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A hybrid camel Tülü (Bactrian male x Dromedary female F1) males are preferred in camel wrestling, which is a culture unique to Anatolia. In this study, changes of live weight (LW), daily weight gain (DWG), and body measurements (BMs) of Tülü calves in the first 6 months of age in a farm in Aydın province, Türkiye, were determined as well as developing equations to estimate LW from body measurements. Tülü calves average birth weight (BW) was 34.7±1.80 kg and reached 175.3±3.38 kg at the age of 6 months with a 0.768±0.03 kg DWG during this time. Although the monthly total weight gains and monthly DWG averages of the calves in the first 6 months were similar, the changes in monthly LW and BMs were statistically significant (P

Simple Summary: The franciscana dolphin (Pontoporia blainvillei) is a small cetacean that is endemic to the coastal waters of the southwestern Atlantic Ocean, ranging from Espirito Santo (Brazil) to the northern coast of San Matías Gulf (Argentina). The franciscana lives in shallow waters, less than 50 m deep, and is subject to high levels of bycatch mortality in gillnets due to commercial and artisanal fishing activities. Consequently, it has been considered a vulnerable species by the IUCN (International Union for the Conservation of Nature) since 2006. The objective of this study is to present the case of the rehabilitation of a franciscana dolphin calf that was stranded in San Clemente del Tuyú, Argentina, at the beginning of the predation period. This study describes the husbandry conditions and feeding schedule used during the rehabilitation until its death, 88 days after admission. The results of hematological, cytological, and fecal analyses conducted during the rehabilitation period, as well as its diet, which was prepared by hand, are presented. These findings provide an important baseline for future studies on franciscana dolphins. This information may also be useful in the implementation and development of healthcare protocols for this species. The franciscana dolphin (Pontoporia blainvillei) is a small cetacean endemic to the coastal waters of the southwestern Atlantic Ocean. Due to its restricted distribution, it is subject to high bycatch mortality in the gillnets used for commercial and artisanal fishing. The rehabilitation of the franciscana is still a major challenge, as most attempts to rehabilitate stranded animals have failed. This study aims to present the case of the rehabilitation of a franciscana dolphin calf, stranded in San Clemente del Tuyú, Argentina, at the beginning of the predation period. The feeding strategy and nutritional profile at different stages during the 88 days of rehabilitation are meticulously detailed. Its diet was prepared by hand based on studies of milk composition, the feeding ecology of franciscana in Argentinean waters, and previous records of the Fundación Mundo Marino Rehabilitation Center. The diets were designed to meet the nutritional needs of franciscana dolphins. In addition, the hematological, cytological, and fecal analyses recorded during the rehabilitation are presented. Although the animal could not be released, due to its death, this report provides baseline information that can improve the ability of veterinarians to care for debilitated, live-stranded dolphins. This information may also be useful in the implementation and development of healthcare protocols for this species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Raw potato fries are a type of potato by-product (PBP), and they have great potential as a partial replacement of grain in animal feeds to improve the environmental sustainability of food production. This study aimed to investigate the effects of replacing corn with different levels of PBP (0%, 12.84%, 25.65%, and 38.44%) in the total mixed ration (TMR) of Angus bull. Sixty 16-month-old Angus bulls (548.5 ± 15.0 kg, mean ± SD) were randomly assigned to four treatments. The results indicated that with the increase in the substitution amount of PBP, the body weight decreased significantly. The dry matter apparent digestibility and starch apparent digestibility linearly decreased as PBP replacement increased. The feed ingredient composition in the TMR varied, leading to a corresponding change in the rumen microbiota, especially in cellulolytic bacteria and amylolytic bacteria. The abundance of Succiniclasticum in the 12.84% PBP and 38.44% PBP diets was significantly higher than that in the 0% PBP and 25.65% PBP diets. The abundance of Ruminococcus linearly increased. In conclusion, using PBP to replace corn for beef cattle had no negative impact on rumen fermentation, and the decrease in apparent digestibility explained the change in growth performance. Its application in practical production is highly cost-effective and a strategy to reduce food waste. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Acta Prataculturae Sinica is the property of Acta Prataculturae Sinica Editorial Office 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.)

Humate may be a valuable livestock feed additive, with potential effects on nutrient utilisation and animal performance. Thus, the aim of this study was to investigate the effect of K Humate S 100R supplementation on the feed intake, liveweight gain, and carcass parameters of Angus steers. Within individual pens, 40 weaned steers were allocated to four treatment groups (n = 10/potassium humate K Humate S100R, Omnia Specialities Australia) for 100 days. The treatment groups included Group 1, 35 g K Humate S100R/animal/day; Group 2, 70 g K Humate S100R/animal/day; Group 3, 140 g K Humate S100R/animal/day; and Control Group, which were not supplemented with K Humate S100R (0 g K Humate S100R/animal/day). Chemical and mineral composition of the feed ingredients, dry matter intake (DMI), and average daily weight gains were recorded. The steers were slaughtered as a single group at a commercial Australian abattoir. Standard measures for hot standard carcass weight, eye muscle area, fat depth and coverage, marbling, ossification, meat and fat colour, dressing percentage and loin pH values at 24‐hour postmortem were recorded. It was found that the steers allocated to Group 2 had higher DMI (P = 0.003) and feed conversion ratio (FCR) (P < 0.001) compared with those allocated to Group 1 and the Control Group. The MSA marbling score was lowest for steers allocated to the Control Group (P < 0.05) and comparable for those allocated to Groups 1, 2, and 3. Together, these results demonstrate that increased levels of K Humate S100R supplementation improved the carcass quality, via an increase in MSA. However, further research is warranted on the potential effects of humates supplementation on intramuscular fat associated qualities of beef. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The yak has a unique physiological structure suited to life in anoxic and cold environments at high altitudes. The aim of this study was to isolate Bacillus species with good probiotic properties from yak feces. A series of tests were performed on the isolated Bacillus: 16S rRNA identification, antibacterial activity, tolerance to gastroenteric fluid, hydrophobicity, auto-aggregation, antibiotic sensitivity, growth performance, antioxidants, and immune indexes. A safe and harmless Bacillus pumilus DX24 strain with good survival rate, hydrophobicity, auto-aggregation, and antibacterial activity was identified in the yak feces. Feeding mice with Bacillus pumilus DX24 increased their daily weight gain, jejunal villus length, villi/Crypt ratio, blood IgG levels, and jejunum sIgA levels. This study confirmed the probiotic effects of Bacillus pumilus isolated from yak feces and provides the theoretical basis for the clinical application and development of new feed additives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Progressive ataxia is an autosomal recessive defect that is lethal due to the irreversible changes it causes to the brain and spinal cord. Only homozygous carriers of the mutated KIF1C allele manifest progressing clinical signs, mostly no earlier than 12–24 months of age. The objectives of this field study were to determine the prevalence of the mutated KIF1C allele, uncover its associations with growth and muscle conformation, and build awareness of this lethal condition among beef cattle breeders in Germany. A total of 1315 samples was sent in for mutation testing. Prevalence of the mutated KIF1C allele was 11.75%, resulting from 293 heterozygous and 8 homozygous mutant animals. Homozygous carriers of the mutated KIF1C allele showed a significant superiority in estimated breeding values for daily weight gain and muscle conformation. In order to reduce the frequency of the mutated KIF1C allele, genetic testing should be introduced for Charolais cattle and should be mandatory for all Charolais breeding bulls. It is important to create awareness of this condition among beef cattle breeders, in addition to the possibilities of preventing the number of affected animals. In addition, genetic testing of eight further beef, dual-purpose, or dairy cattle breeds revealed that two German Angus cattle showed heterozygous mutations for the KIF1C A-allele; therefore, we recommend genetic testing of German Angus to prevent the spread of the KIF1C allele. Bovine progressive ataxia in Charolais cattle was first described in the 1970s; then, cases were reported in Charolais worldwide. A homozygous loss-of-function mutation within the KIF1C gene (c.608G>A) was found to be responsible for this neurodegenerative disease. The aim of this study was to determine whether the mutated KIF1C allele segregates in the German Charolais population and whether the estimated breeding values for growth and muscle conformation are associated with the mutated genotypes. Genetic test results of the KIF1C:c.608G>A variant were available for 1315 Charolais cattle from 35 herds located in Germany. In addition, 324 samples from eight other beef cattle breeds were tested for the mutated KIF1C allele. We were able to demonstrate that the KIF1C mutation is common, with a frequency of 11.75% in the German Charolais population. All but two of the eight (2/8 = 25%) homozygous mutated individuals showed clinical signs consistent with progressive ataxia. The estimated breeding values of muscle conformation in 200- and 365-day-old animals indicated a significant superiority for homozygous mutated animals when compared either with heterozygous or homozygous wild-type genotypes; this was also the case for heterozygous genotypes in comparison with homozygous wild-type genotypes. For the estimated breeding values of daily weight gain in 200- and 365-day-old animals, the significant differences between homozygous mutated and heterozygous or wild-type genotypes were in favour of the homozygous mutant animals. There were no differences in the estimated maternal breeding values among all three KIF1C genotypes. For the first time, two German Angus cattle carrying the KIF1C mutation heterozygous were detected. The breeders' survey highlighted that increased awareness would facilitate increased conviction among breeders of the need for genetic testing in order to eliminate the lethal KIF1C allele. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Raw potato fries are a type of potato by-product (PBP), and they have great potential as a partial replacement of grain in animal feeds to improve the environmental sustainability of food production. This study aimed to investigate the effects of replacing corn with different levels of PBP (0%, 12.84%, 25.65%, and 38.44%) in the total mixed ration (TMR) of Angus bull. Sixty 16-month-old Angus bulls (548.5 ± 15.0 kg, mean ± SD) were randomly assigned to four treatments. The results indicated that with the increase in the substitution amount of PBP, the body weight decreased significantly. The dry matter apparent digestibility and starch apparent digestibility linearly decreased as PBP replacement increased. The feed ingredient composition in the TMR varied, leading to a corresponding change in the rumen microbiota, especially in cellulolytic bacteria and amylolytic bacteria. The abundance of Succiniclasticum in the 12.84% PBP and 38.44% PBP diets was significantly higher than that in the 0% PBP and 25.65% PBP diets. The abundance of Ruminococcus linearly increased. In conclusion, using PBP to replace corn for beef cattle had no negative impact on rumen fermentation, and the decrease in apparent digestibility explained the change in growth performance. Its application in practical production is highly cost-effective and a strategy to reduce food waste.

Copyright of Acta Prataculturae Sinica is the property of Acta Prataculturae Sinica Editorial Office 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.)

Simple Summary: In meat sheep and sheep bred for other purposes, meat quality is one of the factors evaluated in a breeding programme. In this study, we included 25 sheep breeds from Germany with a sufficient amount of performance and pedigree data. The heritability, genetic and residual correlations were estimated for daily weight gain, meatiness score and ultrasound measurements for the muscle and fat thickness of the sheep breeds. We employed animal models to analyse inbreeding depression by estimating linear slopes of inbreeding coefficients on meat performance traits. For daily weight gain, inbreeding depression was significant for all sheep breeds. When considering single breeds, significant inbreeding depression was only found in two breeds. The meatiness scores did not show significant inbreeding depression across breeds, nor in single breeds, but only in one breed. The ultrasound measurements for muscle and fat thickness were not significant for inbreeding depression either across or within breeds. Purging effects did not prove to be significant either across or within breeds. Our data show that inbreeding depression and purging can be present in traits under strong selection. This study provides estimates on genetic parameters, inbreeding depression and purging for meat performance measures from 25 German sheep breeds. All German meat, merino sheep breeds and breeds of other breeding directions with a sufficient number of pedigree and performance data were included in this study. Phenotypic traits retrieved from the national database OviCap were evaluated: daily weight gain, meatiness score and ultrasound measurements for muscle and fat thickness. We employed animal models to estimate heritability, variance and covariance components for these meat performance traits as well as inbreeding depression and purging. The heritabilities, on average, reached estimates of 0.55, 0.34, 0.53 and 0.61 for daily weight gain, meatiness score and ultrasound measurements for muscle and fat thickness, respectively. We estimated the linear regression slopes for the individual rate of inbreeding, new and ancestral inbreeding, as well as the inbreeding coefficient and its interaction with the inbreeding coefficient of Ballou, employing animal models with non-genetic effects and the additive genetic effect of the animal. Across all breeds, inbreeding was only significant for daily weight gain, whereas for all other traits, estimates were not significant. Within sheep breeds, we found significant inbreeding depression for daily weight gain in German Mutton Merino and German Blackheaded Mutton as well as for the meatiness score in German Whiteheaded Mutton. Significant effects for purging, based on ancestral inbreeding and the interaction effect of the classical inbreeding coefficient with the inbreeding coefficient of Ballou, were not obvious either across or within any sheep breed. A 1% increase in inbreeding significantly decreased the phenotypic trait median of daily weight gain across all sheep breeds by 0.50% and 0.70% of phenotypic and genetic standard deviation, respectively. Purging effects due to ancestral inbreeding were not significant in any breed or across breeds. The results of this study may indicate that inbreeding depression may be more harmful in traits under stronger selection than in traits that exert low selection pressure. The results of this study demonstrate the different effects that result in meat performance traits due to inbreeding. With increasing rates of inbreeding and critical effective population sizes, selection intensity for breeding objectives has to be critically reviewed for each sheep breed. Inbreeding depression and purging should be evaluated in order to prevent a decrease in trait means due to inbreeding and to determine whether detrimental alleles are eliminated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A quasiexperimental field study was undertaken in 576 exclusively breastfed (EBF) infants from 0 to 14 weeks in Gujarat, India to assess the effect of the use of appropriate breastfeeding techniques on daily weight gain rate and on reducing the underweight rate in early infancy. The interventions were delivered through the existing health system and focused primarily on counselling pregnant women during antenatal and post‐natal sessions for ensuring 'effective breastfeeding' by adoption of the technique of 'cross cradle hold', appropriate breast attachment, emptying of one breast before shifting to the other along with conducting regular monitoring of infant's weight. The intervention care group (ICG) of 300 EBF infants were compared with 276 EBF infants in the control standard care group (SCG). The findings revealed that median weight gain per day between 0 and 14 weeks was significantly higher (p = 0.000) in ICG (32.7 g) as compared with SCG (28.05 g). The median weight‐for‐age Z at 14 weeks of age was also significantly higher in ICG compared with SCG (p = 0.000). Underweight prevalence was three times lower in ICG (5.3%) compared with SCG (16.7%) at 14 weeks of age. Infants in the ICG were noted to be 2.65‐fold more likely to achieve a weight gain of 30 g or more per day compared with infants in SCG. Nutrition interventions, therefore, must aim not only on mere promotion of EBF for up to 6 months but stress on ensuring EBF is 'effective' for optimum transfer of breastmilk through adoption of appropriate techniques, including cross‐cradle hold, by mothers. Key messages: Breastfeeding, even if exclusive, can be suboptimal if the skills of mothers are not appropriate resulting in poor breastmilk transfer and poor intake of nutrients by a baby.Effective counselling on appropriate attachment to the breast, hold and positioning, is important to increase secretion of milk and optimise the transfer of breastmilk and thus improve infant nutritional status.This study shows that counselling mothers on cross cradle hold technique of breastfeeding during antenatal and post‐natal care periods combined with the frequent weighing of infants significantly escalates daily weight gain to over 30 g/day in 0–14 weeks of age. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to investigate the effect of palmitic acid, added in the diets of finishing male sheep, affecting productive variables, carcass quality and meat. A total of 21 male sheep, cross of the Dorper and Pelibuey breeds, were used and divided into three treatments: control (CON), comprising sheep fed with the base diet; PA3 treatment, in which the diet included 3% palmitic acid; and PA6 treatment, in which the diet included 6% palmitic acid. The addition of 3% palmitic acid in the diet improved productive variables, carcass quality, and modified the antioxidant capacity without affecting the physicochemical characteristics of the meat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction[1]: In order to maximize poultry production, it is important to have knowledge of the bird's requirements. This can help to increase their production capacity. Since feed is a major expense in poultry production, it is crucial to consider the main components of the feed. Energy and protein are vital nutrients for poultry. Energy is necessary for body function, while protein is an essential constituent of all tissues in the bird's body. Proteins have a significant impact on the growth performance of birds, and they are also the most expensive nutrient in broiler diets. A lot of research has been done to better utilize feed by the animal and reduce feeding costs. This is important because diets that contain excessive amounts of certain nutrients can lead to nutrient loss and increased breeding costs. The Khazak hen is a native hen of the Sistan region and is known for its small body size. Achieving better growth performance in this bird requires determining the optimal levels of energy and dietary protein in different phases of production. Since there is no information about the optimal level of energy and protein in the growth period for Khazak chickens, so this study was conducted to determine the effect of different levels of energy and protein on growth performance of Khazak native chickens and select the best combination of energy and protein levels at 7 to 91 days of age. Materials and Methods: The research was performed on Khazak chickens in the Research Center of Domestic Animals (RCDA) in the University of Zabol, Zabol, Iran. A total of 360 seven- day- old chicks were randomly allocated to 9 dietary treatments including three levels of energy (2600, 2800 and 3000 kcal / kg) and protein (17, 19 and 21%) as a factorial experiment in a completely randomized design with four replications, and 10 birds in each replication. The chicks entered the experimental pen in seven days of old and they were examined with experimental diets for 12 weeks. The birds had ad libitum access to feed and water throughout the experiment. Eenvironmental conditions in terms of light, temperature and humidity were considered similar for experimental treatments. Weighing chickens and feed intake were measured weekly. Other parameters including average daily body weight gain, feed conversion ratio, daily energy and protein intake, energy and protein efficiency ratio were calculated based on the body weight and feed intake data, in three age ranges (7 to 35, 35 to 63 and 63 to 91 days of age) and the whole period. The collected data were analyzed using GLM procedure of SAS software version 9.1 and the means were compared with Tukey test at 5% level. Results and Discussion: The study results indicate that varying energy and protein levels had a significant impact on weight gain, feed intake (except during the 63-91 day age range), feed conversion ratio, and energy and protein intake (excluding the 63-91 day age range) during all three periods studied as well as over the entire period (P < 0.05). Furthermore, the interaction between energy and protein showed a significant effect on all variables studied across all periods (P < 0.05). However, the impact of energy and protein levels on protein efficiency ratio (PER) and energy efficiency ratio (EER) was not significant. During the starter period, physical limitations may cause birds to consume less energy with low-density diets. Thus, when birds consume diets that are low in energy and protein during this period, their energy consumption declines due to these physical limitations. The study results indicate that determining optimal energy and protein levels in the diet is crucial for maximizing the performance of native chickens. To balance poultry performance and economic production, an applied feeding program that compromises between the animal's nutritional requirements and management needs is necessary. Consequently, one approach to achieving this balance is by developing a diet formulation that can regulate a specific ratio of protein to renewable energy. Conclusion: Although, the many performance variables were not significant between energy levels of 3000 with 2800 kcal/kg and protein levels of 21 with 19%, but the negative effect on performance was observed by reducing energy level to 2600 kcal/kg and protein level to 17 %. So level of 2800 kcal/kg and 19% for energy and protein suggested for these ages of chickens.

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of sex on the weight gain of calves raised in silvopastoral systems. Beween 2019 and 2020, 30 calves divided into two groups according to sex (females and males) were evaluated. At birth, the calves were identified and weighed within the first hours after birth. Afterward, a weight measurement was performed monthly in the morning time until 18 months of age. Likewise, daily weight gains (kg) and final weight (kg) were calculated. From birth to weaning, the calves were kept in restricted suckling systems (after milking, they were held with the mother and fed with one-quarter of the udder and the residual milk). After weaning, the animals were abruptly separated and placed in 15 38-hectare paddocks with silvopastoral systems and rotational grazing in pastures with native and introduced grasses and natural shade. The data was analyzed by comparing means using Tukey’s test with a significance level of p

Introduction: In order to maximize poultry production, it is important to have knowledge of the bird's requirements. This can help to increase their production capacity. Since feed is a major expense in poultry production, it is crucial to consider the main components of the feed. Energy and protein are vital nutrients for poultry. Energy is necessary for body function, while protein is an essential constituent of all tissues in the bird's body. Proteins have a significant impact on the growth performance of birds, and they are also the most expensive nutrient in broiler diets. A lot of research has been done to better utilize feed by the animal and reduce feeding costs. This is important because diets that contain excessive amounts of certain nutrients can lead to nutrient loss and increased breeding costs. The Khazak hen is a native hen of the Sistan region and is known for its small body size. Achieving better growth performance in this bird requires determining the optimal levels of energy and dietary protein in different phases of production. Since there is no information about the optimal level of energy and protein in the growth period for Khazak chickens, so this study was conducted to determine the effect of different levels of energy and protein on growth performance of Khazak native chickens and select the best combination of energy and protein levels at 7 to 91 days of age. Materials and Methods: The research was performed on Khazak chickens in the Research Center of Domestic Animals (RCDA) in the University of Zabol, Zabol, Iran. A total of 360 seven- day- old chicks were randomly allocated to 9 dietary treatments including three levels of energy (2600, 2800 and 3000 kcal / kg) and protein (17, 19 and 21%) as a factorial experiment in a completely randomized design with four replications, and 10 birds in each replication. The chicks entered the experimental pen in seven days of old and they were examined with experimental diets for 12 weeks. The birds had ad libitum access to feed and water throughout the experiment. Eenvironmental conditions in terms of light, temperature and humidity were considered similar for experimental treatments. Weighing chickens and feed intake were measured weekly. Other parameters including average daily body weight gain, feed conversion ratio, daily energy and protein intake, energy and protein efficiency ratio were calculated based on the body weight and feed intake data, in three age ranges (7 to 35, 35 to 63 and 63 to 91 days of age) and the whole period. The collected data were analyzed using GLM procedure of SAS software version 9.1 and the means were compared with Tukey test at 5% level. Results and Discussion: The study results indicate that varying energy and protein levels had a significant impact on weight gain, feed intake (except during the 63-91 day age range), feed conversion ratio, and energy and protein intake (excluding the 63-91 day age range) during all three periods studied as well as over the entire period (P < 0.05). Furthermore, the interaction between energy and protein showed a significant effect on all variables studied across all periods (P < 0.05). However, the impact of energy and protein levels on protein efficiency ratio (PER) and energy efficiency ratio (EER) was not significant. During the starter period, physical limitations may cause birds to consume less energy with low-density diets. Thus, when birds consume diets that are low in energy and protein during this period, their energy consumption declines due to these physical limitations. The study results indicate that determining optimal energy and protein levels in the diet is crucial for maximizing the performance of native chickens. To balance poultry performance and economic production, an applied feeding program that compromises between the animal's nutritional requirements and management needs is necessary. Consequently, one approach to achieving this balance is by developing a diet formulation that can regulate a specific ratio of protein to renewable energy. Conclusion: Although, the many performance variables were not significant between energy levels of 3000 with 2800 kcal/kg and protein levels of 21 with 19%, but the negative effect on performance was observed by reducing energy level to 2600 kcal/kg and protein level to 17 %. So level of 2800 kcal/kg and 19% for energy and protein suggested for these ages of chickens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The work aimed to evaluate the growth ability of Czech Fleckvieh bulls in the conditions of modern stable based on their breeding lines. A total of 94 bulls were included in the experiment. The growth curve, weight at standardized ages, and weight gain were evaluated. The average weight of fattened bulls ranged from 109.43 kg at the age of 90 days to 705.65 kg at the end of the fattening period. Statistically significant model function was created by regression analysis and included the effects of bull sire, peers, age, and age squared. Furthermore, we used a linear model with the effects: birth month of the bull, the group of peers, the breeding line of bull sire, and random repeated effect of the animal. Significant differences were observed for the month of birth and between groups of peers. The effect of the breeding line was significant for regression analysis, however in evaluation based on linear model it was significant only for the weight at the beginning of fattening. The results suggest that in the standardized conditions of a modern stable with good housing and nutrition, the genetic predisposition for the growth ability of dual-purpose Fleckvieh cattle was attenuated.

Goat rearing is a key livelihood sector in Ethiopian agriculture, upheld in diversified agroecology and inputs, which calls for the study of innate performances description. Moreover, performance determination at age intervals has an immense role in management and genetic interference in the near future for selection and upgrading. As a result, the study aimed to evaluate the effects of agroecology, birth type and sex on the growth performance of Arsi-Bale goat-born kids under old-style supervision practices in three agro-ecologies. Live body weight data were recorded on 71 kids from the birth period until yearling age for a total of 25 days in a year. Statistical Analysis Systems version 9.4 was used to analyse the data. The average live weight at birth, three months, six months and yearling ages were 2.0, 7.6, 13.0, and 19.3 kg, respectively. As well, the average weight gain immediately after birth, three months, six months and yearling ages were 125.3, 60.4, 70.1 and 40.2 g/day, respectively. The effect of agroecology was highly significant (p=0.01) at birth, weaning and yearling ages. Moreover, live body weight and weight gain at six months and yearling ages were higher in midland and lowland agro-ecologies. However, three-month-old weight gain was nonsignificant (p=0.05) among the environs. Kids born single were significantly higher (p=0.01) at birth weight but no differences (p=0.05) were observed across the rest of the ages on birth type. An increment in live weight and daily weight gain was higher in the females when aged due to sexual characteristics differences for early maturation. Thus, the effects of agroecology and sex was higher for performance variation under prolonged thermal pressure across seasons as well as sharing of dam milk for home consumption was an added factor in the lowlands. As a result, improvement of quality and quantity feeds and shelters for day-night thermal stress effects in routine seasonal changes can lead to a reasonable advance in yield of Arsi-Bale goat's kids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to measure the potential and basal feed introduction (corn stover, gliricidia leaves, Panicum maximum) with the addition of Indigofera zollingeriana, which is expected to increase the goat performance. Fifteen goats aged 9-12 months, with an initial weight of ±20 kg were randomly assigned in completely randomized design (CRD) to one of three treatments and five replications. The treatment were P1 = 60% basal feed + 40% Indigofera zollingeriana, P2 = 70% basal feed + 30% Indigofera zollingeriana, P3= 80% basal feed + 20% Indigofera zollingeriana. We assessed the study outcomes as follows: daily weight gain (DWG), dry matter intake (DMI), feed efficiency and physiological responses. Data was statistically analyzed with Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and Duncan’s multiple range test. ANOVA test showed that the treatments significantly affected (p0.05) affect rectal temperature and heart rate. Mean rectal temperature and heart rate were 38.2-39.8°C and 80-90 beats per minute, respectively. In conclusion, the administration of 60% basal feed (20% corn straw, 20% gamal leaves and 20% Panicum maximum) and 40% Indigofera zollingeriana could improve the goat’s performance.

Simple Summary: Molecular breeding can accelerate the process of animal breeding and improve breeding efficiency. At present, many Indel molecular markers have been identified in livestock and poultry, but how Indels affect economic traits is not well understood. For molecular breeding, it is crucial to reveal the mechanism of action of Indels and to provide more accurate information. The purpose of this study was to investigate how the 52/224-bp multiallelic Indels of the chicken QPCTL promoter area affect the daily weight gain of chickens and the potential regulatory mechanism of the QPCTL gene. The analysis was conducted by association analysis, qPCR, dual-fluorescence assay and Western blotting. The results of this study suggest that Indels in the promoter region of the QPCTL gene may regulate the proliferation and differentiation of chicken primary myoblasts by affecting the expression of QPCTL, which ultimately affects the growth rate of chickens. These Indels have important value for the molecular breeding of chickens, and QPCTL can be used as a candidate gene to regulate and improve chicken growth and development. Molecular breeding can accelerate the process of animal breeding and improve the breeding efficiency. To date, many Indel molecular markers have been identified in livestock and poultry, but how Indels affect economic traits is not well understood. For molecular breeding, it is crucial to reveal the mechanism of action of Indels and to provide more accurate information. The purpose of this study was to investigate how the 52/224-bp multiallelic Indels of the chicken QPCTL promoter area affect the daily weight gain of chickens and the potential regulatory mechanism of the QPCTL gene. The analysis was conducted by association analysis, qPCR, dual-fluorescence assay and Western blotting. The results showed that Indels in the QPCTL promoter region were significantly associated with the daily weight gain in chickens and that QPCTL expression showed a decreasing trend in embryonic breast muscle tissues. Furthermore, QPCTL expression was significantly higher in breast muscle tissues of the AC genotype than in those of the AB and BB genotypes. Based on the transcriptional activity results, the pGL3-C vector produced more luciferase activity than pGL3-A and pGL3-B. In addition, overexpression of QPCTL promoted chicken primary myoblast (CPM) proliferation and inhibited differentiation. The results of this study suggest that Indels in the promoter region of the QPCTL gene may regulate the proliferation and differentiation of CPMs by affecting the expression of QPCTL, which ultimately affects the growth rate of chickens. These Indels have important value for the molecular breeding of chickens, and QPCTL can be used as a candidate gene to regulate and improve chicken growth and development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluated the structure of vegetation and the performance of rearing heifers and cull cows in Campos grasslands managed in the rotational stocking method with first-last stocking in the spring-summer period. The treatments were different rest intervals of 402 and 252 degrees-day, which favor the growth of different functional groups of grasses. A completely randomized block design with two treatments and three repetitions was used. The test animals were 24 heifers in the "first" group and 24 cows in the "last" group. In the stratum between tussock grasses, sward heights greater than 0.16 m were predominant in both treatments, it was 1.3 times more frequent in the 402 DD treatment compared to the 252 DD treatment. Average stocking rate was 22% higher in the 252 DD treatment. Although, no differences were observed for the average daily gain of heifers (0.227 kg.day-1) and cows (0.336 kg.day-1) between treatments, the weight gain per area in the experimental period was greater in the 252 DD treatment. Despite the management system with first and last stoking does not provide significant changes in the structure of the pasture, it allowed to achieve satisfactory performance goals in areas of Campos grassland. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The work aimed to evaluate the growth ability of Czech Fleckvieh bulls in the conditions of modern stable based on their breeding lines. A total of 94 bulls were included in the experiment. The growth curve, weight at standardized ages, and weight gain were evaluated. The average weight of fattened bulls ranged from 109.43 kg at the age of 90 days to 705.65 kg at the end of the fattening period. Statistically significant model function was created by regression analysis and included the effects of bull sire, peers, age, and age squared. Furthermore, we used a linear model with the effects: birth month of the bull, the group of peers, the breeding line of bull sire, and random repeated effect of the animal. Significant differences were observed for the month of birth and between groups of peers. The effect of the breeding line was significant for regression analysis, however in evaluation based on linear model it was significant only for the weight at the beginning of fattening. The results suggest that in the standardized conditions of a modern stable with good housing and nutrition, the genetic predisposition for the growth ability of dual-purpose Fleckvieh cattle was attenuated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rearing of neotropical animals for meat has the potential to improve food security in the Caribbean, South and Central America. Neo-tropical animal species are well adopted to these environments and can be maintained on unconventional feedstuffs such as forages, fruits and vegetable waste. The red-rumped agouti (Dasyprocta leporina) is a neotropical animal with potential for captive rearing for meat production. However, its dietary protein requirements are largely unknown. Therefore this study was done to investigate protein requirements in captive reared juvenile male agoutis. Nine juvenile male agoutis were allocated to one of three treatment groups with varying levels of crude protein (CP). The treatment groups were low crude protein (LP - 100 g/kg DM), medium crude protein (MP - 125 g/kg DM) and high crude protein (HP - 150 g/kg DM). After an initial 6-weeks adaptation period, measurements of dry matter and nutrient intake and weight gain were recorded weekly for 5 weeks. Daily CP intake was unaffected by dietary CP levels (P > 0.05). However, apparent CP digestibility (61.2%) and intake of digestible CP (4.5 g/day) were highest with MP diet. Dry matter intake of LP diet was 17% and 39% higher than MP and HP diets, respectively. Intake of gross energy was highest (1.2 MJ/day) in agoutis fed the LP diet. It was therefore concluded that dietary CP of 100 - 125 g/kg DM can satisfy minimum daily intake of 4.0 g digestible CP which was adequete to achieve average daily gain of approximately 5.0 g in the captive reared juvenile male agouti. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to compare the effects of combined buffer and sodium bicarbonate on growth performance and ruminal parameters of Holstein young bulls with an average weight of 330.8±43.1 kg and an age of 240 days, fed with a high-concentrate diet. The experiment was conducted for 90 days with 10 days of habituation in a completely randomized design with three dietary treatments and 10 replications, and a forage: concentrate ratio of 20 to 80%. Experimental diets included a control diet (without buffer), a basal diet with 1% sodium bicarbonate, and a basal diet with 1% mixed buffer. Daily feed intake, monthly weight gain, and digestibility were measured. The experimental diets did not affect feed intake, weight changes, and digestibility. The best feed conversion ratio for bulls was in treatment of diet containing the mixed buffer supplement (P<0.05). Daily weight gain was higher in bulls fed with the combined buffer than that of the control group (P<0.05). Rumen ammonia nitrogen was higher in the control group than the bulls receiving mixed buffer (P<0.05). The pH of rumen fluid was lowest in the control group, two hours after feeding (P<0.05). The present study results showed that the mixed buffer had a better performance in controlling the rumen acidity of bulls fed with high concentrate diets compared to sodium bicarbonate, especially in terms of improving feed conversion ratio, and it seems to be necessary to add it to such diets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to investigate the effect of substitution of siris foliage with alfalfa forage in the diet of fattening lambs on digestibility, fermentation, and growth performance of fattening lambs. In the present experiment, 27 8-month-old Arabi lambs (31.3 ± 6) with an initial weight of 28.8 ± 1.99 kg were used in a completely randomized design. The effect of experimental diets on dry matter intake was not significant; however, the diets had a significant effect on the intake of neutral detergent fiber (NDF), acid detergent fiber (ADF), and crude protein (P < 0.05). The effect of experimental diets on the apparent digestibility of dry matter, organic matter, NDF, ADF, and crude protein was not significant (P < 0.05). Ammonia nitrogen concentration, pH, and a total population of ruminal fluid protozoa and blood parameters were not affected by experimental diets. Parameters of fattening performance such as feed intake, live weight changes, feed conversion ratio, some carcass traits such as mean weight and size of carcass parts, and colorimetric indices of muscle tissue in the order of fattening lambs were not affected by experimental diets. The use of foliage of siris in the diet of fattening lambs as a substitute with part of alfalfa had no adverse effect on the characteristics studied in the present experiment. Therefore, siris be recommended as part of the diet of fattening lambs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although there have been many genome-wide association studies (GWAS) and selective sweep analyses to understand pig genomic regions related to growth performance, these methods considered only the gene effect and selection signal, respectively. In this study, we suggest the cross-population phenotype associated variant (XP-PAV) analysis as a novel method to determine the genomic variants with different effects between the two populations. XP-PAV analysis could reveal the differential genetic variants between the two populations by considering the gene effect and selection signal simultaneously. In this study, we used daily weight gain (DWG) and back fat thickness (BF) as phenotypes and the Landrace and Yorkshire populations were used for XP-PAV analysis. The main aim was to reveal the differential selection by considering the gene effect between Landrace and Yorkshire pigs. In the gene ontology analysis of XP-PAV results, differential selective genes in DWG analysis were involved in the regulation of interleukin-2 production and cell cycle G2/M transition. The protein modification and glycerophospholipid biosynthetic processes were the most enriched terms in the BF analysis. Therefore, we could identify genetic differences for immune and several metabolic pathways between Landrace and Yorkshire breeds using the XP-PAV analysis. In this study, we expect that XP-PAV analysis will play a role in determining useful selective variants with gene effects and provide a new interpretation of the genetic differences between the two populations.

We have conducted study on the impact on productivity when young pigs are fed with premixed full-formula feed. Based on the daily nutrient requirements for young pigs, we prepared 6 recipes, and fed 60 Landras pigs for 60 days. According to the results of the study, protein and mineral added recipes (recipes 1 and 5) for young pigs increase the daily weight gain by 34.5-39.2 per cent. Live nutrient weight and slaughter output are directly affected by feed nutrition, recipe digestion, and exchange energy amount.

The aim of the current study is to determine the growth performances of Anatolian buffaloes such as birth weight (BW0), body weight at 6 months (BW6), body weight at 12 months (BW12), average daily weight gain from birth to 6 months (ADG0-6), average daily weight gain from birth to 12 months (ADG0-12) and average daily weight gain from 6 to 12 months (ADG6-12), and to identify various nongenetic factors affecting these traits. In the study, the data of 2821 head buffalo calves born from buffaloes bred from the Anatolian Buffalo Breeding Project in Bartin province between 2015-2021 were used. In the present study, the effects of nongenetic factors such as district, calving year and season, calving age, and sex on BW0 and growth performance characteristics were investigated. The mean and standard errors of the BW0, BW6, BW12, ADG0-6, ADG0-12, and ADG6-12values of buffalo calves were calculated as 28.33 ± 0.090 kg, 119.13 ± 0.459 kg, 173.53 ± 0.743 kg, 504.64 ± 2.31 g, 398.24 ± 1.88 g, and 304.27 ± 2.45 g respectively. In the study, except for the effect of calving age on ADG0-6 and ADG6-12 (p > 0.05), the effect of all other nongenetic factors on growth performance was found to be statistically significant (p ≤ 0.05). There is not enough research on environmental factors affecting growth performance at different ages in Anatolian buffaloes. The data on growth performances and significant nongenetic factors obtained in this study will be useful in the selection program and improvement in buffalo husbandry and enlighten future studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background The experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of tree lucerne dried leaves (TLDL) as a substituting supplement for noug seed cake, and wheat bran concentrate mixtures (CM) on feed intake, digestibility, growth, carcass characteristics and economic benefits using Washera sheep fed desho grass hay as a basal diet. Methods Twenty‐five male Washera sheep with an initial body weight of 16 ± 4.01 kg (mean ± SD) were used for both growth and digestibility trials which lasted for 90 and 10 days, respectively The experiment was conducted using a randomized complete block design having five blocks with five treatments (T1 = 0% TLDL + 100% CM; T2 = 25% TLDL + 75% CM; T3 = 50% TLDL + 50% CM; T4 = 75% TLDL + 25% CM and T5 = 100% TLDL + 0% CM). Results Significant (p

Feed phytases are purchased as a dry culture medium of secreting producers, mostly micellar fungi. These preparations are required to withstand heating up to 75–80 °C because they are intended for mixing with feed components with subsequent granulation by spray drying. For this reason, many phytases that have a high specific activity at 37 °C and correspond to the optimal pH of intestinal chyme are not used in practice. A novel expression system allowing accumulation of the phytase from Obesumbacterium proteus within yeast Yarrowia lipolytica was proposed. Encapsulation increases thermal stability of the enzyme from 55 °C up to 70 °C. The obtained preparation exhibited a high impact on the daily weight gain of a weaned mouse model fed a phosphorus-deficient diet at a dosage 165 phytase activity units (FYT)/kg, whereas a commercial phytase preparation—Ladozyme Proxi derived from Aspergillus ficuum—did not improve the daily weight gain even at the dosage of 15,000 FYT/kg. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Variance components and heritabilities for daily weight gain (DWG) were estimated for Nile tilapia farmed in cages across nine generations (G1–G9) of selection in a breeding program in Brazil. DWG was measured in 16,272 accumulated tagged animals representing 535 full‐ and half‐sib families of Nile tilapia under cage farming. The additive genetic variance showed a slight variation (0.051–0.066), and heritability estimates ranged from 0.20 to 0.33. The common environmental effect accounted for a higher proportion of the total variance in DWG, especially in the last generations (6%–24%). A genetic trend based on all data available showed a substantial increase in the DWG (about 3.3% per generation) of Nile tilapia across nine generations of selection. Furthermore, our results demonstrate ample scope for further genetic improvement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to determine the influence of the different proportion of perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne L.) in the meadow sward on its fodder value and daily weight gain of Highland cattle. The research was carried out on meadow sward with natural undergrowth that was cultivated by sowing perennial ryegrass. When preparing the sward for sowing, around 40% of it was damaged with a rotary tiller. The sowing rate for perennial ryegrass seeds was varied and amounted to 5, 10 and 15 kg ha−1. As a result, the following treatments of meadow sward were obtained and distinguished: semi-natural sward without sowing as the control, and three experimental treatments with approximately 18, 36 and 55% share of perennial ryegrass in the meadow sward. The animals were kept in a cowshed. In the nutritional part, the impact of feeding the obtained sward on the daily weight gain of Highland bulls and heifers was assessed. The obtained results showed higher gains in both bulls and heifers fed with sward from grasslands with a greater proportion of perennial ryegrass. The weight gain of the animals resulted from the nutrition, i.e. the quality of the feed obtained from the experimental objects. During the control fattening period, the bulls' average daily weight gain ranged from 649 g to 714 g, while for heifers 556 g to 598 g. Statistical significance (P≤0.05) in body weight gains in both bulls and heifers was shown already at 36% of perennial ryegrass in the meadow sward. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to compare the feed intake and growth performance of young Pyar Sein bulls fed on rice straw with two commercial concentrates. The twelve Pyar Sein bulls were grouped into two treatments, treatment 1 was supplemented with commercial concentrate 1 and treatment 2 was commercial concentrate 2. All grouped bulls were given the same quality of rice straw (RS). Both commercial concentrates were offered on a dry matter basis of 1% live body weight (BW) of bull per day to each group. No significant differences were found between the treatment groups for average body weight gain, average daily gain (ADG), average dry matter intake of RS, average total dry matter intake and average feed conversion efficiency. Structural growths of wither height and rump height of young bulls were not significantly differed between the two commercial concentrates. The two commercial concentrates could be applied in local Pyar Sein bulls fed rice straw without showing different efficiencies in terms of dry matter intake, daily weight gain, feed conversion efficiency and structural growth of body parts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although there have been many genome-wide association studies (GWAS) and selective sweep analyses to understand pig genomic regions related to growth performance, these methods considered only the gene effect and selection signal, respectively. In this study, we suggest the cross-population phenotype associated variant (XP-PAV) analysis as a novel method to determine the genomic variants with different effects between the two populations. XP-PAV analysis could reveal the differential genetic variants between the two populations by considering the gene effect and selection signal simultaneously. In this study, we used daily weight gain (DWG) and back fat thickness (BF) as phenotypes and the Landrace and Yorkshire populations were used for XP-PAV analysis. The main aim was to reveal the differential selection by considering the gene effect between Landrace and Yorkshire pigs. In the gene ontology analysis of XP-PAV results, differential selective genes in DWG analysis were involved in the regulation of interleukin-2 production and cell cycle G2/M transition. The protein modification and glycerophospholipid biosynthetic processes were the most enriched terms in the BF analysis. Therefore, we could identify genetic differences for immune and several metabolic pathways between Landrace and Yorkshire breeds using the XP-PAV analysis. In this study, we expect that XP-PAV analysis will play a role in determining useful selective variants with gene effects and provide a new interpretation of the genetic differences between the two populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study was conducted to evaluate the commercial lifespan and optimum wool harvest interval of Angora rabbits. One hundred shorn Angora rabbits were housed in an organised farm to describe the wool production curve. It showed that the optimum wool harvest interval was 75 d, when fibre length reached 55.0 mm. Wool production was lower from the 3rd to the 6th mo (young stage) than from 7th to 28th mo and rapidly decreased from 28th to 31st mo and was the lowest from 31st to 33rd mo of age. Feed intake-to-wool production ratio was higher from 3rd to 4th and from 7th to 9th mo of age than during the adult stage, and increased from 31st to 33rd mo of age. Daily weight gain was significantly higher from 3rd to 4th mo of age than in any other periods of the adult stage, and was negative from 23rd to 33rd mo of age. Therefore, the study reveals that the commercial lifespan of Angora rabbits was approximately 28 mo. Furthermore, wool production was higher in spring and winter than in autumn, and was the lowest in summer. Concomitantly, feed intake-to-wool production ratio was lower in spring than in autumn and winter, and was the highest in summer. Finally, daily weight gain was higher in spring and autumn than in winter, and was the lowest in summer. This indicates that wool production was depending on the season, and decreased significantly in summer. Moreover, the spring provided the best conditions for Angora rabbits.

The aim of this work was to evaluate growth potential of Blue‑Grey cattle in Czech conditions as the compare its growth traits to initial population. Suitability of specific conditions was evaluated based on growth ability and daily weight gains (DWG). Tested breeds included Shorthorn, Galloway and their crossbred variation called Blue‑Grey cattle. A total of 428 animals were evaluated over a period from 2010 until 2016. Birth weight, live weight at 120, 210 and 365 days of age was monitored for each animal. Also, DWG at 120, 210 and 365 days of age was part of the evaluation. Mixed model (SAS 9.3) was used for statistical evaluation. The influence of sex on growth ability was significantly (P < 0.05) in favour of bulls throughout the evaluated period. Purebred Shorthorns achieved highest weights (from + 2.5 for birth weight to +82.65 kg in weight at 365 days of age) (P < 0.05) and DWG (from + 147.26 g to + 300.37 g (P < 0.05) compare to purebred Galloway throughout the evaluated period. Weight and DWG of Blue‑Greys were significantly better in comparison with Galloway and were more comparable with Shorthorns. Therefore, growth ability was improved mainly by addition of Shorthorn blood. Good growth ability of Blue‑Greys combined with better environmental endurance from Galloway blood makes them well suited for use in organic farming conditions of Czechia.

The objective of this research is to get information the quality of lamb meat fed with vegetables waste silage. The experiments was conducted using 24 local male sheep 8 - 10 months old with weight between 15 - 20 kg. The experimental design used was Completely Randomized Design with 6 treatments and 4 replications. The treatments applied were as follows: T0 = 100% green grass + 0% vegetable waste silage + T1 = 80% green grass + 20% vegetable waste silage, T2 = 60% forage grass + 40% vegetable waste silage, T3 = 40% forage grass + 60% vegetable waste silage, T4 = 20% forage grass + 80% vegetable waste silage and T5 = 0% forage grass + 100% vegetable waste silage. The experiment was carried out for 6 weeks with a 2-week adaptation period. The results showed that vegetable waste silage significantly different results on dry matter consumption, daily weight gain and meat protein, but did not provide significant results for the physical quality of male local lamb meat such as color, weight loss and pH. The best treatment is forage feed 60% and vegetable waste silage 40% with dry matter consumption of 720.38 g/day, daily body weight 88.18 g/day, meat protein 21.05%, color of meat bright red, weight loss 28.57% and pH 5.70.

Abstract: The objective of this work was to analyze the effects of immunocastration on the performance and carcass quality of steers in the finishing phase, compared with non-castration and surgical castration. Data from ten studies with records of 1,261 male bovines were analyzed. The studies included in the meta-analysis necessarily contained treatments with immunocastration specifically against the gonadotropin-releasing hormone. Each study was considered as a random effect in the statistical model used. The data were tested for homogeneity of variances and residue normality, and then subjected to the analysis of variance. Means were compared by Student’s t-test. Non-castrated steers showed greater daily weight gain, feed efficiency, slaughter and hot carcass weights, and loin eye area, besides lower fat thickness than surgically-castrated animals and the lowest a* and b* meat coloration values. Overall, immunocastrated steers were inferior to the non-castrated ones, but superior to those surgically-castrated. Immunocastrated steers present performance and carcass traits superior to those of surgically-castrated animals, but similar meat quality.

Background: The experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of tree lucerne dried leaves (TLDL) as a substituting supplement for noug seed cake, and wheat bran concentrate mixtures (CM) on feed intake, digestibility, growth, carcass characteristics and economic benefits using Washera sheep fed desho grass hay as a basal diet. Methods: Twenty‐five male Washera sheep with an initial body weight of 16 ± 4.01 kg (mean ± SD) were used for both growth and digestibility trials which lasted for 90 and 10 days, respectively The experiment was conducted using a randomized complete block design having five blocks with five treatments (T1 = 0% TLDL + 100% CM; T2 = 25% TLDL + 75% CM; T3 = 50% TLDL + 50% CM; T4 = 75% TLDL + 25% CM and T5 = 100% TLDL + 0% CM). Results: Significant (p <.05) differences were observed among treatments in total dry matter (DM), nutrients and metabolizable energy (ME) intake; as the level of TLDL increases total DM and nutrient intake decreased (p <.05) except neutral detergent fibre intake (NDFI) and acid detergent fibre intake (ADFI). Digestibility of DM, organic matter (OM) and crude protein (CP) were significantly reduced (p <.001) among the treatments increasing the substitution level of TLDL for local concentrate mixture, but non‐significant for fibre fractions digestibility. Similarly, body weight, average daily gain and feed conversion efficiency were significantly different (p <.01) and highest in T1 than other treatments, whereas lowest values of the same parameters were observed for T5. Non‐significant difference among treatments was observed in almost all of the carcass characteristics except for rib‐eye area that showed significant difference among treatment and was highest in T1 and T2 (low level of TLDL inclusion). The economic analysis showed that supplementation TLDL was economically feasible in which the net return of the treatments were 31.66 (T1), 30.68 (T2) and 30.34 (T3), 27.88 (T4) and 26.32 (T5) USD (United States Dollar). Conclusions: It was concluded that TLDL could be used as alternative feed source by replacing concentrate mixture up to 75% (T4) which enhanced nutrient intake, digestibility and growth performance of Washera sheep. Finally, TLDL supplementation is recommended as replacement of CM up to 75% for its biological and economic feasibility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This trial evaluated average daily gain (ADG) effects of heifer calves (< 1 year old) from affordable housing improvements to the roof and flooring on 150 randomly allocated smallholder dairy farms. During the 16-month data collection period, bimonthly farm visits were used to measure weight and other animal- and farm-level factors on the 187 study calves. Multivariable linear regression was used to model ln ADG and ADG during pre-weaning and post-weaning periods, respectively. Median pre-weaning and post-weaning ADGs were 0.307 (interquartile range (IQR): 0.227–0.398) and 0.487 (IQR: 0.354–0.675) kg/d, respectively. In the final pre-weaning model (p<0.050), factors positively associated with ln ADG were calf age at first acaricide application, and total number of calf pens, while factors negatively associated with ln ADG included calf mortality risk over the last 5 years and calf age at first ad lib access to water. In an interaction term, for calves from parity 3+ dams, ADG was lower when milk was fed twice/day than thrice/day, with no difference in calves of lower parity dams. In the final post-weaning model, housing improvements increased ADG by 5.6%. Other factors positively associated with post-weaning ADG were feeding of calf pellets, wheat bran, maize bran, and hay. Calf age at first introduction of concentrate and calf mortality risk over the last 5 years were negatively associated with ADG. In an interaction term, ADG was high when there were faecal coccidia oocysts and when calves had visual or physical contact with their dams, but low when faecal coccidia cysts were present, and these dam-calf connections were absent. In a second interaction term, ADG increased with more calf pens for female principal farmers, while remaining low for male principal farmers. In conclusion, while controlling for other factors of ADG, making affordable calf housing improvements enhanced ADG, particularly during the post-weaning period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The search for better zootechnical indexes such as feed conversion, daily weight gain, uniformity, and lower bird mortality has become a priority within the poultry industry. The use of food restriction programs has emerged as an alternative to improve these rates as well as to mitigate the effect of the increased cost of nutrition over the past few years. In this work, the feed conversion (FC), daily weight gain (DWG), uniformity, and mortality of male broilers submitted to two food restriction programs were evaluated; one program reduced food by 10% and the other by 20% in relation to the feeding program suggested by the Cobb500 strain. One hundred and eighty birds aged 10 days old were housed in 12 boxes for 30 days. Fifteen birds were placed in each box, and four replicates per treatment were designed: T1 (control group—feed intake as recommended by the Cobb500 strain), T2 (10% reduction), and T3 (20% reduction). There was no statistical difference in DWG, uniformity, or mortality between the treatment groups. As for FC, a statistical difference was observed with a gain of 100 g in T2 and 252 g in T3 in relation to T1. The results of this work demonstrate that food restriction programs can be used to improve FC in broiler flocks, without interfering with the DWG, uniformity, or mortality of birds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Compared to conventional cattle ranching that can be characterized by low biodiversity level and grass monoculture adoption, integrated systems have great potential to improve not only animal welfare but also livestock performance. Among several strategies combining crops, livestock and forestry, silvopastoral systems must be highlighted due to the microclimatic conditions, mainly in tropical countries such as Brazil, where cattle are frequently submitted to unfavorable thermal conditions. However, according to previous studies, shading can potentially worsen parasitism in herds raised in these systems due to more favorable microenvironmental conditions. This study aimed to evaluate daily weight gain in Nellore steers in open pasture and in silvopastoral system and its relationship with microclimatic conditions and faecal egg count. A negative correlation (− 0.42677) between nematode egg counts and daily weight gain was found in both systems. Besides, the mean egg counts were equal in the silvopastoral system and in the open pasture. Regarding the effect of seasons over the year, there was an environmental influence on the egg counts, with higher averages during the dry seasons. Haemonchus, Cooperia, and Oesophagostomum were the genera identified in both systems. Based on the results, it can be concluded that the silvopastoral system was not able to influence the nematode egg counts and daily weight gain in Nellore steers raised in Mato Grosso. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Feed phytases are purchased as a dry culture medium of secreting producers, mostly micellar fungi. These preparations are required to withstand heating up to 75–80 °C because they are intended for mixing with feed components with subsequent granulation by spray drying. For this reason, many phytases that have a high specific activity at 37 °C and correspond to the optimal pH of intestinal chyme are not used in practice. A novel expression system allowing accumulation of the phytase from Obesumbacterium proteus within yeast Yarrowia lipolytica was proposed. Encapsulation increases thermal stability of the enzyme from 55 °C up to 70 °C. The obtained preparation exhibited a high impact on the daily weight gain of a weaned mouse model fed a phosphorus-deficient diet at a dosage 165 phytase activity units (FYT)/kg, whereas a commercial phytase preparation—Ladozyme Proxi derived from Aspergillus ficuum—did not improve the daily weight gain even at the dosage of 15,000 FYT/kg.

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Abstract Background Infection with respiratory pathogens can influence production as well as animal welfare. There is an economical and ethical need to treat pigs that suffer from respiratory diseases. Our aim was the evaluation of the possible effects of oral NSAID medication given in feed in acute outbreaks of respiratory disease in finishing pigs. The short- and long-term impact of NSAID dosing on clinical signs, daily weight gain, blood parameters and behaviour of growing pigs in herds with acute respiratory infections were evaluated. Four finishing pig farms suffering from acute outbreaks of respiratory disease were visited thrice after outbreak onset (DAY 0, DAY 3 and DAY 30). Pigs with the most severe clinical signs (N = 160) were selected as representative pigs for the herd condition. These pigs were blood sampled, weighed, evaluated clinically and their behaviour was observed. After the first visit, half of the pens (five pigs per pen in four pens totalling 20 representative pigs per herd, altogether 80 pigs in four herds) were treated with oral ketoprofen (target dose 3 mg/kg) mixed in feed for three days and the other half (80 pigs) with a placebo. In three of the herds, some pigs were treated also with antimicrobials, and in one herd the only pharmaceutical treatment was ketoprofen or placebo. Results Compared to the placebo treatment, dosing of ketoprofen reduced sickness behaviour and lowered the rectal temperature of the pigs. Clinical signs, feed intake or blood parameters were not different between the treatment groups. Ketoprofen treatment was associated with somewhat reduced weight gain over the 30-day follow-up period. Concentration analysis of the S- and R-enantiomers of ketoprofen in serum samples collected on DAY 3 indicated successful oral drug administration. Conclusions Ketoprofen mainly influenced the behaviour of the pigs, while it had no effect on recovery from respiratory clinical signs. However, the medication may have been started after the most severe clinical phase of the respiratory disease was over, and this delay might complicate the evaluation of treatment effects. Possible negative impact of ketoprofen on production parameters requires further evaluation.

This study aimed to develop an adaptability score (AS) for chicken strains, which includes behavioral, plumage conditions, and body lesion indicators through a multifactorial approach. A total of 600 male chickens from 6 poultry genotypes—Ranger Classic (R1), Ranger Gold (R2), Rowan Ranger (R3), Hubbard Red JA (A), CY Gen 5 × JA87 (CY), and M22 × JA87 (M)—were reared under organic conditions, fed ad libitum, and individually weighed weekly to calculate the daily weight gain (DWG). The behavioral observations consisted of the explorative attitude (EA), recorded at 21 days, and the behavioral patterns (BPs) recorded the week before the slaughter. The AS was established by a principal component analysis, and the AS of these genotypes was compared. Moreover, the effect of DWG and genotype on the AS was evaluated by univariable and multivariable regression models. Although the DWG and genotype were strictly dependent, genotype was the most important factor affecting the AS. In fact, its effect was significant both in univariable (p < 0.001) and multivariable models (p < 0.001). Conversely, the DWG was significant only in the univariable and lost significance when the effect of genotype was introduced in the model.

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The aim of this work was to evaluate growth potential of Blue-Grey cattle in Czech conditions as the compare its growth traits to initial population. Suitability of specific conditions was evaluated based on growth ability and daily weight gains (DWG). Tested breeds included Shorthorn, Galloway and their crossbred variation called Blue-Grey cattle. A total of 428 animals were evaluated over a period from 2010 until 2016. Birth weight, live weight at 120, 210 and 365 days of age was monitored for each animal. Also, DWG at 120, 210 and 365 days of age was part of the evaluation. Mixed model (SAS 9.3) was used for statistical evaluation. The influence of sex on growth ability was significantly (P < 0.05) in favour of bulls throughout the evaluated period. Purebred Shorthorns achieved highest weights (from + 2.5 for birth weight to +82.65 kg in weight at 365 days of age) (P < 0.05) and DWG (from + 147.26 g to + 300.37 g (P < 0.05) compare to purebred Galloway throughout the evaluated period. Weight and DWG of Blue-Greys were significantly better in comparison with Galloway and were more comparable with Shorthorns. Therefore, growth ability was improved mainly by addition of Shorthorn blood. Good growth ability of Blue-Greys combined with better environmental endurance from Galloway blood makes them well suited for use in organic farming conditions of Czechia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]