased. Feeding IHEEB and CWH linearly increased the relative abundances of Firmicutes, Lachnospiraceae, Monoglobaceae, and Butyricicoccaceae in the feces. As the substitution increased, the cost of dairy farming was reduced. In summary, substituting AH with IHEEB and CWH in diets did not affect the total-tract apparent nutrient digestibility, improved milk composition, and plasma immune indices. It changed the bacterial composition in rumen fluid and feces and improved dairy farming benefits.

Dietary supplementation with garcinol during late gestation alleviates disorders of bile acid metabolism and improves the performance of sows and newborn piglets.

The present study was conducted to evaluate the effects of dietary garcinol supplementation during late gestation on bile acid metabolism and performance of sows. Sixty sows (Duroc × Yorkshire × Landrace; second- or third-parity; n = 20) with disorder of bile acid metabolism were randomly divided into three groups: control diet (CON; basal diet), basal diet with 200 mg garcinol (Low Gar), and basal diet with 600 mg garcinol (High Gar) per kg of feed. The body weight (BW); backfat thickness and litter size of the sows; and birth weight, weaning weight, and mortality of piglets were recorded. Sows' blood was collected for the measurements of hematological parameters and antioxidative and immune indexes, and indicators related to bile acid metabolism, respectively. The colostrum and fecal samples of the sows were also collected for analysis of colostrum composition and apparent total tract nutrient digestibility. Garcinol had no effect on the BW and backfat thickness of the sows but significantly decreased the mortality and number of weak litter (P < 0.05). Moreover, the white blood cell counts, superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), and catalase (CAT) activity in the plasma of the sows were increased more significantly (P < 0.05) in the garcinol groups than that in the CON group, whereas the malondialdehyde (MDA) content was decreased (P < 0.05). Dietary supplementation with garcinol significantly reduced TBA concentrations (P < 0.05). The content of immunoglobulin A (IgA) and immunoglobulin G (IgG) in the plasma and in colostrum of sows were increased more significantly (P < 0.05) in the garcinol groups than that in the CON group. In addition, dry matter (DM), Ash, and EE in the colostrum were similar between groups (P > 0.05), whereas the garcinol significantly increased the crude protein (CP) in the colostrum. The apparent total tract nutrient digestibility was similar between treatments. Garcinol treatment induced a gradually decreased (P > 0.05) the expression of genes involved in BA synthesis (CYP7A1, CYP8B1), BA uptake (NTCP, OATP1A2), BA secretion (BSEP and MRP2), BA detoxification (SULT2A1), and BA efflux into the blood circulation (OSTβ). Collectively, this study indicates that sows fed with garcinol in late gestation showed relieved bile acid metabolism disorder and improved sows performance, antioxidative status, colostrum protein content, showing promise in natural plant extract nutrition for sows with disorder of bile acid metabolism.

Dietary embelin supplementation during mid-to-late gestation improves performance and maternal-fetal glucose metabolism of pigs.

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of dietary embelin supplementation during late gestation (from days 60 to 110) on performance and maternal-fetal glucose metabolism of pigs. Sixty sows (Duroc × Yorkshire × Landrace; parity = 1.68 ± 0.03; N = 20) were randomly divided into three gestation (day 60 of pregnancy) treatments, Control pigs (CON) were fed a basal diet, and the other animals were fed a basal diet supplemented with 200 or 600 mg/kg embelin per kg of feed. The body weight, backfat thickness and litter size of the sows, and birth weight and mortality of piglets were recorded. Sows' blood and piglets' umbilical cord blood were collected for the measurements of hematological parameters and anti-oxidative and immune indexes, and maternal-fetal glucose metabolism parameters, respectively. The colostrum and milk and fecal samples of the sows were also collected for analysis of milk composition and apparent total tract nutrient digestibility. Dietary embelin had no effect on the BW and backfat thickness of the sows but significantly increased the birth weight of piglets (P < 0.05) and decreased the mortality (P < 0.05). Moreover, the white blood cell counts (day 90), neutrophil count and mean cell hemoglobin (day 110), total anti-oxidant capacity (T-AOC), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), and catalase (CAT) content of the sows were increased significantly (P < 0.05) in the embelin groups than that in the CON group, whereas the malondialdehyde (MDA) content was decreased (P < 0.05). Embelin significantly increased immunoglobulin A (IgA) and immunoglobulin G (IgG) content in plasma of piglets as well as those in colostrum and milk of sows than the CON treatment (P < 0.05). In addition, dry matter, ash, and ether extract in the colostrum were similar between groups (P > 0.05), whereas the embelin significantly increased the crude protein in the milk. The apparent total tract nutrient digestibility was similar between treatments (P > 0.05). The embelin treatment significantly increased the glucose levels and lactate dehydrogenase B (LDHB) activity in sows plasma, and decreased the lactate levels in both sows and fetuses plasma (P < 0.05). Collectively, this study indicates that sows fed with embelin in mid-to-late gestation showed improved maternal health and anti-oxidative status, milk protein content, and maternal-fetal glucose metabolism, showing promise in natural plant extract nutrition for sows.

3-Nitrooxypropanol supplementation of a forage diet decreased enteric methane emissions from beef cattle without affecting feed intake and apparent total-tract digestibility.

Supplementation of ruminant diets with the methane (CH4) inhibitor 3-nitrooxypropanol (3-NOP; DSM Nutritional Products, Switzerland) is a promising greenhouse gas mitigation strategy. However, most studies have used high grain or mixed forage-concentrate diets. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of supplementing a high-forage diet (90% forage DM basis) with 3-NOP on dry matter (DM) intake, rumen fermentation and microbial community, salivary secretion, enteric gas emissions, and apparent total-tract nutrient digestibility. Eight ruminally cannulated beef heifers (average initial body weight (BW) ± SD, 515 ± 40.5 kg) were randomly allocated to two treatments in a crossover design with 49-d periods. Dietary treatments were: 1) control (no 3-NOP supplementation); and 2) 3-NOP (control + 150 mg 3-NOP/kg DM). After a 16-d diet adaption, DM intake was recorded daily. Rumen contents were collected on days 17 and 28 for volatile fatty acid (VFA) analysis, whereas ruminal pH was continuously monitored from days 20 to 28. Eating and resting saliva production were measured on days 20 and 31, respectively. Diet digestibility was measured on days 38-42 by the total collection of feces, while enteric gas emissions were measured in chambers on days 46-49. Data were analyzed using the mixed procedure of SAS. Dry matter intake and apparent total-tract digestibility of nutrients (DM, neutral and acid detergent fiber, starch, and crude protein) were similar between treatments (P ≥ 0.15). No effect was observed on eating and resting saliva production. Relative abundance of the predominant bacterial taxa and rumen methanogen community was not affected by 3-NOP supplementation but rather by rumen digesta phase and sampling hour (P ≤ 0.01). Total VFA concentration was lower (P = 0.004) following 3-NOP supplementation. Furthermore, the reduction in acetate and increase in propionate molar proportions for 3-NOP lowered (P < 0.001) the acetate to propionate ratio by 18.9% as compared with control (4.1). Mean pH was 0.21 units lower (P < 0.001) for control than 3-NOP (6.43). Furthermore, CH4 emission (g/d) and yield (g/kg DMI) were 22.4 and 22.0% smaller (P < 0.001), respectively, for 3-NOP relative to control. Overall, the results indicate that enteric CH4 emissions were decreased by more than 20% with 3-NOP supplementation of a forage diet without affecting DM intake, predominant rumen microbial community, and apparent total-tract nutrients digestibility.

Effects of different processing techniques of palm kernel cake on processing quality of pellet feed, nutrient digestibility, and intestinal microbiota of pigs.

The present study was conducted to investigate the effects of extrusion, fermentation, and enzymolysis of palm kernel cake on processing quality of pellet feed, nutrient digestibility, and intestinal microbiota of pigs. First, the pretreatment parameters of extrusion, enzymolysis, and fermentation of palm kernel cake were optimized. Then, PKC after three processing techniques were used to prepare pellet feed. A total of 160 crossbred piglets (Duroc × Landrace × Yorkshire) with an average body weight of 28 ± 0.5 kg were used in an 8-wk feeding experiment. Pigs were randomly assigned to five treatments with four replicates per treatment and eight pigs per replicates. The five experimental groups were as follows: basal diet group (whole corn-soybean meal), 10% PKC group (PKC), 10% extrusion PKC group (PPKC), 10% enzymolysis PKC group (EPKC), and 10% fermented PKC group (FPKC), respectively. At the end of the experiment, four pigs from each treatment (randomly collected one pig per pen) were sacrificed by administering a pentobarbital overdose, the gut and blood samples were collected for the quantification analysis of microbiota, hematological parameters, and apparent total tract nutrient digestibility. The results showed that all three processing techniques significantly decreased the contents of crude fiber of PKC (P < 0.01), pulverization rate (P < 0.01), powder content (P < 0.01), and increased the hardness and gelatinization starch of pellet feed (P < 0.05) compared to PKC group. In addition, PPKC significantly improved the dry matter, crude protein, and ether extract content, blood indices and average daily feed intake compared to PKC group (P < 0.01), while the parameters were similar among FPKC, EPKC, and control group (P > 0.01). Furthermore, all three processing techniques significantly increased the Lactobacillus and decreased the Escherichia levels in feces or gut compared to PKC. Collectively, extrusion, fermentation, and enzymolysis of PKC had positively enhanced the pellet quality, growth performance, nutrient digestibility, and gut microbiota, extrusion exhibited a superior feeding effect compared to fermentation and enzymolysis.

Effects of extruded pet foods containing dried yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) on palatability, nutrient digestibility, and fecal quality in dogs and cats.

Global protein shortages and sustainability concerns have increased consumer demand for non-animal-derived protein. Dried whole-cell yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) may be a suitable alternative to rendered protein meals in pet foods. The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of dried yeast in dog and cat foods on indicators that pet parents typically use to evaluate the suitability of a food for their pet. For this evaluation, two dog and two cat dry extruded diets were formulated. For each species, the test diet contained 10% dried yeast (Yeast) and the control diet was devoid of yeast (Control). Palatability, apparent total tract nutrient digestibility, and fecal quality of the foods were assessed in dogs and cats. Urine pH and specific gravity were measured in cats as indicators of urinary tract health. In dogs, the Yeast diet showed equivalent or better palatability compared to the Control diet based on total food consumption (P = 0.06), average daily consumption (day 1, P = 0.10; day 2, P = 0.54), and first choice preference over 2 consecutive days (P = 0.005). Cats showed a strong preference for the Yeast diet with more than double the consumption during the 2-d test period (P = 0.001). More cats showed a first-choice preference for the Yeast diet (24 vs. 16), but the difference was not statistically significant (P = 0.21). There were no significant differences in stool quality or nutrient digestibility when fed Yeast vs. Control diets to the dogs and cats (P > 0.05). All cats produced urine with pH and specific gravity values within the normal range, though specific gravity was lower in the Control group (P = 0.003). This study provides support for the acceptability and digestibility of dog and cat diets containing dried yeast as an alternative protein source.

Influence of encapsulated pepper on ruminal fermentation, nutrient digestibility, and performance in dairy cows

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of a feed additive containing encapsulated pepper on total-tract apparent nutrient digestibility, sorting index, ruminal fermentation, milk yield and composition, serum concentrations of urea-N and glucose, purine derivative excretion, and N utilization efficiency in dairy cows. Twenty-two Holstein cows (182 ± 86.3 days in milk, 35.4 ± 4.85 kg/d milk yield), of which 4 were rumen cannulated, were used in a crossover design experiment with 21-d periods (14 days allowed to treatment adaptation and 7 days for sampling). Cows were blocked according to parity, days in milk, and milk yield and randomly assigned to the following treatments: Control (CON), or 1.5 g/d (CAP) of a feed additive containing encapsulated pepper (Capcin; NutriQuest, Campinas, Brazil) added to the concentrate along with minerals. Data were analyzed using the mixed procedure of SAS modeling the fixed effects of treatment, period, and the random effect of animal. Ruminal fermentation data were analyzed as repeated measurements adding the fixed effect of time and its interaction with treatments to the previous model. No differences in intake of dry matter or nutrients were detected. Sorting for feed particles between 19 and 8 mm size was greater in cows fed CAP compared to CON (1.000 and 0.992 kg/kg, respectively). Feeding CAP had no effects on digestibility of dry matter, crude protein, ether extract, or neutral detergent fiber. Nor treatment or interaction effect between treatment and time were observed for ruminal pH, NH3N concentration, or short-chain fatty acids concentration. Yields of milk (35.3 vs 34.3 kg/d) and fat-corrected milk (37.4 vs 36.0 kg/d) were greater for cows under CAP treatment compared to CON. Yield of milk solids (fat, protein, and lactose) was increased when feeding CAP. Milk fat concentration tended to be greater in cows fed CAP than those in CON group (39.5 vs 38.3 g/kg, respectively). Feed efficiency (fat-corrected milk ÷ dry matter intake) tended to be greater in cows fed CAP than CON-cows (1.45 vs 1.40, respectively). Serum concentrations of urea-N and glucose were similar between treatment groups. Feeding CAP did not alter purine derivative excretion (allantoin in urine and milk, and uric acid in urine), as well as the nitrogen excreted (g/g N intake) through feces, milk, or urine. In conclusion, feeding CAP at 1.5 g/d improved performance without altering nutrient digestibility, ruminal fermentation, excretion of purine derivatives, or efficiency of nitrogen utilization in dairy cows.

Feeding encapsulated pepper to dairy cows during the hot season improves performance without affecting core and skin temperature.

Peppers (Capsicum spp.) contain capsaicin, an organic compound with a group of alkaloids that has shown thermoregulation properties in humans and mice, and may influence glucose and lipid metabolism in ruminants. An experiment was conducted to evaluate different doses of a feed additive containing encapsulated pepper on milk yield and composition, dry matter intake, feed sorting index, total-tract apparent digestibility of nutrients, purine derivatives excretion, and serum concentrations of urea-N and glucose, N excretion, respiration rate, rectal temperature, and skin temperature in different regions (forehead, face, and rumen). Thirty-six Holstein cows (150 ± 102.1 d in milk and 29.3 ± 5.81 kg/d milk yield) were used in a 9-wk randomized complete block (n = 12) design experiment. Following a 2-wk covariate period, cows were blocked according to parity, days in milk, and milk yield and were randomly assigned to the following treatments: 0 (CAP0), 0.75 (CAP75), or 1.5 (CAP150) g/d of a feed additive containing encapsulated pepper (1 g/kg, Capcin; NutriQuest) added to the concentrate along with minerals. Treatment differences were evaluated through orthogonal contrasts (CAP0 vs. CAP75 + CAP150 or CAP75 vs. CAP150). The average temperature-humidity index during the experiment was 72.0 ± 2.07. Dry matter intake was greater in cows fed a feed additive containing encapsulated pepper (CAP) treatments (CAP75 and CAP150) compared with CAP0. Cows fed CAP150 tended to have greater dry matter intake than those in CAP75 group. Feeding CAP decreased sorting for feed particles with size between 8 and 4 mm. An interaction effect between treatment and week was observed for crude protein digestibility whereas cows fed CAP150 had the greatest digestibility on the third week of experiment. Orthogonal contrasts did not detect differences in serum concentrations of glucose and urea-N, or purine derivatives excretion. Nitrogen excretion (as % of N intake) in milk, urine, and feces was not altered by treatments. Feeding CAP increased yields of 3.5% fat-corrected milk, fat, protein, and lactose. A tendency toward greater milk protein content was observed for cows fed CAP150 than CAP75. No differences were detected on respiration rate, rectal temperature, and skin temperature of cows. A feed additive containing encapsulated pepper fed at 0.75 or 1.5 g/d can improve yield of fat-corrected milk and milk solids by increasing feed intake without affecting nutrient digestibility and body temperature of lactating cows during the hot season.

Xylanase Impact beyond Performance: Effects on Gut Structure, Faecal Volatile Fatty Acid Content and Ammonia Emissions in Weaned Piglets Fed Diets Containing Fibrous Ingredients.

The addition of xylanase to piglet diets is known to improve performance and nutrient digestibility. The present study aimed to assess the impact of new xylanase on the growth performance, nutrient digestibility, and gut function of weaned piglets. A total of 144 pigs, weaned at 28 days (7.48 kg initial body weight, IBW), were assigned to 36 pens and 9 pens per treatment. Dietary treatments were a basal complex control diet, and the basal diet supplemented with 45,000, 90,000 and 135,000 U/kg xylanase. Performance was measured at days 0, 14 and 35. At day 35, samples were collected for assessment of intestinal histology, and volatile fatty acid and ammonia concentrations. After two weeks post-weaning, additional 12 piglets (11.34 kg IBW) were placed in metabolic crates for assessment of apparent total tract nutrient digestibility using a dietary marker. The addition of xylanase at 90,000 and 135,000 U/kg significantly improved average daily gain (333.6 g/day control, 364.86 g/day, 90,000 U/kg, 405.89 g/day, 135,000 U/kg, p < 0.05), G:F (0.557 control, 0.612 90,000 U/kg, 0.692 135,000 U/kg, p < 0.05), and reduced diarrhoea. This was driven improved nutrient digestibility and villus height in the jejunum (372.87 µm control, 432.53 µm 45,000 U/kg, 465.80 µm 90,000 U/kg, 491.28 µm 135,000 U/kg, p < 0.05). Xylanase supplementation also linearly increased faecal butyrate levels and had a quadratic relationship with propionate concentrations. 135,000 U/kg xylanase also reduced ammonia emissions. In conclusion, dietary supplementation with xylanase improved growth performance and feed efficiency in weaning piglets, likely driven by improvements to gut structure and function.

Dietary fenugreek seed extract improves dry matter intake, apparent total tract nutrient digestibility, and alters whole blood transcriptome of Holstein dairy heifers.

This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of dietary supplementation of a fenugreek seed extract (SAP) as a source of saponins on dry matter intake, blood metabolites, apparent total tract nutrient digestibility, and whole blood transcriptome of Holstein dairy heifers. Eight heifers (BW = 477 ± 23.8 kg) were stratified by BW and then randomly assigned to one of two treatments in a cross-over design with two 35-d experimental periods and a 14-d wash-out between the two periods. The heifers were housed individually in eight dry lot pens. Each pen was equipped with one GrowSafe intake node. Treatments were 1) corn silage-based diet with no additive (CON) and 2) corn silage-based diet plus 2 g per hd per d of SAP. Dairy heifers fed supplemental SAP had higher (P ≤ 0.05) DMI and apparent total tract digestibility of dry matter, crude protein, and neutral detergent fiber compared to CON. Dairy heifers fed supplemental SAP had lower (P = 0.03) blood urea nitrogen and higher (P = 0.01) blood glucose concentration compared to CON. Pathway analysis via gene set enrichment analysis revealed increased (FDR ≤ 0.05) transcript levels for gene sets belonging to ISG15 antiviral mechanism, metabolism of proteins, citric acid cycle and respiratory electron transport, ATP synthesis by chemiosmotic coupling, and complex I biogenesis in dairy heifers fed supplemental SAP compared to CON. Decreased (FDR ≤ 0.05) transcript levels for gene sets associated with erythrocytes take up/release carbon dioxide, release/take up oxygen, and O2/CO2 exchange in erythrocytes were also observed with SAP supplemental group. Taken together, our results revealed that fenugreek seed extract can be used as an effective dietary supplement for dairy heifers to improve intake and digestibility, and alter the host transcriptome toward improved energy and amino acid metabolism, improved antiviral immune status, and reduced oxidative stress damage.

PSXV-7 Nutrient Digestibility Evaluation in Finisher Pigs from Diverse Feed Efficiency Groups

Abstract Feed efficiency (FE) is a critical trait in swine production to improve the overall production efficiency and profitability and is an important goal for pig breeding companies. FE is a complex trait involving utilization and storage of dietary nutrients in different organs, and more especially in skeletal muscles. However, whether nutrient digestibility in the pig is altered by genetic selection for FE is less clear. Thus, this study investigated the variation in apparent total tract nutrient digestibility (ATTD) in finisher boars selected for high (HFE) or low (LFE) FE within a Large White dam and sire line. A total of 130 boars were selected at 23 wk of age based on their genomic-enabled breeding value for FE and fed ad libitum a corn-soybean meal-based diet using feeding stations that recorded individual feed intake and body weight. Fecal and diet samples were analyzed for dry matter, neutral detergent fiber, acid detergent fiber, crude protein (CP), energy, ash, phosphorus, and calcium to determine ATTD using acid-insoluble ash as an indigestible marker. There was no difference in ATTD values between genetic lines (P &amp;gt; 0.10). However, HFE pigs had greater (P = 0.03 ATTD of CP compared with LFE pigs. Based on the estimated protein deposition and the average feed intake one week before sampling, calculated dietary digestible lysine content diet met the requirements for the average pig. However, HFE pigs had a reduced feed intake, implying that they might have experienced a shortage of lysine in the diet. It is unclear whether the improved ATTD of CP was due to a lysine-shortage or differences in genetic merit for FE.