Reproductive and hormonal responses of two breeds of roosters fed diets containing chromium picolinate with or without vitamin C at high ambient temperature

This study evaluated the effects of chromium picolinate (CrPic) with or without vitamin C on the reproductive potentials of cocks raised under high ambient temperature. Four diets contained CrPic at 0.00 to 1.20 mg kg-1 without vitamin C and another four diets contained CrPic with 200 mg vitamin C each. A total of 192 White Leghorn and Noiler cocks (96 cocks each) were randomly assigned to the 8 treatments and replicated 4 times with 6 cocks per replicate in a 2 x2 x 4 factorial experiment. At the end of the sixteen weeks study, twelve birds per treatment were randomly sacrificed. The testes were carefully sampled, weighed and processed for estimation of daily sperm production using the homogenate method. The results revealed that the interactions of 0.40 mg CrPic kg-1 with or without vitamin C significantly (p < 0.05) influenced the gonadal and extra-gonadal weights, semen characteristics among the cocks while the daily sperm production and reproductive hormones were not negatively affected. This study, therefore, concluded that 0.40 mg CrPic kg-1 diet with vitamin C could significantly reduce the effects of heat stress on cocks raised under high ambient temperature without negatively impacting on their normal reproductive functions.(AU)

Effects of Saccharomyces Cerevisiae Supplemented Diet on Production Performance, Egg Quality and Humoral Immunity in Black Australorp and Fayoumi Layers

The present study intended to identify the effects of the Saccharomyces cerevisiae yeast on production performance and parameters related to the quality of layers' eggs. Effects of yeast on immune titers after routine vaccinations against Newcastle disease and infectious bronchitis were also studied. Fayoumi chicken (n=288) were divided in four groups (72 in each), and Black Australorp (n=288) in four groups (72 in each). Both had 12 weeks of age and were kept in 08 groups (3 replicates per treatment). Hens were fed a controlled diet along with the addition of 0.5g, 1.0 g, and 1.5 g of S. cerevisiae per kg of feed, till 25 weeks of age. Feed intake and egg production were measured on a daily basis, while body weight gain and egg weight were measured weekly. Egg quality parameters were evaluated by picking 5 eggs from every group weekly. Birds were vaccinated for Newcastle disease (ND) and infectious bronchitis (IB) at the 18th week. Subsequently, 10 days after vaccination, antibody titers were determined by Hemagglutination Inhibition and Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay for both diseases. Results showed no significant effect of S. cerevisiae on layers' weight gain and feed intake. However, egg production was increased in the experimental group. Moreover, yeast supplementation impacted positively on birds' immune system. In conclusion, probiotic supplementation improved birds' egg production and immunity.(AU)

Dried distiller's grains plus solubles supplementation improves low-quality tropical grass utilization on beef steers / Suplementação de grãos de destilação secos com solúveis melhora a utilização de grama tropical de baixa qualidade para novilhos de corte

This study was designed to evaluate the effect of corn dried distiller's grains (DDGS) supplementation on feed intake, total tract digestibility, and ruminal fermentation of beef steers fed low-quality Guinea grass (Megathyrsus maximus, cv. Gatton panic). Twelve Braford crossbred steers were housed in individual pens (n = 4 steers/treatment), provided with three levels of DDGS supplement: 0%, 0.6%, or 1.2% BW. Steers were blocked by live weight and randomly assigned to treatments within the block. Corn DDGS supplementation increased total OM intake (21.55, 40.23, and 56.69 g/kg BW0.75) and tract OM digestibility (46.33, 49.03, and 72.39 % DM). Total tract digestible OM, CP, NDF and EE intake also increase in response to DDGS supplementation. Forage OM intake decreased when supplementation level reached 1.2 % BW. Also, ruminal pH decreased with DDGS supplementation level (6.88, 6.47, and 6.27). No differences were observed in total volatile fatty acids (VFA) concentration; however, the molar proportion of acetate decreased (77.98, 73.90, and 67.29 % Total VFA) as well as acetate: propionate ratio (4.38, 3.48, and 2.74). On the contrary, propionate proportions increased (18.32, 21.86, and 24.81 % Total VFA). Levels of ammonia and lactate were within suggested values for optimal fermentation and bacterial growth. Low-quality grass supplementation with corn DDGS increased total OM intake and digestibility. Also, DDGS inclusion favorably altered volatile fatty acids profile by reducing the acetate to propionate ratio regarding forage-only diets.

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o efeito da suplementação com grãos de destilação secos de milho com solúveis (DDGS) no consumo, digestão e fermentação ruminal de novilhos de corte alimentados com capim-da-índia de baixa qualidade (Megathyrsus maximus, cv. Gatton panic). Doze novilhos mestiços Braford foram alojados em baias individuais (n = 4 novilhos / tratamento), fornecidos com três níveis de suplemento de DDGS: 0%, 0,6% ou 1,2% PV. Os novilhos foram bloqueados pelo peso vivo e atribuídos aleatoriamente aos tratamentos dentro do bloco. A suplementação com DDGS de milho aumentou o consumo de matéria orgânica total (21,55, 40,23 e 56,69 g / kg PV0,75), a digestibilidade da matéria orgânica (46,33, 49,03 e 72,39% MS) e o consumo de todos os nutrientes digestíveis. O consumo de matéria orgânica da forragem diminuiu quando o nível de suplementação atingiu 1,2% PV. Além disso, o pH ruminal diminuiu com o nível de suplementação com DDGS (6,88, 6,47 e 6,27). Não foram observadas diferenças na concentração de ácidos graxos voláteis totais, no entanto, a proporção molar de acetato diminuiu (77,98, 73,90 e 67,29% de AGV total), bem como a relação acetato: propionato (4,38, 3,48 e 2,74). Pelo contrário, as proporções de propionato aumentaram (18,32, 21,86 e 24,81% Total de AGV). Os níveis de amônia e lactato estavam dentro dos valores sugeridos para fermentação ideal e crescimento bacteriano. A suplementação de gramíneas de baixa qualidade com DDGS de milho aumentou o consumo e a digestibilidade da MO total. Além disso, a inclusão de DDGS alterou favoravelmente o perfil de ácidos graxos voláteis, reduzindo a proporção de acetato para propionato em relação às dietas apenas com forragem.

Energy supplementation as strategy of pasture management

This study evaluated the effect of increased energy via supplementation on the performance, ingestive behavior, nutrient digestibility, and nitrogen metabolism of grazing heifers fed tropical forage in the rainy-dry transition season. Treatments consisted of mineral supplementation ad libitum (control) and multiple supplements formulated to provide different energy levels and the same amount of protein (300 g CP animal d-1) and were denominated as low (LE; 340 g TDN animal d-1), medium (ME; 780 g TDN animal d-1) and high (HE; 1220 g TDN animal d-1) energy. Animals supplemented with ME, and HE had a greater average daily gain in relation to the control treatment, with an increase of 41 and 46%, respectively. Greater values for total apparent digestibility of neutral detergent fiber were observed for the treatment HE. Lesser values of urinary urea N were observed for the control and HE treatments. Our results define the use of energy levels in the supplement as a tool for pasture management. If the purpose of the production system is to enhance forage intake, the option is to supply supplements with less energy levels. In contrast, if the purpose is to increase the stocking rate, supplements with greater energy levels should be used.(AU)

Use of essential oils in the diet of slow-growing broilers and their effects on performance / Uso de óleos essenciais em dietas de frangos de corte de crescimento lento e seus efeitos sobre o desempenho

This study proposes to examine the effect of supplementing the diet of slow-growing broilers with essential oils. A total of 270 one-day-old female chicks of the Pesadão Vermelho line, reared in an intensive system, were allocated to one of three treatments (1: Control, without addition of essential oils; 2: Feed supplemented with cinnamon essential oil; and 3: Feed supplemented with lemongrass essential oil) in a completely randomized design with nine replicates of 10 birds each. Growth performance variables were evaluated at 14, 28, 42, 56, and 70 days, whereas carcass yield, primal cuts, and internal organs were analyzed at 71 days of age. Data were subjected to analysis of variance and differences between means were compared using the Scott-Knott test at 5% probability. Supplementation with lemongrass essential oil improved the live weight of birds at 14, 28, and 42 days, as well as feed conversion and feed efficiency at 42 and 56 days of rearing (P<0.05). The treatments with cinnamon and lemongrass essential oils provided the highest thigh yields (P<0.05). The other evaluated variables did not show statistically significant differences (P>0.05) between treatments.(AU)

O experimento teve como objetivo, avaliar o efeito da suplementação de óleos essenciais nas dietas de frangos de corte de crescimento lento. Foram utilizados 270 pintos de um dia, fêmeas da linhagem Pesadão Vermelho, criados em sistema intensivo. O delineamento experimental foi o inteiramente casualizado (DIC) com três tratamentos (Tratamento 1: Controle, sem adição de óleo essencial; Tratamento 2: Ração suplementada com óleo essencial de canela e Tratamento 3: ração suplementada com óleo essencial de capim-cidreira) e nove repetições de 10 aves cada. Aos 14, 28, 42, 56 e 70 dias foram avaliadas as variáveis de desempenho zootécnico e aos 71 dias o rendimento de carcaça, cortes nobres e órgãos internos. Os dados foram submetidos à análise de variância e as diferenças entre as médias foram comparadas pelo teste de Scott-Knott a 5% de probabilidade. A suplementação com óleo essencial de capim-cidreira melhorou o peso vivo das aves aos 14, 28 e 42 dias e a conversão e eficiência alimentar aos 42 e 56 dias de criação (P<0,05). Os tratamentos com óleo essencial de canela e de capim-cidreira proporcionaram maior rendimento de sobrecoxa (P<0,05). Em relação as demais variáveis avaliadas, não foram verificadas diferenças estatísticas significativas (P>0,05) para os tratamentos testados.(AU)

Development of colonies of uruçu stingless bees fed a vitamin-amino acid supplement / Desenvolvimento de colônias de abelhas sem ferrão uruçu alimentadas com o suplemento aminoácido vitamínico

This study proposes to investigate the influence of a vitamin-amino acid supplement on the weight of colonies of uruçu stingless bees (Melipona scutellaris). The experiment was carried out with 24 colonies and three treatments, which consisted of a solution of different proportions of supplement (0, 3, and 5 mL) diluted in syrup (water and sugar). Although this supplement is effective and indicated for other species of domestic animals, analysis of variance with repeated measures over time did not reveal a significant effect (P > 0.05) of its dose on the weight of the hives, showing that the supply of the vitamin-amino acid supplement does not meet the nutritional requirements of the colony. The use of this product did not have a positive effect on the development of the uruçu bee colonies, so it should not be employed as a major source of amino acids and vitamins in the diet of bees. Beekeepers are suggested to provide uruçu bees with an abundant diversity of plants so that they have access to different types of pollen as a source of nutrients.(AU)

O objetivo do presente estudo foi verificar a influência do suplemento aminoácido vitamínico no peso de colônias de abelhas sem ferrão Uruçu (Melipona scutellaris). O experimento foi realizado com 24 colônias e três tratamentos, consistindo na oferta de uma solução de xarope (água e açúcar) diluído com diferentes proporções de 0, 3 e 5 mL de suplemento. Embora este suplemento seja eficaz e indicado para outras espécies animais de domésticos, a análise de variância com medida repetida no tempo não apresentou efeito significativo (P> 0,05) do nível desse suplemento sobre o peso das colmeias, mostrando que a oferta do suplemento aminoácido vitamínico, não supre a necessidade nutricional para a colônia. Conclui-se que o uso desse produto não surtiu efeito positivo no desenvolvimento de colônias de abelhas Uruçu (Melipona scutellaris), indicando que não deveria ser utilizado como fonte majoritária de aminoácido e de vitaminas na alimentação das abelhas. Sugere-se que os meliponicultores proporcionem às abelhas Uruçu (Melipona scutellaris) uma abundante diversidade de plantas a fim de que tenham acesso a diferentes tipos de pólen como fonte de nutrientes.(AU)

Biochemical energy and hematological profile of sheep supplemented with soy molasses / Perfil bioquímico energético e hematológico de ovinos suplementados com melaço de soja

Soy molasses is a by-product of the soy industry, with low commercial cost and rich in carbohydrates and proteins. Despite the great variety of by-products and being potentially beneÞ cial, it is not fully understood how the interaction between the nutrients in this product and the physiological changes in sheep occurs. Thus, the objective was to evaluate the effects of supplementation levels with soy molasses on the energy metabolites and hematological parameters of sheep. The treatments consisted of 0, 3, 6, 9, and 12% of inclusion of soy molasses in dry matter basis for a basal diet of corn silage, which met the nutritional needs of the sheep in maintenance, distributed in a 5 × 5 Latin square design. The energy metabolites evaluated were: cholesterol, triglycerides, very-low-density lipoproteins (VLDL), and fructosamine. The hematological parameters were: red blood cells, hemoglobin, hematocrits, and platelets, in addition to leukocytes, rods, neutrophils, eosinophils, monocytes, and lymphocytes. Supplementation with soy molasses did not signiÞ cantly alter (P> 0.05) the serum concentrations of cholesterol, triglycerides, VLDL, and fructosamine. There was no signiÞ cant difference in the blood cell, hemoglobin, hematocrit, and platelet concentrations in sheep receiving soy molasses supplementation (P> 0.05), which may indicate that the level of inclusion was sufÞ cient to meet the nutritional needs of the animals, without damage. Leukocyte, rod, neutrophil, eosinophil, monocyte, and lymphocyte concentrations did not change (P> 0.05) with the inclusion of soy molasses in the sheep's diet, indicating the absence of intoxication, diseases, and infections. It can be concluded that supplementation with soy molasses does not alter the energy metabolites and hematological parameters of sheep in maintenance.(AU)

O melaço de soja é um subproduto da indústria da soja, com baixo custo comercial e rico em carboidratos e proteínas. Apesar da grande variedade de subprodutos e de serem potencialmente benéÞ cos, ainda não está totalmente elucidado como ocorre a interação entre os nutrientes deste produto e as mudanças Þ siológicas em ovinos. Dessa forma, objetivou-se avaliar os efeitos de níveis de suplementação com melaço de soja sob os metabólitos energéticos e parâmetros hematológicos de ovinos. Os tratamentos consistiram em 0, 3, 6, 9 e 12% de inclusão de melaço de soja na base da matéria seca para uma dieta basal de silagem de milho, que atendia as necessidades nutricionais das ovelhas em mantença, distribuídas em delineamento em quadrado latino 5 × 5. Foram avaliados os metabolitos energéticos: colesterol, triglicérides, lipoproteínas de muito baixa densidade (VLDL) e frutosamina. Já os parâmetros hematológicos foram: hemácias, hemoglobinas, hematócritos e plaquetas, além de leucócitos, bastonetes, neutróÞ los, eosinóÞ los, monócitos e linfócitos. A suplementação com melaço de soja não alterou signiÞ cativamente (P>0,05) as concentrações séricas de colesterol, triglicérides, VLDL e frutosamina. Não houve diferença signiÞ cativa nas concentrações de hemácias, hemoglobinas, hematócritos e plaquetas das ovelhas com suplementação de melaço de soja (P>0,05), podendo ser indício que o nível de inclusão foi suÞ ciente para atender as necessidades nutricionais dos animais, sem causar balanço energético positivo. As concentrações de leucócitos, bastonetes, neutróÞ los, eosinóÞ los, monócitos e linfócitos não alteraram (P>0,05) com a inclusão de melaço de soja na dieta das ovelhas, não indicando a presença de intoxicação, doenças e infecções. Conclui-se que a suplementação com melaço de soja não altera os metabólitos energéticos e parâmetros hematológicos de ovinos em mantença.(AU)

Glycerin supplementation strategies for three or seven days affects oxidative stress, follicle dynamics and ovulatory response in Morada Nova sheep

The Ziwuling black goat is an indigenously in China, their offspring are frequently affected by congenital cryptorchidism. The extracellular matrix (ECM) contains cytokines and growth factors that regulate the development of the testis, and component changes often result in pathological changes. Cryptorchidism is closely related to structural changes in ECM. In this study, the histochemical staining, immunohistochemical, immunofluorescence and Western blot combined with semi-quantitative analysis was used to describe the distribution of the important ECM components Collagen type IV (Col IV), laminin (LN)and heparan sulfate proteoglycans (HSPG) in the normal and cryptorchid testes of Ziwuling black goats. Results showed that: The histochemical staining showed that the dysplasia of seminiferous tubules and decreased number of Sertoli cells in cryptorchidism, as well as sparse collagen fiber. Meanwhile, the distribution of reticular fibers is relatively rich. Furthermore, the PAS and AB staining in the interstitial vessels and lamina propria of seminiferous tubules is weak. The immunohistochemical and immunofluorescence revealed that Col IV, LN was strongly expressed in Leydig, Sertoli cells of normal testes and moderately positive in the spermatogonia and spermatids, but HSPG was not expressed in the spermatogonia. However, cryptorchidism, the expression of Col IV, LN and HPSG in Leydig, Sertoli cells significantly decreased, as well as the expression of Col IV and LN in capillary endothelial cells, but HSPG was moderately expressed in spermatogonia. Based on these data, the underdevelopment of spermatogenic epithelium, decreased synthesis function of collagen fibers and Leydig cells develop usually in the cryptorchidism were shown to be closely related to the abnormal metabolism of Col IV and LN. The positive expressed of HSPG in the spermatogonia of cryptorchid testes is related to the compensatory development of spermatogonia.(AU)

Exogenous enzymes in sheep diet: nutritional and physiological parameters

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of adding exogenous enzymes to the diet on nutrient intake and digestibility, nitrogen balance, ingestive behavior and rumen movement of ewe lambs. Five ewe lambs, Dorper x Santa Inês crossbred, with an average age of 7 ± 1 months, average weight of 36.40 ± 2.36 kg were assigned in a 5x5 Latin square design. The treatments consisted of adding exogenous enzymes to the concentrate: Allzyme, Fibrozyme®, Amaize®, Mix and Control. Analyses of variance were applied and means were compared by the SNK test, and non-parametric Kruskal Wallis test at 5% significance. The dry matter intake in relation to body weight, crude protein intake and nitrogen intake were higher with the use of amylolytic enzyme compared to the other treatments (p <0.05). Nitrogen balance was higher with the use of amylolytic enzymes and the Allzyme® enzyme complex (p <0.05). A longer time spent in total chewing was observed with the inclusion of fibrolytic and amylolytic enzymes without changes in rumen movement. The use of exogenous enzymes promotes better use of nutrients, with high digestibility of dry matter, neutral detergent fiber and crude protein.(AU)

Responses of Broiler Chickens Fed Low or High Non-Starch Polysaccharide Diets and the Addition of Humic Substances from a Worm Compost

The objective was to evaluate the productivity, microbiology and histopathology of the jejunum, ceca and liver in broilers fed a control or a high non-starch polysaccharide (HNSPs) diet added with an extract of humic substances (EHS). 240 broilers individually allocated, from 21-42 d of age were assigned to a factorial arrangement of 2 types of diets: 1) A corn/soybean meal diet (Control) and 2) As Control plus 7% distillers dried grain with solubles and 12% of wheat bran (HNSPs), and 3 growth promoters: 1) Antibiotic growth promoters (AGP); 2) without AGP (NAGP) and C) with 0.5% of EHS. At the end of the trial, the breast and carcass were weighed and samples of the intestine, ceca and liver were taken for microbial and histopathology analysis. Results were subjected to ANOVA. EHS-fed broilers had lower feed conversion ratio (FCR) and total aerobic bacterial (TAB) counts in the liver and higher ashes digestibility with the Control diet, but negative responses were seen with the HNSPs diet (Type of diet and growth promoter interaction, p≤0.05). The lesion scores in the jejunum were lower in EHS-fed broilers with the Control and HNSPs diet (p≤0.05). The TAB and E. coli were lower in the jejunum and ceca of AGP-fed broilers (p<0.01) compared to NAGP and EHS groups. EHS-fed broilers showed improved FCR and ileal ashes digestibility and lower TAB in the liver with the Control diet and had lower lesion score in the jejunum and similar weight gain compared to the AGP-fed broilers.(AU)

Immunological indices of Giant African Land snails (Archachatina marginata) improved with fixed dose of vitamin C during acute heat stress

The study determined immunological indices of Giant African Land snail (Archachatina marginata) improved with fixed dose of vitamin C under acute heat stress (AHS). Prior to the AHS, vitamin C was administered for four weeks to two treatment groups, while other two treatment groups were not. Each treatment was monitored, haemolymph collected at 0, 30 and 60 minutes exposure times. Immunological cytokines: interferon gamma (IFN-γ) and interleukin 2 (IL-2); and total haemocyte counts (THC) were determined. Under AHS, vitamin C elevated (p <0.05) IFN-γ production (606.33 ± 302.86) compared to other groups with or without vitamin C administration (7.20 ± 1.58 vs. 73.20 ± 32.23 vs. 7.80 ± 1.36). IL-2 was not affected (p >0.05) by vitamin C under AHS. Highest (p <0.05) THC values was obtained with vitamin C administration under AHS, but reduced under no AHS. Exposure time affected (p <0.05) IFN-γ production and THC values, but not IL-2 (p >0.05). With fixed dose of vitamin C and exposure time, highest (p <0.05) IFN-γ values were obtained under AHS with vitamin C administration at 30 minutes and at 60 minutes in THC, compared to other groups. The study concluded that fixed dose of vitamin C at 150 mg kg-1 of feed was appropriate under AHS to boost the immune system of the animals.(AU)

Effects of environmental enrichment on behavioral expression of pumas (Puma concolor) under human care / Efeitos do enriquecimento ambiental na expressão comportamentalde onças-pardas (Puma concolor) mantidas sob cuidados humanos

The maintenance of pumas under human care imposes different conditions from those found in the natural environment, which may result in stress and impaired welfare. The objective was to evaluate the effects of environmental enrichment on the welfare of four jaguar specimens (Puma concolor), kept under human care. The enrichment techniques addressed were food, sensory, and mixed (physical-cognitive) enrichment. The research was divided into three phases: Phase 1, pre-enrichment; Phase 2, application of enrichment; and Phase 3, post-enrichment. The observation of the activities was performed using the focal animal method, and the behaviors were recorded to compose an ethogram. The sampling effort totaled 96 hours, with a 24-hour observation time for each specimen. During phases 2 and 3, the animals showed increased expression of natural behaviors, increased exploration and interaction with the enclosure, as well as, with other individuals. In addition, the applied activities provided cognitive challenges and reduced the animals' idle time. Although puma 4 showed stereotyped behavior, during the three phases of this study, this individual was healthy and active. Thus, the results demonstrate the beneficial effects of environmental enrichment on the well-being of pumas held in captivity.(AU)

A manutenção de onças-pardas mantidas sob cuidados humanos impõe condições diferentes daquelas encon-tradas no ambiente natural, o que pode resultar em estresse e prejuízo ao bem-estar. Objetivou-se avaliar os efeitos do enriquecimento ambiental no bem-estar de quatro espécimes de Onça-parda (Puma concolor), mantidos sob cuidados humanos. As técnicas de enriquecimento abordadas foram o enriquecimento alimentar, sensorial e misto (físico-cogni-tivo). A pesquisa foi dividida em três fases: Fase 1; Pré-enriquecimento, Fase 2; Aplicação dos enriquecimentos e Fase 3; Pós-enriquecimento. A observação das atividades foi realizada através do método animal focal, sendo registrados os comportamentos para composição de um etograma. O esforço amostral totalizou 96 horas, com o tempo de observação de 24 horas para cada espécime. Durante as fases 2 e 3, os animais apresentaram aumento da expressão de comporta-mentos naturais, aumento da exploração e interação com o recinto, assim como, com os outros indivíduos. Além disso, as atividades aplicadas proporcionaram desafios cognitivos e reduziram o tempo ocioso dos animais. Embora a Onça-parda 4 tenha apresentado comportamento estereotipado, durante as três fases deste estudo, este indivíduo mostrou-se saudável e ativo. Dessa forma, os resultados demonstram os efeitos benéficos do enriquecimento ambiental no bem-estar de onças-pardas mantidas em cativeiro.(AU)

Effect of dietary supplementation with astaxanthin on the hematological and biochemical response of nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) / Efeito da suplementação alimentar com astaxantina na resposta hematológica e bioquímica de tilápias do nilo (Oreochromis niloticus)

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of astaxanthin on the hematological, biochemical and somatic response of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) orally administered in the feed for a period of 60 days. For the study, 105 tilapia (n=35) from the same spawn were used, constituting the following treatments: Control = animals (not treated with astaxanthin); T100 and T200 = fish treated with 100 and 200 mg of astaxanthin/kg of feed, respectively. There were no hematological alterations in red blood cells counts, hematocrit, hemoglobin, MCV and MCHC. In addition, astaxanthin-fed tilapia presented a better thrombocyte and leukocyte responses with a marked decrease in the number of thrombocytes, lymphocytes and neutrophils. Among treatments, there were no changes in serum levels of total protein, albumin, globulins, aspartate aminotransferase and alkaline phosphate. Treatment with astaxanthin resulted in a decrease in triglyceride and glucose levels, as well as increase in hepatosomatic indices. The results of hematological and biochemical analyzes of tilapias demonstrated the clinical safety of this carotenoid, not causing harmful effects to the health of fish. Therefore, the antioxidant activity of this compound in tilapias resulted in an improvement in the leukocyte profile and contributed to hypolipidemic effects at the dose of 200mg of astaxanthin/kg of feed.

Objetivou-se avaliar o efeito da astaxantina na resposta hematológica, bioquímica e somática de tilápias do Nilo (Oreochromis niloticus) administrada via oral na ração por período de 60 dias. Para o estudo foram utilizadas 105 tilápias (n=35) oriundas da mesma desova, constituindo os seguintes tratamentos: Controle = animais (não tratados com astaxantina); T100= Animais tratados com 100mg de astaxantina/kg de ração; T200= Animais tratados com 200mg astaxantina/kg de ração. Não se observou alterações hematológicas na série vermelha (glóbulos vermelhos, hematócrito, hemoglobina, VCM e CHCM), além disso, apresentou melhor resposta trombocitária e leucocitária com marcada diminuição no número de linfócitos e neutrófilos. Não ocorreu alterações nos níveis séricos de proteína total, albumina, globulinas, aspartate aminotransferase e fostatase alcalina. O tratamento com astaxantina resultou em diminuição nos níveis de triglicerídeos, glicose e aumento nos índices hepatossomáticos. Portanto, os resultados das análises hematológicas e bioquímicas das tilápias demonstraram a segurança clínica desse carotenóide, não causando efeitos nocivos à saúde dos peixes. No entanto, a atividade antioxidante desse composto em tilápias resultou em melhora do perfil leucocitário e contribuiu para efeitos hipolipemiantes na dose de 200mg de astaxantina / kg de ração.

Effect of dietary supplementation with astaxanthin on the hematological and biochemical response of nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) / Efeito da suplementação alimentar com astaxantina na resposta hematológica e bioquímica de tilápias do nilo (Oreochromis niloticus)

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of astaxanthin on the hematological, biochemical and somatic response of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) orally administered in the feed for a period of 60 days. For the study, 105 tilapia (n=35) from the same spawn were used, constituting the following treatments: Control = animals (not treated with astaxanthin); T100 and T200 = fish treated with 100 and 200 mg of astaxanthin/kg of feed, respectively. There were no hematological alterations in red blood cells counts, hematocrit, hemoglobin, MCV and MCHC. In addition, astaxanthin-fed tilapia presented a better thrombocyte and leukocyte responses with a marked decrease in the number of thrombocytes, lymphocytes and neutrophils. Among treatments, there were no changes in serum levels of total protein, albumin, globulins, aspartate aminotransferase and alkaline phosphate. Treatment with astaxanthin resulted in a decrease in triglyceride and glucose levels, as well as increase in hepatosomatic indices. The results of hematological and biochemical analyzes of tilapias demonstrated the clinical safety of this carotenoid, not causing harmful effects to the health of fish. Therefore, the antioxidant activity of this compound in tilapias resulted in an improvement in the leukocyte profile and contributed to hypolipidemic effects at the dose of 200mg of astaxanthin/kg of feed.(AU)

Objetivou-se avaliar o efeito da astaxantina na resposta hematológica, bioquímica e somática de tilápias do Nilo (Oreochromis niloticus) administrada via oral na ração por período de 60 dias. Para o estudo foram utilizadas 105 tilápias (n=35) oriundas da mesma desova, constituindo os seguintes tratamentos: Controle = animais (não tratados com astaxantina); T100= Animais tratados com 100mg de astaxantina/kg de ração; T200= Animais tratados com 200mg astaxantina/kg de ração. Não se observou alterações hematológicas na série vermelha (glóbulos vermelhos, hematócrito, hemoglobina, VCM e CHCM), além disso, apresentou melhor resposta trombocitária e leucocitária com marcada diminuição no número de linfócitos e neutrófilos. Não ocorreu alterações nos níveis séricos de proteína total, albumina, globulinas, aspartate aminotransferase e fostatase alcalina. O tratamento com astaxantina resultou em diminuição nos níveis de triglicerídeos, glicose e aumento nos índices hepatossomáticos. Portanto, os resultados das análises hematológicas e bioquímicas das tilápias demonstraram a segurança clínica desse carotenóide, não causando efeitos nocivos à saúde dos peixes. No entanto, a atividade antioxidante desse composto em tilápias resultou em melhora do perfil leucocitário e contribuiu para efeitos hipolipemiantes na dose de 200mg de astaxantina / kg de ração.(AU)

Ruminal fermentation and degradation, kinetic flow of digesta and milk fatty acid composition of cows fed sugarcane silage-based diets supplemented with whole cottonseed / Fermentação e degradação ruminal, cinética de fluxo da digesta e perfil de ácidos graxos do leite de vacas alimentadas com dietas à base de silagem de cana de açúcar suplementadas com caroço de algodão

The aim of this study was to evaluate the ruminal fermentation and degradation parameters, the kinetic flow of digesta in the gastrointestinal tract, and the milk fatty acid (FA) profile in Holstein x Gyr cows fed 59% sugarcane silage-based diets with 0% (control), 5%, 10% and 15% whole cottonseed (WCS) on a dry matter (DM) basis. Four rumen-cannulated cows with an average milk yield of 14.4±3.3 kg day-1 and 85±25 days in milk were allocated in a 4 x 4 Latin square design. There was no effect of dietary WCS levels on the intake of organic matter (OM), crude protein (CP), neutral detergent fiber (NDF) and nonfibrous carbohydrates, but there was a linear increase in the intake of ether extract (EE). There was no treatment effect on the apparent digestibility of DM, OM, CP, EE and NDF or on the ruminal degradability parameters for DM and NDF of sugarcane silage. Also, no treatment effects were observed on rumen pH, ruminal and postruminal particulate passage rates or on the rate of passage of the fluids in the rumen. WCS promoted linear reductions in the milk fat contents of lauric, myristic and palmitic acids and linear increases in the milk fat contents of stearic, oleic, trans-10 C18:1 and elaidic acids. The milk fat contents of vaccenic, rumenic, linoleic and α-linolenic acids were unaffected by WCS supplementation. The inclusion of up to 15% WCS in sugarcane silage-based diets did not alter the digestibility of nutrients, the rumen degradability of the fiber, or the kinetic flow of digesta in the gastrointestinal tract of Holstein x Gyr cows but improved the nutritional quality of milk fat through an increase in the content of oleic acid, which is beneficial to human health, and decreased levels of hypercholesterolemic lauric, myristic and palmitic acids.(AU)

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar os parâmetros de fermentação e degradação ruminal, a cinética de fluxo da digesta no trato gastrintestinal, e o perfil de ácidos graxos do leite de vacas Holandês x Gir alimentadas com dietas à base de 59% de silagem de cana de açúcar com 0% (controle), 5%, 10% e 15% de caroço de algodão na base de matéria seca (MS). Quatro vacas canuladas no rúmen, com produção de leite de 14,4±3,3 kg dia-1 e 85±25 dias em lactação foram alocadas em delineamento quadrado latino 4 x 4. Não houve efeito da inclusão do caroço de algodão sobre os consumos de matéria orgânica (MO), proteína bruta (PB), fibra em detergente neutro (FDN) e de carboidratos não fibrosos, mas houve aumento linear no consumo de extrato etéreo (EE). Não houve efeito dos tratamentos sobre a digestibilidade da MS, MO, PB, EE e FDN nem sobre os parâmetros de degradabilidade ruminal da MS e FDN da silagem de cana de açúcar. Não houve efeito dos tratamentos sobre o pH ruminal, taxas de passagem de fluidos e partículas no rúmen, nem sobre a taxa de passagem pós-ruminal de partículas. Houve reduções lineares nos teores dos ácidos láurico, mirístico e palmítico, e aumentos lineares nos teores dos ácidos esteárico, oleico, C18:1 trans-10 e elaídico no leite. A inclusão de caroço de algodão não alterou os teores dos ácidos vacênico, rumênico, linoleico e α-linolênico no leite. A inclusão de até 15% de caroço de algodão em dietas à base de silagem de cana de açúcar não alterou a digestibilidade dos nutrientes, a degradabilidade ruminal da fibra, nem a cinética de fluxo da digesta no trato gastrintestinal de vacas Holandês x Gir, mas melhorou a qualidade nutricional da gordura do leite, com aumento no teor de ácido oleico, benéfico para a saúde humana, e redução nos teores dos ácidos hipercolesterolêmicos láurico, mirístico e palmítico.(AU)

Comparison of formulation costs for poultry feeds based on crude protein versus the digestible lysine to protein ratio / Comparação dos custos de formulação para aves baseados na proteína bruta versus relação lisina digestível proteína

The objective of this study was to determine the influence of using dLys:TP instead of crude protein recommendations of commercial poultry breeding companies to meet the chickens need for dietary essential and non-essential amino acids. The ingredient composition matrix used in the feed formulation was compiled from Feedstuffs Magazine. The rations were formulated using a linear feed formulation program to meet the minimum cost, with crude protein or dLys: TP of 5.58%. Using the dLys to TP ratio versus CP minimums for the model diets chosen, formula costs were changed from +$10.96 to -$4.26 per ton of feed. The magnitude of the changes was dependent on the imbalance present in the feeds from using the breeder management guide recommendations and ingredient prices. Through the use of dLys: TP, it is possible to improve the feed formulation process, assuring the birds get adequate EAA and NEAA without being wasteful and reducing environmental pollution.

O objetivo deste estudo foi determinar a influência do uso de lisina digestível: proteína verdadeira (LISd: PV) em vez de recomendações de proteína bruta de empresas de criação de aves comerciais para atender à necessidade de aminoácidos essenciais e não essenciais. A matriz de composição de ingredientes utilizada na formulação de alimentação foi compilada a partir da Revista de Ingredientes. As rações foram formuladas utilizando um programa de formulação de ração linear para suprir o custo mínimo, com proteína bruta ou dLis: PV de 5,58%. Usando a relação LISd para PV versus os mínimos PB para as dietas de modelo escolhidas, os custos de fórmula foram alterados de + $10,96 para - $4,26 por tonelada de alimento. A magnitude das mudanças depende do desequilíbrio presente nos ingredientes usando as recomendações do guia de manejo do reprodutor e os preços dos ingredientes. Por meio do uso de dLis: PV, é possível melhorar o processo de formulação de rações, assegurando que as aves obtenham adequados níveis de aminoácidos essenciais (AAE) e aminoácidos não essenciais (AANE) sem desperdício e reduzindo a poluição ambiental.

Comparison of formulation costs for poultry feeds based on crude protein versus the digestible lysine to protein ratio / Comparação dos custos de formulação para aves baseados na proteína bruta versus relação lisina digestível proteína

The objective of this study was to determine the influence of using dLys:TP instead of crude protein recommendations of commercial poultry breeding companies to meet the chickens need for dietary essential and non-essential amino acids. The ingredient composition matrix used in the feed formulation was compiled from Feedstuffs Magazine. The rations were formulated using a linear feed formulation program to meet the minimum cost, with crude protein or dLys: TP of 5.58%. Using the dLys to TP ratio versus CP minimums for the model diets chosen, formula costs were changed from +$10.96 to -$4.26 per ton of feed. The magnitude of the changes was dependent on the imbalance present in the feeds from using the breeder management guide recommendations and ingredient prices. Through the use of dLys: TP, it is possible to improve the feed formulation process, assuring the birds get adequate EAA and NEAA without being wasteful and reducing environmental pollution.(AU)

O objetivo deste estudo foi determinar a influência do uso de lisina digestível: proteína verdadeira (LISd: PV) em vez de recomendações de proteína bruta de empresas de criação de aves comerciais para atender à necessidade de aminoácidos essenciais e não essenciais. A matriz de composição de ingredientes utilizada na formulação de alimentação foi compilada a partir da Revista de Ingredientes. As rações foram formuladas utilizando um programa de formulação de ração linear para suprir o custo mínimo, com proteína bruta ou dLis: PV de 5,58%. Usando a relação LISd para PV versus os mínimos PB para as dietas de modelo escolhidas, os custos de fórmula foram alterados de + $10,96 para - $4,26 por tonelada de alimento. A magnitude das mudanças depende do desequilíbrio presente nos ingredientes usando as recomendações do guia de manejo do reprodutor e os preços dos ingredientes. Por meio do uso de dLis: PV, é possível melhorar o processo de formulação de rações, assegurando que as aves obtenham adequados níveis de aminoácidos essenciais (AAE) e aminoácidos não essenciais (AANE) sem desperdício e reduzindo a poluição ambiental.(AU)

Crude glycerin inclusion in Santa Inês ewes' diet before and during the breeding season: its effects on physiological parameters, hematological variables, and reproductive performance / Inclusão de glicerina bruta na dieta de ovelhas Santa Inês antes e durante a estação de monta: Seus efeitos nos parâmetros fisiológicos, variáveis hematológicas e desempenho reprodutivo

In this study, we aimed to evaluate the effect of concentrate supplementation containing crude glycerin (CG) before and during the breeding season on the physiological and blood biochemical variables as well as on the reproductive performance of Santa Inês ewes. A total of 24 ewes (12 pluriparous and 12 nulliparous ewes, 4 and 1.5 years old, weighing an average of 40 ± 5 and 27 ± 3 kg, respectively) were randomly assigned to three treatments consisting of different dietary concentrations of CG (0%, 5%, and 10 % of the total dry matter). The experiment lasted 63 days and was divided into three 21-day phases. In the first and second phases, the animals were subjected to flushing. In the second and third phases, we evaluated the animals' reproductive performance. Weather, physiological, and blood biochemical variables were also studied. The results indicated that the inclusion of CG did not influence significantly (P > 0.05) either the ewes' body weight or their body condition score. All ewes exhibited estrus during the breeding season. Their respiratory rate was significantly influenced by the time of day (P < 0.0001). A 10% CG supplementation did not drastically change the hematological and biochemical variables, which were within the reference ranges. However, the week of supplementation influenced sérum metabolites (P < 0.05). Thus, these results indicate that CG could be used in up to 10% in replacement of ground corn without significantly affecting the physiological, hematological, and biochemical parameters of the ewes or their reproductive performance before and during the breeding season.(AU)

Neste estudo, objetivamos avaliar o efeito da suplementação concentrada contendo glicerina bruta (GB) antes e durante a estação de monta sobre as variáveis bioquímicas e fisiológicas, bem como sobre o desempenho reprodutivo das ovelhas Santa Inês. Um total de 24 ovelhas (12 pluríparas e 12 nulíparas, de 4 e 1,5 anos de idade, pesando em média 40 ± 5 e 27 ± 3 kg, respectivamente) foram distribuídas aleatoriamente em três tratamentos constituídos por diferentes concentrações dietéticas de GB (0, 5 e 10% da matéria seca total). O experimento durou 63 dias e foi dividido em três fases de 21 dias. Na primeira e segunda fase, os animais foram submetidos ao flushing alimentar. Na segunda e terceira fase, avaliamos o desempenho reprodutivo dos animais. Variáveis climáticas, fisiológicas e bioquímicas sanguíneas também foram estudadas. Os resultados indicaram que a inclusão de GB não influenciou significativamente (P > 0,05) no peso corporal das ovelhas nem em seu escore de condição corporal. Todas as ovelhas exibiram estro durante a estação reprodutiva. A frequência respiratória foi significativamente influenciada pela hora do dia (P < 0,0001). Uma suplementação com 10% de GB não alterou drasticamente as variáveis hematológicas e bioquímicas, que estavam dentro do intervalo de referência. No entanto, a semana de suplementação influenciou os metabólitos séricos (P < 0,05). Sendo assim, esses resultados indicam que a GB pode ser utilizada em até 10% na substituição do milho moído, sem afetar significativamente os parâmetros fisiológicos, hematológicos e bioquímicos das ovelhas assim como o desempenho reprodutivo antes e durante a estação de monta.(AU)

Enrichment diets of pigs with oil blends and its effects on performance, carcass characteristics and fatty acid profile / Dietas enriquecidas com blends de óleos para suínos em terminação e seus efeitos sobre o desempenho, as características de carcaça e o perfil de ácidos graxos

The addition of different oil blends in the feed of finishing pigs was evaluated. Twenty-four castrated male finishing pigs were used in a randomized block design containing four treatments and six replicates. The treatments consisted of: Reference ration (RR) - 100% soybean oil feed; and the combination of the different oils: Blend1 - 50.0% soybean oil (SO), 25.0% flaxseed oil (FO), 12.5% olive oil (OO) and 12.5% canola oil (CO); Blend2 - 25.0% SO, 50.0% FO, 12.5% OO and 12.5% CO; and Blend3 - 25.0% SO, 12.5% FO, 12.5% OO and 50.0% CO. The performance, quantitative and qualitative carcass parameters, fatty acids profile and economic feasibility of the diets were evaluated. The use of blends in the diets did not influence the performance or carcass quality, but increased marbling and carcass yield. The fatty acid profile of the loin presented greater amounts of stearic acid in Blend3 and higher percentage of unsaturated fatty acids in animals fed with Blend1. The fatty tissue presented greater amounts of myristic acid in Blend1 and oleic acid in Blend3. The reference ration was the most economic. The Blends did not affect performance or carcass characteristics and improved the fatty acid profile.(AU)

Foi avaliada a utilização de diferentes blends de óleo em dietas de suínos em terminação. Foram utilizados 24 suínos, machos, castrados, distribuídos em delineamento de blocos ao acaso, com quatro tratamentos e seis repetições. Os tratamentos consistiram de: ração referência (RR) - 100% de ração com utilização de óleo de soja; e a combinação de diferentes óleos: Blend1 - 50,0% de óleo de soja (OS), 25,0% de óleo de linhaça (OL), 12,5% de óleo de oliva (OO) e 12,5% de óleo de canola (OC); Blend2 - 25,0% OS; 50,0% OL; 12,5% OO e 12,5% OC; e Blend3 - 25,0% OS; 12,5% OL; 12,5% OO e 50,0% OC. Foram avaliados os parâmetros de desempenho, a qualidade de carcaça, o perfil de ácidos graxos e a viabilidade econômica. O uso de blends nas dietas não influenciou o desempenho ou a qualidade da carcaça, mas aumentou o marmoreio e o rendimento de carcaça. O perfil de ácidos graxos do lombo apresentou maiores quantidades de ácido esteárico com a utilização do Blend3 e maior porcentagem de ácidos graxos insaturados nos animais alimentados com o Blend1. O tecido adiposo apresentou maiores quantidades de ácido mirístico quando se forneceu o Blend1 e de ácido oleico com o Blend3. A ração testemunha foi a mais econômica. As misturas não afetaram o desempenho e as características de carcaça e melhoraram o perfil de ácidos graxos da carne.(AU)

Enrichment diets of pigs with oil blends and its effects on performance, carcass characteristics and fatty acid profile / Dietas enriquecidas com blends de óleos para suínos em terminação e seus efeitos sobre o desempenho, as características de carcaça e o perfil de ácidos graxos

The addition of different oil blends in the feed of finishing pigs was evaluated. Twenty-four castrated male finishing pigs were used in a randomized block design containing four treatments and six replicates. The treatments consisted of: Reference ration (RR) - 100% soybean oil feed; and the combination of the different oils: Blend1 - 50.0% soybean oil (SO), 25.0% flaxseed oil (FO), 12.5% olive oil (OO) and 12.5% canola oil (CO); Blend2 - 25.0% SO, 50.0% FO, 12.5% OO and 12.5% CO; and Blend3 - 25.0% SO, 12.5% FO, 12.5% OO and 50.0% CO. The performance, quantitative and qualitative carcass parameters, fatty acids profile and economic feasibility of the diets were evaluated. The use of blends in the diets did not influence the performance or carcass quality, but increased marbling and carcass yield. The fatty acid profile of the loin presented greater amounts of stearic acid in Blend3 and higher percentage of unsaturated fatty acids in animals fed with Blend1. The fatty tissue presented greater amounts of myristic acid in Blend1 and oleic acid in Blend3. The reference ration was the most economic. The Blends did not affect performance or carcass characteristics and improved the fatty acid profile.(AU)

Foi avaliada a utilização de diferentes blends de óleo em dietas de suínos em terminação. Foram utilizados 24 suínos, machos, castrados, distribuídos em delineamento de blocos ao acaso, com quatro tratamentos e seis repetições. Os tratamentos consistiram de: ração referência (RR) - 100% de ração com utilização de óleo de soja; e a combinação de diferentes óleos: Blend1 - 50,0% de óleo de soja (OS), 25,0% de óleo de linhaça (OL), 12,5% de óleo de oliva (OO) e 12,5% de óleo de canola (OC); Blend2 - 25,0% OS; 50,0% OL; 12,5% OO e 12,5% OC; e Blend3 - 25,0% OS; 12,5% OL; 12,5% OO e 50,0% OC. Foram avaliados os parâmetros de desempenho, a qualidade de carcaça, o perfil de ácidos graxos e a viabilidade econômica. O uso de blends nas dietas não influenciou o desempenho ou a qualidade da carcaça, mas aumentou o marmoreio e o rendimento de carcaça. O perfil de ácidos graxos do lombo apresentou maiores quantidades de ácido esteárico com a utilização do Blend3 e maior porcentagem de ácidos graxos insaturados nos animais alimentados com o Blend1. O tecido adiposo apresentou maiores quantidades de ácido mirístico quando se forneceu o Blend1 e de ácido oleico com o Blend3. A ração testemunha foi a mais econômica. As misturas não afetaram o desempenho e as características de carcaça e melhoraram o perfil de ácidos graxos da carne.(AU)