Design of a Negative Temperature Coefficient Temperature Measurement System Based on a Resistance Ratio Model.

In this paper, a temperature measurement system with NTC (Negative Temperature Coefficient) thermistors was designed. An MCU (Micro Control Unit) primarily operates by converting the voltage value collected by an ADC (Analog-to-Digital Converter) into the resistance value. The temperature value is then calculated, and a DAC (Digital-to-Analog Converter) outputs a current of 4 to 20 mA that is linearly related to the temperature value. The nonlinear characteristics of NTC thermistors pose a challenging problem. The nonlinear characteristics of NTC thermistors were to a great extent solved by using a resistance ratio model. The high precision of the NTC thermistor is obtained by fitting it with the Hoge equation. The results of actual measurements suggest that each module works properly, and the temperature measurement accuracy of 0.067 °C in the range from -40 °C to 120 °C has been achieved. The uncertainty of the output current is analyzed and calculated with the uncertainty of 0.0014 mA. This type of system has broad potential applications in industry fields such as the petrochemical industry.

Insight into the Crystal Structures and Surface Property of Manganese Oxide on CO Catalytic Oxidation Performance.

α-MnO2 nanorods and flower-like γ-MnO2 microspheres were synthesized by facile and mild methods to illustrate the effect of crystal structures and surface features on catalytic performance with the help of carbon monoxide (CO) oxidation. It is revealed that the flower-like γ-MnO2 microspheres possess better catalytic oxidation performance (CO complete conversion temperature at 120 °C and long-time stability for 50 h) than α-MnO2 nanorods, which can be attributed to the obvious differences in the chemical bonds and linking modes of [MnO6] octahedra due to the different crystal structures. γ-MnO2 possesses lower Mn-O bond strength that enables γ-MnO2 to present a large amount of surface lattice oxygen and superior oxygen mobility. The disordered random intergrowth tunnel structure can adsorb effectively CO molecules, resulting in excellent catalytic performance for CO catalytic oxidation. In addition, the MnO2 catalyst probably occurred via a Mars-van Krevelen mechanism for CO oxidation. This work provides an insight into the effect of crystal structures and surface property of manganese oxide on catalytic oxidation performance, which presents help for the future design of promising catalysts with excellent catalytic performance.

Integrating RNA-sequencing and untargeted LC-MS metabolomics to evaluate the effect of lysine deficiency on hepatic functions in Holstein calves.

Lysine (Lys) is majorly metabolized in the liver. The liver functional consequences of a dietary Lys deficiency in young Holstein calves are unknown. This study aimed to investigate the effects of Lys deficiency in Holstein calf livers using RNA-sequencing and untargeted LC-MS metabolomics. Calves (n = 36; initial body weight 101.2 ± 10.8 kg; 90-day-old) were fed restricted diets, for 90 days, containing 19.2% crude protein that varied in Lys content (PC group 1.21%; PC-Lys group 0.85%; dry matter basis) for 90 days. Body weight, average daily gain, gain/feed, and Lys intake were significantly decreased in response to Lys deficiency (P < 0.05). Dry matter intake was not altered (P > 0.05). Network and pathway analyses revealed that noradrenaline, adenosine 5'-monophosphate, acetyl-CoA, and coenzyme A were significantly decreased. Regulating of lipolysis in adipocytes pathway and fatty acid degradation pathway were downregulated. We also identified eight significantly differentially expressed genes (SDEGs), among which adrenoceptor beta 2 (ADRB2), WAP four-disulfide core domain 2 (WFDC2), and claudin-4 (CLDN4) were associated with inhibition of lipolysis, and carbon catabolite repression 4-like (CCRN4L), FOS like 2 (FOSL2), and arginase 2 (ARG2) were associated with inhibiting lipid synthesis. Correlation tests showed that coenzyme A was strongly correlated with SDEGs (0.82 ≤|r|≤ 0.96). Acetyl-CoA and adenosine 5'-monophosphate were strongly correlated with CCRN4L (0.90 ≤|r|≤ 0.92), indicating a strong correlation between the changes in SDEGs and these metabolites. In conclusion, Lys deficiency caused dysplasia and affected lipid metabolism in the liver by inhibiting lipolysis and lipid synthesis in calves.

Effects of dietary rumen-protected Lys levels on rumen fermentation and bacterial community composition in Holstein heifers.

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of partial reducing rumen-protected Lys (RPLys) on rumen fermentation and microbial composition in heifers. Three ruminal fistulated Holstein Friesian bulls were used to determine the effective degradability of RPLys using an in situ method at incubation times of 0, 2, 6, 12, 16, 24, 36, and 48 h. Thereafter, 36 Holstein heifers at 90 days of age were assigned to one of two dietary treatments: a theoretically balanced amino acid diet (PC group; 1.21% Lys, 0.4% Met) or a 30% Lys-reduced diet (PCLys group, 0.85% Lys, 0.4% Met). Rumen fluid samples from five heifers in each group were extracted using esophageal tubing on day 90 to determine pH, microprotein, ammonia, volatile fatty acids, and microbial communities. Results showed that the effective ruminal degradability was 25.76%. Furthermore, differences in rumen fermentation parameters and alpha diversity of the microbiota between the two groups were not significant, but beta diversity was significant. Based upon relative abundance analysis, short-chain fatty acid-producing bacteria, including Sharpea, Syntrophococcus, [Ruminococcus]_gauvreauii_group, Acetitomaculum, and [Eubacterium]_nadotum_group belonging to Firmicutes, were significantly decreased in the PCLys group. Spearman's analysis revealed a positive correlation between the butyrate molar proportion and the relative abundance of butyrate-producing bacteria such as [Eubacterium]_nadotum_group, Coprococcus_1, Ruminococcaceae_UCG_013, Pseudoramibacter, and Lachnospiraceae_UCG_010. Phylogenetic Investigation of Communities by Reconstruction of Unobserved States analysis further validated that RPLys deduction influenced energy metabolism. Together, our findings highlight the role of RPLys or Lys in butyrate-producing bacteria. However, the number of bacteria affected by Lys was very limited and insufficient to alter rumen fermentation. Key Points • Reducing 30% Lys via rumen-protected Lys did not affect rumen fermentation parameters and alpha diversity of microbiota of Holstein heifers. It meant that the ruminal fermentation pattern was not changed. • Reducing 30% Lys via rumen-protected lysine significantly decreased relative abundance of short-chain fatty acid-producing bacteria belonging to Firmicutes. • Functions of microorganisms were changed by reducing 30% Lys via rumen-protected Lys, especially amino acid metabolism. It may affect the amino acid composition of microprotein.

Injection therapies for lateral epicondylalgia: a systematic review and Bayesian network meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: There are many injection therapies for lateral epicondylalgia but there has been no previous comprehensive comparison, based on the Bayesian method. METHODS: The MEDLINE, EMBASE and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) databases were searched for appropriate literature. The outcome measurement was the pain score. Direct comparisons were performed using the pairwise meta-analysis, and network meta-analysis, based on a Bayesian model, was used to calculate the results of all of the potentially possible comparisons and rank probabilities. A sensitivity analysis was performed by excluding low-quality studies. The inconsistency of the model was assessed by means of the node-splitting method. Metaregression was used to assess the relationship between the sample size and the treatment effect. RESULTS: All of the injection treatments showed a trend towards better effects than placebo. Additionally, the peppering technique did not add additional benefits when combined with other treatments. No significant changes were observed by excluding low-quality studies in the sensitivity analysis. No significant inconsistencies were found according to the inconsistency analysis, and metaregression revealed that the sample size was not associated with the treatment effects. CONCLUSIONS: Some commonly used injection therapies can be considered treatment candidates for lateral epicondylalgia, such as botulinum toxin, platelet-rich plasma and autologous blood injection, but corticosteroid is not recommended. Hyaluronate injection and prolotherapy might be more effective, but their superiority must be confirmed by more research. The peppering technique is not helpful in injection therapies.

Repeated inoculation with rumen fluid accelerates the rumen bacterial transition with no benefit on production performance in postpartum Holstein dairy cows.

BACKGROUND: The dairy cow's postpartum period is characterized by dramatic physiological changes, therefore imposing severe challenges on the animal for maintaining health and milk output. The dynamics of the ruminal microbiota are also tremendous and may play a crucial role in lactation launch. We aim to investigate the potential benefits of early microbial intervention by fresh rumen microbiota transplantation (RMT) and sterile RMT in postpartum dairy cows. Twelve fistulated peak-lactation dairy cows were selected to be the donors for rumen fluid collection. Thirty postpartum cows were divided into 3 groups as the transplantation receptors respectively receiving 10 L fresh rumen fluid (FR), 10 L sterile rumen fluid (SR), or 10 L saline (CON) during 3 d after calving. RESULTS: Production performance, plasma indices, plasma lipidome, ruminal microbiome, and liver transcriptome were recorded. After fresh and sterile RMT, we found that the molar proportion of propionic acid was increased on d 7 in the FR and SR groups and the bacterial composition was also significantly changed when compared with the CON group. A similarity analysis showed that the similarities between the CON group and FR or SR group on d 7 were 48.40% or 47.85%, whereas the similarities between microbiota on d 7 and 21 in the FR and SR groups were 68.34% or 66.85%. Dry matter intake and feed efficiency were not affected by treatments. Plasma ß-hydroxybutyrate concentration in the FR group was decreased and significantly different lipids mainly included phosphatidylcholine and lysophosphatidylcholine containing polyunsaturated fatty acids. Hepatic transcriptomics analysis indicated acute-phase response pathways were upregulated in the SR group. CONCLUSIONS: Our study suggests that RMT can shorten the transition process of the ruminal microbiota of postpartum dairy cows with no benefit on dry matter intake or feed efficiency. Inoculation with rumen fluid may not be a useful approach to promote the recovery of postpartum dairy cows.

Effect of growing regions on morphological characteristics, protein subfractions, rumen degradation and molecular structures of various whole-plant silage corn cultivars.

Little information exists on the variation in morphological characteristics, nutritional value, ruminal degradability, and molecular structural makeup of diverse whole-plant silage corn (WPSC) cultivars among different growing regions. This study investigated the between-regions (Beijing, Urumchi, Cangzhou, Liaoyuan, Tianjin) discrepancies in five widely used WPSC cultivars in China (FKBN, YQ889, YQ23, DK301 and ZD958), in terms of 1) morphological characteristics; 2) crude protein (CP) chemical profile; 3) Cornell Net Carbohydrate and Protein System (CNCPS) CP subfractions; 4) in situ CP degradation kinetics; and 5) CP molecular structures. Our results revealed significant growing region and WPSC cultivar interaction for all estimated morphological characteristics (P < 0.001), CP chemical profile (P < 0.001), CNCPS subfractions (P < 0.001) and CP molecular structural features (P < 0.05). Except ear weight (P = 0.18), all measured morphological characteristics varied among different growing regions (P < 0.001). Besides, WPSC cultivars planted in different areas had remarkably different CP chemical profiles and CNCPS subfractions (P < 0.001). All spectral parameters of protein primary structure of WPSC differed (P < 0.05) due to the growing regions, except amide II area (P = 0.28). Finally, the area ratio of amide I to II was negatively correlated with the contents of soluble CP (δ = -0.66; P = 0.002), CP (δ = -0.61; P = 0.006), non-protein nitrogen (δ = -0.56; P = 0.004) and acid detergent insoluble CP (δ = -0.43; P = 0.008), in conjunction with a positive correlation with moderately degradable CP (PB1; δ = 0.58; P = 0.01). In conclusion, the cultivar of DK301 exhibited high and stable CP content. The WPSC planted in Beijing showed high CP, SCP and NPN. The low rumen degradable protein of WPSC was observed in Urumchi. Meanwhile, above changes in protein profiles and digestibility were strongly connected with the ratio of amide I and amide II.

Comparison of Nutritional Components, Ruminal Degradation Characteristics and Feed Value from Different Cultivars of Alfalfa Hay.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of different cultivars of alfalfa hay, including American Anderson (AA), American Golden Empress (GE), China Zhongmu No. 1 (ZM1) and China Gongnong No. 1 (GN1), on conventional nutrient composition, rumen degradation characteristics and feed value. Four healthy Holstein cows (137 ± 14 days in milk, 2.40 ± 0.50 parity) equipped with permanent ruminal cannulas were examined for the nylon-bag technique. The alfalfa hay samples were incubated in the rumen for 0, 4, 8, 12, 24, 36, 48 and 72 h according to the "gradual in/all out" schedule to detect the ruminal nutrients' degradability. Our results showed that various cultivars of alfalfa hay from different planting regions had significant differences on nutrient contents, rumen degradability and feed value. For nutritional components of alfalfa hay, the highest dry matter (DM) content was found in GE and the lowest in GN1 (p < 0.001); however, GN1 had the greatest concentration of ether extract (EE, p = 0.01), Ca (p < 0.001) and the lowest Ash (p < 0.001). Additionally, the lowest neutral detergent fiber (NDF), acid detergent fiber (ADF) and highest starch contents were observed in AA and GE (p < 0.001). Meanwhile, the cultivar of ZM1 represented the highest NDF, ADF and Ash contents, in conjunction with minimal CP and P concentrations (p < 0.001). In terms of rumen degradation characteristics, the effective degradation rate (ED) of DM in GE and ZM1 was significantly higher than that in AA and GN1 (p = 0.013). The NDF effective degradation was lower in ZM1 than the other three cultivars (p = 0.002), and in addition ZM1 also showed lower CP and ADF effective degradation than GE (p < 0.001). As far as feed value was concerned, the cultivar of alfalfa hay imported from the US, including AA and GE, exhibited higher relative feed value (RFV) and relative forage quality (RFQ) than Chinese alfalfa based on ZM1 and GN1 (p < 0.001). In conclusion, the results suggested that the cultivar of GE exhibited greater rumen degradable characteristics and feed value, while ZM1 showed the opposite status.

Comparative Analysis of Rumen Microbiota Composition in Dairy Cows with Simple Indigestion and Healthy Cows.

Simple indigestion in cows leads to substantial economic losses in the dairy industry. Despite ongoing efforts, an effective treatment for this issue remains elusive. Previous studies have emphasized the vital role of rumen microbes in maintaining ruminant health. To deepen our comprehension of the intricate interplay between rumen microbiota and simple indigestion, we undertook a study involving the analysis of rumen fluid from eight cows with simple indigestion and ten healthy cows. Additionally, we collected data pertaining to milk production, rumination behavior, and rumen characteristics. The results showed that cows with simple indigestion displayed significantly lower milk yield, reduced rumination duration, and weakened rumen contraction when contrasted with the healthy cows (p < 0.05). However, no significant difference in microbiota α-diversity emerged (p > 0.05). Principal coordinate analysis (PCoA) illuminated substantial variations in rumen microbial structure among the two groups (p < 0.05). Further analysis spotlighted distinctive bacteria in the rumen of the cows with indigestion, including Allisonella, Synergistes, Megasphaera, Clostridium_XIVb, Campylobacter, and Acidaminococcus. In contrast, Coraliomargarita, Syntrophococcus, and Coprococcus are the dominant bacterial genera in the rumen of healthy dairy cows. Importantly, these key bacterial genera also dominated the overarching microbial interaction network. The observation suggests that changes in the abundance of these dominant bacterial genera potentially underlie the principal etiology of cows with simple indigestion. The present findings can provide insights into simple indigestion prevention and treatment in dairy cows.

Effects of alkaline mineral complex supplementation on production performance, serum variables, and liver transcriptome in calves.

Calf diarrhea causes huge economic losses to livestock due to its high incidence and mortality rates. Alkaline mineral complex water is an alkaline solution containing silicon, sodium, potassium, zinc, and germanium, and has biological benefits and therapeutic effects. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of alkaline mineral complex water supplementation on the health of calves and to investigate the effect of Alkaline mineral complex water supplementation on neonatal calf serum variables and the liver transcriptome. Sixty Holstein calves (age 1.88 ± 0.85 days, weight 36.63 ± 3.34 kg) were selected and randomly divided into two groups: the T group (treatment group with alkaline mineral complex water supplemented during the experiment) and C group (control group without alkaline mineral complex water supplementation). Alkaline mineral complex water supplementation significantly increased the body weight for calves aged 60 d and average daily gain during the experimental period (1-60 d). In addition, Alkaline mineral complex water supplementation could significantly decrease the diarrhea rate for calves aged 16-30 d, enhance the T-AOC, IgG, IGF-1, and IGFBP-2 in concentrations. The results of KEGG enrichment analysis in transcriptomics indicate that Alkaline mineral complex water supplementation inhibited the target IL-1B gene of the NF-kappa B signaling pathway of liver. Alkaline mineral complex water supplementation decreased calf diarrhea and improved partial immune function, anti-inflammatory activity, antioxidant capacity, and health of calves. Alkaline mineral complex is a candidate to replace medicated feed additives. Alkaline mineral complex waterAlkaline mineral complex waterAlkaline mineral complex waterAlkaline mineral complex waterAlkaline mineral complex waterAlkaline mineral complex waterAlkaline mineral complex water.

Molecular imaging of mesothelioma with (99m)Tc-ECG and (68)Ga-ECG.

We have developed ethylenedicysteine-glucosamine (ECG) as an alternative to (18)F-fluoro-2-deoxy-D-glucose ((18)F-FDG) for cancer imaging. ECG localizes in the nuclear components of cells via the hexosamine biosynthetic pathway. This study was to evaluate the feasibility of imaging mesothelioma with (99m)Tc-ECG and (68)Ga-ECG. ECG was synthesized from thiazolidine-4-carboxylic acid and 1,3,4,6-tetra-O-acetyl-2-amino-D-glucopyranose, followed by reduction in sodium and liquid ammonia to yield ECG (52%). ECG was chelated with (99m)Tc/tin (II) and (68)Ga/(69)Ga chloride for in vitro and in vivo studies in mesothelioma. The highest tumor uptake of (99m)Tc-ECG is 0.47 at 30 min post injection, and declined to 0.08 at 240 min post injection. Tumor uptake (%ID/g), tumor/lung, tumor/blood, and tumor/muscle count density ratios for (99m)Tc-ECG (30-240 min) were 0.47 ± 0.06 to 0.08 ± 0.01; 0.71 ± 0.07 to 0.85 ± 0.04; 0.47 ± 0.03 to 0.51 ± 0.01, and 3.49 ± 0.24 to 5.06 ± 0.25; for (68)Ga-ECG (15-60 min) were 0.70 ± 0.06 to 0.92 ± 0.08; 0.64 ± 0.05 to 1.15 ± 0.08; 0.42 ± 0.03 to 0.67 ± 0.07, and 3.84 ± 0.52 to 7.00 ± 1.42; for (18)F-FDG (30-180 min) were 1.86 ± 0.22 to 1.38 ± 0.35; 3.18 ± 0.44 to 2.92 ± 0.34, 4.19 ± 0.44 to 19.41 ± 2.05 and 5.75 ± 2.55 to 3.33 ± 0.65, respectively. Tumor could be clearly visualized with (99m)Tc-ECG and (68)Ga-ECG in mesothelioma-bearing rats. (99m)Tc-ECG and (68)Ga-ECG showed increased uptake in mesothelioma, suggesting they may be useful in diagnosing mesothelioma and also monitoring therapeutic response.

Development of tyrosine-based radiotracer 99mTc-N4-Tyrosine for breast cancer imaging.

The purpose of this study was to develop an efficient way to synthesize (99m)Tc-O-[3-(1,4,8,11-tetraazabicyclohexadecane)-propyl]-tyrosine ((99m)Tc-N4-Tyrosine), a novel amino acid-based radiotracer, and evaluate its potential in breast cancer gamma imaging. Precursor N4-Tyrosine was synthesized using a 5-step procedure, and its total synthesis yield was 38%. It was successfully labeled with (99m)Tc with high radiochemical purity (>95%). Cellular uptake of (99m)Tc-N4-Tyrosine was much higher than that of (99m)Tc-N4 and the clinical gold standard (18)F-2-deoxy-2-fluoro-glucose ((18)F-FDG) in rat breast tumor cells in vitro. Tissue uptake and dosimetry estimation in normal rats revealed that (99m)Tc-N4-Tyrosine could be safely administered to humans. Evaluation in breast tumor-bearing rats showed that although (99m)Tc-N4-Tyrosine appeared to be inferior to (18)F-FDG in distinguishing breast tumor tissue from chemical-induced inflammatory tissue, it had high tumor-to-muscle uptake ratios and could detect breast tumors clearly by planar scintigraphic imaging. (99m)Tc-N4-Tyrosine could thus be a useful radiotracer for use in breast tumor diagnostic imaging.

Development of (99m)Tc-N4-NIM for molecular imaging of tumor hypoxia.

The nitro group of 2-nitroimidazole (NIM) enters the tumor cells and is bioreductively activated and fixed in the hypoxia cells. 1,4,8,11-tetraazacyclotetradecane (N4) has shown to be a stable chelator for (99m)Tc. The present study was aimed to develop (99m)Tc-cyclam-2-nitroimidazole ((99m)Tc-N4-NIM) for tumor hypoxia imaging. N4-NIM precursor was synthesized by reacting N4-oxalate and 1,3-dibromopropane-NIM, yielded 14% (total synthesis). Cell uptake of (99m)Tc-N4-NIM and (99m)Tc-N4 was obtained in 13762 rat mammary tumor cells and mesothelioma cells in 6-well plates. Tissue distribution of (99m)Tc-N4-NIM was evaluated in breast-tumor-bearing rats at 0.5-4 hrs. Tumor oxygen tension was measured using an oxygen probe. Planar imaging was performed in the tumor-bearing rat and rabbit models. Radiochemical purity of (99m)Tc-N4-NIM was >96% by HPLC. Cell uptake of (99m)Tc-N4-NIM was higher than (99m)Tc-N4 in both cell lines. Biodistribution of (99m)Tc-N4-NIM showed increased tumor-to-blood and tumor-to-muscle count density ratios as a function of time. Oxygen tension in tumor tissue was 6-10 mmHg compared to 40-50 mmHg in normal muscle tissue. Planar imaging studies confirmed that the tumors could be visualized clearly with (99m)Tc-N4-NIM in animal models. Efficient synthesis of N4-NIM was achieved. (99m)Tc-N4-NIM is a novel hypoxic probe and may be useful in evaluating cancer therapy.

A bibliometrics analysis and visualization of osteoimmunology on osteoarthritis studies.

BACKGROUND: Osteoarthritis (OA), the most prevalent form of arthritis, which affects up to 15% of the adult population. The work presented in this paper focuses on the analysis of the publications on osteoimmunology of OA. The purpose of this paper is to provide inspiration for future research on osteoimmunology of OA. METHODS: We extracted all of the English publications relevant to osteoimmunology of OA published from 1991-2020 from the Web of Science. SPSS, GraphPad Prism, Citespace, and VOSviewer were utilized to collect and analyze the publication trends in osteoimmunology of OA. RESULTS: We identified a total number of 1,004 publications with a total number of citations of 35,675 by October 31, 2020. Most publications came from China (26.8%). The United States ranked second, but its average number of citations and H index ranked best (10,130 citations and 55 H-index). Shandong University is the main center of institutional cooperation. Most papers related to osteoimmunology of OA were published in the journal of Osteoarthritis and Cartilage. In this field, TAK PP published the most papers (15), while Kotake, S's article was cited the most frequently (1,195). As presented in Figure 6, the 70 keywords, defined as terms that appeared more than 50 times in all papers, were classified into four clusters molecular research, human research, animal research and cell research. Research on cytokines and pathways is the new trend in Molecular research. CONCLUSION: The current status and global trend of osteoimmunology of OA revealed by this study indicates that there is a strong possibility that the number of papers will increase in the coming year, and the research on cytokines as well as pathways would be the next hot topic.

Nutrient Digestibility, Microbial Fermentation, and Response in Bacterial Composition to Methionine Dipeptide: An In Vitro Study.

It is well known that the methionine dipeptide (MD) could enhance the dairy cows milking performance. However, there is still a knowledge gap of the effects of MD on the rumen fermentation characteristics, microbiota composition, and digestibility. This experiment was conducted to determine the effect of different nitrogen sources with a total mixed ration on in vitro nutrient digestibility, fermentation characteristics, and bacterial composition. The treatments included 5 mg urea (UR), 25.08 mg methionine (Met), 23.57 mg MD, and no additive (CON) in fermentation culture medium composed of buffer solution, filtrated Holstein dairy cow rumen fluid, and substrate (1 g total mixed ration). Nutrient digestibility was measured after 24 h and 48 h fermentation, and fermentation parameters and microbial composition were measured after 48 h fermentation. Digestibility of dry matter, crude protein, neutral detergent fiber (NDF), and acid detergent fiber (ADF) in the MD group at 48 h were significantly higher than in the CON and UR groups. The total volatile fatty acid concentration was higher in the MD group than in the other groups. In addition, 16S rRNA microbial sequencing results showed MD significantly improved the relative abundances of Succinivibrio, Anaerotruncus, and Treponema_2, whereas there was no significant difference between Met and UR groups. Spearman's correlation analysis showed the relative abundance of Succinivibrio and Anaerotruncus were positively correlated with gas production, NDF digestibility, ADF digestibility, and acetate, propionate, butyrate, and total volatile fatty acid concentrations. Overall, our results suggested that the microbiota in the fermentation system could be affected by additional nitrogen supplementation and MD could effectively enhance the nutrient utilization in dairy cows.

In vitro and in vivo Studies of Soybean Peptides on Milk Production, Rumen Fermentation, Ruminal Bacterial Community, and Blood Parameters in Lactating Dairy Cows.

Soybean peptides (SPs), a feed additive derived from soybean, exhibit nutritional function and biological activity in monogastric animals, but limited studies have been conducted in dairy cows. Our experiments were conducted to evaluate the effects of SPs on the nutrient degradability of dry matter (DM), crude protein (CP), neutral detergent fiber (NDF), and acid detergent fiber (ADF) in vitro and milk production, rumen fermentation and bacterial community, and blood parameters of dairy cows. For in vitro experiment, ruminal fluids were collected from three ruminal cannulated Holstein dairy cows. A total of three levels of SPs (0, 0.38, and 1.92 g/kg DM of SPs) were added to the total mixed ration (TMR). Nutrient degradability and fermentation fluid pH were determined at 24 and 48 h using 3.0 g samples of the substrate. Gas production after 48 h was recorded by an automated trace gas recording system using 0.5 g samples of the substrate. The results showed that DM, NDF, ADF (p < 0.01), and CP (p < 0.05) degradabilities were significantly increased at 1.92 g/kg DM of SPs at 24 h, and asymptotic gas production (p = 0.05) was increased at 48 h. For in vivo experiment, 110 lactating Holstein cows (209.7 ± 65.2 DIM; 37.2 ± 6.4 kg/d milk yield) were randomly assigned to 0 (control group, CON) or 50 g/head/day SPs (SP-supplemented group). Yields of milk (p < 0.05), milk protein (p < 0.05), and milk lactose (0.05 < p < 0.10) increased on SPs supplementation; however, the milk fat percentage decreased (p < 0.05). The concentrations of individual volatile fatty acids (VFAs) (p < 0.05) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) (p < 0.01) were also increased. Rumen bacterial diversity in SP-supplemented cows was higher (p < 0.05). The relative abundances of Rikenellaceae_RC9_gut_group, Butyrivibrio, Selenomonas, and Shuttleworthia were significantly increased and that of Coprococcus was decreased (p < 0.05). Our results showed that supplementing 1.92 g/kg DM of SPs could improve the nutrient degradability in vitro and 50 g/head/day of SPs could improve milk production and antioxidant ability of dairy cows. The rumen bacterial diversity was also enhanced by SP supplementation.

Preliminary Investigation of the Effects of Rosemary Extract Supplementation on Milk Production and Rumen Fermentation in High-Producing Dairy Cows.

Rosemary extract (RE) has been used as an antioxidant in cosmetics and food additives, indicating its potential as a feed additive to improve adaptation in high-producing dairy cows. Here, we investigated the effects of RE supplementation on lactation performance and rumen fermentation in high-producing dairy cows. Thirty multiparous cows were blocked into 15 groups based on milk production and were randomly assigned to one of two treatments: 0 or 28 g/d of RE supplementation to the basic diet per cow. The experiment was conducted over a 74-day period, which included an initial two-week adaptation period. We observed significant increases in milk and milk lactose yields following RE supplementation. Somatic cell count tended to decrease by treatment. Additionally, superoxide dismutase concentration significantly increased and malonaldehyde level decreased after RE supplementation. Sequencing of 16S rRNA revealed that RE supplementation significantly affected the microbial composition and decreased the richness of the microbiota. Specifically, the abundance of the genus Prevotella was significantly decreased by RE supplementation and was correlated with volatile fatty acids in the Mantel test, whereas no significant correlation was found for other genera. Our findings provide fundamental information on the potential for RE as a feed additive for dairy cows to improve antioxidant status and enhance propionate generation.

Effects of Concentrate Levels in Prepartum Diet on Milk Performance, Energy Balance and Rumen Fermentation of Transition Montbéliarde-Holstein Crossbred Cows.

This study was conducted to investigate the effect of three rates of prepartum dietary concentrate feeding on the milk performance, energy balance, and rumen fermentation of Montbéliarde−Holstein crossbred cows. Eighteen transition Montbéliarde−Holstein crossbred cows with similar days of gestation (258 ± 12 day) and body weights (622 ± 44 kg) were selected and randomly divided into three groups. In the prepartum period, the addition of concentrates accounted for 0.3% (low concentrate, LC), 0.6% (medium concentrate, MC), and 0.9% (high concentrate, HC) of the cow's body weight. The forage was corn stover, which was fed to the cows ad libitum with free access to water. Postpartum, all of the cows were fed a common lactation total mixed ration. The experimental period lasted from 21 days prepartum to 28 days postpartum. The energy balance (EB), net energy intake (NEI), and dry matter intake (DMI) of the HC group were greater than those of the other groups (p < 0.05). Likewise, the non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA), ß-hydroxybutyric acid (BHBA), and total bilirubin (TBIL) in the blood of the LC group had significantly higher concentrations than they did in the other groups (p < 0.05). Moreover, the increase in the level of dietary concentrate had no significant effect on the rumen fermentation parameters (p > 0.05), and the total intestinal digestibility of dry matter (DM), crude protein (CP), and ether extract (EE) in the HC group was significantly higher (p < 0.05) than it was in the other groups during the prepartum period. In conclusion, the administration of the MC diet in the prepartum period had no negative effect on the performance and rumen fermentation of postpartum dairy cows and can satisfy the energy needs of prepartum dairy cows. Therefore, under our experimental conditions, the 0.6% prenatal concentrate feeding amount was the most appropriate for Montbéliarde−Holstein crossbred cows.

Acremonium terricola Culture's Dose-Response Effects on Lactational Performance, Antioxidant Capacity, and Ruminal Characteristics in Holstein Dairy Cows.

Acremonium terricola culture (ATC) has similar bioactive constituents to Cordyceps and is known for its nutrient and pharmacological value, indicating the potential of ATC as a new feed additive in dairy cow feeding. The primary aim of this experiment was to investigate the effects of increasing amounts of ATC in diets on milk performance, antioxidant capacity, and rumen fermentation, and the secondary aim was to evaluate the potential effects of high doses of ATC. A total of 60 multiparous Holstein cows (110 ± 21 days in milk; 2.53 ± 0.82 parity) were assigned into 15 blocks and randomly assigned to one of four groups: 0, 30, 60, or 300 g/d of ATC per cow for 97 days. Data were analyzed using repeated measures in the Mixed procedure. Dry-matter intake was not changed (p > 0.05), while energy-corrected milk and fat-corrected milk yields increased linearly and quadratically, and somatic cell count in milk decreased linearly and quadratically (p < 0.05). The lactation efficiency and the yields of milk fat and protein increased linearly (p < 0.05). On day 90, serum catalase level, total oxidative capacity, glutathione peroxidase, immunoglobulin A, and immunoglobulin M concentrations were significantly higher in the 60 and 300 g/d groups than in the 0 g/d group (p < 0.05). ATC addition showed linear effects on total volatile fatty acid (VFA), acetate, branched VFA concentrations, and rumen pH (p < 0.05). Supplementing 60 and 300 g/d ATC significantly affected the bacterial composition (p < 0.05). The relative abundance of Christensenellaceae_R-7_group and Lachnospiraceae_NK3A20_group were significantly increased by 60 g/d supplementation, and the relative abundance of Erysipelotrichaceae_UCG_002, Acetitomaculum, Olsenella, and Syntrophococcus were significantly increased by 300 g/d supplementation (p < 0.05). ATC was effective in enhancing rumen fermentation and reducing somatic cell count in milk, thereby improving milk yield. The optimized dose of ATC was 60 g/d for lactating cows, and there were no risks associated with high doses of ATC.

Effect of Supplementing Different Levels of L-Glutamine on Holstein Calves during Weaning.

Weaning stress affects the health and performance of calves. L-glutamine (L-Gln) is commonly used as a functional antioxidant and energy supplement in the body. However, dietary L-Gln supplementation improving weaning stress of calves is unclear. Thus, we aimed to explore the effects of L-Gln (provided by rumen-protected L-Gln) on calves during weaning. Seventy-five Holstein calves (54.0 ± 2.68 kg; 42 ± 2.1 d of age) were assigned to five groups: no supplementation and L-Gln with 1%, 2%, 3%, and 4% dry matter daily intake (DMI) supplementation groups, respectively. The experiment lasted for 28 days (42-70 d of age of calves), and the calves were weaned at 15 d of experiment. DMI and body weekly weight of all calves were recorded. Blood samples of nine healthy calves with similar body weight were collected from each group at 0, 7, 14, 16, 18, 21, and 28 d of experiment for detecting serum L-Gln, glucose, insulin, urea nitrogen, D-lactate, cortisol, haptoglobin, interleukin-8, immunoglobulin (Ig) G, IgA, IgM, total antioxidant capacity, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, catalase, and malondialdehyde. At the end of the experiment, six healthy calves with similar body weight from each group were selected for slaughter and morphological analysis of small intestine tissue. The results showed that the L-Gln supplementation in the diets improved the negative effects of sudden weaning in calves. Furthermore, compared to the higher-level L-Gln supple-mentation (3 and 4% of DMI) groups, the dietary lower-level L-Gln supplementation (1 and 2% of DMI) had higher average daily gain, glutathione peroxidase and IgG concentration, and villus height/crypt depth of the duodenum and jejunum, as well as lower cortisol, haptoglobin, and interleukin-8 concentration of weaned calves. These results provided effective reference for relieving the negative effects of calves during weaning.