ABSTRACT

Panda, N. and Kaur, H. 2007. Feeding Synthetic Vitamin E or Milk from vitamin E Supplemented Murrah Buffaloes on Growth, Immunity and Mineral Status of Calves. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 7: 1-10. Twenty four Murrah buffaloes in advanced pregnancy were randomly divided into 4 groups and were supplemented with vitamin E @ 0, 1000, 1500, 2000 IU from 60d pre-partum to 30d of lactation. The dose was reduced in the supplemented groups to 500, 750, 1000 IU from 30 to 60d of lactation. Eighteen calves born from above 4 groups of buffaloes were divided equally into 3 groups and were fed for 60d; T1-milk from unsupplemented buffaloes, T2-pooled milk from vitamin E supplemented buffaloes, T3–milk from unsupplemented buffaloes+synthetic vitamin E (a-tocopheryl acetate) equivalent to that supplied to T2 calves through milk. The blood samples were collected at 0, 3, 5, 7, 15, 30 and 60 d for analysing plasma immunoglobulin (Ig), total antioxidant activity, a-tocopherol and mineral status. Lymphocyte stimulation index (LSI) was measured at day 0, 5, 7, 15, 30 and 60. The vitamin E intake in T1, T2 and T3 varied from 3.5-12.04; 6.2-21.5 and 8.0-25.0 mg/d respectively during the experimental period. The growth rate was higher in T2 calves. Plasma a-tocopherol concentration was also higher in T2. No treatment effect was seen on plasma total antioxidant activity. Plasma Ig level of 11.20, 9.68 and 10.48 mg/ml on the day of birth increased to 28.59, 37.87 and 31.79 mg/ml after 5d of colostrum feeding in T1, T2 and T3, respectively showing an increase in the T2 than in T1 and T3. An increase (P<0.05) in lsi in t2 (2.16-2.34) calves was seen from day 7th upto 30 d of age in comparison to t1 and t3 (1.73-2.23). the incidence of faecal scour was high in both t1 and t3 than t2. blood zinc and copper status of t2 calves was higher (p<0.05) than T1 and T3 calves from 7th to 45 days of age. Vitamin E through milk was better utilized than synthetic source in the new born calves as envisaged by higher growth and increased immunity.

Key words: Vitamin E, Immunity, Calves, Buffaloes, Minerals.

*Corresponding author: harjit1955@msn.com

ABSTRACT

Singh, M., Sharma, K. Singh, P., Dutta N. and Mehra, U.R. 2007. Endogenous excretion of purine derivatives, creatinine and nitrogen in crossbred (Bos indicus x Bos taurus) cattle. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 7: 11-19.
A study was carried out to elucidate the effect of fasting on endogenous urinary excretion of purine derivatives (PD), creatinine and nitrogen in crossbred (Bos indicus x Bos taurus) cattle. Daily excretion rates (µmol/kgW0.75) of allantoin, uric acid and creatinine during fasting averaged 247.5, 49.1 and 746.3, respectively. The proportional contribution of allantoin (0.82-0.83) and uric acid (0.17-0.18) to total PD excretion (296.7) during pre-fasting and fasting period of the trial remained statistically (P>0.05) similar. The excretion rates of PD decreased significantly during fasting relative to pre-fasting period, however average daily urinary creatinine excretion (0.719-0.746 mmol/kg W0.75/d) remained insignificant irrespective of level of feed offered to animals during various phases of fasting trial. Endogenous urinary nitrogen excretion (g/d or mg/kg W0.75/d) observed during fasting was significantly (P<0.01) lower to the corresponding total n excretion recorded during pre-fasting period. the proportion of allantoin nitrogen to total nitrogen excretion decreased from 14.63 in pre-fasting to 6.57 per cent during fasting period. the creatinine concentration in plasma increased significantly during fasting (p<0.05). Similarly, the glomerular filtration rate (GFR, L/d or L/kg W0.75/d) as proportion of plasma concentration of creatinine (mmol/L) to urinary creatinine excretion (mmol/d) was higher during pre-fasting compared to fasting period. Renal clearance expressed in terms of tubular load of allantoin, uric acid and total PD (mmol/d) showed a significantly (P<0.05) higher rate of tubular load during pre-fasting relative to fasting. Re-absorption of PD (mmol/d or % tubular load) during pre-fasting and fasting followed similar trend as observed for tubular load of its various constituents. The endogenous PD value (297µmol/kg W0.75) obtained during the trial has been used for developing a model for predicting rumen microbial protein supply, however, further studies are warranted to improve the sensitivity and precision for estimating the contribution of endogenous PD in urinary PD excretion by Indian cattle.

Key words: Crossbred cattle, Endogenous purine derivatives, Creatinine, Nitrogen, Glomerular filtration rate.

*Corresponding author: hdan@ivri.up.nic.in

ABSTRACT

Kumar, P.V., Ravi, R. Purushothaman, M.R. and Mohan, B. 2007. Performance of broilers fed graded levels of mango (Mangifera indica) seed kernel during finisher phase. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 7: 21-28.
To find out the optimum level of inclusion of mango seed kernel (MSK) in the ration of broiler finishers (4-6 weeks of age), day old broiler chicks (n=144) were assigned to six dietary treatment groups having 12 birds in each group and fed standard broiler starter ration upto 3 weeks of age. The experimental diets (isocaloric and isonitrogenous) containing MSK at 0, 5, 10, 15, 20 and 25 per cent levels replacing maize was fed from 4 to 6 weeks of age. Weight gain was similar to control when MSK was used in the diet upto 20 per cent replacing maize and significantly lowered (P<0.01) in 25 per cent msk fed group. the retention of nutrients (crude protein, ether extract, crude fibre, calcium and phosphorus) was low (p<0.01) in broilers fed diets containing higher (15% or more) levels of MSK. The feed cost per kg of weight gain increased linearly as the level of MSK increased in the diet. The blood parameters (serum proteins, uric acid, glucose & cholesterol), carcass characteristics (ready-to-cook yield, weights of liver, giblet, trimmable fat & skin) and organoleptic evaluation of meat did not show any significant variation among treatment groups. It can be inferred that inclusion of MSK upto 21 per cent level in the finisher ration per cent did not affect the performance of broiler finishers.

Key words: Mango seed kernel, Broiler, Feeding value.

*Corresponding author: drpvkumar@yahoo.com

ABSTRACT

Sunder, G.S., Gopinath, N.C.S., Rama Rao, S.V. and Kumar, Ch.V. 2007. Quality assessment of commercial feed grade salts of trace minerals for use in poultry feeds. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 7: 29-35.
Feed grade salts of Mn, Zn, Cu and Fe procured from 6-8 commercial agencies of Hyderabad market were analysed for their elemental content along with the reagent grade salts, using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AA 100-Perkin Elmer). The salts were primarily in the sulfate form. Zn was available in sulfate and oxide forms. Salts of MnSO4. H2O procured from 7 commercial sources varied significantly (P£0.05) in Mn content (1.29-29.15%), but 5 out of 7 salts had a moderate range of elemental content (20.54-29.15%), even if it was significantly lower than the standard salt (31.85%). The variability of Zn content (20.97-30.76%) in ZnSO4.7H2O salts was also statistically significant (P£0.05), but 4 out of 6 salts had higher Zn than the standard salt (22.62%). In contrast, only one salt of ZnO had higher Zn (81.98%) than the reagent grade salt (79.94%), indicating wide divergence in the elemental content among the salts. The extent of variability in the commercial salts of CuSO4.5H2O (19.77-28.15%) and FeSO4. 7H2O (14.49-24.24%) was moderate compared to the salts of Mn and Zn. However, significant differences (P£0.05) were noticed among the commercial sources of both salts and also, with their respective reagent grade salts. The wide variability in the elemental content of Mn, Zn, Cu and Fe in feed grade salts warranted quantitative estimation of the minerals prior to utilisation in feeds and premixes.

Key words: Feed grade salts, Sulfates of Mn, Zn, Cu and Fe, Zinc oxide.

*Corresponding author: pdpoult@ap.nic.in; ssgajula@rediffmail.com

ABSTRACT

Mondal, M.K., Biswas, P. and Mazumdar, D. 2007. Effect of supplementation of two sources of copper on plasma lipid profile and mineral balance of Black Bengal goats. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 7: 37-46.
Twelve healthy castrated 3-4 month old male Black Bengal kids were selected and randomly divided into three groups to study the effect of supplementation of different forms of Cu (CuSO4 and Cu-proteinate) at 10 ppm level on plasma lipid profile and mineral balance. A basal diet (5.7 ppm Cu) was formulated to meet all the nutrient requirements except Cu. Group 1 (C) was offered the basal diet alone, whereas it was supplemented with 10 ppm CuSO4 (T1) and 10 ppm Cu-proteinate (T2) in the treatment groups. A metabolic trial of 5 d duration was conducted after 90 d feeding period. Blood samples were collected at 0 day and subsequently at monthly intervals for studying the plasma lipid profile (cholesterol, high density lipoprotein, total lipid and phospholipids) and mineral profiles (Ca, P, Cu, Fe, Zn and Mn). At 0 d, concentrations of all the plasma lipid profile were similar (P>0.05) among the treatments. In both the Cu supplemented groups, plasma cholesterol was decreased (P<0.05) and high density lipoprotein (hdl), total lipid and phospholipids were increased (p<0.05) as compared to control. Linear effect (P<0.01) of period was found for the entire plasma lipid profile whereas, quadratic effect (P<0.01) was found in plasma HDL and total lipid concentration. Plasma Ca, P, Fe, Zn and Mn were unaffected (P>0.05) by the dietary treatments during the study. From 30 d onwards, the addition of Cu consistently increased (P<0.05) for kids fed Cu from either CuSO4 or Cu-proteinate than control. Urinary excretion of Cu was more (P<0.05) in Cu supplemented kids compared to control. Absorption and retention (%) of Ca, Fe and Zn follow the same trend (P<0.05) as observed in case of Cu. Results inferred that supplementation of Cu in the diet of kids can alter plasma lipid profile and minerals concentration. Further, it can also improve the absorption percentages and retention of minerals. Cu-proteinate was found to be more effective for mineral balance than CuSO4.

Key words: Plasma lipid, Copper, Kids, Copper-proteinate, Mineral balance.

*Corresponding Author: maicrp@yahoo.com

ABSTRACT

Rekhate, D.H., Madavi, V.V. and Dhok, A.P. 2007. Performance of goats fed arhar (Cajanus cajan) straw based pelleted complete ration. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 7: 47-52.
An experiment was planned for 110 days to utilize arhar straw based pelleted complete feed in local goats. Twelve non-descript local goats randomly divided into (T1) with average age 10.66±0.70 m and weight 20.83±0.86 and offered sole arhar straw pellets with supplementation of 300 g concentrate pellets 18% CP and 70% TDN and (T2) with average age 10.55±0.17 m and weight 22.40±1.19 kg were fed on arhar straw based pelleted complete diet of 15% CP, 60% TDN. The DMI and DMI/100 kg BW were significantly (P<0.01) more in t1 group. the adg was 94.83±18.85 (t1) and 83.52±3.43 (t2) g and the feed conversion efficiency was better in t2 group. the digestibility coefficients for different nutrients revealed non significant differences except for nfe (p<0.01). The DCP and TDN of the diets were 8.99±0.39, 58.05±1.65 and 9.52±0.03, 53.41±1.39. All the goats under treatments were in positive nitrogen, calcium and phosphorus balance. The rumen liquor profile study revealed significant (P<0.01) variations for pH, NH3-N, TCA-ppt-N, TN and NPN. It was concluded that both the rations performed well in terms of weight gain and nutrient utilisation and can be fed to the goats for optimum weight gain under intensive system of management.

Key words: Arhar straw, Nutrient utilisation, Complete feed pellets, Goats.

ABSTRACT

Sahoo, B. and Walli, T.K. 2007. Effect of feeding rumen undegradable protein and supplemental energy on growth performance and blood metabolites in growing kids. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 7: 53-61.
In an experiment of 120 days duration, twenty healthy growing male kids (Sannen x Beetal and Alpine x Beetal) of 2-3 months of age, weighing 12±0.73 kg were divided into 4 equal groups (TI to T4) in a randomized block design. Two types of isonitrogenous and isocaloric concentrate mixtures (CM-I and CM-II) were fed to group T1, T2, T3 and T4, respectively The two concentrate mixtures were similar in composition except RDP:UDP ratio (73:27 and 59:41). Animals in T2 and T4 were additionally supplemented with molasses at the rate (8% CM on DM basis). All the animals were fed roughages (Berseem:wheat straw i.e. 2:1) to meet 50 per cent of DM intake. Blood samples were collected at 40, 80 and 120 days of post feeding and plasma samples were analysed. Plasma albumin and a-AAN levels were highest (P<0.05) in group t4, fed high udp along with energy. however, plasma urea concentration was lower (p<0.05) in group T3 and T4 than T1 at 80 and 120 days of post feeding. DM intake in control group was lower (P<0.01) than to other 3 groups. Average daily gain (ADG) recorded was 47.6, 52.3, 62.9 and 71.4 in groups T1, T2, T3 and T4, respectively, with the values being significantly higher (P<0.05) in T4 than in group T1, but at par with T2 and T3. Feed conversion efficiency was also significantly higher (P<0.05) in group T4 (10.14) than T1 (7.28) and T2 (7.47) but similar with T3 (9.35). It is thus inferred that additional supply of energy in the form of molasses along with undegradable protein positively influenced the growth rate and feed conversion efficiency without any significant effect on blood metabolites.

Key words: Mustard cake, Undegradable protein, Molasses, Blood metabolites, Kids.

*Corresponding author: biswanath_72@yahoo.co.in

ABSTRACT

Kiran, D. and Krishnamoorthy, U. 2007. Rumen fermentation kinetics and nitrogen degradability of commonly used ruminant feedstuffs in vitro. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 7: 63-71.
The study was conducted to evaluate tropical feedstuffs used in feeding ruminants for rumen fermentation kinetics and N fractions. The feed samples selected for the study included 8 protein sources, 9 energy sources, 8 unconventional byproducts, 5 roughages and 6 complete diets. The D (potential gas production, ml/g DM), and k (h-1) (rate of gas production) for protein sources varied from 141.0 to 296.5 and 0.0858 to 0.1562, for energy sources from 327.0 to 476.5 and 0.0544 to 0.1078, for unconventional byproducts from 46.3 to 495.9 and 0.0233 to 0.1117, for roughages from 245.9 to 303.8 and 0.0219 to 0.1092 and for the six diets it varied from 218.4 to 301.8 and 0.0553 to 0.0640. Total N content (g/kg DM, Mean±SD) for protein sources, energy sources, unconventional byproducts, roughages and complete diets was 54.4±14.6, 15.8±7.2, 11.1±6.7, 16.7±9.6 and 20.2±0.13, respectively. Potentially digestible N was more than 90 per cent for most of the feedstuffs with the exception of tapioca peel (82.3%), tapioca meal (76.4%), coarse wheat bran (83.9%), Bengal gram husk (82.9%), chicory bran powder (83.3%), poha bran (75.0%), ragi husk (78.1%), finger millet straw (71.1%), hybrid napier (76.1%) and rice straw (85.8%). However, among the protein sources, the N rapidly degraded in the rumen was maximum in ground nut meal (59.7%), followed by rapeseed meal (35.5%), gingelley cake (32.9%), ambadi cake (31.5%), cotton seed meal (24.4%), coconut meal (20.1%), soybean meal (17.2%) and sunflower meal (6.5%). The N solubility in buffer and detergent solutions and fermentation kinetics within one class of feedstuffs may be an indicator of variability in the degradation of protein and energy, respectively in rumen.

Key words: Nitrogen solubility, Digestible nitrogen, Fermentation characteristics.

*Corresponding author: kirandoranalli@yahoo.com

ABSTRACT

Lalu, K., Bhar, R. and Mandal, A.B. 2007. Effect of dietary addition of bromochloromethane on nutrient utilization and nitrogen balance in Muzaffarnagari rams. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 7: 73-78.
The present study was conducted to assess the effect of bromochloromethane (BCM), a potent antimethanogenic compound, as feed additive on intake, nutrient utilization, and nitrogen balance in rams fed on diet containing maintenance (NP1; NRC, 1985) and sub-maintenance level (NP2; 20% less DE of NRC, 1985) of energy (NRC, 1985) with adequate protein. Sixteen adult Muzaffarnagari rams of comparable bodyweight (40.25±0.65 kg) were divided into four equal groups, were fed these two diets supplemented with 0.04ml BCM (BCM1) or without BCM (BCM0) capsules. Results from the 4 experimental diets (NP1BCM0, NP1BCM1, NP2BCM0 and NP2BCM1) were tested using 2 X 2 factorial designs. The overall daily feed intake in respective groups were 817.9±19.43, 763.1±10.42, 568.7±15.78 and 592.6±15.78 g/d, the values being numerically lower in NP2BCM0 and NP2BCM1 than that of NP1BCM0 and NP1BCM1. Digestibility of nutrients did not differ significantly among the different interacting groups and also between NP1 and NP2 or between BCM0 and BCM1. Non significant difference was also observed between the values of N balances in rams among the different interacting groups as well as between NP1 and NP2, and BCM0 and BCM1. Results of the present study revealed that BCM, a potent antimethanogenic compound could be added in the diet of rams without affecting performance.

Key words: Bromochloromethane, Nutrient utilization, Nitrogen balance, Rams.

*Corresponding Author: lalukv1@rediffmail.com

ABSTRACT

Mudgal, V., Garg, A.K. and Dass, R.K. 2007. Effect of dietary selenium and copper supplementation on growth and nutrient utilization in buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) calves. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 7: 79-88.
Twenty male buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) calves of 8-9 months of age (112.1±7.69kg mean body weight) were divided into four treatment groups (n= 5 per group). Animals in the control (T1) group were fed a standard diet comprising of concentrate mixture (20% maize, 27% soybean meal, 50% wheat bran, 2% mineral mixture and 1% common salt) and ad libitum wheat straw. Animals in the experimental groups were also fed same basal diet except that they were supplemented either with 0.3ppm selenium (Se) (T2), 10ppm of copper (Cu) (T3) or both 0.3ppm Se and 10ppm Cu (T4). Experimental feeding lasted for 120 days including a 6 days metabolism trial. The intake of DM and OM, and digestibility of DM, OM, CP, EE, NDF and hemicellulose were similar (P>0.05) among the four groups. However, digestibility of ADF and cellulose was significantly higher in the T2 group. While supplementation of Se/Cu had no effect on N, Ca and P balance, feed: gain ratio and DCP intake, TDN intake was significantly (P<0.05) higher in group t2 and t3. the growth rate (g />d) of the buffalo calves was also significantly (P<0.05) increased in group t3 (465) and t4 (447) as compared to the control t1 (406). these results suggested that se and cu requirements of buffaloes might be higher than the presently recommended levels of nrc for cattle.

Key words: Buffalo calves, Selenium, Copper, Growth, Nutrient utilization.

*Corresponding author: garg@ivri.up.nic.in

ABSTRACT

Jordao, A.A Jr., Teixeira-Oliveira, A.B., Freitas, O., Izumi, C. and Vannucchi, H. 2007. Effect of vitamin supplementation on lipid peroxidation caused by methotrexate in rats. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 7: 89-94.
The methotrexate (MTX) is an antitumoral agent, acting like an antagonist of the folic acid and the administration of the MTX increases free radical production and induces hepatorenal oxidative injury in rats. The aim of the present study was to assess the value of adding a high dose of vitamin mixture to rats in lipid peroxidation provoked by methotrexate, and the role of vitamin E against the free radical production. The study utilized 40 rats subdivided in 4 groups: Group A received a diet with 3 times the recommendation of vitamin mixture according to American Institute of Nutrition diets for rodents, published in 1993 (AIN93); Group B, the same diet with normal, one time, vitamin mixture according to AIN-93; rats in Group C received a diet with 3 times vitamin mixture according to American Institute of Nutrition diets for rodents, published in 1976 (AIN76); Group D, the same diet with normal, one time, vitamin mixture according to AIN76. The increase in hepatic vitamin E and glutathione and decrease of lipid peroxidation levels with suplemmentation of 3 times vitamin mixture can be able to protect for the possible adverse effects of the MTX administration in the oxidative stress in rats.

Key words: Methotrexate, Lipid Peroxidation, Vitamin E, Diet, Antioxidants, Glutathione, Rats.

*Corresponding Author: alceu@fmrp.usp.br

ABSTRACT

Naik, P.K., Saijpaul, S. and Rani, N. 2007. Evaluation of rumen protected fat prepared by fusion method. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 7: 95-101.
An experiment was chalked out to prepare rumen protected fat viz. calcium salts of long chain fatty acids (LCFA-Ca) by fusion method from palm fatty acid oil (PO), rice bran fatty acid oil (RBO) and mixed fatty oil (MO). The fat% of the PO (97.80) and RBO (96.46) were similar. The iodine number of RBO (75.18) was higher than the PO (49.67). Twenty types of rumen protected fat each of PO and RBO were prepared by treating with technical grade calcium hydroxide under specific conditions viz. with and without sulphuric acid, with and without steam and at different treatment times (5, 10, 20, 25 and 30; minutes). Studies indicated that use of acid was beneficial to obtain more FFAs from the oils for higher yield of rumen protected fat, steam had no impact and 30 minutes treatment time was optimum for the preparation of rumen protected fat. The percent mean values of yield, fat and total ash of the RBO based with acid and without steam at 30 minutes treatment time rumen protected fat was 78.09, 76.00 and 15.58, respectively, and was statistically similar with the respective mean values of all other types of rumen protected fat. There was no significant difference in the Ca% and DM, OM and fat undegradability values of the different types of rumen protected fat and were ranged from 4.93 to 5.88; 84.30 to 89.02; 82.88 to 89.95 and 84.23 to 87.49, respectively. For the preparation of rumen protected fat for practical purpose, 30 minutes treatment time, use of sulphuric acid, without steam should be preferred. Besides, between PO and RBO, the RBO was preferred due to its higher degree of unsaturation of fatty acids.

Key words: Rumen, Protected fat, Calcium salts, Long chain fatty acids, Fusion method.

*Corresponding Author: pknaikpau@rediffmail.com

ABSTRACT

Raghuvansi, S.K.S., Prasad, R., Chaturvedi, O.H., Mishra, A.S., Tripathi, M.K., Misra, A.K., Saraswat, B.L. and Jakhmola, R.C. 2007. In sacco DM degradability of Brassica campestris (mustard) straw and Pennisetum typhoides (bajra) kadbi based complete feed blocks in sheep. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 7: 103-109.
A total of eight test diets were prepared by compressing the feed mixture at 4000 psi using a horizontal feed block-making machine. Concentrate mixture (25 parts) and molasses (5 parts) were added in each treatment. Treatments were comprised of mustard straw (MS 70 parts; T1), MS plus dried neem (Azadirachta indica) leaves (40:30 parts; T2), MS plus dried siris (Albizia lebbeck) leaves (40:30 parts; T3) and MS plus dried ardu (Ailanthus excelsa) leaves (40:30 parts; T4). Similarly, in treatments T5, T6, T7 and T8 the bajra kadbi was used as roughage in place of mustard straw. The incorporation of tree leaves in mustard straw based complete feed significantly (P<0.05) increased the instantly degradable fraction (a), rate of degradation (c) and the potential degradation (a+b) of the test diets. the coefficients of effective degradability (ed) at a rumen out flow rate of 0.05 per hour were also higher (p<0.05) in the treatment combinations where tree leaves replaced the 30 parts of mustard straw in the diet. However, the slowly or potentially degradable fraction of the diet (b) remains unaffected due to addition of tree leaves in the MS based diets. Among the tree leaves, the ardu leaves were found most effective in improving the ruminal degradation of the mustard straw based diets. The ruminal degradability coefficients for bajra kadbi based diets were higher than that of mustard straw based diets. Incorporation of tree leaves in bajra kadbi based diets did not improve the degradation kinetics, rather significantly (P<0.05) reduced the instantly and slowly degradable fractions of the diet. It is, therefore, concluded that incorporation of tree leaves in mustard straw based complete feed blocks improved its ruminal DM degradation. However, the incorporation of tree leaves in bajra kadbi based diets did not show any appreciable improvement in DM degradation.

Keywords: Mustard straw, Bajra kadbi, Complete feed block, In sacco degradation.

*Corresponding author: mktripathi@gmail.com

ABSTRACT

Kumar, R.S. and Kaur, H. 2007. Macro mineral status and dietary cation-anion difference value of some Indian feeds and fodders.Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 7: 111-117.
Calcium, phosphorus, sodium, chlorine, potassium, magnesium and sulphur contents of commonly used feeds and fodders were estimated for calculating their dietary cation anion difference (DCAD) value. Calcium and phosphorus contents among different concentrate ingredients varied from (0.11-0.67%) and (0.28-1.61%) showing more than 1:2 ratio of Ca to P. Calcium concentration in forages was much higher than in cereal grains. Maize and mustard fodder showed Ca: P ratio of 2:1, whereas berseem contained five times more Ca than phosphorus. Rice bran, wheat bran and oilseed meals were especially rich in P as compared to other feed sources. Mg content in wheat and wheat straw was low (0.15 ppm) as compared to other feedstuffs. There was huge variation in Na (0.27 - 1.30%) and K (0.56-3.36%) content of different feeds. Sulphur content ranged from (0.27-0.92%) with an average value of 0.45 per cent in concentrates and 0.64-0.94 with average value of 0.78 per cent in roughages. Maximum variation was observed in chloride content of different feeds. Five different equations were employed to calculate the DCAD value of different feeds and fodders. Amongst concentrate ingredients, DCAD value of rice bran was lowest (-322.37 meq/100g DM) because of its high chloride content (10.59 %). Among roughages, mustard had lowest DCAD value of -21.86 and berseem had highest DCAD value of 40.79 meq/100g DM.

Keywords: Calcium, Phosphorus, Sodium, Chlorine, Potassium.

*Corresponding author: harjit1955@msn.com

ABSTRACT

Radhakrishnan, L., Murugan, M. and Sivakumar, T. 2007. Biomass yield, chemical composition and nutritive value of Desmanthus virgatus (hedge lucerne) for sheep. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 7: 119-123.
An experiment was conducted to study the biomass yield, palatability, chemical composition and nutritive value of Desmanthus virgatus in sheep. The biomass yield per acre for six cuttings was 39.81 tons and the mean crude protein and crude fibre content were 15.20 and 19.77 percent. The mean dry matter intake in terms of percent body weight and metabolic body weight was 4.97 percent and 104.52 g per kg. The DCP and TDN content were 10.86 and 59.79 percent. From the results obtained in the present study, it is apparent that Desmanthus virgatus fodder can be used as potential leguminous fodder source for small ruminants.

Keywords: Desmanthus virgatus, Biomass yield, Chemical composition, Nutritive value, Sheep.

*Corresponding author: radhakrish67@yahoo.com

ABSTRACT

Bharti, V.K., Gupta, M., Lall, D., Balamurugan, T.C. and Imam, S. 2007. Effect of boron on Urinary and faecal excretion of minerals in buffalo calves fed high fluoride ration. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 7: 125-130.
In order to assess the ameliorative effect of boron (B) in the buffalo calves fed high fluoride (F) diet, 12 male Murrah buffalo calves of 6-8 month old were divided into three groups. Fluoride was added in the ration (as sodium fluoride, NaF) to make 60 ppm F on DM basis in group II and III were compared to group I (control). Boron was added in the ration (as borax, Na2B4O7.10H2O) to make 140 ppm B on DM basis in group III. After 90 days of experimental feeding, a metabolism trail of 7 days duration was conducted. Urine and faecal samples were collected and analysed for fluorine (F), calcium (Ca), phosphorus (P), iron (Fe), zinc (Zn) and copper (Cu). The level of F (@60 ppm) as well as B in ration did not cause a significant change in P, Zn, Cu and Fe excretion in urine and faeces. However, urinary F (42.29±2.62 ppm) and Ca (0.56±0.01) g/head/day excretion was significantly (P<0.05) higher in group ii due to f addition. further, faecal f excretion was significantly (p<0.05) higher (91.52±4.60 ppm) in group III compared to other groups due to F and B in group III. Results indicated that boron has ameliorative effect on high F intake as it induced removal of F through faeces.

Keywords: Boron, Buffalo, Fluoride, Minerals, Urine.

*Corresponding Author: vijaykbharti@rediffmail.com

ABSTRACT

Rai, P., Ajit and Samanta, A.K. 2007. Tree leaves, their production and nutritive value for ruminants: a review. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 7: 135-159.
The estimated fodder requirement of India is 26 million tonnes annually. It is of vital importance to enhance the fodder production by improving top feed tree species. The tree species besides producing fodder, yield sufficient fuel wood also. Fodder tree species such as Prosopis cineraria, Acacia nilotica, Albizia lebbek, Azadirachta indica, and Dalbergia sissoo etc. are native to Indian sub-continent. These species have wide variation with respect to their growth rate, biomass production, nutritive value and size of fruits. Tree leaves are being increasingly used to provide fodder for livestock, as they have a number of unique characteristics which make them attractive for both smallholder and largescale livestock enterprises. Research and development efforts have concentrated on broadening the resource base by evaluating a greater range of tree leaves, defining optimum management strategies, and developing appropriate systems which capitalize on the advantages of these species. On an average, tree leaf fodder production of 0.2 to 2.0 ton/ha/year can be obtained up to 50% pruning height of the trees every year from the various agroforestry systems of different agroclimatic zones. The tree leaves contain 8-33 per cent crude protein, 1-19 per cent ether extract, 11-50 per cent crude fibre, 36-66 per cent nitrogen free extract, 22-57 per cent neutral detergent fiber, 0.2-3.0 per cent calcium and 0.1-0.3 per cent phosphorus. The digestibility coefficient of dry matter, crude protein, crude fibre, ether extract and nitrogen free extract in tree leaves ranged from 40-75, 28-83, 24-82, 32-65 and 51-85 per cent, respectively. This paper reviews the availability period of leaf/pod fodder, their preferences by livestock in different agroclimatic zones of the country, top feed production under different agroforestry systems, chemical composition of top feed species, digestibility coefficient of nutrients of some top feed, anti nutritional factors in tree leaves. Future research thrust has also been highlighted.

Key words: Top feed, Production, Nutritive value, Multipurpose trees, Shrubs.

*Corresponding Author: prai_nrcaf@mailcan.com

ABSTRACT

Dutta, T.K., Rao, S.B.N., Sahoo, P.K. and Singh, N. 2007. Evaluation of arhar (Cajanus cajan) straw based pelleted feeds and prediction of in vitro gas production. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 7: 161-168.
Different ratios of concentrate (C) and grinded Cajanus straw (R) were used to prepare pelleted feeds, namely, T1 (C:R=80:20), T2 (C:R=70:30), T3 (C:R=60:40), T4 (C:R=50:50), T5 (C:R=40:60), T6 (C:R=30:70) and T7 (C:R=100:00). The CP, EE, NFE and OM per cent in the substrates gradually decreased as Cajanus straw level increased in the pellets, whereas crude fiber and total ash levels showed the reverse trend. Based on the data of in vitro gas production (4-48h) polynomial regression equations were developed. Total gas production (ml) up to 48 h of incubation was significantly (P<0.01) higher in t7 (187.81±0.59) than other treatments while lowest gas production was recorded in t6 (124.86±0.68). the trend of methane production at 24 h and 48 h showed that methane percentage gradually enhanced in the in vitro bottles as cajanus straw level increased in the pellets, but the differences were non-significant among treatment groups. in vitro dry matter degradability (ivdmd%) was highest (p<0.01) in T7 (61.11±0.77) and lowest in T6 (39.60±0.57). Nitrogen degradability (%) followed the similar trend of IVDMD. Addition of Cajanus straw increased pH in some treatments. TVFA (mmol/dl incubation medium) concentration was significantly (P<0.01) higher in T1, T2, T3 and T7 than other treatments. NH3-N (mg/dl incubation medium) was also highest (P<0.01) in T7 and lowest in T6. Acetate and acetate: propionate ratio remained unchanged due to increase of straw, whereas, propionate level reduced significantly (P<0.05). Results showed that in vitro gas production, IVDMD and fermentation products decreased due to increase of Cajanus straw in the feed pellets.

Key words: Cajanus straw, In vitro fermentation, Gas production, Degradability, Methane.

*Corresponding author: tkd@cirg.res.in

ABSTRACT

Panda, A.K., Rama Rao, S.V., Raju, M.V.L.N., Shyam Sunder, G., Chatterjee, R.N. and Sharma, R.P. 2007. Effect of supplemental DL-methionine on performance of commercial laying hens during summer. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 7: 169-175.
An experiment was conducted to evaluate the performance of commercial White Leghorn (WLH) layers fed diet supplemented with DL- methionine (Met) during summer (29-430C). WLH layers 26 wks of age with an average of 78 per cent hen day egg production (HDEP) were equally distributed into 3 groups of 24 each and were housed in individual California type cages in open side housing system. A basal diet based on maize-soybean-sunflower-deoiled rice bran without supplemental methionine (Met) was formulated (0.3% Methionine). Test diets were prepared by supplementing DL-Met at 0.0, 0.06 and 0.12 per cent to arrive 0.30, 0.36 and 0.42 per cent Met in the diet. The HDEP and feed efficiency increased significantly by supplementation of 0.06 per cent Met to the basal diet containing 0.30 per cent Met. However, no further improvement in egg production could be noticed by enhancing the Met supplementation to 0.12 per cent. Neither egg weight nor daily feed consumption was influenced by Met supplementation. The egg quality parameters such as specific gravity, shell-breaking strength, shell weight and shell thickness were not influenced due to supplemental Met in the diet. However, Haugh unit improved significantly due to 0.06 per cent Met supplementation. The serum protein, albumin and globulin concentrations were significantly higher in Met supplemented groups compared to that of control. The serum ALP activity lowered significantly due to 0.06 per cent Met supplementation and increasing the level to 0.12 per cent did not prove to be advantageous. The antibody production in response to sheet RBC inoculation improved significantly by supplementation of 0.06 per cent Met to the basal diet. No further advantage in antibody production could be noticed by enhancing the Met supplementation from 0.06 to 0.12 per cent. Similarly, the persistency of antibody production was higher in birds fed supplemental Met as compared to control group. It may be concluded that supplementation of 0.06 per cent DL-Met to the basal diet containing 0.3 per cent Met (375 mg Met/hen/day) is essential to support egg production, albumen quality and immune response in commercial WLH layers during summer (29-430C).

Key words: Methionine, Performance, White Leghorn Layers, Summer.

*Corresponding author: akpanda59@rediffmail.com

ABSTRACT

Tiwary, M.K., Tiwari, D.P., Kumar, A. and Mondal, B.C. 2007. Existing feeding practices, nutrient availability and reproductive status of dairy cattle and buffaloes in Haridwar district of Uttarakhand. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 7: 177-185.
An investigation was conducted in four villages, two each from Roorkee and Laksar tehsils in Haridwar district of Uttarakhand, to find out the existing crop-livestock production system, macro nutrients status in feeds and fodder and feeding practices. Fifteen farmers under three major categories on land holding basis i.e. landless (0 acre), small (2-5 acres) and large (>5 acres) from each village were selected. A benchmark survey was conducted through common questionnaire in order to collect the information on farmers’ family size, land holding, cropping pattern and irrigation facilities as well as livestock population, milk yield, feeding pattern along with mineral mixture and salt supplementation and reproductive status of the animals. Land holding, livestock holding and family size were the main factors influencing the nutritional status of the animals. Total cultivated area from selected villages owned as 41.7 and 58.3 per cent by small and large farmers, respectively. Main crops cultivated during kharif season are paddy, maize, sorghum, cowpea, etc, while during rabi season wheat; Berseem, etc. are the major crops. Most of the farmers used to prepare home made concentrate mixtures by blending locally available concentrate ingredients such as soybean cake, mustard cake, toria (lahi), gram chunni, wheat bran, wheat grain, deoiled rice bran, etc. and provided it to their animals in the form of sani (blend of concentrate, wheat straw and green fodder sprinkled with water). Complete feed block (CFB) and cattle feed (pellet) were purchased from the market and mostly fed to milch animals by the farmers of Roorkee tehsil. Wheat straw was the sole roughage used during all seasons along with available green fodders and almost all farmers used it as a basal fodder. Livestock (cattle and buffaloes) of 40 to 50 per cent farmers of the target area were found with different reproductive problems such as anoestrus (8.51 and 6.87 % in animals of Laksar and Roorkee tehsil, respectively), repeat breeding (11.35 and 5.84 % in animals of Laksar and Roorkee tehsil, respectively. Animals of surveyed area exhibited a deficiency in DM, DCP and TDN intake. In view of the scarcity of greens and high cost of concentrates, use of unconventional feeds with supplementation of mineral mixture may be beneficial to improve the nutritional status of the animals. There is further scope for improvement in production by feeding the animals as per the recommended standards.

Key words: Farmers, Livestock, Nutrients, Reproductive problems.

*Corresponding author: dptiwari4@rediffmail.com

ABSTRACT

Tiwary, M.K., Tiwari, D.P., Mondal, B.C. and Kumar, A. 2007. Macro and micro mineral profile in soil, feeds and animals in Haridwar district of Uttarakhand. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 7: 187-195.
Mineral profile in soil, water, feeds, fodder and blood serum of cattle and buffaloes of plain region of Haridwar district of Uttarakhand were studied. The macro and micro mineral contents in soil were higher than their respective critical levels. However, the feed ingredients were found to be low in P, Mg and Cu contents. Low P and Cu contents were observed in serum of the animals. The wheat straw contained moderate amount of Ca (0.40±0.03 %) while other minerals such as Zn (43.00±2.28 ppm), Fe (271.31±27.83 ppm) and Se (0.13±0.01 ppm) were found slightly higher than their normal range, whereas it was deficient in P (0.14±0.01 %), Mg (0.10±0.01 %), Cu (3.44±0.66 ppm), Co (0.19±0.01 ppm) and Mn (33.58±4.30 ppm). Green fodders like sorghum and maize contained moderate amount of Ca (0.32±0.03 %), P (0.26±0.03 %), Zn (64.00±10.82 ppm), Fe (317.50±29.68 ppm), Co (0.79±0.06 ppm), Mn (60.45±12.68 ppm) and Se (0.22±0.02 ppm) while low in Mg (0.11±0.01 %) and Cu (6.69±0.66 ppm). Protein rich feed ingredients viz., soybean cake, mustard cake (Brassica campestris var. sarson), lahi (Brassica campestris var. toria) etc. were good sources of Ca, P, Zn, Fe, Co, Mn and Se. The other feeds such as commercial pelleted feed, complete feed block and gram chunni contained high Ca, P, Zn, Fe and Mn but low Cu content. The blood serum mineral concentrations for Ca, Mg, Zn, Fe and Mn (10.43±0.22mg/dl, 1.65±0.14mg/dl, 1.54±0.11ppm, 1.97±0.19 ppm and 0.54±0.02 ppm), respectively, were found above their respective critical levels except for Cu and P. The serum P (3.79±0.21mg/dl) and Cu (0.46±0.07 ppm) were deficient with their values falling below their respective critical levels. The mean concentrations of Ca, P, Mg, Zn, Fe, Cu, Co and Mn in water were 7.01±0.05; 0.27±0.02; 15.63±0.70; 0.39±0.05; 0.48±0.05; 0.02±0.00; 0.03±0.01 and 0.25±0.03 ppm, respectively. Most of the animals were found to have reproductive problems, which could be attributed to P deficiency in this region. To overcome the deficiency, strategic dietary supplementation of minerals with better bioavailability could be a suitable approach.

Key words: Feed, Fodder, Soil, Water, Mineral profile.

*Corresponding author: dptiwari4@rediffmail.com

ABSTRACT

Udeybir, K.R. Yadav, B.S. Tewatia, S.K. and Ahlawat, M. 2007. Nutrient utilization, excreta moisture and intestinal viscosity of digesta in broiler chickens fed pearl millet based diet. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 7: 197-204.
An experiment was conducted to study the effect of processing and enzyme supplementation in pearl millet based diet for starter (0-4 week) and finisher (4-6 weeks) broilers. Day old broiler chicks (n=400) were randomly distributed into ten treatments having two replicates each. Control T1 (Maize-soybean based diet) was as per BIS (1992) whereas T2- 66 per cent maize replaced with pearl millet, T3- 100 per cent maize replaced with pearl millet, T4 – T1 + multienzyme, T5 – T2 + multienzyme, T6 – T3 + multienzyme, T7 – 66 per cent maize replaced with reconstituted pearl millet, T8 – 100 percent maize replaced with reconstituted pearl millet, T9- T7 + multienzyme and T10- T8 + multienzyme. The results revealed that dry matter retention significantly increased when pearl millet was incorporated at 66 per cent level and reconstituted pearl millet at 66 per cent and 100 per cent level. The significant improvement in per cent nitrogen retention was observed in pearl millet based ration, at all the levels of the substitution as such, reconstituted or with or without enzyme supplementation. The excreta moisture was significantly higher in treatments T2, T3, T6, T7, T8, T9 and T10 as compared to control (T1). Apparently higher intestinal viscosity was recorded in all pearl millet based diet. It was concluded that nitrogen retention, DM retention except (T3) and excreta moisture (except T5) were improved in with or without enzyme supplemented raw pearl millet and reconstituted pearl millet based diet, whereas gross energy metabolizability was lowered in raw pearl millet based diet.

Key words: Nutrient utilization, Excreta moisture, Intestinal viscosity, Broiler, Reconstitution.

*Corresponding author: ubchahal1@india.com

ABSTRACT

Dhuria, R.K., Purohit, G.R. and Sharma, T. 2007. Effect of Incorporation of Mustard (Brassica Campestris) Straw in the Complete Feed on Nutrient Utilization by Sheep. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 7: 205-212.
Three iso-nitrogenous complete feeds containing mustard straw at 40 (T1), 50 (T2) and 60 (T3) per cent levels were formulated and evaluated using 18 Marwari rams by conducting feeding trial of 28 days followed by metabolism trial for 7 days. The dry matter intake was 80.90, 77.01 and 74.74 g/kgW0.75 and 3.68, 3.50 and 3.41 kg/100kg BW, respectively, in T1, T2 and T3 groups without any significant differences. Apparent digestibility of dry matter, gross nutrients and fibre fractions were similar among the three diets. The DCP and TDN contents of complete feeds were 10.33 and 57.38, 9.89 and 54.26 and 9.12 and 53.03 per cent, respectively in T1, T2 and T3 treatment groups. There was no significant difference between groups in the intake of DCP and TDN per kg metabolic body weight. All animals were in positive nitrogen, calcium and phosphorus balances and there was no differences between treatment groups. It can be concluded that mustard straw can be incorporated in the complete feed up to 60 % level without much adverse effect on voluntary feed intake and utilization of nutrients in sheep.

Key words: Mustard straw, Complete feed, Digestibility, Nutrient utilization, Sheep.

*Corresponding author: dhuriark12@yahoo.co.in

ABSTRACT

Shakhar, C., Pattanaik, A.K., Kore, K.B., Kumar, P. and Sharma, K. 2007. Comparative evaluation of nutritional adequacy of rice-meat based homemade diet with or without vegetables in Great Dane pups. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 7: 213-225.
Four female Great Dane pups (3 months; 16 kg) were used in a crossover design to study the influence of vegetable supplementation of rice-meat based homemade diet. Accordingly, the pups were fed two diets viz. rice-meat and rice-meat-vegetables in the proportion of 20:80 and 16:68:16, respectively, on as fed basis. The vegetables used contained potato, tomato and cabbage in equal proportions. The experimental protocol, consisting of two subsequent periods of 14d each, involved a digestion trial of 3d during 12-14d followed by blood collection on day 15. The results revealed that supplementation of vegetables drastically reduced (P<0.001) the palatability as well as food consumption leading consequently to a reduction in mean daily intakes of protein, energy (me), calcium, phosphorus, iron, copper and zinc. the digestibility of dm, om and carbohydrates also decreased (p<0.001) on feeding the vegetables supplemented diet with a similar trend for that of protein (P=0.077) and fibre (P=0.099). The faecal attributes viz. volume, moisture, pH and excretion of dry and wet faeces per 100g DM intake exhibited an increasing trend in the vegetables supplemented pups with no effects on short chain fatty acids and lactate concentrations. Serum metabolic profiles of the two groups were similar except for higher (P<0.05) values of urea and uric acid in the vegetables-fed pups. The antioxidant profile was also similar between the two groups except for the total and protein-bound thiols, which were higher (P<0.01) in the vegetables fed pups. It is concluded that indiscriminate supplementation of vegetables in the diet may adversely affect the nutritional status of the pups.

Key words: Antioxidants, Digestibility, Dogs, Homemade diet, Serum chemistry, Vegetables.

*Corresponding author: akpattanaik1@rediffmail.com

ABSTRACT

Ravichandiran, S., Sharma, K., Dutta, N., Pattanaik, A.K., Chauhan, J.S., Agnihotri, A. and Kumar, A. 2007. Effect of rapeseed-mustard cake from genotypes with varying glucosinolate levels as supplements on in vitro fermentation variables and substrate degradability. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 7: 227-234.
The feeding value of rapeseed-mustard cakes (RMC) from six genotypes with varying levels of glucosinolates (~20-100 µmol/g) was evaluated by in vitro gas production technique. The chemical composition of different genotypes of RMC was similar except acid detergent fibre (ADF) content that was lower in TERI (OE) EN O3 than other five genotypes. Except for genotype TERI-LGM 08 and Varuna of B. juncea containing >40% erucic acid (% of oil, w/w), rest of the genotypes used in this experiment had erucic acid level below 2%. The gas production was lower (P<0.01) at <20 µmol/g glucosinolate level in B. napus [TERI (OO) R9903] relative to remaining cultivars of either B. napus or B. juncea. However, the level of glucosinolates in RMC did not exert any significant effect (P>0.05) on in vitro truly degradable organic matter in rumen (TDOMR). Mean microbial biomass production (%TDOMR or per 200mg substrate) and PF (mg TDOMR/ml gas) were significantly higher for canola quality B. napus [TERI (OO) R9903] containing lowest level of glucosinolates (<20 µmol/g) relative to other genotypes. It may be concluded that variability in the glucosinolates content of various genotypes of RMC may not exert any significant effect on substrate degradability; however, microbial biomass production could be varied in different cultivars.

Key words: Rapeseed-mustard, Glucosinolate, Microbial biomass, In vitro substrate degradability.

*Corresponding author: hdan@ivri.up.nic.in

ABSTRACT

Soren, N.M., Bhar, R., Chhabra, A.K. and Mandal, A.B. 2007. Effect of different levels of rice bran on the performance of crossbred pigs. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 7: 235-139.
Fifty-four crossbred gilts of average body weight (26.11±0.08 kg) were randomly divided into 18 groups of three animals each. Six replicated groups were assigned to one of three dietary treatments containing 0 (R1), 41 (R2) and 82% (R3) rice bran (RB), to replace 0, 50 or 100% of maize and wheat bran respectively. At the end of feeding trial of 112 days, a digestibility trial was conducted to assess digestibility of nutrients and nutritional plane. Dry matter intake (DMI), average daily gain, and feed: gain were significantly reduced (P<0.01) in r3 fed pigs. digestibility of all the nutrients, except that of ether extract (ee), was reduced (p<0.01) in R2 or R3 fed pigs. The result suggested that RB could be incorporated up to 41% in the diets of growing crossbred pigs without adversely affecting performances.

Key words: Crossbred pigs, Rice bran, Nutrient utilization, Growth performance.

*Corresponding author: nmsoren@rediffmail.com

ABSTRACT

Rama Rao, S.V., Panda, A.K., Raju, M.V.L.N. and Poonam, N.S. 2007. Effect of Dietary Methionine Concentration on Performance of Vanaraja Chicks. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 7: 241-246.
An experiment was conducted to find out optimum requirement of methionine (Met) for Vanaraja chicks during 1 to 42d of age in diets containing constant levels of crude protein (CP) and other nutrients. A basal diet containing 19% CP and 0.31% Met was prepared. Synthetic DL-Met was added to basal diet to get 0.33, 0.36, 0.40, 0.43, 0.47 and 0.50% Met. Diet containing each level of Met was allotted to 10 replicates containing six birds and fed ad libitum from 2 to 42 days of age. Body weight gain at 14, 28 and 42 days of age and feed efficiency at 14 and 42d of age were not affected by the concentrations of Met in diet. But, feed efficiency at 28d of age improved significantly (P<0.01) with increase in concentration of met from 0.33 to 0.40%. further increase in met concentration did not show any improvement in feed efficiency. cost of feed required to produce a kg live weight gain was highest and lowest, respectively in groups fed 0.43 and 0.47% met. slaughter variables studied i.e. ready to cook yield, abdominal fat deposition and relative weights of liver, bursa and spleen were not affected by the levels of met in diet. lack of response in weight gain and feed efficiency at the end of experiment might be due to slow growth rate of birds. based on the results, it could be concluded that vanaraja chicks does not require more than 0.33% met in diet containing 19% cp and 2600 kcal me />kg for optimum performance during 1-42d of age.

Key words: Vanaraja, Methionine, Growth performance, Carcass traits.

*Corresponding author: svramarao1@gmail.com

ABSTRACT

Saijpaul, S., Naik, P.K. and Makkar, G.S. 2007. Effect of bioboost supplementation on nutrient utilization and performance in buffalo (bubalus bubalis) calves. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 7: 247-252.
An experiment was conducted to study the effect of dietary supplementation of bioboost, a commercial product, on nutrient utilization and growth performance in buffalo calves. Ten male buffalo calves (153.6±7.44 kg) were randomly divided into two groups (control and treatment) of five animals each and offered concentrate mixture supplemented without and with bioboost at 1kg/ton of the concentrate mixture with limited berseem fodder and wheat straw ad libitum. The mean body weight gain (g/d) of the animals of the control and treatment groups was 472.89 and 486.67, respectively and was comparable. The supplementation of bioboost had no significant effect on the total DMI and digestibility of DM, CP, EE, CF and NFE. The DCP and TDN per cent of the control and treatment diets were similar. The animals were in positive nitrogen balance and the mean values of the nitrogen retained were also comparable between the two groups. Results revealed to that bioboost at the specified level of supplementation did not show any beneficial effect on nutrient utilization and growth performance in buffalo calves.

Key words: Bioboost, Nutrient, Performance, Buffalo calves.

*Corresponding author: sksaijpaul@rediffmail.com

ABSTRACT

Panda, A.K., Sastry, V.R.B. and Mandal, A.B. 2007. Haemato-biochemico profile, humoral immune response and skeletal status of broiler chickens fed alkali processed karanj cake incorporated diet supplemented with methionine. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 7: 253-260.
A study was conducted to see the effect of dietary incorporation of alkali (1.5 % NaOH, w/w) processed solvent extracted karanj cake (SKC) supplemented with methionine on serum haemato-biochemical profile, humoral immune response and skeletal status of broiler chickens during 0 to 8 weeks of age. Incorporation of alkali treated SKC with or without methionine supplementation did not significantly influence the serum concentration of a hemoglobin, glucose, protein, albumin, globulin and uric acid or the activities of enzymes such as AST, ALT or LDH. However, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity increased significantly (P<0.05) in the birds fed alkali treated skc diet as compared to that of either reference diet or alkali treated skc incorporated diet supplemented with methionine. the feeding of alkali processed karanj cake replacing 12.5 per cent protein of soybean meal had no significant influence on antibody production as measured on 5th day of sheep rbc inoculation. however, the persistency of antibody production decreased significantly. on the contrary, supplementation of 0.2 per cent methionine to the same diet alleviated the depression in antibody production. incorporation of alkali treated skc replacing soybean meal nitrogen at (12.5%) level, with or without methionine supplementation, had no influence on the serum concentrations of ca and p, bone ash, leg score and bone breaking strength.

Keywords: Blood biochemistry, Humoral immunity, Skeletal status, Methionine, Karanj cake, Broiler.

ABSTRACT

Soren, N.M., Sastry, V.R.B., Saha, S.K. and Kumar, A. 2007. Quantification of karanjin in raw and variously processed expeller pressed karanj (Pongamia glabra) cake using high performance liquid chromatography. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 7: 261-268.
In the present study efforts were made to determine karanjin present in karanj (Pongamia glabra) cake by HPLC. Physical treatments involving of water soaking (1:1.5, 2, w/v), water washing (1:4, 5, w/v), pressure cooking (1:0.5, 1, w/v) and dry heat treatment (100±20C) for 24 hours were tried. Chemical treatments (24 hours; 1:1, w/v) comprised of alkali (NaOH, Ca (OH) 2 (lime), KOH and NaHCO3) treatments and urea ammoniation at graded levels viz. 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5 and 3%. Treatment of EKC with binder, hydroxy sodium calcium alumino silicate (HSCAS) at 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4 and 0.5 % (1:1, w/w) level was also tried. Microbiological treatment consisted of incubating cake with strains of Saccaromyces cerevisiae and Aspergillus oryzae for different time (24, 48 and 72 h) intervals at 370C using solid-state fermentation technique. Karanjin content in the detoxified cakes was estimated by HPLC using C18 reverse phase column and methanol and water (80:20) as mobile phase against karanjin standard at 250 nm. Karanjin content in EKC was found to be 0.285%, while physical treatments involving pressure cooking (1:0.5 and 1) for 30 minutes markedly (P<0.01) reduced karanjin content (0.23 and 0.25%, respectively). chemical treatment by lime at 1 and 2.5 % and sodium hydroxide at 2.5% level significantly (p<0.01) reduced karanjin content. Toxin binder at 0.1 % had a significant (P<0.01) effect in reducing the karanjin content by 16.4 %. Fermentation with S. cerevisiae and A. oryzae could not yield any beneficial effects in reducing karanjin content. It could be concluded that pressure cooking (1:0.5 and 1:1) and treatment with lime (1 and 2.5%), sodium hydroxide (2.5%) and HSCAS (0.1%) might be useful in detoxification of karanj cake for livestock feeding at a reasonable level of incorporation.

Keywords: Karanj cake, Karanjin, Chemical treatment, Microbial fermentation.

*Corresponding author: nmsoren@rediffmail.com

ABSTRACT

Mandal, G.P., Dass, R.S. and Garg, A.K. 2007. Effect of inorganic and organic zinc supplementation on rumen metabolites in crossbred cattle. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 7: 269-276.
An experiment was conducted in 4 male rumen fistulated crossbred cattle (Bos indicus x Bos taurus) fed on wheat straw and concentrate mixture in a Latin Square Design to study the impact of both inorganic (zinc sulphate) and organic (zinc propionate) on rumen metabolites. These animals were supplemented with 0 (I), 35 (II) and 70 (III) ppm Zn from zinc sulphate and 35 ppm (IV) Zn from zinc propionate. After 21 days of feeding, rumen liquor samples were drawn at different time intervals (0, 2, 4, 6 and 8h) for three consecutive days to study the rumen metabolites. Mean pH and total volatile fatty acid (TVFA) values of the strained rumen liquor (SRL) were comparable (P>0.05) among the groups. Mean TCA-precipitable–N concentration in the SRL was significantly (P<0.01) higher in the groups ii and iii than the control and group iv. no significant (p>0.05) difference was observed in the mean values of non-protein-nitrogen and ammonia-N of the SRL in the four groups. However, mean rumen protozoa population (x105/ml) was significantly (P<0.01) lower in group iii (0.84) as compared to group i (1.22), group ii (1.03) and group iv (1.33). activity (unit />min/100g digesta) of different rumen enzymes viz., carboxymethyl cellulase, proteases and urease was comparable in all the four groups. It indicated that supplementation of 35 ppm zinc, as propionate had no effect on any of the rumen metabolites, however, 35 and 70 ppm zinc supplemented as zinc sulfate had a beneficial effect on rumen fermentation, as there was higher concentration of TCA-ppt–N and lesser number of rumen protozoa in crossbred cattle.

Keywords: Zinc sulfate, Zinc propionate, Rumen metabolites, Cattle, Rumen protozoa.

*Corresponding author: rsd@ivri.up.nic.in