Effects of amylin on egg quality traits of hens during the early laying period

This study was conducted to investigate the effects of amylin, a pancreatic hormone polypeptide, on egg quality traits in laying hens. A total of 40 birds (14 wk of age) were randomly divided into two treatments with two replicates, 10 birds in each replicate. Twenty birds were subcutaneously injected with amylin at 75 µg/kg every other day (treatment 1), and the remaining animals (20 hens) were given only water as the control group (treatment 2). Eggs collected from the two groups (140 eggs per group) were examined for several quality performance traits such as egg weight, specific gravity, shape index, eggshell strength, eggshell thickness, eggshell ash, eggshell weight, Haugh unit (HU), albumen index, yolk index, yolk color, and albumen height. The results indicated that amylin had a positive effect on some egg quality traits in laying hens. Specific gravity, eggshell thickness, eggshell weight, HU, albumen index, yolk index, and albumen height, which are all considered as important quality parameters from the consumer point of view, especially HU, were relatively improved in the amylin treatment group. These results showed that the injection of 75 µg/kg amylin has a significant effect on some egg quality traits. Considering that egg quality characteristics are crucial for the egg industry, this study can be a reference for the detailed investigation of the use of amylin in the different stages of egg production.

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)

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)

Vegetable lipid sources in the diet of japanese quails in the rearing phase and effects on the initial phase of production / Fontes lipídicas vegetais na alimentação de codornas japonesas em fase de recria e sua repercussão na fase inicial de produção

This study aims to evaluate the residual effect of different lipid sources in the diet of Japanese quails (Coturnix japonica) in the rearing phase on the performance and egg quality in the initial phase of egg-laying. In the first stage, 400 Japanese quails aged 21 days were used, being distributed in a completely randomized experimental design, with five treatments and ten replicates of eight birds/replicate Treatments consisted of basal ration (BR) with 2.5% soybean oil; BR with 2.5% corn oil; BR with 2.5% cottonseed oil; BR with 2.5% sunflower oil; and BR with 2.5% canola oil.At 42 days, maintaining the initial design, all quails received a basal ration with soybean oil, in order to evaluate the residual effect of the previous phase on the performance and egg quality in the initial phase of egg-laying (43 - 84 days). The different lipid sources did not affect the performance of quails in the initial phase of production. For egg quality, yolk height, yolk diameter, yolk index, gravity, and Haugh unit (HU) showed better results in the treatment using sunflower oil. There was a residual effect of the use of lipid sources of vegetable origin in the rearing phase diet of Japanese quails on egg quality traits. Lipid sources from soybean, corn, cottonseed, canola, and sunflower seeds can be used as energy sources in the rearing diet of egg-laying quails for not being harmful to their initial performance. The longevity in egg production of quails fed with different lipid sources in the rearing phase was similar.

A pesquisa foi conduzida com objetivo de avaliar o efeito residual de diferentes fontes lipídicas na dieta de codornas japonesas (Coturnix japonica) na fase de recria sob o desempenho e a qualidade de ovos na fase inicial de postura. Na primeira etapa foram utilizadas 400 codornas japonesas com idade de 21 dias, as aves foram distribuídas em tratamentos seguindo um delineamento inteiramente casualizado com dez repetições, de oito aves, em cinco tratamentos: ração basal (RB) com 2,5% de óleo de soja, RB com 2,5 % de óleo de milho, RB com 2,5% de óleo algodão, RB com 2,5% de óleo de girassol e RB com 2,5% de óleo de canola. Aos 42 dias mantendo o delineamento inicial, todas aves receberam ração basal com óleo de soja, para que fosse avaliado o efeito residual da fase anterior sobre o desempenho e a qualidade dos ovos na fase inicial de postura (43 - 84 dias). As diferentes fontes lipídicas não afetaram o desempenho das aves na fase inicial de produção. Para a qualidade dos ovos, os parâmetros de altura, diâmetro e índice de gema, gravidade e UH foram melhores no tratamento com utilização de óleo de girassol. Houve efeito residual da utilização de fontes lipídicas de origem vegetal na dieta em fase de recria de codornas japonesas sobre as características da qualidade dos ovos. As fontes lipídicas oriundas das sementes de soja, milho, algodão, canola e girassol podem ser utilizadas como ingredientes energéticos na dieta de recria de codornas poedeiras por não serem prejudiciais ao desempenho inicial das aves. A longevidade na produção dos ovos das aves alimentadas com diferentes fontes lipídicas na fase de recria foi semelhante.

Performance, physical egg quality, and economic index of laying hens under different rearing systems / Desempenho, qualidade do ovo e índice econômico de poedeiras em diferentes sistemas de criação

The objective was to evaluate the performance, physical egg quality (weight and gravity), and economic index of laying hens reared in cage and cage-free systems. A total of 312 40-week-old Hy-line brown laying hens were distributed in a fully randomized design, split into two treatments (cage-free and cage) with 12 replicates in each system. We housed 144 birds in galvanized-wire cages (12 birds each) and 168 birds in a cage-free system in boxes with wood shaving bedding (14 birds each). The experiment lasted 112 days and divided into four 28-day periods. Regarding performance, feed intake (g) and feed conversion (g/g) of birds reared in the cage-free system were higher (p<0.0001) than the cage system, but no differences were observed (p>0.05) for the other performance parameters and also for egg quality. As for economic index, egg production in the cage-free system was higher (p<0.0001) than the cage system. In conclusion, birds reared in the cage-free system have higher feed consumption but worse feed conversion, increasing egg production cost compared to caged birds; however, there are no changes in egg production and physical quality.(AU)

Objetivou-se avaliar o desempenho, qualidade de ovos e índice econômico de poedeiras semipesadas criadas em sistemas cage-free e em gaiolas. Foram utilizadas 312 poedeiras da linhagem Hy Line Brown, com 40 semanas de idade, distribuídas em um delineamento inteiramente casualisado (DIC), em dois tratamentos (cage-free e gaiolas) com 12 repetições em cada sistema, sendo 144 aves alojadas em gaiolas de arame galvanizado com 12 aves em cada gaiola e 168 aves alojadas em sistema cage-free, em boxes sobre cama de maravalha com 14 aves em cada repetição. O experimento teve duração de 112 dias, divididos em quatro períodos de 28 dias. Nos parâmetros de desempenho, o consumo de ração (g/aves/dia) e a conversão alimentar (g/g) foi maior (P<0,0001) nas aves criadas no sistema cage-free comparado ao sistema de gaiolas, não sendo observado diferença (P>0,05) nos demais parâmetros de desempenho e também na qualidade de ovos. No índice econômico, a produção de ovos em sistema cage-free apresentou maior valor (P<0,0001) em relação ao sistema de gaiola. Conclui-se que as aves criadas em sistema cage-free apresentam maior consumo de ração, pior conversão alimentar ocasionando um maior custo nos ovos em relação às aves criadas em gaiolas, no entanto não há alteração na produção e qualidade dos ovos.(AU)

Diferentes densidades de alojamento de galinhas poedeiras em gaiolas e suas respectivas produção, qualidade de ovos e escore de penas / Different housing densities of laying hens in cages and their production, egg quality andfeather score

As poedeiras criadas em sistema degaiolas tem seu bem-estar afetado devido ao menor espaço disponível para elas, o que vai de encontro da crescente pressão por grande parte de consumidores preocupados com as condições em que essas aves são criadas. A consequência dessa menor densidade de alojamento sobre a produtividade, e a qualidade de vida da ave e dos ovos por elas produzidos deve ser avaliada. O objetivo desse estudo é avaliar a produção, qualidade de ovos, e bem-estar de galinhas poedeiras criadas em diferentes densidades de alojamentos em gaiolas. Às 28 semanas de idade, foram distribuídas, em delineamento inteiramente casualizado, 120 poedeiras leves da linhagem Novogen White, após debicagem, em 24 gaiolas com dimensões de 45 cm x 50cm, em três diferentes densidades de alojamento: 562,5 cm² /ave (quatro aves/gaiola), 450 cm² /ave (cinco aves/gaiola) e 375 cm² /ave(seis aves/gaiola), com 8 repetições cada. As dietas experimentais foram isoproteicas e isoenergéticas, formuladas à base de milho e farelo de soja. O período experimental será compreendido por seis ciclos de 28 dias cada. As variáveis analisadas foram: peso do ovo, índice de gema, unidade Haugh, pigmentação da gema, porcentagem dos componentes dos ovos e espessura de casca (em milímetros). Quando as aves atingiram 44 semanas de idade, foi realizada a medição do escore de penas. Foram avaliadas 40 galinhaspor tratamento, em quatro regiões: peito, dorso, asas e posterior. Essa análise consiste emcategorizar as aves de acordo com três diferentes escores, de acordo com o tamanho da área de ausência de penas em cada região. Espera-se que a redução da densidade de alojamento das galinhas nas gaiolas propicie maior produção com melhor qualidade dos ovos, promovendo também melhor bem-estar das aves.(AU)

The well-beingof laying hens raised in cages is affected due to the smaller space available for them,which is in line with the growing pressure from a large number of consumers concerned about the conditions in which these birds are raised.The consequence of thislower housing density on productivity and the quality of life of the bird andthe eggs produced by them must be evaluated. The aim of this study is to evaluate the production, egg quality, and welfare of laying hens reared in different housing densities in cages. At 28 weeks of age, 120 light Novogen White laying hens were distributed, after beak trimming, in24 cages measuring 45 cm x 50 cm, in three different housing densities: 562.5 cm²/bird (four birds/cage), 450 cm²/bird (five birds/cage) and 375 cm²/bird (six birds/cage), with 8 repetitions each. The experimental diets were isoproteic and isoenergetic, based on corn and soybean meal. The trial period will comprise six cycles of 28 days each. The variables analyzed were: egg weight, yolk index, Haugh unit, yolk pigmentation, percentage of egg components and shell thickness (in millimeters). When the birds reached 44 weeks of age, the feather score was measured. Forty chickens per treatment were evaluated in four regions: chest, back, wings and hindquarters. This analysis consists of categorizing the birds according to three different scores, according to thesize of the area without feathers in each region. It is expected that the reduction in the hen housing density in the cages will lead to higher production with better egg quality, also promoting better hen welfare.(AU)

Insect meal in poultry feed: a potential protein source

The present study aims to conduct a review on the potential use of insect meal as an alternative protein source in poultry feed, particularly to serve the rearing of free-range chickens. Insects are already part of the diet of birds in their natural habitat, and the availability of low-cost alternative foods with low environmental impact is essential for the development of the activity. The review comprehended studies that used meals consisting of silkworm (Bombyx mori) chrysalis, earthworm (Eisenia foetida), housefly (Musca domestica), black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens) and mealworm beetle (Tenebrio molitor) to replace plant-based protein sources. In general, insect meals have a high content of crude protein and ether extract, as well as an essential amino acid profile suitable for poultry feeding. The addition of insect meal in poultry feed normally shows good results as to growth performance and egg production, without causing a negative effect on carcass characteristics, meat sensory quality and egg quality, presenting itself as an alternative protein source with good prospects for replacing plant-based sources in poultry feed.(AU)

Artificial neural networks for the management of poultry industry: a simulation based on the broiler production chain / Redes neurais artificiais para o gerenciamento da indústria avícola: uma simulação baseada na cadeia de produção de frangos de corte

The aim of this study was to predict production indicators and to determine their potential economic impact on a poultry integration system using artificial neural networks (ANN) models. Forty zootechnical and production parameters from broiler breeder farms, one hatchery, broiler production flocks, and one slaughterhouse were selected as variables. The ANN models were established for four output variables: "saleable hatching", "weight at the end of week 5," "partial condemnation," and "total condemnation" and were analyzed in relation to the coefficient of multiple determination (R2), correlation coefficient (R), mean error (E), mean squared error (MSE), and root mean square error (RMSE). The production scenarios were simulated and the economic impacts were estimated. The ANN models were suitable for simulating production scenarios after validation. For "saleable hatching", incubator and egg storage period are likely to increase the financial gains. For "weight at the end of the week 5" the lineage (A) is important to increase revenues. However, broiler weight at the end of the first week may not have a significant influence. Flock sex (female) may influence the "partial condemnation" rates, while chick weight at first day may not. For "total condemnation", flock sex and type of chick may not influence condemnation rates, but mortality rates and broiler weight may have a significant impact.

O objetivo deste trabalho foi predizer os indicadores de produção e determinar o seu potencial impacto econômico em um sistema de integração utilizando as redes neurais artificiais (RNA). Quarenta parâmetros zootécnicos e de produção de granjas de matrizes e de frango de corte, um incubatório e um abatedouro foram selecionados como variáveis. Os modelos de RNA foram estabelecidos para quatro variáveis de saída ("eclosão vendável", "peso ao final da quinta semana", "condenações parciais" e "condenações totais") e foram analisados em relação ao coeficiente de determinação múltipla (R2), coeficiente de correlação (R), erro médio (E), erro quadrático médio (EQM) e raiz do erro quadrático médio (REQM). Os cenários produtivos foram simulados e os impactos foram estimados. Os modelos de RNA gerados foram adequados para simular diferentes cenários produtivos após o treinamento. Para "eclosão vendável", o modelo de incubadora e o período de incubação aumentaram os ganhos financeiros. Para "peso ao final da quinta semana", a linhagem também demonstrou influencia no retorno financeiro, o que não aconteceu com o peso ao final da primeira semana. O sexo do lote possui influência nas taxas de "condenação parcial", ao contrário do peso do frango no primeiro dia. As taxas de mortalidade e o peso do frango apresentaram influência na "condenação total", mas o sexo do lote e o tipo de pinto não tiverem influência.

Consumer Preference and Quality Characteristics of Different-category Eggs Sold at Supermarkets in Rio de Janeiro / Preferência do Consumidor e Características de Qualidade em Ovos de Diferentes Categorias Comercializados nos Supermercados do Rio de Janeiro

This study approached the consumer preference and characteristics of eggs from various categories sold at supermarkets in Rio de Janeiro. The study was performed in three phases. In the first one, 180 'caipira' eggs were randomly acquired from three supermarkets considering the consumers' socioeconomic profile (middle, upper, and lower class). In the second phase, 456 eggs from conventional, free-range, 'caipira' and omega-3 enriched categories were obtained without considering the socioeconomic condition. After the acquisition, the eggs were taken for further analyses made the next day. The last phase was based on the perception and prevalence of consumers found in the second stage. This time, 443 consumers answered a Google Forms questionnaire. 'Caipira' eggs sold at supermarkets frequented by upper-class consumers maintained a better quality. When social class was discarded as a criterion, eggs from 'caipira', free-range, organic, and omega-3 enriched systems showed inferior quality compared to conventional eggs. The consumer preferences indicated that much misinformation regarding technical aspects of egg production persists, despite the increasing consumption of this protein source. In addition, the study revealed that many consumers still think there are hormone inputs in poultry farming, and they know very little about the production process or the differences among the egg categories for sale at Brazilian supermarkets.(AU)

O estudo abordou a preferência de consumo e as características de qualidade em ovos de diversas categorias, comercializados em supermercados do Rio de Janeiro e foi realizado em três etapas. Na primeira, foram adquiridos de forma inteiramente casualizada, 180 ovos marrons apenas de categoria caipira, em três diferentes supermercados, considerando o perfil socioeconômico dos consumidores (classe média, baixa e alta). Na segunda, foram adquiridos pelos mesmos critérios e de supermercados distintos, 456 ovos marrons de várias categorias (convencional, free-range, caipira, orgânicos e enriquecidos (ômega-3), sem considerar a condição socioeconômica dos consumidores. Após aquisição, foram levados para análise, que foi realizada no dia seguinte. A terceira etapa, se baseou na percepção e prevalência de consumo de ovos da mesma categoria da segunda etapa, em entrevista na forma de questionário disponibilizado na plataforma Google Forms, para um total de 443 participantes. Ovos de categoria caipira, comercializados em mercados frequentados por consumidores de classe alta, mantiveram melhor a qualidade. Quando não foi considerada a classe social, ovos free-range, caipira, orgânico e enriquecidos apresentaram qualidade inferior, comparado aos convencionais. A preferência de consumo abordada, indicou que o aumento no consumo de ovos, é acompanhado de muita desinformação acerca de vários aspectos inerentes a essa proteína e de forma alarmante, revelou que muitos consumidores ainda acreditam na participação de hormônios na produção de aves, além de pouco ou nada conhecerem sobre como esse alimento é produzido e as diferenças entre as diversas categorias de ovos expostos à venda nos supermercados brasileiros.(AU)

Utilização de métodos alternativos como indutor de muda forçada em codornas poedeiras / Use of alternative methods as an inducer of forced molting in laying quail

Objetivou-se avaliar métodos alternativos de restrição alimentar qualitativa e quantitativa em comparação à técnica convencional de muda forçada em codornas japonesas para o segundo ciclo de produção. O período de muda forçada teve duração de 10 dias e dois períodos de 21 dias de pós-muda. Foram utilizadas 72 codornas japonesas fêmeas, emfinal de produção com 72 semanas deidade. As aves foram distribuídas em delineamento inteiramente casualizado com três tratamentos e quatro repetições cada, com seiscodornas por repetição. Os tratamentos experimentais foram:T1 ­aves submetidas a três dias de jejum com posterior fornecimento de ração de postura à vontade por setedias; T2 ­aves que receberam alimentação controlada (10 g/ave/dia) por 10 dias; T3 ­aves que receberam farelo de arroz à vontade por 10 dias. Durante todo o experimento todasas aves foram submetidas a iluminação natural com média de 12 horas de luz diária e água a vontade e após os 10 dias de muda foi fornecido ração de postura a vontade. A utilização do T2 (10 g/ave/dia de ração de postura) e de farelo de arroz como alimentoalternativo no programa de muda forçada foi viável. Mesmo a perda de peso sendo abaixo do recomentado, as aves que receberam 10 g de ração ave/dia e farelo de arroz à vontade apresentaram resultados de desempenho e qualidade do ovo pós muda semelhantes àsaves que ficaram em jejum, além de possibilitar melhores condições de bem-estar animal.(AU)

The objective was to evaluate alternative methods of qualitative and quantitative feed restriction compared to theconventional technique of forced moulting in Japanese quails for the second production cycle. The forced moulting period lasted 10 days and two 21-day post-molt periods. 72 female Japanese quails were used, at the end of production at 72 weeks of age. Thebirds were distributed in a completely randomized design with three treatments and four replications each, with sixquails per replicate. The experimental treatments were: T1 ­birds submitted to three days of fasting with subsequent provision of layingfeed ad libitum for sevendays; T2 ­birds that received controlled feeding (10 g/bird/day) for 10 days; T3 ­birds that received rice bran ad libitum for 10 days. Throughout the experiment, all birds were submitted tonatural lighting with an average of12hours of daily light and water ad libitum and after 10 days of molting, laying feed was provided ad libitum. The use of T2 (10 g/bird/day of laying ration) and ricebran as an alternativefood in the forced molt program was feasible. Even the weight loss being below the recommended, the birds that received 10 g of poultry feed/day and rice bran ad libitum showed similar post-moult performance and egg quality results to birds that were fasted, in addition to enabling better conditions. of animal welfare.(AU)

Relationship of Linoleic and Alpha-Linolenic Acids on the Productive Performance and Serum Biochemical Profile of Japanese Quail Breeders

Linoleic (LA, 18:2) and alpha-linolenic (ALA, 18:3) acids are omega-6 and omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids considered essential to human and animal health. The optimum LA/ALA ratio for the production of fertile eggs in Japanese quail breeders has been little investigated. Thus, this study aimed to assess the effects of LA/ALA ratio on productive performance, egg quality, serum biochemical profile, body composition, and organ weight in Japanese quail. A completely randomized design was used. Birds were distributed into five treatments consisting of different LA/ALA ratios (1.48:1, 4.57:1, 7.63:1, 10.69:1, and 13.75:1), obtained by adding soybean (LA) and flaxseed (ALA) oils to the feed. Productive performance and egg quality were assessed in three cycles of 28 days each. At the end of the experiment, the birds were slaughtered and evaluated for biochemical profile, genital organ weights, and body composition. Data were subjected to analysis of variance and regression (p<0.05). LA/ALA ratio had no effect on productive performance or egg quality. Blood cholesterol in females and males and total triglycerides in females showed a quadratic response. Breeders fed the highest level of flaxseed oil (1.48:1) had the best serum levels of cholesterol and total triglycerides. Live weight and relative organ weights were not influenced by LA/ALA ratio. Differences in ash and crude protein levels were observed between groups, with LA increasing the deposition of these nutrients. It was concluded that LA/ALA ratio didn't affect productive performance or egg quality. However, based on the results of body composition, serum triglycerides, and cholesterol, it is recommended to use an LA/ALA ratio of 1.48:1 in diets.(AU)

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)

Lutein and zeaxanthin content in corn imported from three countries of the American continent and in corn cultivated in Colombian territory / Conteúdo de luteína e zeaxantina em milho importado de três países do continente americano e em milho cultivado em território colombiano

Lutein and zeaxanthin are the major xanthophyll pigments found in corn kernels. These pigments provide the orange-red color of the broiler chicken skin and of the egg yolk. Therefore, knowing the corn xanthophyll content is important for the poultry feed producer. The objective of this study was to determine the lutein and the zeaxanthin content in corn cultivated in Colombia and in corn imported to Colombia from the United States, Argentina, and Brazil. Large differences in total lutein plus zeaxanthin content were found among the corn samples analyzed, with the highest mean level found in Colombian corn (2,758µg/100g), followed by Argentina (1,861µg/100g), United States (1,041µg/100g) and Brazil (947µg/100g). Large differences in lutein plus zeaxanthin content were also found among different corn hybrids cultivated in Colombia. Differences among geographical regions might be due to differences in UV-B radiation or in the light hours received by the crop during its growth. The differences among different corn hybrids might probably be due to genetic differences. Corn growers might be interested in cultivating hybrids higher in lutein and zeaxanthin as these pigments are very important in poultry production and human eye health.

Luteína e zeaxantina são os principais pigmentos xantofilas encontrados nos grãos de milho. Em aves, esses pigmentos naturais conferem a cor vermelho-alaranjada típica da pele do frango de corte e da gema do ovo. Assim, é importante conhecer o teor de xantofilas do milho utilizado nas dietas de aves. O objetivo deste estudo foi determinar o teor de luteína e zeaxantina em milho cultivado na Colômbia e em milho importado para a Colômbia dos Estados Unidos, da Argentina e do Brasil. Foram encontradas diferenças significativas no teor de luteína total mais zeaxantina entre as amostras de milho analisadas, com o nível médio mais elevado no milho colombiano (2.758µg/100g), seguido pelo milho argentino (1.861µg/100g), pelo milho dos Estados Unidos (1.041µg/100g) e pelo milho brasileiro (947µg/100g). Grandes diferenças no teor de luteína e zeaxantina também foram encontradas entre variados híbridos de milho cultivados na Colômbia. As diferenças entre as regiões geográficas podem ser devido a diferenças na radiação UV-B ou nas horas de luz recebida pela cultura durante seu crescimento. As diferenças entre os diversos híbridos de milho provavelmente podem ser devido a diferenças genéticas. Os produtores de milho podem estar interessados ​​em cultivar híbridos mais ricos em luteína e zeaxantina, pois esses pigmentos são muito importantes na produção de aves e na saúde ocular humana.

Influence of thawing temperature on sperm motility, structure, and metabolism of frozen bovine semen / Influência da temperatura de descongelamento na motilidade, estrutura e metabolismo do sêmen bovino congelado

ABSTRACT: The heating rate used during semen thawing plays an important role in reducing structural and functional damage to spermatozoa. In this study, we evaluated the influence of thawing temperature on semen quality, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, and mitochondrial activity of cryopreserved bovine semen. A total of 195 straws of 0.5 mL from five Holstein Friesian bulls were used (39 straws per bull). Samples underwent 8 to 22 years of storage; they were processed under a standard protocol with tris-egg yolk and stored in liquid nitrogen. Samples were thawed for 30 seconds in a water bath at T1: 36 °C, T2: 38 °C or T3: 40 °C. Sperm motility and kinematics, morphology, structural membrane integrity (SMI), functional membrane integrity (FMI), acrosome integrity (AI), ROS, and mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨM) of post-thawing bovine sperm were evaluated. Generalized linear models were fitted to the data. Each model included the effects of bull, storage time, and treatment. The Shapiro-Wilk test was used to assess data normality, and means were compared using the Tukey test. T2 and T3 showed better results for sperm motility and kinematic parameters, SMI (%) (T1 41.9 ± 2.3; T2 45.7 ± 1.9; T3 47.4 ± 2.8), ROS (RFU/min) (T1 0.026 ± 0.007; T2 0.032 ± 0.001; T3 0.031 ± 0.001) and high-ΔΨM (RFU x 103) (67.1± 0,4; 71.3 ± 0.4; 74.2 ± 0.4) (P < 0.05). However, T1 had higher FMI (39.3 ± 2.3) than T2 (34.0 ± 1.9) (P < 0.05), though not significantly (P > 0.05) different from T3 (38.4 ± 2.2). Thawing temperatures of 38 °C and 40 °C increases motility, kinetics, membrane integrity, mitochondrial activity and ROS of cryopreserved bovine semen, compared with more conventional thawing at 36 °C.

RESUMO: A taxa de aquecimento usada durante o descongelamento do sêmen desempenha um papel importante na redução dos danos estruturais e funcionais nos espermatozóides. O objetivo desta pesquisa foi avaliar a influência da temperatura de descongelamento na qualidade do sêmen, produção de espécies reativas de oxigênio (ROS) e atividade mitocondrial do sêmen bovino criopreservado. Foram utilizados 195 palhetas de 0,5 mL de cinco touros Holstein Friesian (39 palhetas por touro). As amostras passaram por oito a 22 anos de armazenamento e foram processadas sob protocolo padrão com Tris-gema de ovo e armazenadas em nitrogênio líquido. As temperaturas de descongelamento foram T1: 36 °C, T2: 38 °C, T3: 40 °C, cada uma por 30 segundos em banho-maria. Pós-descongelamento, a motilidade e cinética dos espermatozoides, morfologia, integridade estrutural da membrana (SMI), integridade funcional da membrana (FMI), integridade acrossomal (AI), ROS e potencial de membrana mitocondrial (ΔΨM) foram avaliados. Modelos lineares generalizados foram ajustados. Cada modelo incluiu os efeitos de touro, tempo de armazenamento e tratamento. A normalidade dos dados foi avaliada pelo teste de Shapiro-Wilk e as médias comparadas pelo teste de Tukey. T2 e T3 apresentaram resultados mais elevados para a maioria dos parâmetros de motilidade e cinemática espermática, SMI (%) (T1 41,9 ± 2,3; T2 45,7 ± 1,9; T3 47,4 ± 2,8), ROS (RFU/min) (T1 0,026 ± 0,007; T2 0,032 ± 0,001; T3 0,031 ± 0,001) e alto ΔΨM (RFU x 103) (67,1 ± 0,4; 71,3 ± 0,4; 74,2 ± 0,4) (P < 0,05). No entanto, T1 apresentou maior FMI (%) (39,3 ± 2,3) em comparação a T2 (34,0 ± 1,9) (P < 0,05), mas não foi diferente do T3 (38,4 ± 2,2) (P > 0,05). Conclui-se que as temperaturas de descongelamento de 38 °C e 40 °C produzem um aumento na motilidade, cinética, integridade de membrana, atividade mitocondrial e ROS do sêmen bovino criopreservado, em comparação com o uso mais convencional de uma temperatura de descongelamento de 36 °C.

The Effect of Moringa Oleifera Leaf and Canola Seed Powder on Fattening, Laying Performance, Blood Plasma Constituents, and Microbiota in Japanese Quails

The aim of the study was to investigate the effect of feeding Japanese quail chicks with diets containing different levels of Moringa oleifera leaf and canola seed powder on growth performance, carcass yield, blood plasma constituents, and egg production. The trial lasted for a total of 7 weeks, with 5 weeks of fattening and two weeks of laying. The first group was the control group, while the second group was supplemented with Moringa oleifera leaves (4g/kg diet), the third group was supplemented with canola seed powder (4g/kg diet), the fourth group was supplemented with a mix of Moringa oleifera leaves and canola seed powder (8g/kg diet). The results showed that canola seed powder from 0-3 weeks of age increased body weight in comparison to the control group, but there were no significant differences (p<0.05) among groups in terms of the final body weight and feed conversion ratio. Average daily feed intake was significantly different (p<0.05). However, body weight, carcass weight, liver weight, gizzard weight, and abdominal fat weight increased significantly compared to the control group. Feeding Moringa oleifera leaves and canola seed powder significantly increased the total plasma protein, as compared to the control group. There were significant decreases in cholesterol, triglycerides and HDL levels among groups, with no significant differences in glucose, ALT and LDL among all treatments. The addition of Moringa oleifera leaf and canola seed powder showed significant effects on calcium and magnesium. Both Moringa oleifera leaf and Moringa-canola mixture significantly reduced the presence of some pathogenic bacteria in the digestive system, which was seen as an important contribution to the digestive and immune systems.(AU)

Influence of thawing temperature on sperm motility, structure, and metabolism of frozen bovine semen / Influência da temperatura de descongelamento na motilidade, estrutura e metabolismo do sêmen bovino congelado

The heating rate used during semen thawing plays an important role in reducing structural and functional damage to spermatozoa. In this study, we evaluated the influence of thawing temperature on semen quality, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, and mitochondrial activity of cryopreserved bovine semen. A total of 195 straws of 0.5 mL from five Holstein Friesian bulls were used (39 straws per bull). Samples underwent 8 to 22 years of storage; they were processed under a standard protocol with tris-egg yolk and stored in liquid nitrogen. Samples were thawed for 30 seconds in a water bath at T1: 36 °C, T2: 38 °C or T3: 40 °C. Sperm motility and kinematics, morphology, structural membrane integrity (SMI), functional membrane integrity (FMI), acrosome integrity (AI), ROS, and mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨM) of post-thawing bovine sperm were evaluated. Generalized linear models were fitted to the data. Each model included the effects of bull, storage time, and treatment. The Shapiro-Wilk test was used to assess data normality, and means were compared using the Tukey test. T2 and T3 showed better results for sperm motility and kinematic parameters, SMI (%) (T1 41.9 ± 2.3; T2 45.7 ± 1.9; T3 47.4 ± 2.8), ROS (RFU/min) (T1 0.026 ± 0.007; T2 0.032 ± 0.001; T3 0.031 ± 0.001) and high-ΔΨM (RFU x 103) (67.1± 0,4; 71.3 ± 0.4; 74.2 ± 0.4) (P < 0.05). However, T1 had higher FMI (39.3 ± 2.3) than T2 (34.0 ± 1.9) (P < 0.05), though not significantly (P > 0.05) different from T3 (38.4 ± 2.2). Thawing temperatures of 38 °C and 40 °C increases motility, kinetics, membrane integrity, mitochondrial activity and ROS of cryopreserved bovine semen, compared with more conventional thawing at 36 °C.

A taxa de aquecimento usada durante o descongelamento do sêmen desempenha um papel importante na redução dos danos estruturais e funcionais nos espermatozóides. O objetivo desta pesquisa foi avaliar a influência da temperatura de descongelamento na qualidade do sêmen, produção de espécies reativas de oxigênio (ROS) e atividade mitocondrial do sêmen bovino criopreservado. Foram utilizados 195 palhetas de 0,5 mL de cinco touros Holstein Friesian (39 palhetas por touro). As amostras passaram por oito a 22 anos de armazenamento e foram processadas sob protocolo padrão com Tris-gema de ovo e armazenadas em nitrogênio líquido. As temperaturas de descongelamento foram T1: 36 °C, T2: 38 °C, T3: 40 °C, cada uma por 30 segundos em banho-maria. Pós-descongelamento, a motilidade e cinética dos espermatozoides, morfologia, integridade estrutural da membrana (SMI), integridade funcional da membrana (FMI), integridade acrossomal (AI), ROS e potencial de membrana mitocondrial (ΔΨM) foram avaliados. Modelos lineares generalizados foram ajustados. Cada modelo incluiu os efeitos de touro, tempo de armazenamento e tratamento. A normalidade dos dados foi avaliada pelo teste de Shapiro-Wilk e as médias comparadas pelo teste de Tukey. T2 e T3 apresentaram resultados mais elevados para a maioria dos parâmetros de motilidade e cinemática espermática, SMI (%) (T1 41,9 ± 2,3; T2 45,7 ± 1,9; T3 47,4 ± 2,8), ROS (RFU/min) (T1 0,026 ± 0,007; T2 0,032 ± 0,001; T3 0,031 ± 0,001) e alto ΔΨM (RFU x 103) (67,1 ± 0,4; 71,3 ± 0,4; 74,2 ± 0,4) (P < 0,05). No entanto, T1 apresentou maior FMI (%) (39,3 ± 2,3) em comparação a T2 (34,0 ± 1,9) (P < 0,05), mas não foi diferente do T3 (38,4 ± 2,2) (P > 0,05). Conclui-se que as temperaturas de descongelamento de 38 °C e 40 °C produzem um aumento na motilidade, cinética, integridade de membrana, atividade mitocondrial e ROS do sêmen bovino criopreservado, em comparação com o uso mais convencional de uma temperatura de descongelamento de 36 °C.

Ascaridia galli: A report of erratic migration in eggs for human consumption in Bucaramanga, Colombia - case report / Ascaridia galli: Um relatório de migração errática em ovos para consumo humano em Bucaramanga, Colômbia - relato de caso

This case report describes how an erratic specimen of Ascaridia galli in the adult phase was recovered in an unusual way from a hen's egg intended for human consumption. Although the literature on similar events is limited, this appears to be the first case reported in Bucaramanga, Colombia. The parasite was identified directly under a light microscope as an adult female A. galli, 6.5-cm long with 3 trilobed lips. In addition, the remaining eggs of the same group were examined to determine if there were more cases of erratic migration in that same batch. This nematode can cause various pathological conditions, including enteritis, hemorrhage, diarrhea, anemia, weakness, and emaciation, that can lead to huge economic and production losses in the poultry industry.

Este relato de caso descreve como um exemplar errático de Ascaridia galli na fase adulta foi recuperado de uma forma incomum em um ovo de galinha destinado ao consumo humano. Embora a literatura sobre eventos similares seja limitada, este parece ser o primeiro caso relatado em Bucaramanga, Colômbia. O parasita foi identificado diretamente sob um microscópio leve como uma fêmea adulta A. galli, com 6,5 cm de comprimento e 3 lábios trilobados. Além disso, os ovos restantes do mesmo grupo foram examinados para determinar se existiam mais casos de migração errática nesse mesmo lote. Este nemátodo pode causar várias condições patológicas, incluindo enterite, hemorragia, diarréia, anemia, fraqueza e emaciação, que podem levar a enormes perdas econômicas e de produção na indústria avícola.

Use of Mathematical Models in the Analysis of Growth and Commercial Performance of Brown Layers

Small and medium-sized table egg producers have a large volume of data and information on daily production, which is not used in the decision-making process. It is important to define the best mathematical model for the prediction of both the growth and the egg production of brown layers to relate pullet growth traits with productivity in a commercial cycle. For the above purpose, growth and production data were obtained from 15 brown layer flocks, six mathematical models of growth and five of egg production were tested. Correlations were made between the parameters of growth and egg production, as well as between the parameters derived from the mathematical models. The prediction equations for the egg production indicators were estimated.As a result,the best model for predicting layer growth (Gompertz) and for egg production was obtained (Yang). The growth parameters with the greatest influence on egg production were the maximum growth rate (MGR) and the theta value (TV). Body weight at 8, 9, 10, 12, and 16 weeks of age had effects on egg production. As a conclusion maximizing the growth of the brown layer in key stages of its development has positive effects on egg production.(AU)

Bacillus Cereus in Eggshell: Enterotoxigenic Profiles and Biofilm Production

A study was carried out with the objective of determining the presence of Bacillus cereus in eggshells commercialized in Mexico, the enterotoxigenic profile of the isolated strains, and the production of biofilms in different materials as well as in the eggshell. 1000 chicken eggs from four commercial brands were collected from markets and supermarkets located in the city of Chilpancingo, Mexico. Bacillus cereus was isolated from the eggshell. The molecular identification was by amplification of the gyrB gene and the enterotoxigenic profiles by the amplification of the cytK, ces, nheABC, and hblABD genes, in addition to the amplification of the tasA and sipW genes associated with the production of biofilms. In different materials and in eggshells, the production of biofilms was evaluated. The microbiological and molecular analysis of B. cereus yielded a frequency of 5.5% (55/1000), this was higher in brand III (11.6%, p=0.0001) and white eggshell (7.6%, 38/500, p≤0.001) and by marketing source, it was similar between market (5.2% / 26/500) and supermarket (5.8%, 29/500). The most common was the toxigenic profile A (23/55). Biofilm production is high in PVC in relation to other materials (p<0.0001), and the frequency of the related genes tasA and sipW was 72.7% and 40% respectively; the highest production was related to the tasA gene; in eggshell, most of the strains (54/55) were able to produce biofilm. Strains of B. cereus with toxigenic potential circulate and persist in this product, which shows the need for sanitary regulation in the country.(AU)

Effect of Temperature and Feeding Time on Shell Thickness

The objective of this study was to assess the effect of ambient temperature (T) and feeding time (FT) on eggshell thickness (ST) and egg weight (EW) of broiler breeder hens. Thirty 44-week-old Ross 308 broiler breeder hens were randomly distributed into six environmentally controlled chambers and kept in individual cages. Three thermal treatments were applied: 20 ºC (T1), cyclic 20-30 ºC (30 °C between 1000 h and 1800 h) (T2), and 30 ºC (T3). Birds received 180 g of commercial breeder food at 0730 h (FT1) or 1530 h (FT2). There were two replications per treatment and egg collection was performed for seven days. The eggs from the birds at T1 and T2 fed at 1530 h (T1FT2 and T2FT2 respectively) were significantly heavier than those laid by hens at the same T when fed in the morning (T1FT1 and T2FT1); eggs from T1FT1 and T2FT1 were heavier than the eggs from T3, but there were no significant differences between them. Both T and FT had significant effects on ST, but no significant interactions were found. Birds fed at 1530 h had the highest ST, whilst birds at T3 showed the lowest. Birds on T2 produced the thickest shells due to a higher ST in birds fed at 1530 h. Birds fed at 1530 h consumed their food between 1800 h and 2030 h, resulting in a higher dietary Ca2 + available during shell mineralization. The effect of FT and biphasic T treatments on ST in feed restricted broiler breeders should be interpreted considering the length of the high T phase to the actual food consumption time.(AU)