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Agriculture
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Animal Nutrition and Productions: Series II
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Animal Nutrition and Productions: Series II

A special issue of Agriculture (ISSN 2077-0472). This special issue belongs to the section "Farm Animal Production".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (31 October 2023) | Viewed by 37264

Special Issue Editors

Prof. Dr. Daniel Simeanu

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Fundamental Sciences in Animal Husbandry, Faculty of Food and Animal Sciences, Ion Ionescu de la Brad University of Life Sciences Iasi, 3 Mihail Sadoveanu Alley, 700490 Iasi, Romania
Interests: fodder quality and animal productions; animal nutrition; nourishment impact on productions quality; animal rearing systems; nutritional evaluation on animal productions
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Prof. Dr. Daniel Mierlita

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Animal Nutrition, University of Oradea, 1 University St., 410087 Oradea, Romania
Interests: animal nutrition; feeding management; feed efficiency; animal product quality (fatty acids profile, health lipid indices, bioactive compounds, antioxidants); alternative feed ingredients
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

The externalization of animals’ genetic potential is determined by a number of external factors, of which feeding plays a major role. Animals’ nourishment is one of the most important levers in ensuring the efficiency of animal production, due to both the high share of feed costs in the total cost of products and the influence this has on the growth, reproduction, and health of animals, as well as the quality of products obtained from these. This field is one of the most dynamic in the field of husbandry sciences, due to the takeover and permanent use of numerous results obtained from research on energy metabolism and nutrients, related to the composition of feed and its influence on animal products. This is also due to the great advances in genetics which create new types of animals with an increasing productive potential and different food requirements.

This Special Issue is dedicated to interdisciplinary studies on animal nutrition, physiology, chemistry, biochemistry, genetics, reproduction, and breeding technologies. The articles will cover a wide range of topics related to feed quality, the influence of food on production levels, the quality of production, and also on animals’ health.

All types of articles will be accepted, including original research, opinions, and reviews.

Prof. Dr. Daniel Simeanu
Prof. Dr. Daniel Mierlita
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Agriculture is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2600 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • feed quality and animal production
  • modern feeding technologies
  • the impact of food on productions’ quality
  • animal rearing and genetics
  • animal rearing systems
  • animal nutrition
  • animal nutrition and health
  • feed additives
  • digestion physiology
  • impact of animal nourishment on environment

Published Papers (24 papers)

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Editorial

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7 pages, 210 KiB  
Editorial
Animal Nutrition and Productions: Series II
by Daniel Simeanu, Răzvan-Mihail Radu-Rusu, Adrian Maximilian Macri and Daniel Mierliță
Agriculture 2024, 14(3), 448; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture14030448 - 10 Mar 2024
Viewed by 901
Abstract
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations estimates that by 2050, there will be a 58% increase in dairy consumption and a 73% increase in meat and egg consumption, worldwide, which would put additional pressure on the availability of natural resources [...] Read more.
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations estimates that by 2050, there will be a 58% increase in dairy consumption and a 73% increase in meat and egg consumption, worldwide, which would put additional pressure on the availability of natural resources [...] Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animal Nutrition and Productions: Series II)

Research

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16 pages, 526 KiB  
Article
Pasture Access Effects on the Welfare of Dairy Cows Housed in Free-Stall Barns
by Anamaria Blaga Petrean, Sorana Daina, Mihai Borzan, Adrian M. Macri, Liviu Bogdan, Eva A. Lazar and Silvana Popescu
Agriculture 2024, 14(2), 179; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture14020179 - 24 Jan 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 972
Abstract
Despite considerable research regarding the benefits of natural living conditions on several aspects of the health and well-being of dairy cows, the effects of pasture access on their overall welfare are less studied. In this comparative study, the Welfare Quality® protocol was [...] Read more.
Despite considerable research regarding the benefits of natural living conditions on several aspects of the health and well-being of dairy cows, the effects of pasture access on their overall welfare are less studied. In this comparative study, the Welfare Quality® protocol was applied in 22 zero-grazing and 17 grazing access farms with an ulterior statistical exploration of the differences found. Moreover, correlations were calculated between pasture access and animal-based welfare measures. Aside from the multiple benefits of pasturing identified within the welfare measures, criteria, and principles, in the overall classification, the farms with permanent confinement ranked lower than the grazing farms. Although both systems used free-stall barns, allowing the cows’ movement, the grazing animals showed improved overall welfare. Yet, the origin-related adaptation of the animals could play a role. The authors recommend research-based tailoring whenever these conditions are intended to be transposed in technology, especially in intensive systems. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animal Nutrition and Productions: Series II)
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18 pages, 1012 KiB  
Article
Comparative Assessment of the Nutritional and Sanogenic Features of Certain Cheese Sorts Originating in Conventional Dairy Farms and in “Mountainous” Quality System Farms
by Vasile Maciuc, Claudia Pânzaru, Maria Ciocan-Alupii, Cristina-Gabriela Radu-Rusu and Răzvan-Mihail Radu-Rusu
Agriculture 2024, 14(2), 172; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture14020172 - 24 Jan 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 867
Abstract
In order to highlight the influence of cattle farming systems on dairy products, assessments were carried out on certain varieties of cheese—marked with the “Mountain product” quality label in comparison with those conventionally produced ones not bearing the quality label. The study was [...] Read more.
In order to highlight the influence of cattle farming systems on dairy products, assessments were carried out on certain varieties of cheese—marked with the “Mountain product” quality label in comparison with those conventionally produced ones not bearing the quality label. The study was carried out using products obtained from raw milk issued from seven farms and transformed into cheese in four small dairy factories from the mountainous area of Dornelor Basin, Suceava County, Northeastern Romania. The analyzed cheese issued from the “mountain” production system were “Călimani” Schweizer, “Călimani” Cașcaval, “Călimani” smoked Cașcaval, and “Călimani” Telemea—salty brined cheese. Both the “Mountain cheese” and conventional cheese samples produced throughout the same shift were collected and kept under refrigeration conditions until laboratory analysis in order to compare the production systems. The physico-chemical analysis revealed higher amounts of minerals (2.8 to 10.7% Ca; 2.8 to 9.5% P; 12.3% to double the amount of Fe, p < 0.001) and polyunsaturated fatty acids (+5.6 to +13.7%), in mountain cheeses versus the conventionally processed ones. Also, the sanogenic indices had higher values in the “Mountain cheese”, such as the polyunsaturation index (+4.3 to 7.8%) and hypocholesterolic/hypercholesterolic fatty acid ratio (+1.8 to 3.7%), while the atherogenic index and the thrombogenic index had lower values (−1.9 to −4.3%) compared to the conventionally produced cheese, thus revealing healthier properties for consumers. The Enterobacteriaceae family species were identified in “Mountain cheese”, while they were absent from conventionally processed cheese, knowing the raw matter milk is thermally treated at ultra-high temperatures in the latter ones. In the “Mountain cheese”, such microorganisms were found within the safety regulation limits and contributed to providing flavor, taste, color, and specific texture, making it superior in terms of sensorial quality compared to the conventionally produced cheese. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animal Nutrition and Productions: Series II)
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19 pages, 2485 KiB  
Article
Selected Characteristics of Multifloral Honeys from North-Eastern Romania
by Aida Albu, Cristina Simeanu, Ioan Mircea Pop, Aurel Pui, Doina Tarcău and Simona-Maria Cucu-Man
Agriculture 2024, 14(1), 26; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture14010026 - 22 Dec 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 974
Abstract
The aim of this research was to evaluate some characteristics (moisture, total solid substances, specific gravity, pH, FA, ash, electrical conductivity, TPC and TFC, potassium, calcium, magnesium, sodium, phosphorus, zinc, copper, manganese, nickel, cobalt, and lead) of fifteen multifloral honey samples. The quality [...] Read more.
The aim of this research was to evaluate some characteristics (moisture, total solid substances, specific gravity, pH, FA, ash, electrical conductivity, TPC and TFC, potassium, calcium, magnesium, sodium, phosphorus, zinc, copper, manganese, nickel, cobalt, and lead) of fifteen multifloral honey samples. The quality of the investigated honey was confirmed by the obtained results: moisture, FA, and EC values were below the limit value regulated by the legislation. The average content of total polyphenols and total flavonoids of 29.91 mg GAE/100 g and 2.13 mg QE/100 g confirm the antioxidant properties of honey. Determination of minerals showed that potassium (101.4–1212.6 mg kg−1) was the most abundant mineral in honey, followed by sodium (40.7–302.3 mg kg−1) and calcium (41.8–230.9 mg kg−1). Lead was found in two samples, with a content under the limit stipulation by legislation; nickel was found in one sample of 0.10 mg kg−1, and the content of cobalt was below the detection limit. Significant correlations (p < 0.001) were observed between mm Pfund and electrical conductivity, TPC, TFC, P, Ca, and Zn; strong correlations (p < 0.001) were between electrical conductivity with Ash, TPC, TFC, K, and P. FTIR analysis confirmed the differences obtained by analyzing multifloral honey samples. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animal Nutrition and Productions: Series II)
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17 pages, 1255 KiB  
Article
Effect of Gender and Muscle Type on Fatty Acid Profile, Sanogenic Indices, and Instrumental and Sensory Analysis of Flemish Giant Rabbit Meat
by Gabriela Frunză, Marius-Mihai Ciobanu, Otilia Cristina Murariu, Roxana Nicoleta Rațu, Răzvan-Mihail Radu-Rusu, Cristina Simeanu and Paul-Corneliu Boișteanu
Agriculture 2023, 13(12), 2265; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture13122265 - 12 Dec 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1062
Abstract
The aim of this study was to represent quality characterization, by gender and muscle type, of rabbit meat from the Flemish Giant (FG) breed, following the fatty acid profile, sanogenic indices, and instrumental (color and texture) and sensory analysis. The biological material comprised [...] Read more.
The aim of this study was to represent quality characterization, by gender and muscle type, of rabbit meat from the Flemish Giant (FG) breed, following the fatty acid profile, sanogenic indices, and instrumental (color and texture) and sensory analysis. The biological material comprised 40 rabbits (20 females and 20 males) whose Longissimus dorsi (LD) and Semimembranosus (SM) muscles were sampled. Compared to female samples, the meat from males was more qualitative in terms of higher ratios of polyunsaturated vs. saturated fatty acids and proportions (+42%) of Essential and Desirable Fatty Acids (+21.6% EFA; +6.7% DFA). Also, the Atherogenic Index (AI) and Thrombogenic Index (TI) were better in males (−37.1% AI; −34.3% TI), as were the ratio of hypocholesterolemic/Hypercholesterolemic fatty acids (+27.8%) and the Nutritive Value Index (NVI, +11.6%). The Polyunsaturation Index (PI) was higher for females (+57.5%), with the widest differences in hind leg muscles (SM muscles), while the omega-6/omega-3 fatty acid ratio was also better (+11.3%). Female meat was more tender due to lower shear force (−6.2%… 9.3%) in both muscles. Female meat was less pigmented than that of males, while the overall sensory attributes were better scored in male samples (+3.1%… +7.1%) (p < 0.01). The meat of males proved to be more sanogenic (richer in EFA and DFA, with a better h/H ratio and NVI, while AI and TI were lower). We would recommend slaughtering 3–4 weeks earlier in females vs. males to avoid excessive fat deposition and, consequently, the development of unfavorable sanogenic indices for consumer health. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animal Nutrition and Productions: Series II)
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18 pages, 1142 KiB  
Article
Diet Influence on Sperm Quality, Fertility, and Reproductive Behavior in Karakul of Botoșani Rams
by Constantin Pascal, Ionică Nechifor, Marian Alexandru Florea, Claudia Pânzaru, Daniel Simeanu and Daniel Mierliță
Agriculture 2023, 13(11), 2168; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture13112168 - 19 Nov 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1157
Abstract
This study aims to analyze the influence of an improved diet with vitamins and minerals (VM) on the live weight, body condition, quality of sperm, behavior, and fertility of rams. The biological material comprised two groups of rams (L1—control and L2—VM supplemented), each [...] Read more.
This study aims to analyze the influence of an improved diet with vitamins and minerals (VM) on the live weight, body condition, quality of sperm, behavior, and fertility of rams. The biological material comprised two groups of rams (L1—control and L2—VM supplemented), each consisting of 15 individuals. After a complete one-year cycle, they received different dietary treatments at the beginning of the preparation for the reproduction period. Although in the onset of the mounting period (SM), no significant differences were observed for live weight (p > 0.05), providing supplemental feeding of a VM complex allowed a better capitalization of body reserves, and, consequently, the rams’ groups differed significantly by the end of mating season (FM), for live weight (+4.1%; p < 0.001) and body condition score (+15.9%; p < 0.05). Adding vitamins and minerals to the L2 diet also improved sperm color (p < 0.001), sperm concentration (+11.8%; p < 0.01), live spermatozoa (+2.6%; p < 0.001), and decreased abnormal spermatozoa proportion (−7.0%; p < 0.01). The increase in the scrotum circumference in L2 (+4.57%) suggests that VM supplements improved testosterone secretion, spermatogenesis, and ejaculate volume (+10.20%; (p < 0.001), with a positive impact (p < 0.001) on mating behavior, on the gestation installation (+11.2%) and on the number of obtained lambs (+14.0%), as well as on the key economic indicators (+13.8% incomes per ram). Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animal Nutrition and Productions: Series II)
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14 pages, 701 KiB  
Article
Influence of Guar Meal from Pig Compound Feed on Productive Performance, Nitrogen Metabolism, and Greenhouse Gas Emissions
by Gabriel Mihaila, Mihaela Habeanu, Nicoleta Lefter, Anca Gheorghe, Mihaela Dumitru, Iuliana Marin, Livia Vidu, Carmen Georgeta Nicolae, Dana Popa and Monica Marin
Agriculture 2023, 13(11), 2156; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture13112156 - 16 Nov 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1092
Abstract
Guar (Cyamopsis tetragonoloba) is an annual legume tolerant to drought. Guar meal (GM) is a protein- and carbohydrate-rich co-product generated after the mechanical separation of the endosperm from the germ and hull of guar seed. GM has received considerable interest in [...] Read more.
Guar (Cyamopsis tetragonoloba) is an annual legume tolerant to drought. Guar meal (GM) is a protein- and carbohydrate-rich co-product generated after the mechanical separation of the endosperm from the germ and hull of guar seed. GM has received considerable interest in animal feed as an alternative to soybean meal (SM). In this study, we aimed to assess the nitrogen (N) balance indicators, performance, carcass traits, and main greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions resulting from enteric fermentation (E-CH4) and manure (M-CH4 and N2O). Two tests were performed: (i) a biological trial on 45 pigs (15 animals/group) and (ii) a digestibility test in metabolism cages (N = 15, 5 replicates/group). Three different diets were given to the pigs: one diet was based on 0% GM (SM diet); in the second, GM-50%, GM replaced 50% of the SM; and the third was GM-100%, in which GM fully replaced the SM. The GM and SM diets were analyzed for their proximate composition. A model based on prediction equations was used to estimate the GHGs. GM up to 10% in the diets of finishing pigs did not significantly impact growth performance or carcass traits, although a slight increase in neutral detergent fiber (NDF) was observed. GM up to 10% improved N digestibility (p < 0.0001), net protein utilization (p < 0.0001), the biological value of protein, coefficients of metabolizability, and the coefficient of the total tract’s apparent digestibility. Irrespective of its dietary proportion, GM decreased total nitrogen output (TNO, p = 0.11). A highly significant impact was noted for N2O and E-CH4 (for DM, p < 0.0001), as well as a significant impact for E-CH4, expressed as g CO2 Eq (p = 0.007), and g CO2 Eq. LU (livestock unit, p = 0.005), also reported as ADG (p = 0.024). Manure, M-CH4, was not significantly influenced. In conclusion, GM can replace up to 100% SM and is thus a valuable byproduct that does not alter animal performance and can positively impact N2O and E-CH4. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animal Nutrition and Productions: Series II)
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18 pages, 680 KiB  
Article
Effect of Dietary Calcium Propionate Inclusion Level and Duration in High-Risk Newly Received Stocker Calves: Growth Performance, Body Fat Reserves, and Health
by Daniel Rodriguez-Cordero, Octavio Carrillo-Muro, Pedro Hernandez-Briano, Alejandro Rivera-Villegas and Alfredo Estrada-Angulo
Agriculture 2023, 13(11), 2062; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture13112062 - 27 Oct 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1575
Abstract
This study utilized fifty bull calves of the Continental × British crossbreed, with an average body weight of 147.0 ± 1.67 kg (BW), in a completely randomized design. The objective was to examine the impact of varying levels and duration of calcium propionate [...] Read more.
This study utilized fifty bull calves of the Continental × British crossbreed, with an average body weight of 147.0 ± 1.67 kg (BW), in a completely randomized design. The objective was to examine the impact of varying levels and duration of calcium propionate (CaPr) supplementation on the growth performance, body fat reserves, serum metabolites, and hemogram of high-risk newly received stocker calves. These calves were individually housed and fed a received diet for 56 d. The calves received the following treatments: (1) no CaPr (CTL), (2) 20 g CaPr/calf/d, (3) 40 g CaPr/calf/d, (4) 60 g CaPr/calf/d, and (5) 80 g CaPr/calf/d at 14, 28, 42, and 56 d after their arrival. Supplementing with 20 g CaPr from 28 to 56 d after arrival increased average daily gain (ADG) and BW (p < 0.05), and DMI was not affected (p > 0.05). This was reflected at 28 d with increases (p < 0.05) in the ADG/DMI ratio and longissimus muscle area (LMA), and at 56 d in back fat thickness (BFT) and fat thickness at the rump (FTR). Also, with 20 g, blood urea nitrogen decreased (p < 0.05), and increases were observed in the activity of gamma glutamyltransferase, monocytes (quadratic trend, p < 0.07), and granulocytes % (quadratic effect, p < 0.03). However, as the level of CaPr increased during the first 14 d after arrival, daily water intake, creatinine, total cholesterol, mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (linear effect, p < 0.05), globulin, calcium, and mean corpuscular volume (linear trend, p = 0.08) increased, while alkaline phosphatase (linear trend, p = 0.07) and lymphocytes (linear effect, p = 0.05) decreased. Finally, the different levels of CaPr supplementation did not produce any significant effects or differences (p > 0.05) in the remaining serum metabolites and hemogram (p > 0.05). Ultimately, the inclusion of 20 g CaPr/calf/d in the diet for 28 d in newly received stocker calves increased ADG, ADG/DMI ratio, and LMA. If extended to 42 or 56 d, the increases in ADG persisted, but there was also a rise in body fat reserves (BFT and FTR) at the expense of a reduction in the ADG/DMI ratio. Furthermore, the different supplementation levels did not impact the reference range for most serum metabolites or the health of stocker calves. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animal Nutrition and Productions: Series II)
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13 pages, 3716 KiB  
Article
Effect of Using Ensilaged Corn Wet Distillers’ Grains Plus Solubles (WDGS) as a Partial Replacement for Concentrated Feed for Wet Lot Fed Fatteners during Fattening on Growth Performance, Carcass Characteristics and Pork Quality
by Mateusz Roguski, Andrzej Łozicki, Marcin Sońta, Wiktor Bendowski, Tomasz Niemiec, Klara Zglińska and Marlena Zielińska-Górska
Agriculture 2023, 13(10), 2017; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture13102017 - 18 Oct 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1008
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to determine the nutritional suitability of WDGS in pigs’ feeding and production. Pigs were liquid fed and divided into 3 groups. Pigs in the control group were fed diets based on cereal grains, while the experimental groups [...] Read more.
The purpose of this study was to determine the nutritional suitability of WDGS in pigs’ feeding and production. Pigs were liquid fed and divided into 3 groups. Pigs in the control group were fed diets based on cereal grains, while the experimental groups were also given 10% or 15% WDGS, which partially replaced their cereal grains. During this study, the average daily gains (ADG), feed intake, chemical composition of meat, fatty acid profile of meat, and quality parameters of the carcass and meat were examined. The highest statistical weight gains were detected for the group WDGS 10% during the first stage of the fattening period. No statistical differences were detected for the final body weight, carcass traits, chemical composition of the meat or the composition of fatty acids such as SFAs, PUFAs, and MUFAs, with the exception of eicosenoic acid (C20:1n9). Pigs fed on 10% WDGS exhibited lower peroxidation of lipids (TBARS) than the control group or WDGS 15%. Similarly, water holding capacity (WHC) was the lowest for the group WDGS 10%. Of the meat coloration, redness (a*), yellowness (b*), and chroma (C*) were affected by the WDGS’ inclusion, where the highest values were observed for the group WDGS 10%. In conclusion, WDGS can be utilized in the liquid feeding of pigs for up to 15% of their DM. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animal Nutrition and Productions: Series II)
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12 pages, 504 KiB  
Article
Effects of the Dietary Replacement of Soybean Oil with Rubber Seed Oil on the Growth Performance, Carcass Trait, and Status of Lipid Metabolism in Pekin Ducks
by Zitao Zhao, Yanhong Guo, Lei Zhuang, Yongbao Wu, Jing Liu, Junting Cao, Zhanyue Wu and Zhiguo Wen
Agriculture 2023, 13(9), 1717; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture13091717 - 30 Aug 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 934
Abstract
The objective of this study is to determine the effects of the dietary replacement of soybean oil (SO) with rubber seed oil (RSO) on the growth performance, carcass trait, and lipid metabolism in Pekin ducks. A total of 160 1-day-old Pekin ducks were [...] Read more.
The objective of this study is to determine the effects of the dietary replacement of soybean oil (SO) with rubber seed oil (RSO) on the growth performance, carcass trait, and lipid metabolism in Pekin ducks. A total of 160 1-day-old Pekin ducks were randomly allocated to four experimental treatments and fed diets with different ratios of SO to RSO as follows: 3:0 (control), 2:1, 1:2, and 0:3. Dietary RSO supplementation had no effect on their growth performance; however, it significantly decreased the yield of abdominal fat (p < 0.05). As the dietary RSO increased, the plasma TG, CHO, LDL-C, and HDL-C contents of ducks decreased (p < 0.05). Additionally, the contents of total fat, triglycerides, and cholesterol in the liver and breast reduced in the ducks fed RSO diets (p < 0.05). Liver n-3 PUFA levels linearly increased (p < 0.05), while the n-6/n-3 PUFA ratios reduced with increasing RSO levels (p < 0.05). Moreover, dietary RSO supplementation resulted in decreased gene expressions of FABP1, ME1, SREBP1c, FASN, DGAT2, and HMGCR (p < 0.05), while there was an increased expression of the ABCA1 gene (p < 0.05) in the liver of the ducks. In conclusion, dietary RSO supplementation reduced fat deposition and enhanced n-3 PUFA levels without affecting the growth performance of Pekin ducks. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animal Nutrition and Productions: Series II)
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17 pages, 552 KiB  
Article
Effectiveness of Information Acquisition via the Internet in Standardizing the Use of Antimicrobials by Hog Farmers: Insights from China
by Ruishi Si, Yumeng Yao and Mingyue Liu
Agriculture 2023, 13(8), 1586; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture13081586 - 9 Aug 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1078
Abstract
Antimicrobial residues and resistance caused by farmers’ overuse of veterinary antimicrobials have seriously threatened food safety, the ecological environment, and public health. With the popularization of the Internet in rural areas, especially in developing countries, the constraints of obtaining agricultural technical information provided [...] Read more.
Antimicrobial residues and resistance caused by farmers’ overuse of veterinary antimicrobials have seriously threatened food safety, the ecological environment, and public health. With the popularization of the Internet in rural areas, especially in developing countries, the constraints of obtaining agricultural technical information provided by governments or organizations are greatly eased, farmers’ knowledge and skills are significantly improved, and the agricultural standardized production system is effectively constructed. However, there is still a research gap on whether information acquisition via the Internet (IAI) can induce farmers to standardize the use of antimicrobials. Using the data of 675 hog farmers in the Hebei, Shandong, Henan, and Hubei provinces, China, the IV-Heckman and mediating effect models were used to analyze the phenomenon empirically. The main findings revealed that the IAI had exerted a significant influence on the standardized use of veterinary antimicrobials by hog farmers, i.e., the IAI not only helped farmers to decide to standardize the use of antimicrobials but also reduced the amount of investment in the standardized use of antibiotics. Moreover, information-sharing and feedback mechanisms partially mediated the relationship between the IAI and farmers’ standardized use of antimicrobials. Finally, considering the heterogeneity of individual endowments, the study further revealed that the IAI significantly impacted the standardized use of antimicrobials for farmers below the age of 36 years. However, the IAI was found to positively and significantly promote farmers’ standardized-use decisions only if they had less than five years of breeding time. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animal Nutrition and Productions: Series II)
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14 pages, 317 KiB  
Article
Effect of Dietary Calcium Propionate Inclusion Period on the Growth Performance, Carcass Characteristics, and Meat Quality of Feedlot Ram Lambs
by Octavio Carrillo-Muro, Alejandro Rivera-Villegas, Pedro Hernandez-Briano, Marco Antonio Lopez-Carlos and Beatriz Isabel Castro-Perez
Agriculture 2023, 13(8), 1577; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture13081577 - 8 Aug 2023
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1226
Abstract
The objective was to determine the effect of calcium propionate (CaPr) inclusion in the diet, at different periods on the growth performance, carcass characteristics, and meat quality of finishing lambs. Thirty-six Dorper × Katahdin crossbred male lambs (39.1 ± 0.44 kg BW) were [...] Read more.
The objective was to determine the effect of calcium propionate (CaPr) inclusion in the diet, at different periods on the growth performance, carcass characteristics, and meat quality of finishing lambs. Thirty-six Dorper × Katahdin crossbred male lambs (39.1 ± 0.44 kg BW) were housed in individual pens during a 42 d feeding period and assigned to four treatments (n = 9) consisting of CaPr administered at a dose of 10 g/lamb/d for 0 (control), 14, 28, or 42 d before slaughter. Final BW (FBW), average daily gain (ADG), dry matter intake (DMI), and ADG:DMI ratio increased quadratically (p < 0.05) by CaPr supplementation, being optimal at an estimated inclusion period of 25 d for FBW and ADG, 15 d for DMI, and 28 d for ADG:DMI ratio. Hot carcass weight (HCW), cold carcass weight (CCW), and dressing were quadratically improved (p < 0.05) at an estimated inclusion period of 24 d for HCW and CCW, and 20 d for dressing. The increased inclusion period (42 d) augmented fat thickness (linear effect, p < 0.05). At 28 d of CaPr supplementation, maximal response (quadratic effect, p < 0.05) was estimated in the empty body weight at 28 d, forequarter at 26 d, and neck at 24 d, but a longer inclusion period (42 d) increases the weight of leg and rack and reduced the proportion of loin as a percentage of CCW (linear effect, p < 0.05). In conclusion, dietary CaPr can be included for a period of 24 to 28 d to improve growth performance and carcass weight, without affecting organ mass or meat quality. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animal Nutrition and Productions: Series II)
16 pages, 1137 KiB  
Article
Productive, Qualitative, and In Vitro Fermentation Traits of Amaranthus Grains as Potential Ingredients for Pig Diet
by Biagina Chiofalo, Alessandro Vastolo, Marianna Oteri, Serena Calabrò, Rosangela Armone, Danilo Scordia, Monica Isabella Cutrignelli and Fabio Gresta
Agriculture 2023, 13(7), 1445; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture13071445 - 22 Jul 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1032
Abstract
The present work compared the agronomic traits, chemical composition, fatty acid profile, and in vitro fermentation characteristics of twelve accessions of Amaranthus spp., belonging to A. cruentus, A. hybridus, A. hypochondriacus, and A. tricolor, grown in a semiarid Mediterranean [...] Read more.
The present work compared the agronomic traits, chemical composition, fatty acid profile, and in vitro fermentation characteristics of twelve accessions of Amaranthus spp., belonging to A. cruentus, A. hybridus, A. hypochondriacus, and A. tricolor, grown in a semiarid Mediterranean area. Among accessions, Benin and Arizona (A. cruentus) and Pennsylvania (A. hypochondriacus) showed the highest seed yield (on average, 322.1 g m−2), while Taiwan (A. tricolor) and India and Iowa (A. hypochondriacus) the highest thousand seed weight (on average, 0.81 g). Among the species, A. hypochondriacus showed the highest crude protein (16 g 100g−1), starch (51.5 g 100g−1), and soluble detergent fiber (2.03 g 100g−1) contents and the most favorable in vitro fermentation characteristics with the highest short-chain fatty acid (SCFA 52.6 mmol g−1) and butyric acid (20.7% SCFA) production together with the lowest crude fiber (4.93 g 100g−1) and insoluble dietary fiber (12.5 g 100g−1) content. Arizona (A. cruentus) showed the highest level of monounsaturated fatty acids (32.67 g 100g−1), Ohio (A. hybridus) had the highest levels of polyunsaturated fatty acids (44.62 g 100g−1) and n6-PUFA (44.21 g 100g−1), and India (A. hypochondriacus) had the highest level of n3-PUFA (0.63 g 100g−1). A. hypochondriacus exhibited not only desirable nutritive characteristics, agronomic traits, and suitability to Mediterranean growing conditions, but also a potential beneficial effect. Nonetheless, it is recommended to run longer-term field trials to confirm these findings and to assess the genotype by environment interaction either with current accessions or others from the wide Amaranth germplasm available. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animal Nutrition and Productions: Series II)
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14 pages, 1063 KiB  
Article
Effects of Different Trace Elements and Levels on Nutrients and Energy Utilization, Antioxidant Capacity, and Mineral Deposition of Broiler Chickens
by Guoxiao Lv, Chongwu Yang, Xin Wang, Zaibin Yang, Weiren Yang, Jianqun Zhou, Weiyu Mo, Faxiao Liu, Mei Liu and Shuzhen Jiang
Agriculture 2023, 13(7), 1369; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture13071369 - 10 Jul 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1558
Abstract
This study investigated the effects of inorganic trace elements (IEs) and sucrose chelated trace elements (SEs) on the growth performance, nutrients and energy utilization, antioxidant capacity, and mineral deposition in broiler chickens, and the efficiency of IEs replaced by SEs at different levels [...] Read more.
This study investigated the effects of inorganic trace elements (IEs) and sucrose chelated trace elements (SEs) on the growth performance, nutrients and energy utilization, antioxidant capacity, and mineral deposition in broiler chickens, and the efficiency of IEs replaced by SEs at different levels was also evaluated. A total of 448,21-day-old male Arbor Acres broiler chickens with similar body weights were randomly assigned into 6 dietary treatments (8 cages/treatments) in a complete randomized design. Treatments were a basal diet including 2.0 g/kg of IE (IE-2.0) premix, and SE-2.0, SE-1.5, SE-1.0, SE-0.5, and SE-0 were basal diets in which IEs were replaced by SE premix at 2.0, 1.5, 1.0, 0.5, and 0 g/kg, respectively. In general, there was a linear and quadratic decrease in growth performance including average daily feed intake (ADFI) and average daily gain (ADG), apparent and true availability of nutrients (DM, OM, and CP), GE, trace elements (Cu, Zn, Mn, Fe, I, and Se), essential AA (Lys, Met, Arg, His, Phe, Thr, and Val), non-essential AA (Asp, Ser, Glu, Gly, and Cys), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and trace elements (Fe, Zn, Cu, and Mn) in the liver, and an increase in feed-to-gain ratio (F/G) and liver malondialdehyde (MDA), with decreasing SE levels (p < 0.05). In conclusion, under the conditions of this experiment, using half of the sucrose chelated trace elements (Cu, Fe, Zn, and Mn) instead of inorganic trace elements did not affect the growth performance, nutrients and energy utilization, antioxidant capacity, and liver trace element deposition in broiler chickens. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animal Nutrition and Productions: Series II)
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16 pages, 1017 KiB  
Article
The Impact of Different Environments on Productive Performance, Welfare, and the Health of Muscovy Ducks during the Summer Season
by Ondřej Krunt, Lukáš Zita, Adam Kraus, Kateřina Vejvodová, Ondřej Drábek, Jiří Kuře and Eva Chmelíková
Agriculture 2023, 13(7), 1319; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture13071319 - 28 Jun 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1621
Abstract
The objective of this research was to evaluate the influence of the housing system (deep litter [DL] vs. deep litter with swimming pond [DLSP]) on productive performance, carcass traits, body temperature, blood profile, and the element composition of the femur and tibia in [...] Read more.
The objective of this research was to evaluate the influence of the housing system (deep litter [DL] vs. deep litter with swimming pond [DLSP]) on productive performance, carcass traits, body temperature, blood profile, and the element composition of the femur and tibia in Muscovy ducks. At 5 weeks of age, sexed ducklings (264) were divided into 4 equal groups according to housing system and gender (drakes vs. ducks). The groups were as follows: 66 drakes/DL, 66 drakes/DLSP, 66 ducks/DL, and 66 ducks/DLSP. Each of the four groups was divided into three identical replicated subgroups of 22 animals. Regarding external body temperature, the DL birds had higher temperatures compared with the DLSP birds. In addition, drakes had lower temperature values than ducks. Regarding the blood analysis, the birds did not manifest any deviations in the biochemical traits of the blood. The DLSP birds had greater live weight, weight gain, and feed conversion ratio, but a lower proportion of breast meat than the DL birds. The housing conditions did not affect the fracture toughness of the tibia and femur of the birds; however, Muscovy ducks from the DLSP group had more Ca and Mg in the tibia and more Mg in the femur compared with the DL birds. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animal Nutrition and Productions: Series II)
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20 pages, 361 KiB  
Article
Effects of Dairy Cows Management Systems on the Physicochemical and Nutritional Quality of Milk and Yogurt, in a North-Eastern Romanian Farm
by Roxana Nicoleta Rațu, Petru Marian Cârlescu, Marius Giorgi Usturoi, Florin Daniel Lipșa, Ionuț Dumitru Veleșcu, Vlad Nicolae Arsenoaia, Andreea Mihaela Florea, Marius Mihai Ciobanu, Răzvan-Mihail Radu-Rusu, Alina Narcisa Postolache and Daniel Simeanu
Agriculture 2023, 13(7), 1295; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture13071295 - 25 Jun 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1223
Abstract
The study’s objective was to investigate changes in the fatty acid composition of cow milk in general and in 80 Romanian Spotted cows’ husbandry and feeding systems in particular (grazing–GC group vs. stabulation–SC group). The ultimate objective was to determine if the changes [...] Read more.
The study’s objective was to investigate changes in the fatty acid composition of cow milk in general and in 80 Romanian Spotted cows’ husbandry and feeding systems in particular (grazing–GC group vs. stabulation–SC group). The ultimate objective was to determine if the changes that happened in the milk also transferred to the finished product. Also, the influence of the quality of raw milk produced by both systems was evaluated when yogurt was made from it. The milk was gathered in May, July and September and used for both the yogurt-making process and the study, which lasted from May to October. In comparison to milk from SC, milk from grazed caws had larger percentages of fat and dry matter throughout the summer (GC) season. Moreover, pasture-based rations (MGC) contained more PUFA than MCS did. Data research revealed that not only do factors such as milk origin and initial quality have a substantial impact on yogurt quality parameters, but also technologies such as milk fermentation have a considerable impact on the fatty acid profile of yogurt. In comparison to cows kept permanently in stables, grazed cows (MGC) had fat with a lower concentration of saturated fatty acids and a higher proportion of rumenic, vaccenic and oleic acids (MSC). When fresh milk is processed into yogurt and other dairy products, the fatty acid profiles alter, with saturated fatty acids predominating over unsaturated ones. The findings show that pasture-fed cows have a positive impact on milk quality, particularly in terms of fatty acid profile, as well as on yogurt’s ultimate nutritional and dietary quality. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animal Nutrition and Productions: Series II)
15 pages, 1591 KiB  
Article
Essential Oils as a Dietary Additive for Laying Hens: Performance, Egg Quality, Antioxidant Status, and Intestinal Morphology: A Meta-Analysis
by José Felipe Orzuna-Orzuna and Alejandro Lara-Bueno
Agriculture 2023, 13(7), 1294; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture13071294 - 25 Jun 2023
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1836
Abstract
This meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the effects of dietary supplementation with essential oils (EOs) on egg production and quality, antioxidant status in blood serum, and the intestinal morphology of laying hens. The data used were obtained from 38 peer-reviewed publications. The effect size [...] Read more.
This meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the effects of dietary supplementation with essential oils (EOs) on egg production and quality, antioxidant status in blood serum, and the intestinal morphology of laying hens. The data used were obtained from 38 peer-reviewed publications. The effect size was evaluated by weighted mean differences (WMD) between the experimental treatments (diets added with EOs) and the control treatments (diets without EOs). EO supplementation increased (p < 0.001) egg production (WMD = 2.171%), egg weight (WMD = 0.636 g), egg mass (WMD = 1.679 g/d), and decreased the feed conversion ratio (WMD = −0.074 g/g; p < 0.001). In addition, greater (p < 0.05) eggshell thickness (WMD = 14.262 mm), eggshell strength (0.080 kg/cm2), albumen height (WMD = 0.201 mm), Haugh unit (WMD = 1.102), and yolk color (WMD = 0.071) were observed in response to EO supplementation. In blood serum, the dietary inclusion of EOs increased (p < 0.05) the levels of superoxide dismutase (WMD = 1.147 U/mL), glutathione peroxidase (WMD = 879.553 U/mL), and total antioxidant capacity (WMD = 1.163 U/mL). In the duodenum, jejunum, and ileum, a higher (p < 0.05) villus height (VH), crypt depth (CD), villus width, and VH/CD ratio was observed in response to EO supplementation. In conclusion, the dietary inclusion of essential oils can be used as a nutritional strategy to improve egg production and quality, the antioxidant status of blood serum, and intestinal morphology in laying hens. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animal Nutrition and Productions: Series II)
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12 pages, 794 KiB  
Article
Impacts of Nigella sativa Inclusion during Gestation and Lactation on Ovarian Follicle Development, as Well as the Blood and Metabolic Profiles of Ardi Goats in Subtropics
by Abd El-Nasser Mohammed and Shaker Al-Suwaiegh
Agriculture 2023, 13(3), 674; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture13030674 - 14 Mar 2023
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 1841
Abstract
The present study aimed to alleviate the negative effects of the peripartum and postpartum periods on the timing of ovarian follicle development, milk composition, as well as blood and metabolic profiles due to Nigella sativa (N. sativa) supplementation. Twenty-seven pregnant Ardi [...] Read more.
The present study aimed to alleviate the negative effects of the peripartum and postpartum periods on the timing of ovarian follicle development, milk composition, as well as blood and metabolic profiles due to Nigella sativa (N. sativa) supplementation. Twenty-seven pregnant Ardi goats were classified using a randomized complete design into three groups: a control group and two N. sativa groups (10.0 and 20.0 g N. sativa seeds per kg diet). Productive and reproductive performances, in addition to blood and metabolic profiles, were investigated and compared using Duncan’s multiple test. N. sativa supplementation increased dry matter intake and body weight. Ruminal pH and total bacterial counts were increased versus a decreased total protozoal count due to N. sativa inclusion. Additionally, N. sativa supplementation increased the concentration of protein, lactose, solids not fat, fat, and ash in milk. Pulse rates were the lowest (p < 0.05) in the N. sativa group and the partial pressure of oxygen was the lowest in the control group. Red and white blood cells and their related parameters (hemoglobin, hematocrit, neutrophils, and lymphocytes) showed significant increases due to N. sativa inclusion. Total protein, albumin, globulin, glucose, and minerals (calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium) values were higher (p < 0.05) in the N. sativa group. Lower concentrations of blood urea nitrogen were found in N. sativa groups compared to control one. In conclusion, N. sativa inclusion from 4 weeks prepartum to 4 weeks postpartum of Ardi goats modified productive and reproductive performances without any adverse effects on blood and metabolic profiles. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animal Nutrition and Productions: Series II)
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19 pages, 647 KiB  
Article
Improving the Use of White Lupine in the Laying Quail Feeding by Enzymes Addition: Effects on Productive Performances, Digestion, Blood Biochemical Indices and Eggs Quality
by Dănuț Ioan Struți, Daniel Mierlita and Andrea Bunea
Agriculture 2023, 13(3), 575; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture13030575 - 27 Feb 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1806
Abstract
Lupine seeds are a valuable nutritive source for animal feeding, but for poultry nutrition, the content in crude fiber and non-starch polysaccharides (NSP) have an antinutritional factor. The aim of this research was to highlight the effect of partial soybean meal replacement with [...] Read more.
Lupine seeds are a valuable nutritive source for animal feeding, but for poultry nutrition, the content in crude fiber and non-starch polysaccharides (NSP) have an antinutritional factor. The aim of this research was to highlight the effect of partial soybean meal replacement with L. albus seeds and enzyme addition in the laying quail diets on productive performance, digestion, blood biochemical indices and egg quality. A total of 210 homogenous female Japanese quails (Coturnix japonica) at 24 week of age were randomly assigned to 6 dietary treatments, with the standard diet based on soybean meal unsupplemented (−) and supplemented with enzyme (+) (S−/S+) and the experimental diets on which the soybean meal was based partially substituted by including lupine in the amount of 200 g/kg and 250 g/kg, unsupplemented and supplemented with enzymes (L20−/L20+; L25−/L25+).The use of enzymes in the lupine-based diets allowed increasing the proportion of lupine in the diet of laying quails by up to 25% (% of feed) without changing egg production, egg weight, feed conversion rate and physical–chemical quality parameters of the eggs. In addition, the use of lupine (−/+) improved (p < 0.001) the carotenoid content of the egg yolk, as well as the quality of the yolk fats by decreasing the cholesterol content and the level of fatty acids (FA) with an atherogenic effect, in favor of omega-3 FA. Enzyme supplementation of the lupine-based diets had a negative effect on the health lipid indices of the fats in the yolk (ratio of the hypocholesterolemic/Hypercholesterolemic FA—h/H, atherogenic index—AI, thrombogenic index—TI and health promotion index—HPI). The use of exogenous enzymes increased the nutrients’ efficiency of the quails’ feed, which is supported by the improvement of the blood metabolic indices and a decrease of intestinal digesta viscosity and feces moisture. In conclusion, white lupine can be used up to 25% in the laying quail feed in association with specific enzymes without affecting the productive performance and egg quality; moreover, lupine use has improved the quality of the eggs, increasing humans’ health. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animal Nutrition and Productions: Series II)
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16 pages, 325 KiB  
Article
Impact of Different Levels of Crude Protein on Production Performance and Meat Quality in Broiler Selected for Slow Growth
by Marius Giorgi Usturoi, Răzvan-Mihail Radu-Rusu, Alexandru Usturoi, Cristina Simeanu, Marius Gheorghe Doliș, Roxana Nicoleta Rațu and Daniel Simeanu
Agriculture 2023, 13(2), 427; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture13020427 - 11 Feb 2023
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2406
Abstract
The production performance and meat quality of the slow-growing hybrid Hubbard JA757 were monitored under conditions of diets differentiated by crude protein content. A total of 1200 as-hatched day-old chickens were equally and randomly allotted into two treatments (T-1 and T-2), with six [...] Read more.
The production performance and meat quality of the slow-growing hybrid Hubbard JA757 were monitored under conditions of diets differentiated by crude protein content. A total of 1200 as-hatched day-old chickens were equally and randomly allotted into two treatments (T-1 and T-2), with six replicates provided for each treatment (100 chickens/replicate). T-1 chickens received standard diets (according to Hubbard Company recommendations), and those in T-2 were fed diets supplemented with crude protein (+0.5% CP in the growing phase and +1.0% CP in the finishing phase). At the end of the investigations (age 56 days), the T-2 chickens performed better than the T-1 chickens for growth traits (+2.72% body weight; +2.77% daily growth gain; −0.34% mortality; and −4.15% feed conversion ratio); for slaughtering (+0.66% dressed yield; +1.10% breast weight; and +1.25% thigh weight); and for quality meat (+0.55% dry matter in thigh muscles and +1.52% dry matter in breast muscles) (p > 0.05). Statistically significant differences (p < 0.05) occurred between treatments for body weight, daily weight gain, and feed conversion ratio due to the 0.5% CP feed supplementation during the 15–28 day age period, justifying the usefulness of the CP increasing throughout the grower diet only and not during the finishing period. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animal Nutrition and Productions: Series II)
12 pages, 1023 KiB  
Article
Effects of Supplementation of 25-Hydroxyvitamin D3 as a Vitamin D3 Substitute on Performance, Bone Traits, and Egg Quality of Laying Hens from 1 Day to 72 Weeks of Age
by Dongdong Li, Xuemei Ding, Shiping Bai, Jianping Wang, Qiufeng Zeng, Huanwei Peng, Yue Xuan and Keying Zhang
Agriculture 2023, 13(2), 383; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture13020383 - 6 Feb 2023
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1946
Abstract
This experiment was conducted to explore the effect of long-term supplementation of 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 (25-OHD) as a vitamin D3 (VD3) substitute on performance, bone traits, and egg quality of laying hens from 1 day to 72 weeks of age. [...] Read more.
This experiment was conducted to explore the effect of long-term supplementation of 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 (25-OHD) as a vitamin D3 (VD3) substitute on performance, bone traits, and egg quality of laying hens from 1 day to 72 weeks of age. In total, 900 one-day-old Lohman pullets were randomly allotted into three dietary groups (three treatments × 15 replicates × 20 birds per replicate): VD3 2800 IU/kg; 25-OHD 69 μg/kg; 25-OHD 125 μg/kg. At the end of the 20th w, five replicates from each group were selected to feed on the same vitamin D diets, as used during the rearing stage (1–20 w) until 72 w. The result showed that the 25-OHD 125 μg/kg treatment had the lowest average daily feed intake (ADFI) at 1–8 or 1–19 w, body weight at 8 w, body weight gain between 1 and 8 w and shank length at 4 w (p < 0.05). The 25-OHD 125 μg/kg treatment had a lower shank length at 7 w, compared with the 25-OHD 69 μg/kg treatment. The shank length of the birds in each treatment reached the maximum (about 103 mm) at about 18 w of age. For the bone traits, the 25-OHD 125 μg/kg treatment had the lowest femur bone diameter at 20 w (p < 0.001) and femur bone plumpness at 20 w (p = 0.002). The 25-OHD 125 μg/kg treatment had a lower tibia strength at 10 w (p = 0.023) and keel length at 10 w (p = 0.046), compared with the 25-OHD 69 μg/kg treatment. However, both 25-OHD 69 and 125 μg/kg treatments had a greater femur strength at 72 w (p = 0.006), compared with the VD3 2800 IU/kg treatment. No difference in laying performance was observed among all treatments. The overall (21–72 w) ADFI in the 25-OHD 125 μg/kg treatment was significantly lower than that in the 25-OHD 69 μg/kg treatment (p = 0.030). At 60 w, the 25-OHD 125 μg/kg treatment had a lower eggshell thickness (p = 0.012) and proportion of eggshell (p = 0.022), compared with the 25-OHD 69 μg/kg treatment. No significant differences in egg quality parameters were observed at 50 and 70 w among treatments. In general, supplementary 2800 IU/kg doses of VD3 at the early stage were sufficient to maintain the bone quality and growth and development of pullets. Feeding birds at a higher 25-OHD level (125 μg/kg) resulted in the reduced ADFI and growth at the rearing period, but the long-term supplementation of 25-OHD as a VD3 substitute improved the bone quality in the late laying period. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animal Nutrition and Productions: Series II)
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Review

Jump to: Editorial, Research

24 pages, 10324 KiB  
Review
An Appropriate Genetic Approach to Endangered Podolian Grey Cattle in the Context of Preserving Biodiversity and Sustainable Conservation of Genetic Resources
by Mădălina-Alexandra Davidescu, Claudia Pânzaru, Alexandru Usturoi, Răzvan-Mihail Radu-Rusu and Șteofil Creangă
Agriculture 2023, 13(12), 2255; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture13122255 - 8 Dec 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1392
Abstract
In the context of the general phenomenon of diminishing genetic diversity, especially in cattle, the conservation of endangered species plays a primary role. The disappearance of some animal populations can irreparably affect the biodiversity of genetic resources. Among the most ancient European cattle [...] Read more.
In the context of the general phenomenon of diminishing genetic diversity, especially in cattle, the conservation of endangered species plays a primary role. The disappearance of some animal populations can irreparably affect the biodiversity of genetic resources. Among the most ancient European cattle are breeds that belong to the Podolian group, the history of which is still not well established. The common origin of these breeds is the wild ox (Bos taurus primigenius), which has been declared extinct since the 17th century. The purpose of this paper is to highlight and compare the latest studies on the origin, evolution, genetic diversity, and phylogenetic relationships of Podolian cattle, with special emphasis on the endangered Romanian Grey Steppe. The importance of studying these cattle derives from the special biological properties by which they have distinguished themselves over time (adaptability and resistance to diseases, severe climate and habitat conditions, hardiness, and longevity). The bibliographic references reviewed in this study confirm that these breeds are carriers of valuable genes that must be preserved for improvement of other cattle and protection of biodiversity. The information presented represents a valuable tool for efforts to conserve endangered cattle. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animal Nutrition and Productions: Series II)
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23 pages, 930 KiB  
Review
Use of Spirulina platensis and Curcuma longa as Nutraceuticals in Poultry
by Adrian Bondar, Loredana Horodincu, Gheorghe Solcan and Carmen Solcan
Agriculture 2023, 13(8), 1553; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture13081553 - 3 Aug 2023
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2064
Abstract
Since the banning of antibiotics in animal feeds (2006), there has been an increase in the number of studies looking for alternatives to stimulate the gut immune system. The main objective of our review article is to underline the nutraceutical properties of Curcuma [...] Read more.
Since the banning of antibiotics in animal feeds (2006), there has been an increase in the number of studies looking for alternatives to stimulate the gut immune system. The main objective of our review article is to underline the nutraceutical properties of Curcuma longa and Spirulina platensis in the broiler chicken industry, and the experimental data were obtained by analyzing literature sources. Spirulina platensis is widely recognized as a valuable protein source, containing approximately 55–70% protein, 25% carbohydrates, essential amino acids, and 18% fatty acids. It is also rich in various vitamins like thiamin, riboflavin, pyridoxine, vitamin B12, vitamin C, gamma-linolenic acid, phycocyanins, tocopherols, chlorophyll, beta-carotenes, carotenoids, exhibiting positive effects on growth performance, gut integrity, and immunity. The anti-inflammatory effect of spirulina supplementation at different levels showed a decrease in caspase-3 and the TNF-α immunolabeling index; a reduction in IL-1β, IL-2 and IFN-γ; and an increase in the expression of the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-4. Spirulina inhibits the synthesis of cytokines IL-1, IL-6, and TNF-gamma in addition to the activities of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2) enzymes. Turmeric also positively influences the growth, egg production, and overall health of chickens. Curcumin, the most potent component of turmeric, possesses additional pharmacological activities, including hepatoprotective, immunostimulant, and anticancer effects. Its immunomodulatory properties greatly enhance the immune system response, acting as a natural antibiotic against pathogens and decreasing levels of proinflammatory interleukins IL-1β, IL-6, IL-2, IL-18, and TNF-α. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animal Nutrition and Productions: Series II)
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17 pages, 1811 KiB  
Review
Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs): A Review Focused on Occurrence and Incidence in Animal Feed and Cow Milk
by Mădălina Matei, Roxana Zaharia, Silvia-Ioana Petrescu, Cristina Gabriela Radu-Rusu, Daniel Simeanu, Daniel Mierliță and Ioan Mircea Pop
Agriculture 2023, 13(4), 873; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture13040873 - 15 Apr 2023
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3150
Abstract
Persistent organic pollutants have particular ecotoxicological importance and they are amongst the most harmful groups of persistent pollutants. The complexity of persistent organic pollutants highlights the different sources of pollution from which they came and, depending on which, their profile could be characterized. [...] Read more.
Persistent organic pollutants have particular ecotoxicological importance and they are amongst the most harmful groups of persistent pollutants. The complexity of persistent organic pollutants highlights the different sources of pollution from which they came and, depending on which, their profile could be characterized. In the first part of this review, the main characteristics of persistent organic pollutants were described, focusing on their complexity and toxic potential in relation to environmental elements. The second part of the review includes data related to the occurrence and incidence of persistent organic pollutants in different types of feed and cow’s milk, focusing on the characteristic profile of pollutants as an indicator of the sources of pollution. Moreover, a description regarding the timing and duration of the contamination of feed and milk was carried out, evaluating the distribution of pollutants within the analyzed samples and highlighting those whose presence is predominant or whose residues persist in the environment for long periods. The review concludes that the identification of pollution sources associated with different proportions of organic pollutants found in different samples could represent a suitable solution for biomonitoring the potential contamination in a geographical area. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animal Nutrition and Productions: Series II)
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