Modelling rumen function and subsquent nutrient utilisation

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The proposed programme is a continuation of my research into modelling rumen function and subsequent nutrient utilisation; a programme of work that has been actively pursued over several years. Six new developments are planned, three of which pertain to digestion and three to post-absorptive metabolism: (i) an extended rumen fatty acid sub-model; (ii) an improved description of protozoal dynamics; (iii) an expanded physical description of the rumen and hindgut; and models of nitrogen metabolism in (iv) gut wall; (v) liver; and (vi) mammary gland. Statistical meta-analysis and dynamic modelling will be used in pursuance of each objective. Having accomplished these developments, an integrated model will be produced in the form of a user-friendly decision support system. This will allow more efficient feeding strategies for ruminant livestock and options for mitigating methane emissions and nitrogen pollution to be devised.