Hydroxy-selenomethionine enhances the productivity and egg quality of 50- to 70-week-old semi-heavy laying hens under heat stress.

Oxidative stress significantly compromises the production efficiency of laying hens. It has been reported in literature that selenium (Se) in poultry diets has a positive effect on mitigating these effects. This study has been carried out to evaluate the effects of Se supplementation in feeds, from either an inorganic or a hydroxy-selenomethionine (OH-SeMet) source, on the performance and physiological traits of 50- to 70-wk-old Dekalb Brown laying hens under heat stress, and on their egg quality after different storage durations. The treatments consisted in supplementing 0.3 ppm of Se as sodium selenite (SS; 45%-0.7g/ton) or OH-SeMet (2%-15g/ton) in twelve 16-bird replicates. Supplementation with OH-SeMet resulted in a better performance of the laying hens than with SS: -5% feed conversion ratio and +3.6% of egg mass. A reduction in egg quality was observed with prolonged egg storage, which was mitigated with the use of OH-SeMet in laying hen diets. The use of OH-SeMet increased the antioxidant capacity of the birds, which showed higher glutathione peroxidase levels in the blood, kidneys, liver, and intestinal mucosa, in addition to a higher Se content in the eggs and a greater bone resistance. Thus, supplementing feeds with 0.3 ppm of OH-SeMet to 50- to 70-wk-old semi-heavy laying hens enhances their antioxidant capacity and leads to a higher egg quality and productivity than SS supplementation.

In ovo threonine supplementation affects ileal gene expression of nutrient transporters in broilers inoculated post-hatch with Salmonella Enteritidis.

The effect of in ovo threonine (Thr) supplementation on the ileal expression of glucose, peptide and amino acid transporters was assessed in Salmonella Enteritidis-challenged broiler chicks. At 17.5 days of incubation, fertile eggs were supplemented in the amniotic fluid with sterile saline or 3.5% threonine. Hatchlings were individually weighed, and Salmonella Enteritidis negative status was confirmed. At 2 days of age, half of the birds of each group were inoculated with sterile nutrient broth or Salmonella Enteritidis inoculum. Relative expression of sodium-dependent glucose transporter 1 (SGLT1), glucose transporter 2 (GLUT2), di- and tri-peptide transporter 1 (PepT1) and alanine, serine, cysteine, threonine transporter (ASCT1) was assessed at hatch, 2 and 9 days of age, i.e., before inoculation and 7 days post-inoculation (dpi). At 9 days of age (7dpi), threonine increased SGLT1 and GLUT2 expression, whereas GLUT2 expression decreased in Salmonella-challenged birds. There was a significant interaction between threonine and Salmonella for PepT1 and ASCT1. Threonine increased PepT1 expression only in non-challenged birds. In addition, in ovo supplementation increased expression of ASCT1 regardless of post-hatch inoculation; Salmonella inoculation resulted in decreased expression of ASCT1 only in supplemented birds. The results suggest that while intra-amniotic threonine administration in broiler embryos increases the expression of genes related to the absorption of monosaccharides and amino acids, Salmonella challenge may negatively affect the expression of protein related transporters in the ileum of broilers.

Effects of dietary L-glutamine and glutamic acid combination, and whey powder on the performance and nutrient digestion in weaned piglets fed grain-based diets.

OBJECTIVE: The present study aimed to evaluate the influence of including L-glutamine along with glutamic acid as a supplement in weaned piglets' diets with and without whey powder. METHODS: Two assays were carried out. A total of 40 piglets ([Landrace×Large White]× Pietrain) weaned at 24 days of age with an initial body weight of 6.6±0.6 kg were used in the first assay, and the following parameters were evaluated: growth performance, the incidence of diarrhea, morphometry, intestinal integrity, and hepatic glycogen index. The animals were then blocked into four groups according to different diets: diet all-grain feeding (G); diet all-grain feeding with whey powder (GW); and with vs without 1% supplementation of the commercial product containing L-glutamine and glutamic acid (A or NA). Whey powder was added according to the stage of life, corresponding to 17%, 10%, and 5%, respectively, in order to meet the need for lactose. The animals were evaluated at 24 to 42 days and at 24 to 55 days of age. The nutrient digestibility for the second assay was carried out by using 24 animals with an average weight of 11.49±1.6 kg, and the same diets were tested. RESULTS: The supplementation of L-glutamine + glutamic acid or the addition of whey powder in diets for weaned piglets provided (p<0.05) greater feed intake, greater weight gain and improved feed conversion in the initial period (24 to 42 days age). However, in the whole period (24 to 55 days age) only amino acid supplementation affected (p<0.05) growth performance. There was a positive interaction (p<0.05) between the type of diet and L-glutamine + glutamic acid supplementation on villus height, crypt depth and the villus:crypt ratio in the duodenum. In addition, L-glutamine + glutamic acid supplementation reduced (p<0.05) the crypt depth and improved the villus:crypt ratio in the jejunum. The inclusion of whey powder affected (p<0.05) positively the digestibility coefficients analyzed except mineral matter digestibility coeficients. The supplementation of 1% the commercial product composed of L-glutamine and glutamic acid improved (p<0.05) only the digestibility coefficient of crude protein. CONCLUSION: These results indicate that supplementation of 1% commercial product containing L-glutamine + glutamic acid in diets for piglets from 24 to 55 days of age, dispenses with the use of whey powder when evaluating growth performance. Amino acid supplementation alone or associated with whey powder affects (p<0.05) positively the indicators of the intestinal integrity.

Sputtered crystalline TiO2 film drives improved surface properties of titanium-based biomedical implants.

Different crystalline phases in sputtered TiO2 films were tailored to determine their surface and electrochemical properties, protein adsorption and apatite layer formation on titanium-based implant material. Deposition conditions of two TiO2 crystalline phases (anatase and rutile) were established and then grown on commercially pure titanium (cpTi) by magnetron sputtering to obtain the following groups: A-TiO2 (anatase), M-TiO2 (anatase and rutile mixture), R-TiO2 (rutile). Non-treated commercially pure titanium (cpTi) was used as a control. Surfaces characterization included: chemical composition, topography, crystalline phase and surface free energy (SFE). Electrochemical tests were conducted using simulated body fluid (SBF). Albumin adsorption was measured by bicinchoninic acid method. Hydroxyapatite (HA) precipitation was evaluated after 28 days of immersion in SBF. MC3T3-E1 cell adhesion, morphology and spreading onto the experimental surfaces were evaluated by scanning electron microscopy. Sputtering treatment modified cpTi topography by increasing its surface roughness. CpTi and M-TiO2 groups presented the greatest SFE. In general, TiO2 films displayed improved electrochemical behavior compared to cpTi, with M-TiO2 featuring the highest polarization resistance. Rutile phase exhibited a greater influence on decreasing the current density and corrosion rate, while the presence of a bi-phasic polycrystalline condition displayed a more stable passive behavior. M-TiO2 featured increased albumin adsorption. HA morphology was dependent on the crystalline phase, being more evident in the bi-phasic group. Furthermore, M-TiO2 displayed normal cell adhesion and morphology. The combination of anatase and rutile structures to generate TiO2 films is a promising strategy to improve biomedical implants properties including greater corrosion protection, higher protein adsorption, bioactivity and non-cytotoxicity effect.

Outlining cell interaction and inflammatory cytokines on UV-photofunctionalized mixed-phase TiO2 thin film.

Photofunctionalization mediated by ultraviolet (UV) light seems to be a promising approach to improve the physico-chemical characteristics and the biological response of titanium (Ti) dental implants. Seeing that photofunctionalization is able to remove carbon from the surface, besides to promote reactions on the titanium dioxide (TiO2) layer, coating the Ti with a stable TiO2 film could potentialize the UV effect. Thus, here we determined the impact of UV-photofunctionalized mixed-phase (anatase and rutile) TiO2 films on the physico-chemical properties of Ti substrate and cell biology. Mixed-phase TiO2 films were grown by radiofrequency magnetron sputtering on commercially pure titanium (cpTi) discs, and samples were divided as follow: cpTi (negative control), TiO2 (positive control), cpTi UV, TiO2 UV (experimental). Photofunctionalization was performed using UVA (360 nm - 40 W) and UVC (250 nm - 40 W) lamps for 48 h. Surfaces were analyzed in terms of morphology, topography, chemical composition, crystalline phase, wettability and surface free energy. Pre-osteoblastic cells (MC3T3E1) were used to assess cell morphology and adhesion, metabolism, mineralization potential and cytokine secretion (IFN-γ, TNF-α, IL-4, IL-6 and IL-17). TiO2-coated surfaces exhibited granular surface morphology and greater roughness. Photofunctionalization increased wettability (p < 0.05) and surface free energy (p < 0.001) on both surface conditions. TiO2-treated groups featured normal cell morphology and spreading, and greater cellular metabolic activity at 2 and 4 days (p < 0.05), whereas UV-photofunctionalized surfaces enhanced cell metabolism, cell adhered area, and calcium deposition (day 14) (p < 0.05). In general, assessed proteins were found slightly affected by either UV or TiO2 treatments. Altogether, our findings suggest that UV-photofunctionalized TiO2 surface has the potential to improve pre-osteoblastic cell differentiation and the ability of cells to form mineral nodules by modifying Ti physico-chemical properties towards a more stable context. UV-modified surfaces modulate the secretion of key inflammatory markers.

Alteration of dietary cysteine affects activities of genes of the transsulfuration and glutathione pathways, and development of skin tissues and feather follicles in chickens.

The dietary requirement for cysteine is not determined in poultry since it is not an essential amino acid. The cysteine need is expected to be met through the transsulfuration pathway where homocysteine, a precursor of methionine, is converted to cysteine. Cysteine is a major component of plumage, and the degree to which cysteine is involved in plumage and other keratized proteins are unknown. We randomly assigned chicks to control and treatment (deficient in cysteine) diets for 49 d. The thickness of the skin layers, feather follicle length, and thickness were measured at days 10, 24, 34, and 49. We also measured the hepatic mRNA expressions of cystathionine beta synthase (CBS), cystathionine γ-lyase (CTL), cysteine dioxygenase (CDO), and glutathione synthetase (GSS). Chickens fed the treatment diet had reduced epidermis thickness and shorter feather follicles compared with the controls. The chicken fed the treatment diet also had increased mRNA expression of CBS and CTL indicating a disruption of the transsulfuration pathway. The treatment chickens also had a decreased hepatic CDO and increased GSS mRNA expressions which are in concordance with the homeostatic regulation of cysteine. Compromised cysteine metabolism could affect thermoregulation and subsequently affect feed efficiency and welfare of the birds.

Exploring the Properties of Niobium Oxide Films for Electron Transport Layers in Perovskite Solar Cells.

In this work, niobium oxide films were deposited by reactive magnetron sputtering under different oxygen flow rate and applied as electron transport layer in perovskite solar cells. It was found that the deposition made using 3.5 sccm of oxygen flow resulted in films with better electrical properties which helped the extraction of the photogenerated electrons to the external circuit, improving the Jsc and consequently the device efficiency. In addition, by photoluminescence measurements, we found a better charge transfer from perovskite to TiO2/niobium oxide film deposited at 3.5 sccm of oxygen flow.

Antibacterial photocatalytic activity of different crystalline TiO2 phases in oral multispecies biofilm.

OBJECTIVE: Titanium dioxide (TiO2) incorporation in biomaterials is a promising technology due to its photocatalytic and antibacterial activities. However, the antibacterial potential of different TiO2 crystalline structures on a multispecies oral biofilm remains unknown. We hypothesized that the different crystalline TiO2 phases present different photocatalytic and antibacterial activities. METHODS: Three crystalline TiO2 films were deposited by magnetron sputtering on commercially pure titanium (cpTi), in order to obtain four groups: (1) machined cpTi (control); (2) A-TiO2 (anatase); (3) M-TiO2 (mixture of anatase and rutile); (4) R-TiO2 (rutile). The morphology, crystalline phase, chemical composition, hardness, elastic modulus and surface free energy of the surfaces were evaluated. The photocatalytic potential was assessed by methylene blue degradation assay. The antibacterial activity was evaluated on relevant oral bacteria, by using a multispecies biofilm (Streptococcus sanguinis, Actinomyces naeslundii and Fusobacterium nucleatum) formed on the treated titanium surfaces (16.5h) followed by UV-A light exposure (1h) to generate reactive oxygen species production. RESULTS: All TiO2 films presented around 300nm thickness and improved the hardness and elastic modulus of cpTi surfaces (p<0.05). A-TiO2 and M-TiO2 films presented superior photocatalytic activity than R-TiO2 (p<0.05). M-TiO2 revealed the greatest antibacterial activity followed by A-TiO2 (≈99.9% and 99% of bacterial reduction, respectively) (p<0.001 vs. control). R-TiO2 had no antibacterial activity (p>0.05 vs. control). SIGNIFICANCE: This study brings new insights on the development of extra oral protocols for the photocatalytic activity of TiO2 in oral biofilm-associated disease. Anatase and mixture-TiO2 showed antibacterial activity on this oral bacterial biofilm, being promising surface coatings for dental implant components.

Polarity-Induced Selective Area Epitaxy of GaN Nanowires.

We present a conceptually novel approach to achieve selective area epitaxy of GaN nanowires. The approach is based on the fact that these nanostructures do not form in plasma-assisted molecular beam epitaxy on structurally and chemically uniform cation-polar substrates. By in situ depositing and nitridating Si on a Ga-polar GaN film, we locally reverse the polarity to induce the selective area epitaxy of N-polar GaN nanowires. We show that the nanowire number density can be controlled over several orders of magnitude by varying the amount of predeposited Si. Using this growth approach, we demonstrate the synthesis of single-crystalline and uncoalesced nanowires with diameters as small as 20 nm. The achievement of nanowire number densities low enough to prevent the shadowing of the nanowire sidewalls from the impinging fluxes paves the way for the realization of homogeneous core-shell heterostructures without the need of using ex situ prepatterned substrates.

Suplementação de prebiótico (mananoligossacarídeo) na dieta de dois genótipos de codornas em crescimento / Prebiotic supplementation (mannan oligosaccharides) on the diet of two quails genotypes during growth / Suplementación prebiótica (mananoligosacáridos) en dieta de dos genotipos de codorniz en crecimiento

O uso de antibióticos como aditivo melhorador de desempenho tem sido proibido pela possibilidade de favorecer o desenvolvimento de resistência bacteriana em humanos. Com isso, o objetivo da realização do trabalho foi avaliar o efeito da suplementação do prebiótico mananoligossacarídeo na alimentação de codornas japonesas e europeias em crescimento. Foram usadas 240 codornas de cada linhagem (Coturnix japonica e Coturnix coturnix) distribuídas em delineamento experimental inteiramente casualizado e arranjados em fatorial 2 x 4 (genótipos x níveis de suplementação de prebiótico) e seis repetições de dez aves. As codornas foram alimentadas com ração basal suplementadas com 0,0; 0,05; 0,10 e 0,15% de mananoligossacarídeo em substituição ao inerte. Não houve efeito de interação para nenhuma das variáveis avaliadas (P>0,05). Os níveis de suplementação do prebiótico não afetaram o desempenho e as características de carcaça (P>0,05) das codornas. O consumo de ração não foi alterado entre os genótipos (P>0,05), por outro lado, as codornas europeias apresentaram maior ganho de peso e melhor valor de conversão alimentar (P≤0,05) que as codornas japonesas. Os genótipos comerciais de codornas diferiram nas características de carcaça (P≤0,05). Recomenda-se formular rações sem suplementação do prebiótico mananoligossacarídeo para codornas japonesas e europeias de 21 a 42 dias de idade em ambiente considerando limpo.(AU)

The use of antibiotics as a feed additive promoting performance has been prohibited due to the possibility of favoring bacterial resistance in humans. Thus, the purpose of this paper was to assess the effect of mannan oligosaccharides supplementation in prebiotic feed provided to Japanese and European quails during the growth stage. A total of 240 quails for each strain (Coturnix japonica and Coturnix coturnix) were used, distributed in a completely randomized design and arranged in a 2 x 4 (genotypes x prebiotic supplementation levels) matrix, with six replications containing ten birds each. The quails were fed with basal feed supplemented with 0.0; 0.05; 0.10 and 0.15% mannan oligosaccharide prebiotic. There was no interaction effect for any of the assessed variables (P> 0.05). The prebiotic supplementation levels did not affect performance and carcass characteristics (P> 0.05) of the quails. Feed intake was not changed between genotypes (P> 0.05); on the other hand, European quails showed greater weight gain and better feed conversion rate (P≤ 0.05) than Japanese quails. Commercial genotypes differed inn carcass characteristics (P≤ 0.05). It is recommended that feeds are formulated without supplementation of mannan oligosaccharides prebiotic for Japanese and European quails aged 21 to 42-days' old in production environment that are considered clean.(AU)

El uso de antibióticos como aditivo de mejora de rendimiento ha sido prohibido por la posibilidad de promover el desarrollo de resistencia bacteriana en humanos. Por lo tanto, el propósito de llevar a cabo este estudio fue evaluar el efecto de la suplementación del prebiótico mananoligosacáridos en la alimentación de codornices japonesas y europeas en crecimiento. Se usaron 240 codornices de cada linaje (Coturnix japonica y Coturnix coturnix) distribuidas en un diseño completamente aleatorizado y dispuestos en factorial 2 x 4 (genotipos x niveles de suplementación prebiótica) y seis repeticiones de diez aves. Las codornices fueron alimentadas con la dieta basal suplementadas con 0,0; 0,05; 0,10 y 0,15% mananoligosacárido en sustitución al inerte. No hubo efecto de interacción para ninguna de las variables evaluadas (P >0,05). Los niveles de suplementación del prebiótico no afectaron el rendimiento y las características del caparazón (P >0,05) de las codornices. El consumo de alimento no se cambió entre los genotipos (P > 0,05), por otro lado, las codornices Europeas presentaron mayor ganancia de peso y mejor valor de conversión del alimento (p≤ 0.05) que las codornices japonesas. Los genotipos comerciales de codornices difirieron en las características del caparazón (p≤ 0.05). Se recomienda formular dietas sin suplementación del prebiótico mananoligosacáridos para codornices japonesas y europeas de 21 a 42 días de edad en ambiente considerado limpio.(AU)

Utilização de enzimas exógenas na nutrição de peixes - Revisão de literatura / Use of exogenous enzyme in fish nutrition - Literature review / Uso de enzimas exógenas en nutrición de peces - Revisión de literatura

As enzimas exógenas são adicionadas nas rações para não ruminantes com o objetivo de remover ou diminuir fatores antinutricionais dos alimentos, aumentar a digestibilidade das rações, reduzir a viscosidade dos alimentos, auxiliar na atividade das enzimas endógenas e atuar em substratos que não são degradados pelas enzimas produzidas pelos peixes. Dessa forma, a presente revisão visa a apresentar as enzimas digestivas em peixes, os bioprocessos para produção de enzimas, alguns resultados obtidos com a adição de enzimas exógenas e a influência do uso de enzimas sobre a qualidade da água de cultivo. Diversos tipos de fungos, bactérias e leveduras podem produzir enzimas, por meio de técnicas de recombinação de DNA e mutações. Os peixes possuem estreita relação com o meio no qual estão inseridos, por isso, alterações nos parâmetros físico-químicos da água podem influenciar o crescimento, peso, saúde e reprodução destes. Dessa forma, o uso de enzimas exógenas na alimentação animal pode contribuir para a diminuição do impacto ambiental causado pela produção animal, pois, atuam aumentando a digestibilidade das rações e de nutrientes poluentes como fósforo e nitrogênio quando as enzimas específicas para estes substratos são adicionadas às rações, como a fitase e protease. O uso da biotecnologia, por meio da utilização de enzimas exógenas ou complexos enzimáticos na nutrição de peixes, melhora o desempenho zootécnico, aumenta a digestibilidade das rações e contribui na redução da excreção de nutrientes no ambiente aquático, interferindo de forma positiva na qualidade da água no sistema de produção.

Exogenous enzymes are added in non-ruminant feed aiming to remove or reduce antinutritional factors in feed, increase digestibility, reduce feed viscosity, assisting the endogenous enzyme activities and act on substrates that are not degraded by enzymes produced by the fish. Therefore, this review aims to present the digestive enzymes in fish, the enzyme production bioprocesses, some results obtained with the addition of exogenous enzymes and the influence of using enzymes in the quality of cultivation water. Various types of fungi, bacteria and yeast can produce enzymes through recombinant DNA techniques and mutations. Fish have close relation with the medium in which they are inserted; therefore, changes in the water physico-chemical parameters can influence their growth, weight, health and reproduction. Therefore, the use of exogenous enzymes in animal nutrition can contribute to reducing the environmental impact of animal production, and thus act by increasing the digestibility of nutrients and pollutants such as phosphorus and nitrogen when specific substrates for these enzymes are added to the feed, such as phytase and protease. The use of biotechnology in the use of exogenous enzymes or enzyme complexes in fish nutrition improves animal performance, increases feed digestibility and contributes to reducing the excretion of nutrients in the aquatic environment, positively interfering in the water quality in the production system.

Las enzimas exógenas son añadidas a las dietas de no rumiantes, con el objetivo de eliminar o reducir factores anti nutricionales de alimentos, aumentar la digestibilidad de los piensos, reducir la viscosidad de los alimentos, ayudar en la actividad de las enzimas endógenas y actuar en sustratos que no se degradan por las enzimas producidas por los peces. Así, esta revisión busca presentar las enzimas digestivas en peces, los bioprocesos para la producción de enzimas, algunos resultados obtenidos con la adición de enzimas exógenas y la influencia del uso de enzimas en la calidad del agua del estanque. Varios tipos de mohos, bacterias y levaduras pueden producir enzimas, mediante técnicas de ADN recombinante y mutaciones. Los peces tienen estrecha relación con el medio ambiente en que viven, por eso, alteraciones en los parámetros físico-químicos del agua pueden influir en el crecimiento, peso, salud y reproducción de estos. Por lo tanto, el uso de enzimas exógenas en la alimentación animal puede contribuir a reducir el impacto ambiental causado por la producción animal, pues, actúan aumentando la digestibilidad de piensos y nutrientes contaminantes como el fósforo y el nitrógeno cuando las enzimas específicas para estos sustratos son añadidas a piensos, como la fitasa y proteasa. El uso de la biotecnología, mediante el uso de enzimas exógenas o complejos de enzimas en la alimentación de peces, mejora el rendimiento zootécnico, incrementa la digestibilidad de pienso y contribuye en la reducción de la excreción de los nutrientes en el medio acuático, interfiriendo positivamente en la calidad del agua en el sistema de producción.

Carcass characteristics of broilers at 42 days receiving diets with phytase in different energy and crude protein levels / Características de carcaça de frangos aos 42 dias recebendo rações com fitase em diferentes níveis energéticos e de proteína bruta

The aim of this study was to evaluate carcass characteristics and quality of breast meat after the inclusion of phytase in broiler diets with different levels of apparent metabolizable energy (AMEn) corrected for nitrogen and reduced crude protein (CP) supplemented with essential amino acids following the concept of ideal protein. A total of 1,500 Cobb broilers from 22 to 42 days (initial weight of 833 ± 7 g and final weight of 2741 ± 48 g) were distributed in completely randomized design in a factorial 3x3+1 experiment (three levels of AMEn - 2,950; 3,100 and 3,250 kcal/kg - and three levels of CP - 14, 16 and 18 percent - and an additional treatment - control without phytase, with 3,100 kcal/kg EMAn, 19.2 percent PB and 0.4 percent available phosphorus), in six replications of 25 birds each. At the end of the trial, two birds of each experimental unit were slaughtered in order to measure carcass yield and yields of parts and to determine the chemical composition of the breast meat. The levels of AMEn and CP of diets with phytase influenced (P<0.05) the carcass, breast and abdominal fat yield and humidity, protein and fat percentage in the pectoralis major muscle of the birds. The levels of 3,100 kcal AMEn/kg and 18 percent CP showed higher carcass and breast yield and lower abdominal fat deposition, although with higher fat percentage in the breast meat. It was concluded that the manipulation of the energy levels of diets with reduced crude protein supplemented with amino acids and phytase influenced the yields of parts of carcass and the breast meat quality of the broilers at 42 days.

Objetivou-se, com este trabalho, estudar as características de carcaça e qualidade da carne do peito depois da inclusão de fitase em dietas para frangos de corte, com diferentes níveis de energia metabolizável aparente corrigida para nitrogênio (EMAn) e proteína bruta (PB) reduzida, suplementadas com aminoácidos essenciais seguindo o conceito de proteína ideal. Foram utilizados 1.500 frangos machos Cobb dos 22 aos 42 dias de idade com peso inicial de 833 ± 7 g e final de 2741 ± 48 g distribuídos em delineamento inteiramente casualizado em esquema fatorial 3x3+1 (três níveis de EMAn - 2950, 3100 e 3250 kcal/kg - e três de PB - 14, 16 e 18 por cento - e um tratamento adicional - controle, sem fitase, com 3100 kcal/kg EMAn, 19,2 por cento de PB e 0,4 por cento de fósforo disponível) em seis repetições com 25 aves cada. Ao final do experimento, duas aves de cada parcela foram sacrificadas para a mensuração do rendimento de carcaça e de cortes e determinação da composição química da carne do peito. Os níveis de energia e proteína em rações com fitase influenciaram (P<0,05) os rendimentos de carcaça, peito e gordura abdominal a porcentagem de umidade, proteína e lipídios no músculo pectoralis major das aves, sendo os níveis de 3100 kcal EMAn/kg e 18 por cento de PB os que proporcionaram maiores rendimentos de carcaça e de peito e menor deposição de gordura abdominal, mas em maior teor de lipídios na carne do peito. Conclui-se que a manipulação da energia em rações com reduzido teor de proteína e suplementadas com aminoácidos e fitase influencia o rendimento de cortes e a qualidade da carne do peito de frangos aos 42 dias.

Exigência de cálcio para codornas japonesas (Coturnix coturnix japonica) machos na fase de 1 a 21 dias de idade / Calcium requirement for male japanese quails (Coturnix coturnix japonica) from 1 to 21 days of age

Objetivou-se, com esta pesquisa, determinar a exigência de cálcio de codornas japonesas machos, no período de 1 a 21 dias de idade. Foram utilizadas 280 codornas com peso médio de 8 ± 2 g na fase inicial. As variáveis estudadas foram consumo de ração (CR), ganho de peso (GP) e conversão alimentar (CA). O delineamento experimental utilizado foi o inteiramente ao acaso, constituído de sete níveis de cálcio para cada fase, com quatro repetições de dez aves por unidade experimental. Os níveis de cálcio foram 0,85; 1,00; 1,15; 1,30; 1,45; 1,60 e 1,75 por cento. As suplementações de cálcio foram realizadas através do calcário calcítico da ração. Verificou-se que o CR, o GP e a CA apresentaram efeito quadrático com o aumento dos níveis de cálcio na dieta. Recomenda-se dieta contendo 1,24 por cento de cálcio para codornas japonesas machos no período de 1 a 21 dias de idade.

The objective of this study was to determine calcium requirement of male japanese quails from 1 to 21 days of age. 280 quails with average weight of 8 ± 2 g in the initial phase were used. The evaluated performance parameters were feed intake (CR), weight gain (GP) and feed conversion (CA). A completely randomized experimental design was used, with seven calcium levels and four replicates of ten birds per experimental unit. Calcium levels were 0.85, 1.00, 1.15, 1.30, 1.45, 1.60 and 1.75 percent. Limestone was added to the diet as calcium supplementation source. It was found that CR, GP and CA showed a quadratic effect with the increased levels of calcium in the diet. It is recommended diet containing 1.24 percent calcium for male japanese quail in the period from 1 to 21 days of age.

Doença veno-linfática: alterações linfocintilográficas nas úlceras venosas / Venous-lymphatic disease: lymphoscintigraphic abnormalities in venous ulcers

Contexto: O sistema linfático tem papel relevante em qualquer tipo de edema periférico. Atualmente, a linfocintilografia é considerada o principal exame para diagnóstico da doença linfática das extremidades. Embora haja associação entre edema linfático e úlcera de estase venosa crônica, a fisiopatologia dessas alterações permanece indefinida. Objetivo: Verificar as alterações linfocintilográficas qualitativas que ocorrem em pacientes portadores de úlceras de estase dos membros inferiores. Métodos: Quarenta pacientes portadores de úlcera de estase venosa crônica ou cicatriz unilateral foram submetidos a linfocintilografia de ambos os membros inferiores. Foram estudados 25 mulheres e 15 homens, com média de idade de 53,7 anos (28 a 79 anos) e tempo médio de úlcera de 71,5 meses (3 a 240 meses). Foram comparados qualitativamente os parâmetros linfocintilográficos dos membros inferiores, previamente classificados em três grupos de acordo com a classificação clínica, etiológica, anatômica e patológica (CEAP): I, membros sem sinais clínicos de doença venosa ou com telangiectasias e veias reticulares (classes 0 e 1); II, membros inferiores com veias varicosas, edema e/ou alterações de pele e subcutâneo (classes 2, 3 e 4); III, membros inferiores com úlcera e/ou cicatriz (classes 5 e 6). Resultados: Quando foi comparada a presença de alterações linfocintilográficas dos membros com úlcera ou cicatriz (grupo III - classes 5 e 6) com as dos membros sem úlcera (grupos I e II - classes 0, 1, 2, 3 e 4), houve diferença significativa (p < 0,001). Estratificando os membros inferiores de acordo com a classificação CEAP, também foi observada diferença estatisticamente significante (p < 0,001), sendo as alterações linfocintilográficas presentes em 72,5 por cento no grupo III (classes 5 e 6), 30,8 por cento no grupo II (classes 2, 3 e 4) e 7,1 por cento no grupo III (classes 0 e 1). Em relação aos parâmetros analisados na linfocintilografia, ocorreu diferença...

Background: The lymphatic system plays a relevant role in any type of peripheral edema. Lymphoscintigraphy is currently considered the primary test in the diagnosis of lymphatic disease of the lower limbs. Although there is an association between lymphatic edema and chronic venous ulcers, the physiopathology of such changes remains uncertain. Objective: To assess qualitative lymphoscintigraphic findings in patients with chronic venous ulcers of the lower limbs. Methods: Forty patients with unilateral chronic venous ulcer or scar were submitted to bilateral lymphoscintigraphy of the lower limbs. The sample was comprised of 25 women and 15 men, with a mean age of 53.7 years (28 to 79) and mean ulcer duration of 71.5 months (3 to 240 months). Lymphoscintigraphic parameters were qualitatively compared among three groups of lower limbs previously classified according to the clinical, etiologic, anatomic and pathologic classification (CEAP): I, limbs without clinical signs of venous disease or with telangiectasias and/or reticular veins (classes 0 and 1); II, limbs with varicose veins, edema and/or skin and subcutaneous alterations (classes 2, 3 and 4); III, lower limbs with ulcer and/or ulcer scars (classes 5 and 6). Results: There was a significant difference (p < 0.001) in the comparison of lymphoscintigraphic findings of the lower limbs with (group III - classes 5 and 6) and without ulcers/scars (groups I and II - classes 0, 1, 2, 3 and 4). There was also a significant difference (p < 0.001) in the comparison of groups according to the clinical CEAP classification: lymphoscintigraphic abnormalities were present in 72.5 percent in group III (classes 5 and 6), in 30.8 percent in group II (classes 2, 3 and 4), and in 7.1 percent in group I (classes 0 and 1). There was a statistically significant difference between group III and the other groups with regard to radiotracer retention, inguinal adenomegaly and dermal reflux. There was no significance...

Farelo de trigo e complexo enzimático na alimentação de frangas de reposição / Wheat bran and enzymatic complex in laying hens feed

Foram avaliados os efeitos da inclusão do farelo de trigo (FT) com e sem a suplementação da ração com um complexo enzimático (CE), composto de amilase, protease e celulase, sobre o desempenho de frangas semipesadas (15 semanas de idade) e seu efeito residual na produção de ovos. Foram utilizadas 288 frangas, distribuídas em delineamento inteiramente casualizado, em esquema fatorial 4X2, sendo quatro níveis de FT e dois níveis de um CE na ração: 0 (controle), 10, 20 e 30% X suplementação com 0 ou 50g de um CE/100 kg de ração, resultando em oito tratamentos, com seis repetições. Na fase de crescimento, o consumo de ração, o ganho de peso, a conversão alimentar e o peso vivo foram melhores para as aves que receberam as dietas isentas de FT. A adição do CE diminuiu o consumo de ração nas dietas com 0 e 30% de FT. Durante a fase de produção, o uso do CE na ração de recria sem FTaumentou o peso vivo das aves, mas reduziu no nível de 30% de FT. A produção de ovos diminuiu no nível de 20% de FT quando a dieta foi suplementada com o CE. As conversões alimentares no nível de 10% de FT foram semelhantes ao controle. Observou-se efeito quadrático do nível de FT sobre a conversão por massa de ovos, que foi melhor com 8,01%. Portanto, recomenda-se até 8,01%de inclusão do farelo de trigo na ração de poedeiras semipesadas de 15 a 19 semanas de idade.

This study was carried out with the aim of evaluating the effects of the inclusion of the wheat bran (WB) and the addition of an enzymatic complex (EC), amylase, protease and celullase contained, on the performance of semi-heavily pullets from 14 weeks of age and its residual effect on egg-production phase. 288 pullets were used, distributed in a completely randomized design in a factorial arrangment 4X2, being the following levels of WB in the ration: 0 (control), 10, 20 and 30% X 0 or 50g of a EC/100 kg of diet, resulting in eight treatments, with six replicates of six birds. The EC contained the enzymes amylase, protease and celullase. In the growth phase, FI, WG, FC and LW showed better for the birds that received the diets without FT. The addition of the EC decreased the consumption in the diets with 0 and 30% of WB. During the production phase, the use EC in the level 0% of WB increased LW of the birds, but it reduced in the level 30% of WB. The production of eggs fell in the level of 20% of WB when the diet was supllementing with EC. The feed conversion in the level of 10% of WB was similar to the control. Quadratic effect of the level of WBwas observed on the feed egg-mass conversion, that was better with 8,01%. Therefore, it is recommended up to 8.01% of inclusion of the wheat bran in the ration of semi-heavily pullets from 14 to 19 weeks of age.

Níveis de sódio na ração de frangas de 7 a 12 semanas de idade / Sodium levels for pullets aged between 7 and 12 weeks

O experimento foi realizado para estimar as exigências de sódio em frangas leves (LV) e semipesadas (SP), durante a fase de recria (7 a 12 semanas de idade). O delineamento experimental foi inteiramente ao acaso, em esquema fatorial com seis níveis de sódio (0,04; 0,10; 0,16; 0,21; 0,27 e 0,32 por cento) e duas linhagens (LV e SP), que resultaram em doze tratamentos, com cinco repetições de seis aves. Foram avaliados o consumo de ração (CR), consumo de água (CAG), ganho de peso diário (GPD), conversão alimentar (CA), temperatura retal (TR), comprimento da crista (CC), matéria seca das excretas (MSF) e umidade das excretas (UF). Não houve interação dos níveis de sódio (NS) com a linhagem sobre as variáveis estudadas. O CR não foi afetado pelos NS, porém as frangas SP consumiram mais ração que as LV. Os NS proporcionaram efeito quadrático para o GPD e CA, e a linhagem LV apresentou maior CC que a SP. O aumento do NS da ração elevou o CAG, a UF e diminuiu a MSF, mas a TR não foi alterada. Recomenda-se de 7 a 12 semanas de idade 0,22 por cento, ou o consumo de 123 e 140 mg de sódio para as LV e SP, respectivamente.

The experiments were carried out to determine sodium requirements for light (LS) and egg-brown (EBS) pullets from 7 to 12 weeks of age. It was used a completely randomized design according to a 6x2 factorial (sodium levels: 0.04; 0.10; 0.16; 0.21; 0.27 and 0.32 percent X 2 strains), with five replicates of six pullets per experimental unit. Feed intake, water intake, daily weight gain, feed: gain ratio, rectal temperature, and comb size were evaluated, as well as feces dry matter and humidity. In the two experiments, there was no interaction (P>0.05) between sodium levels (SL) and strains on the studied variables. Feed intake was not affected by LS, but it was greater in EBS than in LS birds (P <0.05). LS had significant effects on daily weight gain and feed: gain ratio according to the quadratic model, and comb size was greater in LS compared to EBS birds. The increase in dietary sodium levels increased water intake and feces humidity, whereas feces dry matter decreased. Rectal temperature was not affected by the treatments. For SL and EBS, it is recommended 0.22 percent Na or a daily intake of 123 and 140 mg of sodium, respectively, from 7 to 12 weeks of age.

Respostas termorreguladoras de matrizes suínas híbridas em lactação, mantidas em ambiente quente / Thermoregulator answers of hybrid female swine in lactation, maintained in hot environment

Objetivou-se avaliar a adaptabilidade fisiológica de 73 matrizes suínas híbridas em lactação ao ambiente quente. As fêmeas foram distribuídas em delineamento inteiramente casualizado, num esquema fatorial de 5 x 4 x 4, sendo, cinco ordens de parto - OP (1ª, 2ª, 3ª, 4ª e 5ª), quatro momentos em relação ao parto (quatro dias antes e 3, 10 e 17º dia depois) e quatro horas do dia (8, 12, 16 e 20 h). A temperatura retal (TR) oscilou com a hora do dia, a OP, e o momento de avaliação, sendo maior às 16 h, em primíparas e na fase inicial da lactação. A freqüência respiratória permaneceu elevada, principalmente entre as 12 e 16 h do dia em fêmeas jovens. Conclui-se que o calor intenso entre 12 e 16 h conduz aos animais ao desconforto térmico, sendo as primíparas a categoria de menor adaptabilidade.

The aim was to assess the physiological adaptability of 73 hybrid female swine in lactation in the hot climate. The females of 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 5th parturition orders (PO) were used, distributed in a completely randomized outline, in a factorial arrangement of 5 x 4 x 4, being five PO (1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 5th), four moments in relation to the delivery (four days before, and on the 3rd, 10th and 17th day after), and four hours a day (8, 12, 16 and 20 h). The rectal temperature oscillated according to the hour of day, the PO, and the moment of evaluation, being greater at 16 h, in primiparous, and in the initial phase of lactation. The breathing frequency remained elevated, mainly between 12 and 16 h, in young females. One concluded that the intense heat between 12 and 16 h leads the animals to the thermal discomfort, mainly the category of smaller adaptability.

Níveis de proteína bruta e de energia metabolizável para frangas de postura semipesadas de 1 a 18 semanas de idade / Crude protein and metabolizável energy levels for eggy-type pullets from 1 to 18 weeks of age

Objetivou-se neste experimento avaliar o desempenho de poedeiras comerciais de 1 a 18 semanas de idade submetidas a níveis de Proteína Bruta (PB) e de Energia Metabolizável (EM). O experimento foi desenvolvido no aviário de Departamento de Zootecnia do Centro de Ciências Agrárias da UFPB, em Areia-PB. Foram utilizadas 432 pintainhas Lohmann Brown de três dias de idade, distribuídas em um delineamento inteiramente casualizado, em esquema Fatorial 3x3, com três níveis de PB e três níveis de EM. Na primeira fase, de 1 a 6 semanas de idade, as aves foram alimentadas com rações contendo três níveis de PB (21, 22 e 23 por cento) e três de EM (2900, 3000 e 3100kcal/kg de ração). Na segunda e terceira fases, as aves com idades de 7 a 12 e de 13 a 18 semanas, respectivamente, foram alimentadas com três níveis de PB sendo 18, 19 e 20 por cento de sete a doze semanas e 16, 17 e 18 por cento de treze a dezoito semanas e três níveis de EM sendo 2700, 2800 e 2900kcal/kg de ração nessas duas fases. Não foi encontrada interação entre os níveis de PB e de EM. Com base nos resultados obtidos, recomenda-se, respectivamente, para as fases de 1 a 6, de 7 a 12 e de 13 a 18 semanas de idade, os níveis de 21 por cento de PB e 2900 kcal de EM/kg de ração, 20 por cento de PB e 2700 kcal de EM/kg de ração e 16 por cento de PB e 2700 kcal de EM/kg de ração.

The aim of this experiment was to evaluate the performance of commercial layers between 1 and 18 weeks of age submitted to different crude protein (CP) and metabolizable energy (ME) levels. The trial was carried out at the poultry sector of the Department of Animal Science, of the Centro de Ciências Agrárias, Universidade Federal of Paraiba, Areia-PB, Brazil. Four hundred and thirty-two Lohmann Brown chicks were used at 3 days of age according to a completely randomized design in a 3 x 3 factorial scheme, with three CP levels and three ME levels. In the first phase (1-6 wk), the birds were fed with diets containing three levels of CP: 21, 22 or 23 percent CP and three levels of ME: 2,900, 3,000 and 3,100 kcal/kg diet. In the second phase (7-12 wk) and in the third phases (13-18 wk), CP levels of feeding were 18, 19 or 20 percent, and 16, 17 or 18 percent, respectively, and three ME levels being 2,700, 2,800 or 2,900 kcal ME/kg diet in these two phases. It was not found interaction between CP and ME levels. Based on the results obtained one recommends for the phases from 1 to 6, 7 to 12 and 13 to 18 weeks of age the levels of 21 percent of CP and 2900 kcal of ME /kg diets, 20 percent of CP and 2700 kcal of ME/kg diets and 16 percent of CP and 2700 kcal of ME/kg diets respectively.

Produção e composição do leite de porcas híbridas mantidas em ambiente quente / Production and composition of milk of hybrid sows maintained in hot environment

Foram avaliados os efeitos da ordem de parto e do estágio de lactação sobre a produção e composição do leite de matrizes suínas híbridas mantidas em ambiente quente (± 28,5°C). Foram utilizadas 36 fêmeas de 1, 2, 3 e ³4a ordem de parição, avaliadas em quatro estágios (equalização, 7, 14 e 22,3° dias de lactação). A ordem de parto influenciou (P<0,05) a estimativa de energia e produção do leite e o ganho em peso dos leitões entre as porcas de 1° e 3° partos, não havendo diferença (P<0,05) entre as demais ordens de parição. A composição do leite não foi influenciada (P<0,05) pela ordem de parto. O estágio de lactação influenciou (P<0,05) a produção e a composição do leite das porcas, não havendo diferenças (P>0,05) para a estimativa da energia do leite e o ganho em peso dos leitões. Matrizes suínas mantidas em ambiente quente têm a produção e a composição química do leite modificadas de acordo com o estágio de lactação. A produção de leite varia de acordo com a ordem do parto, tendo as primíparas uma produção de leite menor do que as porcas de 3a parição.

Effects of parity order and stage of lactation were evaluated on production and milk composition of hybrid female pigs in a hot environment (±28.5°C). Thirty-six females of 1st, 2nd, 3rd and ³4th parity order were used and evaluated on four stages (equalization of the litter, 7, 14 and 22.3 days of lactation). Parity order influenced (P<0.05) the estimation of energy, milk production and weight gain of piglets between sows of first and third parturition, but there wasn't a difference (P<0.05) among the other ones. Parity order did influence (P<0.05) the composition of milk. The stage of lactation influenced (P<0.05) the production and composition of milk of the sows, however, there were no differences (P<0.05) for the estimate of milk energy and the weight gain of the piglets. It was concluded that female pigs maintained in hot environment had the production and chemical composition of milk modified according to the stage of lactation, while the variation of milk production was according to parity order, being the milk production of primiparous smaller than the third parity sows.

Efeito da enzima fitase nas rações de frangos de corte, durante as fases pré-inicial e inicial / Effect of phytase enzyme in broilers rations, during pre-starter and starter phases

Foram criados 1.080 pintos de corte machos, no período de 1 a 7 e 8 a 21 dias de idade, para estudar os efeitos da fitase nas rações sobre o desempenho. Utilizaram-se duas rações experimentais para cada fase, sendo a primeira formulada por uma empresa integradora de frangos de corte (E-1) e a segunda sugerida pela empresa fornecedora da enzima (E-2). Os tratamentos foram: T1 e T4 - ração sem adição da enzima e T2 e T3 - ração com fitase. O delineamento experimental utilizado foi o inteiramente casualizado, num arranjo fatorial 2 x 2 (duas rações e dois níveis de enzima), com nove repetições e trinta aves por parcela. A enzima foi adicionada na quantidade de 100 g/t de ração. Houve diferença significativa (P<0,01) entre tratamentos para ganho de peso e conversão alimentar para as fases pré-inicial e inicial, sendo os melhores resultados obtidos com a E-1 com adição de enzima, mostrando a importância da fitase em rações com frangos de corte quanto ao desempenho dos animais.

1.080 male broilers were used from 1 to 7 and 8 to 21 days of age to evaluate phytase diet supplementation in chicks performance. Two experimental rations were used each phase, whereas the first diet recommended by company broiler integrator (C-1) and the second suggested by furnished company enzyme (C-2). Treatments consisted in: T1 and T4 - ration without enzyme and T2 and T3 - ration with enzyme. A completely randomized design was used, in a 2 x 2 factorial model (two rations x two levels of enzyme) with nine replicates and 30 birds per unit. The enzyme was used in amount of 100 g/ton of ration. Statistically significant difference (P<0.01) was found between treatments to weight gain and feed:gain ratio to pre-starter and initial phases, where best results were obtained with C-1 with enzyme addition, showing the importance of phytase in broiler chicks rations as to birds performance.