Total Tract Digestibility Of DM Research Articles

Effects of Chelated Copper and Zinc Supplementation on Growth Performance, Nutrient Digestibility, Blood Profiles, and Fecal Noxious Gas Emission in Weanling Pigs

This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of chelated Cu and Zn on growth performance, nutrient digestibility, blood profiles, and fecal noxious gas emission in weanling pigs. A total of 90 weanling pigs with an initial body weight (BW) of <TEX>$5.27{\pm}0.04kg$</TEX> were randomly allotted to two dietary treatments for 42 d. Pigs were then fed a control diet (CON) or a Zinpro diet (CON + 0.1% chelate copper and zinc). There were nine replicate-pens with five pigs in each pen. During d 0 to 14 and d 14 to 28, the ADFI decreased (p<0.05) and the G/F increased (p<0.05) in pigs fed the Zinpro diet compared with those that received the CON diet. During d 28 to 42, the ADFI increased (p<0.05) in pigs fed the Zinpro diet relative to those fed the CON diet. Additionally, the apparent total tract digestibility of DM, N, and energy increased (p<0.05) in the Zinpro group when compared to the CON group on d 14 and 28. The lymphocyte percentage was also greater (p<0.05) in the Zinpro group than in the CON group. Overall, dietary supplementation with 0.1% chelate copper and zinc improved the growth performance and nutrient digestibility in weanling pigs.

Effect of corn bran and steep inclusion in finishing diets on diet digestibility, cattle performance, and nutrient mass balance

One metabolism trial and 2 finishing trials were conducted to evaluate the effects of adding corn bran and steep liquor (steep) in replacement of dry-rolled corn (DRC) on diet digestibility, cattle performance, and nutrient mass balance in open feedlot pens. The metabolism trial (Exp. 1) used 8 ruminally cannulated heifers in a 4 × 4 Latin square design and the 2 finishing trials used 128 steer calves fed for 167 d (Exp. 2) and 256 yearling steers fed for 126 d (Exp. 3). Dietary treatments for all trials included a DRC-based control (CON), 30% corn bran (30/0), 30% corn bran plus 15% steep (30/15), and 45% corn bran plus 15% steep (45/15), in which by-products replaced DRC and molasses in the diet (DM basis). Diets were not isonitrogenous or isoenergetic. In the metabolism trial, feeding the by-product diets produced greater rumen pH (5.95) than CON (5.76; P < 0.01). Total tract DM and OM digestibility were greater for heifers fed CON than the by-product diets (P < 0.01). Dry matter and NDF ruminal disappearance (%/h) of corn bran were numerically less for cattle fed the CON diet than the by-product diets (2.36 vs. 2.84 and 0.72 vs. 1.66, respectively). In the performance trials, steers fed the by-product diets consumed more DM (P = 0.06) and G:F was either similar for all diets in Exp. 2 (P = 0.56) or less for cattle fed 30/0 than the other diets in Exp. 3 (P = 0.05). Percent N loss was reduced in Exp. 2 by including corn bran in diets compared with CON (P < 0.01). However, in Exp. 3, no differences in percent N loss were detected among treatments (P = 0.16), but more N was removed in the manure from pens where steers were fed by-products (P = 0.01). Although steep did not improve diet digestibility, it was beneficial in maintaining cattle performance in the feedlot studies. Feeding corn bran in combination with steep increased manure N removed and N in compost, but decreased percent N lost during the winter months only.

Digestibility of two diet items by captive eastern quolls (Dasyurus viverrinus)

The eastern quoll (Dasyurus viverrinus) is a carnivorous Australian marsupial that has undergone significant geographical range contraction since European settlement, and is extinct on the mainland. Nutrition is not well researched in captive eastern quolls, and captive diets often consist of commercial pet foods as opposed to raw meat or insect diets. Improving nutrition will enhance reproductive output and ensure suitable numbers of quolls are bred to be used in translocation programs. The present study analyzed the composition of kangaroo mince and chicken necks, and the digestibility of these items, in a captive environment. The quolls had high apparent total tract digestibility on the chicken neck and kangaroo mince treatments (DM 83-88%, GE 95-97%, protein 94-97%, and lipids 94-95%, respectively). The apparent total tract digestibility of DM, GE, and proteins was significantly higher (t14= 2.465, P < 0.05; t14= 2.489, P < 0.05; t14= 5.470, P < 0.01, respectively) on the kangaroo mince treatment compared with the chicken neck treatment. This study provides the first data on Cu (-18-37%), S (86-95%), and Zn (26-28%) apparent total tract digestibility in a Dasyurid. Data gathered during this study can be used to improve management practices for captive quolls, including diet formulation and mineral supplementation.

Influence of dietary fiber type and amount on energy and nutrient digestibility, fecal characteristics, and fecal fermentative end-product concentrations in captive exotic felids fed a raw beef-based diet

Little nutritional or metabolic information has been collected from captive exotic cats fed raw diets. In particular, fiber types and concentrations for use in raw meat-based diets for captive exotic felids have not been well studied. Our objective was to evaluate the effects of fiber type and concentration on apparent total tract energy and macronutrient digestibility, fecal characteristics, and fecal fermentative end-products in captive exotic felids. Four animals of each captive exotic species (jaguar (Panthera onca), cheetah (Acinonyz jubatus), Malayan tiger (Panthera tigris corbetti), and Siberian tiger (Panthera tigris altaica) were randomized in four 4 × 4 Latin square designs (1 Latin square per species) to 1 of the 4 raw beef-based dietary treatments (94.7 to 96.7% beef trimmings): 2 or 4% cellulose or 2 or 4% beet pulp. Felid species, fiber type, and fiber concentration all impacted digestibility and fecal fermentative end-products. Inclusion of beet pulp increased (P ≤ 0.05) fecal short-chain fatty acids and fecal output in all cats. Inclusion of 2 and 4% cellulose, and 4% beet pulp increased (P ≤ 0.05) fecal bulk and diluted fecal branched-chain fatty acid concentrations compared with 2% beet pulp. Apparent total tract DM, OM, fat, and GE digestibility coefficients decreased (P ≤ 0.05) linearly with BW of cats. Additionally, fecal moisture, fecal score, and concentrations of fermentative end-products increased (P ≤ 0.05) with BW. Although the response of many outcomes was dependent on cat size, in general, beet pulp increased wet fecal weight, fecal scores, and fecal metabolites, and reduced fecal pH. Cellulose generally reduced DM and OM digestibility, but increased dry fecal weight and fecal percent DM. Although beet pulp and cellulose fibers were tested individually in this study, these data indicate that the optimum fiber type and concentration for inclusion in captive exotic felid diets is likely a combination of fermentable and nonfermentable fibers, with the optimal fiber blend being dependent on species. Smaller cats, such as cheetahs and jaguars, tolerated fermentable fibers, whereas larger cats, such as Malayan and Siberian tigers, appeared to require more insoluble fibers that limit fermentation and provide fecal bulk. Further research is required to test whether these trends hold true when fed in combination.

Effect of probiotics supplementation in diets with different nutrient densities on growth performance, nutrient digestibility, blood characteristics, faecal microbial population and faecal noxious gas content in growing pigs

A total of 144 pigs with initial BW of 29.48±0.58 kg were used in a 6-wk experiment to evaluate the probiotics supplementation (Enterococcis faecium, 1.0×1010 CFU/g) with different nutrient densities in growing pigs. Pigs were randomly allotted to one of four treatments in a 2×2 factorial arrangement of treatments with two levels of nutrient density and probiotic (0 or 0.1%) according to their sex and BW (nine replicate pens with two gilts and two barrows per pen). Pigs fed the higher nutrient density diets led to a higher (P<0.05) ADG and G:F ratio than those fed low nutrient density diet. The inclusion of probiotic increased (P<0.05) ADG, ADFI, G:F, and the apparent total tract digestibility of DM, N, energy. Dietary high nutrient density led to a higher (P<0.05) faecal H2S and NH3 content, whereas the probiotic supplementation led to a reduced (P<0.05) faecal H2S and NH3 content. An increased faecal lactobacillus concentration was observed with probiotic supplementation. An interactive effect between energy and nutrient density diet and probiotic was observed on the ADG and G:F ratio, faecal lactobacillus, apparent total tract digestibility and faecal noxious gas content. In conclusion, both dietary probiotic supplementation and a high nutrient diet could improve growth performance and nutrient digestibility in growing pigs. The beneficial effect of probiotic supplementation in pigs could be enhanced with the high energy and nutrient density diets.

Effect of zilpaterol hydrochloride on feedlot performance, nutrient intake, and digestibility in hair-breed sheep

Twelve Dorper × Pelibuey wether lambs (26.8 ± 1.6 kg initial BW, 5 mo of age) were used to evaluate effects of zilpaterol hydrochloride (ZH) on feedlot performance, and effects of ZH and ZH supplementation period (15 and 30 d) on nutrient intake and digestibility. Lambs were blocked by initial BW, and assigned randomly within BW blocks to 1 of 2 treatments: i) control (no ZH), and ii) supplemented with ZH (10 mg ZH/wether lamb daily). Measurements of intake and digestibility were performed on d 9 to 15 and 24 to 30. Feedlot performance data were analyzed as a randomized complete block design, and nutrient intake and digestibility data were analyzed as a randomized complete block design with a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement of treatments. Final BW, ADG, total BW gain, and G:F were greater (P ≤ 0.04) for ZH than for control lambs. No treatment × feeding duration interaction for nutrient intake and apparent total tract digestibility were observed (P > 0.05). Intake of DM, OM, CP, and GE were less (P ≤ 0.03) for ZH than for control. Lambs fed for 30 d had greater (P ≤ 0.04) NDF and GE intake compared with those fed for 15 d. Total tract digestibility of DM, OM, CP, EE, and ADF (P ≤ 0.03) was less for ZH than control. Furthermore, calculated DE, ME, and TDN intake decreased (P < 0.01) with ZH supplementation. Also, DM, CP, and ether extract(EE) digestibility were greater (P < 0.01) for 30 d than for 15 d. Additionally, greater (P ≤ 0.01) DE, ME, and TDN intake was observed for 30 d compared with 15 d. In conclusion, ZH supplementation of wether lambs consuming feedlot diets resulted in improved feedlot performance and reduced the intake and digestibility of some nutrients.

The effects of supplementing varying molecular weights of chitooligosaccharide on performance, selected microbial populations and nutrient digestibility in the weaned pig

An experiment (complete randomised design) was conducted to investigate the effects of supplementing different molecular weights (MW) of chitooligosaccharide (COS) on pig performance, selected microbial populations and nutrient digestibility post-weaning. A total of 396 weaned piglets (24 days of age, 7.3 kg ± (s.d.) 1.7 kg live weight) were assigned to one of six dietary treatments (22 replicates/treatment) for a 33-day experimental period. The dietary treatments were as follows (1) control diet (0 ppm COS), (2) control diet plus <1 kDa COS, (3) control diet plus 3 to 5 kDa COS, (4) control diet plus 5 to 10 kDa COS, (5) control diet plus 10 to 50 kDa COS and (6) control diet plus 50 to 100 kDa COS. The COS were included at 250 ppm in the diets. There was no significant effect of dietary treatment on piglet performance during the starter period (days 0 to 18; P > 0.05). However, there were quadratic responses in both daily gain (P < 0.05) and gain to feed ratio (P < 0.05) to the increased MW of COS inclusion during the weaner period (days 18 to 33) with all COS-supplemented treatments improving daily gain and gain to feed ratio compared with the control. There was a quadratic response in faecal scoring to the increased MW of COS inclusion from days 0 to 7 (P < 0.001), days 7 to 14 (P < 0.001) and during the overall experimental period (P < 0.01) with all the COS-supplemented treatments having an improved faecal score compared with the control. During the weaner period, there was a cubic response in lactic acid bacteria and Escherichia coli populations as the MW of COS increased (P < 0.05). The 5 to 10 kDa and 10 to 50 kDa COS increased lactic acid bacteria populations compared with the control, whereas lactic acid bacteria populations decreased at 50 to 100 kDa. The 5 to 10 kDa, 10 to 50 kDa and 50 to 100 kDa COS decreased E. coli populations compared with the control. There was a cubic response in the apparent total tract digestibility of dry matter (DM; P < 0.01), organic matter (OM; P < 0.01), ash (P < 0.01), nitrogen (N; P < 0.01) and gross energy (GE; P < 0.01) to the increased MW of COS inclusion during the weaner period. The 5 to 10 kDa COS had a higher apparent total tract digestibility of DM, OM, ash, N and GE in comparison to the control, whereas the apparent total tract nutrient digestibility of these nutrients decreased at 10 to 50 kDa. The current results indicate that the MW ranges of 5 to 10 kDa and 10 to 50 kDa COS decreased E. coli numbers while increasing nutrient digestibility of the diets.

Effects of soybean small peptides on rumen fermentation and on intestinal and total tract digestion of luxi yellow cattle.

Four Luxi beef cattle (400±10 kg) fitted with ruminal, duodenal and ileal cannulas were used in a 4×4 Latin square to assess the effects of soybean small peptide (SSP) infusion on rumen fermentation, diet digestion and flow of nutrient in the gastrointestinal tract. The ruminal infusion of SSP was 0 (control), 100, 200 and 300 g/d. Ruminal SSP infusion linearly (p<0.01) and quadratically (p<0.01) increased microbial protein synthesis and rumen ammonia-N concentration. Concentrations of total volatile fatty acid were linearly increased (p = 0.029) by infusion SSP. Rumen samples were obtained for analysis of microbial ecology by real-time PCR. Populations of rumen Butyrivibrio fibrisolvens, Streptococcus bovis, Ciliate protozoa, Ruminococcus flavefaciens, and Prevotella ruminicola were expressed as a proportion of total Rumen bacterial 16S ribosomal deoxyribonucleic acid (rDNA). Butyrivibrio fibrisolvens populations which related to total bacterial 16S rDNA were increased (p<0.05), while Streptococcus bovis populations were linearly (p = 0.049) and quadratically (p = 0.020) decreased by infusion of SSP. Apparent rumen digestibility of DM and NDF were (Q, p<0.05; L, p<0.05) increased with infusion SSP. Total tract digestion of DM, OM and NDF were linearly (p<0.01) and quadratically (p<0.01) increased by infusing SSP. The flow of total amino acids (AA), essential amino acids (EAA) and individual amino acids were linearly (p<0.01) and quadratically (p<0.01) increased with infusion SSP. The digestibility of Lysine was quadratically (p = 0.033) increased and apparent degradability of Arginine was linearly (p = 0.032) and quadratically (p = 0.042) increased with infusion SSP. The results indicated that infusion SSP could improve nutrient digestion, ruminal fermentation and AA availability.

The supplementation of low-P diets with microbial 6-phytase expressed in Aspergillus oryzae increases P and Ca digestibility in growing pigs

A trial was conducted to evaluate the dose response of a novel microbial 6-phytase expressed in Aspergillus oryzae (Ronozyme HiPhos; DSM Nutritional Products, Basel, Switzerland) in pigs. Forty-eight individually housed pigs (Landrace × Pietrain; 52 kg BW; 24 males and 24 females) were distributed among 6 experimental treatments consisting of a low-P diet (3.5 g P/kg; 1.1 g digestible P/kg), which was supplemented with 500, 1000, 2000, or 4000 units of phytase activity/kg, and a standard-P diet (4.5 g P/kg; 1.8 g digestible P/kg) that was supplemented with CaHPO(4). After 17 d, fresh feces were sampled from all pigs and the apparent total tract digestibility of DM, OM, ash, P, and Ca was measured using TiO(2) as indigestible marker. Blood samples were also obtained from each pig and serum was analyzed for P and Ca concentrations. The nonsupplemented low-P diet increased Ca and reduced P blood serum concentrations (P < 0.05) relative to the standard-P diet (10.8 vs. 10.2 and 6.7 vs. 7.7 mg/dL, respectively). Phytase supplementation of the low-P diet reduced Ca (from 10.8 to 9.9 mg/dL; linear, P < 0.001) and increased P concentrations (from 6.7 to 8.0 mg/dL; linear and quadratic, P < 0.001) in serum and reduced P concentration in feces (from 13.7 to 7.6 g/kg DM; linear and quadratic, P < 0.001). Phytase improved the total tract digestibility of P (from 29.0 to 62.3%; linear and quadratic, P < 0.001 and P < 0.05), Ca (from 54.0 to 75.7%; quadratic, P < 0.01), and ash (from 46.2 to 57.7%; quadratic, P < 0.01). In conclusion, the microbial 6-phytase tested improves the apparent total tract digestibility of P in growing pigs and reduces P excretion in feces in a dose-dependent manner.

Influence of forage inclusion in the diet on ileal and total tract digestibility

The present investigation aimed to study the ileal and total tract digestibility of 3 forages (clover-grass, clover-grass silage, and field pea (Pisum sativum)-barley (Hordeum vulgare) silage) supplemented to a basal diet. A total of 24 pigs, adapted to eating forages by supplementing a basal feed with clover-grass silage from weaning, were fitted with a T-cannula at the terminal ileum at approximate 30 kg BW. For each of the 3 types of forage, 2 balance trials with a 4 wk interval were carried out. Two pigs in each test were fed the basal diet and 6 others were fed the basal diet plus forage throughout the whole experiment. The intake of forages was low and quite variable and on average accounted for only 10 to 12% of the DMI. Ileal digestibility of protein estimated by collection from the T-cannula was higher (P = 0.031) than the digestibility estimated by the slaughter technique indicating some separation of the digesta collected from the T-cannula. The forages had, as expected, a lower total tract DM and energy digestibility than the basal diet (P < 0.05). The fresh clover-grass had a higher energy digestibility than the 2 silages (60 vs. 48%; P < 0.05). Inclusion of 10% of GE in the diet as forage reduced (P < 0.05) the energy digestibility of the ration by 2.2% for clover-grass, 3.4% for clover-grass silage, and 5.0% for pea-barley silage. In organic slaughter pig production, the overall energy supply from these forages is limited, but they may play an important role in satiety and rooting behavior.

Miniature Poodle에 있어서 현미 함유사료의 영양소 소화율 및 배설 분 특성

본 연구는 반려견 사료 내 주요 탄수화물원인 밀가루 (원물기준 약 51%)를 현미로 15%, 30% 대체 급여하였을 때, 사료의 소화율 및 배설 분의 특성 변화를 조사하기 위하여 Miniature Poodle (8~9개월령, 평균 3.5kg) 6마리를 이용 반복 <TEX>$3{\times}3$</TEX> 라틴방각법에 따라 실험을 수행하였다. 건물 섭취량과 유기물섭취량이 현미수준 증가에 따라 linear하게 감소 (P<0.05)되었는데, 총에너지 섭취량은 15%구에서 가장 낮은 quadratic 효과 (P=0.07)가 나타났다. 현미 대체에 의해 건물, 유기물, 조단백질, 산분해 지방, 에너지 소화율이 linear (P<0.05)하게 증가하였다. 사료의 가소화에너지 및 대사에너지 농도 (kcal/kg DM)도 현미 대체 비율이 증가하면서 linear 하게 증가 (P<0.001, P=0.007)하였다. 생분 배설량과 건조 분량도 모두 linear(P=0.001)하게 감소하였다. 분 score도 linear하게 감소 (P<0.05)하게 감소하였지만, 분 암모니아 농도는 현미대체 비율이 증가 할수록 linear하게 증가 (P<0.05)하였다. 분 암모니아 증가는 linear하게 감소 (P<0.01)한 short chain fatty acid 농도와도 관계가 있을 것으로 판단된다. 본 실험의 결과, 현미급여가 반려견의 소화율과 배설 분의 특성을 개선해 주는 것으로 나타났다. In this experiment, two inclusion levels (15 and 30% of diets, as-fed basis) of brown rice (BR) were tested against a control diet with 0% BR (51% wheat flour of diet). Six female Miniature Poodles (8~9 months age, initial mean body weight of 3.5 kg) were assigned to treatments in replicated <TEX>$3{\times}3$</TEX> Latin square design. Total tract digestibilities of DM, OM, CP, acid hydrolyzed fat and gross energy increased linearly (P<0.05), and observed digestible energy and metabolizable energy values also increased linearly (P<0.001 and P=0.007, respectively) with increasing BR inclusion levels. Wet and dry fecal output decreased linearly (P=0.001) with increasing BR inclusion levels in the diets. Linear (P<0.05) effects was observed in fecal score for dogs fed BR and fecal ammonia concentration increased linearly (P<0.05) in response to increasing BR inclusion level. It seems that the increase in fecal ammonia concentration may be partially related to the decrease in short-chain fatty acid concentration (P<0.01). This study clearly demonstrates that BR improves nutrients digestibility and fecal characteristics of dog.

Influence of feeding increasing levels of dry corn distillers grains plus solubles in whole corn grain-based finishing diets on total tract digestion, nutrient balance, and excretion in beef steers1,2

Four crossbred steers (average BW = 478 ± 33 kg) were used in a 4 × 4 Latin square design to determine the effects of dietary concentration of dry corn distillers grains plus solubles (DDGS) in whole corn-based finishing diets on total tract digestion and nutrient balance and excretion. The DDGS were fed at 0% (control), 16.7%, 33.3%, and 50% of dietary DM. All diets contained 10% (DM basis) alfalfa/grass haylage and were formulated to meet or exceed the estimated requirements for CP. Steers were fed the experimental diets ad libitum for a 14-d adaptation period followed by a 5-d period for fecal and urine collection. Increasing concentration of DDGS in diets from 0 to 50% of DM linearly decreased (P < 0.05) total tract DM and starch digestibility (from 77.8 to 72.9%, and 89.2 to 81.5%, respectively). Daily N and P intakes linearly increased (P = 0.06 and P = 0.01, respectively) with increasing DDGS concentration. Fecal and urinary N, P, S, Mg, and K excretion linearly increased (P < 0.05) with increasing DDGS concentration; however, Se and Na excretion did not differ (P > 0.38) among treatments. Retention (g/d; intake minus urinary and fecal excretion) of N did not differ (P > 0.16) among treatments. Retention of P tended (P = 0.07) to linearly increase and retention of S (g/d) linearly increased (P = 0.004), with increasing DDGS concentration. There were no effects (P > 0.16) of dietary treatment on digestion and retention of Se, Mg, K, and Na. Plasma P and S concentrations increased (P = 0.03 and 0.01, respectively) with increasing DDGS concentration. These data indicate that feeding DDGS up to 50% of dietary DM in whole corn grain-based finishing diets does not have a negative effect on nutrient retention but decreases digestibility. Total excretion of N, P, Ca, Mg, S, and K increased as DDGS concentration increased.

Timing of feeding for dairy cows: Rumen metabolism, nutrient digestibility, nitrogen partitioning, and milk fatty acids profiles

Timing of eating is a multiscience that mediates global animal and human physiology and metabolism. The objective was to determine effects of providing a total mixed ration (TMR) at either 0900 or 2100h on rumen fermentation and passage kinetics, microbial protein biomass, apparent total tract nutrient digestibility, nitrogen partitioning, and milk fatty acids profiles of lactating cows. Four multiparous (77±25 days in milk) and four primiparous (90±33 days in milk) Holstein cows were used in a cross-over design study with two 6-week periods. Each period had a 3-week adaptation period. The TMR had forage to concentrate ratio of 50.2:49.8 (DM based). Total fecal and urine were collected during a sampling week in each period to measure total tract nutrient digestibility and nitrogen partitioning. Urinary excretion of purine derivatives was utilized to estimate microbial protein biomass. Provision of TMR at 2100h instead of 0900h increased apparent total tract DM, CP and fiber digestibility. Rumen ammonia concentrations were lower in the 2100h fed than in the 0900h fed primiparous cows. Rumen propionate was lower and the acetate to propionate ratio was higher in 2100h-fed than in 0900h-fed multiparous cows. Microbial protein estimates and the milk proportions of total short, medium, and long chain fatty acids were not significantly different between morning and evening feed deliveries. Feeding at 2100h instead of 0900h decreased (P≤0.05) milk proportions of C10:0, C12:0, C12:1, C13:0, C13:1 and C18:3 n-3, and tended to decrease (P≤0.10) proportions of C8:0 and C18:1 trans-9, while increasing that of C18:0. Evening-fed cows tended to realize a greater rumen volume compared with morning-fed cows. Evening instead of morning feeding reduced the proportion of nitrogen that was excreted in urine and secreted in milk. Findings suggest that feed delivery at 2100h instead of 0900h can improve total tract nutrient digestibility, nitrogen dynamics, and milk energy output. Reduced N excretion by evening feeding has environmental and health implications.

Effect of niacin supplementation on digestibility, nitrogen utilisation and milk and blood variables in lactating dairy cows fed a diet with a negative rumen nitrogen balance

The aim of the present experiment was to determine if a niacin supplementation of 6 g/d to lactating dairy cow diets can compensate negative effects of a rumen nitrogen balance (RNB) deficit. A total of nine ruminally and duodenally fistulated lactating multiparous German Holstein cows were successively assigned to one of three diets consisting of 10 kg maize silage (dry matter [DM] basis) and7 kg DM concentrate: Diet RNB– (n = 6) with energy and utilisable crude protein at the duodenum (uCP) according to the average requirement of the animals but with a negative RNB (–0.41 g N/MJ metabolisable energy [ME]); Diet RNB0 (n = 7) with energy, uCP and a RNB (0.08 g N/MJ ME) according to the average requirement of the animals and, finally, Diet NA (n = 5), which was the same diet as RNB–, but supplemented with 6 g niacin/d. Samples of milk were taken on two consecutive days, blood samples were taken on one day pre- and post-feeding and faeces and urine were collected completely over five consecutive days. The negative RNB reduced milk and blood urea content and apparent total tract digestibility of DM, organic matter (OM) and neutral detergent fibre (NDF). Also N excretion with urine, the total N excreted with urine and faeces and the N balance were reduced when the RNB was negative. Supplementation of niacin elevated plasma glucose concentration after feeding and the N balance increased. Supplementing the diet with a negative RNB with niacin led to a more efficient use of dietary N thereby avoiding the negative effects of the negative RNB on the digestibility of DM, OM and NDF.

Effects of feeding polydextrose on faecal characteristics, microbiota and fermentative end products in healthy adult dogs

Polydextrose is a potential prebiotic, but has not been well tested in dogs. Thus, the objective of the present study was to determine the effects of polydextrose on faecal characteristics, microbial populations and fermentative end products in healthy adult dogs. A total of eight adult hound dogs (3.5 (sem 0.5) years; 20 (sem 0.5) kg) were randomly allotted to one of four test diets containing the following concentrations of polydextrose: (1) 0 % (control); (2) 0.5 %; (3) 1.0 %; or (4) 1.5 %. A Latin square design was used, with each treatment period lasting 14 d (days 0-10 adaptation; days 11-14 fresh and total faecal collection). All dogs were fed to maintain body weight. Data were evaluated for linear and quadratic effects using SAS software. Although apparent total tract DM digestibility was unaffected, total tract crude protein digestibility tended to decrease (P < 0.10) linearly with increasing dietary polydextrose concentrations. Fresh faecal DM percentage tended to decrease (P < 0.10) linearly, while faecal scores increased (P < 0.05; looser stools) with increasing dietary concentrations of polydextrose. Faecal acetate, propionate and total SCFA concentrations increased (P < 0.05) linearly with increased dietary polydextrose. Faecal pH decreased (P < 0.05) linearly with increasing polydextrose. Faecal indole tended to decrease (P < 0.10) linearly with increasing polydextrose, but other faecal protein catabolites were not changed. Faecal Clostridium perfringens linearly decreased (P < 0.05) with increasing dietary polydextrose concentrations, but Escherichia coli, Lactobacillus spp. and Bifidobacterium spp. were not affected. Based on the present results, polydextrose appears to act as a highly fermentable fibre, but requires further research to test its potential as a prebiotic in dogs.

Miniature Schnauzer에 있어서 현미 급여와 영양소 소화율 및 배설 분 특성

CJ Cheiljedang Corporation, Seoul 100-749, KoreaABSTRACTThe objectives of this research were to determine the effects of brown rice(BR) on food intake, digestion, energy value, and fecal characteristics. Three replacement levels which BR replaced 0, 15 and 30% of wheat flour were tested. Six female Miniature Schnauzer(8~9 month age, initial mean body weight 5.0±0.3kg) were assigned to treatments in replicated 3×3 Latin square design. Total tract digestibilities of DM, OM, acid hydrolyzed fat and gross energy except CP increased linearly(P<0.01), and observed digestible energy and metabolizable energy values also increased linearly(P=0.001 and P=0.006, respectively) with increasing BR replacement level. Wet and dry fecal output decreased linearly(P<0.001, P=0.004) with increasing BR inclusion to the diets and BR 30% treatment reduced wet fecal output up to 21% of that of control. Quadratic(P<0.01) effects was observed in fecal score for dog fed BR and fecal ammonia concentration tended to increase linearly(P=0.07) in response to increasing BR replacement level. It seems that the increase in fecal ammonia concentration may be partially related to the decrease in short- chain fatty acid concentration(P=0.001). This study clearly demonstrates that BR improves nutrients digestibility and fecal characteristics of dog.(Key words : Brown rice, Fecal characteristics, Digestibility, Dog diets)

현미 함유 반려견 사료의 영양소 소화율, 분 특성 및 기호성

본 연구는 반려견 사료 내 주요 탄수화물원인 밀가루(원물기준 약 51%)를 현미로 15%, 30% 대체 급여하였을 때, 사료 영양소 소화율, 배설분 특성, 기호성 변화를 조사하기 위하여 말티즈(Maltese) 강아지(8~9개월령, 시험개시 평균체중 <TEX>$2.8{\pm}0.3$</TEX> kg) 6마리는 이용 반복 <TEX>$3{\times}3$</TEX> 라틴방각법에 따라 실험을 수행하였다. 모든 영양소 소화율에서 현미 15%구가 가장 높거나 혹은 가장 낮은 quadratic 효과가 나타났다. 대조구와 현미 30% 구간에는 차이가 없었다. 사료의 DE 및 ME 농도(kcal/kg DM)도 quadratic 반응(P<0.001, P=0.015)을 보였다. 생분 및 건물 분 배설량에서도 현미 15%구가 가장 높게 나타나는 quadratic (P = 0.006, P = 0.014) 반응을 보였고, 분 score는 2.7에서 2.3으로 linear (P = 0.008)하게 낮아졌다. 현미구 대체율이 증가하면서 분 암모니아 농도는 linear (P = 0.001)한 증가를 보였으며, short- chain fatty acid 농도는 linear (P = 0.07) 감소 경향을 보였다. 본 실험에서의 현미 급여 효과는 배설 분 score에서만 확인되었고, 현미구의 현저한 기호성 증진 결과에 대해서는 현미 효과인지 가금부산물 함량 증가 효과인지 추가 실험이 필요할 것으로 생각된다. In this experiment, two inclusion levels (15 and 30% of diets, as-fed basis) of brown rice (BR) were tested against a control diet with 0% BR (51% wheat flour of diet). Six female Maltese (8~9 months age, initial mean body weight of <TEX>$2.8{\pm}0.3$</TEX> kg) were assigned to treatments in replicated <TEX>$3{\times}3$</TEX> Latin square design. Total tract digestibilities of DM, OM, acid hydrolyzed fat, CP and gross energy by dogs fed experimental diets responded quadratically (P<0.01 or <0.05) to BR inclusion levels. Similarly, quadratic responses (P<0.001, P=0.015) were observed for digestible energy and metabolizable energy values, respectively. Wet and dry fecal output also exhibited quadratic responses (P=0.006, P=0.014, respectively) but no differences were observed between control and BR 30% diets. Linear (P=0.008) effect was observed for fecal score in dogs fed BR, and fecal ammonia concentration increased linearly (P=0.001) in response to increasing BR inclusion levels. It seems that the increase in fecal ammonia concentration may be partially related to the decrease tendency (P=0.07) in short-chain fatty acid concentration. In this experiment, inclusion of BR in dog diet did not result in pronounced changes in the digestibility but in fecal score. Although inclusion of BR in diets showed profound positive effect on fecal score, it is confounded by the high inclusion level of poultry offal meal.

Apparent total tract energy and macronutrient digestibility and fecal fermentative end-product concentrations of domestic cats fed extruded, raw beef-based, and cooked beef-based diets

The objectives of this study were to determine differences in apparent total tract energy and macronutrient digestibility, fecal and urine characteristics, and serum chemistry of domestic cats fed raw and cooked meat-based diets and extruded diet. Nine adult female domestic shorthair cats were utilized in a replicated 3 × 3 Latin square design. Dietary treatments included a high-protein extruded diet (EX; 57% CP), a raw beef-based diet (RB; 53% CP), and a cooked beef-based diet (CB; 52% CP). Cats were housed individually in metabolic cages and fed to maintain BW. The study consisted of three 21-d periods. Each period included diet adaptation during d 0 to 16; fecal and urine sample collections during d 17 to 20; and blood sample collection at d 21. Food intake was measured daily. Total feces and urine were collected for determination of nutrient digestibility. In addition, a fresh urine sample was collected from each cat for urinalysis, and a fresh fecal sample was collected from each cat for determination of DM percentage and ammonia, short-chain fatty acid (SCFA), and branched-chain fatty acid (BCFA) concentrations. All feces were scored after collection using a scale ranging from 1 (hard, dry pellets) to 5 (watery, liquid that can be poured). Blood was analyzed for serum metabolites. Apparent total tract DM, OM, CP, fat, and GE digestibilities were greater (P ≤ 0.05) in cats fed RB and CB than those fed EX. Total fecal SCFA concentrations did not differ among dietary treatments; however, molar ratios of SCFA were modified by diet, with cats fed RB and CB having an increased (P ≤ 0.05) proportion of fecal propionate and decreased (P ≤ 0.05) proportion of fecal butyrate compared with cats fed EX. Fecal concentrations of ammonia, isobutyrate, valerate, isovalerate, and total BCFA were greater (P ≤ 0.05) in cats fed EX compared with cats fed RB and CB. Our results indicated that cooking a raw meat diet does not alter apparent total tract energy and macronutrient digestibility and may also minimize risk of microbial contamination. Given the increasing popularity of feeding raw diets and the metabolic differences noted in this experiment, further research focused on the adequacy and safety of raw beef-based diets in domestic cats is justified.

Effects of distillers grains with high sulfur concentration on ruminal fermentation and digestibility of finishing diets1,2

Twelve ruminally cannulated crossbred Angus steers were used to evaluate ruminal fermentation characteristics and diet digestibility when 30% (DM) corn dried distillers grains with solubles (DDGS) containing 0.42 or 0.65% (DM) of dietary S was incorporated into finishing diets based on steam-flaked corn (SFC) or dry-rolled corn (DRC). The study was a replicated, balanced randomized incomplete block design with a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement of treatments. Factors consisted of dietary S concentration (0.42 and 0.65% of DM; 0.42S and 0.65S, respectively) and grain processing method (SFC or DRC). The 0.65S concentration was achieved by adding H(2)SO(4) to DDGS before mixing rations. Steers were assigned randomly to diets and individual, slatted-floor pens, and fed once daily for ad libitum intake. Two 15-d experimental periods were used, each consisting of a 12-d diet adaptation phase and a 3-d sample collection phase. Samples were collected at 2-h intervals postfeeding during the collection phase. Ruminal pH was measured immediately after sampling, and concentrations of ruminal ammonia and VFA were determined. Fecal samples were composited by steer within period and used to determine apparent total tract digestibilities of DM, OM, NDF, CP, starch, and ether extract. Feeding 0.65S tended (P = 0.08) to decrease DMI but resulted in greater apparent total tract digestibilities of DM (P = 0.04) and ether extract (P = 0.03). Ruminal pH increased (P < 0.05) in steers fed 0.65S diets, which may be attributable, in part, to decreased (P = 0.05) VFA concentrations and greater (P < 0.01) ruminal ammonia concentrations when 0.65S was fed, compared with feeding 0.42S. These effects were more exaggerated in steers fed DRC (interaction, P < 0.01), compared with steers fed SFC. Steers fed DRC-0.65S had greater (P < 0.01) acetate concentration than steers fed DRC-0.42S, but acetate concentration was not affected by S concentration when SFC was fed. Propionate concentration was decreased (P < 0.01) in steers fed SFC-0.65S compared with steers fed SFC-0.42S, but dietary S concentration had no effect on propionate concentration when DRC was fed. Butyrate concentration was less (P < 0.01) in steers fed 0.65S diets than in steers fed 0.42S. Lactate concentrations tended (P = 0.06) to decrease in steers fed 0.65S diets. Feeding DDGS with increased S concentration may decrease feed intake and ruminal VFA concentration but increase ruminal ammonia concentration.

Effect of fibrolytic enzyme application to low- and high-concentrate diets on the performance of lactating dairy cattle

The objective of this study was to examine the effect of applying a fibrolytic enzyme preparation to diets with high (48% of diet dry matter, DM) or low (33% of diet DM) proportions of concentrate on production performance of lactating dairy cows. Sixty lactating Holstein cows (589kg ± 20; 22±3 d in milk) were stratified according to milk production and parity and randomly assigned to 4 treatments with a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement. Dietary treatments included the following: 1) low-concentrate diet (LC); 2) LC plus enzyme (LCE); 3) high-concentrate diet (HC); and 4) HC plus enzyme (HCE). The enzyme was sprayed at a rate of 3.4mg of enzyme/g of DM on the total mixed ration daily and the trial lasted for 63 d. A second experiment with a 4 × 4 Latin square design used 4 ruminally fistulated cows to measure treatment effects on ruminal fermentation and in situ ruminal dry matter degradation during four 18-d periods. Enzyme application did not affect dry matter intake (DMI; 23.9 vs. 22.3 kg/d) or milk production (32.8 vs. 34.2 kg/d) but decreased estimated CH4 production, increased total volatile fatty acid concentration (114.5 vs. 125.7mM), apparent total tract digestibility of DM (69.8 vs. 72.6%), crude protein (CP; 69.2 vs. 73.3%), acid detergent fiber (50.4 vs. 54.8%), neutral detergent fiber (53.7 vs. 55.4%), and the efficiency of milk production (1.44 vs. 1.60kg of milk/kg of DMI). Feeding more concentrates increased DMI (21.5 vs. 24.8 kg/d), milk yield (32.2 vs. 34.7 kg/d), milk protein yield (0.89 vs. 0.99 kg/d), and DM (69.9 vs. 72.6%), but decreased ruminal pH (6.31 vs. 6.06). Compared with cows fed HC, those fed LCE had lower DMI (20.8 vs. 25.7 kg/d) and CP intake (3.9 vs. 4.8 kg/d), greater ruminal pH (6.36 vs. 6.10), and similar milk yield (33.2±1.1 kg/d). Consequently, the efficiency of milk production was greater in cows fed LCE than those fed HC (1.69 vs. 1.42kg of milk/kg of DMI). This fibrolytic enzyme increased the digestibility of DM, CP, neutral detergent fiber, and acid detergent fiber and the efficiency of milk production by dairy cows. Enzyme application to the low-concentrate diet resulted in as much milk production as that from cows fed the untreated high-concentrate diet.