Addition of a blend of exogenous enzymes to broiler chickens diets: impacts on performance and production costs / Adição de uma mistura de enzimas exógenas a dietas de frangos de corte: impactos no desempenho e custos de produção

Broiler diets are based on corn, soybean and wheat production; however, some protein ingredients have many antinutritional factors and low digestibility. The objective of this study was to add a blend of exogenous enzymes to the feed with low nutritional value for broilers to reduce production costs and improve digestibility while maintaining good zootechnical performance. The experimental design was completely randomized, including three treatments with five replications (n=15) each: a) positive control (PC), diet calculated for males with average performance; b) negative control + exogenous enzymes (NC+EE), minimum nutrient diet according to the requirements of the production phase, and the enzymatic blend was added; and c) negative control (NC), minimum levels of nutrients for each phase. At 21 days, the PC group showed greater weight gain and lower feed conversion than the NC (P<0.05). At 42 days, PC had lower feed intake than NC (P=0.040), while lower feed conversion was observed in groups PC and NC+EE than NC (P=0.001). The production efficiency index was higher in the PC treatment, but the NC+EE treatment was higher than the NC (P=0.001). Considering production costs and body weight, we found that NC+EE birds had greater profitability. Therefore, we conclude that the blend of exogenous enzymes added to a diet with minimal nutritional levels has practical application in the broiler production system.(AU)

As dietas de frangos de corte são baseadas na produção de milho, soja e trigo; no entanto, alguns ingredientes proteicos possuem muitos fatores antinutricionais e baixa digestibilidade. O objetivo deste estudo foi adicionar à ração uma mistura de enzimas exógenas com baixo valor nutricional para frangos de corte para reduzir os custos de produção e melhorar a digestibilidade, mantendo o bom desempenho zootécnico. O delineamento experimental foi inteiramente casualizado, incluindo três tratamentos com cinco repetições (n=15) cada: a) controle positivo (PC), dieta calculada para machos com desempenho médio; b) controle negativo + enzimas exógenas (CN+EE), dieta mínima de nutrientes de acordo com as exigências da fase de produção, e foi adicionada a mistura enzimática; c) controle negativo (CN), teores mínimos de nutrientes para cada fase. Aos 21 dias, o grupo PC apresentou maior ganho de peso e menor conversão alimentar que o NC (P<0,05). Aos 42 dias, PC apresentou menor consumo de ração que NC (P=0,040), enquanto foi observada menor conversão alimentar nos grupos PC e NC+EE que NC (P=0,001). O índice de eficiência de produção foi maior no tratamento PC, mas o tratamento NC+EE foi maior que o NC (P=0,001). Considerando os custos de produção e peso corporal, verificamos que as aves NC+EE tiveram maior rentabilidade. Portanto, concluímos que a mistura de enzimas exógenas adicionada a uma dieta com níveis nutricionais mínimos tem aplicação prática no sistema de produção de frangos de corte.(AU)

Recombinant expression and antigenicity of two peptide families of neurotoxins from Androctonus sp

Background: Scorpion neurotoxins such as those that modify the mammalian voltagegated sodium ion channels (Nav) are the main responsible for scorpion envenomation. Their neutralization is crucial in the production of antivenoms against scorpion stings. Methods: In the present study, two in silico designed genes ­ one that codes for a native neurotoxin from the venom of the Anatolian scorpion Androctonus crassicauda, named Acra 4 ­ and another non-native toxin ­ named consensus scorpion toxin (SccTx) obtained from the alignment of the primary structures of the most toxic neurotoxins from the Middle Eastern and North African scorpions ­ were recombinantly expressed in E. coli Origami. Results: Following bacterial expression, the two expressed neurotoxins, hereafter named HisrAcra4 and HisrSccTx, were obtained from inclusion bodies. Both recombinant neurotoxins were obtained in multiple Cys-Cys isoforms. After refolding, the active protein fractions were identified with molecular masses of 8,947.6 and 9,989.1 Da for HisrAcra4 and HisrSccTx, respectively, which agreed with their expected theoretical masses. HisrAcra4 and HisrSccTx were used as antigens to immunize two groups of rabbits, to produce either anti-HisrAcra4 or anti-HisrSccTx serum antibodies, which in turn could recognize and neutralize neurotoxins from venoms of scorpion species from the Middle East and North Africa. The antibodies obtained from rabbits neutralized the 3LD50 of Androctonus australis, Leiurus quinquestriatus hebraeus and Buthus occitanus venoms, but they did not neutralize A. crassicauda and A. mauritanicus venoms. In addition, the anti-HisrAcra4 antibodies did not neutralize any of the five scorpion venoms tested. However, an antibody blend of anti-HisrAcra4 and anti-HisrSccTx was able to neutralize A. crassicauda and A. mauritanicus venoms. Conclusions: Two recombinant Nav neurotoxins, from different peptide families, were used as antigens to generate IgGs for neutralizing scorpion venoms of species from the Middle East and North Africa.(AU)

Xylanase and B-glucanase in maize- and soybean meal-based diets for broilers / Xilanase e B-glucanase em dietas a base de milho e de farelo de soja para frangos de corte

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of adding different xylanase and β-glucanase enzyme blends to maize- and soybean meal-based diets on performance and energy metabolizability in broilers. Two experiments were carried out with broilers of the COBB 500 strain. In the first experiment, 1960 chicks were assigned to a completely randomized design with a 2 × 3 + 1 factorial arrangement, totaling seven treatments, namely, T1- Positive control (PC); T2 - Negative control 1 (NC1; PC minus 200 kcal kg-¹ ME); T3 - NC1 + Blend A; T4 - NC1 + Blend B; T5 - Negative control 2 (NC2; PC minus 167 kcal kg-¹ ME and 5% amino acids); T6 - NC2 + Blend A; and T7 - NC2 + Blend B. Fourteen replicates were used per treatment and 20 birds per experimental unit. The parameters evaluated at 21 and 42 days of age were weight gain (WG), feed intake (FI) and feed conversion (FC). At 42 days, production efficiency index (PEI), viability and the yields of cuts were also calculated. Birds that received diets with a reduced nutritional value showed a reduction in WG and PEI and worsened FC as compared those of PC treatment (p < 0.05). However, the birds that consumed the NC2 diet with Blend B exhibited a similar WG to those in PC group (p > 0.05) from 1 to 21 days of life. For the yield of thigh + drumstick, the factors were statistically similar (p > 0.05) to those observed in the PC birds. In the second experiment, 432 fourteen-day-old chicks were distributed in a completely randomized design with seven treatments, with eight replicates per treatment and six birds per experimental unit. The apparent metabolizable energy (AME) and nitrogen-corrected AME (AMEn) values were determined. Overall, the NC2 diet with Blend B provided the highest AME and AMEn values; however, NC1 with the same enzyme blend was the treatment which provided the lowest values. The addition of xylanase [...].(AU)

Objetivou-se avaliar o efeito da adição de diferentes blends enzimáticos de xilanase e β-glucanase em dietas a base de milho e de farelo de soja sobre o desempenho e metabolizabilidade da energia para frangos de corte. Foram realizados dois experimentos com frangos de corte da linhagem COBB500. No primeiro experimento, foram utilizados 1960 pintos distribuídos em delineamento inteiramente casualizado em arranjo fatorial 2 x 3 + 1, totalizando sete tratamentos: T1- Controle Positivo (CP); T2- Controle negativo 1 (CN1; CP menos 200 kcal Kg-¹ de EM); T3 - CN1 + Blend A; T4 - CN1 + Blend B; T5 - Controle negativo 2 (CN2; CP menos 167 kcal Kg-¹ de EM e 5% de aminoácidos); T6 - CN2 + Blend A e T7 - CN2 + Blend B. Foram utilizadas 14 repetições por tratamento e 20 aves por unidade experimental. Os parâmetros avaliados aos 21 e aos 42 dias de idade dos frangos foram o ganho de peso (GP), o consumo de ração (CR) e a conversão alimentar (CA). Aos 42 dias calculou-se o índice de eficiência produtiva (IEP), viabilidade (VIAB) e rendimento de cortes. Foi observado que as aves que receberam dietas com reduzido valor nutricionais apresentaram redução no GP e IEP e piora na CA comparadas ao CP (p < 0,05), porém as aves que consumiram a dieta CN2 com o Blend B, que apresentaram GP semelhante ao CP (p > 0,05) no período de um a 21 dias de vida. Para o rendimento de coxa mais sobrecoxa (RCS), foi possível observar que os fatores apresentaram estatisticamente (p >0,05) semelhantes ao CP. No segundo experimento foram utilizados 432 pintos com 14 dias de idade, distribuídas em um delineamento inteiramente casualizado com sete tratamentos com 8 repetições por tratamento e 6 aves por unidade experimental. Foram determinados os valores de energia metabolizável aparente (EMA) e aparente corrigida para balanço de nitrogênio (EMAn). Em geral, a dieta CN2 como Blend B apresentou o maior valor de EMA e EMAn, porém, [...].(AU)

Xylanase and B-glucanase in maize- and soybean meal-based diets for broilers / Xilanase e B-glucanase em dietas a base de milho e de farelo de soja para frangos de corte

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of adding different xylanase and β-glucanase enzyme blends to maize- and soybean meal-based diets on performance and energy metabolizability in broilers. Two experiments were carried out with broilers of the COBB 500 strain. In the first experiment, 1960 chicks were assigned to a completely randomized design with a 2 × 3 + 1 factorial arrangement, totaling seven treatments, namely, T1- Positive control (PC); T2 - Negative control 1 (NC1; PC minus 200 kcal kg-¹ ME); T3 - NC1 + Blend A; T4 - NC1 + Blend B; T5 - Negative control 2 (NC2; PC minus 167 kcal kg-¹ ME and 5% amino acids); T6 - NC2 + Blend A; and T7 - NC2 + Blend B. Fourteen replicates were used per treatment and 20 birds per experimental unit. The parameters evaluated at 21 and 42 days of age were weight gain (WG), feed intake (FI) and feed conversion (FC). At 42 days, production efficiency index (PEI), viability and the yields of cuts were also calculated. Birds that received diets with a reduced nutritional value showed a reduction in WG and PEI and worsened FC as compared those of PC treatment (p 0.05) from 1 to 21 days of life. For the yield of thigh + drumstick, the factors were statistically similar (p > 0.05) to those observed in the PC birds. In the second experiment, 432 fourteen-day-old chicks were distributed in a completely randomized design with seven treatments, with eight replicates per treatment and six birds per experimental unit. The apparent metabolizable energy (AME) and nitrogen-corrected AME (AMEn) values were determined. Overall, the NC2 diet with Blend B provided the highest AME and AMEn values; however, NC1 with the same enzyme blend was the treatment which provided the lowest values. The addition of xylanase [...].

Objetivou-se avaliar o efeito da adição de diferentes blends enzimáticos de xilanase e β-glucanase em dietas a base de milho e de farelo de soja sobre o desempenho e metabolizabilidade da energia para frangos de corte. Foram realizados dois experimentos com frangos de corte da linhagem COBB500. No primeiro experimento, foram utilizados 1960 pintos distribuídos em delineamento inteiramente casualizado em arranjo fatorial 2 x 3 + 1, totalizando sete tratamentos: T1- Controle Positivo (CP); T2- Controle negativo 1 (CN1; CP menos 200 kcal Kg-¹ de EM); T3 - CN1 + Blend A; T4 - CN1 + Blend B; T5 - Controle negativo 2 (CN2; CP menos 167 kcal Kg-¹ de EM e 5% de aminoácidos); T6 - CN2 + Blend A e T7 - CN2 + Blend B. Foram utilizadas 14 repetições por tratamento e 20 aves por unidade experimental. Os parâmetros avaliados aos 21 e aos 42 dias de idade dos frangos foram o ganho de peso (GP), o consumo de ração (CR) e a conversão alimentar (CA). Aos 42 dias calculou-se o índice de eficiência produtiva (IEP), viabilidade (VIAB) e rendimento de cortes. Foi observado que as aves que receberam dietas com reduzido valor nutricionais apresentaram redução no GP e IEP e piora na CA comparadas ao CP (p 0,05) no período de um a 21 dias de vida. Para o rendimento de coxa mais sobrecoxa (RCS), foi possível observar que os fatores apresentaram estatisticamente (p >0,05) semelhantes ao CP. No segundo experimento foram utilizados 432 pintos com 14 dias de idade, distribuídas em um delineamento inteiramente casualizado com sete tratamentos com 8 repetições por tratamento e 6 aves por unidade experimental. Foram determinados os valores de energia metabolizável aparente (EMA) e aparente corrigida para balanço de nitrogênio (EMAn). Em geral, a dieta CN2 como Blend B apresentou o maior valor de EMA e EMAn, porém, [...].

Effect of an enzymatic blend and yeast on the performance, carcass yield and histomorphometry of the small intestine in broilers from 21 to 42 days of age

The present study was conducted to evaluate the performance, carcass yield, and histomorphometry of the small intestine of broilers fed yeast sugarcane supplemented with enzymatic blend from 22 to 42 days of age. Seven hundred broiler chicks were distributed in a completely randomized design in a factorial design (2x3+1), two levels of the enzyme blend (0 and 200 g/ton), three protein levels (0%, 6% and 12%) and a control diet. The level of 6% yeast showed higher feed intake and weight gain after 33 days. From 22 to 42 days there was no significant effect (p<0.05) to the use of yeast in animal performance, carcass yield and cuts. At 42 days an interaction between the factors for width and crypt depth in the duodenum and jejunum, respectively, was observed. The inclusion of yeast in the diets for broilers from 22 to 42 days did not affect the performance and yield of the carcass. Yeast increased the muscle wall of the jejunum. The use of the enzymatic blend did not influence performance but affected the integrity of the intestinal mucosa.(AU)

Effect of an enzymatic blend and yeast on the performance, carcass yield and histomorphometry of the small intestine in broilers from 21 to 42 days of age

The present study was conducted to evaluate the performance, carcass yield, and histomorphometry of the small intestine of broilers fed yeast sugarcane supplemented with enzymatic blend from 22 to 42 days of age. Seven hundred broiler chicks were distributed in a completely randomized design in a factorial design (2x3+1), two levels of the enzyme blend (0 and 200 g/ton), three protein levels (0%, 6% and 12%) and a control diet. The level of 6% yeast showed higher feed intake and weight gain after 33 days. From 22 to 42 days there was no significant effect (p<0.05) to the use of yeast in animal performance, carcass yield and cuts. At 42 days an interaction between the factors for width and crypt depth in the duodenum and jejunum, respectively, was observed. The inclusion of yeast in the diets for broilers from 22 to 42 days did not affect the performance and yield of the carcass. Yeast increased the muscle wall of the jejunum. The use of the enzymatic blend did not influence performance but affected the integrity of the intestinal mucosa.

The effect of exogenous enzymes on the performance and digestibility of nutrients in broiler / O efeito de enzimas exógenas no desempenho e digestibilidade de nutrientes em frangos de corte

Here we tested how feeding with exogenous enzymes affects the performance, carcass yield, and ileal digestibility in broilers from 21- to 42-days-old. The study included 1008 male broilers randomly distributed into six diets: positive control (PC), corn and soybean meal containing all the nutritional requirements; negative control (NC), with a 120 kcal.kg-1 reduction in metabolizable energy relative to the PC; enzyme complex one (NC + 100 ppm of endo-1,4-beta-xylanase); enzyme complex two (NC + 200 ppm of xylanase, amylase and protease); enzyme blend one (NC + 100 FXU kg-1 of xylanase and 200 FXU kg-1 of amylase); and enzyme blend two (NC + 100 FXU kg-1 of xylanase and 300 FXU kg-1 of amylase). The enzyme complex two (CN + 100 FXU.kg de xilanase e 300 FXU.kg de amilase) and enzyme blend two (NC + 100 FXU kg-1 of xylanase and 300 FXU kg-1 of amylase) had greater weight gain, feed conversion, carcass yield, and digestibility of nutrients than the NC (P < 0,05). We found that enzyme complex two and enzyme blend two valued their nutritional matrix promoting better performance and digestibility of broilers.

O trabalho foi realizado para avaliar o uso de enzimas sobre o desempenho, rendimento de carcaça e digestibilidade ileal em frangos de corte no período de 21 a 42 dias de idade. Foram utilizados 1008 frangos de corte, machos, distribuídos em seis dietas: controle positivo (CP) a base de milho e farelo de soja, contendo todas as exigências nutricionais, controle negativo (CN) com redução de 120 kcal.kg-1de energia metabolizável, complexo enzimático um (CN + 100 ppm de endo-1,4-beta-xilanase); complexo enzimático dois ( CN + 200 ppm de xilanase, amilase e protease); blend enzimático um (CN + 100 FXU. kg de xilanase e 200 FXU.kg de amilase e blend enzimático dois (CN + 100 FXU.kg de xilanase e 300 FXU.kg de amilase). O complexo enzimático dois (CN + 200 ppm de xilanase, amilase e protease) e blend enzimático dois (CN + 100 FXU.kg de xilanase e 300 FXU.kg de amilase) proporcionaram ganho de peso, conversão alimentar, rendimento de carcaça e digestibilidade de nutrientes superior ao controle negativo (P < 0,05). Concluiu-se que o complexo enzimático dois e blend enzimático dois valorizaram sua matriz nutricional promovendo melhor desempenho e digestibilidade em frangos de corte.

The effect of exogenous enzymes on the performance and digestibility of nutrients in broiler / O efeito de enzimas exógenas no desempenho e digestibilidade de nutrientes em frangos de corte

Here we tested how feeding with exogenous enzymes affects the performance, carcass yield, and ileal digestibility in broilers from 21- to 42-days-old. The study included 1008 male broilers randomly distributed into six diets: positive control (PC), corn and soybean meal containing all the nutritional requirements; negative control (NC), with a 120 kcal.kg-1 reduction in metabolizable energy relative to the PC; enzyme complex one (NC + 100 ppm of endo-1,4-beta-xylanase); enzyme complex two (NC + 200 ppm of xylanase, amylase and protease); enzyme blend one (NC + 100 FXU kg-1 of xylanase and 200 FXU kg-1 of amylase); and enzyme blend two (NC + 100 FXU kg-1 of xylanase and 300 FXU kg-1 of amylase). The enzyme complex two (CN + 100 FXU.kg de xilanase e 300 FXU.kg de amilase) and enzyme blend two (NC + 100 FXU kg-1 of xylanase and 300 FXU kg-1 of amylase) had greater weight gain, feed conversion, carcass yield, and digestibility of nutrients than the NC (P < 0,05). We found that enzyme complex two and enzyme blend two valued their nutritional matrix promoting better performance and digestibility of broilers.(AU)

O trabalho foi realizado para avaliar o uso de enzimas sobre o desempenho, rendimento de carcaça e digestibilidade ileal em frangos de corte no período de 21 a 42 dias de idade. Foram utilizados 1008 frangos de corte, machos, distribuídos em seis dietas: controle positivo (CP) a base de milho e farelo de soja, contendo todas as exigências nutricionais, controle negativo (CN) com redução de 120 kcal.kg-1de energia metabolizável, complexo enzimático um (CN + 100 ppm de endo-1,4-beta-xilanase); complexo enzimático dois ( CN + 200 ppm de xilanase, amilase e protease); blend enzimático um (CN + 100 FXU. kg de xilanase e 200 FXU.kg de amilase e blend enzimático dois (CN + 100 FXU.kg de xilanase e 300 FXU.kg de amilase). O complexo enzimático dois (CN + 200 ppm de xilanase, amilase e protease) e blend enzimático dois (CN + 100 FXU.kg de xilanase e 300 FXU.kg de amilase) proporcionaram ganho de peso, conversão alimentar, rendimento de carcaça e digestibilidade de nutrientes superior ao controle negativo (P < 0,05). Concluiu-se que o complexo enzimático dois e blend enzimático dois valorizaram sua matriz nutricional promovendo melhor desempenho e digestibilidade em frangos de corte.(AU)

Fractionation of nitrogen compounds and carbohydrates in forages of different ages / Fracionamento de compostos nitrogenados e carboidratos em forragens de diferentes idades

Here we tested how feeding with exogenous enzymes affects the performance, carcass yield, and ilealdigestibility in broilers from 21- to 42-days-old. The study included 1008 male broilers randomlydistributed into six diets: positive control (PC), corn and soybean meal containing all the nutritionalrequirements; negative control (NC), with a 120 kcal.kg-1 reduction in metabolizable energy relative tothe PC; enzyme complex one (NC + 100 ppm of endo-1,4-beta-xylanase); enzyme complex two (NC+ 200 ppm of xylanase, amylase and protease); enzyme blend one (NC + 100 FXU kg-1 of xylanaseand 200 FXU kg-1 of amylase); and enzyme blend two (NC + 100 FXU kg-1 of xylanase and 300 FXUkg-1 of amylase). The enzyme complex two (CN + 100 FXU.kg de xilanase e 300 FXU.kg de amilase)and enzyme blend two (NC + 100 FXU kg-1 of xylanase and 300 FXU kg-1 of amylase) had greaterweight gain, feed conversion, carcass yield, and digestibility of nutrients than the NC (P < 0,05). Wefound that enzyme complex two and enzyme blend two valued their nutritional matrix promoting betterperformance and digestibility of broilers.

O trabalho foi realizado para avaliar o uso de enzimas sobre o desempenho, rendimento de carcaça edigestibilidade ileal em frangos de corte no período de 21 a 42 dias de idade. Foram utilizados 1008frangos de corte, machos, distribuídos em seis dietas: controle positivo (CP) a base de milho e farelo desoja, contendo todas as exigências nutricionais, controle negativo (CN) com redução de 120 kcal.kg-1deenergia metabolizável, complexo enzimático um (CN + 100 ppm de endo-1,4-beta-xilanase); complexoenzimático dois ( CN + 200 ppm de xilanase, amilase e protease); blend enzimático um (CN + 100 FXU.kg de xilanase e 200 FXU.kg de amilase e blend enzimático dois (CN + 100 FXU.kg de xilanase e 300FXU.kg de amilase). O complexo enzimático dois (CN + 200 ppm de xilanase, amilase e protease) eblend enzimático dois (CN + 100 FXU.kg de xilanase e 300 FXU.kg de amilase) proporcionaram ganhode peso, conversão alimentar, rendimento de carcaça e digestibilidade de nutrientes superior ao controlenegativo (P < 0,05). Concluiu-se que o complexo enzimático dois e blend enzimático dois valorizaramsua matriz nutricional promovendo melhor desempenho e digestibilidade em frangos de corte.

Fractionation of nitrogen compounds and carbohydrates in forages of different ages / Fracionamento de compostos nitrogenados e carboidratos em forragens de diferentes idades

Here we tested how feeding with exogenous enzymes affects the performance, carcass yield, and ilealdigestibility in broilers from 21- to 42-days-old. The study included 1008 male broilers randomlydistributed into six diets: positive control (PC), corn and soybean meal containing all the nutritionalrequirements; negative control (NC), with a 120 kcal.kg-1 reduction in metabolizable energy relative tothe PC; enzyme complex one (NC + 100 ppm of endo-1,4-beta-xylanase); enzyme complex two (NC+ 200 ppm of xylanase, amylase and protease); enzyme blend one (NC + 100 FXU kg-1 of xylanaseand 200 FXU kg-1 of amylase); and enzyme blend two (NC + 100 FXU kg-1 of xylanase and 300 FXUkg-1 of amylase). The enzyme complex two (CN + 100 FXU.kg de xilanase e 300 FXU.kg de amilase)and enzyme blend two (NC + 100 FXU kg-1 of xylanase and 300 FXU kg-1 of amylase) had greaterweight gain, feed conversion, carcass yield, and digestibility of nutrients than the NC (P < 0,05). Wefound that enzyme complex two and enzyme blend two valued their nutritional matrix promoting betterperformance and digestibility of broilers.(AU)

O trabalho foi realizado para avaliar o uso de enzimas sobre o desempenho, rendimento de carcaça edigestibilidade ileal em frangos de corte no período de 21 a 42 dias de idade. Foram utilizados 1008frangos de corte, machos, distribuídos em seis dietas: controle positivo (CP) a base de milho e farelo desoja, contendo todas as exigências nutricionais, controle negativo (CN) com redução de 120 kcal.kg-1deenergia metabolizável, complexo enzimático um (CN + 100 ppm de endo-1,4-beta-xilanase); complexoenzimático dois ( CN + 200 ppm de xilanase, amilase e protease); blend enzimático um (CN + 100 FXU.kg de xilanase e 200 FXU.kg de amilase e blend enzimático dois (CN + 100 FXU.kg de xilanase e 300FXU.kg de amilase). O complexo enzimático dois (CN + 200 ppm de xilanase, amilase e protease) eblend enzimático dois (CN + 100 FXU.kg de xilanase e 300 FXU.kg de amilase) proporcionaram ganhode peso, conversão alimentar, rendimento de carcaça e digestibilidade de nutrientes superior ao controlenegativo (P < 0,05). Concluiu-se que o complexo enzimático dois e blend enzimático dois valorizaramsua matriz nutricional promovendo melhor desempenho e digestibilidade em frangos de corte.(AU)

Effect of Non-Starch Polysaccharide (NSP) of Wheat and Barley Supplemented with Exogenous Enzyme Blend on Growth Performance, Gut Microbial, Pancreatic Enzyme Activities, Expression of Glucose Transporter (SGLT1) and Mucin Producer (MUC2) Genes of Broiler Chickens

The experiment was carried out in a completely randomized design (CRD) with 625 broiler chicks (Ross 308) for 5 repetitions (25 birds per each replicated) on the 5 treatments diet. Treatments included two different types of cereal grains (wheat, and barley) with or without an enzyme supplementation along with a corn-based diet as control group. The experimental diets were formulated to have similar contents of crude protein, metabolizable energy, total non-starch polysaccharides (NSP) and were fed in two periods of starter and grower. Experimental traits were consisted growth performance, ileal flora numeration, villus morphology in 3 parts of the intestine, digesta viscosity and pancreatic enzyme activity, and determining the gene expression level of glucose transporter (SGLT1) and mucin producer (MUC2) in the jejunum. Results indicated that inclusion of wheat and barley to corn-soy based diet with or without exo-enzymes blend on growth performance traits were significant (p 0.01). Feed intake and average daily gain in wheat diet was lower, conversely FCR was higher than other groups (p 0.01). Maximum microbial count were observed in wheat and barley diets and minimum were observed in enzyme supplemented diets respectively (p 0.01). Control group and enzyme supplemented diets had minimum counting of gram negative, coliform and clostridium, but maximum counting of lactobacilli and bifidobacter were observed in enzyme supplemented diets (p 0.01). Viscosity and activities of pancreatic a-amylase and lipase were significantly increased in chicks fed wheat and barley when compared to the control group fed on corn (p 0.01). Feeding wheat and barley diets reduced villus height in different parts of the small intestine when compared to those fed on a corn diet (p 0.01).(AU)

Effect of Non-Starch Polysaccharide (NSP) of Wheat and Barley Supplemented with Exogenous Enzyme Blend on Growth Performance, Gut Microbial, Pancreatic Enzyme Activities, Expression of Glucose Transporter (SGLT1) and Mucin Producer (MUC2) Genes of Broiler Chickens

The experiment was carried out in a completely randomized design (CRD) with 625 broiler chicks (Ross 308) for 5 repetitions (25 birds per each replicated) on the 5 treatments diet. Treatments included two different types of cereal grains (wheat, and barley) with or without an enzyme supplementation along with a corn-based diet as control group. The experimental diets were formulated to have similar contents of crude protein, metabolizable energy, total non-starch polysaccharides (NSP) and were fed in two periods of starter and grower. Experimental traits were consisted growth performance, ileal flora numeration, villus morphology in 3 parts of the intestine, digesta viscosity and pancreatic enzyme activity, and determining the gene expression level of glucose transporter (SGLT1) and mucin producer (MUC2) in the jejunum. Results indicated that inclusion of wheat and barley to corn-soy based diet with or without exo-enzymes blend on growth performance traits were significant (p 0.01). Feed intake and average daily gain in wheat diet was lower, conversely FCR was higher than other groups (p 0.01). Maximum microbial count were observed in wheat and barley diets and minimum were observed in enzyme supplemented diets respectively (p 0.01). Control group and enzyme supplemented diets had minimum counting of gram negative, coliform and clostridium, but maximum counting of lactobacilli and bifidobacter were observed in enzyme supplemented diets (p 0.01). Viscosity and activities of pancreatic a-amylase and lipase were significantly increased in chicks fed wheat and barley when compared to the control group fed on corn (p 0.01). Feeding wheat and barley diets reduced villus height in different parts of the small intestine when compared to those fed on a corn diet (p 0.01).

Effects of different levels of two types of olive pulp with or without exogenous enzyme supplementation on broiler performance and economic parameters

The effects of the dietary inclusion of olive pulp (OP) and supplementation birds with a commercial enzyme blend (ENZ) on the performance of broilers were evaluated. Six hundred one-day-old male Ross 308 broilers were divided according to a completely randomized design into 10 treatments in a 2×2×2+2 factorial arrangement, consisting of two olive pulp levels (50 and 100 g/kg diet), two pulp categories (processed and non-processed), the inclusion or not of an enzyme blend supplement, and two control treatments without OP and the inclusion or not of the enzyme blend in the diet. Feed intake (FI), weight gain (WG), feed efficiency (FE), energy intake (EI), energy efficiency (EE), protein intake (PI), protein efficiency (PE), feed cost per kg live weight (FC/kg), and production index (IP) were determined. There was no significant difference (p> 0.05) between broilers fed the OP diets and the control diets for all parameters. Processed OP improved FE (p 0.019 from 1-21 days; p 0.005 from 22-42 days; and p 0.008 from 1-42 days of age) and EE (p <= 0.012 from 1-21 days; p <=0.012 from 22-42 days; and p <= 0.002 from 1-42 days of age). The enzyme blend supplementation did not influence (p> 0.05) any of the studied variables. The inclusion of OP in the diets at levels up to 100g/kg would does not have deleterious effects on broiler production performance.(AU)

Effects of different levels of two types of olive pulp with or without exogenous enzyme supplementation on broiler performance and economic parameters

The effects of the dietary inclusion of olive pulp (OP) and supplementation birds with a commercial enzyme blend (ENZ) on the performance of broilers were evaluated. Six hundred one-day-old male Ross 308 broilers were divided according to a completely randomized design into 10 treatments in a 2×2×2+2 factorial arrangement, consisting of two olive pulp levels (50 and 100 g/kg diet), two pulp categories (processed and non-processed), the inclusion or not of an enzyme blend supplement, and two control treatments without OP and the inclusion or not of the enzyme blend in the diet. Feed intake (FI), weight gain (WG), feed efficiency (FE), energy intake (EI), energy efficiency (EE), protein intake (PI), protein efficiency (PE), feed cost per kg live weight (FC/kg), and production index (IP) were determined. There was no significant difference (p> 0.05) between broilers fed the OP diets and the control diets for all parameters. Processed OP improved FE (p 0.019 from 1-21 days; p 0.005 from 22-42 days; and p 0.008 from 1-42 days of age) and EE (p 0.05) any of the studied variables. The inclusion of OP in the diets at levels up to 100g/kg would does not have deleterious effects on broiler production performance.

Blend de óleos essenciais como alternativa aos antimicrobianos melhoradores de desempenho na dieta de leitões em fase de creche

A proibição do uso de antimicrobianos melhoradores de desempenho (AMD) na produção animal demanda a busca por alternativas que sejam capazes de sustentar a produtividade atual e que sejam consideradas seguras. Os óleos essenciais (OE) são aditivos provenientes de plantas que têm demonstrado efeitos positivos sobre o crescimento e a saúde animal. Neste sentido, o objetivo do trabalho foi avaliar os efeitos de um blend de OE sobre o desempenho zootécnico, ocorrência de diarreia (OD), perfil hematológico e bioquímico sanguíneo, morfometria, morfologia e microbiologia intestinais, peso relativo, comprimento e pH do conteúdo de órgãos, e status antioxidante hepático, de leitões em fase de creche, como alternativa aos antimicrobianos melhoradores de desempenho convencionais. Foram utilizados 135 leitões machos inteiros, com peso corporal inicial médio de 7,09 ± 0,29 kg, e final médio de 23,82 ± 1,53 kg. O delineamento experimental empregado foi o em blocos casualizados, constituindo cinco tratamentos, com nove repetições de três leitões representando a unidade experimental. Os tratamentos foram compostos por uma dieta basal controle (CN), CN + 125 mg/kg enramicina 8%, como antimicrobiano melhorador de desempenho, (AMD), CN + 100, 200 e 400 mg/kg do blend de OE composto por timol, cinamaldeído, D-limoneno e carvacrol (OE100; OE200; OE400). As dietas basais foram divididas em quatro fases (préinicial I, pré-inicial II, inicial I e inicial II) e durante todo o período experimental foram avaliadas as variáveis de desempenho zootécnico, peso corporal final médio (PCF), ganho de peso corporal diário médio (GPCDM), consumo de ração diário médio (CRDM), e eficiência alimentar (EA), bem como a ocorrência de diarreia (OD). No final das fases pré-inicial II e inicial II, foi realizada coleta de sangue de 18 animais de cada tratamento para avaliação do perfil hematológico e bioquímico sanguíneo. Ao final do período experimental foram selecionados seis leitões de cada tratamento para avaliação da microbiologia, morfologia e morfometria intestinais, peso relativo, comprimento e pH do conteúdo de órgãos, e status antioxidante hepático. Os dados obtidos foram submetidos aos testes de comparação de média de Student-Newman-Keuls e de Tukey, a 5% de probabilidade. Na fase inicial II, a EA foi melhor para os tratamentos OE400 e OE200, quando comparados ao OE100 (p<0,05). Durante o período total, o OE400 foi mais eficaz no controle da OD que o CN e o OE100 (p<0,05). Entre as variáveis sanguíneas, na fase préinicial II, foram observados valores menores (p<0,05) de proteínas totais para o CN. Ainda, o CN apresentou menor valor de proteínas plasmáticas quando comparado ao AMD, e o OE100 apresentou menor volume corpuscular médio (VCM) que o OE400 (p<0,05). Na fase inicial II, foram observados maior VCM e menor hemoglobina corpuscular média e hemácias para o OE400 quando comparado ao OE100 (p<0,05). Nessa mesma fase, foram obtidos níveis mais altos de bastonetes para o AMD, semelhante ao OE400 e OE200 (p<0,05). A adição de AMD e OE às dietas aumentou (p<0,05) a atividade hepática da enzima antioxidante superóxido dismutase. Os demais parâmetros avaliados não foram influenciados (p>0,05) pelos tratamentos. Em conclusão, a adição do blend de OE às dietas de leitões em fase de creche foi capaz de influenciar positivamente a ocorrência de diarreia, perfil hematológico e bioquímico sanguíneo, e o status antioxidante hepático dos animais, sem prejudicar o desempenho zootécnico, morfometria, morfologia e microbiologia intestinais, peso relativo, comprimento e pH do conteúdo de órgãos, podendo ser utilizado como alternativa aos AMD convencionais.

The ban on the use of antimicrobial growth promoters (AGP) in animal production demands the search for alternatives that can sustain current productivity and that are considered safe. Essential oils (EO) are plant-derived additives that have shown positive effects on animal health and growth. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the effects of an EO blend on growth performance, occurrence of diarrhea (OD), hematological and blood biochemical profile, intestinal morphometry, morphology and microbiology, relative weight, length, and pH of the content of organs, and hepatic antioxidant status of weaning pigs, as an alternative to conventional AGP. One hundred and thirty-five crossbred entire male piglets, with an average initial body weight of 7.09 ± 0.29 kg and an average final body weight of 23.82 ± 1.53 kg were used. Animals were divided based on a randomized block design into five treatments, with nine replicates of three piglets per experimental unit. Treatments were a negative control diet (NC), NC + 125 mg/kg of enramycin 8%, as antimicrobial growth promoter (AGP), NC + 100, 200 and 400 mg/kg of the EO blend composed of thymol, cinnamaldehyde, D-limonene and carvacrol (EO100; EO200; EO400). Basal diets were divided into four phases (pre-starter I, pre-starter II, starter I and starter II) and throughout the experimental period the growth performance variables such as average daily body weight gain (ADBWG), average daily feed intake (ADFI), average final body weight (AFBW), and feed efficiency (FE), were evaluated, as well as the OD. At the end of the pre-starter II and initial II phases, blood was collected from 18 animals of each treatment to assess blood hematological and biochemical profiles. At the end of the experimental period, six piglets from each treatment were selected for evaluation of intestinal microbiology, morphology and morphometry, organs relative weight, length, and pH of its contents, and hepatic antioxidant status. The data obtained were submitted to the Student-Newman-Keuls (SNK) and Tukey mean comparison tests, at 5% probability. In the initial phase II, the FE was better for treatments EO400 and EO200, when compared to EO100 (p<0.05). During the total period, OE400 was more effective in controlling OD than NC and EO100 (p<0.05). Among the blood variables, in the pre-starter II phase, lower values of total proteins were observed for NC (p<0.05). Furthermore, NC had a lower value of plasma proteins when compared to AGP, and EO100 had a lower mean corpuscular volume (MCV) than EO400 (p<0.05). In the starter II phase, higher MCV and lower mean corpuscular hemoglobin and red blood cells were observed for EO400 when compared to EO100 (p<0.05). In this same phase, higher levels of band neutrophils were obtained for AGP, similar to EO400 and EO200 (p<0.05). The addition of AGP and EO to the diets increased (p<0.05) the hepatic activity of the antioxidant enzyme superoxide dismutase. The other parameters evaluated were not influenced (p>0.05) by the dietary treatments. In conclusion, the addition of the EO blend to the diets of weaning piglets was able to positively influence the OD, hematological and blood biochemical profile, and the hepatic antioxidant status of the animals, without any impair to the growth performance, intestinal morphometry, morphology and microbiology, relative weight, length, and pH of the content of organs, showing that it can be used as an alternative to conventional AMD.

Biogas production: litter from broilers receiving direct-fed microbials and an enzyme blend

The effect of additives used in the feed of broilers on anaerobic bio-digestion of poultry litter was evaluated. Four diets were used: NC: negative control; DFM: NC + 500 ppm direct-fed microbials (DFM) containing Bacillus subtilis and Bacillus licheniformis; ENZ: diet formulated with an enzyme blend (20 ppm phytase, 200 ppm protease and 200 ppm xylanase); DFM+E: ENZ + DFM. Substrates for the anaerobic bio-digestion were prepared with litter from each treatment, containing 4 % total solids (TS). These were used in 16 continuous bio-digesters with a 2 kg d1 load, to determine the production and potential biogas production and composition during an 85-day period. Influent and effluent samples were collected for the amounts of TS and volatile solids (VS), fiber fraction (neutral detergent fiber [NDF], acid detergent fiber [ADF] and lignin), nutrients (N, P and K), and total and thermotolerant coliforms to be determined. For all treatments a reduction in the following effluents was observed as follows: TS (49, 48, 48 and 50 %) VS (70, 54, 55 and 62 %) NDF (91, 90, 95 and 96 %) ADF (89, 88, 93 and 94 %) and lignin (80, 76, 89 and 88 %). The efficiency of the treatment for coliforms in bio-digesters was higher than 90 % in the 85-day period in all treatment groups. There was a reduction in biogas and methane production when DFM (5500 and 4000 mL) and DFM + E (5800 and 4100 mL) were used, compared to treatments NC (6300 mL and 4400) and ENZ (6400 and 4500 mL). The potential production of reduced TS and VS was higher in ENZ (1:00 and 1.74 106 mL kg1) when compared to NC (0.88 and 1:02 106 mL kg1), DFM (0.80 and 1:40 106 mL kg1) and DFM + E (0.88 1:25 and 106 mL kg1). The additives did not affect the percentage of methane production, and all treatments showed values higher than 70 %. Adding enzymes to the diet of broilers influences the litter characteristics and, as a consequence, increases biogas production. The addition of DFM and DFM + E to broiler diets reduced biogas and methane production.

Biogas production: litter from broilers receiving direct-fed microbials and an enzyme blend

The effect of additives used in the feed of broilers on anaerobic bio-digestion of poultry litter was evaluated. Four diets were used: NC: negative control; DFM: NC + 500 ppm direct-fed microbials (DFM) containing Bacillus subtilis and Bacillus licheniformis; ENZ: diet formulated with an enzyme blend (20 ppm phytase, 200 ppm protease and 200 ppm xylanase); DFM+E: ENZ + DFM. Substrates for the anaerobic bio-digestion were prepared with litter from each treatment, containing 4 % total solids (TS). These were used in 16 continuous bio-digesters with a 2 kg d1 load, to determine the production and potential biogas production and composition during an 85-day period. Influent and effluent samples were collected for the amounts of TS and volatile solids (VS), fiber fraction (neutral detergent fiber [NDF], acid detergent fiber [ADF] and lignin), nutrients (N, P and K), and total and thermotolerant coliforms to be determined. For all treatments a reduction in the following effluents was observed as follows: TS (49, 48, 48 and 50 %) VS (70, 54, 55 and 62 %) NDF (91, 90, 95 and 96 %) ADF (89, 88, 93 and 94 %) and lignin (80, 76, 89 and 88 %). The efficiency of the treatment for coliforms in bio-digesters was higher than 90 % in the 85-day period in all treatment groups. There was a reduction in biogas and methane production when DFM (5500 and 4000 mL) and DFM + E (5800 and 4100 mL) were used, compared to treatments NC (6300 mL and 4400) and ENZ (6400 and 4500 mL). The potential production of reduced TS and VS was higher in ENZ (1:00 and 1.74 106 mL kg1) when compared to NC (0.88 and 1:02 106 mL kg1), DFM (0.80 and 1:40 106 mL kg1) and DFM + E (0.88 1:25 and 106 mL kg1). The additives did not affect the percentage of methane production, and all treatments showed values higher than 70 %. Adding enzymes to the diet of broilers influences the litter characteristics and, as a consequence, increases biogas production. The addition of DFM and DFM + E to broiler diets reduced biogas and methane production.(AU)

DESEMPENHO PRODUTIVO E ECONÔMICO DE BOVINOS TERMINADOS COM DIFERENTES ALIMENTOS ENERGÉTICOS E ADITIVOS EM DIETAS SEM FORRAGEM

Objetivou-se avaliar o desempenho, as características da carcaça e da carne e o benefício econômico da engorda de bovinos, recebendo dietas sem volumoso. Os animais eram da raça Nelore, com 24 a 30 meses de idade, eforam confinados em baias coletivas para 24 animais, dispondo de comedouros e bebedouros automáticos, onde o consumo individualfoi registrado. Inicialmente foram abatidos oito animais para estimar o rendimento de carcaça (RC) antes da engorda. Os animais receberam, durante os 21 dias de adaptação, as rações finais misturadas ao bagaço de cana. Durante o período experimental os animais receberam, ad libitum, uma das rações experimentais sem volumoso.Eles foram pesados no início e ao final do período experimental, após jejum de 16h, para obtenção dos pesos vivos iniciais e finais (PVI e PVF, respectivamente). No primeiro dia e aos 42 dias foram coletadas amostra de sangue, para avaliação de D-Lactato no soro. Amostras de fezes foram coletadas nos dias 21, 42 e 63, para análise de amido fecal. O abate ocorreu em frigorífico comercial. Após a evisceração, a superfície interna do rúmen foi avaliada e amostras do saco cranial foram coletadas. Após resfriamento por 24 horas, foram mensuradas as espessuras de gordura subcutânea (EGS) e a áreas de olho de lombo (AOL) no músculo Longissimus thoracis, entre a 12a e 13a costelas. Amostras do músculo foram analisadas para determinação de: pH, cor, perda de peso por cozimento (PPC), força de cisalhamento (FC), vida útil de prateleira (Display life), análise bromatológica, colágeno, perfil de ácidos graxos (AG) e atividade enzimática. Os dados foram analisados utilizando o procedimento MIXED do SAS. O D-Lactato e o Display life foram analisados como medida repetida no tempo. O procedimento LSMEANS foi utilizado para calcular as médias ajustadas para tratamentos, sendo consideradas estatisticamente significativas a 5%. A pesquisa foi dividida em dois experimentos, sendo o primeiro com uma avaliação de duas associações de aditivos nutricionais; e o segundo com uma aviação de diferentes fontes energéticas. Experimento 1: utilizou-se 92 novilhos com peso corporal (PC) médio de 415 ± 32kg. Nas avaliações de qualidade da carcaça e da carne utilizou-se as amostras de 40 animais (20 para cada tratamento). Utilizou-seo delineamento inteiramente casualizado (DIC), com dois tratamentos e 48 repetições por tratamento, que receberam: MOE: ração com monensina sódica e um blend de óleos essenciais (32mg e 150mg/kg de MS, respectivamente); MVM: ração com monensina sódica e virginiamicina (32mg e 27mg/kg de MS, respectivamente).Os animais que receberam MOE apresentaram maioresRC e rendimento do ganho (RG). A ingestão de matéria seca (IMS)não diferiu; no entanto, a eficiência alimentar (EA) foi melhor para MVM. O D-Lactato foi menor para MOE apenas ao final da adaptação. Menores escores de ruminitee quantidades de papilas foramobservadas em MVM, embora a área de superfície absortiva não tenha diferido.MVM apresentou maior AOL e menor PPC, além de maior atividade da enzima delta-9 dessaturaseC14. A utilização de um blend de óleos essenciais mostrou ser eficiente em substituição virginiamicina e uma alternativa ao uso de antibióticos em sistema de terminação de bovinos sem volumoso.Experimento 2: utilizou-se92 novilhos comPC médio de 415 ± 32kg. Nas avaliações da carcaça e da carne utilizou-se as amostras de 60 animais (15 para cada tratamento). Utilizou-seo DIC, com quatro tratamentos e 24 repetições por tratamento, que receberam umas das rações:RM: 75% de milho moído e 25% do concentrado; RMP1: 50% de milho moído, 25% de polpa cítrica e 25% do concentrado; RMP2: 37,5% de milho moído, 37,5% de polpa cítrica e 25% do concentrado;RS:75% de sorgo moído e 25% do concentrado.Também foi avaliado o benefício econômico (receita menos custo alimentar). Houve diferença para PVF, ganho médio diário (GMD), IMS e EA. Na avaliação das carcaçase da carne os indicadoresRC, RG,EGS pH, PPC, proteína bruta, matéria mineral e umidade diferiram entre tratamento. Os AG diferiram para palmítico, miristoleico, palmitoleico, elaidico e ecosatrienóico, além do somatório de AG monoinsaturados. Também houve diferença nas atividades das enzimas 9-dessaturase (C16, C18 e geral) e elongase (C16-18). RMP2 apresentou menores custo alimentar total e por arroba produzida. A substituição parcial do milho moído por polpa cítrica ou total por sorgo moído em dietas sem o uso de volumoso, mostraram ser alternativas viáveis na manutenção dos GMD em carcaça, que são indicadores zootécnicos de desempenho e com relação direta na rentabilidade em sistemas de confinamento.

The objective was to evaluate the performance, carcass and meat characteristics and the economic benefit of fattening cattle, receiving diets without roughage. The animals were of the Nelore breed, aged between 24 and 30 months, and were confined in collective pens for 24 animals, with automatic feeders and drinkers, where individual consumption was recorded. Initially, eight animals were slaughtered to estimate carcass yield (RC) before fattening. The animals received, during the 21 days of adaptation, the final rations mixed with sugarcane bagasse. During the experimental period, the animals received, ad libitum, one of the experimental diets without roughage. They were weighed at the beginning and at the end of the experimental period, after 16 h fasting, to obtain the initial and final live weights (PVI and PVF, respectively). . On the first day and at 42 days, a blood sample was collected for the evaluation of D-Lactate in the serum. Fecal samples were collected on days 21, 42 and 63 for analysis of fecal starch. The slaughter took place in a commercial slaughterhouse. After evisceration, the inner surface of the rumen was evaluated and samples from the cranial sac were collected. After cooling for 24 hours, the thickness of subcutaneous fat (EGS) and loin eye areas (AOL) were measured in the Longissimus thoracis muscle, between the 12th and 13th ribs. Muscle samples were analyzed to determine: pH, color, cooking weight loss (PPC), shear force (FC), shelf life (Display life), bromatological analysis, collagen, fatty acid (FA) profile. and enzyme activity. Data were analyzed using the SAS MIXED procedure. D-Lactate and Display life were analyzed as a repeated measure over time. The LSMEANS procedure was used to calculate the adjusted means for treatments, being considered statistically significant at 5%. The research was divided into two experiments, the first with an evaluation of two associations of nutritional additives; and the second with aviation from different energy sources.Experiment 1: 92 steers with an average body weight (BW) of 415 ± 32kg were used. In the evaluation of carcass and meat quality, samples from 40 animals were used (20 for each treatment). A completely randomized design (DIC) was used, with two treatments and 48 replications per treatment, which received: MOE: diet with sodium monensin and a blend of essential oils (32mg and 150mg/kg DM, respectively); MVM: ration with sodium monensin and virginiamycin (32mg and 27mg/kg of DM, respectively). The animals that received MOE showed higher CR and gain yield (GR). Dry matter intake (DMI) did not differ; however, feed efficiency (EA) was better for MVM. The D-Lactate was lower for MOE only at the end of the adaptation. Lower ruminitis scores and amounts of papillae were observed in MVM, although the absorptive surface area did not differ. MVM showed higher AOL and lower PPC, in addition to higher activity of the delta-9 desaturase C14 enzyme. The use of a blend of essential oils proved to be efficient in replacing virginiamycin and an alternative to the use of antibiotics in a finishing system for cattle without forage. Experiment 2: 92 steers with an average BW of 415 ± 32kg were used. In the evaluation of the carcass and meat, samples from 60 animals were used (15 for each treatment). DIC was used, with four treatments and 24 replications per treatment, which received one of the rations:RM: 75% ground corn and 25% concentrate; RMP1: 50% ground corn, 25% citrus pulp and 25% concentrate; RMP2: 37.5% ground corn, 37.5% citrus pulp and 25% concentrate; RS: 75% ground sorghum and 25% concentrate. The economic benefit (revenue less food cost) was also evaluated. There was a difference for PVF, average daily gain (ADG), IMS and EA. In the evaluation of carcasses and meat, the indicators RC, RG,EGS pH, PPC, crude protein, mineral matter and moisture differed between treatments. The AG differed for palmitic, myristoleic, palmitoleic, elaidic and echosatrienoic, in addition to the sum of monounsaturated AG. There was also a difference in the activities of the 9-desaturase (C16, C18 and general) and elongase (C16-18) enzymes. RMP2 presented lower total food cost and per arroba produced. The partial replacement of ground corn by citrus pulp or total by ground sorghum in diets without the use of forage, proved to be viable alternatives in the maintenance of GMD in carcass, which are zootechnical performance indicators and directly related to profitability in confinement systems.

Reduced Nutrient Excretion and Environmental Microbial Load with the Addition of a Combination of Enzymes and Direct-Fed Microbials to the Diet of Broiler Chickens

This study evaluated the effects of the dietary inclusion of an enzyme blend and a direct-fed microbials in broiler diets on litter production and quality. In total, 900 Cobb 500(r) broiler chicks were distributed according to a completely randomized design into 4 treatments and 9 replicates of 25 birds each. Broilers were reared from 1 to 42 days of age. The treatments consisted of the following diets: NC: negative control; DFM: NC + 500 ppm of direct-fed microbials product (DFM), containing Bacillus subtilis and Bacillus licheniformis; ENZ: diet formulated with an enzyme blend (20 ppm phytase, 200 ppm protease and 200 ppm of xylanase); DFM+E: ENZ + DFM. Birds and litter were weighed at the start and end of the rearing period, for litter production and waste ratio (Rw) determination. Litter samples were analyzed for dry matter (DM) content, total and thermotolerant coliform counts, nutrient composition (nitrogen (N), phosphorous (P) and potassium (K)), and fiber fraction (neutral detergent fiber (NDF), acid detergent fiber (ADF) and lignin). The dietary inclusion of the evaluated additivesdid not influence litter production or Rw; however, ADF (%), NDF (kg and kg/kg DM litter), and total and thermotolerant coliform counts were reduced, and N content increased in the litter. The diets containing enzymes (ENZ and DFM+E) reduced litter P content. The addition of exogenous enzymes and their combination with a DFM based on Bacillus spp .Did not affect waste production, and reduced litter microbial load, and the contents of P and insoluble fiber in the litter.

Reduced Nutrient Excretion and Environmental Microbial Load with the Addition of a Combination of Enzymes and Direct-Fed Microbials to the Diet of Broiler Chickens

This study evaluated the effects of the dietary inclusion of an enzyme blend and a direct-fed microbials in broiler diets on litter production and quality. In total, 900 Cobb 500(r) broiler chicks were distributed according to a completely randomized design into 4 treatments and 9 replicates of 25 birds each. Broilers were reared from 1 to 42 days of age. The treatments consisted of the following diets: NC: negative control; DFM: NC + 500 ppm of direct-fed microbials product (DFM), containing Bacillus subtilis and Bacillus licheniformis; ENZ: diet formulated with an enzyme blend (20 ppm phytase, 200 ppm protease and 200 ppm of xylanase); DFM+E: ENZ + DFM. Birds and litter were weighed at the start and end of the rearing period, for litter production and waste ratio (Rw) determination. Litter samples were analyzed for dry matter (DM) content, total and thermotolerant coliform counts, nutrient composition (nitrogen (N), phosphorous (P) and potassium (K)), and fiber fraction (neutral detergent fiber (NDF), acid detergent fiber (ADF) and lignin). The dietary inclusion of the evaluated additivesdid not influence litter production or Rw; however, ADF (%), NDF (kg and kg/kg DM litter), and total and thermotolerant coliform counts were reduced, and N content increased in the litter. The diets containing enzymes (ENZ and DFM+E) reduced litter P content. The addition of exogenous enzymes and their combination with a DFM based on Bacillus spp .Did not affect waste production, and reduced litter microbial load, and the contents of P and insoluble fiber in the litter.(AU)