Cellulolytic activity of anaerobic facultative fungi from the digestive tract of sheep fed with banana leaf hay / Atividade celulolítica de fungos aeróbios facultativos do trato digestório de ovinos alimentados com feno da folha de bananeira

The addition of cellulolytic fungi, or their enzymes, in diets containing high levels of fiber are promising strategy for improving the performance. In this study, the aims were to select cellulolytic fungi from the digestive tract of sheep fed different concentrations of banana leaf hay. Thirty lambs raised in a feedlot were evaluated, distributed in a completely randomized design, with diets containing 0, 125, 250, 375, or 500 g/Kg of dry matter and six replications. Approximately 15 mL of ruminal fluid and swabs from the rectal ampulla were collected. The cultures were carried out in a medium containing microcrystalline cellulose (C medium). The mycelial fungi isolates were identified through the microculture technique. Among the fungi from the ruminal fluid, 23 isolates corresponded to the genus Aspergillus and three to Paecilomyces spp. Among the isolates from the rectal ampulla, seven were A. spp., and three were P. spp. The A. genus predominated among the isolates from both evaluated sites (p <0.05). Fragments of these fungi were inoculated in triplicate in medium C at 37 °C and the cellulolytic activity index (CAI) was determined after 24, 48, and 72 hours of incubation. There was no difference in the CAI of Aspergillus spp. from animals fed different diets or of different evaluated sites (P > 0.05). However, 22 isolates of Aspergillus spp. and three of Paecilomyces spp. showed a CAI > 1, indicating biotechnological potential for cellulase production. These selected isolates could be selected for the elaboration of microbial additives in ruminant diets.(AU)

A adição de fungos celulolíticos, ou suas enzimas, em dietas contendo elevados teores de fibras são estratégias pro-missoras para melhorar o desempenho. Neste estudo os objetivos foram selecionar fungos celulolíticos do trato digestório de ovinos alimentados com diferentes concentrações do feno da folha da bananeira (FBH). Foram avaliados 30 borregos criados em sistema intensivo, distribuídos em delineamento inteiramente ao acaso, com cinco dietas contendo 0, 125, 250, 375 ou 500 g/KG de matéria seca em seis repetições. Foram coletados aproximadamente 15 mL de fluido ruminal e swabs da ampola retal. Os cultivos foram realizados em meio de cultura contendo celulose microcristalina (meio C). Os fungos micelianos foram identificados após a técnica de microcultivo. Entre os fungos provenientes do fluido ruminal, 23 isolados corresponderam ao gênero Aspergillus e três a Paecilomyces spp.. Foram identificados nas fezes dos animais sete Aspergillus spp. e três Paecilomyces spp.. O gênero Aspergillus predominou entre os isolados de ambos os sítios avaliados (p =0,013). Fragmentos desses fungos foram inoculados em triplicada em meio C a 37 °C e determinou-se o índice de atividade celulolítica(IAC) após 24, 48 e 72 horas de incubação. Não houve diferença entre CAI de isolados de Aspergillus spp. provenientes dos animais em diferentes dietas ou sítios avaliados (P > 0.05). Entretanto, 22 isolados de Aspergillus spp. e três de Paecilomyces spp. apresentaram IAC >1, indicando potencial biotecnológico para produção de celulases.(AU)

A principal component analysis required in technical assistance guidance for chilled raw milk producers

The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the principal component analysis (PCA) to guide technical assistance regarding several dairy farms' issues, which includes improving microbiological quality and physical-chemical composition of raw refrigerated milk. Data of monthly analysis of fat, protein, lactose, dry defatted stratum, somatic cell count, total bacterial count, milk temperature of 8,101 samples of milk from expansion tanks and production of 78 farms located in the northern region of Minas Gerais, Brazil were processed. Descriptive statistical measures and Pearson correlation coefficient were estimated involving all evaluated traits during the dry and rainy seasons. In addition, multivariate analyses were performed using PCA. The results showed that two farm sites were negatively related to milk quality in both seasons. One farm stood out positively, being able to be used as a herd management model to drive technical assistance actions. Thus, PCA is efficient in simplifying large amounts of data, allowing simpler and faster technical herd management interpretation.(AU)

Efficacy of Tithonia diversifolia (Hemsl) A. Gray on the inhibition of larval development of Haemonchus contortus / Eficácia de Tithonia diversifolia(Hemsl) A. Gray na inibição do desenvolvimento larval de Haemonchus contortus

Sheep farming is an important economic activity from a commercial and subsistence perspective. However, helminth infections present a large sanitary problem for the production, especially haemonchosis caused by strains resistant to traditional anthelmintics. Here, we evaluated the effects of the stem and leaf of Tithonia diversifolia on the inhibition of Haemonchus contortus larval development. We performed a quantitative fecal culture test with feces of sheep inoculated with larvae tolerant to albendazole. Fecal cultures were treated with leaf or stem powder and were compared to the controls containing distilled water or levamisole. The T. diversifolia leaf and stem powders significantly reduced the production of H. contortus larvae. However, leaf powder was more effective, with 64.95% efficacy in the reduction of larvae production, representing a promising alternative in the integrated control of this nematode.

A ovinocultura é uma importante atividade econômica em escala comercial e de subsistência. No entanto, um dos maiores desafios nessa atividade são as verminoses, destacando-se a haemoncose ocasionada por cepas resistentes a anti-helmínticos. Neste estudo objetivou-se avaliar o efeito do caule e folha de Tithonia diversifolia soba inibição do desenvolvimento de larvas de Haemonchus contortus. Foram realizadas coproculturas quantitativas com fezes de ovinos inoculados com larvas do nematódeo toleranteao albendazol. Foram avaliadas as produções de larvas infectantes em coproculturas tratadas: com pó da folha e do caule e com o extrato aquoso do caule da planta comparando-se com o tratamento controle contendo água destilada e levamisol. O pó da folha e do caule de T. diversifoliareduziram significativamente a produção de larvas infectantes de H. contortus. Entretanto, o pó das folhas foi mais efetivo, promovendo eficácia de 64,95% na redução de larvas em coproculturas, representando uma alternativa promissora no controle integrado do nematódeo.

Efficacy of Tithonia diversifolia (Hemsl) A. Gray on the inhibition of larval development of Haemonchus contortus / Eficácia de Tithonia diversifolia(Hemsl) A. Gray na inibição do desenvolvimento larval de Haemonchus contortus

Sheep farming is an important economic activity from a commercial and subsistence perspective. However, helminth infections present a large sanitary problem for the production, especially haemonchosis caused by strains resistant to traditional anthelmintics. Here, we evaluated the effects of the stem and leaf of Tithonia diversifolia on the inhibition of Haemonchus contortus larval development. We performed a quantitative fecal culture test with feces of sheep inoculated with larvae tolerant to albendazole. Fecal cultures were treated with leaf or stem powder and were compared to the controls containing distilled water or levamisole. The T. diversifolia leaf and stem powders significantly reduced the production of H. contortus larvae. However, leaf powder was more effective, with 64.95% efficacy in the reduction of larvae production, representing a promising alternative in the integrated control of this nematode.  

A ovinocultura é uma importante atividade econômica em escala comercial e de subsistência. No entanto, um dos maiores desafios nessa atividade são as verminoses, destacando-se a haemoncose ocasionada por cepas resistentes a anti-helmínticos. Neste estudo objetivou-se avaliar o efeito do caule e folha de Tithonia diversifolia soba inibição do desenvolvimento de larvas de Haemonchus contortus. Foram realizadas coproculturas quantitativas com fezes de ovinos inoculados com larvas do nematódeo toleranteao albendazol. Foram avaliadas as produções de larvas infectantes em coproculturas tratadas: com pó da folha e do caule e com o extrato aquoso do caule da planta comparando-se com o tratamento controle contendo água destilada e levamisol. O pó da folha e do caule de T. diversifoliareduziram significativamente a produção de larvas infectantes de H. contortus. Entretanto, o pó das folhas foi mais efetivo, promovendo eficácia de 64,95% na redução de larvas em coproculturas, representando uma alternativa promissora no controle integrado do nematódeo.(AU)

Lactic acid bacteria with probiotic potential from Nellore calves raised in semiarid / Bactérias láticas com potencial probiótico provenientes de bezerros nelore criados no semiárido

Colibacilosis is one of the major diseases of calves, causing huge losses. The aim in this study was to characterize and select lactic bacteria with probiotic potential from Nellore calves raised in northern Minas Gerais. Stool samples from six healthy calves were collected, with three days old and again at three months of age. After isolation, bacteria were enumerated and submitted to morphological and biochemical characterization with API 50 CH test, pH and acid resistance to bile salts and antagonist activity in vitro for three strains of Escherichia coli. The population of lactic acid bacteria was greater (p < 0.05) in feces of the calves at colostrum phase. For resistance to chloric acid, 92.3% of isolates from newborn calves resisted pH 4.0, presenting higher resistance than the isolates from calves at three months of age. In the antagonism test, the isolates Be4 1m, Be1 2b and Be6 2a were presumptively identified as Lactobacillus salivarius, L. crispatus and L. pentosus, respectively, and produced average inhibition zones greater than 10 mm of diameter and showed resistance acid pH and bile salts, indicating potential probiotics.

A colibacilose é uma das principais doenças que acomete bezerros nas fases iniciais, provocando prejuízos à bovinocultura. Nesta pesquisa, caracterizou-se e selecionou-se cepas de bactérias láticas com potencial probiótico, provenientes de bezerros Nelore criados no norte de Minas Gerais. Foram coletadas amostras fecais de bezerros hígidos contemporâneos, com três dias de vida e novamente aos três meses de idade. Após isolamento, realizou-se a quantificação, caracterização morfológica e bioquímica com teste API 50 CH, resistência a pH ácido e a sais biliares e atividade antagonista in vitro para três cepas de Escherichia coli. Verificou-se população superior (p < 0,05) de bactérias láticas nas fezes dos bezerros na fase colostral. Quanto à resistência ao ácido clorídrico, 92,3% dos isolados de bezerros recém-nascidos resistiram ao pH 4,0, apresentando-se superior aos isolados de bezerros aos três meses de idade. No teste de antagonismo, os isolados, Be4 1m, Be1 2b e Be6 2a, identificados presuntivamente, como Lactobacillus salivarius, L. crispatus e L. pentosus, respectivamente, produziram média de halo de inibição superior a 10 mm de diâmetro e demonstraram resistência ao pH ácido e sais biliares, indicando potencial para serem utilizados como probióticos.

Lactic acid bacteria with probiotic potential from Nellore calves raised in semiarid / Bactérias láticas com potencial probiótico provenientes de bezerros nelore criados no semiárido

Colibacilosis is one of the major diseases of calves, causing huge losses. The aim in this study was to characterize and select lactic bacteria with probiotic potential from Nellore calves raised in northern Minas Gerais. Stool samples from six healthy calves were collected, with three days old and again at three months of age. After isolation, bacteria were enumerated and submitted to morphological and biochemical characterization with API 50 CH test, pH and acid resistance to bile salts and antagonist activity in vitro for three strains of Escherichia coli. The population of lactic acid bacteria was greater (p < 0.05) in feces of the calves at colostrum phase. For resistance to chloric acid, 92.3% of isolates from newborn calves resisted pH 4.0, presenting higher resistance than the isolates from calves at three months of age. In the antagonism test, the isolates Be4 1m, Be1 2b and Be6 2a were presumptively identified as Lactobacillus salivarius, L. crispatus and L. pentosus, respectively, and produced average inhibition zones greater than 10 mm of diameter and showed resistance acid pH and bile salts, indicating potential probiotics.(AU)

A colibacilose é uma das principais doenças que acomete bezerros nas fases iniciais, provocando prejuízos à bovinocultura. Nesta pesquisa, caracterizou-se e selecionou-se cepas de bactérias láticas com potencial probiótico, provenientes de bezerros Nelore criados no norte de Minas Gerais. Foram coletadas amostras fecais de bezerros hígidos contemporâneos, com três dias de vida e novamente aos três meses de idade. Após isolamento, realizou-se a quantificação, caracterização morfológica e bioquímica com teste API 50 CH, resistência a pH ácido e a sais biliares e atividade antagonista in vitro para três cepas de Escherichia coli. Verificou-se população superior (p < 0,05) de bactérias láticas nas fezes dos bezerros na fase colostral. Quanto à resistência ao ácido clorídrico, 92,3% dos isolados de bezerros recém-nascidos resistiram ao pH 4,0, apresentando-se superior aos isolados de bezerros aos três meses de idade. No teste de antagonismo, os isolados, Be4 1m, Be1 2b e Be6 2a, identificados presuntivamente, como Lactobacillus salivarius, L. crispatus e L. pentosus, respectivamente, produziram média de halo de inibição superior a 10 mm de diâmetro e demonstraram resistência ao pH ácido e sais biliares, indicando potencial para serem utilizados como probióticos.(AU)

Physico-chemical and microbiological characterization of ruminal fluid from gastrointestinal contents of Holstein calves in artificial fed milk conventional or fractionated / Caracterização físico-química e microbiológica do fluido ruminal e do conteúdo gastrointestinal de bezerros holandeses em aleitamento artificial convencional ou fracionado

The fractional artificial feeding has allowed provide an adequate amount of milk to calves in the first weeks of life and restrict at weaning, stimulating growth and favoring better adaptation to diets with forage and concentrates. The aim was to evaluate the ruminal characteristics and gastrointestinal microbiota of dairy calves in different feeding systems. Holstein calves were evaluated in randomly assigned to feed milk conventional that consisted of four liters of milk daily for 60 days or fractionated systems, six liters of 6º to 25º, four liters of 26º to 45º and two liters of 46º to 60º days old. At an end of the experimental period, the animals were euthanized, and approximately 15 mL of rumen, abomasum and intestine contents were collected for physicochemical and microbiological analysis to detection of fungi, protozoa and Enterobacteriaceae. Feeding systems did not influence characteristics of color, odor and viscosity of rumen fluid. The analysis of pH and quantification of Enterobacteriaceae, mycelial fungi and yeast showed no significant difference between treatments at the different sites. The Escherichia and Proteus genus were the most frequent for the gastrointestinal tract for both feed system. However, E. coli was significantly more frequent among isolates from the rumen fluid of calves in conventional feeding, which could suggest an imbalance in this ecosystem. Thus the artificial fed milk systems influenced the genus profile of Enterobacteriacea in the rumen and small intestine of calves.

O aleitamento artificial fracionado tem permitido fornecer quantidade adequada de leite aos bezerros nas primeiras semanas de vida e restringir na desmama, estimulando o melhor crescimento e adaptação a dietas com volumosos e concentrados. Objetivou-se avaliar as características ruminais e a microbiota gastrointestinal de bezerros leiteiros em diferentes sistemas de aleitamento. Foram utilizados 12 bezerros Holandeses, distribuídos aleatoriamente em dois tratamentos. No aleitamento convencional, foram fornecidos quatro litros de leite diários; no fracionado, seis litros do 6º ao 25º dia, quatro litros do 26 ao 45 e dois litros por dia do 46 ao 60 dia. Ao final do período experimental, os animais foram eutanasiados e aproximadamente 15 mL dos conteúdos do rúmen, abomaso e intestino foram coletados para análises físicas, químicas e microbiológicas para detecção de Enterobacteriaceae, fungos e protozoários. Os sistemas de aleitamento não influenciaram nas características de cor, odor e viscosidade do líquido ruminal. O pH e a quantificação de protozoários, Enterobacteriaceae, fungos micelianos e leveduriformes não apresentaram diferença significativa entre os tratamentos, nos diferentes sítios avaliados. Os gêneros Escherichia e Proteus foram os mais frequentes entre as amostras dos conteúdos avaliados, para ambos os sistemas de aleitamento. Entretanto, E. coli foisignificativamente mais frequente entre os isolados provenientes do fluido ruminal de bezerros em aleitamentoconvencional, o que poderia sugerir um desequilíbrio nesse ecossistema. Dessa forma constatou-se que os sistemas de aleitamentos influenciaram o perfil de gêneros de Enterobacteriaceae no rúmen e intestinos dos bezerros.

Blood parameters of sheep with high infection of Haemonchus contortus and treated with mushroom of the sun (Agaricus blazei) / Parâmetros sanguíneos de ovinos com alta infecção por Haemonchus contortus e tratados com cogumelo do sol (Agaricus blazei)

Blood and parasitological parameters of sheep experimentally infected with Haemonchus contortus and treated with “mushroom of the sun” (Agaricus blazei) were assessed. Lambs infected with the nematode were divided into three groups: treated with basidiocarp powder from the fungus, wormed with trichlorfon, and a control group that did not receive anthelmintic. Split-plot design analysis was performed where the treatments were defined as plots and four periods of collection were defined as subplots. Interaction between the treatments and the collection periods for the fecal egg counts per gram of feces (FEC) was observed. Treatment with “mushroom of the sun” showed anthelmintic efficacies ranging from 28.6 to 54.2%. Similar performances to weight gain were observed among the groups. A significant interaction between treatments and evaluation periods was observed for erythrocyte counts, hematocrit value, and serum concentrations of albumin and urea. The values of the mean corpuscular volume, erythrocyte distribution width, and leukocyte, neutrophil, lymphocyte, monocyte, and eosinophil counts, as well as the mean platelet volume, varied among the collection days. The administration of “mushroom of the sun” significantly reduced the FEC, did not influence on the erythrocyte count and hematocrit value, which remained within normal limits. However it increased the serum concentrations of albumin.(AU)

Avaliou-se os parâmetros sanguíneos e parasitológicos de ovinos infectados experimentalmente com Haemonchus contortus e tratados com “cogumelo do sol” (Agaricus blazei). Cordeiros infectados com o nematódeo foram distribuídos em três grupos: tratados com pó do basidiocarpo do fungo, vermifugados com triclorfon e grupo controle, que não recebeu anti-helmíntico. Utilizou-se delineamento em parcelas subdivididas, sendo os tratamentos as parcelas e quatro períodos de coletas, as subparcelas. Verificou-se interação dos tratamentos e dos períodos de coleta para o número de ovos por grama de fezes (OPG). O tratamento com “cogumelo do sol” apresentou eficácia anti-helmíntica variando de 28,6% a 54,2%, entretanto o desempenho foi semelhante entre os grupos. Verificou-se interação significativa dos tratamentos e os períodos avaliados para as contagens de eritrócitos, o valor do hematócrito e as concentrações séricas de albumina e ureia. Os valores do volume corpuscular médio, da amplitude de distribuição de eritrócitos, as contagens de leucócitos, neutrófilos, linfócitos, monócitos e eosinófilos, bem como o volume plaquetário médio variaram entre os dias de coleta. A administração do “cogumelo do sol” reduziu o OPG, não influenciou a contagem de eritrócitos e o valor do hematócrito, que estiveram dentro dos limites da normalidade, e aumentou significativamente as concentrações séricas de albumina.(AU)

Serum hepatic biochemistry and electrophoretic protein profile of healthy and Ehrlich tumor-bearing mice treated with extracts of Agaricus blazei Murill / Bioquímica hepática sérica e perfil proteico eletroforético de camundongos saudáveis ou portadores do tumor de Ehrlich tratados com frações de extratos de Agaricus blazei Murril

Compounds isolated from Agaricus blazei Murill represent a group of promising natural immunomodulators for use in the treatment of neoplasms. We have evaluated the serum biochemical profile of healthy and Ehrlich tumor-bearing mice treated with different extracts of A. blazei. Total, supernatant, and polysaccharide extracts of A. blazei were obtained from suspensions (at acidic or neutral pH) kept in a water bath at 60 °C or in an ultrasonic bath at 37 °C. After oral administering the extracts to mice for 21 days, blood samples were collected for determination of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), creatine kinase (CK), urea, total protein, albumin, globulins, and alpha-, beta- and gamma-globulin fractions. The presence of the tumor led to a significant increase in serum CK and AST activities and in the concentrations of total globulin and the gamma-globulin fraction, and to a decrease in the albumin and alpha2-globulin levels. The polysaccharide extracts of A. blazei reduced the serum AST and ALT activities, probably due to a hepatoprotective effect. In addition, polysaccharide and supernatant extracts inhibited the tumor-induced increase in gamma-globulin levels. Thus, the supernatant and polysaccharide fractions of the extract of A. blazei have potential for use in complementary antineoplastic treatments.(AU)

Biocompostos de Agaricus blazei Murril representam imunomoduladores naturais promissores para uso no tratamento de neoplasias. Objetivou-se avaliar o perfil bioquímico hepático sérico camundongos saudáveis ou portadores do tumor de Ehrlich tratados com diferentes extratos de A. blazei. Em pH ácido ou neutro e sob temperatura de extração de 60 ºC em banho-maria ou 37 ºC em banho ultrassônico foram obtidos extratos totais, de sobrenadante e de polissacarídeos de A. blazei. Após administração oral dos tratamentos para camundongos por 21 dias foram realizadas coletas de sangue e determinadas as atividades de aspartato aminotransferase (AST), alanina aminotransferase (ALT), creatina quinase (CK) e as concentrações de ureia, proteína total, albumina, globulinas e frações alfa, beta e gama-globulina. A presença do tumor de Ehrlich foi responsável por aumento significativo nas atividades séricas de AST e CK e das concentrações de globulinas totais e da fração gama-globulina, além de redução dos níveis de albumina e das alfa2-globulinas. Os extratos de polissacarídeos de A. blazei reduziram as atividades séricas de AST e ALT, provavelmente devido a um efeito hepatoprotetor. Além disto, extratos de polissacarídeos e sobrenadante inibiram o aumento das gama-globulinas induzido pelo tumor. Assim, as frações de polissacarídeos e sobrenadante do extrato de A. blazei apresentam bom potencial para uso complementar ao tratamento antineoplásico.(AU)

Carcass characteristics and tissue composition of commercial cuts of lambs fed with banana crop residues / Características da carcaça e composição tecidual de cortes comerciais de cordeiros alimentados com resíduos da bananicultura

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of substitution of Cynodon hay with banana plantation residue hay on the carcass characteristics and tissue composition of commercial cuts of feedlot Santa Inês lambs. Twenty-five whole lambs were used, with an average age of five months and an initial live weight of 26.95 kg (± 1.5), distributed in a completely randomized design with five treatments (1 = 40% Cynodon spp. hay + 60% concentrate; 2 = 20% banana leaf hay + 20% Cynodon spp. hay + 60% concentrate; 3 = 40% banana leaf hay + 60% concentrate; 4 = 20% banana pseudostem hay + 20% Cynodon spp. hay + 60% concentrate; 5 = 40% banana pseudostem hay + 60% concentrate) and five repetitions. The lambs were slaughtered on day 69 of the experiment. The variables evaluated were: live weight without fasting (LWWF), live weight post-fasting (LWPF), morphometric measurements in vivo and postmortem, hot and cold carcass weights (HCW, CCW), hot and cold carcass yield (HCY, CCY), biological performance and weight loss by chilling. The carcasses were divided into eight commercial cuts: neck, shoulder, foreshank and hindshank, breast and flank, loin, leg and rack. The leg, shoulder and loin were dissected into muscle, fat and bone. The animals fed on pseudostem hay showed higher LWWF, LWPF, body length, HCW and CCW; however, the HCY, CCY, morphometric measurements and commercial cut weights and yields were not altered by the treatments. The use of pseudostem hay allows for heavier carcasses; however, the use of coproducts changed the characteristics and carcass yield of the assessed commercial cuts.(AU)

Objetivou-se avaliar o efeito da substituição do feno de Cynodon spp. por feno de resíduos da bananicultura nas características de carcaça e composição tecidual dos cortes comerciais de cordeiros Santa Inês terminados em confinamento. Utilizou-se 25 cordeiros, não castrados, com idade média de cinco meses, peso vivo inicial de 26,95 kg (± 1,5), distribuídos em delineamento inteiramente casualizado com cinco tratamentos (1= 40% de feno Cynodon spp. + 60% concentrado, 2= 20% de feno de folha de bananeira e 20% de feno de Cynodon spp. + 60% concentrado, 3= 40% de feno de folha de bananeira + 60% concentrado, 4= 20% de feno de pseudocaule de bananeira e 20% de feno de Cynodon spp. + 60% concentrado, 5= 40% de feno de pseudocaule de bananeira + 60% concentrado) e cinco repetições. Os cordeiros foram abatidos aos 69 dias de experimentação. As variáveis avaliadas foram: peso vivo sem jejum (PVSJ), peso vivo com jejum (PVCJ), medidas morfométricas in vivo e da carcaça, peso da carcaça quente e fria (PCQ, PCF), rendimento da carcaça quente e fria (RCQ, RCF), rendimento biológico e perda por resfriamento. As carcaças foram divididas em oito cortes comerciais, sendo o pernil, paleta e lombos dissecados em músculo, gordura e osso. Os animais alimentados com feno de pseudocaule apresentaram maior PVSJ, PVCJ, comprimento corporal, PCQ, PCF, entretanto, o RCQ, RCF, medidas morfométricas da carcaça, pesos e rendimentos dos cortes comerciais não foram alterados pelos tratamentos. O uso do feno de pseudocaule permite a obtenção de carcaças mais pesadas, entretanto, os coprodutos alteram ascaracterísticas e rendimento da carcaça e dos cortes comerciais avaliados.(AU)

Control of Haematobia irritans in the Minas Gerais Semiarid / Controle de Haematobia irritans no Semiárido de Minas Gerais

Background: Beef cattle is considered to be one of the most important economic activities, however, it presents problems in the production chain such as the occurrence of parasites that reduce the growth, performance, productivity and may cause mortalities occasionally. The chemical control is the most used alternative to reduce ectoparasites. Nevertheless, inappropriate management of insecticides has contributed to the selection of population resistant to the products available on the market. This paper aimed to evaluate the practices of management and the application of insecticides used to control horn flies in farms of dairy cattle in the North of the state of Minas Gerais. Materials, Methods & Results: It was visited 62 rural properties, which produce milk. Semi-structured questionnaires were applied in order to obtain information on the characteristics of the properties (location, size and type of the cattle), on the knowledge about the epidemiology of the horn flies, and on the practices adopted to the control of those parasites. The practices adopted include the moment of application of the insecticides, frequency of the cattle treatment, used products, method of application, number of animals treated, and choice and substitution criteria of insecticides. The data collected were tabulated in contingency tables, and they were analyzed using the chi-square test [...](AU)

Physico-chemical and microbiological characterization of ruminal fluid from gastrointestinal contents of Holstein calves in artificial fed milk conventional or fractionated / Caracterização físico-química e microbiológica do fluido ruminal e do conteúdo gastrointestinal de bezerros holandeses em aleitamento artificial convencional ou fracionado

The fractional artificial feeding has allowed provide an adequate amount of milk to calves in the first weeks of life and restrict at weaning, stimulating growth and favoring better adaptation to diets with forage and concentrates. The aim was to evaluate the ruminal characteristics and gastrointestinal microbiota of dairy calves in different feeding systems. Holstein calves were evaluated in randomly assigned to feed milk conventional that consisted of four liters of milk daily for 60 days or fractionated systems, six liters of 6º to 25º, four liters of 26º to 45º and two liters of 46º to 60º days old. At an end of the experimental period, the animals were euthanized, and approximately 15 mL of rumen, abomasum and intestine contents were collected for physicochemical and microbiological analysis to detection of fungi, protozoa and Enterobacteriaceae. Feeding systems did not influence characteristics of color, odor and viscosity of rumen fluid. The analysis of pH and quantification of Enterobacteriaceae, mycelial fungi and yeast showed no significant difference between treatments at the different sites. The Escherichia and Proteus genus were the most frequent for the gastrointestinal tract for both feed system. However, E. coli was significantly more frequent among isolates from the rumen fluid of calves in conventional feeding, which could suggest an imbalance in this ecosystem. Thus the artificial fed milk systems influenced the genus profile of Enterobacteriacea in the rumen and small intestine of calves.(AU)

O aleitamento artificial fracionado tem permitido fornecer quantidade adequada de leite aos bezerros nas primeiras semanas de vida e restringir na desmama, estimulando o melhor crescimento e adaptação a dietas com volumosos e concentrados. Objetivou-se avaliar as características ruminais e a microbiota gastrointestinal de bezerros leiteiros em diferentes sistemas de aleitamento. Foram utilizados 12 bezerros Holandeses, distribuídos aleatoriamente em dois tratamentos. No aleitamento convencional, foram fornecidos quatro litros de leite diários; no fracionado, seis litros do 6º ao 25º dia, quatro litros do 26 ao 45 e dois litros por dia do 46 ao 60 dia. Ao final do período experimental, os animais foram eutanasiados e aproximadamente 15 mL dos conteúdos do rúmen, abomaso e intestino foram coletados para análises físicas, químicas e microbiológicas para detecção de Enterobacteriaceae, fungos e protozoários. Os sistemas de aleitamento não influenciaram nas características de cor, odor e viscosidade do líquido ruminal. O pH e a quantificação de protozoários, Enterobacteriaceae, fungos micelianos e leveduriformes não apresentaram diferença significativa entre os tratamentos, nos diferentes sítios avaliados. Os gêneros Escherichia e Proteus foram os mais frequentes entre as amostras dos conteúdos avaliados, para ambos os sistemas de aleitamento. Entretanto, E. coli foisignificativamente mais frequente entre os isolados provenientes do fluido ruminal de bezerros em aleitamentoconvencional, o que poderia sugerir um desequilíbrio nesse ecossistema. Dessa forma constatou-se que os sistemas de aleitamentos influenciaram o perfil de gêneros de Enterobacteriaceae no rúmen e intestinos dos bezerros.(AU)

Control of Haematobia irritans in the Minas Gerais Semiarid / Controle de Haematobia irritans no Semiárido de Minas Gerais

Background: Beef cattle is considered to be one of the most important economic activities, however, it presents problems in the production chain such as the occurrence of parasites that reduce the growth, performance, productivity and may cause mortalities occasionally. The chemical control is the most used alternative to reduce ectoparasites. Nevertheless, inappropriate management of insecticides has contributed to the selection of population resistant to the products available on the market. This paper aimed to evaluate the practices of management and the application of insecticides used to control horn flies in farms of dairy cattle in the North of the state of Minas Gerais. Materials, Methods & Results: It was visited 62 rural properties, which produce milk. Semi-structured questionnaires were applied in order to obtain information on the characteristics of the properties (location, size and type of the cattle), on the knowledge about the epidemiology of the horn flies, and on the practices adopted to the control of those parasites. The practices adopted include the moment of application of the insecticides, frequency of the cattle treatment, used products, method of application, number of animals treated, and choice and substitution criteria of insecticides. The data collected were tabulated in contingency tables, and they were analyzed using the chi-square test [...]

Effects of aqueous extracts of Caryocar brasiliense in mice / Efeitos de extratos aquosos de Caryocar brasiliense em camundongos

Background: Caryocar brasiliense Cambess (Caryocaraceae) is an arboreal plant native of Brasilian Cerrado and its fruit is an important source of food and income for the human population of this region. In addition to using as food, different parts of this tree have great medicinal potential as antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antihelmintic. However, the active metabolites those are likely to confer these pharmacological properties healing may also be toxic dependent upon the dose and route of administration. In this quest, the aim of this study was to assess the acute toxicity of aqueous extracts of fruit peels and leaves of C. brasiliense in mice of both genders. Materials, Methods & Results: The aqueous extracts were obtained by decoction, diluted in water and filtered through membrane. The toxicity of extract of fruit peels (62.5 at 500 mg/kg of body weight (BW) and leaf extract (18.75 mg/kg bw) were evaluated in males and females mice (Mus musculus) Swiss by intraperitoneal route. For 2 control groups were administered injection water. The clinical signs and deaths were recorded up to 14 days after administration. The lethal doses for 10 (LD10) or 50 (LD50) % of population were estimated with Probit regression analysis. The Chi-square test was used to analyze differences of mortality frequencies between males and females. The groups treated with the [...](AU)

Effects of aqueous extracts of Caryocar brasiliense in mice / Efeitos de extratos aquosos de Caryocar brasiliense em camundongos

Background: Caryocar brasiliense Cambess (Caryocaraceae) is an arboreal plant native of Brasilian Cerrado and its fruit is an important source of food and income for the human population of this region. In addition to using as food, different parts of this tree have great medicinal potential as antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antihelmintic. However, the active metabolites those are likely to confer these pharmacological properties healing may also be toxic dependent upon the dose and route of administration. In this quest, the aim of this study was to assess the acute toxicity of aqueous extracts of fruit peels and leaves of C. brasiliense in mice of both genders. Materials, Methods & Results: The aqueous extracts were obtained by decoction, diluted in water and filtered through membrane. The toxicity of extract of fruit peels (62.5 at 500 mg/kg of body weight (BW) and leaf extract (18.75 mg/kg bw) were evaluated in males and females mice (Mus musculus) Swiss by intraperitoneal route. For 2 control groups were administered injection water. The clinical signs and deaths were recorded up to 14 days after administration. The lethal doses for 10 (LD10) or 50 (LD50) % of population were estimated with Probit regression analysis. The Chi-square test was used to analyze differences of mortality frequencies between males and females. The groups treated with the [...]

Diagnosis of the control and efficacy of acaricides to bovine tick in the semiarid of North of Minas Gerais / Diagnóstico do controle e eficácia de acaricidas para o carrapato bovino no Semiárido do Norte de Minas Gerais

Background: Among the major ectoparasites of farm animals, Rhipicephalus microplus is the largest negative impact onthe economy of dairy farms. The spread of this mite is higher in tropical countries such as Brazil, and in cattle with predominance of taurine. The use of acaricides is most effectively used in their control, however, inadequate management hascontributed to the selection of resistant populations to products available in the market. Little is known about the controland resistance to these products for cattle in semi-arid conditions. Thus, we aimed to evaluate the management practicesused to control in dairy herds in semiarid region of northern Minas Gerais, checking the sensitivity of R. microplus todifferent acaricides.Materials, Methods & Results: A total of 62 properties located in nine municipalities in northern Minas Gerais were visited. Bocaiúva, Francisco Drumont, Francisco Sá, Icaraí de Minas, Juramento, Montes Claros, Pedras de Maria da Cruz,São Francisco and Varzelândia. The sensitivity of the ticks from cattle herds with high infestations was evaluated usingthe technique of biocarrapaticidograma. Semi-structured questionnaires were applied to characterize breeding systems,racial composition of the flock, season of greatest infestation, active ingredients used in tick control, forms of applicationof acaricides and the general management of the farm. The predominant type of exploitation was the dairy cattle representing 67.7% of the farms. The extensive system was predominant (58.06%) and crossbred...(AU)

Diagnosis of the control and efficacy of acaricides to bovine tick in the semiarid of North of Minas Gerais / Diagnóstico do controle e eficácia de acaricidas para o carrapato bovino no Semiárido do Norte de Minas Gerais

Background: Among the major ectoparasites of farm animals, Rhipicephalus microplus is the largest negative impact onthe economy of dairy farms. The spread of this mite is higher in tropical countries such as Brazil, and in cattle with predominance of taurine. The use of acaricides is most effectively used in their control, however, inadequate management hascontributed to the selection of resistant populations to products available in the market. Little is known about the controland resistance to these products for cattle in semi-arid conditions. Thus, we aimed to evaluate the management practicesused to control in dairy herds in semiarid region of northern Minas Gerais, checking the sensitivity of R. microplus todifferent acaricides.Materials, Methods & Results: A total of 62 properties located in nine municipalities in northern Minas Gerais were visited. Bocaiúva, Francisco Drumont, Francisco Sá, Icaraí de Minas, Juramento, Montes Claros, Pedras de Maria da Cruz,São Francisco and Varzelândia. The sensitivity of the ticks from cattle herds with high infestations was evaluated usingthe technique of biocarrapaticidograma. Semi-structured questionnaires were applied to characterize breeding systems,racial composition of the flock, season of greatest infestation, active ingredients used in tick control, forms of applicationof acaricides and the general management of the farm. The predominant type of exploitation was the dairy cattle representing 67.7% of the farms. The extensive system was predominant (58.06%) and crossbred...

Survival of foodborne pathogens adhered to the stainless steel after applying the Cymbopogon flexuosus essential oil / Sobrevivência de patógenos de origem alimentar aderidos em aço inoxidável após aplicação de óleo essencial de Cymbopogon flexuosus

The objective of this study was to evaluate the antimicrobial activity of different concentrations of essential oil (EO) of Cymbopogon flexuosos on the standard strains of Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli and Salmonella Choleraesuis adhered to the stainless steel surface AISI 304 /4. Initially, the minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) and the minimum bactericidal concentrations (MBC) were determined by means of EO macrodilution broth assay. Subsequently, the adhesion and the biofilm formation on stainless steel surface were evaluated for 15 h at 37 C under agitation, and also the OE sanitizing action against adherent cells on the coupons after 20 and 40 min of contact. The MIC value found for all species was 7.5 L.mL-1, which is the concentration used for preparing the sanitizing solution. A complete removal of adhered cells of E. coli and S. Choleraesuis occurred after being exposed during both periods of time. The adhered cells of S. aureus were not removed; however, a reduction in the number of adhered cells was detected when compared to that quantity showed before being subjected to sanitizing treatments. The EO of C. flexuosus might be an alternative for microbial control in surfaces during food processing.(AU)

Foi avaliada a atividade antimicrobiana de diferentes concentrações do óleo essencial (OE) de Cymbopogon flexuosus sobre as estirpes padrão de Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli e Salmonella Choleraesuis aderidas em superfície de aço inoxidável AISI 304 /4. Inicialmente, as concentrações inibitórias mínimas (CIM) e as concentrações bactericidas mínimas (CBM) do OE foram determinadas pela técnica de macrodiluição em caldo. Posteriormente, a adesão e a formação de biofilme em superfícies de aço inoxidável foram avaliadas por 15 h a 37 C sob agitação, e a ação sanitizante do OE contra as células aderidas nos cupons após 20 e 40 min de contato. O valor da CIM encontrada para todas as espécies foi de 7,5 L.mL-1, e esta concentração foi utilizada para o preparo da solução sanitizante. Após ambos os períodos de sanitização constatou-se a remoção total das células aderidas para as espécies de E. coli e S. Choleraesuis. Não foi possível eliminar as células aderidas de S. aureus, contudo, houve uma redução quando comparada ao número de células aderidas antes de serem submetidas aos tratamentos de sanitização. O OE de C. flexuosus pode ser uma alternativa no controle microbiano em superfícies durante o processamento de alimentos.(AU)

Protozoários ruminais de novilhos de corte criados em pastagem tropical durante o período seco / Rumen protozoa of steers raised on tropical pasture during dry season

Protozoa of the rumen can represent 40% of total nitrogen and 60% of the final product of fermentation and it has cellulolytic activity. This study aimed to quantify and identify the ruminal protozoa populations from steers, raised exclusively on pastures during the dry season in the north of Minas Gerais, Brazil. Samples of ruminal fluid of 36 Nellore steers were collected directly from the rumen immediately after slaughter, during the early, middle or end of the dry season. For protozoa conservation, 1 mL of ruminal fluid was diluted in 9 mL of 10 % formaldehydes solution. Decimal dilutions were made in saline and the counting of small, medium and large protozoa was performed in Sedgewick Rafter chamber. The protozoa concentrations were transformed into log10 (x +1), subjected to variance analysis and the means were compared with Duncan test. The genus frequencies were compared with chi-square test. The concentration average of the total and of small and medium protozoa declined significantly over the course of the dry season; however, alterations in large protozoa concentrations were not detected over the three periods evaluated. A total of 7749 protozoa were identified, belonging to 17 different genera. Charonina spp. and Entodinium spp. had the highest occurrence during the three periods of dry season (P 0.05), suggesting the participation of these ciliates in rumen cattle fed exclusively on tropical pasture during this season.

Protozoários do rúmen podem representar 40% do nitrogênio total e 60% do produto final da fermentação e apresentam atividade celulolítica. Neste estudo, objetivou-se quantificar e identificar as populações de protozoários no rúmen de novilhos, criados exclusivamente em pastagem, durante o período seco do ano, no Norte de Minas Gerais. Amostras do suco ruminal de 36 novilhos mestiços Nelore foram coletadas diretamente do rúmen, após o abate, durante o inicio, meio ou fim do período de estiagem. Para conservação dos protozoários, 1 mL do suco ruminal foi diluído em 9 mL de solução de formaldeido a 10%. Posteriormente, foram realizadas diluições decimais em solução salina e contagem de protozoários pequenos, médios e grandes em câmara de Sedgewick Rafter. As concentrações de protozoários foram transformadas em log10 (x+1) e submetidas à análise de variância e as médias comparadas com teste de Duncan. As frequências dos gêneros foram comparadas com o teste do qui-quadrado. As médias da concentração total e de pequenos e médios protozoários diminuíram significativamente com o decorrer do período seco; entretanto, os grandes protozoários não apresentaram alterações na concentração média durante os três períodos avaliados. Foram identificados 7749 protozoários, pertencentes a 17 gêneros diferentes. Observou-se que os gêneros Charonina e Entodinium apresentaram alta ocorrência no início, meio e final do período da seca (p<0,05), indicando a participação desses ciliados em bovinos alimentados exclusivamente a pasto, durante esse período do ano.

Protozoários ruminais de novilhos de corte criados em pastagem tropical durante o período seco

Protozoa of the rumen can represent 40% of total nitrogen and 60% of the final product of fermentation and it has cellulolytic activity. This study aimed to quantify and identify the ruminal protozoa populations from steers, raised exclusively on pastures during the dry season in the north of Minas Gerais, Brazil. Samples of ruminal fluid of 36 Nellore steers were collected directly from the rumen immediately after slaughter, during the early, middle or end of the dry season. For protozoa conservation, 1 mL of ruminal fluid was diluted in 9 mL of 10 % formaldehydes solution. Decimal dilutions were made in saline and the counting of small, medium and large protozoa was performed in Sedgewick Rafter chamber. The protozoa concentrations were transformed into log10 (x +1), subjected to variance analysis and the means were compared with Duncan test. The genus frequencies were compared with chi-square test. The concentration average of the total and of small and medium protozoa declined significantly over the course of the dry season; however, alterations in large protozoa concentrations were not detected over the three periods evaluated. A total of 7749 protozoa were identified, belonging to 17 different genera. Charonina spp. and Entodinium spp. had the highest occurrence during the three periods of dry season (P 0.05), suggesting the participation of these ciliates in rumen cattle fed exclusively on tropical pasture during this season.

Protozoários do rúmen podem representar 40% do nitrogênio total e 60% do produto final da fermentação e apresentam atividade celulolítica. Neste estudo, objetivou-se quantificar e identificar as populações de protozoários no rúmen de novilhos, criados exclusivamente em pastagem, durante o período seco do ano, no Norte de Minas Gerais. Amostras do suco ruminal de 36 novilhos mestiços Nelore foram coletadas diretamente do rúmen, após o abate, durante o inicio, meio ou fim do período de estiagem. Para conservação dos protozoários, 1 mL do suco ruminal foi diluído em 9 mL de solução de formaldeido a 10%. Posteriormente, foram realizadas diluições decimais em solução salina e contagem de protozoários pequenos, médios e grandes em câmara de Sedgewick Rafter. As concentrações de protozoários foram transformadas em log10 (x+1) e submetidas à análise de variância e as médias comparadas com teste de Duncan. As frequências dos gêneros foram comparadas com o teste do qui-quadrado. As médias da concentração total e de pequenos e médios protozoários diminuíram significativamente com o decorrer do período seco; entretanto, os grandes protozoários não apresentaram alterações na concentração média durante os três períodos avaliados. Foram identificados 7749 protozoários, pertencentes a 17 gêneros diferentes. Observou-se que os gêneros Charonina e Entodinium apresentaram alta ocorrência no início, meio e final do período da seca (p 0,05), indicando a participação desses ciliados em bovinos alimentados exclusivamente a pasto, durante esse período do ano.