Dynamic, Mechanistic Modeling Approach as a Tool to Mitigate N Excretion in Broilers
Round 1
Reviewer 1 Report
The study aims at establishing a dynamic, mechanistic modeling approach as a tool to mitigate N excretion in broiler chickens. I think this is one of the most innovative and interesting article in the field of poultry nutrition. The logic of the article is clear and the writing is smooth. But I still have 2 questions:
1. There are great differences in nitrogen metabolism and growth performance between male and female broilers. In this study, the model was calibrated first with the data given in the management guideline of 153 Aviagen for Ross 308 broiler males including adjustment of model outputs to target BW and feed consumption at each day (Aviagen “Ross 308 AP 2017 Performance objectives.”). We do not sex and group the birds in production practice. So, how do we use these models?
2. Table 2 and 3: why did not consider the reduction of SID Lys (lysine) and Trp (tryptophan)? Both of them are essential amino acids (EAA) for broilers.
Author Response
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Author Response File: 
Author Response.docx
Reviewer 2 Report
Abstract: The abstract section was well summarized, but in keywords: broiler, chickens, and poultry words are used, please. Take care of the grammar
Introduction: introduction summarizes relevant information and gives the objectives for the study. Thoroughly check the introduction section and avoid the repetition of words or sentences. Check the continuity in the paragraphs. Used small sentences. Again, take extra care in article usage L# 27.
Is 1 day enough for checking nutrient digestibility if it is priorly used by someone else kindly mention it. (L#78). Kindly elaborate on the word "latter" L# 51
Materials and Methods: The methods are adequate as is the statistical design.
Results: (Alignment with the Objectives, Materials & Methods, appropriate presentation etc.) The number of figures is impressive.
Discussion: (Intellectual vigor, logical interpretation of results, and alignment of conclusion with the results etc.)
Adequate.
But Stick to the point in the discussion & try not to reintroduce the problem. Feeding strategy along with feed quality selection can be a possible solution to the problem what’s your opinion on it. Please be mechanistic in the discussion section.
Conclusion: Should be Concise. You should keep an eye on the gradual decline in protein digestibility from 80% to 68% with an increase in age, moreover, stresses may be blamed for the decline you mention it in the introduction. Environmental footprints L# 520
Author Response
Please see the attachment.
Author Response File: Author Response.docx
