Dried distiller's grains for feedlot Nellore cattle fed non-forage-based diets.

This study aimed to evaluate intake, animal performance and carcass traits with the inclusion of corn dried distiller grains (DDGs) replacing cornmeal (Zea mays L.) in non-forage-based diets for finishing feedlot Nellore cattle. Sixty-four uncastrated Nellore cattle weighing 267.22 ± 20.4 kg and 18 ± 3 months old were distributed in 16 pens. Experimental diets were based on cornmeal, cottonseed cake, a mineral mixture and increased levels of DDG replacing cornmeal (0, 10, 20 and 30% on a dry matter basis). The study lasted 135 days, and the intake of nutrients and body weight gain were monitored. At the end of the study, the animals were slaughtered to measure their carcass traits. During the first 34 days of the study, the DDG levels linearly increased dry matter intake and intake of all nutrients. In other phases of the feedlot, the DDG levels did not have any effect on DMI or ADG but caused a quadratic effect on hot carcass weight. Thus, DDG can replace cornmeal in non-forage diets fed to feedlot Nellore cattle without any negative effect on intake or animal performance.

Association of ionophores, yeast, and bacterial probiotics alters the abundance of ruminal microbial species of pasture intensively finished beef cattle.

The effect of the association of non-protein nitrogen, yeast, and bacterial probiotics on the ruminal microbiome of beef cattle intensively finished on pasture was evaluated. The experiment was carried out in a completely randomized design with five treatments and four replications. The treatments consisted of a group of animals kept on pasture that received low consumption supplementation (LS) and four groups that received for 98 days, 17.5 g concentrate kg-1 body weight. The supplements were composed of the association of additives: urea (U), slow-release non-protein nitrogen (U+SRN), yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae; U+SRN+Y), and bacterial probiotics (live strains of bacteria; U+SRN+Y+BP). All supplements also contained salinomycin and virginiamycin. After slaughtering the animals, samples of ruminal content were collected to quantify groups of fibrolytic bacteria (Ruminococcus albus and Fibrobacter succinogenes), non-fibrolytic (Prevotella ruminicola, Selenomonas ruminantium, and Streptococcus bovis), Archaea, and ciliate protozoa, using the qPCR technique. The abundance of F. succinogenes was the same for the LS animals and those that received the supplement U+SRN+Y (1.42×108 copies mL-1) but higher than the other treatments. Supplementation reduced by 90% the abundance of S. bovis compared to the LS. The inclusion of yeast increased the abundance of fibrolytic bacteria by 2.2-fold. For animals that received the supplement U+SRN+Y+BP and the LS, there was no difference for non-fibrolytic bacteria (3.07×109 copies mL-1). The use of yeasts and sources of non-protein nitrogen in high-concentrate diets for beef cattle stimulates the growth of fibrolytic bacteria, which can contribute to the reduction of digestive disorders and metabolic diseases in animals that receive diets with high concentrate in pasture intensive termination systems.

Supplementation with different protein profiles for grazing beef cattle supplemented in tropical grass during the rainy-dry transition season.

The objective of this study was to evaluate increasing levels of inclusion of dry distillery grains (DDGs) in substitution of corn and urea in multiple supplements for beef cattle of Urochloa brizantha cv. Marandu on the consumption, digestibility, and efficiency of microbial synthesis and use of nitrogen. We used four Nellore bulls cannulated in the rumen with an average age of 24 months and 445.12 ± 34.4 kg of body weight (BW), in a 4 × 4 Latin square design. Supplements differed by the inclusion level of DDG (0%, 31.5%, 63.0%, and 94.5%). Increasing levels of DDG inclusion decreased dry matter intake (DMI) (P = 0.002), forage (P = 0.002), organic matter (OM) (P = 0.001), crude protein (CP) (P = 0.037), and total digestible nutrients (TDN) (P < 0.001) and had a quadratic effect on the intake of non-fibrous carbohydrates (NFC) (P = 0.002). It was observed an increase in the digestibility of ether extract (EE) (P = 0.005), however a decrease in the digestibility of NFC (P = 0.001). Inclusion of DDG did not influence ruminal pH. There was a quadratic effect at collection times for ruminal ammoniacal nitrogen (P < 0.05), except for the supplement with 94.5% DDG where the effect was linear (P = 0.002). Nitrogen intake was 10.9% higher when there was no DDG in the supplement, compared with the supplement with 94.5% DDG (P = 0.039). The excretion of N by feces was greater when there was a greater amount of DDG in the supplement (P = 0.027), the opposite occurred with urine excretion of N, being higher when there was less amount of DDG in the supplement (P = 0.027). Increasing levels of DDG did not affect ruminal microbial protein yield (P > 0.05). Replacing corn and urea with up to 94.5% DDGs in multiple supplements resulted in no adverse effect efficiency of microbial synthesis, although nutrient intake, total digestible nutrients, and use of nitrogen were reduced at 94.5% DDG inclusion.

Effects of rumen-protected oil supplementation on finishing grazing beef cattle.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of rumen-protected oil (soybean and palm oil) in supplements for beef cattle during the fattening phase in pastures on the intake and digestibility of nutrients, animal performance, and carcass characteristics. Forty-eight noncastrated male Nellore cattle (15 ± 2 months and 389.5 ± 20 kg of body weight) were used in a completely randomized design to evaluate the following treatments: protein-energy supplement (PES) without rumen-protected oil (control: CO), PES containing palm rumen-protected oil (PRPO), PES containing soybean rumen-protected oil (SRPO), and PES containing a mixture of soybean and palm rumen-protected oil (SPRPO). The study lasted 112 days, and there was a decrease in crude protein intake (P < 0.05) and an increase in ether extract intake (P < 0.05) when rumen-protected oil was included in the supplements. In comparison to the palm rumen-protected oil supplement, the soybean rumen-protected oil supplement promoted a lower average daily gain (ADG) (P < 0.05); however, regardless of the rumen-protected oil source, an increase in the fat thickness of the subcutaneous tissue was observed. In addition, there was no difference in carcass gain (P > 0.05) regardless of oil source. Rumen-protected oil is a tool to increase the finishing of pasture-finished young beef cattle in the dry season.

Ruminal Microbial Populations and Fermentation Characteristics in Beef Cattle Grazing Tropical Forage in Dry Season and Supplemented with Different Protein Levels.

We tested the hypothesis that supplementation with protein improves fermentation parameters without damaging the rumen microbial populations of beef cattle grazing Urochloa brizantha cv. Marandu during the dry season. Four rumen-cannulated Nellore bulls (571 ± 31 kg of body weight) were used in a 4 × 4 Latin square design. The treatments were not supplemented with concentrate (only free-choice mineral salt ad libitum) and supplemented (supplements with low-LPSU, medium-MPS, and high protein supplement-HPS), supplying 155, 515, and 875 g/animal/day of crude protein (CP), respectively. The abundance of each target taxon was calculated as a fraction of the total 16S rRNA gene copies in the samples, using taxon-specific and domain bacteria primers. There was no difference (P > 0.05) across treatments for intakes of dry matter (DM), forage and neutral detergent fiber (NDF), digestibility of DM and NDF, and ruminal pH. Animals supplemented with concentrate had greater (P < 0.05) intakes and digestibility of CP, ether extract and non-fibrous carbohydrate contents of the substrates (EE + NFC), and ruminal ammonia nitrogen (RAN) compared to control. Bulls that received only mineral salt had lower proportions of Butyrivibrio fibrisolvens and had greater (P < 0.05) proportions of Fibrobacter succinogenes, Ruminococcus albus, Ruminococcus flavefaciens, Methanogen archaea than bulls supplemented with concentrate. The MPS animals had greater (P < 0.05) intake and digestibility of CP, RAN concentration, and had lower (P < 0.05) proportions of Fibrobacter succinogenes, Ruminococcus flavefaciens, and Selenomonas ruminantium than LPSU animals. The HPS provided higher (P < 0.05) intake of CP, RAN and proportion of Ruminococcus albus when compared with MPS. In conclusion, supply of 515 g/animal/day of protein via supplement provides better ruminal conditions for the growth of cellulolytic bacteria of bulls on pasture during dry season.

Quantitative qPCR Analysis of Ruminal Microorganisms in Beef Cattle Grazing in Pastures in the Rainy Season and Supplemented with Different Protein Levels.

We tested the hypothesis that supplementation with three protein levels improves fermentation parameters without changing the rumen microbial population of grazing beef cattle in the rainy season. Four rumen-cannulated Nellore bulls (432 ± 21 kg of body weight) were used in a 4 × 4 Latin square design with four supplements and four experimental periods of 21 days each. The treatments were mineral supplement (ad libitum) and supplements with low, medium (MPS), and high protein supplement (HPS), supplying 106, 408, and 601 g/day of CP, respectively. The abundance of each target taxon was calculated as a fraction of the total 16S rRNA gene copies in the samples, using taxon-specific and domain bacteria primers. Supplemented animals showed lower (P < 0.05) proportions of Ruminococcus flavefaciens and greater (P < 0.05) proportions of Ruminococcus albus and Butyrivibrio fibrisolvens than animals that received only the mineral supplement. The HPS supplement resulted in higher (P < 0.05) proportions of Fibrobacter succinogenes, R. flavefaciens, and B. fibrisolvens and lower (P < 0.05) proportions of R. albus than the MPS supplement. Based on our results, high protein supplementation improves the ruminal conditions and facilitates the growth of cellulolytic bacteria in the rumen of bulls on pastures during the rainy season.

Efficiency of nitrogen metabolism in beef cattle grazing pasture and supplemented with different protein levels in the rainy season.

Supplementation of animals in the rainy season is essential to maximise weight gain. Thus, the objective was to evaluate the effects of supplementation with low-, medium- and high-protein levels on nutritional parameters of grazing beef cattle in the rainy season. Eight rumen-cannulated Nellore bulls (437 kg body weight) were used in a 4 × 4 double Latin square design with four supplements and four experimental periods. The treatments were mineral supplement (ad libitum) and supplements with low-protein (LPSU), medium-protein (MPS) and high-protein (HPS) levels, providing 106, 408 and 601 g/day of crude protein (CP), respectively. There was no difference (P > 0.05) between treatments for dry matter and forage intake, ruminal pH, ruminal ammonia nitrogen (RAN) at time 0 (before supplementation) and microbial protein yield. Animals on MPS had a higher (P > 0.05) intake and digestibility of CP, higher RAN levels (3 and 6 h after supplementation), increased nitrogen intake and a better nitrogen balance than animals on LPSU. The HPS provided higher (P > 0.05) RAN at time 6 and a better nitrogen balance when compared with MPS. We therefore infer that the high-protein supplement positively impacts nitrogen metabolism and efficiency in grazing beef cattle during the rainy season.

Parâmetros sanguíneos de vacas leiteiras mantidas em pasto suplementadas com diferentes fontes proteicas

SUMMARY The present work aimed to evaluate the effect of supplementation with different protein sources in the diets for dairy cows kept on Brachiaria brizantha MG5 grass pasture on serum levels of the glucose, triglycerides, cholesterol and urea as well as on enzymes gama grutamil transferase, creatinine quinase and aminotransferase. We have evaluated the following protein sources: bean byproduct, soybean meal, sunflower meal and cottonseed meal. Eight crossbred cows (Holstein x Gir) were used, weighing 500±60.33 kg, average milk production of 14.85±3.28 kg/day, between the 60th and the 90th day of calving, by a simultaneous double 4 x 4 latin square design 4 x 4. Each experimental period lasted 15 days, of which the first 10 days were designed to animal adaptation and the final five days for data collection. There was an interaction effect (P 0.05) among protein sources and sampling time on serum glucose. There was no effect (P>0.05) of protein sources for the triglycerides, cholesterol and urea levels, averaging 6.46±2.05, 182.43±37.52 and 38.20±12.29 mg/dL, respectively. There was a significant effect (P 0.05) of the sampling time on blood levels of triglycerides and urea. The different protein sources did not affect significantly (P>0.05) serum enzyme levels of glutamine transferase, creatinine quinase and aminotransferase, averaging 26.76±8.02, 112.13±20.13 and 58.79±31.72 IU/L, respectively. The protein sources promoted changes on blood glucose with the sampling time, while sampling time altered triglycerides and urea levels. Changes to other blood metabolites were not observed.

RESUMO Objetivou-se com este trabalho avaliar o efeito da suplementação com diferentes fontes proteicas na dieta de vacas leiteiras mantidas em pastagem de Brachiaria brizantha MG5 sobre os níveis séricos de glicose, triglicerídeos, colesterol e ureia e das enzimas gama glutamina transferase, creatina quinase e aminotransferase. Avaliaram-se diferentes fontes proteicas: coproduto de feijão, farelo de soja, farelo de girassol e farelo de algodão. Foram utilizadas 8 vacas cruzadas 5/8 (Holandês x Gir), peso médio 500±60,33kg, produção média de leite de 14,85±3,28kg/dia, entre 60 e 90 dias de lactação, em delineamento quadrado latino 4 x 4 duplo e simultâneo. Cada período experimental teve duração de 15 dias, sendo 10 dias iniciais para adaptação dos animais e os demais para avaliação e coleta de dados. Houve efeito de interação (P 0,05) das fontes proteicas e tempos de coleta sobre os níveis séricos de glicose. Não houve efeito (P>0,05) das fontes proteicas para os valores de triglicerídeos, colesterol e ureia dos animais, com média de 6,46±2,05; 182,43±37,52 e 38,20±12,29mg/dL, respectivamente. Houve efeito (P 0,05) dos tempos de coleta nos níveis sanguíneos de triglicerídeos e ureia. As diferentes fontes proteicas também não influenciaram (P>0,05) os níveis séricos das enzimas gama glutamina transferase, creatina quinase e aminotransferase, com médias de 26,76±8,02; 112,13±31,72 e 58,79±20,13 UI/L, respectivamente. As fontes proteicas promoveram alterações na glicemia com os tempos de coletas, sendo que estes alteraram os valores de triglicerídeos e ureia. Não foram observadas alterações para os demais metabólitos sanguíneos.

Perdas, perfil fermentativo e composição química das silagens de capim Brachiaria decumbens com inclusão de farelo de arroz

SUMMARY The objective was to assess the effects of rice meal over losses by gas and effluent, the fermentative profile and the chemical composition of Brachiaria decumbens cv. Basilisk silage in laboratory bags. Entirely random lining was used, with five treatments: 0; 10; 20; 30 and 40g/kg rice meal, based on natural grass matter. The values of losses by gas and effluents were reduced linearly in 0.11 and 0.39g/kg DM, while recovery of dry matter increased linearly in 0.32g/kg DM. There was quadratic behavior for pH values and linear decrease for the values of N-ammoniacal and buffering power estimated in 1.1 and 5g/kg DM. Concentrations of acetic, butyric and propionic acids were reduced linearly in 0.1; 0.008 and 0.006g/kg DM, while lactic acid increased linearly in 0.5g/kg DM. Each 1g/kg rice meal promoted linear increase of 4.3; 1.8; 7.1 and 7.0g/kg dry matter levels, crude protein, ethereal extract and total digestible nutrients and linear decrease of 6.9; 4.3 and 2.6g/kg DM of fiber in neutral detergent, fiber in acidic detergent and hemicellulose levels. Inclusion of 10g/kg rice meal already ensures lowering losses by gas and effluents, increase in dry matter recovery, allowing improvements on the fermentative profile and the chemical composition of silage.

RESUMO Objetivou-se avaliar os efeitos do farelo de arroz sobre as perdas por gases e efluente, o perfil fermentativo e a composição química das silagens de Brachiaria decumbens cv. Basilisk ensilado em silos de laboratório. Utilizou-se delineamento inteiramente casualizado, com cinco tratamentos: 0; 10; 20, 30 e 40g/kg de farelo de arroz, com base na matéria natural da gramínea. Os valores das perdas por gases e efluentes foram reduzidos linearmente em 0,11 e 0,39g/kg MS, enquanto a recuperação da matéria seca aumentou linearmente em 0,32g/kg MS. Houve comportamento quadrático nos valores de pH e, redução linear para os valores de N-amoniacal e poder tampão, estimados em 1,1 e 0,5g/kg MS. As concentrações de ácido acético, butírico e propiônico foram reduzidas linearmente em 0,1; 0,008 e 0,006g/kg MS, enquanto a de ácido láctico aumentou linearmente em 0,5g/kg MS. Cada unidade porcentual de farelo de arroz promoveu aumento linear de 4,3; 1,8; 7,1 e 7,0g/kg nos teores de matéria seca, proteína bruta, extrato etéreo e nutrientes digestíveis totais, e redução linear de 6,9; 4,3 e 2,6g/kg MS nos teores de fibra em detergente neutro, fibra em detergente ácido e hemicelulose. A inclusão de 10g/kg de farelo de arroz já assegura diminuição das perdas por gases e efluentes, aumento na recuperação de matéria seca, proporcionando melhorias no perfil fermentativo e na composição química das silagens.

Perdas, perfil fermentativo e composição química das silagens de capim Brachiaria decumbens com inclusão de farelo de arroz

SUMMARY The objective was to assess the effects of rice meal over losses by gas and effluent, the fermentative profile and the chemical composition of Brachiaria decumbens cv. Basilisk silage in laboratory bags. Entirely random lining was used, with five treatments: 0; 10; 20; 30 and 40g/kg rice meal, based on natural grass matter. The values of losses by gas and effluents were reduced linearly in 0.11 and 0.39g/kg DM, while recovery of dry matter increased linearly in 0.32g/kg DM. There was quadratic behavior for pH values and linear decrease for the values of N-ammoniacal and buffering power estimated in 1.1 and 5g/kg DM. Concentrations of acetic, butyric and propionic acids were reduced linearly in 0.1; 0.008 and 0.006g/kg DM, while lactic acid increased linearly in 0.5g/kg DM. Each 1g/kg rice meal promoted linear increase of 4.3; 1.8; 7.1 and 7.0g/kg dry matter levels, crude protein, ethereal extract and total digestible nutrients and linear decrease of 6.9; 4.3 and 2.6g/kg DM of fiber in neutral detergent, fiber in acidic detergent and hemicellulose levels. Inclusion of 10g/kg rice meal already ensures lowering losses by gas and effluents, increase in dry matter recovery, allowing improvements on the fermentative profile and the chemical composition of silage.

RESUMO Objetivou-se avaliar os efeitos do farelo de arroz sobre as perdas por gases e efluente, o perfil fermentativo e a composição química das silagens de Brachiaria decumbens cv. Basilisk ensilado em silos de laboratório. Utilizou-se delineamento inteiramente casualizado, com cinco tratamentos: 0; 10; 20, 30 e 40g/kg de farelo de arroz, com base na matéria natural da gramínea. Os valores das perdas por gases e efluentes foram reduzidos linearmente em 0,11 e 0,39g/kg MS, enquanto a recuperação da matéria seca aumentou linearmente em 0,32g/kg MS. Houve comportamento quadrático nos valores de pH e, redução linear para os valores de N-amoniacal e poder tampão, estimados em 1,1 e 0,5g/kg MS. As concentrações de ácido acético, butírico e propiônico foram reduzidas linearmente em 0,1; 0,008 e 0,006g/kg MS, enquanto a de ácido láctico aumentou linearmente em 0,5g/kg MS. Cada unidade porcentual de farelo de arroz promoveu aumento linear de 4,3; 1,8; 7,1 e 7,0g/kg nos teores de matéria seca, proteína bruta, extrato etéreo e nutrientes digestíveis totais, e redução linear de 6,9; 4,3 e 2,6g/kg MS nos teores de fibra em detergente neutro, fibra em detergente ácido e hemicelulose. A inclusão de 10g/kg de farelo de arroz já assegura diminuição das perdas por gases e efluentes, aumento na recuperação de matéria seca, proporcionando melhorias no perfil fermentativo e na composição química das silagens.

Parâmetros sanguíneos de vacas leiteiras mantidas em pasto suplementadas com diferentes fontes proteicas

SUMMARY The present work aimed to evaluate the effect of supplementation with different protein sources in the diets for dairy cows kept on Brachiaria brizantha MG5 grass pasture on serum levels of the glucose, triglycerides, cholesterol and urea as well as on enzymes gama grutamil transferase, creatinine quinase and aminotransferase. We have evaluated the following protein sources: bean byproduct, soybean meal, sunflower meal and cottonseed meal. Eight crossbred cows (Holstein x Gir) were used, weighing 500±60.33 kg, average milk production of 14.85±3.28 kg/day, between the 60th and the 90th day of calving, by a simultaneous double 4 x 4 latin square design 4 x 4. Each experimental period lasted 15 days, of which the first 10 days were designed to animal adaptation and the final five days for data collection. There was an interaction effect (P 0.05) among protein sources and sampling time on serum glucose. There was no effect (P>0.05) of protein sources for the triglycerides, cholesterol and urea levels, averaging 6.46±2.05, 182.43±37.52 and 38.20±12.29 mg/dL, respectively. There was a significant effect (P 0.05) of the sampling time on blood levels of triglycerides and urea. The different protein sources did not affect significantly (P>0.05) serum enzyme levels of glutamine transferase, creatinine quinase and aminotransferase, averaging 26.76±8.02, 112.13±20.13 and 58.79±31.72 IU/L, respectively. The protein sources promoted changes on blood glucose with the sampling time, while sampling time altered triglycerides and urea levels. Changes to other blood metabolites were not observed.

RESUMO Objetivou-se com este trabalho avaliar o efeito da suplementação com diferentes fontes proteicas na dieta de vacas leiteiras mantidas em pastagem de Brachiaria brizantha MG5 sobre os níveis séricos de glicose, triglicerídeos, colesterol e ureia e das enzimas gama glutamina transferase, creatina quinase e aminotransferase. Avaliaram-se diferentes fontes proteicas: coproduto de feijão, farelo de soja, farelo de girassol e farelo de algodão. Foram utilizadas 8 vacas cruzadas 5/8 (Holandês x Gir), peso médio 500±60,33kg, produção média de leite de 14,85±3,28kg/dia, entre 60 e 90 dias de lactação, em delineamento quadrado latino 4 x 4 duplo e simultâneo. Cada período experimental teve duração de 15 dias, sendo 10 dias iniciais para adaptação dos animais e os demais para avaliação e coleta de dados. Houve efeito de interação (P 0,05) das fontes proteicas e tempos de coleta sobre os níveis séricos de glicose. Não houve efeito (P>0,05) das fontes proteicas para os valores de triglicerídeos, colesterol e ureia dos animais, com média de 6,46±2,05; 182,43±37,52 e 38,20±12,29mg/dL, respectivamente. Houve efeito (P 0,05) dos tempos de coleta nos níveis sanguíneos de triglicerídeos e ureia. As diferentes fontes proteicas também não influenciaram (P>0,05) os níveis séricos das enzimas gama glutamina transferase, creatina quinase e aminotransferase, com médias de 26,76±8,02; 112,13±31,72 e 58,79±20,13 UI/L, respectivamente. As fontes proteicas promoveram alterações na glicemia com os tempos de coletas, sendo que estes alteraram os valores de triglicerídeos e ureia. Não foram observadas alterações para os demais metabólitos sanguíneos.

Estudo colaborativo para avaliação dos teores de matéria seca em alimentos

AbstractThe objective was to conduct a collaborative study to evaluate the dry matter contents in feeds in six feed analysis laboratories from institutions linked to the National Institute of Science and Technology in Animal Science (INCT-CA). Six feeds were evaluated: sugarcane, corn silage, elephant grass, soybean meal, citrus pulp, and corn mixed with urea (9:1). It was asked to each laboratory that the samples were analyzed for eleven days, consecutive or not, with three replicates per sample per day of evaluation. There were variations among laboratories, days of analysis and interaction effect of material and laboratory. Comparative evaluation between the average contents produced by the laboratories and the Karl Fischer method indicated that 11.1% of the assessments were found accurate. The variation of results among laboratories accounted from 54.1 to 79.2% of the total random variation. It was found that the repeatability represented 6.24 to 26.45% of reproducibility. There are Horwitz ratios less than 2 for all materials tested. It was noticed that 52.8% of the assessments show variations of the estimates as a function of days in which analysis was performed. High inter-laboratory variability was checked through the evaluation of questionnaires sent to laboratories to elucidate the main procedures used in each laboratory, which can possible explain the great variation of the estimates obtained here.

ResumoObjetivou-se conduzir estudo colaborativo para avaliação do teor de matéria seca em alimentos em seis laboratórios de análise de alimentos de instituições integrantes do Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia de Ciência Animal (INCT-CA). Avaliaram-se seis alimentos: cana-de-açúcar, silagem de milho, capim-elefante, farelo de soja, polpa cítrica e mistura de milho grão com ureia (9:1). Solicitou-se a cada laboratório análises das amostras por onze dias, consecutivos ou não, sendo realizadas três repetições por amostra por dia de avaliação. Observou-se variação entre laboratórios, dias de análise e efeito de interação de material e laboratório. Avaliação comparativa das médias produzidas pelos laboratórios e pelo método de Karl Fischer indicou que 11,1% das avaliações foram exatas. A variação dos resultados entre laboratórios correspondeu de 54,1 a 79,2% da variação aleatória total. Verificou-se que a repetibilidade representou de 6,24 a 26,45% da reprodutibilidade. Observou-se razões de Horwitz inferiores a 2 para os materiais avaliados. Percebeu-se que 52,8% das avaliações apresentaram variações das estimativas em função do dia no qual a análise foi realizada. Elevada variabilidade inter-laboratorial foi verificada por intermédio da avaliação dos questionários enviados aos laboratórios para elucidação dos principais procedimentos adotados, evidenciando possíveis causas da alta variação dos resultados.

Início da puberdade de cordeiros provenientes de ovelhas deslanadas submetidas à restrição calórica ou proteica

AbstractThis study was carried out to evaluate if caloric or protein restriction in lactation ewe affect puberty beginning of its lambs. Had been used 21 lambs, two females and five males per type of treatment. During 60 days the mothers received the treatment for which its lamb was sort out: Control Treatment (TC, maintenance), Energy Restriction Treatment (TRC, ½ of the energy of the TC) and Protein Restriction Treatment (TRP, 1/3 of the protein of the TC). The lambs were weaned and received a diet composed by corn silage and concentrate, weighed and evaluated fortnightly. In males, the ejaculate was collected, scrotal circumference and testicular size measured. In females, it was realized ultrasound to measure the ovaries and verify the corpus luteum presence. For males was considered in puberty if produced ejaculation with at least: motility of 50%, sperm concentration of 50 x 106espermatozoa/mL and maximum of 50% total sperm abnormalities, and females if exhibit corpus luteum. An interaction was found between evaluation period and treatment for scrotum circumference (p=0.0019), testicular volume (p=0.0025) sperm motility (p 0.0001) and concentration (p=0.027), TRP was later than TRC and TC in all variable. In female no treatment effect (p>0.05) were found about follicles characteristics, however that was difference in the presence of corpous luteum (p=0.0179). The TC females showed corpus luteum from the 10th week, TRC 11th and 13th for TRP. It was concluded that mother protein restriction during the lactation delays the beginning of the puberty of its lambs.

ResumoO estudo foi realizado para avaliar se a restrição calórica ou proteica em fêmeas lactantes influencia o início da puberdade de seus cordeiros. Foram utilizados 21 cordeiros, sendo duas fêmeas e cinco machos por tratamento. Durante sessenta dias as mães receberam o tratamento aleatoriamente escolhido para o seu cordeiro: controle (TC, mantença), restrição calórica (TRC, ½ da energia do TC) e restrição proteica (TRP, 1/3 da proteína do TC). Após o desmame, os cordeiros receberam uma dieta composta por silagem de milho e concentrado, sendo pesados e avaliados quinzenalmente. Nos machos, coletava-se o ejaculado, mensurava-se circunferência escrotal e as dimensões testiculares. Nas fêmeas, realizava-se ultrassonografia para medir os ovários e verificar presença de corpo lúteo. Os machos eram considerados púberes se apresentassem ejaculado com, no mínimo: motilidade de 50%, concentração do ejaculado de 50 x 106espermatozóides/mL e, no máximo, 50% de anormalidades espermáticas totais, e as fêmeas, se apresentassem corpo lúteo. Foi encontrada interação entre período de avaliação e tratamento para circunferência escrotal (p=0,0019), volume testicular médio (p=0,0025), motilidade (p 0,0001) e concentração espermática (p=0,027), sendo o TRP, mais tardio do que TRC e TC em todas variáveis. Nas borregas não houve diferença (p>0,05) entre os tratamentos quanto às características foliculares, porém houve quanto ao corpo lúteo (p=0,0179). Notou-se que as fêmeas do TC apresentaram corpo lúteo a partir da 10a semana, TRC da 11a e o TRP da 13a. Concluiu-se que a restrição proteica materna durante a lactação atrasa o início da puberdade de seus cordeiros.

Roasted soybean supplements for finishing beef cattle on Brachiaria brizantha pasture.

Two experiments were conducted to evaluate the inclusion of 0, 14, 27.5 and 41 g/kg roasted soybean (RSB) in protein-energy supplements for the finishing of beef cattle on pastures of Brachiaria brizantha cv. Marandu in the rainy period. In experiment 1, for the evaluation of the nutritional parameters, five rumen-cannulated steers with an initial average body weight of 474.5 kg were utilised. In experiment 2, for the evaluation of performance, 25 intact male zebu cattle with an initial average body weight of 418 kg were utilised. Supply of RSB led to an increase in the intake of crude protein and non-fibre carbohydrates (P < 0.05). The concentrations of rumen ammonia nitrogen increased significantly (P < 0.05) 4 h after supplementation. The animals that received protein-energy supplements had superior (52 %) average daily gain in relation to those receiving mineral mixture. The supply of protein-energy supplements formulated with roasted soybean provided an increase in average daily weight gain and an improvement in the nutritional parameters of finishing beef cattle on pasture in the rainy period.

Início da puberdade de cordeiros provenientes de ovelhas deslanadas submetidas à restrição calórica ou proteica

AbstractThis study was carried out to evaluate if caloric or protein restriction in lactation ewe affect puberty beginning of its lambs. Had been used 21 lambs, two females and five males per type of treatment. During 60 days the mothers received the treatment for which its lamb was sort out: Control Treatment (TC, maintenance), Energy Restriction Treatment (TRC, ½ of the energy of the TC) and Protein Restriction Treatment (TRP, 1/3 of the protein of the TC). The lambs were weaned and received a diet composed by corn silage and concentrate, weighed and evaluated fortnightly. In males, the ejaculate was collected, scrotal circumference and testicular size measured. In females, it was realized ultrasound to measure the ovaries and verify the corpus luteum presence. For males was considered in puberty if produced ejaculation with at least: motility of 50%, sperm concentration of 50 x 106espermatozoa/mL and maximum of 50% total sperm abnormalities, and females if exhibit corpus luteum. An interaction was found between evaluation period and treatment for scrotum circumference (p=0.0019), testicular volume (p=0.0025) sperm motility (p 0.0001) and concentration (p=0.027), TRP was later than TRC and TC in all variable. In female no treatment effect (p>0.05) were found about follicles characteristics, however that was difference in the presence of corpous luteum (p=0.0179). The TC females showed corpus luteum from the 10th week, TRC 11th and 13th for TRP. It was concluded that mother protein restriction during the lactation delays the beginning of the puberty of its lambs.

ResumoO estudo foi realizado para avaliar se a restrição calórica ou proteica em fêmeas lactantes influencia o início da puberdade de seus cordeiros. Foram utilizados 21 cordeiros, sendo duas fêmeas e cinco machos por tratamento. Durante sessenta dias as mães receberam o tratamento aleatoriamente escolhido para o seu cordeiro: controle (TC, mantença), restrição calórica (TRC, ½ da energia do TC) e restrição proteica (TRP, 1/3 da proteína do TC). Após o desmame, os cordeiros receberam uma dieta composta por silagem de milho e concentrado, sendo pesados e avaliados quinzenalmente. Nos machos, coletava-se o ejaculado, mensurava-se circunferência escrotal e as dimensões testiculares. Nas fêmeas, realizava-se ultrassonografia para medir os ovários e verificar presença de corpo lúteo. Os machos eram considerados púberes se apresentassem ejaculado com, no mínimo: motilidade de 50%, concentração do ejaculado de 50 x 106espermatozóides/mL e, no máximo, 50% de anormalidades espermáticas totais, e as fêmeas, se apresentassem corpo lúteo. Foi encontrada interação entre período de avaliação e tratamento para circunferência escrotal (p=0,0019), volume testicular médio (p=0,0025), motilidade (p 0,0001) e concentração espermática (p=0,027), sendo o TRP, mais tardio do que TRC e TC em todas variáveis. Nas borregas não houve diferença (p>0,05) entre os tratamentos quanto às características foliculares, porém houve quanto ao corpo lúteo (p=0,0179). Notou-se que as fêmeas do TC apresentaram corpo lúteo a partir da 10a semana, TRC da 11a e o TRP da 13a. Concluiu-se que a restrição proteica materna durante a lactação atrasa o início da puberdade de seus cordeiros.

Estudo colaborativo para avaliação dos teores de matéria seca em alimentos

AbstractThe objective was to conduct a collaborative study to evaluate the dry matter contents in feeds in six feed analysis laboratories from institutions linked to the National Institute of Science and Technology in Animal Science (INCT-CA). Six feeds were evaluated: sugarcane, corn silage, elephant grass, soybean meal, citrus pulp, and corn mixed with urea (9:1). It was asked to each laboratory that the samples were analyzed for eleven days, consecutive or not, with three replicates per sample per day of evaluation. There were variations among laboratories, days of analysis and interaction effect of material and laboratory. Comparative evaluation between the average contents produced by the laboratories and the Karl Fischer method indicated that 11.1% of the assessments were found accurate. The variation of results among laboratories accounted from 54.1 to 79.2% of the total random variation. It was found that the repeatability represented 6.24 to 26.45% of reproducibility. There are Horwitz ratios less than 2 for all materials tested. It was noticed that 52.8% of the assessments show variations of the estimates as a function of days in which analysis was performed. High inter-laboratory variability was checked through the evaluation of questionnaires sent to laboratories to elucidate the main procedures used in each laboratory, which can possible explain the great variation of the estimates obtained here.

ResumoObjetivou-se conduzir estudo colaborativo para avaliação do teor de matéria seca em alimentos em seis laboratórios de análise de alimentos de instituições integrantes do Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia de Ciência Animal (INCT-CA). Avaliaram-se seis alimentos: cana-de-açúcar, silagem de milho, capim-elefante, farelo de soja, polpa cítrica e mistura de milho grão com ureia (9:1). Solicitou-se a cada laboratório análises das amostras por onze dias, consecutivos ou não, sendo realizadas três repetições por amostra por dia de avaliação. Observou-se variação entre laboratórios, dias de análise e efeito de interação de material e laboratório. Avaliação comparativa das médias produzidas pelos laboratórios e pelo método de Karl Fischer indicou que 11,1% das avaliações foram exatas. A variação dos resultados entre laboratórios correspondeu de 54,1 a 79,2% da variação aleatória total. Verificou-se que a repetibilidade representou de 6,24 a 26,45% da reprodutibilidade. Observou-se razões de Horwitz inferiores a 2 para os materiais avaliados. Percebeu-se que 52,8% das avaliações apresentaram variações das estimativas em função do dia no qual a análise foi realizada. Elevada variabilidade inter-laboratorial foi verificada por intermédio da avaliação dos questionários enviados aos laboratórios para elucidação dos principais procedimentos adotados, evidenciando possíveis causas da alta variação dos resultados.

ACÚMULO DE FORRAGEM E SEU DESEMPENHO NA PRODUTIVIDADE ANIMAL

As pesquisas sobre o manejo do pastejo pelos animais tem sido realizada com o objetivo de encontrar o ponto ótimo para utilização das forragens, que visa a melhor resposta animal, tendo em vista, que o consumo é profundamente determinado pela oferta de forragem. Quanto maior a produção de massa seca do pasto maior poderá ser sua capacidade de suporte, que se refere ao número ou carga animal que a forragem poderá atender, assegurando ganho por animal e elevado rendimento por área além da manutenção da sua perenidade. Sobretudo a adequada ingestão desta forragem deve ocorrer, principalmente em termos de ambiência e comportamento animal. Assim, o objetivo desta revisão é discorrer sobre os efeitos da massa de forragem em relação ao consumo, desempenho e comportamento animal em pastejo.

Intake, apparent digestibility and ruminal characteristics of the lambs fed with increasing levels of concentrate in tropical environment in the Valley of Guaporé - MT / Consumo, digestibilidade dos nutrientes e características ruminais de cordeiros alimentados com níveis crescentes de concentrado em ambiente tropical no Vale do Alto Guaporé - MT

The objective was to evaluate the use of concentrate in the diet of lambs on intake and total digestibility coefficient (DC) of nutrients, ruminal characteristics, rectal and body temperature. It was used four lambs without breed defined (SRD), entire, with average body weight (BW) of 19.3 ± 2.07 kg using a Latin square design, 4 x 4. The animals were housed in metabolism cages and were fed twice a day with diet consisting of corn silage and concentrate at a ratio of 20, 40, 60 and 80% dry matter in the diet, composite of corn grains and soybean meal. Leftovers were measured daily and the feces were collected through bags. Data from variables studied were submitted to ANOVA and regression analysis at 5% probability. The increasing levels of concentrate in lamb diets affected (P 0.05) of linear form decreasing the intake of NDF, ADF and quadratic of DM, OM, CP, EE, NFC and TCH intake. There was no effect (P>0.05) of concentrate levels on digestibility coefficient of DM, OM, EE, NDF, ADF, NFC and TCH. However, the digestibility coefficient of CP showed a quadratic effect (P 0.05). The pH and ammonia nitrogen showed a quadratic effect (P 0.05) for the time after feeding. The rectal and body temperature of lambs was not affected (P>0.05) by dietary concentrate. It can be concluded that 38% of concentrate in diets of lambs favors the maximum dry matter intake, organic

Objetivou-se avaliar níveis crescentes de concentrado na dieta de cordeiros sobre o consumo e coeficiente de digestibilidade total (CD) dos nutrientes, características ruminais, temperatura corporal e retal. Foram utilizados quatro cordeiros sem raça definida (SRD), não castrados, com peso corporal (PC) médio de 19,3 Kg ± 2,07 por meio de um delineamento em quadrado latino 4 x 4. Os animais foram alojados em gaiolas de metabolismo, os quais foram alimentados duas vezes ao dia, com dieta composta por silagem de milho e concentrado, na proporção de 20, 40, 60 e 80% na matéria seca da dieta, as quais eram compostas por milho grão moído e farelo de soja. Diariamente as sobras foram monitoradas e as fezes foram coletadas por meio de sacolas de napa. Os dados das variáveis estudadas foram submetidos à ANOVA e análise de regressão a 5% de probabilidade. Os níveis crescentes de concentrado nas rações de cordeiros alteraram (P 0,05) de maneira linear decrescente o consumo de FDN e FDA e de forma quadrática o consumo de MS, MO, PB, EE, CHT e CNF. Não houve efeito (P>0,05) dos níveis de concentrado sobre o coeficiente de digestibilidade da MS, MO, EE, FDN, FDA, CHT e CNF. Entretanto, o coeficiente de digestibilidade da PB apresentou efeito quadrático (P 0,05). Os valores de pH e nitrogênio amoniacal apresentaram efeito quadrático (P 0,05) para o tempo após a alimentação. A tem

Intake, apparent digestibility and ruminal characteristics of the lambs fed with increasing levels of concentrate in tropical environment in the Valley of Guaporé - MT / Consumo, digestibilidade dos nutrientes e características ruminais de cordeiros alimentados com níveis crescentes de concentrado em ambiente tropical no Vale do Alto Guaporé - MT

The objective was to evaluate the use of concentrate in the diet of lambs on intake and total digestibility coefficient (DC) of nutrients, ruminal characteristics, rectal and body temperature. It was used four lambs without breed defined (SRD), entire, with average body weight (BW) of 19.3 ± 2.07 kg using a Latin square design, 4 x 4. The animals were housed in metabolism cages and were fed twice a day with diet consisting of corn silage and concentrate at a ratio of 20, 40, 60 and 80% dry matter in the diet, composite of corn grains and soybean meal. Leftovers were measured daily and the feces were collected through bags. Data from variables studied were submitted to ANOVA and regression analysis at 5% probability. The increasing levels of concentrate in lamb diets affected (P 0.05) of linear form decreasing the intake of NDF, ADF and quadratic of DM, OM, CP, EE, NFC and TCH intake. There was no effect (P>0.05) of concentrate levels on digestibility coefficient of DM, OM, EE, NDF, ADF, NFC and TCH. However, the digestibility coefficient of CP showed a quadratic effect (P 0.05). The pH and ammonia nitrogen showed a quadratic effect (P 0.05) for the time after feeding. The rectal and body temperature of lambs was not affected (P>0.05) by dietary concentrate. It can be concluded that 38% of concentrate in diets of lambs favors the maximum dry matter intake, organic

Objetivou-se avaliar níveis crescentes de concentrado na dieta de cordeiros sobre o consumo e coeficiente de digestibilidade total (CD) dos nutrientes, características ruminais, temperatura corporal e retal. Foram utilizados quatro cordeiros sem raça definida (SRD), não castrados, com peso corporal (PC) médio de 19,3 Kg ± 2,07 por meio de um delineamento em quadrado latino 4 x 4. Os animais foram alojados em gaiolas de metabolismo, os quais foram alimentados duas vezes ao dia, com dieta composta por silagem de milho e concentrado, na proporção de 20, 40, 60 e 80% na matéria seca da dieta, as quais eram compostas por milho grão moído e farelo de soja. Diariamente as sobras foram monitoradas e as fezes foram coletadas por meio de sacolas de napa. Os dados das variáveis estudadas foram submetidos à ANOVA e análise de regressão a 5% de probabilidade. Os níveis crescentes de concentrado nas rações de cordeiros alteraram (P 0,05) de maneira linear decrescente o consumo de FDN e FDA e de forma quadrática o consumo de MS, MO, PB, EE, CHT e CNF. Não houve efeito (P>0,05) dos níveis de concentrado sobre o coeficiente de digestibilidade da MS, MO, EE, FDN, FDA, CHT e CNF. Entretanto, o coeficiente de digestibilidade da PB apresentou efeito quadrático (P 0,05). Os valores de pH e nitrogênio amoniacal apresentaram efeito quadrático (P 0,05) para o tempo após a alimentação. A tem