Effects of Increasing Levels of Total Tannins on Intake, Digestibility, and Balance of Nitrogen, Water, and Energy in Hair Lambs.

This study aims to evaluate the effects of increasing tannin levels from Mimosa tenuiflora hay on the intake, digestibility, and balance of nitrogen (N), water, and energy in hair lambs. Thirty-two Santa Ines lambs, at an average age of 150 days and body weight of 26.75 ± 2.29 kg, were randomly assigned to four treatments in a completely randomized design. The treatments consisted of four diets: a control diet, tannin-free, and three diets with increasing levels of total tannin, 26.2, 52.4, and 78.6 g tannin/kg dry matter (DM). Including the total tannins in the lambs' diet led to a quadratic increase in the intake of nutrients, N-retention (g/day), water intake, water absorption and retention, energy intake, and energy excretion in feces and gases. However, the digestibility of crude protein, neutral and acid detergent fibers, and total carbohydrates decreased. It was observed that there is a correlation between the variable nutrient digestibility and N-ingested and the N-absorbed, N-urinary, and N-retained. However, the N-excreted in feces did not correlate with any of the variables studied. It is recommended to include 33 g/kg DM of total natural tannins from Mimosa tenuiflora hay in the diet of hair lambs, as it improves intake, energy balance, dietary N, and body water composition while reducing the excretion of N-urinary and gas emissions to the environment.

Dietary Effect of Palm Kernel Oil Inclusion in Feeding Finishing Lambs on Meat Quality.

This study evaluated the effects of palm kernel oil (PKO) in the diet of lambs on carcass characteristics, quality, and fatty acid profile of the meat. Forty uncastrated male Santa Inês lambs were used and divided among the treatments: PKOzero without inclusion; PKO1.3­added 1.3%; PKO2.6­added 2.6%; PKO3.9­added 3.9%; PKO5.2­added 5.2%. The carcass characteristics, the variables related to meat color, and the chemical composition of the Longissimus lumborum of lambs were not affected by the PKO inclusion. The weight of the carcasses at slaughter, hot and cold, half carcass, loin-eye area, and commercial cuts decreased linearly when PKO was added to the lamb diet (p < 0.01). CCY decreased linearly to the inclusion level of 2.66% PKO (RMSE 2.204). Total conjugated linoleic acid CLA and C18:3 n-3 GA concentrations remained stable until the inclusion levels of 3.44% PKO (RMSE 0.0956) and 2.17% (RMSE 0.0637), decreasing its concentrations as the increased level of PKO. The presence of PKO in the lambs' diet up to the level of 5.2% did not change the meat quality characteristics; thus, from the point of view of lamb meat production and fatty acid profile, the inclusion of PKO is not beneficial.

Protein requirements of hair sheep raised in warm areas: a multi-study approach.

The protein requirements of hair sheep are a key factor in increasing profitability and decreasing the environmental impacts of nitrogen excretion. The objective of this study was to evaluate the protein requirements of hair sheep. A database with 382 individual records (269 intact and 113 castrated males) comprising information from 11 studies was used. The studies provided different levels of metabolisable protein intake (MPI) and of N retention, allowing the development of equations to predict the net protein (NP) and the metabolisable protein (MP) requirements. The efficiency of MP use for gain (kpg) was calculated using the equation of daily protein retained against daily MPI above maintenance. The efficiency of MP use for maintenance (kpm) was computed as the ratio between the NP for maintenance (NPm) and the MP for maintenance (MPm). The NPm (1.32 g/kg0.75 EBW) did not differ between sex. The kpm was 0.34, and the kpg was 0.25. The MPm estimated was 3.21 g/kg0.75 BW. Sex affects the protein requirements for gain (NPg). The protein requirements of hair sheep differ from those recommended by feeding systems for sheep. The equations provided herein may improve the optimisation of protein nutrition of sheep, thereby minimising the environmental impacts of sheep production.

Effects of Increasing Levels of Palm Kernel Oil in the Feed of Finishing Lambs.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of the inclusion of palm kernel oil (PKO) in a lamb diet on nutrient intake, digestibility, ingestive behavior, nitrogen balance, blood metabolites, rumen fermentation parameters, and animal performance. Three experimental trials were conducted. The treatments consisted of varying levels of PKO included in the diet, with PKOzero = no PKO inclusion, PKO1.3 = 1.3% addition, PKO2.6 = 2.6% addition, PKO3.9 = 3.9% addition, and PKO5.2 = 5.2% addition, based on the total dry matter (DM) of the diet. With the inclusion of PKO in the diet, linear decreases in DM (p < 0.001), crude ash (p < 0.001), crude protein (CP) (p < 0.001), neutral detergent fiber (NDF) (p < 0.001), nonfibrous carbohydrate (NFC) (p < 0.001), and total digestible nutrient (TDN) (p = 0.021) intake were observed, as was an increase in ether extract (EE) intake (p < 0.001). The digestibility coefficients of NDF and NFC were not affected by PKO addition to the diet. However, the digestibility of DM (p = 0.035), EE (p < 0.001), CP (p < 0.001), and TDNs (p < 0.001) increased when PKO was added to the lambs' diet. Reductions in N intake (p < 0.001), fecal nitrogen excretion (p < 0.001), and microbial protein production (p < 0.001) were noted with increasing PKO levels. Serum cholesterol increased (p < 0.001) while serum GGT enzyme concentrations in the blood decreased (p = 0.048) with increasing PKO levels. PKO addition had no effect on total weight gain and average daily gain; however, feed conversion improved (p = 0.001) with increasing PKO levels. The intake, digestibility, ingestive behavior, and growth performance of lambs with PKO1.3 added to their diet were similar to animals that did not receive PKO, meaning that PKO could be an alternative energy source for growing lambs because it does not harm animal performance and can lower the cost of feed.

Feeding behavior of sheep in feedlot and fed with diets containing detoxified castor cake in substitution to the soybean meal

To evaluate the ingestive behavior of sheep confined and fed with substitution levels of soybean meal (SM) by detoxified castor cake (DCC). We adopted a completely randomized design, with four levels of substitution (0; 33; 67 and 100%) with five replicates (sheep). We estimated the percentages of total times of intake of feed, time of rumination, in 'other activities', in idle agreed and in idle sleeping, dividing the day into eight periods (5h00 to 8h00; 8h01 to 11h00; 11h01 to 14h00; 14h01 to 17h00; 17h01 to 20h00; 20h01 to 23h00; 23h01 to 2h00 and 2h01 to 5h00). No interaction was observed between levels of substitution of the SM by DCC and period of the day to go. However, the isolated effect period of the day, there is more time to go from 8h00 to 11h00. The time rumination was not influenced by the levels of substitution of the SM by DCC. As for the variable other activities, the level of 67% DCC was superior to that of 100%. Regarding the variables idle agreed and idle sleeping, were not observed effects of substitution levels of SM by DCC. The DCC provides no changes in the behavior of the sheep, but the period of the day exerts influence on the behavioral pattern of such animals.(AU)

Biomass components and water use efficiency in cactus pear under different irrigation systems and harvest frequencies

The objective was to evaluate the effect of different irrigation systems and harvest frequencies on the cultivation of cactus pear. The study was conducted in the semi-arid region, in the municipality of Russas, CE, Brazil. The experiment was a split plot randomized block design, with four replications. Plots were represented by irrigation systems (surface drip, microsprinkler, Micro Spray Jet, and conventional sprinkler) and subplots by harvest frequencies (6, 9, 12, and 18 months). Cactus pear biomass production characteristics were evaluated. Most of the productive characteristics evaluated were influenced by harvest frequency and irrigation system. The harvest frequency of 12 months combined with conventional sprinkler system resulted in a total dry biomass production of 16,400 kg ha−1. The conventional sprinkler system showed the highest number of second-order cladodes (4.9 cladodes plant−1). The conventional sprinkler and Micro Spray Jet systems showed the highest values for various structural characteristics. For water use efficiency (WUE), the highest value was found at the frequency of six months (8.46 kg ha−1 mm−1). Regarding the effects of irrigation system on WUE, the highest values were observed with the conventional sprinkler system (8.20 kg ha−1 mm−1). The harvest frequency of 12 months combined with the conventional sprinkler system presents better results in the evaluated productive characteristics, mainly the cactus pear production by area.(AU)

Grape pomace silage on growth performance, carcass, and meat quality attributes of lambs

Grape pomace is a by-product that can be ensiled and added to animal feed for a sustainable animal production. This study evaluated the effects of grape pomace silage (GPS) on the intake, performance, and carcass and meat quality of feedlot lambs. Twenty-four male lambs (21.5 ± 3.0 kg initial body weight) were distributed into pairs to four diets levels 0, 10, 20, and 30 % of GPS. The addition of grape pomace silage influenced only ether extract (EE) intake linearly without hindering consumption. The diet did not affect performance and meat quality attributes and carcass parameters, with average daily gain (ADG) of 0.235 kg d-¹, feed conversion 4.299, carcass conformation 2.7, compactness index 0.25 kg cm-¹, fat thickness 1.51 mm, loin eye area 13.9 cm², pH 5.79, natural matter moisture 74.05 g 100 g-¹, and crude protein (CP) 19.94 g per 100 g-¹ of dry matter (DM). Grape pomace as could be used as silage in lamb diets with up to 30 % GPS, as the chemical composition of this by-product and the results indicate that GPS did not compromise performance, carcass traits, and meat quality.

Elaboration and Characterization of Bioactive Films Obtained from the Incorporation of Cashew Nut Shell Liquid into a Matrix of Sodium Alginate.

The objective of this work was to obtain and characterize sodium alginate-based biopolymer films with the addition of cashew nut shell liquid (CNSL). The study employed a completely randomized design, including 0%, 0.5%, 1%, and 1.5% inclusion of CNSL. Uniform formation of the films was observed, and the addition of CNSL provided better thermal resistance than did the treatment without inclusion, while the addition of CNSL reduced the homogeneity of the microstructure, especially for the 1.5% inclusion level. The permeability of the film increased as the level of CNSL increased, especially in response to the concentrations of 1% and 1.5%, and no significant difference in permeability was observed between these treatments. The tensile strength decreased proportionally as a function of the addition of CNSL, as its inclusion increased the elasticity and elongation of the films. In addition, the films with CNSL demonstrated strong antioxidant activity and discrete antimicrobial activity, and ecotoxicity analysis showed that the levels of CNSL tested and the films produced were nontoxic. Thus, these films are promising and self-sustainable alternatives for the agrifood industry.

Metabolizable Protein: 1. Predicting Equations to Estimate Microbial Crude Protein Synthesis in Small Ruminants.

Microbial crude protein (MCP) produced in rumen could be estimated by a variety of protocols of experimental sampling and analysis. However, a model to estimate this value is necessary when protein requirements are calculated for small ruminants. This model could be useful to calculate rumen degradable protein (RDP) requirements from metabolizable protein (MP). Then, our objective was to investigate if there is a difference in MCP efficiency between sheep and goats, and to fit equations to predict ruminal MCP production from dietary energy intake. The database consisted of 19 studies with goats (n = 176) and sheep (n = 316), and the variables MCP synthesis (g/day), total digestible nutrients (TDN), and organic matter (OM) intakes (g/day), and OM digestibility (g/kg DM) were registered for both species. The database was used for two different purposes, where 70% of the values were sorted to fit equations, and 30% for validation. A meta-analytical procedure was carried out using the MIXED procedure of SAS, specie was considered as the fixed dummy effect, and the intercept and slope nested in the study were considered random effects. No effect of specie was observed for the estimation of MCP from TDN, digestible Organic Matter (dOM), or metabolizable energy (ME) intakes (P > 0.05), considering an equation with or without an intercept. Therefore, single models including both species at the same fitting were validated. The following equations MCP (g/day) = 12.7311 + 59.2956 × TDN intake (AIC = 3,004.6); MCP (g/day) = 15.7764 + 62.2612 × dOM intake (AIC = 2,755.1); and MCP (g/day) = 12.7311 + 15.3000 × ME intake (AIC = 3,007.3) presented lower values for the mean square error of prediction (MSEP) and its decomposition, and similar values for the concordance correlation coefficient (CCC) and for the residual mean square error (RMSE) when compared with equations fitted without an intercept. The intercept and slope pooled test was significant for equations without an intercept (P < 0.05), indicating that observed and predicted data differed. In contrast, predicted and observed data for complete equations were similar (P > 0.05).

Macromineral and trace element requirements for Santa Ines sheep.

Minerals play an important role in animal metabolism. Knowledge of mineral requirements allows well-formulated diets to be provided, which is the main factor that affects performance. To determine the macromineral and trace element requirements for growth and maintenance, thirty-eight 2-month-old Santa Ines lambs with initial body weight (BW) of 13.0 ± 1.49 kg were distributed in a factorial design with feeding levels (ad libitum, 30% and 60% feed restriction) and sex classes [castrated (CM) and intact males (IM)]. The net mineral requirements for gain were higher (P < 0.05) with increasing BW and average daily gain, except for Ca and Na, which remained constant as the empty BW (EBW) increased. The macromineral net requirement for maintenance (g/kg EBW0.75) and the true retention coefficient (k; %) were 0.0784 and 65.2 for Ca, 0.0926 and 80.0 for P, and 0.0379 and 59.0 for K, respectively. The k of Mg was higher (P < 0.05) for IM (11.3 for IM and 7.9 for CM). Sex did not affect (P > 0.05) the maintenance requirement of the trace elements Co, Cu, Zn and Cr which were 0.0015, 0.037, 0.698, and 0.0055 (mg/kg EBW0.75), respectively. Our study indicated that the Santa Ines net mineral requirements are different from the main nutritional requirements established by committees for sheep, which may result in unbalanced diets.

In vitro ruminal fermentation kinetics of diets with crambe cake protein replacing soybean meal protein by gas production technique / Cinética de fermentação ruminal in vitro de dietas com proteína de torta de crambe em substituição à proteína do farelo de soja pela técnica de produção de gás

The objective of this study was to evaluate ingredients and diets containing increasing levels of crambe cake protein replacing soybean meal protein, with in vitro ruminal fermentation parameters using a gas production technique. Diets were formulated for feedlot lambs and contained different levels of crambe cake protein (0, 250, 500, 750, and 1000 g kg-1) replacing soybean meal protein. Corn silage was used as roughage. Carbohydrate digestion rates were estimated using the in vitro gas production technique and the cumulative gas production kinetics were analyzed using the bicompartmental logistic model. The parameters values of ruminal degradation kinetics were generated using the R statistical program with the Gauss-Newton algorithm and then subjected to analysis of variance and regression (when necessary) according to a completely randomized experimental design with five treatments and five replications. Upon carbohydrate fractionation of ingredients and experimental diets, it was observed that corn grain and corn silage presented the highest levels of total carbohydrates (TC), with values of 128.3 and 464.8 g kg-1 dry matter (DM) in fraction B2, respectively. Lower TC content was found for soybean meal and crambe cake (CC). There was a predominance of fractions A + B1 in the ingredients and experimental diets. The B2 fraction decreased in the diets with the inclusion of the CC protein, and CC presented the highest C fraction. Protein fractionation (g kg-1 DM and g kg-1 crude protein - CP), the ingredients and diets showed a higher proportion of fractions A and B1 + B2. In in vitro degradation, the diet without CC (0 g kg-1 DM) showed the highest final cumulative gas production (365.04 mL g-1 of incubated DM), while the CC presented the lowest volume (166.68 mL g-1 of incubated DM). The gas volume of non-fibrous carbohydrate fermentation and fibrous carbohydrate degradation rate exhibited a quadratic effect according increasing levels of CC (Pmax = 265.8 g kg-1 DM and Pmin = 376.3 g kg-1 DM, respectively). The lag time and final gas volume showed a decreasing linear effect with increasing levels of CC protein. The degradation rate of non-fibrous carbohydrates and the final volume of fibrous carbohydrates did not differ. Replacing soybean meal protein with CC protein at the level of 250 g kg-1 of dry matter in diets formulated for feedlot lambs leads to good profiles of ruminal fermentation kinetics with respect to the degradation of fibrous and non-fibrous carbohydrates.(AU)

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar ingredientes e dietas contendo diferentes níveis de proteína da torta de crambe como substituto da proteína do farelo de soja utilizando parâmetros de fermentação ruminal in vitro pela técnica de produção de gás. Foram formuladas dietas para cordeiros em confinamento e continham níveis crescentes de proteína da torta de crambe (0, 250, 500, 750, e 1000 g kg-1) em substituição à proteína do farelo de soja. A silagem de milho foi utilizada como volumoso. As taxas de digestão de carboidratos foram estimadas usando a técnica in vitro de produção de gás, e a cinética cumulativa de produção de gás foi analisada usando o modelo logístico bicompartimental. Os valores dos parâmetros da cinética de degradação ruminal foram gerados usando o programa estatístico R com o algoritmo de Gauss-Newton e posteriormente submetidos à análise de variância e regressão (quando necessário) em delineamento experimental inteiramente casualizado com cinco tratamentos e cinco repetições. Sobre o fracionamento dos carboidratos dos ingredientes e das dietas experimentais observou-se que o milho e a silagem de milho apresentaram maiores teores de carboidratos totais (CT), com valores de 128,3 e 464,8 g kg-1 matéria seca (MS) na fração B2, respectivamente. O menor teor de CT encontrado foi para o farelo de soja e a torta de crambe (TCr). Houve predomínio das frações A+B1 nos ingredientes e nas dietas experimentais. A fração B2 diminuiu nas dietas com a inclusão da proteína da TCr, e a TCr apresentou a maior fração C. No fracionamento de proteínas (g kg-1 MS e g kg-1 proteína bruta - PB), os ingredientes e as dietas apresentaram maior proporção das frações A e B1+B2. Na degradação in vitro, a dieta sem TCr (0 g kg-1 MS) apresentou a maior produção final cumulativa de gases (365,04 mL g-1 de MS incubada), enquanto que a TCr apresentou o menor volume (168,68 mL g-1 de MS incubada). O volume de gás da fermentação de carboidratos não fibrosos e taxa de degradação de carboidratos fibrosos exibiram um efeito quadrático de acordo com os níveis crescentes de TCr (Pmáx= 265.8 g kg-1 DM e Pmin= 376.3 g kg-1 DM, respectivamente). O tempo de latência e o volume final do gás apresentaram efeito linear decrescente com o aumento dos níveis de proteína da TCr. A taxa de degradação dos carboidratos não fibrosos e volume final de carboidratos não diferiram. A substituição da proteína do farelo de soja pela proteína da torta de crambe no nível de 250 g kg-1 MS em dietas formuladas para cordeiros em confinamento leva a um bom perfil cinético de fermentação ruminal em relação à degradação de carboidratos fibrosos e não fibrosos.(AU)

'Meta-analysis of dry matter intake and neutral detergent fiber intake of hair sheep raised in tropical areas'.

Inadequate estimates of fiber and dry matter intake of sheep raised in tropical conditions may explain part of the inefficiency of those production systems. Therefore, we aimed to estimate dry matter intake (DMI) and neutral detergent fiber intake (NDFI) of hair sheep raised under tropical conditions. A meta-analysis of 61 independent performance experiments, comprising a total of 413 experimental units (treatment means or animals), was performed. Trials were conducted in tropical conditions, using hair sheep in growing and finishing phases and endowed with the following information: neutral detergent fiber (NDF) in diet, initial and final body weight (BW), average daily gain (ADG), DMI and NDFI of treatment means (51 studies) or individual data (10 studies). Data on organic matter and NDF digestibilities were collected to estimate D-value (Dv) and B-value (Bv) (20 and 33 studies, respectively). The equations obtained were: [Formula: see text] DMI (g/kg BW) as a function of Dv (g/kg DM) revealed a quadratic relationship, whose point of maximum DMI (38.69 g/kg BW) was obtained at 634.1 g/kg DM Dv. On the other hand, DMI decreased linearly as Bv (g/kg DM) increased. In conclusion, equations to predict DMI from BW and ADG as well to predict NDFI from dietary NDF were fitted with great accuracy and are recommended for hair sheep raised in tropical regions. DMI values were, in general, greater than those reported by the NRC, AFRC and INRA systems, which may be a reflection of the sheep breeds used in this study. Using Dv and Bv concepts was satisfactory to describe an integrated mechanism between metabolic and bulking regulation of DMI in sheep.

Influence of nutrient restriction on finishing Morada Nova lambs.

Our objective was to evaluate the effect of 15% crude protein (CP) and total digestible nutrient (TDN) restriction vis-á-vis that recommended by NRC (2007) on feed intake, digestibility, and average daily gain (ADG) of confined Morada Nova lambs. Twenty lambs with 18.8 ± 2.8 kg liveweight were assigned to a randomized 2 × 2 factorial experiment with either early- or late-maturity feed formulation according to "Nutrient Requirements of Small Ruminants" with or without 15% CP and TDN restriction. The early-maturity diet, independent of restriction, resulted in greater dry matter and organic matter intake and increased rumination efficiency and feed conversion. Early-maturity diets also had the greatest nutrient digestibility as well as ADG and total gains. With late-maturity diets, independent of restriction, there were greater CP and TDN digestibilities as well as neutral detergent fiber (NDF) feed efficiency. However, when 15% of nutrients were restricted for late-maturity lamb diets, there was greater NDF intake and greater ether extract digestibility. Unrestricted early-maturity lamb diets was the better diet for confined Morada Nova lambs. Attention should be given to minimum effective NDF consumed and physically effective for this diet formulation. The use of late-maturity diets as recommended by NRC (2007) allows for 15% restriction of CP and TDN in Morada Nova lambs without negative effects on performance. This restriction should be tested in other tropical breeds to determine wider application.

Morphogenesis of Cynodon cultivars fertilized with nitrogen / Morfogênese de cultivares Cynodon fertilizadas com nitrogênio

Toevaluate the biomass flow of two cultivars of Cynodon (Tifton 85 grass and vaquero grass) fertilized with increasing levels of nitrogen (N) (control ­ without nitrogen; 200; 400 and 600 mg dm-3) under greenhouse conditions, this study was carried out, in a completely randomized design, with factorial arrangement. Forages were examined during three regrowth cycles, with results presented as mean values of the cycles. In the analysis of the effect of nitrogen fertilization, the Tifton 85 grass showed an increasing response to nitrogen levels for the leaf elongation rate (LER). The vaquero grass had a quadractic response for the LER with increasing levels of N. As for the stem elongation rate, there was an increasing linear response in both grasses according to increasing levels of N. The leaf senescence rate (LSR) of the Tifton 85 grass has been enhanced by nitrogen fertilization. The vaquero grass revealed a quadractic response for this variable LSR with nitrogen fertilization, with a minimum value of 0.96 cm tiller-1 day-1 with nitrogen level of 42.5 mg dm-3. The phyllochron and the total number of leaves of both grasses have been influenced by nitrogen fertilization, with downward and upward linear responses, respectively, with increasing levels of nitrogen. For the final mean leaf length (MLL) of both forages, we verified an increasing response with increasing levels of nitrogen. Tifton 85 grass and vaquero grass presented similar LER in the absence of nitrogen, but higher values were observed for the fertilized Tifton 85 grass. The fertilization using nitrogen leads to positive responses of the biomass flow of Tifton 85 grass and vaquero grass under the conditions of the present study.

Objetivou-se avaliar o fluxo de biomassa de dois cultivares do gênero Cynodon (capim-Tifton 85 e capim-vaquero) adubados com doses crescentes de nitrogênio (N) (controle - sem nitrogênio; 200; 400 e 600 mg dm-3) em condições de casa de vegetação, em um delineamento inteiramente casualizado, em arranjo fatorial. As forrageiras foram estudas durante três ciclos de rebrotação, com os resultados apresentados na média dos ciclos. No estudo do efeito da adubação nitrogenada, o capim-Tifton 85 apresentou para a taxa de alongamento foliar (TAlF) resposta crescente às doses de N. O capim-vaquero apresentou resposta quadrática para TAlF com o incremento das doses de N. Analisando-se a taxa de alongamento dos colmos, verificou-se resposta linear crescente para ambas as gramíneas com o aumento das doses de nitrogênio. A taxa de senescência foliar (TSF) do capim-Tifton 85 foi incrementada pela adubação nitrogenada. O capim-vaquero revelou para TSF resposta quadrática com a adubação nitrogenada, com valor mínimo de 0,96 cm perf-1 dia-1 na dose de nitrogênio de 42,5 mg dm-3. O filocrono e o número total de folhas do capim-Tifton 85 e do capim-vaquero foram influenciados pela adubação nitrogenada, revelando resposta linear decrescente e crescente, respectivamente, com o incremento nas doses de nitrogênio. Para o comprimento médio final das folhas (CMF) das duas forrageiras, constatou-se resposta crescente com a elevação nas doses de nitrogênio. Os capins-Tifton 85 e vaquero apresentaram TAlF semelhante na ausência de nitrogênio, porém para as plantas adubadas verificou-se valores superiores para o capim-Tifton 85. A adubação nitrogenada proporciona respostas positivas sobre o fluxo de biomassa dos capins-Tifton 85 e vaquero nas condições do presente estudo.

Fatty acid profile, physicochemical composition and sensorial attributes of salted and sun-dried meat from young Nellore bulls supplemented with condensed tannins.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of condensed tannin inclusion (0, 10, 30 or 50 g/kg of dry matter (DM) total) from Acacia mearnsii extract on the fatty acid profile, physicochemical quality and sensorial analysis of salted and sun-dried meat from young Nellore bulls. The inclusion of condensed tannin extract in the young bulls' diets promoted a quadratic reduction in the lipid content. There was a linear increase in the water retention capacity, cooking weight loss and C18:3n-3 and a linear reduction in collagen, C16:0, C16:1cis-9, C18:1, MUFAs, and Δ9-desaturaseC18 in the salted and sun-dried meat from young Nellore bulls supplemented with condensed tannin. The myristic fatty acid (C14:0) and the flavor sensory attribute presented a quadratic increase. The inclusion of condensed tannin extract in the young Nellore bulls' diets did not influence most of the physicochemical characteristics, fatty acids and nutraceutical compounds, including CLA, atherogenicity, thrombogenicity and the h:H index, the tenderness and the global appearance of the salted and sun-dried meat. Condensed tannins reduce ruminal biohydrogenation and improve the PUFA content of salted and sun-dried meat from young Nellore bulls.

Agronomic and nutritional responses of Carajas elephant grass fertilized with protected and non-protected urea / Respostas agronômicas e nutricionais de capim elefante Carajas adubado com ureia protegida e não protegida

The objective of this study was to assess the agronomic and nutritional responses of the elephant grass cultivar Carajas when subjected to fertilization with protected and conventional urea. A randomized block design with 4×2+1 factorial arrangement was adopted. The treatments consisted of four doses (100, 200, 400, and 800 kg N ha-¹), two nitrogen sources (conventional and protected urea), and one additional treatment without fertilization. The experiment was carried out from October 2015 to March 2016, in a semi-arid region with a dystrophic yellow latosol type soil. The application of conventional urea was done with each of the multiple cuts performed per year, whereas the protected urea was applied in a single dose. Total senescence rate (TSR), leaf and stem elongation, height, tiller density, total forage biomass, green leaf and stem biomass, and dry matter all increased with increasing N doses. However, the phyllochron, live material/dead material ratio, and agronomic efficiency all decreased with N increasing dose. Plants fertilized with protected urea presented greater TSR and phyllochron. Mineral matter content was higher in plants fertilized with conventional urea. Neutral detergent fiber content was maximized at a dose of 437.63 kg N ha-¹. The protected urea resulted in a higher value of leaf/stem ratio at the 400 kg N ha-¹ dose, whereas ether extract and crude protein at the 800 kg N ha-¹. With application of conventional urea, the highest crude protein value occurred at a dose of 100 kg N ha-¹. The morphogenesis, structure, production, and chemical composition of elephant grass 'Carajas' were all positively influenced when nitrogen doses were increased, with the recommended optimal dose for use being 400 kg N ha-1 for both sources. The use of protected urea is recommended because of its slow release and need for only a single application.(AU)

Objetivou-se avaliar as respostas agronômicas e nutricionais do capim elefante cultivar Carajas submetido à adubação com ureia protegida e convencional. Adotou-se o delineamento em blocos casualizado com arranjo fatorial 4x2+1. Os tratamentos constituíram-se por quatro doses (100; 200; 400 e 800 kg N ha-¹) e duas fontes de nitrogênio (ureia convencional e protegida) e um tratamento adicional sem fertilidade. O experimento foi conduzido durante os meses de outubro de 2015 a março de 2016, em uma região com clima semiárido e em um solo do tipo latossolo amarelo distrófico. A aplicação da ureia convencional foi de acordo com o número de cortes por ano e a ureia protegida foi em dose única. As taxas de senescência total (TST), alongamento de folha e colmo, altura, densidade de perfilhos, biomassa de forragem total, biomassa de lâmina verde, de colmo e matéria seca elevaram-se com aumento das doses de N. O filocrono, a relação material vivo/morto e a eficiência agronômica reduziram. As plantas adubadas com ureia protegida apresentaram maior TST e filocrono. A matéria mineral foi maior em plantas adubadas com a ureia convencional. Fibra em detergente neutro apresentou valor máximo na dose 437,63 kg N ha-¹. A ureia protegida apresentou maior valor para relação folha/colmo na dose 400 kg N ha-¹, enquanto extrato etéreo e proteína bruta na dose 800 kg N ha¹. Maiores valores de proteína bruta foram observados em plantas adubadas com a ureia convencional na dose 100 kg N ha-¹. A morfogênese, estrutura, produção e composição química do capim-elefante cv. Carajas são influenciadas positivamente quando as doses de nitrogênio foram aumentadas, sendo recomendado o uso da dose 400 kg N ha-¹ para ambas as fontes. Recomenda-se utilizar a ureia protegida por apresentar liberação lenta e única aplicação.(AU)

Performance and carcass traits of Nellore cattle fattening on pasture receiving different zinc contents in the mineral supplementation / Desempenho produtivo e características de carcaça de bovinos Nelore em regime de engorda a pasto recebendo diferentes teores de zinco na suplementação mineral

The objective of this work was to study the effect of different zinc content (ZnSO4) in the mineral supplementation for Nellore steers grazing Brachiaria brizantha (cv) MG-4, on productive performance and carcass traits. Twenty-eight castrated animals with average body weight of 355 kg, were used. The animals were randomly divided into four groups and housed in paddocks of 6.25 ha each one, equipped with covered feeders and waterers, and grazed alternately each 28 days. The experimental design was completely randomized, with four zinc (Zn) content and seven repetitions. Different zinc content were: Zn-0, without Zn; Zn-2, with 2,000 mg Zn kg-1; Zn-4, with 4,000 mg Zn kg-1; and Zn-6, with 6,000 mg Zn kg-1; in the inorganic form (Zinc Sulphate) in mineral supplement. Mineral supplements were givenad libitum in covered troughs and previously weighed, with leftovers control for determining intake. The experimental period was 370 days. Organs, viscera, carcass and non-carcass components were weighed from each slaughtered animal. Loin eye area (LEA) and subcutaneous fat thickness (SFAT),as well as, color, pH and lipid oxidation, were evaluated. The increasing inclusion of zinc content in the diet of steers do not affected (P>0.05) final body weight (FBW) and average daily weight gain (ADWG). Difference (P < 0.05) was observed in the Zn intake (ZnI) (Ŷ = -2.09386 + 146.9616x; R2=0.99) and hot carcass weight (Ŷ= 299.92662 + 3.33362x; R2 = 0.24), as well as, in meat lipid oxidation (Ŷ = 0.15170 + 0.02539x; R2 = 0.31). There was an increasing linear effect for meat color, evaluated by values of L* (luminosity) (Ŷ = 32.23309 + 0.41445x, R2 = 0.14), a* (red-green intensity) (Ŷ = 0.88592 + 18.16225x, R2 = 0.25) and b* (yellow-blue intensity) (Ŷ = 9.35295 + 0.45030x, R2 = 0.20), but remained within normal values for meat.[...](AU)

Objetivou-se estudar o efeito de diferentes teores de Zinco na suplementação mineral de novilhos Nelore em pastagem de Brachiaria brizantha cultivar (cv) MG-4, sobre o desempenho produtivo e características de carcaça. Foram utilizados 28 animais, castrados, com peso vivo médio inicial de 355 kg. Os animais foram divididos ao acaso em quatro grupos e alojados em piquetes de 6,25 hectares cada, equipados com comedouro coberto e bebedouros, sendo pastejados alternadamente a cada pesagem (28 dias). O delineamento experimental foi inteiramente casualizado, com quatro dosagens de zinco (Zn) no suplemento mineral e sete repetições. As doses de zinco avaliadas foram: Zn-0, sem adição de Zinco; Zn-2, com 2.000 mg de Zn kg-1; Zn-4, com 4.000 mg de Zn kg-1; e Zn-6, com 6.000 mg de Zn kg-1; sob forma inorgânica (Sulfato de Zinco) no suplemento mineral. Os suplementos minerais foram pesados e fornecidos ad libitum, em cochos cobertos, com controle das sobras para determinação do consumo. O período experimental foi de 370 dias. De cada animal abatido pesaram-se órgãos, vísceras, carcaça e componentes não carcaça. Avaliaram-se a área de olho de lombo (AOL) e espessura da gordura subcutânea (EGSC), bem como a cor, pH e oxidação lipídica. A crescente inclusão do zinco na dieta dos bovinos, não influenciou (P > 0,05) o peso vivo final (PVF) e o ganho de peso médio diário (GPMD). Observou-se diferença (P<0,05) no consumo de Zn (CZn) (Ŷ = -2,09386 + 146,9616x; R2 =0,99) e peso de carcaça quente (Ŷ= 299,92662 + 3,33362x, R2= 0,24), bem como na oxidação lipídica da carne (Ŷ= 0,15170 + 0,02539x; R2 =0,31). Houve efeitos lineares crescentes sobre a cor da carne, avaliados pelos valores de “L*” (luminosidade) (Ŷ= 32,23309 + 0,41445x; R2 = 0,14), “a*” (intensidade de vermelho-verde) (Ŷ= 0,88592 + 18,16225x, R2 = 0.25) e “b*” (intensidade de amarelo-azul) (Ŷ= 9,35295 + 0,45030x; R2 =0,20), porém mantiveram-se dentro dos valores normais para carne bovina.[...](AU)

Feeding sunflower cake from biodiesel production to Santa Ines lambs: Physicochemical composition, fatty acid profile and sensory attributes of meat.

The aim of this study was to determine the effect of the inclusion of sunflower cake in the diets of lambs on meat quality. Forty male, uncastrated Santa Ines lambs with an initial average body weight of 20.9 ± 0.41 kg were used in a completely randomized design with four treatments. The lambs were fed 500 g/kg hay and 500 g/kg concentrate (corn, soybean meal, urea, ammonium sulfate and sunflower cake) in their diet, and the experimental treatments were 0, 10, 20, and 30% sunflower cake inclusion (DM basis). The inclusion of sunflower cake in the diet did not affect (P > 0.05) the content of ash and protein, overall acceptance, or sensory aroma of the lamb meat. Total lipids and moisture content of the longissimus lumborum muscle increased linearly (P ≤ 0.05) with sunflower cake inclusion. The C16:0, ΣSFA, ΣMUFA:ΣSFA ratio, Δ-9 desaturase enzyme and atherogenicity index in the longissimus lumborum muscle decreased linearly (P ≤ 0.05) with sunflower cake inclusion in lamb diets, whereas a linear increase occurred (P ≤ 0.05) in C12:0, C18:0, ΣMUFA, ΣPUFA, ΣPUFA:ΣSFA and ΣPUFA:ΣMUFA ratios, Σn-6, Σn-3, desirable fatty acids, h:H index, elongase activity, and flavor, tenderness and juiciness sensory qualities in lamb meat. Among the panelists, the highest preference (35.9%) was for meat with 30% sunflower cake inclusion in the diet. Sunflower cake up to 30% of total DM can be included in the diet of Santa Ines lambs, because lipid nutritional quality and the sensory qualities of the lamb meat increase, in addition to improvement in nutraceutical compounds, such as the CLA content, and in the AI, PUFA:SFA and PUFA:MUFA ratios, desirable fatty acids content and h:H ratio, which are beneficial to the health of consumers.

Economic and financial feasibility of feedlot sheep fed with rations containing castor cake / Viabilidade econômico-financeira do confinamento de ovinos alimentados com rações contendo torta de mamona

Twenty sheep were placed in a completely randomized block design and submitted to one of five treatments testing castor cake as a ration ingredient (untreated castor cake, treated with limestone, with urea, with mono-dicalcium phosphate and autoclaved) to evaluate their performance and the economic output. The roughage consisted of tifton-85 bermudagrass hay. The market prices of the rations ingredients, body weight (BW) and the carcass weight were considered to identify the minimum conditions for the enterprise to become economically feasible. After obtaining the ration cost and the dry matter intake, the technical, zootechnical and economic indexes were analyzed using the Excel® program. The daily production (kg of BW or kg of carcass) was higher for sheep eating rations with autoclaved castor cake and treated with mono-dicalcium phosphate, showing the highest production system turnover and providing the highest number of finished animals on a yearly basis. These production systems showed the highest gross income. The animal purchase and feeding were the most representative items on BW production expenses, representing 44.8 and 43.3%/year on average, respectively. Adopting R$ 4.70/kg BW and R$ 13.40/kg carcass as sell prices, the production system containing castor cake treated with mono-dicalcium phosphate showed the best economic output, with a 1.07 benefit/cost, a R$ 73,117.34 liquid present value (LPV), 54% internal return rate (IRR) and a R$ 4.32 BW total cost. On the other hand, the production system using non-treated cake as the ingredient showed a 1.00 benefit/cost, R$ 1,772.62 LPV, 8% IRR and R$ 4.63/kg BW total cost, without any evidence of animal toxicity. It can be concluded that mono-dicalcium phosphate-treated castor cake is a promising ingredient to be used in sheep rations.

Objetivou-se avaliar o desempenho e a resposta econômica de 20 ovinos distribuídos em delineamento em blocos ao acaso e submetidos a um de cinco tratamentos testando a torta de mamona como ingrediente em rações (torta de mamona não tratada, tratada com calcário calcítico, ureia, fosfato monobicálcico e autoclavada). O volumoso foi feno de capim-tifton 85. Foram considerados os preços de mercado de ingredientes das rações, peso corporal (PC) e peso da carcaça, buscando-se determinar condições mínimas para tornar o empreendimento economicamente viável. De posse do custo de cada ração e do consumo de matéria seca, foram analisados indicadores técnicos, zootécnicos e econômicos utilizando-se o programa Excel®. A produção diária (kg PC e kg carcaça) foi maior para ovinos consumindo rações contendo torta de mamona autoclavada e tratada com fosfato monobicálcico, apresentando maior rotatividade do sistema de produção, resultando em maior número de animais terminados anualmente. Esses sistemas de produção obtiveram maior renda bruta. A compra de animais e alimentação foram os itens mais representativos nas despesas de custeio para produção de PC, representando 44,8 e 43,3%/ano em média, respectivamente. Considerando um preço de venda de R$ 4,70/kg PC e R$ 13,40/kg de carcaça, o sistema de produção com torta tratada com fosfato monobicálcico apresentou melhor resposta econômica,com relação benefício/custo de 1,07, valor presente líquido (VPL) de R$ 73.117,34, taxa interna de retorno (TIR) de 54% e custo total de R$ 4,32/kg PC. Por outro lado, o sistema utilizando torta não tratada como ingrediente apresentou relação benefício/custo de 1,00, VPL de 1.772,62, TIR de 8% e custo total de R$ 4,63/kg PC, sem indícios de intoxicação dos animais. Concluiu-se que a torta de mamona tratada com fosfato monobicálcico é promissora para uso em rações de ovinos.

Economic and financial feasibility of feedlot sheep fed with rations containing castor cake / Viabilidade econômico-financeira do confinamento de ovinos alimentados com rações contendo torta de mamona

Twenty sheep were placed in a completely randomized block design and submitted to one of five treatments testing castor cake as a ration ingredient (untreated castor cake, treated with limestone, with urea, with mono-dicalcium phosphate and autoclaved) to evaluate their performance and the economic output. The roughage consisted of tifton-85 bermudagrass hay. The market prices of the rations ingredients, body weight (BW) and the carcass weight were considered to identify the minimum conditions for the enterprise to become economically feasible. After obtaining the ration cost and the dry matter intake, the technical, zootechnical and economic indexes were analyzed using the Excel® program. The daily production (kg of BW or kg of carcass) was higher for sheep eating rations with autoclaved castor cake and treated with mono-dicalcium phosphate, showing the highest production system turnover and providing the highest number of finished animals on a yearly basis. These production systems showed the highest gross income. The animal purchase and feeding were the most representative items on BW production expenses, representing 44.8 and 43.3%/year on average, respectively. Adopting R$ 4.70/kg BW and R$ 13.40/kg carcass as sell prices, the production system containing castor cake treated with mono-dicalcium phosphate showed the best economic output, with a 1.07 benefit/cost, a R$ 73,117.34 liquid present value (LPV), 54% internal return rate (IRR) and a R$ 4.32 BW total cost. On the other hand, the production system using non-treated cake as the ingredient showed a 1.00 benefit/cost, R$ 1,772.62 LPV, 8% IRR and R$ 4.63/kg BW total cost, without any evidence of animal toxicity. It can be concluded that mono-dicalcium phosphate-treated castor cake is a promising ingredient to be used in sheep rations.(AU)

Objetivou-se avaliar o desempenho e a resposta econômica de 20 ovinos distribuídos em delineamento em blocos ao acaso e submetidos a um de cinco tratamentos testando a torta de mamona como ingrediente em rações (torta de mamona não tratada, tratada com calcário calcítico, ureia, fosfato monobicálcico e autoclavada). O volumoso foi feno de capim-tifton 85. Foram considerados os preços de mercado de ingredientes das rações, peso corporal (PC) e peso da carcaça, buscando-se determinar condições mínimas para tornar o empreendimento economicamente viável. De posse do custo de cada ração e do consumo de matéria seca, foram analisados indicadores técnicos, zootécnicos e econômicos utilizando-se o programa Excel®. A produção diária (kg PC e kg carcaça) foi maior para ovinos consumindo rações contendo torta de mamona autoclavada e tratada com fosfato monobicálcico, apresentando maior rotatividade do sistema de produção, resultando em maior número de animais terminados anualmente. Esses sistemas de produção obtiveram maior renda bruta. A compra de animais e alimentação foram os itens mais representativos nas despesas de custeio para produção de PC, representando 44,8 e 43,3%/ano em média, respectivamente. Considerando um preço de venda de R$ 4,70/kg PC e R$ 13,40/kg de carcaça, o sistema de produção com torta tratada com fosfato monobicálcico apresentou melhor resposta econômica,com relação benefício/custo de 1,07, valor presente líquido (VPL) de R$ 73.117,34, taxa interna de retorno (TIR) de 54% e custo total de R$ 4,32/kg PC. Por outro lado, o sistema utilizando torta não tratada como ingrediente apresentou relação benefício/custo de 1,00, VPL de 1.772,62, TIR de 8% e custo total de R$ 4,63/kg PC, sem indícios de intoxicação dos animais. Concluiu-se que a torta de mamona tratada com fosfato monobicálcico é promissora para uso em rações de ovinos.(AU)