Physical Sciences and Mathematics Commons^™

Nonlinear Regression Functions For Forage Nutrient Disappearance From Bags Incubated In The Rumen, W. J. E. Potts, B. P. Glenn, J. B. Reeves, R. A. Erdman

Conference on Applied Statistics in Agriculture

Seven nonlinear regression functions are compared for fitting rumen in situ disappearance data. The standard function is based on a simple one-compartment model. In addition, we consider a time lag modification, a two-compartment model, and functions based on underlying probability models for degradation time. The empirical suitability of the seven regression functions are assessed using two in situ experiments involving forages fed to dairy cows. A function based on the loglogistic distribution is shown to have empirical and theoretical advantages.