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The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of anaerobic fermentation on the in vitro ruminal production of total gas (TG), methane (CH4), carbon monoxide (CO) and hydrogen sulfide (H2S), as well as on the characteristics of ruminal fermentation and CH4 conversion efficiency of whole-plant maize (WPM) from four native maize genotypes (Amarillo, Olotillo, Tampiqueño and Tuxpeño) from Mexico, and a commercial hybrid was used as a control. In all genotypes, the fermented WPM produced the lowest amounts (p ≤ 0.0236) of TG and CH4 from degraded dry matter (DM), and Tampiqueño and Tuxpeño presented the highest production of these gases. In addition, Tuxpeño also presented the highest proportion of CH4 (mL 100 mL−1 TG), and Olotillo presented the lowest proportion of both gases. Something similar occurred in H2S, where the fermented WPM produced the lowest (p ≤ 0.0077) amount per DM degraded, and Amarillo and Tampiqueño presented the highest and lowest production, respectively. However, the fermented WPM presented the highest (p = 0.0128) CO production from degraded DM, and Tuxpeño and Olotillo presented the highest and lowest production, while the rumen pH was lower (p < 0.0001) in the fermented WPM, and Tuxpeño and Olotillo presented the highest and lowest pH, respectively. Furthermore, the fermented plant presented the greatest (p ≤ 0.0055) DM degradation, and the Amarillo and hybrid genotypes presented the highest percentages, while Olotillo presented the lowest. The short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) content and metabolizable energy (ME) did not differ (p ≥ 0.0899) between genotypes and were higher (p = 0.0009) in the fresh WPM. Despite the above, the fermented WPM was more efficient (p ≤ 0.0249), and the Amarillo and hybrid genotypes produced less CH4 per unit of SCFAs, ME and organic matter. In conclusion, the Amarillo genotype equaled the hybrid one, and although the production of CO increased, anaerobic fermentation showed the potential to reduce the rumen production of TG, CH4 and H2S, as well as to improve DM degradability and CH4 conversion efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Pineapple (Ananas comosus L.) fruit is mainly consumed fresh or after its transformation into juice, jam, candy, beverages, ice cream, powder, or wine. During processing, many leftovers are produced and released into the environment, contributing to pollution. This current study investigated the possible utilization of pineapple leftovers from two varieties (Smooth Cayenne and Sugarloaf) cultivated in West Africa. They were characterized individually (crown, bud end, peel, core, and pomace) regarding chemical composition, in vitro fermentation characteristics, and estimated metabolizable energy. As a result, the lipids and lignin content were at low levels and they would not negatively affect nutrient utilization in ruminants. However, the low dry matter and high sugar content in pineapples highlight preservation issues in their by-products. The core and pomace of pineapples showed low structural carbohydrate content, high in vitro degradability, and high volatile fatty acid production. This study suggests that pineapple by-products can be used in ruminant nutrition; the crown, bud end, and peel can be used as fiber sources, while core and pomace can be used as energy sources. In West Africa, these by-products could help farmers to supplement ruminants' diet during dry seasons characterized by the scarcity of natural pasture which represent the main feedstuff for ruminant in this region. Pineapple fruit, which is cultivated in tropical and subtropical areas, is processed by the food industry, generating a large amount of waste. Using pineapple by-products in animal nutrition could reduce feeding costs and contribute to the containment of pollution. The chemical composition and the in vitro fermentation of five pineapple by-products (crown, bud end, peel, core, and pomace) from two West African pineapple varieties (Smooth Cayenne—SC and Sugarloaf—SL) were evaluated. Significant differences were observed between the varieties and by-products. The dry matter (DM) content was low and superimposable between varieties, averaging 17.7%. On a DM basis, pomace showed the highest protein content (SC 8.10% and SL 8.81%, p < 0.001), whereas the crown showed the highest (p < 0.001) NDF content (47.62% and 39.01% for SC and SL, respectively). Due the high sugar content, the core and pomace showed high in vitro organic matter degradability (SC: 85.09% and SL: 83.98%), estimated metabolizable energy (SC: 7.91 KJ/kg and SL: 7.66 KJ/kg), and volatile fatty acid production (96.86 mmol/g and 90.62 mmol/g). Based on chemical composition and in vitro digestibility results, this study suggests that pineapple by-products have the potential to be used in ruminants' diets, considering the crown, bud end, and peel as fiber sources and the core and pomace as substitutes or supplements to concentrate feedstuffs. Further research should be conducted on the storability of these by-products through in vivo trials evaluating animals' performances and the quality of their products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Contrary to other herbivores, in horses the forage:concentrate ratio of the diet may be critical according to the animal attitude and workload. In this study, diet digestibility and degradability (in vivo and in vitro, respectively) were assessed in five horses' diets that differed in the percentage of concentrates that, in adult horses, are considered more as a hay supplement rather than a basic feed. The determination of in vivo digestibility and in vitro degradability to assess the nutritional characteristics of the horses' diet shows how this approach can be of useful to determine concentrate intake and optimize the energy content in a horse's diet. Determination of digestibility represents the first step for the evaluation of the net energy content of feed for livestock animals. The aim of this study was to evaluate the in vivo digestibility and in vitro degradability of five diets characterized by different forage/concentrate ratios (F:C) in horses. The in vitro degradability was determined by the Gas Production Technique (GPT), using as an inoculum source the feces of the same subjects used for the in vivo test. Five diets consisting of poliphyte hay, straw and grains of barley and oats with a different F:C ratio [90/10 (Diet 1); 78/22 (Diet 2); 68/32 (Diet 3); 60/40 (Diet 4); 50/50 (Diet 5) were formulated and administered in succession, starting with Diet 1. In the in vivo results, no significant differences emerged, despite the different F:C content. In in vitro fermentation, four diets out of the five (2, 3, 4, 5) presented a similar trend of the curve of gas production, showing good activity of the fecal micro population during the first hours of incubation. An important correlation between gas and Volatile Fatty Acid (VFA) were found, suggesting that the processes linked to the micro population deriving from the horse's caecum follow metabolic pathways whose products can be modeled in the same way as for the rumen. The GPT could represent the correct method for studying the nutritional characteristics of feed for horses, using feces as the source of inoculum, even if further investigations must be performed to improve the technique. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present work compared the agronomic traits, chemical composition, fatty acid profile, and in vitro fermentation characteristics of twelve accessions of Amaranthus spp., belonging to A. cruentus, A. hybridus, A. hypochondriacus, and A. tricolor, grown in a semiarid Mediterranean area. Among accessions, Benin and Arizona (A. cruentus) and Pennsylvania (A. hypochondriacus) showed the highest seed yield (on average, 322.1 g m−2), while Taiwan (A. tricolor) and India and Iowa (A. hypochondriacus) the highest thousand seed weight (on average, 0.81 g). Among the species, A. hypochondriacus showed the highest crude protein (16 g 100g−1), starch (51.5 g 100g−1), and soluble detergent fiber (2.03 g 100g−1) contents and the most favorable in vitro fermentation characteristics with the highest short-chain fatty acid (SCFA 52.6 mmol g−1) and butyric acid (20.7% SCFA) production together with the lowest crude fiber (4.93 g 100g−1) and insoluble dietary fiber (12.5 g 100g−1) content. Arizona (A. cruentus) showed the highest level of monounsaturated fatty acids (32.67 g 100g−1), Ohio (A. hybridus) had the highest levels of polyunsaturated fatty acids (44.62 g 100g−1) and n6-PUFA (44.21 g 100g−1), and India (A. hypochondriacus) had the highest level of n3-PUFA (0.63 g 100g−1). A. hypochondriacus exhibited not only desirable nutritive characteristics, agronomic traits, and suitability to Mediterranean growing conditions, but also a potential beneficial effect. Nonetheless, it is recommended to run longer-term field trials to confirm these findings and to assess the genotype by environment interaction either with current accessions or others from the wide Amaranth germplasm available. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to investigate the chemical composition of three maca (Lepidium meyenii Walp.) ecotypes (yellow, black, and red) and their in vitro fermentation characteristics and antioxidant effects on cow rumen liquor. The three ecotypes were added to a total mixed ratio (TMR) in different doses (0, 150, and 300 mg/g) and incubated in vitro under anaerobic conditions for 120 h. Methane production was recorded after 24 h of incubation. Antioxidant status and degree of lipid peroxidation were also evaluated after 24 and 120 h of incubation with the fermentation liquor. An analysis of the chemical composition showed high concentrations of non-structural carbohydrates in all maca ecotypes, particularly in the yellow ecotypes. Moreover, despite an increase in gas production, it seems that the TMR supplemented with each maca ecotype, particularly at the highest dose, increases the amount of volatile fatty acids and reduces methane production. Finally, the addition of maca can induce an antioxidant effect. Our findings suggest that the three ecotypes of maca are rich in non-structural carbohydrates which affect the in vitro fermentation kinetics and reduce methane production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Climate change has increased the frequency of drought along the coastal zone of West Africa, resulting in fodder shortage during the dry season. As forage cropping and conservation are not practiced in this area, animals rely on forage species remaining during the dry season. We assess the vegetation to characterize the range of forage species available for ruminants during the dry season in this region. Among the thirty-three plants consumed by the cows, only thirteen species were available and highly consumed during the dry season. Results showed that most of the forage tested, particularly Poaceae, were of poor in nutritional value; however, the cultivation of some promising drought-tolerant plants such as Dactyloctenium aegyptium, Zornia latifolia, and Chamaecrista rotundifolia could sustain ruminant production along the coastal areas. Along the coast of West Africa, grazing ruminants rely on perennial forage species remaining in uncultivated plots, roadsides, and marshlands during the dry season. To assess the quality of these forages, thirteen drought-tolerant plants were harvested at the mature stage, and the samples were evaluated for chemical composition, in vitro fermentation characteristics, and metabolizable energy (ME) content. They are ten drought-tolerant grasses, including: Andropogon virginicus, Brachiaria deflexa, Cenchorus biflorus, Dactyloctenium aegyptium, Eragrostis tremula, Leptochloa caerulescens, Loudetia aroundinacea, Paspalum notatum, Paspalum vaginatum, Pennisetum purpureum, two perennial herbs, Chamaecrista rotundifolia, Zornia latifolia, and one multipurpose tree, Elaeis guineensis. Legume species had the highest nutritional value (highest crude protein and ME, and lowest neutral detergent fiber) of the species studied. In terms of the in vitro data, the gas produced after 120 h of incubation ranged from 149 mL/g in E. tremula to 185 mL/g in Paspalum. Z. latifoliaa and had the fastest rate of fermentation, producing half of the total gas in 19.5 h, whereas E. tremula required 49.9 h (p < 0.01). The production of branched-chain fatty acids (isobutyrate and isovalerate) was greatest for E. guineensis and the lowest in both Paspalum species (p < 0.01). The study suggests the need for the protein supplementation of the animals to ensure maximum forage utilization and to satisfy the nutrient requirements of ruminant livestock. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Castanea sativa Mill. (Fagaceae) is a deciduous tree grown for its wood and edible fruits. Chestnut processing produces residues (burs, shells, and leaves) exploitable for their diversity in bioactive compounds in animal nutrition. In fact, plant-specialized metabolites likely act as rumen modifiers. Thus, the recovery of residual plant parts as feed ingredients is an evaluable strategy. In this context, European chestnut leaves from northern Germany have been investigated, proving to be a good source of flavonoids as well as gallo- and ellagitannins. To this purpose, an alcoholic extract was obtained and an untargeted profiling carried out, mainly by means of ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography/high-resolution tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-HR MS/MS) techniques. To better unravel the polyphenol constituents, fractionation strategies were employed to obtain a lipophilic fraction and a polar one. This latter was highly responsive to total phenolic and flavonoid content analyses, as well as to antiradical (DPPH● and ABTS+●) and reducing activity (PFRAP) assays. The effect of the alcoholic extract and its fractions on rumen liquor was also evaluated in vitro in terms of fermentative parameter changes and impact on methanogenesis. The data acquired confirm that chestnut leaf extract and the fractions therefrom promote an increase in total volatile fatty acids, while decreasing acetate/propionate ratio and CH4 production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The genus Quercus supplies a large amount of residual material (e.g., bark, acorns, leaves, wood), the valorization of which can favor a supply of antioxidant polyphenols to be used in the pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, or cosmeceutical sector. The recovery of specialized metabolites could also benefit livestock feeding, so much so that polyphenols have gained attention as rumen fermentation modifiers and for mitigating the oxidative imbalance to which farm animals are subject. In this context, leaves of Quercus robur L. from Northern Germany were of interest and the alcoholic extract obtained underwent an untargeted profiling by means of ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography/high-resolution tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-HRMS/MS) techniques. As triterpenes and fatty acids occurred, the alcoholic extract fractionation pointed out the obtainment of a polyphenol fraction, broadly constituted by coumaroyl flavonol glycosides and condensed tannins. Total phenol, flavonoid and condensed tannins content assays, as well as antiradical (DPPH● and ABTS+●) and reducing activity (PFRAP) were carried out on the alcoholic extract and its fractions. When the effects on rumen liquor was evaluated in vitro in terms of changes in fermentation characteristics, it was observed that oak leaf extract and its fractions promoted an increase in total volatile fatty acids and differently modulated the relative content of each fatty acid. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During haymaking and ensilage, a significant loss of sugars occurs. The addition of a total mixed ratio (TMR) with a liquid feed might provide promptly utilisable energy and recover the nutrients lost during the conservation. Interesting results were already obtained by including liquid feed in a TMR in a dairy cow. However, the possibility to also utilize them in Italian Mediterranean buffalo is not yet supported by data. This study aimed to evaluate the in vitro fermentation characteristics and kinetics of different types of liquid feed, utilising bovine and buffalo rumen liquor as inocula. TMR supplemented with 0.025 g of four different liquid feeds was incubated with the TMR as control with buffalo and bovine rumen fluid using in vitro gas production technique. Considering bovine inoculum, all the experimental diets showed lower organic matter degradability and higher volatile fatty acid production than control TMR, while with buffalo rumen liquor, significant differences were observed between experimental and control diets in terms of gas production and fermentation kinetics. The tested liquid feeds can have different fermentation patterns depending on their ingredients and compositions. Supplementing liquid feeds to a standard diet seems to provide a source of energy that improves fermentation. No negative effects were observed on the in vitro fermentation at the dosage utilised. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, animal husbandry has aimed at improving the conditions of livestock animals useful for humans to solve environmental and health problems. The formulation of animal feeds or supplements based on antioxidant plant compounds is considered a valuable approach and an alternative for livestock productivity. Forest biomass materials are an underestimated source of polyphenolic compounds whose sustainable recovery could provide direct benefits to animals and, indirectly, human nutrition. In this context, an alcohol extract from leaves of Fagus sylvatica L. was first investigated through an untargeted ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography–high-resolution tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-HRMS/MS) approach. Then, it was fractionated into a fatty acid-rich and a polyphenolic fraction, as evidenced by total lipid, phenol, and flavonoid content assays, with antiradical and reducing activity positively correlated to the latter. When tested in vitro with rumen liquor to evaluate changes in the fermentative parameters, a significant detrimental effect was exerted by the lipid-rich fraction, whereas the flavonoid-rich one positively modulated the production of volatile fatty acids (i.e., acetate, butyrate, propionate, etc.). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of hidden environmental pollution on some blood parameters of sheep to detect susceptible biomarkers able to reveal slight contamination. Four dairy sheep farms, two with semi-extensive and two with intensive type systems were involved in this study. Two farms in different systems were chosen as properly located in a southern area of Latium (Italy), close to the Sacco River, in which contamination with β-hexachlorocyclohexane (β-HCH) occurred in the past due to industrial waste. A recent study established the presence of low but detectable residual contamination in these areas. The other two farms were outside the contaminated area. Erythrocyte glutathione transferase (e-GST) and oxidative stress parameters were monitored as well as some immune response and metabolic profile parameters throughout the investigated period of four months. The present study showed a relevant and significant increase in e-GST (+63%) in the extensive farming system of the contaminated area, whereas some immune response biomarkers, i.e., white blood cells, neutrophils, lymphocytes, and lysozyme resulted within the physiological range. In all farms, oxidative stress and acute phase response parameters were also within the physiological range. Our results suggest that e-GST is a very effective alarm signal to reveal "hidden" persistent contamination by β-HCH, and reasonably, by many other different dangerous pollutants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: We aimed to demonstrate the benefits of using chickpea as energy-protein feed in diets for bulls belonging to a native Italian breed (Maremmana) organically reared. Compared to the control diets containing barley, the dietary inclusion of chickpea improved the growth rate and carcass conformation of bulls, reduced the feeding costs, and did not impair the plasma metabolic parameters and meat quality. These results suggest that chickpea may allow a sustainable performance improvement of native breeds within their traditional farming systems. We assessed the effects of inclusion of chickpea from 24 to 21%, as feed basis, in diets for organically reared bulls. Sixteen young bulls (270 ± 6.4 days of age; 246 ± 0.13 kg in weight) belonging to a native Italian breed (Maremmana) were randomly assigned to two dietary treatments. The control diets were based on mixed grass hay, maize meal, and barley meal. In the experimental diets, barley was equally substituted by locally produced chickpea. Animals were weighed every 2 weeks until the prefixed slaughtering weight (630 kg). Plasma metabolites were measured at the 1st, 7th, and 14th month of the experiment. Chemical composition, colour, shear force, and water holding capacity of meat were assessed on Longissimus thoracis et lumborum 7 days after slaughter. The chickpea-fed animals showed a significantly greater average daily gain (1064 vs. 1168 kg/day), a shorter growing phase (364 vs. 335 days), and a better carcass conformation. Plasma metabolites and meat quality were not influenced by the treatments. The better growth performance and carcass quality of the chickpea fed bulls resulted in a higher economic profit for the chickpea-based diets. Results suggest that chickpea may allow sustainable performance improvement of native breeds within their traditional farming systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) is an annual herbaceous plant, globally distributed and cultivated in the past as an important source of fiber. Recently, the interest in hemp cultivation has significantly increased, considering its positive impact on the environment and the production of feed and food of high nutritional value. The authorized hemp varieties are registered in the EU's Common Catalogue of Agricultural Plant Species and have content in psychotropic 9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) less than 0.2–0.3%. In this review, the chemical and nutritional values of hemp are presented and the effects of inclusion of the hempseed, and products obtained by the processing of seed (co-products), in diets for dairy ruminants (i.e., cows, ewes, goats, and buffaloes) are discussed. Hemp supplementation could be a good feeding strategy to improve the bioactive compounds in milk and derivatives: the content of n-3 fatty acids and isomers of conjugated linoleic acid, substances beneficial to human health, increased in milk and cheese obtained with hemp addition. However, up to now, few publications do not allow to suggest the optimal dosage of the co-products for the different species. In addition, no experiments are published on the use of whole plants as forage for dairy ruminants. Recently, hemp (Cannabis Sativa L.) was rediscovery as a plant that offers a wide variety of applications (textile, pharmaceuticals, construction, etc.), including also the use in animal and human nutrition. The inclusion of whole seeds and co-products obtained by processing of seeds (cake, meal, and oil) in the diets of farm animals can allow the transfer of bioactive substances to human food. Few publications are available on the use of hemp in dairy ruminants but some authors reported a positive effect on the fatty acids profile of milk and cheese with an increase of n-3 fatty acids and c9,t11 conjugated linoleic acid. The protein content, amino acids profile, and rumen undegradable protein (RUP) of hempseed and co-products of hemp appear interesting and suitable for ruminant nutrition. Negative effects of anti-nutritional factors (i.e., phytate) are not observed. However, the researches on the effects of the use of hempseed and co-products in diets for dairy ruminants do not allow to suggest optimal levels of inclusion. In addition, no data are published on the use of whole or part of the hemp plant as forage, as another possibility to use the hemp in the perspective of the circular economy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Fermented pickle of Rakkyo (Japanese leek) is a popular dish because it has several proven human health benefits. We tested the effects of dietary adding Lactiplantibacillus plantarum N14 fermented rakkyo pickled juice on the immunocompetence and production performance of pigs. The results showed that the use of 5% mixture of fermented rakkyo pickled juice and the rakkyo residues in the porcine feed could be a cost-effective approach to promote the immune-health and production performance of pigs. This approach might contribute to exploring the sustainable management of food waste through utilizing them as livestock feed supplement. Rakkyo (Allium chinense), is a Japanese leek that is primarily used to make a popular sweet or sour pickled dish. Lactic acid bacteria are often involved in the preparation steps of fermented pickles, which helps in the effective preservation of the natural bioactive compounds of fruits and vegetable, and thereby exert several health benefits including immunomodulation and growth performance. This work aimed to evaluate the in vivo effects of adding Lactiplantibacillus plantarum N14 fermented rakkyo pickled juice as feed supplement on the immunocompetence and production performance of pigs. We first analyzed the nutritional composition, which revealed that the proportion of protein, lipid, and water-soluble fiber content were estimated as of 4%, 5%, and 5% in rakkyo residual liquid or juice, while 22%, 15% and 14%, respectively, were estimated in rakkyo residual powder. For the in vivo feeding trials, three groups of pigs were treated either with 5%, 20%, or 40% mixture (v/v) of fermented rakkyo pickled juice and the grinded residual liquid supplemented in the drinking water in addition to standard feed. The results of the feeding trials showed that the administration of a juice mixture of 5% or 20% (fermented pickled juice and residual liquid) had a similar trend of effects in improving the complement activity, phagocytic activity and leucocytes counts in the peripheral blood when compared to pigs fed with 40% mixture or untreated controls. Those changes were related to an improved resistance to enteric infections. Moreover, animals receiving a mixture of fermented pickled juice and fermented rakkyo residues had a higher growth rate and carcass quality than controls. The results suggested that the use of 5% mixture of fermented rakkyo pickled juice and the residual liquid through drinking water could be a cost-effective approach to promote the immune-health and production performance of pigs. This approach would contribute not only to the sustainable management of food wastes but also to the application of a value-added feed supplement for the promotion of animal health and production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: To reduce feed costs, the exploration of feed resources is currently the main research direction. In the past, fiber feed was generally regarded as anti-nutritional factors. Recently, fiber has received special attention due to its many beneficial effects. Therefore, this study selected five common household and production wastes as fiber sources and added them to the diet of pregnant sows to explore the impact on sows and piglets. The results of this study indicated that adding corn gluten feed (CG) significantly improved the digestibility of sows and body weight (BW) of piglets, which provide evidence and insight for the application of corn gluten feed in gestation sow diets. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of increasing dietary neutral detergent fiber (NDF) levels on pregnant sows, and to select the best feed ingredients based on reproductive performance, plasma biochemistry parameters, colostrum and milk composition, and nutrient digestibility. Seventy-two multiparous sows were randomly allotted to six dietary treatment groups (n = 12). The feeding of chicory meal (CM), wheat bran (WB), corn gluten, and rice bran meal (RBM) increased the average weaning weight of piglets compared with the control (CON) group (p < 0.05). Supplementation with CG diet increased the sow BW, weight gain, and back fat thickness compared with WB and RBM on day 107 of gestation (p < 0.05). Furthermore, Supplementation with CG diet resulted in lower plasma urea nitrogen (PUN) and higher total protein (TP) concentrations in plasma (p < 0.05). Feeding CM diet and soybean curd residue (SCR) diet reduced the total protein and globulin, and supplementation with CM diet significantly increased the PUN (p < 0.05). The apparent total tract digestibility (ATTD) of crude protein (CP), crude fat (EE), calcium (Ca), phosphorus (P), neutral detergent fiber (NDF), and acid detergent fiber (ADF) were decreased following the addition of CM, WB, or SCR to the diets (p < 0.05). The ATTD of NDF and ADF were significantly increased in the CG group (p < 0.05). In conclusion, the feeding of CG diet to sows have an excellent effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Cassava (Manihot esculenta) residue is a by-product of cassava processing. Although it contains residual nutrients, it is highly perishable. Decayed cassava residue pollutes the environment and leads to major losses in feed. If cassava residue could be utilized as a dairy cow feedstuff, these problems could be solved. Our study showed that cassava residue is a good alternative to concentrate in the feed of Holstein cows. Furthermore, our data demonstrate the efficacy of the application of cassava residue as a feed for dairy cows and could help solve the shortage of feed resources in China. The feeding value of replacing concentrate with cassava (Manihot esculenta) residue in the feed of Holstein cows was confirmed using an in vitro gas test. The treatments consisted of 0% (control, CON), 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, and 30% inclusion of cassava residue in fermentation culture medium composed of buffer solution (50 mL) and filtrated rumen fluid (25 mL). The parameters analyzed included the kinetics of gas production and fermentation indexes. Forty-eight hours later, there were no significant differences on in vitro dry matter disappearance (IVDMD), pH, and microbial crude protein (MCP) content among treatments (p > 0.05). However, the "cumulative gas production at 48 h" (GP48), the "asymptotic gas production" (A), and the "maximum gas production rate" (RmaxG) all increased linearly or quadratically (p < 0.01). The GP48 was significantly higher in the 25% treatment compared to the other treatments, except for the 30% (p < 0.01). The A was significantly larger in the 25% treatment compared to the other treatments, except for the 20% and 30% (p < 0.01). The RmaxG was distinctly larger in the 25% treatment compared to other treatments (p < 0.01); moreover, the "time at which RmaxG is reached" (TRmaxG) and the "time at which the maximum rate of substrate degradation is reached" (TRmaxS) were significantly higher in the 25% treatment than the CON, 20%, and 30% treatments (p < 0.01). Additionally, the content of ammonia-N (NH3-N) in all treatments showed linearly and quadratically decreases (p < 0.01), whereas total volatile fatty acid (VFA), iso-butyrate, butyrate, and iso-valerate contents changed quadratically (p = 0.02, p = 0.05, p = 0.01, and p = 0.02, respectively); all of these values peaked in the 25% treatment. In summary, the 25% treatment was associated with more in vitro gas and VFA production, indicating that this cassava residue inclusion level may be used to replace concentrate in the feed of Holstein cows. However, these results need to be verified in vivo. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Pregnancy dramatically changes the metabolic status of bitches. As a consequence, malnutrition negatively affects both reproductive parameters and survival rates of puppies. Therefore, before mating and conception, as well as during pregnancy and lactation, it is necessary to satisfy the bitches' specific nutritional requirements. The present study aimed to compare the effects of two diets, Control (CTR) and Experimental (EX), which differ mainly as regards ingredients, energy, and protein contents, and which were administered to bitches of medium and large size from two months before the expected onset of proestrus up to 30 days after delivery. Bitches' weight, body condition score, litter size, milk yield and quality, and puppies' growth were evaluated. Considering the performance of the bitches and the puppies, it would seem that both the diets are adequate for bitches at these stages of their life cycle. In fact, after 30 days of lactation, all tested bitches showed a healthy status. Moreover, both the percentage of newborns mortality and puppies' growth kinetics fell within the normal physiological range for the species. The study aimed to compare two diets, Control (CTR) and Experimental (EX) (mainly differing as regards their ingredients, energy, and protein contents) administered to medium and large-sized bitches from two months before the expected proestrus and up to 30 days after delivery on mothers' weight, body condition score, litter size, milk quality, and puppies' growth. No differences were found for body weight during pregnancy, even if the BCS after delivery was significantly (p < 0.01) higher in the EX group than in the CTR one. Concerning the size effect, the percentage of weight gain on the initial body weight was double in medium-sized dogs compared to large dogs (p < 0.01). The number of puppies per litter was significantly higher (p < 0.05) for the EX group compared to the CTR one. Concerning puppies' weight, the CTR group showed a significantly (p < 0.01) higher body weight from the 21st day of life due to the significant (p < 0.01) higher daily weight gain during the suckling period. Considering the performance of bitches and puppies, both diets seem useful for these stages of their lives. In fact, after 30 days of lactation, all tested bitches showed a healthy status and both the percentage of newborns mortality and puppies' growth kinetics fell into the normal physiological range for the species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Reproductive efficiency is a key aspect of all breeding species. Several factors, such as infective diseases, hormonal, and nutritional status could affect female fertility. As demonstrated by high numbers of newborns per litter and proper fetal development, nutritional status at mating, and correct nutritional management during pregnancy are fundamental. In this study, two diets with different ingredients (protein and lipid sources) and different macro and micronutrients concentrations (crude protein, fatty acids profile, vitamins, and mineral concentration) were administered from two months before the expected onset of proestrus to parturition to 18 bitches divided into two groups. The experimental diet, richer in protein, essential and polyunsaturated fatty acids and vitamins, when compared to control diet, seems able to guarantee better clinical presentation of estrus and embryonic development in the first third of pregnancy with a lower incidence of a fetal resorption. The close link between nutrition management and reproductive efficiency is well known, but there is very little data available concerning this topic in canine species. The present study aimed to compare the effect of two different diets upon the follicular period and gestation in bitches. Eighteen pluriparus medium and large size bitches were recruited and divided into control (CTR) and experimental (EX) groups and fed, respectively, with a commercial kibble diet and a specially formulated diet from two months before the expected onset of proestrus up to the end of the trial. It was possible to observe how the EX group had a better clinical presentation of the estrous phase, a higher number of ovarian follicles (p < 0.05), a lower percentage of fetal resorption (p < 0.05), and lower oxidative status, expressed by d-ROMs (p < 0.01), at the moment of pregnancy diagnosis compared to CTR group. Moreover, the EX group showed a lower fetal resorption rate and higher litter size (p < 0.05). These results highlight how a diet characterized by high protein and fat content and richer in essential fatty acids can improve reproductive performance in dogs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The cactus pear plant is a Cactaceae which originates from the Americas and is highly resistant to arid and hot environments. The plant is used as animal feedstuff in regions characterized by a lack of nutrient resources. In Italy, the fruits are known as prickly pears are usually eaten fresh by humans, and more recently have also started to be transformed into fruit juice. Various by-products (i.e., peel, pulp, and seeds) derived from the extraction of fruit juice are used for livestock feed due to their high amounts of fermentable structural carbohydrates. However, some of these by-products are difficult to conserve due to their high fermentability. The aim of the present study was to produce micro-silages of prickly pear by-products with different level of wheat straw (0, 5, and 10% as fed) and evaluate their chemical characteristics and fermentation kinetics using the in vitro gas production technique. Both chemical parameters (higher crude protein and lower neutral detergent fibre) and in vitro fermentation data demonstrated that the silage obtained with 5% of straw as the best-preserved (lower pH and ammonia nitrogen concentration). Cactus pear cladodes are used as forage in the most arid regions. In Italy, the human consumption of prickly pear fruits and juice is gradually increasing for their numerous health benefits. In manufacturing plants that produce prickly pear juice, several by-products (prickly pear by-products PPB) are obtained. Despite their interesting nutritional characteristics, PPB are not very usable because of their poor shelf-life which is related to their high moisture and sugar content. The aim of this study was to verify the efficacy of ensilage to preserve PPB and to compare different inclusion levels (0, 5, and 10% as fed) of wheat straw. For each treatment, four under vacuum micro-silos were prepared and, after 35 days of storage, the state of preservation was evaluated. Subsequently, the aliquots were analyzed for chemical composition and incubated with bovine rumen fluid to evaluate the fermentation kinetics. The PPB 5% of straw showed significant lower pH and ammonia nitrogen concentration, indicating a better preservation process. Moreover, PPB 5% of straw showed better nutritional parameters (higher crude protein and lower Neutral Detergent Fibre) and fermentation characteristics (higher degradability and VFA volatile fatty acids production) when compared with the other PPB silages. Ensilage with straw represents a suitable storage technique to preserve the nutritional characteristics of PPB. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The demand of vegetable protein is currently very high, both for human and animal nutrition. Soybean meal is the most used protein source in ruminant nutrition. Many Leguminosae seeds (i.e., faba bean, lupin, proteic pea), rich in protein and energy, are considered a valid alternative, especially in the organic production system. In this paper the physical and nutritional characteristics of eight varieties of Vicia Faba bean (four local and four commercial) were evaluated. To evaluate the digestive utilization an in vitro trial was carried out, incubating each substrate with an inoculum made up of bovine buffered rumen liquor for 48 h at 39 °C under anaerobiosis. The gas produced within the incubation period was registered, the dry matter digestibility and volatile fatty acid at the end of fermentation were determined. The results of this investigation confirm the possibility of using local faba bean varieties in ruminant nutrition with the advantages that, being local natural resources, they are better adapted to the climate and agronomic conditions and limit the environmental impact. Faba bean is an important vegetable protein source for ruminant diets. This research aimed to compare the nutritional characteristics of four commercial and four local cultivars in order to better characterise the local ones and promote their use in animal nutrition. The seeds' weight and the chemical composition, including starch and the energy, was evaluated. The in vitro fermentation characteristics were studied for 48 h using bull's rumen fluid as inoculum. All the varieties showed the values' weight corresponding to the specific botanical typology. The varieties significantly differed for protein, starch and lignin (p < 0.01) and structural carbohydrates (p < 0.05) concentration. No significant differences were observed for energy content. All the in vitro fermentation parameters resulted significantly different among the varieties. Organic matter degradability ranged between 89.9% and 85.1% and the potential gas production from 367 to 325 mL/g. The Pearson's analysis showed significant correlation between morphological characteristics, chemical data and in vitro fermentation parameters. In conclusion, this investigation confirms the possibility of using local faba bean varieties (i.e., Aquino, Castrocielo, 13#5, 4#4) in ruminant nutrition with the advantage that, being local natural resources, they are better adapted to the climate and agronomic conditions and limit environmental impact. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]