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Nitrogen (N) and sulfur (S) fertilization significantly affect seed yield and quality in Brassica oilseed crops. The effect of N and S management on the crop parameters (plant height, stem-base diameter, and number of branches), yield (seed yield components, seed and straw yields, harvest index—HI), and the quality of the seeds and oil (crude fat—CF, total protein—TP, crude fiber—CFR, fatty acids profile—FA, acid detergent fiber; and neutral detergent fiber) of oilseed radish (Raphanus sativus L. var. oleiformis Pers.) was analyzed in the study. The effect of N and S fertilization was evaluated in a field experiment in Bałcyny (north-eastern Poland) in 2020–2022. The experiment had a split-plot design with two factors and three replications. The first factor was the N rate (0, 30, 60, 90, 120 kg ha−1) and the second factor was the S rate (0, 15, 30 kg ha−1). Nitrogen fertilization stimulated stem elongation and branching. The average oilseed radish (OSR) seed yield ranged from 0.59 to 1.15–1.25 Mg ha−1. Seed yields increased significantly, up to 90 kg N ha−1 and 15 kg S ha−1. The N fertilizer use efficiency (NFUE) of OSR decreased with a rise in the N rate (from 4.22 to 2.19 kg of seeds per 1 kg N). The application of S did not increase NFUE. The HI ranged from 10% (0–30 kg N ha−1) to 12% (60 kg N ha−1). The contents of CF, TP, and CFR in OSR seeds (kg−1 dry matter—DM) were 383–384 g, 244–249 g, and 97–103 g, respectively. Nitrogen fertilization decreased the CF content (by 5%) and increased the contents of TP (by 5%) and CFR (by 16%) in OSR seeds. Sulfur fertilizer applied at 30 kg ha−1 decreased the CF content (by 2%), but it did not alter the content of TP or CFR. Oilseed radish oil contained 68–70% of monounsaturated FAs (MUFAs) (erucic acid accounted for 2/3 of the total MUFAs), 24–25% of polyunsaturated FAs (PUFAs), and 6–8% of saturated FAs (SFAs). Nitrogen fertilization increased the proportions of SFAs and PUFAs in OSR oil. Nitrogen rates of 60–90 kg ha−1 increased the contents of alpha-tocopherol (α-T), beta-tocopherol (β-T), and gamma-tocopherol (γ-T) in OSR seeds by 32%, 40%, and 27%, respectively. Sulfur fertilization increased the content of PUFAs and decreased the content of MUFAs in OSR oil, while it increased the contents of α-T (by 15%) and γ-T (by 19%) in OSR seeds. Proper N and S management in OSR cultivation can improve crop productivity and the processing suitability of seeds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Living microorganisms, known as probiotics, provide health benefits to the host and improve livestock performance. Bacillus strains are most commonly used as probiotics. In the present study, sows and piglets were fed diets supplemented with a probiotic containing Bacillus subtilis and B. amyloliquefaciens during two production cycles. Dietary probiotic supplementation improved the performance of sows and contributed to higher birth weight and weaning weight of piglets in two cycles. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of Bacillus-based probiotic diets on reproduction performance, fecal scores, microflora, and economic factors in lactating sows and suckling piglets across two productive cycles. A total of 96 sows, reared in a continuous farrowing system for two full cycles, were divided into two groups: a control group and an experimental group. Sows were fed a basal diet without the probiotic or a diet supplemented with viable bacterial spores. At seven days of age, control group piglets were offered standard creep feed, whereas piglets in the experimental (probiotic) group received a diet containing the probiotic fed to their dams. Sows receiving probiotic-supplemented diets were characterized by significantly higher (p ≤ 0.05) average daily feed intake in lactation, lower (p ≤ 0.01) body weight (BW) loss during lactation, and reduced loss of backfat thickness as well as higher body condition score after lactation. Dietary probiotic supplementation increased (p ≤ 0.01) birth weight, total creep feed consumption, litter weight gain, and piglet weaning weight. The probiotic also improved (p ≤ 0.01) overall fecal scores, decreased total E. coli count on day seven and Clostridium perfringens count (trend) in sucking piglets. The total feed cost per weaned piglet was lower in the experimental (probiotic) group. Supplementing the diet with a probiotic containing Bacillus strains improved the reproductive performance of sows and the performance and health of piglets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: A Festulolium grass is an intergeneric hybrid of fescue (Festuca L.) and ryegrass (Lolium L.) that combines the nutritional qualities and weather resistance of each. Its high nutritional value and resistance to extreme weather conditions are important considerations in the era of global climate change. Festulolium has been used as a forage crop for many years, but little information is available on the levels of biologically active compounds (β-carotene and tocopherols) in Festulolium-based diets and in the meat of animals fed such diets. The present study assessed the contents of β-carotene, retinol and tocopherols and the proximate chemical composition of meat from young rams receiving diets based on silage made from different Festulolium cultivars (Becva, Felopa, Paulita), as compared with meat from rams fed a diet based on hybrid ryegrass. The meat of animals fed Festulolium silage-based diets contained more tocopherols and retinol than the meat of sheep receiving a hybrid ryegrass-based diet. Meat from rams fed diets based on silage made from Festulolium cvs. Felopa and Paulita was characterized by the highest concentrations of tocopherols and retinol. The results of this study indicate that Festulolium silage can be a desirable component of ram diets, but its efficacy may vary across cultivars. This study analyzed the chemical composition and the β-carotene, tocopherol and retinol content of meat (musculus longissimus lumborum, musculus gluteus maximus) from young rams fed different silage-based diets. The animals were divided into four groups depending on the type of silage in the feed ration (hybrid ryegrass, Festulolium cv. Becva, Festulolium cv. Felopa, Festulolium cv. Paulita). The concentrations of the examined lipophilic compounds were measured via high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Animals fed a diet based on ryegrass silage had the highest intakes of α-, β-, γ- and δ-tocopherol and total tocopherols (p < 0.01). Muscles of rams fed Festulolium silage-based diets contained more tocopherols (p < 0.01) and retinol (p < 0.01 in m. g. maximus; p = 0.053 in m. l. lumborum) than the meat of animals receiving hybrid ryegrass-based diets. The highest amounts of tocopherols (p < 0.01) and retinol (p < 0.01 in m. g. maximus; p = 0.053 in m. l. lumborum) were found in meat from rams fed rations based on silage made from Festulolium cvs. Felopa and Paulita. The analysis revealed a positive correlation between the intake of tocopherols and the α-tocopherol content of meat (r = 0.99), as well as between the β-carotene intake and the retinol content of meat (r = 0.92 in m. l. lumborum; r = 0.91 in m. g. maximus). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was undertaken to evaluate the effect of the BCO2 genotype and dietary supplementation with marigold flower extract on the expression of BCO1, BCO2, LRAT, and TTPA genes in the adipose tissue and brain of rabbits. The concentrations of lutein, zeaxanthin, β-carotene, retinol, and α-tocopherol were determined in samples collected from rabbits. Sixty young male Termond White rabbits were allocated to three groups based on their genotype at codon 248 of the BCO2 gene (ins/ins, ins/del, and del/del). Each group comprised two subgroups; one subgroup was administered a standard diet, whereas the diet offered to the other subgroup was supplemented with 6 g/kg of marigold flower extract. The study demonstrated that the BCO2 genotype may influence the expression levels of the BCO2, LRAT, and TTPA genes in adipose tissue, and TTPA and BCO1 genes in the brain. Moreover, an increase in the amount of lutein in the diet of BCO2 del/del rabbits may increase the expression of BCO1, LRAT, and TTPA genes in adipose tissue, and the expression of the BCO2 gene in the brain. Another finding of the study is that the content of carotenoids and α-tocopherol increases in both the adipose tissue and brain of BCO2 del/del rabbits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: In many countries, the main source of venison is game shooting, but deer farming is growing intensively, partly as a consequence of greater interest in alternative meat species. The meat of cervids, including fallow deer, has a desirable, beneficial basic chemical composition, but there is little information on the concentrations of biologically active compounds (β-carotene, retinol and tocopherols). In the present study, we evaluated the contents of β-carotene, retinol and tocopherols, as well as the basic chemical compositions, of the meat and livers of fallow deer fed rations based on hay with different concentrated feeds (oat grain, protein concentrate and pellets). More retinol was contained in the livers and meat of fallow deer fed rations with protein concentrate or pellets (experimental groups) than in the livers and meat of fallow deer fed rations with oat grain (the control group). The proportions of the different concentrated feeds did not affect the basic chemical compositions and tocopherol contents in the fallow deer meat and livers. Based on our results, it was concluded that protein concentrate and pellets can be valuable components in the rations of farmed fallow deer. This study analyzed the chemical composition and contents of β-carotene, tocopherols and retinol in the longissimus dorsi (LD) muscles and livers of fallow deer (Dama dama L.) fed diets based on hay containing different concentrates (hay and oats—HO; hay, oats and protein concentrate—HOP; hay and pellets—HP). The provitamin and lipophilic vitamin contents in the samples of feed and animal tissues were determined by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The contents of retinol were nearly two-fold higher (p < 0.002) in the livers and many-fold higher in the LD muscles of fallow deer fed the HOP and HP diets. β-carotene was not identified in the livers or LD muscles of fallow deer. The concentrations of α-tocopherol and total tocopherols were higher in the livers and LD muscles of the animals that received the HO and HP diets, but the noted differences were not significant. The inclusion of various concentrates in the feed rations had no influence on the proximate chemical compositions of the livers or LD muscles of fallow deer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to determine the effect of nutrition and successive lactations on the content of selected chemical components and the fatty acid profile of sow milk. The chemical composition of milk samples collected from 108 PIC sows was evaluated. During the study, sows were allocated to two independent experiments. In Experiment I, sows were divided into three parity groups. In Experiment II, sows were divided into two groups based on the type of concentrate included in the diet. In both experiments, the content of selected chemical components was determined in sow milk in view of the effect exerted by successive lactations (Experiment I, 54 animals) and nutrition (Experiment II, 54 animals). Milk samples were obtained by hand milking on lactation days 1 and 10, respectively. The samples were subjected to chemical analyses to determine their content of dry matter, total protein (Kjeldahl method), crude fat (Soxhlet extraction) and crude ash, and the fatty acid profile. Fat was extracted by the Soxhlet method. Fatty acids were separated and determined by gas chromatography in a gas chromatograph (CP-3800, Varian, Walnut Creek, California, USA). Fatty acid methyl esters (FAMEs) were prepared according to the modified Peisker method (methanol:chloroform:concentrated sulfuric acid, 100:100:1, v/v). Milk collected from sows fed diet 2 was characterized by higher concentrations of monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs), polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), unsaturated fatty acids (UFAs), hypocholesterolemic fatty acids (DFAs), n-3 and n-6 fatty acids, compared with milk collected from sows fed diet 1 that contained not only soybean oil but also hardened fish oil. Milk collected during the first and second lactation had higher fat content than milk collected during the third, fourth and subsequent lactations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the effect of the BCO2 genotype and the addition of Aztec marigold flower extract to rabbit diets on the expression of BCO1, BCO2, LRAT, and TTPA genes in the liver. The levels of lutein, zeaxanthin, β-carotene, retinol, and α-tocopherol in the liver and blood serum of rabbits, as well as plasma biochemical parameters and serum antioxidant enzyme activities were also determined. Sixty male Termond White growing rabbits were divided into three groups based on their genotype at codon 248 of the BCO2 gene (ins/ins, ins/del and del/del); each group was divided into two subgroups: one subgroup received a standard diet, and the other subgroup was fed a diet supplemented with 6 g/kg of marigold flower extract. The obtained results indicate that the BCO2 genotype may affect the expression levels of BCO1 and BCO2 genes in rabbits. Moreover, the addition of marigold extract to the diet of BCO2 del/del rabbits may increase the expression level of the BCO2 gene. Finally, an increase in the amount of lutein in the diet of rabbits with the BCO2 del/del genotype contributes to its increased accumulation in the liver and blood of animals without compromising their health status or liver function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to evaluate the growth performance, gastrointestinal function and health status of turkeys fed diets supplemented with synbiotic preparations, as compared with commercial probiotic feed additives. The experiment lasted for 15 weeks. The research material comprised 600 female BIG 6 turkeys (6 treatments, 5 replicates, 20 birds per replicate). The turkeys from the control group (I) received a diet without additives. Groups II and III received a basal diet with the addition of probiotic BioPlus 2B or Cylactin at 0.4 g/kg diet, respectively. In groups IV, V and VI turkeys were fed diets with synbiotic preparations S1 (L. reuteri, L. plantarum, L. pentosus, S. cerevisiae + inulin), S2 (L. reuteri, L. plantarum, L. pentosus, S. cerevisiae, L. rhamnosus + inulin) and S3 (L. reuteri, L. plantarum, L. pentosus, S. cerevisiae, L. rhamnosus, L. paracasei + inulin) at 0.5 g/kg diet, respectively. The following parameters were monitored: growth performance, carcass quality, the chemical composition of meat, the structure (length, weight, villus height, crypt depth) and functional parameters (pH, viscosity) of selected segments of the gastrointestinal tract, and the health status of birds (lysozyme, gamma-globulins, ceruloplasmin and total protein). Dietary supplementation with probiotics and synbiotics contributed to an increase in the final body weights of turkeys, a decrease in the feed conversion ratio and an increase in values of the European Production Efficiency Factor (p ≤ 0.05). Synbiotics improved the immune status of birds by increasing serum gamma-globulin levels and decreasing ceruloplasmin activity at 8th week of age (p ≤ 0.05). Synbiotics and probiotics also contributed to a decrease in crop and caecal pH (p ≤ 0.05). The analysed additives had no effect on carcass dressing percentage, carcass quality characteristics or the chemical composition of breast muscles. The tested synbiotics as well as commercial probiotics can be valuable feed additives, improving the growth performance and immune status of turkeys. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to determine the effects of different wet grain preservation methods on the concentrations of b-carotene, xanthophyll, a-tocopherol (a-T), b-tocopherol (b-T), g-tocopherol (g-T) and d-tocopherol (d-T). Wet oat, triticale, barley and maize grain was dried at temp. of 60°C or 110°C and ensiled without additives or with 0.5% addition of propionic acid (+PA) or formic acid (+FA). Dried and ensiled maize grain had a higher content of b-carotene, xanthophyll, a-T, b-T, g-T, d-T, total tocopherols and vitamin E equivalent (Vit. EEq) than dried and ensiled oat, triticale and barley grain (P=0.01). In dried cereal grain, the average losses of b-carotene, xanthophyll, a-T, b-T, g-T, d-T, total tocopherols and Vit. EEq were 57, 35, 84, 65, 67, 52, 74 and 81%, respectively, compared with their concentrations in wet grain ("0"). The content of xanthophyll, total tocopherols and Vit. EEq in grain decreased with an increase in drying temperature (P=0.01). In ensiled cereal grain, the average losses of b-carotene, xanthophyll, a-T, b-T, g-T, d-T, total tocopherols and Vit. EEq were 52, 30, 83 50, 78, 63, 75 and 79%, respectively. Additives +PA and +FA affected only the b-T content (P=0.01) of cereal silage. Grain drying resulted in greater losses of b-carotene, xanthophyll, a-T, b-T and Vit. EEq, whereas ensiling led to greater losses of g-T, d-T and total tocopherols. Dried triticale grain was characterized by greater losses of b-carotene, a-T, d-T and total tocopherols, and ensiled oat grain was characterized by greater losses of a-T, g-T, total tocopherol and Vit. EEq relative to the corresponding samples of dried and ensiled grain of the remaining cereal species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Owing to their health-promoting values, products obtained from sheep are the center of attention among consumers. The chemical composition of sheep's milk is largely conditioned by seasonal dietary variables, which contribute to its pro-health qualities. The aim of the study was to evaluate the impact of a production season on parameters of milk and rennet cheese produced from milk obtained from Frisian sheep during winter and summer feeding. Milk from the winter season contained more lactose, less vitamin A and less than half the vitamin E content than milk obtained in summer. Cheese from the winter season was characterized by a higher content of dry matter, proteins and minerals but less than half vitamin A content than cheese from the summer period. In cheese from the winter season, the concentration of tyramine was over fourfold higher while the concentration of histamine, while putrescine, and cadaverine were over twice as low as in cheese of the summer feeding period. The content of total biogenic amines did not vary seasonally. Milk fat from milk obtained in winter contained more medium-chained saturated fatty acids (SFA), but less long-chained SFA and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) in comparison with the summer period. Fat from cheese produced in winter had a higher content of medium-chained SFA, whereas cheese from the summer feeding season contained more long-chained SFA, monounsaturated fatty acid (MUFA), and PUFA. Milk and cheese from the summer feeding period had higher ratios of PUFA to SFA and n-6 to n-3. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sida hermaphrodita as a crop plant could be used as raw material for the production of forage. The aim of this study was to evaluate the overall nutritional value of fresh and ensiled biomass of Sida hermaphrodita, harvested in the bud formation stage. The chemical and amino acid composition, fatty acid profile, concentrations of minerals and polyphenols of herbage and silage were determined. Additionally fermentation products were assessed in silage. Herbage contained crude protein (CP) of 182 g kg-1 dry matter (DM), neutral detergent fiber (NDF) of 375 g kg-1 DM and lignin content in NDF (L/NDF) was 8.88. Nitrogen fractions changed as a result of ensiling (P<0.010), non-protein nitrogen (NPN) from 274 g kg-1 total nitrogen (TN) in herbage to 683 g kg-1 TN in silage, and neutral detergent-insoluble nitrogen (NDIN) from 74.6 g kg-1 TN in herbage to 79.5 g kg-1 TN in silage. Silage was characterized by intensive lactic fermentation (114 g kg-1 DM) and pH of 4.30. It contained CP of 176 g kg-1 DM, NDF of 378 g kg-1 DM, and L/NDF (11.3) was higher than in the herbage. The CP of Sida hermaphrodita silage had a high content of essential amino acids (AAs) Lys, Thr, Val, Leu and Phe (3.98, 4.19, 4.55, 7.14 and 4.00 g 100 g-1 CP, respectively). Sida hermaphrodita silage was characterized by the highest K (6.262 g kg-1DM) content among macronutrients, and the highest content of Fe (40.88 mg kg-1 DM) and Mn (33.01 mg kg-1 DM) among micronutrients. Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) predominated in the ether extract herbage and silage, and their proportion was three-fold and seven-fold higher than the proportion of monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs), respectively. Herbage had high quercetin content (652 µg g-1 DM), which decreased by 45% during the ensiling. Changes in the chemical composition suggest that this crop plant can be preserved by ensiling. The results of this study indicate that Sida hermaphrodita can be used for producing high-quality silage for ruminants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to determine the effect of a polyphenol product (PP) (Proviox) and vitamin E on the antioxidant status and meat quality of broiler chickens fed diets contaminated with ochratoxin A (OTA). One hundred and twenty ROSS 308 broiler chickens were randomly divided into six groups (10 replications, 2 birds per replication). Group I received an uncontaminated and unsupplemented diet, diets of groups II to VI were contaminated with OTA at 172 µg and 200 µg/kg for the starter and grower period, respectively. Furthermore, diets of groups III, IV and V were supplemented with vitamin E at 100, 200 and 100 mg, respectively, and to diets of groups V and VI additionally 100 and 2200 mg PP was added, respectively. Supplementation with PP and vitamin E had no significant effects on the growth performance, dressing percentage or carcass trait parameters of broiler chickens. In chickens exposed to stress, dietary supplementation with vitamin E and/or PP improved the total antioxidant status (p ≤ 0.05), enhanced the blood activity of antioxidant enzymes (p ≤ 0.01) and increased the concentrations of non-enzymatic antioxidants (p ≤ 0.01) in the liver and breast muscles. Regardless of the administered antioxidants, chickens fed diets contaminated with OTA were characterised by lower dressing percentage (p ≤ 0.01), a higher proportion of the liver in the carcass (p ≤ 0.01), lower carcass fat content (p ≤ 0.01), and longer small intestines (p ≤ 0.01) and caeca (p ≤ 0.01). Dietary supplementation with PP improved the water-holding capacity of meat (p ≤ 0.01). The breast muscles of chickens fed diets supplemented with PP and vitamin E were characterised by higher (p ≤ 0.05) concentrations of eicosapentaenoic acid (C20:5). It was concluded that PP can be an insufficient component of diets for broiler chickens to improve growth performance and mitigate the negative effects of high dose of OTA in diets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to determine the effect of a harvest date and cutting height on the concentrations of carotenoids and tocopherols in Virginia fanpetals (Sida hermaphrodita Rusby L.) herbage and silage. First-cut Virginia fanpetals herbage was harvested in the budding stage, on 11, 18 and 25 June 2017. Herbage was cut at 15, 25, 35 and 45 cm above the ground, after which it was chopped and ensiled in vacuum bags. The content of β-carotene and tocopherols (α-, β-, γ-, δ-) was determined in samples of fresh herbage and silage. Herbage cut at a height of 45 cm and silage made from herbage cut at a height of 25 cm had a higher (P≤0,01) content of β-carotene (113.93 and 44.90 mg kg-1 DM, respectively), α-tocopherol (87.20 and 3.50 mg kg-1 DM, respectively) and total tocopherols, and a higher value of vitamin E equivalent (Vit. EEq) than the remaining samples. Herbage harvested on the last date (25 June) and silage made from herbage harvested on the first date (11 June) were characterized by higher concentrations of β-carotene (88.30 and 38.27 mg kg-1 DM, respectively) and a-tocopherol (70.91 and 2.82 mg kg-1 DM, respectively) compared with samples harvested at the remaining dates, but the noted differences were not statistically significant. Positive interactions were found between cutting height (45 cm) vs. β-carotene content and Vit. EEq value in herbage, and cutting height (25 cm) vs. α-tocopherol content and Vit. EEq value in silage. The content of β-carotene and total tocopherols (α-, β-, γ-, δ) and a decrease in their concentrations during ensiling (in silage, average loss of β-carotene and a-tocopherol reached 56% and 96%, respectively) were comparable with the values reported for grasses and legumes. The results of this study indicate that Sida herbage and silage can be a valuable source of livestock feed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mutations in the β‐carotene oxygenase 2 (BCO2) gene can impair the function of the enzyme that breaks down carotenoids. As a result, gradual accumulation of unoxidized carotenoids in animal tissues gives them a yellow colour. The aim of the study was to determine the content of carotenoids, retinol and α‐tocopherol in the liver, fat and milk of rabbit does with three different genotypes determined by AAT‐deletion mutation at codon 248 of the BCO2 gene and to find out whether differences in the concentrations of the above compounds in the tissues and milk of the does affect reproduction parameters and the rearing rate of kittens. The experimental materials comprised 36 does, 12 of each genotype of the BCO2 gene, with their litters. Females with their litters were placed in individual cages, on deep litter. Between days 7 and 13 of lactation, samples of milk were collected from the does. The kittens stayed with their mothers until 35 days of age. After weaning, the does were sacrificed. Tissue samples of liver and perirenal fat were collected for chemical analyses. Additionally, based on samples taken from one female, RNA expression levels were determined from the mammary gland and liver, adipose tissue and skin. It was found that homozygous does with deletion at codon 248 of the BCO2 gene were characterized by considerably higher concentrations of xanthophylls and beta‐carotene in the liver, adipose tissue and milk than does with the remaining genotypes. However, the differences in the content of the above compounds in milk had no influence on litter weight or the number and rearing rate of kittens. Additionally, RNA expression of the BCO2 gene was found in the mammary tissue of lactating doe and its level was similar to those noted in the liver and adipose tissue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to determine the effect of a polyphenol product (PP) (Proviox) and vitamin E on the antioxidant status and meat quality of broiler chickens exposed to high temperature. The experimental materials comprised 120 ROSS 308 broilers (6 treatments, 10 replications, 2 birds per replication). Dietary supplementation with vitamin E and PP was applied in the following experimental design: group I (negative control) - without supplementation; group II (positive control) - without supplementation; group III - supplementation with 100 mg vitamin E/kg; group IV - 200 mg vitamin E/kg; group V - 100 mg vitamin E/kg and 100 mg PP/kg; group VI - 200 mg PP/kg. In groups II-VI, broiler chickens aged 21-35 d were exposed to increased temperature (34°C for 10 h daily). In chickens exposed to high temperature, dietary supplementation with antioxidants, mostly PP, improved growth performance parameters, including body weight, body weight gain and feed intake until 28 d of age. Vitamin E added to broiler chicken diets at 200 mg/kg and vitamin E combined with PP was most effective in improving the total antioxidant status of birds, enhancing blood antioxidant enzyme activities and increasing vitamin E concentrations in the liver and breast muscles. Broilers fed diets supplemented with 200 mg/kg of vitamin E alone and vitamin E in combination with PP were characterised by a higher percentage content of breast muscles in the carcass. Dietary supplementation with antioxidants improved the water-holding capacity of meat, reduced natural drip loss and increased the crude ash content of meat. The breast muscles of chickens fed diets supplemented with PP had a lower contribution of yellowness. The breast muscles of chickens receiving diets with 100 mg vitamin E/kg(group III) and diets supplemented with PP (groups V and VI) were characterised by the highest concentrations of polyunsaturated fatty acids. The PP can be a valuable component of diets for broiler chickens exposed to high temperature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to determine the effect of herbal feed additive on growth performance, carcass characteristics, the chemical composition of breast muscles and selected meat quality parameters in broiler chickens. The experiment was performed on 1080 Ross 308 chickens, which were randomly divided into six groups with six replicates per group. In experimental groups, dietary energy concentration was reduced by 0.10 or 0.25 MJ kg -1 , and the diets were or were not supplemented with the Superliv herbal formula at 500 g t -1 of diet. A statistical analysis revealed that Superliv had a beneficial influence on the final body weights (BWs) of birds, average daily gain (ADG), feed conversion ratio (FCR), European Efficiency Index (EEI) and the proportion of heart relative to total carcass weight. However, meat acidity measured 15 min post mortem was higher in experimental groups. A decrease in dietary energy concentration contributed to a highly significant increase in the water-holding capacity (WHC) of meat and natural drip loss, an increase in pH 15 , an increase in color lightness, a decrease in redness, an increase in the fat content of meat, and a decrease in malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to determine the effect of vitamin E and polyphenols on the antioxidant potential and meat quality of broiler chickens fed diets supplemented with low-quality oil. The experimental materials comprised 120 male Ross 308 broilers (six treatments, 10 replications, two birds per replication). Dietary supplementation with vitamin E and/or polyphenols was applied in the following experimental design: group I (negative control) – without supplementation without low-quality oil; group II (positive control) – without supplementation + low-quality oil; group III – supplementation with 100 mg kg -1 of vitamin E + low-quality oil; group IV – 200 mg kg -1 of vitamin E + low-quality oil; group V – 100 mg kg -1 of vitamin E and 100 mg kg -1 of polyphenols + low-quality oil; group VI – 200 mg kg -1 of polyphenols + low-quality oil. Rapeseed oil oxidised under laboratory conditions was added to the diets of broiler chickens from groups II to VI. The applied antioxidants had no effect on the growth performance of chickens fed oxidised oil. Increased dietary inclusion levels of vitamin E and/or polyphenols improved the antioxidant status in the blood and increased the content of non-enzymatic antioxidants in the liver and breast muscles of broilers fed low-quality oil. The tested antioxidants had no influence on carcass quality parameters in chickens fed oxidised oil. However, birds fed diets with the addition of vitamin E were characterised by a higher gizzard weight and higher pH of gizzard digesta. Dietary supplementation with vitamin E and polyphenols or polyphenols alone contributed to a lighter colour and lower pH of breast muscles and an increase in the content of fat and ash in the breast muscles of broilers fed oxidised oil. The breast muscles of birds given 100 or 200 mg kg -1 of supplemental vitamin E were characterised by higher concentrations of n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) and hypocholesterolemic fatty acids (DFAs), a more desirable DFA/OFA ratio, and a lower atherogenicity index (AI). Polyphenols combined with vitamin E can be a valuable component of diets for broiler chickens when the problem of low-quality oil occurs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to determine the efficacy of polyphenols in pigs. The experiment was performed on 52 sows divided into 4 groups. Untreated control sows (group 1) were not administered vitamin E in the premixes. The diets of the experimental animals were supplemented with vitamin E in the amount of 50 mg (group 2) or 100 mg/kg diets (group 3) (gestation diets) and 75 mg (group 2) or 150 mg/kg diets (group 3) (lactation diets). The diets of group four sows were supplemented with vitamin E (50/75 mg/kg, gestation/lactation) and Proviox (polyphenols) (50/75 mg/kg, gestation/lactation). The influence of different dietary inclusion levels of vitamin E and vitamin E/polyphenols on the performance, vitamin E concentrations, and antioxidant status of sows and piglets was analysed. The sows whose diets were supplemented with vitamin E and polyphenols (50:50) were characterised by similar fertility, mating success, and litter performance as the group whose diets were supplemented with vitamin E only. The results of this study indicate that sows receiving vitamin E and polyphenols and their progeny were characterised by similar or improved vitamin E status and improved antioxidant status compared with the animals whose diets were supplemented with 100 mg/150 mg of vitamin E/kg diet. It can be concluded that the replacement of 50% of dietary vitamin E with polyphenols did not compromise the growth performance of sows or piglets and improved their antioxidant status. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The aim of this study was to determine changes in the quality of lamb meat (Longissimus thoracis et lumborum), which was vacuum‐packaged and freezer‐stored (−26°C) for 6 and 12 months. The experiment was performed on 12 male lambs of the Kamieniec Longwool breed, raised to 106 days of age. In comparison with fresh meat, thawed meat was characterized by lower ash content, higher pH, greater natural drip loss and cooking loss, and lower scores for taste intensity. Vacuum packaging and low‐temperature storage protected lamb meat against oxidative changes, and alleviated the adverse effects of oxidation on the color, aroma and taste of meat. It can be concluded that freezer storage (−26°C) of vacuum‐packaged meat can help meet consumer demand for lamb meat products in periods when fresh meat is unavailable. However, it should be noted that long‐term frozen storage induces undesirable changes in meat quality, including a decrease in water‐holding capacity and taste intensity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study compared selected parameters of milk and rennet cheese produced from milk obtained from alpine goats during winter and summer feeding under climatic conditions of the Warmia and Mazury region. Milk from the winter season contained more protein, less vitamin A and over seven times less vitamin E than milk obtained in summer. In cheese from the winter season, the content of dry matter, fat, protein and vitamin A was lower when compared with cheese from the summer period. The content of total biogenic amines in cheese was almost twice as high in winter than in summer (1056.4 vs 567.6 mg/kg). Winter cheese contained more cadaverines and histamine than summer cheese. The content of tyramine and putrescine was comparable in cheese from both seasons and was higher than the level of histamine. Milk fat from milk obtained in winter contained more long-chained SFA and MUFA in comparison with the summer period. Fat from cheese produced in summer had a higher content of SFA, CLA and ALA, whereas cheese from the period of winter feeding contained more C16:0izo and C18:1. The content of hyper-and hypocholesterolemnic acids was comparable in milk and in cheese with a slightly smaller proportion of hyper-acids and a slightly higher proportion of hypocholesterolemnic acids during summer feeding of goats. In conclusion, it was found that the feeding season had a minor impact on the chemical composition of milk, although it significantly differentiated the chemical composition of rennet cheese produced from that milk and the health quality parameters of both products. Milk from winter feeding had a higher content of protein, whereas the chemical composition of cheese was more beneficial in winter as the content of dry matter, fat and protein was higher. The health properties of both products were more beneficial in summer, which was determined by the profile of fatty acids and the content of vitamin A. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present review summarizes the results of 37 experiments in which different types and levels (from 0.5 to 29.7%) of fibrous supplements were used in the formulation of diets for weaned piglets. Diets were supplemented with different sources of insoluble dietary fiber (iDF), soluble dietary fiber (sDF), or mixed DF sources. Most of the applied DF sources decreased the ileal and fecal organic matter digestibility, and they often lowered crude protein digestibility. A moderate addition (1.5-8%) of iDF sources increased average daily feed intake (ADFI) and, frequently, average daily gains (ADG). Sources of sDF as well as high inclusion levels of fiber-rich feeds tended to decrease ADFI and ADG. Improved fecal consistency, decreased diarrhea incidence and antibiotic interventions were confirmed in piglets fed diets with added lignocellulose, cooked or raw oat hulls and wheat bran. The dietary inclusion of iDF rather than sDF sources improved gastrointestinal tract (GIT) development, enzyme activity and gut morphology. An increase in the counts of beneficial gut microbiota and the concentrations of short-chain fatty acids was stimulated by diets with addition iDF or sDF sources. Such diets also slowed down proteolytic fermentation which negatively affects the colonic mucosa. Some research findings indicate that iDF sources improve intestinal barrier function. The analyzed experimental data suggest that the addition of 1.5-2% of a lignocellulose preparation, 2% of oat hulls, 4-8% of coarse wheat bran to diets for weaned piglets may be recommended to promote GIT development and health, and to improve growth performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to determine the efficacy of different dietary fruit pomaces in reducing lipid oxidation in the meat of turkeys fed diets with a high content of n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs). Over a period of 4 weeks before slaughter, turkeys were fed diets with the addition of 5% dried apple, blackcurrant, strawberry and seedless strawberry pomaces (groups AP, BP, SP and SSP, respectively) and 2.5% linseed oil. Pomaces differed in the content (from 5.5 in AP to 43.1 mg/g in SSP) and composition of polyphenols Proanthocyanidins were the main polyphenolic fraction in all pomaces, AP contained flavone glycosides and dihydrochalcones, BP contained anthocyanins, and SP and SSP—ellagitannins. The n-6/n-3 PUFA ratio in all diets was comparable and lower than 2:1. In comparison with groups C and AP, the percentage of n-3 PUFAs in the total fatty acid pool of white meat from the breast muscles of turkeys in groups BP, SP and SSP was significantly higher, proportionally to the higher content of α-linolenic acid in berry pomaces. The fatty acid profile of dark meat from thigh muscles, including the n-6/n-3 PUFA ratio, was similar and lower than 3:1 in all groups. Vitamin A levels in raw breast muscles were higher in group AP than in groups C and BP (P<0.05). The addition of fruit pomaces to turkey diets lowered vitamin E concentrations (P = 0.001) in raw breast muscles relative to group C. Diets supplemented with fruit pomaces significantly lowered the concentration of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) in raw, frozen and cooked meat. Our results indicate that the dietary application of dried fruit pomaces increases the oxidative stability of meat from turkeys fed linseed oil, and strawberry pomace exerted the most desirable effects due to its highest polyphenol content and antioxidant potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The popularity of plant-based feed additives in livestock production has increased significantly in the last decade. Polyphenols are secondary plant metabolites which contain bioactive components and deliver positive effects for humans and animals. They are renowned for their anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory and anti-mutagenic effects. Polyphenols have antioxidant properties, and they minimize the negative consequences of oxidative stress. Their antioxidant capacity is comparable to that of the major biological antioxidants: vitamins E and C. Despite those advantages, polyphenols are characterized by low bioavailability, and further research is needed to harness their full potential in livestock farming. This article presents a review of findings from recent studies investigating the efficacy of polyphenols in monogastric nutrition, with special emphasis on their antioxidant properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the study was to determine changes in nitrogen fractions during the ensiling of lucerne and red clover herbage in bales. Protein nitrogen and non-protein nitrogen compounds in herbage and silage were distinguished. Furthermore, buffer soluble nitrogen compounds (BSN) were determined and divided into buffer soluble protein and non-protein nitrogen (BSPN and NPBSN, respectively). In addition, peptide nitrogen and amino acid nitrogen were distinguished within the NPBSN fraction, while nitrogen compounds were divided into those of low solubility (NDIN) and completely insoluble (ADIN). The research findings confirmed the effect of a legume plant species on changes in the content of nitrogen fractions during the ensiling in round bales. The ensiling of lucerne herbage grossly decreased the protein nitrogen fraction while raising the total soluble fraction of nitrogen. Nitrogen in the form of soluble proteins, NDIN and ADIN was the least affected. The study demonstrated a different response of the two legume plant species to ensiling with respect to all fractions. A high proportion of protein nitrogen in round bale wilted red clover silage was accompanied by a large contribution of insoluble nitrogen fractions. A large share of the protein nitrogen fraction in red clover silage does not necessarily mean a higher nutritional value of the protein because it may contain a large amount of protein compounds that are non-hydrolysable by bacterial and intestinal enzymes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Elementology is the property of Journal of Elementology - issued by Polish Magnesium Society 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.)

The aim of the experiment was to compare the antioxidative potential of an oat by-product with the effect of vitamin E on the oxidative stability of pork from pigs fed a diet enriched with linseed oil. Thirty-four crossbreed barrows were fed individually from 39 to 109 kg body weight (BW) on one of four diets: a control diet based on barley–triticale–soybean (Diet C), a diet containing an oat by-product (Diet O), and the same diets supplemented with vitamin E (100 mg/kg diet) (Diets CE and OE, respectively). The oat by-product, comprising oat hulls and bran, was included at 10 and 20% in the grower and finisher diets, respectively. To Diets O and OE, refined rapeseed oil was added to equalise their energy content to Diets C and CE. Compared to Diets C and CE, the inclusion of the oat by-product in Diets O and OE increased the antioxidative capacity of water-soluble and lipid soluble compounds in these diets. Dietary treatment did not influence growth performance, slaughter value, longissimus dorsi (LD) muscle quality measured by nutrient contents, pH, drip loss or colour. Vitamin E supplementation increased the α-tocopherol concentration in serum and meat (p < 0.01), and decreased the formation of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) in the fresh and stored LD (p < 0.01). In addition, diets with the oat by-product increased serum α-tocopherol concentration (p < 0.01) and decreased the TBARS levels in the fresh and stored LD (p < 0.05), without increasing muscle α-tocopherol concentration. The obtained results indicate that the phenolic compounds present in oat by-products have a considerable antioxidant potential and a beneficial effect on the pig organism and oxidative stability of meat. However, dietary inclusion with the oat by-product was not as efficient as supplementation with vitamin E. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Copyright of Journal of Central European Agriculture is the property of Journal of Central European Agriculture 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.)

Most domestic rabbits can convert carotenoids into vitamin A and other metabolites, and their fat remains white. However, if oxidation is impaired, carotenoids gradually accumulate in adipose tissue giving it a yellow color. The objective of this study was to evaluate the levels of vitamin A, vitamin E, β-carotene, xanthophylls and cholesterol, and the fatty acid profile in selected tissues of rabbits with white and yellow fat. Selected production performance parameters and the mortality rates of animals were also determined. The experimental materials consisted of 56 New Zealand Red rabbits. In each group, 28 carcasses had white (W) fat and 28 carcasses had yellow (Y) fat. Yellow-fat rabbits, compared with their white-fat counterparts, were characterized by higher levels of biologically active compounds such as vitamin A, vitamin E, β-carotene and xanthophylls in perirenal fat ( P <0.001 in all cases). Yellow-fat rabbits also had higher concentrations of vitamins A ( P =0.047) and E ( P =0.02) in thigh muscles, and xanthophylls ( P <0.001) in the liver. No significant differences were observed in cholesterol levels in adipose tissue between yellow-fat and white-fat rabbits. No significant differences were noted between the groups in the concentrations of SFA, MUFA and PUFA. The concentrations of capric and lauric acids were higher in group Y rabbits, compared with group W rabbits, in both perirenal fat ( P =0.002 and P <0.001, respectively) and loin ( P =0.001 and P <0.001, respectively), whereas the percentage of palmitic acid was significantly lower in group Y than in group W ( P =0.044 for fat and P =0.037 for loin). Docosahexaenoic acid-DHA (C 22:6 ) concentrations were also lower in group Y than in group W ( P =0.038 for fat and P =0.018 for loin). The yellow-fat trait has no adverse effect on performance parameters or survival rates in growing animals. Our findings suggest that keeping yellow-fat rabbits could be a viable alternative to raising white-fat rabbits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 30-day growth experiment was performed on 44 growing pigs (initial BW 19.3 kg) to determine the effects of diets with a different level of naked oat, and β-glucanase supplementation of a diet with a high oat content, on growth performance. The pigs were fed individually the following diets: a control barley-wheat diet (group BW), a diet containing 23.5% naked oat (BOW), a diet containing 47% naked oat (OB), and a diet containing 47% oat supplemented with 1000 CU/kg β-glucanase (OBG). Nitrogen balance and nutrients digestibility of diets containing 97% wheat or naked oat, with or without 1000 CU/kg β-glucanase, were determined on 20 barrows (initial BW 40.9 kg). Diet BOW containing 23.5% naked oat as a substitute for wheat had no effect on daily gains and feed efficiency, whereas diet OB with 47% oat improved daily gains from 668 to 713 g (P<0.05) and feed efficiency from 2.31 to 2.17 kg/kg (P<0.05), compared with the control barley-wheat diet. Nutrients digestibility was significantly higher (P<0.01) in the case of oat than wheat, except crude protein digestibility, where this difference was non-significant. Naked oat contained more digestible energy than wheat, i.e. 16.14 vs. 14.36 MJ/kg (P<0.01). It has also a higher biological value, compared with wheat (62.4% vs. 54.8%). In the growth experiment β-glucanase supplementation of a diet containing 47% naked oat had no effect on daily gains and feed efficiency, and in the balance experiment it allowed to increase oat gross energy digestibility (P<0.05). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the current work was to evaluate mycotoxins and biogenic amines contents and their changes during storage in maize silages produced in Lithuania after 3 and 8 months of ensilage. Maize silages samples were collected from 20 conventional dairy farms in Lithuania. Mycotoxins were quantified by direct competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA). The highest ZON, DON and OTA contents, respectively 880.04±60.62, 2600.0±260.0 and 29.15±5.6 µg/kg were found in silage samples after 3 months of storage. T-2/HT-2 (T-2 and HT-2 toxins) and aflatoxin total (AFL (total)) respectively 147.25±20.80, 20.05±5.33 μg/kg - after 8 months of storage. The amount of biogenic amines (BA) was determined by high-performance liquid chromatography. The highest biogenic amines content in maize silage samples were found in samples after 3 months of storage. The present study indicates that maize silage is an important source of mycotoxins and biogenic amines in the diet of cattle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently, the quality of lamb meat has been regarded with attention to the content of intramuscular fat, and its fatty acid profile. These indicators are determined by the feed administered to the animals. Apparently, the type of silage used in animal nutrition may be important. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of feeding lambs with silages produced from different plant species on selected meat quality traits. The experiment was conducted on 24 ram lambs, divided into 3 equal groups fed with red clover silage, alfalfa silage, and grass silage, respectively. After 60 days of fattening, the lambs were slaughtered. Samples collected from musculus longissimus lumborum were assayed for: contents of intramuscular fat, cholesterol, the vitamins retinol and α-tocopherol, and the fatty acid profile of intramuscular fat. The meat of lambs fed red clover silage was characterized by a higher content of fat compared to lambs receiving grass silage (P ≤ 0.05). The concentration of vitamin E in the group fed grass silage was the highest and differed significantly (P ≤ 0.01) compared to the group fed alfalfa silage. Intramuscular fat of lambs fed red clover silage contained more polyunsaturated fatty acids n-3 and was characterized by a lower ratio of polyunsaturated fatty acids n-6:n-3 compared to the lambs fed grass silage. The concentration of conjugated linoleic acid was higher in lambs fed grass silage compared to fat of lambs from the other groups (P ≤ 0.05). Feeding lambs with silages produced from various plant species had a positive effect on traits characterizing the health quality of meat. Until now, only a few studies have been conducted in this species; this is the first such comprehensive study in sheep. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the present experiment was to compare production effects and the content of fatty acids in milk and metabolites in blood of cows in the first 100 days of lactation when cows were fed rations with high-moisture corn (HMC) or corn cob mix (CCM), both with 20% content of DM in TMR. The research was conducted on 36 HF multiparous cows divided into two feeding groups (HMC, CCM). Two periods of lactation were distinguished: to the 30th day and 31-100th days of lactation. DMI in both groups was similar and amounted to 23.85 kg. In the preliminary lactation phase (to the 30th day), a higher milk production (by 5.65 kg) with lower protein content in milk (p≤0.01), lower SFA content (particularly C12, C14, C16) and higher MUFA content, including oleic acid (p≤0.01) was observed in cows fed CCM. Moreover, for HMC diet the contents of urea in milk and BUN were lower (p≤0.01) while the use of ration nitrogen and glucose concentration in blood were higher (p≤0.05 and 0.01 respectively) in comparison to the CCM diet. The lactation phase determined the FA profile in milk, TG level and total cholesterol in blood. There was no interaction observed between the diet type or lactation phase and ECM efficiency, fat content in milk, daily efficiency of fat and protein as well as the content of total protein in blood serum or the activity of AST and ALT enzymes. The use of simplified corn harvest technology in the form of corn cobs (CCM) may be the alternative to traditional harvest with a harvester which lowers the feeding costs of high-yielding dairy cows. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]