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Tannins can be utilized to increase rumen undegradable protein (RUP) by their capacity to form complexes with diverse nutrients present in the feed. In that regard, high-performance ruminants demand elevated RUP levels. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of incorporating varying levels of tannin into three protein sources (cottonseed, peanut, and soybean meals) on ruminal kinetic parameters, ruminal fermentation, and intestinal digestibility. Thus, three in situ experiments were conducted to investigate the ruminal degradation kinetics, where Fraction A represents the soluble portion, Fraction B relates to the portion potentially degraded in the rumen, and kd denotes the degradation rate of Fraction B, for both dry matter (DM) and crude protein (CP) in the rumen. Additionally, the study assessed dry matter effective degradability (ED), rumen undegradable protein (RUP), and intestinal digestibility (ID). These experiments utilized three cannulated animals for the in situ incubations. Regarding cottonseed meal in terms of DM degradation kinetics, tannin inclusion had a quadratic effect on fraction A (p < 0.01), B (p = 0.10, trend), kd (p = 0.03), and ED (p < 0.01). Fraction A of CP had a cubic effect (p = 0.03), being greater for the control compared with the other treatments. The inclusion of tannin linearly increased RUP (p < 0.01). The RUP proportion increased 29, 33, and 45% when 20, 40, and 60 g/kg tannin were used, respectively, compared to the control. For peanut meal, the A fraction of protein and RUP responded quadratically as tannin was included in peanut meal (p < 0.01). However, tannin levels did not affect fraction B of protein and ID. Regarding soybean meal, fractions A and B of DM and ED had cubic effects (p < 0.01), being greater for the control compared with the other treatments, and responded quadratically as tannin increased. Also, tannin inclusion had a cubic effect on fractions A and B of protein, RUP, and ID (p < 0.01). The cubic behavior showed greater B fraction and ID and lower A fraction and RUP for the control compared other treatments (p < 0.01). Tannins offer a promising avenue for elevating RUP levels in diets featuring cottonseed and peanut meals. Nevertheless, no advantages were observed when treating soybean meal with tannin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Golden pompano (Trachinotus ovatus) is a marine fish of great commercial value. It was selected for a study on allometric growth using fermented soybean meal (SBM) as the primary protein source during an 8-week culture period. By comparing the gene expression levels of different individuals in the fermented soybean meal group, we discovered that 1026 genes exhibited significant changes in slow and fast-growth individuals. Among these genes, 358 showed high expression levels, while 668 showed low ones. Subsequently, we conducted go function annotation and KEGG pathway enrichment analysis on all the significantly differentially expressed genes. This analysis revealed that many of these genes were associated with oxidative phosphorylation, steroid biosynthesis, glyceride metabolism, alanine, aspartic acid, and glutamate metabolism. Identifying these differentially expressed genes is a foundation for unraveling the molecular mechanisms behind growth and development. Additionally, it provides valuable gene data for future studies on the cloning and expression of growth-related genes and offers insights for subsequent biological research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluated the effect of replacing Glycine max with processed Lemna paucicostata on haematological parameters and enzyme activity of Oreochromis niloticus. The processing methods employed were blanching and sun-drying. Nine diets (D1-D9) were formulated using the least cost feed formulation software. Soybean meal was replaced by blanched and sun-dried L. paucicostata at 25%, 50%, 75% and 100% each. 27 nets measuring 1m² each were used in outdoor concrete ponds of 5m x 3.5m (l × b) and depth of 1.5m each. Ten fingerlings of O. niloticus were stocked per Hapa and fed three times daily at 5% body weight. The fish fed 75% blanched L. paucicostata obtained the best concentration of the packed cell volume (32.01%) in the blood while a poor concentration of 27.01% was observed in the fish fed 100% blanched L. paucicostata. The fish fed 75% blanched L. paucicostata and 50% blanched L. paucicostata gave higher total enzyme activities of 4,675.13(TU) and 4,648.06(TU), respectively. While the fish fed 100% blanched L. paucicostata gave the lowest value of 3,558.33(TU). The digestive enzyme activities were observed to be the main factors that helped the experimental fish to digest the blanched and sun-dried Lemna paucicostata efficiently. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rice bran is being fermented using Aspergillus niger in order to increase its usage as a raw material for the catfish diet. This research aims to evaluate the potentials of rice bran fermented with A. niger to replace soybean meal in catfish Clarias sp diet. There were two research stages, first the fermentation test of A. niger on rice bran that used a completely randomized factorial design consisting of 2 factors, namely the dose of A. niger (0, 0.5, 1, 1.5, and 2 g/100 g) and incubation time (0, 24 and 48 hours). Secondly, the substitution test of soybean meal with fermented rice bran on five different of substitution levels (0, 15, 20, 35, and 40%) in the catfish diet. The results showed that the fermentation of A. niger of 2 % with an incubation period of 24 hours in rice bran resulted in the smallest crude fiber and fraction content, and increased protein and amino acid including serine, threonine, alanine, methionine, isoleucine, and lysine. The specific growth rate in the substitution treatment of 0-20% was significantly (P<0.05) higher than that of 35-40%. There was also no difference (P>0.05) in the growth performance of catfish in the 0 to 20% substitution treatment. Also, replacing soybean meal with fermented rice bran up to 20% did not have a negative effect on the growth performance of catfish. It was concluded that fermented rice bran could be used as raw material for catfish. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This experiment was aimed at determining the chemical composition, fatty acid (FA) profile and degradability of American cockroach (Periplaneta americana) powder (ACP) in comparison with soybean meal (SBM), fish meal (FM), and poultry byproduct meal (PBM). The cockroaches were stored for 2h at -20 ºC, transferred to liquid nitrogen and subsequently grinded. Other samples were dried at 60 ˚C for 48 h. Experimental diets were: (1) control diet (only SBM), 2) diet containing 3% FM, 3) diet containing 3% ACP, and 4) diet containing 3% PBM. Two fistulated Holstein heifers were used for estimation of the ruminal degradability of protein sources and experimental diets. The results indicated that the ACP contained 55.05, 24.55, 3.76, 8.68, and 5.60% crude protein (CP), ether extract, ash, and neutral and acid detergent fiber, respectively. The ACP was rich in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated FAs. There were significant differences in dry matter (DM) and CP degradability among protein sources. The degradability of soluble fraction (a) of SBM and ACP was significantly higher than other protein sources. The potentially degradable DM (b) for SBM was significantly higher. The CP washable fraction ‘a’ was significantly higher for FM and PBM. In contrast, the SBM contained larger ‘b’ which was smaller in FM and PBM. The estimated effective degradability of CP at all rumen passage rates was significantly higher in ACP than other protein sources. No significant differences were observed between the experimental diets in DM degradability coefficients (a, b and c). The control and ACP diets contained higher CP fraction ‘b’ than PBM diet. This experiment clearly showed that the ACP can be a good source of protein and mono-unsaturated fatty acids for ruminants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this trial was to evaluate the effects of Punica granatum L. and Allium cepa L. peels aqueous and cyclodextrin extracts on broiler chicks' performance and welfare status, as well as on the meat chemical composition and oxidative stability. A total of 120 one-day-old male Ross-308 chicks were randomly allocated to three treatments with four replicate pens (10 chicks per pen). Broiler chicks in the control group were fed typical commercial rations in mash form, based on maize and soybean meal. The rations of the other two treatments were further supplemented with the mixture of Punica granatum and Allium cepa aqueous and cyclodextrin extracts at the level of 0.1% of the feed, respectively. At the end of the trial (day 35), tissue samples were collected for analysis. Body weight (BW), feed intake (FI), average daily gain (ADG) and the feed conversion ratio (FCR) during the period of 1–10 days, 11–24 days, 25–35 days and 1–35 days were evaluated. Litter score, dry matter in litter, pododermatitis and feather score were also assessed at the end of the trial. Data were analyzed with ANOVA using SPSS v25 software. The results showed that BW, FI and FCR values did not differ among the groups. Scoring of pododermatitis, diarrhea, feather, fecal moisture, wooden breast and white stripping did not differ (p ≥ 0.05) among the groups. Punica granatum and Allium cepa aqueous and cyclodextrin extracts favorably affected (p < 0.05) meat composition, color parameters, TBARS and protein carbonyls. Diet supplementation also increased (p < 0.05) ∑n-3 fatty acids as well as ∑n-6 fatty acids in the thigh meat. The cis-4,7,10,13,16,19-Docosahexaenoic acid fatty acids in the breast meat of broilers fed with diets supplemented with the aqueous pomegranate and onion peel extracts were found to be higher (p < 0.05), while these fatty acids in the thigh meat were found increased (p < 0.05) in the cyclodextrin group. Aqueous and cyclodextrin pomegranate and onion peel extracts may provide a promising additive to the broilers diet with functional properties, in the absence of stressful conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The study was carried out at the farm located at the Animal Production Farm, College of Agriculture, University of Tikrit for a period of 70 days excluding 14 days as an adaptation period (from 8th October to 16th of December 2020). The aim of this study find alternative diets for fattening Awassi lambs in the northern region and improved protein of barley. Sixteen Awassi lamb were used, aged 5-6 months, with an average starting body weight of 26.2 ± 0.3 kg. Four formulation diets were randomly allocated to four groups of animals. Group one (control) 98% barley, Group two (88% barley, 5% soybean meal, 5% vegetable fat), Group three (83% barley, 10% soybean meal, 5% vegetable fat), Group four (78% barley, 15% soybean meal, 5% vegetable fat). All the experiment diets were supplemented with 1% salts and 1% vitamins and minerals. The lambs were fed concentrate feed at 3% of live body weight on a dry matter basis with 100 grams of roughage (straw) day/lamb. The results showed that animals in group 2 (T²), group3 (T³) and group 4 (T4) significantly (P≤0.05) higher final body weight, average daily body weight gain and feed conversion ratio, then those from (T¹). Moreover, animals from T³ and T4 had significant (P≤0.05) higher production performance compared to those in T². The weights of hot, cold carcass, and the three main carcass cuts (leg, shoulder, and rack) were ignorantly (P≤0.05) heavier in T3 and T4 then other groups. The lambs in T3 andT4were also showed (P≤0.05) larger eye muscle area then T1 and T2. There were no significant differences in dressing-out %,or fat thickness between the treatment groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chicken eggshell (ES) waste is a rich source of calcium carbonate (CaCO3); however, the potential of ES as dietary calcium (Ca) in old laying hens has not been explored. This study compared the effects of feeding limestone, cockle shell, oyster shell, fine ES, and coarse ES as the sole Ca source on production performance, egg quality, blood biochemical constituents, and tibia characteristics in old laying hens. A total of 450 ISA-Brown laying hens at 73 wk of age with similar egg production rate (EPR) were randomly assigned to 5 treatment groups (90 hens/group, 9 hens/replicate) for 7 wk. Dietary treatment groups comprised a corn-soybean meal based diet containing different Ca sources: (i) limestone (LS; < 2 mm and 2–4 mm mixed in the ratio of 3:7) as control, (ii) cockle shell (CS; 1–4 mm), (iii) oyster shell (OS; 3–16 mm), (iv) ES fine particles (ESF; < 1 mm), and (v) ES coarse particles (ESC; 3–5 mm). Results indicated that dietary inclusion of coarse ES particles significantly increased average egg weight (P < 0.001) and daily egg mass (P < 0.05), and decreased feed conversion ratio (P < 0.001) as compared with the other treatments. However, no significant differences in EPR, feed intake, cracked egg proportion, and mortality were observed among the dietary treatments (P > 0.05). Notably, the use of ESF led to a lower proportion of cracked eggs than ESC (P < 0.05). ESC fed hens produced the heaviest eggs whereas CS fed hens produced the lightest (P < 0.001); the particle size of ES also affected the egg weight (P < 0.05). The eggs from OS and ESC fed hens showed a greater albumen height in comparison to eggs from CS group (P < 0.05); but no significant difference was observed among the LS, OS, ESF, and ESC groups (P > 0.05). The yolk color was darker in the eggs of group ESF as compared with other dietary groups (P < 0.01). However, no significant effects on Haugh units and shell properties were observed among the treatments (P > 0.05). The blood biochemistry results were not affected by the dietary Ca (P > 0.05) except for lower levels of high-density lipoprotein percentage (HDL %) in OS and ESC fed hens (P < 0.05). The tibia characteristics including weight, length, width, and breaking strength did not differ among the dietary groups (P > 0.05). However, the ESC and OS fed hens showed higher tibia bone mineral density (BMD) than the other groups (P < 0.001). In conclusion, coarse ES as a sole Ca source had beneficial effects on the production performance, egg quality, and tibia BMD in old laying hens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Feeding diets high in corn distillers dried grains with solubles (DDGS) before market can negatively impact carcass yield, hot carcass weight (HCW), and belly fat iodine value (IV). Two experiments were conducted to evaluate the effects of switching from DDGS-based to corn-soybean meal (CSBM)-based diets at increasing intervals (withdrawal periods) before harvest on finishing pig performance and carcass characteristics. Diets in both experiments contained either 0% or 30% DDGS and were balanced for net energy (NE). In Exp. 1, 985 pigs (initially 99.6 kg body weight [ BW ]) were used with 12 pens per treatment. The four treatments were increasing DDGS withdrawal periods: 28, 21, 14, or 0 d (no dietary switch) before marketing. All pens were marketed by removing the 17% heaviest pigs 21 d before slaughter and the remaining 83% all slaughtered 21 d later. Overall, there was no evidence for treatment differences on final BW, average daily feed intake, or feed efficiency (G:F; P > 0.10); however, average daily gain (ADG) increased (linear, P = 0.022) and belly fat IV decreased (linear, P = 0.001) the longer pigs were fed CSBM diets. There was no evidence for differences for HCW (P > 0.10); however, carcass yield increased (linear, P = 0.001) with increasing time following the switch to CSBM. Backfat depth decreased and percentage lean increased as CSBM feeding time increased (quadratic; P < 0.05). In Exp. 2, 1,158 pigs (initially 105 kg BW) were used in a 35-d study. There were 15 pens per treatment and four treatments of increasing DDGS withdrawal periods: 35, 28, 14, or 0 d (no dietary switch). All pens were marketed by removing the 15% heaviest pigs on day 28, the 28% heaviest pigs on day 14, and a final marketing of approximately 57% of starting barn inventory. There was no evidence that final BW, ADG, G:F, or HCW differed among dietary treatments (P > 0.10). Average daily feed intake and carcass yield increased and belly fat IV decreased (P < 0.050); the longer pigs were fed CSBM. In conclusion, growth performance was minimally impacted following dietary switch from DDGS- to CSBM-based diets, possibly due to similar dietary NE. For carcass yield and belly fat IV, the optimal time to make a dietary switch from high to low fiber appears to be linear in nature and at least 28 d before marketing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Corn distillers dried grains with solubles (DDGS) are known to negatively impact carcass yield and fat quality, thus finishing pigs may need to be switched from diets containing DDGS to corn–soybean meal (CSBM) diets before marketing (DDGS withdrawal). A total of 860 finishing pigs (PIC C48 or L42 × 327; initially 66.2 kg body weight, BW) were used in a 76-day experiment to evaluate the effects of DDGS withdrawal periods at increasing intervals before harvest. Pen served as the experimental unit, and there were seven replicate pens per treatment with 23 to 25 pigs per pen. Pens were blocked by BW and allotted to one of five dietary treatments differentiated by the DDGS withdrawal period: 76, 42, 27, 15, or 0 day before harvest. Diets contained 40% DDGS from 22 to 66 kg prior to the experiment, 0% or 35% DDGS during the experiment from ~66 to 82 kg, and 0% or 30% DDGS until the completion of the trial. Diets were not balanced for net energy. Linear and quadratic response to time following dietary switch was evaluated using PROC GLIMMIX. For the overall period (day 76 prior to market to day 0), as withdrawal period increased, average daily gain (ADG) and final BW increased (linear, P < 0.002) and feed efficiency (G:F) improved (quadratic, P = 0.019). Average daily feed intake increased (quadratic, P = 0.030) as withdrawal period increased. There was an increase (linear P = 0.010) in hot carcass weight (HCW), with a marginally significant increase in carcass yield (linear, P = 0.094) with increasing withdrawal period. Loin depth and lean percentage did not demonstrate any evidence for treatment differences (P > 0.132). Backfat increased (linear, P = 0.030) with increasing withdrawal period. Finally, iodine value (IV) of belly fat was decreased (linear, P = 0.001) with increased withdrawal period. In conclusion, switching from a DDGS-based diet to a CSBM-based diet for longer periods before slaughter increased ADG and improved G:F, resulting in increased HCW. After diets were switched from DDGS to CSBM, pigs demonstrated an increase in intake, likely due to the ability to consume high volumes of feed after consuming high fiber (DDGS) diets. Belly fat IV was decreased as the length of time after dietary change was increased, with the lowest IV resulting from pigs that consumed CSBM for the entire experimental period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Four experiments were conducted to determine the effects of increasing soybean meal (SBM) level in diets with or without 25% distillers dried grains with solubles (DDGS) on growth performance of nursery pigs raised in university or commercial facilities. Treatments were arranged in a 2 × 3 factorial with main effects of SBM (27.5%, 32.5%, or 37.5% of the diet) and DDGS (0% or 25% of the diet). A total of 296, 2,502, 4,118, and 711 pigs with initial body weight (BW) of 10.6, 11.7, 12.5, and 12.3 kg were used in Exp. 1, 2, 3, and 4, respectively. There were 10, 16, 13, and 12 replicates per treatment in Exp. 1, 2, 3, and 4, respectively. After weaning, pigs were fed common diets for approximately 21 d. Then, pens of pigs were assigned to treatments in a randomized complete block design with BW as the blocking factor and experimental diets were fed for 21 d. Pigs were weighed and feed disappearance measured to calculate average daily gain (ADG), average daily feed intake (ADFI), gain-to-feed ratio (G:F), and caloric efficiency (CE). Data were analyzed using the GLIMMIX procedure of SAS with block as a random effect and treatment as a fixed effect. Single degree-of-freedom contrasts were constructed to test the linear and quadratic effects of increasing SBM and their interactions with DDGS. Pigs used in all experiments did not undergo major health challenges during the experimental period and due to the low number of mortality and cull events, statistical analysis was not performed on these variables. The average cull rate was 0.7%, 0.5%, 0.2%, and 0%, and the mortality rate was 0.7%, 0.3%, 0.4%, and 0% in Exp. 1–4, respectively. There were interactions (P ≤ 0.039) between SBM and DDGS for G:F and CE in Exp. 2 and for ADG and ADFI in Exp. 3. These were mostly driven by increasing SBM negatively affecting performance in a greater magnitude when diets contained DDGS compared to diets without DDGS. The main effects of DDGS and SBM were more consistently observed across experiments. Pigs fed diets with 25% DDGS had decreased (P ≤ 0.001) ADG and ADFI in all experiments, as well as poorer (P ≤ 0.028) G:F and CE except for Exp. 3. Feeding increasing amounts of SBM generally did not result in any major impact in ADG but consistently improved (linear, P ≤ 0.078) G:F and CE across experiments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An experiment was conducted to test the hypothesis that a preparation of isoquinoline alkaloids (IQ) obtained from Macleaya cordata and added to corn-soybean meal diets increases the apparent ileal digestibility (AID) of amino acids (AA), crude protein (CP), starch, and acid hydrolyzed ether extract (AEE) when fed to young growing pigs. Thirty-two ileal cannulated barrows (initial body weight = 12.19 ± 1.38 kg) were allotted to a randomized complete block design with four diets and eight replicate pigs per diet. Diets were supplemented with 0, 90, 180, or 360 mg/kg IQ and with 0.40% chromic oxide. Diets were fed for 27 d and ileal digesta were collected on days 13 and 14 (period 1) and on days 26 and 27 (period 2). Effects of IQ inclusions were analyzed using contrast statements, and differences between periods were analyzed using a repeated measures statement. A quadratic increase (P < 0.05) in the AID of Thr, Trp, Val, Pro, and Tyr was observed in period 1 as IQ was included in the diets, and AID of CP, Arg, His, Ile, Leu, Met, Phe, Thr, Trp, Val, Pro, and Tyr was greater in period 2 than in period 1 (P < 0.05). In period 1, a quadratic increase (P < 0.05) was observed for the AID of starch as IQ increased in the diet, but the AID of starch was less (P < 0.05) in period 2 than in period 1. No differences among treatments or periods were observed for AID of AEE. Results indicate that inclusion of approximately 90 mg/kg of IQ in diets for weanling pigs may increase the AID of starch and some AA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A study was conducted to determine the effects of supplementing corn–soybean meal-based diets with a multienzyme on growth performance, bone mineralization, apparent ileal digestibility (AID) and apparent total tract digestibility (ATTD) of nutrients of growing pigs. A total of 276 pigs (body weight [BW] = 33.99 ± 4.3 kg) were housed by sex in 45 pens of 6 or 7 pigs and fed 5 diets (9 pens/diet) in a randomized complete block design. Diets were positive control (PC); and negative control 1 (NC1) or negative control 2 (NC2) without or with multienzyme. The multienzyme used supplied at least 1,800, 1,244, 6,600, and 1,000 units of xylanase, β-glucanase, arabinofuranosidase, and phytase per kilogram of diet, respectively. The PC diet was adequate in all nutrients according to NRC recommendations and had greater digestible P content than NC1 or NC2 diet by 0.134 percentage points. The PC diet had greater net energy (NE) and standardized ileal digestible amino acids (AA) content than NC1 diet by 3%, and than NC2 diet by 5%. The diets were fed in 4 phases based on BW: Phase 1: 34–50 kg; Phase 2: 50–75 kg; Phase 3: 75–100 kg; and Phase 4: 100–120 kg. Nutrient digestibility and bone mineralization were determined at the end of Phase 1. Overall (34–120 kg BW), pigs fed the PC and NC1 diets did not differ in average daily gain (ADG) and average daily feed intake. Pigs fed NC2 diet had lower (P < 0.05) ADG and gain-to-feed ratio (G:F) than those fed PC diet. Pigs fed PC diet had greater (P < 0.05) bone ash content and ATTD of P than those fed NC1 diet. The ATTD of GE for PC diet was greater (P < 0.05) than that for NC2 diet, and tended to be greater (P < 0.10) than that for NC1 diet. Multienzyme interacted (P < 0.05) with negative control diet type on overall ADG and AID of GE such that multienzyme did not affect overall ADG and AID of GE for the NC1 diet, but increased (P < 0.05) overall ADG and AID of GE for NC2 diet by 5.09 and 8.74%, respectively. Multienzyme did not interact with negative control diet type on overall G:F, bone ash content, AID of AA, and ATTD of nutrients. Multienzyme increased (P < 0.05) overall G:F, AID of methionine, ATTD of GE and P, and tended to increase (P = 0.056) bone ash content. The ADG, bone ash content, and ATTD of GE and P for the multienzyme-supplemented diets were similar to (P > 0.10) PC diet. Thus, NE and digestible AA and P can be lowered by ≤5% in multienzyme-supplemented diets without effects on growth performance and bone ash of pigs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A total of 131 sows (Line 241; DNA, Columbus, NE) were used in a study to evaluate the effect of increasing soybean meal concentration in lactating sow diets on sow and litter performance. Sows were blocked by body weight (BW) within parity on day 112 of gestation and allotted to one of three treatments of increasing dietary soybean meal (25%, 30%, or 35% of the total diet). Diets were formulated to 1.05% standardized ileal digestible lysine (Lys) with L-Lys HCl decreasing as soybean meal increased. All other amino acids and nutrients were formulated to meet nutrient requirement recommendations. Diets were fed from day 112 of gestation until weaning (day 20 ± 2). Litters were cross-fostered up to 48 h after farrowing to equalize litter size. Increasing soybean meal concentration increased (linear, P = 0.017) sow BW loss and tended to increase (quadratic, P = 0.052) sow backfat loss from farrowing to weaning. Sow average daily feed intake (ADFI) from day 0 to 7 was similar (P > 0.10) across dietary treatments. However, from day 7 to 14, 14 to weaning, and overall, ADFI decreased (linear, P = 0.01) as soybean meal concentration increased. Despite the linear response in ADFI, the greatest decrease was observed as soybean meal concentration increased from 30% to 35% of the diet. There was no evidence for difference (P > 0.10) in wean-to-estrus interval, litter size, litter weight, or litter weight gain between dietary treatments. Sow serum urea nitrogen concentrations taken on day 14 of lactation increased (linear, P = 0.001) as soybean meal concentration increased. There was no difference (P > 0.05) for sow creatinine concentration, regardless of dietary treatment, suggesting that the increased urea nitrogen was a reflection of the increased dietary crude protein as opposed to increased protein catabolism. In summary, sow feed intake decreased and weight loss increased as soybean meal concentration of the diet increased, with the greatest decrease observed at 35% of the total diet. Although there were no differences in litter performance, it appeared that 35% soybean meal in the lactation diet negatively affected feed intake. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of concentrates based on unconventional ingredients on the intramuscular fatty acid profile of lambs was evaluated. A total of 105 lambs were assigned to one of three treatments: Control (concentrate based on cereals and soybean meal like commercial concentrates), Camelina (where 50% of crude protein from soybean meal was replaced by camelina meal), and Fibrous (concentrate based on several fibrous by-products, such as soybean hulls and wheat bran, as well as camelina meal and other unconventional ingredients). After 42 days in feedlot, the lambs were sacrificed, and the fatty acid profile of intramuscular fat was determined by gas chromatography. Total meat lipids (1.25 g/100 g of meat) were not modified by the treatments. The Camelina treatment showed minor effects on the intramuscular fat composition. In contrast, the Fibrous treatment showed the highest contents of trans -11 18 : 1 (vaccenic acid), cis -9 trans -11 18 : 2 (rumenic acid) and α-linolenic acid. Thus, the non-traditional Fibrous concentrate assayed in the present study might improve the meat quality of light lambs from a nutritional point of view. Fatty acid profile plays an important role in meat quality, as it is related to differences in organoleptic attributes, and meat nutritional value. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of feeding concentrates that included alternative ingredients on the intramuscular fatty acid profile of feedlot lambs. The concentrate rich in fibrous by-products might improve the fatty acid profile of meat fat from a nutritional point of view. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two experiments were conducted, using the regression method, to determine the true ileal phosphorus (P) digestibility of maize and soybean meal (SBM), and true ileal calcium (Ca) digestibility of SBM for broiler chickens. The aim of Experiment 1 was to determine true ileal P digestibility of maize and SBM. The experimental diets were formulated with four inclusion levels of each test ingredient to achieve graded concentrations of total P (2.5, 3.0, 3.5 and 4.0 g/kg, respectively). The P concentrations in maize-based diets were adjusted by the inclusion of monosodium phosphate. The Ca : total P ratio in all diets was maintained at 1.35 by the addition of limestone. Experiment 2 was conducted to determine true ileal Ca digestibility of SBM. Experimental diets were formulated to contain four levels of SBM to achieve graded concentrations of Ca (2.5, 3.0, 3.5 and 4.0 g/kg, respectively). Because of the low concentration of Ca in SBM, all diets were supplemented with a similar level of limestone to prevent any Ca deficiency. The Ca : total P ratio in all diets was adjusted to be equal by the addition of monosodium phosphate. In both experiments, titanium dioxide (3 g/kg) was used as the indigestible marker. One-day-old male broiler chicks were fed a commercial starter diet from 1 to 21 days of age. On Day 22, a total of 240 and 120 birds were assigned to eight and four dietary treatments in Experiments 1 and 2, respectively, with five replicate cages and six birds per cage. Birds were fed the experimental diets for 7 days. On Day 29, ileal digesta were collected from the posterior half of ileum, and the true P and Ca digestibility of test ingredients were calculated by linear regression analysis. True P digestibility of maize and SBM were determined to be 33.8% and 42.3%, respectively. True Ca digestibility of SBM was determined to be 45.9%. The measurement of digestibility has been suggested as the preferred method to assess phosphorus and calcium availability for poultry. True phosphorus digestibility of maize and soybean meal were determined to be 33.8% and 42.3%, respectively. True calcium digestibility of soybean meal was determined to be 45.9%. The data of phosphorus and calcium digestibility could be useful for the industry to become more efficient in the use of feed ingredients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Evaluate the effects of i) dehulling of lupine seed on chemical composition and apparent metabolizable energy (AME) and ii) soybean meal substitution by dehulled lupine seed in broiler diets with enzymes on productive performance, size of digestive organs and welfare-related variables. Methods: Experiment 1, chemical composition and AME were determined in whole and dehulled lupine seed. Experiment 2, two hundred eighty-eight one-day-old male Ross 308 broilers were used. The experimental diets were maize-soybean meal (MS), MS with enzymes (MSE) and maize-dehulled lupine seed with enzymes (MLE). Diets were assigned to the experimental units under a completely randomized design (eight replicates per diet). The body weight (BW) gain, feed intake, feed conversion, digestive organ weights, gait score, latency to lie down and valgus/varus angulation were evaluated. Results: The dehulling process increased protein (25.0% to 31.1%), AME (5.9 to 8.8 MJ/kg) and amino acid contents. The BW gain of broilers fed the MLE diet was similar (p>0.05) to that of those fed the MS diet, but lower than that of those fed the MSE diet. Feed intake of broilers fed the MLE diet was higher (p<0.05) than that of those fed the MS diet and similar (p>0.05) to those fed the MSE diet. Feed conversion of broilers fed the MLE diet was 8.0% and 8.7% higher (p<0.05) than that of those fed the MS and MSE diets, respectively. Broilers fed the MLE diet had the highest (p<0.05) relative proventriculus and gizzard weights, but had poor welfare-related variables. Conclusion: It is possible to substitute soybean meal by dehulled lupine seed with enzymes in broiler diets, obtaining similar BW gains in broilers fed the MLE and MS diets; however, a higher feed intake is required. Additionally, the MLE diet reduced welfare-related variables. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Solvent extracted soybean meal (SBM) is generated using different varieties of soybeans grown under a range of conditions and then processed at different crushing plants. Due to its competitive cost and availability, it is a popular plant‐based protein source for shrimp feed formulations. However, there is limited information about effects of variations in the nutritional composition of soybean meal have on performances of shrimp. Hence, the present study was designed to determine the effects of different soybean sources on the growth performances of Litopenaeus vannamei. Two growth trials were conducted with iso‐nitrogenous and iso‐lipidic (350 g/kg protein and 80 g/kg lipid) test diets formulated with 25 sources of soybean meal. Trial one incorporated 14 treatments including a soy‐based diet containing 517 g/kg SBM (eight replicates) and this soy source was then replaced with 13 different soybean sources (four replicates per treatment). The second trial used the same basal diet and 11 different sources of soybean meal (Total 12 diets) with five replicates per treatment. Both growth trials were conducted with a stocking density of 10 shrimps/aquarium in a semi‐closed recirculating system and the initial weight of shrimps for trials 1 and 2 were 0.23 g ± 0.02 and 0.67 g ± 0.02 respectively. During the two trials, shrimp were fed four times/day assuming a FCR of 1.8, over 42 days for trial 1 and 35 days for trial 2. Results indicated that there are differences among sources of soybean meal for standardized percentage TGC. Diet 21 that contained SBM4550 had the largest value for TGC whereas the lowest value for TGC was observed for shrimp fed diet 17 that contained SBM45536. According to the statistical analysis that was used to interpret the growth performance data from the complete chemical profile of the SBM, phosphorous, phytate‐phosphorous and total phytic acid levels had positive correlations (p < 0.005) with TGC whereas raffinose (p = 0.086) had a negative correlation with TGC. Results of this work indicates phosphorous, phosphorous in phytic acid and total phytic acid and raffinose are important components in SBM that may have significant effects on the growth performances of pacific white shrimp. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Effects of including plantain into ryegrass-clover silage was tested in dairy cows. • Milk yield was the same as with a maize-silage based total mixed ration. • The proportion of n -3 fatty acids was highest in milk fat of cows fed plantain. • The excretion of rumenic acid with the milk was promoted by ensiled plantain. • Adding plantain to the silage did not improve the nitrogen use efficiency. Abstract The effect of plantain (Plantago lanceolata L.) ensiled with ryegrass and red clover (GCP) on the milk fatty acid (FA) profile and nitrogen utilization of dairy cows was tested. Diet GCP was compared to diets based on ryegrass (G), ryegrass and red-clover silage (GC) and total mixed rations (TMR) composed of maize silage, soybean meal and hay (760, 150 and 90 g/kg dry matter (DM), respectively). Cows fed grass-silage diets were supplemented with 3 kg/day of wheat resulting in forage-to-concentrate ratios (DM basis) of 79:21, 85:15 and 86:14 for G, GC and GCP diets, respectively. On average per kg DM, diet G was composed of 790 g ryegrass, diet GC of 577 g ryegrass, 12.3 g blue grass, 218 g red clover, 37.4 g white clover and 5.54 g other species. Diet GCP contained 352 g ryegrass, 127 g red clover, 22.8 g white clover, 7.31 g dandelion and 351 g plantain per kg DM. In a completely randomized design, 24 multiparous dairy cows were fed one of the experimental diets during 13 days of adaptation and 7 days of sampling. The yields of energy-corrected milk (ECM) (27.1 kg/day) and milk protein (910 g/day) of cows fed diet GCP were higher than those of cows fed diet G (20.2 kg ECM/day, 680 g milk protein/day), but did not differ from those of cows fed diet GC or TMR. Urinary nitrogen (N) excretion relative to N intake and relative to total manure N did not differ between treatments. Utilization of dietary N for milk N formation (g/kg) was lowest for diets GCP (251) and GC (257), highest for diet G (357) and intermediate for diet TMR (313). The proportion of polyunsaturated FA in milk fat was highest for cows fed GCP followed by GC, G and TMR. The ratio of n -6 to n -3 FA was lower for diet GCP (1.5:1) compared to G (2.5:1) and TMR (5.7:1). Compared to G, GC and TMR, the cows fed GCP had a higher secretion of 18:1 trans -11 and 18:2 cis -9, trans -11 in the milk relative to dietary 18:3 n -3 + 18:2 n -6 consumed. In conclusion, increasing botanical diversity in the diet by adding plant species from another functional group, as done when switching from diet G to GC to GCP, did not improve N utilization but did lead to distinctly different milk FA profiles, especially when compared to a maize-silage based diet. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of a partial substitution of soybean meal with field pea (Pisum sativum) in Holstein lactating dairy cow diets on dry matter intake, milk yield and composition, blood metabolites, rumen ammonia-N concentration and pH. Eighteen lactating Holstein cows were randomly assigned into three groups based on parity, days in milk, and milk yield. Flaked field peas replaced soybean meal (SBM) at the levels of 0.0, 33 and 66% (P0, P33 and P66, respectively) and were fed to the animals for 33 days. Dry matter intake, milk yield, milk fat and protein content, blood metabolites, rumen ammonia-N concentration and pH were not significantly (P<0.05) affected by the diets. The results of this study demonstrated that field pea could safely replace soybean meal up to 66% in the diet of highproducing dairy cows. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study examined the effects of substituting kraft pulp (KP) with corn silage (CS) on dry matter intake (DMI), ruminal mat and rumen fermentation characteristics, and rumination. Four non‐lactating, rumen‐cannulated Holstein cows were fed a CS diet comprising 36% grass silage (GS) and 64% CS or a KP diet comprising 36% GS, 57% KP, and 7% soybean meal. DMI was significantly lower in cows fed the KP diet than in those fed the CS diet (p < 0.05), whereas rumination time did not significantly differ between the treatments. Dry matter content in the rumen immediately before and 3 h after feeding was significantly higher in cows fed the KP diet than in those fed the CS diet (p < 0.05). The consistency and thickness of the ruminal mat did not significantly differ between the treatments. The ruminal mean retention time of feed particles tended to be longer in cows fed the KP diet than in those fed the CS diet (p < 0.10). The ruminal digestion rate of KP was comparable to that of GS and CS. Because ruminal mat was formed and rumination was stimulated, KP was considered to have the equivalent physical effectiveness as CS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Encapsulated calcium nitrate (ECN) can be used as a substitute for soybean meal. • The maximum quantity of ECN for goat diets might be 10 g/kg on a dry matter basis. • This is the maximum quantity that did not constrain dry matter intake. • Ingestion of ECN reduces fast heat production in goats. Abstract Encapsulated calcium nitrate (ECN) has been studied as a source of non-protein nitrogen (NPN) that establishes an alternative sink of free hydrogen in the ruminal environment and, consequently, reduces the emission of methane and probably improves efficiency of energy use. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of ECN as a substitute for soybean meal (SBM) in energy partition, substrate oxidation, and microbial nitrogen (MicN) synthesis. Twelve growing castrated male goats (21.9 kg ± 3.19 kg of initial body weight) were used in four 3 × 3 Latin squares (LS) during three 48-d periods. Goats were grouped by body weight (BW) within each LS and randomly assigned to one of three diets: SBM – control based on SBM, 75 g/kg of SBM on dry matter (DM) basis; ECN12.5 – 12.5 g/kg of ECN on DM basis; and ECN25 – 25 g/kg of ECN on DM basis. Each period included 21 days for adaptation, five days for metabolism trials (d 22 to d 26), and 15 days for indirect calorimetry trials (d 27 to d 41). At the end of each period, a 7-day washout interval was provided during which the goats were fed SBM diet. The goats showed no symptoms of intoxication based on methemoglobin (MetHb) levels (0.7% ± 0.17 of total hemoglobin). Heat production (HP) was not influenced by treatments (P = 0.91), but fast heat production (FHP) was 22% (P < 0.05) lower in ECN25 than in SBM. Methane emission decreased by 0.21 g for each g of nitrate intake. The inclusion of 9.5 g/kg of ECN on DM resulted in a maximum DE and ME intake. The total retained N decreased linearly (P < 0.05) with the increase of ECN; however, microbial nitrogen (MicN) synthesis did not differ between treatments. In conclusion, the use of ECN as a replacement for SBM decreased FHP, which might spare energy for growth. The use of ECN as a substitute for SBM did not affect MicN synthesis. The inclusion of 9.5 g/kg of ECN on DM basis results in maximum DMI, DE, and ME intake in growing goats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • N retention and microbial N production was greater in Tibetan than in Han sheep. • Energy required for maintain N balance was lower in Tibetan than in Han sheep. • Hepatic urea production and urea entry into the gut were greater in Tibetan sheep. • Microbial N that originated from recycled urea was greater in Tibetan sheep. • When N intakes are low, N utilization is improved by supplemental energy. Abstract Tibetan sheep are indigenous to the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau and graze natural pasture all year round; small-tailed Han sheep were introduced to the plateau, are raised mainly in feedlots and graze natural pasture only in summer. A low energy intake could have a negative effect on N utilization and N balance in ruminants. We hypothesized that Tibetan sheep require less energy for N balance and utilize N more efficiently than Han sheep when offered a low protein and low energy diet. To test this hypothesis, we examined the effect of dietary energy on whole-body N retention and urea kinetics in Tibetan (47.7 ± 2.46 kg BW) and Han (46.2 ± 3.42 kg BW) sheep. Diets were formulated to be low in crude protein (˜7%) with different metabolizable energy levels (6.73, 7.65, 8.57 and 9.49 MJ/kg). Urea kinetics were determined using continuous intrajugular infusion of 15N15N-urea for 72 h. N retention was greater (P < 0.01) in Tibetan than in Han sheep and increased linearly with increasing energy intake (P < 0.001). Tibetan sheep maintained a positive N balance on all dietary energy levels, whereas Han sheep were in a negative N balance at the lowest energy intake. To achieve a N balance of zero, Tibetan sheep required 0.28 MJ/kg0.75, whereas Han sheep required 0.33 MJ/kg0.75 per day. Fecal N excretion was less (P < 0.05) for Tibetan than for Han sheep. Plasma urea concentrations tended to be greater in Tibetan than in Han sheep (P < 0.10), but urinary urea excretion was lower in Tibetan sheep at the lowest energy diet (linear dietary energy × breed; P < 0.05). As energy intake increased, urinary N decreased linearly (P < 0.001) and microbial N production increased linearly (P < 0.001). Urea entry rate and gastrointestinal tract entry rate were greater in Tibetan than in Han sheep (P < 0.01). Urinary purine derivatives excretion, microbial N production, and the portion of microbial N that originated from recycled urea were greater in Tibetan than in Han sheep (P < 0.01). Renal urea reabsorption rate was greater in Tibetan than in Han sheep (P < 0.05) and increased linearly with dietary energy level (P < 0.05). We concluded that: 1) Tibetan sheep were better able to cope with low N diets when energy intake was low; and 2) when N intakes are low, N utilization is improved by supplemental energy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract A growth trial was conducted to evaluate the effect of dietary plant-protein replacement by corn distillers dried grains with solubles (DDGS), and of exogenous carbohydrases supplement (Natugrain®TS, BASF) in gilthead seabream (Sparus aurata) juveniles. For that purpose, a basal diet was formulated with 35% of fish meal and 20% soybean meal (SBM) as main protein sources. Two other diets were formulated incorporating 15 or 35% of DDGS, replacing 37.5% or 100% of SBM (diets DDGS15 and DDGS35, respectively). Another diet was formulated similar to diet DDGS35 and supplemented with 0.1% of a commercial non-starch polysaccharidases complex, Natugrain®TS, BASF (CHOase; diet DDGS35ENZ). Triplicate groups of fish (IBW = 15 ± 1 g) were fed the experimental diets for 67 days at 22 °C. At the end of the trial, growth performance, voluntary feed intake, feed efficiency, protein and energy retention were not affected by dietary DDGS incorporation. Dietary CHOase supplementation also did not affect growth performance, but increased feed efficiency, nitrogen and energy retention. Dietary inclusion of DDGS tended to decrease production cost (€ per kg of fish), and dietary CHOase supplementation further reduced production cost, which was significantly lower with diet DDGS35ENZ than with the basal diet. Whole-body composition, hepatosomatic and visceral indexes were not affected by the dietary inclusion of DDGS, though a trend was noticed for a decrease of whole-body lipid, energy, and visceral index with the increase dietary DDGS. Plasma glucose, protein, albumin, and globulins levels were similar among diets, whereas plasma triglycerides increased, and cholesterol decreased with the increase of dietary DDGS. Hepatic glycolytic enzymes activities (hexokinase and glucokinase) were similar among groups, while gluconeogenic (fructose biphosphatase) activity, GDH and ASAT activities decreased with the increase of dietary DDGS. The hepatic activity of oxidative stress-related enzymes catalase and superoxide dismutase were not affected by dietary treatments, but G6PDH and GR activities decreased, and liver lipid peroxidation increased with dietary DDGS level. Dietary CHOase supplementation decreased overall lipid peroxidation. Overall, results of this study indicate that total replacement of SBM by DDGS in diets for gilthead seabream did not compromise growth performance or feed utilization efficiency, while supplementation of DDGS-based diet with exogenous carbohydrases improved feed utilization efficiency and economic efficiency ratio. Highlights • Replacement of SBM by DDGS did not compromise the growth performance or feed utilization efficiency. • CHOase supplementation of DDGS-based diets improved feed efficiency and reduced the feeding cost per kg of fish produced. • CHOase supplementation counteracted the increased susceptibility to hepatic oxidative stress induced by the 35% DDGS diet. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Experimental diets were formulated to evaluate a "pure" poultry meat meal (PMM) source in diets formulated for juvenile gilthead sea bream (Sparus aurata L.). The digestible protein contribution of fish meal in a control diet was substituted by 25%, 50% and 75% of a processed poultry meat meal (PMM) on a digestible crude protein (DCP) basis and by 5% and 10% for an enzyme‐treated feather meal (EFM) and also a spray‐dried haemaglobin meal (SDHM), respectively. In a consecutive trial, diets were designed to assess the value of a "pure" (defatted) poultry protein substituting the fish meal (FM) protein content. Experimental diets included: a control diet, two test diets where 75% of FM was replaced by a full‐fat PMM (PMM75) or a defatted grade of PMM (dPMM75) and two test diets where 50% of FM was substituted for defatted PMM (dPMM50) or a 50:50 blend of soya bean meal and defatted PMM (SBM/dPMM) to produce a composite product. This soya bean/dPMM blend was tested to enhance the nutritional value of this key plant ingredient commonly employed in sea bream diets that can be deficient in specific amino acids and minerals. In the first trial, gilthead sea bream grew effectively on diets containing up to the 75% replacement of FM attaining a mean weight of 63.6 g compared to 67.8 g for the FM control fed group. For the consecutive trial, the fishmeal‐based control diet yielded the highest SGR followed by dPMM50 and SBM/dPMM blend inclusion but was not significant. Carcass FA profiles of gilthead sea bream conformed to the expected changes in relation to the dietary FA patterns, with the 18:1n‐9 representative of the poultry lipid signature becoming more apparent with PMM inclusion. The ratio of n‐3/n‐6 fatty acids was greatly affected in sea bream fed the full‐fat PMM at 75% inclusion due to fish oil exclusion. Defatted dPMM, however, allowed more of the fish oil to be used in the diet and reducing this latter effect in sea bream carcass, hence restoring the higher total omega‐3 HUFA fatty acids namely EPA and DHA and n‐3/n‐6 ratio. It is concluded that poultry meat meal can be modestly incorporated into formulated diets for sea bream and can be used in conjunction with soya bean meal without any fundamental changes in performance and feed efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effects of fructooligosaccharide (FOS) on growth performance, immunity and predominant autochthonous intestinal microbiota of shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei) fed diets with fish meal (FM) partially replaced by soybean meal (SBM) were evaluated. After acclimation, shrimps (1.82 ± 0.01 g/kg) were allocated into 15 tanks (25 shrimps per tank) and fed five different diets including positive control diet (C0, containing 250 g/kg FM and 285 g/kg SBM), control diet (C, containing 125 g/kg FM, 439 g/kg SBM) and three experimental diets supplemented with 1.0 g/kg FOS (T1), 2.0 g/kg FOS (T2) and 4.0 g/kg FOS (T3) to control diet (C) respectively. Shrimps were fed diets to apparent satiation three times per day, and 15 shrimps from each aquarium were randomly sampled and analysed at the end of the 6‐week feeding trial. The results showed that FBW, WGR, SGR and SR decreased, while FCR and FI increased significantly in control (C) compared with positive control (C0). Besides, significantly decreased trypsase and lipase activities, and SOD, AKP and ACP activities were recorded in control (C) compared with positive control (C0). On the other hand, significantly improved SGR and decreased FCR were observed in groups T1, T2 and T3 compared with control (C). Moreover, lipase and amylase activities enhanced significantly in group T3 compared with the control (C), while GOT and GPT activities dropped significantly with the increment supplementation of FOS in diets. Compared with the control (C), SOD activity enhanced significantly and MDA level decreased significantly in groups T2 and T3, and improved AKP and ACP activities were observed in group T3. In addition, dietary FOS improved the microbial diversity, and suppressed several potential pathogens, such as Vibrio tubiashii, Vibrio parahaemolyticus and Photobacterium damselae‐like strains in the intestine of shrimp. Overall, these results proved FOS could relieve the side effects induced by SBM and supported the use of 2.0–4.0 g/kg FOS in shrimp diets with FM partially replaced by SBM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The impact of two dietary organic acids (OAs) on nutrient digestibility and intestinal morphology was determined in Nile tilapia under conditions of dissolved oxygen in the water: normoxia and hypoxia. Four diets designated as control (0 g/kg organic acid salt), KDF (2 g/kg potassium diformate), CAB (2 g/kg calcium butyrate) and their combination (4 g/kg of a mixture of KDF and CAB, ration 1:1) were formulated with 520 g/kg of soybean meal in order to produce soybean meal enteritis‐like symptoms. The four diets were tested first under normoxic conditions (6 mg/L) for a period of 5 weeks, followed by a test period under hypoxic conditions (3 mg/L). The results showed that OAs were unable to significantly improve growth and nutrient digestibility under normoxic conditions but under hypoxic conditions, there was a significant enhancement of the growth and nutrient digestibility. Fish fed OA‐supplemented diets showed improvements in the intestinal morphology under the normoxic conditions, and these effects were more pronounced under the hypoxic conditions. Experimental findings suggest that OAs can improve the nutrient digestibility and intestinal morphology under hypoxic conditions. A synergistic effect by the combination of formic and butyric acid on growth, digestibility and intestinal morphology was not found. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As an important feed ingredient, fermented soybean meal (FSM) has been widely used in aquatic animals due to its stable sources and reasonable price. Here, we evaluated the potential for replacement of fishmeal (FM) with FSM in diet of Litopenaeus vannamei. Five isonitrogenous (410 g/kg) and isolipidic (80 g/kg) diets were formulated: a control diet containing 320 g/kg FM and four experimental diets in which FM in control diet was replaced by FSM at 10 (FSM10%), 20 (FSM20%), 30 (FSM30%) and 40% (FSM40%). An 8‐week feeding trial was conducted in fifteen fibreglass tanks with 50 shrimps per tank. After 8 weeks trial, FSM20% had significantly enhanced growth performance (p < 0.05). No significant difference was found in body composition and digestive enzyme activities of all groups (p > 0.05). Through real‐time quantitative PCR analysis, tor and s6k expression levels of FSM20% were significantly up‐regulated (p < 0.05). Results of western blot showed that the phosphorylation of S6K was not significantly affected by different dietary treatments (p > 0.05), which suggested mTOR signalling pathway was not affected by FSM diets. Based on the above data, 20% replacement of FM with FSM was reasonable and advantageous for L. vannamei diet. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract An 8-week feeding trial was carried out to evaluate the effects of replacing fish meal (FM) with housefly (Musca domestica) maggot meal (HFMM) on growth, antioxidant capacity, digestive enzymes activity, and gut health of bullfrog Rana (Lithobates) catesbeiana. A basal experimental diet was formulated using FM and soybean meal as the major protein sources, then four other diets were produced by replacing 25, 50, 75 or 100% of FM with HFMM (FM, HFMM25, HFMM50, HFMM75 and HFMM100 diets). Each diet was fed to triplicate groups of bullfrog (34.1 ± 1.10 g) to apparent satiation twice daily. No significant linear or quadratic trends were observed between FM replacement level and growth, feed utilization and survival rate (P > 0.05). A significant negative linear trend was detected between the incremental levels of HFMM and apparent digestibility coefficients (ADCs) of dry matter, protein and lipid, while positive linear and quadratic trends were found in ADC of phosphorous (P < 0.05). A negative linear trend was observed between whole-body ash content and HFMM level. Positive linear and quadratic trends were found between serum aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase and lysozyme activities and incremental HFMM levels. Liver superoxide dismutase and catalase activities were increased linearly, and total antioxidant capacity was enhanced both linearly and quadratically by incremental levels of HFMM. In contrast, a negative linear trend was found in liver malondialdehyde concentration. A significant positive quadratic trend was found between intestinal protease, lipase and amylase activities and incremental levels of HFMM. Histological observations revealed a significant negative linear trend between HFMM level and villus height and muscular thickness. Gut microbiota analysis showed no significant changes in the operational taxonomic unit (OTU) diversity and richness indices among treatments. Positive linear and quadratic trends were found between incremental HFMM levels and expression of liver HSP70 and IGF-Ι and intestinal TNF-α, IL-1ß, IL-8 and IL-17 genes. The findings in this study showed that although growth performance was not significantly affected by total replacement of FM with HFMM, nutrients digestibility and gut health could be adversely influenced at higher replacement levels. Highlights • Housefly maggot meal was evaluated as a fish meal replacer in bullfrog diets. • Total replacement of fish meal did not lead to detrimental effects on growth. • Gut health was adversely affected at higher replacement levels. • Housefly maggot meal inclusion enhanced antioxidant capacity and immune response. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract This study examined the effects of replacing fish meal (FM) with three different types of soybean meal (SM) including untreated SM, Bacillus pumillus SE5 (BP) fermented SM (BPFSM) and Pseudozyma aphidis ZR1 (PA) fermented SM (PAFSM) in diets for Japanese seabass (Lateolabrax japonicus). A basal diet was formulated using FM (FM diet), and six other diets were produced by substituting 40 or 80% of FM with SM, BPFSM or PAFSM (SM40, SM80, BPFSM40, BPFSM80, PAFSM40 and PAFSM80 diets). Each diet was fed to triplicate groups of fish (7.14 ± 0.05 g) twice daily for eight weeks. Replacing 40% of FM with SM sources did not significantly influence growth (P > 0.05), while increasing the substitution level to 80% led to reduced growth rates (P < 0.05). The groups received SM80 and PAFSM80 diets showed significantly higher feed conversion ratio and lower protein digestibility than FM group. Furthermore, notably lower dry matter digestibility was detected in SM80 group. Remarkably lower serum total antioxidant capacity was found in the SM80 group, and catalase activity did not significantly differ between FM and BPFSM40 groups. Serum malondialdehyde concentration was enhanced by increasing FM replacement level and the highest value was observed in the SM80 fed fish. FM and PAFSM40 groups showed significantly higher lysozyme activity than the SM80 group. Fish fed the BPFSM40 diet exhibited the highest complement C3 activity and the lowest value was observed in the SM80 group. Expression of lysozyme gene in spleen was down-regulated in the SM80 group, and no significant difference in expression of C3 gene was found among FM, BPFSM40 and PAFSM40 groups. Digestive enzymes activity and gut morphology were significantly influenced by FM replacement. Expression of HSP70 and pro-inflammatory genes including TNF-α and IL-1β were up-regulated by FM replacement and relatively lower expression levels were found by using fermented SM. An opposite trend was observed for the anti-inflammatory TGF-β gene expression. Serum d -lactate concentration was significantly increased by replacing 80% of FM with any of the SM sources. These findings indicated that using fermented SM, particularly BPFSM, beneficially influences feed utilization, antioxidant capacity, innate immunity and gut health in juvenile Japanese seabass. Highlights • Yeast and bacterial fermented soybean meal were tested in Japanese seabass feed. • Fermentation with Bacillus pumillus SE5 improved digestibility of soybean meal. • Fermented soybean meal enhanced antioxidant capacity and innate immune response. • Fish meal replacement with soybean meal suppressed digestive enzymes activity. • Fermentation of soybean meal ameliorated the damaging effects on gut structure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Increasing dietary electrolyte balance (dEB) has been reported to linearly improve pig growth performance up to approximately 200 to 250 mEq/kg. However, recent data indicate that increasing dietary dEB reduced growth performance of nursery pigs. To attempt to solve this discrepancy, a total of 2,880 weanling pigs (327 × 1,050; PIC, Hendersonville, TN; 5.2 kg initial BW) were used to determine the effects of increasing dEB on nursery pig performance. Pens of pigs were blocked by BW and gender on arrival. Within block, pens were randomly assigned to one of four dietary treatments. There were 30 pigs per pen (60 pigs per double-sided feeder) and 12 replications (feeder) per treatment. Dietary treatments were fed in two phases. The phase 1 diet was based on corn–soybean meal, contained dried distillers grains with soblubles (DDGS), spray-dried whey, and specialty protein sources, and was fed from days 0 to 8. The phase 2 (days 8 to 21) diets contained corn, soybean meal, and DDGS with reduced amounts of specialty protein sources. Dietary electrolyte balance was determined using the following equation: dEB = [(Na × 434.98) + (K × 255.74) − (Cl × 282.06)] mEq/kg. The dEB of the four phase 1 diets were 84, 137, 190, and 243 mEq/kg, and dEB of the four phase 2 diets were 29, 86, 143, and 199 mEq/kg. After feeding experimental diets for 21 day, a common, commercial corn–soybean meal diet was fed to all pigs from days 21 to 35 and contained a dEB of 257 mEq/kg. During days 0 to 8, increasing dEB increased (quadratic, P < 0.05) ADG, ADFI, and G:F. From days 8 to 21, increasing dEB improved ADG (quadratic, P = 0.022) and ADFI (linear, P = 0.001), resulting in an improvement (quadratic, P = 0.001) in G:F. Overall (days 0 to 21), increasing dEB increased (linear, P < 0.05) ADG, ADFI, and improved (quadratic, P < 0.001) G:F. When a common diet was fed to all pigs from days 21 to 35, there was a linear reduction in ADG and G:F with increasing dietary dEB, but no effect of ADFI. For the overall nursery period (days 0 to 35), increasing dEB from days 0 to 21 increased (linear, P < 0.001) ADG and final BW, which was the result of increased (quadratic, P < 0.05) G:F and marginally greater (linear, P = 0.077) ADFI. In conclusion, increasing dietary dEB up to 243 and 199 mEq/kg (in phases 1 and 2, respectively) in nursery diets improved growth performance of weanling pigs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Post-ruminally infused casein has increased milk and milk protein yield in post-partum cows. We theorised top dressing (TD) higher amounts of soybean meal (SBM) might mimic these effects. Fifty-one multiparous Holstein cows 1 day after calving were assigned to 3 dietary treatments: a base total mixed ration (CON) with 196 g/kg crude protein and 329 g/kg neutral detergent fibre; 17 cows TD with l kg of SBM (SBM1); and 17 cows TD with 2 kg of SBM (SBM2) for 30 days. Milk and milk components were measured at days 9, 18, and 27. Rumen and urine samples were collected on day 27; blood samples were obtained on day 30. Statistical inference was by JMP software (Version 10.0.2, 2012) with production variables analysed as a repeated measures design. Cows fed SBM increased milk yield (P = 0.02; 35.4, 36.6, and 42.6 kg/day for CON, SBM1, and SBM2, respectively). Yield of milk true protein was not different among treatments. Cows fed SBM had lower serum non esterified fatty acids concentrations at day 30 (1.35, 1.13, and 0.59 mM/l; P < 0.01). We conclude that SBM TD beginning immediately after calving may increase milk yield rapidly and decrease dependence on fatty acids for energy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Four experiments were conducted to evaluate the precision-fed rooster assay for determining excreta phosphorus retention values for 5 feed ingredients in which roosters were precision-fed the ingredients and excreta were collected quantitatively for 48 h. The first rooster assay determined the effects of increasing P intakes on excreta P retention values for corn. This assay involved feeding either 20 g of corn or 20 g of corn supplemented with increasing amounts of KH2PO4 to provide total P intakes of 51 to 351 mg and non-phytate P intakes of 16 to 316 mg. The excreta P retention value for corn fed alone was 75% but decreased greatly when non-phytate P intakes were 76 mg or higher for the corn diets containing added KH2PO4. The second precision-fed rooster assay involved feeding increasing amounts of spray dried plasma protein (SDPP) (5 to 20 g) which provided non-phytate P intakes of 61 to 242 mg. Excretion of P increased and excreta P retention values decreased from 94 to 60% as SDPP intake increased from 5 to 20 g. Experiment 3 determined excreta P retention values for solvent extracted dehulled soybean meal (SBM) (24 g intake) and also the effect of increasing intakes of SDPP (5 to 10 g) and meat and bone meal (MBM) (1.5 to 10 g) on their excreta P retention values. The excreta P retention value for SBM was 41%. Excreta P retention values for SDPP again decreased as P intake increased. Excreta P retention values for MBM were low (27 to 35%) at all intakes. In Experiment 4, roosters were tube-fed 8, 16, or 24 g of canola meal and excreta P retention values varied from 23 to 35% among intake levels. The results of this study indicated that excreta P retention values often varied greatly among different levels of ingredient and non-phytate phosphorus intake and suggest that the precision-fed assay may be useful for determining bioavailability of P only if non-phytate P intakes are low. In addition, the assay may not be accurate for ingredients which contain high Ca levels such as MBM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Growth and digestibility trials were conducted to evaluate the use of nongenetically modified soybean meal (NMSBM) as a supplement in practical shrimp feeds. The apparent digestibility coefficient of dry matter, protein, and energy for the reference diet and NMSBM were 72.87% and 90.13%, 84.83% and 96.61%, and 85.26% and 96.10%, respectively. The 10‐week growth trial was conducted to evaluate the replacement of fishmeal by NMSBM at the levels of 0%, 20%, 40%, 60%, 80% and 100%. The experimental diets were named as D0, D20, D40, D60, D80 and D100, respectively. Results showed that there were no significant differences in the specific growth rate among the D0‐D80, and in the feed conversion ratio and body composition among all the treatments. However, the SGR in D100 was significantly lower than that in D0, D20 and D40. The feeding rate in D100 was significantly higher than that in D0, D20 and D60. The challenge test with Vibrio parahaemolyticus after the growth trial showed that no significant differences were found on the cumulative mortalities of shrimp. In conclusion, NMSBM can replace up to 80% fishmeal with no significant negative effects on the growth performance, body composition, immune response and disease resistance of shrimp Litopenaeus vannamei. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Canadian Journal of Animal Science is the property of Canadian Science Publishing and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Canadian Journal of Animal Science is the property of Canadian Science Publishing and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Journal of Animal & Poultry Production is the property of Egyptian National Agricultural Library (ENAL) and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of adding dried distillers’ grains with solubles (DDGS) to the nutritional regimens of ewes at different time periods on reproductive traits, serum hormones and serum metabolites. In Experiment 1, 100 ewes were divided into 4 groups (n = 25) according to diet. The four diets were grass hay (H) alone (group H), H with barley (group H + B), H with DDGS for the whole feeding period (27 d) (group H + DDGS) or H and DDGS for 5 d (d 8-12 of oestrus cycle) (group H + DDGS5). Serum progesterone concentrations were affected by oestrus cycle (p < 0.001), but not by dietary treatments. However, feeding H + DDGS caused significant increases in serum insulin, leptin and growth hormone concentrations (p < 0.05). In Experiment 2, 30 ewes were divided into 2 groups (n = 15), receiving DDGS or soybean meal (SBM) during the prepartum period. Diets had no significant effect on weights of dams or lambs at birth; however, the weaning weights of lambs born from ewes of group DDGS were significantly higher (p < 0.05). Moreover, serum glucose, blood urea nitrogen, triglyceride and beta hydroxybutyric acid (BHBA) concentrations during the prepartum period were affected by dietary treatments and by time (p < 0.001). During the prepartum period, BHBA concentrations of ewes fed SBM were higher, while BHBA levels decreased during the last weeks of pregnancy regardless of diet. Lamb serum immunoglobulin G concentrations increased from 1 h to 24 h after birth (p < 0.001). Colostrum of ewes fed SBM had higher fat-free dry matter (DM) and protein contents in comparison to colostrum of ewes fed DDGS (p < 0.05). In conclusion, DDGS can be included as protein source in pregnancy rations up to 15% of DM to obtain reproductive performance outcomes equal to or exceeding those obtained with SBM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A major objective of pork producers is to reduce production cost. Feeding may account for over 75% of pork production costs. Thus, selecting pigs for feed efficiency (FE) traits is a priority in pig breeding programs. While in the Americas, pigs are typically fed high-input diets, based on corn and soybean meal (CS); in Western Europe, pigs are commonly fed diets based on wheat and barley with high amounts of added protein-rich coproducts (WB), e.g., from milling and seed-oil industries. These two feeding scenarios provided a realistic setting for investigating a specific type of genotype by environment interaction; thus, we investigated the genotype by feed interaction (GxF). In the presence of a GxF, different feed compositions should be considered when selecting for FE. This study aimed to 1) verify the presence of a GxF for FE and growth performance traits in different growth phases (starter, grower, and finisher) of 3-way crossbred growing-finishing pigs fed either a CS (547 boars and 558 gilts) or WB (567 boars and 558 gilts) diet; and 2) to assess and compare the expected responses to direct selection under the 2 diets and the expected correlated responses for one diet to indirect selection under the other diet. We found that GxF did not interfere in the ranking of genotypes under both diets for growth, protein deposition, feed intake, energy intake, or feed conversion rate. Therefore, for these traits, we recommend changing the diet of growing-finishing pigs from high-input feed (i.e., CS) to feed with less valuable ingredients, as WB, to reduce production costs and the environmental impact, regardless of which diet is used in selection. We found that GxF interfered in the ranking of genotypes and caused heterogeneity of genetic variance under both diets for lipid deposition (LD), residual energy intake (REI), and residual feed intake (RFI). Thus, selecting pigs under a diet different from the diet used for growing-finishing performance could compromise the LD in all growth phases, compromise the REI and RFI during the starter phase, and severely compromise the REI during the grower phase. In particular, when pigs are required to consume a WB diet for growing-finishing performance, pigs should be selected for FE under the same diet. Breeding pigs for FE under lower-input diets should be considered, because FE traits will become more important and lower-input diets will become more widespread in the near future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The increase in the litter size in past decades has caused reduction in the individual piglet birth weight. Therefore, nutritional strategies employed in the last third of gestation in order to improve the piglet birth weight have been studied. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of 2 different feeding levels (1.8 and 2.2 kg/d) in the last third of gestation on the piglet birth weight and the female reproductive performance. A total of 407 females were fed on a diet based on corn-soybean meal (3.25 Mcal ME per kg and 0.65% standardized ileal digestible lysine) from day 90 of gestation until farrowing. The females were weighed on day 90 and day 112 of gestation, and at weaning. Born alive and stillborn piglets were weighed within 12 h of birth. The lactation feed intake and the litter growth rate were measured in a randomly selected subsample of 53 sows from each treatment. The data were analyzed using the generalized linear mixed models, considering the females as the experimental unit. Parity, treatment, and their interaction were analyzed for all responses. The females fed on 2.2 kg/d of diet from day 90 to day 112 exhibited greater body weight gain compared to the females fed on 1.8 kg/d (P < 0.001). No evidence of the effects of feeding levels on the individual piglet birth weight and on the within-litter CV were observed, for both gilts and sows (P ≥ 0.90). Similarly, when the classes of the total born piglets were considered in the analysis (<15 and ≥15 for gilts; <16 and ≥16 for sows), no positive effects of increasing the feeding level were observed on the individual piglet birth weight and the within-litter CV (P ≥ 0.47). Also, no differences in the stillborn rate, mummified-fetus rate, and percentage of piglets weighing less than 1,000 g at birth were observed between the treatments (P ≥ 0.28). The females fed on 1.8 kg/d of diet exhibited greater feed intake during lactation, compared to the females fed on 2.2 kg/d (P < 0.05). Weaning weight, weaning-to-estrus interval, subsequent litter size, and culling rate were not affected by the dietary levels (P ≥ 0.23). In conclusion, increasing the feed intake from day 90 of gestation until farrowing increased the body weight gain in sow, demonstrated no effect on the piglet birth weight, and reduced the lactation feed intake. Furthermore, there was no evidence of the effects of the treatments on the litter growth rate or on the subsequent female reproductive performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In aquafeeds, fish-meal has been commonly replaced with plant protein, which often causes enteritis. Currently, foodborne enteritis has few solutions in regards to prevention or cures. The recovery mechanism from enteritis in herbivorous fish may further help understand prevention or therapy. However, few reports could be found regarding the recovery or resilience to fish foodborne enteritis. In this study, grass carp was used as an animal model for soybean meal induced enteritis and it was found that the fish could adapt to the soybean meal at a moderate level of substitution. Resilience to soybean meal stress was found in the 40% soybean meal group for juvenile fish at growth performance, morphological and gene expression levels, after a 7-week feeding trial. Furthermore, the intestinal transcriptomic data, including transcriptome and miRNAome, was applied to demonstrate resilience mechanisms. The result of this study revealed that in juvenile grass carp after a 7-week feeding cycle with 40% soybean meal, the intestine recovered via enhancing both an immune tolerance and wound healing, the liver gradually adapted via re-balancing immune responses, such as phagosome and complement cascades. Also, many immune factors in the gut and liver were systemically revealed among stages of on-setting, remising, and recovering (or relief). In addition, miRNA regulation played a key role in switching immune states. Thus, the present data systemically demonstrated that the molecular adaptation mechanism of fish gut-liver immunity is involved in the resilience to soybean meal stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluated the effects of supplementing chitooligosaccharide (COS) in low fish meal (FM) diets on growth, immune response, intestine and hepatopancrease histology, and expression of inflammatory and immune-related genes in Pacific white shrimp ( Litopenaeus vannamei ). A basal diet was formulated using FM and soybean meal (SM) as primary protein sources and considered as a high FM (HFM) diet, then a low FM (LFM) diet was prepared by substituting 50% of FM with SM and supplemented with 0, 0.3, 0.6, 0.9, 1.2 or 1.5 g COS kg −1 diet (LFM, COS3, COS6, COS9, COS12 and COS15 diets). Each diet was fed to quadruplicate groups of shrimp (0.9 g) to apparent satiation three times daily for eight weeks. At the end of the experiment no significant changes in growth and survival rate were observed among treatments ( P  > 0.05). FM replacement led to significant ( P  < 0.05) reduction of serum lysozyme activity and significant improvements were obtained by adding 0.3 or 0.6 g kg −1 COS to the LFM diet. A significant decrease in nitric oxide synthase activity was found in LFM group and no beneficial effects could be achieved by COS application. LFM group showed higher hepatopancrease superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase activities than HFM group and further enhancements were obtained by COS application. Hepatopancrease total antioxidant capacity and alkaline phosphatase activity decreased in LFM group and COS supplementation improved their values. Expression of lysozyme, crustin, Pen3 and proPo genes were significantly up-regulated in hepatopancrease of groups received 0.3–0.9 g COS kg −1 diet. FM substitution enhanced the expression of HSP70 and inflammatory genes such as AIF and TNF in hepatopancrease and intestine, and COS administration at a moderate level down-regulated their expression level. Remarkable enhancement in intestinal fold height was obtained by inclusion of 0.3 or 0.6 g COS kg −1 diet compared to the group received LFM diet. Shrimps fed HFM and COS containing diets exhibited higher number of E-cells within their hepatopancrease tubules than the LFM group. The findings in this study clearly demonstrated that COS could enhance non-specific immune response and antioxidant activity, and ameliorate the negative impacts of high SM diets on gut and hepatopancrease health in pacific white shrimp. The optimum inclusion level of COS seems to be 0.3–0.6 g kg −1 of diet. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim was to determine the effect of tail-end dehulling (dehulling after oil extraction) of canola meal (CM) on apparent (AID) and standardized (SID) ileal digestibility of amino acids (AA) when fed to growing pigs. Three ileal cannulated barrows (initial BW 58 ± 3.6 kg) were assigned to the 3 experimental diets in a replicated 3 × 3 Latin square design using 6 periods to provide 6 replicates per treatment. The use of sieve size 355 μm resulted in the production of 2 CM fractions, a dehulled fraction (DCM) and a coarse fraction (CCM). Diets consisted of a cornstarch-based diet with either regular canola meal (RCM), DCM, or CCM as the only source of protein. All diets contained titanium dioxide (0.3%) as an indigestible marker. In general, there was no effect ( P  >  0.10) of dehulling on the AID of most AA. However, AID of Phe was higher ( P  <  0.05) in RCM, compared to DCM and CCM. The AID of Thr and Trp was greater ( P  <  0.05) in RCM and DCM compared to CCM. However, the AID of Ile and Leu was higher ( P  < 0.05) in RCM and CCM compared to DCM. The SID of indispensable AA was not affected ( P  > 0.10) by dehulling. However, the SID of Phe was greater for RCM ( P  <  0.05) compared to DCM and CCM. Whereas, SID for Thr was higher in RCM and DCM compared to CCM. By removing the fibrous component, dehulling increased ( P  < 0.05) the standardized ileal digestible AA content of DCM compared to RCM by an average of 9%. The standardized ileal digestible His and Lys contents were similar between RCM and CCM, whereas, values for digestible Arg, Leu, Phe, and Thr contents were lower ( P  <  0.05) for CCM than CCM than for RCM and DCM. In conclusion, the results indicate that for most AA, the AID and SID in CM were not affected by dehulling. However, the content of ileal digestible AA can be increased with tail-end dehulling of CM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phytogenics have been reported to improve growth performances in farm animals and are thereby considered as potential key solutions for antibiotic-free livestock nutrition. Yet, their effects on meat quality are still not well defined; therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the effects of 5 experimental phytogenic additives (3 dietary and 2 water supplements) on growth and meat quality in broilers. One-dayold broiler chicks (n = 576) were assigned to 48 floor pens and divided into 6 treatments (Control, AV/HGP/16 premix [AVHGP], Superliv concentrate premix [SCP], bacteriostatic herbal growth promotor [BHGP], AV/SSL/12 [AVSSL], and Superliv Gold [SG]) in a complete randomized design (8 pens/treatment with 12 birds/pen, and 96 birds/group). Feed intake and BW were recorded, and birds were processed at 42 d to evaluate carcass traits. Breast muscle tissues were excised to determine stress- and antioxidant-related genes expression. Both AVSSL- and SG-treated broilers produced heavier (P < 0.05) slaughter weights compared with the control-fed broilers, whereas AVSSL supplementation decreased (P < 0.05) fat pad size and increased (P < 0.05) breast weights compared with the control-fed broilers. Although pH and a* values remained unchanged, L* was decreased (P < 0.05) in all treatment and b* was reduced (P < 0.05) in SG when compared with controls. The trained sensory panelists detected more (P < 0.05) green herb flavor in the breast meat from AVHGP than SCP, SG, and control birds. The expression of superoxide dismutase 2, extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2, and JNK gene was upregulated in AVHGP and BHGP compared with the control (P < 0.05). Together, these results indicated that phytogenic additives might improve meat quality of broilers through modulation of stress- and antioxidant-related pathways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was carried out to determine yield and seed quality of 14 soybean varieties (Blaze, Ataem-7, Bravo, İlksoy, Çetinbey, Nova, Atakişi, Cinsoy, Adasoy, Umut-2002, Türksoy, Arısoy, HA.16-21 and SA-88), conducted with 3 replicates, according to the Randomized Block Experimental Design in the Osmaniye region, Turkey during 2016 growing season. Plant height, seed number per pod, first pod height, number of branches per plant, number of pods per node, number of pods per plant, harvest index, protein content, oil content, hundred seed weight, seed yield and fatty acid composition were the parameters examined. It was found that the controlled parameters values at different soybean varieties ranged as follows: plant height - between 69.47cm (Blaze) and 101.83cm (HA.16-21); number of seeds per pod - between 1.82 units/pod (Adasoy) and 2.21 units/pod (Blaze); first pod height - between 13.10cm (Blaze) and 22.53 cm (Umut-2002); number of branches per plant - between 1.07 units/plant (HA.16-21) and 3.00 units/plant (Nova); number of pods per node - between 2.43 units/node (Umut-2002) and 4.81 units/node (Adasoy); number of pods per plant - between 27.40 units/plant (Umut-2002) and 47.73 units/plant (Adasoy); Harvest Index values - between 43.99% (HA.16-21) and 54.72% (Ataem) - 55.42% (Blaze); protein content - between 36.09% (Nova) and 39.17% (Çetinbey); oil content - between 15.71% (Blaze) and 19.73% (Türksoy) - 19.82% (Arısoy); 100 seed weight - between 12.54g (Arısoy) and 19.18g (Çetinbey); seed yield - between 2470.41 kg/ha (Arısoy) and 3280.03 kg/ha (Adasoy); acid composition values: palmitic acid - from 9.97% (Türksoy) to 11.47% (Çetinbey); stearic acid - from 3.82% (Ataem-7) to 4.38% (Türksoy); oleic acid - from 22.39% (Bravo) to 28.14% (Çetinbey); linoleic acid - from 47.30% (Çetinbey) to 53.26% (Ataem-7) and linolenic acid - from 5.49% (Türksoy) to 6.88% (Bravo). The soybean varieties tested showed different advantages over the individual parameters: in terms of seed yield - Adasoy (3280.03 kg/ha) and Atakişi (3260.60 kg/ha) varieties; in terms of protein content - Çetinbey (39.17%) followed by SA-88 (38.55%) genotype; in terms of oil content - Türksoy variety (19.82%) followed by Arisoy (19.73%) variety; in terms of fatty acid composition the results are very diverse. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A 10‐week feeding experiment was conducted to evaluate the effects of replacing fish meal with soybean meal (SBM), with or without dietary arginine (Arg), on growth performance, immune indices and intestinal morphology of grouper, Epinephelus malabaricus. Nine experimental diets were formulated to contain 20%, 30% and 40% fish meal protein (FMP) replaced using SBM and 0, 0.5% and 1% dietary Arg supplementation. The results showed that weight gain (WG) of fish was significantly affected by the interaction of substitution level and Arg supplemental level. The maximum WG occurred at the 30% FMP substitution level and the 0.5% Arg supplemental level. The immune assay showed that the interaction between the two levels significantly influenced the production of serum nitric oxide but did not affect serum IgG concentration and alkaline phosphatase activity or the liver IGF‐1 gene expression. Significant interaction effects between the two levels were observed in muscle layer thickness (tML) and fold height (hF) in the proximal and mid‐intestine. High SBM level in diets reduced the tML and hF in the entire intestine. The results suggested that the interaction of 30% FMP substitution level and Arg supplemental level of 0.5% most benefitted growth performance, immune indices and intestinal structure of grouper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the present study was to assess dietary and sex-related effects on selected blood indicators of 40-day-old mallard ducks undergoing fattening. The ducks were divided into three dietary groups (control, L50 and L100). The control (C) group was fed a diet containing soybean meal as the main protein component of the feed. In both experimental groups L50 and L100 soybean meal was replaced with meal of whole seeds of white lupine, Zulika variety, in proportions of 50 and 100%, respectively. With respect to the assessed dietary effect, the serum of the L50 group showed a significantly higher albumin concentration as compared to the C group (P < 0.05) accompanied by a significantly lower proportion of γ-globulins in the L50 group as compared to the L100 group (P < 0.01). As for the blood plasma, the C group showed a significantly higher concentration of total cholesterol as compared to the L100 group (P < 0.05) and a highly significant increase in the triacylglyceride (TAG) level as compared to the L50 and L100 groups (P < 0.01). Concerning plasma mineral indicators, ducks of the C group showed a significantly higher calcium concentration (P < 0.05) in comparison to the L100 group and a lower phosphorus concentration (P < 0.01) in comparison to the L50 as well as L100 group. Further, the C group showed a significantly lower level of potassium (K) as compared to the L50 group (P < 0.05) as well as the L100 group (P < 0.01). The sex of the ducks significantly (P < 0.05) affected the proportion of α-globulins in serum and the magnesium level in the plasma and affected the plasma levels of TAG and K and the activity of aspartate aminotransferase (P < 0.01). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Distillers dried grains with solubles (DDGS) is a coproduct of corn-based ethanol production that can be a valuable source of energy, digestible amino acids, and available phosphorus in poultry feeds. Dietary incorporation of DDGS reduces the amount of primary ingredients such as corn and soybean meal needed to formulate poultry diets, improving the sustainability of both biofuel and poultry production. The nutritional value of DDGS has been extensively evaluated since it became increasingly available to feed producers in the early 2000s, but evolving methods of ethanol production and coproduct fractionation necessitate its continued characterization. Attempts to relate nutrient utilization of DDGS to its chemical composition have revealed that fiber content is a primary determinant of dietary energy value of DDGS for poultry. Distillers corn oil, which is extracted from thin stillage during production of distillers grains, can also be supplemented into poultry diets as an energy-dense lipid source in place of animal fats or other vegetable-based oils. Poultry feeding practices in the United States are also evolving, including increased adoption of all vegetable-based diets and reduced use of in-feed antimicrobials. Therefore, further characterization of both the nutritional value of DDGS and its impact on gastrointestinal health will support its continued use in poultry diets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]