فهرست مطالب حمید محمد زاده

This study aimed to determine the effects of adding molasses on the physicochemical and silage fermentation characteristics, and in vitro ruminal fermentation parameters of fresh and ensiled lime pulps. This research was conducted in the form of a completely randomized design with four treatments including fresh lime pulp without additives (FLP), fresh lime pulp mixed with molasses; (FLPM), fresh lime pulp silage (LPS), and fresh lime pulp silage mixed with molasses (LPMS). Three replications were performed in each treatment Digestibility and gas production were determined using rumen liquid taken from two male Ghezel sheep. The results revealed that the application of molasses had no significant impact on the amount of dry matter. However, a marked distinction (P<0.05) was observed between the treatments regarding neutral detergent fiber (NDF), acid detergent fiber (ADF), ash, pH, and water holding capacity (WHC). The potential of gas production for FLPM was significantly (P<0.05) higher than that of other treatments. The addition of molasses to fresh lime pulp enhanced (P<0.05) the digestibility of dry matter in the rumen and total digestive tract. However, the presence of molasses in lime pulp silage reduced (P<0.05) the digestibility of dry matter in the rumen and total digestive tract. The results of this study suggested that the use of molasses would enhance fermentation and digestion by altering the composition of pectin in fresh lime pulp. While the lime pulp can be ensiled without molasses, the addition of molasses boosts the nutritive value and digestibility of silage.

Heat treatment of a wide variety of feeds has been traditionally used to improve the utilization of their protein by ruminants. Heat treatment of legume seeds can inactivate anti-nutritional factors, it is also effective in increasing the digestibility (Seifdavati 2012). Chemical composition and heat processing can affects fermentability of Vicia Ervilia grain. Particle size and moisture during processing also influence the possible effects of processing. Digestibility may be directly determined in vitro or estimated by using in vitro procedures, which are cheaper and more convenient. In vitro gas production technique was widely used to evaluate the nutritive value of legume forages (Evitayani et al 2004) and tannin containing tree leaves (Rubanza et al 2003). This experiment was conducted to investigate of the nutritive value of Vicia Ervilia using the in vitro disappearance and gas production techniques.

The experimental treatments were grinding Vicia Ervilia grain, steam flak, roasting and microwave. Processing steam flak, treated steam at 100°C for 30 min and then immediately passed through rollers were allowed to air for 48 h and then sealed in plastic bags. Roasting treatments at 120°C for 10 min and microwave irradiation (Nasional at a power of 800w) for 3 min. The treatments were milled through a 2.0 mm screen. Samples of treatments were dried in oven at 65°C for 24h. The gas production of treatment were recorded at 2, 4, 6, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 36 and 48 h of incubation time using a water displacement apparatus. For this purpose two ruminal fistulated sheep were used. Rumen liquor samples were obtained from the two weathers that were fed a diet content 60% roughage: 40% concentrate. Rumen fluid was pumped with a manually operated vacuum pump and transferred into prewarmed thermos flask, combined, filtered through four layers of cheesecloth and flushed with CO2. McDougall (1948) buffer solution was prepared and placed in a water bath at 39°C. Samples (300 mg) were weighed into 50 ml serum vial. Each feed sample was incubated in triplicate with 20 ml of rumen liquor and buffer solution (1:2). The vials were sealed immediately after loading and were affixed to a rotary shaker platform set as (120 rpm) housed on a incubator. Vials for each time point, as well as blanks, were prepared in quadruplicate. The metabolizable energy, net energy for lactation content of feeds, short chain fatty acid and digestible organic matter were calculated using equations of Menke & Steingass (1988) and Getachew et al. (2002). For in vitro disappearance method, the incubation time were 2, 8, 12, 24 and 48 h. The rumen liquor was obtained from the same sheep used in the gas production technique and receiving the same diet to similar conditions for both techniques. Mc Dougall (1948) buffer prewarmed to 39 ºC. The inoculum was dispensed 20 ml per vial into 50 ml serum vial (containing of 300 mg sample per vial) which had been warmed to 39 ºC and flushed with oxygen free CO2. The vials were sealed immediately after loading and were affixed to a rotary shaker platform set as (120 rpm) housed in incubator. Vials for each time point, as well as blank (containing no substrate), were prepared in triplicate. Triplicate vials were removed after 2, 8, 12, 24 and 48h of incubation. The residues were washed three times in phosphate buffer followed by centrifugation (2500 rpm, 10 min) and dried at 105 ºC and determined DM disappearance. The data was analyzed by completely randomized design.

Dry matter disappearance and gas product increased with increasing incubation time. Heat processing of steam flak increasing of DM disappearance and gas produced at 48 h and higher than the other treatments (P<0.05). The gas production volume at 48 h incubation for treatments of control, microwave, roasting and steam flaking were 141, 140, 134.57 and 147 (ml/gDM), respectively. The gas production for sum of soluble and insoluble (a+b) fractions (ml/gDM) and gas production rate (ml/h) in control treatment were 142.9 and 0.106, respectively. Dry matter disappearance from in vitro increased with increasing incubation time. The disappearance percentage of DM in control treatment for 2 and 48 h of incubation were 39.88 and 83.48 and degradabilities coefficients (a, b and c) were 31.08, 48.03 and 0.088, respectively. For roasting treatments DM disappearance and gas produced at 48 h were lower than the other treatments. Barley grain treated by the steam flak, flame rusting and exploring can be decreased ruminal crude protein (McNiven 1994). Ljokjel et al (2003) reported that heat treatment decreased ruminal degradation of starch in both barley grain and pea grain. Parnian et al (2010) showed that, cumulative gas production of sorghum grain was linearly increased by altering period of microwave irradiation. Parand et al (2010) reported that the gas production of barley grain for steam flak, microwave and roasting at 48 h were obtained 239.4, 275.9 and 239.7 (ml/gDM), respectively, these values does not match with the results of this study. Similar to the latter, previous in vitro and in vivo studies (Hironaka et al 1992; Huntington 1997) have shown that steam flaking increased ruminal starch digestibility of barley in feedlot cattle. Seifdavati et al (2012) showed the gas production of Vicia Ervilia at 24 h was obtained about 246.29 ml/gDM and rate of gas product was achieved 0.063 (%h) that decreased with autoclave processing. Hadji Panayioton and Economids (2001), reported degradability characteristics of lupin (a, b and c) about 12.45%, 84.41% and 0.1 h-1, respectively. There was strong positive correlation between gas production, in vitro and in situ dry matter disappearance so that the gas production technique can be suitable replacement for in situ and in vitro DM disappearances. The steam flaking treatment showed high potential for producing of gas and high degradability of DM compared to the other treatments (P<0.05). Regarding to high gas production and in vitro degradability in steam flaking treatment, this treatment can be used to improve of digestion process in animal nutrition.

In this research, zirconia matrix composites stabilized by yttria with 7 and 14% by weight of nickel oxide were prepared by spark plasma sintering process. Investigation of phase changes by X-ray diffraction pattern showed the dominant peak of zirconia stabilized by yttria (YSZ) with tetragonal structure along with peaks with very low intensity of monoclinic phase of YSZ. Also, the addition of nickel oxide for composite samples led to the creation of nickel metal phase. The electron microscope images prepared from the polished surface of the samples showed relatively proper distribution of the nickel phase in the ground phase. Examining the physical and mechanical properties of the samples showed that the maximum fracture toughness (14.21 ± 0.19 MPa square meter), relative density (99.81% of theoretical density), bending strength (665 MPa) is related to the composite containing 14% by weight. It was nickel oxide. But regarding the Vickers hardness of the samples, the increase of nickel oxide in the composites led to a decrease in the hardness of the sample due to the formation of metallic nickel phase.

Dried forage has long been used as a traditional method of storage of forage feedstuffs. However, the need to postpone forage harvest until maturity in order to obtain more dry matter reduces its digestibility. Adverse weather conditions can lead to loss of nutrients and overall decline in the nutritional value of dried fodder. One of the methods that is somewhat less dependent on climate conditions and used by ranchers to maintain plants. The product of fermentation under anoxic and acidic conditions is called silage. During forage ensiling due to the activity of lactic acid producing bacteria and in anaerobic conditions, water soluble carbohydrates in forage are converted to predominantly lactic acid acids, which reduce the pH and protect the forage against microbial spoilage. Corn as a plant with high production capacity and adaptability in most parts of the country can play an important role in providing forage to livestock, especially in winter. One of the main concerns in the preparation of a good silage is the rapid decrease in silage pH in the shortest time. Hay pH at harvest time is between 6 and 7 and after the incubation period with proper fermentation, pH can be equal to or less than 4, which this reduction in pH is due to production of lactic acid and other organic acids by bacteria. Accelerate the reduction of pH by adding lactic acid bacteria in food is very important to minimize depreciation. Recent studies have shown that inoculation with Lactobacillus buchneriinhibits yeast growth and reduces the susceptibility to aerobic spoilage of various ensiled forages. This study was conducted to determine the effect of EM (containing yeast an lactobacillus) and Lalsil containing lactobacillus buchneri inoculants on chemical composition, fermentation profile and degradability of corn silage. This research were carried out to investigate the Effects of Different Biological Additives on Fermentation and Chemical composition of corn silage by using 2 experiments (Chemical composition assay, gas production) in a completely randomized design. The latest experiment was performed in a completely randomized design with 4 different treatments in three replications. The corn forage was harvested at the dough stage and then crushed by a chopper. The silage were kept at room temperature for 90 days. Dry matter, organic matter, crude protein, insoluble fiber in acidic and neutral detergent, lactic acid content, water soluble carbohydrate, ammonia nitrogen concentration and total volatile fatty acids, pH were measured with 3 replicates. The four various treatments in the running order incorporated as: 1. control (without any inoculant), 2. Corn silage treated with bacterial additive Lalsil 1.8×106 CFU/g fresh forage (include lactobacillus buchneri), 3. Corn silage treated with bacterial additive at 0.02 percent, and 4. Corn silage treated with bacterial additive at 0.04 percent (at fresh weight). Crops were ensiled in triplicate laboratory mini soils for 90 days at room temperature. The results were analyze using SAS (2002) software with GLM procedure and using of Duncan’s test for comparing the averages (at 5% level). The results showed that the additive of the different Biological Additives used had the potential to positively change the chemical composition of corn silage. Treating corn silage with Lalsil and EM caused a significant decline in pH in comparison to control treatment (P<0.001). Supplementation of additives significantly increased dry matter content of corn silage (P <0.05). Statistical analysis of data from this experiment on corn silage pH showed that addition of Lalisil and EM significantly decreased corn silage pH (P <0.05). Also, the addition of EM to corn silage in 0.02 percent of supplementation had no significant difference with a control treatment. The EM treatments caused a significant decline in lactobacillus population in relation to Lalsil treatments (P<0.05). Experimental treatments in relation to control and the other treatments.  Addition of Lalsil and EM to corn silage had no significant effect on neutral detergent fiber (NDF). Treating corn silage with Lalsil and EM caused a significant decline in pH in relation to control treatment (P<0.05). The lowest pH is related to inoculated bacterial treatment.  Addition of Lalsil and EM had no significant effect on insoluble fiber in neutral detergent and acid detergent fiber. Lalsil additive reduced the amount of crude protein in the silage. The EM treatments caused a significant decline in lactobacillus population in relation to Lalsil treatments (P<0.05). DM disappearance was lower in EM treatments in at any level of supplementation in the early hours of incubation in relation to control treatment (P<0.05) as well as adding of Lalsil significantly reduced the DM disappearance (P<0.05). Adding different biological additives to corn silage reduces pH and can improve the aerobic stability, quality of corn silage in laboratory silos by altering the availability of water soluble carbohydrates.

Selenium is one these trace mineral elements which is essential for health, immunity and maximum production performance of animals. Selenium is an essential trace element, and its importance for animal health and productivity has been well confirmed. Selenium has known to be involved in enzyme activity and preventing oxidative damage to body tissue. Selenium plays important roles in antioxidant defence systems, prevents cell damage and is necessary for growth, fertility, and immune system in farm animals. Recently, nano -elemental Se has attracted wide spread attention due to its high bioavailability and low toxicity, because nanometer particulates exhibit novel characteristics, such as great specific surface area, high surface activity, a lot of surface active centres, high catalytic efficiency and strong adsorbing ability and over and above the character of low toxicity of Se0. Dietary selenium is an essential trace element for animals and humans with a variety of biological functions. It plays important roles in the regulation of thyroid hormone metabolism, cell growth and antioxidant defence systems thus, together with alpha-tocopherol prevents cells against oxidative stress damage, also these compounds are necessary for growth, fertility, and immune system health in animals and humans. The in situ and in vitro usually use for determining of effect of additives on digestibilities of t feeds. Regarding to the importance of TMR feeding on dairy cattle nutrition, determining of its digestibilities with additive and without additive is necessary. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of different forms of selenium sources on digestibility of high production lactating dairy cows TMR in vitro and in situ Techniques.

3 male ruminally cannulated sheep, average 43±4.8 kg of BW, were used in a replicated 3×3 Latin square experiment. Sheep were fed twice daily (08:00 and 18:00 h) at maintenance nutrition requirements with a basal diet consisting of 400 g/kg (dry matter) DM of basal concentrates and 600 g/kg DM of forage. Sheep were placed in metabolic cages individually and fresh water was freely available during the experimental period. This experiment was conducted in three periods of 28 days with 21 d adaptation period and 7 d for data tacking. Treatments were: 1. Basal diet + 0.3 ppm nano selenium, 2. Basal diet + 0.3 ppm organic selenium, 3. Basal diet + 0.3 ppm inorganic selenium. In gas production method, 300 mg of each treatment weighted and incubated for 2, 4, 6, 8, 12, 16, 24, 36, 48, 72, 96 hours. The Nylon bag method used to estimate ruminal disappearance of dry matter. Ruminal degradability was measured using nylon bag technique on day 22–28 of the experimental period. The samples 5 g of feed were weighed in 6 cm×12cm nylon bags made of monofilament Pecap polyester . Samples were incubated separately in duplicate bags and suspended in the rumen of each sheep and removed after 0, 2, 4, 8, 12, 16, 24, 36, 48 and 72 hours. All removed bags were rinsed in cold water until the bags were clean; the bags immediately were dried in an oven at 65◦C for 12 h, then 105 ◦C for 24 h in order to determine DM disappearance. in three steps digestion method, about 5 g of feed stuffs weighted in 6 cm×10cm nylon bags made of monofilament Pecap polyester . Samples were incubated separately in duplicate bags and suspended in the rumen of each sheep and removed after 12 hours. All removed bags were rinsed in cold water until the bags were clean; the bags immediately were dried in an oven to determine DM disappearance.

During most of incubation hours, the volume of produced gas was higher in nano selenium, organic selenium, inorganic selenium and control treatments, respectively. However, significant differences between treatments were occurred after 36 h of incubation. The most gas production potential (A) was measured in nano selenium, organic selenium and inorganic selenium compared with control treatments. There were not any significant differences between nano selenium and organic selenium in gas production potential. there wasn’t any significate differences between treatments in degradability of TMR dry matter. In three steps digestion experiment, nano treatment was higher than inorganic treatment in post ruminal digestion of TMR dry matter.

The results showed that the addition of various sources of selenium to the diet may improve rumen function.

Considering the breeding calves are one of the most important management programs in dairy farms and are the main farm profit, proper nutrition is important for their well-being. Calves do not eat enough solid feed in the first few weeks of life due to the lack of complete rumen development. Therefore, milk or milk replacer in this period is the most important source of energy and protein and other essential nutrients for the growth and health of calves. However, milk is a poor source of some minerals and vitamins for suckling calves.

The objective of this experiment was to determine the effects of vitamin-mineral supplementation in milk on performances of Holstein suckling calves.

At day of birth, thirty Holstein suckling calves were randomly assigned to three treatments with 10 calves in each group from three to 60 days of age. The experiment was performed at four periods. Treatments were: (1) CON (no additives), (2) LMV (addition of 15 grams of mineral-vitamin supplement per liter of milk), (3) HMV (addition of 25 grams of mineral-vitamin supplement per liter of milk). Whole milk was fed to calves in two meals at 09:00 and 17:00. For all treatments, the same starter (20% protein and 3.3 Mcal/kg metabolizable energy) was fed to calves. Calves had free access to starter and water from the beginning of the experiment. Data were analyzed by mixed procedures of SAS (9.1) software.

Treatments had no effect on body weight changes and daily weight gain of calves (P>0.05). Calves in HMV treatment consumed less starter than CON calves, but showed better feed conversion ratio (P<0.05). Also, starter intake time was higher in the CON group than LMV and HMV calves (P<0.05). Dry matter digestibility increased (P<0.05) in LMV and HMV groups as compared with CON group. Blood metabolite analysis showed that total protein concentration was significantly higher in CON when compared with HMV (P<0.05).

Improvement in the nutrients digestibility and feed conversion ratio of calves in LMV and HMV treatments resulted in lower starter intake, but the same final weight and daily weight gain of the suckling calves.

This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of milk supplementation (Roumak Extra) on performance of infant Holstein calves. Roumak Extra supplement was prepared from Soha Aghrin Tech Co. which consists of vitamins (water soluble and fat soluble), Micro minerals and probiotics. The average birth weight of calves was 36.76 ± 5.80 kg. Each treatment consisted of 10 calves which were examined in individual boxes for 60 days (4 periods of 15-day). This research was carried out in a completely randomized design with three treatments as follows: 1-control treatment without supplementation of Roumak Extra 2- Treatment A by adding15 grams Roumak Extra supplement per liter of milk 3- Treatment B with the addition of 25 grams Roumak Extra supplement per liter of milk. Whole milk was fed to calves at two meal at 900 and 1700. Starter were identical in terms of crude protein (%20) and Metabolizable energy (3.3 Mcal/kg). Calves had free access to starter and water from the beginning of the plan. All data were analyzed by Mixed procedures of SAS software. Body weight changes and daily gain were not significant between the supplemental calves and the control group (P˃0.05). Consumption of starter was significantly higher in control group when compared with supplement recieved treatments (P<0.05). Dry matter digestibility increased in supplemented treatments when compared to control group (P<0.05). However, feed conversion ratio were improved in supplemented treatments (P<0.05). Roumak Extra supplementation has no significant effect on water and straw consumption time (P˃0.05). However, here is no significant difference between treatments in terms of lying, standing and ruminating time (P˃0.05). However, the time of starter consumption was higher in control group when compared with supplemented treatments (P<0.05). Blood concentration of albumin, glucose and betahydroxybutyrate were not affected by supplementation (P˃0.05). But, blood total protein and urea concentration was higher in control group when compared with supplement received calves. The effect of vitamin and mineral supplementation of Roumak Extra on the growth of the skeletal system (round the chest, widther height and loin height) was also were not significant between treatments (P˃0.05). In general, despite the decrease in feed intake and the time spent on it in supplement received calves in this experiment, due to higher dry matter digestibility and improvement in feed conversion ratio, the final weight and daily weight gain of the receiving calves on supplemented were same as control group representing an improvement in calves' performance.

The aim of this study was to determine of nutritive value of green and black tea waste, and determination of metabolizable energy (ME) and net energy for lactation (NEL) using in vitro gas production method. The obtained data was completely randomized design was analyzed using SAS procedures. The values of crude protein, crude ash, ether extract, neutral detergent fiber and acid detergent fiber in green tea waste were 13.7, 3.7, 2, 44.6 and 31.7 %DM, also for black tea waste were 14.8, 4.7, 2.4, 39.6 and 27.1 %DM, respectively. The value of total phenol and extractable tannin for green tea waste were 20.3 and 18.7 %DM, and for black tea waste were 18.7 and 12.7 %DM, respectively. After 96 h of incubation, black tea waste and alfalfa had the highest and lowest gas production volume among the test feeds (p<0.05). The gas production potential amounts of the green and black tea waste and alfalfa hay were obtained 284.2, 294 and 261.9 ml/g DM, respectively. Rate of gas production for green and black tea waste and alfalfa hay were 0.074, 0.074 and 0.072 (h-1), respectively. Black tea waste had the greatest estimated metabolizable energy and net energy for lactation (9.45 and 5.77 MJ/Kg DM) among feedstuffs. These results indicated that black and green tea waste had a nutritive value higher than last bloom alfalfa and can be used as a part of ruminants ration.

This study was conducted to investigate the effects of replacement of soybean meal with canola meal and corn processing on productive performance of Holstein dairy cows. Twelve Holstein cows (milk yield= 46±3 kg/d) were assigned to a replicated 4×4 Latin square design with a 2×2 factorial arrangement of treatments. Factor 1 was corn processing method, ground corn or steam flaked corn, and factor 2 was two ratio canola meal to soybean meal (50:50 or 100:0). No significant interactions of main treatment effects occurred for lactation performance data. Dry matter intake and milk production was not affected by replacement of soybean meal with canola meal. Milk compounds concentration was not affected by this replacement. Substitution of hundred percent of soybean meal with canola meal in the diet decreased the apparent digestibility of the dry matter. Feed intake was decrease when the cows received steam flaked corn compared with those receiving ground corn. Milk fat content decreased but milk protein content increased in cows fed steam flaked compared with those fed ground corn. Although these results showed no interaction effects of replacement of soybean meal with canola meal and corn processing method on performance, higher canola meal ratio and steam flaked corn improved feed efficiency and has a positive effect on the metabolism of nitrogen and energy, so recommended to fed in high-yielding cows under the conditions of this experiment.

In order to investigate the effect of planting date and sowing method on ear yield, water use efficiency and some physiological characteristics of sweet corn, an experiment was carried out as a split plot based on a randomized complete block design with three replications in Yasouj, south-west of Iran. Planting date consisted of five levels (4 May, 19 May, 4 June, 19 June, 5 July) and considered as the main plots and three levels of planting methods (seed cultivation, transplanting cultivation [15-days after planting (3-leaf stage)] and [20-days after planting (4-leaf stage)] were assigned to the sub-plots. Planting date and sowing method interaction effects were significant on ear yield and water use efficiency. Transplanting at 3-leaf stage on the 4th of May had the maximum ear yield (16000 kg ha-1) and at 4-leaf stage on the 5th of July had the minimum ear yield (8000 kg ha-1). The highest water use efficiency (2.93 kg m-3) was obtained by transplanting on the 4th of May and 3-leaf stage, which was 66% higher than the water use efficiency of those transplanted on the 5th of July and at 4-leaf stage. The effects of planting date and sowing method were significant on grain protein content. With a delayed planting, the grain protein content was increased so that the maximum of grain protein content (8.7%) was obtained in the 5th of July and the lowest (8%) in the 4th of May transplanting. The grain protein concentration of the transplanting treatments was less than the grain protein of the seed cultivation treatment. The high temperature stress experienced by sowing at the 19th of May until the 19th of June decreased the grain sugar content. Transplanting cultivation led to increase in the amount of total sugar compared to seed cultivation. The best treatment in this study was found to be transplanting at 3-leaf stage on the 4th of May.

Previous studies comparing the effects of soybean meal versus canola meal have shown that canola meal improvement DMI, nitrogen (N) utilization and performance when fed to lactating dairy cows. Considering the high price of soybean meal compared to canola meal and the limited studies conducted to investigate the effect of different levels of replacement, the objectives of the present study were to evaluate the effects of replacing soybean meal with canola meal at different levels on performance, rumen and blood parameters in early lactation Holstein cows.

To evaluate the effects of replacing soybean meal with canola meal at different levels on performance, ruminal and blood parameters, twelve multiparous Holstein cows in early lactation were used in a replicated 4×4 Latin square design with 4 treatments. Treatments including different levels of replacement of soybean meal with canola meal in the diet were: 1) Soybean meal as the main source of dietary protein (0% of canola meal), 2) Replacing 50% soybean meal with canola meal in diet and 3) Canola meal as the main source of dietary protein (0% of soybean meal). Feed intake and milk production were recorded for each cow during the last 6 days of the period. Rumen samples were taken from cows on the last day of each experimental period to measure the concentrations of volatile fatty acids and ammonia nitrogen. Blood samples were also taken at the end of each experimental period to determine plasma concentrations of glucose, triglycerides, non-esterified fatty acids, beta-hydroxybutyrate, total protein, albumin, globulin and blood urea nitrogen.

Dry matter was not affected by treatments. Milk production was significantly higher in cows fed diets containing canola meal than in cows fed diet containing 100% soybean meal. The use of different levels of canola meal in the diet caused a significant reduction in the MUN concentration. The other milk compounds concentration were not affected by experimental treatments. The use of combination of soybean meal and canola meal in the diet together increased the apparent digestibility of the dry matter. The apparent digestibility of the protein was increased by feeding canola meal compared to soybean meal. Ruminal pH and ruminal volatile fatty acids concentration were not significantly affected by experimental diets. Except for albumin, none of the blood parameters were affected by the experimental treatments. Concentration of plasma albumin was greater in cows fed diet containing 100% canola meal compared to cows fed two other diets.

In conclusion, the results of this study indicate that replacing sobean meal with canola meal at 50% and 100% level in early lactating cows improved milk production, efficiency of intake nitrogen and apparent digestibility of dry matter and protein.

Generally, most feeds used in livestock nutrition are deficient in some nutrients, and require nutritional supplements. Among the supplements, micro and macro minerals are particular importance. Selenium (Se) plays an important role in the reproductive function and immune system and is known as an antioxidant and catalyst for the production of thyroid hormone. It is believed that low selenium absorption in ruminants is due to the deficiency of selenium in ration and its conversion into insoluble form. Nano-particles are smaller and more active than larger particles. The importance of Selenium for rumen microorganisms are not entirely clear. Also, selenium is an essential trace element, and its importance for animal health and productivity has been well confirmed. Selenium has known to be involved in enzyme activity and preventing oxidative damage to body tissue.  Selenium plays important roles in antioxidant systems, prevents cell damage and is necessary for growth, fertility, and immune system in farm animals. Recently, nano -elemental Se has attracted wide spread attention due to its high bioavailability and low toxicity, because nanometer particulates exhibit novel characteristics, such as great specific surface area, high surface activity, a lot of surface active centers, high catalytic efficiency and strong adsorbing ability and over and above the character of low toxicity of Se0. Dietary selenium is an essential trace element for animals and humans with a variety of biological functions. It plays important roles in the regulation of thyroid hormone metabolism, cell growth and antioxidant systems thus, together with alpha-tocopherol prevents cells against oxidative stress damage, also these compounds are necessary for growth, fertility, and immune system health in animals and humans. The objective of this research was to investigation the effects of different sources of selenium on digestion characteristics of concentrate mixture of diets in high producing lactating dairy cows using in vitro gas production technique.

Four male ruminally fistulated sheep, average 43±4.8 kg of BW, were used in a replicated 4×4 Latin square experiment. Sheep were fed twice daily (08:00 and 18:00 h) at maintenance nutrition requirements with a basal diet consisting of 400 g/kg (dry matter) DM of basal concentrates and 600 g/kg DM of forage. Sheep were placed in metabolic cages individually and fresh water was freely available during the experimental period. This experiment was conducted in four periods of 28 days with 21 d adaptation period and 7 d for data tacking. Treatments were: 1. Basal diet 2. Basal diet + 0.3 ppm nano selenium, 3. Basal diet + 0.3 ppm seleno methionine, 4. Basal diet + 0.3 ppm selenite sodium. The rumen fluid was mixed with artificial saliva (1:2 ratio, respectively) in lab, and then nano-Selevels and seleno methionine added to it. In gas production method, 300 mg of each treatment weighted and incubated for 2, 4, 6, 8, 12, 16, 24, 36, 48, 72, 96 hours.  In order to determine the effects of different forms of selenium on rumen parameters, concentrations of VFA and NH4, value of pH and population of protozoa were examined. Samples of rumen fluid were collected through the cannula at 4 h after feeding on days 19 and 20 of each collection period for pH, NH3-N, and volatile fatty acids (VFAs) determination. Ruminal pH was immediately measured using an electric pH meter. The samples were subsequently stored frozen at −20 ◦C until analyses.

 Potential of gas production (fraction A) of nano, organic and inorganic treatments were higher (201.9, 344.0, 321.7 and 319.8 ml in control, nano, organic and mineral treatments, respectively) compared to control treatment (P<0.05). The nano selenium treatment had higher VFA concentration (109.83, 98.00 and 89.83 mmol/l in nano, organic and mineral treatments, respectively) when compared with organic and inorganic treatments (P<0.05). Rumen NH4 concentration was not effected by treatments. The organic treatment caused a significant increase in total protozoa population when compared with nano and inorganic treatments (P<0.05).

 The results indicated that selenium supplementation in ruminant diet improves ruminal nutrients degradability's compared to control. Therefore, the use of nano-Se resulted to increase digestibility and fermentation of nutrients resulted improved rumen microorganisms activities. Although nano and organic selenium was better than inorganic treatment in ruminal degradability and rumen parameters, however there was not any significant differences between these two treatments.

The alimentary tract microbial community, is effective on energy efficiency in the host, including energy intake, transport, conversion, and storage. The term “probiotics” has been amended by the FAO/WHO to “Live microorganisms, which, when administered in adequate amounts, cause a health benefit on the host”. Animal nutritionists always try to maximize production efficiency of dairy cattle. Using various additives in animal ration is a common and popular approach to increase yield and production efficiency. Application of antibiotics in diets has proven to be effective tools for improve energy retention and reduce nutrient losses in ruminant animals. However, many countries concern regarding use of antibiotics in animal feed industry. Then, researchers try to find other non-antibiotic alternatives to manipulate rumen fermentation in order to reduce energy and nutrient losses and improve nutritional value of diets. In the last years, use of direct-fed microbial as a feed supplements have been studied in many countries around the world. Saccharomyces cerevisiae is a commonly used direct-fed microbial supplementation in dairy cattle ration. Although improve in milk production, milk fat synthesis, rumen pH, ratio of propionate to acetate and fiber digestibility has been seen in some experiments, However, dairy cattle have been shown different responses to Saccharomyces cerevisiae supplementation in their feed. Then, the current study was carried out to evaluate the effect of probiotic (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) on milk yield and composition, feed intake, production efficiency and blood parameters of high producing multiparous Holstein lactating cows.  Twelve multiparous Holstein dairy cows with average daily yield of 35 kg and 110 days in milk were used in this study. Experimental period length was 28 days including 21 d for adaptation period and the last 7 d for sample taking and data recording. Dietary treatments consisted of 1) control (ration without probiotic) and 2) diet containing 6 g/d probiotic (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) that fed as ad libitum. Diets were equal in terms of protein, net energy for lactation and neutral detergent fiber. During experimental period, milk yield was recorded on d 14, 21 and 28 of trial and were sampled to evaluate milk composition such as protein, fat, and lactose using milkoscan set. Feeds and orts were weighed daily from d 21 to 28 to determine the feed intake of animals. To assess biochemical blood parameters, each cow was bled via vein 2 hours after morning feeding at the last day of trial. Blood samples then were centrifuged at 4 ºC and 1850×g for 20 minutes. Then, serum was analyzed for glucose, insulin, calcium, phosphorus, urea nitrogen, high density lipoprotein, low density lipoprotein, cholesterol, triglyceride and non-esterified fatty acids using kits. Data were analyzed as a completely randomized design using the MIXED procedure of SAS.  Results showed that dietary inclusion of yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) had no effect on dry matter intake of animals as compared to control group. However, dry matter intake was numerically higher in animals fed Saccharomyces cerevisiae due to acceleration in fiber digestion and consequently higher passage rate. Milk yield was increased (P<0.01) in cows fed Saccharomyces cerevisiae when compared to control group. Moreover, feed efficiency was not affected by dietary treatments. Similarly, supplementation of 6 g/d Saccharomyces cerevisiae noticeably increased (P<0.01) milk fat percentage and tended to decrease (P=0.06) milk urea nitrogen concentration due to lower blood urea nitrogen in this group. However, milk protein and lactose percentage were not affected by inclusion of 6 g/f Saccharomyces cerevisiae in diet. Furthermore, dietary supplementation of Saccharomyces cerevisiae led to an increase in blood serum glucose (P<0.01), cholesterol (P<0.05), calcium (P<0.01) and phosphorus (P<0.01) concentration and a decrease in blood urea nitrogen (P<0.05) concentration in Holstein lactating cows. Also, dietary inclusion of Saccharomyces cerevisiae tended to increase blood serum insulin (P=0.08) and high density lipoprotein (P=0.05) concentration and tended to decrease non-esterified fatty acids (P=0.06) concentration in dairy Holstein cows.  In general, results of this experiment indicated that dietary inclusion of 6 g/d of Saccharomyces cerevisiae caused an improvement in milk yield and milk composition of dairy Holstein cows. Moreover, improvement in blood glucose, high density lipoprotein, cholesterol, calcium and phosphorus concentration and reduction in non-esterified fatty acids in response to Saccharomyces cerevisiae might lead to better reproduction performance and prevention some metabolic disease (e.g. ketosis and fatty liver) of high producing dairy cattle.

About 65 to 70 percent of total cost of livestock breeding is related to nutritional issues. Sometimes antibiotics are used as feed additives to prevent the growth of intestinal pathogens, reduce metabolic abnormalities, stimulating growth and improving feed conversion efficiency in farm animals. The creation of resistance in pathogens and the possibility of antibiotics remaining in products are the main disadvantages of antibiotics usage in livestock and poultry nutrition as a growth stimulator. The tendency to use secondary plant metabolites has increased as a way to improve livestock and poultry performance. This study was carried out to determine the effect of using Bioherbal plant powder on digestibility, blood parameters and gas production parameters in Holstein fattening calves.

Ten male Holstein fattening bull-claves with average weight of 310±30 Kg divided into two groups and randomly were allocated to one of the experimental treatments. Animal on Bioherbal group are received basal diet plus 20g of Bioherbal per day. Daily rations were offered to calves during three meals adlibitum rations. Calves were weighed every two weeks before the morning feeding. At the end of each experimental period, fecal sample was collected from each calf through a rectum and stored in a freezer. At the last day of each period, the blood sample was taken from the jugular vein and the plasma isolated and kept in the freezer for further analysis. At the end of the experiment, the feed or fecal samples were dried in an oven at 60 ° C for 48 hours, and milled for further analysis for chemical composition and nutrients digestibility. Statistical analysis for data were done with the proc mixed of SAS software.

The digestibility of dry matter, organic matter, neutral detergent insoluble fiber (NDF) and acid detergent insoluble fibers (ADF) was greater in Bioherbal group when compared with control group (P<0.01). Daily weight gain was numerically higher in the Bioherbal group (1.78 Kg) than the control group (1.35 Kg), but no significant difference was observed (P=0.06). Feed intake in the Bioherbal group (11.54 Kg) was significantly higher than the control group (10.81 Kg) (P <0.05). Conversion coefficient in Bioherbal group (6.50) was lower than control group (8.02) (P<0.05). Blood glucose, triglyceride and cholesterol concentration didn’t show any meaningful variance between groups (p>0.05). There was a significant difference between control and Bioherbal treatment in terms of gas production (P <0.01). The highest amount of gas production was related to Bioherbal treatment and the lowest amount was related to control ones.

The results of this study indicate that the Bioherbal plant supplement improves the digestibility of nutrients, dry matter intake, feed conversion and weight gain of Holstein fattening calves.

Compared to corn, barley starch is rapidly degraded in the rumen, leading to an accumulation of VFA and eventually resulting in acidosis. Recently, the use of organic acids has been effective in reducing of barley (as dry roll) starch degradation in the rumen. Oilseeds can be used in lactating cow diet and can produce milk with a more favorable fatty acid profile for human nutrition. Therefore, the objectives of this study were to evaluate the effects of ground barley grain treated with lactic acid (LA), dietary fat sources and their interaction on performance, milk fatty acid profile and microbial protein synthesis in early lactating Holstein cows.

To evaluate the effects of barley treatment and dietary fat sources on performance, ruminal and blood parameters twelve multiparous Holstein cows in early lactation were used in a replicated 4×4 Latin square design with a 2×2 factorial arrangement of treatments. Ground barley steeped in water (Barley-W) or in 1 % LA solution (Barley-LA) in equal quantity (wt/vol) for 48 h before adding to the TMR. Dietary fat source were extruded flaxseed (EF) and extruded soybean (ES). Accordingly, experimental treatments were: 1) barley treated with water (Barley-W) + extruded flaxseed (EF), 2) barley treated with water (Barley-W) + extruded soybean (ES), 3) barley treated with LA (Barley-LA) + extruded flaxseed (EF), 4) barley treated with LA (Barley-LA) + extruded soybean (ES).

Dry matter intake and milk yield were not affected by experimental treatments. Milk fat content and milk fat yield were greater in cows fed Barley-LA compared to cows fed Barley-W. More milk fat content was produced by cows fed ES compared to EF. Concentrations of Σ n-3 and Σ n-6 were greater and lower Σ n-6 respectively in milk from cows fed EF compared with those fed ES. The ratio Σ n-6/Σ n-3 was lower in milk from cows fed EF compared with those fed ES. The barley grain treatment and dietary fat source had no effects on milk concentration of C18:2c9t11 (CLA) and microbial protein synthesis, and their interactions between these factors were not significant.

In conclusion, treating ground barley grain with LA and the use of EF and ES as dietary fat sources did not influence the performance of early-lactation Holstein cows. Milk fat content and milk fat yield were greater in cows fed Barley-LA compared to those fed Barley-W. Concentrations of Σ n-3 and Σ n-6 were greater and lower Σ n-6 respectively in milk from cows fed EF compared with those fed ES. Contrary to our hypothesis, milk concentration of C18:2c9t11 (CLA) and microbial protein synthesis were not affected by barley treated with LA, dietary fat sources and Interaction between them.

Escherichia coli E.coli is the most important species that causes dysentery. Present study was conducted to investigate the synergistic antimicrobial effects of Nano-selenium and lactobacillus on E.coli to suggest anti-diarrhea bio-drug. The antimicrobial effects of experimental treatments against E.coli were evaluated by disk diffusion and well diffusion methods as a measure of the growth inhibition zone. Moreover, the minimum inhibitory concentration MIC and minimum bactericidal concentration MBC were determined by micro-dilution method. The results of the well and disk diffusion methods showed that in both tests, the highest growth inhibition zone of the "Nano selenium-loaded lactobacillus" treatment on the standard strain of E.coli was 23/6 and 23/36 mm respectively. The results of MIC and MBC determination showed that in all experimental periods, "Nano selenium-loaded lactobacillus" and "Nano-selenium lactobacillus" treatments with 590/7 and 615/38 μg/ml for MIC and 955/32 and 1195/67 μg/ml for MBC had the lowest amounts compared to other treatments P&lt;0.05. The results of this experiment confirmed the anti-diarrhea ability of "Nano selenium-loaded lactobacillus" treatment. Therefore, provided that this test be repeated in future studies and ensured the accuracy of these results, manufacturing of bio-drug with this formulation may be advised for prevention or treatment of diarrheal disease.

One of the most important factors in pathogenic disease is the attachment of pathogenic bacteria to the host cell surface. The present study was conducted to introduce an alternative bio-drug that prevents the attachment of microorganisms and the onset of disease. This study was carried out during the three experimental periods. Clinical and standard strains of E. coli and C. albicans yeast were collected from the Khalat-Pushan Research Station of Tabriz University and Iran Research Organization respectively. Co-aggregation activity of treatments with both E. coli and C. albicans were investigated by Collado method and expressed as percentage. Anti-adhesive activity was also determined by microtitre plate method and calculated by reduction in attachments percentage. The highest co-aggregation effect with 74.68 % was related to “probiotic+ nano-selenium” treatment with standard strain of C. albicans and “nano-selenium”. While treatment with 39.32% had the lowest co-aggregation activity with clinical strain of E. coli (P<0.05). In determination of anti-adhesive activity of experimental treatments, except for the “probiotic” treatment on clinical strain of C. albicans, there was no significant difference among treatments for both species of E. coli and C. albicans. In both strains of E .coli and C. albicans, the standard strains showed significantly higher sensitivity . All the experimental treatments had a good co-aggregation and anti-adhesive ability with pathogenic species. “Probiotic + nano-selenium” treatment had relatively high ability during three experimental protocols Therefore, it can be used as an appropriate antibiotic alternative for the prevention or control of disease.

The present study was carried out to study different methods of heat processing on nutritional value of vetch seed. Vetch seed was processed by steam flaking, roasting and microwaving. Dry matter degradability was determined using nylon bags at 0, 2, 4, 8, 12, 24, 36, 48 hours of ruminal incubation. Vetch seed processing, affected dry matter degradability so that steam flacked and roasted samples had the highest and lowest degradability percentage respectively (91.06 vs 70.49, P<0.05). The crude protein degradability showed the same pattern as well (91.64 vs 57.52 percent for steam flaked and roasted vetch respectively, P<0.05). Five different digestibility models were used to interpret degradability of dry matter and protein of raw and heat processed vetch seed. Ørskov and McDonald's model with lag time was the best fitted model for dry matter degradability of raw, steam flaked and roasted vetch seed and Franc model was the best fitted model for microwaved vetch. Considering the crude protein degradability, the best fitted model were Dhanoa without delay phase for the raw and steam flaked vetch, Ørskov and McDonald's with lag time for roasted vetch, and Dhanoa with lag time for microwaved vetch, respectively. Steam flaked and microwaved vetch had the greatest and lowest gas production during 48 hours incubation (184.96 vs 141.84 ml respectively, P<0.05). Roasting increased metabolizable energy of vetch (4.82 vs 5.53 MJ/kg DM for raw and roasted vetch respectively, P<0.05), however no changes was observed in ME content of vetch with microwave or steam flaking.

Candidiasis is a fungal infection caused by Candida albicans. Uncontrolled use of antibiotics has resulted in drug resistance. This study has been conducted to find a suitable alternative for these drugs. Primarily, standard and clinical isolates of C.albicans were collected. In order to indentify clinical isolates from lambs, the conventional mycological methods CHROM candida agar and germ tube production were used. The Antifungal effects of experimental treatments were evaluated against C.albicans by disk diffusion and measuring the growth inhibition zone in well diffusion method. Moreover, the MIC and MFC of experimental treatments were determined by microdilution method. The results of the well and disk diffusion methods showed that in both tests, the highest growth inhibition zone of the "Nano selenium-loaded lactobacillus" treatment was 29/41 and 27.64 mm, respectively on the standard strain of C.albicans. The results of MIC and MFC determination showed that in all experimental periods, "Nano selenium-loaded lactobacillus" and "Nano selenium+Lactobacillus" treatments with 473.80 and 511.91 μg/ml for MIC and 807.66 and 845.28 μg/ml for MFC had the lowest amounts compared to other treatments (P<0.05). The results of microbial tests on C.albicans confirm the antifungal ability of "Nano selenium-loaded lactobacillus" treatment. Therefore, provided that this test is repeated in future studies and the accuracy of these results is ensured, manufacturing of this product or industrial supplements with this formulation may be advised for prevention or treatment of fungal infections.

The aim of present study was to evaluate nutritive value of seven species of alfalfa weeds and comparison with alfalfa. The studied forages were: Crepis sancta, Achillea millefolium and Acroptilon repens from Asteraceae family, Medicago sativa (Alfalfa) and Melilotus officinalis (L.) Pall. From Fabaceae family and Bromus tectorum, Dactylis glomerata and Alopecurus myosuroides from poaceae family. Samples were collected during 10% blooming of the alfalfa field and divided in two parts, one part sun dried in the field for 72 hours and the other part used as fresh for palatability test. Chemical compositions were determined using common methods and Short Term Intake Rate (STIR) method was used for palatability test. The results showed that chemical compositions of samples were significantly different (P<0.05). Alfalfa hay and Alopecurus myosuroides had the highest and lowest crude protein (14.30 vs 8.36% DM, respectively) (P<0.05). Alopecurus myosuroides and Melilotus officinalis (L.) Pall. had the highest and lowest NDF content (58.70 vs 33.76% DM, respectively) (P<0.05). Crepis sancta and Acroptilon repens had the highest and lowest ADF content (28.83 vs 19.49% DM, respectively) (P<0.05). Acroptilon repens had the highest predicted metabolizable energy and digestible dry matter (P<0.05). Poaceae family weeds had the highest relative palatability as fresh forage, however, they had least relative palatability as dried form as well (P<0.05). It is concluded that the differences in chemical composition and palatability between alfalfa and weed forages should be considered in ration formulation.

Barley grain is one of the major feedstuff in ruminant animal’s nutrition due to its high energy density and lower price than grains such as corn. Rate of barley starch digestion in the rumen is critical issue in high-grain fed ruminants because it is associated with higher performance of animal. Feeding high amount of barley in ruminant animal rations can cause an increase in the incidence of digestive disorders including reduced feed intake, off-feed, acidosis, and liver abscesses. Processing methods such heat treatment can affect physical characteristics and ruminal fermentation of grain. Moreover, barley grains from diverse cultivars are different in their chemical composition and fermentation characteristics due to geographical, environmental and genetic variations as well as their interactions. This experiment was conducted to investigate the effects of variety and heat treatment duration on physical characteristics and ruminal disappearance of barley grain. Two varieties of endemic barley grain (i.e. Sahand and Makoei) were prepared from Seed and Plant Improvement Institute, Karaj, Iran. The grains were roasted in three time duration (5, 10 or 15 min at 120o C) in a cast iron container. The experiment was conducted using a 2*3 factorial design. The samples were dried in 60° oven for 48 hours. Chemical composition was determined according to prescribed procedures of AOAC (2002). Neutral detergent finer (NDF) and acid detergent fiber (ADF) were measured by method of Van-Soest et al. (1991). Bulk density of sample was determined using the method described by Montgomery and Baumgardt (1965). Water holding capacity (WHC) determined by filtration method (Robertson and Eastwood, 1981). Dry matter solubility and ash solubility of samples were determind by method of Giger-Reverdin (2000). Dry matter degradability was measured by in situ technique using two fistulated Ghezel sheep (fed 60% forage + 40% concentrate). Samples were put in the polyester bags and incubated in the rumen for 2, 4, 8, 12, 16, 24, 36, and hours. After the specific incubation periods, bags were washed under running tap water until the effluent was clear and then dried at 55◦C for 48 h. Bags and contents were weighed to estimate DM disappearance (DMD). Kinetic parameters of DM degradation was estimated by the nonlinear regression procedure of SAS (SAS Inst. Inc., Cary, NC) using the model of McDonald (1981) y = a + b (1 − e−c(t−lag)). Data were subjected to analysis as a factorial in a completely randomized design using the General Linear Model (GLM) procedure of SAS. Roasting increased dry matter (DM) content of both barley varieties (P<0.05). An increase in ADF and NDF content of roasted grain was due to decrease in water content of grain. Sahand variety showed higher degradability than Makoei (P<0.05). Dry matter degradability of both barley varieties decreased during 16 to 48 h of incubation due to roasting process (P<0.05); however, these varieties showed different kinetics of degradation during early period of incubation. Roasting increased DM degradability of the Sahand variety during initial 6 h of incubation; however, it showed different pattern in the Makoie variety. The rapid and slow degradable fractions (ie; a and b) decreased by roasting duration in both varieties (P<0.05). Also heat processing of barley grain resulted in a lower effective degradability of dry matter (P<0.01). Effective degradability of Sahand variety was higher than Makoie in all passage rates and all duration of heat processing (P<0.05). Fractional rate of degradability did not change by heat treatment. Makoei variety had higher water holding capacity (WHC), bulk density (BD), dry matter solubility (DS), and ash solubility (AS) than Sahand (P<0.05). Roasting increased WHC and decreased BD in both varieties (P<0.05) but had no effect on DS and AS. There were positive correlations between BD100 and Ether Extract (EE), NDF and ADF content of barley grain, which were 0.53, 0.40, and 0.35, respectively. Also, water holding capacity showed high positive correlation with NDF and ADF content (r =0.84 and r =0.71 respectively) and as expected conversely correlated with EE content (r = -0.61) of barley grain. Both of DMS and AS conversely correlated with EE content of barley grain (r = -0.24 and r = -0.49 respectively). The results of the current study demonstrated that it is possible to decrease ruminal degradability of barley grain by using the right roasting treatment and choosing the proper variety. Makoei variety showed more decrease in fractional rate of digestion, which should be considered in the ration formulation

Oil seeds are commonly used in the diet of Ruminant nutrition to meet energy and protein requirements. To eliminate the anti-nutritional substances and increasing bypass protein, soybean seeds are processed, and heat is the most common way used to processing soybeans. So using bypass proteins is important, Soybean processing causes rumen un-degradable protein content to be increased, that could increase protein absorption in the small intestine and improve nitrogen utilization efficiency. The main objectives of this research were the estimate the effect of dietary replacement of crud, extruded and rousted full-fat soybean with soybean meal on dry matter intake, growth performance, rumen parameters, diet digestibility and feeding behaviors in Afshari male lambs. Experimental diets were assigned to the 7 groups (n = 6/group) in a completely randomized design for a 74-d period (14 d for adaptation and 60 d for data collection). Experimental diets with equal ME and CP concentrations and a forage to-concentrate ratio of 30 to 70 were formulated: Treatment 1: contains 15 percent of soybean meal, treatment 2: Replace of 7.5 percent soybean meal with crud full fat soybean, Treatment 3: Replace of all soybean meal with crud full fat soybean, treatment 4: Replace of 7.5 percent of soybean meal with extruded full fat soybean, Treatment 5: Replace of all soybean meal with extruded full fat soybean, Treatment 6: Replace of 7.5 percent soybean meal with roasted full fat soybean, Treatment 7: Replace of all soybean meal with roasted full fat soybean. Dry matter intakes was effected by experimental diets (P <0.01). Using 15% rousted full fat soybean with the mean of 1.79 kg per day showed the highest dry matter intake. The use of extruded and rousted full fat soybean significantly increased daily gain in comparison with the crud full fat soybean and soybean meal (P <0.05). The use of extruded and rousted full fat soybean significantly reduced feed conversion ratio (P <0.01). In vivo digestibility of crud protein, dry matter and organic matter was not affected by the dietary treatment but neutral detergent fiber was affected by the dietary treatment (P <0.05). Feeding lambs on diets crud, extruded and rousted instead of soybean meal had no effect on volatile fatty acids and feeding behaviors. The use of extruded and roasted full-fat soybean with improved daily gain, in vivo digestibility and reduce feed conversion ratio, increased the fattening performance of Afshari male lamb.

To study the effect of plantingdate and method on ear yield, water use efficiency and some phenological characteristics of sweet corn, an experiment was carried out as split plot based on randomize complete blocks design with three replications in research farm of the Faculty of Agriculture, Azad University of Yasouj, Iran, in 2016. The main factor of the experiment included planting date in five levels (4 and 19 May, 4 and 19 June and5 July) and the sub factor wasplanting method in three levels including seed cultivation, 15-day seedling (three leaf stage) and 20-day seedling (four leaf stage) cultivation.The results showed that the effect of planting date and method interaction on ear yield and water use efficiencywas significant. Mean comparison of data indicated that 15-day seedlingcultivatedat May 4th had the highestcanned grain yield (16 t.ha-1) and 20-day seedlingat July 5thhad the lowest ear yield (8.24 t.ha-1). The highest water use efficiency (2.93 kg.m-3) was also obtained from 15-day seedling cultivation at May 4th, which was 66% higher than the 20-day seedling atJuly 5th. The effects of planting date and method on vegetative period and days from planting to harvest were significant. The vegetative period decreased with delay in planting date, so that the highest vegetative growth period was obtained in the planting date of May 4thand the lowest in the July 5th.Also, the duration of vegetative period in the seedling cultivation method was less than the seed cultivation method, so that the seed cultivation with growth period of 87.4 days and 20-day seedling cultivation with77.1 days had the highest and lowest growth period, respectively. In addition, the seedlings cultivation method increased grain sugar content.In total, the results of this research showed that the application of seedling cultivation method can accelerate the maturity of the plant, and therefore, when the plant may be exposed tounfavorable weather conditions, the growth period can be reduced by the application of seedling cultivation.

Weeds constantly invade crop fields and pastures. It is frequently assumed that weeds have low nutritive value and livestock will not eat weeds, so expensive and time consuming methods are often used for their control. Some weeds are toxic or poisonous for livestock, and certain weeds are unpalatable – causing a reduction in total intake. Weeds also compete with cultivated crops and forages for moisture, light, and nutrients, but many weeds are nutrient-rich and digestible. There are large numbers of weeds which are consumed by animals as forage. A study with geographic information system (GIS) in the east Azerbaijan province of Iran, showed that Bromus tectorum,Crepis sancta, Alopecurus myosuroides, Dactylis glomerata and Acroptilon repens were found in 77.8, 66.7, 67.7, 33.3 and 22.2 percent of alfalfa fields respectively. Based on this report only five species of the mentioned weeds consist of about 15 percent of total forages production area at the first cut of alfalfa fields which are harvested and used in the farms as livestock feed. Nonetheless, preliminary results suggest that weeds can play a significant role in livestock industry if their chemical composition and nutritional quality is well known. The main goal of present study was to evaluate nutritional value of seven common species of alfalfa field weeds using in vitro techniques.
Material and Seven species of alfalfa field weeds including: Crepis sancta, Achillea millefolium and Acroptilon repens from family of Asteraceae, Melilotus officinalis (L.) Pall. from family of Fabaceae and Bromus tectorum, Dactylis glomerata and Alopecurus myosuroides from family of poaceae were harvested from alfalfa field at 10 percent blooming. The samples were dried in 60° oven for 48 hours and grounded to pass through a 2-mm screen. Chemical composition of weeds was determined according to prescribed procedures of AOAC (2003). Neutral detergent finer (NDF) was measured by method of Van-Soest et al. 1991. Rumen fluid was obtained from three fistulated ghezel male lambs before morning feeding. The lambs were fed twice daily at maintenance level. Dry matter fermentation of each weed was determined using in vitro gas production technique. Potential of gas production, organic matter digestibility, small chain fatty acid production and net energy of lactation (NEl) were calculated from the results of gas production. In vitro disappearance of forages was measured. Result and discussion: Alfalfa and Alopecurus myosuroides had the highest and lowest crude protein (CP) content respectively (14.3 vs 8.4 %) (P<0.05). Alopecurus myosuroides and Melilotus officinalis (L.) Pall had the highest and lowest NDF content respectively (58.7 vs 33.8 %) (P<0.05) and Crepis sancta and Acroptilon repens had the highest and lowest ADF content respectively (28.8 vs 19.5 %) (P<0.05). Alopecurus myosuroides had the highes amount of ether extract (i.e. 10.99) and Ash (11.83%) and lowest organic matter content (88.17 % of DM) among the studied forages. Fermentation experiment revealed that fabaceae family had the highest potential of gas production (252 ml/g DM), organic matter digestibility (68.3%), short chain fatty acid production (0.82 mmol) and NEl (5.2 MJ Kg-1DM) (P<0.05). Conversley, Asteraceae family had the lowest amount of organic matter digestibility (54.1%), short chain fatty acid production (0.55 mmol) and NEl (3.7 MJ Kg-1DM) (P<0.05).Among the individual forages and weeds after the alfalfa, Melilotus officinalis had the highest potential of gas production (227 ml/g DM), organic matter digestibility (67.8%), short chain fatty acid production (0.77 mmol) and NEl (5.7 MJ Kg-1DM) (P<0.05), however many of weeds had the same fractional rate of gas production with alfalfa. Accordingly based on the in vitro disappearance experiment, the mentioned family had the highest degradability parameters including soluble and slowly degradable fractions (31.8 and 20.8 % respectively), degradation rate (0.06 % / h) and effective degradability (47.4 %) (P<0.05). According to the results of the present research, it seems that the studied plants can be use as part of ration for ruminant animals. But due to low digestibility and higher NDF content, these forages may limit voluntary feed intake. Maximizing dry matter intake is one of the main goals especially in high producing animals. Therefore considering that many alfalfa field have high proportion of weeds in the first cut, it is recommended that first cut of alfalfa not used in the ration of high producing animals.