Nutritional, physiological, hematological, and biochemical responses of lambs fed increasing levels of Pornunça silage

ABSTRACT: Pornunça (Manihot sp.) is a potential forage to feed ruminants in drylands worldwide; however, evaluations of animal diets are necessary. This study assessed intake and digestibility of dry matter and nutrients, physiological responses, ingestive behavior, water intake, as well as hematological and biochemical responses of lambs fed diets containing increasing levels of Pornunça silage (PS) replacing Tifton-85 bermudagrass hay (Cynodon spp.). Treatments consisted of 0, 33, 66, and 100 % PS considering the roughage portion of the diet (% dry matter DM). The experimental design was completely randomized with six replicates. Cyanide acid (HCN) levels in fresh Pornunça leaves were 207.7 mg kg1 DM and 76.78 mg kg1 DM in PS. Intake of DM and crude protein (CP), and neutral detergent fiber corrected for ash and protein (NDFap) increased linearly with increasing levels of PS in the diet. Digestibility of DM, NDF, and CP were higher with increasing levels of PS. Idle time decreased linearly, while water balance, water intake via food, and total water in feces increased with PS. Nitrogen balance, physiological, and hematological responses were not influenced by treatments, while the final alanine aminotransferase increased for lambs fed all diets evaluated. The PS up to 100 % of the roughage portion increased DM and nutrient intake and digestibility without altering physiological responses and the hematological and biochemical parameters, resulting in greater water intake via food.

Cardiovascular indicators and mitral valve disease in dogs with spontaneous hypercortisolism - prospective evaluation

Background: Canine hypercortisolism (HC) is the most prevalent endocrinopathy in dogs in southern Brazil. The prognosis depends on several factors including the general health status, owners´ commitment, and the development of disease complications and comorbidities occurrence, such as cardiovascular complications including mitral valve disease (MVD), systemic arterial hypertension, and left ventricular hypertrophy. The main objective of the present study was to assess cardiovascular parameters in canine HC, based on investigating survival-related variables. The study also aimed to evaluate the influence of concurrent preclinical (MVD) on dogs` survival and the impact of HC on MVD progression. Materials, Methods & Results: A total of 25 dogs with spontaneous HC were enrolled and divided into 2 subgroups accordingly to their echocardiographic findings: group HC (normal echocardiography at first evaluation, n = 16); and group HC + MVD (concurrent presence of stages B1 and B2 MVD diagnosed at the first evaluation, n = 9). The patients were evaluated at diagnosis (T0); 6 months after treatment begging (T1); and after 12 months of treatment (T2). The owners were further contacted by phone or e-mail for 1 more year after T2 regarding survival information. A control group (CG, n = 20) was also evaluated at T0 and T1. At each evaluation, dogs were submitted to a complete clinical evaluation and physical exam, associated with a minimum database (CBC, serum biochemistry, and urine analysis) and cardiovascular evaluation composed of systolic blood pressure determination, electrocardiogram (ECG), and echodopplercardiography. In the HC group, 11/16 dogs underwent the evaluation at T2, while 4/9 dogs from the HC + MVD group and 17/20 dogs from the CG underwent the evaluation at T2. Five dogs (31.25%) from the HC group and 4 dogs (44.44%) from the HC + MVD group died before the end of the follow-up period. In the control group, only 1 dog (5.26%) died before the end of the study. Despite the higher mortality in the HC + MVD group during the follow-up period, there was no significant difference (P = 0.632) in survival when compared with the HC group. The MVD of 4 dogs included in the HC + MVD group was classified as stage B1, while the other 5 dogs were classified as stage B2. Only 1 dog from the CG developed stage B1 MVD in the period studied; however, progression of the MVD stage was documented in 1/4 of dogs in the HC + MVD group and MVD development was documented in 3/11 of dogs from the HC group from T0 to T2. The odds ratio (OR) and respective 95% confidence interval (95%CI) for HC as a risk factor for MVD progression were 4.267 (0.4268 - 42.65; P = 0.342). Exercise intolerance (12/16 dogs) and dyspnea (6/16 dogs) were the cardiorespiratory clinical signs with the highest incidence in the HC group at T0. When compared to the control group, both exercise intolerance (P < 0.001) and dyspnea (P = 0.03) occurrence were significantly higher in the HC group. The age (P = 0.001) and the occurrence of dyspnea (P = 0.036) at diagnosis were significantly higher in dogs with HC that died during the follow-up than those that remained alive. Regarding the occurrence of cardiac arrhythmias verified by ECG, no statistically significant differences were observed among groups. Discussion: The study suggests that systemic hypertension and altered echocardiographic measurements did not interfere with dogs' survival; however, dyspnea was associated with a worse prognosis. Finally, it is possible to conclude that mitral valve degeneration is a common comorbidity in dogs with HC, however, it was not evidenced their interference in the survival of dogs with this endocrine disease or even a role of the HC in the progression of the MVD.

Bee pollen from different floral species of the caatinga biome: determination of nutritional parameters / Pólen apícola de diferentes fontes florais da caatinga: determinação de parâmetros nutricionais

The objective of this work was to characterize nutritional parameters of bee pollens from plant species occurring in a semiarid region, in Picos, state of Piaui, Brazil. Bee pollen samples were collected from the experimental apiary of the Study Group on Bees from the Semiarid Region of Piaui (GEASPI/UFPI) and subjected to melissopalynological analysis to determine their botanical origins, and bromatological analysis (crude protein, lipids, fibers, and ash) in the Laboratory of Animal Nutrition of the Department of Zootechnics of the Federal University of Piaui (UFPI), in Teresina, Piaui (DZO/UFPI/Teresina). Six plant species (Aspilia sp., Senna obtusifolia,Mimosa pudica L., Cupheaericoides, Croton sp., and Mimosa caesalpiniifolia) were predominant for bee pollen production in the study area. Therefore, the nutritional compositions of the pollen produced in the Caatinga area varied according to their botanical origin, as shown by the crude protein (20.75% to 38.18%), fiber (0.53% to 1.37%), lipid (0.49% to 4.7%), and total mineral (2.56 to 4.17%) contents. Bromatological parameters also varied according to the botanical origin of the pollens evaluated. The study region has considerable diversity of pollinator plant species that provide bee pollens with a wide spectrum of nutritional characteristics.(AU)

O objetivo do trabalho foi caracterizar, por meio de parâmetros nutricionais, amostras de pólen apícola pro-venientes de espécies vegetais ocorrentes em uma região semiárida, no município de Picos, Piauí. As amostras de pólen apícola foram coletadas do apiário experimental do Grupo de Estudos sobre Abelhas do Semiárido Piauiense (GEASPI/UFPI) e submetidas: 1. à análise melissopalinológica para a determinação das origens botânicas; e 2. às análises broma-tológicas (proteína bruta, lipídeos, fibras e cinzas) no Laboratório de Nutrição Animal do Departamento de Zootecnia (DZO/UFPI/Teresina). Constatou-se que existem seis espécies (Aspilia sp., Senna obtusifolia,Mimosa pudica L., Cupheaericoides, Croton sp. e Mimosa caesalpiniifolia) vegetais predominantes na produção de pólen apícola na área de estudo e assim, o pólen apícola produzido em uma área de Caatinga do município de Picos apresentou composição nutricional que variou de acordo com sua origem botânica: teor de proteína bruta (20,75 a 38,18%), a quantidade de fibras (0,53 a 1,37%), o teor de lipídeos (0,49 a 4,7%) e a quantidade de minerais totais (2,56 a 4,17%). Observou-se que os parâme-tros bromatológicos do pólen apícola variaram de acordo com a origem botânica do produto. Concluiu-se que a região apresenta considerável diversidade de espécies vegetais poliníferas que concedem ao pólen apícola um amplo espectro de características nutricionais.(AU)

Mansoa alliacea extract improves the growth performance and innate immune response of Arapaima gigas challenged with Aeromonas hydrophila and handling stress / Extrato de Mansoa alliacea melhora o desempenho de crescimento e resposta imunológica de Arapaima gigas desafiado com Aeromonas hydrophila e estresse de manejo

This study investigated the effects of dietary supplementation with Mansoa alliacea hydroalcoholic extracts on growth, blood and immune parameters of Arapaima gigas. Fish were fed for 30 days with diets enriched with 0, 4, 8, and 12 g kg-1 of M. alliacea hydroalcoholic extract and subjected to infection with Aeromonas hydrophila and handling stress. Fish fed with 8 g kg-1 of extract showed significant increase in final weight, specific growth rate and feed efficiency when compared to the other groups. Glucose, triglycerides, total proteins, and globulins increased significantly in fish fed with 8 g kg-1 of extract, whereas albumin decreased. The number of thrombocytes increased significantly with the dietary supplementation of 8 and 12 g kg-1 of extract. After the challenge with A. hydrophila and handling stress, fish fed with 8 g kg-1 of extract had significantly higher levels of glucose, globulins, and albumins, and fish fed with 8 and 12 g kg-1 of extract showed an increment of respiratory burst. Triglyceride levels dropped significantly in fish fed with 4, 8, and 12 g kg-1 of extract, whereas the number of neutrophils increased, and total thrombocytes, leukocytes and lymphocytes were higher in fish fed with 12 g kg-1 of extract. Dietary supplementation with M. alliacea extract at 8 g kg-1 was efficient in improving the growth and innate immunity of A. gigas, being potentially useful in fish farming to control the development of A. hydrophila infections.(AU)

Investigou-se os efeitos da suplementação com extrato hidroalcólico de Mansoa alliacea sobre o crescimento e parâmetros sanguíneos e imunológicos de Arapaima gigas. Os peixes foram alimentados por 30 dias com dietas enriquecidas com 0, 4, 8 e 12 g kg-1 de extrato hidroalcoólico de M. alliacea e submetidos à infecção por Aeromonas hydrophila e estresse de manejo. Os peixes alimentados com 8 g kg-1 de extrato apresentaram aumento significativo no peso final, taxa de crescimento específico e eficiência alimentar quando comparados aos demais grupos. Glicose, triglicerídeos, proteínas totais e globulinas aumentaram significativamente nos peixes alimentados com 8 g kg-1 de extrato, enquanto a albumina diminuiu. O número de trombócitos aumentou significativamente com a suplementação dietética de 8 e 12 g kg-1 de extrato. Após infecção com A. hydrophila e estresse de manejo, os peixes alimentados com 8 g kg-1 de extrato apresentaram níveis significativamente mais altos de glicose, globulinas e albuminas, e os peixes alimentados com 8 e 12 g kg-1 de extrato apresentaram incremento de explosão respiratória. Os níveis de triglicerídeos decresceram nos peixes alimentados com 4, 8 e 12 g kg-1 de extrato, enquanto o número de neutrófilos aumentou, e o número total de trombócitos, leucócitos e linfócitos foi maior nos peixes alimentados com 12 g kg-1 de extrato. A suplementação com a 8 g kg-1 de extrato de M. alliacea foi eficiente em melhorar o crescimento e a imunidade inata de A. gigas, sendo potencialmente útil na piscicultura para controlar o desenvolvimento de infecções por A. hydrophila.(AU)

Nutritional, physiological, hematological, and biochemical responses of lambs fed increasing levels of Pornunça silage

Pornunça (Manihot sp.) is a potential forage to feed ruminants in drylands worldwide; however, evaluations of animal diets are necessary. This study assessed intake and digestibility of dry matter and nutrients, physiological responses, ingestive behavior, water intake, as well as hematological and biochemical responses of lambs fed diets containing increasing levels of Pornunça silage (PS) replacing Tifton-85 bermudagrass hay (Cynodon spp.). Treatments consisted of 0, 33, 66, and 100 % PS considering the roughage portion of the diet (% dry matter - DM). The experimental design was completely randomized with six replicates. Cyanide acid (HCN) levels in fresh Pornunça leaves were 207.7 mg kg-¹ DM and 76.78 mg kg-¹ DM in PS. Intake of DM and crude protein (CP), and neutral detergent fiber corrected for ash and protein (NDFap) increased linearly with increasing levels of PS in the diet. Digestibility of DM, NDF, and CP were higher with increasing levels of PS. Idle time decreased linearly, while water balance, water intake via food, and total water in feces increased with PS. Nitrogen balance, physiological, and hematological responses were not influenced by treatments, while the final alanine aminotransferase increased for lambs fed all diets evaluated. The PS up to 100 % of the roughage portion increased DM and nutrient intake and digestibility without altering physiological responses and the hematological and biochemical parameters, resulting in greater water intake via food.

Threonine-to-lysine ratio in laying hens: physiological parameters and organ weight

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of threonine:digestible lysine ratio in the diet on the physiological variablesand weight of organs of light laying hens. Two hundred and ten 47 week-old Dekalb White laying henswere distributed in a completely randomized design, with five levels of threonine (0.507; 0.552; 0.597; 0.642 and 0.677%) and seven replicates of six birds each. The experimental period was 10 weeks, totaling 62 days and more eight days for the animals to adapt. The physiological parameters of cloacal temperature (CT), respiratory rate (RR) and average surface temperature (AST) were recorded weekly (7:00 am, 10:00 am, 1:00 pm, 4:00 pm, and 7:00 pm); after solid and water fasting,the birds were slaughtered to assess the absolute weight of the organs. The time of day influenced (p < 0.05) the physiological parameters RR and AST, and CT showed a significant effect (p < 0.05) of increasing levels of digestible threonine. The total weight of the pancreas, proventriculus and lung showed a significant effect (p < 0.05) of the increase in the levels of digestible threonine. The respiratory rate is affected by the levels of threoninein the diet. The 0.687% level promoted hypertrophy of the pancreas, proventriculus and lung, promoting more significant activity of these organs.(AU)

Association of visual scores with reproductive traits in Nelore cattle using Bayesian Inference / Associação de escores visuais com características reprodutivas em bovinos Nelore utilizando Inferência Bayesiana

The use of morphological traits assessed using visual scores as indirect selection criteria in cattle has the advantage of evaluating young animals regarding potential productive and reproductive performance. This enables breeders to make earlier decisions compared to later measurements, such as scrotal circumference at 450 days (SC450) and stayability (STAY). The aim of this study was to estimate the genetic parameters for visual score traits and their associations with reproductive traits: scrotal circumference at 365 days of age (SC365), SC450, STAY, probability of precocious calving (PPC30) and age at first calving (AFC) in Nellore cattle. Visual score data from 4,175 Nellore cattle, with an average age of 22 months, and reproductive data from 3,075 cattle belonging to the HoRa Genetics Provada herd were used. The morphological traits were evaluated by the MERCOS methodology. The heritability estimates obtained ranged from 0.15 to 0.28 for visual scores and 0.10 to 0.54 for reproductive traits. Genetic correlations between visual scores and reproductive traits were generally low, except between: muscularity and PPC30; structure and STAY; racial and SC450; conformation and SC365, SC450, STAY, and AFC; navel and STAY and AFC; and sacrum and SC365, STAY, and AFC, which were moderate to high. The identification of animals with flat sacral bone (not protruding or sloping) can also be an efficient characteristic in the identification for early pregnancy, and together with the musculature score, they can be related to animals with lower age at the first calving.(AU)

A utilização de características morfológicas de bovinos, pelo uso de escores visuais como critério de seleção indireta tem como vantagem a avaliação em animais jovens quanto ao potencial desempenho produtivo e reprodutivo, antecipando a tomada de decisão em comparação a medidas tomadas de forma tardia, como perímetro escrotal aos 450 dias (PE450) e stayability (STAY). Objetivou-se estimar os parâmetros genéticos para características de escores visuais e a associação dessas com características reprodutivas, perímetro escrotal aos 365 (PE365) dias de idade, PE450, STAY, probabilidade de parto precoce (3P) e idade ao primeiro parto (IPP) em bovinos Nelore. Foram utilizadas informações de escores visuais e de reprodução de 4.175 e 3.075 bovinos, respectivamente, com idade média de 22 meses, pertencentes a fazenda HoRa Genética Provada. As características morfológicas foram avaliadas pela metodologia MERCOS. As estimativas de herdabilidade obtidas apresentam grande amplitude, variando de 0,15 a 0,28 para escores visuais e 0,10 a 0,54 para características reprodutivas. As correlações genéticas entre característica de escores visuais e reprodução foram, de maneira geral baixas (0.03-0.66), com exceção entre a musculosidade e 3P, estrutura e STAY, racial e PE450, conformação com PE365, PE450, STAY e IPP, ônfalo com STAY e IPP, e sacro com PE365, STAY e IPP, que foram moderadas a altas. A identificação de animais com melhor osso sacro (mesmo nível das ancas), ou seja, não saliente ou inclinado pode ser uma característica eficiente na identificação para prenhez precoce, e juntamente ao escore de musculatura poderão ser relacionados a animais com menor idade ao primeiro parto.(AU)

Ethylene responsive element binding factors contributes to waterlogging tolerance by regulating photosynthetic and physiological parameters in petunia / Os fatores de ligação do elemento responsivo ao etileno contribuem para a tolerância ao encharcamento, regulando os parâmetros fotossintéticos e fisiológicos na petúnia

ABSTRACT: Ethylene-responsive element binding factors (ERFs) are widely involved in the regulation of plant responses to different abiotic stresses. In petunia (Petunia × hybrida), PhERF2 belonging to the subfamily Ⅶ of ERF transcription factors participates in the response to waterlogging stress. In this study, we investigated waterlogging tolerance variation of WT and transgenic petunia plants with RNAi silencing and overexpression of PhERF2 through photosynthetic and physiological performance. Chlorophyll content and root vigor declined continuously in both WT and PhERF2 transgenic lines under waterlogging stress, but the extent of the fall in PhERF2-overexpressing lines was less than that in WT and PhERF2-RNAi lines. At the end of waterlogging treatment, soluble protein levels in PhERF2-overexpressing lines were significantly higher than those in WT and PhERF2-RNAi lines, while the latter showed a higher malondialdehyde content overall. Different degrees of reductions in Pn, Gs, and Tr levels occurred in both WT and PhERF2 transgenic lines upon exposure to waterlogging. The Ci levels of PhERF2-overexpressing lines decreased after 3 hours of waterlogging treatment, and the Ci levels of WT and PhERF2-RNAi lines gradually increased from 6 to 72 hours of waterlogging treatment. These data suggested that non-stomatal factors were the primary limiting factors for Pn in WT and PhERF2-RNAi lines under severe stress, while the stomatal opening was the main factor limiting Pn in PhERF2-overexpressing lines. Our results demonstrated that the contribution of PhERF2 to the waterlogging tolerance of petunia appears to depend on the regulation of physiological and photosynthetic responses. PhERF2 represents a hopeful candidate gene for enhancing waterlogging tolerance of ornamental plants.

RESUMO: Fatores de transcrição de resposta ao etileno (ERF) estão amplamente envolvidos na regulação das respostas das plantas a diferentes estresses abióticos. Em petúnia (Petunia × hybrida), PhERF2 pertencente à subfamília Ⅶ de fatores de transcrição ERF participa da resposta ao estresse de alagamento. Este estudo teve como objetivo investigar a variação da tolerância ao alagamento de plantas WT e petúnia transgênica com silenciamento de RNAi e superexpressão de PhERF2 através do desempenho fotossintético e fisiológico. O conteúdo de clorofila e o vigor da raiz diminuíram continuamente em ambas as linhagens transgênicas WT e PhERF2 sob estresse de alagamento, mas a extensão da queda nas linhas de superexpressão de PhERF2 foi menor do que nas linhas WT e PhERF2-RNAi. No final do tratamento de alagamento, os níveis de proteína solúvel nas linhas com superexpressão de PhERF2 foram significativamente maiores do que nas linhas WT e PhERF2-RNAi, enquanto a última mostrou um teor geral de malondialdeído maior. Diferentes graus de reduções nos níveis de Pn, Gs e Tr ocorreram em ambas as linhas transgênicas WT e PhERF2 após a exposição ao alagamento. Os níveis de Ci das linhas de superexpressão de PhERF2 diminuíram após três horas de tratamento de alagamento, e os níveis de Ci das linhas de WT e PhERF2-RNAi aumentaram gradualmente de seis para 72 horas de tratamento de alagamento. Esses dados sugeriram que os fatores não estomáticos foram os principais fatores limitantes para Pn em linhas WT e PhERF2-RNAi sob estresse severo, enquanto a abertura estomática foi o principal fator limitante de Pn em linhas com superexpressão de PhERF2. Nossos resultados demonstraram que a contribuição do PhERF2 para a tolerância ao alagamento da petúnia parece depender da regulação das respostas fisiológicas e fotossintéticas. PhERF2 representa um gene candidato esperançoso no aumento da tolerância ao alagamento de plantas ornamentais.

Chromium supplemented carbohydrate diets for Cirrhinus mrigala: effects on body composition, gut enzyme activity and hematological parameters

Abstract A ninety days nutritional trial was directed to explore the effects of dietary chromium on body composition, gut enzyme activity and physiological status of Cirrhinus mrigala by using G & NG corn. Six experimental diets were prepared by using different levels of chromium chloride hexahydrate (0, 0.2, 0.4 mg/kg, each with G & NG corn). For this experimental trial, 480 fingerlings, irrespective of sex were distributed in six aquariums each with replicate. Results revealed that gelatinized corn along with increasing level of Cr2Cl3.6H2O have a positive impact upon body composition of fish. Hematology was positively correlated with chromium chloride hexahydrate supplementation in gelatinized corn. Amylase gut enzyme also showed significant (P 0.05) increase in group fed with chromium chloride hexahydrate supplemented diet (G corn). However, corn with chromium chloride hexahydrate supplementation did not revealed any significant impact on gut protease enzyme activity. From these results it can be concluded that both chromium chloride hexahydrate and gelatinized corn in fish feed are very beneficial to improve body composition, enzymes activity and physiological health status of fish.

Resumo Um ensaio nutricional de 90 dias foi dirigido para explorar os efeitos do cromo dietético na composição corporal, atividade enzimática intestinal e estado fisiológico de Cirrhinus mrigala usando milho G & NG. Seis dietas experimentais foram preparadas usando diferentes níveis de cloreto de cromo hexa-hidratado (0, 0,2, 0,4 mg/kg, cada um com milho G e NG). Para este ensaio experimental, 480 alevinos, independentemente do sexo, foram distribuídos em seis aquários, cada um com réplicas. Os resultados revelaram que o milho gelatinizado, juntamente com o aumento do nível de Cr2Cl3.6H2O, tem um impacto positivo na composição corporal dos peixes. A hematologia foi positivamente correlacionada com a suplementação de cloreto de cromo hexa-hidratado em milho gelatinizado. A enzima amilase intestinal também apresentou aumento significativo (P 0,05) no grupo alimentado com dieta suplementada com cloreto de cromo hexa-hidratado (milho G). No entanto, o milho com suplementação de hexahidrato de cloreto de cromo não revelou nenhum impacto significativo na atividade da enzima protease intestinal. Desses resultados, pode-se concluir que tanto o cloreto de cromo hexa-hidratado quanto o milho gelatinizado na alimentação de peixes são muito benéficos para melhorar a composição corporal, a atividade de enzimas e o estado fisiológico de saúde dos peixes.

Effect of monochrome light with different wavelengths on biochemical parameters of hens

Artificial light, as one of the environmental factors, plays a significant role in regulating the synthesis and secretion of hormones related to the coordination of parameters of life, growth, immunity, and reproductive functions of hens. The article aims to study the influence of monochrome light with different wavelengths on the biochemical parameters of hens` blood serum. Four groups of "Hy-Line W-36" crossbred hens were formed. Hens of the 1st group were kept using monochrome light with different wavelength lamps with a wavelength of ~ 460 nm, the 2nd group ~ 600 nm, the 3rd group ~ 630 nm, and the 4th group ~ 650 nm. It was found that the use of light with different wavelengths for keeping hens in cages of multilevel batteries affects hen' biochemical parameters, according to the research results. It was established that when using light with a wavelength of ~ 630 and ~ 650 nm, the indicators of clinical biochemistry of hens' blood serum were within the normal physiological values. Whereas, with the use of light with a wavelength of ~ 600 nm, an increase in the level of glucose, creatinine, total protein, total bilirubin, and phosphorus, a decrease in the ratio of calcium to phosphorus, in the activity of alkaline phosphatase, aspartate aminotransferase, and lactate dehydrogenase, were observed in the hens' blood serum. The use of light with a wavelength of ~ 460 nm was accompanied by a further increase in the level of glucose, creatinine, total protein, urea, total bilirubin, phosphorus, the activity of alkaline phosphatase, aspartate aminotransferase, lactate dehydrogenase, and gamma-glutamyltransferase, a decrease in the ratio of calcium and phosphorus.

Replacing corn silage with extruded forage in sheep feeding

The objective was to evaluate levels of replacement of corn silage with extruded forage (Foragge®) in sheep feeding. Twenty adult Santa Inês ewes in maintenance, and 55.8 kg average weight were housed in metabolic cages, and the treatments consisted of 20, 40, 60 and 80% replacement of corn silage with Foragge®extruded forage with 60% Uruchloa brizanthain the diet. The design was completely randomized, with regression analysis and non-parametric analysis at 5% probability. The supply of up to 80% extruded roughage to replace corn silage increased dry matter intake and digestibility, and fecal output in dry matter (p < 0.05). Also, it increased the efficiency of ingestion, rumination and chewing activities of sheep, but did not alter urinary parameters and energy metabolites (p > 0.05). However, it reduced the concentration of uric acid (p < 0.05). Foragge®extruded roughage can replace corn silage by up to 80% with changes in intake, digestibility, fecal parameters, ingestive behavior and concentration of uric acid and urea, with no modifications in urinary parameters and energy metabolites.(AU)

Beyond survival: unraveling the adaptive mechanisms of cucurbit weeds to salt and heavy metal stress through biochemical and physiological analyses / Além da sobrevivência: desvendando os mecanismos adaptativos de ervas daninhas cucurbitáceas ao sal e estresse de metais pesados por meio de análises bioquímicas e fisiológicas

Salt stress and heavy metal are instigating hazard to crops, menace to agricultural practices. Single and combined stresses affecting adversely to the growth and metabolism of plants. To explore salt and heavy metal resistant plant lines as phytoremediants is a need of time. Physiological responses are main adaptive responses of the plants towards stresses. This response varies with species and ecotype as well as type and level of stress. Two cucurbit weeds from two ecotypes were selected to evaluate their physiological adaptations against independent and combined stresses of various levels of salt (NaCl) and heavy metal (NiCl2). Various physiological parameters like water potential, osmotic potential, pressure potential, CO2 assimilation rate, stomatal conductance, chlorophyll a and b, carotenoids, and production of adaptive chemicals like SOD, CAT, proteins, sugars and proline were studied. Citrullus colocynthis showed more adaptive response than Cucumis melo agrestis and desert ecotype was more successful than agricultural ecotype against stresses.

O estresse salino e os metais pesados são um perigo instigante para as plantações e uma ameaça para as práticas agrícolas. Estresses simples e combinados afetam adversamente o crescimento e o metabolismo das plantas. Explorar linhagens de plantas resistentes a sais e metais pesados como fitorremediantes é uma necessidade de tempo. As respostas fisiológicas são as principais respostas adaptativas das plantas aos estresses. Essas respostas variam de acordo com a espécie e o ecótipo, bem como com o tipo e o nível de estresse. Duas plantas daninhas cucurbitáceas de dois ecótipos foram selecionadas para avaliar suas adaptações fisiológicas frente a estresses independentes e combinados de vários níveis de sal (NaCl) e metal pesado (NiCl2). Vários parâmetros fisiológicos, como potencial hídrico, potencial osmótico, potencial de pressão, taxa de assimilação de CO2, condutância estomática, clorofila a e b, carotenoides e produção de produtos químicos adaptativos, por exemplo, SOD, CAT, proteínas, açúcares e prolina, foram estudados. Citrullus colocynthis apresentou resposta mais adaptativa do que Cucumis melo agrestis e o ecótipo deserto foi mais bem-sucedido do que o ecótipo agrícola contra estresses.

Evaluation of the thermoregulatory response of goats naturally exposed to the tropical climate using longitudinal data / Avaliação da resposta termorregulatória de cabras expostas naturalmente ao clima tropical a partir do uso de dados longitudinais

Rectal temperature (RT), heart rate (HR), and respiratory rate (RR), determined as repeated measurements over time in female goats, were used to identify covariance matrices that best fit the data for residual modeling on these three traits. Then, based on this result, the goats' responses to heat were evaluated. Five matrices were found with convergence for the three traits. The Heterogeneous Compound Symmetry matrix showed a good fit for modeling the residual associated with RT, whereas the Heterogeneous Autoregressive matrix had a better fit for RR and HR, according to the Akaike Information Criteria (AIC), corrected AIC (AICc), and Schwarz Bayesian Information Criterion (BIC) used. After adjusting the residual data for these three traits, a mixed-model analysis was used to evaluate collection period (3), physiological stage (3), and animal age (3) as fixed effects. Residual modeling interfered differently with the p-value associated with the fixed effects studied. Collection period and interactions did not influence the variation in RT (P>0.761), which was within the standard range for goats in the tropics, while the physiological stage of the goats affected it (P<0.05). Rectal temperature, HR, and RR tend to show covariance structures that can be modeled using specific residual covariance matrices, that is, the heterogeneous compound symmetry matrix best suits RT data, whereas the heterogeneous autoregressive matrix is better suited for HR and RR, which are usually correlated. The goats of the evaluated breed maintain RT within the range of variation displayed by breeds adapted to a hot environment, regardless of their physiological condition. Variations occur in RR and HR, without, however, exceeding the normal range for goats. Pregnancy causes goats to raise their RR in the rainy season of the year in the region in order to maintain RT within the normal range for the species.(AU)

Utilizou-se a Temperatura retal (TR), Frequências cardíaca (FC) e respiratória (FR) aferidas como medidas repetidas no tempo em fêmeas caprinas, objetivando-se identificar matrizes de estruturas de covariância que melhor se ajustou aos dados para modelagem do resíduo nessas três características e, em seguida, avaliou-se a respostas de cabras ao calor, com base nesse resultado. Constatou-se cinco matrizes com convergência nas três características. A Simétrica composta heterogênea ajustou-se bem para modelagem do resíduo associado a TR, enquanto a Autorregressiva heterogênea ajustou-se melhor para a FR e FC, de acordo com os critérios de informação de Akaike (AIC), Akaike corrigido (AICc) e o Bayesiano de Schwarz (BIC) utilizados. Com o resíduos de dados dessas três características ajustados, utilizou-se uma análise com modelos mistos para avaliar a Época de coleta (3), Estado fisiológico (3) e Idade do animal (3) foram como efeitos fixos. Constatou-se que a modelagem do resíduo interferiu de modo diferenciado no p valor associado aos efeitos fixos estudados. A época da coleta e interações não influenciaram a variação da TR (P>0,761), que oscilou dentro da faixa padrão para caprinos nos trópicos, mas o Estágio fisiológico da cabra sim (P<0,05). A Temperatura retal e as Frequências cardíaca e respiratória tendem a apresentar estruturas de covariâncias modeláveis com utilização de matrizes de covariâncias residuais especificas, ou seja, a matriz Simétrica composta heterogênea mais adequada para dados da Temperatura retal, enquanto a Autorregressiva heterogênea para as Frequências cardíaca e respiratória, geralmente correlacionas. As cabras da raça avaliadas mantêm a temperatura retal dentro da amplitude de variação apresentada por raças adaptadas a ambiente quente. Isso ocorre independente da condição fisiológica que se encontra, mas com ocorrência de variação na frequência respiratória e cardíaca, não excedendo, no entanto, a faixa normal para caprinos. A gestação condiciona a cabra a elevar a FR na época chuvosa do ano na região para manter a TR na faixa de amplitude normal para caprinos.(AU)

Morphometric analysis on erythrocytes of various livestock being reared in the Cholistan desert / Análise morfométrica de eritrócitos de vários pecuários criados no deserto de Colistão

The present study aimed to assess the influence of physiological exposure to erythrocyte indices; the morphometric parameters of the size of erythrocytes, as well as synergistic effects on the erythrocyte spectrum changes in various species being reared in different strip-wasteland conditions. We collected samples from 400 animals from the jugular veins and made 2000 blood smears, sample blood was taken by an expert veterinary doctor and transferred into an EDTA vacutainer. Blood smears were stained through the Pappenheim procedure and slides were photomicrographed under 100x objective. The parameters of morphometry of erythrocytes were largest in cattle after buffalo, sheep, while goats have the lowest one. The influence of age was significant p<0.05. The influence of sex was not significant in Cattle p<0.01, values of a parameter of erythrocytes were higher in young than in adults in sheep, goats, cattle, and buffalo. The size of erythrocytes in males was higher than females in sheep, goat, and buffalo but in cattle values of female erythrocytes were higher than in males. Further, gender, altitude, and age have a profound influence on the morphometric attributes of erythrocytes. It will be helpful in interpreting etiopathogenetic conditions in human beings and other animals.

O presente estudo teve como objetivo avaliar a influência da exposição fisiológica nos índices eritrocitários; os parâmetros morfométricos do tamanho dos eritrócitos, bem como os efeitos sinérgicos sobre as alterações do espectro eritrocitário em várias espécies criadas em diferentes condições de terreno baldio. Coletamos amostras de 400 animais das veias jugulares e fizemos 2.000 esfregaços de sangue, a amostra de sangue foi colhida por um médico veterinário especialista e transferida para um vacutainer de EDTA. Esfregaços de sangue foram corados pelo procedimento de Pappenheim e as lâminas foram fotomicrografadas sob objetiva de 100x. Os parâmetros de morfometria dos eritrócitos foram maiores em bovinos após bubalinos, ovinos, enquanto os caprinos apresentaram os menores. A influência da idade foi significativa p<0,05. A influência do sexo não foi significativa em Bovinos p<0,01, os valores de um parâmetro de eritrócitos foram maiores em jovens do que em adultos em ovinos, caprinos, bovinos e bubalinos. O tamanho dos eritrócitos nos machos foi maior que nas fêmeas em ovinos, caprinos e búfalos, mas em bovinos os valores de eritrócitos femininos foram maiores do que nos machos. Além disso, sexo, altitude e idade têm uma profunda influência nos atributos morfométricos dos eritrócitos. Será útil na interpretação de condições etiopatogenéticas em seres humanos e outros animais.

The effects of different particle film applications on almond trees / Os efeitos de diferentes aplicações de filmes de partículas em amendoeiras

ABSTRACT: Particle film applications have become common in agriculture today given the understanding of the effects of limiting high temperatures and solar radiation on plant physiology. This study was conducted to compare the effects of different particle materials on some physiological and fruit quality attributes of almonds. To achieve this, two non-transparent white solid and three transparent aqueous particle film materials were applied by foliar spraying on deficit irrigated almond trees (cv. Ferragnes). Membrane injury (MI), relative water content (RWC), the SPAD chlorophyll index, leaf temperature and some macro- and micro-nutrient contents were examined in addition to fruit sizes, weights, total oils and fatty acid compositions. The applied treatments significantly influenced the evaluated parameters, which indicated reduced stress and improved fruit quality. MI was found to be from 42.8 to 73.9%, RWC varied from 76.8 to 92.9%, and the K/Na ratio ranged between 103.3 and 521.0. As a result of this study, it was concluded that the observed improvements were due to the effects of the evaluated materials and that particle film applications can be beneficial in alleviating heat, light and water stress in almond trees.

RESUMO: As aplicações de filmes de partículas tornaram-se comuns na agricultura hoje, devido ao entendimento dos efeitos da limitação de altas temperaturas e radiação solar na fisiologia das plantas. Este estudo foi conduzido para comparar os efeitos de diferentes materiais particulados em alguns atributos fisiológicos e de qualidade de frutas. Para isso, dois sólidos brancos não transparentes e três materiais de filme de partículas aquosas transparentes foram aplicados por pulverização foliar em amendoeiras com irrigação deficiente (cv. Ferragnes). A lesão da membrana (MI), o conteúdo relativo de água (RWC), o índice de clorofila SPAD, a temperatura da folha e alguns teores de macro e micronutrientes foram examinados, além do tamanho dos frutos, pesos, óleos totais e composições de ácidos graxos. Os tratamentos aplicados influenciaram significativamente os parâmetros avaliados, os quais indicaram redução do estresse e melhora na qualidade dos frutos. O MI foi encontrado entre 42,8 e 73,9%, o RWC variou de 76,8 a 92,9% e a razão K / Na estava entre 103,3 e 521,0. Como resultado deste estudo, concluiu-se que as melhorias observadas foram devidas aos efeitos dos materiais avaliados e que as aplicações de filmes de partículas são benéficas no alívio do calor, luz e estresse hídrico em amendoeiras.

O tamanho de sementes de feijão afeta a utilização das reservas armazenadas durante a germinação / Seed size of common bean affects the utilization of stored reserves during germination

O objetivo do presente estudo foi avaliar a qualidade fisiológica de sementes defeijão com diferentes tamanhos, identificando a relação do tamanho da semente com a mobilização e utilização de reservas. Foram utilizadas sementes da cultivar comercial IPR-88 Uirapuru e Iapar 81 padronizadas e posteriormente, determinadas três frações a partir de pesagem individual, sendo: sementes pequenas, médias e grandes. A qualidade fisiológica das três frações foi determinada pelo teste de germinação e pelos testes de vigor: envelhecimento acelerado e teste de desempenho de plântulas (comprimento). A mobilização e utilização de reservas foi mensurada aos cinco dias de hidratação das sementes, onde foram avaliadas massa seca, taxa de mobilização de reservas, taxa de redução de reservas e eficiência de uso das reservas. Os resultados demonstraram que não houve diferença entre as frações na porcentagem de germinação e envelhecimento acelerado. Considerando os parâmetros que avaliaram a mobilização e utilização de reservas, verificou-se que sementes de maior tamanho formam plântulas de maior massa seca, no entanto, tem menor taxa de mobilização de reservas e menor eficiência de uso de suas reservas. Desta forma, evidencia-se que o tamanho da semente influencia a mobilização e utilização de reservas, de maneira que sementes da fração média e pequena apresentam maior eficiência de uso de reservas até os cinco dias de germinação.(AU)

The objective of the present study was to evaluate the physiological quality of bean seeds with different sizes, identifying the relationship of seed size with the mobilization and utilization of reserves in bean seeds. Seeds of the commercial cultivarIPR-88 Uirapuru and Iapar 81 were standardized and subsequently, three fractions were determined from individual weighing, being: small medium and large seeds. The physiological quality of the three fractions was determined by germination test, accelerated aging vigor test, and seedling performance (length) test. Reserve mobilization and utilization was measured at five days of seed hydration, where dry mass, reserve mobilization rate, reserve reduction rate, and reserve use efficiency were evaluated. The results showed that there was no difference between the fractions in the percentage of germination and accelerated aging. Considering the parameters that evaluated the mobilization and use of reserves, it was found that larger seeds form seedlings with greater dry mass, however, have lower rate of reserve mobilization and lower efficiency of use of their reserves. Thus, it is evident that the size of the seed influences the mobilization and use of reserves, so that seeds of the medium and small fraction present higher reserve use efficiency at five days of germination.(AU)

Ethylene responsive element binding factors contributes to waterlogging tolerance by regulating photosynthetic and physiological parameters in petunia / Os fatores de ligação do elemento responsivo ao etileno contribuem para a tolerância ao encharcamento, regulando os parâmetros fotossintéticos e fisiológicos na petúnia

Ethylene-responsive element binding factors (ERFs) are widely involved in the regulation of plant responses to different abiotic stresses. In petunia (Petunia × hybrida), PhERF2 belonging to the subfamily Ⅶ of ERF transcription factors participates in the response to waterlogging stress. In this study, we investigated waterlogging tolerance variation of WT and transgenic petunia plants with RNAi silencing and overexpression of PhERF2 through photosynthetic and physiological performance. Chlorophyll content and root vigor declined continuously in both WT and PhERF2 transgenic lines under waterlogging stress, but the extent of the fall in PhERF2-overexpressing lines was less than that in WT and PhERF2-RNAi lines. At the end of waterlogging treatment, soluble protein levels in PhERF2-overexpressing lines were significantly higher than those in WT and PhERF2-RNAi lines, while the latter showed a higher malondialdehyde content overall. Different degrees of reductions in Pn, Gs, and Tr levels occurred in both WT and PhERF2 transgenic lines upon exposure to waterlogging. The Ci levels of PhERF2-overexpressing lines decreased after 3 hours of waterlogging treatment, and the Ci levels of WT and PhERF2-RNAi lines gradually increased from 6 to 72 hours of waterlogging treatment. These data suggested that non-stomatal factors were the primary limiting factors for Pn in WT and PhERF2-RNAi lines under severe stress, while the stomatal opening was the main factor limiting Pn in PhERF2-overexpressing lines. Our results demonstrated that the contribution of PhERF2 to the waterlogging tolerance of petunia appears to depend on the regulation of physiological and photosynthetic responses. PhERF2 represents a hopeful candidate gene for enhancing waterlogging tolerance of ornamental plants.

Fatores de transcrição de resposta ao etileno (ERF) estão amplamente envolvidos na regulação das respostas das plantas a diferentes estresses abióticos. Em petúnia (Petunia × hybrida), PhERF2 pertencente à subfamília Ⅶ de fatores de transcrição ERF participa da resposta ao estresse de alagamento. Este estudo teve como objetivo investigar a variação da tolerância ao alagamento de plantas WT e petúnia transgênica com silenciamento de RNAi e superexpressão de PhERF2 através do desempenho fotossintético e fisiológico. O conteúdo de clorofila e o vigor da raiz diminuíram continuamente em ambas as linhagens transgênicas WT e PhERF2 sob estresse de alagamento, mas a extensão da queda nas linhas de superexpressão de PhERF2 foi menor do que nas linhas WT e PhERF2-RNAi. No final do tratamento de alagamento, os níveis de proteína solúvel nas linhas com superexpressão de PhERF2 foram significativamente maiores do que nas linhas WT e PhERF2-RNAi, enquanto a última mostrou um teor geral de malondialdeído maior. Diferentes graus de reduções nos níveis de Pn, Gs e Tr ocorreram em ambas as linhas transgênicas WT e PhERF2 após a exposição ao alagamento. Os níveis de Ci das linhas de superexpressão de PhERF2 diminuíram após três horas de tratamento de alagamento, e os níveis de Ci das linhas de WT e PhERF2-RNAi aumentaram gradualmente de seis para 72 horas de tratamento de alagamento. Esses dados sugeriram que os fatores não estomáticos foram os principais fatores limitantes para Pn em linhas WT e PhERF2-RNAi sob estresse severo, enquanto a abertura estomática foi o principal fator limitante de Pn em linhas com superexpressão de PhERF2. Nossos resultados demonstraram que a contribuição do PhERF2 para a tolerância ao alagamento da petúnia parece depender da regulação das respostas fisiológicas e fotossintéticas. PhERF2 representa um gene candidato esperançoso no aumento da tolerância ao alagamento de plantas ornamentais.

Performance, Gut Integrity, Enterobacteria Content in Ceca of Broiler Fed Different Eubiotic Additives

An experiment was carried out to study the effect of different eubiotics on productive characteristics, intestinal integrity, as well as the content of enterobacteria in the cecum of broiler chickens. A completely randomized design with five treatments and 8 replicates of 25 birds each was used. In total 1000 mixed broiler chickens from Ross308 strain, one day old were obtained from a commercial hatchery. The birds were housed on concrete floors in a conventional house. A sorghum+soybean meal control diet was used, to which the additives under study were added. The treatments were distributed as follows: T1 = Control diet without antibiotic or eubiotic; T2 = T1 + bacteriophages; T3 = T1 + antibiotic; T4 = T1 + probiotic; T5 = T1 + symbiotic. The results obtained at 49 days of age for weight gain and feed conversion rate improved (p<0.05) with the addition of the antibiotic and eubiotics. A lower (p<0.05) intestinal density was observed with the probiotic. The height, width, and area of villi in duodenum was higher (p<0.05) when antibiotic and eubiotics were included. In the histological score, in duodenum, the antibiotic and eubiotics resulted with a higher score (p<0.05), associated to a physiological and controlled inflammation response that allowed improving productivity. Finally, the relative expression of enterobacteria, such as Lactobacillus salivarius, allowed associating positive changes in the microbiome and better productive parameters when including the symbiotic, with comparable results to the antibiotic when including the eubiotics.(AU)

Heat stress effects on the lactation performance, reproduction, and alleviating nutritional strategies in dairy cattle, a review

Heat stress response in dairy cattle affects milk production, quality, body temperature, and other parameters. Dairy cows will most likely experience increased heat stress with unabated global warming. Elevated temperatures and humidity reduce feed intake, harm reproductive potential， and reduce milk production. Heat stress is more common in high-yielding cows than in low-yielding ones. In addition to reducing milk production, heat stress can also reduce milk quality. During lactation, internal metabolic heat production can further reduce cattle's substances to high temperatures, resulting in altered milk composition and decreased milk yield. Several studies proposed various nutritional strategies such as dietary fats, dietary fibers, microbial diets, mineral substances, vitamins, metal ion buffers, plant extracts, and other antistress additives. This review addresses the challenging study on the effects of heat stress on nutritional and fed intake perturbations, milk and components yield, immune system activation, and reproduction parameters. It proves that specific nutritional strategies effectively mitigate the harmful effects of heat stress in dairy cattle.(AU)

Effect of total hardness of water on juvenile mullets (Mugil liza) raised in fresh water / Efeito da dureza total em juvenis de tainha (Mugil liza) criados em água doce

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of three fresh-water samples with different hardness values (25, 250, and 750 mg L-1 CaCO3) and a control (sea water with salinity 15% and hardness 2500 ± 130.9 mg L-1 CaCO3) on Mugil liza (mullet) juveniles by conducting a long-term test (for 50 days). Zootechnical performance [weight gain (WG), feed conversion rate, specific growth rate, and survival (%)], stress indicator parameters (glucose), and physiological parameters in gill tissues were analyzed to determine the fresh-water hardness range that can allow the optimal survival, growth, and feed conversion for the species. Fish with a mean initial weight of 22 ± 2.84 g were maintained under constant conditions of temperature, pH, alkalinity, and ammonia concentration, and they were fed four times per day with a commercial diet. When evaluating zootechnical performance, only survival (%) was not significantly different among treatments. For the other variables­weight gain, feed conversion, and specific growth rate­the best results were found in the treatment with 15% salinity (control). Blood glucose levels in animals maintained at 15% salinity (control) were significantly lower than those observed in the other treatments. Histological analyses corroborated the zootechnical data, potentially indicating stress in fish maintained at very low and very high water hardness. In conclusion, for cultivating juvenile mullets in fresh water, the most suitable hardness value was 250 mg L-1 CaCO3, because the best final weight of fish was achieved in that condition.(AU)

O objetivo desse estudo foi avaliar o efeito de três durezas diferentes de água doce (25, 250 e 750 mg.L-1 CaCO3) e controle (água do mar com salinidade 15 % e dureza 2500 ± 130,9 mg.L-1 CaCO3), em juvenis de tainha Mugil Liza , através de um teste de longo prazo (50 dias), avaliando o desempenho zootécnico (ganho de peso (GP), conversão alimentar (CA), taxa de crescimento específico (TCE) e sobrevivência (%)), parâmetros indicadores de estresse (glicose) e avaliação de parâme-tros fisiológicos nos tecidos das brânquias, a fim de determinar a faixa de dureza em água doce onde há melhor sobrevivência, crescimento e conversão alimentar dessa espécie. Os peixes com peso médio inicial de 22 ± 2,84g foram mantidos em condi-ções constantes de temperatura, pH, alcalinidade e amônia, e alimentados quatro vezes ao dia com dieta comercial. Ao avaliar o desempenho zootécnico apenas a sobrevivência (%) não foi significativamente diferente entre os tratamentos, porém, para as demais variáveis: ganho de peso (GP), conversão alimentar (CA) e taxa de crescimento específico (TCE) os melhores resul-tados foram encontrados no tratamento com salinidade 15 % (controle). A glicose no sangue dos animais mantidos a salini-dade 15 % (controle) foi significativamente menor em relação aos outros tratamentos. As análises histológicas corroboram os dados zootécnicos, indicando possivelmente stress nos peixes mantidos em durezas muito baixas e muito altas. Conclui-se que para cultivar juvenis de tainha em água doce, a dureza mais adequada é 250 mg.L-1 CaCO3, pois apresentou melhor peso final dentre as durezas avaliadas.(AU)