[Core data set for real world data in multiple sclerosis: customization for latin america from a global task force recommendation]. / Core data set para la generación de datos de la vida real en esclerosis múltiple: adaptación de una iniciativa global para América Latina.

INTRODUCTION: The primary objective of the core data set is to reduce heterogeneity and promote harmonization among data sources in EM, thereby reducing the time needed to execute real life data collection efforts. Recently, a group led by the Multiple Sclerosis Data Alliance has developed a core data set for collecting real-world data on multiple sclerosis (MS) globally. Our objective was to adapt this global data set to the needs of Latin America, so that it can be implemented by the registries already developed and in the process of development in the region. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A working group was formed regionally, the core data set created globally was adapted (translation process into Spanish, incorporation of regional variables and consensus on variables to be used). Consensus was obtained through the remote Delphi methodology of a round of questionnaires and remote discussion of the core data set variables. RESULTS: A total of 25 professionals from Latin America carried out the adaptation process between November 2022 and July 2023. Agreement was established on a core data set of nine categories and 45 variables, version 2023 to suggest its implementation in developed or developing registries, and MS cohorts in the region. CONCLUSION: The core data set seeks to harmonize the variables collected by registries and cohorts in MS in Latin America in order to facilitate said collection and allow collaboration between sources. Its implementation will facilitate real life data collection and collaboration in the region.

TITLE: Core data set para la generación de datos de la vida real en esclerosis múltiple: adaptación de una iniciativa global para América Latina.Introducción. Los objetivos primarios del core data set son reducir la heterogeneidad y promover la armonización entre las fuentes de datos en la esclerosis múltiple (EM), reduciendo así el tiempo necesario para ejecutar esfuerzos en la recolección de datos de vida real. Recientemente, un grupo liderado por la Multiple Sclerosis Data Alliance ha desarrollado un core data set para la recolección de datos del mundo real en EM a nivel global. Nuestro objetivo ha sido adaptar y consensuar este conjunto de datos globales a las necesidades de América Latina para que pueda ser implementado por los registros ya desarrollados y en proceso de desarrollo en la región. Material y métodos. Se conformó un grupo de trabajo regionalmente y se adaptó el core data set creado globalmente (proceso de traducción al español, incorporación de variables regionales y consenso sobre variables que se iban a utilizar). El consenso se obtuvo a través de la metodología Delphi remoto de ronda de cuestionarios y discusión a distancia de las variables del core data set. Resultados. Veinticinco profesionales de América Latina llevaron adelante el proceso de adaptación entre noviembre de 2022 y julio de 2023. Se estableció un acuerdo sobre un core data set de nueve categorías y 45 variables, versión 2023, con la sugerencia de implementarlo en registros desarrollados o en vías de desarrollo y cohortes de EM en la región. Conclusión. El core data set busca armonizar las variables recolectadas por los registros y las cohortes de EM en América Latina con el fin de facilitar dicha recolección y permitir una colaboración entre fuentes. Su implementación facilitará la recolección de datos de vida real y la colaboración en la región.

Additions to Dendrodacrys and outline of taxa with branched hyphidia in Dacrymycetes (Basidiomycota).

The genus Dendrodacrys is a monophyletic group that belongs to Dacrymycetes (Agaricomycotina, Basidiomycota) and accommodates species distinguished by strongly branched hyphidia in combination with 3-septate basidiospores. While the original circumscription mainly treated European taxa, here we shift the focus to tropical and sub-tropical material and uncover wider variation in morphology within Dendrodacrys. Still united by hyphidia shape and basidiospore septation, the genus is expanded with 10 taxa having pustulate, cerebriform, or stipitate basidiocarps of yellow to dark brown colours, cylindrical to ovoid basidiospores, and hyphal septa with or without clamps. Monophyly of the amended Dendrodacrys is confirmed with a phylogeny based on six markers (SSU, ITS, LSU, TEF1-α, RPB1, and RPB2). As a result, we describe two new species (De. laetum and De. rigoratum), transfer three existing species to Dendrodacrys (De. brasiliense, De. dendrocalami, and De. pezizoideum), and raise one variety to the species level (De. kennedyae ≡ Dacrymyces enatus var. macrosporus). In addition, we provide descriptions for the earlier combined De. paraphysatum and four new informal taxa. Lastly, we present illustrations, a character table, and an identification key that addresses all known dacrymycetes with branched hyphidia. Citation: Savchenko A, Zamora JC, Alvarenga R, Kõljalg U, Miettinen O (2022). Additions to Dendrodacrys and outline of taxa with branched hyphidia in Dacrymycetes (Basidiomycota). Fungal Systematics and Evolution 10: 103-126. doi: 10.3114/fuse.2022.10.04.

Effectiveness and Adverse Events of Use of Natalizumab in a Brazilian Cohort of Patients With Multiple Sclerosis.

PURPOSE: Natalizumab (NTZ) is a monoclonal antibody with confirmed efficacy in white populations with recurrent-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS); there are few studies, however, in mixed-race populations. Real-world studies of NTZ are needed to better understand the drug's effectiveness. This study evaluated the effectiveness and adverse events of NTZ in a cohort of Brazilian patients with MS, as well as the impact of clinical and demographic factors on patient response to treatment. METHODS: This multicenter, Brazilian observational study was conducted from January 2011 until December 2016 and included patients with RRMS (McDonald criteria 2005 and 2010) aged ≥18 years treated with NTZ for at least 3 months. Demographic, clinical, and radiologic data were obtained from medical records and during follow-up visits. The primary outcomes investigated were the absolute number of relapses and annualized rate of relapses, change in Expanded Disability Status Scale value, and presence of new lesions on magnetic resonance imaging after starting NTZ treatment; the occurrence and type of adverse events were also analyzed. In addition, the impact of demographic and clinical prognostic factors and radiologic activity on the effectiveness of NTZ was measured. Descriptive and univariate statistical analyses used a significance level of P < 0.05. RESULTS: The study enrolled 56 patients; 64% were women, and 36% were of African descent. There was a significant reduction in the mean absolute number (P = 0.001) and in the annualized rate (P = 0.001) of relapses and in the radiologic activity of the disease (P = 0.001). Furthermore, 71% of patients showed no increase in Expanded Disability Status Scale score after 1 year of treatment. The effectiveness of NTZ was not associated with the presence of clinical and demographic prognostic factors, and the most frequent adverse events during the use of NTZ were gastrointestinal symptoms; there were no cases of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy. IMPLICATIONS: According to patients' reports and clinicians' observations regarding clinical and radiologic benefits and tolerability to adverse events, the use of NTZ was favorable in this Brazilian MS cohort, regardless of the presence of unfavorable prognostic factors.

Long-term MS secondary progression: Derivation and validation of a clinical risk score.

OBJECTIVE: The risk of progression of multiple sclerosis (MS) related to the association of prognostic factors present at disease onset has rarely been explored. We aimed to construct a clinical risk score for MS long-term progression that could be easily applied in clinical practice. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Among 432 patients with MS, 288 patients were selected as a derivation sample for identification of the knowledge prognostic factors more associated with long-term progression. One point was given to each risk factor identified as statistically significant by the adjusted model, and the sum of the points gave the overall risk score. Subsequently the score was applied to the remaining 144 patients to confirm if those with higher scores had reached MS secondary progression. RESULTS: The prognostic factors identified as independently associated with long-term progression were: no specific MS treatment before EDSS 3, age of onset older than 30 years, pyramidal and cerebellar impairment as the first manifestation of disease, time interval between the first and second relapses less than 2 years, and African ancestry. There was no significant difference between expected and observed number of patients in progression (44 vs. 31, p = 0.966), indicating that the score was able to predict the progression in the validation sample. There was no significant difference between patients with low risk (≤ 2 points) (p = 0.98) and high risk (≥ 3 points) (p = 0.48) in the derivation versus validation samples. In the derivation sample, the patients with three or more points had a 2.8-fold increased risk of progression [hazard ratio (HR): 2.8; 95 % confidence interval (CI): 1.2-6.3; p = 0.014). CONCLUSION: The score proposed was capable of predicting long-term MS progression.

In ovo feeding of carbohydrates for broilers-a systematic review.

The purpose of this systematic review was to evaluate the evidence that the injection of carbohydrate-based solutions into embryonated eggs improves broiler performance. A literature search was conducted in April 2017 using the keywords broiler, carbohydrate, in ovo, nutrition and poultry. Only papers that involved in ovo carbohydrate injections in poultry were used in this study. After specific selection criteria, 17 papers were selected. The quality scoring system of the selected studies was based on the injection methodology, use of control groups, type of solution injected, period of injection, egg and hens characteristics, number of variables analysed and the statistical design. Among papers, there was no standardised procedure in to inoculate the solutions. Nevertheless, in general, in ovo feeding of carbohydrates decreases the hatch rate, improves the hatch weight, but it does not seem to influence the post-hatch performance of broilers. The inoculation of 75 mg of glucose in the albumen seems to bring better results. Further studies are needed to improve the technical methodology of in ovo injections for commercial use.

Biological Performance and Preference of Mahanarva spectabilis (Hemiptera: Cercopidae) for Feeding on Different Forage Plants.

The performance and preference of Mahanarva spectabilis (Distant) for feeding on different forage species were evaluated. The survival and duration of the nymphal period, longevity and fertility of adults, and food preferences (free choice) of adults of M. spectabilis were evaluated in a greenhouse trial, and food preferences of adults were also evaluated in laboratory tests without a choice of host plant. In the field, the numbers of plants with spittle masses were evaluated by forage sampling. Lower levels of nymph survival were observed in the greenhouse on Molasses grass, Jaraguá, Tanzânia, and Makueni. The duration of the nymphal period did not differ significantly on different forage species; however, the longevity and fertility of adults were significantly lower on Cynodon and Brachiaria decumbens Stapf. In the free-choice preference test, adult insects were attracted most strongly to B. decumbens and Jaraguá, with intermediate attraction to Brachiaria brizantha (Hochst ex A. Rich) Stapf and Pioneiro. In the test without host choice, insects exhibited lower excretion rates on Tanzânia, Cynodon, Jaraguá, B. brizantha, and Molasses grass, and those fed on Cynodon, Jaraguá, Molasses grass, and Makueni also exhibited reduced body mass. In the field, Pioneiro had the highest number of spittle masses, followed by Roxo de Botucatu. Thus, Molasses grass, Tanzânia, Makueni, and Jaraguá plants are less suitable food sources for M. spectabilis nymphs and adults. Additionally, although Jaraguá was less favorable to nymphs, it attracted food-seeking adults; hence, these plants have potential for use in control of M. spectabilis.

The HLA DRB1*03:01 allele is associated with NMO regardless of the NMO-IgG status in Brazilian patients from Rio de Janeiro.

The aim of this study was to analyze the HLA class II alleles in neuromyelitis optica (NMO) and MS patients from Rio de Janeiro to clarify whether the pattern of genetic predisposition in NMO is different from the one seen in MS or whether it is possible to determine specific alleles of susceptibility or resistance. The DR3 haplotype was over represented in NMO while the DR15 was over represented in MS. The HLA-DRB1*03:01 allele was associated with NMO regardless the NMO-IgG status but did not influence the long term disability. The comparison of the allele and haplotype frequencies significantly discriminated patients with NMO vs. MS.

Use of collard green stalks as environmental enrichment for cockatiels (Nymphicus hollandicus) kept in captivity / Utilização de talos de couve como enriquecimento ambiental para calopsitas (Nymphicus hollandicus) mantidas em cativeiro

The objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of collard green stalks as environmental enrichment on the behavior of cockatiels (Nymphicus hollandicus) maintained in captivity. Sixteen birds were housed individually in cages and fed a commercial diet for parrots and seed mix, with water ad libitum during 12 days in climatic chamber with temperature and relative humidity simulating tropical conditions. The animals (n = 8) were divided into two groups, control and enriched, and the experimental period was divided into two phases (during and after enrichment) of four days each. The collard green stalks were used as enrichment only during the first period of the experiment, daily changed and maintained only during the day. The stalks increased the feed intake and decreased the sleep activities. No effect was observed on the body surface temperature, locomotion, maintenance and other resting activities. Small undesirable activities were detected. It was concluded that collard green stalks can be used as environmental enrichment, becoming part of food preferences of cockatiels. However, its use does not significantly alter the behavior of birds kept in captivity.(AU)

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a influência de talos de couve como enriquecimento ambiental sobre o comportamento de calopsitas (Nymphicus hollandicus) mantidas em cativeiro. Dezesseis aves foram alojadas individualmente em gaiolas e alimentadas com dieta comercial para psitacídeos e mistura de sementes, com água ad libitum durante 12 dias, em câmara climática com temperatura e umidade relativa do ar simulando condições tropicais. Os animais (n=8) foram divididos em dois grupos, controle e enriquecido, e o período experimental foi dividido em duas fases (durante e após o enriquecimento) de quatro dias cada. Os talos de couve foram usados como enriquecimento apenas durante o primeiro período do experimento, trocados diariamente e mantidos apenas durante o dia. Os talos aumentaram o consumo de ração e diminuíram o comportamento dormir. Nenhum efeito foi observado nas outras atividades de descanso, na temperatura da superfície corporal, na locomoção e manutenção. Foram detectadas pequenas atividades indesejáveis. Concluiu-se que os talos de couve podem ser usados como enriquecimento ambiental, formando parte das preferências alimentares de calopsitas. No entanto, seu uso não altera de maneira expressiva o comportamento das aves.(AU)

Attentional performance may help to identify duloxetine responders in chronic pain fibromyalgia patients.

BACKGROUND: Long-term pain affects brain in response to attention tasks. This study aimed to verify the relationship between performance in a computerized visual attention test (CVAT) and response to duloxetine in fibromyalgia patients. Duloxetine is approved for the treatment but the response is not immediate. METHODS: Patients were drawn from a sample of 74 patients with chronic pain. These patients were selected because they kept their subjective perceptions of pain as severe after 1 week of duloxetine treatment. All patients were tested in the CVAT on two occasions: the first appointment and 7 days after starting duloxetine. RESULTS: After 6 weeks, the group was subdivided into responsive and non-responsive patients. Responsiveness was defined by a subjective improvement from severe to low-intensity or no-pain after the sixth week of duloxetine treatment. Responsive patients showed objective attentional improvements in the second test. Non-respondent patients did not exhibit changes in attentional performance in the second test as compared to the first one. CONCLUSIONS: The data were interpreted considering that persistent pain in fibromyalgia is maintained by central sensitization that may be associated with functional changes in the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex and the posterior parietal cortex. In responsive patients, duloxetine treatment may be responsible for a partial recovery of these regions. This may explain the early attentional improvement observed in the responsive patients after 1 week of treatment. Thus, attentional performance may help to predict which patients will respond to duloxetine treatment even before they can demonstrate subjective improvements in pain perception. SIGNIFICANCE: This study shows that an improvement in an attentional test is a reliable predictor of the treatment response even without any improvement in the perception of pain.

Induction of resistance of corn plants to Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith, 1797) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) by application of silicon and gibberellic acid.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of silicon application and administration of the phytohormone gibberellic acid on resistance of the corn plants to the fall armyworm (FAW), Spodoptera frugiperda, and their vegetative characteristics. We evaluated larval and pupal duration, survival and biomass, and adult longevity, malformation and fecundity of S. frugiperda after feeding on plant matter treated with silicon and/or gibberellic acid. The feeding preference of FAW first-instar larvae, the total leaf area consumed by the insects, and the vegetative parameters of corn plants were also evaluated. No significant differences were observed in the measured parameters of larval and pupal stages of S. frugiperda in response to silicon or gibberellic acid. In adult stage insects, the number of eggs per female was significantly reduced in insects derived from larvae fed plants treated with silicon or gibberellic acid. In a non-preference test, 48 h after release, caterpillars preferred control untreated plants and consumed less matter from plants that had received hormonal treatment (gibberellic acid). Gibberellic acid also altered the vegetative characteristics of plants, by increasing their height, shoot fresh and dry mass, and silicon content. We conclude that gibberellic acid can alter the vegetative characteristics and silicon uptake of corn plants, leading to a reduction in their consumption by S. frugiperda larvae and a decrease in female insect oviposition.

Effects of in ovo feeding with glycerol for broilers.

The objective was to evaluate the effect of in ovo feeding with glycerol on post-hatch development in broiler chicks. A total of 408 fertile eggs were divided into six experimental groups consisting of five 0.9% saline solutions containing various concentrations of glycerol (12.5, 25.0, 37.5 and 50.0 nmol/ml), and a placebo group (inoculation with saline only) and a control group (without inoculation). Inoculations were performed at 17 days of incubation for the evaluation of hatchability, embryo mortality, body and viscera weights, intestinal epithelium morphometry, blood glucose and liver glycerol kinase activity of chicks at hatching. Inoculation of solutions containing glycerol did not influence body weight at hatching and relative weights of liver, pancreas, intestine and breast. There was a quadratic effect of glycerol levels on the weights of yolk residue and gizzard and on blood glucose, and an increasing linear effect on spleen and heart weights. Higher duodenum and ileum villous height and deeper jejunum and ileum crypts were obtained with 50.0 nmol/ml of glycerol. A linear increasing effect was also observed in liver glycerol kinase activity; however, lower blood glucose was observed with 37.5 and 50 nmol/ml of glycerol. It is therefore concluded that glycerol may be used at doses of 25 nmol/ml as a substrate in in ovo feeding of broiler chickens. However, further studies must be conducted not only to establish an optimal dose but also to evaluate the combination of this substrate with other nutrients used in the in ovo feeding.

Multiple sclerosis in Brazil: A systematic review.

BACKGROUND: The natural history of multiple sclerosis (MS) in Brazil has been available in different regions of country. There is no nationwide population-based studies that express general data in Brazil. OBJECTIVE: To review and synthesize available data about MS in Brazil. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Systematic review was performed through a search of medical literature databases to identify Brazilian studies published during 1990-2012. DATA SOURCES: PubMed, SciELO, and Lilacs. KEYWORDS: "Brazil" or "Brazilian" combined with the following terms: "multiple sclerosis", "clinical profile", "demographic profile", "natural history", "clinical course", "pediatric", or "familial form". RESULTS: In total of 45 pediatric and 1922 adult patients, the median age at onset was 10 years in pediatric patients and 32 years in adult patients. Women were more affected. Motor-control complaints and relapsing-remitting phenotype at onset were the most common. Predictors to disability and progression were number of relapses during the first year of disease, older age, male gender and African ancestry. CONCLUSIONS: The profile of the MS in Brazilian seems to correspond to that observed in high-MS-prevalence areas. African ancestry is a risk factor to disability and progression early. In Brazil, factors that limit MS incidence do not interfere with the clinical pattern and outcomes.

Effect of different light sources on reproductive anatomy and physiology of Japanese quail (Coturnix coturnix japonica).

Artificial lights are essential for controlling the reproductive tract development of birds during puberty and therefore influence reproductive quality. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of different light sources on reproductive anatomic and physiological characteristics of female Japanese quail (Coturnix coturnix japonica). A total of 270 birds from one day of age were housed in a masonry shed divided into six rooms with light isolation. Each room was equipped with a different type of light bulb and contained seven cages with five birds in each. The light bulbs tested were: incandescent; compact fluorescent; and light-emitting diode (LED) in the colors white, blue, red and green. The experimental design was completely randomized with six treatments and seven replications of individual birds each. The anatomic and physiological condition of the birds was evaluated at four, eight and 12 weeks of age. The white LED bulb advanced (P<0.05) the sexual maturity by one week, resulted (P<0.05) in higher live weights and greater weight and relative percentage of ovarian stroma, oviduct and ovarian tissue at eight weeks of age. Higher plasma concentrations of estradiol and lipids were also observed (P<0.05) at eight weeks under the white LED bulb. At 12 weeks of age, the magnum and isthmus folding characteristics were better (P<0.05) with the red LED bulb. In conclusion, the photostimulation with the white LED bulb was more efficient at activating the reproductive cycle, hastening the onset of sexual maturity and increasing the development of reproductive organs after puberty.

Prediction of disease severity in neuromyelitis optica by the levels of interleukin (IL)-6 produced during remission phase.

T helper type 17 (Th17) cytokines have been implicated in the pathogenesis of neuromyelitis optica (NMO). As humanized anti-interleukin (IL)-6R (tocilizumab) immunoglobulin (Ig)G has been used as disease-modifying therapy for NMO, the objective of our study was to investigate the role of endogenous IL-6 on NMO-derived CD4(+) T cell behaviour. High production of IL-6, IL-17 and IL-21 by CD4(+) T-cells was detected in NMO patients. Further, IL-21 and IL-6 levels were related directly to the level of neurological disabilities. The addition of anti-IL-6R IgG not only reduced directly the production of these cytokines, but also almost abolished the ability of activated autologous monocytes in enhancing IL-6, IL-17 and IL-21 release by CD4(+) T cells. In contrast, the production of IL-10 was amplified in those cell cultures. Further, anti-IL-6R monoclonal antibodies (mAb) also potentiated the ability of glucocorticoid in reducing Th17 cytokines. Finally, the in-vivo and in-vitro IL-6 levels were significantly higher among those patients who experienced clinical relapse during 2-year follow-up. In summary, our results suggest a deleterious role of IL-6 in NMO by favouring, at least in part, the expansion of corticoid-resistant Th17 cells.

Behaviour of cockatiels (Nymphicus hollandicus) at two temperatures in captivity / Comportamento de calopsita (Nymphicus hollandicus) sob duas temperaturas em cativeiro

Behavioural studies with cockatiels (Nymphicus hollandicus) in captivity are scarce. Due to the need for appropriate management of these animals, this study was performed to examine the behaviour of cockatiels kept in captivity at two temperatures. Sixteen cockatiels were individually housed in cages (62cm high x 43cm long x 27cm wide) and fed with a commercial ration and seed mixture for psittacids. Water was provided ad libitum. The eight-day experiment was divided into two stages of four days each. In the first stage, the birds were kept at room temperature (25°C) with 70% relative humidity during 24 hours. In the next stage, they were kept at 35°C from 06:00 to 18:00h and 25°C from 18:00 to 06:00h, also at 70% relative humidity. The behaviour of the birds was assessed by the analysis of video recordings taken from 6:00 to 18:00h. Lateral displacement on the perch, walking on the wire net, resting on the abdomen, stopping on the wire net, standing on the drinker or feeder, seed intake, cleaning the wings and shaking the plumage were not influenced (P>0.08) by temperature. Undesirable activities such as gnawing the perch or the wire net also showed no influence of temperature (P>0.15). At 35°C, the birds remained on the cage floor less often (P<0.02) and more often on the perch. Flapping or gnawing the feeder increased as did the consumption of ration (P<0.01). Increase in temperature from 25 to 35°C changed the behaviour of the cockatiels, although these behaviours were not characterised as responses to temperature stress.

Estudos comportamentais com calopsitas (Nymphicus hollandicus) em cativeiro são escassos. Devido à necessidade de um manejo adequado desses animais, este estudo foi realizado para avaliar o comportamento de calopsitas mantidas em cativeiro em duas temperaturas. Dezesseis calopsitas foram alojadas individualmente em gaiolas (62cm de altura x 43cm de comprimento x 27cm de largura) e alimentadas com ração comercial e mistura de sementes para psitacídeos. A água foi fornecida ad libitum. O período experimental foi de oito dias, dividido em duas fases de quatro dias cada. Na primeira fase, as aves foram mantidas à temperatura ambiente (25°C), com 70% de umidade relativa, durante o dia e a noite. Na etapa seguinte, elas foram mantidas a 35°C de 6-18h e 25°C de 18-6h, também com 70% de umidade relativa. O comportamento das aves foi avaliado através de filmagem de 6-18h. Os comportamentos, deslocando lateralmente no poleiro, andando na tela da gaiola, repousando sobre o ventre, paradas na tela da gaiola, de pé sobre o bebedouro ou comedouro, ingestão de sementes, limpeza das asas e sacudindo a plumagem, não foram influenciados (P>0,08) pelas duas temperaturas testadas. Atividades indesejáveis, tais como roer o poleiro ou a tela da gaiola também não foram influenciadas (P>0,15). Sob a temperatura de 35°C, as aves permaneceram menos frequentemente no chão da gaiola (P<0,02) e mais frequentemente no poleiro. Nessa temperatura, bater as asas e roer o comedouro aumentaram com o aumento do consumo de ração (P<0,01). Concluiu-se que o aumento da temperatura de 25 para 35°C alterou o comportamento das calopsitas, embora esses comportamentos não pudessem ser caracterizados como respostas ao estresse térmico.

Validation of Prediction Equations of Energy Values of a Single Ingredient or Their Combinations in Male Broilers.

A set of prediction equations to estimate the nitrogen-corrected apparent metabolizable energy (AMEn) of individual ingredients and diets used in the poultry feed industry was evaluated. The AMEn values of three energy ingredients (maize, sorghum and defatted maize germ meal), four protein ingredients (soybean meal, maize gluten meal 60% crude protein, integral micronized soy and roasted whole soybean) and four diets (three containing four feedstuffs, complex diets, and one containing only corn-soybean meal, basal diet) were determined using a metabolism assay with male broilers from 1 to 7, 8 to 21, 22 to 35, and 36 to 42 days old. These values were compared to the AMEn values presented in the tables of energy composition or estimated by equation predictions based on chemical composition data of feedstuffs. In general, the equation predictions more precisely estimated the AMEn of feedstuffs when compared to the tables of energy composition. The equation AMEn (dry matter [DM] basis) = 4,164.187+51.006 ether extract (% in DM basis)-197.663 ash-35.689 crude fiber (% in DM basis)-20.593 neutral detergent fiber (% in DM basis) (R(2) = 0.75) was the most applicable for the prediction of the energy values of feedstuffs and diets used in the poultry feed industry.

Efficiency of microbial phytase supplementation in diets formulated with different calcium:phosphorus ratios, supplied to broilers from 22 to 33 days old.

An experiment was conducted with broilers from 22 to 33 days of age to evaluate the efficiency of six microbial phytases supplemented in diets (1500 FTU/kg) that were formulated with three different calcium:available phosphorus (Ca:P(avail)) ratios (4.5:1.0, 6.0:1.0 and 7.5:1.0). A positive control diet without phytase was formulated with a Ca:P(avail) ratio of 7.5:3.4 to meet the nutritional requirements of the broilers. The P and ash contents of the tibia, magnesium in the plasma, performance, balance and retention of phytate phosphorus (P(phyt)), intake of total P and nitrogen (N), nitrogen-corrected apparent metabolizable energy and apparent digestibility of dry matter of the diets were not influenced (p > 0.05) by the type of phytase or the dietary Ca:P(avail) ratio. However, there was an interaction (p < 0.05) between the phytase type and the Ca:P(avail) ratio for the retention coefficients of total P, Ca and N. Phytase B resulted in the highest Ca deposition in the tibia (p < 0.01). Phytases D, E and F reduced the Ca concentrations in the tibia (p < 0.01) and plasma (p < 0.05). Phytase D increased the P level in the plasma and decreased the total P excretion (p < 0.01). Phytases E and F increased Ca excretion, while phytase A reduced it (p < 0.01). Regardless of the phytase type, increasing the dietary Ca:P(avail) ratio reduced (p < 0.05) the plasma P concentration and the excretion of total P and N and, conversely, increased (p < 0.05) the plasma concentration, intake and excretion of Ca. For the rearing period evaluated, it is possible to reduce the P(avail) of the diet to 1.0 g/kg when Ca is maintained at 7.5 g/kg, and the diet is supplemented with 1500 FTU of phytase A, C, D or E/kg. This diet allows the maintenance of performance and adequate bone mineralization, and it improves the Ca, total P and P(phyt) utilization in addition to reducing the excretion of N and P into the environment.

Metabolic parameters in rats receiving different levels of oral glycerol supplementation.

The use of glycerol in the diets for animals is of interest because it is a residue of biodiesel production and rich in energy. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate metabolic and physiological parameters of rats receiving supplemental pure glycerol by gavage. We used 30 Wistar rats (initial weight 202.7 ± 29.98 g) receiving 0 (control/saline), 200, 400, 800 and 1600 mg glycerol/kg of body weight (bidistilled glycerine, 99.85% glycerol) beside food and water ad libitum for 28 days. We used a completely randomised design with five treatments and six replicates. At the end of the experiment, the animals were killed, and the results showed that there was no change (p > 0.05) in the intake and excretion of water, the average daily weight gain, dry matter, ash and crude protein in the carcass or plasma triacylglycerols. There was a beneficial effect (p < 0.05) up to a dose of 800 mg/kg glycerol on feed intake, percentage of carcass fat, plasma levels of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), high-density lipoprotein (HDLc) and low-/very low-density lipoprotein (LDLc + VLDLc). The levels of total cholesterol and glucose were increased with up to a dose of 800 mg/kg glycerol (but remained within the normal range); they were reduced with the dose of 1600 mg/kg. The total leucocyte count tended to be reduced, although it was within the reference values for rats. There were no renal or pancreatic lesions. In conclusion, glycerol presented as a safe supplement at the studied doses, even having some beneficial effects in a dose-dependent manner in rats.

Effect of ractopamine on the chemical and physical characteristics of pacu(Piaractus mesopotamicus) steaks / Efeito da ractopamina sobre as características físicas e químicas de filés de pacu (Piaractus mesopotamicus)

The objective was to evaluate the use of ractopamine (RAC) in the diet for pacu (Piaractus mesopotaminus) in the finishing phase on some quality parameters of the fillets. Thirty-five animals weighing 0.868±0.168kg were distributed in a completely randomised design with five treatments (0.0 - control; 11.25, 22.50, 33.75 and 45 ppm of RAC) and seven replicates with two fillets obtained from the same animal. The diets were isocaloric and isoprotein and experimental time was 90 days. RAC did not affect (P>0.05) the initial pH or ph after 24 hours of the fillets. Compared to the control, RAC increased (P<0.05) the moisture content of the fillets in natura and lipid oxidation of samples stored for 12 days in the refrigerator or freezer for 60 days. The RAC in 11.25 ppm reduced (P<0.05) the lipid content, while 45 ppm reduced (P<0.05) the crude protein in the fillets. Considering only RAC, there was a linear increase (P<0.05) in the lipid content (P<0.05) and a linear reduction in crude protein and weight loss after cooking the fillets. There was a quadratic effect (P<0.05) on the ash content, weight loss and lipid oxidation in fillets stored in the refrigerator or freezer. A RAC dose of 33.75 ppm resulted in a lower lipid oxidation index. In conclusion, ractopamine at 11.25 ppm is effective for reducing the fat content in fillets of pacu, although it increases the formation of peroxides in samples kept in the freezer for longer than 60 days. At 33.75 ppm, ractopamine is effective in reducing the effect of oxidation during storage in the refrigerator or freezer.

O objetivo foi avaliar a influência do uso de ractopamina na alimentação de pacus (Piaractus mesopotaminus) na fase de terminação sobre alguns parâmetros de qualidade dos filés. Trinta e cinco animais com peso de 0,868±0,168kg foram distribuídos em delineamento inteiramente ao acaso com cinco tratamentos (0,0 - controle; 11,25; 22,50; 33,75 e 45ppm de ractopamina) e sete repetições, sendo a parcela representada por dois filés provenientes de um animal. As rações foram isoenergéticas e isoproteicas, e o tempo experimental foi de 90 dias. A ractopamina não influenciou (P>0,05) o pH inicial dos filés e nem após 24 horas. Comparado ao controle, a RAC aumentou (P<0,05) a umidade dos filés in natura e a oxidação lipídica dos mesmos quando armazenados por 12 dias em geladeira ou 60 dias em freezer. Na dose de 11,25 reduziu (P<0,05) o teor de extrato etéreo e, na dose de 45 ppm, reduziu (P<0,05) o de proteína bruta dos filés. Considerando somente a RAC, houve aumento linear (P<0,05) do teor de gordura e redução linear (P<0,05) da proteína bruta e perda de peso por cocção. Houve efeito quadrático (P<0,05) sobre o teor de cinzas, perda de peso por descongelamento e oxidação lipídica para os filés armazenados em geladeira ou em freezer, sendo 33,75 ppm o nível de RAC que resultou em menor índice de oxidação lipídica. Conclui-se que a ractopamina a 11,5 ppm é efetiva em reduzir o teor de lipídeos em filés de pacu, embora aumente a formação de peróxidos em amostras mantidas em freezer após 60 dias. A 33,75 ppm a ractopamina é efetiva em reduzir os efeitos da oxidação durante o armazenamento em geladeira ou freezer.

Content of plasmatic glycerol and activity of hepatic glycerol kinase in broiler chickens fed diets containing different sources and concentrations of glycerine.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of three sources of glycerine (crude glycerine from soya bean oil - CGSO, mixed crude glycerine from frying oil and lard--MCG, and a semipurified glycerine from soya bean oil--SPGSO) in four concentrations in the diet (17.5, 35.0, 52.5 and 70.0 g of each type of glycerine per kg of feed) on the levels of plasmatic glycerol and the activity of the hepatic enzyme glycerol kinase in broilers of 22-35 days old (experiment I) and 33-42 days old (experiment II). The highest (p < 0.05) plasmatic glycerol level was detected in broilers fed diet containing CGSO. Independent of the source, increasing the concentration of glycerine led to a linear increase (p < 0.05) in the plasmatic glycerol concentration. In experiment I, all the diets containing glycerine resulted in increased concentrations of plasmatic glycerol, in relation to the control diet without glycerine. However, in experiment II, only the diet containing 17.5 g of CGSO per kg of feed and the diets formulated with any of the three types of glycerine in the inclusion concentrations of 35, 52.5 and 70 g/kg of feed resulted in higher plasmatic glycerol levels than those observed in the control broilers. The source of glycerine influenced the glycerol kinase activity only in experiment II, where the use of CGSO in the diet increased the enzyme activity. For both experiments, the glycerol kinase activity increased with the inclusion of glycerine in the diet. In conclusion, based on the absence of saturation of the glycerol kinase activity for the three glycerine sources and for both rearing periods evaluated, the broilers can metabolize the glycerol (at the level of the phosphorylation of the glycerol to glycerol-3-phosphate in the liver) present in the glycerine when the diet is supplemented with up to 70 g of glycerine per kg of feed.