Nutritional, physiological, hematological, and biochemical responses of lambs fed increasing levels of Pornunça silage

ABSTRACT: Pornunça (Manihot sp.) is a potential forage to feed ruminants in drylands worldwide; however, evaluations of animal diets are necessary. This study assessed intake and digestibility of dry matter and nutrients, physiological responses, ingestive behavior, water intake, as well as hematological and biochemical responses of lambs fed diets containing increasing levels of Pornunça silage (PS) replacing Tifton-85 bermudagrass hay (Cynodon spp.). Treatments consisted of 0, 33, 66, and 100 % PS considering the roughage portion of the diet (% dry matter DM). The experimental design was completely randomized with six replicates. Cyanide acid (HCN) levels in fresh Pornunça leaves were 207.7 mg kg1 DM and 76.78 mg kg1 DM in PS. Intake of DM and crude protein (CP), and neutral detergent fiber corrected for ash and protein (NDFap) increased linearly with increasing levels of PS in the diet. Digestibility of DM, NDF, and CP were higher with increasing levels of PS. Idle time decreased linearly, while water balance, water intake via food, and total water in feces increased with PS. Nitrogen balance, physiological, and hematological responses were not influenced by treatments, while the final alanine aminotransferase increased for lambs fed all diets evaluated. The PS up to 100 % of the roughage portion increased DM and nutrient intake and digestibility without altering physiological responses and the hematological and biochemical parameters, resulting in greater water intake via food.

Potential of elephant grass genotypes silages as exclusive roughage on tissue composition and meat quality of lambs: a preliminary study / Potencial de silagens de genótipos de capim-elefante como volumoso exclusivo sobre a composição tecidual e a qualidade da carne de cordeiros: um estudo preliminar

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of diets containing elephant grass genotypes silages as exclusive roughage on leg tissue composition, and physicochemical characteristics of meat of lambs. Twenty-four crossbred male lambs with an average initial body weight of 20.29±2.66kg were distributed in a complete randomized design with three treatments and eight replicates. The treatments consisted of three silages of elephant grass genotypes (IRI-381, Elephant B or Mott), without additives or wilting, as the only roughage. The diets did not affect (P>0.05) the dry matter (898.70±60.10 g/day), crude protein (128.93±6.91g/day), total digestible nutrients (690.20±91.82g/day) intakes, body weight at slaughter (24.83±2.79kg), and carcass yields (P>0.05). The tissue composition of the leg did not differ significantly between silages of elephant grass genotypes (P>0.05). No difference (P>0.05) for the physicochemical characteristics of meat from lambs fed diets tested was observed. Therefore, our results indicate that diets containing 50% elephant grass genotypes silages (IRI-381, Elephant B or Mott), harvested at 60 days of growth, have potential for use in lambs feeding.

Este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar os efeitos de dietas contendo silagens de genótipos de capim-elefante como volumoso exclusivo sobre a composição tecidual da perna e nas características físico-químicas da carne de cordeiros. Vinte e quatro cordeiros machos mestiços, com peso corporal inicial médio de 20,29±2,66kg, foram distribuídos em delineamento inteiramente ao acaso, com três tratamentos e oito repetições. Os tratamentos consistiram de três silagens de genótipos de capim-elefante (IRI-381, Elephant B ou Mott), sem aditivos ou emurchecimento, como único volumoso. As dietas não afetaram (P>0,05) os consumos de matéria seca (898,70 ± 60,10g/dia), proteína bruta (128,93±6,91g/dia) e nutrientes digestíveis totais (690,20±91,82g/dia), peso corporal ao abate (24,83±2,79kg) e rendimentos de carcaça (P>0,05). A composição tecidual da perna não diferiu significativamente entre as silagens dos genótipos de capim-elefante (P>0,05). Não foi observada diferença (P>0,05) para as características físico-químicas da carne dos cordeiros alimentados com as dietas testadas. Portanto, os resultados indicam que dietas contendo 50% de silagens de genótipos de capim-elefante (IRI-381, Elephant B ou Mott), colhidos aos 60 dias de crescimento, têm potencial para uso na alimentação de cordeiros.

Carcass characteristics and meat quality of lambs fed diets with different roughage: concentrate ratios supplemented with liquid residue of cassava

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of lambs fed two roughage: concentrate (R:C) ratios, with or without the liquid residue of cassava (LRC) on carcass traits and meat quantity. Forty lambs (19.5 ± 1.45 kg body weight), non-castrated, crossbred Santa Inês were distributed in a completely randomized 2 × 2 factorial design. There was no effect (p > 0.05) of the inclusion of LRC on the variables. The roughage:concentrate ratio of 40:60 promoted higher values for empty body weight, hot carcass weight, cold carcass weight, subcutaneous thickness fat, cooling loss, Longissimus muscle area, carcass morphometric measurements, and commercial cuts. Higher weight of leg, muscles, fat, bone and other tissues, as well as for the ratio muscle:fat, and muscle:bone was observed in lambs fed 40R:60C. For the meat chemical composition, there was the effect (p < 0.05) only for ether extract (EE) for lambs fed 40R:60C ratio. The redness (a*) of meat was greater (p < 0.05) for lambs fed 80R:20C. The other physicochemical characteristics were not influenced. The roughage:concentrate ratio of 40:60 improves the carcass traits and commercial cuts, but does not promote changes in meat quality, independent of supplementation with liquid residue of cassava.(AU)

In situ ruminal degradability of forage cactus-based diets associated with pornunça silage / Degradabilidade ruminal in situ de dietas a base de palma forrageira associada à silagem de pornunça

The knowledge of ruminal degradation kinetics of forage cactus-based diets associated with Euphorbiaceae species of the genus Manihot assist in understanding nutrient quality and use, contributing to the indication of combinations of these ingredients in ruminant diets. This study aimed to evaluate the in situ ruminal degradability of diets with increasing association of forage cactus Elephant Ear (MEE) and pornunça (Manihot sp.) silage, as well as to analyze and evaluate the indigestible neutral detergent fiber (FDNi) content of forage cactus MEE and pornunça silage. The treatments consisted of diets with cactus pear associated with pornunça silage in the roughage portion in the proportions of 375, 250, 125 and 0 g kg-1 of DM. The feed was composed of 50% roughage and 50% concentrate of dry matter. Incubation times of 0, 6, 12, 24, 48, 96, and 144 hours were evaluated for the ingredients and 0, 2, 4, 6, 8, 12, 24, 48, 72, and 96 hours for the diets. Incubation to obtain the iNDF was given for 288 hours. The experimental design consisted of randomized blocks, with three replications. Regarding roughage ingredients, MEE showed higher average disappearance, potential degradability (PD), and effective degradability (ED) in relation to pornunça silage, as well as lower NDFi content. The proportion of 375 g kg-1 MEE and 125 g kg-1 pornunça silage provided higher fractions a, b, and c, increasing ED considering the three passage rates, with higher PD. In conclusion, the association between MEE and pornunça silage at a proportion of 375 g kg-1 MEE and125g kg-1 pornunça silage of the roughage portion increases the in situ degradability of dry matter, crude protein, and neutral detergent fiber.

O conhecimento da cinética de degradação ruminal de dietas compostas por palma-forrageira associadas com espécies de Euphorbiaceae do gênero Manihot auxiliam na compreensão da qualidade e aproveitamento dos nutrientes, com contribuição para a indicação de combinações destes ingredientes em dietas para ruminantes. Objetivou-se avaliar a degradabilidade ruminal in situ de dietas com crescente associação de palma-forrageira Orelha de Elefante Mexicana (OEM) e silagem de pornunça (Manihot sp.), assim como, avaliar o teor de fibra em detergente neutro indigestível (FDNi) da palma OEM e da silagem de pornunça. Os tratamentos consistiram em dietas com palma forrageira associada à silagem de pornunça na porção volumosa nas proporções de 375, 250, 125 e 0 g kg-1 na MS. A dieta foi composta por 50% de volumoso e 50% de concentrado da matéria seca. Foram avaliados os tempos de incubação de 0, 6,12, 24, 48, 96 e 144 para os ingredientes e 0, 2, 4, 6, 8 ,12, 24, 48, 72 e 96 para as dietas. A incubação para a obtenção do FDNi foi realizada por 288 horas. O delineamento experimental utilizado foi em blocos casualizados, com três repetições. Quanto aos ingredientes volumosos, a palma OEM apresentou maior desaparecimento médio, degradabilidade potencial (DP) e degradabilidade efetiva (DE) em relação à silagem de pornunça, bem como menor teor de FDNi. A proporção de 375 g kg-1 OEM e 125 g kg-1 de silagem de pornunça propiciou maiores frações a, b e c, atuando no aumento da DE considerando as três taxas de passagem, com maior DP. Conclui-se que à associação de palma OEM e silagem de pornunça na proporção de 375 g kg-1 OEM e 125 g kg-1 da silagem de pornunça da porção volumosa aumenta a degradabilidade in situ da matéria seca, proteína bruta e fibra em detergente neutro.

Nutritional, physiological, hematological, and biochemical responses of lambs fed increasing levels of Pornunça silage

Pornunça (Manihot sp.) is a potential forage to feed ruminants in drylands worldwide; however, evaluations of animal diets are necessary. This study assessed intake and digestibility of dry matter and nutrients, physiological responses, ingestive behavior, water intake, as well as hematological and biochemical responses of lambs fed diets containing increasing levels of Pornunça silage (PS) replacing Tifton-85 bermudagrass hay (Cynodon spp.). Treatments consisted of 0, 33, 66, and 100 % PS considering the roughage portion of the diet (% dry matter - DM). The experimental design was completely randomized with six replicates. Cyanide acid (HCN) levels in fresh Pornunça leaves were 207.7 mg kg-¹ DM and 76.78 mg kg-¹ DM in PS. Intake of DM and crude protein (CP), and neutral detergent fiber corrected for ash and protein (NDFap) increased linearly with increasing levels of PS in the diet. Digestibility of DM, NDF, and CP were higher with increasing levels of PS. Idle time decreased linearly, while water balance, water intake via food, and total water in feces increased with PS. Nitrogen balance, physiological, and hematological responses were not influenced by treatments, while the final alanine aminotransferase increased for lambs fed all diets evaluated. The PS up to 100 % of the roughage portion increased DM and nutrient intake and digestibility without altering physiological responses and the hematological and biochemical parameters, resulting in greater water intake via food.

Replacing corn silage with extruded forage in sheep feeding

The objective was to evaluate levels of replacement of corn silage with extruded forage (Foragge®) in sheep feeding. Twenty adult Santa Inês ewes in maintenance, and 55.8 kg average weight were housed in metabolic cages, and the treatments consisted of 20, 40, 60 and 80% replacement of corn silage with Foragge®extruded forage with 60% Uruchloa brizanthain the diet. The design was completely randomized, with regression analysis and non-parametric analysis at 5% probability. The supply of up to 80% extruded roughage to replace corn silage increased dry matter intake and digestibility, and fecal output in dry matter (p < 0.05). Also, it increased the efficiency of ingestion, rumination and chewing activities of sheep, but did not alter urinary parameters and energy metabolites (p > 0.05). However, it reduced the concentration of uric acid (p < 0.05). Foragge®extruded roughage can replace corn silage by up to 80% with changes in intake, digestibility, fecal parameters, ingestive behavior and concentration of uric acid and urea, with no modifications in urinary parameters and energy metabolites.(AU)

L-lysine and dietary fiber improve the physicochemical properties of sausage without added phosphate and reduced salt levels

The demand for clean label foods has driven research in the meat product sector. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect on the physicochemical properties of adding L-lysine, wheat fiber (WTF) and microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) in sausage without the addition of sodium tripolyphosphate (STPP) and with reduced salt levels. Eight treatments were produced in total. Three control treatments were: CON1 - 0.5 % sodium tripolyphosphate and 2 % salt; CON2 - without STPP and 2 % salt; CON3 - without STPP and 1 % salt. Five other treatments were carried out without STPP and 1 % of salt: LYS - 0.8 % L-lysine; WTF - 2 % wheat fiber; MCC - 2 % microcrystalline cellulose fiber; LYSWTF - 0.8 % L-lysine and 2 % wheat fiber; LYSMCC - 0.8 % L-lysine and 2 % microcrystalline cellulose fiber. L-lysine and wheat fiber provided good emulsion stability for sausages. L-lysine and MCC increased the yield of the products. Microcrystalline cellulose increased the red color value (a*) of sausages. The intensity of the yellow color value (b*) was significantly affected by the removal of STPP and the reduction of salt levels, but L-lysine and MCC improved this parameter, providing similar results to CON1. Adding of L-lysine and dietary fiber increased hardness in sausages without added STPP and with salt reduction. L-lysine and wheat fiber are promising for reformulating emulsified meat product without phosphate added and with reduced salt levels due to lipid oxidation control and improvement in emulsion stability.

Commercial Feed Diluted with Different Fiber Sources and Enzyme Product for Broilers: Growth Performance, Carcass and Gut Health

The dilution of commercial broiler feed with copra meal (CM), palm kernel meal (PKM) and cassava leaf meal (CLM) and enzyme supplementation was investigated. Two hundred and eighty 7-day old Cobb 500 broilers were fed commercial feed alone or diluted with the test ingredients with and without enzyme. There were no interaction effects (p>0.05) on feed intake (FI) and weight gain (WG). Poorer (p<0.05) feed conversion ratio (FCR) was observed on the diet diluted diets from 22-42 d, but this was restored (p>0.05) by enzyme supplementation. There was no interaction effect on final body weight (FBW). Diet dilution depressed FBW (p<0.05) but enzyme supplementation restored (p>0.05) this weight depression. Abdominal fat was lighter (p<0.05) on CLM compared to CM. There were no interaction effects (p>0.05) on the weight of gut segments and E. coli count. Heavier (p<0.05) liver, gizzard and intestine were observed on the test diets. Commercial feed dilution with CM, CLM and PKM at 100 g/kg for starter and 200 g/kg for finisher would be a viable option for smallholder broiler production. More research is needed into dilution levels and enzyme concentrations.(AU)

Blood biochemical parameters of lambs fed diets containing cactus cladodes / Parâmetros bioquímicos sanguíneos de cordeiros alimentados com dietas contendo palma forrageira

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of partial replacement (750g/kg) of Tifton hay by two cactus cladodes (Nopalea or Opuntia) on the metabolic profile of lambs. Thirty-six uncastrated male Santa Inês lambs (22.0±2.9kg initial body weight) were distributed in a completely randomized design, with three treatments and 12 repetitions. The animals were fed a control diet (Tifton hay as exclusive roughage), Miúda cactus cladodes-based diet or Orelha de Elefante Mexicana (O.E.M.) cactus cladodes-based diet. Blood samples were collected one day before (baseline) and 45 days after the introduction of the tested diets. The Miúda cactus cladodes caused an increase (P=0.055) in the serum activity of the gamma-glutamyl transferase enzyme (53.66U/L) and in the blood content of glucose and fructosamine. The O.E.M. cactus cladodes caused lower (P=0.038) serum cholesterol content (41.33mg/dL). Regardless of the variety, there was a decrease (P=0.001) in the serum content of indirect bilirubin, urea, and sodium, and increase in the serum magnesium concentration. The partial replacement of the Tifton hay by Miúda or O.E.M. cactus cladodes in lamb feeding increases the enzyme activity, indicating liver and/or kidney changes, but does not cause relevant damage to energy, protein, and mineral metabolism.

Este trabalho teve como objetivo avaliar os efeitos da substituição parcial (750g/kg) do feno de Tifton por duas variedades de palma forrageira (Nopalea ou Opuntia) no perfil metabólico de cordeiros. Trinta e seis cordeiros Santa Inês, machos, não castrados (22,0 ± 2,9kg de peso corporal inicial), foram distribuídos em delineamento inteiramente ao acaso, com três tratamentos e 12 repetições. Os animais foram alimentados com dieta controle (feno de Tifton como volumoso exclusivo), dieta à base de palma forrageira Miúda ou dieta à base de palma forrageira Orelha de Elefante Mexicana (OEM). Amostras de sangue foram coletadas um dia antes (baseline) e 45 dias após a introdução das dietas testadas. A palma Miúda causou aumento (P=0,055) na atividade sérica da enzima gamaglutamiltransferase (53,66U/L) e no teor sanguíneo de glicose e frutosamina. A palma OEM causou menor teor (P=0,038) de colesterol sérico (41,33mg/dL). Independentemente da variedade, houve diminuição (P=0,001) do teor sérico de bilirrubina indireta, ureia e sódio, e aumento na concentração sérica de magnésio. A substituição parcial do feno de Tifton por palma Miúda ou por OEM na alimentação de cordeiros aumenta a atividade enzimática, o que indica alterações hepáticas e/ou renais, mas não causa danos relevantes nos metabolismos energético, proteico e mineral.

Modulating the production of xylanase by Bacillus pumilus BS131 through optimization using waste fiber sludge / Modulando a produção de xilanase por Bacillus pumilus BS131 por meio da otimização usando lodo de fibra residual

Abstract In recent days, cheapest alternative carbon source for fermentation purpose is desirable to minimize production cost. Xylanases have become attractive enzymes as their potential in bio-bleaching of pulp and paper industry. The objective of the present study was to identify the potential ability on the xylanase production by locally isolated Bacillus pumilus BS131 by using waste fiber sludge and wheat bran media under submerged fermentation. Culture growth conditions were optimized to obtain significant amount of xylanase. Maximum xylanase production was recorded after 72 hours of incubation at 30 °C and 7 pH with 4.0% substrate concentration. In the nutshell, the production of xylanase using inexpensive waste fiber sludge and wheat-bran as an alternative in place of expensive xylan substrate was more cost effective and environment friendly.

Resumo Nos últimos dias, a fonte alternativa de carbono mais barata para fins de fermentação é desejável para minimizar o custo de produção. As xilanases têm se tornado enzimas atraentes como seu potencial no biobranqueamento da indústria de papel e celulose. O objetivo do presente estudo foi identificar a capacidade potencial na produção de xilanase por Bacillus pumilus BS131 isolado localmente usando lodo de fibra residual e farelo de trigo em meio de fermentação submersa. As condições de crescimento da cultura foram otimizadas para obter uma quantidade significativa de xilanase. A produção máxima de xilanase foi registrada após 72 horas de incubação a 30 °C e pH 7 com concentração de substrato de 4,0%. Resumindo, a produção de xilanase usando lodo de fibra residual de baixo custo e farelo de trigo como uma alternativa no lugar do substrato de xilano caro foi mais econômica e ecológica.

Evaluation of nutritional composition of flour residue of mangaba processing / Avaliação dos fatos nutricionais do processamento do resíduo da farinha de mangaba

Abstract Among several fruits, mangaba (Hancornia speciosa Gomes), it aroused the interest of producers and consumers due to its attractive sensory characteristics and health beneficial properties (high nutritional value and presence of bioactive substances), thus, this work evaluates the nutritional factors of the flour residue of mangaba processing that is despised by the food industry, and the influence of temperature on its production. The mangaba processing residue was splited in two main groups: in natura sample (control), and other for preparation of flour that was dried at 50 °C and divided into two other groups: treatment A (flour with roasts at 110 °C and 130 °C) and treatment B (flour from drying at 50 °C). The nutritional characteristics of flours were analyzed considering the chemical parameters: pH, titratable total acidity and soluble solids, in addition to the determination of moisture content, total lipids, total dietary fiber and ash, total energy value, antioxidant activity, phytochemical screening, quantification of phenolic compounds and flavonoids, as well as technological functional properties (water absorption index (WAI), water solubility index (WSI), milk absorption index (MAI) and milk solubility index (MSI) and oil absorption index (OAI). The results showed that the bioactive compounds present in the extracts do not have significant properties of acting as free radical kidnappers. The heat treatment, performed in the flour of mangaba processing residues, influenced the nutritional factors and properties of absorption and solubility, which showed statistical differences. These results show that the flour is a viable alternative for the energy enrichment of diets, contributing to the development of new products, the reduction of the disposal of these residues and consequently to the minimization of the environmental impact.

Resumo Dentre as diversas frutas a mangaba (Hancornia speciosa Gomes), despertou interesse de produtores e consumidores devido às suas características sensoriais atrativas e propriedades benéficas à saúde (elevado valor nutricional e presença de substâncias bioativas), assim, o trabalho avaliar os fatores nutricionais do resíduo da farinha de processamento de mangaba que é desprezado pela indústria alimentícia e, a influência da temperatura na sua produção. O resíduo de processamento da mangaba foi dividido em dois lotes, sendo um deles utilizado para as análises in natura (amostra controle) e o outro para a confecção da farinha que foi seca a 50 °C, e dividida em dois lotes: tratamento A (farinha com torras a 110 °C e 130 °C) e no tratamento B (farinha oriunda da secagem a 50 °C). Analisou-se as características nutricionais de farinhas considerando os parâmetros químicos: pH, acidez total titulável e sólidos solúveis, além da determinação do teor de umidade, lipídios totais, fibra alimentar total e cinzas, valor energético total, atividade antioxidante, triagem fitoquímica, quantificação de compostos fenólicos e flavonoides, bem como as propriedades funcionais tecnológicas (índice de absorção de água (IAA), índice de solubilidade em água (ISA), índice de absorção de leite (IAL) e índice de solubilidade em leite (ISL) e índice de absorção de óleo (IAO). Na análise foi inferido que os compostos bioativos presentes nos extratos não possuem propriedades significativas de agir como sequestradores de radicais livres. O tratamento térmico, realizado na farinha de resíduos de processamento de mangaba, influenciou nos dados dos fatores nutricionais e das propriedades de absorção e solubilidade, os quais apresentaram diferenças estatísticas. Estes resultados credenciam a farinha como uma alternativa viável para o enriquecimento energético de dietas, contribuindo para o desenvolvimento de novos produtos, a redução do descarte desses resíduos e consequentemente para a minimização do impacto ambiental.

Effects of dietary fiber on performance and egg quality of laying hens at pre-laying and laying peak

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of different levels of dietary fiber on the performance and egg quality of laying hens at pre-laying and laying peak periods. The experimental period was divided into three periods: pre-laying (16 to 19 weeks of age), the start of laying (20 to 22 weeks of age) and laying peak (23 to 28 weeks of age). The experimental design was completely randomized with treatments constituted by five levels of fiber (2.00, 2.50, 3.00, 3.50, and 4.00%) in the diets, with five replicates (pens) of six birds each, totalling 180 hens. Performance and egg quality results were evaluated by polynomial regression at 5%. Fiber levels were not influenced (p >0.05) the first laying of the hens. However, levels above 2.50% of fiber provided worst (p <0.05) performance results, regardless of the period evaluated. Shortly after the start of laying, higher levels of fiber also caused a linear reduction (p <0.05) on egg weight and percentages of yolk and albumen, and an increase (p <0.05) on eggshells. Higher fiber levels caused a linear reduction (p <0.05) in the quality of the eggs, regardless of the period evaluated. It was concluded that the fiber levels did not influence the start period of the laying. Both pre-laying and start of the laying, levels above 2.5% of fiber caused a gradual worsening in performance. From the start of laying up to laying peak, levels above 2.5% of fiber also caused a gradual worsening in egg quality.(AU)

Evaluation of extruded roughage with different additives in sheep diet / Evaluation of extruded roughage with different additives in sheep diet

The purpose was to evaluate the effect of extruded roughage Foragge® with different additives on intake, digestibility nutrients and nitrogen balance of sheep. Twenty adults, non-pregnant ewes with average weight 68 kg were used. The treatments were extruded roughage with additives (essential oil, virginiamycin, unpurified inactive yeast, tannin and purified inactive yeast). The design was in randomized blocks. The means were contrasted by SNK test, and the fecal score was tested by the Kruskal Wallis test (1952), at 5% significance. There was no difference in the intake of dry matter, crude protein, nitrogen, water, water in relation to dry matter, neutral detergent fiber (NDF), and acid detergent fiber (p > 0.05). As well as the digestibility of dry matter, crude protein and neutral detergent fiber, the fecal weight, fecal nitrogen, retained nitrogen and nitrogen retained in relation to nitrogen ingested (p > 0.05). However, dry matter intake as a function of body weight and metabolic weight, urinary nitrogen, hemicellulose intake, and hemicellulose as a function of NDF, were higher in the Foragge Factor® treatment (p < 0.05). The inclusion of different additives in the extruded roughage improved nutritional parameters, without causing disturbances.  

The purpose was to evaluate the effect of extruded roughage Foragge® with different additives on intake, digestibility nutrients and nitrogen balance of sheep. Twenty adults, non-pregnant ewes with average weight 68 kg were used. The treatments were extruded roughage with additives (essential oil, virginiamycin, unpurified inactive yeast, tannin and purified inactive yeast). The design was in randomized blocks. The means were contrasted by SNK test, and the fecal score was tested by the Kruskal Wallis test (1952), at 5% significance. There was no difference in the intake of dry matter, crude protein, nitrogen, water, water in relation to dry matter, neutral detergent fiber (NDF), and acid detergent fiber (p > 0.05). As well as the digestibility of dry matter, crude protein and neutral detergent fiber, the fecal weight, fecal nitrogen, retained nitrogen and nitrogen retained in relation to nitrogen ingested (p > 0.05). However, dry matter intake as a function of body weight and metabolic weight, urinary nitrogen, hemicellulose intake, and hemicellulose as a function of NDF, were higher in the Foragge Factor® treatment (p < 0.05). The inclusion of different additives in the extruded roughage improved nutritional parameters, without causing disturbances.  

In natura residues from peach palm heart industry for ruminant feed

Palm heart processing generates a large amount of residues like leaves, sheath and stems that have potential for ruminant feeding. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of in natura peach palm heart (Bactris gasipaes Khunt.) residues on performance, dry matter (DM) digestibility and intake of ruminants. External sheath was the most suitable residue for sheep, cattle and buffaloes feeding, although sheep presented rejection of 43.5 g kg-1. Thereby, assays of apparent and in vitro dry matter digestibility were done under four feeding treatments, which were the exclusive peach palm sheath, and that one mixed with residues of banana and rice, besides citrus pulp. The experiment was carried out under randomized complete design, with five replications. Greater DM intake (p < 0.05) were observed in animals fed with peach palm sheath mixed with rice (1.12 kg day-1) and mixed with citrus pulp (0.91 kg day-1), however there were no difference among treatments regarding the sheep final weight (p > 0.05). Cattle and buffaloes accept different types of peach palm residues, unlike sheep that present a low rejecting for them. Citrus pulp and rice residue raise the roughage quality. Peach palm residues can be an alternative roughage source to feed ruminants.(AU)

Evaluation of extruded roughage with different additives in sheep diet

The purpose was to evaluate the effect of extruded roughage Foragge®with different additives onintake, digestibility nutrients and nitrogen balance of sheep. Twenty adults, non-pregnant ewes with average weight 68 kg were used. The treatments were extruded roughage with additives (essential oil, virginiamycin, unpurified inactive yeast, tannin and purified inactive yeast). The design was in randomized blocks. The means were contrasted by SNK test, and the fecal score was tested by the Kruskal Wallis test (1952), at 5% significance.There was no difference in the intake of dry matter, crude protein, nitrogen, water, water in relation to dry matter, neutral detergent fiber (NDF), and acid detergent fiber (p>0.05).As well as the digestibility of dry matter, crude protein and neutral detergent fiber, the fecal weight, fecal nitrogen, retained nitrogenand nitrogen retained in relation to nitrogen ingested (p>0.05).However, dry matter intake as a function of body weight and metabolic weight, urinary nitrogen, hemicellulose intake, and hemicellulose as a function of NDF, were higher in the Foragge Factor®treatment (p<0.05). The inclusion of different additives in the extruded roughage improved nutritional parameters, without causing disturbances.(AU)

Performance of maize cultivars for the production of sweet corn, baby corn, and fodder / Desempenho de cultivares de milho para produção de milho verde, minimilho e forragem

Maize has multiple functions and can be used for human consumption, animal feed, or in industrial processes. Grain production has made Brazil a world reference. However, few cultivars are available despite the relevance of sweet corn, especially for family farmers. This is similar to baby corn, in which sweet corn or popcorn is used for its production. In the Brazilian semi-arid region, plant and animal production are limited by water deficit in the dry season. Therefore, the production of sweet and baby corn generates income from the commercialization of the ears and roughage production with the whole-plant harvest. This research has aimed to assess the agronomic performance of five cultivars for sweet corn, baby corn, and fodder production in Agreste Meridional, a semi-arid region of Pernambuco, Brazil. Two experiments were carried out in a randomized block design with five treatments (AG 1051, Alagoano, Branquinha, São Luiz, and PV2 Viçosense) and four blocks. The 1st experiment assessed the performance of the cultivars for sweet corn and fodder yield, in which the cultivars AG 1051 and Branquinha had higher yields for ears (21.9 and 20.3 Mg ha-1) and fodder (10.7 and 10.9 Mg DM ha-1), respectively. The 2nd experiment assessed the performance of the cultivars for baby corn and fodder yield, in which the cultivars AG 1051 and PV2 Viçosense obtained the highest yield for ears (3.1 and 2.9 Mg ha-1, respectively); Branquinha had a higher yield for fodder (8.9 Mg DM ha-1). Therefore, these cultivars have desirable characteristics and can be used in intensive or extensive production.(AU)

O milho apresenta múltiplas funções, podendo ser utilizado no consumo humano, alimentação animal ou em processos industriais. A produção de grãos tornou o Brasil uma referência mundial. Porém, apesar da relevância do milho verde, principalmente para agricultores familiares, são poucos os cultivares disponíveis. Do mesmo modo, para o minimilho, em que são utilizados milho doce ou pipoca para sua obtenção. Na região semiárida, as produções vegetal e animal são limitadas pelo déficit hídrico na época seca. Portanto, com a produção de milho verde e minimilho é possível obter renda com a comercialização das espigas e produzir volumoso com a colheita da planta inteira. O objetivo dessa pesquisa foi avaliar o desempenho agronômico de cinco cultivares para produção de milho verde e minimilho e produção de forragem no Agreste Meridional, região semiárida de Pernambuco. Foram realizados dois experimentos no delineamento em blocos casualizados, com cinco tratamentos (AG 1051, Alagoano, Branquinha, São Luiz e PV2 Viçosense) e quatro blocos. No primeiro experimento avaliou-se o desempenho dos cultivares para produção de milho verde e forragem, em que os cultivares AG 1051 e Branquinha tiveram, respectivamente, maiores produtividades de espigas comerciais (21,9 e 20,3 Mg ha-1) e de forragem (10,7 e 10,9 Mg MS ha-1). No segundo experimento, avaliou-se o desempenho dos cultivares para a produção de minimilho e forragem, em que os cultivares AG 1051 e PV2 Viçosense obtiveram a maior produtividade de espiguetas comerciais (3,1 e 2,9 Mg ha-1, respetivamente); Branquinha, maior produtividade de forragem (8,9 Mg MS ha-1). Portanto, esses cultivares reúnem características desejáveis, podendo ser utilizados em sistemas intensivos ou extensivos de produção.(AU)

Evaluation of extruded roughage with different additives in sheep diet

The purpose was to evaluate the effect of extruded roughage Foragge® with different additives on intake, digestibility nutrients and nitrogen balance of sheep. Twenty adults, non-pregnant ewes with average weight 68 kg were used. The treatments were extruded roughage with additives (essential oil, virginiamycin, unpurified inactive yeast, tannin and purified inactive yeast). The design was in randomized blocks. The means were contrasted by SNK test, and the fecal score was tested by the Kruskal Wallis test (1952), at 5% significance. There was no difference in the intake of dry matter, crude protein, nitrogen, water, water in relation to dry matter, neutral detergent fiber (NDF), and acid detergent fiber (p > 0.05). As well as the digestibility of dry matter, crude protein and neutral detergent fiber, the fecal weight, fecal nitrogen, retained nitrogen and nitrogen retained in relation to nitrogen ingested (p > 0.05). However, dry matter intake as a function of body weight and metabolic weight, urinary nitrogen, hemicellulose intake, and hemicellulose as a function of NDF, were higher in the Foragge Factor® treatment (p < 0.05). The inclusion of different additives in the extruded roughage improved nutritional parameters, without causing disturbances.(AU)

Síndrome cólica em equinos induzida por ingestão de cana de açúcar / Equine colic syndrome induced by the ingestion of sugarcane

Background: Equine colic syndrome comprises numerous conditions associated with abdominal pain in horses. Impaction, a common cause of this manifestation, is strongly related to these animals' diet. Highly fibrous diets such as sugarcane can predispose horses to colic. The clinical condition can be worsened by fermentative processes, which lead to dysbiosis, circulatory disorders and even endotoxemia. The aim of this study was to report 4 cases of colic syndrome among 8 horses that underwent an experiment to adapt them to a sugarcane-based diet, and to correlate the animals' clinical conditions to the forage they ingested. Cases: Eight male castrated Mangalarga Marchador horses, between 5.5 and 7 years old, were subjected to an experiment to test the feasibility of sugarcane as forage. Four of these horses were taken to the Large Animal Veterinary Hospital (HVGA) of the Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro for treatment of abdominal signs of discomfort a few days after the exclusive consumption of sugarcane, in a proportion of 1.75% of live weight in dry matter. The animals' symptoms ranged from behavioral signs indicative of pain to changes in vital parameters and structure of the feces, as well as changes revealed by transrectal palpation. Three of the 4 cases presented impaction in the small colon, and 1 of the horses also presented impaction in the right dorsal colon and rostral displacement of the pelvic flexure, with accumulation of contents in the right ventral colon and sternal flexure. Two of the cases were treated medically, while the other 2 required surgical intervention. The clinical condition of all the patients evolved favorably and they were discharged between 2 and 18 days. Discussion: Colic originating in the digestive system is a syndrome strongly associated with management, especially with respect to confinement, nutrition, and parasite control. During the experiment, 4 of the 8 horses fed with sugarcane presented with colic syndrome. The low quality of sugarcane fiber is due to the high degree of lignification of the plant cell wall, which favors accumulation of ingesta. The poor digestibility and sweet taste of this roughage favor increased consumption. Furthermore, its high sucrose content, associated with an increased rate of passage in the small intestine, alters the intestinal microbiome, and hence, the fermentation byproducts and pH of the ingesta. High intestinal content, allied to longer retention times in the colon and activation of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, promote greater dryness of the ingesta, predisposing the occurrence of impactions in the most distal portion of the large intestine. Intestinal distension and mesenteric traction caused by the accumulation of contents and gases trigger pain, which can worsen due to displacement of the large colon. Small colon impaction, which is easily identified by transrectal palpation, evolves gradually and its treatment, both clinical and surgical, tends to have a favorable prognosis. The need for alternative food sources for horses is a growing demand; however, sugarcane as an exclusive roughage has been shown to be unsafe for horses. The low quality of the fiber and the high sucrose content of this forage can alter the digestive physiology of horses through changes in the passage rate, microbiome and motility of digesta, predisposing them to intestinal dysfunction, ingesta compaction and displacement of the large colon.

Meat quality of (Bos indicus) cattle finished on different concentrate feeds

The study investigated meat quality of bulls fed concentrate feeds and hay. The treatments were hay ad libitum + dried cafeteria leftover 4 kg DM d-1(D1); hay ad libitum+ wheat bran 4 kg DM d-1(D2); hay ad libitum+ 4 maize grain 4 kg DM d-1(D3); hay ad libitum+ mix 4 kg DM d-1(1:1, wheat bran to maize grain, respectively (D4)); hay ad libitum+ scrambled whole groundnut 4 kg DM d-1(D5); and hay ad libitum+ mix of each ingredient 4 kg DM d-1(D6)). Samples from longissimus lumborum muscle were taken in triplicate. Beef from bulls fed D5 had highest (p < 0.05) protein and fat than those fed other treatments. However, bulls finished in D3 had similar fat to those fed with whole ground nut. Highest meat tenderness (p < 0.05) recorded at 24thfollowed by 16thd than those aged on other periods. Beef from D6 produced lean meat, which is acceptable to consumer and market demand than D3, produced carcass with highest fat coverage This study confirmed that meat from D6 had an acceptable quality attribute suggesting the breed could serve as a potential source in red meat industry.(AU)

Histologic changes in liver tissue of sheep fed spineless cactus resistant to Dactylopius opuntiae / Alterações histológicas no tecido hepático de ovinos alimentados com palma forrageira resistente a Dactylopius opuntiae

This study aimed to assess the effects of diets containing spineless cactus genotypes resistant to carmine cochineal insect (Dactylopius opuntiae) on the liver condition of sheep. Thirty-six non-castrated Santa Inês male sheep (six months of age and average initial body weight of 22.0 ± 2.9 kg) were assigned to a completely randomized design, with three treatments and 12 replicates. The animals were fed a diet with Tifton hay as exclusive roughage (control) and two more diets in which the hay was partially replaced by 'Miúda' or 'Orelha de Elefante Mexicana' (OEM.) spineless cactus. The animals were randomly slaughtered at 86 days after 16-h solid fast. The use of spineless cactus, regardless of genotype, increased the liver weight and caused inflammatory processes and necrosis on the liver parenchyma. Spineless cactus in diets for sheep confined for 86 days, despite causing liver tissue damage, such as inflammation and death process of hepatocytes, does not compromise weight gain.

Este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar os efeitos de dietas contendo genótipos de palma forrageira resistentes ao inseto cochonilha do carmim (Dactylopius opuntiae) sobre a condição hepática de ovinos. Trinta e seis ovinos machos Santa Inês não castrados (seis meses de idade e peso corporal inicial médio de 22,0 ± 2,9 kg) foram distribuídos em delineamento inteiramente casualizado, com três tratamentos e 12 repetições. Os animais foram alimentados com uma dieta com feno de Tifton como volumoso exclusivo (controle) e mais duas dietas em que o feno foi parcialmente substituído por palma forrageira 'Miúda' ou 'Orelha de Elefante Mexicana' (OEM.). Os animais foram abatidos aleatoriamente aos 86 dias após jejum de sólidos por 16 horas. O uso de palma forrageira, independente do genótipo, aumentou o peso do fígado e causou processos inflamatórios e necrose no parênquima hepático. A palma forrageira em dietas para ovinos confinados por 86 dias, apesar de causar danos ao tecido hepático, como inflamação e processo de morte dos hepatócitos, não compromete o ganho de peso.