How do relocation time and length of storage after relocation affect fermentation and nutritive value of corn silage?

This study aimed to determine the effects of relocation time (RT; Experiment 1) and storage time after relocation (ST; Experiment 2) on microbial population, fermentative characteristics, and chemical composition of corn silage. In experiment 1, corn silage was stored for 30 d, subjected to different RT (0­60 h), and stored again for 30 d. Thirty experimental silos were used in a completely randomized design, with three replicates per treatment. In experiment 2, after 150 d of ensiling, silage was removed from a bunker silo, exposed to air for 9 h, relocated to experimental silos, and stored for periods ranging from 0 to 128 d. Twenty-eight experimental silos were used in a completely randomized design, with four replicates per treatment. Relocation time had no effect on fungi counts and concentrations of lactic and propionic acids in corn silage but resulted in a significant increase in dry matter content. In experiment 2, dry matter recovery and concentration of non-fiber carbohydrates decreased in corn silage stored for more than 32 d after relocation. Exposure of corn silage to air during relocation for up to 60 h followed by 30 d of storage did not compromise the fermentation profile or nutritive value of the silage. Increased storage time of relocated corn silage (up to 128 d) consistently decreases its nutritional value. The storage period seems to have an increased impact on nutrient loss in relocated silage than the relocation period.

Evaluation of nutritional composition of flour residue of mangaba processing / Avaliação dos fatos nutricionais do processamento do resíduo da farinha de mangaba

Abstract Among several fruits, mangaba (Hancornia speciosa Gomes), it aroused the interest of producers and consumers due to its attractive sensory characteristics and health beneficial properties (high nutritional value and presence of bioactive substances), thus, this work evaluates the nutritional factors of the flour residue of mangaba processing that is despised by the food industry, and the influence of temperature on its production. The mangaba processing residue was splited in two main groups: in natura sample (control), and other for preparation of flour that was dried at 50 °C and divided into two other groups: treatment A (flour with roasts at 110 °C and 130 °C) and treatment B (flour from drying at 50 °C). The nutritional characteristics of flours were analyzed considering the chemical parameters: pH, titratable total acidity and soluble solids, in addition to the determination of moisture content, total lipids, total dietary fiber and ash, total energy value, antioxidant activity, phytochemical screening, quantification of phenolic compounds and flavonoids, as well as technological functional properties (water absorption index (WAI), water solubility index (WSI), milk absorption index (MAI) and milk solubility index (MSI) and oil absorption index (OAI). The results showed that the bioactive compounds present in the extracts do not have significant properties of acting as free radical kidnappers. The heat treatment, performed in the flour of mangaba processing residues, influenced the nutritional factors and properties of absorption and solubility, which showed statistical differences. These results show that the flour is a viable alternative for the energy enrichment of diets, contributing to the development of new products, the reduction of the disposal of these residues and consequently to the minimization of the environmental impact.

Resumo Dentre as diversas frutas a mangaba (Hancornia speciosa Gomes), despertou interesse de produtores e consumidores devido às suas características sensoriais atrativas e propriedades benéficas à saúde (elevado valor nutricional e presença de substâncias bioativas), assim, o trabalho avaliar os fatores nutricionais do resíduo da farinha de processamento de mangaba que é desprezado pela indústria alimentícia e, a influência da temperatura na sua produção. O resíduo de processamento da mangaba foi dividido em dois lotes, sendo um deles utilizado para as análises in natura (amostra controle) e o outro para a confecção da farinha que foi seca a 50 °C, e dividida em dois lotes: tratamento A (farinha com torras a 110 °C e 130 °C) e no tratamento B (farinha oriunda da secagem a 50 °C). Analisou-se as características nutricionais de farinhas considerando os parâmetros químicos: pH, acidez total titulável e sólidos solúveis, além da determinação do teor de umidade, lipídios totais, fibra alimentar total e cinzas, valor energético total, atividade antioxidante, triagem fitoquímica, quantificação de compostos fenólicos e flavonoides, bem como as propriedades funcionais tecnológicas (índice de absorção de água (IAA), índice de solubilidade em água (ISA), índice de absorção de leite (IAL) e índice de solubilidade em leite (ISL) e índice de absorção de óleo (IAO). Na análise foi inferido que os compostos bioativos presentes nos extratos não possuem propriedades significativas de agir como sequestradores de radicais livres. O tratamento térmico, realizado na farinha de resíduos de processamento de mangaba, influenciou nos dados dos fatores nutricionais e das propriedades de absorção e solubilidade, os quais apresentaram diferenças estatísticas. Estes resultados credenciam a farinha como uma alternativa viável para o enriquecimento energético de dietas, contribuindo para o desenvolvimento de novos produtos, a redução do descarte desses resíduos e consequentemente para a minimização do impacto ambiental.

Growth curves of broilers fed different nutritional relationships using the Gompertz model

The study aimed to evaluate performance and growth curves of broilers fed different nutritional relations. A total of 1,440 Cobb-500 male day-old chicks were assigned to eight treatments in a 2 x 2 x 2 factorial arrangement with six replicates of 30 birds each. The main factors were nutritional density (control and high), lysine source (HCl and sulfate), and calcium pidolate (presence and absence). Analyses were made for body weight gain (BWG), and feed conversion rate (FCR) at 21, and 42 days of age. The growth curves were adjusted by weighing a bird per plot every three days. Data for BWG were tested by ANOVA to evaluatethe effects of treatments and their interactions at 5% significance, and the Gompertz model was adjusted by NLS. Birds fed a high nutritional density had higher BWG and lower FCR. Calcium pidolate and different sources of lysine did not influence the FCR of broilers, however a triple interaction was evidenced for BWG at 1 to 42 days of age. The day with maximum gain adjusted by Gompertz of all treatments was at the 32ndday of age and the maximum weight (A) was around 5.85 kg.(AU)

Effect of feeding frequency and water salinization on early development of Pyrrhulina brevis, an Amazonian ornamental fish / Efeito da frequência alimentar e da salinização da água sobre o desenvolvimento inicial de Pyrrhulina brevis, um peixe ornamental da Amazônia

Pyrrhulina brevis is an endemic fish from the Amazon basin that is valued in the ornamental fish market. In larviculture, fish are very sensitive to stressors and have a high mortality rate. Salinized water may provide more energy to overcome stress and feeding frequency is an important strategy to improve productive performance. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the best feeding frequency and the best level of water salinization for larval development of P. brevis. A total of 360 post-larvae of P. brevis (5.26 ± 1.65 mg, 5.57 ± 0.68 mm) were randomly distributed in 36 aquariums (1 L) in a 3x4 factorial scheme, to evaluate three concentrations of salt in water (0, 1 and 2 g L-1) and four feeding frequencies (once, twice, three and four times a day). We offered 150 Artemia nauplii per day and per post-larvae during 15 days. The fish kept at 1 g L-1 salinized water, and those fed 3 and 4 times a day presented significantly greater final length and weight, weight gain, and specific growth rate for length and weight. An interaction between salinized water and feeding frequency was observed for survival rate. We conclude that, during the initial rearing phase of P. brevis, feeding frequency of three times a day and salinized water at 1 g L-1 is recommended.(AU)

Pyrrhulina brevis é um peixe endêmico da bacia amazônica que apresenta bons valores no mercado de peixes ornamentais. Na larvicultura, os peixes são muito sensíveis aos estressores e apresentam alta taxa de mortalidade. A água salinizada pode fornecer mais energia para superar o estresse e a frequência alimentar é uma estratégia importante para melhorar o desempenho produtivo. Portanto, o objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a melhor frequência alimentar e o melhor nível de salinização da água para o desenvolvimento larval de P. brevis. Um total de 360 pós-larvas de P. brevis (5,26 ± 1,65 mg, 5,57 ± 0,68 mm) foram distribuídos aleatoriamente em 36 aquários (1 L) em esquema fatorial 3x4, para avaliar três concentrações de sal na água (0, 1 e 2 g L-1) e quatro frequências de alimentação (uma, duas, três e quatro vezes ao dia). Foram oferecidas 150 náuplios de Artemia por dia e por pós-larva, durante 15 dias. Os peixes mantidos com 1 g L-1 de água salinizada e os alimentados 3 e 4 vezes ao dia apresentaram comprimento e peso finais, ganho de peso e taxa de crescimento específico para comprimento e peso significativamente maiores. Uma interação entre água salinizada e frequência alimentar foi observada para a taxa de sobrevivência. Concluímos que, durante a fase inicial de criação de P. brevis, recomenda-se uma frequência alimentar de três vezes ao dia e água salinizada a 1 g L-1.(AU)

Intake, digestibility, and ingestive behavior of sheep fed with thornless Mandacaru, cactus pear genotypes Orelha de Elefante Mexicana and Miúda

This study aimed to evaluate the intake, digestibility, and ingestive behavior of sheep fed with different species of forage cacti. Fifteen sheep (17.27kg ± 1 kg) were distributed in a completely randomized experimental design with three treatments and five replicates. The treatments were diets on a dry matter basis composed of 430.9 g kg-1of thornless Mandacaru cactus (Cereus hildmannianus), 525.7 g kg-1of cactus pear cv. Orelha de Elefante Mexicana (Opuntia stricta) and 492.1 g kg-1of cactus pear cv. Miúda (Nopalea cochenillifera) in addition to Sabiá hay (Mimosa caesalpiniaefolia) (194.7 to 233.8 g kg-1), plus concentrate feed. The intake of the dry matter,organic matter, ether extract, neutral detergent fiber, total carbohydrates, non-fiber carbohydrates, total digestible nutrientsand voluntary water intake in g day-1was not differ (p > 0.05) by experimental diets. There were no differences (p > 0.05) in digestibility coefficients of the dry matter,organic matter, neutral detergent fiber, total carbohydrates, non-fiber carbohydrates, and total digestible nutrientsbetween the experimental diets. The feeding times differed (p < 0.05) between diets, with a higher value for the Opuntiadiet, while the rumination times, feeding efficiency, and rumination efficiency did not differ (p > 0.05). The cactus Cereusand Opuntiaand Nopaleahave similar nutritional value in sheep's diet.(AU)

Influence of irrigation and supplementation on performance and ingestive behavior of beef cattle on mixed grass pastures

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the performance of beef cattle with two levels of energy-protein supplementation of low-consumption on African Bermudagrass pasture, overseeded in winter with oat and ryegrass, with or without irrigation. Twenty-four castrated Angus steers (11 months old and had an initial average of 220 kg body weight (BW)) were used in experimental area of 3.6 ha. The experiment was completely randomized in a 2×2 factorial design, with three replicates. The evaluation period was 249 days (July/2019 to March/2020). The treatments were: irrigated pasture with supplementation of 1 g/kg BW or 2.7 g/kg BW and non-irrigated pasture with 1 g/kg BW of supplement or 2.7 g/kg BW. The grazing method was continuous with a variable stocking rate. Irrigation provided pastures with better chemical composition in winter and spring. Irrigation increased the daily accumulation rate in winter (84.6 vs. 45.9 kg DM/ha/day), providing a greater stocking rate (1,702 vs. 1,385 kg/ha) and, consequently, body weight gain per hectare. Supplementation of 2.7 g/kg BW provided a greater stocking rate in winter (1,652 vs. 1,435 kg/ha) and spring (3,096 vs. 2,811 kg/ha), not changing in summer. The association of irrigation and supplementation of 2.7 vs. 1.0 g/kg BW improves the intake pattern by the animal in summer without changing productivity parameters. Irrigation increases productivity and the nutritional value of pasture with higher livestock production per area in periods of water deficit. The supply of 2.7 vs. 1.0 g/kg BW provides a greater stocking rate and body weight gain per hectare.(AU)

Alimento para pets: saiba como reconhecer um produto de qualidade e prevenir a infestação por pragas e insetos / Pet food: learn how to recognize a quality product and prevent pest and insect infestation

A primeira coisa que pensamos quando se trata da qualidade de um alimento é o resultado da combinação dos ingredientes e sua formulação. No entanto, não podemos esquecer que esse quesito está relacionado ainda a outros pontos, como: origem dos ingredientes, características nutricionais, qualidade das matérias-primas e seus fornecedores, composição e o balanceamento da fórmula, métodos e tipos de embalagens utilizados, condições sanitárias e as diversas etapas do processo de fabricação e distribuição.(AU)

Composition differences between organic and conventional processed foods: a meta-analytical study / Diferenças de composição entre alimentos processados orgânicos e convencionais: um estudo meta-analítico

Comparisons between the nutritional quality of organic and conventional fresh foods are frequently reported in the literature; however, discussion about processed foods is less frequent. Therefore, this study compared the nutritional content of processed products from both production systems using a systematic review of the literature and meta-analysis, regarding aspects of raw material management and processing. The study reviewed scientific articles published between 2010 and 2020 and the data obtained were analyzed using the standardized mean difference method with Hedges' adjustment and a random analytical model. Thirty-seven articles were selected, and the foods analyzed in the studies were grouped into five categories: meat products, dairy products, caught fish, wines, and fruit juices/pulps. In products of animal origin, the comparative focus shown was mainly that of the fatty acid profile, while in those of vegetable origin it was that of phytochemicals. Related to the comparison of nutrient contents, it was possible to verify the similarities in organic and conventional products in most studies; however, specific differences were verified (P < 0.05): organics contained more proteins (meat), omega 3 (dairy), and less linoleic acid (dairy and caught fish). Also, there were differences in the management of organic and conventional raw materials, and similarities in processing. Therefore, the choice for organic processed foods should not be made exclusively based on nutritional aspects, considering that the differences in nutrient contents in relation to those of conventional products are practically nonexistent.

Frequentemente são encontradas na literatura comparações entre a qualidade nutricional dos alimentos orgânicos e convencionais in natura, no entanto, pouco se discute acerca dos processados. Assim sendo, o objetivo desse estudo foi comparar o teor nutricional dos processados de ambos os sistemas de produção utilizando uma revisão sistemática da literatura e meta-análise, associando a aspectos de manejo das matérias-primas e processamento. Para isso, buscou-se artigos científicos publicados entre 2010 e 2020 e os dados obtidos foram analisados utilizando o método da diferença média padronizada com ajuste de Hedges e modelo analítico aleatório. Trinta e sete artigos foram selecionados, e os alimentos analisados em tais estudos foram agrupados em cinco categorias: cárneos, lácteos, pescado, vinhos e sucos/polpas de frutas. Nos produtos de origem animal o foco comparativo evidenciado foi principalmente o do perfil de ácidos graxos, enquanto nos de origem vegetal foi o dos fitoquímicos. Em relação à comparação do teor de nutrientes, foi possível constatar a similaridade nos orgânicos e nos convencionais na maioria dos estudos, entretanto, diferenças pontuais foram verificadas (P < 0,05): orgânicos com mais proteínas (cárneos), ômega 3 (lácteos) e menos ácido linoleico (lácteos e pescado). Também, notaram-se diferenças no manejo das matérias-primas orgânicas e convencionais, e similaridade no processamento. Portanto, a escolha por alimentos processados orgânicos não deve ser feita exclusivamente baseada em aspectos nutricionais, tendo em vista que as diferenças nos teores dos nutrientes em relação aos convencionais são praticamente inexistentes.

Análise de informações nutricionais em rações para gatos / Analysis of nutritional information in cats feeding / Análisis de información nutricional en la alimentación de gatos

A alimentação dos animais domésticos se torna cada dia mais exigente e balanceada, visando a melhora na qualidade de vida destes animais. Atualmente, existe uma grande variedade de rações para atender esta demanda e facilitar a oferta de alimentos aos animais pelos tutores. Neste trabalho foram avaliadas as informações nutricionais nos rótulos de rações para felinos domésticos comercializadas na cidade de Bom Jesus- PI e estabelecida a relação preço por quilograma, teor de nutrientes em cada categoria das rações para cada grupo de animais, com o objetivo informativo nutricional e estabelecer uma relação custo-benefício entre as mesmas. Os resultados revelaram que há diferenças entre as rações, seja da mesma classificação, entre elas e/ou grupos diferentes, tanto em questão de preço, como em quantidade e qualidade de nutrientes. Observou-se a mesma ração com preços diferentes, assim como rações da mesma categoria destinada ao mesmo grupo de animais, mas que possuem teores de nutrientes muito distintos. Este estudo ainda levou em conta as rações especiais destinadas a animais com problemas urinários, renais e obesos, demostrando a importância da diferença de nutrientes nas rações para esses animais. Pôde se observar com este trabalho que a escolha da ração baseada na qualidade e quantidade dos nutrientes é imprescindível para fortalecer e nutrir o animal, além de prevenir ou amenizar problemas de saúde, e que o custo com rações não difere muito mediante as categorias apresentadas.

Feeding domestic animals becomes more demanding and balanced every day, aiming to improve the quality of life these animals. Currently, there is a wide variety of feeds to meet this demand and facilitate the supply of food to animals by tutors. In this work, the nutritional information on the food labels for domestic cats sold in the city of Bom Jesus-PI was evaluated and the price per kilogram, nutrient content in each category of feed for each group of animals was established, with the purpose of nutritional information and establish a cost-benefit relationship between them. The results show that there is a lot of difference between the rations, whether of the same classification, between them and/or different groups, both in terms of price, and in terms of quantity and quality of nutrients. The same feed with different prices was observed, as well as feed from the same category destined to the same group of animals, but with very different nutrient content. This study also takes into account the special rations for animals with urinary, kidney and obese problems, demonstrating the importance of the difference in nutrients in the rations for those animals. What could be observed with this work is that the choice of feed based on the quality and quantity of nutrients is essential to strengthen and nourish the animal, in addition to preventing or alleviating health problems, and that the cost of feed does not differ much according to the categories presented.

La alimentación de los animales domésticos se vuelve cada día más exigente y equilibrada, con el objetivo de mejorar la calidad de vida de estos animales. Actualmente, existe una amplia variedad de raciones para cubrir esta demanda y facilitar el suministro de alimento a los animales por parte de los tutores. En este trabajo se evaluó la información nutricional en las etiquetas de los alimentos para gatos domésticos vendidos en la ciudad de Bom Jesus-PI y se estableció el precio por kilogramo, contenido de nutrientes en cada categoría de alimento para cada grupo de animales, con el propósito de información nutricional y establecer una relación costo-beneficio entre ellos. Los resultados revelan que existe mucha diferencia entre las raciones, ya sea de la misma clasificación, entre ellas y / o grupos diferentes, tanto en términos de precio, como en términos de cantidad y calidad de nutrientes. Uma misma racion con diferentes precios se observa en las Tablas 1, 2 y 3, así como racion de la misma categoría destinado al mismo grupo de animales, pero con muy diferente contenido de nutrientes. Este estudio también tiene en cuenta las raciones especiales (Tabla 4) para animales con problemas urinarios, renales y obesos, demostrando la importancia de la diferencia de nutrientes en las raciones para estos animales. Lo que se pudo observar con este trabajo es que la elección del alimento en función de la calidad y cantidad de nutrientes es fundamental para fortalecer y nutrir al animal, además de prevenir o aliviar problemas de salud, y que el costo del alimento no difiere mucho según a las categorías presentadas.

Energy supplementation as strategy of pasture management

This study evaluated the effect of increased energy via supplementation on the performance, ingestive behavior, nutrient digestibility, and nitrogen metabolism of grazing heifers fed tropical forage in the rainy-dry transition season. Treatments consisted of mineral supplementation ad libitum (control) and multiple supplements formulated to provide different energy levels and the same amount of protein (300 g CP animal d-1) and were denominated as low (LE; 340 g TDN animal d-1), medium (ME; 780 g TDN animal d-1) and high (HE; 1220 g TDN animal d-1) energy. Animals supplemented with ME, and HE had a greater average daily gain in relation to the control treatment, with an increase of 41 and 46%, respectively. Greater values for total apparent digestibility of neutral detergent fiber were observed for the treatment HE. Lesser values of urinary urea N were observed for the control and HE treatments. Our results define the use of energy levels in the supplement as a tool for pasture management. If the purpose of the production system is to enhance forage intake, the option is to supply supplements with less energy levels. In contrast, if the purpose is to increase the stocking rate, supplements with greater energy levels should be used.(AU)

Informação nutricional de doces de abóbora moranga ao leite / Nutritional information on pumpkin jam with milk

A abóbora moranga é um alimento rico em vitaminas e minerais. É uma fonte de fibras alimentares e pode fazer parte de receitas doces e salgadas. O objetivo deste trabalho foi comparar a informação nutricional de cinco formulações de doces preparados com 40% de abóbora moranga e 20% de açúcar. Entre as formulações, variaram os teores de leite e água potável, do seguinte modo: 40% de leite no doce A; 30% de leite e 10% de água potável no doce B; 20% de leite e 20% de água potável no doce C; 10% de leite e 30% de água potável no doce D; e 40% de água potável no doce E. A partir dos pesos dos ingredientes e dos doces prontos foram efetuados os cálculos necessários para a elaboração das tabelas de informação nutricional dos doces. Os resultados foram analisados através de ANOVA e teste de Tukey. Houve diferença entre as médias dos valores calóricos da porção dos doces A e D; A e E; B e E; C e E. Não houve diferença entre as médias dos valores calóricos dos doces A, B e C; B, C e D; D e E. Houve diferença entre as médias das quantidades de carboidratos, proteínas e gorduras totais da porção de todos os doces avaliados. O doce E, sem leite, apresentou a porção mais calórica, e o doce A, com maior teor de leite, foi o menos calórico e o de maior teor proteico.(AU)

The pumpkin is a food rich in vitamins and minerals. It is a source of dietary fiber and can be part of sweet and savory recipes. The objective of this project was to compare the nutritional information of five formulations of sweets prepared with 40% pumpkin and 20% sugar. Among the formulations, the contents of milk and drinking water varied, as follows: 40% milk in sweet A; 30% milk and 10% drinking water in sweet B; 20% milk and 20% drinking water in sweet C; 10% milk and 30% drinking water in sweet D; and 40% of drinking water in sweet E. Based on the weights of ingredients and ready-made sweets, the necessary calculations were made for the preparation of nutritional information tables for sweets. The results were analyzed using ANOVA and Tukey's test. There was a difference between the average caloric values ​​of the portion of sweets A and D; A and E; B and E; C and E. There was no difference between the average caloric values ​​of sweets A, B and C; B, C and D; D and E. There was a difference between the average amounts of carbohydrates, proteins and total fat in the portion of all sweets evaluated. Sweet E, without milk, presented the most caloric portion, and sweet A, with the highest milk content, was the least caloric and the one with the highest protein content.(AU)

Chemical composition of forage watermelon fruit at different maturity stage or storage length

This study aimed to assess the chemical responses of forage watermelon fruit at different maturity stage s or storage lengths, performing twoexperimental tests. In the first test, four maturity stages were assessed: 30, 45, 60, and 75 days after anthesis, with four replicates. In the second test, fruits were maintained under three storage lengths: T1D (harvest day), T3M (3 months after harvest), and T6M (6 months after harvest), with eight replicates. Experimental design was c ompletely randomized in both experimental tests. Fruit maturity stage did not affect crude protein, total carbohydrate, neutral detergent fiber, in vitrodry matter digestibility (IVDMD), pulp firmness, soluble solids content an d total pectin content, but increased acid detergent fiber content from 45 days after anthesis. Storage length up to six months after harvest increased ash, crude protein and IVDMD, and reduced the content of soluble solid s. Forage watermelon fruit can be harvested from 30 to 75 days after anthesis eq uivalent to 75 -120 days after planting, and they can be stored under tree shade up to 6 months after harvest.(AU)

The Effect of Dietary Glucose Oxidase Supplementation on Production Performance, Egg Quality and Nutrient Digestibility in Laying Hens

The study was conducted to investigate the effect of GOX on performance, egg quality, and nutrient digestibility in laying hens. In total, 432, 50-week-old Hy-Line brown breeder hens were assigned into four treatments, and fed a basal diet with GOX at 0, 100, 200 and 300 units for 10 weeks, respectively. A Quadratic decrease in FI in week 3 (p<0.05) and linear increase in egg production in week 6 to 10 and overall experiment period (p<0.05) and Quadratic increase in egg production in week 7 (p<0.05), a linear decrease in broken egg rate in week 6 (p<0.05) a quadratic increase in egg weight on day 14 (p<0.05), alinear increase in egg weight on day 28 (p<0.05), and linear decrease in yolk color on day 7 (p<0.05), a linear increase in yolk color on day 42 and day 70 (p<0.05), and linear increase in haugh unit on day 28 and 70 (p<0.05), a linear increase albumen height on day 28 and day 56 (p<0.05), and linear decrease in shell color on day 14 (p<0.05) and day 28(p<0.05), a linear and quadratic increases in eggshell strength and eggshell thickness on day 56 (p<0.05), and linear increase in eggshell strength and eggshell thickness on day 70 (P0.05) were observed with the addition of GOX the the diet. Conclusion: This study suggested that the supplementation of GOX may have beneficial effects on feed intake and egg quality in laying hens.(AU)

Exogenous enzymes in sheep diet: nutritional and physiological parameters

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of adding exogenous enzymes to the diet on nutrient intake and digestibility, nitrogen balance, ingestive behavior and rumen movement of ewe lambs. Five ewe lambs, Dorper x Santa Inês crossbred, with an average age of 7 ± 1 months, average weight of 36.40 ± 2.36 kg were assigned in a 5x5 Latin square design. The treatments consisted of adding exogenous enzymes to the concentrate: Allzyme, Fibrozyme®, Amaize®, Mix and Control. Analyses of variance were applied and means were compared by the SNK test, and non-parametric Kruskal Wallis test at 5% significance. The dry matter intake in relation to body weight, crude protein intake and nitrogen intake were higher with the use of amylolytic enzyme compared to the other treatments (p <0.05). Nitrogen balance was higher with the use of amylolytic enzymes and the Allzyme® enzyme complex (p <0.05). A longer time spent in total chewing was observed with the inclusion of fibrolytic and amylolytic enzymes without changes in rumen movement. The use of exogenous enzymes promotes better use of nutrients, with high digestibility of dry matter, neutral detergent fiber and crude protein.(AU)

Chemical, mineral composition, in vitro ruminal fermentation and buffering capacity of some rangeland-medicinal plants

A diverse group of rangeland-medicinal plants are being used by ruminant whilst some of them have not been assessed for their nutritional value. This study was aimed to evaluate the chemical and mineral composition, buffering capacity, and in vitro fermentation of some rangeland-medicinal plants including Thymus kotschyanus, Ziziphora persica, Lallemantia royleana, and Scutellaria litwinowii in the family Lamiaceae, and Hypericum scabrum, in the family Hypericaceae. The results indicated that crude protein (CP) content ranged from 8.66% (S. litwinowii) to 12.17% of DM (H. scabrum). It was found that Z. persica had the highest potential gas production, metabolism energy (ME), relative feed value (RFV), and dry matter digestibility (DMD) values of 53.44 (mL 200-1 mg DM), 5.84 (MJ kg-1 DM), 170.66 and 70.88%, respectively. Mineral content differed among plants; Ca ranged from 5.79 to 41.96 g kg-1 DM. The concentrations of Ca, K, Mg, Fe, Zn, and Co were highest for L. royleana. Total volatile fatty acids (TVFA) and propionate concentrations were highest in the culture medium cultured with Z. persica, however, acetate, and butyrate were highest in H. scabrum. Acid-base buffering capacity was lower in T. kotschyanus and H. scabrum compared to other plants, while it was higher in S. litwinowii. Overall, it can be concluded that among plants evaluated in this study, Z. persica had higher nutritional value for sheep feeding.(AU)

Performance of Isa-Brown Layers and the Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer of the Mineral Content of Eggs Produced by Moringa oleifera Leaf Powder Supplementation

Moringa oleifera leaves richly contain numerous nutrients that can be used to induce performance in animals and when supplemented in layer feeds can improve the feed intake, body weight, egg qualities and mineral content of the eggs. The study was aimed to determine the performance of layers, egg quality and mineral profile of the eggs produced by inclusion of varying percentages of M. oleifera leaf powder in the feed of layers. Two hundred and forty Isa-brown layer birds were offered 0%, 2.5%, 5.0% and 7.5% M. oleifera leaf powder supplemented feeds respectively, using a completely randomized design. The mineral analysis was done following the procedure of the Association of Official Analytical Chemists using atomic absorption spectrophotometer. Data collected were analysed using analysis of variance at 0.05 level of significance. The results indicated that the body weight, feed intake, FCR, egg weight, egg length and shell thickness were significantly higher in layers fed M. oleifera leaf powder. However, the laying percentage was significantly higher in the control. The phosphorous, sodium, zinc, manganese, iron, copper, selenium and chromium contents of the eggs increased as the percentage of moringa inclusion increased. The eggs produced by layers fed with 5% M. oleifera leaf powder had significantly highest contents of magnesium, potassium and calcium, but decreased with further supplementation of moringa. The findings indicated that the supplementation of M. oleifera leaf powder at various levels improves the mineral contents of eggs but this is significantly achieved at a higher inclusion rate.(AU)

Evaluation of some nutritional quality criteria of seventeen Moroccan dates varieties and clones, fruits of date palm (Phoenix dactylifera L. ) / Avaliação de alguns critérios de qualidade nutricional de 17 variedades e clones marroquinos de datas, frutos de tamareira (Phoenix dactylifera L. )

Date fruit is known to be the staple food in the Arab countries. It provides a lot of potential health benefits and can be the essential source of nutrients. The majority of Moroccan varieties are not characterized for their chemical, biochemical and quality properties. The aim of this work was to assess the chemical composition of 17 varieties of Moroccan date fruits (Phoenix dactylifera L.) and to determine their nutritive components. The analysis showed that the dates are rich in sugars (51.80-87.98%), they contain low concentration of proteins (1.09-2.80%) and lipids (0.16-0.39%). The predominant mineral is potassium (1055.26-1604.10 mg/100 g DW). Moreover, they contain high concentrations of malic acid (69.48-495.58 mg/100 g (DW)), oxalic acid (18.47-233.35 mg/100 g DW) and tartaric acid (115.70-484.168 mg/100 g DW). These results suggest that the date fruit are nutritious and can be an excellent source for human nutrition and health benefits.

A fruta da tâmara é conhecida por ser o alimento básico nos países árabes. Oferece muitos benefícios potenciais à saúde e pode ser a fonte essencial de nutrientes. A maioria das variedades marroquinas não se caracteriza por suas propriedades químicas, bioquímicas nem de qualidade. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a composição química de 17 variedades de frutos de tâmara marroquina (Phoenix dactylifera L.) e determinar seu valor nutritivo. A análise mostrou que as tâmaras são ricas em açúcares (51,80-87,98%) e contêm baixa concentração de proteínas (1,09-2,80%) e lipídios (0,16-0,39%). O mineral predominante é o potássio (1.055,26-1.604,10 mg/100 g DW). Além disso, contêm altas concentrações de ácido málico (69,48-495,58 mg/100 g DW), ácido oxálico (18,47-233,35 mg/100 g DW) e ácido tartárico (115,70-484,168 mg/100 g DW). Esses resultados sugerem que o fruto da tamareira é nutritivo e pode ser uma excelente fonte de nutrição humana e conferir benefícios à saúde.

Zooplankton communities and their relationship with water quality in eight reservoirs from the Midwestern and Southeastern regions of Brazil / Comunidades de zooplâncton e sua relação com a qualidade da água em oito reservatórios das regiões Centro-Oeste e Sudeste do Brasil

Zooplankton are widely recognised as being regulated primarily by predators and food availability. In reservoirs, the quantity and quality of food resources are generally affected by the characteristics of the water, which in turn are controlled by the flow pulse generated by operation of the dams. In this study, we investigated the relationship between zooplankton, water quality and food availability (phytoplankton) in eight hydroelectric reservoirs located in Brazil. Samples were collected during the rainy and dry periods between 2008 and 2009. In general, the reservoirs exhibited mesotrophic conditions and Cyanobacteria were the predominant phytoplankton. The results showed that the rotifers Kellicottia bostoniensis, Hexarthra mira, Keratella spp., and Polyarthra vulgaris were present, indicating nutrient-rich environments. In addition, the copepod Thermocyclops decipiens occurred in eutrophic environments. In contrast, the cladoceran Daphnia gessneri and copepod Notodiaptomus henseni were considered indicators of more desirable water quality, owing to their relationship with waters with lower levels of nutrients and suspended solids. The results support the use of these organisms as a useful tool for understanding changes in water quality and in the ecosystem processes involved.(AU)

O zooplâncton é amplamente reconhecido como sendo regulado principalmente por predadores e pela disponibilidade de alimento. Em reservatórios, a quantidade e a qualidade de recursos alimentares são afetadas pelas características da água que, por sua vez, são controladas pelo pulso de fluxo gerado pela operação das barragens. Neste estudo, investigamos a relação entre o zooplâncton, qualidade dágua e a disponibilidade de alimento (fitoplâncton) em oito reservatórios hidrelétricos localizados no Brasil. Amostras foram coletadas durante os períodos chuvoso e seco, entre os anos de 2008 e 2009. Em geral, os reservatórios exibiram condições mesotróficas e Cyanobacteria foi o fitoplâncton predominante. Os resultados mostraram que os rotíferos Kellicottia bostoniensis, Hexarthra mira, Keratella spp. e Polyarthra vulgaris foram indicadores de ambientes ricos em nutrientes. Além disso, o copépode Thermocyclops decipiens ocorreu em ambientes eutróficos. Por outro lado, o cladócero Daphnia gessneri e o copépode Notodiaptomus henseni foram considerados indicadores de melhor qualidade da água, devido a sua relação com águas com baixos níveis de nutrientes e sólidos em suspensão. Os resultados suportam o uso desses organismos como uma ferramenta útil para o entendimento das mudanças na qualidade dágua e nos processos ecossistêmicos envolvidos.(AU)

Influência de diferentes fontes e níveis de fibra nadieta de juvenis de pacu (Piaractus mesopotamicus) sobre o desempenho zootécnico, parâmetros somáticos e composição centesimal / Influence of different sources and fiber levels in the diet of juvenile pacu (Piaractus mesopotamicus) on the growth performance, somatic parameters and proximate composition

O objetivo do presente trabalho foi avaliar os efeitos da casca de soja e da casca de arroz sobre o desempenho zootécnico, parâmetros somáticos e composiçãocentesimal dos peixes inteiros de juvenis de pacu (Piaractus mesopotamicus). Para isso, foram utilizados 216 juvenis de pacu, com peso médio de 6 ± 0,81 gramas, distribuídos em 18 caixas d’água, em sistema de recirculação. Foram formuladas seis dietas contendo os níveis de 10, 13 e 15% de inclusão de FDN para cada fonte de fibra, com 30% de proteína bruta e 3.000 Kcal Kg-1de energia digestível. Foi observado que os níveis de 10 e 13% de FDN promoveram os melhores resultados para as variáveis de desempenhocomo peso final, ganho em peso, taxa de crescimento específico e comprimento final. Também foi possível observar que os peixes alimentados com a dieta contendo 10% de FDN apresentaram um maior rendimento de carcaça, porém não foi observada diferença entreos índices,digestivo somático, hepatossomático e quociente intestinal. Já, para as variáveis de composição centesimal dos peixes inteiros, não foram observadas diferenças significativas. Sendo assim, pode-se concluir que até 13% de FDN não prejudica o desempenho zootécnico, qualidade de carcaça e os parâmetros somáticos dos peixes.

The objective of the present work was to evaluate the effects of soybean husk and rice husk on the performance, somatic parameters and proximate composition of whole fish of juvenile pacu (Piaractus mesopotamicus). For this, 216 juveniles of pacu were used, with an average weight of 6 ± 0.81 grams, distributed in 18 water tanks, in a recirculation system. Six diets were formulated containing levels of 10, 13 and 15% of NDF inclusion for each fiber source, with 30% of crude protein and 3,000 Kcal Kg-1of digestible energy. It was observed that the levels of 10 and 13% of NDF promoted the best results for performance variables such as final weight, weight gain, specific growth rate and final length. It was also possible to observe that fish fed a diet containing 10% NDF had a higher carcass yield, but no difference was observed between the somatic, hepatosomatic and intestinal quotient digestive indexes. However, no significant differences were observed for the proximate composition variables of whole fish. Thus, it can be concluded that up to 13% of NDF does not affect the zootechnical performance, carcass quality,and somatic parameters of the fish.

Influência de diferentes fontes e níveis de fibra nadieta de juvenis de pacu (Piaractus mesopotamicus) sobre o desempenho zootécnico, parâmetros somáticos e composição centesimal / Influence of different sources and fiber levels in the diet of juvenile pacu (Piaractus mesopotamicus) on the growth performance, somatic parameters and proximate composition

O objetivo do presente trabalho foi avaliar os efeitos da casca de soja e da casca de arroz sobre o desempenho zootécnico, parâmetros somáticos e composiçãocentesimal dos peixes inteiros de juvenis de pacu (Piaractus mesopotamicus). Para isso, foram utilizados 216 juvenis de pacu, com peso médio de 6 ± 0,81 gramas, distribuídos em 18 caixas dágua, em sistema de recirculação. Foram formuladas seis dietas contendo os níveis de 10, 13 e 15% de inclusão de FDN para cada fonte de fibra, com 30% de proteína bruta e 3.000 Kcal Kg-1de energia digestível. Foi observado que os níveis de 10 e 13% de FDN promoveram os melhores resultados para as variáveis de desempenhocomo peso final, ganho em peso, taxa de crescimento específico e comprimento final. Também foi possível observar que os peixes alimentados com a dieta contendo 10% de FDN apresentaram um maior rendimento de carcaça, porém não foi observada diferença entreos índices,digestivo somático, hepatossomático e quociente intestinal. Já, para as variáveis de composição centesimal dos peixes inteiros, não foram observadas diferenças significativas. Sendo assim, pode-se concluir que até 13% de FDN não prejudica o desempenho zootécnico, qualidade de carcaça e os parâmetros somáticos dos peixes.(AU)

The objective of the present work was to evaluate the effects of soybean husk and rice husk on the performance, somatic parameters and proximate composition of whole fish of juvenile pacu (Piaractus mesopotamicus). For this, 216 juveniles of pacu were used, with an average weight of 6 ± 0.81 grams, distributed in 18 water tanks, in a recirculation system. Six diets were formulated containing levels of 10, 13 and 15% of NDF inclusion for each fiber source, with 30% of crude protein and 3,000 Kcal Kg-1of digestible energy. It was observed that the levels of 10 and 13% of NDF promoted the best results for performance variables such as final weight, weight gain, specific growth rate and final length. It was also possible to observe that fish fed a diet containing 10% NDF had a higher carcass yield, but no difference was observed between the somatic, hepatosomatic and intestinal quotient digestive indexes. However, no significant differences were observed for the proximate composition variables of whole fish. Thus, it can be concluded that up to 13% of NDF does not affect the zootechnical performance, carcass quality,and somatic parameters of the fish.(AU)