Untreated or ammoniated cotton gin trash in the ensiling of elephant grass reduces silage quality

This study examined the inclusion of untreated or urea-ammoniated CGT on the chemical composition, pH, gas, and effluent losses, dry matter recovery (DMR), and aerobic stability of elephantgrass silage. The experiment was laid out in a randomized design with a 3 × 3 factorial arrangement represented by three levels of inclusion of CGT during ensiling (0, 5, or 10%) and three levels of ammoniation of CGT with urea before ensiling (0, 4 or 8% for 28 days), using four replications. Data were subjected to analysis of variance and Tukey's test, considering a 5% significance level. The pH and DM, NDIN, ADIN, NDF and ADF contents of the silages increased (p<0.05) with the inclusion of CGT, regardless of ammoniation. The lowest (p<0.05) effluent loss was achieved using 10% of CGT ammoniated with 8% urea. In contrast, the elephantgrass silage exhibited the lowest (p<0.05) gas loss and the greatest (p<0.05) DMR. The inclusion of CGT compromised the aerobic stability of the silage. Therefore, the inclusion of CGT ­either untreated or ammoniated ­in the ensiling of elephantgrass is not recommended.(AU)

Influence of harvest method on proximate composition, texture profile and protein oxidation of beef from grain-fed Nellore cattle

The influence of harvest method on proximate composition, protein oxidation, and texture profile of beef from Nellore cattle were investigated. Longissimus lumborum (LL) muscles were obtained from twelve grain-fed Nellore carcasses. The animals were slaughtered after stunning (STU; n=6) or without stunning (WST; n=6) and after 24 hours postmortem, the LL was sliced into 2.54-cm steaks, packed under aerobic conditions, and stored at 4°C for nine days. Proximate composition was analyzed on day 0, whereas protein oxidation (carbonyl content) and texture profile (hardness, chewiness, cohesiveness, and springiness) were evaluated on days 0, 3, 6, and 9. STU and WST steaks exhibited similar proximate composition, hardness, and chewiness (p > 0.05). WST steaks exhibited greater protein oxidation and lower cohesiveness than their STU counterparts on day 0 (p < 0.05). Concerning the storage period, WST steaks demonstrated a decrease in springiness and a more pronounced increase in cohesiveness than their STU counterparts (p < 0.05). These results indicated that the harvest method influenced LL protein oxidation and texture profile from Bos indicus cattle.(AU)

'Alecrim Pimenta' nanoformulated essential oil (Lippia sidoides) as additive in consortium silages / Óleo essencial nanoformulado de alecrim pimenta (Lippia sidoides) como aditivo em silagens consorciadas

The presence of spoilage microorganisms in forage interferes with the fermentation process of silage, due to competition with lactic acid bacteria for substrate, generating losses and influencing the nutritional value of the ensiled material. Thus, the objective is to evaluate the effect of "Alecrim Pimenta" essential oil (Lippia sidoides) and nanoformulated thymol on microbiological, fermentative and aerobic stability profile of sorghum (Sorghum bicolor cv. BRS Ponta Negra) silage intercropped with Paiaguás grass (Urochloa brizantha cv. BRS Paiaguás). A 4 x 3 factorial design was adopted, with four additives applied to the silages (control treatment; nanoformulated "Alecrim Pimenta" essential oil (OEN); 62% nanoformulated thymol; and 100% pure nanoformulated thymol), associated with three silo period times (15, 30 and 45 days), with five replications per treatment, totaling 60 mini silos. The Clostridium population was higher in the control treatment and in the OEN. The Lactobacillus population decreased with the increase in silo opening time. Higher aerobic stabilities were recorded in silages with 100% nanoformulated thymol with opening at 15 days; and silages with 62% nanoformulated Thymol (opening period at 30 and 45 days). Silages with 100% thymol provided higher losses of dry matter, gases and effluents, while the use of OEN provided lower losses of dry matter and gases. Silos opened at 45 days showed higher losses of dry matter, gases and effluents. Sorghum and Paiaguás grass silages that received nanoformulated thymol were more efficient in controlling Clostridium and Lactobacillus populations, and this additive improved the aerobic stability of the silage.

A presença de microrganismos deterioradores na forragem interfere no processo fermentativo da silagem, devido a competição com as bactérias ácido láticas por substrato, gerando perdas e influenciando o valor nutritivo do material ensilado. Assim, objetiva-se avaliar o efeito do óleo essencial de Alecrim pimenta (Lippia sidoides) e do timol nanoformulado sobre perfil microbiológico, fermentativo e estabilidade aeróbia de silagem do consórcio de Sorgo (Sorghum bicolor var. Ponta Negra) com capim Paiaguás (Urochloa brizantha cv. Paiaguás). Foi adotado esquema fatorial 4 x 3, quatro aditivos aplicados nas silagens (tratamento controle; óleo essencial de Alecrim pimenta nanoformulado (OEN); timol nanoformulado 62%; e timol nanoformulado 100% de pureza), associados a três tempos de abertura do silo (15, 30 e 45 dias), com cinco repetições por tratamento, totalizando 60 mini silos. A população de Clostridium foi maior no tratamento controle e no OEN. A população de Lactobacillus reduziu com o aumento no tempo de abertura do silo. Maiores estabilidades aeróbica foram registradas em silagens com timol nanoformulado 100% com abertura aos 15 dias; e silagens com Timol nanoformulado 62% (tempos de abertura aos 30 e 45 dias). Silagens com timol 100% proporcionaram maiores perdas de matéria seca, gases e efluentes, enquanto que o uso de OEN proporcionou menores perdas de matéria seca e gases. Silos com abertura aos 45 dias apresentaram maiores perdas de matéria seca, gases e efluentes. Silagens de Sorgo e capim Paiaguás que recebram timol nanoformulado foram mais eficientes em controlar as populações de Clostridium e Lactobacillus, bem como este aditivo melhorou a estabilidade aeróbica da silagem.

Epidemiological aspects of cattle tick fever in Brazil / Aspectos epidemiológicos da tristeza parasitária bovina no Brasil

The present work reviews the epidemiologic situation of Anaplasma marginale and Babesia spp. infections and the occurrence of cattle tick fever outbreaks in Brazil. In areas of tick fever enzootic instability, environmental conditions interfere with the development of Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus: chilly winter in the southern region, floods in the Pantanal, and low humidity in the Caatinga. In contrast, the climatic conditions of stable zones (Cerrado, Amazon and Atlantic Forest biomes) favor tick development. In enzootic areas, tick fever is uncommon because the animals are in frequent contact with the parasite, acquiring immunity naturally during the period of innate resistance; however, outbreaks may occur when calves become infested by considerable numbers of infected ticks during this period or in adults raised in tick-free environments that become infested for the first time when transporting to stable areas. It is necessary to better understand the disease's risk factors under stable conditions and the implications of the mechanical and other vector transmission of A. marginale. To prevent tick fever outbreaks in Brazil, it is important to develop and use anaplasmosis and babesiosis vaccines in cattle from enzootic unstable regions, especially when animals are moved to stable areas.(AU)

O presente trabalho revisa a situação epidemiológica das infecções por Anaplasma marginale e Babesia spp. e a ocorrência de surtos de Tristeza parasitária bovina (TPB) no Brasil. Em áreas de instabilidade enzoótica, as condições ambientais interferem no desenvolvimento do Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus: o frio do inverno na região Sul; as inundações no Pantanal; e a baixa umidade na Caatinga. Por outra parte, as condições climáticas das zonas de estabilidade (os biomas Cerrado, Amazônia e Mata Atlântica) favorecem o desenvolvimento do carrapato. A TPB não é comum nas áreas estáveis, porque os animais estão em contato frequente com os parasitas, adquirindo imunidade naturalmente. Podem, porém, ocorrer surtos quando um número considerável de carrapatos infectados infesta bezerros, durante o período de resistência inata, ou quando adultos que foram criados em ambientes livres de carrapatos infestam-se, pela primeira vez, ao serem transportados para áreas estáveis. É necessário entender melhor os fatores de risco da doença em condições de estabilidade e a implicação da transmissão de A. marginale de forma mecânica, ou por meio de vetores diferentes do carrapato. Para prevenir surtos de TPB, no Brasil, é necessário desenvolver e usar vacinas em bovinos de regiões de instabilidade, especialmente antes de transportá-los para áreas estáveis.(AU)

Effect of the Supplementation of Plant Extracts Based Additive in Broiler Chicken Diets on Productive Performance, Carcass Yield, and Meat Quality

The study aimed to evaluate the effect of supplementation of an additive based on plant and spice extracts in broiler chicken diets on the productive performance, carcass yield, and meat quality. 704 male broiler chicks were distributed in a completely randomized experimental design with 4 treatment, 4 replicates of 44 broiler chickens each. The experimental diets consisted of Diet 1: Control diet; Diet 2: Control diet + antibiotic growth promoters (AGP); Diet 3: Control diet + vegetable extracts (100 g/ton) and Diet 4: Control diet + vegetable extracts (150 g/ton). The vegetable extracts used were carvacrol, cinnamaldehyde, and eugenol extracted from oregano, cinnamon, and cloves. The supplementation of vegetal extracts did not affect (p>0.05) broiler chickens' productive performance or carcass yield. The lipid peroxidation (MDA nmol/mg protein) in the meat in natura was decreased (p<0.05) for broilers supplemented with vegetable extracts. The supplementation of 100 or 150 g/ton of vegetal extracts based on carvacrol, cinnamaldehyde, and eugenol did not affect broiler chickens' productive performance, carcass characteristics, and meat quality, and inhibited MDA production in broilers' in natura meat.(AU)

Degradation kinetics and in vitro digestive stability of selected bioactive compounds from a beverage formulated with butterfly pea flowers / Cinética de degradação e estabilidade digestiva in vitro de compostos bioativos selecionados de uma bebida formulada com flores de feijão borborleta

This study evaluated the effects of temperature on the pH of extracts of ascorbic acid and anthocyanins from petals of butterfly pea, as well as their in vitro digestive stability in model systems at 60, 70, and 80 °C. The pH values significantly decreased with an increase in the temperature (P < 0.05). The findings were similar for the degradation of anthocyanins and ascorbic acid, which followed first-order kinetics in all the systems. The samples heated at 80 °C presented the highest degradation rate (kobs), as well as higher percentages of degradation at the end of digestive stability in vitro.

Este estudo avaliou os efeitos da temperatura na estabilidade do ácido ascórbico, pH e antocianinas de pétalas de feijão borboleta, bem como a estabilidade digestiva in vitro do ácido ascórbico e antocianinas em sistemas modelo submetidos a 60, 70 e 80 ºC. Os valores de pH diminuíram significativamente com o aumento da temperatura (P < 0.05). O mesmo foi observado para a degradação de antocianinas e ácido ascórbico, que seguiram cinética de primeira ordem em todos os sistemas. As amostras aquecidas a 80 °C apresentaram as maiores taxas de degradação (kobs), assim como maiores percentuais de degradação ao final da estabilidade digestiva in vitro.

Fermentation profile, aerobic stability, chemical and mineral composition of silages of mango combined with cocoa pod husk meal / Perfil fermentativo, estabilidade aeróbia, composição química e mineral de silagens de manga combinados com farelo de casca de cacau

The objective was to evaluate the fermentation profile, aerobic stability, chemical composition, and mineral content of silages of mango combined with cocoa pod husk meal. A completely randomized design was adopted, including four levels (65, 70, 75, and 80%) and five repetitions, totaling 20 experimental silos that were opened after 90 days of sealing. Increasing mango levels in the silages increased the dry matter recovery, total carbohydrates, and fraction B2 of carbohydrates, and reduced gas losses, dry matter, and mineral matter. The quadratic effect was found for pH, buffering capacity, potassium, boron, iron, and nitrogen fractions A and B1 + B2. Using unconventional products such as mango combined with cocoa pod husk meal for silage making can reduce the cost of food supplementation for ruminants, and the environmental contamination.(AU)

Foi avaliado o perfil fermentativo, estabilidade aeróbia, composição química e conteúdo mineral de silagens de manga combinadas com farelo de casca de cacau. O delineamento adotado foi o inteiramente casualizado, incluindo quatro níveis (65, 70, 75 e 80%) e cinco repetições, totalizando 20 silos experimentais abertos aos 90 dias da vedação. O incremento dos níveis de manga nas silagens aumentou a recuperação de matéria seca, carboidratos totais e fração B2 de carboidratos, e reduziu as perdas de gases, matéria seca e matéria mineral. Foi encontrado um efeito quadrático para pH, capacidade tampão, potássio, boro, ferro e para as frações de nitrogênio A e B1 + B2. A utilização de produtos não convencionais como a manga combinada com a farinha da casca da vagem de cacau para a produção de silagem pode reduzir o custo da suplementação alimentar para ruminantes e a contaminação ambiental.(AU)

Fermentation profile and nutritional value of millet grain silages rehydrated with whey and/or molasses / Perfil fermentativo e valor nutricional de silagens de grãos de milheto reidratadas com soro de leite e/ou melaço

This study aimed to evaluate the fermentation profile and nutritional value of millet grain silages rehydrated with whey and/or molasses. The experiment was conducted in a completely randomized design with four treatments and six replications, with a control treatment (water rehydration), whey rehydration, water rehydration plus molasses (2.5%), and whey plus molasses (2.5%). Lower values of dry matter content (DM = 66.37; 1.55%) were found for the control silage, but within the recommended range. The contents of crude protein, neutral detergent fiber, acid detergent fiber, lignin and hemicellulose were not influenced by the use of additives. There was no difference (p>0.05) for aerobic stability and ammonia-N (6.04%) between treatments. For pH, lower values were observed for silages with molasses. There was a higher concentration (p <0.05) of lactic acid in silages with whey, and a higher concentration of butyric acid in silages added exclusively with molasses. The use of whey improved dry matter recovery compared to control silages.

Objetivou-se avaliar o perfil fermentativo e o valor nutricional de silagens de grãos de milheto reidratados com soro de leite e/ou melaço. O experimento foi conduzido em delineamento inteiramente casualizado com quatro tratamentos e seis repetições, sendo tratamento controle (reidratação com água), reidratação com soro de leite, reidratação com água mais melaço (2.5%), e soro de leite mais melaço (2.5%). Observou-se menor teor de matéria seca (MS = 66.37; 1.55%) na silagem controle em relação aos demais tratamentos, contudo este se encontra dentro do limite desejável. Os teores de proteína bruta, fibra em detergente neutro, fibra em detergente ácido, lignina e hemicelulose não foram influenciados pelo uso dos aditivos. Não houve diferença (p >0.05) para estabilidade aeróbica e N-amoniacal (6.04% NT) entre os tratamentos. Para valores de pH observou-se menores valores para as silagens com melaço em relação as demais. Houve maior concentração (p <0.05) de ácido lático nas silagens com soro de leite e maior concentração de ácido butírico nas silagens aditivadas exclusivamente com melaço. A utilização do soro de leite melhorou a recuperação da matéria seca em relação às silagens controle. Observou-se maior degradabilidade da matéria seca com 8% de taxa de passagem nas silagens aditivadas com melaço e/ou soro em relação ao controle.

Influence of foliar application of glycinebetaine on Tagetes erecta L yield cultivated under salinity conditions

Abstract Tagetes genus of Composite family consider one of the most favorite floriculture plants. Therefore, of particular interest examine the salt tolerance of this bedding and coloring agent plant. In this research, was report the role of glycinebetaine (GB) in attenuating the adverse impacts of salt stress in African marigold plant, along with their anti-oxidative capacities and biochemical attributes. The salt stressed African marigold (100 and 150 mM NaCl) was treated with GB at 200 mM, beside untreated control plants. According to the obtained results, the growth characters were negatively in salt stressed plants but a mitigate impact of GB were observed in this respect. Obviously, the morphological as well as some physiological characters were reduced with salinity treatments while GB treatment reverses these effects. Overall, the alleviate impact of GB on the negative impact of salt stress was enhanced through improving total phenolic and antioxidant enzyme activity. Further, it is concluded that GB concentration induces the activities of antioxidative enzymes which scavenged ROS increased under saline conditions.

Resumo O Tagetes, da família Composite, é um dos gêneros mais apreciados de plantas de floricultura. Portanto, é de particular interesse examinar a tolerância ao sal desta planta de substrato e corante. Nesta pesquisa, foi relatado o papel da glicinebetaína (GB) na atenuação dos impactos adversos do estresse salino na calêndula africana, juntamente com suas capacidades antioxidantes e atributos bioquímicos. A calêndula africana estressada com sal (NaCl 100 e 150 mM) foi tratada com GB a 200 mM, ao lado de plantas de controle não tratadas. De acordo com os resultados obtidos, os caracteres de crescimento foram negativos em plantas estressadas por sal, mas um impacto mitigado de GB foi observado neste aspecto. Obviamente, os caracteres morfológicos e fisiológicos foram reduzidos com os tratamentos de salinidade, enquanto o tratamento com GB reverteu esses efeitos. No geral, o impacto de alívio do GB no impacto negativo do estresse salino foi aprimorado através da melhoria da atividade das enzimas fenólicas e antioxidantes totais. Além disso, conclui-se que a concentração de GB induz as atividades de enzimas antioxidantes que sequestraram ROS aumentadas em condições salinas.

Influence of foliar application of glycinebetaine on Tagetes erecta L yield cultivated under salinity conditions / Influência da aplicação foliar de glicinebetaína na produtividade de Tagetes erecta L cultivada em condições de salinidade

Tagetes genus of Composite family consider one of the most favorite floriculture plants. Therefore, of particular interest examine the salt tolerance of this bedding and coloring agent plant. In this research, was report the role of glycinebetaine (GB) in attenuating the adverse impacts of salt stress in African marigold plant, along with their anti-oxidative capacities and biochemical attributes. The salt stressed African marigold (100 and 150 mM NaCl) was treated with GB at 200 mM, beside untreated control plants. According to the obtained results, the growth characters were negatively in salt stressed plants but a mitigate impact of GB were observed in this respect. Obviously, the morphological as well as some physiological characters were reduced with salinity treatments while GB treatment reverses these effects. Overall, the alleviate impact of GB on the negative impact of salt stress was enhanced through improving total phenolic and antioxidant enzyme activity. Further, it is concluded that GB concentration induces the activities of antioxidative enzymes which scavenged ROS increased under saline conditions.

O Tagetes, da família Composite, é um dos gêneros mais apreciados de plantas de floricultura. Portanto, é de particular interesse examinar a tolerância ao sal desta planta de substrato e corante. Nesta pesquisa, foi relatado o papel da glicinebetaína (GB) na atenuação dos impactos adversos do estresse salino na calêndula africana, juntamente com suas capacidades antioxidantes e atributos bioquímicos. A calêndula africana estressada com sal (NaCl 100 e 150 mM) foi tratada com GB a 200 mM, ao lado de plantas de controle não tratadas. De acordo com os resultados obtidos, os caracteres de crescimento foram negativos em plantas estressadas por sal, mas um impacto mitigado de GB foi observado neste aspecto. Obviamente, os caracteres morfológicos e fisiológicos foram reduzidos com os tratamentos de salinidade, enquanto o tratamento com GB reverteu esses efeitos. No geral, o impacto de alívio do GB no impacto negativo do estresse salino foi aprimorado através da melhoria da atividade das enzimas fenólicas e antioxidantes totais. Além disso, conclui-se que a concentração de GB induz as atividades de enzimas antioxidantes que sequestraram ROS aumentadas em condições salinas.

Morphogenic, structural characteristics and population stability index of ryegrass tillers submitted to stocking methods / Características morfogênicas, estruturais e índice de estabilidade populacional de perfilhos de azevém submetidos a métodos de lotação

This study aimed to evaluate the morphogenic and structural characteristics and the population stability index of ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum Lam.) tillers when the pasture was submitted to two stocking methods during grazing cycles. The experimental design was a complete randomized block, with repeated measurements over time (n=6 cycles), two treatments (stocking methods) and three area replicates. In the continuous stocking method, the highest population density of tillers was observed. The highest tiller weight occurred in the rotational stocking method. The morphogenic variables and the other structural variables were not altered by the stocking methods and showed differences during the grazing cycles. The tiller population stability index was similar in the two pasture management strategies, and both can be used for ryegrass management considering this parameter.

Este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar as características morfogênicas, estruturais e o índice de estabilidade populacional de perfilhos do azevém (Lolium multiflorum Lam.) quando a pastagem foi submetida a dois métodos de lotação, durante ciclos de pastejo. O delineamento experimental foi em blocos completos casualizados, com medidas repetidas ao longo do tempo (n = 6 ciclos), dois tratamentos (métodos de lotação) e três repetições de área. No método de lotação contínua, foi observada a maior densidade populacional de perfilhos. O maior peso de perfilhos ocorreu no método de lotação rotativa. As variáveis morfogênicas e as demais variáveis estruturais não foram alteradas pelos métodos de lotação e apresentaram diferenças durante os ciclos de pastejo. O índice de estabilidade populacional de perfilhos foi semelhante nas duas estratégias de manejo do pasto e ambas podem ser utilizadas para o manejo do azevém considerando-se esse parâmetro.

Insecticidal activity of Piper aduncum oil: variation in dillapiole content and chemical and toxicological stability during storage / Atividade inseticida do óleo de Piper aduncum: variação no conteúdo de dilapiol e estabilidade química e toxicológica durante o armazenamento

The insecticidal effect of the essential oil of Piper aduncum (EOPA), and of its constituent dillapiole [1-allyl-2,3-dimethoxy-4,5- (methylenedioxy) benzene] in particular, is well documented in the literature and can be associated with its interference with the enzymatic detoxification in arthropods. However, no data exist on the range of dillapiole content associated with insecticidal activity, which is necessary to establish reliable dose-activity parameters for a formulated product. The oil composition can also change during storage after distillation, mainly due to environmental factors such as light incidence, atmospheric oxygen and temperature, which can be deleterious to oil quality. In this study, EOPA subjected to different storage conditions over four years and its rectified fractions were submitted to bioassays to evaluate their insecticidal effect by topical contact and residual contact against Spodoptera frugiperda. Our objectives were to determine the relationship between dillapiole content and the insecticidal activity of EOPA, and to evaluate its chemical and toxicological properties over time under different conditions. Our results showed that EOPA was stable with respect to the dillapiole content and the toxicological effect against S. frugiperda under different storage conditions for four years. The overall chemical composition of the EOPA did not vary significantly among storage conditions. EOPA with dillapiole content ranging between 68% and 100% showed greater insecticidal toxicity by residual and topical contact against S. frugiperda larvae.(AU)

O efeito inseticida do óleo essencial de Piper aduncum (OEPA) e, particularmente, de seu constituinte dilapiol [1-alil-2,3- dimetoxi-4,5-(metilenodioxi) benzeno], está bem documentado na literatura e pode estar associado à sua interferência na desintoxicação enzimática em artrópodes. No entanto, não existem dados sobre a amplitude de teores de dilapiol associados à atividade inseticida, o que é necessário para estabelecer parâmetros de dose-atividade confiáveis para um produto formulado. A composição do óleo também pode sofrer alterações durante seu armazenamento após a destilação, principalmente devido a fatores ambientais como incidência de luz, oxigênio atmosférico e temperatura, que podem ser deletérios à qualidade do óleo. Neste estudo, durante quatro anos, OEPA submetido a diferentes condições de armazenamento e suas frações retificadas foram submetidos a bioensaios para avaliar seu efeito inseticida por contato tópico e contato residual contra Spodoptera frugiperda. Nossos objetivos foram determinar a relação entre o teor de dilapiol e a atividade inseticida do OEPA, e avaliar suas propriedades químicas e toxicológicas ao longo do tempo sob diferentes condições. Nossos resultados mostraram que o OEPA foi estável em relação ao teor de dilapiol e o efeito toxicológico contra S. frugiperda sob diferentes condições de armazenamento durante quatro anos. A composição química do OEPA não variou significativamente entre as condições de armazenamento. OEPA com teor de dilapiol entre 68% e 100% apresentou maior toxicidade inseticida por contato residual e tópico contra larvas de S. frugiperda.(AU)

Blood serum stability limit and maximum storage time of bovine samples

Measuring metabolic parameters in the blood has been an indispensable tool for assessing the productive and health status of dairy cows for more than 100 years. The values of laboratory parameters depend on various preanalytical, analytical and postanalytical factors. The most important preanalytical factors are sample transport time and temperature, hemolysis, anticoagulant type, and sample volume. Preanalytical factors can lead to reduced stability of the analyte in the sample, which changes their concentration. Loss of stability changes the time of storage and manipulation of the sample, which determines the criteria for its acceptance or rejection. The two stability indicators are stability limit and maximum permissible instability. A stability limit (SL) is defined as the period of time in which a property variation does not exceed a maximum permissible instability (MPI). The aim of this study was to determine the SL and MPI for each analyte in the blood serum of cows and to determine whether SL differs in the function of the presence of preanalytical errors in the blood sample. Three hundred samples of dairy cow origin in different periods of lactation participated in this research. They were classified into 6 groups of 50 samples: according to the time from sampling to processing in the laboratory (0-4 h, 4-8 h and over 8 h; all transported on dry ice, protected from environmental factors, without preanalytical errors) and according to the presence of preanalytical errors (group with hemolysis, a group transported at ambient temperature and a group with a small sample volume). Each sample was aliquoted in two portions. One portion was left at +4°C and tested once a day for 6 days of sample storage, and the second portion, placed at -20°C, was tested once a month for 6 months. The MPI had a value ranging from 1.51 to 8.4. Metabolic profile analytes with lower MPI values (1.51-3.22) were albumin (ALB), total protein (TPROT), UREA, glucose (GLU), calcium (Ca), and phosphorus (P). Higher MPI values (5.1-8.4) were found for nonesterified fatty acids (NEFA), beta-hydroxybutirate (BHB), cholesterol (CHOL), triglycerides (TGC), total bilirubin (TBIL) and aspartat aminotransferase (AST). For most parameters, we can conclude that their PD% changed faster in storage conditions at +4°C compared to the regime of -20°C. The largest number of biochemical analytes in bovine blood serum shows preserved stability in the first 6 days at +4°C or 6 months at -20°C if transported to the laboratory within 8 h after sampling in ideal conditions and without the action of preanalytical errors. Prolonged transport under ideal conditions or the existence of preanalytical errors such as transport at room temperature, hemolysis or small sample volume shorten the stability of the ALB, NEFA, GLU, UREA and P. Concentration of all analytes decreases during the stability test except for UREA, NEFA, BHB and for CHOL and TGC in some groups. Variations in parameters such as BHB, NEFA, TBIL, AST, and Ca have shown potential clinical significance. At storage conditions at +4°C, clinically significant variations at at least one measurement point were found for AST (7.5% of samples), BHB (6.1% of samples), NEFA (9.9% of samples) and for TBIL (in 7% of samples). This study can help define acceptable delay times and storage conditions for bovine blood samples, which is of great importance because in working with farm animals it is often not possible to take samples in a short time and deliver them to the laboratory, and samples are often burdened with certain preanalytical errors with limited possibilities of re-sampling.(AU)

Comparative characterization of digestive proteases in redhead cichlid (Vieja melanurus) and twoband cichlid (Vieja bifasciata) (Percoidei: Cichlidae)

In the Southeast of Mexico, there are many native cichlids with commercial interest such as redhead cichlid (Vieja melanurus) and twoband cichlid (V. bifasciata), which have a great local demand and excellent meat quality. However, it is necessary to implement their culture based on nutrition studies and digestive biochemistry. This study's objective was to characterize these two cichlids' digestive proteases (pH, temperature, and inhibitors) through biochemistry techniques. Results showed that V. melanurus and V. bifasciata have a digestive capacity analogous to other omnivore fishes, where the optimal pH values of stomach proteases (4 and 2, respectively) and intestinal proteases (6 and 12, respectively), the optimal temperature of acid (35°C and 55°C, respectively) and alkaline proteases (45°C and 55°C, respectively) are quite similar. Both species presented high thermal and pH stabilities. Inhibition showed that V. melanurus is more sensitive to specific inhibitors for alkaline proteases than V. bifasciata. In conclusion, V. bisfasciata and V. melanurus have different digestive protease patterns. Both species can hydrolyze different protein ingredients to formulate a specific diet. Nevertheless, V. bifasciata is more resistant to the presence of inhibitors, which allow it to include vegetable proteins in its diet.(AU)

En el sureste de México, existen muchas especies de cíclidos nativos de interés comercial como el cíclido rojo (Vieja melanurus) y el cíclido de dos bandas (V. bifasciata), los cuales tienen una gran demanda local y tienen una excelente calidad de carne; sin embargo, es necesario implementar su cultivo con base en estudios de nutrición y bioquímica digestiva. El objetivo de este estudio fue caracterizar las proteasas digestivas (pH, temperatura e inhibidores) de estos dos cíclidos nativos mediante técnicas bioquímicas. Los resultados mostraron que V. melanurus y V. bifasciata tienen una capacidad digestiva similar a otros peces omnívoros, donde los valores óptimos de pH de proteasas estomacales (4 y 2, respectivamente) e intestinales (6 y 12, respectivamente), la temperatura óptima de proteasas ácidas (35°C y 55°C, respectivamente) y alcalinas (45°C y 55°C, respectivamente) son muy parecidas. Ambas especies presentaron alta estabilidad térmica y de pH. La inhibición mostró que V. melanurus es más sensible a inhibidores específicos de proteasas alcalinas que V. bifasciata. En conclusión, V. bisfasciata y V. melanurus tienen diferentes patrones de proteasas digestivas, pero ambas especies pueden hidrolizar diversos ingredientes proteicos para formular dietas específicas; sin embargo, V. bifasciata es más resistente a la presencia de inhibidores, lo que permitiría incluir proteínas vegetales en su dieta(AU)

Effects of microbial inoculant and fibrolytic enzymes on fermentation quality and nutritional value of BRS capiaçu grass silage / Efeitos do inoculante microbiano e das enzimas fibrolíticas na qualidade fermentativa e no valor nutricional de silagem de capim-BRS capiaçu

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of bacterial-enzymatic inoculants with different concentrations of fibrolytic enzymes on the fermentation quality and nutritional value of the silage of BRS capiaçu grass. Two bacterial-enzymatic inoculants with different levels of enzyme complex were evaluated (Silotrato® (5%) and Biotrato® (8%)) and control silage (without additive) according to a completely randomized design with eight replicates. To evaluate the silage aerobic stability, a completely randomized split plot design was used with three treatments (plots) and seven times after opening (subplots). There was no interaction between treatments and times after opening on values of pH (P=0.79). Regarding bacterial-enzymatic inoculants, the silage pH was 21.66% and 16.16% higher in silage without additive (mean of 6.00) compared to silage with 5% and 8% enzyme complex (P < 0.01). There was no difference between treatments on pH (P = 0.08), lactic acid (p = 0.08) and acetic acid (p = 0.64), means of 3.11, 47.31 g dry matter (DM)-¹ and 11.19 g DM-¹, respectively. There was no difference between treatments for any of the chemical composition variables (P = 0.86). Mean values for DM, crude protein, neutral detergent fiber and total digestible nutrients were 22.31%, 6.65%, 71.15% and 42.07%, respectively. There was a higher concentration of butyric acid in the control silage compared to Silotrato® silage. The control silage and silage treated with Biotrato® presented effluent losses (P = 0.05) 13.99% higher than silage with Silotrato®. For ensiling BRS capiaçu grass, it is recommended to use lactic acid bacteria containing 5% fibrolytic enzymes.

Objetivou-se avaliar o efeito de inoculantes bacteriano-enzimáticos com diferentes concentrações de enzimas fibrolíticas sobre a qualidade fermentativa e valor nutricional da silagem de capim-BRS capiaçu. Foram avaliados dois inoculantes bacteriano-enzimáticos com diferentes níveis de complexo enzimático (Silotrato® (5%) e Biotrato® (8%)) e silagem controle (sem aditivo) seguindo o delineamento inteiramente casualizado com oito repetições. Para avaliação da estabilidade aeróbia da silagem foi utilizado o delineamento inteiramente casualizado em esquema de parcelas subdivididas com três tratamentos (parcelas) e sete tempos após abertura (subparcelas). Não houve interação entre tratamentos e tempos após a abertura da silagem sobre os valores de pH (P = 0,79). Em relação aos inoculantes bacteriano-enzimáticos, o pH da silagem foi 21,66% e 16,16% maior na silagem sem aditivo (média de 6,00) em relação à silagem com 5% e 8% de complexo enzimático (P < 0,01). Não houve diferença entre os tratamentos quanto ao pH (P = 0,08), ácido lático (P = 0,08) e ácido acético (p = 0,64), médias de 3,11; 47,31 g matéria seca (MS)-¹ e 11,19 g MS-¹, respectivamente. Não houve diferença entre os tratamentos para nenhuma das variáveis de composição química (P = 0,86). As médias para MS, proteína bruta, fibra em detergente neutro e nutrientes digestíveis totais foram 22,31%, 6,65%, 71,15% e 42,07%, respectivamente. Houve maior concentração de ácido butírico na silagem controle em relação à silagem com Silotrato®. A silagem controle e a silagem tratada com Biotrato® apresentaram perdas por efluentes (P = 0,05) 13,99% maiores que a silagem com Silotrato®. Durante a ensilagem do capim BRS capiaçu, recomenda-se o uso de bactérias lácticas contendo 5% de enzimas fibrolíticas.

Comparative characterization of digestive proteases in redhead cichlid (Vieja melanurus) and twoband cichlid (Vieja bifasciata) (Percoidei: Cichlidae)

In the Southeast of Mexico, there are many native cichlids with commercial interest such as redhead cichlid (Vieja melanurus) and twoband cichlid (V. bifasciata), which have a great local demand and excellent meat quality. However, it is necessary to implement their culture based on nutrition studies and digestive biochemistry. This study's objective was to characterize these two cichlids' digestive proteases (pH, temperature, and inhibitors) through biochemistry techniques. Results showed that V. melanurus and V. bifasciata have a digestive capacity analogous to other omnivore fishes, where the optimal pH values of stomach proteases (4 and 2, respectively) and intestinal proteases (6 and 12, respectively), the optimal temperature of acid (35°C and 55°C, respectively) and alkaline proteases (45°C and 55°C, respectively) are quite similar. Both species presented high thermal and pH stabilities. Inhibition showed that V. melanurus is more sensitive to specific inhibitors for alkaline proteases than V. bifasciata. In conclusion, V. bisfasciata and V. melanurus have different digestive protease patterns. Both species can hydrolyze different protein ingredients to formulate a specific diet. Nevertheless, V. bifasciata is more resistant to the presence of inhibitors, which allow it to include vegetable proteins in its diet.(AU)

En el sureste de México, existen muchas especies de cíclidos nativos de interés comercial como el cíclido rojo (Vieja melanurus) y el cíclido de dos bandas (V. bifasciata), los cuales tienen una gran demanda local y tienen una excelente calidad de carne; sin embargo, es necesario implementar su cultivo con base en estudios de nutrición y bioquímica digestiva. El objetivo de este estudio fue caracterizar las proteasas digestivas (pH, temperatura e inhibidores) de estos dos cíclidos nativos mediante técnicas bioquímicas. Los resultados mostraron que V. melanurus y V. bifasciata tienen una capacidad digestiva similar a otros peces omnívoros, donde los valores óptimos de pH de proteasas estomacales (4 y 2, respectivamente) e intestinales (6 y 12, respectivamente), la temperatura óptima de proteasas ácidas (35°C y 55°C, respectivamente) y alcalinas (45°C y 55°C, respectivamente) son muy parecidas. Ambas especies presentaron alta estabilidad térmica y de pH. La inhibición mostró que V. melanurus es más sensible a inhibidores específicos de proteasas alcalinas que V. bifasciata. En conclusión, V. bisfasciata y V. melanurus tienen diferentes patrones de proteasas digestivas, pero ambas especies pueden hidrolizar diversos ingredientes proteicos para formular dietas específicas; sin embargo, V. bifasciata es más resistente a la presencia de inhibidores, lo que permitiría incluir proteínas vegetales en su dieta.(AU)

Effects of microbial inoculant and fibrolytic enzymes on fermentation quality and nutritional value of BRS capiaçu grass silage / Efeitos do inoculante microbiano e das enzimas fibrolíticas na qualidade fermentativa e no valor nutricional de silagem de capim-BRS capiaçu

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of bacterial-enzymatic inoculants with different concentrations of fibrolytic enzymes on the fermentation quality and nutritional value of the silage of BRS capiaçu grass. Two bacterial-enzymatic inoculants with different levels of enzyme complex were evaluated (Silotrato® (5%) and Biotrato® (8%)) and control silage (without additive) according to a completely randomized design with eight replicates. To evaluate the silage aerobic stability, a completely randomized split plot design was used with three treatments (plots) and seven times after opening (subplots). There was no interaction between treatments and times after opening on values of pH (P=0.79). Regarding bacterial-enzymatic inoculants, the silage pH was 21.66% and 16.16% higher in silage without additive (mean of 6.00) compared to silage with 5% and 8% enzyme complex (P < 0.01). There was no difference between treatments on pH (P = 0.08), lactic acid (p = 0.08) and acetic acid (p = 0.64), means of 3.11, 47.31 g dry matter (DM)-¹ and 11.19 g DM-¹, respectively. There was no difference between treatments for any of the chemical composition variables (P = 0.86). Mean values for DM, crude protein, neutral detergent fiber and total digestible nutrients were 22.31%, 6.65%, 71.15% and 42.07%, respectively. There was a higher concentration of butyric acid in the control silage compared to Silotrato® silage. The control silage and silage treated with Biotrato® presented effluent losses (P = 0.05) 13.99% higher than silage with Silotrato®. For ensiling BRS capiaçu grass, it is recommended to use lactic acid bacteria containing 5% fibrolytic enzymes.(AU)

Objetivou-se avaliar o efeito de inoculantes bacteriano-enzimáticos com diferentes concentrações de enzimas fibrolíticas sobre a qualidade fermentativa e valor nutricional da silagem de capim-BRS capiaçu. Foram avaliados dois inoculantes bacteriano-enzimáticos com diferentes níveis de complexo enzimático (Silotrato® (5%) e Biotrato® (8%)) e silagem controle (sem aditivo) seguindo o delineamento inteiramente casualizado com oito repetições. Para avaliação da estabilidade aeróbia da silagem foi utilizado o delineamento inteiramente casualizado em esquema de parcelas subdivididas com três tratamentos (parcelas) e sete tempos após abertura (subparcelas). Não houve interação entre tratamentos e tempos após a abertura da silagem sobre os valores de pH (P = 0,79). Em relação aos inoculantes bacteriano-enzimáticos, o pH da silagem foi 21,66% e 16,16% maior na silagem sem aditivo (média de 6,00) em relação à silagem com 5% e 8% de complexo enzimático (P < 0,01). Não houve diferença entre os tratamentos quanto ao pH (P = 0,08), ácido lático (P = 0,08) e ácido acético (p = 0,64), médias de 3,11; 47,31 g matéria seca (MS)-¹ e 11,19 g MS-¹, respectivamente. Não houve diferença entre os tratamentos para nenhuma das variáveis de composição química (P = 0,86). As médias para MS, proteína bruta, fibra em detergente neutro e nutrientes digestíveis totais foram 22,31%, 6,65%, 71,15% e 42,07%, respectivamente. Houve maior concentração de ácido butírico na silagem controle em relação à silagem com Silotrato®. A silagem controle e a silagem tratada com Biotrato® apresentaram perdas por efluentes (P = 0,05) 13,99% maiores que a silagem com Silotrato®. Durante a ensilagem do capim BRS capiaçu, recomenda-se o uso de bactérias lácticas contendo 5% de enzimas fibrolíticas.(AU)

Carotenoid extraction using edible vegetable oil: an enriched provitamin A product

Vitamin A deficiency is the third most important micronutrient deficiency having a significant impact on public health worldwide. The aim of this study was to develop a carotenoid extraction process with edible vegetable oils, using a central composite design which, concurrently, enriches the oils with provitamin A carotenoids. The stability of carotenoids in the oil and their shelf life was also evaluated. The process also aimed to meet the Recommended Daily Intake for vitamin A (600 g retinol equivalent for an adult) with the enriched oil. The results showed that 20 % of the vegetable matrix (dried carrot) in vegetable oil and 5 min of extraction time was an optimum combination for both soy oil (64.43 μg retinol equivalent mL-¹) and olive oil (62.98 μg retinol equivalent mL-¹). Furthermore, the ingestion of just a spoonful (~10 mL) of the enriched oils would meet the Recommended Daily Intake for vitamin A (600 μg retinol equivalent), and, thus, it was possible to affirm that a dose of vegetable oils enriched with provitamin A contributes to meeting the Recommended Daily Intake for vitamin A. The proposed process is based on simple and low-cost technology that can be used to enrich edible oils (soybean and olive oil) with provitamin A.(AU)

Carotenoid extraction using edible vegetable oil: an enriched provitamin A product

Vitamin A deficiency is the third most important micronutrient deficiency having a significant impact on public health worldwide. The aim of this study was to develop a carotenoid extraction process with edible vegetable oils, using a central composite design which, concurrently, enriches the oils with provitamin A carotenoids. The stability of carotenoids in the oil and their shelf life was also evaluated. The process also aimed to meet the Recommended Daily Intake for vitamin A (600 g retinol equivalent for an adult) with the enriched oil. The results showed that 20 % of the vegetable matrix (dried carrot) in vegetable oil and 5 min of extraction time was an optimum combination for both soy oil (64.43 μg retinol equivalent mL-¹) and olive oil (62.98 μg retinol equivalent mL-¹). Furthermore, the ingestion of just a spoonful (~10 mL) of the enriched oils would meet the Recommended Daily Intake for vitamin A (600 μg retinol equivalent), and, thus, it was possible to affirm that a dose of vegetable oils enriched with provitamin A contributes to meeting the Recommended Daily Intake for vitamin A. The proposed process is based on simple and low-cost technology that can be used to enrich edible oils (soybean and olive oil) with provitamin A.

Descriptive electromyography signals analysis of equine longissimus dorsi, rectus abdominis and gluteus medius muscles during maneuvers used to activate the core / [Análise descritiva do sinal eletromiográfico dos músculos longuíssimo dorsal, reto abdominal e glúteo médio de equinos durante a realização de manobras utilizadas para ativação do core]

Maneuvers to activate the equine's core can make a difference in their physical and psychic health. Although these activities are recommended and practiced, there is little research proving their effectiveness. This article aims to describe, through surface electromyography, the occurrences, durations and sequences activity of longissimus dorsi, rectus abdominis and gluteus medius during thoracolumbar flexion (TLF), lumbar and lumbosacral flexion (LLSF), global flexion (GF), which is the combination of TLF and LLSF, and tail traction (TT). Seven healthy adult horses of three different breeds performed five repetitions of these movements for five seconds (sec). Electromyographic activity was captured with non-invasive superficial sensors positioned in the skin regions covering these muscles. The sequence was performed once per animal, muscle activity captured by surface electromyography, data from two replicates of each animal were selected, analyzed on matLab software and data tabulation were described during each maneuver. These maneuvers provoked punctual and transient activation of muscles mentioned above, confirming the ability to activate equine core muscles. However, responses were not standardized, which means there were variations of occurrence, duration and sequence, suggesting that for practical application of those maneuvers it is necessary to perform more repetitions with longer durations to activate more muscles.(AU)

Manobras para ativação da musculatura do core equino podem ser diferenciais para saúde física e psíquica dos animais, sendo recomendadas e praticadas, mas existem poucas pesquisas comprovando a eficácia delas. Este artigo tem como objetivo descrever, por meio da eletromiografia de superfície, as ocorrências, as durações e as sequências temporais da atividade muscular do longuíssimo dorsal, do reto abdominal e do glúteo médio durante a realização das manobras de flexão toracolombar, flexão lombar e lombossacra, flexão global (toracolombar e lombossacra) e tração de cauda. Para isso, sete equinos adultos e hígidos de três raças realizaram esses quatro movimentos clássicos para ativar o core equino, com cinco repetições e manutenção do estímulo reflexivo por cinco segundos. Durante a realização, a atividade eletromiográfica foi capturada com a utilização de sensores superficiais posicionados de forma não invasiva em regiões cutâneas referentes a cada músculo. O protocolo completo de manobras foi realizado uma vez por cada animal enquanto a atividade muscular era capturada. Posteriormente, duas repetições de cada animal foram triadas e submetidas ao software matLab para análise. Com base na tabulação dos dados, foram descritas as variáveis eletromiográficas de presença ou ausência de ativação muscular, a duração média dos picos eletromiográficos superiores ao RMS (root mean square) e a sequência da atividade muscular observada durante cada manobra. Essas manobras provocaram ativações pontuais e transitórias nos três músculos, o que confirma a capacidade de excitar músculos do core equino. Contudo, as respostas não foram padronizadas, sugerindo que, na prática dessa atividade, devem-se realizar mais repetições com durações superiores a cinco segundos, a fim de se buscarem maiores ativações.(AU)