Nutrient Utilization Research Articles

Effects of dietary phytase supplementation on growth performance, nutrient digestibility, and blood metabolites of weaned piglets

Context Phytase plays a crucial role in the nutrition of piglets. Incorporating phytase into weaner pigs’ diet may alleviate the anti-nutritional effect by catalyzing the hydrolysis of phytic acid. As a result, bounded phosphorus and other minerals become more available for absorption, thereby enhancing nutrient utilization growth performance. Aims This study evaluated the efficacy of dietary phytase supplementation on the performance of weaned piglets. Methods Two hundred and forty cross-bred piglets (Yorkshire × Landrace × Duroc), of initial average bodyweight (BW) of 5.57 ± 1 kg at weaning, were assigned to five dietary treatments in a complete randomized block design. The study was conducted in the following three phases: Phase 1 (Days 1–7), Phase 2 (Days 8–21), and Phase 3 (Days 22–35). The treatments included basal diet containing 0.15% lower concentration of both total calcium and total phosphorus (NC), a standard basal diet (PC), NC + 500 phytase units per kilogram of feed (NC500), NC + 1000 phytase units per kilogram of feed (NC1000), and NC + 1500 phytase units per kilogram of feed (NC1500). Key results In Phase 1, the final BW was higher (P < 0.01) in PC and the phytase-supplemented diets than in the NC treatment. In Phase 2, Phase 3, and the overall days the average daily gain (ADG) and gain-to-feed ratio (G:F) were greater (P < 0.05) in the PC and the phytase-supplemented diets than in the NC treatments. The ADG and G:F were also higher (P < 0.01) in the phytase-supplemented diets than in the NC treatment. The digestibility of calcium, phosphorus, and blood myo-inositol was higher (P < 0.05) in the phytase-supplemented diets than in the NC treatment in Phase 2. In Phase 3, the level of blood myo-inositol was higher (P < 0.01) in the phytase-supplemented diets than in NC. Fecal inositol hexakisphosphate was lower (P < 0.01) in the phytase-supplemented diets than in NC in both Phases 1 and 2. Conclusion Dietary supplementation of phytase increased the digestibility of phytate by releasing phosphorus, calcium, and myo-inositol concentration, leading to improved growth performance. Implications Inclusion of phytase in pig diets can help farmers save money on feed additives such as phosphorus, improve environmental sustainability, and promote better growth performance.

Food insecurity, associated climate factors and intervention mechanisms: a theoretical and empirical analysis of Ethiopia’s case

Purpose In our world, nearly nine million people die every year from hunger, losing one person to hunger every few seconds. Ethiopia is among the leading countries in the total number of people facing hunger. Several actions have been taken to achieve food security globally and at the household level. However, the problem of food insecurity is still high in many parts of the world. Why are we failing to achieve food security? And where should we start? This study aims to answer these main questions. Design/methodology/approach Relevant quantitative and qualitative data were duly used to describe food insecurity and associated climate factors globally and nationally. For this, PRISMA review methodology was used to help the systematic review. More than 90 relevant empirical and theoretical literature in the field were reviewed in an integrated way with practical evidence from Ethiopia. Governmental technical reports, NGOs reviews and other relevant empirical data referring to Ethiopia are thematically analyzed. Findings The subjectivity, dynamism and complexity of the concept of food security are found to be some of the issues challenging the practice of achieving food security. The unresolved issues in the combination and interaction of the four pillars of food security (food availability, access to food, food utilization and stability) are affecting its measurement. In this study, it is emphasized that food insecurity in rural and urban areas should be treated differently, as food insecurity in rural areas is directly related to food production which depends on rainfall patterns. In rural Ethiopia, rainfall variability was among the main causes of food insecurity. More importantly, it is indicated that rainfall variability does not affect all pillars of food security equally; its effect is more pronounced on food availability and stability aspects. Deconstructing the concept of food security to make it more pragmatic, and understanding the factors behind the rainfall variability should be the starting tasks in achieving food security. Further, even though food aid is preferred to react to transitory food insecurity, focusing on long-lasting preventive measures that address the root causes of the recurring food insecurity in rural areas of Ethiopia would be an effective way of addressing the problem. Practical implications Policy makers and other governmental and humanitarian agencies working on food security can make an evidence-based decision, shape policies and programs if they have clear information about the features of food insecurity, the nature of rainfall variability and critiques of the reacting mechanisms to food insecurity. Shortages of food in some place and food price crises in the other places have been both referring to food insecurity. This makes the understanding of food security situations more difficult to explain and communicate. Originality/value This study primarily clarifies the conceptual complexity surrounding food security as it currently exists. Further, it provides a comprehensive and quantitative description of the state of global to national food security, along with the associated variability of rainfall patterns that are related to it. It also provides a brief overview of the intervention mechanisms for addressing food security, with a specific focus on Ethiopia. This study has set a clear demarcation to assess food security in rural and urban areas.

Physical Exercise and the Gut Microbiome: A Bidirectional Relationship Influencing Health and Performance

Background/Objectives: The human gut microbiome is a complex ecosystem of microorganisms that can influence our health and exercise habits. On the other hand, physical exercise can also impact our microbiome, affecting our health. Our narrative review examines the bidirectional relationship between physical activity and the gut microbiome, as well as the potential for targeted probiotic regimens to enhance sports performance. Methods: We conducted a comprehensive literature review to select articles published up till January 2024 on the topics of physical exercise, sports, probiotics, and gut microbiota from major scientific databases, incorporating over 100 studies. Results: We found that the impact of physical activity on the gut microbiome varies with the type and intensity of exercise. Moderate exercise promotes a healthy immune system, while high-intensity exercise for a long duration can cause a leaky gut and consequent systemic inflammation, which may disrupt the microbial balance. Combining aerobic and resistance training significantly affects bacterial diversity, linked to a lower prevalence of chronic metabolic disorders. Furthermore, exercise enhances gut microbiome diversity, increases SCFA production, improves nutrient utilization, and modulates neural and hormonal pathways, improving gut barrier integrity. Our findings also showed probiotic supplementation is associated with decreased inflammation, enhanced sports performance, and fewer gastrointestinal disturbances, suggesting that the relationship between the gut microbiome and physical activity is mutually influential. Conclusions: The bidirectional relationship between physical activity and the gut microbiome is exemplified by how exercise can promote beneficial bacteria while a healthy gut microbiome can potentially enhance exercise ability through various mechanisms. These findings underscore the importance of adding potential tailored exercise regimens and probiotic supplementation that consider individual microbiome profiles into exercise programs.

Accumulation of coumaric acid is a key factor in tobacco continuous cropping obstacles

IntroductionPhenolic acids are believed to play a significant role in tobacco continuous cropping obstacles, but the strength and potential mechanisms of different phenolic acids remain unclear.MethodsThis study evaluated the allelopathic effects of six phenolic acids that exhibited cumulative effects in our previous research. Different concentrations of phenolic acids with the strongest allelopathic effects were added to potting soil to explore their impacts on tobacco growth and physiological characteristics, as well as on soil chemical properties and microbial community structure. ResultsThe results showed that coumaric acid exhibited the strongest direct allelopathic effect. Exogenous coumaric acid significantly reduced soil pH and shifted the soil microbial community from bacteria-dominated to fungi-dominated. Simultaneously, the abundance of bacteria related to nutrient utilization (e.g., Flavisolibacter, Methylobacterium) and fungi related to disease resistance (e.g., Fusicolla, Clonostachys) gradually decreased, along with a reduction in soil catalase, urease, invertase, and acid phosphatase activities. Leaf MDA levels increased continuously with higher concentrations of coumaric acid, while the root resistance hormone (jasmonic acid and the jasmonate-isoleucine complex) levels show the opposite trend.DiscussionCoumaric acid may inhibit tobacco growth by influencing the physiological processes in tobacco plants directly and the broader soil microecological balance indirectly. This study provides theoretical guidance for precise mitigation of continuous cropping obstacles in future tobacco cultivation.

Effect of High-Tannin and -Polyphenol Plant Material Supplement on Rumen Fermentation, Nitrogen Partitioning and Nutrient Utilization in Beef Cattle

The current issue of ruminant methane emissions is still being researched by animal nutritionists in an effort to find new approaches. In this study, five beef cattle were randomly assigned in a 5 × 5 Latin square design to examine the effects of supplementation with high-tannin and -polyphenol plant materials on nutrient utilization, rumen fermentation, and nitrogen partitioning. Cattle offered total mixed ration (TMR) silage diets with or without tannin-rich tree leaf or plant herbs, such as Piper sarmentosum Roxb., Cymbopogon citratus (DC.) Stapf, Anacardium occidentale L., and Careya arborea Roxb., were supplemented at a dose of 10 g/d. Prior to TMR feeding, the animals’ meals were supplemented with 10 g of fortified plant materials twice a day, along with 100 g of rice bran. The animals in the control group received only 100 g of rice bran and no other plant materials. The result showed that there was no difference in nutrient intake or digestibility between the supplemented and control groups. Although the effect of ruminal pH, NH3-N, Total VFA, acetate (C2), and butyrate (C4) was not significant (p > 0.05), the proportion of propionate (C3) tended to increase with supplementation (p = 0.07). There was no difference in the excretion of purine derivatives or the amount of microbial nitrogen supply, even though supplemented animals had significantly lower protozoal populations than the control group (p < 0.05). Moreover, when A. occidentale or C. arborea was added to the TMR silage diet, the nitrogen intake and retention increased considerably, although total nitrogen excretion decreased. In this approach, the leaves of Anacardium occidentale L. and Careya arborea Roxb. were particularly promising for strategic supplementation.

Growth performances of Clarias gariepinus juveniles fed with Jatropha curcas seed meal

Jatropha curcas is an oil producing seed with high nutritional qualities for consumption. However, due to inherent anti-nutritional factors, appropriate processing is necessary to improve its nutrients utilization. This study was aimed at processing J. curcas using solvent-extraction method and evaluating its inclusion effects in the diet for Clarias gariepinus on its growth status. J. curcas meal was extracted using 80 % methanol to remove phorbol esters and other anti-nutrients. Thereafter, five iso-nitrogenous diets (40 % crude protein) were formulated containing J. curcas meal replacements of soybeans meal at 0 % (TRT0), 25 % (TRT25), 50 % (TRT50), 75 % (TRT75) and 100 % (TRT100) and fed to C. gariepinus for 70 days. Results showed that TRT25 fish had the highest mean weight gain and specific growth. The serum alkaline phosphate, alanine aminotransferase, and aspartate aminotransferase levels began to rise significantly (p ≤ 0.05) at 50 % replacement. Likewise, the assessment of gut ecology and morphology indicated that TRT25 had significantly (p ≤ 0.05) the highest gut bacteria colony forming unit (2.60 ×104±0.02cfu/g) and most favorable area of absorption (0.16±0.01 cm2). The histopathological observation of the fish intestine, liver and gills indicated no visible deformity in TRT0 and TRT25 fish. However, various degrees of degenerations were observed in the fish fed with 50 % and higher inclusion of J. curcas. This study showed that methanol-extracted J. curcas meal can be effectively utilized for C. gariepinus at 25 % of replacement.

The effect of experimental diets incorporating fermented soybean meal on growth metrics and utilization of nutrients in broiler chickens

The aim of this study was to explore the impact of fermented soybean meal (FSBM) on the nutritional quality of feed, growth performance indicators, and nutrient utilization in broiler chickens, aiming to overcome the challenges associated with locally produced soybean meal stemming from anti-nutrients and variations in nutritional quality. The study methodology included assessing growth performance metrics through two-way ANOVA statistical analysis and evaluating nutrient utilization in broiler chickens. Results indicated that broiler chickens fed with FSBM exhibited superior performance, displaying the highest average weekly weight gain (452 grams), optimal feed conversion ratio (1.39), extended intestinal length (225 cm), increased intestinal weight (297.5 grams), and heightened activity of digestive enzymes compared to other treatment groups throughout the feeding trials. The results of this study suggest that FSBM’s better digestibility helps broiler chickens grow faster. This makes it a possible replacement for animal protein sources like fish meal in poultry feed production, which is good for both local poultry feed producers and consumers.

Short-Term Effects of Incorporation Depth of Straw Combined with Manure During the Fallow Season on Maize Production, Water Efficiency, and Nutrient Utilization in Rainfed Regions

Diminishing soil fertility and crop productivity due to traditional intensive cultivation has prompted the use of straw and manure to improve soil health in Northeast China. However, few comparative studies have explored the influence of varying straw and manure incorporation depths on crop growth. A field experiment in the rainfed black soil regions of Gongzhuling and Keshan assessed the effects of deep (30 cm) and shallow (15 cm) incorporations of straw and manure on soil fertility, maize root growth, and maize productivity. Deep incorporations, via subsoiling tillage (DST) and deep-plow (DDT) tillage, enhanced soil water storage of 30–100 cm soil layer during periods of low rainfall, improved the availability of nutrients (nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium) and soil organic matter content, especially in deeper soil, compared to shallow incorporation using rotary tillage (SRT). Both DST and DDT induced a larger rooting depth and a higher fine root (diameter class 0–0.5 mm) length density by 31.0% and 28.9%, respectively, accompanied by reduced root turnover. Furthermore, the sub-surface foraging strategies of roots under the DST and DDT treatments boosted the total nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium uptake (6.5–17.9%) and achieved a higher dry mass accumulation during the later growth period, thus leading to notable improvements in the 100-kernel weight and yield (16.1–19.7%) and enhancing water- and nutrient-use efficiencies by 2.5–20.5%. Overall, compared to shallow incorporation, deep incorporation of straw and manure significantly enhances root growth and spatial distribution of soil water and nutrients, which has great potential for increasing maize yield in rainfed agricultural areas.

Dietary β-mannanase reduced post-weaning diarrhea of pigs by positively modulating gut microbiota and attenuating systemic immune responses

BackgroundAfter weaning, nursery pigs have difficulty digesting non-starch polysaccharides in their diets, which can result in growth and health problems. Among non-starch polysaccharides, β-mannan is easily found in various cereal grains that form the basis of livestock diets and interferes the digestion and utilization of nutrients. Supplementation of dietary β-mannanase in nursery diet can alleviate the negative effects on nutrient utilization efficiency caused by β-mannan and improve growth and health of pigs. This study was conducted to evaluate effects of dietary β-mannanase supplementation on growth performance, nutrient digestibility, intestinal morphology, fecal microbiota, and systemic immune responses of weaned pigs.ResultsDietary β-mannanase (MAN) improved average daily gain (P = 0.053), average daily feed intake (P < 0.05), and gain to feed ratio (P = 0.077) of pigs for 3 weeks after weaning and apparent total tract digestibility of crude protein (P = 0.060) and reduced post-weaning diarrhea (P < 0.05). The MAN did not affect the ileal morphology. Pigs fed with MAN had more diverse fecal microbiota based on the results of alpha diversity [the number of operational taxonomic units (OTUs; P = 0.061), Shannon (P = 0.071), and Simpson indices (P = 0.078)] and relative abundance of phylum Bacteroidetes (P = 0.064) and genus Prevotella (P < 0.05) than pigs fed control diet (CON). As a result of beta diversity, fecal microbiota was clustered (P < 0.05) into two distinct groups between dietary treatments. The MAN decreased (P < 0.05) packed cell volume (PCV), the number of white blood cells (WBC), C-reactive protein (CRP), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), and cortisol of the pigs for 2 weeks after weaning compared with CON.ConclusionDietary β-mannanase reduced post-weaning diarrhea of pigs by positively modulating gut microbiota and attenuating systemic immune responses.

Effects of combined application of phosphorus and zinc on growth and physiological characteristics of apple rootstock M9-T337 seedlings (Malus domestica Borkh.)

BackgroundBalancing nutrient application is crucial for plant growth. However, excessive fertilizer use, especially imbalanced applications of macronutrients such as phosphate (P), can hinder plant uptake of micronutrients. Balanced P and zinc (Zn) are vital for apple yield and quality, and apple trees are highly sensitive to deficiencies in these nutrients. Therefore, this study was conducted in May 2022, employed a sand culture experiment to investigate the effects of varying P and Zn levels on the growth phenotype, photosynthetic capacity, antioxidant enzyme activity, sugar composition, endogenous hormone levels, and nutrient absorption and utilization of M9-T337 seedlings. Three levels of P (low, medium, high) and three levels of Zn (low, medium, high) were combined to create a total of nine distinct treatment.ResultsThe results indicate that combined P and Zn fertilization at various levels exerts either synergistic or antagonistic effects on the growth, nutrient absorption, and utilization of M9-T337 seedlings. Compared to low and medium levels of P, a combination of high P (4 mmol·L−1) and an adequate amount of Zn significantly enhanced plant growth, root system development, and the microstructure of leaves. Notably, seedlings treated with high P and low Zn (HPLZn) reached a height 1.54 times that of the medium P and medium Zn (MPMZn, control). Physiological indicators under HP conditions revealed significant increases in antioxidant enzyme activity, leaf water retention, photosynthetic pigment concentration, osmotic adjustment substances, and the contents of glucose, sucrose, fructose, endogenous hormones, as well as P and Zn accumulation in the leaves, compared to the control. However, an increase in Zn application led to a declining trend in these parameters. Specifically, the HPLZn treatment exhibited substantial increases in Net photosynthetic rate (Pn), Total chlorophyll (Chl a + b), glucose, fructose, sucrose, and Auxin(IAA), with increments of 7.12%, 27.32%, 11.40%, 23.20%, 16.67%, and 55.11%, respectively, compared to the control.ConclusionBased on the comprehensive ranking from principal component analysis, the combination of HP ( 4 mmol·L−1) and LZn (0.5 µmol·L−1) was found to be the most effective in enhancing the antioxidant capacity, sugar accumulation, osmotic regulation ability, photosynthetic capacity, endogenous hormone levels, as well as P and Zn nutrient absorption and utilization in M9-T337 seedlings.

Effects of Recommended Fertilizer Application Strategies Based on Yield Goal and Nutrient Requirements on Drip-Irrigated Spring Wheat Yield and Nutrient Uptake

Excessive application of fertilizers in drip-irrigated wheat production can suppress yields, lower nutrient utilization efficiency, and lead to economic and environmental issues such as nitrogen residues in the soil. Based on a recommended fertilizer application (RF) strategy that takes into account target yield and nutrient requirements, this study explores the responses of wheat plant traits, changes in topsoil and subsoil nutrients, fertilizer utilization, and economic benefits under this strategy. From 2022 to 2023, a field experiment was conducted in a typical oasis spring wheat production area at the northern foot of the Tianshan Mountains in Xinjiang. The treatments included no fertilizer control (CK), the farmer’s conventional practice (FP), recommended fertilizer (RF), RF with nitrogen omission (RF-N), phosphorus omission (RF-P), and potassium omission (RF-K). The results showed that compared with FP, the RF reduced 91 kg N ha−1 (30.3%) and 33 kg P2O5 ha−1 (24.8%) in 2022, and 69 kg N ha−1 (23.0%) and 2 kg P2O5 ha−1 (1.5%) in 2023. The effect in 2023 was better; RF also decreased the NO3−1-N residue in the 0–100 cm soil layer by 40.1 kg N ha−1 compared with FP, with no significant difference in wheat grain yield (RF: 5382.9 kg ha−1) or economic benefit (RF: USD 1613.1 ha−1). Furthermore, there were no significant differences between RF and FP in pre-anthesis NP transport or post-anthesis NP accumulation; however, RF significantly increased pre-anthesis potassium transport volume (15.8%) and transport rate (12.5%). RF led to a 16.3% increase in nitrogen utilization efficiency (NUE), while there was no significant difference in phosphorus utilization efficiency (PUE) compared with FP. The fertilizer yield effect for RF was evaluated as N &gt; P &gt; K. Correlation analysis indicated that grain yield was significantly positively correlated with pre-anthesis NPK transport and post-anthesis NP accumulation. It was also positively correlated with organic matter, alkali-hydrolyzed nitrogen, and Olsen-P content in both the topsoil (0–20 cm) and subsoil (20–40 cm), but not with available potassium in the soil. Therefore, conducting soil tests and determining fertilizer recommendations based on the proposed RF method at harvest can reduce fertilizer usage and achieve a balance between the conflicting objectives of environmental protection, increased crop yields, nutrient utilization efficiency, and improved economic benefits in oasis agricultural areas facing excessive fertilizer application.

Effects of Dietary Protein Levels, Net Energy Levels, and Essential Amino Acid-to-True Protein Ratios on Broiler Performance

Supplementing essential amino acids (EAAs) without considering non-EAA (NEAA) and energy contents in reduced-crude protein (CP) diets may alter EAA-to-true protein (E:T) and energy-to-protein ratios, potentially compromising growth. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of CP, E:T, and net energy (NE) on broiler performance. The treatments were as follows: T1—reduced CP (16%, RP), low NE (9.9 MJ/kg, LNE), low E:T (0.56, LE:T); T2—RP, LNE, high E:T (0.60, HE:T), with imbalanced EAA (excess Met and deficient Thr); T3—RP, high NE (10.4 MJ/kg, HNE), LE:T; T4—RP, HNE, HE:T; T5—normal CP (18%, NP), LNE, LE:T; T6—NP, LNE, HE:T; T7—NP, HNE, LE:T; and T8—NP, HNE, HE:T. The study employed as-hatched Cobb 500 broilers in two experiments. Exp.1 studied the broiler performance from d19 to 35, with eight replicates per treatment and 16 birds per replicate (n = 1024). Birds were randomly assigned to different treatments, and at the end of their lives, all were dissected to determine their sex and account for any gender-related effects. Exp.2 measured NE values in respiration chambers from d25 to 28, with six replicates per treatment, and two birds (a male and a female) per replicate (n = 96). The bird gender was determined through high-resolution melting curve analysis of feather DNA. The measured NE values were used to calculate NE intake (NEi) in Exp.1. The results showed that T4 improved (p &lt; 0.001) weight gain (WG), feed conversion ratio (FCR), and NEi relative to T1, T2, and T3, and protein efficiency (WG/CP intake) relative to all treatments. The live performance (feed intake, WG, FCR) and NEi of birds fed T4 reached a level equal to those of birds fed NP diets (T5 to T8). These results suggest that a dietary E:T ratio of 0.60 is necessary to maximize nutrient utilization and to restore growth rate in broilers fed RP diets.

Effects of Formaldehyde-Treated Feed on Rumen Metabolism and Blood Biochemistry in Lambs: A Review

This review evaluates the impact of formaldehyde treatment on feed for lambs, focusing on its effects on rumen metabolism and blood biochemical indicators. Formaldehyde is commonly used as a feed additive to improve nutritional efficiency and preserve feed quality. This review synthesizes data from various studies to assess how formaldehyde-treated feed influences rumen fermentation parameters, including volatile fatty acid (VFA) production, rumen pH, and microbial activity. Additionally, the review examines the effects of formaldehyde treatment on key blood biochemical markers such as glucose, urea nitrogen, and liver enzymes. Studies indicate that formaldehyde treatment can enhance the stability and digestibility of feed, potentially improving nutrient utilization and overall animal performance. The preservation of protein and reduction in feed spoilage are highlighted as significant benefits, contributing to more consistent rumen function and metabolic efficiency. However, the impact on rumen microbial populations and VFA profiles shows mixed results, with some studies reporting improved microbial efficiency and others noting minimal changes. The review also discusses potential adverse effects, including alterations in blood biochemical parameters. While formaldehyde treatment generally maintains or improves key indicators like blood glucose and protein levels, excessive use may lead to concerns such as elevated urea nitrogen levels and potential liver enzyme disruptions, the review concludes that formaldehyde-treated feed can be a valuable tool in optimizing feed efficiency and lamb health, provided it is used judiciously. Future research is recommended to further elucidate the long-term effects on rumen microbiota and metabolic processes, ensuring balanced benefits without compromising animal welfare.

Malnutrition in patients with obesity: An overview perspective.

Malnutrition in patients with obesity presents a complex and often overlooked clinical challenge. Although obesity is traditionally associated with overnutrition and excessive caloric intake, it can also coincide with varying degrees of malnutrition. The etiopathogenesis of obesity is multifaceted and may arise from several factors such as poor diet quality, nutrient deficiencies despite excess calorie consumption, genetics, and metabolic abnormalities affecting nutrient absorption and utilization. Moreover, a chronic low-grade inflammatory state resulting from excess adipose tissue, commonly observed in obesity, can further exacerbate malnutrition by altering nutrient metabolism and increasing metabolic demands. The dual burden of obesity and malnutrition poses significant risks, including immune dysfunction, delayed wound healing, anemia, metabolic disturbances, and deficiencies in micronutrients such as vitamin D, iron, magnesium, and zinc, among others. Malnutrition is often neglected or not given enough attention in individuals with obesity undergoing rapid weight loss through aggressive caloric restriction, pharmacological therapies, and/or surgical interventions. These factors often exacerbate vulnerability to nutrition deficiencies. We advocate for healthcare practitioners to prioritize nutrition assessment and initiate medical intervention strategies tailored to address both excessive caloric intake and insufficient consumption of essential nutrients. Raising awareness among healthcare professionals and the general population about the critical role of adequate nutrition in caring for patients with obesity is vital for mitigating the adverse health effects associated with malnutrition in this population.

Alteration of Cecal Microbiota by Antimicrobial Peptides Enhances the Rational and Efficient Utilization of Nutrients in Holstein Bulls.

We previously observed that supplementation with antimicrobial peptides facilitated the average daily weight gain, net meat, and carcass weights of Holstein bulls. To expand our knowledge of the possible impact of antimicrobial peptides on cecum microbiota, further investigations were conducted. In this study, 18 castrated Holstein bulls with insignificant weight differences and 10 months of age were split randomly into two groups. The control group (CK) was fed a basic diet, whereas the antimicrobial peptide group (AP) was supplemented with 8 g of antimicrobial peptides for 270 days. After slaughter, metagenomic and metabolomic sequencing analyses were performed on the cecum contents. The results showed significantly higher levels of amylase, cellulase, protease, and lipase in the CK than in the AP group (P ≤ 0.05). The levels of β-glucosidase and xylanase (P ≤ 0.05), and acetic and propionic acids (P ≤ 0.01), were considerably elevated in the AP than in the CK group. The metagenome showed variations between the two groups only at the bacterial level, and 3258 bacteria with differences were annotated. A total of 138 differential abundant genes (P < 0.05) were identified in the CAZyme map, with 65 genes more abundant in the cecum of the AP group and 48 genes more abundant in the cecum of the CK group. Metabolomic analysis identified 68 differentially expressed metabolites. Conjoint analysis of microorganisms and metabolites revealed that Lactobacillus had the greatest impact on metabolites in the AP group and Brumimicrobium in the CK group. The advantageous strains of the AP group Firmicutes bacterium CAG:110 exhibited a strong symbiotic relationship with urodeoxycholic acid and hyodeoxycholic acid. This study identified the classification characteristics, functions, metabolites, and interactions of cecal microbiota with metabolites that contribute to host growth performance. Antimicrobial peptides affect the cecal microorganisms, making the use of nutrients more efficient. The utilization of hemicellulose in the cecum of ruminants may contribute more than cellulose to their production performance.

Isolation, characterization, and assessment of Bacillus rugosus potential as a new probiotic for aquaculture applications

Aquaculture is an important component of the world food supply and a significant source of protein. However, this industry faces numerous problems. Including poor fish feed digestion and uneconomic nutrient utilization. This can result in unsatisfactory growth rates and poor stock performance. Utilizing probiotics, which are beneficial microbes that can enhance digestive systems and general fish health, is one possible way to address these issues. This study was designed to identify and evaluate a novel strain of Bacillus as a promising probiotic. The strain of Bacillus rugosus that was examined and coded NM007 showed promising probiotic characteristics that could help fish digest and utilize their feed more efficiently, reduce feed waste, and improve their digestive systems. B. rugosus NM007 exhibited the ability to produce digestive enzymes like protease, amylase, and lipase, which are the main digestive enzymes. It showed strong auto-aggregation activity and co-aggregation activity with Aeromonas sp. and Streptococcus sp. It also demonstrated tolerance to the presence of bile salt, acidic pH, and salinity up to 60 ppt. The sensitivity analysis towards antibiotics, hemolytic activity and the safety assessment on Nile tilapia fish (Oreochromis niloticus) confirmed the safety of this isolate. Based on the findings of this investigation and the isolate’s characterization, Bacillus rugosus NM007 could serve as a new promising probiotic bacterium for aquaculture.

Impact of varying levels of soy hulls and β-mannanase enzyme supplementation on growth performance, carcass characteristics, nutrient utilization and blood biochemical profile in broiler chickens

Two hundred and forty day-old broilers were randomly assigned to six experimental groups in a 2 x 3 factorial design. The birds were fed diets containing soybean hulls (SH) at the levels of 4% and 6% and β-Mannanase (BM) at the concentration of 0%, 0.05% and 0.1%. Results indicated significant effects of SH and BM supplementation on body weight (BW) and weight gain (WG), with birds fed 4% SH and 0.1% BM exhibiting higher (p < 0.05) body weight and weight gain compared to other groups. Feed conversion ratio (FCR) was improved (p < 0.05) in birds receiving 4% SH with 0.1% BM supplementation. However, no significant effects were observed on carcase traits across treatment groups. Regarding nutrient digestibility, birds supplemented with 0.1% BM showed improved (p < 0.05) crude protein (CP) digestibility compared to those without BM supplementation. No significant variations were observed in dry matter, crude fibre and ether extract utilisation among treatment groups. Hematological and serum biochemical parameters were not influenced by SH and BM supplementation, indicating no adverse effects on blood parameters. In conclusion, these findings underscore the potential advantages of incorporating 4% SH and 0.1% BM in broiler diets for enhanced growth performance and nutrient utilisation.

Determining food intake, the requirement, and weighing the relative risk between food secure and insecure households in rural areas of Ethiopia: The case of West Hararghe zone

The severity of food insecurity in Ethiopia is among the worst globally, with record-breaking food assistance needs by various factors. This study tries to uncover various aspects of food security related to food availability, food access, food utilization and food stability dimensions of food security. The study was executed in the west Hararghe zone of the Oromia region of Ethiopia. Its main objective was to determine the food security status of households, with specific objectives aiming at computing individual daily kilo calorie intake, determining the average food requirement, comparing the relative risk between food secure and insecure households and identifying factors that affect household food security status. A multi-stage sampling procedure, involving the purposive selection of; the Zone and Woreda, and a simple random selection of households, to draw the required number of representative sample respondents, was adopted. Hence, from 4163 total households, 134 were selected for collecting primary data. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, relative risk analysis using Cohorts and independent tests using ANOVA. Food security status was measured using the Household Food Balance Model (HFBM). Using this model, the study obtained 1973 kilo calories per individual per day intake and 2108 kilo calorie as their requirement, which indicated households were energy deficient by 135 kilo calorie with 2-sided-value &lt; 0.1 critical level (t= -1.747, df =133 &amp; sig2-sided. 0.083). Independent test results showed that farm income (at p-value &lt; 0.1), gross product (at p-value &lt; 0.05), age of household head (at p-value &lt; 0.1), years of owning land (at p &lt; 0.1) and family size (at p-value &lt; 0.1) contributed significantly to food security status. Cross-tabulation showed a linear relationship between food security and higher education level (at p-value &lt; 0.05), which urges a concern in improving farming societies’ literacy to the desired level. In the study areas, about 91.8% of the population produces crops depending on the seasonal rainfall and their daily kilo calorie consumed depends on it; this is statistically correlated with the food insecurity problem at p-value &lt; 0.1 critical level (lambada = 1.75 &amp; sig. = 0.08). Therefore, to tackle the food insecurity problem, alternative method of crop production should be devised such as the establishment of irrigation schemes, water harvesting structures, and water conservation practices, among others. Key words: food security, calorie requirement, food availability, relative risk

Optimization of Potato Cultivation Through the Use of Biostimulator Supporter

Seed potato treatment is vital for plant protection, yield enhancement, and product quality. In the conducted research, the plant biostimulator Supporter was applied to evaluate its impact on potato yields and its structure. Supporter contains both synthetic and SL amino acids, which promote plant growth by enhancing nutrient utilization and fostering the development of a more effective root system. Such a formulation allows to maintain better resistance to environmental stresses, which may include drought or nutrient deficiency, among others. The field study was conducted in 2015–2017 in four towns located in different regions of Poland (Barankowo, Głubczyce, Kędrzyno, and Ryn) using a randomized complete block design with a split-plot design. Varieties (‘Innovator’, ‘Lilly’, ‘Lady Claire’, and ‘Verdi’) were tested. The experiment compared the cultivation technology using Supporter biostimulator with which seed potatoes were treated compared to conventional cultivation (control object) by soaking the tubers in distilled water before planting. The total yield of potato tubers after Supporter application was higher by 13.3%, while the commercial yield increased by 21.1% compared to the traditional cultivation method. The most productive, regardless of cultivation technology and years of research, in terms of total tuber yield was the ‘Lilly’ variety with an average yield of 47.95 t∙ha−1, while the least productive variety was the ‘Innovator’ variety with an average yield of 29.93 t∙ha−1. The ‘Lady Claire’ variety had the highest commercial tuber yield, while the ‘Innovator’ variety had the lowest.

Nutrient Management with Nitrogen Based Formulations for Enhancing Growth and Yield in Fodder Sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench

Fertilizers play a vital role in agricultural practices by boosting crop yield. Among various nutrient application methods, foliar application is one of the cost - effective method which allow rapid and efficient nutrient absorption through the stomata or cuticle, and subsequently into the cells. Applying nutrients through foliage offers several benefits, such as rapid nutrient absorption by plant tissues, improved transport to developing plant parts, elimination of leaching and fixation losses, regulated nutrient uptake by crops and enhanced nutrient utilization. Timely foliar application of nano fertilizers enhances crop output while reducing environmental risks. The current study aimed to evaluate the different concentrations of nano urea on growth and yield of fodder sorghum. The study was conducted at Instructional Farm, Vellayani, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala during December 2023- February 2024. The field experiment was laid out in randomized block design with 13 treatments, replicated thrice. The treatments were T1:75% recommended dose of nitrogen (RDN) + nano urea (0.2%); T2:75% RDN+ nano urea (0.4%); T3:75% RDN + nano urea (0.6%);T4:100% RDN + nano urea (0.2%); T5:100% RDN + nano urea (0.4%); T6:100% RDN + nano urea (0.6%); T7:75% RDN + urea spray (2%); T8:100% RDN + urea spray (2%); T9: nano urea alone (0.2%); T10: nano urea alone (0.4%); T11: nano urea alone (0.6%); T12: KAU POP and T13: Control (without nitrogen). Both nano urea and urea spray were applied at 20 DAS and 40 DAS. Soil application of nitrogen was applied in three splits - 50% as basal, 25% at 20 DAS and 25% at 40 DAS. Full P and K were applied as basal. The study revealed that combined application of RDN along with nano urea 0.4% proved its superiority by registering higher growth and yield attributes such as plant height, stem girth, leaf: stem ratio, green fodder yield and dry fodder yield.