Phytate-phosphorus and phytase on performance, bone characteristics, tissue and serum mineral concentration on broilers.

Male broiler chickens (384), Cobb 500, were housed in metabolic cages to assess the efficacy of phytase in diets with low and high phytate-phosphorus on the performance, bone physical characteristics, tissue and serum mineral deposits. Birds were distributed in four treatments with a 2 x 2 factorial arrangement in a completely randomized block design. Experimental diets based on maize-soybean meal were T1 - diet low phytate-phosphorus; T2 - diet low phytate-phosphorus and phytase (500 FTU/kg); T3 - diet high phytate-phosphorus; T4 - diet high phytate-phosphorus and phytase (500 FTU/kg). Feed intake, body weight, weight gain and feed conversion ratio were assessed. Two left tibias per experimental unit were analyzed for physical characteristics and mineral concentration; a section of skinless breast muscle and blood were collected to measure the concentration of calcium, phosphorus and sodium. Results showed interaction between bone stiffness and serum calcium. The inclusion of phytase in diets with low and high phytate-phosphorus did not alter performance, bone resistance and flexibility, mineral deposits in the tibia and breast muscle, but increased bone stiffness after 22 days of age. It also provided a higher serum calcium rate in broilers fed diets with low phytate-phosphorus up to 32 days of age.

Cut yield and meat quality of brown eggshell laying hens housed in an alternative system and submitted to different feeding volumes.

The aim was to evaluate the effect of different feeding volumes on the cut yield and meat quality of brown eggshell laying hens strain Embrapa 051 (E051) during the laying cycle, reared in an alternative system and slaughtered at 73 weeks, with reference to the lineage Lohmann Brown (LB). 600 hens E051 and 200 hens LB were used in an entirely randomized experimental design totalizing 5 replicates with 40 birds each. The treatments were: Control (LB fed with 100% of their dietary requirements), E051 fed with 93% of the control diet, E051 fed with 100% of the control diet, and E051 fed with 107% of the control diet. Birds were supplemented daily with 30g of ground grasses. Different feeding volumes did not alter the physicochemical quality of the meat and the cut yield. Body and cold carcass weight were greater in the E051 fed with 107% of the reference feed compared to the LB or the E051 fed with 7% less than the control diet. Yellow color intensity was greater in the E051 than in LB. The results demonstrated that, at the end of their productive cycle, the E051 without a restricted diet presents good carcass characteristics and potential for industrialized development.

An assessment of the effectiveness of hyaluronic acid and polyacrylamide hydrogel in horses with osteoarthritis: Systematic review and network meta-analysis.

For several years, hyaluronic acid (HyA) and, more recently, polyacrylamide hydrogel (PHyd) have been used to reduce lameness and pain caused by osteoarthritis. However, there is still a lack of scientific evidence of the efficacy of these substances to allow veterinary experts to make decisions about their use in horses. The objective of this study was to evaluate, through a systematic review and network meta-analysis (NMA), the efficacy of HyA, associated or not with other drugs, and PHyd in relieving lameness in horses with osteoarthritis. The searches for primary studies were conducted on four search platforms. The efficacy of HyA and PHyd was estimated through the relative risk difference method. Heterogeneity was observed in the efficacy of HyA, indicating long-term ineffectiveness of this drug when associated or not with anti-inflammatory drugs. In contrast, the results indicate that PHyd is an effective alternative therapy, with a long period of action in reducing lameness in horses with osteoarthritis. This study provides evidence that the application of PHyd and HyA is effective in reducing lameness caused by osteoarthritis in horses at different time periods, where PHyd has a longer time of action.

Eimeria bateri Natural Infection: Oocysts Reductions in Grey Quail (Coturnix coturnix) Treated with Bacillus thuringensis var. israelensis

Abstract Coccidiosis, a disease caused by the parasitic Eimeria spp., affects birds of all ages, particularly young birds more intensely. Infected poultry presents significant economic losses. Bacillus thuringiensis var israelensis (Bti) is a Gram-positive, spore-forming bacterium that produces proteins with high specific parasiticidal activity against various orders of parasites. Thus, the aim of the present study was to evaluate the parasiticidal potential of Bti in quails that were naturally infected with Eimeria bateri. Twenty 12-week-old male quails (Coturnix coturnix coturnix), naturally infected with Eimeria bateri, were randomly divided into two groups of 10 birds: Bti treated and control. The treated group was supplemented with Bti (1×108 spores∙g-1) in the feed, while; the control group received the same feed without Bti. To evaluate the occurrence of oocysts, samples of feces were collected every week for four weeks. Significant (P < 0.05) oocysts reductions of 56.64% and 94.51% were noted in the Bti treated group at 2nd and 4th week of study, respectively. The Bti supplementation may contribute to the reduction of oocysts in quails and environmental contamination. Bacillus thuringiensis var israelensis appeared to be a promising complementary alternative in E. bateri control.

Performance, metabolic efficiency and egg quality in Japanese quails fed with acidulated soybean soapstock and lecithin for a prolonged period.

This study aimed to evaluate the use of acidulated soybean soapstock in association with lecithin on productive performance, metabolic efficiency in the utilization of nutrientes, and the egg quality of Japanese quails. A total of 192 quails were used, distributed randomly in a 2×2×2 factorial scheme that included two types of oils, two levels of supplementation (4% and 8%) and two levels of lecithin (1% or 0%). At the end of the six-month experimental period, some double significant interactions were shown between the level of oil and lecithin for the performance variables (egg weight p=0.04, feed intake p<0.01 and feed conversion rate p=0.04). The feed conversion rate also was influenced by a double significant interaction between the type of oil and the level of oil (p<0.01). The nutrient digestibility showed that different interactions affected the results. The evaluation of egg quality, was verified that the use of acidulated soybean soapstock did not affect most variables of internal quality. The results showed that it is possible to use 8% acidulated soybean soapstock in combination with 1% lecithin in the diets of Japanese quails for a period of up to six months without a reduction in performance.

An assessment of the impacts of litter treatments on the litter quality and broiler performance: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVE: The choice of the most suitable litter treatment should be based on scientific evidence. This systematic review assessed the effectiveness of litter treatments on ammonia concentration, pH, moisture and pathogenic microbiota of the litter and their effects on body weight, feed intake, feed conversion and mortality of broilers. METHODS: The systematic literature search was conducted using PubMed (Medline), Google Scholar, ScienceDirect and Scielo databases to retrieve articles published from January 1998 to august 2019. Means, standard deviations and sample sizes were extracted from each study. The response variables were analyzed using the mean difference (MD) or standardized mean difference (SMD), (litter treatment minus control group). All variables were analyzed using random effects meta-analyses. RESULTS: Subgroup meta-analysis revealed that acidifiers reduce pH (P<0.001), moisture (P = 0.002) ammonia (P = 0.011) and pathogenic microbiota (P <0.001) of the litter and improves the weight gain (P = 0.019) and decreases the mortality rate of broilers (P<0.001) when compared with controls. Gypsum had a positive effect on ammonia reduction (P = 0.012) and improved feed conversion (P = 0.023). Alkalizing agents raise the pH (P = 0.035), worsen feed conversion (P<0.001), increase the mortality rate (P <0.001), decrease the moisture content (P<0.001) and reduce the pathogenic microbiota of the litter (P<0.001) once compared to controls. Superphosphate and adsorbents reduce, respectively, pH (P<0.001) and moisture (P = 0.007) of the litter compared to control groups. CONCLUSION: None of the litter treatments influenced the feed intake of broilers. Meta-analyses of the selected studies showed positive and significant effects of the litter treatments on broiler performance and litter quality when compared with controls. Alkalizing was associated with worse feed conversion and high mortality of broilers.

Influence of Pichia pastoris X-33 produced in industrial residues on productive performance, egg quality, immunity, and intestinal morphometry in quails.

This study was conducted in quails to evaluate the probiotic potential of Pichia pastoris X-33, cultivated in parboiled rice effluent supplemented with biodiesel glycerol or in standard medium Yeast Extract-Peptone-Dextrose (YPD). Forty-days-old female quails were divided into three treatments: T1 (Control) received a basal diet without P. pastoris; T2 (Pichia Effluent) received a basal diet supplemented with P. pastoris grown in parboiled rice effluent and biodiesel glycerol, and T3 (Pichia YPD) received a basal diet supplemented with P. pastoris produced in YPD. The birds were vaccinated against Newcastle Disease (NDV), Avian Infectious Bronchitis (IBV), and Gumboro Disease on days 1 and 28. The following parameters were analyzed: performance, egg quality, humoral immune response to the vaccines, organ weight, and intestinal morphometry. P. pastoris grown in YPD increased egg weight (p < 0.05). The lowest liver weight on day 14 was obtained in Pichia Effluent, whereas both P. pastoris supplemented groups had the lowest duodenum weights on day 14. Besides that, livers and duodenums presented no morphological changes in any of the three treatments. Supplementation of P. pastoris modulated the immune system of the birds, increasing anti-IBV, anti-NDV, and anti-Gumboro antibodies levels compared to the Control (p < 0.05). In conclusion, quail's immune response was improved by Pichia pastoris X-33, either it was grown in YPD or industrial residues, and the egg weight increased with Pichia pastoris X-33 grown in YPD, thereby demonstrating to be a promising probiotic for poultry.

Replacing soybean oil with increasing levels of soybean acid oil in diets of coturnix quails (Coturnix coturnix coturnix) and the effects on egg quality

ABSTRACT The effects of increasing levels of soybean acid oil in diets of quails on the quality of eggs were evaluated over a period of 56 days. A completely randomized design with five treatment levels of soybean acid oil (0, 2, 4, 6, and 8%) as a replacer for soybean oil and eight replicates of two quails each were used. A total of 240 fresh eggs were used for quality analysis, and 400 eggs were stored at 23ºC over a period of 0, 7, 14, 21, and 28 days for analysis of shelf-life. Polynomial regression and ANOVA with repeated measurements and Tukey´s tests were used. Soybean acid oil linearly increased the intensity of red (a* = -5.26 + 0.14 x, R2 = 0.89, P = 0.01) and yellow (b* = 42.32 + 0.44 x, R2 = 0.88 P = 0.01). All other variables of egg quality were not affected by the treatments, with the exception of sensory attributes, such as odor and aftertaste, which were more pronounced with soybean acid oil. In conclusion, soybean acid oil affects the intensity of yellow and red color of the yolk. Trained assessors detected differences in odor and aftertaste of eggs when soybean acid oil was included in the quail diet.

Replacing soybean oil with increasing levels of soybean acid oil in diets of coturnix quails (Coturnix coturnix coturnix) and the effects on egg quality.

The effects of increasing levels of soybean acid oil in diets of quails on the quality of eggs were evaluated over a period of 56 days. A completely randomized design with five treatment levels of soybean acid oil (0, 2, 4, 6, and 8%) as a replacer for soybean oil and eight replicates of two quails each were used. A total of 240 fresh eggs were used for quality analysis, and 400 eggs were stored at 23ºC over a period of 0, 7, 14, 21, and 28 days for analysis of shelf-life. Polynomial regression and ANOVA with repeated measurements and Tukey´s tests were used. Soybean acid oil linearly increased the intensity of red (a* = -5.26 + 0.14 x, R2 = 0.89, P = 0.01) and yellow (b* = 42.32 + 0.44 x, R2 = 0.88 P = 0.01). All other variables of egg quality were not affected by the treatments, with the exception of sensory attributes, such as odor and aftertaste, which were more pronounced with soybean acid oil. In conclusion, soybean acid oil affects the intensity of yellow and red color of the yolk. Trained assessors detected differences in odor and aftertaste of eggs when soybean acid oil was included in the quail diet.

Blood parameters as biomarkers in a Salmonella spp. disease model of weaning piglets.

BACKGROUND: The weaning pig is used as an experimental model to assess the impact of diet on intestinal health. Blood parameters (BP) are considered a useful tool in humans, but there is very scarce information of such indicators in the weaning pig. The objective of the present study is to evaluate the use of different BP as indicators in an experimental model of salmonellosis. METHODOLOGY: Seventy-two 28-day-old piglets were divided into four groups in a 2x2 factorial arrangement, with animals receiving or not a probiotic combination based on B. infantis IM1® and B. lactis BPL6 (109 colony forming units (cfu)/d) and orally challenged or not a week later with Salmonella Typhimurium (5x108 cfu). Blood samples of one animal per pen (N = 24) were taken four days post-inoculation for the evaluation of different BP using an I-stat® System and of plasmatic concentrations of zinc, iron and copper. PRINCIPAL FINDINGS: Results reported marginal deficiencies of zinc in piglets at weaning. Moreover, plasmatic zinc, copper and iron presented good correlations with weight gain (r 0.57, r -0.67, r 0.54 respectively; P < 0.01). Blood electrolytes (Na+, Cl- and K+) decreased (P < 0.01) only when the performance of the animals was seriously compromised and clinical symptoms were more apparent. Acid-base balance parameters such as HCO3-, TCO2 and BEecf significantly correlated with weight gain, but only in the challenged animals (r -0.54, r -0.55, and r -0.51, respectively; P < 0.05), suggesting metabolic acidosis depending on Salmonella infection. Glucose was affected by the challenge (P = 0.040), while Htc and Hgb increased with the challenge and decreased with the probiotic (P < 0.05). Furthermore, correlations of Glu, Htc and Hgb with weight gain were observed (P < 0.05). Overall, BP could be regarded as simple, useful indexes to assess performance and health of weaning piglets.

The Probiotic Combination of Bifidobacterium longum subsp. infantis CECT 7210 and Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis BPL6 Reduces Pathogen Loads and Improves Gut Health of Weaned Piglets Orally Challenged with Salmonella Typhimurium.

Probiotics have been demonstrated to be useful to enhance gut health and prevent gastrointestinal infections in humans. Additionally, some multi-strain probiotic combinations have been suggested to have greater efficacy than single strains. The objective of this study is to demonstrate the potential of a combination of the probiotic strains: Bifidobacterium longum subsp. infantis CECT 7210 (brand name B. infantis IM1®) and B. animalis subsp. lactis BPL6 to enhance gut health and to ameliorate the outcome of a Salmonella challenge using a weaning piglet model. Seventy-two 28-day-old weanling piglets, 7.7 (±0.28) kg of body-weight, were distributed in a 2 × 2 factorial design; treated or not with the probiotic combination and challenged or not with the pathogen. Animals were orally challenged after an adaptation period (Day 8) with a single dose (5 × 108 cfu) of Salmonella Typhimurium. One animal per pen was euthanized on Day 12 (Day 4 post-inoculation [PI]) and Day 16 (Day 8 PI). All parameters responded to the challenge and 4 deaths were registered, indicating a severe but self-limiting challenge. Improvements registered in the challenged animals due to the probiotic were: increased voluntary feed-intake (P probiotic × challenge = 0.078), reduced fecal excretion of Salmonella (P = 0.028 at Day 1 PI and P < 0.10 at Days 3 and 5 PI), decreased rectal temperature (P probiotic × day = 0.048) and improvements in the villous:crypt ratio (P probiotic × challenge < 0.001). Moreover, general probiotic benefits were observed in both challenged and non-challenged groups: decreased diarrhea scores of the PI period (P = 0.014), improved fermentation profiles on Day 8 PI (increased ileal acetic acid [P = 0.008] and a tendency to lower colonic ammonia concentrations [P = 0.078]), stimulation of intestinal immune response by increasing villous intraepithelial lymphocytes (P = 0.015 on Day 8 PI) and an improved villous:crypt ratio (P = 0.011). In conclusion, the multi-strain probiotic had a positive effect on reducing pathogen loads and alleviating animals in a Salmonella challenge. In addition, enhanced gut health and immunity was recorded in all animals receiving the probiotic, indicating an improvement in the post-weaning outcome.

Phytate-phosphorus and phytase contents on the relative weight of organs, intestinal morphometry and performance of broilers / Teores de fósforo fítico e fitase sobre o peso relativo de órgãos, morfometria intestinal e desempenho de frangos de corte

ABSTRACT: In order to evaluate the efficiency of phytase in diets with low and high phytate phosphorus (PP) 0content, as a consequence of wheat bran inclusion, on the relative weight of organs, intestinal morphometry and performance, three hundred and eighty-four male Cobb500 broilers were housed in metabolic cages. Animals were assigned into four treatments in a 2x2 factorial scheme in a randomized block design with eight replicates of 12 birds each. From 11 days of age birds received experimental diets, which consisted of: Diet low in PP; Diet low in PP with phytase (500FTU kg-1); Diet with a high PP and Diet with a high PP with phytase (500FTU kg-1). At 22 and 32 days of age two birds were slaughtered in order to collect gizzard, heart, liver, cecum, cloacal bursa, and at 32 days, a portion of the duodenum, jejunum and ileum was collected for morphometric evaluation. From 22 to 32 days of age average feed intake, average weight gain, average body weight and feed conversion ratio were also evaluated. Data were subjected to analysis of variance, fixed effects of diet and phytase and interaction between factors as well as the random block effects were tested. There was no significant interaction for the variables studied, concluding that phytase in diets with low or high phytate phosphorus content did not change the relative weight of organs, intestinal morphometrics and performance; only isolated effects were observed.

RESUMO: Para avaliar a eficiência da fitase em dietas com baixo e alto teor de fósforo fítico (PP), em função da inclusão ou não do farelo de trigo, sobre o peso relativo de órgãos, morfometria intestinal e desempenho, foram alojados 384 frangos de corte, machos da linhagem Cobb500, em gaiolas metabólicas. Os animais foram distribuídos em quatro tratamentos em um arranjo fatorial 2x2 em delineamento de blocos casualizados com oito repetições e 12 aves por unidade experimental (UE). A partir de 11 dias de idade as aves receberam as dietas experimentais, que consistiram em: Dieta com baixo teor de PP; Dieta com baixo teor de PP com fitase (500FTU kg-1); Dieta com alto teor de PP e Dieta com alto teor de PP com fitase (500FTU kg-1). Aos 22 e 32 dias de idade foram abatidas duas aves por UE para coletar a moela, coração, fígado, ceco, bolsa cloacal, e aos 32 dias foi coletada uma porção do duodeno, jejuno e íleo para avaliação da morfometria. No período de 22 a 32 dias de idade foram avaliados o consumo médio de ração, ganho de peso médio, peso médio corporal e a conversão alimentar. Os dados foram submetidos à análise de variância, onde foram testados os efeitos fixos de dieta e fitase e a interação entre os fatores, bem como o efeito aleatório de bloco. Não foi observada interação significativa para nenhuma das variáveis estudadas, concluindo-se que a fitase em dietas com baixo ou alto de PP não altera o peso relativo dos órgãos, a morfometria intestinal e o desempenho, apenas efeitos isolados foram observados.

Eficiência do SISCODE e da aeração passiva no tratamento de resíduos da produção animal no município de Capão do Leão/RS / Efficiency of SISCODE and passive aeration for treating residues of animal production in Capão do Leão City - Rio Grande do Sul State

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a eficiência do sistema de compostagem de dejetos e da aeração passiva no tratamento de resíduos da produção animal no município de Capão do Leão, no Rio Grande do Sul. Utilizou-se uma estrutura coberta com filme de polietileno de baixa densidade e aberta nas laterais, que recebeu seis caixas de plástico reforçado com fibra de vidro. O estudo foi realizado com dois tratamentos, os quais foram constituídos pela mistura de dejetos líquidos de bovinos leiteiros e maravalha, e de bovinos leiteiros e cama de aviário de dois lotes de frangos de corte. O SISCODE é eficiente na transformação dos resíduos líquidos em sólidos da produção animal, já que a alta umidade relativa e a baixa temperatura ambiente no município não afetam tal sistema de tratamento. A aeração passiva não é eficiente na evaporação do excedente de água e na oxigenação dos substratos compostados, não devendo ser utilizada na compostagem da mistura de resíduos líquidos e sólidos da produção animal.

A trial was conducted to evaluate the efficiency of composting of residues system and passive aeration for treating animal residues in Capão do Leão, in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. A low-density polythene film covered up a laterally opened structure was used. Such structure was to protect six plastic and glass fiber boxes. The study was carried out with two treatments, which were constituted by a mixture of liquid bovine residues and wood shaving; and a mixture of liquid bovine residues and poultry litter. SISCODE is efficient for transformation of the liquid in solid residues, given that local high-relative humidity and the low environmental temperature do not affect such residues treatment system. Passive aeration is not efficient for both evaporating excess of water and oxygenating composting substrates. Therefore, it should not be used for composting a mixture of liquid and solid residues from animal production.

Parâmetros metabólicos de ovelhas submetidas a dietas contendo aflatoxina e zearalenona com adição de glucomanano modificado / Metabolic parameters of ewes receiving diets containing aflatoxin and zearalenone with addition of modified glucomannan

As micotoxicoses são grandes causadoras de perdas produtivas em ruminantes, sendo aflatoxina (AFLA) e zearalenona (ZEA) as principais micotoxinas encontradas em alimentos conservados. Estas micotoxinas apresentam efeito sobre o metabolismo animal, através da ação anabólica de metabólitos da ZEA, bem como pelas lesões hepáticas causadas pela AFLA. O objetivo deste estudo foi determinar a influência do adsorvente glucomanano modificado sobre parâmetros metabólicos de ovelhas submetidas à dietas contendo AFLA e ZEA. Foram utilizadas 34 fêmeas divididas em 6 grupos (ZEA; ZEA+ADS; AFLA; AFLA+ADS; CONTROLE+ADS; CONTROLE), recebendo 1,0 mg/kg de ZEA, 1,5 mg/kg de AFLA e/ou 2kg/ton de adsorvente. A ZEA diminuiu os níveis séricos de glicose, em relação ao CONTROLE (p<0,05), porém, o adsorvente não influenciou os níveis de glicose, não havendo diferença entre os grupos ZEA e ZEA+ADS. A ZEA aumentou os níveis de AST e GGT em relação ao grupo CONTROLE (p<0,05), sendo que os níveis de AST foram superiores no grupo ZEA (p<0,05), quando comparado ao grupo ZEA+ADS. Ainda, a aflatoxina causou uma redução nos níveis de albumina, em relação aos valores fisiológicos de ovinos. Assim, a partir destes resultados pode-se concluir que a ZEA causou alterações metabólicas em ovinos, bem como o glucomanano modificado foi eficiente em reduzir a possível agressão hepática causada por esta micotoxina, demonstrada pela diminuição nos níveis de AST.

The micotoxicoses are causing great losses of production in ruminants, being aflatoxin (AFLA) and zearalenone (ZEA) the major mycotoxins found in foods preserved. These mycotoxins have effect on the metabolism animal through the anabolic action of metabolites of the ZEA, and the liver injury caused by AFLA. The purpose of this study was to determine the influence of the sorbent modified glucomannan on metabolic parameters of sheep submitted to diets containing AFLA and ZEA. Were used 34 females divided into 6 groups (ZEA; ZEA+ADS; AFLA; AFLA+ADS; CONTROL+ADS; CONTROL), receiving 1.0 mg/kg of ZEA, 1.5 mg/kg of AFLA and/or 2kg/ton of sorbent. The ZEA decreased serum levels of glucose, for the CONTROL (p <0.05), however, the sorbent not influence the levels of glucose, with no difference between groups ZEA and ZEA+ADS. The ZEA increased levels of AST and GGT compared to group CONTROL (p <0.05), whereas the levels of AST were higher in the group ZEA (p <0.05) when compared to the group ZEA+ADS. Still, the aflatoxin caused a reduction in the levels of albumin, for physiological values of sheep. Thus, from these results it was concluded that ZEA caused metabolic alterations in sheep, and the modified glucomannan was effective in reducing the possible liver aggression caused by this mycotoxin, shown by the decrease in the levels of AST.

Efeito da somatotropina recombinante bovina (rbST) sobre os níveis de marcadores metabólicos de touros semiconfinados das raças Aberdeen Angus e Brangus / Effect of recombinant bovine somatotropin (rbST) on the concentrations of metabolic markers in semi-confined sires Aberdeen Angus and Brangus

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o efeito da somatotropina recombinante bovina (rbST) sobre os marcadores do metabolismoenergético, proteico, mineral e hepático de touros mantidos em semiconfinamento. Foram utilizados 20 touros de raçasAberdeen Angus e Brangus, sendo divididos aleatoriamente em dois grupos (Placebo e rbST), para que no Placebo fosseadministrado via subcutânea duas doses de NaCl, 0,9% e no rbST fosse administrado o rbST (Lactotropin®). Foram realizadascinco coletas de sangue, com intervalo de 14 dias, para avaliação da concentração de triacilgliceróis e colesterol comomarcadores energéticos, ureia, como indicador proteico, fosfatase alcalina e fósforo como marcadores minerais e asenzimas aspartato aminotransferase (AST) e a gama glutamiltransferase (GGT) como indicadoras da função hepática. Aaplicação de rbST não influenciou os marcadores energéticos, minerais, e proteico, exceto a enzima hepática GGT (P 0,05).Estes resultados indicam que a utilização do rbST em touros não alterou o metabolismo, pois os parâmetros avaliadosmantiveram-se dentro dos padrões considerados fisiológicos para a espécie.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of recombinant bovine somatotropin (rbST) on metabolic markers for energy, protein, mineral and hepatic metabolism of sires kept grazing and receiving concentrate. Twenty sires Aberdeen Angus and Brangus used for this experiment were divided in two groups (Placebo and rbST). The group Placebo received subcutaneous administration of NaCl, 0.9% and rbST receive rbST twice. Five blood collections with 14 days of interval were made for evaluation of triglyceride and cholesterol as energetic metabolism markers, urea, as proteic marker, alkaline phosphatase and phosphorus as minerals markers and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and gamma glutamyltransferase (GGT) as indicators of the hepatic function. The rbST did not influence the energetic, mineral and proteic markers, except the hepatic enzyme GGT (P<0,05). These results indicated that the use of rbST in sires did not affect metabolism, therefore evaluated parameters remaining in the physiological range for the specie.

Floor versus cage rearing: effects on production, egg quality and physical condition of laying hens housed in furnished cages / Cria em piso versus cria em bateria: efeitos na produção, qualidade de ovos e condição física de poedeiras alojadas em gaiolas enriquecidas

The influences of floor- and cage-rearing on egg production, egg quality and physical condition were investigated in laying hens housed in furnished cages. Two groups of 180 Isa Brown commercial layer pullets were reared in cages (CR) or floor pens (FR) and transferred to furnished cages, where their production, egg quality and physical condition was observed throughout the laying period (18-78wks of age). At 17 weeks of age, hens were placed in one of 36 furnished cages with 10 birds in each cage, each containing a nest box, perches, a dust bath, and abrasive strips. From 19 to 78 weeks of age, egg production data were collected daily. Commercial egg quality was assessed monthly. At, 19 and 78 weeks of age, claw length and feather cover were visually assessed using a four-point scale in a sample (10%) of hens. Production variables were above breeders’ standards and not significantly affected by rearing system. Dirty eggs and cracked eggs were more frequent in FR birds. Meat spots were significantly more frequent in FR hens at middle lay, but less frequently at the end of the laying period. Rearing system did not influence egg and yolk weight or unit Haugh and shell colour. Among FR hens, eggshell density, thickness and mass were significantly lower at the end of the laying period. Rearing system did not affect claw length, but the plumage of FR hens was negatively affected at the end of production cycle.

Avaliou-se a influência dos sistemas de criação (em piso ou em baterias) sobre o desempenho produtivo, a qualidade de ovos e a condição física de poedeiras alojadas em gaiolas enriquecidas. Dois grupos de 180 frangas Isa brown foram criados em baterias (CR) ou em piso (FR) e transferidos para gaiolas enriquecidas, onde a produção, a qualidade de ovos e a condição física foram observadas durante um ciclo completo de postura (18-78 semanas de idade). Com 17 semanas de idade, as frangas foram alojadas em 36 gaiolas enriquecidas, 10 aves por gaiolas, cada uma contendo um ninho, poleiros, banho de areia e lixas de unhas. De 19 a 78 semanas de idade, a produção de ovos foi registrada diariamente. A qualidade comercial dos ovos foi medida mensalmente. Nas semanas 19 e 78 de idade, o comprimento das unhas e a condição da plumagem foram avaliadas utilizando-se uma escala de quatro pontos, numa amostra de 10 por cento das aves. As variáveis produtivas estiveram acima dos padrões da linhagem e não foram afetadas significativamente pelo sistema de cria. Os ovos sujos ou trincados foram mais frequentes em poedeiras criadas em piso durante a metade do ciclo, mas menos frequentes ao final do ciclo de postura. O sistema de cria não influenciou o peso dos ovos, a gema, a cor da casca ou as unidades Haugh. A densidade, espessura da casca e massa de ovos foram significativamente menores em galinhas criadas em piso, ao final do ciclo de postura. O sistema de cria não afetou o comprimento das unhas, mas a conservação da plumagem das galinhas criadas em piso foi negativamente afetada ao final do ciclo de postura.

Uso de cal virgem para o controle de Salmonella spp. e Clostridium spp. em camas de aviário / Quicklime for controlling Salmonella spp. and Clostridium spp in litter from floor pens of broilers

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a eficácia do uso de cal virgem (CaO) para a redução de Salmonella spp. e Clostridium spp. em cama de aviário. Foram aplicados quatro tratamentos: T1- sem adição de cal virgem (controle), T2- aplicação de cal virgem na dose de 300g m-2, T3- aplicação de cal virgem na dose de 600g m-2 e T4- aplicação de cal virgem na dose de 900g m-2. Os valores médios observados para o pHda cama após o 12o dia de aplicação de cal virgem foram 8,95 e 9,91, 10,75 e 11,11 para os tratamentos 1, 2, 3 e 4,respectivamente. O número mais provável Log10 (UFC) de Salmonella spp. e Clostridium spp foi reduzido em 82 e 97% com a aplicação de cal na dosagem de 300g m-2 e 100% na dosagem de 600 e 900g m-2, ambos diferindo significativamente em relação ao controle (antes da aplicação da cal). A atividade de água da cama reduziu progressivamente (de 0,2 a 3,82%)com a utilização de níveis crescentes de cal. Conclui-se que o uso da cal na cama de aviário, mesmo nas doses mais baixas, reduz o número mais provável de Salmonella e Clostridium ssp.

This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of quicklime (CaO) for reducing Salmonella and Clostridium spp. population in used litter from floor pens of broilers. Four treatments were tested: (T1) control (without quicklime); (T2) 300g quicklime m-2; (T3) 600g quicklime m-2; and (T4) 900g quicklime m-2. The following average pH values were observed 12 days after adding quicklime: 8.95, 9.91, 10.75 and 11.11 for treatments 1, 2, 3 and 4, respectively. An 82 and 97%reduction in the most probable number Log10 (CFU) of Salmonella and Clostridium spp, respectively, was observed when 300g m-2 of quicklime was added to the used litter from floor pens of broilers. Additionally, a 100% reduction was obtained when both 600 and 900g m-2 of quicklime were added,differing significantly from control (before adding quicklime). A progressive reduction in water activity (from 0.2 to 3.82%) was observed when growing levels of quicklime were used. In conclusion, even the lowest level of quicklime added to litter from floor pens of broilers reduces the most probable number of Salmonella and Clostridium spp.

Condição microbiológica de cama tratada com Impact P® em matrizes de frangos de corte / Broiler breeder microbiological litter condition following treatment with Impact P®

Foram avaliados os efeitos da aplicação de Impact P® sobre a cama de aviário de matrizes de corte mediante o monitoramento de parâmetros microbiológicos. O Impact P® é um produto formulado através de Bacillus subtillis e suas enzimas que atuam sobre os dejetos animais e matéria orgânica, utilizando-os como fonte alimentar, visando melhorar as condições da cama dentro de aviários. Na 58ª semana de idade das matrizes foi trocado todo material de cama e então aplicados os seguintes tratamentos: T1- controle; T2 - Impact P® na dosagem de 2,5gm-2 de cama; T3 - Impact P® na dosagem de 5,0g m-2 de cama. Foram realizadas contagens de enterobactérias totais em agar McConkey em amostra de cama nova e após 3, 10, 17, 24 e 31 dias de uso da cama pelas aves e tratamentos com Impact P®. A análise estatística foi realizada no procedimento General Linear Models - GLM que utiliza o método dos quadrados mínimos, em um esquema fatorial 3x4 (tratamento x tempo de uso da cama) em delineamento completamente casualizado, com quatro repetições por tratamento, sendo as médias comparadas pelo teste de Tukey. A dosagem de 5,0g de Impact P® por m² de cama foi eficiente para reduzir em aproximadamente 13% a contagem logarítmica total de enterobactérias em comparação com o grupo não tratado (2,89 versus 3,31log10 (UFC), respectivamente, P<0,05).

This study aimed to evaluate the utilization of Impact P® in used litter from floor pens of broiler breeders through the monitoring of microbiological parameters. Impact P® is a commercial product obtained from Bacillus subtillis and it enzymes. Using animal litter and organic matter as a feed source, the product was designed to improve the quality of floor pens of broiler breeders. When hens aged 58 weeks, all used floor pens material was replaced with a new one and the following treatments were tested: T1 - control; T2 - 2.5g Impact P® m-2 litter; T3- 5.0g Impact P® m-2 litter. Counting of number of enterobacterium colonies in agar Mac-ConcKey was performed in a sample of new floor pens material and after 3, 10, 17, 24 and 31 days of litter treatment with Impact P®. The statistical analysis was accomplished with the General Linear Models - GLM procedure, using the minimum square method in a 3x4 factorial (treatment vs. time of floor pens utilization), in a completely randomized design with four replications. The averages were compared by Tukey test. The utilization of 5.0g Impact P® m-2 litter was efficient to reducing approximately 13% logarithmic total counting of the enterobacterium in comparison to the untreated group (2.89 versus 3.31log10 (CFU), respectively, P<0.05).

Rearing system and behavioural adaptation of laying hens to furnished cages / Sistema de cria e adaptação comportamental de poedeiras às gaiolas enriquecidas

The influences of floor and cage-rearing on behavioural adaptation to furnished cages were investigated in laying hens. Two groups of 180 Isa Brown commercial layer pullets were reared in cages (CR) or floor pens (FR) and transferred to furnished cages, where their behavioural adaptation was observed throughout the laying period (18-78 wks of age). At 17 weeks of age, hens were placed in one of the 36 furnished cages with 10 birds in each cage, each containing a nest box, perches, a dust bath, and abrasive strips. At 50 and 54 weeks of age, direct visual observation and video recording were used to assess hen's behaviour. From 21 weeks of age, the dust-bath activities of leg-banded hens in eight cages per treatment were recorded. The amount of time spent walking was higher (3.5 percent vs. 1.8 percent) and perching was lower (7.5 percent vs. 13.4 percent) in CR hens than in FR hens (P<0.05). The use of dust baths and dust bathing behaviour increased throughout the laying period. The proportion of hens present at the sand bath area increased from 9.2 percent at 21 weeks to 21.4 percent at 72 weeks and the proportion of hens dust bathing increased from 4.7 percent to 21.0 percent (P<0.05). At 72 weeks of age, all dust-bath parameters were higher (P<0.05) in FR hens than in CR hens.

Neste trabalho, foi avaliada a influência dos sistemas de cria (em piso e em baterias) sobre a adaptação comportamental de poedeiras em gaiolas enriquecidas. Dois grupos de 180 frangas Isa brown foram criadas em baterias (CR) ou em piso (FR) e foram transferidas para gaiolas enriquecidas, onde a adaptação comportamental foi observada durante um ciclo completo de postura (18-78 semanas de idade). Com 17 semanas de idade, as frangas foram alojadas em 36 gaiolas enriquecidas, 10 aves por gaiolas, cada uma contendo um ninho, poleiros, banho de areia e lixas de unha. Nas semanas 50 e 54, foi utilizada observação direta e imagens de vídeo para a análise do comportamento. A partir de 21 semanas de idade, a atividade de banho de areia em galinhas marcadas com anilhas foi registrada em 8 gaiolas por tratamento. As aves CR gastaram mais tempo caminhando (3,5 por cento vs. 1,8 por cento,) e menos tempo empoleiradas (7,5 por cento vs. 13,4 por cento), se comparadas com as FR (P<0,05). O número de aves presentes nos banhos de areia aumentou de 9,2 por cento às 21 semanas para 21,4 por cento às 72 semanas de idade, enquanto que a proporção de galinhas realizando o banho aumentou de 4,7 por cento para 21,0 por cento (P<0,05). Com 72 semanas de idade, todos os parâmetros de uso de banho de areia foram maiores (P<0,05) nas FR em comparação com a CR.