Interação reprodução x produção na ovinocultura: Aspectos reprodutivos relacionados com produtividade / Reproduction x production interaction in sheep farming: Reproductive aspects related to productivity

A importância dos manejos reprodutivos, que contribui para o avanço da ovinocultura e rentabilidade dos sistemas, revela oportunidades para trabalho com a interação reprodução x produção. Estratégias para incremento produtivo no setor, através de biotécnicas reprodutivas, que permitem redução da idade a puberdade, diminuição da estacionalidade reprodutiva e aumento da taxa ovulatória. Além das possibilidades hormonais, métodos alternativos que consideram efeito macho e nutrição, são considerados eficiente para controle do ciclo. Este artigo tem como objetivo revisar os protocolos de controle do ciclo estral e incremento produtivo na ovinocultura.(AU)

The importance of reproductive management, which contributes to the advancement of sheep farming and the profitability of the systems, reveals opportunities for work with the reproduction x production interaction. Strategies to increase production in the sector, through reproductive biotechniques, which allow reducing the age at puberty, reducing reproductive seasonality and increasing the ovulatory rate. In addition to hormonal possibilities, alternative methods that consider male effect and nutrition are considered efficient for cycle control. This article aims to review the estrous cycle control protocols and productive increase in sheep farming.(AU)

Mastectomia a campo em ruminantes - aspectos cirúrgicos e clínico-patológicos / Field mastectomy in ruminants - surgical and clinicopathological aspects

Background: We report the case of 3 cows, 1 ewe, and 1 doe, with chronic mastitis and which underwent a mastectomy. All animals had a history of mastitis, edema with purulent secretion in the udder region, areas of abscess formation, fibrosis, hypogalactia, and agalactia. The animals had already been treated with systemic antibiotic therapy and anti-inflammatory drugs without response. The objective of this work is to describe the surgical and clinicopathological aspects of performing a radical mastectomy in the field in 3 cows and 1 ewe, and a partial mastectomy in a doe, with both procedures performed successfully and considered efficient to maintain the survival of the affected animals, in addition to being economically viable. Cases: In all animals reported in the study, a general and a specific clinical examination were performed, where on palpation of the udder were observed an increase in the region of the mammary apparatus, fluid fluctuation, areas of fibrosis with increased stiffness, and loss of udder functionality. In the case of the doe, there was a functional teat, which was preserved during the surgical procedure. Radical mastectomy was performed in 3 cows and 1 ewe, and the doe underwent a partial mastectomy, with preservation of the functional teat. All animals have fasted for food and water for 48 h. In cows, the anesthetic protocol consisted of 2% xylazine hydrochloride [0.15 mg/kg, intramuscularly (IM)], followed by an epidural block in the lumbosacral region with 2% lidocaine hydrochloride [10 mL]. The midazolam hydrochloride [0.1 mg/kg, intravenously (IV)] and 2% xylazine hydrochloride [0.05 mg/kg, IM] were administered to the ewe and the doe, also associated with lumbosacral epidural anesthesia with 2% lidocaine hydrochloride [5 mL]. The animals were positioned in the right lateral decubitus position and the entire abdominal and udder region were shaved and sanitized for the surgical procedures of radical mastectomy and partial mastectomy, with the use of degerming and topical povidone-iodine. The postoperative period consisted of penicillin-based antibiotic therapy associated with streptomycin [24,000 IU/kg, IM, 10 consecutive days] and flunixin meglumine [2 mg/kg, IM, 3 consecutive days] in cows; enrofloxacin [2.5 mg/kg, IM, 7 consecutive days] and flunixin meglumine [0.5 mg/kg, IM, 5 consecutive days] in the ewe; oxytetracycline [10 mg/kg, IM, 5 applications on alternate days] and flunixin meglumine [0.5 mg/kg, IM, 3 consecutive days] in the doe. In all animals, the cleaning of the surgical wound was performed daily with 10% topical Povidone-iodine and Permethrin ointment, for 14 days, when the stitches were removed. Discussion: The choice of the surgical procedure resulted in improvement of the clinical conditions and increased survival of all animals, and in the case of the doe, partial mastectomy contributed to the preservation of the functional teat, preserving its productive capacity. All anesthetic protocols used and the anatomical positioning of the animals were satisfactory for performing the procedures. Although they are techniques described in the literature with great blood loss, especially in cows, blood transfusion was not required in any of the animals. The stitches were removed 14 days after the surgical procedures, and the surgical wound was completely healed.

Differences in the typology of dairy systems producing artisanal cheese and those producing only raw milk in Paraná state, Brazil

We sought to develop a typology describing structural, production, and socioeconomic characteristics of dairy systems that produce artisanal cheese and compare it with that of systems that produce only raw milk. Data on 204 raw milk producers and 58 artisanal cheese producers in Paraná State, Brazil, were collected through on-site surveys and subjected to descriptive analysis, factor analysis, and means tests. Descriptive analyses were applied to characterize the sample and artisanal cheese production processes. Factor analysis identified the following three typological components: system production capacity, herd breed and milking characteristics, and farmer social characteristics. Farmers were divided into two groups, as follows: non-cheese producers (NCP) and artisanal cheese producers (ACP). Groups of farmers were compared in terms of typological components. It was found that ACP have smaller structure and production scale and focus less on herd breed and practices for improving milk quality than NCP. These results suggest that artisanal cheese production is a strategy to add value to milk that does not meet institutional or market requirements for transactions with the dairy industry, providing a foothold for producers to remain in the dairy business. Groups of farmers (ACP and NCP) do not differ in social indicators of typology.

Emulsifiers in diets with energy reduction for laying hens

Emulsifiers in animal diets are an interesting and effective strategy for nutritionists to improve the digestion of dietary lipids and, consequently, provide better performance. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of the supplementation of diets with emulsifier based on mono-and diglycerides (120 g t-1of feed) associated with different energy levels (2,775; 2,725; 2,675 and 2,625 kcal of metabolizable energy kg-1of feed) on performance and egg quality of Hisex Brown laying hens. The laying hens weredistributed in 50 experimental plots with eight birds each. A completely randomized design with five treatments and ten replicates/treatments was used. The treatments in this study were: control diet (C) with 2,775 kcal of metabolizable energy (ME) kg-1of feed; C + E: diet C supplemented with an emulsifier (E) at 120 g t-1of feed; diet C with reduction of 50 kcal ME and supplemented with E (NC50 + E); diet C with reduction of 100 kcal ME and supplemented with E (NC100 + E); and diet C with reduction of 150 kcal ME and supplemented with E (NC150 + E). All diets had the same inclusion level of degummed soybean oil (2%). There was no influence of the treatments on the performance and quality of the eggs (p >0.05). The current study has shown that diets supplemented with emulsifiers based on mono-and diglycerides (120 g t-1) allows reducing the metabolizable energy level up to 150 kcal kg-1of feed, without impairment on performance and egg quality of Hisex Brown laying hens.(AU)

Can farmers' combined-tillage promote the agricultural production efficiency? - Evidence from land fragmentation / O plantio combinado dos agricultores pode promover a eficiência da produção agrícola? - Evidência da fragmentação da terra

ABSTRACT: With the gradual transfer of an enormous young and middle age labor force from agricultural field to non-agricultural sectors, the negative role of land fragmentation (LF), which is related to food security, is increasingly reflecting in the process of agricultural modernization. Meanwhile, the positive roles of farmers' combined-tillage in production are gradually emerging. Based on the above background, this study explained the relationship among farmers' combined-tillage, LF and agricultural production efficiency (APE). The study used survey date and the SFA-QR model to empirically investigate the effects of LF and farmers' combined-tillage on APE. Furthermore, this article analyzed the moderating effect of farmers' combined-tillage on the relationship between LF and APE. The results demonstrated that: (1) Farmers combined-tillage improves the APE significantly, especially on low and medium efficiency households; (2) LF has a negative impact on APE, especially on low and medium efficiency households; (3) Combined-tillage could alleviate the adverse effects of LF on APE. In this regard, the paper also proposed some suggestions to face the adverse effects of LF and promote farmers' combined-tillage in production.

RESUMO: Com a transferência gradual de enorme força de trabalho jovem e de meia idade do campo agrícola para os setores não agrícolas, o papel negativo da fragmentação da terra (LF), relacionada à segurança alimentar, está cada vez mais refletido no processo de modernização agrícola. Enquanto isso, os papéis positivos da lavoura combinada dos agricultores na produção estão surgindo gradualmente. Com base no histórico acima, o objetivo deste estudo é explicar a relação entre o plantio direto dos agricultores, LF e eficiência da produção agrícola (APE). O estudo usou dados do levantamento e o modelo SFA-QR para investigar empiricamente os efeitos da FL e do plantio direto dos agricultores sobre o APE. Além disso, este artigo analisou o efeito moderador do plantio combinado dos agricultores na relação entre LF e APE. Os resultados demonstram que: (1) A lavoura combinada dos agricultores melhora significativamente o APE, especialmente em domicílios de baixa e média eficiência; (2) LF tem um impacto negativo na APE, especialmente em domicílios de baixa e média eficiência; (3) A lavoura combinada pode aliviar os efeitos adversos do LF no APE. Nesse sentido, o trabalho também propõe algumas sugestões para enfrentar os efeitos adversos da FL e promover o plantio combinado dos agricultores na produção.

Can farmers' combined-tillage promote the agricultural production efficiency? - Evidence from land fragmentation / O plantio combinado dos agricultores pode promover a eficiência da produção agrícola? - Evidência da fragmentação da terra

With the gradual transfer of an enormous young and middle age labor force from agricultural field to non-agricultural sectors, the negative role of land fragmentation (LF), which is related to food security, is increasingly reflecting in the process of agricultural modernization. Meanwhile, the positive roles of farmers' combined-tillage in production are gradually emerging. Based on the above background, this study explained the relationship among farmers' combined-tillage, LF and agricultural production efficiency (APE). The study used survey date and the SFA-QR model to empirically investigate the effects of LF and farmers' combined-tillage on APE. Furthermore, this article analyzed the moderating effect of farmers' combined-tillage on the relationship between LF and APE. The results demonstrated that: (1) Farmers combined-tillage improves the APE significantly, especially on low and medium efficiency households; (2) LF has a negative impact on APE, especially on low and medium efficiency households; (3) Combined-tillage could alleviate the adverse effects of LF on APE. In this regard, the paper also proposed some suggestions to face the adverse effects of LF and promote farmers' combined-tillage in production.

Com a transferência gradual de enorme força de trabalho jovem e de meia idade do campo agrícola para os setores não agrícolas, o papel negativo da fragmentação da terra (LF), relacionada à segurança alimentar, está cada vez mais refletido no processo de modernização agrícola. Enquanto isso, os papéis positivos da lavoura combinada dos agricultores na produção estão surgindo gradualmente. Com base no histórico acima, o objetivo deste estudo é explicar a relação entre o plantio direto dos agricultores, LF e eficiência da produção agrícola (APE). O estudo usou dados do levantamento e o modelo SFA-QR para investigar empiricamente os efeitos da FL e do plantio direto dos agricultores sobre o APE. Além disso, este artigo analisou o efeito moderador do plantio combinado dos agricultores na relação entre LF e APE. Os resultados demonstram que: (1) A lavoura combinada dos agricultores melhora significativamente o APE, especialmente em domicílios de baixa e média eficiência; (2) LF tem um impacto negativo na APE, especialmente em domicílios de baixa e média eficiência; (3) A lavoura combinada pode aliviar os efeitos adversos do LF no APE. Nesse sentido, o trabalho também propõe algumas sugestões para enfrentar os efeitos adversos da FL e promover o plantio combinado dos agricultores na produção.

Behavioral, productive, and reproductive aspects of the water buffalo in Mexico

Water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) production in Mexico has generated particular interest in understanding the bases of the development of this species. As a result, alliances have emerged between scientific, governmental, industrial, and productive sectors and other organisms involved with this species nationally and internationally. We must recognize that thanks to specific anatomical characteristics, water buffaloes present a low incidence of complications during calving, though they are not exempt from obstetric and perinatological problems that can end in morbidity and mortality for mother and/or offspring, with losses for both branches of dual-purpose production systems: calves-milk and meat, and draft animals. This article analyzes scientific advances related to water buffalo production in Mexico, including productivity, thermoregulation, behavior, and physiology, and key subthemes like obstetric and perinatological handling, imprinting, milking, and dual-purpose production systems. It highlights features inherent to milk production and the neurophysiological and metabolic processes involved in obtaining meat and milk. Finally, it presents a brief overview of current legislation and summarizes key areas of opportunity.(AU)

Effect of different lighting sources on the performance of broiler breeder hens

The present study aimed to evaluate the effects of using light-emitting diode (LED) lamps versus incandescent/tungsten (Inc) bulbs on broiler breeder hens' productive performance during the brooding and rearing periods (25 weeks), as well as the first 15 weeks of production. A total of 46600 one-day-old Arbor Acres Plus breeder chicks were placed in eight enclosed houses and randomly/evenly divided into two groups (four houses for each group): birds raised under yellow LED lighting, and birds raised under orange Inc lighting. Several traits have been studied to determine productive performance, including body weight at different ages, body weight gain, feed consumption, feed conversion ratio, mortality rate, uniformity, age and weight at sexual maturity, egg number, egg production rate, egg number per bird, egg weight, and egg mass. According to the findings, using LED lighting instead of Inc lighting during the rearing period resulted in a significant improvement in all studied traits, and this positive effect continued until the production period, yielding excellent results for all studied production traits. LED lighting proved to be an effective source of lighting in broiler breeders' houses.(AU)

Phytophagous insects and natural enemies on Sapindus saponaria L. (Sapindales: Sapindaceae) plants fertilized with or without dehydrated sewage sludge / Insetos fitófagos e inimigos naturais em plantas de Sapindus saponaria (Sapindales: Sapindaceae) adubadas com ou sem lodo de esgoto desidratado

Management programs and efficient techniques are necessary to recover degraded ecosystems. The sewage sludge is rich in nitrogen (N) and with the potential to fertilize Sapindus saponaria L. (Sapinales: Sapindaceae), used in the recovery of degraded areas; this can affect the insect fauna. The study's objective was to evaluate, for 24 months, the abundance of chewing insects, dipterans, pollinators, and predators on S. saponaria plants fertilized with or without dehydrated sewage sludge in a degraded area. The experimental design was completely randomized (with the same characteristics) with two treatments (with or without dehydrated sewage sludge) and 24 replicates, each with one plant. The abundance of Anastrepha sp. (Tephritidae), Cerotoma sp. (Chrysomelidae), Curculionidae, Musca domestica L. (Muscidae), Mantis religiosa L. (Mantodea: Mantidae), Oxyopidae, Salticidae, Tettigoniidae (Orthoptera), and Teudis sp. (Anyphaenidae) was higher on fertilized plants. The abundances of Teudis sp. and Tmarus sp. (Thomisidae) and M. religiosa and Teudis sp. were positively correlated with chewing insects and Diptera, respectively. The population increase of insects and spiders on S. saponaria plants fertilized with dehydrated sewage sludge (bigger crowns) has shown to be suitable for recovering degraded areas with a higher number of niches and better food quality, improving the ecological indices of the area.

A degradação de ecossistemas torna necessário programas de manejo e técnicas eficientes para recuperá-los. O lodo de esgoto é rico em nitrogênio e com potencial para adubar Sapindus saponaria L. (Sapinales: Sapindaceae), utilizada na recuperação de áreas degradadas, mas isto pode afetar a fauna de insetos. O objetivo foi avaliar, durante 24 meses, abundância de insetos mastigadores, dípteros, polinizadores e predadores em plantas de S. saponaria fertilizadas ou não com lodo de esgoto desidratado, em área degradada. O delineamento experimental foi inteiramente casualisado com dois tratamentos (com ou sem lodo desidratado de esgoto) e 24 repetições, cada uma com uma planta. A abundância de Anastrepha sp. (Tephritidae), Cerotoma sp. (Chrysomelidae), Curculionidae, Musca domestica L. (Muscidae), Mantis religiosa L. (Mantodea: Mantidae), Oxyopidae, Salticidae, Tettigoniidae (Orthoptera) e Teudis sp. (Anyphaenidae) foi maior em plantas adubadas. A abundância de Teudis sp. e Tmarus sp. (Thomisidae) e M. religiosa e Teudis sp. foi, positivamente, correlacionada com as de insetos mastigadores e Diptera, respectivamente. O aumento populacional de insetos e aranhas em plantas de S. saponaria, adubada com lodo desidratado de esgoto (maiores copas), mostra ser adequado para a recuperação de áreas degradadas, tendo essas plantas um maior número de nichos e com alimento de melhor qualidade, melhorando os índices ecológicos na área.

Crescimento de mudas de Cordia trichotoma submetidas a diferentes fontes e doses de fertilizantes / Seedling growth of Cordia trichotoma subjected to different sources and doses of fertilizers

Cordia trichotoma é uma espécie de grande interesse econômico, contudo as informações de suas necessidades nutricionais ainda são incipientes. Dessa forma, objetivou-se avaliar a eficiência e doses adequadas de fontes de fertilizantes para produção de mudas de Cordia trichotoma. O experimento foi conduzido em delineamento inteiramente casualizado, em fatorial 3x5, com três fontes defertilizantes, sendo dois adubos de liberação lenta e uma fonte prontamente solúvel (MAP, combinado com KCl), nas doses de 0, 50, 100, 150 e 200%, em relação a dose recomendada. Aos 270 dias, realizou-se a mensuração das variáveis altura, diâmetro de coleto, massa seca e Índice de Qualidade de Dickson. Para cada variável, foi realizado o cálculo da dose máxima de eficiência técnica (DMET). O uso de MAP e KCl proporcionou crescimento superior das mudas em relação às fontes de ALL, para todas as variáveis avaliadas. As médias de DMET encontradas para o ALL1, ALL2 e MAP e KCl foram de 195%, 190% e 120%, respectivamente. Assim, recomenda-se o uso de MAP e KCl, na dose de 120%, ou seja, 0,08 g L-1de KCl e 0,12 g L-1de MAP para fertilização de mudas de Cordia trichotoma.(AU)

Cordia trichotoma is a species of great economic interest, however information on itsnutritional requirement is still incipiente. Thus, the objective was to evaluate the efficiency and adequate doses ofdifferent sources of fertilizers, for the production of Cordia trichotomaseedlings. The experiment was conducted in a completely randomized design (DIC), in a 3 x 5 factorial, with three different sources of fertilizers, two slow-release fertilizers (ALL1 and ALL2) and the use of readily soluble sources (MAP and KCl). The second factor represents the tested doses 0, 50, 100, 150 and 200%, in relation to a dose considered standard. The doses of the slow-release fertilizer were based on the standard dose of0.44 g seedlings-1, while the readily soluble fertilizer doses were of a fixed dose of 0.08 g seedlings-1 of KCl, and increasing doses ofMAP, based on the standard dose of 0.1 g changes -1. At 270 days after sowing, the variables height, collecting diameter, dry mass and Dickson's Quality Index were measured. For each variable, the maximum technical efficiency dose (DMET) was calculated. The use of MAP and KCl provided superior growth of seedlings in relation to ALL sources, for all variables evaluated. The DMET found for ALL1, ALL2 and MAP and KCl were 200%, 200% and 120%, respectively. Thus, it is recommended to use MAP and KCl, at a doseof 120%, that is, 0.08 g L-1of KCl and 0.12 g L-1 of MAP for fertilization of Cordia trichotomaseedlings.(AU)

Does the use of corn and soybean hulls affect calf performance in the preweaning period?

The objective of this study was to assess the effects of two levels of soybean hulls (0 and 400.1 g/kg) and whole or ground corn in the diet of newborn crossbred dairy male calves on intake, performance, blood indicators, and feeding cost. Twenty-eight calves with an average weight of 33.0±6.2 kg and four days of age were distributed into four treatment groups in a completely randomized design (n = 7) for 56 days. Weekly samples of feed, diets, and leftovers were collected to determine dry matter and nutrient intakes. To evaluate apparent digestibility, samples were taken using titanium dioxide as a maker. Blood samples were also collected to evaluate blood indicators. The inclusion of soybean hulls resulted in greater neutral detergent fiber intake by the calves, but reduced their non-fibrous carbohydrates intake, which was also reduced by the use of whole corn in the diet. Although the total digestible nutrients content of diets decreased with the use of whole corn and inclusion of soybean hulls, its intake did not vary (0.75 kg/d), regardless of the factors analyzed. The apparent digestibilities of dry matter (0.87 kg/kg) and crude protein (0.89 kg/kg) were similar, resulting in similar performance between the animals, regardless of the factors analyzed. In the quantities evaluated, the use of soybean hulls or whole corn did not affect blood indicators and was insufficient to reduce feed costs; the cost of daily feed was $2.06, while the cost per kilogram of gain was $3.74. The inclusion of up to 400.1 g/kg of soybean hulls or the replacement of ground corn with whole corn does not affect the performance of crossbred dairy calves during the preweaning period, demonstrating that both can be used in animal feed during this phase of production.(AU)

Legume inclusion or nitrogen fertilization on Aruana grass overseeded with temperate grasses: Performance, carcass characteristics, and fatty acid profile of the meat of beef steers

The objective of our study was to evaluate the effect of the use of legume (Arachis pintoi) or nitrogen fertilization on animal performance, characteristics of carcass and meat, and fatty acids profile of crossbred steers on Megathyrsus maximus cv. Aruana pasture, overseeded with temperate grasses. The experimental design was completely randomized, with three treatments and three replicates. The experiment was carried out from June to October (127 d). The treatments were: Low-N: 100 kg of N/ha; Medium-N: 200 kg of N/ha; and Legume: Arachis pintoi + 100 kg of N/ha. The pasture with higher nitrogen fertilization (N200) showed a more significant forage mass yield. The mixed grass with legumes presented a higher concentration of saturated fatty acids and saturated:unsaturated ratio in the meat. However, the grass pastures resulted in a higher content of unsaturated fatty acids in the meat. The other pasture variables, and characteristics of carcass and meat were not influenced by the treatments. The increase in nitrogen fertilization, from 100 to 200 kg/ha, and Arachis pintoi mixed with Aruana grass pasture overseeded with black oat and ryegrass does not affect the daily weight gain and the carcass and meat characteristics of the steers. The grass-legume mixture decreases the total concentration of unsaturated fatty acids in meat without influencing the concentration of polyunsaturated fatty acids.(AU)

Effect of Housing Design and Location on Production and Economic Performance of Broiler Chickens during Summer in Botswana

Botswana experiences long, hot summer periods which negatively affect broiler productivity and results in economic losses. To determine these negative effects, two parallel broiler production studies were conducted in the North eastern (NE) and South eastern (SE) regions. In each region, three large scale commercial broiler farms were randomly selected based on similarities in bird management and housing systems. In each farm, one house type (Gable, Hoop and See-saw) was selected for long term flock monitoring (1 to 35 days) over three production cycles. Results showed that the production performance of the broilers in the SE region was superior to that in the NE region, with temperatures on being average higher in the NE than in the SE. The European Production Efficiency Factor (EPEF) was significantly higher (p0.05) between the regions at 9.0% and 7.4% for the NE and SE, respectively. In the NE, the Gable structure had the highest profitability and economic efficiency and was thus superior in comparison to the other house structures.(AU)

Effect of free range rearing on growth and meat quality of three different local chicken's phenotypes

The present study was undertaken in order to evaluate the growth performances and meat quality of three indigenous chickens phenotypes reared under extensive conditions in the region of Chlef in Algeria. A week after hatching, 3 random groups of 35 chicks from each phenotype; normal plumage free-range chicken (NPFRC), crested free-range chicken (CFRC) and naked neck free-range chicken (NNFRC) were chosen and reared in free-range conditions for 18 weeks. The highest growth performance was shown by the crested free-range chicken (CFRC). In terms of meat quality, the analysis of variance (ANOVA) showed that crested phenotype (CFRC) showed the best nutritional qualities especially proteins and moisture. The discriminant analysis revealed that CFRC and NNFRC were better in terms of tenderness and overall acceptability. As consequence of these very interesting qualities, these local breeds should be considered for extensive production in order to provide a good quality meat, while assuring their preservation.(AU)

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

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

Validação do processo de manipulação de fórmulas lácteas com uso de água estéril em uma maternidade do município do Rio de Janeiro, RJ / Validation of the manipulation process of milk formulas using sterile water in a maternity hospital in Rio de Janeiro, RJ

O processo de manipulação no lactário, com posterior armazenamento e transporte, envolve riscos, pois o tempo entre o preparo e o consumo, pode propiciar o crescimento de bactérias patogênicas. O preparo e a manipulação de fórmulas lácteas para neonatos e lactentes deve seguir uma série de precauções para evitar contaminação da fórmula e consequente desfecho negativo. O objetivo deste estudo foi validar o processo de produção de fórmulas lácteas utilizando água estéril, através da análise microbiológica em diferentes momentos do preparo, a fim de garantir uma alimentação segura e de qualidade para os lactentes. A pesquisa foi realizada no lactário de um hospital maternidade por análises microbiológicas de amostras das fórmulas lácteas infantis preparadas com água estéril em diferentes dias, por meio de etapas distintas. Os resultados demonstraram que todas as amostras se encontravam de acordo com os padrões estabelecidos pela legislação brasileira vigente, estando aptas para o consumo humano, comprovando os adequados processos de refrigeração, aquecimento e distribuição. Após a revisão dos Procedimentos Operacionais Padronizados implementou-se um treinamento de educação continuada sobre todas as atividades executadas no lactário, que se estendeu às técnicas de enfermagem, responsáveis pela oferta e monitoramento do tempo de exposição da fórmula em temperatura ambiente, desde o recebimento até a distribuição. É notável a importância do correto processamento e manipulação das fórmulas para prevenir surtos infecciosos e garantir a proteção à saúde infantil, evidenciando que as etapas do processo implementado no presente estudo foram eficazes e podem ser adotadas como rotina diária no lactário.(AU)

The handling process in the dairy, with subsequent storage and transport, involves risks, as the time between preparation and consumption can encourage the growth of pathogenic bacteria. The preparation and handling of infant formulas for neonates and infants must follow a series of precautions to avoid contamination of the formula and consequent negative outcome. The objective of this study was to validate the production process of milk formulas using sterile water, through microbiological analysis at different times of preparation, in order to guarantee safe and quality food for infants. The research was carried out in the lactary of a maternity hospital through microbiological analyzes of samples of infant milk formulas prepared with sterile water on different days, through different steps. The results showed that all samples were in accordance with the standards established by the current Brazilian legislation, being suitable for human consumption, proving the adequate processes of refrigeration, heating and distribution. After reviewing the Standard Operating Procedures, continuing education training was implemented on all activities carried out in the dairy, which was extended to the nursing technicians, responsible for offering and monitoring the exposure time of the formula at room temperature, from receipt to the distribution. The importance of correct processing and manipulation of formulas to prevent infectious outbreaks and ensure the protection of child health is noteworthy, showing that the steps of the process implemented in the present study were effective and can be adopted as a daily routine in the dairy.(AU)

Backyards: typology and contribution to food security in Mexico / Quintais: tipologia e contribuição para a segurança alimentar no México

Backyards are family settings adjacent to the house, characterized mainly by being small-scale and diversified productive spaces. The research typologically characterized the backyards and their contribution to family food security in La Concordia municipality, Chiapas, Mexico. The research was descriptive and mixed, quantitative, and qualitative, and semi-structured interviews were applied to 130 families. For the typification, 21 variables were used, and the statistical techniques of Factorial Analysis and Clusters were applied. The cases studied were classified, according to the relevance of their production and contribution to food security, into two general groups: a) a group of backyards that is more productive and contributes to food security, which in turn includes three subtypes of backyards that differ from each other by their profile towards vegetable or poultry production for subsistence, and/or pigs as a form of savings; b) a group of less productive backyards in which other management strategies for food security are assumed and differ from each other by the level of expulsion of labor force and types of families, nuclear or extended. Poultry and plant species for multiple uses was the most frequently characteristic, regardless of the type of backyard.

Os quintais são ambientes familiares adjacentes à casa, caracterizados principalmente por serem espaços produtivos de pequena escala e diversificados. A pesquisa teve como objetivo caracterizar tipologicamente os quintais e sua contribuição para a segurança alimentar familiar no município de La Concordia, Chiapas, México. A pesquisa foi descritiva e mista, quantitativa e qualitativa, na qual foram aplicadas entrevistas semiestruturadas a 130 famílias. Para a tipificação foram utilizadas 21 variáveis e aplicadas as técnicas estatísticas de Análise Fatorial e Clusters. Os casos estudados foram classificados, de acordo com a relevância de sua produção e contribuição para a segurança alimentar, em dois grupos gerais: a) um grupo de quintais mais produtivos e que contribuem para a segurança alimentar, que por sua vez inclui três subtipos de quintais que diferem entre si pelo seu perfil para a produção de hortaliças ou aves para subsistência, e/ou suínos como forma de poupança; b) conjunto de quintais menos produtivos em que se assumem outras estratégias de gestão da segurança alimentar e diferem entre si pelo nível de expulsão de mão de obra e tipos de famílias, nucleares ou extensas. Aves e espécies vegetais de uso múltiplo foi a característica mais encontrada, independente do tipo de quintal.

Self-pollination, intra- and interspecific crosses in tomatoes

Tomato genotypes ( Solanum spp.) have genetic variability of most desirable features, such as resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses. However, incompatibility of crosses of wild genotypes with domesticated tomatoes, or even between wild genotypes, hinders the breeding process. Thus, knowledge of the reproductive biology of genotypes and conditions is necessary to maximize the success of artificial crossings. This study evaluated the compatibility of self-pollination, intra- and interspecific controlled crosses, stigma receptivity, and pollen viability in tomato genotypes. We used two commercial genotypes S. lycopersicum ('RVTM08' and 'Redenção') and seven accessions of wild tomato genotypes ('AF 26970', 'LA-1401', 'AF 19684', 'LA-1967', 'PI-127826', 'PI-134417', and 'LA-716'). We evaluated all crosses and their reciprocals, besides the self-pollinations. The variables evaluated were fruit index (FI), number of seeds per fruit (SN), and seed germination percentage (GP). Stigma receptivity and grains' pollen viability index (PVI) were also assessed. The results showed that 'LA-1967' was self-incompatible, had a low PVI, and generated fruit without seeds in most crosses. As female parents, 'RVTM08', 'Redenção', 'AF 26970', 'LA-1401', and 'AF 19684' showed higher FI and SN. There was a wide diversity of reproductive characteristics between the genotypes and crosses that did not influence GP. Compatibility of crosses in tomatoes is determined by the female parent choice and can be affected by stigma receptivity and the PVI.(AU)

Yield response factor (Ky) and initial growth in black pepper in a tropical environment

Black pepper is widely produced in Brazil, though there are few studies related to its water requirements and the effects of water deficit (WD) applied under tropical conditions. The growth, sensitivity to WD, and first-year productivity of irrigated plants from the Bragantina cultivar were evaluated, employing an irrigation system with automatic management. The plants were cultivated in plastic pots installed in the field for 391 days using emitters with different flow rates (2.2 [T1], 3.3 [T2], 4.3 [T3], and 5.3 L h­1 [T4 ­ control]). Fresh weight of the leaves, stems, and shoots, and dry weight of the leaves, stem, roots, and shoots as well as the total dry weight of the plant, were evaluated. Productivity was determined by evaluating the grains and spikes from a single harvest. Yield results and the actual versus maximum evapotranspiration rate for the entire growing season was used for calculating the Ky coefficient. Despite 1,346 mm of rainfall, the irrigation system was activated 165 times, distributing a mean volume of 19.0 (T1), 28.5 (T2), 37.1 (T3), and 45.8 L per plant (control). All traits were negatively affected by the WD, and the Ky values obtained (from 1.72 to 2.96) indicate the high sensitivity of black pepper to WD. In general, the spikes produced with at least 81 % of the crop water demand were larger and more numerous than those subjected to inferior treatments. WD occurring during the flowering stage severely hampers the size, weight, and quality of the spikes and grains of black pepper.(AU)

Effects of Saccharomyces Cerevisiae Supplemented Diet on Production Performance, Egg Quality and Humoral Immunity in Black Australorp and Fayoumi Layers

The present study intended to identify the effects of the Saccharomyces cerevisiae yeast on production performance and parameters related to the quality of layers' eggs. Effects of yeast on immune titers after routine vaccinations against Newcastle disease and infectious bronchitis were also studied. Fayoumi chicken (n=288) were divided in four groups (72 in each), and Black Australorp (n=288) in four groups (72 in each). Both had 12 weeks of age and were kept in 08 groups (3 replicates per treatment). Hens were fed a controlled diet along with the addition of 0.5g, 1.0 g, and 1.5 g of S. cerevisiae per kg of feed, till 25 weeks of age. Feed intake and egg production were measured on a daily basis, while body weight gain and egg weight were measured weekly. Egg quality parameters were evaluated by picking 5 eggs from every group weekly. Birds were vaccinated for Newcastle disease (ND) and infectious bronchitis (IB) at the 18th week. Subsequently, 10 days after vaccination, antibody titers were determined by Hemagglutination Inhibition and Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay for both diseases. Results showed no significant effect of S. cerevisiae on layers' weight gain and feed intake. However, egg production was increased in the experimental group. Moreover, yeast supplementation impacted positively on birds' immune system. In conclusion, probiotic supplementation improved birds' egg production and immunity.(AU)