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Background: Rubber seed kernel is a by-product derived from rubber tree plantations. It is rich in C18 unsaturated fatty acids (UFA) and has the potential to be used as a protein source for ruminant diets. This investigation has been conducted to determine the influence of rubber seed kernel pellet (RUSKEP) supplementation on in vitro rumen fermentation characteristics and fatty acid profiles in swamp buffalo. Using a completely randomized design (CRD) and supplementation of RUSKEP at 0, 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10% dry matter (DM) of substrate. Results: The supplementation with RUSKEP had no effect on gas kinetics, cumulative gas production, or degradability. Ruminal pH decreased linearly (P < 0.01) and ammonia-nitrogen (NH3-N) concentration decreased quadratically (P < 0.01) by RUSKEP supplementation. The proportion of acetate (C2) decreased linearly (P < 0.01), but propionate (C3) and butyrate (C4) increased linearly (P < 0.01), resulting in a decrease in the acetate to propionate ratio (C2:C3) (P < 0.01) by RUSKEP supplementation. With an increasing level of dietary RUSKEP, there was a slight increase in UFA in the rumen by increasing the oleic acid (OA; C18:1 cis-9 + trans-9), linoleic acid (LA; C18:2 cis-9,12 + trans-9,12), and α-linolenic acid (ALA; C18:3 cis-9,12,15) concentrations (P < 0.01). Conclusions: Adding up to 10% of RUSKEP could improve in vitro rumen fermentation and C18 unsaturated fatty acids, especially ALA, in swamp buffalo. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated how Clostridium butyricum affected rumen fermentation and the microbial communities of rumen and feces in beef cattle. Twenty beef cattle were divided into two groups: the control group (CK) and the C. butyricum group (CB, fed 2.5 x 108 CFU/kg of dry matter intake per day). The results showed that C. butyricum increased rumen pH, ammonia-N concentration, and microbial crude protein (MCP) concentration (P<0.05). Ruminal propionate and butyrate concentration increased, while the ruminal acetate to propionate ratio decreased (P <0.05). For rumen microbiota, observed species, Chao 1, and ACE indices were higher (P<0.05) with supplemented C. butyricum. At the phyla level, the C. butyricum enhanced the proportion of Firmicutes and decreased Bacteroidota (P<0.01). Christensenellaceae R-7 group, Methanobrevibacter, Oscillospiraceae NK4A214 group, Desulfovibrio, Streptococcus, and C. butyricum were increased (P<0.05) at the genus and species levels in the CB group. The proportion of Prevotella, Christensenellaceae R-7 group, Blautia, and Megasphaera elsdenii increased, while Escherichia coli decreased (P<0.05) in feces. E. coli and Salmonella populations were significantly reduced (P<0.01). These results indicated that diets supplemented with C. butyricum could improve rumen fermentation by increasing the diversity and altering the microbial community structure of the rumen. Additionally, the supplemented C. butyricum changed the fecal microbiota and decreased the harmful bacteria population in beef cattle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this experiment was to study the effects of diets with different concentrate-to-coarse ratios on the growth performance, rumen fermentation, nutrients apparent digestibility, and serum immune indexes of autumn lambs. Thirty 4-month-old F1 hybrid male lambs of 'Dubo x Small Tail Han sheep' were randomly divided into three groups, with 10 replicates in each group and one sheep in each replicate. Experimental Group I, Group II, and Group III were fed with diets with the ratio of concentrate to coarse of 40:60, 55:45, and 70:30, respectively. The results showed that the average daily gain of lambs in Group III was significantly higher than that in Group I (P<0.05), and the feed to gain ratio of Group II and Group III was significantly lower than that in Group I (P<0.05). The apparent digestibility of dry matter, organic matter, crude protein, and neutral detergent fiber in Group I was significantly lower than that in other groups (P<0.05), while the apparent digestibility of organic matter in Group II was significantly higher than that in Group III (P<0.05). The content of propionic acid in rumen of lambs in experimental group I was significantly lower than that in other groups (P<0.05), and the ratio of ethylene to propylene in experimental group I was significantly higher than that in other groups (P<0.05). The level of serum immunoglobulin G in Group II was significantly higher than that in Group III (P<0.05), and the level of serum interleukin-6 in Group II was significantly lower than that in other groups (P<0.05). The study indicates that when the concentrate-to-coarse ratio is 55:45, the growth of lambs in autumn can be healthier, the utilization rate of feed can be improved, the growth performance of lambs can be improved, and the economic benefits can be increased. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this experiment was to investigate the effects of different dietary types on feces and urine production, organic matter, chemical oxygen demand (COD), nitrogen, phosphorus, copper and zinc content and production in feces and urine of Inner Mongolia white cashmere goats. Twenty-four Inner Mongolia white cashmere goats of eight months old with similar weight were randomly divided into four groups: Alfalfa green hay group (G1), alfalfa green hay supplemental concentrate group (G2), corn straw group (G3), and corn straw supplemental concentrate group (G4) (the supplemental feeding amount of each goat was 200 g, the ratio of concentrate to coarse was 2.5:7.5, other feeding conditions are the same), with six replicates per group, and one sheep per replicate. The pre-test period was 10 days, and the formal test period was 30 days. The results showed that the amount of fresh feces in the G2 group and G4 group were significantly higher than those in the G1 group and G3 group (P<0.05), and the mass of dry feces was extremely higher than that in the G1 group (P<0.01). Cu content in feces of the G1 group and G2 group was extremely higher than that of the G3 group and G4 group (P<0.01). The emissions of organic matter and zinc in feces of the G2 group and G4 group were significantly higher than those of the G1 group and G3 group (P<0.05), and the emissions of phosphorus were significantly higher than those of the G3 group (P<0.05). The fecal copper emission of the G2 group was extremely higher than that of other groups (P<0.01), and that of the G1 group and G4 group was extremely higher than that of the G3 group (P<0.01). Nitrogen content and emission in urine of the G2 group were extremely higher than those of other groups (P<0.01), while the phosphorus content and emission in urine of the G1 group and G3 group were significantly higher than those of the G1 group and G3 group (P<0.05). The study indicates that the feed formula suitable for Inner Mongolia white cashmere goats can be adjusted according to the amount of feces and urine produced by various diets and the excretion law of pollutants in feces and urine, which can not only meet the production needs of animals, but also reduce the excretion of pollutants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this experiment was to study the effects of different levels of Clostridium butyricum supplementation on the gas production, fermentation parameters, and nutrient digestibility in TMR diet by in vitro gas production method, so as to determine the appropriate amount of Clostridium butyricum supplementation in beef cattle diet. Holstein steers with permanent fistula were selected as rumen fluid donors and TMR as culture substrate. The control group (CON group) only contained the culture substrate, while the Clostridium butyricum test group added Clostridium butyricum with the concentrations of 2x108 (CB1 group), 4x108 (CB2 group), 6x108 (CB3 group), 8x108 (CB4 group) and 10x108 CFU/kg (CB5 group) on the basis of the culture substrate, with six replicates at each level. The results showed that the in vitro gas production of CB1 group was significantly lower than that of other groups when the fermentation time was 2 h and 4 h (P<0.05). When the fermentation time was 12 h, the in vitro gas production of CB3 group, CB2 group, CB4 group, and CB5 group was significantly higher than that of CON group and CB1 group (P<0.05). The pH value in each experimental group were significantly lower than those in CON group (P<0.05), while the content of ammonia nitrogen (NH3-N) was significantly higher than that in CON group (P<0.05), and there was no significant difference among the experimental groups (P>0.05). The concentrations of acetic acid, propionic acid, and total acid in CB3 group, CB4 group and CB5 group were significantly higher than those in CON group (P<0.05). Isobutyric acid content in CB1 group, CB2 group and CB3 group was significantly higher than that in CON group (P<0.05). Dry matter digestibility (DMD) and neutral detergent fiber degradation (NDFD) of each experimental group were significantly higher than those of CON group (P<0.05). The degradation rate of acid detergent fiber (ADFD) in CB2 group was significantly higher than that in CON group (P<0.05). The study indicates that the addition of Clostridium butyricum can increase gas production, NH3-N, acetic acid, propionic acid, total volatile acid content and DMD. The suitable addition of Clostridium butyricum is 6x108 CFU/kg. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim: In the livestock sector, particularly ruminants, an approach to minimize methane emissions can be carried out through a feeding strategy involving herbal plants containing bioactive compounds that can reduce protozoa and decrease methane gas emissions. The aim of this in vitro study was to analyze the effects of herbal plant supplementation on rumen fermentation, total gas, and methane production, in vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDMD), in vitro organic matter digestibility (IVOMD), and protozoa populations within the rumen. Materials and Methods: Two experiments were conducted in this study. Experiment 1 was conducted to determine the most promising herbal plants capable of increasing total gas production and reducing protozoan populations. Three potential herbals selected in Experiment 1 were continued in Experiment 2 as supplements in the palm kernel meal (PKM)-based ration (70% PKM + 30% herbal plants). Results: Experiment 1 revealed that Eurycoma longifolia (EL), Cola acuminata (CLA), and Cassia alata (CSA) were potential herbal candidates for enhancing total gas production and the percentages of IVDMD and IVOMD. In Experiment 2, supplementation with EL, CLA, and CSA significantly increased IVDMD from 62.84% to 70.15%, IVOMD from 61.61% to 53.18%, and NH3 from 13 mM to 17 mM, as well as reduced partial volatile fatty acids and total gas production. In addition, the methane gas and protozoan populations were reduced. Conclusion: The utilization of EL, CLA, and CSA effectively increased the production of total gas, IVDMD, and IVOMD while reducing methane gas protozoa populations in rumen fermentation compared with the control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Emulsifiers are essential for achieving a homogenous distribution of lipophilic supplements in in vitro rumen fluid incubations. Since emulsifiers can alter rumen fermentation, it is crucial to select one that minimally impacts fermentation parameters to reduce potential biases. This study aimed to evaluate seven emulsifiers' impact on in vitro ruminal fermentation using the Hohenheim Gas Test in order to identify the most inert emulsifier. Rumen fluids were collected from three non‐lactating Original Brown‐Swiss cannulated cows before morning feeding and incubated for 24 h with a basal diet in triplicates. The emulsifiers tested were ethanol, ethyl acetate, propylene glycol, glycerol, ethylene glycol, soy lecithin, and Tween® 80, each in two dosages (0.5% or 1% v/v). The untreated basal diet served as control. Compared to control, in vitro organic matter digestibility was enhanced by ethyl acetate (by 36.9 and 48.2%), ethylene glycol (by 20.6 and 20.1%), glycerol (by 46.9 and 56.8%) and soy lecithin (by 19.7 and 26.8%) at 0.5 and 1% dosage, respectively. Additionally, the 24‐h methane production increased for ethanol (by 41.9 and 46.2%), ethylene glycol (by 50.5 and 51.5%), and glycerol (by 63.1 and 65.4%) for the 0.5 and 1% dosage, respectively, and 0.5% dosage for ethyl acetate (by 31.6%). The acetate molar proportion was 17.2%pt higher for ethyl acetate, and 25.5%pt lower for glycerol at 1% dosage, compared to the control. The propionate concentration was 22.1%pt higher 1% glycerol, and 15.2%pt and 15.1%pt higher for 0.5 and 1% propylene glycol, respectively, compared to the control. In summary, Tween® 80 did not significantly affect in vitro rumen fermentation parameters, making it the most suitable choice for in vitro incubations involving lipophilic substances in rumen fluid. Ethanol may be considered as an alternative emulsifier if methane production is not the variable of interest. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biotin (BI) and cobalamin (CA) are essential for rumen propionate production and hepatic gluconeogenesis. The study evaluated the influence of BI or/and coated CA (CCA) on milk performance and nutrient digestion in cows. Sixty Holstein dairy cows were assigned in a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement and randomised block design to four groups. The factors were BI at 0 or 20 mg/day and CCA at 0 or 9 mg CA/day. Dry matter intake increased with BI addition but was unchanged with CCA supply. Addition of BI or CCA increased fat‐corrected milk, milk fat and milk protein yields and feed efficiency. Moreover, lactose yield was increased by CCA addition. Dry matter, organic matter, crude protein and acid detergent fibre total‐tract digestibility increased for BI or CCA supply. When CCA was supplemented, positive response of neutral detergent fibre digestibility to BI addition was enhanced. Supplementing BI did not affect pH, propionate content and acetate to propionate ratio, but increased total volatile fatty acids (VFA) and acetate contents. Supplementing CCA decreased pH and acetate to propionate ratio, but increased total VFA, acetate and propionate contents. Rumen protease and carboxymethyl‐cellulase activities and fungi, bacteria and Butyrivibrio fibrisolvens numbers increased for BI or CCA supply. In addition, protozoa increased for BI addition, and protease activity and Prevotella ruminicola increased for CCA supply. When CCA was supplemented, positive responses of R. albus and Ruminobacter amylophilus numbers to BI addition were enhanced. Blood glucose concentration was unchanged with BI supply, but increased for CCA supply. Blood nonesterified fatty acids and β‐hydroxybutyrate contents reduced with BI or CCA supply. Supplementation with BI or CCA increased blood BI or CA content. The results showed that supplementing BI or/and CCA improved lactation performance and nutrient digestion, and CCA supply did not enhance the lactation performance response to BI supply. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this experiment was to evaluate the effect of different edible fungus bran beef cattle diet formula designed at the lowest cost by in vitro gas production method. The single factor experiment design was used, with different kinds of fungus bran total mixed rations (TMR) as fermentation substrate, control (CON), Lentinula edodes treatment, Auricularia auricula treatment, Pleuro⁃ tus ostreatus treatment, Hohenbuehelia serotina treatment, Pleurotus ostreatus treatment, Pleurotus citrinopileatus treatment, Morchella esculenta treatment, Pleurotus eryngii treatment. Through in vitro gas production method, comprehensively analyzed according to gas production, gas production parameters, fermentation parameters and in vitro nutrient digestibility, combined with membership function. The results showed that: ① At 4 to 10 h of fermentation, gas production in the CON was significantly higher than that in other treatments (P<0.05). At 12-16 h of fermentation, the gas production of Auricularia auricula treatment, Pleurotus ostreatus treatment, Pleuro⁃ tus citrinopileatus treatment and Morchella esculenta treatment were significantly lower than the CON (P< 0.05). At 48 h of fermentation, the gas production of Auricularia auricula treatment, Hohenbuehelia sero⁃ tina treatment, Pleurotus ostreatus treatment, Pleurotus citrinopileatus treatment and Morchella esculenta treatment were significantly lower than those in the CON (P<0.05). ② Except for Auricularia auricula treatment and Hohenbuehelia serotina treatment, the theoretical maximum gas production in other treatments was significantly higher than the CON (P<0.05). Except for Hohenbuehelia serotina treatment, the gas production rate in other treatments was significantly lower than the CON (P<0.05). ③ The pH in the CON and Pleurotus eryngii treatment were significantly higher than other treatmentss (P<0.05). There were no significant differences in ammoniacal nitrogen (NH3-N), volatile fatty acids (VFA), and methane production among all treatments (P>0.05). ④ Except for Lentinula edodes treatment and Pleurotus ostrea⁃ tus treatment, the digested organic matter (DOM), organic matter digestibility (OMD) and metabolizable energy (ME) values in other treatments were significantly lower than those in the CON (P<0.05). ⑤ At 24 h of in vitro fermentation, in addition to Lentinula edodes treatment and Pleurotus ostreatus treatment, the in vitro digestibility of nutrients in all other treatments were significantly lower than the CON (P< 0.05). At 48 h of in vitro fermentation, in addition to Lentinula edodes treatment, Pleurotus ostreatus treatment, and Pleurotus eryngii treatment, the in vitro digestibility of nutrients in all other treatments were significantly lower than the CON (P<0.05). Comprehensive analysis showed that there were some differences in rumen fermentation parameters and degradation characteristics of beef cattle diets with different kinds of fungus bran, among which Lentinula edodes fungus bran and Pleurotus ostreatus fungus bran had the potential to be used as beef cattle diets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Methionine dipeptide (Met-Met) could improve milk protein synthesis in bovine epithelia mammary cells and lactating mice, while the effects of Met-Met on lactating dairy cows have not been explored. We hypothesized that supplementation of Met-Met could improve lactation performance of dairy cows. In this study, we elucidated the effects of different forms of Met-Met (rumen-protected and -unprotected) on lactation performance, rumen fermentation and microbiota profile of dairy cows. Results provided the first evidence that Met-Met supplementation can improve lactation performance of dairy cows, and suggested that the rumen-protected form presents greater benefits on milk performance and rumen behavior. Methionine dipeptide (Met-Met) could improve milk protein synthesis in bovine epithelia mammary cells and lactating mice, while the effects of Met-Met on lactation performance, rumen fermentation and microbiota profile in lactating dairy cows have not been explored. For this reason, 60 Chinese lactating Holstein cows were allocated into three treatment groups: control group (CON), 6 g/d methionine dipeptide group (MM), and 6.12 g/d rumen-protected methionine dipeptide group (RPMM). The experiment lasted for 10 weeks to monitor lactation performance, plasma amino acid profile and rumen fermentation parameters and microbiota profile. Results showed that MM increased the energy-corrected milk (ECM), and RPMM increased both milk yield and ECM (p < 0.05). The milk protein concentration and yield were increased by MM and RPMM (p < 0.05). The rumen fermentation showed that RPMM increased total volatile fatty acids, acetate and valerate concentrations (p < 0.05). The relative abundance of Firmicutes, including Succiniclasticum, Selenomonas and Clostridium_XlVa, were enriched and the Prevotella was decreased by RPMM (p < 0.05). In summary, daily supplementing with 6 g of MM or RPMM in lactating dairy cows could improve milk yield and both percentage and yield of milk protein, and RPMM benefited the rumen fermentation and altered the bacterial composition. These results provided the first evidence that Met-Met supplementation can improve lactation performance of dairy cows. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metronidazole (MTZ) is a 5‐nitroimidazole anti‐bacterial and anti‐protozoal drug. In human and companion animal medicine, MTZ remains widely used due to its effectiveness against anaerobic bacteria and protozoa. In farm animals, however, MTZ is currently prohibited in several countries due to insufficient data on nitroimidazoles. The purpose of this study was to assess its pharmacokinetics (PK) in geese after single intravenous (IV) and oral (PO) administrations. Fifteen‐month old healthy male geese (n = 8) were used. Geese were subjected to a two‐phase, single‐dose (10 mg/kg IV, 50 mg/kg PO), open, longitudinal study design with a two‐week washout period between the IV and PO phases. Blood was drawn from the left wing vein to heparinized tubes at 0, 0.085 (for IV only), 0.25, 0.5, 0.75, 1, 1.5, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 24, and 48 h. Plasma MTZ concentrations were measured using HPLC coupled to an UV detector, and the data were pharmacokinetically analyzed using PKanalix™ software with a non‐compartmental approach. MTZ was still quantifiable and well above the LLOQ at 24 h after both routes of administration. Following IV administration, terminal elimination half‐life, volume of distribution, and total clearance were 5.47 h, 767 mL/kg, and 96 mL/h/kg, respectively. For the PO route, the bioavailability was high (85%), and the mean peak plasma concentration was 60.27 μg/mL at 1 h. When parameters were normalized for the dose, there were no statistically significant differences for any of the PK parameters between the two routes of administration. The study shows that oral administration of MTZ seems to be promising in geese, although comprehensive research on its pharmacodynamics and multiple‐dose studies are necessary before its adoption in geese can be further considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study was performed on 12 crossbred (Kankrej x HF) female calves to evaluate the effect of supplementation of rumen-protected methionine (RPM) and lysine (RPL) on the digestibility of nutrients and rumen fermentation. The calves were randomly allotted to two equal groups T1 and T2 based on their body weight for 98 days. Calves in the T1 group were fed basal TMR to meet the nutrient requirement as per ICAR (2013) standard and those in T2 were fed basal T1 TMR + 2 g RPM and 6 g RPL /kg DM. The digestion trial of 7 days was conducted during the 11th week of the experiment to assess the digestibility of nutrients. The rumen liquor samples were collected at 0, 2, 4, and 6 h post-feeding during the last month of the experiment to study the rumen fermentation pattern. The digestibility of nutrients was not influenced by T2 while the fecal nitrogen excretion as a percent of nitrogen intake (N efficiency) was significantly (p<0.05) lower as compared to T1. The rumen liquor soluble and total nitrogen contents were improved in T2 TMR supplemented with RPM and RPL. However, rumen liquor pH, total volatile fatty acids, ammonia nitrogen, and non-protein nitrogen did not show any significant difference between the treatment groups. The supplementation of RPM and RPL in the diet of crossbred female calves resulted in improved rumen soluble and total nitrogen content and nitrogen use efficiency, thus preventing the detrimental effect of ammonia and greenhouse gases on the environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new variant of Methanothermobacter wolfeii was isolated from an anaerobic digester using enrichment cultivation in anaerobic conditions. The new isolate was taxonomically identified via 16S rRNA gene sequencing and tagged as M. wolfeii BSEL. The whole genome of the new variant was sequenced and de novo assembled. Genomic variations between the BSEL strain and the type strain were discovered, suggesting evolutionary adaptations of the BSEL strain that conferred advantages while growing under a low concentration of nutrients. M. wolfeii BSEL displayed the highest specific growth rate ever reported for the wolfeii species (0.27 ± 0.03 h-1) using carbon dioxide (CO2) as unique carbon source and hydrogen (H2) as electron donor. M. wolfeii BSEL grew at this rate in an environment with ammonium (NH4+) as sole nitrogen source. The minerals content required to cultivate the BSEL strain was relatively low and resembled the ionic background of tap water without mineral supplements. Optimum growth rate for the new isolate was observed at 64°C and pH 8.3. In this work, it was shown that wastewater from a wastewater treatment facility can be used as a low-cost alternative medium to cultivate M. wolfeii BSEL. Continuous gas fermentation fed with a synthetic biogas mimic along with H2 in a bubble column bioreactor using M. wolfeii BSEL as biocatalyst resulted in a CO2 conversion efficiency of 97% and a final methane (CH4) titer of 98.5%v, demonstrating the ability of the new strain for upgrading biogas to renewable natural gas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Incorporating Curcumin into animal diets holds significant promise for enhancing both animal health and productivity, with demonstrated positive impacts on antioxidant activity, anti-microbial responses. Therefore, this study aimed to determine whether adding Curcumin to the diet of dairy calves would influence ruminal fermentation, hematologic, immunological, oxidative, and metabolism variables. Fourteen Jersey calves were divided into a control group (GCON) and a treatment group (GTRA). The animals in the GTRA received a diet containing 65.1 mg/kg of dry matter (DM) Curcumin (74% purity) for an experimental period of 90 days. Blood samples were collected on days 0, 15, 45, and 90. Serum levels of total protein and globulins were higher in the GTRA group (P < 0.05) than the GCON group. In the GTRA group, there was a reduction in pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1ß and IL-6) (P < 0.05) and an increase in IL-10 (which acts on anti-inflammatory responses) (P < 0.05) when compared to the GCON. There was a significantly higher (P < 0.05) concentration of immunoglobulin A (IgA) in the serum of the GTRA than the GCON. A Treatment × Day interaction was observed for haptoglobin levels, which were higher on day 90 in animals that consumed Curcumin than the GCON (P < 0.05). The catalase and superoxide dismutase activities were significantly higher (P < 0.05) in GTRA, reducing lipid peroxidation when compared to the GCONT. Hematologic variables did not differ significantly between groups. Among the metabolic variables, only urea was higher in the GTRA group when compared to the GCON. Body weight and feed efficiency did not differ between groups (meaning the percentage of apparent digestibility of dry matter, crude protein, and acid detergent fiber (ADF) and neutral detergent fiber (NDF). There was a tendency (P = 0.09) for treatment effect and a treatment x day interaction (P = 0.05) for levels of short-chain fatty acids in rumen fluid, being lower in animals that consumed curcumin. There was a treatment vs. day interaction (P < 0.05) for the concentration of acetate in the rumen fluid (i.e., on day 45, had a reduction in acetate; on day 90, values were higher in the GTRA group when compared to the GCON). We conclude that there was no evidence in the results from this preliminary trial that Curcumin in the diet of dairy calves interfered with feed digestibility. Curcumin may have potential antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immune effects that may be desirable for the production system of dairy calves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common systemic disorder related to endocrine disorders, affecting the fertility of women of childbearing age. It is associated with glucose and lipid metabolism disorders, altered gut microbiota, and insulin resistance. Modern treatments like pioglitazone, metformin, and spironolactone target specific symptoms of PCOS, while in Chinese medicine, moxibustion is a common treatment. This study explores moxibustion’s impact on PCOS by establishing a dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA)-induced PCOS rat model. Thirty-six specific pathogen-free female Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into four groups: a normal control group (CTRL), a PCOS model group (PCOS), a moxibustion treatment group (MBT), and a metformin treatment group (MET). The MBT rats received moxibustion, and the MET rats underwent metformin gavage for two weeks. We evaluated ovarian tissue changes, serum testosterone, fasting blood glucose (FBG), and fasting insulin levels. Additionally, we calculated the insulin sensitivity index (ISI) and the homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance index (HOMA-IR). We used 16S rDNA sequencing for assessing the gut microbiota, 1 H NMR spectroscopy for evaluating metabolic changes, and Spearman correlation analysis for investigating the associations between metabolites and gut microbiota composition. The results indicate that moxibustion therapy significantly ameliorated ovarian dysfunction and insulin resistance in DHEA-induced PCOS rats. We observed marked differences in the composition of gut microbiota and the spectrum of fecal metabolic products between CTRL and PCOS rats. Intriguingly, following moxibustion intervention, these differences were largely diminished, demonstrating the regulatory effect of moxibustion on gut microbiota. Specifically, moxibustion altered the gut microbiota by increasing the abundance of UCG-005 and Turicibacter, as well as decreasing the abundance of Desulfovibrio. Concurrently, we also noted that moxibustion promoted an increase in levels of short-chain fatty acids (including acetate, propionate, and butyrate) associated with the gut microbiota of PCOS rats, further emphasizing its positive impact on gut microbes. Additionally, moxibustion also exhibited effects in lowering FBG, testosterone, and fasting insulin levels, which are key biochemical indicators associated with PCOS and insulin resistance. Therefore, these findings suggest that moxibustion could alleviate DHEA-induced PCOS by regulating metabolic levels, restoring balance in gut microbiota, and modulating interactions between gut microbiota and host metabolites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the experiment was to study the effects of different levels of antimicrobial peptides on the growth performance, rumen fermentation parameters, serum immunity, and breeding economic benefits of Simmental hybrid beef cattle. A total of 32 healthy Simmental crossbred beef cattle with similar body weight were randomly divided into four groups, with eight replicates per group and one beef cattle per replicate. Beef cattle in the control group were fed a basal diet, and those in the test group A, group B, and group C were fed diets containing 2, 4, 8 g/(head·d) antimicrobial peptides, respectively. The pre-test lasted for seven days and the formal test lasted for 150 days. The results showed that compared with the control group, the final weight and average daily gain in the test group B and group C were significantly increased (P<0.05), while the ratio of feed to gain was significantly decreased (P<0.05). The pH value and bacterial protein concentration of rumen fluid in test group B and group C were significantly increased (P<0.05), and the ratio of ethylene to propylene was significantly decreased (P<0.05). The rumen acetic acid concentration in all the test groups was significantly decreased (P<0.05). The serum level of interleukin-4 was significantly increased (P<0.05), and the serum level of interleukin-6 was significantly decreased in all the test groups (P<0.05). The levels of interleukin-10, immunoglobulin M and immunoglobulin G in test group B and group C were significantly increased (P<0.05). Compared with the control group, the weight gain income in the test group A, group B, and group C was increased by 10.40%, 22.34%, and 23.55%, and the profit was increased by 19.31%, 46.54%, and 48.45%, respectively. The study indicates that adding appropriate amount of antimicrobial peptides in beef cattle breeding can improve growth performance, promote rumen fermentation function, enhance immune function and increase breeding profits, and adding 4 g/(head ·d) antimicrobial peptides is more appropriate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research aimed to investigate effects of different yeast culture (YC) levels on in vitro fermentation characteristics and bacterial and fungal community under high concentrate diet. A total of 5 groups were included in the experiment: control group without YC (CON), YC1 (0.5% YC proportion of substrate dry matter), YC2 (1%), YC3 (1.5%) and YC4 (2%). After 48 h of fermentation, the incubation fluids and residues were collected to analyze the ruminal fermentation parameters and bacterial and fungal community. Results showed that the ruminal fluid pH of YC2 and YC4 groups was higher (P < 0.05) than that of CON group. Compared with CON group, the microbial protein, propionate and butyrate concentrations and cumulative gas production at 48 h of YC2 group were significantly increased (P < 0.05), whereas an opposite trend of ammonia nitrogen and lactate was observed between two groups. Microbial analysis showed that the Chao1 and Shannon indexes of YC2 group were higher (P < 0.05) than those of CON group. Additionally, YC supplementation significantly decreased (P < 0.05) Succinivibrionaceae_UCG-001, Streptococcus bovis and Neosetophoma relative abundances. An opposite tendency of Aspergillus abundance was found between CON and YC treatments. Compared with CON group, the relative abundances of Prevotella, Succiniclasticum, Butyrivibrio and Megasphaera elsdenii were significantly increased (P < 0.05) in YC2 group, while Apiotrichum and unclassified Clostridiales relative abundances were decreased (P < 0.05). In conclusion, high concentrate substrate supplemented with appropriate YC (1%) can improve ruminal fermentation and regulate bacterial and fungal composition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The susceptibility of high-yielding dairy cows to heat stress results in significant economic losses for the dairy farming industry. In this study, we evaluated the effects of Lonicera japonica extract (LJE) with different chlorogenic acid (CGA) contents on lactation performance, serum biochemical and antioxidant indicators, immune factors, and rumen fermentation parameters in heat-stressed high-yielding dairy cows. After feeding dairy cows for 56 days, we found that the addition of LJE promoted lactation performance and rumen fermentation in high-yielding cows experiencing heat stress. It also increased the levels of IgG and the activities of glutathione peroxidase, superoxide dismutase, and total antioxidant capacity, while reducing the concentrations of creatinine, malondialdehyde and inflammatory factors in the serum. Furthermore, while maintaining a consistent level of CGA content, the effects of addition from both types of LJE are similar. These findings demonstrate that LJE exhibits remarkable efficacy in alleviating heat stress and enhancing the lactation performance of dairy cows during hot summers, with CGA serving as the effective ingredient responsible for its anti-heat stress properties. This examined the effects of Lonicera japonica extract (LJE) with different chlorogenic acid (CGA) contents on lactation performance, antioxidant status and immune function and rumen fermentation in heat-stressed high-yielding dairy cows. In total, 45 healthy Chinese Holstein high-yielding dairy cows, all with similar milk yield, parity, and days in milk were randomly allocated to 3 groups: (1) the control group (CON) without LJE; (2) the LJE-10% CGA group, receiving 35 g/(d·head) of LJE-10% CGA, and (3) the LJE-20% CGA group, receiving 17.5 g/(d·head) of LJE-20% CGA. The results showed that the addition of LJE significantly reduced RT, and enhanced DMI, milk yield, milk composition, and improved rumen fermentation in high-yielding dairy cows experiencing heat stress. Through the analysis of the serum biochemical, antioxidant, and immune indicators, we observed a reduction in CREA levels and increased antioxidant and immune function. In this study, while maintaining consistent CGA content, the effects of addition from both types of LJE are similar. In conclusion, the addition of LJE at a level of 4.1 g CGA/(d·head) effectively relieved heat stress and improved the lactation performance of dairy cows, with CGA serving as the effective ingredient responsible for its anti-heat stress properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The present meta-analysis was conducted to investigate the use of saponin extracts as dietary supplements for ruminants, based on in vivo studies. This study aimed to highlight the benefits of saponin extracts and their impact on ruminant health and production. A total of 26 articles, comprising 66 studies, were included in the database. The meta-analysis was designed to elucidate the effects of saponin extracts from different sources on production performance, milk yield, digestibility, rumen fermentation, nitrogen utilization, and blood metabolites. The results revealed that increased saponin supplementation linearly decreased milk production and altered rumen fermentation profiles without affecting digestibility rates, particularly influencing volatile fatty acid production and protozoa population. However, the efficacy and safety of different levels of saponin extracts vary, and further research is required to optimize its use for enhancing ruminant productivity, mitigating environmental impacts, and exploring the specific effects of saponin extracts on ruminant health. It can be concluded that the utilization of saponin extracts in ruminant diets is complex, and a comprehensive understanding of the optimal application of various saponin extracts across different ruminant physiological conditions is necessary. The present meta-analysis aimed to determine the underlying effects of different saponins extracted from different sources on the production performance, milk yield, digestibility, rumen fermentation, blood metabolites, and nitrogen utilization of ruminants. A total of 26 papers comprising 66 in vivo studies (148 data points of dietary treatments) were evaluated in the present study. The databases were statistically analyzed using the mixed model procedure of SAS, where experiments considered random effects and tannin-related factors were treated as fixed effects. Statistical procedures were then continued in comparing different sources of saponin extract through Mixed Model analysis, where experiments were also random factors and sources of saponin extract were fixed factors. The evidence revealed in the present meta-analysis that saponin supplementation of up to 40 g/kg DM appears to have no detrimental impact on feed intake across ruminant types, suggesting that it does not significantly affect diet palatability. However, the results indicated that there are species-specific responses to saponin supplementation, particularly in relation to palatability and nutrient absorption efficiency, with larger ruminants being better able to tolerate the bitterness induced by saponin extracts. Furthermore, the study found that saponin extracts can influence nutrient digestibility and rumen fermentation dynamics, with different effects observed in large and small ruminants. While some saponin extracts can enhance average daily weight gain and milk yield, others can have adverse effects, highlighting the importance of considering both saponin sources and animal physiological condition when developing nutritional strategies. Additionally, optimization of ruminant production by utilizing saponin extracts is necessary to avoid negative health implications, such as increased blood creatinine levels. Different saponin extracts utilization in ruminant nutrition and environmental management, have a distinct understanding associated to their various bioactive properties. However, among the saponin sources, saponin extracted from Quilaja saponaria is more likely to improve large ruminant production performance while maintaining ruminant health and metabolism, but negatively affect small ruminants. Further research is needed to unravel the intricate effects of different saponin sources on ruminant health and productivity, emphasizing the importance of tailored dietary strategies that consider the unique physiological and metabolic characteristics of the target livestock. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The foliage of the tree Brosimum alicastrum is widely employed by small farmers in Latin America to supplement cattle, sheep and goats during the dry season. Foliage is manually cut, and the branches are chopped and fed directly, being highly palatable to ruminant species. The foliage remains green throughout the year, and the tree can be defoliated twice per year. Cattle can also directly browse the foliage from the tree, but it is mostly used in cut and carry systems and transported in carts to farms. The experiment hereby described showed that the crude protein fraction of the foliage of B. alicastrum is highly fermentable in the rumen, supplying nitrogen for growth of the microbial population. As the percent of foliage of B. alicastrum in the ration was increased, dry matter intake by sheep was concomitantly increased, as was the rate of the passage of digesta through the rumen and the supply of microbial nitrogen to the small intestine. The foliage of B. alicastrum is a valuable feedstuff for ruminants in the tropics and can be used as a cheap source of protein during the critical periods of the year to improve weight gain and milk yield in a sustainable way. An experiment was carried out to assess the effect of the incorporation of sun-dried foliage of Brosimum alicastrum into rations based on hay of Megathyrsus maximus on intake, rumen fermentation, kinetics of passage, microbial nitrogen supply to the small intestine, apparent digestibility in Pelibuey hair sheep. Four rations were randomly allotted to four rumen-cannulated lambs (BW = 37.4 ± 4.9 kg) using a 4 × 4 Latin square design to assess the effect of increasing levels (0, 15, 30 and 45% DM basis) of foliage of Brosimum alicastrum on a basal ration of M. maximus. Organic matter intake and water consumption increased linearly (p < 0.01) with increasing levels of B. alicastrum in the ration. The rate and potential extent of rumen fermentation of OM and CP of B. alicastrum were 10.6%/h and 86.6% and 11.4%/h and 95.2%, respectively, but no effect (p > 0.05) was found on the potential rumen degradation of DM (40.2%) or on the rate of degradation of DM (0.033%/h) of M. maximus, although a positive effect was found in the rumen degradation rate of NDF (p < 0.05). VFA and ammonia concentration in the rumen and the rate of passage of solids and liquids through the rumen (k1) increased linearly (p < 0.01) with increasing levels of B. alicastrum. Rumen pH was not affected by the incorporation of B. alicastrum (p > 0.05). Microbial nitrogen supply to the small intestine (p < 0.001), apparent digestibility of dry matter (p < 0.01) and NDF (p < 0.05) of the rations were also significantly increased as a result of the incorporation of B. alicastrum foliage. Results from this experiment suggest that the foliage of Brosimum alicastrum can be readily incorporated at around 30% of the ration of dry matter in hair sheep with beneficial effects on feed intake, rate of passage and microbial N supply to the lower tract. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Dragon fruit peel polyphenolic extract is a potential ruminal modulator endorsed by consumers for its inherent safety and acceptability. This in vitro study demonstrated that dragon fruit peel polyphenolic extract increased the concentration of volatile fatty acids in the rumen, reduced gas production, and enhanced the rumen bacterial abundances. These findings suggest that dragon fruit peel polyphenol extract has the potential to improve ruminal fermentation of sika deer and provides a theoretical basis for dragon fruit peel polyphenol extract to be used as a functional feed additive for Sika deer. The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of dragon fruit peel polyphenolic extract (DFPE) on gas production, rumen fermentation, and bacterial communities in sika deer using an in vitro technique. Three treatments with different DFPE levels (DFPE0, base diet; DFPE5, base diet + 5 mg/g DFPE; DFPE10, base diet + 10 mg/g DFPE, respectively; n = 6) were implemented. The phenolic composition of DFPE, gas production (GP), ammonia nitrogen (NH3-N), volatile fatty acid (VFA), and bacteria communities was evaluated after 24 h of incubation. The results showed that GP and NH3-N were reduced by DFPE supplementation. Total VFA, isovaleric acid, and valeric acid were increased (p < 0.05) by the addition of DFPE. No changes (p > 0.05) were observed in pH, acetic acid, propionic acid, isobutyric acid, butyric acid, and the ratio of acetic acid to propionic acid. Additionally, the alpha indexes, including Sobs, Shannon, and Ace, were increased by DFPE supplementation. Moreover, at the phylum level, DFPE supplementation increased (p = 0.01) Bacteroidota but reduced (p < 0.01) Firmicutes. At the genus level, compared to DFPE0, the DFPE10 had increased relative abundances of Rikenellaceae_RC9_gut_group (p < 0.01), norank_f_Muribaculaceae (p = 0.01), Lachnospiraceae_NK3A20_group (p < 0.01), Christensenellaceae_R-7_group (p < 0.01), and NK4A214_group (p < 0.01), decreased relative abundances of Streptococcus (p < 0.01), Oribacterium (p = 0.01), and Enterococcus (p < 0.01). Compared to DFPE0, DFPE5 had no change (p > 0.05) in all bacteria at the genus level except for decreased relative abundance of Enterococcus (p < 0.01). These results indicated that DFPE may be able to be used as a feed additive to enhance fermentation parameters and improve ruminal bacteria communities in Sika deer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) is a widely used autologous blood concentrate in regenerative medicine. This study aimed to characterize the cellular composition and distribution of different PRF matrices generated by high (710 g) and low (44 g) relative centrifugal forces (RCFs) and to analyze their bioactivity on human primary osteoblasts (pOBs). PRF was separated into upper layer (UL) and buffy coat (BC) fractions, and their cellular contents were assessed using histological and immunohistochemical staining. The release of platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) and transforming growth factor (TGF-β) was quantified using an ELISA. Indirect PRF treatment on pOBs was performed to evaluate cell viability and morphology. A histological analysis revealed higher quantities of leukocytes and platelets in the low-RCF PRF. TGF-β release was significantly higher in the low-RCF PRF compared to the high-RCF PRF. All PRF fractions promoted pOB proliferation regardless of the centrifugation protocol used. The low-RCF PRF showed higher TGF-β levels than the high-RCF PRF. These findings contribute to understanding the cellular mechanisms of PRF and provide insights into optimizing PRF protocols for bone regeneration, advancing regenerative medicine, and improving patient outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Amidst the challenging environmental conditions characterized by low oxygen levels and cold temperatures on the plateau, alterations in nutrient supply emerge as pivotal factors influencing the survival and reproduction of yaks. Intensive feeding stands out as a substantial mechanism for nutrient provision, initiating discernible changes in the host's rumen flora. Within the extreme natural conditions prevailing in the plateau area of northwest Yunnan, China, there exists a con-strained comprehension of the variations in rumen microflora, fermentation parameters, and growth responses exhibited by yaks subjected to intensive feeding. Methods: This study employs 16S rRNA and ITS sequencing methods to scrutinize the rumen flora of yaks engaged in both natural grazing (G) and intensive feeding (F) on the plateau. Results: The outcomes unveil that, during the severe winter season, yaks adeptly modulate the abundance and diversity of rumen flora in response to dietary modifications under intensive feeding, aiming to optimize the efficient utilization of dietary fiber and energy. Principal Coordinate Analysis (PCoA) illustrates a substantial alteration in the rumen microbial community of naturally grazing yaks when exposed to intensive feeding. The natural grazing group manifests a higher prevalence of Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes, while the intensive feeding group exhibits heightened levels of Prevotella in the rumen. The Rikenellaceae _ RC9 _ gut_ group, associated with mycobacteria, prevails more abundantly in the natural grazing setting. PICRUSt2 analysis indicates that intensive feeding induces bacterial gene overexpression linked to protein metabolism. Rumen fungi showcase heightened diversity under intensification. Intensive feeding results in an augmented abundance of non-fiber-degrading bacteria and semifiber-degrading bacteria, accompanied by elevated concentrations of Volatile Fatty Acids (VFA). Discussion: These findings yield novel insights into the shifts in the rumen microflora of yaks acclimated to intensive feeding in high-altitude environments, provide an important reference for the nutritional regulation of supplemental feeding of natural grazing yaks in the cold season, ultimately contributing to their enhanced growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The 2-hydroxy-4-(methylthio) butanoic acid isopropyl ester (HMBi), a rumen protective methionine, has been extensively studied in dairy cows and beef cattle and has been shown to regulate gastrointestinal microbiota and improve production performance. However, knowledge of the application of HMBi on cashmere goats and the simultaneous study of rumen and hindgut microbiota is still limited. In this study, HMBi supplementation increased the concentration of total serum protein, the production of microbial protein in the rumen and feces, as well as butyrate production in the feces. The results of PCoA and PERMANOVA showed no significant difference between the rumen microbiota, but there was a dramatic difference between the fecal microbiota of the two groups of Cashmere goats after the HMBi supplementation. Specifically, in the rumen, HMBi significantly increased the relative abundance of some fiber-degrading bacteria (such as Fibrobacter) compared with the CON group. In the feces, as well as a similar effect as in the rumen (increasing the relative abundance of some fiber-degrading bacteria, such as Lachnospiraceae FCS020 group and ASV32), HMBi diets also increased the proliferation of butyrate-producing bacteria (including Oscillospiraceae UCG-005 and Christensenellaceae R-7 group). Overall, these results demonstrated that HMBi could regulate the rumen and fecal microbial composition of Liaoning cashmere goats and benefit the host. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study conducted a comparison of the effects of non-protein nitrogen with different acid-base properties on feed intake, rumen fermentation, nutrient digestion and antioxidant capacity in fattening Hu sheep. Sixteen fattening male sheep (31.43  ±  2.41  kg) with permanent rumen cannulas were randomly assigned to two dietary treatments: 1% urea and 1.78% ammonium chloride (NH4Cl, AC). A 42  days experimental period was conducted, with 14  days for adaptation and 28  days for treatment. Daily feed intake was recorded and various samples including feed, feces, rumen fluid, and blood were collected at different time points during the final week. The results indicated that the urea group had significantly higher dry matter intake, average daily gain, and gain efficiency in comparison to the AC group (p  <  0.01). There was no difference in rumen pH and concentration of ammonia nitrogen between different groups (p  >  0.05), but the rumen pH of urea group was higher than that of the AC group at 1 and 3  h after feeding (p  <  0.05). The urea group exhibited higher concentrations of total volatile fatty acids (VFA) and individual VFAs compared to the AC group at all-time points (p  <  0.01). Compared to the urea group, the intake of all nutrients decreased in the AC group (p  <  0.01), but the digestibility of dry matter and organic matter increased significantly (p  <  0.01), and the digestibility of CP had an increasing trend (p  =  0.06) in the AC group. Additionally, the urea group had lower levels of serum glucagon-like peptide-1, peptide YY, Cl, total protein and globulin than the AC group (p  <  0.05). The overall levels of HCO3, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, catalase, albumin/globulin, blood urea nitrogen and total cholesterol in the urea group increased significantly compared to the AC group (p  <  0.05). It was concluded that adding urea to the high-concentrate diet resulted in increased rumen pH and improved rumen fermentation and growth performance in fattening sheep compared to NH−, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, catalase, albumin/globulin, blood urea nitrogen and total cholesterol in the urea group increased significantly compared to the AC group (p  <  0.05). It was concluded that adding urea to the high-concentrate diet resulted in increased rumen pH and improved rumen fermentation and growth performance in fattening sheep compared to NH4Cl addition. Furthermore, urea addition improved sheep’s antioxidant capacity and maintained their acid-base balance more effectively as compared to NH4Cl. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study is to assess the occurrence of intestinal parasites in Mediterranean pond turtle Mauremys leprosa leprosa collected from three contrasting environments in Morocco. Stool samples from 92 turtles were examined for parasite detection and enumeration. The identified intestinal parasites belong to helminths (oxyurids and ascarid) and protozoa (Entamoebidae). A total of 25 turtles (27.17%) were found to be infected by helminths and/or protozoan parasites. No adult form of these parasites was detected. Eggs of oxyurid and ascarid were detected in individuals of populations studied from Oued Ksob (23.07% and 30.76% of n = 13 turtles) and Oued Zat (34.14% and 24.39% of n = 41 turtles), respectively. For protozoa, Entamoeba cysts were present in turtles in Oued Ksob (15.38% of n = 13 turtles), Oued Zat (12.19% of n = 41 turtles), and Oued Tensift (5.26% of n = 38 turtles) localities. Oxyurid eggs showed the highest intensity at Oued Zat reaching 29.30 ± 59.59 eggs per gram (EPG), versus 12 ± 0.38 EPG for ascaris eggs in Oued Ksob. Entamoeba cysts were detected in lower levels with a maximum of 1.66 ± 1.50 cysts per gram (CPG), in Oued Zat. The prevalence of turtles eliminating eggs was statistically significant between localities for different parasite groups. This study reports for the first time a parasitological characterization of gastrointestinal parasites in wild populations of M. leprosa leprosa from contrasting environments, suggesting a relationship between turtles' infestation and the quality of their habitat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Adequate level of carbohydrates in aquafeeds help to conserve protein and reduce cost. However, studies have indicated that high-carbohydrate (HC) diet disrupt the homeostasis of the gut–liver axis in largemouth bass, resulting in decreased intestinal acetate and butyrate level. Method: Herein, we had concepted a set of feeding experiment to assess the effects of dietary sodium acetate (SA) and sodium butyrate (SB) on liver health and the intestinal microbiota in largemouth bass fed an HC diet. The experimental design comprised 5 isonitrogenous and isolipidic diets, including LC (9% starch), HC (18% starch), HCSA (18% starch; 2 g/kg SA), HCSB (18% starch; 2 g/kg SB), and HCSASB (18% starch; 1 g/kg SA + 1 g/kg SB). Juvenile largemouth bass with an initial body weight of 7.00 ± 0.20 g were fed on these diets for 56 d. Results: We found that dietary SA and SB reduced hepatic triglyceride accumulation by activating autophagy (ATG101, LC3B and TFEB), promoting lipolysis (CPT1α, HSL and AMPKα), and inhibiting adipogenesis (FAS, ACCA, SCD1 and PPARγ). In addition, SA and SB decreased oxidative stress in the liver (CAT, GPX1α and SOD1) by activating the Keap1-Nrf2 pathway. Meanwhile, SA and SB alleviated HC-induced inflammation by downregulating the expression of pro-inflammatory factors (IL-1β, COX2 and Hepcidin1) through the NF-κB pathway. Importantly, SA and SB increased the abundance of bacteria that produced acetic acid and butyrate (Clostridium_sensu_stricto_1). Combined with the KEGG analysis, the results showed that SA and SB enriched carbohydrate metabolism and amino acid metabolism pathways, thereby improving the utilization of carbohydrates. Pearson correlation analysis indicated that growth performance was closely related to hepatic lipid deposition, autophagy, antioxidant capacity, inflammation, and intestinal microbial composition. Conclusions: In conclusion, dietary SA and SB can reduce hepatic lipid deposition; and alleviate oxidative stress and inflammation in largemouth bass fed on HC diet. These beneficial effects may be due to the altered composition of the gut microbiota caused by SA and SB. The improvement effects of SB were stronger than those associated with SA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The rumen is a large organ unique to cattle and other ruminants and is essential for the ingestion, digestion, and absorption of large quantities of plant-based food. Cattle and likely all ruminants, however, are not born with a voluminous, functional rumen. There is remarkable postnatal growth and development in the rumen. This review summarizes the major postnatal changes in the structure and function of the bovine rumen, the major factors causing these changes, and, more importantly, the biological mechanisms underlying these changes. The rumen plays an essential role in the physiology and production of agriculturally important ruminants such as cattle. Functions of the rumen include fermentation, absorption, metabolism, and protection. Cattle are, however, not born with a functional rumen, and the rumen undergoes considerable changes in size, histology, physiology, and transcriptome from birth to adulthood. In this review, we discuss these changes in detail, the factors that affect these changes, and the potential molecular and cellular mechanisms that mediate these changes. The introduction of solid feed to the rumen is essential for rumen growth and functional development in post-weaning calves. Increasing evidence suggests that solid feed stimulates rumen growth and functional development through butyric acid and other volatile fatty acids (VFAs) produced by microbial fermentation of feed in the rumen and that VFAs stimulate rumen growth and functional development through hormones such as insulin and insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I) or through direct actions on energy production, chromatin modification, and gene expression. Given the role of the rumen in ruminant physiology and performance, it is important to further study the cellular, molecular, genomic, and epigenomic mechanisms that control rumen growth and development in postnatal ruminants. A better understanding of these mechanisms could lead to the development of novel strategies to enhance the growth and development of the rumen and thereby the productivity and health of cattle and other agriculturally important ruminants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previously, we used secondary electrospray ionization-mass spectrometry (SESI-MS) to investigate the diurnal patterns and signal intensities of exhaled (EX) volatile fatty acids (VFA) of dairy cows. The current study aimed to validate the potential of an exhalomics approach for evaluating rumen fermentation. The experiment was conducted in a switchback design, with 3 periods of 9 d each, including 7 d for adaptation and 2 d for sampling. Four rumen-cannulated original Swiss Brown (Braunvieh) cows were randomly assigned to 1 of 2 diet sequences (ABA or BAB): (A) low starch (LS; 6.31% starch on a dry matter basis) and (B) high starch (HS; 16.2% starch on a dry matter basis). Feeding was once per day at 0830 h. Exhalome (with the GreenFeed System), and rumen samples were collected 8 times to represent every 3 h of a day, and EX-VFA and ruminal (RM)-VFA were analyzed using SESI-MS and HPLC, respectively. Furthermore, the VFA concentration in the gas phase (HR-VFA) was predicted based on RM-VFA and Henry's Law (HR) constants. No interactions were identified between the types of diets (HS vs. LS) and the measurement methods on daily average VFA profiles (RM vs. EX or HR vs. EX), suggesting a consistent performance among the methods. Additionally, when the 3-h interval VFA data from HS and LS diets were analyzed separately, no interactions were observed between methods and time of day, indicating that the relative daily pattern of VFA molar proportions was similar regardless of the VFA measurement method used. The results revealed that the levels of acetate sharply increased immediately after feeding, trailed by an increase in the acetate:propionate ratio and a steady increase for propionate (2 h after feeding the HS diet, 4 h for LS), and butyrate. This change was more pronounced for the HS diet than the LS diet. However, there was no overall diet effect on the VFA molar proportions, although the measurement methods affected the molar proportions. Furthermore, we observed a strong positive correlation between the levels of RM and EX acetate for both diets (HS: r = 0.84; LS: r = 0.85), RM and EX propionate (r = 0.74), and RM and EX acetate:propionate ratio (r = 0.80). Both EX-VFA and RM-VFA exhibited similar responses to feeding and dietary treatments, suggesting that EX-VFA could serve as a useful proxy for characterizing RM-VFA molar proportions to evaluate rumen fermentation. Similar relationships were observed between RM-VFA and HR-VFA. In conclusion, this study underscores the potential of exhalomics as a reliable approach for assessing rumen fermentation. Moving forward, research should further explore the depth of exhalomics in ruminant studies to provide a comprehensive insight into rumen fermentation metabolites, especially across diverse dietary conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Our goal was to investigate the effect of diets containing baleages harvested from alfalfa-grass or red clover–grass mixture on production performance, ruminal fermentation and microbiota taxa relative abundance, milk fatty acid profile, and nutrient utilization in dairy cows. Twenty Jersey cows (18 multiparous and 2 primiparous) averaging (mean ± SD) 148 ± 45.2 days in milk and 483 ± 65.4 kg of body weight in the beginning of the study were used in a randomized complete block design with repeated measures over time. The experiment lasted 9 wk, with a 2 wk covariate period followed by 7 wk of data and sample collection (wk 4 and 7 used in the statistical analyses). Cows were fed diets containing (dry matter basis) 35% of a concentrate mash and the following forage sources: (1) 65% second- and third-cut (32.5% each) alfalfa-grass mixture baleages (ALF) or (2) 65% second- and third-cut (32.5% each) red clover–grass mixture baleages (RC). Diets did not affect dry matter intake, milk yield, and concentrations of milk fat and true protein. In contrast, milk fat yield tended to decrease and energy-corrected milk yield decreased with feeding RC versus ALF. The apparent total-tract digestibilities of dry matter, organic matter, and ash-free neutral detergent fiber, milk proportions of trans -10 18:1, cis -9, cis -12, cis -15 18:3, and total n-3 fatty acids, ruminal molar proportion of acetate, and plasma concentrations of Leu, Phe, and Val all increased in RC versus ALF. Diet × week interactions were found for several parameters, most notably ruminal molar proportions of propionate and butyrate, ruminal NH 3 -N, milk urea N, plasma urea N, and plasma His concentrations, urinary N excretion, enteric CH 4 production, and all energy efficiency variables. Specifically, ruminal NH 3 -N and plasma urea N concentrations, urinary excretion of N, and CH 4 production decreased in cows fed RC in wk 4 but not in wk 7. Milk urea N concentration decreased and that of plasma His increased with feeding RC during wk 4 and 7, although the magnitude of treatments difference varied between the sampling periods. Efficiency of energy utilization calculated as milk energy/metabolizable energy decreased and that of tissue energy/ME increased in RC versus ALF cows in wk 4, suggesting that ME was portioned toward tissue and not milk in the RC diet. Interactions were also observed for the relative abundance of the rumen bacterial phyla Verrucomicrobiota and Fibrobacterota, with cows offered RC showing greater values than those receiving ALF in wk 4 but no differences in wk 7. Several diet × week interactions were detected in the present study implying short-term treatment responses and warranting further investigations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objectives of this study were to determine the range in ruminal degradability of crude protein (CP) and intestinal digestibility of rumen undegradable protein in commercial soybean meal (SBM) and to investigate the range in in situ ruminal AA and phytate (InsP 6) degradation and their relationship to CP degradation. An in situ study was conducted using 3 lactating Jersey cows with permanent rumen cannulas. Seventeen SBM variants from Europe, Brazil, Argentina, North America, and India were tested for ruminal CP and AA degradation, and in vitro intestinal digestibility of rumen undegradable protein. Nine variants were used to investigate the ruminal degradation of InsP 6. The estimated rapidly degradable fraction (a) of CP showed an average value of 4.5% (range: 0.0%–9.0%), the slowly degradable fraction (b) averaged 95% (91%–100%), and the potential degradation was complete for all 17 SBM variants. The degradation of fraction b started after a mean lag phase of 1.7 h (1.1–2.0 h) at an average rate (c) of 10% per hour, but with a high range from 4.5% to 14% per hour. Differences in the degradation parameters induced a considerable range in CP effective degradation at a rumen passage rate of 6% per hour (CPED 6) from 38% to 67%; hence, the concentration of rumen undegradable protein varied widely from 33% to 62%. The range in AA degradation between the SBM variants was high, with Ser showing the widest range, from 28% to 96%, and similar for the other AA. The regression equations showed close relationships between CP and AA degradation after 16 h of in situ incubation. However, the slopes of the linear regressions were significantly different between AA, suggesting that degradation among individual AA differs upon a change in CP degradation. The concentrations of InsP 6 and myo-inositol pentakisphosphate in bag residues in the in situ study decreased constantly with longer ruminal incubation times. The ruminal degradation parameters of InsP 6 ranged from 11% to 37% for fraction a , 63% to 89% for fraction b , and from 7.7% to 21% per hour for degradation rate c , with average values of 21%, 79%, and 16% per hour, respectively. The calculated InsP 6 effective degradation at a rumen passage rate of 6% per hour (InsP 6 ED 6) varied from 61% to 84% among the SBM variants. Significant correlations were detected between InsP 6 ED 6 and CPED 6 and between InsP 6 ED 6 and chemical protein fractions A, B1, B2, B3, and C. Linear regression equations were developed to predict ruminal InsP 6 degradation using CPED 6 and chemical protein fractions B3 and C chosen by a stepwise selection procedure. We concluded that a high range in CP, AA, and InsP 6 degradation exists among commercial SBM, suggesting that general degradability values may not be precise enough for diet formulation for dairy cows. Degradation of CP in SBM may be used to predict rumen degradation of AA and InsP 6 using linear regression equations. Degradation of CP and InsP 6 could also be predicted from the chemical protein fractions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this experiment was to study the effects of bacterial enzyme additives on the growth performance, nutrient apparent digestibility, rumen fermentation parameters, and economic benefits of Liaoning Heishan cattle. Thirty-six Liaoning Heishan cattle with an average weight of about 273 kg were randomly divided into three groups with four replicates in each group and three cattle in each replicate. The control group was fed with basal diet, the experimental group A was fed with basal diet + 5 g/(head·d) of bacterial enzyme additive, and the experimental group B was fed with basal diet + 10 g/(head·d) of bacterial enzyme additive. The pre-test period was seven days, and the formal test period was 60 days. The results showed that compared with the control group, the final weight and average daily gain of the experimental group B increased significantly ( P<0.05), the feed-to-weight ratio decreased significantly ( P<0.05), and the incidence rate decreased by 63.04%. The incidence rate of the experimental group A decreased by 27.52% ( P>0.05). The apparent digestibility of crude protein, acid detergent fiber, and neutral detergent fiber in the experimental group B was significantly higher than that in control group ( P<0.05). Ammonia nitrogen and the ratio of acetic acid to propionic acid in rumen fluid of the experimental group B were significantly lower than those of the control group ( P<0.05), while the concentrations of propionic acid and microbial protein were significantly higher than those of the control group ( P<0.05). Compared with the control group, the daily net profit of each cow in the experimental group A increased by 1.10 yuan, and the experimental group B increased by 7.27 yuan. The study indicates that adding 10 g/(head·d) microbial enzyme additive to the basal diet can effectively improve the growth performance, nutrient apparent digestibility, improve the rumen fermentation function, reduce the occurrence of diseases, and improve the economic benefits of Liaoning Heishan cattle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of the physical form of concentrate and mineral buffer type on lambs performance, nutrient digestibility, rumen fermentation, blood metabolites and in fattening Dalagh lambs. Twenty-eight lambs with an initial live body weight of 33 ± 2.7 kg and 6 ± 1 months of age were assigned through a completely randomized design with 2 x 2 factorial arrangement to 4 treatments and 7 replicates. Treatments contained: pelleted concentrate with sesquisodium carbonate, pelleted concentrate with sodium bicarbonate, mash concentrate with sesquisodium carbonate and mash concentrate with sodium bicarbonate. The study period was 84 days. Lambs were weighed fortnightly. In last week of the experiment, sampling and collection of feces was done to determine digestibility. Sampling from rumen fluid and blood sampling was carried out on day 80 of experiment. The results showed that in lambs fed pellet concentrate live weight, daily live weight gain, feed conversion, whole carcass, hot carcass and cool carcass were higher (P<0.05) in lambs fed pelleted than those fed mash concentrate. Digestibility of dry matter was higher in pellet concentrate than in mash (P<0.05). In blood parameters, glucose concentration in pellet concentrate was more than mash concentrate treatments (P<0.05). Ruminal pH showed a significant increase in the concentrations of mash and sodium bicarbonate buffer in three hours after feeding in the morning (P<0.05). Ammonia-N in rumen had no significant difference was observed. Among the fatty acids, concentration of TVFA, acetate and propionate in treatments of mash concentrate was higher than that of pellet (P<0.05). Similarly, feeding mash concentrate instead of pellet increased rumination activity (P<0.05). According to the results, offering pellet concentrate with either of two buffers showed higher weight gain, digestibility compared to mash concentrate. While lambs fed mash concentrate had higher rumen parameters than those fed pelleted concentrate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted to investigate the effects of grain (barley and wheat) size on rumen fermentation characteristics in fattening Dalaq breed lambs of the study was (3x2) completely randomized design with 6 treatments including; milled barley grain with sieve number two, milled barley grain with sieve number eight, unmilled barley grain, milled wheat grain with sieve number two, milled wheat grain with sieve number eight and unmilled wheat grain were plotted with 5 repetitions. Animals were housed in individual pens for 84 days. Rumen pH was not affected by experimental treatments. There was not significant (P>0.05) effect of grain paricle size on NH3-N ammonia nitrogen and microbial count although though, processing type it was affected by the type of processing and in the treatment of barley grain it was more than wheat. Also in the type of processing, sieve No. 2 produced more ammonia nitrogen. Counting of protozoa was significant in treatments containing barley and wheat and in barley treatment it was more than wheat (P<0.01). Although the Coliforms and bacteria of lactic acid were not affected by the type of grain (P>0.01). The total concentrations of volatile fatty acids (VFA) was not affected by the type of grain. Microbial nitrogen and microbial protein produced in the rumen were significantly affected by experimental treatments and both of them were more than wheat in the treatment of barley seeds (P<0.01). Allantoin and uric acid were not affected, and absorbed purine and xanthine and hypoxanthine were affected by the grain effect. The activity of carboxy methyl cellulase enzyme was not affected by the treatments although microcrystals cellulase enzyme in intracellular and total was affected by the treatments and it was more in barley. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examined the effects of oregano essential oil (OEO) and sodium butyrate (SB) dissolved in milk on Holstein suckling calves' performance, and blood and fermentation parameters. Twenty-four newborn male calves (3 to 5 days old) weighing an average of 36 ± 2 kg were randomly divided into four equal groups. Experimental treatments included: 1- basal diet (control), 2- basal diet + 5 g SB, 3- basal diet + 5 g OEO, and 4- basal diet + 5 g SB and 5 g OEO. Every two weeks, calves were weighed, and their skeletal growth indices were measured. In addition, the daily feed intake was determined. Blood samples were taken on days 7, 21, 42, and 56, and analyzed for determination of serum glucose, albumin, total protein, β- hydroxybutyrate (BHBA), total cholesterol, triglycerides, and urea concentration. On the 21st, 42nd, and 56th days of the experiment, rumen fluid was collected to determine pH, ammonia nitrogen (NH3-N), and volatile fatty acids (VFAs) concentrations. The SB and SB + OEO treatments increased feed intake compared to the control (P=0.06). Neither weight gain (P=0.11) nor feed conversion ratio (FCR, P=0.45) were influenced by treatments. However, some skeletal growth characteristics, including body length, withers height, and hip height, were enhanced by SB and OEO (P=0.05). Except protein, which was reduced by all treatments (P=0.002), there were no significant differences in blood parameters among treatments. Although treatments with SB and OEO increased the concentrations of acetic acid, propionic acid, butyric acid, and total VFAs in rumen fluid (P<0.0001), rumen fluid pH (P=0.27) or NH3-N (P=0.70) concentration were influenced by none of treatments. In conclusion, our results demonstrated that although SB and OEO treatments improved rumen VFAs profiles, they had no significant effect on calf performance traits. Based on these results, investigation of the effects of using these treatments as a strategy in rumen development and early weaning of calves is suggestable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antibiotics in animal production are widely used around the world for therapeutic and preventive purposes, and in some countries, they still serve as antibiotic growth stimulants. Regardless of the purpose of using antibiotics in livestock, they may be present in animal tissues and organs as well as in body fluids and excretions (feces and urine). Farm animal excrement in unprocessed form (natural fertilizers) or processed form (organic fertilizers) is applied to agricultural fields because it improves soil fertility. Antibiotics present in fertilizers may therefore contaminate the soil, surface, groundwater, and plants, which may pose a threat to the environment, animals, and humans. Therefore, it is important to develop analytical methods that will allow for the control of the presence of antibacterial substances in natural and organic fertilizers. Therefore, in this study, an LC-MS/MS method was developed and validated for the determination of 21 antibacterial substances in natural and organic liquid fertilizers. The developed method was used to analyze 62 samples of natural and organic liquid fertilizers, showing that over 24% of the tested samples were contaminated with antibiotics, mainly from the group of tetracyclines and fluoroquinolones. Studies of post-fermentation sludge from biogas plants have shown that the processes of anaerobic methane fermentation, pH, and temperature changes taking place in bioreactors do not lead to the complete degradation of antibiotics present in the material used for biogas production. For this reason, monitoring studies of natural and organic fertilizers should be undertaken to limit the introduction of antibiotics into the natural environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Garlic oil and cinnamaldehyde are plant-derived bioactive compounds with antimicrobial activity, which might contribute to improving the efficiency of rumen fermentation. However, an apparent adaptation of microbial populations to these compounds is usually observed over time. In this study, the effects of garlic oil and cinnamaldehyde on rumen fermentation and microbial populations were assessed in two periods of time using an in vitro system (Rusitec fermenters). Despite this possible adaptation, garlic oil supplementation reduced methane production and enhanced the energy profile of fermentation end products over time, whereas cinnamaldehyde appeared to increase the microbial protein supply to the animal. Thus, the use of these compounds as feed additives could contribute to increasing the efficiency and sustainability of ruminant production systems, bringing both economic and environmental benefits. Garlic oil (GO) and cinnamaldehyde (CIN) have shown potential to modify rumen fermentation. The aim of this study was to assess the effects of GO and CIN on rumen fermentation, microbial protein synthesis (MPS), and microbial populations in Rusitec fermenters fed a mixed diet (50:50 forage/concentrate), as well as whether these effects were maintained over time. Six fermenters were used in two 15-day incubation runs. Within each run, two fermenters received no additive, 180 mg/L of GO, or 180 mg/L of CIN. Rumen fermentation parameters were assessed in two periods (P1 and P2), and microbial populations were studied after each of these periods. Garlic oil reduced the acetate/propionate ratio and methane production (p < 0.001) in P1 and P2 and decreased protozoal DNA concentration and the relative abundance of fungi and archaea after P1 (p < 0.05). Cinnamaldehyde increased bacterial diversity (p < 0.01) and modified the structure of bacterial communities after P1, decreased bacterial DNA concentration after P2 (p < 0.05), and increased MPS (p < 0.001). The results of this study indicate that 180 mg/L of GO and CIN promoted a more efficient rumen fermentation and increased the protein supply to the animal, respectively, although an apparent adaptive response of microbial populations to GO was observed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Better utilization of rape straw can provide alternative strategies for sustainable ruminant and food production. The research reported here investigated changes in the carbohydrate composition of rape straw as a result of mixed ensiling with whole‐crop corn or inoculated with nitrate, and the consequent effects on ruminal fermentation through in vitro batch culture. The three treatments included: rape straw and corn silage (RSTC), and ensiling treatment of rape straw with whole‐crop corn (RSIC) or with calcium nitrate inoculation (RSICN). RESULTS: Ensiling treatment of rape straw and whole‐crop corn or plus nitrate enriched lactic acid bacteria and lactate. The treatments broke the fiber surface connections of rape straw, leading to higher neutral detergent soluble (NDS) content and lower fiber content. Ensiling treatments led to greater (P < 0.05) dry matter degradation (DMD), molar proportions of propionate and butyrate, relative abundance of the phylum Bacteroidetes and genus Prevotella, and lower (P < 0.05) methane production in terms of g kg−1 DMD, molar proportions of acetate, and lower acetate to propionate ratio than the RSTC treatment. The RSICN treatment led to the lowest (P < 0.05) hydrogen concentration and methane production among the three treatments. CONCLUSION: Ensiling treatments of rape straw and whole‐crop corn destroy the micro‐structure of rape straw, promote substrate degradation by enriching the phylum Bacteroidetes and the genus Prevotella, and decrease methane production by favoring propionate and butyrate production. Nitrate inoculation in the ensiling treatment of rape straw and whole‐crop corn further decreases methane production without influencing substrate degradation by providing an additional hydrogen sink. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The feed supplements to ruminant animals have gained great attention of nutritionists to improve feed utilization, growth and reproductive performances during the past decades. Methods: The animals feed supplements were classified into nutrient and non-nutrient feed additives. They include substances, micro-organisms or preparations. The feed supplements and their purified constituents were fed to give animals' nutritional requirements and to improve the quality of feed and animal products. Result: Changes in animals' production, reproduction and therapeutic performances have been confirmed over feeding supplements. Numerous purified components include β-carotene, antioxidant and others. The supplements change feed intake, nutrient digestibility and rumen fermentation products. Such enhancements in feed utilization and growth performances resulted in improvements of oocytes, embryos and feti quality. Furthermore, blood corpuscles and plasma parameters, immunity and therapeutic performances were altered due to feeding supplements. Hence, the current review article was designed to collect, consolidate and discuss the effects of feed supplements on productive, reproductive and therapeutic performances on mammalian species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the effects of hexahydrocannabinol (HHC) and other unclassified cannabinoids, which were recently introduced to the recreational drug market, on cannabis drug testing in urine and oral fluid samples. After the appearance of HHC in Sweden in 2022, the number of posts about HHC on an online drug discussion forum increased significantly in the spring of 2023, indicating increased interest and use. In parallel, the frequency of false positive screening tests for tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in oral fluid, and for its carboxy metabolite (THC-COOH) in urine, rose from <2% to >10%. This suggested that HHC cross-reacted with the antibodies in the immunoassay screening, which was confirmed in spiking experiments with HHC, HHC-COOH, HHC acetate (HHC-O), hexahydrocannabihexol (HHC-H), hexahydrocannabiphorol (HHC-P), and THC-P. When HHC and HHC-P were classified as narcotics in Sweden on 11 July 2023, they disappeared from the online and street shops market and were replaced by other unregulated variants (e.g. HHC-O and THC-P). In urine samples submitted for routine cannabis drug testing, HHC-COOH concentrations up to 205 (mean 60, median 27) µg/L were observed. To conclude, cannabis drug testing cannot rely on results from immunoassay screening, as it cannot distinguish between different tetra- and hexahydrocannabinols, some being classified but others unregulated. The current trend for increased use of unregulated cannabinols will likely increase the proportion of positive cannabis screening results that need to be confirmed with mass spectrometric methods. However, the observed cross-reactivity also means a way to pick up use of new cannabinoids that otherwise risk going undetected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the impact of varying concentrate levels in the diets of Angus beef cattle on their performance, nutrient digestion, and metabolism during the growth (7 to 12 months) and fattening (13 to 30 months) phases. Fifteen Angus steers were continuously fed and divided into low-concentrate (L) and high-concentrate (H) groups based on the fattening period and dietary formulations. Throughout each 9-week trial phase, a comprehensive range of parameters was systematically measured, including dry matter intake (DMI), average daily gain (ADG), gain-to-feed ratio (G/F), blood parameters, rumen fluid composition, and microbial diversity. In the fattening phases, an increase in concentrate levels resulted in a significant rise in the cattle's DMI. Although there was a minor increase in ADG compared to the growing phases, this increase was not statistically significant. The efficiency of nitrogen (N) utilization in the cattle decreased, accompanied by a significant reduction in the apparent digestibility of nutrients. Ruminal fermentation produced more energy substances; however, there was a notable decrease in the abundance of fiber-decomposing microbes (such as the NK4A214_group, Ruminococcus, Papillibacter, and Acetitomaculum) and a significant increase in the abundance of starch-degrading microbes (including Bacteroidota and Prevotellaceae). Additionally, there was a significant reduction in the abundance of immune system-related functional pathways. This suggests that high-concentrate fattening does not necessarily lead to improved growth performance and may negatively affect metabolic health and nutrient digestion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Anthropogenic activities in livestock sectors are responsible for emitting substantial amounts of greenhouse gases, including carbon dioxide, methane, and dinitrous oxide, into the atmosphere, thereby contributing to climate change. The impact of these gases can be reduced through effective mitigation and adaptation efforts. This study aimed to estimate the livestock greenhouse gas emissions in Minahasa District, Indonesia; identify the greenhouse gas sources and distribution; and provide feasible mitigation options. METHODS: This study used mixed methods to collect primary and secondary data from breeders and stakeholders in the Minahasa Regency. Interviews and questionnaires were also conducted, and the local government office provided secondary data. Breeders from various groups who lived in 25 different districts participated in this study, and the data analysis techniques used a Tier 1 model to process the data. The participants were included in focus group discussion activities for qualitative data collection to formulate potential mitigation strategies. FINDINGS: The livestock sector emitted 48.83 gigagrams of carbon dioxide equivalent in 2021, and this was expected to increase by 24.98 percent in 2022, resulting in a total emission of 65.09 gigagrams of carbon dioxide equivalent. The sector also experienced a steady rise in emissions since 2010, with an average annual increase of 3.17 percent. The emissions were primarily composed of methane and dinitrous oxide, which accounted for 64.68 and 0.41 gigagrams carbon dioxide equivalent, respectively. In terms of livestock greenhouse gas distribution, the Sonder District produced 13.98 percent of the emission at 8.77 gigagrams of carbon dioxide equivalent. The main emissions resulted from methane manure management and enteric fermentation at 84.53 and 15.23 percent (7.41 and 1.34 gigagrams of carbon dioxide equivalent, respectively), while the remaining was composed of dinitrous oxide gas. In Kawangkoan District, the greenhouse gas emissions were dominated by methane from enteric fermentation and manure management, which accounted for 15.23 and 20.05 percent (5.63 and 1.43 gigagrams of carbon dioxide equivalent). In addition, the total emission accounted for 11.33 percent at 7.11 gigagrams of carbon dioxide equivalent. CONCLUSION: The study produced an estimate of greenhouse gases from the livestock sector in the Minahasa Regency. During the studied period (2010-2022), the total greenhouse gas emissions exhibited an average annual increase of 3.17 percent. In 2022, the emissions consisted of methane and dinitrous oxide, with respective contributions of 99.38 percent per year and 0.62. Based on the spatial mapping, the Sonder District produced the largest cumulative emissions, primarily driven by emissions from animal waste management. Conversely, the Kawangkoan District dominated emissions stemming from the enteric fermentation of ruminant animals. These findings imply that all stakeholders in the Minahasa Regency should prioritize efforts to implement adaptation and mitigation programs to reduce these impacts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Growing evidence has demonstrated the important roles of gut microbiota and short chain fatty acids, especially acetate, propionate and butyrate, in the development of obesity and metabolic diseases. To date, the effects of acetate, propionate and butyrate on human adiposity and glucose metabolism remain controversial. This study aimed to explore the associations of systemically acetate, propionate and butyrate with obesity and glucose homeostasis in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) and obesity. Methods: A total of 12 patients with T2D and obesity and 8 age- and sex-matched healthy individuals with BMI < 24 kg/m2 were enrolled in this study. Height, weight, body composition, blood pressure, biochemical indices, a 75-g oral glucose tolerance test, and plasma acetate, propionate and butyrate were measured at baseline. Then, participants in T2D group were given a weight control therapy, in addition to conventional medication, and all the measurements were repeated 12 months from baseline. The direct segmental multi-frequency bioelectrical impedance analysis was used to assess body composition. Acetate, propionate and butyrate levels were determined by liquid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry. Results: Butyrate concentration significantly increased from baseline after obvious weight loss (P< 0.05). Correlation analysis showed that propionate was negatively correlated with percent of body fat (PBF) and 2-h plasma glucose (2-h PG) (P< 0.05), and butyrate was negatively associated with body mass index, visceral fat area, PBF and 2-h PG (P< 0.05). No association was found between acetate and obesity. Conclusion: Butyrate and propionate are negatively correlated with obesity and glucose levels in patients with T2D and obesity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

IntroductionThis study was conducted to compare the effects of nisin (NIS) and ionophore antibiotic monensin (MON) on the growth performance, rumen fermentation, nutrient digestion and plasma metabolites of fattening Hu sheep.MethodsThirty-six male Hu sheep (23.5 ± 1.0 kg) were divided into two blocks based on BW (low BW and high BW). Sheep within each block were then allotted to 9 pens respectively (two sheep/pen). Pens within each block were randomly assigned to one of three dietary treatments: (1) basal diet (CON); (2) basal diet + 40 mg/kg DM of MON; (3) basal diet + 274.5 mg/kg DM of NIS. The study lasted 9 weeks, with the initial 2 weeks for adaptation and the subsequent 7 weeks for treatment.ResultsThe results showed that both NIS and MON addition had no impacts on average daily gain (ADG), dry matter intake (DMI), and feed conservation rate (G:F) of sheep (p > 0.05). The digestibility of ether extract (EE) was lower in the MON-fed and NIS-fed sheep (p 0.05).DiscussionIn conclusion, dietary addition of NIS and MON altered the rumen fermentation mode by reducing acetate levels, with no discernible effects on the growth performance of the fattening Hu sheep.

IntroductionFermented jujube powder (FJP) promotes a balance between the intestinal microflora and immune factors in animals. In this study, we aimed to investigate the effects of FJP on the production performance, nutrient digestion, rumen fermentation, and antioxidant properties of bulls.MethodsForty Simmental bulls were randomly divided into four groups based on body weight and fed a basal diet with [5, 7.5, or 10% dry matter (DM)] or without FJP. The experimental period was 20 d for adaptation and 60 d for the feeding trial.ResultsDietary FJP supplementation did not affect DM intake (P > 0.05) but increased the average daily gain quadratically (P = 0.049) and decreased the feed conversion ratio linearly (P = 0.042). FJP quadratically enhanced DM and crude protein digestibility (P = 0.026 and P = 0.041, respectively) and linearly enhanced acid detergent fiber digestibility (P = 0.048). It also increased the total volatile fatty acid concentration quadratically (P = 0.037), acetate molar percentage, and acetate-to-propionate ratio linearly (P = 0.002 and 0.001), and reduced the ammonia nitrogen concentration linearly (P = 0.003). Additionally, xylanase and protease activities and Ruminococcus flavefaciens abundance increased linearly (P = 0.006, 0.018, and 0.009, respectively), and total bacteria, Ruminococcus albus, and Ruminobacter amylophilus abundance increased quadratically (P = 0.047, 0.011, and 0.021, respectively). FJP linearly increased serum total protein concentration and antioxidant capacity (P = 0.003 and 0.018, respectively) and decreased malonaldehyde content (P = 0.006).DiscussionFJP supplementation (7.5%) enhanced production performance, nutrient digestion, rumen fermentation, and serum antioxidant capacity in bulls. The improved nutrient digestion may be due to an increase in ruminal microorganisms and total volatile fatty acids from the FJP. High blood antioxidant levels indicate that FJP may preserve proteins, thereby boosting the production performance of bulls.

This study used metatranscriptomics to investigate the effects of concentrate diet level on rumen microbiome composition and function in goats. A total of 12 healthy 120-day-old Da’er goats were randomly allotted into two treatments: L group (low dietary concentrate level group, concentrate: forage ratio was 25: 75) and H group (high dietary concentrate level group, concentrate: forage ratio was 80: 20). The study included a 10-day pre-feeding period and a 60-day growth experiment. The results showed that compared with the L group, the average daily gain and the slaughter rate in the H group were increased, while the F/G was decreased; the concentration of lactate and ammonia nitrogen, and the proportion of butyrate and valerate in the rumen of the H group were increased, while the proportion of acetate, and the ratio of acetate to propionate were decreased (p

Background and Aim: To achieve optimal feed efficiency in ruminants, especially Pesisir cattle, it is necessary to maintain a harmonious equilibrium between energy and protein levels within the rumen. Sulfur supplementation can potentially escalate the energy–protein balance in the rumen. The aim of this study was to explore the formulation of ruminant diets by synchronizing rumen degradable protein (RDP) and non-fiber carbohydrate (NFC) while adding sulfur minerals at different levels. Nutrient digestibility, NH3 concentration, volatile fatty acids (VFA) production, microbial protein synthesis (MPS), and methane gas production were assessed. Materials and Methods: We employed a randomized block design with a 2 × 2 × 3 factorial arrangement and examined diverse incubation periods of 6, 24, and 48 h. Treatment consisted of RDP (60% and 65%), NFC (35% and 40%), and sulfur (0%, 0.15%, and 0.3%) levels. In this study, the Tilley and Terry in vitro technique, which used Pesisir cattle’s rumen fluid, was employed to assess the digestibility of dry matter, organic matter, acid detergent fiber, neutral detergent fiber, and RDP-Rumen undegradable protein. In addition, it measures various rumen fluid attributes, including pH, NH3, VFA, MPS, and methane gas production. Results: Treatment with a coordinated combination of 65% RDP and 40% NFC combined with 0.15% sulfur supplement yielded significantly improved digestibility and notably reduced methane gas production (p < 0.05). Conclusion: The enhancement in digestibility and reduction in methane gas emissions can be attributed to the interaction of RDP, NFC, and sulfur. Feed digestibility was increased in the 65% RDP treatment with 40% NFC and 0.15% sulfur, along with a decrease in methane gas production.