Using rumination and activity data for early detection of anaplasmosis disease in dairy heifer calves.

Bovine anaplasmosis causes considerable economic losses in dairy cattle production systems worldwide, ranging from $300 million to $900 million annually. It is commonly detected through rectal temperature, blood smear microscopy, and packed cell volume (PCV). Such methodologies are laborious, costly, and difficult to systematically implement in large-scale operations. The objectives of this study were to evaluate (1) rumination and activity data collected by Hr-Tag sensors (SCR Engineers Ltd.) in heifer calves exposed to anaplasmosis; and (2) the predictive ability of recurrent neural networks in early identification of anaplasmosis. Additionally, we aimed to investigate the effect of time series length before disease diagnosis (5, 7, 10, or 12 consecutive days) on the predictive performance of recurrent neural networks, and how early anaplasmosis disease can be detected in dairy calves (5, 3, and 1 d in advance). Twenty-three heifer calves aged 119 ± 15 (mean ± SD) d and weighing 148 ± 20 kg of body weight were challenged with 2 × 107 erythrocytes infected with UFMG1 strain (GenBank no. EU676176) isolated from Anaplasma marginale. After inoculation, animals were monitored daily by assessing PCV. The lowest PCV value (14 ± 1.8%) and the finding of rickettsia on blood smears were used as a criterion to classify an animal as sick (d 0). Rumination and activity data were collected continuously and automatically at 2-h intervals, using SCR Heatime Hr-Tag collars. Two time series were built including last sequence of -5, -7, -10, or -12 d preceding d 0 or a sequence of 5, 7, 10, or 12 d randomly selected in a window from -50 to -15 d before d 0 to ensure a sequence of days in which PCV was considered normal (32 ± 2.4%). Long short-term memory was used as a predictive approach, and a leave-one-animal-out cross-validation (LOAOCV) was used to assess prediction quality. Anaplasmosis disease reduced 34 and 11% of rumination and activity, respectively. The accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity of long short-term memory in detecting anaplasmosis ranged from 87 to 98%, 83 to 100%, and 83 to 100%, respectively, using rumination data. For activity data, the accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity varied from 70 to 98%, 61 to 100%, and 74 to 100%, respectively. Predictive performance did not improve when combining rumination and activity. The use of longer time-series did not improve the performance of models to predict anaplasmosis. The accuracy and sensitivity in predicting anaplasmosis up to 3 d before clinical diagnosis (d 0) were greater than 80%, confirming the possibility for early identification of anaplasmosis disease. These findings indicate the great potential of wearable sensors in early identification of anaplasmosis diseases. This could positively affect the profitability of dairy farmers and animal welfare.

Research Note: Antimicrobial resistance profile of Enterococcus spp. isolated from the eggshell of laying hens submitted to pharmacological treatment.

The occurrence of antimicrobial resistance in microorganisms isolated from eggshells, especially Enterococcus, might serve as a parameter to assess the selection of bacteria due to the use of drugs in the diet of laying hens. In order to evaluate the frequency and the antimicrobial resistance profile of Enterococcus spp. isolated from the eggshells, 225 Hy-line laying hens were submitted to a 25-d long trial. The treatments were the following: hens fed ration without antimicrobials (control) and groups that received oxytetracycline (10 mg kg-1), doxycycline (20 mg kg-1), lincomycin (50 mg kg-1), and enrofloxacin (10 mg kg-1) in the ration for 5 d. Six replications were analyzed per treatment, composed of a pool of 5 eggs each. They were collected before treatment and on days 3, 6, 15, and 25, totaling 150 samples. Eggshells were submitted to counts of Enterococcus spp., which were identified by proteomic analyses. Antimicrobial resistance was determined by the disk-diffusion test. It was observed that 97.3% (n = 146) of the samples were contaminated with Enterococcus spp. There were no differences (P > 0.05) in the bacterial counts between treatments on the same day of evaluation. E. faecalis and E. faecium were the most frequent on the eggshells of all treatments. Multiresistance to the four classes of antimicrobials was also verified in the isolated bacteria. A total of 83% of the Enterococcus isolates showed resistance to neomycin, which was not administered to the hens, demonstrating an environmental problem. Thus, feeding laying hens with diets added with antimicrobials induces drug resistance in Enterococcus spp., isolated form the eggshells.

Viability of Staphylococcus aureus and expression of its toxins (SEC and TSST-1) in cheeses using Lactobacillus rhamnosus D1 or Weissella paramesenteroides GIR16L4 or both as starter cultures.

Staphylococcus aureus is one of the main causative agents of food poisoning. This bacterium is an important component of cheese microbiota and plays an important role in foodborne diseases. Another important component of the microbiota is the lactic acid bacterium, which actively participates in processes that define the physicochemical, sensorial, and microbiological features of cheese. Of the various microbiological interactions in cheese, the interaction between lactic acid bacteria and Staph. aureus is most relevant. To this end, we evaluated the viability of Staph. aureus strains and the expression of their enterotoxins in cheeses produced experimentally, using Weissella paramesenteroides GIR16L4 or Lactobacillus rhamnosus D1 or both as starter cultures. Over 7 d, we observed that the presence of lactic acid bacteria did not impair Staph. aureus growth. However, via qPCR we observed a change in the gene expression of staphylococcal enterotoxins, suggesting that molecular communication exists between Staph. aureus strains and lactic acid bacteria in cheese.

Effect of seasonal conditions and milk management practices on bulk milk quality in Minas Gerais State - Brazil / Efeito da sazonalidade e práticas de manejo na qualidade do leite de tanque no estado de Minas Gerais - Brasil

The influence of seasonality and the training and implementation of good dairy farming practices on raw milk production and quality was evaluated on dairy farms in Minas Gerais State, Brazil. The physico-chemical composition, somatic cell count (SCC) and total bacterial count (TBC) were determined in 3,096 milk samples collected from bulk tanks originated from 43 dairy farms over a three-year period and correlated with key climatic factors. The recommended milking management practices were applied through a training program and correlated with the seasonal data in three stages: I) prior to training (dry period); II) 48 days after the training (transition period); III) 96 days after the training (rainy period). In the first stage, a diagnosis of the situation was performed with raw milk samplings for laboratory analysis, and training for implementation of good milking practices. In stages II and II, the checklist and laboratory analysis were also performed. The rainfall and high temperatures were found to represent the main factors affecting the milk composition and production, and TBC. The composition and physical properties of raw milk, and the TBC and SCC parameters can be controlled or minimized by applying proper milking management practices and constant monitoring.(AU)

Avaliou-se a influência das condições climáticas em regiões tropicais, bem como do treinamento e da implementação de boas práticas de manejo na produção e qualidade do leite em distintos períodos em fazendas leiteiras no estado de Minas Gerais, Brasil. No presente estudo, as características físico-químicas do leite, a contagem bacteriana total (CBT) e a contagem de células somáticas (CCS) foram determinadas em 3.096 amostras de tanques de leite proveniente de 43 fazendas leiteiras, durante um período de três anos, e correlacionadas com os principais fatores climáticos (temperatura diária do ar mínima, média e máxima; pluviosidade e umidade relativa). Foram avaliados os resultados obtidos nas análises das amostras de leite cru coletadas no ano anterior (2009/2010) e também no posterior (2011/2012) àquele em que foi realizado o treinamento para implementação das boas práticas de manejo de ordenha (2010/2011), compreendendo três etapas: antes do treinamento (período seco - tempo 0, etapa I), 48 dias após o treinamento (período de transição - etapa II) e 96 dias após o treinamento (período chuvoso - etapa III). Na etapa I foi realizado um diagnóstico de situação com coleta de amostras para análises laboratoriais, aplicação da lista de verificação padronizada e treinamento para a implementação das boas práticas de manejo de ordenha; na etapa II foram realizadas novas análises laboratoriais e reaplicação da lista de verificação para avaliar a eficiência do treinamento; e na etapa III foi realizada a repetição da etapa II. Com base no histórico dos três anos, observou-se que condições climáticas de alta temperatura e pluviosidade representam importantes fatores que afetam a composição do leite e o volume produzido, assim como parâmetros higiênico-sanitários do leite. Ademais, as boas condições de manejo são ferramentas úteis, eficazes, práticas e essenciais para a maior produção de leite com qualidade, desde que constantemente monitoradas.(AU)

Validação do Nanolipe ® como método para determinar a digestibilidade aparente dos nutrientes pelos equinos / Validation of Nanolipe ® as method to assess the apparent digestibility of nutrients on horses

O NANOLIPE® é o indicador de digestibilidade LIPE® com incorporação de nano partículas que se misturam de forma mais homogênea e rápida na digesta, permitindo redução do período de adaptação e maiores taxas de recuperação daquele quando comparado com outros indicadores usados em equinos. Objetivou-se neste trabalho comparar a digestibilidade dos nutrientes de dieta em equinos obtida pelo método padrão (coleta total de fezes - CTF), estimada por dois indicadores internos (fibra em detergente ácido indigestível - FDAi; lignina Klason - LK) e por indicador externo NANOLIPE®, visando à validação deste último para uso na nutrição equina. Em delineamento de blocos ao acaso, oito éguas Mangalarga Marchador adultas (média de 380kg PV) foram usadas para avaliação dos tratamentos (CTF, FDAi, LK, NANOLIPE®). A dieta foi composta por 1,5% PV de feno de coast cross, 1,0% PV de concentrado comercial com 13% PB, dividido em dois tratos diários fornecidos às oito e às 17h, além de água e sal mineral à vontade. O experimento teve duração de 13 dias, sendo os oito iniciais para adaptação à dieta e ao manejo e os cinco finais para coleta de fezes. O NANOLIPE® foi fornecido no terceiro e quarto dias da coleta de fezes, sendo administrado uma vez por dia, por meio de cápsulas de 0,25g/animal/dia via oral. Houve diferença (P<0,05) entre os valores de produção fecal estimados pela FDAi (0,86kg MS) e LK (0,60kg MS) em comparação aos observados na CTF (2,16kg MS) e NANOLIPE® (2,17kg MS), com sub ou superestimação dos coeficientes de digestibilidade da MS, FDN, FDA, HEM, ED, MO e PB estimados pelos indicadores internos. O NANOLIPE® obteve alta taxa de recuperação (100,46%) e os coeficientes de digestibilidade de todos nutrientes foram semelhantes aos obtidos pela CTF. O indicador NANOLIPE® foi eficiente para estimativa da produção fecal e digestibilidade aparente dos nutrientes da dieta em equinos, quando fornecido por dois dias, sendo uma aplicação diária e com início da coleta de fezes, 24 horas após sua administração.(AU)

NANOLIPE® is the LIPE®digestibility indicator incorporating nano particles that blend more smoothly and quickly in digesta, allowing reduction of the induction period, and higher recovery rates that compared with other indicators used in horses. The objective of this work was to compare the digestibility of the diet of nutrients in horses obtained by standard method (total collection of feces - TCF) and estimated by two internal indicators ( Klason Lignin - KL and indigestible Acid Detergent Fiber.- iADF) ) and external indicator NANOLIPE®, aiming to validate the latter for use in equine nutrition. In a randomized block design, eight Mangalarga Marchador adult mares were used to evaluate treatments (CBC, iADF, LK, NANOLIPE®). The diet was composed of 1.5% PV hay Coast Cross, 1.0% PV of commercial concentrate, divided into two daily treatment.. The trial lasted 13 days, with 8 adaptation to the diet and the handling and 5 for the experimental procedures. In the first five days of the experimental period total feces was collected and in the 3th and 4th day the animals received NANOLIPE® administered once a day through capsules of 0.25 g / animal / day orally. Using the method of TFC as standart, the Klason Lignin and iADF proved inadequate (P<0,05) and NANOLIPE® was considered efficient (P>0,05) for estimating the digestibility of nutrients in the equine species. There were differences (P <0.05) between fecal production values estimated by iADF (0.86 kg DM) and LK (0.60 kg DM) compared to those observed in CTF (2.16 kg DM) and NANOLIPE® (2.17 kg DM) with under- or overestimation of the digestibility of DM, NDF, ADF, HEM, ED, OM and CP estimated by internal indicators. The NANOLIPE® got high recovery rate (100.46%) and the digestibility coefficients of all nutrients were similar to those obtained by the CTF. The NANOLIPE® indicator was efficient to estimate fecal output and apparent digestibility of dietary nutrients in horses when provided for two days, with a daily application and start collecting feces 24 hours after administration.(AU)

Effects of bovine mammary gland biopsy and increased milking frequency on post-procedure udder health, histology, and milk yield.

Sixteen cows in early lactation were randomly distributed into two groups in order to evaluate the effects of mammary biopsies and increased milking frequency on tissue characteristics, post-biopsy udder health and histology. One group was milked twice a day (2×) starting on the 2nd day after calving, until 28 days in milk (DIM). The other group was milked four times a day (4×) from two to 21 DIM, and twice a day (2×) from 22 to 28 DIM. On days 2, 7, 14, 21, and 28 postpartum, one fragment of secretory tissue was collected from one mammary quarter at a time. Collections were alternated between the four mammary quarters per collection day. A total of 80 mammary tissue samples were collected. Qualitative and quantitative analyses of the tissues were conducted by histologic examination. Animal health was assessed by observation of feed intake behavior immediately after biopsy, and weight and body condition score before and one week after biopsy. Udder health was assessed daily from calving to 60 DIM with California Mastitis Test (CMT) and by noting alterations in the milk such as blood, milk clots, blood clots, clinical signs of mastitis. Milk composition and somatic cell count (SCC) were analyzed before and after the biopsies. Milk production was evaluated before biopsy, on the day of biopsy, and after the biopsy. An average of 10 fields at 40× magnification was obtained from each sample. There were no evident changes in mammary morphology as a result of milking two or four times/day at any of the evaluated time points. Biopsy wounds healed rapidly without infection. Intramammary bleeding and CMT alterations were observed in 96% and 75% of the biopsied mammary quarters, respectively. Clinical mastitis was diagnosed in 12% of the biopsied quarters. Different milking frequencies had no effect on the frequency and duration of post-biopsy alterations. Milk production decreased after biopsies done on days 2 for 2× and 4× groups, but it returned to pre-biopsy values within 1 day. Milk composition and SCC were affected transiently. Increased milking frequency did not influence udder health. Post-biopsy recovery was rapid and the procedure proved effective without damaging the cows' health.

Efeito da adição de teores crescentes de ureia na cana-de-açúcar em dietas de vacas em lactação sobre a produção e composição do leite e viabilidade econômica / The effect of increasing urea in sugarcane diet of lactating cows on milk production and composition and its economic viability

Avaliou-se o efeito da adição de teores crescentes de ureia (0,0; 0,5 e 1,0%) na matéria natural da cana-de-açúcar sobre a produção e composição do leite, eficiência alimentar e viabilidade econômica. Foram utilizadas 18 vacas em lactação, com produção média inicial de 21,3±0,8kg/dia de leite e com 83±7 dias em lactação, distribuídas em delineamento ensaio de reversão do tipo switch-back, 3x3. As dietas experimentais foram constituídas de cana-de-açúcar como volumoso único e concentrado, na relação de 50:50 (base MS). Não houve efeito da suplementação dos diferentes teores de ureia sobre a produção e composição do leite. Contudo, a eficiência alimentar (produção de leite/consumo de matéria seca) foi melhor nas dietas em que se utilizou ureia, sendo 1,14; 1,17 e 1,17, respectivamente, para as dietas com 0,0; 0,5 e 1,0% de ureia (P<0,05). Considerando-se apenas o custo alimentar, todas as dietas apresentaram saldo positivo, sendo que a dieta com 1,0% de ureia apresentou o melhor saldo.(AU)

We studied the effect of increasing 0.0, 0.5 and 1.0% urea in natural sugar cane on cow milk production and composition, food productivity and economic viability. Eighteen lactating cows were studied, they had avarage milk production of 21.3±0.8kg/day and were 83±7 days in lactation in a switch-back, 3 x 3 design. The experimental diets consisted of a unique concentrated sugar cane portion with the 50:50 relation (MS base). The results showed no effect of different urea concentrations on the milk production or composition. However, food productivity (milk production/dry matter consumption) was 1.14; 1.17, and 1.17 respectively on urea diets of 0.0; 0.5 and 1.0% (P<0.05). Considering only the alimentary cost, all diets had a positive balance, and the 1.0% urea concentration was the best.(AU)

Caracterização da equideocultura no estado de Minas Gerais / Characterization of equidae breeding in Minas Gerais state

Recently, horse breeding has achieved greater prominence in the Brazilian society and now it started to appear as a part of the Brazilian agribusiness. The state of Minas Gerais stands out as the main producer of equidae in Brazil. The aim of this work was to characterize the breeding of equidae in this State in order to support future researches in this sector. By the evaluation of records from 1990 to 2009 provided by the "Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics" (IBGE) and also 967 interviews with breeders of equidae, it was possible to characterize some important points. It was observed that equidae breeding in this State moves over R$1,500,000,000 per year and employs 86,000 people. The main investments of the properties are made in purchasing saddles, accessories and commercial feeds. The main goal of equidae breeders in Minas Gerais has been the work in rural properties (49.49%) complementing many farming activities, especially the work with cows. Although Minas Gerais holds the main herd of equidae in the country, the number of animals has decreased. On the one hand, the equidae breeding sector has demonstrated its social and economic importance in agribusiness; on the other, hand further researches are needed to develop public policies to improve the breeding of equidae in Minas Gerais.

Comparação entre as medidas morfométricas de equinos Mangalarga Marchador de marcha batida e marcha picada / Comparison between the morphometric measures of Mangalarga Marchador horses of batida marcha and picada marcha

The present study aimed to compare the morphometric measurements of Mangalarga Marchador horses of batida and picada marcha. Twenty-two linear and eight angular measurements of 222 males (130 of batida marcha and 92 of picada marcha) and 266 females (168 of batida marcha and 98 picada marcha) were compared in a completely randomized design, consisting of two treatments: horses of batida and picada marcha. The results were submitted to analysis of variance and means were compared by Fisher test (P<0.05). It was concluded that most of the measures of Mangalarga Marchador horses of batida and picada marcha have similar values, however, there are differences between some angles of members...

Effects of milk replacer feeding strategies on performance, ruminal development, and metabolism of dairy calves.

Performance, rumen development, and metabolism of male Holstein calves (n=54) were evaluated according to 1 of 3 liquid feeding strategies: 4 L of milk replacer (MR)/d until 60 d old (4 L-60 d), 6L of MR/d until 29 d old and 4 L/d from 30 to 60 d (6L-29 d/4 L-60 d), or 6L of MR/day until 60 d old (60 d-6L). Water and starter were provided ad libitum. Intakes of MR and starter were monitored daily and body weight (BW) weekly. Blood samples for glucose and insulin concentrations and ruminal content samples for volatile fatty acids and ruminal ammonia concentrations were collected at 15, 30, 45, 60, 75, and 90 d of age. Six calves on each treatment were euthanized at 30, 60, and 90 d of age. Empty weights of forestomach and abomasum, papillae length, and mitotic index were measured. Average MR intake/d (expressed as a percent of BW) was greater for calves receiving 6L/d than for those receiving 4 L/d until 30 d of age. Calves on the 6 L-29 d/4 L-60 d had the smallest MR intake from 30 to 60 d old, followed by the 4 L-60 d and 6L-60 d treatments. Starter intake (kg of dry matter/day) did not differ between groups. It increased from 0.065 kg/d in the first month to 0.386 kg/d in the second month, and to 2.065 kg/d after weaning. Weight gain was greater for calves fed more MR in the first month, but no difference was observed during the second month. After weaning, 6L-60 d calves had greater rate of weight gain than others and were heavier at 30, 60, and 90 d of age. Weight of empty forestomachs, ruminal pH, and ammoniac nitrogen concentration were not different among groups. Propionate concentration was lower for 6 L-60 d calves, but acetate and butyrate concentrations were not influenced by MR feeding strategy. Calves fed more MR until d 30 had greater ruminal epithelium mitotic index. The different MR feeding strategies did not influence papillae length or ruminal epithelium thickness. Lesions such as ruminal parakeratosis or hyperkeratosis were not observed. The MR feeding strategy did not affect glucose concentration, but insulin was higher in 6L-60 d calves than in the other groups. Glucose concentration increased with age, whereas insulin decreased until 45 d old, and then started to increase until 90 d. In conclusion, MR feeding strategy did not influence ruminal development. Feeding calves 6 L of MR/d over 60 d resulted in greater rate of weight gain without negative effects on starter intake or forestomach development. The weight advantage that 6L-60 d calves obtained preweaning was maintained until 90 d of age.

Efeitos da forma física da ração e da linhagem de frangos de corte sobre a digestibilidade dos nutrientes e determinação de energia líquida / The effects of the physical form of ration and lines of broilers on the digestibility of nutrients and determination of net energy

Para avaliar os efeitos da forma física da ração, do consumo de ração controlado e das linhagens sobre a digestibilidade dos nutrientes, os valores de energia das rações e a produção de calor pelas aves, foram utilizados 210 pintos machos da linhagem Cobb® e 210 pintos machos da linhagem Ross-308®. Os tratamentos foram definidos pela forma física da ração, pelo consumo de ração controlado e pela linhagem, da seguinte forma: ração farelada à vontade, ração peletizada à vontade e ração peletizada controlada com consumo igual ao da ração farelada. O delineamento experimental foi o de blocos ao acaso, em arranjo fatorial 3x2 (três rações e duas linhagens), com quatro repetições (períodos), sendo o período considerado como bloco. A digestibilidade da matéria seca não foi afetada pela forma física da ração, entretanto a digestibilidade do extrato etéreo melhorou com a peletização. A linhagem influenciou a digestibilidade dos nutrientes e juntamente com a forma física da ração afetou a produção de calor das aves. A utilização de rações peletizadas aumentou os valores de energia líquida das rações, independentemente da linhagem, favorecendo o desempenho de frangos de corte.

The effects of the physical form of the rations on performance and carcass and cut yields of two lines of broilers, Cobb®and Ross®were evaluated. The treatments were defined according to the lines and physical form of the rations and were mash ad libitum, pelleted ad libitum and restricted pelleted (with equal intake of the mash ration). In the trial 420 birds were used, raised in metallic cages adapted for the collection of the excreta. The statistical design was a split plot block in 3x2 (3 diets and 2 lines) factorial arrangements with 4 repetitions (periods) where the period was considered the block. The digestibility of dry matter was not affected for the physical form of the ration, and the digestibility of the ether extract was enhanced by the peletization. The line affected the digestibility of the rations and with physical form of the ration affect the heat production of the broilers. The use of pelleted rations improved the net energy values of the rations, regardless of the line, enhancing the broilers performance.

Efeito do armazenamento e da cantaxantina dietética sobre a qualidade do ovo fértil e o desenvolvimento embrionário / The effect of storage and dietary canthaxanthin on fertile egg quality and embryonic development

O presente experimento foi conduzido em lote de matrizes Cobb desde 46 até 60 semanas de idade. Os tratamentos foram definidos pelas dietas (com e sem adição de 6ppm de cantaxantina na dieta das matrizes) e pelos períodos de armazenamento dos ovos (três e sete dias), em delineamento inteiramente ao acaso, em arranjo fatorial 2x2 (duas dietas x dois períodos de armazenamento). A cantaxantina dietética elevou o escore de cor da gema de sete para 14. O armazenamento dos ovos por sete dias prejudicou a qualidade dos ovos, promoveu oxidação de ácidos graxos da gema e retardou o desenvolvimento embrionário.

This trial was done with Cobb broiler breeders. Treatments were defined by the diets (with and without 6ppm canthaxanthin added to broiler breeder diets) and periods of egg storage (three and seven days) in a completely randomized factorial 2 x 2 design (two diets x two periods of egg storage). The dietary canthaxanthin increased the yolk color score from 7 to 14. Egg storage for seven days reduced egg quality, promoted oxidation of yolk fatty acids and delayed embryonic development.

Avaliação nutricional de fenos produzidos com Andropogon gayanus cv. Planaltina / Nutritional evaluation of hay produced with Andropogon gayanus cv. Planaltina

Neste estudo, foram utilizados fenos de Andropogon gayanus cv. Planaltina produzidos em diferentes idades de crescimento (56, 84, 112 e 140 dias) para ensaio de degradabilidade in vitro da matéria seca (DEIVMS), por meio da técnica in vitro semi-automática de produção de gases. Os dados de DEIVMS foram utilizados para confecção de equações que foram comparadas pelos testes de paralelismo e identidade de curvas. O teste de paralelismo não demonstrou diferença entre as equações e curvas, ou seja, as diferentes idades apresentaram o mesmo comportamento cinético de degradação. Contudo, pelo teste de identidade de curvas, observou-se que as equações e curvas dos fenos de A. gayanus colhidos com as plantas cortadas aos 56 e 84 dias são idênticas entre si, mas diferentes das demais, ou seja, apresentaram maior DEIVMS. Os fenos de A. gayanus nutricionalmente superiores são obtidos de plantas cortadas nos intervalos de 56 a 84 dias.

In this study Andropogon gayanus cv. Planaltina hay produced at different ages of growth (56, 84, 112 and 140 days) were used for degradability assay of in vitro dry matter using semi-automated in vitro gas production technique. The data of in vitro dry matter degradation was used for the fabrication of equations and used for parallelism and curve identification comparison tests. The comparison between the A. gayanus hays harvested at different ages of growth by parallelism test showed that degradability in vitro dry matter curves are parallel. The similar curves showed kinetic behavior for in vitro dry matter degradability. When compared, the A. gayanus hays harvested at different ages of growth through the curve identification test, showed that A. gayanus hays harvested between 56 and 84 days are similar and had higher in vitro dry matter degradability. Nutritionally superior A. gayanus hay cut plants are obtained at intervals of 56 to 84 days.

Utilização de minerais iônicos ou complexos orgânicos de minerais no pré-parto de vacas Holandesas / Use of ionic minerals or organic mineral complexes in the dry period of Holsteins cows

Os efeitos do uso de minerais complexados durante o pré-parto sobre a ocorrência de retenção de placenta foram avaliados em 135 vacas Holandesas de dois ou mais partos: grupo mineral iônico (69 animais) e grupo mineral complexado (66 animais). Em 55 desses animais foram também avaliadas as concentrações séricas da imunoglobulina G (IgG), Zn, Cu e a qualidade do colostro. O experimento foi realizado em delineamento inteiramente ao acaso, em arranjo em parcelas subdivididas. As concentrações séricas de IgG e dos microminerais foram avaliadas por análise de variância, sendo utilizados, respectivamente, os testes de Duncan e Fisher. A taxa de erro α admitida foi de 7%. Não foram observadas diferenças entre os grupos para ocorrência de retenção de placenta, qualidade do colostro, concentrações séricas de Zn e IgG (P>0,07), sendo observada diferença para a concentração de Cu (P<0,07). As concentrações de IgG foram diferentes nas semanas pré-parto avaliadas (P<0,07).

The effects of the use of complex minerals on the occurrence of retained placenta during pre-partum were valued on 135 Holstein cows from two or more deliveries. The animals were divided in two groups: ionic mineral (69 animals) and complexed mineral (66 animals). In 55 of these animals serum concentrations of imunoglobulin G (IgG), Zn and Cu and colostrum quality were also evaluated. The experiment was conducted in complete randomized split-plot design, serum IgG and trace minerals were evaluated by analysis of variance and used, respectively, Duncan's test and Fisher. The α error rate of 7% was accepted. There were no differences between groups for the occurrence of retained placenta, colostrum quality and serum concentrations of Zn and IgG (P>0.07), a difference was observed for Cu (P<0.07) concentrations. The IgG concentrations were different on the weeks pre partum evaluated (P <0.07).

Proposta de análise genética de curvas de crescimento de bovinos por meio do algoritmo SAEM / Proposal for genetic analysis of growth curves of cattle through the SAEM algorithm

Compararam-se duas diferentes metodologias na avaliação genética de curvas de crescimento de animais Nelore: o algoritmo SAEM e o método Two-step. Para a implementação dessas metodologias, foram utilizados o modelo de crescimento de Brody modificado e o modelo touro. A diferença entre o SAEM e o Two-step é que o algoritmo SAEM estima simultaneamente parâmetros do modelo e efeitos genéticos e ambientais, e o método Two-step faz esse processo de estimação em duas etapas distintas. Mais ainda, o algoritmo SAEM utiliza o método de máxima verossimilhança, e o do Two-step o de máxima verossimilhança restrita. Foram obtidos, com base nas metodologias testadas, além das estimativas de efeitos fixos e parâmetros genéticos, os valores genéticos preditos para os touros avaliados. A partir dos valores genéticos preditos, foram obtidas as curvas genéticas para os touros. O algoritmo SAEM mostrou-se consistente na estimação dos efeitos fixos e na predição dos efeitos aleatórios, apresentando-se como uma alternativa viável para avaliação genética de animais Nelore.

Two methodologies in genetic evaluation of growth curves of Nellore cattle were compared: the SAEM algorithm and the Two Step method. To implement these methodologies the Brody modified growth curve and the sire model were used. The difference between the SAEM and the Two Step is that SAEM estimates jointly the parameters of the model and genetics and environmental effects and the Two Step method does this process in two independent steps. Estimates of the fixed effects and genetics parameters, and prediction breeding values for the sires were obtained from the methodologies. From the breeding values genetic curves were obtained for the sires. The SAEM algorithm proved consistent in the estimation of fixed effects and prediction of random effects.

Avaliação da qualidade do colostro e transferência de imunidade passiva em animais mestiços Holandês Zebu / Colostrum quality evaluation and passive immunity transfer in crossbred Holstein Zebu cattle

O objetivo desta pesquisa foi avaliar a qualidade do colostro de vacas mestiças Holandês Zebu e a transferência de imunidade a seus bezerros. Efeitos de ordem de parto, sexo do bezerro, estação do ano e grupo genético foram estudados em vacas distribuídas em quatro grupos genéticos. Amostras de sangue dos bezerros foram coletadas aos três dias de vida. Foi avaliada a concentração de proteína total no soro (PT) por refratometria e espectrofotometria. As amostras de colostro apresentaram alta qualidade, com concentração média de Ig de 78,5mg/mL. Houve adequada transferência de imunidade passiva, com 88,3% dos bezerros com PT acima de 5,5g/dL. Não houve efeito de ordem de parto, sexo do bezerro, estação do ano e grupo genético da vaca na qualidade do colostro e na PT (P>0,05). Vacas F1 produziram, em média, colostro de alta qualidade e houve sucesso na transferência de imunidade passiva.

The objective of this paper was to evaluate crossbred Holstein Zebu cows colostrum quality and passive immunity transfer to their calves. Parity, calf sex, season of the year and cow genetic group effects in both responses were analyzed. Quality (immunoglobulin - Ig - concentration) was measured in colostrum samples of 186 crossbred cows from four different genetic groups with a colostrometer. Calf’s blood samples were collected on the third day of life. Serum total protein concentration (PT) was measured through refractometry and spectrophotometry. Colostrum samples were classified as high quality and showed mean Ig concentrations of 78.5mg/mL. Passive immunity transfer was successful, since 88.3% of calves had PT higher than 5.5g/dL. There was no effect of parity, calf sex, season of the year or cow genetic group in colostrum quality or serum total protein concentration (P>0.05). Crossbred Holstein Zebu cows produced high quality colostrums. There was success in passive immunity transfer to the calves.

Evolução anual da qualidade do leite cru refrigerado processado em uma indústria de Minas Gerais / Annual evolution of raw milk quality processed in a dairy industry of Minas Gerais state, Brazil

Analisou-se a evolução anual da qualidade de leite cru refrigerado pelo levantamento e análise estatística do banco de dados das análises individuais de leite dos tanques refrigeradores, computadas mensalmente entre abril de 2002 e dezembro de 2008 em uma indústria de Minas Gerais. O volume de leite em conformidade com a IN51 para contagem bacteriana total para o ano de 2008 aumentou de 74,3% em 2002 para 85,8% em 2008. Considerando-se a IN51 para o ano de 2011, esses valores seriam de 30,5% e 46,6%, respectivamente. O volume de leite em conformidade com a IN51 para contagem de células somáticas reduziu-se de 93,5% em 2002 para 90,1% em 2008. Para o ano de 2011, esses valores seriam de 64,9 e 60,5%, respectivamente. Em relação à composição sólida do leite, o volume de leite em conformidade com a IN51 para os teores de gordura, de proteína e de extrato seco desengordurado foi de 95,2%, 98,2% e 89,6%, respectivamente. As variações sazonais influenciaram a qualidade do leite cru refrigerado de tanques de expansão. A implantação de um sistema de pagamento por qualidade do leite ao produtor foi eficaz na melhoria dos índices de qualidade da matéria-prima.

The present study aimed to analyze the annual evolution of cooled raw milk quality, through analytical analysis of the data base of individual bulk milk tanks analysis, monthly computed from April/2002 to December/2008 at a dairy industry in Minas Gerais. The mean volume of milk in compliance with IN51 for total bacterial count for year 2008 increased from 74.3% in 2002 to 85.8% in 2008. Considering IN51 for year 2011, these values would be 30.5% and 46.6%, respectively. The mean volume of milk in compliance with IN51 for somatic cells count reduced from 93.5% in 2002 to 90.1% in 2008. Considering the legal standard for the year of 2011, these values would be 64.9 and 60.5%, respectively. In relation to the solid composition of milk, the mean volume of milk in compliance with IN51 for fat, protein and solids nonfat were 95.2%, 98.2% and 89.6%, respectively. The season variations affected the quality of the bulk tank cooled raw milk from bulk tanks. The implantation of a payment system for the quality of milk to the producer revealed to be efficient in its objective to improve the quality indexes of raw milk.

Avaliação da incidência e fatores de risco da retenção de placenta em vacas mestiças leiteiras / Evaluation of incidence rate and risk factors of retained placenta of crossbred dairy cattle

Avaliaram-se a incidência, os fatores de risco e o impacto da retenção de placenta tanto no desempenho reprodutivo quanto no produtivo de vacas mestiças leiteiras, considerando-se: ano e época de parição, ordem de lactação, escore de condição corporal (ECC), duração da gestação, tipo de parto e número e sexo dos bezerros. Utilizaram-se primíparas e multíparas, com e sem retenção de placenta, na época de chuva e de seca, para estudar: período de serviço, número de doses de sêmen/concepção e produção de leite em até 305 dias e no pico da lactação. A incidência da retenção foi de 12,8 por cento. Os fatores de risco da retenção de placenta foram: período de chuvas, ordem de lactação - segunda, terceira e acima da quarta -, ECC abaixo de 3,5 e acima de 4,0 - aborto, natimorto, prematuro, parto auxiliado e parto gemelar. Verificou-se aumento de 51,2 e 27,5 dias no período de serviço e aumento de 1,2 e 0,6 no número de doses de sêmen, em multíparas com retenção de placenta que pariram no período de chuva ou seca, respectivamente (P<0,05).

The incidence rate, risk factors and impact of retained placenta on the reproductive and productive performance of crossbred dairy cows was evaluated. The frequency distribution of retained placenta and also a Poisson multivariate analysis were developed for the following variables: year, calving season, lactation order, body condition score, gestation length, type of delivery, number and sex of calves. First calf heifers and multiparous cows, with and without retained placenta, during the rainy and dry season, had their average results compared in the following items: days from calving to first service, number of semen doses per conception, milk production up to 305 days and lactation peak. The incidence rate of retained placenta was 12.8 percent. The risk factors were: rainy calving season, 2nd, 3rd and above 4th lactation orders, body scores below 3.5 and greater than 4.0, abortion, stillbirth, premature birth, assisted birth and multiple birth. An increase of 51.2 and 27.5 days in the average interval between calving and first service, and of 1.2 and 0.6 in the average number of semen doses was observed in multiparous cows with retained placenta, giving birth during the rainy and dry seasons, respectively (P<0.05).

Efeito do aumento da frequência de ordenhas no início da lactação sobre produção, composição do leite e características reprodutivas de vacas mestiças Holandês-Zebu / Effects of increasing milking frequency in early lactation on milk production, milk composition and reproductive parameters of crossbred Holstein Zebu cow

Cinquenta e três vacas mestiças Holandês-Zebu, multíparas, foram distribuídas em quatro grupos para avaliar os efeitos de quatro e duas ordenhas diárias até o 21º dia da lactação, seguidas de duas ordenhas diárias, com ou sem a sucção de leite pelo bezerro, sobre: produção, composição do leite, peso corporal das vacas e dos bezerros e características reprodutivas. A produção e a composição do leite foram avaliadas a cada quatro dias até o 33º dia da lactação e, a partir desta data, a cada 15 dias. Os animais foram pesados ao parto, semanalmente até dois meses após o parto e, a partir desta data a cada 30 dias. O experimento foi desenvolvido em delineamento inteiramente ao acaso, em arranjo fatorial 2x2. As produções médias de leite foram 16,7, 17,2, 19,0 e 18,9kg/d (P<0,01), para vacas ordenhadas duas e quatro vezes com ou sem a sucção de leite pelo bezerro, respectivamente. Os percentuais de gordura, sólidos totais, produção de leite corrigido para 3,5 por cento de gordura e corrigido para sólidos totais foram mais elevados nos grupos com quatro ordenhas. O aumento da frequência de ordenhas no início da lactação aumentou a produção de leite (P<0,01), mas não influenciou o peso dos bezerros e nem as características reprodutivas avaliadas (P>0,05).

Fifty three multiparous crossbred Holstein Zebu cows were distributed in four groups with the purpose of evaluating the effects of four daily milking until lactation day 21 and after this day two milking, with or without suckling by the calf, on milk yield and composition, cows and calves weights and the reproductive parameters. Milk production and composition were measured each four days until the 33th day of lactation, then each 15 days until the end of lactation. The animals were weighed at birth, and weekly until two months postpartum and then each 30 days until the end of lactation. The experiment was completely randomized in a 2x2 factorial design. The average milk productions were 16.7, 17.2, 19.0, and 18.9kg/day (P<0.01), for cows milked twice or four times a day with or without suckling by the calf, respectively. Fat and total solids percentages, 3.5 percent fat corrected milk, and total solids corrected milk were higher in the groups of cows milked four times a day. The increase in milking frequency at the beginning of lactation increased the production of milk (P<0.01), but did not influence the weight of cows and calves or reproductive parameters (P>0.05).

Produção do híbrido "cachadia" em diferentes densidades de estocagem em sistema de recirculação de água / Production of cachadia hybrid at different densities in a recirculating aquaculture system

Avaliou-se o efeito da densidade de estocagem na produção de "cachadia" (Pseudoplatystoma fasciatum x Leiarius marmoratus) em sistema de recirculação de água. Nas duas primeiras fases, com duração de 27 e 40 dias e usando animais com média de peso inicial de 31 e 57g, respectivamente, foram testados 20, 40, 60 e 80 peixes/m³. Na terceira e quarta fase, usando peixes com média de peso de 169 e 399g durante 41 e 99 dias, respectivamente, foram testados 10, 20, 30 e 40 peixes/m³. A taxa de sobrevivência foi acima de 92 por cento, sem diferenças significativas entre tratamentos. Verificou-se redução no ganho de peso diário com redução com o incremento da densidade na segunda e na quarta fase experimental. A biomassa final apresentou relação direta com a densidade em todas as fases. Taxas de conversão alimentar entre 0,8 e 1,3:1 foram registradas. O "cachadia" atingiu 1,1kg em 207 dias de cultivo, mostrando-se promissor para a piscicultura intensiva.

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of different stocking densities on cachadia production (Pseudoplatystoma fasciatum x Leiarius marmoratus) in recirculating aquaculture system. In the two first phases for 27 and 40 days using fish with average weight of 31 and 57g, respectively, densities 20, 40, 60, and 80 fish/m³ were tested. In the third and fourth trial, using fish with an average weight of 169 and 399g during 41 and 99 days, respectively, densities 10, 20, 30, and 40 fish/m³ were tested. Survival rate was higher than 92 percent, without stocking density differences between the treatments. Daily weight gain showed reduction with the increase of the density in the second and fourth trial. However, final biomass presented direct relationship with increase density in all trials. Feed conversion rates ranged 0.8 from 1.3:1 were registered. Cachadia hybrid reached 1.1kg in approximately seven months of rearing indicating promise for intensive production.