Performance, feed efficiency, feeding behavior, and cortisol concentration of lambs ranked for Residual Feed Intake and Residual Intake and Gain.

This study aimed to evaluate the performance, feed efficiency, feeding behavior, and cortisol concentrations of lambs ranked into different groups of Residual Feed Intake (RFI) and Residual Intake and Gain (RIG). Forty Santa Inês lambs with a mean initial age of 120 ± 30 days and mean initial (IBW) and final body weight (FBW) of 28.9 ± 3.2 and 43.7 ± 3.9 kg, respectively, were used. The animals were fed at an automatic feed and water station (Intergado®) for 60 days and classified at the end of the experiment as low-RFI/RIG, medium-RFI/RIG, and high-RFI/RIG according to RFI and RIG. Performance, feed efficiency measures, ingestive behavior, temperament, and cortisol concentrations were measured, and Pearson's correlation analysis was performed to evaluate the relationship between the variables studied. The variables that differed most between RFI groups were dry matter intake, feed conversion, and feed efficiency, with better values in efficient animals (RFI-). Regarding the RGI groups, the average daily gain of animals classified as RIG- was 19.37% lower than that of animals classified as RIG± and 39.28% lower than that of animals classified as RIG+. Only the hourly feeding rate per day (p = 0.04) differed significantly between RFI and RIG classes, while no differences were observed for the ingestive behavior variables or cortisol. The number of visits to the feed bunk (total, with or without intake) showed no correlation with any performance or efficiency measure. Identifying animals ranked into different RFI and RIG classes shows that more efficient animals have a lower feed intake for the same weight gain and spend less time at the feed bunk.

Morphophysiological Responses of the Goat Mammary Gland to Water Scarcity in Arid and Semi-Arid Environments: Are They Enough to Generate Adaptation to New Climatic Challenges?

Due to climate change, diverse territories of the planet will suffer from water restrictions. Goats are perceived as the most resilient ruminants in this scenario. So, various studies have focused on describing how a lower water intake influences milk production, especially in breeds adapted to desert environments. In water-stress situations, goats lose up to 32% of their body weight (BW), the rate of passage is reduced, and the digestibility of the feed increases. When goats consume water again, the rumen prevents hemolysis and osmotic shock from occurring. Regarding milk production, the response varies depending on the breed and the level of water restriction, maintaining the milk volume or reducing it by up to 41%. Systemically, it decreases the urinary volume and glomerular filtration rate, increasing blood osmolality and the vasopressin (ADH) concentration. Studies are scarce regarding changes in blood flow to the mammary gland, but there would be a reduction in blood flow velocity of up to 40% without changing blood pressure. New studies must be undertaken to determine which breeds or crosses are the best adapted to changing environmental conditions and to improve our understanding of the changes that occur at the morphophysiological level of the caprine mammary gland.

Influence of Fluid Ingestion on Heart Rate, Cardiac Autonomic Modulation and Blood Pressure in Response to Physical Exercise: A Systematic Review with Meta-Analysis and Meta-Regression.

A systematic review was undertaken to investigate the involvement of hydration in heart rate (HR), HR variability (HRV) and diastolic (DBP) and systolic (SBP) blood pressure in response to exercise. Data synthesis: The EMBASE, MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, CINAHL, LILACS and Web of Science databases were searched. In total, 977 studies were recognized, but only 36 were included after final screening (33 studies in meta-analysis). This study includes randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and non-RCTs with subjects > 18 years old. The hydration group consumed water or isotonic drinks, while the control group did not ingest liquids. For the hydration protocol (before, during and after exercise), the HR values during the exercise were lower compared to the controls (-6.20 bpm, 95%CI: -8.69; -3.71). In the subgroup analysis, "water ingested before and during exercise" showed lower increases in HR during exercise (-6.20, 95%CI: 11.70 to -0.71), as did "water was ingested only during exercise" (-6.12, 95%CI: -9.35 to -2.89). Water intake during exercise only revealed a trend of avoiding greater increases in HR during exercise (-4,60, 95%CI: -9.41 to 0.22), although these values were not significantly different (p = 0.06) from those of the control. "Isotonic intake during exercise" showed lower HRs than the control (-7.23 bpm, 95% CI: -11.68 to -2.79). The HRV values following the exercise were higher in the hydration protocol (SMD = 0.48, 95%CI: 0.30 to 0.67). The values of the SBP were higher than those of the controls (2.25 mmHg, 95%CI: 0.08 to 4.42). Conclusions: Hydration-attenuated exercise-induced increases in HR during exercise, improved autonomic recovery via the acceleration of cardiac vagal modulation in response to exercise and caused a modest increase in SBP values, but did not exert effects on DBP following exercise.

Three environmental dimensions of beef cattle in tropical feedlot: Water, nutrients and land.

This study aims to evaluate water, land, and nutrient efficiencies in a tropical beef feedlot system by providing artificial shading and considering local conditions and feed cultivation. The study was conducted at the Experimental Feedlot of Embrapa Southeast Livestock in Brazil. Forty-eight Nellore bulls were divided into two groups, with one group having shade (GS) and the other without shade (GWS). The animals' body weights, water intake, and dry matter intake were recorded. The water footprint was calculated using a product-focused assessment, considering water consumed in feed production and animal drinking. The nutrient balance and land footprint were also assessed. To both treatments, the crop scenario with soybean and corn first crop produced in Maringa resulted in the lowest water and land footprint values. Corn was the main contributor to green water consumption. The efficiency in water use for corn decreased between the first and second crops. The water footprint of soybean meal varied between production locations. GWS had slightly higher average blue water consumption than GS. In terms of nutrient balance, the GS treatment exhibited lower nitrogen and phosphorus balance values, indicating higher efficiency in the use of these elements. The provision of artificial shading was found to reduce the water footprint and improve nutrient use efficiency. The location of grain production and the timing of corn planting were identified as key factors influencing water and land footprint values.

Fasting increases circulating angiotensin levels and brain Agtr1a expression in male rats.

In addition to being recognised for involvement in cardiovascular control and hydromineral balance, the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) has also been associated with the neuroendocrine control of energy balance. One of the main brain sites for angiotensin II (ANG II)/type 1 receptor (AT1 R) signalling is the subfornical organ (SFO), a circumventricular organ related to the control of autonomic functions, motivated behaviours and energy metabolism. Thus, we hypothesised that circulating ANG II may act on the SFO AT1 R receptors to integrate metabolic and hydromineral balance. We evaluated whether food deprivation can modulate systemic RAS activity and Agrt1a brain expression, and if ANG II/AT1 R signalling influences the hypothalamic expression of mRNAs encoding neuropeptides and food and water ingestion in fed and fasted Wistar rats. We found a significant increase in both ANG I and ANG II plasma levels after 24 and 48 h of fasting. Expression of Agrt1a mRNA in the SFO and paraventricular nucleus (PVN) also increased after food deprivation for 48 h. Treatment of fasted rats with low doses of losartan in drinking water attenuated the decrease in glycemia and meal-associated water intake without changing the expression in PVN or arcuate nucleus of mRNAs encoding selected neuropeptides related to energy homeostasis control. These findings point to a possible role of peripheral ANG II/SFO-AT1 R signalling in the control of refeeding-induced thirst. On the other hand, intracerebroventricular losartan treatment decreased food and water intake over dark time in fed but not in fasted rats.

Food insecurity is associated with self-reported oral health in school-age Ecuadorian children and is mediated by dietary and non-dietary factors.

OBJECTIVE: The main objective was to investigate the association of household food insecurity (HFI) with child oral health. A secondary objective was to explore potential dietary and non-dietary mediators of the HFI-child oral health relationship. DESIGN: Cross-sectional data from the nationally representative Ecuadorian National Health and Nutrition Survey (2018) were analysed. The data included self-reported child oral health, HFI (Food Insecurity Experience Scale), diet (FFQ) and oral care behaviours (toothbrushing frequency, toothpaste use). The association of HFI with the reported number of oral health problems was examined with stereotype logistic regression. Parallel mediation analysis was used to explore potential dietary (highly fermentable carbohydrate foods, plain water) and non-dietary (toothbrushing) mediators of the HFI-oral health relationship. Bias-corrected standard errors and 95 % CI were obtained using non-parametric bootstrapping (10 000 repetitions). Effect size was measured by percent mediation (PM). SETTING: Ecuador. PARTICIPANTS: 5-17-year-old children (n 23 261). RESULTS: HFI affected 23 % of child households. 38·5 % of children have at least one oral health problem. HFI was associated with a greater number of oral health problems: 1-2 problems (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 1·37; 95 % CI (1·15, 1·58); P = 0·0001), 3-4 problems (AOR = 2·21; 95 % CI (1·98, 2·44); P = 0·0001), 5-6 problems (AOR = 2·57; 95 % CI (2·27, 2·88); P = 0·0001). The HFI-oral health relationship was partially mediated by highly fermentable carbohydrate foods (PM = 4·3 %), plain water (PM = 1·8 %) and toothbrushing frequency (PM = 3·3 %). CONCLUSIONS: HFI was associated with poorer child oral health. The HFI-oral health relationship was partially mediated by dietary and non-dietary factors. Longitudinal studies are needed to replicate our findings and investigate the role of other potential mediators.

Avaliação de constipação intestinal em estudantes de nível superior em uma universidade do extremo sul catarinense / Evaluation of intestinal constipation in higher level students at a university in the extreme south of catarina / Evaluación del estreñimiento intestinal en estudiantes de nivel superior de una universidad del extremo sur de catarina

Objetivo: Avaliar a presença de CI em estudantes das fases iniciais e finais dos cursos de Medicina, Nutrição e Engenharia Civil de uma Universidade no Extremo Sul Catarinense -Criciúma, através da ingestão alimentar e hídrica, dos tipos de fezes, se fazem uso, ou não, de alternativas de evacuação, comparando os hábitos alimentares com influência na constipação nos estudantes das três diferentes áreas. Método:Tal estudo foi realizado através de um questionário adaptado com questões sobre os hábitos de vida do indivíduo, juntamente com os critérios de Roma III, Roma IV e Escala de Bristol. Resultados:Caracterizou-se por 158 estudantes, sendo 71,5% (n=113) representam o sexo feminino e apenas 28,5% (n=45), o sexo masculino. A ingestão de líquidos demonstrou-se ser baixa, sendo 33,5% (n=53) ingerem mais que 1600ml/dia. Através da Escala de Bristol, 15,8% (n=25) revelaram evacuar o Tipo 1 e 2, caracterizando CI. Sobre os laxantes, apenas 3,2% (n=5) confirmaram a utilização. Foi verificada CI em 18,6% (n=21) das mulheres e 8,9% (n=4) dos homens. Conclusão:a alimentação destacou ser pobre em fibras. É notório que os estudantes sofrem com sintomas de CI. Através do auxílio de um profissional de nutrição, é necessário que equilibrem sua alimentação com fibras, consumem mais água diariamente e, consequentemente, auxiliem no bom funcionamento intestinal e na melhora da qualidade de vida.

Objective: To evaluate the presence of IC in students in the initial and final stages of Medicine, Nutrition and Civil Engineering courses at a University in the extreme south of Santa Catarina -Criciúma, through food and water intake, types of feces, whether they use, or no, of evacuation alternatives, comparing eating habits with influence on constipation in students from three different areas. Method: This study was carried out through a questionnaire answered with questions about the individual's life habits, together with the criteria of Rome III, Rome IV and Bristol Scale. Results: Characterized by 158 students, 71.5% (n=113) female and only 28.5% (n=45) male. Liquid intake was low, with 33.5% (n=53) ingesting more than 1600ml/day. Through the Bristol Scale, 15.8% (n=25) revealed to evacuate Type 1 and 2, characterizing CI. Regarding laxatives, only 3.2% (n=5) confirmed their use. CI was found in 18.6% (n=21) of women and 8.9% (n=4) of men. Conclusion:the highlighted diet is low in fiber. It is notorious that students suffer from HF symptoms. Through the help of a nutrition professional, it is necessary that they balance their diet with fiber, consume more water daily and, consequently, help in the good intestinal functioning and in the improvement of the qualityof life.

Objetivo:Evaluar la presencia de CI en estudiantes de las etapas inicial y final de las carreras de Medicina, Nutrición e Ingeniería Civil de una Universidad del extremo sur de Santa Catarina -Criciúma, a través de la ingesta de alimentos y agua, tipos de heces, si utilizan , o no, de alternativas de evacuación, comparando los hábitos alimentarios con influencia sobre el estreñimiento en estudiantes de las tres diferentes áreas. Método:Este estudio se realizó mediante un cuestionario adaptado con preguntas sobre el estilo de vida del individuo, junto con los criterios de Roma III, Roma IV y la Escala de Bristol. Resultados:Se caracterizó por 158 estudiantes, 71,5% (n=113) mujeres y sólo 28,5% (n=45) hombres. La ingesta de líquidos resultó ser baja, con un 33,5% (n=53) ingiriendo más de 1.600 ml/día. A través de la Escala de Bristol, el 15,8% (n=25) reveló evacuar Tipo 1 y 2, caracterizando CI. Respecto a los laxantes, sólo el 3,2% (n=5)confirmó su uso. La CI se verificó en el 18,6% (n=21) de las mujeres y en el 8,9% (n=4) de los hombres. Conclusión:la dieta era baja en fibra. Es notorio que los estudiantes padecen síntomas de CI. Con la ayuda de un profesional de la nutrición, es necesario que equilibren su dieta con fibra, consuman más agua diariamente y, en consecuencia, ayuden en el buen funcionamiento intestinal y en la mejora de la calidad de vida.

Effects of Feeding and Drinking Behavior on Performance and Carcass Traits in Beef Cattle.

Feed and water efficiency are important traits to improve beef cattle production's economic and environmental sustainability. This study evaluated residual feed intake (RFI) and residual water intake (RWI) and their relationship with performance, ingestive behavior, and carcass traits in Caracu beef cattle. The data were analyzed using a generalized linear model with least squares means. The ingestive behavior, performance, and carcass traits were influenced by sex (p < 0.05). Males showed higher dry matter intake (DMI), average daily gain (ADG), mid-test metabolic weight (BW0.75), rib eye area, and rump fat thickness than females, besides spending more time drinking and eating. Low RFI animals exhibited higher DMI than high RFI animals. Low RWI animals ingested 3.89 L/d of water further than high RWI animals. The interaction between sex and RWI influenced the DMI, BW0.75, and backfat thickness. The ingestive behavior of low and high RFI animals was similar, although high RWI animals visited a smaller number of drinkers than low RWI animals. Water intake positively affects productive efficiency, and the combined use of RWI and RFI may help improve the selection of more efficient animals contributing to reducing the costs of beef cattle production and improving environmental sustainability.

Performance of Holstein-Friesian calves drinking desalinated water in the preweaning period

Background: High salinity of drinking water can adversely affect health and productive performance of calves during artificial rearing. Objective: To evaluate the effect of drinking water total dissolved salts (TDS) content on productive performance of Holstein-Friesian calves during artificial rearing. Methods: Twenty-nine newborn Holstein-Friesian calves weighing 39±0.94 kg at birth were randomly assigned to two treatment groups for 56 d. Treatment 1 (n=14) consisted of drinking water with 1,469±75 mg L-1 TDS, while treatment 2 (n=15) used drinking water from the same source but filtered by reverse osmosis to contain 107±31 mg L-1 TDS. Results: Water intake was numerically affected by TDS concentration, increasing 13% (p>0.08) when drinking low-TDS water (3,554 versus 3,088 ml d-1). Feed intake (dry basis) decreased 26% (500 versus 676 g d-1; p0.05) by TDS content in the drinking water. Conclusion: Desalinated water improves productive performance of Holstein-Friesian calves during artificial rearing.

Antecedentes: Una alta salinidad del agua de bebida puede afectar negativamente la salud y el comportamiento productivo de los terneros durante la crianza. Objetivo: Evaluar el efecto del contenido de sales disueltas totales (SDT) en el agua de bebida sobre el comportamiento productivo de los terneros durante la crianza artificial. Métodos: Veintinueve terneros Holstein- Friesian recién nacidos, con 39±0,94 kg de peso vivo fueron asignados aleatoriamente a dos tratamientos. El tratamiento 1 consistió de 14 terneros que bebieron agua con 1.469±75 mg L-1 de SDT; mientras que al tratamiento 2 se asignaron 15 terneros que recibieron agua de la misma fuente, pero filtrada mediante el procedimiento de ósmosis inversa y conteniendo 107±31 mg L-1 de SDT. Resultados: La concentración de SDT afectó numéricamente el consumo de agua durante los 56 días de lactancia (p>0,08), incrementándose 13% cuando los terneros bebieron agua con bajo contenido de sales (3.554 vs 3.088 ml d-1). El consumo de alimento (base seca) disminuyó 26% (500 vs 676 g d-1; p0,05). Conclusión: El agua de bebida desalinizada mejora el comportamiento productivo de terneros Holstein durante la crianza artificial.

Antecedentes: Alta salinidade da água potável pode afetar adversamente a saúde e o desempenho produtivo de bezerros durante o acasalamento. Objetivo: Avaliar o efeito do total de sais dissolvidos (TSD) na água potável sobre o comportamento dos bezerros durante a lactação. Métodos: Vinte e nove terneiros Holstein-Friesian recém-nascidos, com 39±0,94 kg de peso vivo, foram designados aleatoriamente a dois tratamentos. O tratamento 1 considerou 14 terneiros os quais beberam água com 1.469±75 mg L-1 do total de sais dissolvidos (TSD); enquanto ao tratamento 2 se designaram 15 terneiros bebendo água da mesma fonte filtrada através do procedimento de osmose inversa e contendo 107±31 mg L-1 de TSD. Resultados: O consumo de água de bezerros durante os 56 dias de lactação artificial foi ligeiramente afetado pela concentração de TDS na água potável (p>0,08) e aumentou em 13% quando os bezerros beberam água com baixo teor de sal (3.554 vs 3.088 ml d-1); o consumo de alimento sólido (base seca) diminuiu em 26% (500 vs 676 g d-1; p0,05) pelo conteúdo de TSD na água de beber. Conclusão: A dessalinização da água de beber melhora o comportamento produtivo de terneiros Holstein durante o período de lactação artificial..

Short-term intestinal effects of water intake in fibre supplementation in healthy, low-habitual fibre consumers: a phase 2 clinical trial.

A randomised clinical trial was conducted on 20 healthy, low-habitual fibre consumers to assess the short-term effects of water intake (2 l/day) on fibre supplementation with wheat bran, pectin, and green banana flour. During the 14-days trial, fibre intake doubled in both fibre (n = 10) and fibre/water (n = 10) interventions (p < 0.001), whereas daily water intake increased from 538 to 1990 ml in the fibre/water group (p < 0.001). Weekly bowel movements increased similarly in both interventions (fibre: 6.8-8.8; fibre/water: 8.6-10; p < 0.01), while faecal weight (71-126 g; p = 0.009) increased in the fibre/water group. This group showed higher counts of faecal Bacteroides and Prevotella, Faecalibacterium prausnitzii, and Bifidobacterium, whereas both interventions decreased the count of Desulfovibrio. Transient abdominal symptoms occurred less frequently in the fibre/water than in the fibre group (3 vs. 9 participants; p = 0.020). In healthy, low-habitual fibre consumers, short-term water intake helps the intestinal adaptation to fibre supplementation.CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: NCT02838849.

Evaluation of Ingestive Behavior, Ruminal and Blood Parameters, Performance, and Thermography as a Phenotypic Divergence Markers of Residual Feed Intake in Rearing Dairy Heifers.

The objectives of this study were: (1) to identify and rank phenotypically divergent animals for residual feed intake (RFI) regarding their efficiency (high: HE or low: LE); (2) to evaluate their relationships with ingestive behavior, ruminal and blood parameters, performance, and infrared thermography; and (3) to determine if such measurements can be used as feed efficiency markers in rearing dairy heifers. Thirty-eight heifers, 143 d ± 4 (Mean ± SD) of age and 108.7 kg ± 17.9 of body weight were used. The animals were fed with a total mixed ration during the 91 d of the trial. A phenotypic divergence of DMI for RFI was observed between -0.358 and 0.337 kg/d for HE and LE, respectively. Dry matter intake (DMI) was lower in the HE (2.5 kg DMI/d vs. 3.1 kg DMI/d), as was the number of visits to the feed bin with consumption (59 vs. 71). Feed intake was the best predictor of said divergence. Water intake and number of visits to the feed bin were presented moderate correlations with RFI. The ruminal fermentation variables, blood metabolites, blood hormones (such as the other ingestive behavior variables), and infrared thermography were not able to accurately predict HE or LE animals.

Benefits of water intake on kidney function in older adults: protocol for a randomized controlled trial / Benefícios da ingestão de água na função renal de idosos: protocolo para um estudo clínico randomizado controlado

Objective: The goal of this study is to evaluate the benefits of an increase in water intake guided by a mathematical formula (per kg of body weight) on kidney function in older adults. Methods: Older adults (≥ 65 years old) cared for at the Internal Medicine Unit of a tertiary hospital will be randomized to receive or not guidance on water intake (30 mL/kg per day) after initial assessment of kidney function. After 14 days, participants will be reevaluated through clinical and laboratory examinations. Patients with uncompensated disease will be excluded. The main outcomes will be glomerular filtration rate and laboratory measures such as serum and urinary osmolality, sodium, urea, 24-h urine volume and serum creatinine, uric acid, and copeptin. The Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA) questionnaire will be applied to participants at each visit. Categorical variables will be described as numbers of cases (%) and compared using the χ2 test whereas continuous variables will be analyzed with Student's t-test in relation to baseline measures. The Generalized Estimating Equations (GEE) method will be performed to assess differences over time and between groups. This study was approved by the Institution's Research Ethics Committee (grant number 16-0153) and is in accordance with the Declaration of Helsinki. Expected Results:By increasing water intake (ml/Kg) we expect to provide an improvement in kidney function in older population assessed by serum creatinine and cystatin-c applied to eGFR formulas. Relevance:Many conditions, both organic and behavioral, can contribute to chronic dehydration states in older adults. To mention, decreased ability to concentrate urine, reduced kidney mass, blood flow, and glomerular filtration rate (GFR) along with changes in sensitivity to hormones such as renin, vasopressin and natriuretic peptide can generate water imbalance, leading to dehydration. For being simple and inexpensive, this strategy may be broadly used and bring several health benefits to older adults.

Objetivo: O objetivo deste estudo é avaliar os benefícios de um aumento da ingestão de água guiado por uma fórmula matemática (por kg de massa corporal) na função renal de idosos. Metodologia:Idosos (≥ 65 anos) atendidos pelo Serviço de Clínica Médica de um hospital terciário foram randomizados para receber ou não orientação sobre o consumo de água (30 mL/kg por dia) após uma avaliação inicial da função renal. Após 14 dias, os participantes serão reavaliados através de exames clínicos e laboratoriais. Pacientes com doença descompensada serão excluídos. Os desfechos principais são a taxa de filtração glomerular e medidas laboratoriais como osmolaridade, sódio e ureia séricos e urinários, volume de urina de 24 horas e creatinina, ácido úrico e copeptina séricos. A Mini Avaliação Nutricional (MNA) será aplicada aos participantes a cada consulta. Variáveis categóricas serão descritas como números de casos (%) e comparadas usando o teste χ2 , enquanto variáveis contínuas serão analisadas com o teste t de Student em relação às medidas iniciais. O método de Equações de Estimativas Generalizadas (GEE) será usado para avaliar diferenças ao longo do tempo e entre grupos. Este estudo foi aprovado pelo Comitê de Ética em Pesquisa da nossa Instituição (processo número 16-0153) e está de acordo com a Declaração de Helsinki. Resultados esperados:Ao aumentar a ingestão de água (ml/Kg) esperamos proporcionar uma melhora na função renal na população idosa avaliada pela creatinina sérica e cistatina-c aplicada às fórmulas de eGFR. Relevância:Muitas condições, tanto orgânicas quanto comportamentais, podem contribuir para estados de desidratação crônica em idosos. Vale mencionar que a diminuição da capacidade de concentração da urina, redução da massa renal, fluxo sanguíneo e taxa de filtração glomerular (TFG) juntamente com alterações na sensibilidade a hormônios como renina, vasopressina e peptídeo natriurético podem gerar desequilíbrio hídrico, levando à desidratação. Por ser simples e de baixo custo, essa estratégia pode ser amplamente utilizada e trazer diversos benefícios à saúde dos idosos.

Assessment of the drinker type on water intake and toy type on behaviour of nursery piglets / Avaliação do tipo de bebedouro sobre o consumo hídrico e o tipo de brinquedo sobre o comportamento de leitões de creche

This study was conducted to assess the effect of two types of drinkers on water intake (WI) and two types of toys on behavioural observations of piglets in the nursery phase. A total of 72 crossbred entire male piglets (Landrace × Large White, Agroceres♂ and DanBred♀), weaned at 21 days of age, with an average initial body weight (AIBW) of 6.75 ± 0.19 kg were used. Two statistical models were fitted for WI. In model I, animals were distributed in a completely randomized design (CRD) with a split-plot in time, composed of six treatments (2 types of drinkers × 3 experimental phases), eight replications (days of sampling), and 36 animals/experimental unit (EU), without using AIBW as a covariate. In model II, animals were distributed in a CRD with two treatments (fixed or pendular nipple drinkers), eight replications (days of sampling) and 36 animals/EU, with use of AIBW as a covariate. For assessment of behavioural observations, the model was adjusted in a randomized block design, consisting of four treatments [two types of toys (metal chain and plastic bottle) × two daytime periods (morning and afternoon)], nine replications and three blocks constituted in time (days), totalling four pigs/ EU. The results indicated an effect on animal daily WI in the starter phase in model I (p < 0.000) and II (p = 0.006). There was an effect (p ≤ 0.05) of toy type for behavioural observations, in which pigs showed a greater proportion of fighting and belly nosing when they had the bottle toy. However, animals spent more time (p ≤ 0.05) eating, drinking water, overlapping, and playing with the toy when they had access to the chain toy. There was an increase (p ≤ 0.05) in sleeping behaviour in the morning period, as well as greater (p ≤ 0.05) behavioural activity in the afternoon period. In conclusion, WI of nursery piglets was positively influenced by growth phase, and the fixed drinker stimulated greater WI in piglets in the starter phase. In addition, the metal chain, as an environmental enrichment, promoted improvements in feeding behaviour and WI, reducing fighting events, and the afternoon period had increased behavioural observations overall.(AU)

Um estudo foi conduzido com o objetivo de avaliar dois tipos de bebedouros e seus efeitos sobre o consumo hídrico (CH) e dois tipos de brinquedos sobre os eventos comportamentais de leitões na fase de creche. Um total de 72 leitões machos inteiros mestiços (Landrace × Large White, Agroceres♂ e DanBred♀), desmamados aos 21 dias de idade e peso corporal inicial médio (PCIM) de 6,75 ± 0,19 kg. Para o CH foram ajustados dois modelos estatísticos. No modelo I, os animais foram distribuídos em um delineamento inteiramente casualizado (DIC) e esquema de parcelas subdivididas no tempo, composto de seis tratamentos (2 tipos de bebedouros × 3 fases experimentais), oito repetições (dias de amostragem) e 36 animais/unidade experimental (UE) e sem utilização de PCIM como covariável. No modelo II, os animais foram distribuídos em um DIC aninhado com dois tratamentos (bebedouro tipo chupeta fixo ou pendular), oito repetições (dias de amostragem) e 36 animais/UE, com utilização de PCIM como covariável. Para a avaliação dos eventos comportamentais, foi ajustado um modelo em delineamento de blocos casualizados, constituído de quatro tratamentos [dois tipos de brinquedos (corrente de metal e garrafa plástica) × dois períodos do dia (matutino e vespertino)], nove repetições e três blocos constituídos no tempo (dias), totalizando quatro suínos/UE. Os resultados indicaram efeito no CH diário animal na fase inicial no modelo I (p < 0,000) e II (p = 0,006). Houve efeito (p ≤ 0,05) de tipo de brinquedo para as observações comportamentais, em que os suínos apresentaram maior proporção de brigas e empurrando a barriga quando tiveram o brinquedo de garrafa. Entretanto, os animais passaram maior tempo (p ≤ 0,05) comendo, bebendo água, montando outro animal e brincando com o brinquedo quando tiveram acesso ao brinquedo de corrente. Houve um aumento (p ≤ 0,05) no comportamento de dormir no período matutino, bem como os suínos apresentaram maior (p ≤ 0,05) atividade comportamental no período vespertino. Em conclusão, o consumo hídrico de leitões em fase de creche é influenciado positivamente pela fase de crescimento e o bebedouro fixo estimulou um maior consumo de água em leitões na fase inicial. Em adição, o tipo de enriquecimento ambiental corrente promoveu melhorias no comportamento alimentar e de ingestão de água, reduzindo eventos de brigas, bem como o período vespertino aumentou os eventos comportamentais em geral.(AU)

Beef Cattle on Pasture Have Better Performance When Supplied With Water Trough Than Pond.

The behavior and performance of steers on pasture regarding water availability in troughs or in ponds were compared. Eight paddocks were randomly allocated to one treatment: POND (~30 m of diameter) or TROUGH (water trough, 120 cm diameter and 60 cm high and 500 L capacity). Eight groups of six beef steers were randomly assigned to one of the paddocks. The first 10 days were considered for animal habituation. Animals were individually weighed (days 0, 30, 60, and 90). Beginning in the day after each weighing on days 30 (Month 1), 60 (Month 2), and 90 (Month 3), behavior and animal distribution in the paddock were recorded by direct visual observation in three periods of 4 consecutive days. Water temperature and fecal and herbage DM were also recorded in these periods. Water intake was measured during 16 random days in the troughs. Data were analyzed using Generalized Linear Mixed Models, with treatment and period as fixed effects. TROUGH steers gained more weight (0.44 vs. 0.34 kg/day/animal; P ≤ 0.007) during the experiment and were heavier than the others at the end of the study (P ≤ 0.05). POND steers spent more time drinking water, but TROUGH steers increased the number of drinking events throughout the study (P ≤ 0.05), suggesting an adaptation for the new type of water source. Both treatments increased grazing time throughout the study, but not ruminating time (P ≤ 0.05). Walking time differed between treatments in all periods of behavior observation (P ≤ 0.05). Events of animal licking and ingesting salt of POND steers reduced throughout the study (P ≤ 0.05). The number of drinking events of TROUGH steers increased throughout the study, and drinking events were longer for POND steers than TROUGH steers (P ≤ 0.05). TROUGH steers spent more time on pasture on Month 2 (P ≤ 0.05). Period collection did not affect the water intake of TROUGH treatment (P > 0.05). This study demonstrates that water available in troughs rather than ponds for steers on pasture has positive effects on their weight gain and affects cattle behavior.

Replacement of grain maize with spineless cactus in the diet of dairy goats.

Spineless cactus (Nopalea cochenillifera) is widely used in animal feed in semi-arid regions, due to the adaptive characteristics to such conditions and for having high levels of soluble carbohydrates. This research article describes the effect of replacing grain maize with spineless cactus in the diet of dairy goats on dry matter intake, water intake, milk yield, milk physicochemical characteristics and diet production costs. Eight multiparous Anglo Nubian goats were fed diets in which grain maize was replaced with spineless cactus at four levels (0, 33, 66, and 100%) in a double 4 × 4 Latin square design. Milk yield was measured and samples collected in the last three days of each period for physicochemical analysis and for determining nutrient intake. Diet production costs were also determined. Replacing maize with spineless cactus did not influence dry matter intake. Water intake via the drinker decreased linearly in response to the increasing levels of spineless cactus in the diet. The replacement of maize with spineless cactus did not change milk yield or physicochemical parameters. Total feed cost and the percentage of revenue losses from feed decreased with the replacement. Therefore, spineless cactus can fully replace grain maize in the diet of dairy goats, as it does not change dry matter intake or milk yield, but rather reduces feed costs and the drinking-water intake of goats.

Water requirements of beef production can be reduced by genetic selection.

Growing concerns regarding sustainability in agriculture include the availability of drinking water, which is putting pressure on livestock production, especially the beef sector, for more efficient practices. Thus, genetic parameters were estimated for traits related to water intake and water use efficiency in Senepol cattle. Senepol females (n = 925) and males (n = 191) were evaluated in performance tests carried out from 2014 to 2019. Daily dry matter intake (DMI) and water intake (WI) were recorded by electronic feed and water bunks (Intergado Ltd.). Other traits assessed included average daily gain (ADG); mid-test metabolic BW (BW0.75); residual water intake based on ADG (RWIADG), estimated as the residual of the linear regression equation of WI on ADG and BW0.75; residual water intake based on DMI (RWIDMI), estimated as the residual of the linear regression equation of WI on DMI and BW0.75 (RWIDMI); water conversion ratio (= WI/ADG); gross water efficiency (GWE = ADG/WI); residual feed intake estimated as the residual of the linear regression equation of DMI on ADG and BW0.75 (RFI); feed conversion ratio (= DMI/ADG) and gross feed efficiency. Genetic (co)variances were estimated with bivariate analyses. The heritabilities for WI, RWIADG and RWIDMI were 0.38, 0.36 and 0.33, respectively. Water conversion ratio, RWIADG and RWIDMI showed positive genetic and phenotypic correlations with WI, whereas GWE was negatively correlated with WI, suggesting that traits related to water use efficiency may be useful to identify cattle with reduced WI. Water intake showed positive genetic (r = 0.79) and phenotypic (r = 0.60) correlations with DMI, suggesting the use of WI to estimate DMI in future studies. Both RWIADG and RWIDMI were genetically correlated with RFI (0.67 and 0.57, respectively) and ADG (0.49 and 0.44, respectively), showing that RWI is positively associated with feed efficiency, but has an antagonistic relationship with growth. This antagonism, however, may be managed using selection indexes. Genetic improvement of water use efficiency in Senepol cattle is possible through selection and may reduce the water requirements of beef production systems.

Native and introduced forage cacti in Saanen dairy goat diets

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

Native and introduced forage cacti in Saanen dairy goat diets

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

Feeding behavior, water intake, and energy and protein requirements of young Nellore bulls with different residual feed intakes.

This study aimed to determine feeding behavior, water intake (WI), and energy requirements of high- and low-residual feed intake (RFI) Nellore bulls. Data were collected from 42 weaned Nellore bulls (initial body weight [BW] 260 ± 8.1 kg; age 7 ± 1.0 mo) housed in a feedlot in group pens that contained electronic feeders, waterers, and a scale connected to the waterers. The individual dry matter intake (DMI), WI, and BW were recorded daily. The indexes of average daily gain (ADG), feed efficiency (gain to feed ratio), and RFI were calculated based on the data collected. The number of feeder and waterer visits and the time spent feeding or drinking water per animal per day were recorded as feeding behavior measures. Energy requirements for maintenance and gain were calculated according to the BR-CORTE system. Low-RFI bulls had lower DMI (P < 0.01) than high-RFI bulls, and no differences (P > 0.05) were observed between the two groups regarding WI, performance, and feeding behavior measurements. The net energy requirements for maintenance, metabolizable energy for maintenance, and efficiency of metabolizable energy utilization were 63.4, 98.6 kcal/metabolic empty body weight (EBW)0.75 daily, and 64.3%, respectively, for low-RFI bulls, and 78.1, 123.9 kcal/EBW0.75 daily, and 63.0%, respectively, for high-RFI bulls. The equations obtained for net energy for gain (NEg) were: NEg (Mcal/EBW0.75) daily = 0.0528 × EBW0.75 × EBG0.5459 for low-RFI and 0.054 × EBW0.75 × EBG0.8618 for high-RFI bulls, where EBG is the empty body gain. We did not observe any difference (P > 0.05) regarding the composition of gain in terms of protein or fat deposition between the two groups. Both groups also presented similar (P > 0.05) carcass and non-carcass traits. Therefore, our study shows that low-RFI Nellore bulls eat less, grow at a similar rate, and have lower maintenance energy requirements than high-RFI bulls. We also suggest that the lower feed intake did not compromise the carcass traits of more efficient animals, which would reduce production costs and increase the competitiveness of the Brazilian beef sector on the world market.

Effects of supplement amount, with or without calcium salts of fatty acids, on growth performance and intake behavior of grazing Bos indicus bulls.

This study evaluated the effects of 2 supplement dry matter (DM) amounts, with or without calcium salts of fatty acids (CSFA), on growth performance, supplement and water intake behavior of grazing beef bulls. On day 0, 32 Nellore bulls were ranked by initial body weight (BW; 318 ±â€…11.2 kg), and then, randomly assigned to treatments (n = 8 bulls/treatment), in a 2 × 2 factorial design, which consisted of energy-based supplement DM amount of 0.3 (SP03) or 1.0 (SP1) % of BW with (+) or without (-) CSFA fortification (90 to 100 g/bull daily). During the experiment (98 d), all bulls were managed as single group and rotated between 2 Brachiaria pastures every 9 to 11 d. Each pasture contained an individual electronic data capture system with 2 feed bunks/treatment and 1 water through to determine individual supplement DM and water intake, as well number of visits, time spent at the feeder/waterer, and intake per visit (IPV). A supplement effect was detected (P = 0.02) for final BW. Bulls supplemented at 1.0% of BW, regardless of CSFA inclusion amount, were heavier at the end of the experiment vs. SP03 bulls. Overall average daily gain (ADG) was greater (P = 0.05) for SP03+ vs. SP03- bulls, and did not differ (P = 0.87) between SP1+ vs. SP1- bulls. No supplement amount, CSFA, or supplement amount × CSFA effects were observed (P ≥ 0.13) for supplement and water intake behavior, number of visits to the feeder or IPV. However, SP1 bulls spent (P = 0.05) more time at the feeder than SP1+ bulls, whereas bulls supplemented with CSFA tended (P = 0.10) to consume less water (as % of BW) than cohorts supplemented without CSFA. In summary, CSFA fortification into 0.3% of BW supplements increased ADG when compared with cohorts not offered CSFA. On the other hand, no benefits were observed when CSFA was included into 1.0% of BW supplements, primarily due to the lower than projected supplement, and consequently, CSFA intake. Moreover, CSFA fortification tended to reduced water intake, demonstrating a potential of this technology to increase performance of beef herds, while maintaining the utilization of natural resources.