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Aflatoxin constitutes a significant concern for food and feed safety, posing detrimental health risks to both animals and humans. This study aimed to examine the prevalence and concentration of aflatoxins in maize feed, total mixed ration, and wheat bran collected from specialized dairy farms and local markets in three major urban centers in eastern Ethiopia. A total of 180 feed samples were collected from September 2021 to January 2022 in Chiro town, Dire Dawa city, and Harar city. These samples underwent thorough extraction and immunoaffinity clean-up before aflatoxin analysis using HPLC/FLD. The results revealed that AFB1, AFB2, AFG1, AFG2, and TAF contamination was detected in 72.2%, 66.1%, 71.1%, 68.7%, and 82.8% of the feed samples, respectively. The corresponding mean levels of each aflatoxin were 28.15 ± 3.50, 3.3 ± 0.40, 19.87 ± 1.87, 2.7 ± 0.32, and 54.01 ± 4.72 µg/kg, respectively. The occurrence and levels of aflatoxin varied across different study sites and feed types. Notably, feeds from Dire Dawa city exhibited significantly higher mean levels of AFB1 (43.98 ± 5.3 µg/kg), AFB2 (5.69 ± 0.6 µg/kg), AFG1 (32.25 ± 2.7 µg/kg), and AFG2 (5.01 ± 0.5 µg/kg) than feeds from other urban centers did. Additionally, a significantly higher occurrence of AFB1 (29.4%) and AFG1 (28.3%) was detected in feed from Dire Dawa city. Similarly, the total mixed ration (TMR) displayed significantly higher levels of AFB1 (50.67 ± 5.2 µg/kg), AFB2 (4.74 ± 0.6 µg/kg), AFG1 (32.87 ± 2.6 µg/kg), and AFG2 (3.86 ± 0.5 µg/kg) compared to the other feed types. Moreover, a significantly higher occurrence of AFB1 (30.7%) and AFG1 (28.7%) was detected in the TMR. Furthermore, a moderate correlation was observed between the count of aflatoxigenic Aspergillus species and the levels of TAF in the feed samples. Overall, this study underscores the widespread presence of aflatoxin contamination in dairy feeds in eastern Ethiopia, highlighting the urgent need for stringent monitoring and mitigation measures to ensure food and feed safety, as well as public health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A pasture or concentrate-based dietary regime impacts a variety of factors including both ruminal health and function, and consequently milk production and quality. The objective of this study was to examine the effect of feeding differing pasture levels on the metabolite composition of bovine ruminal fluid. Ruminal fluid was obtained from rumen-cannulated spring-calving cows (N = 9, Holstein-Friesian breed, average lactation number = 5) fed one of three diets across a full lactation season. Group 1 (pasture) consumed perennial ryegrass supplemented with 5% concentrates; group 2 received a total mixed ration (TMR) diet; and group 3 received a partial mixed ration (PMR) diet which included pasture and a TMR. Samples were taken at two timepoints: morning and evening. Metabolomic analysis was performed using nuclear magnetic resonance (1H-NMR) spectroscopy. Statistical analysis revealed significant changes across the dietary regimes in both morning and evening samples, with distinct alterations in the metabolite composition of ruminal fluid from pasture-fed cows (FDR-adjusted p-value < 0.05). Acetate and butyrate were significantly higher in samples derived from a pasture-based diet whereas sugar-related metabolites were higher in concentrate-based samples. Furthermore, a distinct diurnal impact on the metabolite profile was evident. This work lays the foundation for understanding the complex interaction between dietary regime and ruminal health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The list of standard abbreviations for JDS is available at adsa.org/jds-abbreviations-24. Nonstandard abbreviations are available in the Notes. There is an increasing consumer desire for pasture-derived dairy products, as outdoor pasture-based feeding systems are perceived as a natural environment for animals. Despite this, the number of grazing animals globally has declined as a result of the higher milk yields achieved by indoor TMR feeding systems, in addition to the changing climatic conditions and lower grazing knowledge and infrastructure. This has led to the development of pasture-fed standards, stipulating the necessity of pasture and its minimum requirements as the primary feed source for products advertising such claims, with various requirements depending on the region for which it was produced. This work investigates the differences in the composition and techno-functional properties of butters produced from high, medium and no pasture allowance diets during early, mid, and late lactation. Butters were produced using milks collected from 3 feeding systems: outdoor pasture grazing (high pasture allowance); indoor TMR (no pasture allowance); and a partial mixed ration (medium pasture allowance) system, which involved outdoor pasture grazing during the day and indoor TMR feeding at night. Butters were manufactured during early, mid, and late lactation. Creams derived from TMR feeding systems exhibited the highest milk fat globule size. The fatty acid profiles of butters also differed significantly as a function of diet and could be readily discriminated by partial least squares analysis. The most important fatty acids in such an analysis, as indicated by their highest variable importance projection scores, were CLA C18:2 cis -9, trans -11 (rumenic acid), C16:1n-7 trans (trans -palmitoleic acid), C18:1 trans (elaidic acid), C18:3n-3 (α-linolenic acid), and C18:2n-6 (linoleic acid). Increasing pasture allowances resulted in reduced crystallization temperatures and hardness of butters and concurrently increasing the "yellow" color. Yellow color was strongly correlated with Raman peaks commonly associated with carotenoids. The milk fat globule size of cream decreased with advancing stage of lactation and churning time of cream was lowest in early lactation. Differences in the fatty acid and triglyceride contents of butter as a result of lactation and dietary effects demonstrated significant correlations with the hardness, rheological, melting, and crystallization profiles of the butters. This work highlighted the improved nutritional profile and functional properties of butter with increasing dietary pasture allowance, primarily as a result of increasing proportions of unsaturated fatty acids. Biomarkers of pasture feeding (response in milk proportionate to the pasture allowance) associated with the pasture-fed status of butters were also identified as a result of the significant changes in the fatty acid profile with increasing pasture allowance. This was achieved through the use of 3 authentic feeding systems with varying pasture allowances, commonly operated by farmers around the world and conducted across 3 stages of lactation. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study was conducted to investigate the efficacy of different feed additives in TMR on in vitro total gas production and methane production. Total mixed ration was prepared by mixing of bajra straw, maize hay and concentrate in the ratio of 30:30:40. Feed additives included in TMR on DM basis were Monensin 30 mg/kg (T1), cellulase (10,00,000 IU/g) 0.5% (T2), xylanase (1,50,000 IU/g) 0.5% (T3), chitosan 1% (T4), sodium bicarbonate 1% (T5), magnesium oxide 1% (T6), combination of sodium bicarbonate + magnesium oxide 0.5% each (T7) and combination of cellulase + xylanase 0.5% each (T8). Rumen liquor was collected from two adult Surti goats each 2 h post-feeding of TMR with above additives. Result revealed that in vitro total gas production (mL/200 mg) was significantly (p<0.01) increased in TMRs supplemented with cellulase (28.39±0.51), xylanase (27.33±0.54) and its combination (32.92±0.62) as well as chitosan (26.82±0.99) as compared to control (22.08±0.56). In vitro methane production (%) was significantly (p<0.01) increased in TMRs supplemented with magnesium oxide (18.15±1.02) and its combination with sodium bicarbonate (17.91±0.15) as compared to control (16.59±0.19). Whereas, in vitro methane production (mL/200 mg & mL/100 mg) was significantly (p<0.05) increased in TMR supplemented with combination of cellulase and xylanase (5.13±0.13 & 2.56±0.06) as compared to control (3.66±0.05 & 1.83±0.02). While, ratios of in vitro methane production to fermentation parameters were significantly (p<0.01) improved in combination of cellulase and xylanase as compared to control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to evaluate effects of forage inclusion and sources on performance, metabolism, and feeding behavior of dairy calves. Forty-eight Holstein calves were blocked and randomly assigned to 1 of 4 dietary treatments according to sex and BW at 28 d of life to determine the effects of feeding forage sources (ensiled and dry), with different quality on performance, metabolites, and behavior. Treatments consisted of a no-forage coarsely ground starter (CON); or total mixed ration (TMR) containing 7.5% on a dry matter (DM) basis of Tifton hay of either medium quality (MH) or low quality (LH); or 10% on a DM basis of corn silage (CS). During the first 28 d of life, all calves received 3 L of whole milk twice daily, a commercial pelleted starter and no forage, and water ad libitum. After that, the solid diet was changed to the respective dietary treatments. Calves were gradually weaned from 52 to 56 d of age, and followed for 14 d postweaning. Individual solid feed and milk intakes were recorded daily, and BW and metabolic indicators of intermediate metabolism were recorded weekly. Behavior was recorded, and the analysis was conducted on wk 7 (preweaning) and 10 (postweaning). Solid feed intake increased at wk 7 and 8 when MH, LH, and CS were included in TMR; the same results were observed postweaning. The diets did not affect the average daily gain and BW, but the feed efficiency increased with the CON diet. The β-hydroxybutyrate concentration was greater in calves receiving TMR-containing forage than CON diet. Furthermore, calves supplemented with forage had a greater rumination time. In conclusion, all forage sources included in the TMR showed feed intake and behavior benefits, reinforcing the need for fiber from forage in pre- and postweaning diets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study evaluated the inclusion of fumaric acid and essential oil blends (EOBs) containing anise, cedarwood, clove, cumin, eucalyptus, garlic, ginger, lavender, lemongrass, nutmeg, oregano, and peppermint at different proportions on in vitro dry matter (DM) disappearance (DMD), fiber fraction disappearance, the efficiency of microbial production, and the total volatile fatty acids (VFAs). Ten treatments without (control treatment) or with different EOB/fumaric combinations were used in the study with eight replicates. The EOB inclusion level was 200 μL/g of feed (total mixed ration, (TMR)) while fumaric acid was administered at 3% of the TMR (DM basis). The highest DMD, in vitro true degradable DM, partitioning factor (PF24), and in vitro apparent degradable DM were recorded for the fumaric only treatment and the control. Neutral detergent fiber disappearance was reduced with the inclusion of EOB/fumaric combinations. The production of microbial mass and undegraded DM were higher (p < 0.001) for all EOBs and EOB and fumaric treatments. The inclusion of EOB and fumaric combinations reduced (p < 0.001) the total gas production, methane, and ammonia, with a higher PF24 value noted for EOB3 treatment. The inclusion of individual EOB1 containing garlic, lemongrass, cumin, lavender, and nutmeg in a ratio of 4:2:2:1:1 or combined with fumaric acid yielded the highest propionate concentration across all treatments. We concluded that EOBs decreased methane production and nutrient degradability with better results with the individual EOB1 or EOB1/fumaric combination, which showed a potential enhancement in energy production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: High-producing dairy cows face an increased risk of subacute ruminal acidosis, which negatively affects the general health, feed intake, and the quantity and quality of milk produced. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of calcareous marine algae (Lithotamium calcareum)-based rumen content buffer included in total mixed ration, fed to 34 high-producing, peak lactation Holstein dairy cows (group A, n = 17; group B, n = 17). It was hypothesized that through a rumen content buffering effect, buffer would improve feeding behavior, feed intake, rumen function, and performance. Differences between the experimental and control total mixed ration in most parameters under study (feed intake, rumen content acidity, feces composition, milk yield, and milk composition) were statistically insignificant. However, statistically significant differences were noted in the length of eating and chewing epizodes (feeding time; rumination time) between groups. Feed intake was in line with this, although the difference was only numerical and statistically insignificant. This may simply mean that the buffer effects takes some time to show but persists after the buffer withdrawal. One of the reasons for not achieving a significant improvement in other parameters might be that the cows were fed a typical, well-balanced ration that did not induce acidosis. The aim of the study was to investigate the effect of calcareous marine algae (Lithotamium calcareum)-based rumen content buffer (CMA) included in concentrated feed within total mixed ration (TMR), fed to 34 peak lactation (87–144 days in milk) Holstein dairy cows, randomized into two groups (group A, n = 17; group B, n = 17), wearing collars with accelerometers, and housed a in barn with automatic feed-weigh troughs. During the first phase P1, group A received TMR with CMA (TMR-E) and group B was fed TMR without the buffer (TMR-C). For P2, the treatments in the groups were exchanged. Feed intake, feeding time (FT), rumination time (RT), milk yield, milk composition, and rumen pH were measured by barn technologies, and rumen fluid and feces composition were analyzed in the laboratory. Differences between the TMR-E and TMR-C in most parameters under study were statistically insignificant, except overall FT and RT, which differed significantly between the groups. Group A, feeding at P1 by TMR-E, exhibited higher FT and RT than Group B (202 min/cow/day vs. 184 min/cow/day, and 486 min/cow/day vs. 428 min/cow/day, respectively). The RT significantly increased after switching from TMR-C to TMR-E. This implies that the buffer effect is delayed and persists after the withdrawal. In the group of cows that received control TMR without buffer in the first phase, RT and milk protein content increased significantly in the first week after the addition of buffer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Agrifood by-products contain nutrients and bioactive compounds that can be used in the diets of livestock – thereby value-adding to an otherwise waste product of environmental and economic significance. This study investigated the effect of dietary pomegranate pulp in the total mixed ration of Ghezel lambs, evaluating its effect on growth performance, blood parameters, carcass traits, as well as meat quality and shelf life. 3-month-old Ghezel lambs (individually housed, n = 8) were randomly assigned to be either non-supplemented (control) or supplemented with 100 g/kg DM of sun-dried pomegranate pulp for 28 days, post-adjustment. Results showed that supplementation of lamb diets with pomegranate pulp significantly increased liveweight and average daily gains, while not significantly affecting dry matter intake. Lamb serum urea and alkaline phosphatase concentrations and hot carcass weight were increased with pomegranate pulp supplementation. Compared to control lambs, the meat from lambs fed the supplemented diet had higher concentrations of intramuscular fat, mono- and polyunsaturated fatty acid, total unsaturated fatty acid, and meat phenolic compounds. Pomegranate pulp supplemented lambs also had a higher ratio of polyunsaturated to saturated fatty acids; and produced liver tissue with less fat and ash contents. Meat oxidative status (thiobarbituric acid reactive substance) and quality (water holding capacity, colour, and pH) were improved when lambs were supplemented with pomegranate pulp. These findings demonstrate that using pomegranate pulp as a feed for Ghezel lambs has advantageous effects on animal performance and meat quality, offering valorisation of an agrifood by-product.

Aflatoxin constitutes a significant concern for food and feed safety, posing detrimental health risks to both animals and humans. This study aimed to examine the prevalence and concentration of aflatoxins in maize feed, total mixed ration, and wheat bran collected from specialized dairy farms and local markets in three major urban centers in eastern Ethiopia. A total of 180 feed samples were collected from September 2021 to January 2022 in Chiro town, Dire Dawa city, and Harar city. These samples underwent thorough extraction and immunoaffinity clean-up before aflatoxin analysis using HPLC/FLD. The results revealed that AFB1, AFB2, AFG1, AFG2, and TAF contamination was detected in 72.2%, 66.1%, 71.1%, 68.7%, and 82.8% of the feed samples, respectively. The corresponding mean levels of each aflatoxin were 28.15 ± 3.50, 3.3 ± 0.40, 19.87 ± 1.87, 2.7 ± 0.32, and 54.01 ± 4.72 µg/kg, respectively. The occurrence and levels of aflatoxin varied across different study sites and feed types. Notably, feeds from Dire Dawa city exhibited significantly higher mean levels of AFB1 (43.98 ± 5.3 µg/kg), AFB2 (5.69 ± 0.6 µg/kg), AFG1 (32.25 ± 2.7 µg/kg), and AFG2 (5.01 ± 0.5 µg/kg) than feeds from other urban centers did. Additionally, a significantly higher occurrence of AFB1 (29.4%) and AFG1 (28.3%) was detected in feed from Dire Dawa city. Similarly, the total mixed ration (TMR) displayed significantly higher levels of AFB1 (50.67 ± 5.2 µg/kg), AFB2 (4.74 ± 0.6 µg/kg), AFG1 (32.87 ± 2.6 µg/kg), and AFG2 (3.86 ± 0.5 µg/kg) compared to the other feed types. Moreover, a significantly higher occurrence of AFB1 (30.7%) and AFG1 (28.7%) was detected in the TMR. Furthermore, a moderate correlation was observed between the count of aflatoxigenic Aspergillus species and the levels of TAF in the feed samples. Overall, this study underscores the widespread presence of aflatoxin contamination in dairy feeds in eastern Ethiopia, highlighting the urgent need for stringent monitoring and mitigation measures to ensure food and feed safety, as well as public health.

This study investigates the behavioral activities of grower Beetal kids fed in a conventional method-control group manner or given total mixed ration (TMR) (i.e. hay-based - T1 and green fodder-based - T2). Twenty-four weaned Beetal kids were enrolled and randomly distributed into 3 groups based on their body weight, sex, and age. Behavioral observations were recorded 30 min after giving experimental ration to the kids using the scan sampling method for 1 h, which inferred time spent eating normally, eating with forelegs on the cage, and eating with forelegs on the feeders; standing idle and urination were significantly higher in the control group than in the T1 and T2 groups (p < 0.01). Agonistic activities like bunting were numerically higher for Beetal kids fed with hay-based TMR, followed by the T2 and control groups (not significantly affected). Grooming using other inanimate objects in the pen (p < 0.01) and pawing the ground (p < 0.05) were found to be significantly higher in the T1 group than in the other groups. Animals in the hay-based TMR-fed group also spent significantly (p < 0.01) more time ruminating while standing compared to the control and T2 groups. During normal sitting activity, the variations were statistically higher (p < 0.05) for the green fodder-based TMR group than the other groups. The haybased TMR-fed group consumed the offered feed with more relish, ate more quickly, and showed agonistic activities among mates in their cages or pens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Preweaning nutrition plays a crucial role in the growth of dairy calves, determining their future productivity and overall health. Researchers are still studying the most appropriate dietary strategies in the preweaning and early post-weaning periods. In particular, the effect of different levels of forage inclusion in the diet of young cattle is not yet clear. Our study evaluated the effects of starter restriction and ad libitum inclusion of the total mixed ration on intake, growth performance, rumination time, and health status of Holstein dairy calves during preweaning and in the immediate post-weaning period. The results obtained from the present study indicate that providing TMR (high fiber content, with or without concentrate restriction) does not impair growth performance and health of calves, and at the same time it leads to a greater time spent for ruminating when calves are weaned. The latter indicates a better rumen development and likely a better rumen fermentation efficiency in post-weaning. The aim of the current study was to evaluate the effect of the starter restriction and of the ad libitum TMR (total mixed ration) inclusion on intake, growth performance, rumination time (RT), and health condition of Holstein dairy calves during weaning. We randomly assigned thirty female Holstein calves (with an average weight of 38.5 ± 1.96 kg at birth) to one of three treatments. From 21 days of age, the calves were fed one of three treatments as follows: a control diet (CTR) with an ad libitum calf starter but without TMR; Treatment 1 diet (TRT1) with both an ad libitum calf starter and ad libitum TMR; Treatment 2 diet (TRT2) with ad libitum TMR and a restricted amount of a calf starter (50% of the intake recorder in the control group day by day). Calves in the TRT2 group, between 56 and 63 days of age, had a lower body weight (80.1; 79.5; 75.6 kg for the CTR, TRT1, and TRT2 groups, respectively) compared with CTR and TRT1 calves. This outcome is ascribed to the average daily gain (0.759; 0.913; 0.508 kg/day for the CTR, TRT1, and TRT2 groups, respectively), resulting also in TRT2 being lower than CTR or TRT1 calves. The inclusion of ad libitum TMR increased the rumination time, especially after weaning (15.28 min/h, 18.38 min/h, and 18.95 min/h for the CTR, TRT1, and TRT2 groups, respectively). Concerning the rumen metabolism and inflammometabolic response, overall, no differences were observed between the three dietary treatments. In conclusion, the results indicated that a TMR could partially replace a calf starter in weaning dairy calves, since neither growth performance nor health status were impaired. In addition, providing TMR (with or without concentrate restriction) led to a better rumen development and likely a better rumen fermentation efficiency in post-weaning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

feeding trial of four months duration was carried out in Vechur cattle to analyse the impact of various protein concentrations in total mixed ration on rumen fermentation and haematobiochemical parameters. Fifteen Vechur cattle between the ages of six and ten months were chosen from Vechur Cattle Conservation Unit, Mannuthy and were randomly allotted to three dietary treatments, T1 -- Total mixed ration containing 16 per cent CP and 60 per cent TDN, T2 -- Total mixed ration containing 14 per cent CP and 60 per cent TDN and T3 -- Total mixed ration containing 12 per cent CP and 60 per cent TDN. All the dietary treatments were isocaloric. Rumen fermentation parameters such as rumen pH and total volatile fatty acid did not show any significant difference among the treatment groups, whereas rumen ammonia nitrogen was significantly higher (P<0.01) in T1, compared to T2 and T3. The mean per cent of methane emission levels were similar among the treatment groups. The haemato-biochemical parameters were analysed at the beginning and at monthly interval and the values were comparable among the treatment groups. But the BUN concentration was higher in T1 compared to T2 and T3 (P<0.01). Therefore, it could be resolved that Vechur cattle can be reared on TMR containing 12 per cent CP and 60 per cent TDN without any negative effects on the health of animals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of the study was to investigate the effects of inclusion of Pleurotus florida treated wheat straw in the total mixed rations (TMRs) on feed intake, growth performance, nutrient digestibility, and nitrogen retention in male buffalo calves. As a pilot study, four TMRs, i.e., TMR1 having 0% P. florida treated wheat straw (FTWS), TMR2 (20% FTWS), TMR3 (40% FTWS), and TMR4 (60% FTWS) with berseem hay as basal diet, were formulated. Sixteen Nili-Ravi male buffalo calves (aged 10–12 months, weighing 73 ± 2.50 kg) were divided into four equal groups and randomly assigned one of four TMRs. A significant increase (P < 0.05) was observed in all nutrients intake, their digestibility, weight gain, and nitrogen retention with TMRs incorporated with FTWS. Highest feed conversion ratio (FCR) of 2.63 was noted with TMR1-0% and the lowest FCR (1.80) with TMR4-60%, on the other hand. In conclusion, the TMR4 (60% FTWS) has the potential to increase the weight gain, nutrient digestibility, nitrogen retention, and feed efficiency in buffalo calves. Therefore, inclusion of 60% Pleurotus florida treated wheat straw is recommended as TMRs with berseem hay based basal diet for feeding buffaloes calves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluates how different feeding systems impact ruminal fermentation, methane production, and microbiota of Hanwoo steers native to Korea. In a replicated 2 × 2 crossover design over 29 days per period, eight Hanwoo steers (507.1 ± 67.4 kg) were fed twice daily using a separate feeding (SF) system comprising separate concentrate mix and forage or total mixed rations (TMR) in a 15:85 ratio. The TMR-feeding group exhibited a considerable neutral detergent fiber digestibility increase than the SF group. However, ruminal fermentation parameters and methane production did not differ between two feeding strategies. In addition, TMR-fed steers expressed elevated Prevotellaceae family, Christensenellaceae R-7 group, and an unidentified Veillonellaceae family genus abundance in their rumen, whereas SF-fed steers were rich in the Rikenellaceae RC9 gut group, Erysipelotrichaceae UCG-004, and Succinivibrio. Through linear regression modeling, positive correlations were observed between the Shannon Diversity Index and the SF group’s dry matter intake and methane production. Although feeding systems do not affect methane production, they can alter ruminal microbes. These results may guide future feeding system investigations or ruminal microbiota manipulations as a methane-mitigation practice examining different feed ingredients.

ABSTRACT: The objective of this study was to examine the impact of increasing proportions of grazed pasture in the diet on the composition, quality, and functionality of bovine milk across a full lactation. Fifty-four spring-calving cows were randomly assigned to 1 of 3 groups (n = 18), blocked on the basis of mean calving date (February 15, 2020 ± 0.8 d), pre-experimental daily milk yield (24.70 ± 3.70 kg), milk solids yield (2.30 ± 0.27 kg), lactation number (3.10 ± 0.13), and economic breeding index (182 ± 19). Raw milk samples were obtained weekly from each group between March and November 2020. Group 1 (GRS) consumed perennial ryegrass and was supplemented with 5% concentrates (dry matter basis); group 2 was maintained indoors and consumed a total mixed ration (TMR) diet consisting of maize silage, grass silage, and concentrates; and group 3 consumed a partial mixed ration diet (PMR), rotating between perennial ryegrass during the day and indoor TMR feeding at night. Raw milk samples consisted of a pooled morning and evening milking and were analyzed for gross composition, free amino acids, fatty acid composition, heat coagulation time, color, fat globule size, and pH. The TMR milks had a significantly higher total solids, lactose, protein, and whey protein as a proportion of protein content compared with both GRS and PMR milks. The GRS milks demonstrated a significantly lower somatic cell count (SCC), but a significantly higher pH and b*-value than both TMR and PMR milks. The PMR milks exhibited significantly lower total solids and fat content, but also demonstrated significantly higher SCC and total free amino acid content compared with GRS and TMR. Partial least squares discriminant analysis of fatty acid profiles displayed a distinct separation between GRS and TMR samples, while PMR displayed an overlap between both GRS and TMR groupings. Variable importance in projection analysis identified conjugated linoleic acid cis-9,trans-11, C18:2n-6 cis, C18:3n-3, C11:0, and C18:2n-6 trans as the largest contributors to the variation between the diets. Milk fats derived from GRS diets exhibited the highest proportion of unsaturated fats and higher unsaturation, health-promoting, and desaturase indices. The lowest proportions of saturated fats and the lowest atherogenic index were also exhibited by GRS-derived milk fats. This work highlights the positive influence of grass-fed milk for human consumption through its more nutritionally beneficial fatty acid profile, despite the highest milk solid percentages derived from TMR feeding systems. Furthermore, this study demonstrates the proportional response of previously highlighted biomarkers of pasture feeding to the proportion of pasture in the cow's diet.

A pasture or concentrate-based dietary regime impacts a variety of factors including both ruminal health and function, and consequently milk production and quality. The objective of this study was to examine the effect of feeding differing pasture levels on the metabolite composition of bovine ruminal fluid. Ruminal fluid was obtained from rumen-cannulated spring-calving cows (N = 9, Holstein-Friesian breed, average lactation number = 5) fed one of three diets across a full lactation season. Group 1 (pasture) consumed perennial ryegrass supplemented with 5% concentrates; group 2 received a total mixed ration (TMR) diet; and group 3 received a partial mixed ration (PMR) diet which included pasture and a TMR. Samples were taken at two timepoints: morning and evening. Metabolomic analysis was performed using nuclear magnetic resonance (1H-NMR) spectroscopy. Statistical analysis revealed significant changes across the dietary regimes in both morning and evening samples, with distinct alterations in the metabolite composition of ruminal fluid from pasture-fed cows (FDR-adjusted p-value < 0.05). Acetate and butyrate were significantly higher in samples derived from a pasture-based diet whereas sugar-related metabolites were higher in concentrate-based samples. Furthermore, a distinct diurnal impact on the metabolite profile was evident. This work lays the foundation for understanding the complex interaction between dietary regime and ruminal health.

ABSTRACT: The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of the inclusion of whole-plant corn silage (WPCS) in a starter or total mixed ration (TMR) on growth, blood metabolites, ruminal fermentation, and microbial community in preweaning dairy calves. A total of 45 healthy dairy calves were blocked by date of birth and randomly assigned to 1 of 3 treatments: 100% calf starter (CONS), a mix of 85% calf starter and 15% WPCS [dry matter (DM) basis; CSCS], or 100% WPCS-based lactation TMR (CTMR). Pasteurized normal milk was fed to all the animals under the same regimen. The experiment ran from when the calves were 2 d old to weaning at 63 d. Milk and feed intakes were recorded daily. Growth performance data and blood samples were collected on wk 3, 5, 7, and 9 of the experiment. Rumen fluid was sampled at 40 and 60 d. The 3 treatments had different particle size fractions. The CSCS group had greater medium fraction (8 mm) and particles retained on 8-mm sieves than the other 2 groups, whereas the CTMR group had the greatest long (>19 mm) and fine (4 mm) and particles retained on 4-mm sieves. The 24-h in vitro digestibility of DM, crude protein (CP), NDF, and acid detergent fiber (ADF) were decreased in order by the CONS, CSCS, and CTMR groups. Compared with the CONS group, the digestibility of ether extract (EE) was lower in the CSCS and CTMR groups, whereas the digestibility of starch was similar among treatments. During the experimental period, the DM, CP, and metabolizable energy intakes from milk, solid feed, and total feed were not affected by treatments. The NDF, ADF, and EE intakes and potentially digestible intakes were greater in the CTMR group than in the other 2 groups. With the exception that body barrel was greater for calves fed CSCS, growth parameters and blood metabolites were similar among treatments. Compared with the CSCS group, the CTMR group had greater rumen pH and total volatile fatty acids, propionate, and isovalerate concentrations, but a lower acetate:propionate ratio. The CTMR group had greater relative abundances of some cellulolytic bacteria (Rikenellaceae RC9 gut group, Christensenellaceae R7, Ruminococcaceae NK4A214, Ruminococcaceae UCG, Ruminococcus, and Erysipelotrichaceae UCG) in the rumen, which may be beneficial for the early acquisition of specific adult-associated microorganisms. In summary, a WPCS-based lactation TMR, but not the WPCS-included starter, had the potential to be an alternative starter in preweaning calves without having significant adverse effects. These findings provide theoretical and practical implications for the rational application of TMR in the early life of dairy calves.

Simple Summary: Livestock farming is experiencing growing levels of automation due to the high number of repetitive tasks requiring little skill and high workloads. Automatic feeding systems for ruminants represent a valuable option for farmers to reduce their daily workload and increase animal welfare and production quality. The farmers' perspective matched the outcome of the studies on the benefits of automatic feeding system adoption (lower energy requirements, lower feed waste, and increased animal welfare). However, such benefits only exist if thorough economic and structural planning considers all of the farming site's features to exploit the feeding robots' flexibility at its best. We suggest that automatic feeding systems may be fundamental to the involvement of younger generations in animal farming and increasing the inclusivity of such an activity with the subsequent fostering of female entrepreneurship, always complying with good feeding practices. Automation reduces the impact of farming on climate change and helps farmers adapt to its financial impact. Automatic feeding systems (AFSs) increase the ruminant's feeding precision and ease operators' workload. Such systems exist on a spectrum, requiring varied levels of operator support and installation complexity. A recent survey on farmers pointed out that those already running an AFS and those willing to buy one appreciate its ease of use, the resulting animal welfare, and the resulting overall benefits (increased production, farm profitability, and reduced feed waste). Whether technologically complex or not, studies have confirmed the benefits that farmers perceive to be underlying the remarkable reduction in the environmental impact of feeding operations (AFSs are electrically powered), the increase in animal welfare resulting from reduced conflicts around accessing the feed bunk, and the constant availability of fresh feed. However, their introduction should follow accurate and holistic structural and economic planning for existing and newly built facilities. The availability of public subsidies plays an essential role in pushing farmers to adopt the most modern digital technologies, whose benefits may even increase when farmers couple them with interconnected sensors to monitor animals' physiological states. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

After India and the USA, Pakistan is the third country leading in global dairy production, a sector of very high socioeconomic relevance in Asia. Mycotoxins can affect animal health, reproduction and productivity. This study analysed a broad range of co-occurring mycotoxins and fungal secondary metabolites derived from Alternaria, Aspergillus, Fusarium, Penicillium and other fungal species. To complete this, a validated multi-metabolite liquid chromatography/electrospray ionization-tandem mass spectrometric (LC/ESI–MS/MS) method was employed, detecting 96 of > 500 tested secondary fungal metabolites. This first preliminary study demonstrated that total mixed rations (TMRs) (n = 30) from big commercial dairy cattle farms (> 200 lactating cows) in Punjab, Pakistan, presented ubiquitous contamination with mixtures of mycotoxins. The mean of mycotoxins per sample was 14, ranging from 11 to 20 mycotoxins among all TMR samples. Metabolites derived from other fungi and Fusarium spp. showed the highest levels, frequency and diversity among the detected fungal compounds. Among the most prevalent mycotoxins were Fusarium toxins like fumonisins B1 (FB1) (93%), B2 (FB2) (100%) and B3 (FB3) (77%) and others. Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) was evidenced in 40% of the samples, and 7% exceeded the EU maximum limit for feeding dairy cattle (5 µg/kg at 88% dry matter). No other mycotoxin exceeds the EU guidance values (GVs). Additionally, we found that dietary ingredients like corn grain, soybean meal and canola meal were related to increased contamination of some mycotoxins (like FB1, FB2 and FB3) in TMR from the province of Punjab, Pakistan. Among typical forage sources, the content of maize silage was ubiquitous. Individually, the detected mycotoxins represented relatively low levels. However, under a realistic scenario, long-term exposure to multiple mycotoxins and other fungal secondary metabolites can exert unpredictable effects on animal health, reproduction and productivity. Except for ergot alkaloids (73%), all the groups of metabolites (i.e. derived from Alternaria spp., Aspergillus spp., Fusarium spp., Penicillium spp. and other fungi) occurred in 100% of the TMR samples. At individual levels, no other mycotoxins than AFB1 represented a considerable risk; however, the high levels of co-occurrence with several mycotoxins/metabolites suggest that long-term exposure should be considered because of their potential toxicological interactions (additive or synergistic effects). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to examine the impact of increasing proportions of grazed pasture in the diet on the composition, quality, and functionality of bovine milk across a full lactation. Fifty-four spring-calving cows were randomly assigned to 1 of 3 groups (n = 18), blocked on the basis of mean calving date (February 15, 2020 ± 0.8 d), pre-experimental daily milk yield (24.70 ± 3.70 kg), milk solids yield (2.30 ± 0.27 kg), lactation number (3.10 ± 0.13), and economic breeding index (182 ± 19). Raw milk samples were obtained weekly from each group between March and November 2020. Group 1 (GRS) consumed perennial ryegrass and was supplemented with 5% concentrates (dry matter basis); group 2 was maintained indoors and consumed a total mixed ration (TMR) diet consisting of maize silage, grass silage, and concentrates; and group 3 consumed a partial mixed ration diet (PMR), rotating between perennial ryegrass during the day and indoor TMR feeding at night. Raw milk samples consisted of a pooled morning and evening milking and were analyzed for gross composition, free amino acids, fatty acid composition, heat coagulation time, color, fat globule size, and pH. The TMR milks had a significantly higher total solids, lactose, protein, and whey protein as a proportion of protein content compared with both GRS and PMR milks. The GRS milks demonstrated a significantly lower somatic cell count (SCC), but a significantly higher pH and b*-value than both TMR and PMR milks. The PMR milks exhibited significantly lower total solids and fat content, but also demonstrated significantly higher SCC and total free amino acid content compared with GRS and TMR. Partial least squares discriminant analysis of fatty acid profiles displayed a distinct separation between GRS and TMR samples, while PMR displayed an overlap between both GRS and TMR groupings. Variable importance in projection analysis identified conjugated linoleic acid cis -9, trans -11, C18:2n-6 cis , C18:3n-3, C11:0, and C18:2n-6 trans as the largest contributors to the variation between the diets. Milk fats derived from GRS diets exhibited the highest proportion of unsaturated fats and higher unsaturation, health-promoting, and desaturase indices. The lowest proportions of saturated fats and the lowest atherogenic index were also exhibited by GRS-derived milk fats. This work highlights the positive influence of grass-fed milk for human consumption through its more nutritionally beneficial fatty acid profile, despite the highest milk solid percentages derived from TMR feeding systems. Furthermore, this study demonstrates the proportional response of previously highlighted biomarkers of pasture feeding to the proportion of pasture in the cow's diet. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: As the price of imported corn rises due to environmental issues and the growing demand for bio-ethanol production, animal nutritionists are actively seeking alternative energy sources to corn. While previous research has shown that rice grain provides a comparable nutritional value to corn, it is noted that most of the studies on rice grain as a starch source for ruminants have been conducted on dairy cattle. The objective of this study is to assess the effects of total mixed ration (TMR) containing rice grains on the growth performance, blood metabolites, rumen fermentation, and rumen microbial community in fattening Hanwoo steers. Our results demonstrated that rice grain had no adverse effects on the growth performance of Hanwoo steers, rumen fermentation characteristics, and blood metabolites. In conclusion, this study suggests that utilizing rice grains as the primary starch source in TMR may serve as an alternative option for fattening Hanwoo steers. This study aimed to assess the influence of rice grain in the total mixed ration (TMR) on the growth performance, blood metabolites, rumen fermentation, and rumen microbial community of fattening Hanwoo steers. Two experimental diets were prepared: (i) a TMR containing 33% dry matter (DM) corn grains (Corn TMR) and (ii) a TMR containing 33% DM rice grains (Rice TMR). Twenty-two Hanwoo steers (body weight [BW], 498 ± 32 kg; months, 17 ± 0.5) were distributed into two treatment groups in a completely randomized block design according to BW. The Rice TMR group had a higher final BW and DM intake (DMI) compared to those in the Corn TMR group (p < 0.01). However, no difference was observed in the average daily gain (ADG) and feed conversion ratio (FCR) between the two treatments. For the rumen fermentation parameters, the molar portion of butyrate in the Rice TMR was higher than in the Corn TMR (p < 0.01). Streptococcus bovis tended to be higher in the Rice TMR (p = 0.09). The results of this study suggest that using rice grain as the primary starch source in TMRs may be an alternative option for fattening Hanwoo steers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Fermented total mixed ration (FTMR) is a method used to ferment feed under anaerobic conditions in a tightly sealed container, with the potential to enhance nutrient utilization and extend the shelf life of feed. We found that the loss of aerobic stability may be associated with the dominant yeast species found in FTMR; however, there is no discernible relationship between yeast counts and the loss of aerobic stability. However, the replacement of soybean meal (SBM) with cottonseed meal (CSM) and rapeseed meal (RSM) in total mixed rations (TMRs) by fermented TMR has an effect on the degradation of anti-nutritional factors. In order to explore the effects of fermentation and aerobic exposure to FTMR on nutrients and anti-nutritional factors, this study aimed to ascertain the impact of B. clausii and S. cariocanus inoculations on TMR fermentation quality, aerobic stability, anti-nutritional factors, and in situ rumen-degradation characteristics' variables. We found that TMRs fermented with inoculations of B. clausii and S. cariocanus improved the fermentation quality and nutrient composition, decreased the anti-nutritional factor content, and, thus, achieved detoxification. Meanwhile, the effective disappearance of nutrients in the rumen was increased. The purpose of this experiment was to evaluate changes in fermentation quality, chemical composition, aerobic stability, anti-nutritional factors, and in situ disappearance characteristics of various protein-based total mixed rations. Soybean meal (control, non-fermented), fermented cottonseed meal (F-CSM), and fermented rapeseed meal (F-RSM) group were used to prepare the TMRs with corn, whole-plant corn silage, corn stalks, wheat bran, and premix. The test groups were inoculated at 50% moisture with Bacillus clausii and Saccharomyces cariocanus and stored aerobically for 60 h. The nylon-bag method was used to measure and study the rumen's nutrient degradation. The pH of all TMRs after 48 h of air exposure was below 4.8, whereas that of the F-CSM and control and F-RSM groups increased to 5.0 and >7.0, respectively. After 8 h of aerobic exposure, the temperatures of all groups significantly increased, and 56 h later, they were 2 °C higher than the surrounding air. The lactic acid concentration in the F-CSM and F-RSM groups increased after 12 h of aerobic exposure and then decreased. The acetic acid concentrations in the fermented groups decreased significantly with the increasing air-exposure time. The yeast population of the TMRs increased to more than 8.0 log10 CFU/g before 72 h of air exposure, followed by a decrease in the population (5.0 log10 CFU/g). After fermentation, the free gossypol (FG) concentration in F-CSM decreased by half and did not change significantly during the air-exposure period. Fermentation with probiotics also reduced the F-RSM's glucosinolate concentration, resulting in a more than 50% detoxification rate. Compared with the F-CSM and F-RSM groups, the effective degradation rates of nutrients in the control group were the lowest, and the dry matter (DM), crude protein (CP), natural detergent fiber (NDF), and acid detergent fiber (ADF) all degraded effectively at rates of 28.4%, 34.5%, 27.8%, and 22.8%, respectively. Fermentation with B. clausii and S. cariocanus could improve the fermentation quality and nutrient composition, decrease the anti-nutritional factor, and increase nutrient degradation of the TMR with cottonseed meal or rapeseed meal as the main protein source, thus achieving detoxification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aiming at the problems of low quality of milk production and low feeding efficiency caused by uneven stirring of components in total mixed ration (TMR), a vertical screw stirring device for feeding dairy goat was designed. In this study, based on the material properties of TMR for dairy goats, the pitch (S), bottom inclination angle (Z), and rotational speed of the vertical screw (n) and the sidewall angle (β) and loading rate (L) of the mixing chamber were simulated and analysed by the discrete element method, the optimal parameter combination for the system were determined. Furthermore, a testbed of the stirring device was built in accordance with simulation analysis conclusions, verifying the working performance of the device. Results demonstrated that when S = 300 mm, Z = 70°, β = 105°, n = 60 r/min, L = 70 %, the CV of mixing uniformity is 12.95 % and mixing power is 1.35 kW. A test showed that the CV of mixing uniformity was 13.03 %, and that of mixing power was 1.41 kW. These results are basically consistent with the simulation analysis results. The proposed results provide evidence for the design of feeding devices for dairy goats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study evaluated the inclusion of fumaric acid and essential oil blends (EOBs) containing anise, cedarwood, clove, cumin, eucalyptus, garlic, ginger, lavender, lemongrass, nutmeg, oregano, and peppermint at different proportions on in vitro dry matter (DM) disappearance (DMD), fiber fraction disappearance, the efficiency of microbial production, and the total volatile fatty acids (VFAs). Ten treatments without (control treatment) or with different EOB/fumaric combinations were used in the study with eight replicates. The EOB inclusion level was 200 μL/g of feed (total mixed ration, (TMR)) while fumaric acid was administered at 3% of the TMR (DM basis). The highest DMD, in vitro true degradable DM, partitioning factor (PF24), and in vitro apparent degradable DM were recorded for the fumaric only treatment and the control. Neutral detergent fiber disappearance was reduced with the inclusion of EOB/fumaric combinations. The production of microbial mass and undegraded DM were higher (p < 0.001) for all EOBs and EOB and fumaric treatments. The inclusion of EOB and fumaric combinations reduced (p < 0.001) the total gas production, methane, and ammonia, with a higher PF24 value noted for EOB3 treatment. The inclusion of individual EOB1 containing garlic, lemongrass, cumin, lavender, and nutmeg in a ratio of 4:2:2:1:1 or combined with fumaric acid yielded the highest propionate concentration across all treatments. We concluded that EOBs decreased methane production and nutrient degradability with better results with the individual EOB1 or EOB1/fumaric combination, which showed a potential enhancement in energy production.

The aim of the study was to investigate the effect of calcareous marine algae (Lithotamium calcareum)-based rumen content buffer (CMA) included in concentrated feed within total mixed ration (TMR), fed to 34 peak lactation (87–144 days in milk) Holstein dairy cows, randomized into two groups (group A, n = 17; group B, n = 17), wearing collars with accelerometers, and housed a in barn with automatic feed-weigh troughs. During the first phase P1, group A received TMR with CMA (TMR-E) and group B was fed TMR without the buffer (TMR-C). For P2, the treatments in the groups were exchanged. Feed intake, feeding time (FT), rumination time (RT), milk yield, milk composition, and rumen pH were measured by barn technologies, and rumen fluid and feces composition were analyzed in the laboratory. Differences between the TMR-E and TMR-C in most parameters under study were statistically insignificant, except overall FT and RT, which differed significantly between the groups. Group A, feeding at P1 by TMR-E, exhibited higher FT and RT than Group B (202 min/cow/day vs. 184 min/cow/day, and 486 min/cow/day vs. 428 min/cow/day, respectively). The RT significantly increased after switching from TMR-C to TMR-E. This implies that the buffer effect is delayed and persists after the withdrawal. In the group of cows that received control TMR without buffer in the first phase, RT and milk protein content increased significantly in the first week after the addition of buffer.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of the inclusion of whole-plant corn silage (WPCS) in a starter or total mixed ration (TMR) on growth, blood metabolites, ruminal fermentation, and microbial community in preweaning dairy calves. A total of 45 healthy dairy calves were blocked by date of birth and randomly assigned to 1 of 3 treatments: 100% calf starter (CONS), a mix of 85% calf starter and 15% WPCS [dry matter (DM) basis; CSCS], or 100% WPCS-based lactation TMR (CTMR). Pasteurized normal milk was fed to all the animals under the same regimen. The experiment ran from when the calves were 2 d old to weaning at 63 d. Milk and feed intakes were recorded daily. Growth performance data and blood samples were collected on wk 3, 5, 7, and 9 of the experiment. Rumen fluid was sampled at 40 and 60 d. The 3 treatments had different particle size fractions. The CSCS group had greater medium fraction (<19 mm, >8 mm) and particles retained on 8-mm sieves than the other 2 groups, whereas the CTMR group had the greatest long (>19 mm) and fine (<4 mm) fractions and physically effective neutral detergent fiber (NDF) on 8- and 4-mm sieves, but had the smallest short fraction (<8 mm, >4 mm) and particles retained on 4-mm sieves. The 24-h in vitro digestibility of DM, crude protein (CP), NDF, and acid detergent fiber (ADF) were decreased in order by the CONS, CSCS, and CTMR groups. Compared with the CONS group, the digestibility of ether extract (EE) was lower in the CSCS and CTMR groups, whereas the digestibility of starch was similar among treatments. During the experimental period, the DM, CP, and metabolizable energy intakes from milk, solid feed, and total feed were not affected by treatments. The NDF, ADF, and EE intakes and potentially digestible intakes were greater in the CTMR group than in the other 2 groups. With the exception that body barrel was greater for calves fed CSCS, growth parameters and blood metabolites were similar among treatments. Compared with the CSCS group, the CTMR group had greater rumen pH and total volatile fatty acids, propionate, and isovalerate concentrations, but a lower acetate:propionate ratio. The CTMR group had greater relative abundances of some cellulolytic bacteria (Rikenellaceae RC9 gut group, Christensenellaceae R7, Ruminococcaceae NK4A214, Ruminococcaceae UCG, Ruminococcus , and Erysipelotrichaceae UCG) in the rumen, which may be beneficial for the early acquisition of specific adult-associated microorganisms. In summary, a WPCS-based lactation TMR, but not the WPCS-included starter, had the potential to be an alternative starter in preweaning calves without having significant adverse effects. These findings provide theoretical and practical implications for the rational application of TMR in the early life of dairy calves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: An investigation of poor aerobic stability in high-moisture total mixed rations (TMRs) for livestock feed was conducted in this study. TMR quality factors were discovered, and prospective approaches to increase its fermentation properties and overall stability were investigated. Using infrared thermography (IRT) measurements, it was suggested that dairy cow feeding methods can be optimized in the field by identifying portions with a higher center temperature and maximum temperature difference values. According to the findings, there is a significant potential for IRT to be used in feed management and preservation processes in the future, resulting in higher levels of productivity for livestock. A major objective of this study is to identify factors influencing the quality of high-moisture total mixed rations (TMRs) for livestock feed and explore possible manipulations that can enhance their fermentation characteristics and stability in order to address the problem of poor aerobic stability. Therefore, the current study utilized infrared thermography (IRT) to assess the aerobic stability of water-added TMRs in the feed bunker. By manipulating the moisture content of freshly prepared TMRs at four different levels through water addition and subjecting it to storage at two consistent temperatures, significant correlations between IRT values (center temperature (CT) and maximum temperature difference (MTD)) and key parameters such as lactic acid bacteria, water-soluble carbohydrates, and TMR pH were established. The first and second principal components together accounted for 44.3% of the variation, with the first component's load influenced by IRT parameters, fermentation characteristics, and air exposure times, while the second component's load was influenced by dry matter content and lactic acid concentration. The results of these studies indicate the possibility that feeding methods can be optimized by identifying portions with higher CT or MTD data using IRT measurements just before feeding dairy cows in the field. As a result, increasing the use of IRT in feed management and preservation processes is projected to have a positive impact on animal productivity in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To effectively utilize local fruit residue resources and regulate ethanol production in fermented feed, the impact of moisture adjustment, lactic acid bacteria (LAB) inoculant, and chemical additive on the fermentation characteristics and ethanol production of total mixed ration (TMR) containing apple pomace was studied. The TMR was prepared with apple pomace, corn, wheat bran, soybean meal, timothy, and alfalfa hay. The mixing proportion of apple pomace was 15% based on dry matter (DM). In experiment 1, the moisture in TMR was unadjusted (control) or adjusted to 45, 50, and 55%, respectively. TMR containing 55% moisture was used in experiment 2, and the treatments were control, homo-fermentative LAB (Lactobacillus plantarum, LP), hetero-fermentative LAB (Lactobacillus buchneri, LB), and calcium propionate (CaP). The laboratory-scale fermentation system was used to prepare TMR, and their fermentation characteristics were analyzed after 60 days of ensiling. In experiment 1, the pH of the various TMRs was around 4.1. As the moisture decreased, lactic acid increased (p < 0.05) and ammonia-N decreased (p < 0.05). The ethanol decreased significantly with moisture adjustment compared to the control and the TMR with 50% moisture had the lowest ethanol content (p < 0.05). In experiment 2, LP treatment increased lactic acid, and decreased acetic acid and ammonia-N significantly (p < 0.05), while LB treatment had no effect on fermentation. LP and LB each had no effect on the ethanol content. TMR treated with CaP significantly decreased the ethanol and acetic acid content (p < 0.05), but did not inhibit lactic acid production compared to control. The results confirmed that adjusting the moisture of TMR to 50% and adding CaP could effectively inhibit the excessive production of ethanol in TMR of apple pomace. Homofermentative LAB can better improve the fermentation quality of TMR than heterofermentative LAB, but neither can inhibit the production of ethanol. This is of great significance to the effective utilization of apple residue resources and the promotion of livestock production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we compared the digestibility levels and in vitro fermentation parameters of total mixed rations (TMRs) containing 20% and 40% defatted black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens) larvae (BSF) as a substitute for soybean meal (SBM) in the basal ration (60% roughage/40% concentrated feed) of dairy cows. We evaluated the volatile fatty acid (VFA), total gas production, methane emission, ammonia, pH, carbon dioxide, in vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDMD), and neutral detergent fiber digestibility (IVNDFD) of the TMR0 (basal), TMR20 (20% BSF included), and TMR40 (40% BSF included) diets at the end of 24 and 48 h of incubation. Significantly lower levels of ammonia formation were found in the TMR20 and TMR40 groups at 24 and 48 h (p < 0.001). An increase in total VFA levels was observed in the TMR0 group at 24 h (p < 0.001). The highest IVDMD was determined in TMR20 and TMR40 at 24 h. The highest IVNDFD value was observed in TMR20 at 24 h and in TMR40 at 48 h. The substitution of 20% and 40% of SBM with BSF positively affected IVDMD and IVNDFD (p < 0.001). TMR20 and TMR40 had the highest cumulative gas production at 48 h of incubation (p < 0.05). In conclusion, the use of BSF had a positive impact on digestibility and in vitro rumen fermentation. Therefore, we recommend the use of BSF in formulating dairy cow rations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The work aimed to evaluate the effect of different levels of soy sauce residue (SSR) replacement on chemical compositions, fermentation quality and in vitro digestibility of total mixed ration (TMR) silages. The experiment followed a completely randomised design, and four treatments were designed according to different mixing ration of SSR, Napier grass and concentrate (based on fresh weight): (1) 65% Napier grass + 35% concentrate (control); (2)15% SSR + 55% Napier grass + 30% concentrate (SS15); (3) 25% SSR + 50% Napier grass + 25% concentrate (SS25); (4) 35% SSR + 45% Napier grass + 20% concentrate (SS35). TMR was ensiled in a laboratory silo (10 L) after mixing. All silos were opened after 60 days of ensiling and then were sampled for chemical compositions, fermentation quality and in vitro digestibility analysis. All TMR silages were preserved well, as indicated by the low butyric acid (BA; 80.0). However, SS25 and SS35 significantly (P 0.05) difference in vitro neutral detergent fibre digestibility (IVNDFD) among all TMR silages. In conclusion, SS35 replacement was recommended for TMR silage making.Highlights Ensiling is an effective method to utilise soy sauce residue. Soy sauce residue replacement had no unfavourable effect on the fermentation quality of the total mixed ration. 35% soy sauce residue replacement improved the in vitro digestibility of total mixed ration silages.

This study aimed to evaluate the predictive ability of NIRS for the estimation of the chemical composition and organic matter digestibility (OMD) of total mixed rations (TMR) for dairy cows. Moreover, herein, empirical equations based on chemical parameters were developed for calculating the OMD. Samples were collected from Galician dairy farms and were scanned in duplicate a Foss NIRSystem 6500 monochromator (1100-2500 nm). The predictive ability of NIRS models was evaluated according to the coefficient of determination in external validation ($r$2). High $r$2 (equal to or higher than 0.90) was shown in predicting chemical composition, however, the estimation of OMD was acceptable ($r$2 = 0.83). The ability of the NIRS models for estimating the chemical composition was considered excellent, with the ratio performance deviation of external validation ($RPD$) higher than 3.0, allowing for quantitative predictions. The estimation of the OMD value by NIRS was considered acceptable ($RPD$ = 2.5), and led to reduction in the standard error of external validation, in comparison of the best empirical model based on the chemical composition of samples (from ± 2.06% to ± 1.89%). Therefore, this study demonstrated that the NIRS is an effective technology for the rapid and precise nutritional evaluation of TMR in Galicia.

Chemical additives have been widely used to restrain the growth of undesirable microorganisms, and they were ideal additives to well preserve silages. The work aimed at evaluating the effects of four chemical additives on fermentation quality, aerobic stability and in vitro ruminal digestibility of the fermented total mixed ration (FTMR). The TMR was treated with: (1) no additive (control); (2) sodium diacetate; (3) calcium propionate; (4) sodium benzoate (SB); (5) potassium sorbate (PS) on a fresh weight (FW) basis. After 60 days of ensiling, the silos were opened and sampled to determine fermentation quality, in vitro rumen parameters, and then the 60-day FTMR were subjected to a 9-day aerobic stability test. Chemical additives significantly (p

A study was conducted to examine the effect of supplementation of exogenous fibrolytic enzymes (EFE) carboxymethylcellulase (CMC) and xylanase (Xy) on milk yield and composition in early lactating crossbred dairy cows fed on total mixed ration (TMR). Fifteen cows within ten days of calving were selected from University Livestock Farm and Fodder Research and Development Scheme (ULF & FRDS), Mannuthy and were randomly divided into three groups. The animals were fed with isonitrogenous TMR (3.5 per cent of body weight) for a period of 90 days and the dietary treatments included; T1 offered with the control diet (TDN - 60 per cent, CP - 13 per cent), T2 offered with control diet supplemented with EFE (CMC 3500 units/kg and Xy 16000 units/kg), and T3 given a diet lower in TDN (TDN - 55 per cent) supplemented with EFE (CMC 3500 units/kg and Xy 16000 units/kg).The results of the study revealed that milk yield remained unaffected (p>0.05) with dietary treatments. Milk composition also remained similar, except for milk urea nitrogen which was lower (p

Simple Summary: Pasture-based systems have advantages compared to confined systems, such as a higher proportion of beneficial milk fatty acids for their consumers. However, in mixed systems (grazing + total mixed ration), cows are more exposed to external climatic conditions. Due to climate change (high temperature or heavy rains), cows spend more time in confinement facilities where supplementation is offered, mainly in intensive mixed systems (high stocking rate). Therefore, the conditions of the facility during their confinement acquire great importance. To our knowledge, no studies have evaluated how the different facility conditions during confinement in a mixed system affect the fatty acid profiles in milk and cheese. The objective of this study was to compare the fatty acid profiles between mixed systems with different conditions during confinement (compost-bedded pack barns vs. outdoor soil-bedded pen) and mixed systems and confinement systems (100% total mixed ration) in a compost-bedded pack barns. In conclusion, the compost-bedded pack barns during confinement in a mixed system ensued a better milk quality (a higher percentage of Omega 3 (n-3) and C18:3 in the milk) compared to the outdoor soil-bedded pen. However, the fatty acid profiles in the milk, pooled milk (MilkP), and cheese were affected to a greater extent by the feeding management than by controlling the environment during the confinement. The diet of dairy cows influences the fatty acid (FA) profiles of their milk and cheese, but how these are affected by different conditions during confinement in a mixed system (MS:grazing + total mixed ration:TMR) is not known. The aim of this study was to compare the FAs of the milk and cheese from MS in a compost-bedded pack barns (CB-GRZ) versus an outdoor soil-bedded pen (OD-GRZ) during confinement, and with a confinement system (100%TMR) in a compost-bedded pack barns (CB-TMR). Individual milk samples (n = 12 cows/group), cheese, and pooled milk (MilkP) samples were collected. The saturated FA percentages in the milk and the omega 6/omega 3 ratio in the MilkP and cheese were greater for the CB-TMR (p < 0.0001), while the unsaturated and monounsaturated FA percentages in the milk were lower for the CB-TMR than the MS (p < 0.001). The milk n-3, C18:3, and conjugated linoleic acid percentages were lower for the CB-TMR than the MS (p < 0.001). The milk n-3 and C18:3 were higher for the CB-GRZ than the OD-GRZ (p < 0.01), but no differences were observed between the MS in the MilkP and cheese. In conclusion, CB-GRZ cows during confinement produced better quality milk compared to OD-GRZ cows. However, the FA profiles of the milk, MilkP, and cheese were affected to a greater extent by the feeding management than by the conditions during confinement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the current study was to evaluate the effect of the starter restriction and of the ad libitum TMR (total mixed ration) inclusion on intake, growth performance, rumination time (RT), and health condition of Holstein dairy calves during weaning. We randomly assigned thirty female Holstein calves (with an average weight of 38.5 ± 1.96 kg at birth) to one of three treatments. From 21 days of age, the calves were fed one of three treatments as follows: a control diet (CTR) with an ad libitum calf starter but without TMR; Treatment 1 diet (TRT1) with both an ad libitum calf starter and ad libitum TMR; Treatment 2 diet (TRT2) with ad libitum TMR and a restricted amount of a calf starter (50% of the intake recorder in the control group day by day). Calves in the TRT2 group, between 56 and 63 days of age, had a lower body weight (80.1; 79.5; 75.6 kg for the CTR, TRT1, and TRT2 groups, respectively) compared with CTR and TRT1 calves. This outcome is ascribed to the average daily gain (0.759; 0.913; 0.508 kg/day for the CTR, TRT1, and TRT2 groups, respectively), resulting also in TRT2 being lower than CTR or TRT1 calves. The inclusion of ad libitum TMR increased the rumination time, especially after weaning (15.28 min/h, 18.38 min/h, and 18.95 min/h for the CTR, TRT1, and TRT2 groups, respectively). Concerning the rumen metabolism and inflammometabolic response, overall, no differences were observed between the three dietary treatments. In conclusion, the results indicated that a TMR could partially replace a calf starter in weaning dairy calves, since neither growth performance nor health status were impaired. In addition, providing TMR (with or without concentrate restriction) led to a better rumen development and likely a better rumen fermentation efficiency in post-weaning.

Simple Summary: Methane and volatile fatty acids are important products of rumen fermentation in dairy cows. Quantitative research on them is of great significance for environmental protection and animal production. The aim of this study was to develop a prediction model using the stacking ensemble learning method and predict the production of rumen fermentation products based on the nutrient level of the diet. The results show that the stacking model has good performance in terms of prediction accuracy. The model proposed in this study can be used as a guideline to optimize diet compositions and improve feeding efficiency. Volatile fatty acids (VFAs) and methane are the main products of rumen fermentation. Quantitative studies of rumen fermentation parameters can be performed using in vitro techniques and machine learning methods. The currently proposed models suffer from poor generalization ability due to the small number of samples. In this study, a prediction model for rumen fermentation parameters (methane, acetic acid (AA), and propionic acid (PA)) of dairy cows is established using the stacking ensemble learning method and in vitro techniques. Four factors related to the nutrient level of total mixed rations (TMRs) are selected as inputs to the model: neutral detergent fiber (NDF), acid detergent fiber (ADF), crude protein (CP), and dry matter (DM). The comparison of the prediction results of the stacking model and base learners shows that the stacking ensemble learning method has better prediction results for rumen methane (coefficient of determination ( R 2 ) = 0.928, root mean square error (RMSE) = 0.968 mL/g), AA ( R 2 = 0.888, RMSE = 1.975 mmol/L) and PA ( R 2 = 0.924, RMSE = 0.74 mmol/L). And the stacking model simulates the variation of methane and VFAs in relation to the dietary fiber content. To demonstrate the robustness of the model in the case of small samples, an independent validation experiment was conducted. The stacking model successfully simulated the transition of rumen fermentation type and the change of methane content under different concentrate-to-forage (C:F) ratios of TMR. These results suggest that the rumen fermentation parameter prediction model can be used as a decision-making basis for the optimization of dairy cow diet compositions, rapid screening of methane emission reduction, feed beneficial to dairy cow health, and improvement of feed utilization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The work aimed to evaluate the effect of different levels of soy sauce residue (SSR) replacement on chemical compositions, fermentation quality and in vitro digestibility of total mixed ration (TMR) silages. The experiment followed a completely randomised design, and four treatments were designed according to different mixing ration of SSR, Napier grass and concentrate (based on fresh weight): (1) 65% Napier grass + 35% concentrate (control); (2)15% SSR + 55% Napier grass + 30% concentrate (SS15); (3) 25% SSR + 50% Napier grass + 25% concentrate (SS25); (4) 35% SSR + 45% Napier grass + 20% concentrate (SS35). TMR was ensiled in a laboratory silo (10 L) after mixing. All silos were opened after 60 days of ensiling and then were sampled for chemical compositions, fermentation quality and in vitro digestibility analysis. All TMR silages were preserved well, as indicated by the low butyric acid (BA; <1.60 g/kg dry matter), ammonia nitrogen (NH3-N; <50.0 g/kg total nitrogen) contents, and the high V-Score value (>80.0). However, SS25 and SS35 significantly (P < 0.05) decreased the BA, NH3-N, ethanol contents and yeast counts, and significantly (P < 0.05) increased the V-Score value compared with the control. SS35 significantly (P < 0.05) increased 72 h cumulative gas production (GP72), in vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDMD) and crude protein digestibility (IVCPD) compared with control and SS15. There was no significant (P > 0.05) difference in vitro neutral detergent fibre digestibility (IVNDFD) among all TMR silages. In conclusion, SS35 replacement was recommended for TMR silage making. Ensiling is an effective method to utilise soy sauce residue. Soy sauce residue replacement had no unfavourable effect on the fermentation quality of the total mixed ration. 35% soy sauce residue replacement improved the in vitro digestibility of total mixed ration silages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chemical additives have been widely used to restrain the growth of undesirable microorganisms, and they were ideal additives to well preserve silages. The work aimed at evaluating the effects of four chemical additives on fermentation quality, aerobic stability and in vitro ruminal digestibility of the fermented total mixed ration (FTMR). The TMR was treated with: (1) no additive (control); (2) sodium diacetate; (3) calcium propionate; (4) sodium benzoate (SB); (5) potassium sorbate (PS) on a fresh weight (FW) basis. After 60 days of ensiling, the silos were opened and sampled to determine fermentation quality, in vitro rumen parameters, and then the 60-day FTMR were subjected to a 9-day aerobic stability test. Chemical additives significantly (p < 0.05) increased dry matter, crude protein, and water-soluble carbohydrates contents, and decreased ammonia nitrogen, ethanol contents, aerobic bacteria and yeast counts after 60 days of ensiling. During aerobic exposure, chemical additives obviously improved aerobic stability as indicated by higher lactic acid, water-soluble carbohydrates contents and lactic acid bacteria counts, and lower pH, ethanol, ammonia nitrogen contents, aerobic bacteria and yeast counts. Treatments with SB and PS had higher (p < 0.05) lactic acid content, and lower (p < 0.05) pH, ammonia nitrogen content, aerobic bacteria and yeast counts than other FTMR. After 72 h of incubation, chemical additives significantly (p < 0.05) increased cumulative gas production, in vitro digestibility of dry matter and crude protein. The SB and PS-treated FTMR had higher (p < 0.05) cumulative gas production and in vitro dry matter digestibility than other FTMR. These results indicated that SB and PS were more effective to improve aerobic stability and in vitro ruminal parameters, and they were recommended as optimal additives for FTMR. Four chemical additives were served as additives for fermentation total mixed ration Chemical additives markedly improved fermentation quality, aerobic stability and in vitro ruminal parameters Sodium benzoate and potassium sorbate were optimal for improving aerobic stability and in vitro parameters [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to evaluate the predictive ability of NIRS for the estimation of the chemical composition and organic matter digestibility (OMD) of total mixed rations (TMR) for dairy cows. Moreover, herein, empirical equations based on chemical parameters were developed for calculating the OMD. Samples were collected from Galician dairy farms and were scanned in duplicate a Foss NIRSystem 6500 monochromator (1100-2500 nm). The predictive ability of NIRS models was evaluated according to the coefficient of determination in external validation ( r 2). High r 2 (equal to or higher than 0.90) was shown in predicting chemical composition, however, the estimation of OMD was acceptable ( r 2 = 0.83). The ability of the NIRS models for estimating the chemical composition was considered excellent, with the ratio performance deviation of external validation ( R P D) higher than 3.0, allowing for quantitative predictions. The estimation of the OMD value by NIRS was considered acceptable ( R P D = 2.5), and led to reduction in the standard error of external validation, in comparison of the best empirical model based on the chemical composition of samples (from ± 2.06% to ± 1.89%). Therefore, this study demonstrated that the NIRS is an effective technology for the rapid and precise nutritional evaluation of TMR in Galicia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective This study aimed to determine the appropriate supplementation level of lactic acid bacteria (LAB; Lactobacillus plantarum and Bacillus clausii), yeast (Saccharomyces cariocanus and Wickerhamomyces anomalus) for degrading free gossypol and glucosinolate in the fermented total mixed ration (TMR) containing cottonseed meal (CSM) or rapeseed meal (RSM), to improve the utilization efficiency of these protein sources. Methods For LAB, L. plantarum or B. clausii was inoculated at 1.0×108, 1.0×109, 1.0×1010, and 1.0×1011 colony-forming unit (CFU)/kg dry matter (DM), respectively. For yeast, S. cariocanus or W. anomalus was inoculated at 5×106, 5×107, 5×108, and 5×109 CFU/kg DM, respectively. The TMR had 50% moisture and was incubated at 30°C for 48 h. After fermentation, the chemical compositions, and the contents of free gossypol and glucosinolate were determined. Results The results showed that the concentration of free gossypol content was reduced (p

This study aims to explore the presence of mycotoxins in total mixed rations (TMR) employed for feeding dairy cattle and their potential carry-over to milk. A total of 87 TRM samples were collected in farms from the north of Portugal from 2019 to 2022. A method based on a QuEChERS extraction followed by UHPLC-MS/MS detection was employed for sample analysis. The method was in-house validated in terms of matrix effect, linearity, sensitivity, accuracy and precision. The most frequently detected regulated toxins were fumonisins, with a positivity rate of 74%, while deoxynivalenol and zearalenone were found in approximately 35% of the samples. Among the emerging toxins, beauvericin and enniatins exhibited the highest detection rates. In addition, milk samples were collected from 21 farms, providing insights into the carry-over of these toxins and roquefortine to milk, with an estimated rate ranging between 2% and 10%. • A total of 87 TRM samples were collected from 2019 to 2022 • An UHPLC-MS/MS detection method was employed for sample analysis • Roquefortine, beauvericin and enniatins are carried-over to milk [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effects of replacing barley grain with heated potato slice wastes (HPSW) or French fries' wastes (FFW) on dry matter intake and production performance of lactating Holstein dairy cows. Twenty-four Holstein dairy cows (body weight: 639 ± 20.3 kg, parity: 3.0 ± 0.21, days in milk: 123 ± 11.7, raw milk yield: 41.5 ± 2.86 kg/d) were randomly assigned to 3 treatments: 1) Control: diet containing 204 g/kg of dry matter (DM) barley grain as the main source of non-forage carbohydrates, 2) HPSW: diet containing 104 g/kg DM barley grain and 100 g/kg DM HPSW, 3) FFW: diet containing 104 g/kg DM barley grain and 100 g/kg DM FFW. The results showed that the frying process of potato increased the fatty acid content from 4.9 to 198 g/kg DM. The replacement of barley grain with HPSW or FFW decreased dry matter intake significantly (P=0.02) and values were 24.6, 23.3, and 23.8 kg/d for control, HPSW and FFW respectively. Also, results revealed higher energy corrected milk yield for HPSW and FFW (42.9 and 43.9 kg/d respectively) than control (40.6 kg/d). When compared to control, feeding HPSW and FFW enhanced feed efficiencies (P<0.01) and the values were 1.61, 1.75, and 1.77 for control, HPSW and FFW respectively. As barley grain was replaced with potato co-products, the proportion of nitrogen intake excreted in the urine decreased (P<0.01), with values of 312, 327, and 380 g/kg for HPSW, FFW and control respectively. Also, milk urea nitrogen and the ratio of urine nitrogen to intake nitrogen were lower for HPSW and FFW than in the control, indicating a more efficient utilization of dietary crude protein by dairy cows in treatments containing potato co-products. The inclusion of fried and cooked potato co-products increased (P<0.01) the physically effective neutral detergent fiber of diets measured at zero time from 122 for control to 181 and 172 g/kg DM for HPSW and FFW respectively. Consequently, rumination time (min/day) increased from 417 for control to 527 and 555 for HPSW and FFW respectively, which confirmed the positive effects of heated potato processing co-products on dietary physical properties. In conclusion, the results of the current study showed that replacement of barley grain with fried and cooked potato co-products improved diet physical properties and production performance of Holstein lactating dairy cows. • Agro-food by-products can be used in the diet of lactating dairy cows. • Fried and cooked potato co-products are classified as high-energy and low-fiber feed. • Heated potato co-products improve milk production and feed efficiency in dairy cows. • Fried and cooked potato co-products increase the diets particle size and rumination time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Automation reduces the impact of farming on climate change and helps farmers adapt to its financial impact. Automatic feeding systems (AFSs) increase the ruminant’s feeding precision and ease operators’ workload. Such systems exist on a spectrum, requiring varied levels of operator support and installation complexity. A recent survey on farmers pointed out that those already running an AFS and those willing to buy one appreciate its ease of use, the resulting animal welfare, and the resulting overall benefits (increased production, farm profitability, and reduced feed waste). Whether technologically complex or not, studies have confirmed the benefits that farmers perceive to be underlying the remarkable reduction in the environmental impact of feeding operations (AFSs are electrically powered), the increase in animal welfare resulting from reduced conflicts around accessing the feed bunk, and the constant availability of fresh feed. However, their introduction should follow accurate and holistic structural and economic planning for existing and newly built facilities. The availability of public subsidies plays an essential role in pushing farmers to adopt the most modern digital technologies, whose benefits may even increase when farmers couple them with interconnected sensors to monitor animals’ physiological states.