Propolis extract as a feed additive of the Nile tilapia juveniles / Extrato de própolis como aditivo alimentar para juvenis de tilápia-do-nilo

This study was conducted to investigate the effects of dietary propolis alcohol extract supplementation on growth performance, digestibility, intestinal morphometry, and physiologic parameters Nile tilápia (Oreochromis niloticus L.) juveniles. For performance experiment and intestinal morphometry, 120 fish averaging 1.41±0.3g were randomly distributed into 24 tanks (70L each) in a closed recirculation water system with constant aeration and biofilter. The animals were distributed into four treatments using a completely randomized design with six replicates per treatment. The treatments consisted of four pellet feeds with different alcohol propolis concentrations extract (AEP) (0.0, 0.5, 1.0 and 1.5gkg-1). The performance experiment period was conducted for 45 days. For the digestibility experiment, an inert marker in the feed and the adapted Guelph feces collecting system were used. The results showed no differences in the performance parameters, crude protein apparent digestibility and dry matter of the feeds, intestinal morphometry, and physiologic parameters. However, there was an increasing linear effect on the energy digestibility with increasing PAE concentrations in the fish feed. The usage of the propolis extract supplementation levels of 1% is recommended for optimum effect on villus morphometry in Nile tilapia.

Avaliaram-se os efeitos da suplementação de extrato de própolis na dieta sobre o desempenho, a digestibilidade, a morfometria intestinal e os parâmetros fisiológicos de juvenis de tilápia-do-nilo (Oreochromis niloticus). No desempenho e na morfometria intestinal, 120 peixes (1,41±0,3g) foram distribuídos aleatoriamente em 24 tanques (70L cada), em sistema de recirculação de água com aeração constante e biofiltro. Os animais foram distribuídos em quatro tratamentos, num delineamento inteiramente ao acaso, com seis repetições por tratamento. Os tratamentos consistiram em quatro rações, com concentrações de extrato de própolis (AEP) (0,0, 0,5, 1,0 e 1,5g kg-1). O período experimental foi de 45 dias. Para a digestibilidade, foi utilizado um sistema adaptado de Guelph para a coleta de excretas e um marcador inerte na ração. Os resultados não mostraram diferenças nos parâmetros de desempenho, digestibilidade aparente da proteína bruta e da matéria seca dos alimentos e morfometria intestinal, bem como nos parâmetros fisiológicos. No entanto, houve um efeito linear crescente sobre a digestibilidade da energia com o aumento das concentrações de AEP na ração. Os resultados também indicaram que a suplementação com 1% de própolis teve efeito positivo na morfometria intestinal de tilápia-do-nilo, sendo esse o nível recomendado na dieta.

Effects of functional oil blend on performance, blood metabolites, organ biometry and intestinal morphometry in nursery piglets / Efeitos da mistura de óleo funcional no desempenho, metabólitos sanguíneos, biometria de órgãos e morfometria intestinal em leitões de creche

This study was conducted to assess the effects of functional oil (FO) blend on performance, blood metabolites, organ biometry and intestinal morphometry in piglets. A total of 128 crossbreed piglets (Landrace × Large White, 64 uncastrated males and 64 females, 21 d of age, and 6.79 ± 1.76 kg BW) were allocated in a randomized complete block design with two dietary treatments: a FO-free (FOF) diet or a diet based on added FO (1,500 mg/kg of diet with castor oil plus cashew nutshell oil). Piglets fed FO showed higher (p ≤ 0.05) average daily feed intake, daily body weight gain and final body weight after 23 d of study. For the total period, piglets fed FO showed greater (p = 0.007) feed conversion ratio. On d 23, higher serum total protein (p = 0.026) and globulin (p = 0.050) concentration, lower liver (p = 0.042) and stomach (p = 0.074) weight, and greater (p = 0.082) villi height (VH) in duodenum were observed in piglets fed FO. Nonetheless, piglets fed FOF showed greater (p = 0.054) ileal VH, but greater (p = 0.004) crypt depth (CD) in jejunum. Piglets fed FO showed higher VH to CD ratio in jejunum (p = 0.068) and duodenum (p = 0.074) on d 23 and 37, respectively. Based on the results, FO blend improved the performance of weaned piglets; however, it negatively affected the feed conversion ratio in the total period. Moreover, FO blend promoted changes in total protein concentrations and improvements in digestive and absorptive capacity assessed through VH to CD ratio, with a significant reduction in organs.

Este estudo foi conduzido para avaliar os efeitos de uma mistura de óleo funcional (OF) no desempenho zootécnico, nos metabólitos sanguíneos, na biometria de órgãos e na morfometria intestinal de leitões. Um total de 128 leitões mestiços (Landrace × Large White, 64 machos inteiros e 64 fêmeas; 21 dias de idade e peso corporal de 6,79 ± 1,76 kg) foram alocados em um delineamento de blocos casualizados completos, com dois tratamentos dietéticos: uma dieta sem OF (SOF) ou uma dieta baseada na adição de OF (1.500 mg/kg de dieta com OF de mamona e castanha de caju). Os leitões alimentados com OF apresentaram maior (p ≤ 0,05) consumo de ração diário médio, ganho de peso corporal diário e peso corporal aos 23 dias de experimento. Entretanto, os leitões que consumiram dietas com OF tiveram conversão alimentar superior (p = 0,007) no período total. No dia 23, houve aumento na concentração de proteína total (p = 0,026) e globulina (p = 0,050), menor peso de fígado (p = 0,042) e estômago (p = 0,074), e maior (p = 0,082) altura de vilosidade (AV) no duodeno em leitões que consumiram OF; entretanto, os leitões SOF tiveram (p = 0,054) AV superior no íleo, mas apresentaram (p = 0,004) profundidade de cripta (PC) superior no jejuno. Uma maior relação AV:PC no jejuno (p = 0,068) e duodeno (p = 0,074) foi observada em leitões com OF nos dias 23 e 37, respectivamente. Com base nos resultados, a mistura de OF melhorou o desempenho dos leitões desmamados; no entanto, afetou negativamente a taxa de conversão alimentar no período total. Além disso, a mistura de OF promoveu alterações nas concentrações proteínas totais e melhorias na capacidade digestiva e absortiva avaliadas através da relação AV:PC, com uma redução significativa nos órgãos.

Different phytase levels and energy densities in broiler diets on performance, nutrient digestibility, and bone integrity from 28 to 35 days of age / Diferentes níveis de fitase e de densidades energéticas em dietas de frangos de corte sobre desempenho, digestibilidade de nutrientes e integridade óssea de 28 a 35 dias de idade

The study was carried out with the objective of evaluating the effects of using phytase levels at different energy densities in the diet of broilers, from 28 to 35 days of age. The experimental diets contained increasing levels of apparent metabolizable energy corrected for nitrogen balance and different levels of phytase. Growth performance variables, nutrient digestibility, as well as variables related to bone integrity were examined. Diets containing 500 FTU/kg in combination with 3150kcal.kg-1 of AMEn resulted in better growth performance. Supplementation with 500 and 1000 FTU/kg in the diets provide better coefficients of apparent and ileal digestibility of calcium and phosphorus, but negatively influence the deposition of calcium, phosphorus, dry matter, and ash in the tibia, in addition to adversely affecting the breakage and area of these bones in broilers. Bone length and the levels of magnesium and zinc present in the tibias were not influenced by the energy and phytase levels of the diets. There is no interaction between the different energetic densities and the phytase doses in the variables analyzed in the studied period. Increasing the energy density of diets resulted in improved apparent and ileal digestibility for most nutrients.

O estudo foi realizado com o objetivo de avaliar os efeitos da utilização de níveis de fitase em diferentes densidades energéticas na dieta de frangos de corte, no período de 28 a 35 dias de idade. As dietas experimentais contiveram níveis crescentes de energia metabolizável aparente corrigida para balanço de nitrogênio e diferentes níveis de fitase. Foram avaliadas variáveis de desempenho zootécnico, digestibilidade de nutrientes e variáveis relacionadas à integridade óssea. Dietas contendo 500 FTU/kg de fitase em combinação com 3150kcal.kg-1 de EMAn resultam em melhor desempenho zootécnico. A suplementação com 500 e 1000 FTU/kg nas dietas propicia melhores coeficientes de digestibilidade aparente e ileal do cálcio e do fósforo, mas influencia negativamente na deposição de cálcio, fósforo, matéria seca e cinzas das tíbias, além de afetar adversamente a quebra e a área desses ossos em frangos de corte. O comprimento do osso e os níveis de magnésio e zinco presentes nas tíbias não são influenciados pelos níveis energéticos e de fitase das dietas. Não há interação entre as diferentes densidades energéticas e as doses de fitase nas variáveis analisadas no período estudado. O aumento da densidade energética das dietas resulta em melhora na digestibilidade aparente e ileal para a maioria dos nutrientes.

Zootechnical performance, degree of steatosis and the genotoxic potential in yellowtail tetra Astyanax lacustris fed with different levels of L-carnitine / Desempenho zootécnico, grau de esteatose e potencial genotóxico de lambaris Astyanax lacustris alimentados com diferentes níveis de L-carnitina

L-carnitine perform a major role in transporting long-chain fatty acids into the mitochondria, where they are oxidized. It has been used in animal diets to decrease fat and increase muscle protein. The aim of this study was to evaluate the zootechnical performance, degree of steatosis in the liver, and genotoxic potential in Astyanax lacustris fed with different levels of L-carnitine (LC). Yellowtail tetra juveniles (n = 140) were distributed in 20 tanks of 70 L, with seven fish in each, in a water recirculation system with controlled temperature (27±0.1°C). The treatments with different levels of L-carnitine supplementation were: 0 (control), 250, 500, 750, and 1000 mg of LC per kg of food. The diets were provided twice a day for 60 days. The results showed that the different levels of LC did not affect (P>0.05) weight gain, survival, viscerosomatic index, and the liver hepatocytes showed a normal appearance. However, the use of LC supplementation showed genotoxic potential with a significant difference (P<0.05) for cell alterations when compared to the control at concentrations above 500mg kg-1.

A L-carnitina exerce um papel importante no transporte de ácidos graxos de cadeia longa até a mitocôndria para serem oxidados e tem sido incorporada em rações para animais com o objetivo de diminuir a deposição de gordura e aumentar a proteína muscular. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar o desempenho zootécnico, o grau de esteatose no fígado e o potencial genotóxico em Astyanax lacustris alimentados com diferentes níveis de L-carnitina (LC). Juvenis de lambari-do-rabo-amarelo (n=140) foram distribuídos em 20 caixas de 70L, sete peixes em cada, em um sistema de recirculação de água com temperatura controlada (27±0,1°C). Os tratamentos com os níveis de suplementação foram: 0 (controle), 250, 500, 750 e 1000 mg de LC kg-1 de ração. As dietas foram fornecidas duas vezes ao dia, durante 60 dias. Os resultados mostraram que os diferentes níveis de LC não influenciaram (P>0,05) o ganho de peso; a sobrevivência, o índice viscerossomático e os hepatócitos do fígado apresentaram-se com aparência normal. No entanto, a suplementação com LC apresentou potencial genotóxico com diferença significativa (P<0,05) para alterações celulares quando comparada ao controle em concentrações superiores a 500mg kg-1.

Complexo enzimático em rações para leitões nas fases pré-inicial e inicial / Enzymatic complex in piglet feeds in the pre-initial and initial phases

Objetivou-se, com este trabalho, avaliar o efeito da utilização de complexo enzimático em rações para leitões sobre o desempenho zootécnico nas fases pré-inicial e inicial. Foram utilizados, para isso, 292 leitões, machos castrados e fêmeas, de linhagem comercial. O período de suplementação da enzima, na maternidade, foi do sétimo ao vigésimo primeiro dia de idade, e, na creche, foi do desmame até a saída para a fase de crescimento. O delineamento utilizado foi inteiramente casualizado, sendo a matriz e sua leitegada consideradas a unidade experimental durante a maternidade e uma baia com dez leitões na creche. Na maternidade, os tratamentos consistiram em: T1 - ração controle, sem complexo enzimático; T2 - ração controle com adição on top do complexo enzimático com inclusão de 5%. Na creche, foram definidos três tratamentos: T1 - ração controle; T2 - ração controle com inclusão on top de 5% do complexo enzimático na fase de maternidade; T3 - ração controle com inclusão de 5% de complexo enzimático nas fases de maternidade e creche. A suplementação durante a lactação não influenciou o desempenho da leitegada na maternidade até o 21º dia. Na creche, leitões alimentados com ração controle apresentaram maior peso inicial em relação aos suplementados na fase de maternidade e creche. Ao término da fase, os leitões mostraram desempenho semelhante, independente da dieta. Conclui-se que a inclusão do complexo enzimático na forma on top em dietas para leitões não influenciou parâmetros de desempenho na maternidade, porém, favoreceu a recuperação de leitões desmamados com menor peso.

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of using an enzymatic complex in piglet feeds on the zootechnical performance in the pre-starter and initial phases. For this purpose, 292 piglets, castrated males and females, of commercial lineage were used. The enzyme supplementation period in the maternity hospital was from the seventh to the twenty-first day of age, and in the nursery, it was from the waning until the exit for the growth phase. The design used was completely randomized, with the mother and her litter considered the experimental unit during maternity and a stall with 10 piglets in the nursery. In maternity, the treatments consisted of: T1 - control feed, without the enzymatic complex; T2 - control diet with on top addition of the enzymatic complex with 5% inclusion. Three treatments were defined at the nursery: T1 - control feed; T2 - control diet with inclusion on top of 5% of the enzymatic complex in the maternity phase; T3 - control feed with the inclusion of 5% enzymatic complex in the maternity and nursery phases. Supplementation during lactation did not influence litter performance in the maternity unit until 21 days. In the nursery, piglets fed with control feed had higher initial weight compared to those supplemented in the maternity and nursery phases. At the end of the phase, the piglets showed similar performance, regardless of diet. It is concluded that the inclusion of the enzymatic complex used in the on top form in diets for piglets did not influence performance parameters in maternity; however, it favored the recovery of weaned piglets with lower weight.

A Comparative Study of the Effect of Non-Antibiotic Feed Additives on Experimental Colonization of Salmonella Enterica Serovar Enteridis and Intestinal Pathomorphology in Broiler Chickens

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of eubiotics on the intestinal morphology of broilers. For this purpose, 125 birds were divided into six groups with two replicates each (10 birds in each replicate). Group A was given a Basal diet. All groups except group A were challenged with Salmonella enterica serovar Enteritidis. Group B was provided the basal diet, group C was fed a Probiotic-added diet; group D was fed a Prebiotics-based diet; group E was given essential oils plus the basal diet; and group F was provided with organic acids plus the basal diet. Two separate experiments were carried out for Salmonella recovery, checking the cecal tonsils and conducting an intestinal pathomorphic evaluation. Villus length, villus width, villus surface area, and crypt depth were measured by micrometry. There was an overall improvement (p<0.05) in intestinal morphometric parameters for all the treatment groups except for the negative control group, which showed the lowest villus height and villus depth values. Maximum villus height (p<0.05) of the duodenum was achieved by group E, which was fed a diet containing essential oils, whereas a maximum villus surface area index (p<0.05) was recorded for the birds of Group D, which were fed a diet containing prebiotics. Maximum villus height (p<0.05) and surface area index in ileum mucosa was recorded (p<0.05) in the birds of group D (treated with prebiotics). It is concluded that there is an overall increase in the gut histology of broilers fed non-antibiotic based feed.(AU)

Exploration of Zingiber officinale effects on growth performance, immunity and gut morphology in broilers / Exploração dos efeitos do Zingiber officinale no desempenho de crescimento, imunidade e morfologia intestinal em frangos de corte

Abstract The current study aimed to determine the effects of different levels of Zingiber officinale as a herbal feed additive on growth performance, carcass characteristic, serum biochemistry, total bacterial count (TBC), gut morphology, and immunological parameters of broilers. A total of 1500, day-old broiler chicks (Hubbard) were equally accredited to five treatment groups, each with six replicates (50 birds/replicate). Five experimental diets were prepared using basal diet i.e. with antibiotics positive control (PC), 3 g/kg ginger (group A), 6 g/kg ginger (group B), 9 g/kg ginger (group C) and without antibiotics negative control (NC). Group A and C showed significantly (p<0.05) higher feed intake (FI) as compared to other groups. Group C showed significantly (p<0.05) lower Total bacterial count (TBC) followed by group B as compared to NC. Carcass characteristics showed non-significant effects among different treatments. Mean villi length and width were significantly (p <0.05) higher in all ginger supplemented groups as compared to the control groups. Blood serum parameters including cholesterol, triglycerides, and low-density lipoproteins (LDL) were significantly (p<0.05) lower in groups B and C in comparison with the control groups. Whereas high-density lipoproteins (HDL) was significantly higher in group B as compared to the others. In conclusion, ginger supplementation @0.6% in the basal diet significantly improved growth performance and gut morphometry of broilers. It also showed a positive impact on cholesterol, triglycerides and gut microbes. Therefore, ginger could be a better substitute for antibiotic growth promoters.

Resumo O presente estudo teve como objetivo determinar os efeitos de diferentes níveis de Zingiber officinale como aditivo à base de plantas medicinais sobre o desempenho de crescimento, características da carcaça, bioquímica sérica, contagem bacteriana total (CBT), morfologia intestinal e parâmetros imunológicos de frangos de corte. Um total de 1.500 pintos de corte de um dia de idade (Hubbard) foram igualmente credenciados em cinco grupos de tratamento, cada um com seis repetições (50 aves/repetição). Cinco dietas experimentais foram preparadas usando dieta basal, ou seja, com controle positivo de antibióticos (PC), 3 g/kg de gengibre (grupo A), 6 g/kg de gengibre (grupo B), 9 g/kg de gengibre (grupo C) e sem controle negativo de antibióticos (NC). Os grupos A e C apresentaram consumo de ração (FI) significativamente (p < 0,05) maior do que os outros grupos. O grupo C apresentou contagem bacteriana total (CBT) significativamente menor (p < 0,05) seguido pelo grupo B em comparação com o NC. As características da carcaça apresentaram efeitos não significativos entre os diferentes tratamentos. O comprimento e largura médios das vilosidades foram significativamente (p < 0,05) maiores em todos os grupos suplementados com gengibre em comparação com os grupos de controle. Os parâmetros séricos do sangue, incluindo colesterol, triglicerídeos e lipoproteínas de baixa densidade (LDL), foram significativamente (p < 0,05) menores nos grupos B e C em comparação com os grupos controle. Enquanto as lipoproteínas de alta densidade (HDL) foram significativamente maiores no grupo B em comparação com os outros. Em conclusão, a suplementação de gengibre a 0,6% na dieta basal melhorou significativamente o desempenho de crescimento e a morfometria intestinal de frangos de corte. Ele também mostrou um impacto positivo sobre o colesterol, triglicerídeos e micróbios intestinais. Portanto, o gengibre pode ser um substituto melhor para os promotores de crescimento com antibióticos.

Association of additives in supplemented grazing cattle during the finishing phase at the rainy season

The objectives were to evaluate the effects of monensin and virginiamycin, alone or combined, on supplemented Nellore cattle grazing tropical grass during the rainy season. Two experiments were conducted simultaneously to evaluate intake, digestibility, CH4 emissions, blood parameters, performance, and carcass characteristics (Exp. 1), and ruminal fermentation and relative abundance of ruminal microorganisms (Exp. 2). Animals (n = 92 Exp. 1 and n = 12 Exp. 2) were distributed in a completely randomized design and allocated in twelve paddocks composed of Urochloa brizantha (A. Rich.) Stapf. cv. Xaraés. A protein-energetic supplementation of 3 g/kg of BW per day was provided to all animals. Supplements were: without additives (WA), monensin alone at 80 mg/kg of product (MN), virginiamycin alone at 150 mg/kg of product (VM), and monensin (80 mg/kg of product) combined with virginiamycin (150 mg/kg of product; MNVM). Treatments did not affect intakes of total dry matter (DM), supplement DM, and nutrients. However, the intakes of forage DM and crude protein decreased in cattle fed MNVM compared with animals fed WA, MN, and VM. Total volatile fatty acids increased in animals fed VM. Ruminal NH3-N decreased, and pH increased in animals fed MN, VM, and MNVM. Relative abundance of total F. succinogenes and S. ruminantium decreased and R. flavefaciens increased in animals fed MN and VM at d 118. Treatments had no effect on enteric CH4 emissions. The average daily gain (ADG) and total gain were greater in cattle fed MNVM than in cattle fed MN. Combination of monensin and virginiamycin altered the rumen microbial populations but did not decrease enteric CH4 emissions. However, it decreased forage dry matter intake without altering the ADG and total weight gain, leading to an increase in feed efficiency. Results from this study indicate an advantage in including feed additives combined in the diet of supplemented Nellore cattle grazing tropical grass during the rainy season.

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)

Natural Growth Promoters Replacing Traditional Growth Promoters in Diets for Light Replacement Pullets: A Systematic Approach

The effect of using natural growth promoters (NGP) to replace traditional antimicrobials on performance, biometry of digestive and reproductive organs, sexual maturity and bone characteristics of replacement pullets was evaluated; and the relationship between these variables according to the diets was verified. Eight-week-old birds were randomly assigned to a completely randomized design and fed different diets: negative control (without growth promoters); positive control - conventional growth promoter; organic acids (OA); symbiotic (S); essential oil (EO); OA + S; and EO + S. The performance, relative weight of digestive and reproductive organs and length intestines, height and crest length, sternum length, bone quality and sexual maturity of birds were similar (p>0.05) between treatments. The heat map combined with cluster analysis showed a uniform static pattern with the formation of three horizontal groups formed by the treatments: 1) negative control, S and OA + S; 2) positive control and OE and 3) OA and OE + S. A null relationship between the treatments and the variables under study was observed. The principal components analysis revealed an association of variables in three components with 60.55% of variation. NGP can replace traditional promoters, as they do not interfere with performance, biometrics or sexual maturity. Height and length are predictive variables for the development of reproductive organs, especially the oviduct. A similarity was identified through multivariate techniques between symbiotic and organic + symbiotic acids; positive control and essential oils; and organic and symbiotic acids + essential oils.(AU)

Effect of a Feed Additive Based on Organic Acids and Tangerine Wort (Citrus reticulata) as Growth Promoter for Broiler Chickens

Feed additive alternatives to antibiotics, such as organic acids, and substances rich in polyphenols, such as tangerine wort, can promote improved intestinal health in broilers by modulating the microbial population and improving nutrient utilization. In this work, a product which combines organic acids (fumaric acid 0.5%, lactic acid 5.13%, citric acid 5.44% and ascorbic acid 1.2%) and tangerine wort (Citrus reticulata) 8.36% was studied. To determine the effect and the most appropriate level of inclusion of product in the diet of broilers, an experiment was carried out with 1400-day-old male chicks, in a conventional poultry house, evaluating the performance until 42 days of age. The birds were housed in RCB design with 5 treatments and 7 replicates of 40 birds each, and the diets with the additive inclusions were evaluated: A250 (250 mg/kg), A500 (500 mg/kg), A1000 (1000 mg/kg), a negative control (NC, not supplemented), and a positive control (PC, 10 mg/kg of enramycin). The diets were formulated based on corn and soybean meal, containing added phytase and without anticoccidial; the additives replaced an inert in the basal diet. Performance characteristics, microbiota count, morphometry and jejunum morphology were evaluated. Considering the overall experimental period, the inclusion of the alternative additive based on organic acids and tangerine wort at different levels (250, 500 and 1000 mg/kg) did not result in difference from the negative control diet or the positive control with the inclusion of the antibiotic enramycin for performance traits (p>0.05), as well as for the microbiota count, morphology, jejunal morphometry and viability. Considering the period of 29-35 days alone, treatment with 500 mg/kg of alternative additive improved weight gain and feed intake of the chickens (p<0.05), but had no effect on feed conversion.(AU)

A blend of thyme and rosemary powders with poultry by-product meal can be used as a natural antioxidant in broilers

A total of 500, 14-d old male Ross 308 broilers were allocated into five treatments (4 replicates each) including: a negative (NC) and positive control diet (PC) which supplemented without and with 7% poultry by-product meal (PBPM), respectively and three levels of additive supplementation of thyme and rosemary powders in the basal diets: 0.750% rosemary powder (PCR); 0.375% thyme powder + 0.375% rosemary powder (PCRT), and 0.750% thyme powder (PCT) rosemary powder. The PCRT diet improved (p<0.05) average daily gain and feed conversion ratio by 5.62 and 10.37% compared to PC, respectively. The serum concentration of lipids (triglycerides, cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein, and low-density lipoprotein) was decreased while the ilealvillus heightand ratio of villus height to crypt depth as well as ileal microbiota population were improved(p<0.05) in response to inclusion PCRT diet compared to PC diet. The blood serum concentration of malondialdehyde was statistically decreased (p<0.05) by supplementation of PCRT in broiler diets. Our results suggested that supplementation of a blend of thyme and rosemary powders at the level of 0.375% of each into broiler diet during d 14-42 has merit to be used as a natural antioxidant in diets formulated by PBPM.(AU)

Semen quality and sperm characteristics in broiler breeder cockerels fed vitamin E during hot season

Thirty-two Arbor Acres (AA) cockerels aged 27 weeks were used to determine the effect of vitamin E (VE) on the semen characteristics and sperm quality during hot season. The birds were fed diets containing 0, 50, 100 and 150mg VE kg-1 feed. There were 4 replicates and two birds per replicate. Semen collection was done thrice a week for three weeks in all birds. Dietary vitamin E significantly (p < 0.05) increased the semen volume (SV) and number of sperm cells (NS) in AA cockerels. CONTROL birds (0.71 mL) had lower SV than birds fed 150 mg VE (0.94 mL). Birds on 100 and 150 mg VE recorded similar NS, which was higher than 0 and 50 mg VE groups. The least NS was in the CONTROL group. Sperm abnormality gradually (p < 0.05) decreased as dietary VE increased from 0 to 150 mg. Significant (p < 0.01) effect of dietary VE was recorded in percentage live sperm (PLS). Semen from cockerels on VE treatment had higher PLS than the CONTROL. In conclusion, it may be beneficial to supplement the broiler breeder cockerel diet with VE up to 150 mg kg-1 feed during hot season as it increased SV, NS and PLS and decreased sperm abnormality.(AU)

On the efficacy, innocuity and residual depletion of flavomycin in confined steers / Avaliação da eficácia, inocuidade e depleção residual da flavomicina em novilhos confinados

Flavomycin is a non-ionophore additive little studied in finishing confined cattle. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of flavomycin on productive performance, ingestive behavior, carcass traits and biochemical parameters of steers finished in confinement. 32 whole steers, ½ Angus e ½ Nellore blood, from the same herd, with a mean age of 11 ± 1.5 months and initial body weight of 337 ± 6 kg were evaluated. The experiment was a randomized block design, consisting of two treatments and eight replications, as follows: Diet without flavomycin (control) and Diet with flavomycin (0.5 g FLAVIMPEX®80 animal day-1). There was no difference between treatments, the average dry matter intake of the animals was 10.03 kg day-1, feed efficiency was 0.158 kg, average daily gain was 1.593 kg day-1, apparent diet digestibility was 61.69%. The use of flavomycin was not effective in animal performance, and caused no changes in ingestive behavior and carcass traits of the animals. Total Plasma Protein, Aspartate amino-transferase and creatinine were lower for animals supplemented with flavomycin compared to the control group. In relation to the experimental period, there was a reduction in the levels of Total Plasma Protein, an increase in albumin, Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase and urea in cattle, but all remained within the reference range for the species.(AU)

A flavomicina é um aditivo que pertence à classe dos não ionóforos, contudo, com poucos estudos realizados com bovinos confinados em fase de terminação. Diante disso, o objetivo do presente estudo foi avaliar a eficácia da flavomicina sobre o desempenho produtivo, comportamento ingestivo, características de carcaça e os parâmetros bioquímicos de novilhos terminados em confinamento. Foram avaliados 32 novilhos inteiros, ½ sangue Angus ½ sangue Nelore, provenientes do mesmo rebanho, com idade média de 11 meses ± 1,5 meses e peso corporal inicial de 337 kg ± 6 kg. O delineamento experimental foi o de blocos casualizados, composto por dois tratamentos e oito repetições, sendo: Dieta sem flavomicina (controle) e Dieta com flavomicina (0,5 g animal dia-1 do produto FLAVIMPEX®80). Não ocorrendo diferença entre os tratamentos, o consumo de matéria seca médio dos animais foi de 10,03 kg dia-1, eficiência alimentar de 0,158 kg, ganho médio diário de 1,593 kg dia-1, digestibilidade aparente da dieta de 61,69%. O uso da flavomicina não foi eficaz no desempenho animal, assim como não trouxe alterações no comportamento ingestivo e melhorias nas características de carcaça dos animais. A Proteína Plasmática Total, Aspartato amino-transferase e creatinina foram inferiores para os animais suplementados com flavomicina em relação ao grupo controle. Em relação ao período experimental houve redução nos índices de Proteína Plasmática Total, aumento na albumina, Gama-Glutamil Transferase e ureia dos bovinos, mas todos se mantiveram dentro dos valores de referência para a espécie.(AU)

Physicochemical characteristics of lamb meat fed with cottonseed associated with calcium lignosulphonate

The physicochemical characteristics of the meat from lambs fed diets containing whole or disintegrated cottonseed, associated or not with calcium lignosulfonate (LignoCaSO3), were evaluated. Thirty non-castrated Dorper x Santa Inês lambs, with an average of 24.9 ± 3.6 kg and four months of age were confined for 60 days in collective stalls and distributed in a completely randomized design with six replications. After slaughter, by means of contrasts, the averages of the parameters of the semimembranous and semitendinosus muscles were analyzed. The cottonseed increased cooking loss and ash, and reduced muscle weight, water holding capacity and red intensity. The disintegration of the cottonseed reduced the shear force in diets without LignoCaSO3, increased the protein and the loss by cooking and reduced the pH in the diets with the additive. The luminosity values increased with the disintegration of the cottonseed in diets with and without LignoCaSO3. The addition of LignoCaSO3increased the weight of the muscle, protein, ash, pH, shear strength and the intensity of red. Moisture, lipids and yellow intensity were not influenced by the diets. Even changing the physical-chemical characteristics, the cottonseed with or without LignoCaSO3does not change the quality of the meat.(AU)

Mycotoxin risk management for dairy cows by monitoring blood parameters, reproduction status and SCC in milk / [Gerenciamento de risco de micotoxinas para vacas leiteiras através do monitoramento de parâmetros sanguíneos, status de reprodução e SCC no leite]

The objective of this study was to determine the effectiveness of mycotoxin management with feed additive by monitoring biochemical blood parameters, reproduction status and udder health in cows. During the first 1-12-months, the reproduction performance was assessed. The cows were fed only total mixed ration (TMR) with naturally contaminated mycotoxins (ZEN;DON;AFB1;OTA) and the cows were regarded as a control group (CG). In months 13-15, two groups were created: control (CG)(n=30) and experimental (EG)(n=60). The CG was fed with contaminated TMR and the EG was fed with the same TMR+40g/cow mycotoxins management feed additive (TMXL1000). During this period, blood indicators and udder health were studied. Beginning with months 16-24, all cows were fed with contaminated TMR+40 g/cow (TMXL1000) and regarded as the EG. The IgA concentrations in the CG decreased in the 15th month (p<0.05). The concentrations of cortisol decreased by two times (p<0.05) in the EG. Ovarian cyst treatment was more effective by 14.98% (p<0.05) in the EG than in the CG (p<0.05). The EG performed an effective (18.02%) (p<0.05) response to applied ovsynch protocol compared with the CG. According to the obtained results, it can be concluded that feed additive for mycotoxins management had a positive impact on dairy cow health.

O objetivo deste estudo era determinar a eficácia do manejo de micotoxinas com aditivo alimentar através do monitoramento de parâmetros bioquímicos do sangue, estado de reprodução e saúde do úbere em vacas. Durante os primeiros 1-12 meses, o desempenho de reprodução foi avaliado. As vacas foram alimentadas apenas com ração total mista (TMR) com micotoxinas naturalmente contaminadas (ZEN;DON;AFB1;OTA) e as vacas foram consideradas como um grupo de controle (CG). Nos meses 13-15, dois grupos foram criados: controle (CG)(n=30) e experimental (EG)(n=60). O CG foi alimentado com TMR contaminado e o EG foi alimentado com o mesmo TMR+40g/ aditivo para o manejo de micotoxinas de vacas (TMXL1000). Durante este período, foram estudados os indicadores de sangue e a saúde do úbere. A partir dos meses 16-24, todas as vacas foram alimentadas com TMR+40 g/ vaca contaminada (TMXL1000) e consideradas como o EG. As concentrações de IgA no GC diminuíram no 15º mês (p<0,05). As concentrações de cortisol diminuíram duas vezes (p<0,05) no GE. O tratamento do cisto ovariano foi mais eficaz em 14,98% (p<0,05) no GE do que no GC (p<0,05). O GE realizou uma resposta efetiva (18,02%) (p<0,05) ao protocolo ovsynch aplicado em comparação com o GC. De acordo com os resultados obtidos, pode-se concluir que o aditivo alimentar para o manejo de micotoxinas teve um impacto positivo na saúde das vacas leiteiras.

Combination of carbohydrases and essential oils improve dietary performance of feedlot steers on a high-energy diet / Associação de carboidrases e óleos essenciais melhoram o aproveitamento da dieta em novilhos confinados alimentados com dieta de alta densidade energética

Essential oils and enzymes are alternatives to feed additives for ruminants that aim to replace the use of ionophores and improve animal performance, but their mechanisms of action are different. Therefore, the present study aimed to verify if there is a synergistic effect in the combined use of enzymes carbohydrates and essential oils on the performance, ingestive behavior and carcass traits of steers fed a high-energy diet. During the finishing period of 78 days, 40 steers were assigned to four treatments: CON- control; ENZ- enzymatic complex; EO- essential oil blend; ENZ+EO - enzymatic complex combined with essential oil blend. Regardless of the feedlot periods, the ENZ+EO treatment caused a reduction in the dry matter intake (12.48%) compared to the control. The ENZ+EO treatment resulted in the lowest mean fecal output and, consequently, the highest dry matter digestibility (DMD) and starch digestibility (SD), compared to the other treatments. Animals that received EO and ENZ+EO in the diet spent more time in feeding. As for the number of times animals visited the feeding trough, the highest values were presented by the animals in the EO, ENZ and ENZ+EO treatments. For the carcass parameters, only the subcutaneous fat thickness on the rib was significantly different between treatments, with the highest values obtained by adding EO and ENZ+EO (8.80 and 8.10 mm respectively). Thus, the combination of carbohydrate enzymes and essential oils proved to be synergistically beneficial in relation to better use of nutrients and productive performance of feedlot steers.(AU)

Os óleos essenciais e as enzimas são alternativas de aditivos alimentares para ruminantes que visam substituir o uso de ionóforos e melhorar o desempenho animal, porém seus mecanismos de ação são distintos, diante disso, o presente estudo teve por objetivo verificar se há efeito sinérgico no uso associado de enzimas carboidrases e óleos essenciais sobre o desempenho, comportamento ingestivo e características de carcaça de novilhos recebendo dieta de alta densidade energética. Durante 78 dias, período de terminação, 40 novilhos foram distribuídos em quatro tratamentos: CON - controle; ENZ - complexo enzimático; OE - mistura de óleos essenciais; ENZ+OE - complexo enzimático associado a mistura de óleos essenciais. Independentemente dos períodos de confinamento, o tratamento ENZ+OE apresentou maior redução na ingestão de matéria seca (12,48%) quando comparado ao controle. O tratamento ENZ+OE foi o que apresentou a menor produção média de fezes e a maior digestibilidade da matéria seca (DMS) e digestibilidade do amido (DA), comparado aos demais tratamentos. Os animais que receberam dieta contendo OE e ENZ+OE passaram maior tempo se alimentando, já em relação ao número de vezes que os animais visitaram o cocho de alimentação, as maiores médias ficaram com os animais dos tratamentos OE, ENZ e ENZ+OE. Para os parâmetros avaliados em carcaça apenas a espessura de gordura subcutânea nas costelas apresentou diferença significativa entre os tratamentos, sendo as maiores médias obtidas pela adição de OE e ENZ+OE (8.80 e 8.10 mm, respectivamente). Dessa forma, a associação de enzimas carboidrases e óleos essenciais mostrou-se sinergicamente benéfica em relação ao melhor aproveitamento dos nutrientes e desempenho produtivo de novilhos confinados.(AU)

Effect of Lippia grata essential oil as a feed additive on the performance of tambatinga juveniles / Efeito do óleo essencial de Lippia grata como aditivo alimentar sobre o desempenho de juvenis de tambatinga

Lippia grata (formerly known as Lippia gracillis) is an aromatic plant native to Brazil, with leaves rich in essential oils that possess significant biological activities. We evaluated the effect of essential oil of L. grata (EOLG) as a dietary additive on the growth, somatic indices, and biochemical parameters of juveniles (5.25 ± 0.26 g) of tambatinga, a hybrid fish obtained by crossing tambaqui (Colossoma macropomum) with pirapitinga (Piaractus brachypomum) of great economic importance in north and northeastern Brazil. We evaluated four dietary treatments, consisting of EOLG supplemented at 0.0, 0.5, 1.0, and 2.0 mL kg-1, over 60 days. Carcass yield was significantly higher in fish fed all EOLG diets compared to those fed the control diet (0.0 mL kg-1). Animals that received the 0.5 mL kg-1 treatment gained significantly more weight and showed a higher specific growth rate than those treated with 1.0 and 2.0 ml kg-1 EOLG, although none differed significantly from the control. The feed conversion rate was significantly lower in the 0.5 than in the 1.0 mL kg-1 treatment. Compared with higher concentrations, the diet containing 0.5 mL kg-1 EOLG increased the use of muscle glycogen, glucose, and lactate to meet energy demands, avoiding the use of muscle protein. Our results suggest that dietary supplementation with EOLG significantly improves carcass yield in tambatinga juveniles but that concentrations above 0.5 mL kg-1 may compromise growth rates and carbohydrate metabolism in this fish.(AU)

Lippia grata (previamente conhecida como Lippia gracillis) é uma planta aromática nativa do Brasil, com folhas ricas em óleos essenciais que possuem atividades biológicas significativas. Avaliamos o efeito do óleo essencial de L. grata (OELG) como aditivo alimentar sobre o crescimento, índices somáticos e parâmetros bioquímicos de juvenis (5,25 ± 0,26 g) de tambatinga, um hibrido obtido do cruzamento de tambaqui (Colossoma macropomum) com pirapitinga (Piaractus brachypomum) com grande importância econômica no norte e nordeste do Brazil. Foram avaliados quatro tratamentos dietéticos consistindo na suplementação com OELG em 0,0; 0,5; 1,0 e 2,0 mL kg-1 durante 60 dias. O rendimento de carcaça foi significativamente maior nos peixes alimentados com todas as dietas contendo OELG em comparação à dieta controle. Os animais do tratamento 0,5 mL kg-1 ganharam significativamente mais peso e apresentaram maior taxa de crescimento específico do que aqueles tratados com 1,0 e 2,0 mL kg-1 OELG, embora nenhum tenha diferido significativamente do controle. A taxa de conversão alimentar foi significativamente menor no tratamento 0,5 mL kg-1 do que no tratamento 1,0 mL kg-1. Comparada com as concentrações mais altas, a dieta contendo 0,5 mL kg-1 OELG aumentou o uso de glicogênio muscular, glicose e lactato para suprir as demandas energéticas, evitando o uso de proteína muscular. Nossos resultados sugerem que a suplementação dietética com OELG melhora significativamente o rendimento de carcaça de juvenis de tambatinga, mas concentrações acima de 0,5 mL kg-1 podem comprometer as taxas de crescimento e metabolismo de carboidratos desses peixes.(AU)

Antiproliferative, genotoxic and mutagenic potential of synthetic chocolate food flavoring / Potencial antiproliferativo, genotóxico e mutagênico do aroma de chocolate sintético para alimentos

Flavoring additives are of great technological importance for the food industry. However, there is little information regarding the toxicological properties of these micro-ingredients, especially at the cellular level. The present study used meristematic root cells of Allium cepa L. to evaluate the toxicity of a liquid, aroma and flavor synthetic chocolate additive, manufactured and widely marketed throughout Brazil and exported to other countries in South America. The flavoring concentrations evaluated were 100.00; 50.00; 25.00; 1.00; 0.50 and 0.25 µL/L, where the highest concentration established was one-hundred times lower than that commercially suggested for use. The concentration 100 µL/L substantially reduced cell division of meristems within 24- and 48-hours exposure. Concentrations from 100.00 to 0.50 µL/L resulted in a significant number of prophases to the detriment of the other phases of cell division, indicating an aneugenic activity, and induced a significant number of cellular changes, with emphasis on micronuclei, nuclear buds and chromosomal breaks. Under the established analysis conditions, with the exception of concentration 0.25 µL/L, the flavoring of chocolate caused cytotoxicity, genotoxicity and mutagenicity to root meristems.

Os aditivos aromatizantes têm grande importância tecnológica para a indústria de alimentos. Contudo, poucas são as informações quanto as propriedades toxicológicas desses microingredientes, especialmente, em nível celular. No presente estudo avaliou-se, sobre as células meristemáticas de raízes de Allium cepa L., a toxicidade de um aditivo sintético líquido de aroma e sabor de chocolate, fabricado e amplamente comercializado em todo Brasil, e exportado para outros países da América do Sul. As concentrações de aromatizante avaliadas foram 100,00; 50,00; 25,00; 1,00; 0,50 e 0,25 µL/L, onde a maior concentração estabelecida foi cem vezes menor que a sugerida comercialmente para uso. Com base na interpretação dos resultados, a concentração 100 µL/L reduziu substancialmente a divisão celular dos meristemas nas 24 e 48 horas de exposição. As concentrações 100,00 a 0,50 µL/L demonstraram número significativo de prófases em detrimento as outras fases da divisão celular, indicando ação aneugênica, e induziram número significativo de alterações celulares, com ênfase a micronúcleos, broto nucleares e quebras cromossômicas. Nas condições de análises estabelecidas, com exceção a concentração 0,25 µL/L, o aromatizante de chocolate causou citotoxicidade, genotoxicidade e mutagenicidade aos meristemas radiculares.

Hydroalcoholic extract of jabuticaba peel in the diet of betta fish / Extrato hidroalcoólico de casca de jabuticaba na dieta de peixe betta

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of jabuticaba (Plinia cauliflora) peel extract on the diets of female blue Betta splendens concerning the level of digestive enzymes, liver metabolism, and antioxidant activity. The sample constituted 150 individuals subdivided into five groups in tripli-cate, totaling 10 fish per 20-liter experimental unit. Commercial diets (40.88% crude protein (CP) and 4374.8 Kcal•kg-1v) were added to hydroalcoholic jabuticaba peel extract (EHJ) at concentrations of 0 (control), 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, and 2.0 g•kg-1. The diets were provided twice a day, until apparent satiety, for 21 days. Fish mortality was not observed during the study. Growth indices did not show any significant differences, apart from feed conversion. The use of the extract promoted an increase in the luminosity of the fish; however, there was no statistical difference in chromaticity a* and b*. A decrease in the activity of SOD on the skin of fish fed with diets of 1.5 and 2 g kg-1 EHJ was observed in comparison to the other diets. There was no change in catalase (CAT) activity among the experimental treatments. It is concluded that the use of 2 g•kg-1 EHJ has an antioxidant effect that reflects the greater luminosity of blue female Betta splendens.(AU)

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar os efeitos do extrato hidroalcoólico de casca de jabuticaba em die-tas de Bettasplendes azuis em relação ao conteúdo de enzimas digestivas, ao metabolismo hepático e à atividade antioxidante. Foram utilizados 150 indivíduos divididos em cinco grupos em triplicatas, totalizando dez peixes por unidade experimental de 20 L. Às dietas comerciais (40,88% PB e 4.374,8 Kcal kg-1), foi acrescido extrato hidroalcoólico de casca de jabuticaba (EHJ) nas seguintes concentra-ções: controle; 0,5; 1; 1,5; e 2 g•kg-1). A ração foi fornecida aos exemplares duas vezes ao dia, até a saciedade aparente, por 21 dias. Não foi registrada a mortalidade de peixes durante o ensaio, bem como diferença significativa nos índices de crescimento, com exceção da conversão alimentar. A utili-zação do extrato aumentou a luminosidade dos peixes, porém não se verificou diferença estatística na cromaticidade a* e b*. Quanto ao superóxido dismutase, diminuiu-se sua atividade na pele do grupo alimentado com dietas acrescidas de 1,5 e 2 g•kg-1 EHJ em comparação com as demais. O último item avaliado foi a catalase, cuja atividade não se alterou no período estudado. Concluiu-se, portanto, que a utilização de 2 g•kg-1 EHJ proporciona efeito antioxidante, que se reflete em maior luminosidade de Bettasplendes azuis.(AU)