Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT. The aim of the study was to evaluate the performance and physiological responses of juvenile tambaqui (Colossoma macropomum) fed diets containing pequi oil (Caryocar brasiliense, Camb). A total of 240 juveniles were observed, with an average weight of 17.91±4.87g, distributed in 20 boxes with a capacity of 500 liters each, in a completely randomized design with five treatments and four replications, containing 12 fish per replication. Five isoprotein diets (41% of crude protein) containing increasing levels of pequi oil (0.5, 1.5, 2.0, 3.8 and 5.5%) were assessed. The animals were kept in a water recirculation system, equipped with a filter, forced aeration, and a 12-hour photoperiod. To evaluate the performance, survival rate, weight gain, feed conversion, specific growth rate, protein efficiency rate, hepatosomatic index, and digestive-somatic index were analyzed. For physiological responses, hematological parameters and indexes, and differential leukocyte counts were determined. The concentration of serum protein, albumin, and globulin was also determined at the end of a 60-day period. There was no effect of the inclusion of pequi oil on weight gain, feed conversion, and protein efficiency rate (p ˃ 0.05). The specific growth rate was significantly different (p ˂ 0.05) with the reduction of treatments. An increase in the hepatosomatic index was observed in the treatments, with significant differences (p ˂ 0.05) and a linear increase, resulting in evidence of a lack of essential fatty acids. Hematocrit values showed no differences, but discrepancies were observed (p ˂ 0.05) for the number of erythrocytes, which, however, remained within the reference values for the species. The hematometric ratios also showed differences between treatments (p ˂ 0.05), remaining within the reference values, not characterizing an anemic condition in the animals. The increase in serum protein levels suggests that pequi oil starts to act as an immunostimulant. However, the use of pequi oil in juvenile tambaqui was not able to guarantee an efficient growth rate.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT. Tilapia masculinization can be induced by oral administration of α-methyltestosterone (MT), which is commonly dissolved in ethanol to be added to the feed. However, there are many benefits in using alternative vehicles, such as oil. The incorporation time, vehicles quantity, safety for handlers, fish and the environment are favorable factors. In fry fed for 35 days under temperature control, we found that masculinization rate was similar in both incorporation vehicles of MT (oil or ethanol) in the concentrations studied (30 and 60 mg MT kg-1 feed). In an experiment, using hormone oil dissolution and oral administration at 30 mg MT kg-1 feed, it was observed that the longer the administration time, the lower the coefficient of variation in the masculinization rate. Therefore, administration for 32 days showed the lowest variability in the masculinization rate (99.8 ± 0.5 %), compared to 24 (98.5 ± 3.0 %), 16 (97.0 ± 6.0 %) and 8 (89.0 ± 8.8 %) days. The field experiment confirmed the results obtained in the lab. We concluded that the oil can be used as MT vehicle and we recommend to dispense it at the lowest hormonal concentration (30 mg MT kg-1 feed) for 32 days for tilapia masculinization.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT. The current study evaluates the effect of partial or total replacement of fish meal with Haematococcus pluvialis microalgae, cultivated in an NPK culture medium, on the growth performance of Macrobrachion amazonicum shrimp post-larvae. Four diets were formulated: control (without microalgae), 25, 50 and 100% H. pluvialis replacement. Only crude protein weight gain showed no interaction and was not selected for principal components analysis. The 25% fishmeal replacement in the diet was not effective, being similar to the control. However, the complete replacement of fishmeal with H. pluvialis promoted elevated survivability, length, weight and protein retention, making it the most relevant treatment for M. amazonicum post-larvae. Therefore, it is possible to completely replace fishmeal with the microalgae H. pluvialis in the diet of M. amazonicum shrimp, which improves growth performance.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT. The use of probiotics and exogenous enzymes in fish feed is a promising alternative to improve animal performance. This study evaluated the feasibility of applying Bacillus sp. SMIA-2 and its enzymes as supplements in the diet for juvenile tilapia. The effect of adding different concentrations of Bacillus sp. SMIA-2 and its enzymes in food on zootechnical development, intestinal morphometry of animals was analyzed. The bacteria could be recovered from the intestines of animals, demonstrating its ability to survive gastric and bile acids. The comparative study of SMIA-2 with commercial products showed a significant effect on individual food intake, final weight and weight gain in all treatments. Gut length, villus height and intestinal coefficient were an advantage of SMIA-2 compared to commercial products and the control group. Therefore, the inclusion of Bacillus sp. SMIA-2 and its enzymes in fish feed may represent a viable alternative to improve animal development and significantly increase intestinal villi, contributing to nutrient absorption and animal health.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT. This work wass designed to analyze the possibility of heavy metals inducing oxidative stress and biochemical perturbations effect on fresh water fish and their impact directly or indirectly on the human race. Due to continuous drainage of municipal waste, tanneries, and pesticides in Ganga River, lifeline of millions of people is heavily affected. The physico-chemical qualities of Ganga River were analyzed in quarterly basis during year 2018 to 2021, by taking the freshwater sample of different locations in Kanpur. While collecting the sample water the average temperature 27.6°, DO value of selected locations were fairly poor with an average of DO 6.67 mg L-1 and BOD ranged from 11.93 to 20.79 mg L-1. On the other hand the BOD ranged from 11.93 to 20.79 mg L-1 which is far more than WHO standards. Additionally, levels of antioxidants in enzymatic and non-enzymatic tissues serve as proxies for fish exposure to oxidant pollutants. Higher physico-chemical responses indicate contaminants and heavy metals may be playing an important role that have to be considered. The heavy metals are affecting the antioxidant defense system particularly seen in liver and kidney of fish and this affect on kidney and liver functioning as the concentrations of heavy metals rises. The relation between enzymatic activity and the metabolite showing negatively correlation that is noted highly significant to this study (r = -0.87, t = 10.14, p* ≤0.05).

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT. The aimed of this study was to evaluate the influence of dietary protein levels on the biochemical and hematological parameters of pirarucu (Arapaima gigas). A total of 60 pirarucus specimens were used with an initial average weight of 499 ± 36 g and an initial average length of 40.30 ± 10.10 cm, stocked with densities of four pirarucus per fish tank network 48 m2 of water surface. Feed was provided three times a day (8 am, 1 and 6 pm), with five different levels of crude protein (CP) in diet: 34, 36; 38 and 40 and 45% CP. The fish were euthanized at 310 experimental days with an average of 8.0 ± 1.0 kg of body weight. Blood samples were collected by tail vessel venipuncture, divided into two aliquots 2 mL and used for determination of biochemical levels and blood count. The results were submitted to analysis of variance and regression for CP levels, with the results showed as averages followed by the standard deviation. Orthogonal contrasts were applied to verify linear and quadratic effects at 5% significance. It was observed that the parameters referring to the blood count, given by erythrocytes, hemoglobin, packed cell volume, MCV, HCM, CHCM, glucose and total proteins showed no differences between the different diets. The average values of total proteins were 3.80 ± 0.30 g L-1, glucose and triglycerides shown averages 43.45 ± 5.65 and 56.98 ± 5.80 mg dL-1, respectively. The maximum cholesterol level 120.00 ± 13.33 mg dL-1 was obtained at the 35.4% CP level in the growth phase. Protein levels in diet influenced the cholesterol levels in the pirarucu growth phase, however, they did not influence the other biochemical and hematological parameters.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT. This study aims to increase the utilization of banana peels, a local agricultural by-product, by improving nutrient value and partially reducing the presence of anti-nutritional factors (ANFs) as an alternative ingredient in fish feed. The feasibility of molasses-fermented banana peels (MFBP) as a protein source in a practical diet for hybrid tilapia (Oreochromis spp.) fries was investigated. Five isonitrogenous experimental diets containing 0 (control), 25, 50, 75, and 100% substitution levels of fish meal by MFBP were formulated. Twenty tilapia fries per group with three replicates were fed for eight weeks. The growth performance and feed efficiency values of fish were recorded and evaluated. Fish fed with 0, 25, and 50% MFBP levels showed significantly higher growth parameters, survival rate, and feed utilization efficiency than those fed with 75 and 100% MFBP levels. Although the control diet produced better growth performance and feed utilization efficiency than MFBP-based diets there was no significant difference between fish fed with the control diet and the low MFBP levels (0-50%) diet. Based on the present findings, it could be concluded that the molasses-fermented banana peels (MFBP) could efficiently replace the fishmeal by up to 50% without affecting the growth performance of red tilapia.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT. The aim of this study was to evaluate the inclusion of different levels of soybean meal in pirarucu’s diet. 200 pirarucu juveniles (152.15 ± 0.8 g) were distributed in 20 polyethylene tanks with a continuous water flow system. A completely randomized experimental design was used, with five treatments (n = 4) containing 0, 10, 20, 30 and 40% of soybean meal inclusion levels. Growth performance was measured as specific growth rate, feed conversion, weight gain and survival. Body composition, protein retention rate and histopathological changes in the intestine were analyzed. The different treatments did not affect weight gain, specific growth rate and survival. The body composition of the fish was affected by treatments for ash and ether extract and the IHS was also affected. The diet with 40% soybean meal compromised feed conversion rate. Additionally, the distal intestine of fish fed with the same diet showed a reduction in the height of mucosal folds and a loss of supranuclear vacuolation in enterocytes. Based on these results, the inclusion of up to 30% of soybean meal in the diet of juvenile pirarucu is possible without negative effects on performance and enteric morphology.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT. A study was conducted to assess the impact of partially replacing fish meal and fish oil with fish meal oil and residue in diets for pacamã fry (Lophiosilurus alexandri). Eight diets were formulated to be isoproteic and isoenergetic, varying with four levels of fish meal substitution by fish residue meal (0, 10, 20, and 30%), and utilizing two oil sources (fish and fish residue), resulting in a factorial design of 4x2 with three repetitions per treatment. In the first experiment, 192 pacamã fry weighing 12 g ± 2.02 live weight were used, distributed in 24 fiberglass boxes with a capacity of 80 liters of water in a recirculation system. The animals were fed the experimental diets for 60 days and at the end the performance indices and the bromatological composition and fatty acid profile of the carcasses were evaluated. In the second experiment, 8 fish were used per treatment, placed in the same experimental boxes. The fish were fed the same diets, added with chromium oxide as a marker, and underwent 3 periods of feces collection in order to determine the digestibility of the diets. At the end of the experiments, feed and carcass samples were processed and analyzed in the laboratory It was found that fish meal flour can substitute fish meal in pacamã fry diets by up to 30% without compromising performance or carcass characteristics. Furthermore, fish waste oil can completely replace fish oil in pacamã diets.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT. The aim of this study was to examine the effect of longer cutting intervals on morphogenetic and structural traits, herbage production, nutritional value, and in vitro digestibility of Guinea grass cv. Mombaça (Mombaça grass). Four cutting intervals (49, 63, 77, and 91 days) were evaluated in two crop years (2015-2016 and 2016-2017) during the rainy season, in two replicates. Cutting intervals influenced structural and morphogenetic traits, except for number of live leaves (4.35 leaves tiller-1) and final leaf length (72.94 cm) in the 2015-2016 crop year. As the cutting intervals increased, dry matter yield and stem percentage increased, whereas leaf percentage and leaf-to-stem ratio declined. Regardless of the evaluated crop year, the dry matter, acid detergent fiber, and lignin contents increased linearly; however, the neutral detergent fiber content was unaffected. Cutting intervals affected the crude protein content and in vitro digestibility. Considering leaf appearance rate, stem appearance rate, and leaf-to-stem ratio, the recommended harvest age for Mombaça grass for optimum yield and nutritional value is 77 days.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT. The objective of this study was to assess the effect of cutting time on the nutritional composition and dehydration rate of stargrass, as well as the nutritional value of the hay as a function of storage time. Two plant cutting times were analyzed: at 13:00 (H13) and 17:00 (H17). After cutting, the dehydration rate of both the plant and its fractions until baling was monitored. The bales were checked for nutritional composition and digestibility after 30, 60, 90 and 120 days. At the time of cutting, a difference was observed for the concentrations of ethanol-soluble carbohydrates, which were higher for H17 (90.3 g kg-1) compared to H13 (52.9 g kg-1). Leaf dehydration rates were higher in the H17 treatment. Cutting time had no influence on the nutritional value of the hay. With storage time, there was an increase in the levels of neutral detergent fiber and acid detergent fiber, and a reduction in the content of ethanol-soluble carbohydrates. It was concluded that cutting at 17:00 allows for a greater accumulation of soluble carbohydrates in the plant. Cutting time does not change the time required for dehydration and the nutritional value of the hay. Storage time reduces soluble components and increases fibrous constituents.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT. The objective of this study was to evaluate the fermentation profile and nutritional value of Marandu grass silage (Urochloa brizantha (Hoschst.Ex. A. Rich) R. D. Webster cv. Marandu Syn. Brachiaria brizantha (Hochst. Ex A. Rich) Stapf cv. Marandu} with different levels of inclusion of dehydrated banana peel. The experiment was conducted in a completely randomized design with marandu grass with five levels of dehydrated banana peel (0, 10, 20, 30 and 40% of natural matter) with eight replicates. The data collected were submitted to analysis of variance and, when the "F" test was significant, the inclusion levels of the pre-dried banana peel were analyzed utilizing orthogonal polynomials and linear and quadratic regression models. The mean values of N-NH3 were adjusted to the linear regression model (p < 0.01), while the pH values had the lowest value of 4.3 with the inclusion of 15% of banana peel. The mean values of the gas loss (PG, P = 0.01) and the dry matter recovery (RMS; P = 0.01) were adjusted to the quadratic regression model, with a minimum point of 16.15% for losses and 21% as the maximum point for dry matter recovery. The rate of degradation potential degradability of the dry matter (SD; P = 0.74) did not vary with the inclusion of the banana peel. The potential degradability standardized at 2, 5 and 8% was adjusted to the regressive linear regression model (p < 0.01), and for each percentage point of inclusion of the banana peel, there was a reduction of 0.23, 0.14 and 0.10%, respectively. The inclusion of 10 to 20% dehydrated banana peel in the marandu grass silage improves the fermentation profile and the nutritional value of the silage.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT. This experiment investigated effects of phenological stages and ensiling length on chemical composition of Megathyrsus maximus ensiled with Moringa oleifera seeds at different proportions. The grass was harvested at 8 (vegetative stage) and 11 (reproductive stage) weeks after planting and were ensiled with Moringa oleifera seeds at different proportions (100:0, 75:25 and 50:50) for 30, 60, 90 and 120 days. Data collected were analyzed using the 2×3×4 factorial design. Result showed that the CP were significantly lower (P < 0.05) in sole M. maximus silage at both phenological stages for 120 days (70.38 and 63.99 g kg-1) and also in sole M. maximus silage at reproductive stage ensiled for 90 days (68.82 g kg-1). The value of NDF for all proportions decreased with increasing length of ensiling with lowest value at 120 days. The highest tannin content was recorded for 50% M. oleifera seed silage at reproductive stage ensiled for 30 days (4.15 g kg-1). It can be concluded from this study that silages from both phenological stages containing M. oleifera seeds improved chemical composition as the ensiling length prolonged.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT. The objective of this study was to determine the agronomic characteristics, chemical composition and in situ degradability of different sorghum genotypes. The experiment was conducted at the National Maize and Sorghum Research Center - Sete Lagoas, MG. For agronomic and nutritional characteristics, a randomized block design was used, and for in situ degradability, a split-plot design was applied. Genotypes 13F2006, BRS655 and Volumax showed lower dry matter productivity compared to 12F02006 and 12F03033. Genotype BRS655 had the lowest levels of neutral detergent-insoluble fiber (NDF), acid detergent-insoluble fiber (ADF) and lignin. Furthermore, no difference was found for potential degradability (PD), indigestible fraction (IF), and effective degradability (ED) at 2; 5 and 8% hour-1 DM among the studied materials. Genotypes 12F03033 and 12F02006 combine higher productivity and nutritional quality.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT. This study aimed to correlate the physical characteristics of ground corn, at different crushing intensities, with the zootechnical performance of piglets in the nursery phase. Forty piglets (20 castrated males and 20 females) with an initial average weight of 15.7±1.98 kg and final weight of 32.5±3.27 kg were used. They were subjected to the same type of experimental diet (4% of commercial premix for the phase, 29% of soybean meal, and 67% of ground corn), with the only difference being the corn grinding process. The corn used was fractionated into five portions, and each one of them was crushed in a hammermill equipped with a different screen hole diameter (2; 2.5; 3; 3.5 and 4 mm). Which resulted in ground corn with the following particle sizes (PS): 518, 580, 628, 706 and 740 μm, and the following corn geometric standard deviations (GSD): 1.72, 1.71, 1.75, 1.80 and 1.90, respectively. The piglets were distributed in a completely randomized design with five treatments and four replications, with the experimental units being formed by pens with two piglets each. There was no effect (p > 0.10) from grinding intensities on daily feed intake (DFI) and daily weight gain (DWG). Conversely, there was an effect (p < 0.10) from different grinding intensities on feed conversion (FC). The PS and GSD of both the corn and diet, as well as the corn fractions retained on the 4-, 2- and 1.2-mm test sieves showed positive correlations with FC (p < 0.05). On the other hand, the corn fractions retained on the 0.6-, 0.3- and 0.15-mm teste sieves showed negative correlations with FC (p < 0.05). The linear model was the one that fitted the estimated data into the data observed for FC. A corn PS reduction from 740 to 580 μm promoted a linear improvement in FC. The use of corn fractions, retained on the 1-, 2- and 0.3-mm test sieves, and the use of corn GSD and diet GSD as independent variables showed a higher R² than that obtained with the use of corn PS as an independent variable in linear equations for estimating FC.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the dietary effect of an enzymatic complex on the growth performance variables, blood parameters, and economic viability of piglets. To achieve this, we used 80 piglets (40 castrated males and 40 females) in a 2 × 2 factorial design following a randomized block experimental distribution, with two levels of metabolizable energy (adequate: 3206.09 and low: 3005.45 kcal kg-1) and two enzyme levels (0 and 50 g ton-1). The results showed no significant difference between treatments in the growth performance variables or blood parameters of piglets. The economic viability, economic efficiency index, and cost index were improved when we used a diet with a low energy supplemented with the enzyme complex as compared to other experimental diets. Thus, we concluded that enzyme complex supplementation can maintain growth performance and blood parameters in piglets even when they are fed low energy diets. Moreover, this could reduce production costs.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT. Food production in a sustainable way is based on the association between animals and vegetables to minimize costs, environmental impact, and the use of insums in the breeding process. The objective of this work was to evaluate the effect of the inclusion of pumpkin seed flour (Cucurbita pepo L.) in the diet on the performance of early-stage pigs and the reduction of endoparasites in a commercial rearing system. The experimental design was completely randomized, with three treatments and six replicates, and the experimental unit consisted of two animals, totaling 36 animals. The treatments were the basal diet and two levels of inclusion of pumpkin seed: 5 and 10%. The animals were of the Agroceres line, with 42 days of age and an average weight of 12 kg. The animals and rations were weighed at the beginning and at the end of the 35-day experimental period to obtain the performance variables. A bromatological analysis was performed to evaluate the composition of pumpkin seed and for parasitic analysis, feces were collected individually from the animal. There was no significant effect for the Tukey test at the level of 5% probability, of the inclusion of pumpkin seed flour on in the parameters of weight gain and feed conversion. Was observed the reduction of helminth eggs present in feces using egg count and oocysts per gram of feces (OPG), performed at the beginning and end of the experiment. It is indicated the inclusion of 10% of pumpkin flour in the feeding of pigs in the initial phase by reducing contamination by verminosis and does not alter animal performance.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT. An experiment was conducted to investigate the influence of in ovo feeding of black cumin extract (BC) on the intestinal morphology and physiological responses of broilers thermally challenged during incubation. The study involved the use of seven hundred Marshall broiler hatching eggs, which were assigned to 7 in ovo feeding treatments at embryonic day 17.5, as follows: eggs injected with 8 mg (EN), 6 mg (SN), 4 mg (FN), 2 mg (TN)BC, no in ovo feeding (NI), 0.9 % saline solution (SS), and 3 mg vitamin C (VC). Juvenile growth performance, plasma malondialdehyde (MDA), triiodothyronine (T3), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and haematological and serum biochemical indices were evaluated. The results revealed that the juvenile growth performance of SN birds was better than those of the NI, SS, FN and TN groups. The plasma SOD and T3 of the birds of SN and VC were significantly higher (p < 0.05) than the chickens of NI and SS treatments. The ileal crypt depth recorded in SN birds was lower (p < 0.05) compared to SS and NI values. To conclude, in ovo black cumin extract enhanced the gut health and lymphoid organs of broiler chickens with no pronounced effect on the thermotolerance of the birds at market age.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT. The present study evaluated the effects of dietary inclusion of spirulina on productive performance, nutrient utilization, and egg quality of Japanese quails. One hundred twenty quails were included in a completely randomized design with four treatments and five replicates. Treatments consisted of a control diet and three diets containing 0.3, 0.6, or 0.9% of spirulina powder. Spirulina inclusion had no effect (p > 0.05) on the productive performance, digestibility coefficients of dry matter and ether extract, calcium and phosphorus retention, weight and pH of the eggs, yolk index, albumen quality, and eggshell thickness when compared with the control diet. However, crude protein consumption was higher (p < 0.05) and the digestibility coefficient of crude protein was lower (p < 0.05) in birds in the 0.9% and 0.3% spirulina inclusion groups, respectively. The weights of the yolk and eggshell were improved (p < 0.007) by the inclusion of 0.6% and 0.9% and 0.9% spirulina, respectively. Quails fed diets containing 0.3% and 0.6% spirulina exhibited lower specific gravity of eggs (p < 0.019) than those fed diets containing 0.9% spirulina. Therefore, spirulina inclusion at 0.9% improved the eggshell quality and reduced the total lipid levels in the yolks.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT. This study aimed to assess the impact of incorporating fish waste oil into laying hens' diets on apparent nutrient digestibility and apparent metabolizable energy. A total of 72 Hisex White laying hens (25 weeks old) were employed in a completely randomized design, with treatments consisting of a control diet and an experimental diet (containing 3.5% fish oil), each with six replicates of six birds. The collected data underwent polynomial regression analysis at a 5% significance level. No significant differences (p > 0.05) were observed in the digestibility of dry matter, crude protein, mineral matter, crude fiber, and non-nitrogenous extract between the reference diet and the experimental diet containing fish waste oil. However, there were significant differences (p < 0.05) in the digestibility of ethereal extract (fat). Despite this, values for apparent metabolizable energy and apparent metabolizable energy corrected by nitrogen balance did not exhibit significant differences (p > 0.05) between the reference and experimental diets. In conclusion, the incorporation of 3.5% fish waste oil in laying hens' diets led to satisfactory nutrient digestibility and enhanced fat digestibility. Importantly, this inclusion did not adversely impact energy metabolism.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT. The physiological, immunological, and microbiological traits of 180 Ross-308 broiler chickens were examined in relation to supplementary soybean bioactive peptide (SBP) levels and vitamin E. Group 1 was the control group, Groups 2, 3, and 4 were given a basal diet along with 2.5, 5, and 7.5 g SBP kg-1 of diet, respectively, and Group 5 was given a basal diet together with 250 mg of vitamin E kg-1 of diet. An improvement in the globulin, albumin-to-globulin ratio, total antioxidant activity (except 7.5 g), SOD, and GSH-PX (except 7.5 g) activities in SBP treatment groups compared to the control. In comparison with control, feeding SBP improved bursa index, IgA, and IgG concentrations in blood serum. Feed supplementation with 5 g SBP significantly increased relative weight of spleen and IgM concentrations. Feeding SBP increased lactic acid bacteria in the ileum and caecum while decreasing E. coli counts in the ileum as compared with control. None of the selected serum biochemical indices, immune-related parameters, and total bacterial count were statistically different between the vitamin E group and the control. Therefore, 5 and 7.5 g of SBP kg-1 in a broiler diet was able to boost antioxidant status, antibacterial activity, and birds' immune response.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT. The present study aimed to determine the ideal levels of total methionine + cystine for Muscovy ducks in confinement. Two hundred and forty Muscovy ducks of the creole strain were distributed in a completely randomized experimental design where the treatments consisted of six nutritional plans with different levels of total methionine + cystine, and four replicates (two with males only and two with females only), each with 10 Muscovy ducks. The nutritional plans considered the requirements in the initial, growing, and finishing stages. The birds had their performance evaluated weekly, and at 90 days of age, eight birds (four males and four females) from each treatment were slaughtered for the evaluation of carcass traits. Nutritional plan 3 provided a significant (p < 0.05) reduction in feed intake and an increase (p < 0.05) in weight gain, causing a proportional reduction (p < 0.05) in feed conversion. Levels above and below the requirements in this nutritional plan caused a significant (p < 0.05) loss in performance. Muscovy ducks fed with nutritional plan 3 also presented better (p < 0.05) carcass traits. A significant difference (p < 0.05) in carcass development was observed between males and females, with males showing better results.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT. This review aimed to address all relevant parts of the digestive physiology of rabbits, before and after weaning, with a view to enabling greater understanding of these phases and reducing the mortality of kits. The biggest bottlenecks in Brazilian rabbit farming are linked to the period from birth to weaning, a time when the animals are more sensitive to environmental adverse events, requiring more rigid and efficient management due to their immune system being not fully developed. Throughout the period in which kits are with the females, many physiological changes occur, mainly in their gastrointestinal tract (GIT), which changes over time, depending on the type of food intake; in order to achieve its full capacity to utilize food, the intestine needs to undergo an adaptation from milk-based to solid diet. Thus, the digestive system in the intrauterine phase, in the nursing kits, and in the weaned babies will be covered. Therefore, understanding the physiology of baby rabbits proves to be of great value in reducing the mortality rate, so that management becomes more practical, providing producers with different problem-solving alternatives, in addition to greater profit.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of palm kernel cake and ram effect on reproductive activity of postpartum and lactating ewes. Twenty multiparous ewes, five to eleven days postpartum, were separated into four different treatments: control, control-ram, palm and palm-ram. Body weight, difference in body weight recorded between days 0 and 42 of the experiment, diameter of the largest follicle at day zero of the study, number of ewes bearing a corpus luteum and pregnancy rate were measured in ewes. Average daily weight gain was measured in lambs. There was no effect (p ≥ 0.05) of palm kernel supplementation, ram stimulation, or their interactions on the weights of ewes and lambs. A greater number of ewes with corpus luteum (p < 0.05) were observed in ewes stimulated by rams than those not stimulated. The number of pregnant ewes was not affected by ram effect or palm kernel supplementation (p ≥ 0.05). In conclusion, the use of the ram effect increases the incidence of corpus luteum in postpartum and lactating ewes. In addition, palm kernel cake in the diet does not affect body weight of postpartum ewes and lambs.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT. This study aimed to evaluate the nutrient intake, milk production, and production costs of dairy goats fed diets containing the rations with cactus cladodes (Opuntia stricta or Nopalea cochenillifera) associated with silage (Sorghum bicolor) or Tifton hay (Cynodon spp). Twelve pluriparous Saanen and Anglo Nubiana goats (42.25 ± 5.48 kg) at eight weeks of lactation were used. Treatments lasted 60 days, consisting of four periods of 15 days, distributed in three Latin square (4×4) with four diets. The treatments represented by diets with different associated feed: SSOP (Sorghum Silage + Opuntia); THOP (Tifton hay + Opuntia); SSNO (Sorghum Silage + Nopalea); and THNO (Tifton hay + Nopalea), in addition to concentrate in all diets. There were differences (p < 0.05) for the intakes of DM, OM, with higher values observed for goats fed the diets THNO, THOP, and SSNO, and for CP, NDF and ADF were higher for THNO and SSNO diets. Similar behavior occurred for voluntary and total water intake. The milk production and feed efficiency did not differ (p > 0.05). Costs with food, milk revenue, and gross revenue were not influenced by diets (p > 0.05). The Opuntia or Nopalea cactus cladodes genotypes associated with sorghum silage or tifton hay can be used to feed dairy goats in the semiarid region.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT. Summer pruning of fruit species as an alternative for feeding with vegetable waste in beef cattle breeding is observed. The experiment was conducted in 2020 in an experimental farm for beef cows (Hornless Hereford breed) of the Research Institute of Mountain Stockbreeding and Agriculture, Troyan (Bulgaria). The animals were fed in a controlled manner with standardized amounts of foliar fodder, obtained after summer pruning of fruit crops (plums, apples, pears). The main purpose of the study is to consider the potential and opportunity of using plant matter after summer pruning (green pruning) in various orchards, as a food reserve in beef cattle breeding. The highest appetite was shown by the leaves and twigs obtained during plum pruning (combined group of two cultivars) (46.6%), followed by those of the apple (31.2%) and the lowest value was registered for pear species (22.2%). The total amount of the three types of fodder is accepted as 100%. Compared to the other studied species, the foliar fodder from Prunus domestica had the highest content of crude protein (20.3%), minerals (11.7%), calcium (2.2%), phosphorus (0.6%) and nitrogen (3.2%).

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT. The objective of this research was to determine the ingestive behavior, volatile fatty acids, and blood biochemical and hormonal variables of goats consuming a diet with 15% glycerin. Feed efficiency (FE) and rumination (ER) of dry matter intake (DMI) and neutral detergent fiber (NDFI) of dairy goats supplemented with glycerin (0 and 15%) were not influenced by treatments (p > 0.05). The specific activities of defecation, urination and drinking had a significant effect (p < 0.05) in relation to the treatments with glycerin in the diet of dairy goats. The occasional activities (defecation, urinating and drinking water) decreased with the addition of 15% of glycerin in the goats’ diet. Lactic acid had a significant effect (p < 0.001) with the addition of 15% glycerin. Diets for dairy goats with 15% glycerin did not change the consumption of dry material, neutral detergent fiber, nor did they change the ingestive behavior of these animals. The levels of globulin, protein, albumin/globulin, glucose, cholesterol, urea, triglycerides, cortisol, and T4 variables were significantly influenced (p < 0.05) by the addition of glycerin in the diet.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT. A 84-day trial was conducted to investigate the potentialities of Vernonia amygdalina and Moringa oleifera leaves as natural growth promoters in ruminant production. Hence, the leaves were identified, collected, screened, air-dried, and milled separately into powdery form to make the leaf meals. A basal concentrate diet (BCD - control diet) was formulated, and were divided into nine equal portions while the leaf meals: V. amygdalina leaf meal (VALM) or M. oleifera leaf meal (MOLM) were added and thoroughly mixed with concentrate diet at 0, 5, 10, 15 and 20 w w-1, per each leaf meal, respectively. Thereafter fed to forty-five West African Dwarf growing goats, randomly allocated to the diets. Nutrient intake, digestibility, rumen fermentation, and weight change of goats were used as response criteria. The results revealed that 20% VALM improved (p < 0.05) crude protein intake, nitrogen retention, final live-weight, average daily weight gain (ADWG), and feed conversion ratio. VALM affected rumen fermentation (p < 0.05) increasing propionic, butyric acids and total volatile fatty acids (TVFA) concentrations, and total viables bacterial. Further, positive strong correlation (R2 = 0.9498) existed between ADWG and TVFA. It can be concluded that VALM and MOLM are potential phytogenic plants capable of altering the rumen ecosystem for improved nutrient intake, digestibility, rumen fermentation, better than the control diet, without any detrimental effects on growing goats' performance. Summarily, dietary inclusion of VALM at 20% improved feed utilization and animal performance.

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ABSTRACT. Supplementation strategies have been studied to increase animal performance and the quality of meat. Thus, this study was carried out to evaluate the influence of different supplementation strategies on the performance, feed intake, digestibility and ingestive behaviour of crossbred steers on Brachiaria brizantha pasture, during the dry season. The experiment was performed in Bahia, Brazil, from August 2015 to January 2016, with a dry season of 203 days. Thirty-three crossbred steers with an average weight of 269.5 ± 41.8 kg were distributed in a completely randomised design with three treatments and 11 replicates per treatment. The results were analysed using an ANOVA and a Tukey test, with a 5% probability of error. The treatments were mineral salt with urea and the supplementation of protein based on the animals’ body weight (BW), as follows: 0.1 and 0.2% BW. There was no effect of supplementation strategy on the initial and final body weights. Supplementation strategies did not influence (p > 0.05) the variables related to the intake of total dry matter. There was an effect (p < 0.05) on the dry matter and crude protein digestibility coefficients. For ingestive behaviour, feed intake, grazing time and idle time tended to be altered by the supply strategies (p < 0.05), but rumination was not affected (p > 0.05) by the evaluated strategies. In conclusion, the supplementation strategies used during the dry season resulted in a similar performance; therefore, the adopted strategy can be chosen according to the economic and regional conditions of the production system. Thus, the strategy adopted could be chosen according to the economic and regional conditions of the production.

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ABSTRACT. The aim of this study was to evaluate Pearson's linear correlations between productive and economic indicators as well as to estimate economic equations as tools in dairy farming. We used the database of the Research Group, registered with CNPq under the title ‘Animal and Forage Production in Piaui’, which consisted of two experiments with feedlot lactating cows. Economic and productive indicators were employed. Correlations were determined by Pearson’s linear correlation analysis, using the ‘t’ test. Equations were estimated via regression, using Saeg software (Statistical and Genetic Analysis System), considering α = 0.05. Based on concepts related to Pearson's linear correlation and dairy farming management, we were able to find correlations that allowed us to estimate simple, yet very informative equations, which facilitated the interpretation of the management of a dairy farm. Among the studied variables, net present value, internal rate of return, the cost per liter of milk produced and net margin were those which most contributed to the estimation of equations.

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ABSTRACT. This research evaluated the effects of diets containing or not containing deactivated soybean sums on productive performance, carcass attributes, carcass ultrasound, and feed cost in confined heifers with 1/2 Nellore-Angus blood. We used blood from 60 1/2 Nellore-Angus heifers aged 2 or 25 years with a body weight of 404.62 kg. A completely randomized design was used, in which the animals were divided into 2 experimental groups: Cont (concentrated for semi feedlot without added deactivated soybean) and Bocchi (concentrated for semi feedlot with the addition of deactivated soybeans). There was no significant difference in the final weight between the experimental groups or for the consumption of concentrate in the evaluation periods. However, heifers supplemented with deactivated soybean in the diet showed greater daily weight gain than did those in the Cont group, as well as greater carcass weight, arrobas gain, and carcass yield. Bocchi concentrate was less expensive than Cont (U$ 7.26 ton-1). The addition of deactivated soybean for finishing cattle is indicated because it provided the animals with higher energy intake and positively influenced the productive performance as a final weight gain greater than that of the feed without adding the deactivated soybean in addition to lower production cost.

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ABSTRACT. The objective of this work is to identify which carcass and cut characteristics have the best discriminatory power, between sexes and slaughter weights, through discriminant analysis. Were used 32 goats, with initial average weights of 3.11 kg for males and 3.06 kg, for females, for animals slaughtered at 70 days; 3.65 kg for males and 3.25 kg for females for animals slaughtered at 100 days of weight. Objective assessments consisted of morphometric measurements: external carcass length (ECL); internal carcass length (ICL); leg length (LEL); chest width (CHW); croup width (CRW); thigh perimeter (THP); croup perimeter (CRP); chest perimeter (CHP); chest depth (CHD); internal chest depth (ICD) using the hypsometer and flexible tape (Truper®). In the total of 18 primary variables evaluated, the following variables were included in the discriminant model, using the stepwise method: empty body weight, chest depth, chest width, thigh circumference, neck, loin, leg length, and rump width. The discriminant analysis was efficient to discriminate and identify the carcass and cut characteristics with better discriminatory power between the sex and slaughter weight of the animals.

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ABSTRACT. The objective was to identify sets of relevant atributes for pricing Mangalarga Marchador horses at auctions and to estimate a hedonic pricing function. We analyzed 452 horses at 20 auctions. The studied variables were characteristics intrinsic to the animals and attributes that influence sale price, which were identified through generalized linear and logistic model analysis. For each additional prize and additional bid, the prices decreased by R$ 2110.00 and R$ 549.00 respectively. The individual’s maternal grandsire positively or negatively affected prices, from R$ - 86.70 to R$ + 35.50. Non-pregnant females were penalized in price by R$ 110.00 compared to non-castrated males. A bay coat added R$ 215.00 to prices when compared to chestnut animals. Online auctions added R$ 20.10 to prices and virtual auctions penalized prices by R$ 617.00. The gray coat devalues a sale by 48% and Seller 3 decreasing by 18%. We conclude that auction type, number of prizes, share sold, animal category, coat, seller, number of bids, and maternal grandsire influenced the prices of Mangalarga Marchador horses, and that coat and seller that influenced the probability of the animal being sold.

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ABSTRACT. Ticks are obligate ectoparasite arthropods of the class Arachnida distributed worldwide and can parasitize many animals. They constitute one of the most important groups of vectors of infectious diseases, including zoonoses. The objective of this study was to report the parasitism by Amblyomma ovale Koch, 1844 in a domestic dog (Canis lupus familiaris Linnaeus, 1758) in Santa Maria, in the central region of the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. Two specimens of ectoparasites found on a domestic dog, living in a rural property, were sent to the Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology at the Federal University of Santa Maria for taxonomic identification. The two specimens found were classified as adult male and female of A. ovale. Through this study, the parasitism of this species is reported for the first time in the central region of the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, in a domestic dog, allowing the infestation and transmission of diseases to humans.

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ABSTRACT. The aim of this study was to evaluate the morphometric parameters and the mass of adipose tissues of rats fed with cactacea flour. The animals were divided into five groups: C (Control), H (Hypercaloric diet), HP (Hypercaloric diet with 5% Pereskia grandifolia flour), HO (Hypercaloric diet with 5% Opuntia ficus-indica flour), and HA (Hypercaloric diet with 5% Agave tequilana flour). Feed intake and apparent digestibility, capillary glycemia, liver weight and Hepato-Somatic Index were evaluated. Adipose tissue mass and the Visceral Fat Index (VFI) and Epididymal Fat Index (EFI) were determined. The data were compared using the Tukey test at 5% significance level. There was no statistical difference between the groups for body weight, BMI and Lee Index. The HP and HA groups did not differ from the C group regarding weight gain, the C group had lower apparent digestibility of the diets, the HA group presented lower blood glucose when compared to the H and HO groups, and the H group had higher liver weight. The HP and HA groups gained the lowest adipose tissue mass, VFI and EFI than the H and HO groups. Among the cactaceae studied, Pereskia grandifolia showed better effects on morphometric and adipose tissue parameters.

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ABSTRACT. The aim of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of intratesticular injection (ITI) of sodium chloride (NaCl) at two different concentrations for supressing reproductive development in goat kids at two months of age. The experiment was carried out at the experimental unit of Aydın Adnan Menderes University, Çine Vocational School, located in Çine, Aydın, Turkey. The experimental groups were control (C, n = 9), a single ITI of 20% NaCl (T1, n = 8) or 40% NaCl (T2, n = 8). The growth, reproductive characteristics, and histological appearance of the testis in the kids were examined up to nine months of age in different periods. The live weights, scrotal circumference, semen and sexual behavior characteristics were not different among groups. The histogical findings were observed in both testes at nine months of age. Greater intensity of destruction was observed in the testes of T1 and T2 kids than that of C kids. High levels of tubular degeneration were detected in testicular tissue samples in T1 and T2 groups. Based on the results, however, it was concluded that neither 20 nor 40% concentrations of NaCl did ensure the castration effect in the goat kids.

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ABSTRACT. The objective of this work was to evaluate the non-carcass components of crossbred Santa Inês lambs finished in feedlot with the inclusion of different levels of red propolis extract (RPE). Thirty-five crossbred lambs were used with an average weight of 17.08 ± 2.36 kg and mean age of five months, distributed in a completely randomized design with five treatments and seven replications. The treatments evaluated were: 0; 7; 14 and 21 mL of extract/animal/day Before slaughter, each animal was individually weighed to obtain the body weight at slaughter (BWS). The weights and yields of non-carcass components were evaluated, weights and yields of regional dishes (Buchada and Panelada). The addition of different levels of red propolis extract (RPE) did not influence (p > 0.05) the weights and yields of non-carcass components, by-products and adipose deposits, to the weight and yield of regional dishes. The use of red propolis extract in diets up to the level studied (28 mL day-1) did not change the characteristics evaluated.

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ABSTRACT. Considering that buffalo milk is one of the richest in composition, mainly due to its fat fraction, the objective of this research communication was to determine the detailed fatty acid (FA) profile of buffalo milk produced in southern Brazil. Samples were collected from three farms that represent 100% raw buffalo milk producers of dairy products. Properties A and C had only one milking during the lactation period, and farm B had two milking. Farms A and B provided pasture and grain supplements, and farm C, provided only green pasture to the animals. A total of nine FA was identified: six saturated, two monounsaturated, and one polyunsaturated (conjugated linoleic acid - CLA). This study is the first to report the FA profile, including desirable fatty acids (DFA) like monounsaturated, polyunsaturated fatty acids, and stearic acid in buffalo milk from southern Brazil. The farms tested used different food management practices, as well as pasture management, showing that green pasture increases the fatty acid profile in buffalo milk. In addition, buffalo milk represented a good source of DFA for humans and opens a new field for the dairy industry that can explore the control of its FA composition, mainly through feed management.

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ABSTRACT. Twenty-four lambs between four and five months of age were divided into sex classes: uncastrated males, castrated males and females, eight for each treatment, with an average body weight of 27.00 ± 3.13 kg. dry matter and water intakes were higher for uncastrated males (p < 0.001). final body weight, body weight at slaughter, average daily gain and cold carcass weight were greater for uncastrated, intermediate for castrated and lower for females (p < 0.05). hot and cold carcass yields were higher for castrated males and females, respectively. (p < 0.05). based on principal component analysis, twenty-five variables were selected out of thirty-two, in some of the seven principal components generated, summarizing 21.87% data dimension. Discriminant analysis identified greater discrimination power for body weight at slaughter, thorax width, thorax depth, fatness, dry matter intake and hot carcass weight. All lambs were classified into their respective sex classes. Therefore, uncastrated males have performed better than castrated ones and both showed higher performance than females. Females and castrated males showed higher carcass yield. Discriminant analysis indicated heterogeneity between sex classes.

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ABSTRACT. Burger is a practical source of animal protein for consumers, sold both raw (ready-to-cook) and cooked (ready-to-eat), and can be an alternative to stimulate the consumption of rabbit meat, which is a source of healthy animal protein. This study evaluated the effects of different levels of oat bran addition on physicochemical properties and sensory acceptance of rabbit meat burgers. Burgers were formulated with 0, 5, 10, and 15% oat bran plus garlic and salt, then manually processed and analyzed for composition, technological parameters (pH, cooking loss, shrinkage percentage, water holding, texture, and color), and sensorial acceptance. The higher the levels of inclusion of oat bran, the lower the burger moisture (p < 0.0001). Burgers with 15% oat bran presented higher content of lipids and carbohydrates, thus higher caloric value (p < 0.0001). The loss of water during cooking was greater in the burger without the inclusion of oat bran (p < 0.05). No significant difference was found for color and aroma attributes. Overall acceptability was higher for burgers with 5% oat bran. Rabbit meat burgers containing oat bran may represent a viable alternative to improving their sensory and technological profiles and overall consumer acceptance.

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ABSTRACT. The purpose of this study was to establish a multivariate model using two complementary multivariate statistical techniques: Factor Analysis and Stepwise Multiple Regression, to predict tissue composition through carcass characteristics of Santa Inês sheep. The data was obtained from 82 Santa Inês sheep under confinement. The predictor variables were carcass characteristics related to weight, yield, morphometric measures and meat cuts. The use of latent variables from factor analysis in multiple regression models eliminates the problem of multicollinearity of the explanatory variables, improving the accuracy of interpretation of results by proposing a better fit of the mathematical model. However, the coefficient of determination (R²) values were moderate for muscle proportion and total fat, and low for bone proportion, indicating that more appropriate independent variables should be used to better predict the proportion of tissues in Santa Inês sheep.

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ABSTRACT. The aim was to evaluate the correlation and develop regression equations for the body composition of sheep of different sex classes, obtained by the comparative slaughter method, using the composition of the neck region and loin eye area (LEA). Forty-five sheep of three sex classes (15 intact males, 15 castrated males and 15 females) received three feeding levels (ad libitum or restrictions of 70 or 80% of ad libitum intake). Animals were distributed in a 3×3 factorial arrangement, with 5 repetitions. The LEA showed: positive correlation with empty body weight, fasting body weight, meat, protein, ether extract and water (p < 0.01), for all sex classes; with bones for intact males and females (p < 0.01); with ash content for intact males and a moderate correlation for castrated males (p < 0.01). The neck was correlated with empty body weight, fasting body weight, meat, protein, ether extract, water and energy in all sex classes (p < 0.01); and moderate correlation with bone (r=0.58) and ash (r=0.67) for intact males. Intact males showed higher R² values in their prediction equations in relation to the other sex classes.

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ABSTRACT. The study was carried out in the region of Placas, Pará. Objective: identify the main causing agents of mastitis, as well as evaluating the resistance profile of the isolated agents against antimicrobials. Methods: Ten properties were evaluated, where 161 animals were submitted to the California Mastitis Test (CMT) for the diagnosis of subclinical mastitis, and milk samples were collected from positive animals and led for culture and antibiogram. Results: In total, 31.06% of the animals were positive for CMT. The main agents identified were Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Streptococcus agalactiae and Streptococcus bovis. The antibiogram indicated resistance to Penicillin, Ceftazidime and Cephalothin. Conclusion: The properties surveyed showed a high rate of subclinical mastitis, regarding antimicrobial resistance, in general, all agents showed high resistance.

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ABSTRACT. Studies with bioeconomic modeling can be identified in animal science. However, there are distinct typologies associated with the term bioeconomy with different meanings and approaches. The present study aims to examine the Bioeconomy/Bioeconomics approaches used in animal science research and discuss the implications and benefits of integrating these areas of knowledge. The method consisted of systematic literature review with quantitative and qualitative analyzes of the content of articles obtained from the Scopus® database. In the process of searching and analyzing the articles, we defined beef cattle as representative of animal science. Followed the PRISMA Protocol guidelines. The results confirmed that the use of the term bioeconomic has been recurrent in this field of knowledge since 1994. However, the approach given to the term refers mainly to studies combining animal performance (bio) and economic returns (economic) because of variables of interest, evident in the set of indicators reported in the articles analyzed. Despite the relevance of these studies, we discuss some implications and reasons for adopting other bioeconomy approaches in animal science. We conclude that the integration between Bioeconomics and animal science can significantly broaden the scope of analysis, the what relevant to the contemporary challenges of promoting sustainable production systems.

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ABSTRACT. This study aimed to evaluate the feeding time and reactivity of male and female foals exposed to novel objects (seven plastic balls measuring 8 cm in diameter) placed inside the feeder. Eleven mixed-breed foals (males = 6; 316 ± 42 kg of BW, females = 5; 290 ± 35 kg of BW) were used. The amount of concentrate feed was calculated using 2000 g kg-1 BW for males and 1500 g kg-1 BW for females. Behavioral variables were assessed using a scoring system. Data on time spent feeding were subjected to analysis of variance and regression analysis (p < 0.05) and compared using the PROC REG procedure of SAS (with object = without object). A line of equality (y = x) was used to test correlations. The behavioral model was fitted by a generalized linear model using the GLIMMIX procedure of SAS, and means were compared (p < 0.05) by t-tests. Feeding time differed between sexes (males = 23.7 ± 4.8 min., females = 19.5 ± 3.1 min.), attributed to the longer time spent by males in attentive behavior when plastic balls were placed in the feeders. There was no effect on composite behavioral score. Both males (18.37%) and females (14.29%) were classified as calm while feeding in feeders with unfamiliar objects. By adding plastic balls to the feeder, it was possible to increase the feeding time of foals fed concentrate feed.

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ABSTRACT. The aim of this study was to investigate the hair coat characteristics of sows raised in a free-range system in a tropical climate and assess associations with effective radiative properties and thermal conductivity. Bristles were collected from December 2017 to April 2018 and evaluated for diameter (mm), length (mm), and density (bristles per cm2). From these data, the effective thermal conductivity, absorptivity, transmissivity, and reflectivity of the hair coat were determined. Sows were separated into four groups according to skin pigmentation and color parameters. The environment was characterized with regard to average air temperature (°C), relative humidity (%), and shortwave radiation (W m-2). The data were analyzed by repeated measures analysis. Bristle length (33 mm) and density (10 bristles cm-2) were lower in summer than in colder months (48 mm and 20 bristles cm-2, respectively). Effective absorptivity was higher and transmittance was lower in more pigmented sows, demonstrating a connection with protection against solar radiation. Therefore, the combination of a pigmented and dense coat seems to be ideal for pigs reared in free-range systems.

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ABSTRACT. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of the position of bait nests on the capture of stingless bee species. The experiment was conducted in the rural area of the municipality of Campo Grande, state of Mato Grosso do Sul, from May 2022 to September 2022. Thirty bait nests were distributed in a randomized block design, with two treatments (A: bait nests set up one meter above the ground, and B: bait nests buried in the ground), with 15 replications per treatment. Of treatment B, two baits were nested by jataí (Tetragonisca angustula), and two were nested by Mandaguari-preta (Scaptotrigona postica). Therefore, the position of the bait nest influenced (p < 0.05) the success in capturing stingless bee species, in which treatment B, with baits buried in the ground, was significantly superior to treatment A, with baits set up one meter above the ground.

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ABSTRACT. Sidewall openings play an important role in the indoor conditions of livestock buildings. It influences airflow patterns, air velocity distribution at the animal-occupied zones and the illumination level in the naturally ventilated animal building. However, there is a paucity of information on the effects of sidewall opening areas on the performance of broiler chickens. Hence, this study investigated the effect of sidewall opening areas on the indoor condition and the body growth of broilers. Two buildings with different sidewall opening areas were developed with broiler chickens reared in them for 28 days. The results showed that air temperatures and relative humidity of the buildings were influenced by the outdoor temperature. The indoor air temperatures of the building exceeded the recommended thermal conditions (18 to 24ºC) for broiler chickens. Similarly, the temperature-humidity index of the building exceeded 21.0ºC recommended for broilers which could result in heat stress and poor performance of broiler chickens during extremely hot weather periods. It was also found in this study that broiler chickens could not perform optimally though they were fed ad libitum. Therefore, further studies are required to ascertain the impact of sidewall opening areas on broiler performance, behaviour and physiological responses.

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ABSTRACT. Oxidative stress is the result of an imbalance between the production of oxidant precursors and the capacity of antioxidant defense. Oxygen free radicals play an important role in causing diseases. In this study, the protective effect of ethanolic avocado on apoptosis caused by oxidative damage in the tissue of albino rats was investigated. 24 male albino rats of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine in Mosul, Iraq, which were kept in standard conditions for at least 10 days before and through the experimental work, were examined. Four groups of rats include the control group (healthy group), the group of male rats with ethanolic avocado consumption; The third group of male rats that were treated with 0.5% of hydrogen peroxide H2O2; and the fourth group of male rats that were treated with both 0.5% H2O2 and avocado ethanolic extract (50 mg kg-1 BW) for four weeks. After fixing the tissues of the liver, kidney, lung, spleen and testis in 10% buffered formalin, they were stained with hematoxylin. TUNEL assay was performed using the TUNEL cell death assay kit to detect apoptotic cells. In this investigation, the histology results in four groups of rats showed that in the rats that were treated with avocado, there were minor tissue changes in their liver, kidney, and intestine, and the tissues of these organs were healthy. In TUNEL staining, it was also shown that there are no apoptotic cells in the liver, kidney and testis cells in avocado-treated rats. The results showed that ethanolic Avocado is useful against oxidative stress damage and it may be used to protect tissues against oxidative stress.

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ABSTRACT. The saiga antelope (Saiga tatarica tatarica L., 1766, S) is a prominent ungulate mammal species inhabiting Central Asia. Over the latter half of the 20th century, saiga populations, including the Volga-Ural (Kazakhstan) population, experienced a continuous decline. However, there was a resurgence in their numbers in the 1980s. This study aims to assess the present status of saiga populations, particularly the Volga-Ural (V-U) population, by analyzing existing retrospective data. Our findings reveal that during the 21st century, the saiga population has increased in two key regions: the Volga-Ural and Betpak-Dala (B) populations. Notably, the Northern-Western Population (NWP) habitat saw a drastic 50-fold decline in population, while other populations decreased by 2.0-5.0 times. Despite this decline, the NWP habitat exhibited higher juvenile saiga yields compared to other regions. The resurgence of saiga populations has been significantly influenced by the support of the Government of Kazakhstan, along with the effective efforts of international wildlife conservation organizations and local community engagement.

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ABSTRACT. This study aims to determine a model for improving the self-capacity of small-scale buffalo farmers in Pemalang Regency, Indonesia. Primary data was collected from buffalo farmers in Pemalang Regency through a survey. Sub-districts were randomly selected as many as 4 out of 14 sub-districts. Two villages were selected for each sub-district. Each selected village was taken as a census respondent. A total of 226 respondents were obtained. The analysis used in this research is descriptive and Structural Equational Modeling - Partial Least Square (SEM PLS) analysis. The study results show buffalo farmers in Pemalang Regency have low to moderate self-capacity so that the number of livestock owned is relatively fixed yearly to raise livestock as savings and social status. Farmers' self-capacity must be improved by training and counselling through farmer groups. Access to capital and access to information affects farmers' skills in marketing, provision of feed, and handling of livestock reproduction.

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ABSTRACT. This study aimed to evaluate the potential of ozone as a sanitizer compared to commercial sanitizers for hatching eggs stored in hatching machines using different turning systems. The eggs (n = 120) were distributed in a completely randomized design using a factorial scheme (6x2) where the treatments were constituted by different sanitizers applied (non-treated eggs, Ozone 1.6 mg L-1, Ozone 3.2 mg L-1, Cyphenothrin, UVC, and paraformaldehyde) and two turning systems (vertical and horizontal) with 10 eggs each, with the egg considered as a replicate. Data collected were subjected to the Tukey test at 0.05. We observed a very similar performance in the incubation yield results of the hatching machines with different turning systems, where the hatching percentage of eggs stored in the hatching machine using vertical turning presented better (p < 0.05) results. Comparing ozone to other sanitizers, we observed that paraformaldehyde and UVC provided better (p < 0.05) hatching percentage. However, both ozone concentrations used also presented good hatching percentage results. Chicks from treated eggs, except those from eggs treated with the highest ozone concentration (3.2 mg L-1), were heavier (p < 0.05) at hatch. Chicks from eggs treated with the low concentration of ozone (1.6 mg L-1) presented, in several scenarios, higher (p < 0.05) weight at hatch than chicks from eggs treated with sanitizers commonly used, especially paraformaldehyde and UVC. Conclusively, ozone can be used as a sanitizer to treat eggs from older breeders, presenting potential to replace commonly used sanitizers stored in hatching machines using both vertical and horizontal turning systems.

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ABSTRACT. Four strains of Staphylococcus aureus isolated from cows with mastitis were assessed as to in vitro sensitivity to four commercial disinfectants (chlorine, polvidone-iodine, chlorhexidine, and lactic acid) used in teat pre- and post-dipping, in the presence and absence of organic matter. The concentration of the disinfectants was determined in accordance with the Brazilian Pharmacopoeia. Four isolates identified as S. aureus from cows diagnosed with subclinical mastitis were subjected to susceptibility testing against disinfectants through an absorbance evaluation at 600 nm on a spectrophotometer. Exposure times (15”, 30”, 60” and 90”) were clocked, and streaking was performed in Brain Heart Infusion (BHI) medium. The iodine sample presented a lower concentration (1.9%) than that given by the manufacturer (2.5%). There was greater (p < 0.05) in vitro disinfectant activity for chlorhexidine and chlorine, with and without organic matter. However, inhibition by organic matter occurred more intensely in the iodine disinfectant (99.0%). The inhibition percentage of S. aureus against iodine and lactic acid at 15, 30, 60 and 90 s was numerically lower than against chlorhexidine and chlorine, regardless of organic matter. Therefore, chlorhexidine and chlorine have greater inhibitory activity against S. aureus, both with and without organic matter.

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ABSTRACT. Cleft palate is an oronasal communication that can affect the area comprehending the lips and the soft palate. Its clinical signs vary depending on the degree of the defect and the age of the animal, ranging from nasal secretion, coughing, sneezing, halitosis, respiratory difficulty, aspiration pneumonia, and loss of body condition. Its diagnosis is based on inspection of the oral cavity and imaging tests. Palatal defects must be surgically corrected as quickly as possible, using mucosal flaps, grafts, or implants. A desire to evolve alternative treatments for cleft palates drives the search for ways to manufacture customized pieces. 3D printing and biomaterials have enhanced in detail and applicability; combined with design tools and imaging exams, they allow for the making of precise implants and anatomical models for the planning and execution of surgical procedures. This report describes the case of a female, mixed-breed feline treated at a veterinary clinic; it was diagnosed with secondary cleft palate, had a history of falling, and underwent previous palatoplasties with recurrence. A surgical reintervention was performed to implant a 3D-printed TPU film to close its secondary cleft palate.

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ABSTRACT. This study was aimed at assessing the egg quality traits of Nigerian indigenous chickens raised under scavenging and improved feeding conditions in relation to exotic chicken’s eggs. The study was conducted in Sam Tee farm Nukai Jalingo, Nigeria. The indigenous breed pullets were sourced from villages in Ardo Kola, Lau and Zing L.G.A. The birds were grouped into three treatments Viz: indigenous breed under improved feeding and scavenging conditions and the exotic breed. The indigenous breed pullets under improved feeding condition were placed on grower’s diet and gradually replaced with a commercially prepared layers’ mash. A total of 336 eggs from the three groups were examined. Eggs weight, length, width, shell thickness and yolk width were measured. Shell ratio, surface area and Haugh unit were calculated. Data were analyzed using ANOVA and correlation analysis. There were significant variations in egg weight, egg length and shell thickness between the indigenous and the exotic breed. The indigenous breed reared under improved feeding condition had the longest egg, largest surface area, thicker and heavier shell. Egg weight and surface area have significant positive correlations. In conclusion, Indigenous chickens' performance on some egg quality traits can be enhanced with judicious feeding and management.

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ABSTRACT. This study evaluated heterosis and reciprocal effects in across of White Leghorn with Fayoumi, White Leghorn with Koekoek in comparison to their pure line breeds for the productive and reproductive traits. Data were purposively collected from 357 layers based on their genetic groups and each genotype was reared in three replicates on a deep litter system from 20-72 weeks. Results showed that genotype groups were found to have no significant differences (p > 0.05) for age at first egg (AFE) and hen- housed egg production (HHEP). Purebred Koekoek and crossbred of male White Leghorn and female Koekoek were superior for body weight at first egg (BWAFE). Purebred Fayoumi has exhibited the least values for egg number. Purebred White Leghorn was the best by their feed conversion ratio. Effects of heterosis were non-significant (p > 0.05) for AFE and BWAFE, and hen-housed egg production. A negative heterosis percentage was noted for AFE in all crossbred genotypes. Crossing between male Koekoek and female White Leghorn gave the highest heterosis effect for feed intake while crossing between male White Leghorn and female Fayoumi gave the highest estimates of heterosis for total egg number per hen. The main crossbred between male White Leghorn and female Fayoumi hybrids outperformed in AFE and HHEP while the main crossbred between male White Leghorn and female Koekoek outperformed in BWAFE and HHEP. On the contrary, reciprocal crossbreds between male Fayoumi and female White Leghorn and male Koekoek and female White Leghorn had higher feed intake and better feed conversion ratio.

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ABSTRACT. The initial stages of early embryonic development were analyzed as a function of the incubation period and age of Japanese quail breeders. A total of 203 Japanese quails housed in 29 conventional laying cages with 5 females and 2 males at 31, 39, 48, and 59 weeks of age were used, and the fertile eggs from these breeders were selected and incubated. The eggs were opened, and the embryos were isolated, fixed in a glutaraldehyde solution, analyzed and classified according to the stage of development. For after laying and the incubation periods of 24, 48, and 72 hours, the embryos presented, on average, Hamburger-Hamilton stages XI, HH 6.1, HH 12.7, and HH 18.5, respectively, with no effect of breeder age. It was also observed that, between 31 and 59 weeks of age in Japanese quail breeders, the eggs become longer and wider, with greater weight, volume, and area. Therefore, it is concluded that the age of the Japanese quail mother influences the weight, length, width, volume, and area of the eggs but does not influence the embryonic development up to 72 hours.

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ABSTRACT. The objective of this research is to address saiga conservation challenges amid significant anthropogenic pressures through a population model-based approach. The study involved an analysis of herd composition in terms of sex, age, and size over the years 2019-2022, with a focus on lamb weight measurements in 2022. Notably, 2021 witnessed a substantial decline in offspring numbers, with lambs being three times scarcer compared to 2020 and 5.2 times fewer than in 2022 (p ≤ 0.05). Male saigas exhibited a 3.1-fold reduction in birth rates in 2021 relative to 2020 and a 5.6-fold decrease compared to 2022 (p < 0.05). The fluctuations in the number of females and males across the three years were found to be statistically comparable (p ≥ 0.05). Since 2022, there has been a notable increase in the size of saiga herds, with counts reaching 450-500 animals compared to 2019-2020 (p ≤ 0.05). The observation identified a total of 93 saiga herds, with six of them consisting of more than 1,000 antelopes. The augmentation of male presence within herds is anticipated to contribute to sustaining saiga population growth. Achieving this outcome may necessitate the implementation of captive breeding initiatives or an integrated approach.

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ABSTRACT. This study evaluated the zootechnical performance, egg quality, and behavior of Japanese quails in the laying phase housed in cages of different densities and with or without environmental enrichment. A total of 224 quail were used and distributed into two groups: one with a housing density of 122.7 cm2 bird-1 and one with a housing density of 157.8 cm2 bird-1, each with and without environmental enrichment. The results showed that environmental enrichment did not influence the zootechnical performance parameters of the quail. However, housing density independently affected performance, except for egg mass and bird viability. A lower density (157.8 cm2 bird-1) resulted in greater specific egg weight, albumen percentage, and shell thickness. The interaction between density and environmental enrichment revealed that eggs from quail housed at higher density without enrichment had a greater yolk percentage, while quails housed at lower density without enrichment had a greater shell percentage. The tonic immobility time of the quails was not affected by treatment with different densities or environmental enrichment agents. It can be concluded that a lower housing density, with seven quail per cage (157.8 cm2 bird-1), regardless of environmental enrichment, provides better zootechnical performance and egg quality.

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ABSTRACT. Thalassemia is one of the most important genetic haemolytic diseases that cause the breakdown of red blood cells (RBCs) in patients with β-Thalassemia major. The body does not produce enough haemoglobin, which is an important part of RBCs. When there is not enough haemoglobin, RBCs do not function properly in the body, so the condition continues for short periods of time. The current studies aimed to determine the extent of the impact of β-Thalassemia major on some hormonal variables in the serum of 80 patients (40 males and 40 females) aged between (1-15) years, in addition to 20 healthy children of the same age range and of both sexes, who were considered as a control group. The results of this study showed a significant increase in the concentration of erythropoietin (EPO) by 187% in the serum of patients with β-Thalassemia major compared to healthy of both sexes, with an increase of 188 in males and 183% in females. The highest significant increase was in the age group of (11-15) years in males and females compared to healthy control. The results also showed a significant decrease in the concentration of hepcidin and growth hormones in the serum of patients with a decrease of 55 and 56% respectively compared to healthy individuals of both sexes, with a highest significant decrease of 56 and 59% in males, and 55 and 52% in females respectively. The highest significant decrease was in the age group of (11-15) years for both hormones in males and females compared to healthy control based on age groups and sex.