Soybean Oil, Linoleic Acid Source, in Lamb Diets: Intake, Digestibility, Performance, Ingestive Behaviour, and Blood Metabolites.

The objective of the current study was to evaluate the effects of soybean oil inclusion in diets on feeding behaviour, digestibility, performance, and blood metabolites of feedlot lambs. Forty non-castrated Santa Inês lambs with a mean age of 5 months and initial body weight of 34.88 ± 3.19 kg were used in a 40-day feeding trial. The lambs were distributed in five experimental diets with the inclusion of increasing soybean oil (SO) levels: 0, 30, 60, 90, and 120 g/kg DM. The SO inclusion promoted a linear reduction in DM intake (p < 0.001), crude protein (CP, p < 0.001), non-fibrous carbohydrates (NFC, p < 0.001), and total digestible nutrients (TDN, p = 0.004). There was an increasing quadratic effect on the intake of ether extract (EE; p = 0.002) and decreasing for neutral detergent fiber (p = 0.005). The soybean oil inclusion promoted the greater apparent digestibility of CP (p = 0.016), EE (p = 0.005), NDFom (p < 0.001), and TDN (p < 0.001); on the other hand, the apparent digestibility of NFC (p = 0.005) was decreased. The average daily gain decreased (p < 0.001) with SO inclusion. The SO inclusion increased feeding time (p = 0.004), reduced the efficiency of DM rumination (p = 0.001), and reduced the concentration of blood N-ureic (p < 0.001). Considering the productive parameters, SO can be included in diets and it is recommended that we include SO of up to 41 g/kg DM in diets for fattening lambs as the ideal maximum level. The strategy implemented to adapt lambs to increasing levels of high-fat diet mitigated the detrimental effects of lipids on the rumen, with high-density energy intake being the constraining factor on performance.

Licury Cake in Diets for Lactating Goats: Intake, Digestibility, Feeding Behavior, Milk Production and Composition, and Nitrogen Metabolism.

The objective of this study was to determine the effects of licury cake (LC) inclusion in the diets of lactating goats on productive and metabolic performance. Twelve lactating goats, eight Saanen and four Anglo-Nubian, were distributed in a triplicate 4 × 4 Latin square design, with four treatments (0, 66.7, 133.3, and 200 g kg-1 of dry matter-DM). On the one hand, the LC inclusion increased neutral detergent fiber, indigestible neutral detergent fiber, and potentially digestible neutral detergent fiber (p < 0.001) intake. On the other hand, LC inclusion reduced ether extract and non-fibrous carbohydrate (p < 0.001) intake. There was a reduction in dry matter digestibility (p = 0.018) and an increase in neutral detergent fiber digestibility (p = 0.036). Feeding (p = 0.005) and rumination (p < 0.001) efficiencies increased with LC inclusion. The nitrogen balance was similar for all tested diets; however, we observed recycling metabolism. Based on the studied parameters, mainly milk production and composition, we recommend the LC inclusion of up to 200 g kg-1 DM in diets for lactating goats.

Nutrient intake, digestibility, performance, carcass traits and sensory analysis of meat from lambs fed with co-products of Amazon oilseeds.

Introduction: The increase in availability and nutritional composition of oilseed co-products has made it essential to study the use of this biomass. Methods: The objective of this work was to investigate the effects of including oilseed cakes on intake and digestibility, performance, carcass characteristics and meat sensory in feedlot lambs. Twenty-four crossbred Dorper × Santa Inês lambs, with initial body weight of 30 ± 1.3 kg, male, castrated, aged 4-5 months, were distributed in a completely randomized experimental design with four treatments (diets) and six replications (animals), confined in individual stalls for 70 days. Results: The inclusion of tucuma cake (Tuc) reduced dry matter intake (p < 0.01) and diets with cupuassu cake (Cup) and palm kernel cake (Palm) reduced dry matter digestibility (p < 0.05). The Tuc diet also provided the lowest final body weight (p = 0.02); lower average daily gain (p = 0.03); lower feed efficiency (p = 0.03) and lower carcass weight (p < 0.01). However, diets did not influence carcass yield (%), fat thickness (mm) and loin eye area (cm2; p > 0.05). Meat from lambs on the control diet was rated as less fibrous and more tender (p < 0.05). Conclusion: The inclusion of tucuma cake does not influence digestibility, but reduces intake, performance and influences carcass characteristics and meat texture. Diets with cupuassu cake or palmiste cake reduced digestibility, however, intake, performance and carcass characteristics were similar to the control diet.

Performance of feedlot sheep receiving diets with Cupuassu Cake (Theobroma grandiflorum Schum, Sterculiaceae) / Desempenho de ovinos em confinamento recebendo dietas com torta de cupuaçu (Theobroma grandiflorum schum, sterculiaceae)

This study evaluated the inclusion of cupuassu cake (Theobroma grandiflorum Schum.) in the diet of feedlot sheep. Intake (kg day-1, % LW and kg LW-0, 75), weight gain, feed conversion, carcass characteristics and measurements, ingestive behavior, and meat quality were assessed. Twenty-five mixed breed castrated sheep, with initial mean live weight (LW) of 17.4 (± 1.90) kg, were fed under feedlot management conditions until they reached 35 kg LW. The diet consisted of 26 % elephant grass silage (Pennisetum purpureum, Schum) and 74 % concentrate, composed of ground corn, soybean meal, wheat bran, limestone and cupuassu cake at 0 (control), 7.4; 14.8; 22.2 and 29.6 % of total dry matter. The experimental design was completely randomized, with five treatments and five repetitions. No statistical differences (P>0.05) were observed for the substitution of standard feedstuff by cupuassu cake in the variables evaluated, indicating that cupuassu cake can be used for feedlot sheep at up to 30 % of total dry matter, without affecting performance, intake, carcass characteristics or meat quality.(AU)

Esse estudo avaliou o efeito da inclusão da torta de cupuaçu (Theobroma grandiflorum Schum.) na alimentação de ovinos em confinamento. Foram avaliados o consumo (em kg dia-1, % PV e kg PV-0, 75), ganho de peso, conversão alimentar, medidas morfométricas da carcaça, características de carcaça, comportamento ingestivo e qualidade da carne. Foram utilizados vinte e cinco ovinos castrados, sem raça definida (SRD), com peso médio vivo inicial de 17,4 (±1,90) kg, mantidos em confinamento até que atingissem 35 kg de peso vivo (PV). As dietas experimentais eram compostas por 26 % de silagem de capim-elefante (Pennisetum purpureum, Schum) e 74 % de concentrado, composto de milho moído, farelo de soja, farelo de trigo, calcário calcítico e torta de cupuaçu, e consistiram na substituição do milho e do farelo de trigo pela torta de cupuaçu nos níveis 0 (controle), 7,4, 14,8, 22,2 e 29,6 % da matéria seca total. O delineamento experimental foi inteiramente casualizado, com cinco tratamentos e cinco repetições. A substituição dos alimentos padrões pela torta de cupuaçu não influenciaram (P>0,05) nas variáveis avaliadas, indicando que a torta pode ser utilizada em dietas para ovinos em confinamento em até 30 % da matéria seca total, sem comprometer consumo, características da carcaça e qualidade da carne.(AU)

Whole Corn Germ as an Energy Source in the Feeding of Feedlot Lambs: Metabolic and Productive Performance.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the dietary inclusion (0, 30, 60, 90, and 120 g/kg DM) of whole corn germ (WCG), an energy source, on the metabolic and productive performance of feedlot lambs. To this end, two complementary experiments were carried out. In Experiment I, we tested the effects of WCG inclusion levels on the metabolism of 10 uncastrated Santa Inês male lambs, which were distributed into two 5 × 5 Latin squares design. Non-fibrous carbohydrates digestibility decreased (p = 0.01), whereas ether extract digestibility increased (p < 0.01) with the inclusion of WCG. Retained nitrogen did not change (p = 0.99) with the WCG inclusion. In Experiment II, we tested the effect of WCG inclusion levels on the production performance of 40 uncastrated Santa Inês male lambs, in a completely randomized design. There was a reduction in the intake of nutritional components (p < 0.05), except EE (p < 0.01), which increased with the increasing WCG levels. Production performance and blood parameters did not change. Based on the observed metabolism, performance, and feed efficiency, the use of WCG at up to 120 g/kg DM, in the total diet, is recommended as an alternative energy source for feedlot lambs.

Nutrient intake, digestibility, feeding behavior, nitrogen balance, and performance of feedlot goat kids fed high-concentrate diets containing licury cake (Syagrus coronata).

The current trial was carried out to evaluate the impacts of adding licury cake (Syagrus coronata) in high-concentrate diets for goat kids feedlot-finished on growth performance and metabolic parameters. Forty crossbred non-castrated Boer goat kids with approximately four months and similar initial live weights (20.15 ± 2.79 kg). The experimental design used in this study was a completely randomized, with four diets (0, 10, 20, and 30% of licury cake inclusion in a dry matter basis (DM)). Licury cake inclusion decreased nutrient intake and digestibility (P < 0.05). Times spent in feeding (P < 0.001) and rumination (P = 0.003) activities, number of events in feeding (P < 0.001) and idling (P = 0.015) increased, whereas a linear reduction occurred in feeding and rumination efficiencies of DM and neutral detergent fiber (P < 0.001). Nitrogen (N) intake, retained N (P < 0.001), triglycerides concentrations (P = 0.002), aspartate-aminotransferase, alanine-aminotransferase, and gamma-glutamyltransferase decreased with the licury cake inclusion (P < 0.05). Final body weight (P = 0.008), average daily gain (P = 0.001), and total weight gain (P = 0.001) decreased linearly when licury cake was included in diets. High-concentrate diets containing increasing levels of licury cake decrease intake and apparent digestibility of nutrients and performance when supplied for goat kids feedlot-finished. Therefore, the inclusion of the studied levels of licury cake in goat kids fed high-concentrate diets is not recommended for feedlot-finished systems.

Effects of replacing ground corn with Nopalea cochenillifera meal on the intake, performance, and economic viability of grazing steers.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of replacing different levels of spineless-cactus meal instead of ground corn on supplements for crossbred steers grazing in Urochloa brizantha cv. Marandú pastures. Forty crossbred steers with an average body weight (BW) of 261 ± 7.46 kg were distributed in a completely randomized design. In supplements, the ground corn grain was substituted with 0%, 30%, 60%, and 90% spineless-cactus meal. The substitution of spineless-cactus meal instead ground corn promoted a linear decrease in the ether extract (EE; P = 0.03) and non-fibrous carbohydrates (NFC; P < 0.01) intakes. The apparent digestibility of EE was influenced (P < 0.05) showing a linear decrease. The apparent digestibility of NFC had a quadratic effect (P = 0.03). For the neutral detergent fiber corrected for ash and protein, the apparent digestibility increased linearly (P = 0.01). The average daily gain showed a quadratic effect (P < 0.01), with a maximum response estimated at 44.94% (1055.52 g/day) substitution with spineless-cactus meal for ground corn. The cost per animal per period and the cost per hectare decreased linearly (P < 0.01). The revenue, net revenue, exchange rate, and monthly revenue of the activity showed quadratic responses to the spineless-cactus meal supplements (P < 0.01), with maximum effects at 44.99%, 47.46%, 61.25%, and 57.35%, respectively. The substitution with up to 44.94% of spineless-cactus meal for ground corn provided daily gains, increased the feed conversion, and was favorable as a cost to the production system. Moreover, the profitability increased with maximum animal performance and improved use of fiber from pastures.

Feed technologies and efficiency in cow-calf systems

This study was performed to evaluate the efficiency index of cow-calf systems, based on different feed technologies commonly employed in the Rio Grande do Sul state, southern Brazil. Hence, the efficiency of 35 cow-calf herds was evaluated by Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA). Data was collected by online survey and in-depth interviews, as well as data registers from the cow-calf systems, located in 31 municipalities. The analyzed indicators included rates of mortality, pregnancy, birth, and productivity. The feed technologies evaluated were the use of cultivated pastures during winter and summer, supplementation during winter and summer, creep feeding, deferral of natural pasture, use of grazing systems, and employee's capacitation. Approximately 80% of the evaluated farms showed low-to-medium Efficiency Index (EI; up to 0.79 in a scale of 0 to 1), 13% presented high EI, and only 7% had very high EI (above 0.95). The use of cultivated pastures with the inclusion of protein supplementation and employees' capacitation were highlighted as the main practices to increase efficiency of cow-calf systems in Rio Grande do Sul. The technologies identified as most impactful raise the EI of production systems from low to medium. Our results assist in decision-making in the use of feed technologies, pointing out a direction for the use of technologies that make breeding systems more efficient from a productive point of view.(AU)

Nutritional and productive performance of grazing system beef heifers receiving multiple supplementation in the dry season / Desempenho nutricional e produtivo de novilhas de corte em sistema de pastejo recebendo suplementação múltipla na estação seca

This research was conducted to evaluate the effects of supplementation multiple on intake, digestibility, and microbial protein synthesis and, productive performance of grazing system receiving multiple supplementation in the dry season. Twelve Nellore heifers (averaging 214.6 ± 7.3 kg initial BW and 8.0 ± 0.10 months) were distributed to a completely randomized design in two treatments: unsupplemented (only mineral) and; supplemented (1 kg per animal day-1 of multiple supplement). Only the crude protein (CP) intake was increased by supplementation (P < 0.05). In addition, the supplementation increased the digestibility of organic matter (OM), CP, ether extract (EE), non-fibrous carbohydrates (NFC) and dietary content of digested OM (DOM) (P < 0.05). The supplementation decreased microbial nitrogen to ingested nitrogen ratio (MICNR) (P < 0.05) and increased the serum urea nitrogen (SUN) concentration and urinary nitrogen excretion (UNE) (P < 0.05) in the animals. Finally, average daily gain (ADG) and final BW (FBW) were not affected by supplementation (P > 0.05). In summary, the provision 1 kg per animal day-1 of multiple supplement for beef heifers in grazing system does not improve productive performance in dry season when there is adequate qualitative and quantitative availability of forage mass. However, provision of supplement increases the total nutrients digestibility and nitrogen statuses in the animals.(AU)

Esta pesquisa foi conduzida para avaliar os efeitos da suplementação múltipla sobre o consumo, digestibilidade e síntese de proteína microbiana e, desempenho produtivo de novilhas de corte em sistema de pastejo na época seca. Doze novilhas Nelore (média de 214,6 ± 7,3 kg de peso corporal inicial e 8,0 ± 0,10 meses) foram distribuídas em delineamento inteiramente casualizado em dois tratamentos: não suplementado (apenas mistura mineral) e; suplementado (1 kg por animal dia-1 de suplemento múltiplo). Apenas o consumo de proteína bruta (PB) aumentou com a suplementação (P < 0,05). Além disso, a suplementação aumentou a digestibilidade da matéria orgânica (MO), PB, extrato etéreo (EE), carboidratos não fibrosos (CNF) e teor dietético de MOD (P < 0,05). A suplementação diminuiu a relação nitrogênio microbial nitrogênio ingerido (MICNR) (P < 0,05) e aumentou a concentração de nitrôgeno ureico no soro (NUS) e excreção urinário de ureia (ENU) (P < 0,05) nos animais. Finalmente, o ganho médio diário (GMD) e o peso corporal final (PCF) não foram afetados pela suplementação (P > 0,05). Em resumo, o fornecimento de 1 kg por animal dia-1 de um suplemento múltiplo para novilhas de corte em sistema de pastejo não melhora o desempenho produtivo na época seca, quando existe uma adecuada disponibilidade qualitativa e quantitativa da massa de forragem. No entanto, o fornecimento do suplemento múltiplo aumenta a digestibilidade total dos nutrientes e status de nitrogênio dos animais.(AU)

Palm Kernel Cake in Diets for Lactating Goats: Qualitative Aspects of Milk and Cheese.

We investigated the effect of including palm kernel cake (PKC) at the levels of 0, 80, 160 and 240 g kg-1 in the diet of lactating goats on the quality and sensory parameters of Minas Frescal cheese. Twelve goats were used in a triple 4 × 4 Latin square design. The dietary addition of PKC was associated with a reduction in moisture (p = 0.004), which compromised the cheese yield (p = 0.030). The ether extract content showed a quadratic response. There was a decrease in caproic (p = 0.014), caprylic (p = 0.011), capric (p = 0.003) and palmitic (p = 0.049) acids and an increase in lauric (p = 0.012) and myristic (p = 0.02) acids. Monounsaturated fatty acids increased (p = 0.008), whereas the ratio of polyunsaturated to saturated fatty acids (p = 0.022) and thrombogenicity index (p = 0.023) decreased. Principal component analysis indicated that control treatment and the treatment with 80 g kg-1 PKC were the most acceptable to the cheese tasters. The use of palm kernel cake is a good alternative for lactating goats when added to the diet at levels up to 80 g kg-1.

Degradability, in vitro fermentation parameters, and kinetic degradation of diets with increasing levels of forage and chitosan.

Chitosan is the second most important natural biopolymer in the world, extracted from crustaceans, shrimps, and crabs and can modulate rumen fermentation. Our hypothesis is that the addition of chitosan alters the fermentation patterns of different diets for ruminants. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of different levels of chitosan and forage on in vitro dry degradation kinetics and fermentation in a gas production system. The chitosan levels (0, 1625, 3,500, or 7,500 mg/kg of dry matter [DM]) were arranged in a completely randomized block design, and for in vitro ruminal fermentation assay, we used a split splot arrangement. Into the incubator, all chitosan levels were distributed in the four jars, and the forage levels varying on 100, 65, 50, 35, and 20 on DM basis. There was an interaction effect for chitosan and forage levels (P ≤ 0.05) on IVDMD; IVOMD. IVDCP and IVDNDF. Chitosan negatively affected IVDMD in all roughage levels evaluated. The pH and ammonia concentration present effect only for roughage levels and incubation hours. The chitosan did not change (P = 0.3631) the total short-chain fatty acid concentration (overall mean = 21.19 mmol/L) and the C2:C3 ratio (overall mean = 5.85). The IVDCP showed the same decreasing quadratic behavior (P < 0.0001). The increasing chitosan addition increases (P < 0.0001) the gas production and decreases (P < 0.0001) the lag time (parameter C) of diets with greater concentrate participation, characterizing greater efficiency in the degradability of the diet, confirming its potential use in diets for ruminants. Chitosan changes in vitro dry degradation kinetics and fermentation at the minimum dose of 1,722 mg/kg DM for all diets. The roughage level influenced the in vitro nutrients degradability and cumulative gas production.

Potential Effects of Delphinidin-3-O-Sambubioside and Cyanidin-3-O-Sambubioside of Hibiscus sabdariffa L. on Ruminant Meat and Milk Quality.

The objective was to review the potential effects of adding anthocyanin delphinidin-3-O-sambubioside (DOS) and cyanidin-3-O-sambubioside (COS) of HS in animal diets. One hundred and four scientific articles published before 2021 in clinics, pharmacology, nutrition, and animal production were included. The grains/concentrate, metabolic exigency, and caloric stress contribute to increasing the reactive oxygen species (ROS). COS and DOS have antioxidant, antibacterial, antiviral, and anthelmintic activities. In the rumen, anthocyanin might obtain interactions and/or synergisms with substrates, microorganisms, and enzymes which could affect the fiber degradability and decrease potential methane (CH4) emissions; since anthocyanin interferes with ruminal fatty acids biohydrogenation (BH), they can increase the n-3 and n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), linoleic acid (LA), and conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) in milk and meat, as well as improving their quality. Anthocyanins reduce plasma oxidation and can be deposited in milk and meat, increasing antioxidant activities. Therefore, the reduction of the oxidation of fats and proteins improves shelf-life. Although studies in ruminants are required, COS and DOS act as inhibitors of the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACEi) and rennin expression, regulating the homeostatic control and possibly the milk yield and body weight. By-products of HS contain polyphenols as calyces with positive effects on the average daily gain and fat meat quality.

Effects of substituting sweet potato flour for ground corn on performance, feeding behavior, and metabolism of dairy cows.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of substituting sweet potato flour for ground corn in rations fed to lactating dairy on milk yield and composition, blood metabolites, and feeding behavior. Twenty lactating Holstein cows from 30 to 60 days postpartum were randomly assigned to one of two groups (n = 10 each) and used in a cross-over design trial with two treatments: a standard concentrate with ground corn as an energy source or experimental concentrate with sweet potato flour (SPF) replacing all of the ground corn. Each of the 35-day periods consisted of 14 days for adaptation to diet and 21 days for data and sample collection. Milk yield, dry matter intake (DMI), and feeding behavior were evaluated daily throughout the trial. Milk samples were collected weekly and blood samples were collected every 3 days. Milk was analyzed for fat, protein, lactose, and total solid constituents. Blood was analyzed for glucose, non-esterified fatty acid (NEFA), gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), total protein (TP), albumin, and urea concentrations. Milk yield (P = 0.62) and composition (fat: P = 0.71; protein: P = 0.12; lactose: P = 0.82; total solids: P = 0.56) were not affected by dietary treatments. There were no differences between treatments in DMI or meal frequency, but total eating time (P = 0.001), feeding time (P = 0.001), and meal duration (P = 0.001) was higher for control compared with SPF. However, feeding rate (P = 0.001) and serum urea concentration (P = 0.001) were higher for SPF compared with control. No differences were observed in serum metabolites and enzymes measured among treatments. The results of this trial indicate that SPF can be substituted for ground corn without impairing the performance, feeding behavior, and metabolism in dairy cows.

Protected or Unprotected Fat Addition for Feedlot Lambs: Feeding Behavior, Carcass Traits, and Meat Quality.

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of the inclusion of protected or unprotected fats in the diet of feedlot lambs on feeding behavior, productive characteristics, carcass traits, and meat quality. Forty male Dorper × Santa Inês lambs (22.27 ± 2.79 kg) were randomly assigned to treatments in a completely randomized design. The experimental treatments consisted of five diets: no added fat (NAF), whole soybeans (WSB), calcium salts of fatty acids (CSFA), soybean oil (SO), and corn germ (CG). The total intake of dry matter (DMI) (p < 0.001) and neutral detergent fiber (NDFI) (p = 0.010) were higher in the CSFA and NAF diets. Feeding behavior, morphometric measurements, physicochemical characteristics, and centesimal composition of the Longissimus lumborum muscle were similar between treatments (p > 0.05). The CSFA diet provided higher production (p < 0.05) and better-quality carcasses. The inclusion of fat sources increased the concentration of polyunsaturated fatty acids (p < 0.05). The use of calcium salts of fatty acids in feedlot lambs' diets provides better quantitative and qualitative characteristics of the meat and carcass.

Native and introduced forage cacti in Saanen dairy goat diets

This study aimed to assess the nutrient intake and milk production of dairy goats fed with total mixed rations with different species of forage cacti. Five pluriparous Saanen goats (50 ± 4 kg) at nine weeks of lactation were allocated in a Latin square (5 x 5) with five diets and five periods. Each period was composed of 10 days for adaptation and seven days for collection. The treatments were composed of 473.0 to 501.0 g kg-1 of forage cacti: xiquexique (Pilosocereus gounellei), mandacaru (Cereus jamacaru), facheiro (Pilosocereus chrysostele), cactus cladodes cv. miúda (Nopalea cochenillifera Salm-Dyck) and cactus cladodes cv. orelha de elefante mexicana (Opuntia stricta); plus sabiá hay (Mimosa caesalpiniifolia) (188.0 to 198.0 g kg-1) and concentrate (311.0 to 329.0 g kg-1). The intake of dry matter, organic matter, ether extract, neutral detergent fiber, total carbohydrates, and water intake through diet components were unaffected by experimental diets. For milk production and feed efficiency, no difference was observed among the diets. All diets containing different species of forage cacti can be used for dairy goats feed.

Native and introduced forage cacti in Saanen dairy goat diets

This study aimed to assess the nutrient intake and milk production of dairy goats fed with total mixed rations with different species of forage cacti. Five pluriparous Saanen goats (50 ± 4 kg) at nine weeks of lactation were allocated in a Latin square (5 x 5) with five diets and five periods. Each period was composed of 10 days for adaptation and seven days for collection. The treatments were composed of 473.0 to 501.0 g kg-1 of forage cacti: xiquexique (Pilosocereus gounellei), mandacaru (Cereus jamacaru), facheiro (Pilosocereus chrysostele), cactus cladodes cv. miúda (Nopalea cochenillifera Salm-Dyck) and cactus cladodes cv. orelha de elefante mexicana (Opuntia stricta); plus sabiá hay (Mimosa caesalpiniifolia) (188.0 to 198.0 g kg-1) and concentrate (311.0 to 329.0 g kg-1). The intake of dry matter, organic matter, ether extract, neutral detergent fiber, total carbohydrates, and water intake through diet components were unaffected by experimental diets. For milk production and feed efficiency, no difference was observed among the diets. All diets containing different species of forage cacti can be used for dairy goats feed.(AU)

Soybean molasses: an alternative to sheeps supplementation / Melaço de soja: uma alternativa de suplementação para ovinos

The objective was to evaluate soybean molasses as supplement for sheep at crescent levels. Five-crossbred ½ Dorper -Santa Inês ewes with initial body mass of 45 ± 3.5 kg and 12 ± 2 months of age were used. Treatments consisted of 0, 3, 6, 9 and 12% of soybean molasses inclusion to a basal corn silage diet, which fed exclusively supports the nutritional requirements of ewes at maintenance. The treatments were assigned into 5×5 latin square design. Five experimental periods, of 12 days each (1st to 5th day: diet adaptation period; 6th to 12th: data collection and sampling), was adopted. The statistical analysis performed were regression analysis with 5% of significance. Crude protein and water intakes increase as increase the supplementation levels of soybean molasses increased allowing the fit of linear regressions (P<0.05). Supplementation up to 12 % did not affect the intake of dry matter, energy and neutral detergent fiber or the digestibility of dry matter, protein and neutral detergent fiber (P>0.05). Also, ingestive behavior and blood variables, as metabolic mineral profile, was not affected (P>0.05). Soybean molasses can be used as supplement for sheep until 12 % of daily ration without affect feed digestibility, ingestive behaviour and metabolic profile.(AU)

Objetivou-se avaliar o melaço de soja como suplemento em níveis crescentes para ovinos. Foram utilizadas cinco ovelhas ½ Dorper-Santa Inês com massa corporal de 45 ± 3,5 kg e 12 ± 2 meses de idade. Os tratamentos consistiram na inclusão de 0, 3, 6, 9 e 12 % de melaço de soja a uma dieta basal composta de silagem de milho, a qual como alimento exclusivo atende os requerimentos nutricionais de ovelhas em mantença. Os tratamentos foram distribuídos em delineamento quadrado latino 5 × 5. Cinco períodos experimentais de 12 dias foram adotados do 1º ao 5º dia: período de adaptação das dietas; do 6º ao 12º dia: coleta de dados e período de amostragem. As análises estatísticas foram realizadas por regressão considerando 5 % de significância. A ingestão de proteína bruta e água aumentou à medida que aumentaram os níveis de suplementação de melaço de soja, permitindo o ajuste de regressões lineares (P<0,05). A suplementação de até 12% não afetou o consumo de matéria seca, energia e fibra em detergente neutro ou a digestibilidade da matéria seca, proteína e fibra em detergente neutro (P>0,05). Também o comportamento ingestivo e as variáveis sanguíneas de perfil metabólico e mineral, não foram afetados (P>0,05). O melaço de soja pode ser utilizado como suplemento para ovinos até 12% da ração diária, sem afetar a digestibilidade dos alimentos, o comportamento ingestivo e o perfil metabólico e mineral.(AU)

In vitro fermentation of diets containing sweet potato flour as a substitute for corn in diets for ruminants / Fermentação in vitro de dietas contendo farinha de batata-doce como substituto do milho em dietas para ruminantes

With the intensification of production systems, dairy cow feeding has undergone changes creating the need to increase substitute feed options, focusing on more efficient, modern, and sustainable alternatives. Few researches were carried out evaluating the inclusion of sweet potato flour as an energy source in substitution of maize for ruminants. The aim of this study was to evaluate the in vitro gas production of ground corn replacement by sweet potato flour at different levels. For in vitro gas production, four treatments were performed, consisting of corn replacement by sweet potato flour at the levels of 0, 33, 66, and 100%, in a diet consisting of corn silage, soybean meal, and ground corn. In vitro incubations were conducted in sealed bottles containing 50 ml of the inoculum prepared using ruminal fluid and 0.5 g of each treatment. Gas production was determined in 96 consecutive hours. The cumulative gas production was greater when the corn was 100% replaced by SPF (224 ± 1.45 and 231.9 ± 1.45 ml/g DMi for 0 and 100% of replacement, P = 0.01). Degradation rates were 7.10, 7.59, 8.08, and 8.59 ± 0.06% per hour for the 0, 33, 66, and 100% replacement rates, respectively (P 0.001). There was also a difference (P = 0.002) in the lag time, in which diets with the highest SPF inclusion had a lower colonization time. In conclusion, sweet potato flour produced more gas and was more rapidly degraded than corn.(AU)

Com a intensificação dos sistemas de produção e o aumento das exigências alimentares das vacas leiteiras criou-se a necessidade de diversificação nas opções de alimentos, focando em alternativas mais eficientes, modernas e sustentáveis. Poucas pesquisas foram realizadas avaliando a inclusão da farinha de batata-doce como fonte de energia em substituição ao milho para ruminantes. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a produção de gás in vitro da farinha de batata-doce (SPF) em substituição ao milho moído em diferentes níveis. Para a produção de gás in vitro, foram realizados quatro tratamentos, com substituição de milho por farinha de batata-doce a 0, 33, 66 e 100%, em uma dieta com silagem de milho, farelo de soja e milho moído. As incubações foram conduzidas em frascos selados contendo 50 ml do inóculo preparado utilizando o fluido ruminal, solução tampão e 0,5 g de cada tratamento. A produção de gás acumulada foi maior na substituição do milho pela SPF em 100% (224 ± 1.45 e 231,9 ± 1.45 ml/g MSi para as substituições 0 e 100%, P = 0,01). A taxa de degradação foi 7,10, 7,59, 8,08 e 8,59 ± 0,06% por hora nas substituições 0, 33, 66 e 100%, respectivamente (P 0,001). Houve também diferença (P = 0,002) no lag time, em que as dietas com maior inclusão de SPF tiveram tempo de colonização bacteriana menor. Em conclusão, a farinha de batata-doce produziu mais gás e foi degradada mais rapidamente que o milho.(AU)

Soybean molasses: an alternative to sheep’s supplementation / Melaço de soja: uma alternativa de suplementação para ovinos

The objective was to evaluate soybean molasses as supplement for sheep at crescent levels. Five-crossbred ½ Dorper -Santa Inês ewes with initial body mass of 45 ± 3.5 kg and 12 ± 2 months of age were used. Treatments consisted of 0, 3, 6, 9 and 12% of soybean molasses inclusion to a basal corn silage diet, which fed exclusively supports the nutritional requirements of ewes at maintenance. The treatments were assigned into 5×5 latin square design. Five experimental periods, of 12 days each (1st to 5th day: diet adaptation period; 6th to 12th: data collection and sampling), was adopted. The statistical analysis performed were regression analysis with 5% of significance. Crude protein and water intakes increase as increase the supplementation levels of soybean molasses increased allowing the fit of linear regressions (P0.05). Also, ingestive behavior and blood variables, as metabolic mineral profile, was not affected (P>0.05). Soybean molasses can be used as supplement for sheep until 12 % of daily ration without affect feed digestibility, ingestive behaviour and metabolic profile.

Objetivou-se avaliar o melaço de soja como suplemento em níveis crescentes para ovinos. Foram utilizadas cinco ovelhas ½ Dorper-Santa Inês com massa corporal de 45 ± 3,5 kg e 12 ± 2 meses de idade. Os tratamentos consistiram na inclusão de 0, 3, 6, 9 e 12 % de melaço de soja a uma dieta basal composta de silagem de milho, a qual como alimento exclusivo atende os requerimentos nutricionais de ovelhas em mantença. Os tratamentos foram distribuídos em delineamento quadrado latino 5 × 5. Cinco períodos experimentais de 12 dias foram adotados do 1º ao 5º dia: período de adaptação das dietas; do 6º ao 12º dia: coleta de dados e período de amostragem. As análises estatísticas foram realizadas por regressão considerando 5 % de significância. A ingestão de proteína bruta e água aumentou à medida que aumentaram os níveis de suplementação de melaço de soja, permitindo o ajuste de regressões lineares (P0,05). Também o comportamento ingestivo e as variáveis sanguíneas de perfil metabólico e mineral, não foram afetados (P>0,05). O melaço de soja pode ser utilizado como suplemento para ovinos até 12% da ração diária, sem afetar a digestibilidade dos alimentos, o comportamento ingestivo e o perfil metabólico e mineral.

Nutritional strategies for heifers under grazing system: productive and nutritional performance, metabolic profile and ovarian activity.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of nutritional strategies on productive and nutritional performance, metabolic profile, and ovarian activity in heifers under grazing in the tropics in Brazil. Forty Nellore heifers averaging 8.5 ± 0.06 months and 248.6 ± 3.3 kg body weight (BW) were distributed in a completely randomized 2 × 2 factorial design with four treatments and ten replicates. The evaluated strategies consisted of different amounts of energetic-protein supplement: (1) 4 g/kg of BW of supplement in the pre-weaning and post-weaning; (2) 4 g/kg of BW of supplement pre-weaning and 6 g/kg in the post-weaning; (3) 6 g/kg of BW of supplement in the pre-weaning and 4 g/kg of BW in the post-weaning and; (4) 6 g/kg of BW of supplement in the pre-weaning and post-weaning. Crude protein (CP) and organic matter (OM) intake were increased (P < 0.05) by increasing the amounts of supplement in the post-weaning. Additionally, increasing supplement amounts in the post-weaning increased the digestibility of OM and CP (P < 0.05). Means insulin and glucose concentrations were greater (P < 0.05) for heifers that received higher amounts of supplement in the post-weaning. Average daily gain and fat thickness in the rump were increased (P < 0.05) by increasing supplement amounts in the post-weaning. Amounts of supplement did not influence the body growth of heifers. However, follicular number, diameter, and progesterone concentration were greater (P < 0.05) for heifers that received higher amounts of supplement in the post-weaning. In summary, increasing supplement amounts in the post-weaning improve the performance, energy and metabolic status, and ovarian activity in beef heifers under grazing in the tropics. Due to higher intake of supplement, the heifers receiving 6 g/kg of BW post-weaning had greater responses, independently of the supplement amount received pre-weaning.