Comparison of Characteristics and Differences in Early Immune Organ Development in Different Strains of Tianfu Broiler

To effectively develop and utilize high-quality Tianfu broilers, this study evaluated the morphological and structural characteristics of the immune organs of such broilers with different strains (HS1 and HS2) at different developmental stages and analyzed the distribution of mast cells by toluidine blue staining. Moreover, the localization and expression of immunoglobulin, complement C3, C4 and CD3 in immune organs were also detected. The results showed that although there was no significant difference in the development of immune organs in the HS1 and HS2, the number of lymphatic follicles and capsule thickness in the spleen and bursa of Fabricius in HS1 were greater than those in HS2. Additionally, the number of mast cells in the spleen of HS1 was greater at Day 1 and Day 21 and was significantly higher than that of HS2 (p<0.05); the number of mast cells in the bursa of Fabricius reached 9.17 on Day 7, which was significantly higher than that of HS2 (p<0.05). Moreover, the serum IgA and IgM levels in HS1 were higher than those in HS2 on Day 14 and 21 (p<0.05). In addition, the complement C3 content in HS1 was significantly or extremely significantly higher than that in HS2 on Days 1, 14 and 21 (p<0.01, p<0.05), respectively, but significantly lower than in HS2 on Day 7 (p<0.05). These results indicated that the disease resistance of the HS1 line was stronger than that of the HS2 line, which lays a foundation for future disease- resistance breeding of Tianfu broilers.(AU)

Resveratrol Attenuates Heat-Stress-Impaired Immune and Inflammatory Responses of Broilers by Modulating Toll-Like Receptor-4 Signaling Pathway

This study investigated the effect of resveratrol on the immune and inflammatory responses and the mRNA levels of splenic toll-like receptor (TLR)-4 signaling pathway-related genes of broilers under heat stress (HS). One hundred and sixty-two birds were allocated to three groups, each with 6 replicates, for 21 continuous days. The three treatments were as follows: the control group (22 ± 1 °C), the HS (33 ± 1 °C for 10 h d-1 and 22 ± 1 °C for the remaining time) group and the HS + resveratrol (400 mg kg-1) group. At the end of the trial, one bird per replicate close to the average body weight (BW) was selected, exsanguinated, and slaughtered. Compared with the control group, the HS treatment decreased (p<0.05) final BW, average daily gain (ADG), average daily feed intake (ADFI), relative weight of bursa of Fabricius and spleen, serum immunoglobulin (Ig) Y, IgA and interleukin (IL)-10 contents, and splenic IL-10 mRNA level, while it increased (p<0.05) feed/gain, mRNA levels of splenic tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), TLR-4, nuclear factor-kappa-B (NF-κB), IL-1ß, and IL-6. Compared to the HS group, the HS+resveratrol group exhibited increased (p<0.05) final BW, ADG, relative weight of bursa of Fabricius and spleen, serum IgY, IgA and IL-10 contents, and splenic IL-10 mRNA level, while it exhibited lower (p<0.05) TNF-α, IL-1ß and IL-6 contents in serum, and splenic TLR4, TNF-α, IL-1ß, and NF-κB mRNA levels. In conclusion, resveratrol prevented a HS-impairment of the immune function of broilers by blocking the abnormal activation of the TLR4 signaling pathway.(AU)

Acute intoxication with single oral dose of ochratoxin A (OTA) causes leukopenia, heteropenia, lymphopenia and lymphoid depletion in the bursa of Fabricius in broiler chicks / Intoxicação aguda com dose oral única de ocratoxina A (OTA) causa leucopenia, heteropenia, linfopenia e depleção linfoide na bolsa de Fabricius em pintainhos de corte

Ochratoxin A (OTA) is a mycotoxin produced by species of Penicillium and Aspergillus, agricultural product contaminants. Chronic and sub-chronic OTA intoxication by chickens ingesting contaminated feed, leads to health damages due to its hepatotoxic, nephrotoxic, cytotoxic, immunotoxic, gastrotoxic, and possibly carcinogenic effects. As there are few data on acute intoxication, the present study evaluated the effects of a single acute OTA intoxication dose on immunological and hematological parameters in chicks. Sixteen one-day-old chicks were used, separated into two groups (n=8). A single dose of OTA (1400 µg kg-1 body weight) was administered, via gavage, for the OTA group and one dose of sterile PBS for the control group. On the 13th day, blood samples were collected to assess hematological and biochemical parameters, and on the 14th day, euthanasia and collection of lymphoid organs were performed. The animals of the OTA group demonstrated a significant decrease in total circulating leukocytes (p<0.001) with heteropenia (p<0.001) and lymphopenia (p=0.023), decrease hematocrit (p=0.020), hemoglobin (p=0.032), and plasma IgA (p =0.044), and increased plasma uric acid level (p=0.045), in relation to the control group. In addition, the animals intoxicated with OTA showed depletion of lymphoid cells in the bursa of Fabricius (p=0.016), but not in the thymus or spleen (p>0.05), compared to the control. For the other parameters: total plasma proteins, plasma IgY levels, and anti-Newcastle Disease Virus (NDV) vaccine titers from matrices, there were no significant differences between the analyzed groups (p>0.05), although there was a worsening tendency in contaminated animals. In conclusion, even a single acute OTA intoxication at a high dose, leads to the suppression of the systemic immune response, also affecting some hematological or biochemical parameters in chicks.

Ocratoxina A (OTA) é uma micotoxina produzida por espécies de Penicillium e Aspergillus, contaminantes de produtos agrícolas. Intoxicação crônica e subcrônica por OTA em frangos que ingerem ração contaminada, levam à danos à saúde devido aos seus efeitos hepatotóxicos, nefrotóxicos, citotóxicos, imunotóxicos, gastrotóxicos e possivelmente carcinogênicos. Como há poucos dados sobre intoxicação aguda, o presente estudo avaliou os efeitos de uma dose única de intoxicação aguda por OTA sobre parâmetros imunológicos e hematológicos em pintainhos. Foram utilizados 16 pintainhos de um dia de idade, separados em dois grupos (n=8). Uma dose única de OTA (1400 µg kg-1 de peso corporal) foi administrada, via gavagem, para o grupo OTA e uma dose de PBS estéril para o grupo controle. No 13º dia foram coletadas amostras de sangue para avaliação dos parâmetros hematológicos e bioquímicos, e no 14º dia foi realizada a eutanásia e coleta de órgãos linfoides. Os animais do grupo OTA demonstraram diminuição significativa do total de leucócitos circulantes (p<0,001) com heteropenia (p<0,001) e linfopenia (p=0,023), diminuição do hematócrito (p=0,020), hemoglobina (p=0,032) e IgA plasmática (p=0,044) e aumento do nível plasmático de ácido úrico (p=0,045), em relação ao grupo controle. Além disso, os animais intoxicados com OTA apresentaram depleção de células linfóides na bolsa de Fabricius (p=0,016), mas não no timo ou baço (p>0,05), em relação ao controle. Para os demais parâmetros: proteínas totais do plasma, níveis plasmáticos de IgY e títulos de vacinas contra o Vírus da Doença de Newcastle (NDV) das matrizes, não houve diferenças significativas entre os grupos analisados (p>0,05), embora tenha havido uma tendência de piora nos animais contaminados. Em conclusão, mesmo uma intoxicação única aguda por OTA em alta dose, leva à supressão da resposta imune sistêmica, afetando também alguns parâmetros hematológicos ou bioquímicos em pintainhos.

Diets with Ganoderma lucidum Mushroom Powder and Zinc-Bacitracin on Growth Performance, Carcass Traits, Lymphoid Organ Weights and Intestinal Characteristics in Broilers

In order to evaluate the effect of diets with Ganoderma lucidum mushroom powder and zinc-bacitracin on growth performance, carcass traits, lymphoid organ weights, and intestinal characteristics in broilers, a total of 600 one-day-old unsexed broilers from Cobb 500 MV × Cobb 500 FF genotype was analyzed for 28 days, following a completely randomized design with three dietary treatments, five replicates and 40 birds per replicate. The dietary treatments consisted of a basal diet (BD) without additives (T0) and the dietary inclusion of 2.5 g/kg of Ganoderma lucidum (T1) and 350 mg/kg of zinc bacitracin antibiotic (T2). The experimental groups did not change (p>0.05) the performance of the broilers. However, G. lucidum powder increased (p≤0.05) the carcass and breast yields (p≤0.05) and decreased the abdominal fat and liver yields (p≤0.05), although with no notable differences with the antibiotic group for the latter organ (liver) (p>0.05). Both additives (G. lucidum and antibiotic) increased breast meat moisture, protein, and redness; however, these treatments reduced L* (lightness), and the zinc-bacitracin reduced breast yellowness (p≤0.05). Likewise, this medicinal mushroom (G. lucidum) increased the relative weight of bursa of Fabricius and the morphometry of the small intestine (p≤0.05), although with no changes for other immune and digestive organs or for the content of cecal lactic acid bacteria (p>0.05). The dietary inclusion with 2.5 g/kg of Ganoderma lucidum powder is recommended to improve breast yield, protein, and colorimetry without affecting performance and cecal traits of fast-growing broilers.(AU)

Diets with Ganoderma lucidum Mushroom Powder and Zinc-Bacitracin on Growth Performance, Carcass Traits, Lymphoid Organ Weights and Intestinal Characteristics in Broilers

In order to evaluate the effect of diets with Ganoderma lucidum mushroom powder and zinc-bacitracin on growth performance, carcass traits, lymphoid organ weights, and intestinal characteristics in broilers, a total of 600 one-day-old unsexed broilers from Cobb 500 MV × Cobb 500 FF genotype was analyzed for 28 days, following a completely randomized design with three dietary treatments, five replicates and 40 birds per replicate. The dietary treatments consisted of a basal diet (BD) without additives (T0) and the dietary inclusion of 2.5 g/kg of Ganoderma lucidum (T1) and 350 mg/kg of zinc bacitracin antibiotic (T2). The experimental groups did not change (p>0.05) the performance of the broilers. However, G. lucidum powder increased (p≤0.05) the carcass and breast yields (p≤0.05) and decreased the abdominal fat and liver yields (p≤0.05), although with no notable differences with the antibiotic group for the latter organ (liver) (p>0.05). Both additives (G. lucidum and antibiotic) increased breast meat moisture, protein, and redness; however, these treatments reduced L* (lightness), and the zinc-bacitracin reduced breast yellowness (p≤0.05). Likewise, this medicinal mushroom (G. lucidum) increased the relative weight of bursa of Fabricius and the morphometry of the small intestine (p≤0.05), although with no changes for other immune and digestive organs or for the content of cecal lactic acid bacteria (p>0.05). The dietary inclusion with 2.5 g/kg of Ganoderma lucidum powder is recommended to improve breast yield, protein, and colorimetry without affecting performance and cecal traits of fast-growing broilers.

Pathological, microbiological and immunohistochemical characterization of avian colibacillosis in broiler chickens of Mozambique

ABSTRACT: Avian colibacillosis is an acute and globally occurring infectious disease of domestic and wild birds caused by Escherichia coli, and it is associated with considerable economic losses mainly due to the morbidity and mortality associated. The present study aimed to describe the pathological, bacteriological and immunohistochemical aspects of avian colibacillosis in broiler chickens of Mozambique. Forty-nine broiler chicken presented anorexia, decreased weight gain, ataxia, diarrhea, dyspnea, and death in a clinical course of 3-5 days. The birds were raised in five farms (small, medium and large farms) with manual and automatic breeding system, with flocks ranging from 100 to 20,000 birds. At the necropsy, all birds had poor body condition, and the pericardium and the Glissons capsule of all avian exhibited different degrees of adherence often associated with severe fibrin deposition. The thoracic and abdominal air sacs were thickened and adhered to the costal wall. Mild, moderate or marked hepatomegaly associated with white pinpoint multifocal areas (100%, 49/49) and mild to moderate splenomegaly in 75.5% (37/49) with a mottled surface were observed. The lungs and kidney were enlarged and reddish. Histologically, a multiorgan fibrinoheterophilic polyserositis was observed in 75.5% of the cases (37/49), which were characterized by inflammatory infiltrates composed mainly of degenerative heterophils, macrophages and plasma cells, associated with fibrin deposits and intermixed by coccobacillary bacterial basophilic aggregates. These affected mainly the pericardium (28.6%, 14/49), the pleura (18.4%, 9/49), the Glissons capsule (10.2%, 5/49), the ventriculus (10.2, 5/33), and the proventriculus (8.2%, 4/49) serosa. Multifocal to coalescing areas of coagulative necrosis associated with similar inflammatory cells were observed mainly in the spleen (28.6%, 14/49), liver (24.5%, 12/49), and intestines (22.4%, 11/49). A similar infiltrate was also observed affecting the the lungs (16.3%, 8/49), the kidney (16.3%, 8/49) and the myocardium (14.3%, 7/49). Isolation and identification of E. coli was obtained in 12 cases through bacterial culture. Some organs (2 cases of each farms) were selected and submitted to immunohistochemistry anti-E. coli, and a positive stain was observed in all tested cases in liver (3/3), heart (4/4), spleen (1/1), lungs (4/4), intestines (4/4), bursa of Fabricius (1/1), ventriculus (1/1), and proventriculus (1/1) tissue sections. These results demonstrate that E. coli was the cause of mortality in these birds. Therefore, biosecurity and management measures should be employed to prevent and control the disease occurrence in Mozambiques poultry farming.

RESUMO: A colibacilose aviária é uma doença aguda de ocorrência mundial que acomete aves domésticas e silvestres, causada por Escherichia coli e resulta em perdas econômicas consideráveis devido à elevada morbidade e mortalidade das aves. O presente estudo teve o objetivo de descrever os aspectos patológicos, bacteriológicos e imuno-histoquímicos de colibacilose aviária em frangos de corte de Moçambique. Um total de 49 frangos de corte apresentaram anorexia, baixo ganho de peso, ataxia, diarreia, dispneia e morte em um curso clínico de 3 a 5 dias. As aves eram provenientes de 5 granjas (pequenas, média e grandes), com sistema de criação manual e automático, com rebanhos que variavam de 100 a 20.000 aves. À necropsia, todas as aves exibiam condição corporal ruim a caquética, além de pericárdio e cápsula de Glisson de todas aves (100%; n=49) com diferentes graus de aderência e deposição de fibrina de forma difusa acentuada. Os sacos aéreos torácicos e abdominais estavam espessados e aderidos à parede costal. Foi observado ainda hepatomegalia discreta, moderada a severa frequentemente associada com áreas multifocais puntiformes brancacentas (100%; 49/49), e esplenomegalia discreta a moderada, associado a áreas multifocais moteadas (75,5%; 37/49). Os pulmões e rins estavam aumentados e com coloração avermelhada. Histologicamente, observou-se majoritariamente serosite fibrinoheterofílica em 75,5% dos casos (37/49), caracterizadas por infiltrado inflamatório composto por heterófilos degenerados, macrófagos, linfócitos e plasmócitos, com deposição de fibrina entremeada por uma miríade de estruturas bacterianas cocobacilares. Esta lesão foi observada principalmente em pericárdio (28,6%; 14/49), pleura (18,4%; 9/49), cápsula de Glisson (10,2%; 5/49), ventrículo (10,2; 5/33) e em proventrículo (8,2%; 4/49). Áreas multifocais a coalescentes de necrose de coagulação associada a infiltrado inflamatório semelhante ao descrito foi observado principalmente no baço (28,6%; 14/49), fígado (24.5%; 12/49), e intestinos (8,2%; 4/49). Um infiltrado inflamatório semelhante também foi visualizado em pulmões (16,3%; 8/49), rins (16,3%; 8/49) e miocárdio (14,3%; 7/49), Colônias puras de E. coli foram identificadas e isoladas em 12 casos. Alguns órgãos (2 de cada granja) foram submetidos ao exame imuno-histoquímico anti-E. coli e marcação positiva foi visualizada em todos casos testados, como em fígado (3/3), coração (4/4), baço (1/1), pulmão (4/4), intestinos (4/4), bursa de Fabricius (1/1), rim (1/1), ventrículo (1/1) e proventrículo (1/1). Estes resultados demonstram que E. coli foi a causa de morte destas aves. Sendo assim, a adoção de boas medidas de biosseguridade e de manejo são indispensáveis para a prevenção e controle da ocorrência da doença nas granjas de frango de corte de Moçambique.

Sources of conjugated linoleic acid and lauric acid inoculated into the eggs of quails and its effects on immunity / Fontes de ácido linoléico conjugado e ácido láurico inoculados em ovos de codornas e seus efeitos sobre a imunidade

The objective of this study is to evaluate the effects of in-egg inoculation with sources of conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) and lauric acid (AL), going by the weight of lymphoid organs and the biochemical profile of the blood of cut quails, from one to 35 days of age. We used 360 quails distributed in a completely randomized design, in six treatments and six replicates of 10 birds per plot. Corn oil (OM) was used to dilute the CLA and AL. The experimental treatments were: healthy eggs (control); eggs inoculated with OM thinner; eggs inoculated with CLA 120 mg / 50 mL OM; eggs inoculated with CLA 240 mg / 50 mL OM; eggs inoculated with AL 60 mg / 50 mL OM and eggs inoculated with AL 90 mg / 50 mL OM. The results were analyzed through Program R at the level of 5% significance. To verify the normal distribution of errors, the Shapiro Wilk normality test was applied. At 21 days, an effect of p < 0.05 was observed for the total blood cholesterol content, inoculations with CLA reduced, even as AL increased, regardless of the level. At 35 days, it was found (p < 0.05) that the levels of total cholesterol and AST in the blood decreased with inoculations of CLA and AL at the lower levels, compared to those that did not receive the inoculations. The CLA and AL levels supplemented via egg inoculations did not interfere with the weight of the lymphoid organs (thymus, Fabricius bursa) of the birds, at both ages. Supplementation in eggs of cut quails with CLA 240 mg reduced the total blood cholesterol content compared to CLA 120 mg, at 21 days of age. At 35 days of age, higher concentrations of CLA and AL increased the total cholesterol and AST in the blood of birds and AL had a greater effect on the increase than CLA.

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar os efeitos da inoculação in ovo com fontes de ácido linoleico conjugado (CLA) e ácido láurico (AL), sobre os órgãos linfoides e o perfil bioquímico do sangue de codornas de corte de um a 35 dias de idade. Foram utilizadas 360 codornas distribuídas em delineamento inteiramente casualizado, em seis tratamentos e seis repetições de 10 aves por parcela. Os tratamentos experimentais foram: ovos íntegros (controle); ovos inoculados com diluidor OM; ovos inoculados com CLA 120 mg/50mL OM; ovos inoculados com CLA 240 mg/50mL OM; ovos inoculados com AL 60 mg/50mL OM e ovos inoculados com AL 90 mg/50mL OM. Aos 21 dias observou-se efeito (P<0,05) para teor de colesterol total no sangue, as inoculações com CLA reduzem, enquanto o AL aumenta independentemente do nível. Os resultados foram analisados pelo programa R no nível de significância de 5%. Para verificar a distribuição normal dos erros, foi aplicado o teste de normalidade Shapiro-Wilk. Aos 21 dias, observou-se efeito (P < 0,05) para o teor total de colesterol no sangue, inoculações com CLA reduzida, enquanto a AL aumenta independentemente do nível. Aos 35 dias, verificou-se (P < 0,05) que os níveis de colesterol total e AST no sangue diminuíram com as inoculações de CLA e AL em níveis mais baixos, comparados àqueles que não receberam inoculações. Os níveis de CLA e AL suplementados por inoculações de ovos não interferiram no peso dos órgãos linfoides (timo, bursa de Fabricius) de aves em ambas as idades. A suplementação em ovos de codornas de corte com CLA 240 mg reduz o conteúdo total de colesterol no sangue em comparação com o CLA 120 mg aos 21 dias de idade. Aos 35 dias de idade, concentrações mais altas de CLA e AL aumentam o colesterol total e AST no sangue das aves e o AL tem um efeito maior em aumentar o CLA sanguíneo.

Sources of conjugated linoleic acid and lauric acid inoculated into the eggs of quails and its effects on immunity / Fontes de ácido linoléico conjugado e ácido láurico inoculados em ovos de codornas e seus efeitos sobre a imunidade

The objective of this study is to evaluate the effects of in-egg inoculation with sources of conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) and lauric acid (AL), going by the weight of lymphoid organs and the biochemical profile of the blood of cut quails, from one to 35 days of age. We used 360 quails distributed in a completely randomized design, in six treatments and six replicates of 10 birds per plot. Corn oil (OM) was used to dilute the CLA and AL. The experimental treatments were: healthy eggs (control); eggs inoculated with OM thinner; eggs inoculated with CLA 120 mg / 50 mL OM; eggs inoculated with CLA 240 mg / 50 mL OM; eggs inoculated with AL 60 mg / 50 mL OM and eggs inoculated with AL 90 mg / 50 mL OM. The results were analyzed through Program R at the level of 5% significance. To verify the normal distribution of errors, the Shapiro Wilk normality test was applied. At 21 days, an effect of p < 0.05 was observed for the total blood cholesterol content, inoculations with CLA reduced, even as AL increased, regardless of the level. At 35 days, it was found (p < 0.05) that the levels of total cholesterol and AST in the blood decreased with inoculations of CLA and AL at the lower levels, compared to those that did not receive the inoculations. The CLA and AL levels supplemented via egg inoculations did not interfere with the weight of the lymphoid organs (thymus, Fabricius bursa) of the birds, at both ages. Supplementation in eggs of cut quails with CLA 240 mg reduced the total blood cholesterol content compared to CLA 120 mg, at 21 days of age. At 35 days of age, higher concentrations of CLA and AL increased the total cholesterol and AST in the blood of birds and AL had a greater effect on the increase than CLA.(AU)

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar os efeitos da inoculação in ovo com fontes de ácido linoleico conjugado (CLA) e ácido láurico (AL), sobre os órgãos linfoides e o perfil bioquímico do sangue de codornas de corte de um a 35 dias de idade. Foram utilizadas 360 codornas distribuídas em delineamento inteiramente casualizado, em seis tratamentos e seis repetições de 10 aves por parcela. Os tratamentos experimentais foram: ovos íntegros (controle); ovos inoculados com diluidor OM; ovos inoculados com CLA 120 mg/50mL OM; ovos inoculados com CLA 240 mg/50mL OM; ovos inoculados com AL 60 mg/50mL OM e ovos inoculados com AL 90 mg/50mL OM. Aos 21 dias observou-se efeito (P<0,05) para teor de colesterol total no sangue, as inoculações com CLA reduzem, enquanto o AL aumenta independentemente do nível. Os resultados foram analisados pelo programa R no nível de significância de 5%. Para verificar a distribuição normal dos erros, foi aplicado o teste de normalidade Shapiro-Wilk. Aos 21 dias, observou-se efeito (P < 0,05) para o teor total de colesterol no sangue, inoculações com CLA reduzida, enquanto a AL aumenta independentemente do nível. Aos 35 dias, verificou-se (P < 0,05) que os níveis de colesterol total e AST no sangue diminuíram com as inoculações de CLA e AL em níveis mais baixos, comparados àqueles que não receberam inoculações. Os níveis de CLA e AL suplementados por inoculações de ovos não interferiram no peso dos órgãos linfoides (timo, bursa de Fabricius) de aves em ambas as idades. A suplementação em ovos de codornas de corte com CLA 240 mg reduz o conteúdo total de colesterol no sangue em comparação com o CLA 120 mg aos 21 dias de idade. Aos 35 dias de idade, concentrações mais altas de CLA e AL aumentam o colesterol total e AST no sangue das aves e o AL tem um efeito maior em aumentar o CLA sanguíneo.(AU)

Phytobiotic Effect of Anacardium occidentale L. Leaves Powder on Performance, Carcass Traits, and Intestinal Characteristics in Broilers

In order to evaluate the phytobiotic effect of cashew (Anacardium occidentale L.) leaves powder (CLP) on growth performance, carcass traits, lymphoid organ weights and cecal lactic-acid bacteria in broilers, a total of 720 unsexed broilers of the Ross 308® genetic line were distributed according to a completely randomized design with three experimental treatments, five repetitions and 48 chickens per repetitions. The experimental treatments consisted of a basal diet (DB; T0) and DB + supplementation with 0.50 (T1) and 0.75% (T2) of CLP. At 32 days, the body weight, feed intake and feed conversion ratio were not modified (p>0.05) by the experimental groups; however, T1 increased (p 0.05) the viability compared to T0. Additionally, T2 improved (p 0.05) the carcass and leg yields, although without significant changes (p>0.05) for the other edible portions. Moreover, this natural product (A. occidentale) increased (p 0.05) the ash content and the range of the red tone and decreased (p 0.05) the L* in the breast, although moisture, fat, pH, and b* were not affected by the experimental diets (p>0.05). Similarly, T1 favored (p 0.05) the growth of green bacterial colonies with a white halo, and both treatments with CLP the total cecal acid-lactic bacteria. No significant changes were observed (p>0.05) in the relative weight of the immune organs (thymus, bursa of Fabricius, and spleen). Dietary supplementation with cashew leaves powder enhanced the viability of the batch (0.5%), some edible portions (0.75%), the breast pigmentation, and the cecal beneficial bacteria count in broilers.(AU)

Phytobiotic Effect of Anacardium occidentale L. Leaves Powder on Performance, Carcass Traits, and Intestinal Characteristics in Broilers

In order to evaluate the phytobiotic effect of cashew (Anacardium occidentale L.) leaves powder (CLP) on growth performance, carcass traits, lymphoid organ weights and cecal lactic-acid bacteria in broilers, a total of 720 unsexed broilers of the Ross 308® genetic line were distributed according to a completely randomized design with three experimental treatments, five repetitions and 48 chickens per repetitions. The experimental treatments consisted of a basal diet (DB; T0) and DB + supplementation with 0.50 (T1) and 0.75% (T2) of CLP. At 32 days, the body weight, feed intake and feed conversion ratio were not modified (p>0.05) by the experimental groups; however, T1 increased (p 0.05) the viability compared to T0. Additionally, T2 improved (p 0.05) the carcass and leg yields, although without significant changes (p>0.05) for the other edible portions. Moreover, this natural product (A. occidentale) increased (p 0.05) the ash content and the range of the red tone and decreased (p 0.05) the L* in the breast, although moisture, fat, pH, and b* were not affected by the experimental diets (p>0.05). Similarly, T1 favored (p 0.05) the growth of green bacterial colonies with a white halo, and both treatments with CLP the total cecal acid-lactic bacteria. No significant changes were observed (p>0.05) in the relative weight of the immune organs (thymus, bursa of Fabricius, and spleen). Dietary supplementation with cashew leaves powder enhanced the viability of the batch (0.5%), some edible portions (0.75%), the breast pigmentation, and the cecal beneficial bacteria count in broilers.

Probiotic Lactobacilli Improved Growth Performance and Attenuated Salmonella Typhimurium Infection Via Jak/Stat Signaling in Broilers

This study aimed to investigate the effect of Lactobacillus plantarum DPP8 and Lactobacillus acidophilus C7282 in feed supplementation on growth performance, Salmonella invasion, inflammation, and mediating signaling in broilers infected with Salmonella Typhimurium (S. Typhimurium). A total of 240 broilers at day old were randomly allocated into four groups, orally infected with S. Typhimurium and supplemented with individual or combined Lactobacilli DPP8 and C7282 at doses of 0 (control), 1010 (individual), or 2.0 × 1010 (combination) cfu/kg of diet for 21 d. The results showed that supplementing Lactobacilli improved (p 0.05) feed intake and body weight gain and decreased (p 0.05) S. Typhimurium load in the caecum, harder gland, spleen and bursa of Fabricius. Also, the supplements decreased (p 0.05) interleukin (1/2/4), tumor necrosis factor and interferon in the serum, enhanced (p 0.05) interleukin 10, and downregulated gene expressions of inflammatory mediators including Janus kinase (Jak2/3), signal transducer and activator of transcription protein (STAT3/4/5/6) in the intestinal mucosa. In contrast, diets containing DPP8 exhibited greater effects on the inhibition of the pathogen and inflammatory response than C7282. The obtained data suggest that Lactobacilli C7282 and DPP8 can be used as feed additives to inhibit colonization and translocation of S. Typhimurium and inflammatory responses via downregulating Jak/STAT signaling in broilers.(AU)

Probiotic Lactobacilli Improved Growth Performance and Attenuated Salmonella Typhimurium Infection Via Jak/Stat Signaling in Broilers

This study aimed to investigate the effect of Lactobacillus plantarum DPP8 and Lactobacillus acidophilus C7282 in feed supplementation on growth performance, Salmonella invasion, inflammation, and mediating signaling in broilers infected with Salmonella Typhimurium (S. Typhimurium). A total of 240 broilers at day old were randomly allocated into four groups, orally infected with S. Typhimurium and supplemented with individual or combined Lactobacilli DPP8 and C7282 at doses of 0 (control), 1010 (individual), or 2.0 × 1010 (combination) cfu/kg of diet for 21 d. The results showed that supplementing Lactobacilli improved (p 0.05) feed intake and body weight gain and decreased (p 0.05) S. Typhimurium load in the caecum, harder gland, spleen and bursa of Fabricius. Also, the supplements decreased (p 0.05) interleukin (1/2/4), tumor necrosis factor and interferon in the serum, enhanced (p 0.05) interleukin 10, and downregulated gene expressions of inflammatory mediators including Janus kinase (Jak2/3), signal transducer and activator of transcription protein (STAT3/4/5/6) in the intestinal mucosa. In contrast, diets containing DPP8 exhibited greater effects on the inhibition of the pathogen and inflammatory response than C7282. The obtained data suggest that Lactobacilli C7282 and DPP8 can be used as feed additives to inhibit colonization and translocation of S. Typhimurium and inflammatory responses via downregulating Jak/STAT signaling in broilers.

Pathological, microbiological and immunohistochemical characterization of avian colibacillosis in broiler chickens of Mozambique / Caracterização patológica, microbiológica e imuno-histoquímica de colibacilose em frangos de corte de Moçambique

Avian colibacillosis is an acute and globally occurring infectious disease of domestic and wild birds caused by Escherichia coli, and it is associated with considerable economic losses mainly due to the morbidity and mortality associated. The present study aimed to describe the pathological, bacteriological and immunohistochemical aspects of avian colibacillosis in broiler chickens of Mozambique. Forty-nine broiler chicken presented anorexia, decreased weight gain, ataxia, diarrhea, dyspnea, and death in a clinical course of 3-5 days. The birds were raised in five farms (small, medium and large farms) with manual and automatic breeding system, with flocks ranging from 100 to 20,000 birds. At the necropsy, all birds had poor body condition, and the pericardium and the Glisson's capsule of all avian exhibited different degrees of adherence often associated with severe fibrin deposition. The thoracic and abdominal air sacs were thickened and adhered to the costal wall. Mild, moderate or marked hepatomegaly associated with white pinpoint multifocal areas (100%, 49/49) and mild to moderate splenomegaly in 75.5% (37/49) with a mottled surface were observed. The lungs and kidney were enlarged and reddish. Histologically, a multiorgan fibrinoheterophilic polyserositis was observed in 75.5% of the cases (37/49), which were characterized by inflammatory infiltrates composed mainly of degenerative heterophils, macrophages and plasma cells, associated with fibrin deposits and intermixed by coccobacillary bacterial basophilic aggregates. These affected mainly the pericardium (28.6%, 14/49), the pleura (18.4%, 9/49), the Glisson's capsule (10.2%, 5/49), the ventriculus (10.2, 5/33), and the proventriculus (8.2%, 4/49) serosa. Multifocal to coalescing areas of coagulative necrosis associated with similar inflammatory cells were observed mainly in the spleen (28.6%, 14/49), liver (24.5%, 12/49), and intestines (22.4%, 11/49). A similar infiltrate was also observed affecting the the lungs (16.3%, 8/49), the kidney (16.3%, 8/49) and the myocardium (14.3%, 7/49). Isolation and identification of E. coli was obtained in 12 cases through bacterial culture. Some organs (2 cases of each farms) were selected and submitted to immunohistochemistry anti-E. coli, and a positive stain was observed in all tested cases in liver (3/3), heart (4/4), spleen (1/1), lungs (4/4), intestines (4/4), bursa of Fabricius (1/1), ventriculus (1/1), and proventriculus (1/1) tissue sections. These results demonstrate that E. coli was the cause of mortality in these birds. Therefore, biosecurity and management measures should be employed to prevent and control the disease occurrence in Mozambique's poultry farming.(AU)

A colibacilose aviária é uma doença aguda de ocorrência mundial que acomete aves domésticas e silvestres, causada por Escherichia coli e resulta em perdas econômicas consideráveis devido à elevada morbidade e mortalidade das aves. O presente estudo teve o objetivo de descrever os aspectos patológicos, bacteriológicos e imuno-histoquímicos de colibacilose aviária em frangos de corte de Moçambique. Um total de 49 frangos de corte apresentaram anorexia, baixo ganho de peso, ataxia, diarreia, dispneia e morte em um curso clínico de 3 a 5 dias. As aves eram provenientes de 5 granjas (pequenas, média e grandes), com sistema de criação manual e automático, com rebanhos que variavam de 100 a 20.000 aves. À necropsia, todas as aves exibiam condição corporal ruim a caquética, além de pericárdio e cápsula de Glisson de todas aves (100%; n=49) com diferentes graus de aderência e deposição de fibrina de forma difusa acentuada. Os sacos aéreos torácicos e abdominais estavam espessados e aderidos à parede costal. Foi observado ainda hepatomegalia discreta, moderada a severa frequentemente associada com áreas multifocais puntiformes brancacentas (100%; 49/49), e esplenomegalia discreta a moderada, associado a áreas multifocais moteadas (75,5%; 37/49). Os pulmões e rins estavam aumentados e com coloração avermelhada. Histologicamente, observou-se majoritariamente serosite fibrinoheterofílica em 75,5% dos casos (37/49), caracterizadas por infiltrado inflamatório composto por heterófilos degenerados, macrófagos, linfócitos e plasmócitos, com deposição de fibrina entremeada por uma miríade de estruturas bacterianas cocobacilares. Esta lesão foi observada principalmente em pericárdio (28,6%; 14/49), pleura (18,4%; 9/49), cápsula de Glisson (10,2%; 5/49), ventrículo (10,2; 5/33) e em proventrículo (8,2%; 4/49). Áreas multifocais a coalescentes de necrose de coagulação associada a infiltrado inflamatório semelhante ao descrito foi observado principalmente no baço (28,6%; 14/49), fígado (24.5%; 12/49), e intestinos (8,2%; 4/49). Um infiltrado inflamatório semelhante também foi visualizado em pulmões (16,3%; 8/49), rins (16,3%; 8/49) e miocárdio (14,3%; 7/49), Colônias puras de E. coli foram identificadas e isoladas em 12 casos. Alguns órgãos (2 de cada granja) foram submetidos ao exame imuno-histoquímico anti-E. coli e marcação positiva foi visualizada em todos casos testados, como em fígado (3/3), coração (4/4), baço (1/1), pulmão (4/4), intestinos (4/4), bursa de Fabricius (1/1), rim (1/1), ventrículo (1/1) e proventrículo (1/1). Estes resultados demonstram que E. coli foi a causa de morte destas aves. Sendo assim, a adoção de boas medidas de biosseguridade e de manejo são indispensáveis para a prevenção e controle da ocorrência da doença nas granjas de frango de corte de Moçambique.(AU)

Pathological, microbiological and immunohistochemical characterization of avian colibacillosis in broiler chickens of Mozambique / Caracterização patológica, microbiológica e imuno-histoquímica de colibacilose em frangos de corte de Moçambique

Avian colibacillosis is an acute and globally occurring infectious disease of domestic and wild birds caused by Escherichia coli, and it is associated with considerable economic losses mainly due to the morbidity and mortality associated. The present study aimed to describe the pathological, bacteriological and immunohistochemical aspects of avian colibacillosis in broiler chickens of Mozambique. Forty-nine broiler chicken presented anorexia, decreased weight gain, ataxia, diarrhea, dyspnea, and death in a clinical course of 3-5 days. The birds were raised in five farms (small, medium and large farms) with manual and automatic breeding system, with flocks ranging from 100 to 20,000 birds. At the necropsy, all birds had poor body condition, and the pericardium and the Glisson's capsule of all avian exhibited different degrees of adherence often associated with severe fibrin deposition. The thoracic and abdominal air sacs were thickened and adhered to the costal wall. Mild, moderate or marked hepatomegaly associated with white pinpoint multifocal areas (100%, 49/49) and mild to moderate splenomegaly in 75.5% (37/49) with a mottled surface were observed. The lungs and kidney were enlarged and reddish. Histologically, a multiorgan fibrinoheterophilic polyserositis was observed in 75.5% of the cases (37/49), which were characterized by inflammatory infiltrates composed mainly of degenerative heterophils, macrophages and plasma cells, associated with fibrin deposits and intermixed by coccobacillary bacterial basophilic aggregates. These affected mainly the pericardium (28.6%, 14/49), the pleura (18.4%, 9/49), the Glisson's capsule (10.2%, 5/49), the ventriculus (10.2, 5/33), and the proventriculus (8.2%, 4/49) serosa. Multifocal to coalescing areas of coagulative necrosis associated with similar inflammatory cells were observed mainly in the spleen (28.6%, 14/49), liver (24.5%, 12/49), and intestines (22.4%, 11/49). A similar infiltrate was also observed affecting the the lungs (16.3%, 8/49), the kidney (16.3%, 8/49) and the myocardium (14.3%, 7/49). Isolation and identification of E. coli was obtained in 12 cases through bacterial culture. Some organs (2 cases of each farms) were selected and submitted to immunohistochemistry anti-E. coli, and a positive stain was observed in all tested cases in liver (3/3), heart (4/4), spleen (1/1), lungs (4/4), intestines (4/4), bursa of Fabricius (1/1), ventriculus (1/1), and proventriculus (1/1) tissue sections. These results demonstrate that E. coli was the cause of mortality in these birds. Therefore, biosecurity and management measures should be employed to prevent and control the disease occurrence in Mozambique's poultry farming.(AU)

A colibacilose aviária é uma doença aguda de ocorrência mundial que acomete aves domésticas e silvestres, causada por Escherichia coli e resulta em perdas econômicas consideráveis devido à elevada morbidade e mortalidade das aves. O presente estudo teve o objetivo de descrever os aspectos patológicos, bacteriológicos e imuno-histoquímicos de colibacilose aviária em frangos de corte de Moçambique. Um total de 49 frangos de corte apresentaram anorexia, baixo ganho de peso, ataxia, diarreia, dispneia e morte em um curso clínico de 3 a 5 dias. As aves eram provenientes de 5 granjas (pequenas, média e grandes), com sistema de criação manual e automático, com rebanhos que variavam de 100 a 20.000 aves. À necropsia, todas as aves exibiam condição corporal ruim a caquética, além de pericárdio e cápsula de Glisson de todas aves (100%; n=49) com diferentes graus de aderência e deposição de fibrina de forma difusa acentuada. Os sacos aéreos torácicos e abdominais estavam espessados e aderidos à parede costal. Foi observado ainda hepatomegalia discreta, moderada a severa frequentemente associada com áreas multifocais puntiformes brancacentas (100%; 49/49), e esplenomegalia discreta a moderada, associado a áreas multifocais moteadas (75,5%; 37/49). Os pulmões e rins estavam aumentados e com coloração avermelhada. Histologicamente, observou-se majoritariamente serosite fibrinoheterofílica em 75,5% dos casos (37/49), caracterizadas por infiltrado inflamatório composto por heterófilos degenerados, macrófagos, linfócitos e plasmócitos, com deposição de fibrina entremeada por uma miríade de estruturas bacterianas cocobacilares. Esta lesão foi observada principalmente em pericárdio (28,6%; 14/49), pleura (18,4%; 9/49), cápsula de Glisson (10,2%; 5/49), ventrículo (10,2; 5/33) e em proventrículo (8,2%; 4/49). Áreas multifocais a coalescentes de necrose de coagulação associada a infiltrado inflamatório semelhante ao descrito foi observado principalmente no baço (28,6%; 14/49), fígado (24.5%; 12/49), e intestinos (8,2%; 4/49). Um infiltrado inflamatório semelhante também foi visualizado em pulmões (16,3%; 8/49), rins (16,3%; 8/49) e miocárdio (14,3%; 7/49), Colônias puras de E. coli foram identificadas e isoladas em 12 casos. Alguns órgãos (2 de cada granja) foram submetidos ao exame imuno-histoquímico anti-E. coli e marcação positiva foi visualizada em todos casos testados, como em fígado (3/3), coração (4/4), baço (1/1), pulmão (4/4), intestinos (4/4), bursa de Fabricius (1/1), rim (1/1), ventrículo (1/1) e proventrículo (1/1). Estes resultados demonstram que E. coli foi a causa de morte destas aves. Sendo assim, a adoção de boas medidas de biosseguridade e de manejo são indispensáveis para a prevenção e controle da ocorrência da doença nas granjas de frango de corte de Moçambique.(AU)

First report of psittacine beak and feather disease in importedbudgerigar (Melopsittacus undulatus) chicks in Mexico

This case reports an outbreak of psittacine beak and feather disease in imported budgerigars (Melopsittacusundulatus) in a breeding site in Mexico. Feather abnormalities occurred in 3-month-old budgerigars and the percentage of affected birds was 40 of 100 birds (40%). The disease begins with varying degrees of bare skin on the back, the ventral region of the body, and the thoracic and pelvic regions without clinical signs or mortality offspring. Thirty-tree budgerigars were referred to the laboratory for diagnostics work-up. The hemogram showed different stages of inflammation in all studied birds, where 66% had relative erythrocytosis, leukocytosis due to heterophilia and monocytosis associated with chronic inflammation. The biochemical analysis showed mainly hypoproteinemia and hypouricemia in 5/8 and 4/9 birds, respectively. The absence of feathers with some tiny calamus of the pectoral region was the most significant feature and no other significant pathologic changes were observed. Histopathologic findings were apoptosis and a moderate amount of spherical intracytoplasmic basophilic inclusion bodies in clusters in some epithelial cells of feather follicles (12/14 sections examined) and bursa of Fabricius (8/10 sections examined). End-point PCR of bursa of Fabricius, genome sequencing and phylogenetic analysis, confirmed circovirus identification of the psittacine beak and feather disease virus species and belonging to the group 2 previously found in budgerigars. This is the first description of the psittacine beak and feather disease in budgerigars in Mexico showing the need of monitoring health status of companion and free-ranging endemic and endangered psittacine birds in Mexico in order to collaborate with the trade regulation of these bird species.(AU)

First report of psittacine beak and feather disease in importedbudgerigar (Melopsittacus undulatus) chicks in Mexico

This case reports an outbreak of psittacine beak and feather disease in imported budgerigars (Melopsittacusundulatus) in a breeding site in Mexico. Feather abnormalities occurred in 3-month-old budgerigars and the percentage of affected birds was 40 of 100 birds (40%). The disease begins with varying degrees of bare skin on the back, the ventral region of the body, and the thoracic and pelvic regions without clinical signs or mortality offspring. Thirty-tree budgerigars were referred to the laboratory for diagnostics work-up. The hemogram showed different stages of inflammation in all studied birds, where 66% had relative erythrocytosis, leukocytosis due to heterophilia and monocytosis associated with chronic inflammation. The biochemical analysis showed mainly hypoproteinemia and hypouricemia in 5/8 and 4/9 birds, respectively. The absence of feathers with some tiny calamus of the pectoral region was the most significant feature and no other significant pathologic changes were observed. Histopathologic findings were apoptosis and a moderate amount of spherical intracytoplasmic basophilic inclusion bodies in clusters in some epithelial cells of feather follicles (12/14 sections examined) and bursa of Fabricius (8/10 sections examined). End-point PCR of bursa of Fabricius, genome sequencing and phylogenetic analysis, confirmed circovirus identification of the psittacine beak and feather disease virus species and belonging to the group 2 previously found in budgerigars. This is the first description of the psittacine beak and feather disease in budgerigars in Mexico showing the need of monitoring health status of companion and free-ranging endemic and endangered psittacine birds in Mexico in order to collaborate with the trade regulation of these bird species.

Effects of E. Coli Infection on the Expressions of TGF-/Smads Signaling Pathway in Broiler Intestine

This experiment aimed to investigate whether Escherichia coli (E. coli) infection could affect the TGF-/smads signaling pathway in the jejunal tissue of chickens. One-day-old Cobb 500 broilers were randomly divided into 2 groups and treated with intraperitoneal E. coli or broth injection. Clinical signs of the birds were assessed every day. Spleen and bursa of Fabricius of the birds, post-infection (pi), were collected to evaluate immune organ index. Jejunal tissues were collected to ascertain the expression of TGF-s, TRs, and Smads. The results showed that the infected birds had significantly higher index of the spleen (24hrs and 48hrs pi) compared with birds in the control group (p 0.05). The relative gene expression of TGF-4 increased (p 0.05), while the expression of Smad7 down-regulated in the E. coli group (p 0.01). There was no significant difference in TGF-2, TGF-3, TR I, TR II, Smad2, Smad3 expression (p>0.05). In conclusion, TGF-/Smad signaling pathway was associated with the immune response of broilers in E. coli infection and TGF-4 was the main subtype interacting with E. coli infection.(AU)

Effects of E. Coli Infection on the Expressions of TGF-/Smads Signaling Pathway in Broiler Intestine

This experiment aimed to investigate whether Escherichia coli (E. coli) infection could affect the TGF-/smads signaling pathway in the jejunal tissue of chickens. One-day-old Cobb 500 broilers were randomly divided into 2 groups and treated with intraperitoneal E. coli or broth injection. Clinical signs of the birds were assessed every day. Spleen and bursa of Fabricius of the birds, post-infection (pi), were collected to evaluate immune organ index. Jejunal tissues were collected to ascertain the expression of TGF-s, TRs, and Smads. The results showed that the infected birds had significantly higher index of the spleen (24hrs and 48hrs pi) compared with birds in the control group (p 0.05). The relative gene expression of TGF-4 increased (p 0.05), while the expression of Smad7 down-regulated in the E. coli group (p 0.01). There was no significant difference in TGF-2, TGF-3, TR I, TR II, Smad2, Smad3 expression (p>0.05). In conclusion, TGF-/Smad signaling pathway was associated with the immune response of broilers in E. coli infection and TGF-4 was the main subtype interacting with E. coli infection.

Bone parameters and organ morphometry of two broiler chicken lines exposed to heat for different periods / Parâmetros ósseos e morfometria de órgãos de duas linhagens de frangos de corte mantidos sob diferentes tempos de exposição ao calor

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of different times of exposure to heat on bone parameters and organ morphometry of Cobb Slow® and Hubbard Flex® broilers exposed to high temperatures for 1, 2 or 3 h daily, from 14 days of age. A total of 1120 one-day-old male chicks (half of each line; average weight of 44 g) were housed into 32 cages with 35 birds each, in a randomized-block experimental design. From the first to the 13th day of age, the birds remained under the thermal conditions recommended for their lines; thereafter, from the 14th day, the shed was separated into four parallel sections of 5.60 × 10.20 × 2.8 m delimited by double-sided plastic curtains along the width of the shed. Cyclic heat stress was generated by average temperatures of 36 ºC from 14-20 days, 35 °C from 21-27 days, 34 °C from 28-34 days and 33 °C from 35-42 days. The total length, width, density and mineral matter of the tibia; the size of the duodenum, jejunum and ileum; and the weights of the bursa of Fabricius and spleen were measured. No interaction effect between thermal environment and line was observed. Heat stress for up to 3 h daily, from the 14th to the 41st day of age, led to a longer but narrower tibia. There was no influence on small intestine morphometry. The Hubbard line presented longer and wider tibiae as well as higher relative and absolute weights of the bursa. In conclusion, heat stress from 2 h daily modifies the structure of the tibia in broilers, which increases in length and reduces in width, but heat exposure has no influence on the small intestine or lymphoid organs. The Hubbard line shows better tibia development than the Cobb line as well as different primary lymphoid responses, represented by a heavier bursa.(AU)

Objetivou-se avaliar os efeitos de diferentes tempos de exposição ao calor sobre os parâmetros ósseos e morfometria de órgãos de frango de corte Cobb Slow® e Hubbard Flex® expostos à temperatura elevada por 1h, 2h e 3h diárias a partir de 14 dias de idade. Foram alojados 1120 pintos de cortes machos de um dia, distribuídos em delineamento de blocos casualizados, sendo metade de cada linhagem (peso médio de 44g) em 32 boxes com 35 aves cada. Do primeiro ao 13º dia de idade as aves permaneceram em condições térmicas de acordo com o recomendado para a linhagem, a partir do 14º dia, o galpão foi separado em quatro seções paralelas de 5,60 x 10,20 x 2,8m delimitadas por cortinas plásticas dupla face ao longo da largura do galpão. O estresse cíclico por calor foi gerado com temperaturas médias de 14-20 dias: 36 ºC; 21-27 dias: 35 ºC; 28-34 dias: 34 ºC e 35-42 dias: 33 ºC. O comprimento total, largura, densidade e matéria mineral do osso tíbia; tamanho do duodeno, jejuno e íleo e o peso da bursa e do baço foram determinados. Não foi observado interação entre ambiente térmico e linhagens. O estresse por calor no período de até 3 horas diárias, do 14º ao 41º dia de idade aumentou o comprimento e reduziu a largura do osso tíbia. Não houve influência na morfometria do intestino delgado. A linhagem Hubbard apresentou maiores comprimento e largura da tíbia, bem como maiores pesos relativo e absoluto da bursa. Concluiu-se que o estresse por calor a partir de 2 horas diárias modifica a estrutura da tíbia de frangos de corte, com aumento de seu comprimento e redução de sua largura, porém não há influência da exposição ao calor sobre o intestino delgado e órgãos linfoides. A linhagem Hubbard apresenta melhor desenvolvimento do osso tíbia em relação à Cobb, bem como respostas linfoides primárias diferentes, representada por maior peso da bursa.(AU)

Bone parameters and organ morphometry of two broiler chicken lines exposed to heat for different periods / Parâmetros ósseos e morfometria de órgãos de duas linhagens de frangos de corte mantidos sob diferentes tempos de exposição ao calor

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of different times of exposure to heat on bone parameters and organ morphometry of Cobb Slow® and Hubbard Flex® broilers exposed to high temperatures for 1, 2 or 3 h daily, from 14 days of age. A total of 1120 one-day-old male chicks (half of each line; average weight of 44 g) were housed into 32 cages with 35 birds each, in a randomized-block experimental design. From the first to the 13th day of age, the birds remained under the thermal conditions recommended for their lines; thereafter, from the 14th day, the shed was separated into four parallel sections of 5.60 × 10.20 × 2.8 m delimited by double-sided plastic curtains along the width of the shed. Cyclic heat stress was generated by average temperatures of 36 ºC from 14-20 days, 35 °C from 21-27 days, 34 °C from 28-34 days and 33 °C from 35-42 days. The total length, width, density and mineral matter of the tibia; the size of the duodenum, jejunum and ileum; and the weights of the bursa of Fabricius and spleen were measured. No interaction effect between thermal environment and line was observed. Heat stress for up to 3 h daily, from the 14th to the 41st day of age, led to a longer but narrower tibia. There was no influence on small intestine morphometry. The Hubbard line presented longer and wider tibiae as well as higher relative and absolute weights of the bursa. In conclusion, heat stress from 2 h daily modifies the structure of the tibia in broilers, which increases in length and reduces in width, but heat exposure has no influence on the small intestine or lymphoid organs. The Hubbard line shows better tibia development than the Cobb line as well as different primary lymphoid responses, represented by a heavier bursa.

Objetivou-se avaliar os efeitos de diferentes tempos de exposição ao calor sobre os parâmetros ósseos e morfometria de órgãos de frango de corte Cobb Slow® e Hubbard Flex® expostos à temperatura elevada por 1h, 2h e 3h diárias a partir de 14 dias de idade. Foram alojados 1120 pintos de cortes machos de um dia, distribuídos em delineamento de blocos casualizados, sendo metade de cada linhagem (peso médio de 44g) em 32 boxes com 35 aves cada. Do primeiro ao 13º dia de idade as aves permaneceram em condições térmicas de acordo com o recomendado para a linhagem, a partir do 14º dia, o galpão foi separado em quatro seções paralelas de 5,60 x 10,20 x 2,8m delimitadas por cortinas plásticas dupla face ao longo da largura do galpão. O estresse cíclico por calor foi gerado com temperaturas médias de 14-20 dias: 36 ºC; 21-27 dias: 35 ºC; 28-34 dias: 34 ºC e 35-42 dias: 33 ºC. O comprimento total, largura, densidade e matéria mineral do osso tíbia; tamanho do duodeno, jejuno e íleo e o peso da bursa e do baço foram determinados. Não foi observado interação entre ambiente térmico e linhagens. O estresse por calor no período de até 3 horas diárias, do 14º ao 41º dia de idade aumentou o comprimento e reduziu a largura do osso tíbia. Não houve influência na morfometria do intestino delgado. A linhagem Hubbard apresentou maiores comprimento e largura da tíbia, bem como maiores pesos relativo e absoluto da bursa. Concluiu-se que o estresse por calor a partir de 2 horas diárias modifica a estrutura da tíbia de frangos de corte, com aumento de seu comprimento e redução de sua largura, porém não há influência da exposição ao calor sobre o intestino delgado e órgãos linfoides. A linhagem Hubbard apresenta melhor desenvolvimento do osso tíbia em relação à Cobb, bem como respostas linfoides primárias diferentes, representada por maior peso da bursa.