Functional oil in the feeding of heat-stressed Japanese quail.

The objective of the present study was to evaluate a blend of functional oils (FO) composed of copaiba and garlic essential oils, pepper oleoresin and cashew nut liquid to mitigate the effects of heat stress on productivity, egg quality, organ morphology of the gastrointestinal tract, serum biochemical profile, nutrient metabolism and body temperature of Japanese quail. A completely randomized design was used in a 3 × 2 factorial scheme (without additive; 300 and 500 mg FO/kg of feed x birds raised in a thermal comfort (TC) and heat stress (HS) environment), with 6 replicates of 8 birds per plot. The birds under HS had lower feed intake (P = 0.0000), egg mass (P = 0.0000), laying rate (P = 0.0000) and higher percentage of infertile non-commercial eggs (P = 0.0004), lower head temperature amplitude (P = 0.0000) and higher average of body temperature (P = 0.0312). HS worsened the external and internal quality of the eggs. Birds kept in HS showed higher values of cholesterol (P = 0.0000) and glutamic-pyruvic transaminase (P = 0.0272). The use of 300 and 500 g FO/ton of feed improved the feed conversion (P = 0.0000) and egg mass (P = 0.0000) of the quail bred under HS, respectively, by 8.4 and 7.2% and increased the relative weight of liver (P = 0.0064) and pancreas (P = 0.0492). The use of such additives also provided a higher % of yolk (P = 0.0018) and reduced the percentage of albumen (P = 0.0029) of the eggs produced in TC, in addition to reducing the amplitude of head temperature (P = 0.0484) of birds bred under HS. The breeding of Japanese quail under HS results in negative impacts on the production, physiological and qualitative aspects of the eggs. The use of 300 g/ton of FO in the diet of Japanese quail leads to improvements in feed conversion, increased liver capacity in nutritional metabolism and results in eggs with a higher proportion of yolks, being, therefore, an alternative for feeding quail in a hot climate.

Genetic parameters for cloacal gland, sexual maturity, reproductive organs weight, and body weight in meat-type quail.

Selection to increase body weight in poultry can hamper reproduction traits and compromise production efficiency. Thus, attention to reproduction traits is essential to improving the sustainability of breeding programs. Data from a domestic quail breeding program for meat production were used to estimate genetic parameters. We analyzed five traits: 4-week body weight, age at sexual maturity for males and females, cloacal gland area, female, and male reproductive organs weights. A multi-trait mixed model analysis with fixed effects of generation/hatch was performed, assuming environmental covariance equals zero for sex-limited traits. Heritability estimates range from low to moderate for male sexual maturity and cloacal gland area, and high for other traits. Intersexual genetic correlation for age at sexual maturity is positive, which can lead to correlated responses in the other sex. Reproductive organs weights are genetically correlated with body weight, but not significantly between sexes and nor with sexual maturity. Genetic correlations for the cloacal gland area were positive with body weight and negative with age at sexual maturity of males and females, demonstrating a potential use of this trait for selection with favorable outcomes in reproduction. The use of the cloacal gland area can be used in the same way as the scrotal circumference in mammals, improving female reproduction traits by selecting a trait recorded in males.

Black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens) larvae meal improves quail growth performance.

The aim of the present study was to determine the nutritional value of black soldier fly (BSF) larvae meal for quail (experiment I) and the dose-response effects of BSF levels on growth performance, relative organ weight, and body composition of growing quails (experiment II). In experiment I, 100 35-day-old quail were distributed in a completely randomized design, with two treatments (reference and test diet) and 10 replicates. The experimental period consisted of 5 days of adaptation, followed by 5 days of total excreta collection. The experimental feed consisted of a reference diet and a test diet formulated with 850 g/kg reference diet and 150 g/kg BSF. In experiment II, 1000 1-day-old quail were distributed in a completely randomized design, with five dietary levels of BSF (0, 25, 50, 75, and 100 g/kg). At 42 days of age, birds were slaughtered, and the relative organ weight and body composition were determined. Apparent metabolizable energy values corrected for nitrogen retention of BSF meal were 13.8 MJ/kg. Across the starter (1-14 days) and overall period (1-42 days), increasing BSF levels had a quadratic effect on body weight and body weight gain. Feed conversion ratio was quadratically affected during the starter phase and linearly reduced over the overall period. Additionally, the BSF levels linearly decreased the small intestine's relative weight at 42 days and had a quadratic effect on the rate of protein deposition. We concluded that the inclusion of 100 g/kg BSF meal improves feed conversion ratio for growing quail.

Dietary supplementation of glutamine and glutamic acid on performance, intestinal morphometry, and carcass characteristics of broiler quails / Suplementação dietética de glutamina e ácido glutâmico sobre o desempenho, morfometria intestinal e características de carcaça de codornas de corte

This study evaluated the effect of dietary supplementation with glutamine and glutamic acid (Gln+Glu) on performance, intestinal morphometry, and carcass characteristics of broiler quails. Eight hundred birds were used, distributed in an entirely randomized design with 20 birds per experimental unit, and given five treatments (0.0; 0.2; 0.4; 0.6; and 0.8% Gln+Glu supplementation) with eight replicates. At 1-21 days of age, lower (P < 0.05) feed intake at 0.6 and 0.8% Gln+Glu supplementation and lower weight gain at 0.8% Gln+Glu supplementation compared to the control treatment were observed. By regression analysis, excluding the control treatment, there was an increasing linear effect (P < 0.05) for feed intake at 22 to 42 days of age. For intestinal morphometry, Gln+Glu supplementation only favored the villus development of the ileum (P < 0.05), giving it greater height at 0.2, 0.6, and 0.8% supplementation. Carcass characteristics, cuts, and edible viscera of the birds at 42 days were not affected (P > 0.05) by Gln+Glu supplementation levels. Thus, the glutamine and glutamic acid supplementation affected the performance and intestinal morphology of 21-d-old quails, decreasing feed intake and weight gain associated with the improvement of ileum morphology; conversely, performance and carcass characteristics at 42 days were not affected by amino acid supplementation.

Objetivou-se avaliar o efeito da suplementação dietética de glutamina e ácido glutâmico (Gln+Glu) sobre o desempenho, a morfometria intestinal e as características de carcaça de codornas de corte. Foram utilizadas 800 aves, distribuídas em delineamento inteiramente casualizado, com cinco tratamentos (0,0; 0,2; 0,4; 0,6 e 0,8% de suplementação de Gln+Glu) e oito repetições com 20 aves por unidade experimental. Na fase de um a 21 dias, constatou-se menor (P < 0,05) consumo de ração aos níveis de 0,6 e 0,8% de Gln+Glu e menor ganho de peso ao nível 0,8% de Gln+Glu em comparação ao tratamento controle; e, pela análise de regressão, excluindo-se o tratamento controle, houve efeito linear crescente (P < 0,05) para consumo de ração na fase 22 a 42 dias de idade. Para morfometria intestinal, a suplementação de Gln+Glu apenas favoreceu o desenvolvimento vilos do íleo (P < 0,05), conferindo-lhe maior altura aos níveis de 0,2; 0,6 e 0,8% de suplementação. As características de carcaça, cortes e vísceras comestíveis das aves aos 42 dias não foram afetadas (P > 0,05) pelos níveis de suplementação de Gln+Glu. Assim, a suplementação de glutamina e ácido glutâmico influenciou o desempenho e a morfometria intestinal de codornas de corte aos 21 dias de idade, promovendo redução do consumo de ração e do ganho, associado ao aumento morfométrico do íleo; por outro lado, o desempenho das aves e as suas características de carcaça aos 42 dias não foram afetados pela suplementação dos aminoácidos.

Laying parameters of meat quails breeders submitted to lighting programs at growing phase / Parâmetros de postura de codornas de corte reprodutoras submetidas a programas de luz na fase de crescimento

When applied at growing phase, lighting program aims to obtain quails with body weight and physiological maturity suitable for the beginning of laying. This study evaluated lighting programs at growing phase on performance, sexual maturity and egg quality of meat quail breeders (Coturnixcoturnix) at laying phase. From 7 to 49 days of age, 300 female meat quails were subjected to three lighting programs (natural, intermittent and continuous), with 5 replicates of 20 birds each. At 49 days of age, 240 quails were transferred to a shed, maintaining the same experimental conditions. Meat quails submitted to continuous and intermittent lighting programs had higher weight of reproductive system and lower ages for first egg production and to reach 50% of egg production (P < 0.05). Quails submitted to natural lighting had lower feed intake from 49 to 70 and 71 to 92 days of age and worse feed conversion up to 114 days of age. Continuous and intermittent lighting programs resulted in more precocious quails compared to natural lighting program. Quails submitted to natural lighting at growing phase presented lower egg production during all periods, not differing for birds submitted to continuous and intermittent programs from the second period (71 to 92 days of age). Intermittent and continuous lighting result in better feed conversion of breeding quails up to 114 days and a higher percentage of laying (49 to 136 days), reducing the number of days to produce the first egg and to reach 50% of laying, in relation to natural lighting.

Quando aplicado na fase de crescimento, o programa de luz visa obter codornas com peso corporal e maturidade fisiológica adequados para o início da postura. Este estudo avaliou programas de iluminação na fase de crescimento sobre o desempenho, maturidade sexual e qualidade dos ovos de codornas de corte reprodutoras (Coturnix coturnix) na fase de postura. Durante o período de sete a 49 dias de idade, 300 codornas de corte fêmeas foram submetidas a três programas de iluminação (natural, intermitente e contínuo), com cinco repetições de 20 aves cada. Aos 49 dias de idade, 240 codornas foram transferidas para um galpão, mantendo a mesma distribuição experimental e submetidas às mesmas condições. As aves submetidas aos programas de iluminação contínuo e intermitente na fase de crescimento apresentaram maiores peso relativo do sistema reprodutivo e consequentemente menores idades para produção do primeiro ovo e para atingir 50% da produção de ovos (P < 0.05). As aves que receberam apenas iluminação natural apresentaram menor consumo de ração nos períodos de 49 a 70 e 71 a 92 dias de idade e pior conversão alimentar até 114 dias de idade. Os programas de iluminação contínua e intermitente na fase de crescimento resultaram em codornas mais precoces quando comparados as aves submetidas ao programa de iluminação natural. Codornas submetidas a programa de luz natural na fase de crescimento apresentaram menor produção de ovos durante todos os períodos, não diferindo das aves submetidas a programas contínuos e intermitentes a partir do segundo período (71 a 92 dias de idade). A iluminação intermitente e contínua na fase de crescimento resulta em melhor conversão alimentar de codornas reprodutoras até 114 dias e maior percentual de postura (49 a 136 dias), reduzindo o número de dias para produzir o primeiro ovo e atingir 50% de postura, em relação a iluminação natural.

Elaboração de mortadela de cms de codornas poedeiras de descarte enriquecidas com pó de casca de ovos / Development of mortadella from msm of discarded laying quails enriched with eggshell powder / Elaboración de mortadela de cms de codornices ponedoras descartadas enriquecidas con polvo de cáscara de huevo

O objetivo do trabalho foi desenvolver mortadela de carne mecanicamente separada (CMS) de codornas poedeiras (Coturnix japonica) de descartes enriquecida com diferentes níveis de pó de casca de ovo e avaliar os aspectos físicos, químicos, microbiológicos, sensoriais, juntamente com a aceitação e intenção de compra. Produziu-se quatro produtos, com diferentes níveis de inclusão de pó de casca de ovos sendo eles: tratamento 1 = mortadela controle, com 0%; tratamento 2 = mortadela com adição de 2%; tratamento 3 = mortadela com adição de 4% e tratamento 4 = mortadela com adição de 6% de pó de casca de ovo. Os produtos foram submetidos as análises microbiológicas, composição química, pH e sensorial. Os resultados foram satisfatórios, visto que todos os tratamentos estavam aptos ao consumo humano. A inclusão de pó de casca de ovo aumentou o teor de umidade, porém quando adicionado 2%, o produto apresentou melhor aceitação e menor valor calórico. Conclui-se que adicionando o pó de casca de ovo em mortadelas elaboradas com CMS de codornas de poedeiras de descarte ocorreu redução do valor calórico, apresentando melhor qualidade nutricional e aceitação para os atributos avaliados quando incluído 2% de pó de casca de ovo, levando o produto a possibilidade de comercialização, assim como, se tornando uma excelente alternativa de alimento.

The objective of this study was to develop mortadella from mechanically separated meat (MSM) of discarded laying quails (Coturnix japonica) enriched with different levels of eggshell powder and to evaluate the physical, chemical, microbiological, and sensory aspects, along with acceptance and purchase intent. Four products were produced with varying levels of eggshell powder inclusion: treatment 1 = control mortadella, with 0%; treatment 2 = mortadella with 2% addition; treatment 3 = mortadella with 4% addition; and treatment 4 = mortadella with 6% addition of eggshell powder. The products were subjected to microbiological, chemical composition, pH, and sensory analyses. The results were satisfactory, and all treatments were suitable for human consumption. The inclusion of eggshell powder increased the moisture content; however, when 2% was added, the product showed better acceptance and lower caloric value. It was concluded that adding eggshell powder to mortadella made with MSM from discarded laying quails reduced the caloric value, resulting in better nutritional quality and acceptance for the evaluated attributes when 2% eggshell powder was included, making the product commercially viable and an excellent alternative food.

El objetivo del estudio fue desarrollar mortadela a partir de carne mecánicamente separada (CMS) de codornices ponedoras (Coturnix japonica) descartadas, enriquecida con diferentes niveles de polvo de cáscara de huevo, y evaluar los aspectos físicos, químicos, microbiológicos y sensoriales, junto con la aceptación y la intención de compra. Se produjeron cuatro productos con diferentes niveles de inclusión de polvo de cáscara de huevo: tratamiento 1 = mortadela control, con 0%; tratamiento 2 = mortadela con adición del 2%; tratamiento 3 = mortadela con adición del 4%; y tratamiento 4 = mortadela con adición del 6% de polvo de cáscara de huevo. Los productos fueron sometidos a análisis microbiológicos, composición química, pH y pruebas sensoriales. Los resultados fueron satisfactorios, y todos los tratamientos fueron aptos para el consumo humano. La inclusión de polvo de cáscara de huevo aumentó el contenido de humedad; sin embargo, al agregar el 2%, el producto mostró una mejor aceptación y menor valor calórico. Se concluyó que al añadir polvo de cáscara de huevo en mortadelas elaboradas con CMS de codornices ponedoras de descarte se redujo el valor calórico, presentando mejor calidad nutricional y aceptación para los atributos evaluados cuando se incluyó un 2% de polvo de cáscara de huevo, lo que hace al producto viable para comercialización y una excelente alternativa alimentaria.

Maximum limit of sensible heat dissipation in Japanese quail.

Surface temperature can be used as a tool for calculating sensible heat transfer. However, it needs to be associated with air temperature to identify the direction of heat flow (gain or loss). This study quantified sensible heat transfer in Japanese quail as a function of operative temperature. The meteorological variables were air temperature, relative humidity, and black globe temperature. Quail surface temperature was measured on 50 adult Coturnix coturnix japonica individuals 270 days old during 8 days by using a thermographic camera. The data were analyzed by the least-squares method to assess the effects of sex (male and female), period of the day (morning and afternoon), and body region (head, body, and feet). Quail surface temperature was strongly correlated with operative temperature. The total sensible heat flow was 64.02 W m-2. The morning period had a mean operative temperature of 22.48 °C, providing a higher gradient between air and quail temperature and thereby producing a higher heat flow (82.19 W m-2). In the afternoon, the heat transfer was lower (45.70 W m-2) because the operative temperature was higher (30.84 °C). Comparison between sexes showed that heat transfer was higher in females (67.37 W m-2) than in males (60.53 W m-2). The head served as an important thermal window, with a heat transfer of 78.24 W m-2, whereas the body and feet had a transfer of 56.80 W m-2. Heat transfer by sensible mechanisms was quantified in Japanese quail. Heat transfer depended greatly on ambient temperature. When the operative temperature was below 28 °C, sensible mechanisms were efficient in dissipating heat to the environment. When the ambient temperature exceeded 29 °C, quail could not effectively dissipate heat to the environment through sensible mechanisms. At 30 °C and above, heat loss shifted to heat gain, causing thermal stress in Japanese quail.

Bone Growth and Meat Quality of Quails Submitted to Different Lighting Programs

The present study was executed to evaluate the effect of lighting programs for meat quails on their bone growth and development. A total of 1500 sexed European quails (Coturnix coturnix coturnix) were distributed using a completely randomized design in a 2 × 3 factorial arrangement, with two sexes and three lighting programs (natural, intermittent, and continuous) with five replicates of 50 quails. The lighting programs were applied in the period from 7 to 49 d of age. Weekly slaughterings were performed to remove the tibiotarsus and femur and subsequently determine weight, length, dry and mineral matter content. The growth and deposition curves of dry and mineral matter in the bones were obtained using the Gompertz model. There was no significant interaction between lighting programs and sex for the estimates of the Gompertz curve parameters of all variables studied. There was an effect of the lighting programs only on the time needed to reach the maximum deposition rate of the growth curve and dry and mineral matter deposition. Females showed higher weight and deposition of mineral matter at maturity, and took longer to reach the maximum deposition rate value for these variables. There was influence of the lighting programs on resistance and bone deformity of the tibiotarsus. For quails raised in the tropical region, a natural or intermittent lighting program must be used, as it does not compromise the development of bones and assures bone quality.(AU)

Cardanol in the feeding of meat-type quail breeders.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the inclusion of cardanol in the diet of quails on productive performance, egg quality, reproductive performance, and progeny performance. A total of three hundred European quail breeders of 32 weeks of age, with average body weights of 305.98 g, were housed in laying cages in groups (4 females and 1 male), following a distribution in a completely randomized design with 5 treatments and 6 replications of 10 quails, being the experimental unit constituted by the set of two cages. The treatments consisted of diets with 0, 0.25, 0.50, 0.75, and 1.00% of cardanol. There was reduction in the performance of the quail with the inclusion of 1.00% of cardanol in the diet when compared to the control treatment, while egg weight and egg mass were lower in the treatments with 0.75 and 1.00% of cardanol, respectively. It was observed that there was decrease in the specific gravity, and increase in color and TBARS value of the yolk in all treatments with cardanol. The inclusion of 0.50% of cardanol decreased the percentage of albumen, and increased the percentage of yolk, while the shell thickness decreased with 0.75%. The weight of the incubated eggs and the chick weight at hatching were lower in the treatments with 0.75 and 1.00% of cardanol. In the evaluation of the progeny performance, it was found that the weight at 7 days of age of chicks from breeders fed the diet containing 1.00% of cardanol was decreased when compared to the chicks from breeders fed the control diet. It was concluded that the inclusion of cardanol did not present benefits to the quail breeders.

Arginine requirement for egg production in Japanese quail.

The objective of this study was to determine the ideal arginine intake for egg production in Japanese quail using the dilution technique. A completely random design was used, with 8 treatments (seven concentrations of arginine plus a control diet) and ten replicates, totaling 80 Japanese quails. The digestible arginine levels included in the study were 0.361%, 0.603%, 0.843%, 1.084%, 1.204%, 1.311%, and 1.460%. The variables analyzed were feed intake, egg production (EP), egg weight, egg output (EO), feed conversion ratio, and body weight were performed using a mixed model. When the effect of arginine levels (P ≤ 0.05) was detected, the model's broken line linear-plateau (BL), quadratic-plateau (BLq), and the first intercept of the BLq in the plateau of BL were adjusted to determine the ideal arginine intake. It observed that the arginine levels modified the quail responses (P < 0.001). Egg production was 10% with the 0.361% arginine in diet and recovered (97%) with the 1.311% arginine diet. The BL and BLq models estimated 232 mg/quail per day and 351 mg/quail per day for EO, respectively. The first intercept obtained was 290 mg/quail per day or 1,411%, which was considered the optimum level arginine intake for EO in Japanese quail.

Magnesium in the water of Japanese quails kept under comfort zone and under thermal stress / Magnésio na água de codornas japonesas mantidas em zona de conforto e sob estresse térmico

The objective was to evaluate the increasing levels of magnesium in the water supplied to laying quails (Coturnix coturnix japonica), kept in climatic chambers under thermoneutral temperature and thermal stress, on their performance and morphometry of their organs. The birds were distributed in a completely randomized design, 2x4 factorial arrangement, 2 temperatures (24 and 32 ºC) and 4 levels of magnesium in the water (50, 150, 250 and 350 mg L-1), with six replicates and eight birds per experimental unit. The data were subjected to analysis of variance and the means compared by the Tukey test at 5% probability level. The magnesium levels in the water did not affect (P > 0.05) the production performance and morphometry of the organs, with less water consumption at the magnesium level of 150 mg L-1, and birds kept at 32 °C had a reduction in feed consumption and feed conversion, but without affecting organ morphometry. Japanese quails in the production phase can consume water with magnesium levels up to 350 mg L-1 without having their production performance and morphometry of organs affected and raised in an environment with temperatures of up to 32 °C.(AU)

O objetivo foi avaliar os níveis crescentes de magnésio na água fornecida a codornas (Coturnix coturnix japonica) em postura, mantidas em câmaras climáticas sob temperatura termoneutra e estresse térmico, sobre o desempenho e morfometria dos órgãos das aves. As aves foram distribuídas em delineamento inteiramente casualizado, arranjo fatorial 2x4, 2 temperaturas (24 e 32 ºC) e 4 níveis de magnésio na água (50, 150, 250 e 350 mg L-1), com seis repetições e oito aves por unidade experimental e os dados submetidos à análise de variância e as médias comparadas pelo teste de Tukey a 5% de probabilidade. Os níveis de magnésio na água não afetaram (P > 0,05) o desempenho produtivo e a morfometria dos órgãos, com menor consumo de água ao nível de 150 mg L-1 de magnésio e, as aves mantidas a 32 °C tiveram uma redução no consumo de ração e conversão alimentar, mas sem afetar a morfometria dos órgãos. Codornas japonesas em fase de produção podem consumir água com níveis de magnésio de até 350 mg L-1 sem ter o desempenho produtivo e a morfometria dos órgãos afetados e criados em ambiente com temperatura de até 32 °C.(AU)

Beak trimming in japanese quails at initial phase is an alternative to reduce the negative effects of feather pecking

Regarding the lack of standardized methods for beak trimming to reduce feather pecking in Japanese quail, the present study aimed to compare two ages and 3 methods of beak trimming, evaluating the performance, egg quality and feather pecking. One-day-old Japanese quails (n = 770; 22 birds cage-1), at the initial phase, and 36-day-old (n = 630; 18 birds cage-1), at the production phase, were assigned to a completely randomized design, consisting of 7 treatments with 5 replicates. The treatments were: non-trimmed (NT), cauterization of approximately 1/3 at 14 days-of-age (CAUT 14) and at 28 days-of-age (CAUT 28), moderately trimmed to approximately 1/3 beak at 14 days-of-age (MOD 14) and at 28 days-of-age (MOD 28), severely trimmed to 1/3-1/2 beak at 14 days-of-age (SEV 14) and at 28 days-of-age (SEV 28). Data were analyzed using Minitab®. The results indicated that beak trimming methods applied did not influence the performance and egg quality. Quails subjected to MOD 28 and SEV (14 and 28) presented lower feed conversion per egg mass compared to NT. However, MOD 14 and SEV were more efficient in preventing feather pecking behavior.(AU)

Passion fruit seed cake in the feeding of meat quails: effects on performance, carcass characteristics, lipid stability of the meat, litter quality, and economic viability.

The objective of this study was to determine the chemical composition and energy value of passion fruit seed cake (PFSC) and to evaluate the inclusion of different levels of PFSC in the diets for quails on growth performance, carcass quality, litter quality, lipid stability of the meat, and economic viability. In the metabolism assay, 108 European quails of 21 days of age were used, being distributed in a completely randomized design with 3 treatments (one reference ration and two test rations with substitution of 20% and 40% of the reference ration by PFSC) and 6 replications of 6 birds each. It was observed that the apparent metabolizable energy corrected by the nitrogen balance (AMEn) determined in the ration with 20% PFSC (3876.17 kcal/kg DM) was higher than in the 40% (3469.00 kcal/kg DM). In the performance assay, 432 European quails from 7 to 42 days of age were used, being distributed in a completely randomized design with 6 treatments, consisting of a control diet and the others with increasing levels of inclusion of passion fruit seed (5, 10, 15, 20, and 25%), and 6 replications of 12 birds. It was observed that the inclusion of PFSC starting from 10% promoted increase FI and FC values, and increasing linear effect of these variables starting from 5% of inclusion. The PFSC did not affect the carcass characteristics and lipid oxidation of the meat. Regarding the litter quality, there was a linear increase in the pH values and worse economic indexes starting from the inclusion of 10% of PFSC. In conclusion, PFSC can be used up to the level of 5% in diets for meat quails from 7 to 42 days of age.

Exploring the use of residual variance for uniformity of body weight in meat quail lines using Bayesian inference.

1. Uniformity in animal products is an important aspect of the production system. Several studies have reported estimates of genetics on residual variance in different species, indicating that it could be exploited to improve uniformity by selection. Nevertheless, there are no reports about the possibilities of such a selection strategy in meat quail.2. Records of hatching weight (HW) and body weight at 42 days (W42) of female and male birds from two meat quail lines (UFV1 and UFV2) were analysed. A three-step genetic evaluation was used to investigate the effect of genetic variation on residual variance of HW and W42 in both lines. In Step 1, a single-trait model was fitted to the data. In Step 2, log-transformed squared estimated residuals (ln(ê2)) were evaluated for these traits. In Step 3, a multi-trait analysis was performed to estimate the genetic correlation between the additive genetic effects for HW, W42, and their respective ln(ê2).3. The heritability estimates ranged from 0.12 to 0.23 for HW and from 0.22 to 0.35 for W42. The estimated heritabilities for the residual part were low and ranged from 0.0003 to 0.02 for both traits, and the genetic coefficient of variation residual variance estimates ranged from 0.31 to 0.42 for HW and from 0.09 to 0.25 for W42. Genetic correlations between the means (HW and W42) and ln(ê2) values were both positive and did not differ from zero, indicating no association between mean and ln(ê2).4. In conclusion, the uniformity of HW and W42 could be improved by selecting for lower residual variance in both meat quail lines, but the accuracy of selection may be low due to low heritability for uniformity, mainly for W42.

Location, distribution, and quantification of myenteric plexus neurons of the jejunum of quails fed with different levels of commercial Macleaya cordata extract / Localização, distribuição e quantificação dos neurônios do plexo mioentérico do jejuno de codornas de postura alimentadas com diferentes inclusões do extrato comercial de Macleaya cordata

Coturniculture has been promising, progressing from a subsistence to a technical activity due to its quick production, low breeding investment, and rapid economic return. After the restriction of antimicrobials as growth promoters, some studies aimed to evaluate alternative products that would make the farming of healthy birds viable without impacting their performance, with commercial Macleaya cordata extract being one of these substitutes. The functions of the gastrointestinal tract are coordinated mainly by the enteric nervous system, and the myenteric plexus is responsible for the reflex control of contractile activities of the external muscles. Thus, this study located and demonstrated the distribution of the myenteric plexus, quantifing the total population of myenteric neurons (Giemsa+) and the subpopulation of myenteric nitrergic neurons (NADPH-d+), and evaluated the effects of commercial Macleaya cordata extract on these populations of quail jejunum neurons. A total of 240 one-day-old female laying quails were distributed into four treatments, with four repetitions of 15 birds each. The test groups (T1, T2, and T3) were treated with commercial Macleaya cordata extract throughout the experimental period using the following doses: T1 - test group, basal diet added with 150 ppm of the extract in the feed; T2- test group, basal diet added with100 ppm of the extract in the feed; T3 - test group, basal diet added with 50 ppm of the extract in the feed; and T4 - control group, basal diet with no added extract. The study included histological analysis, Giemsa+, and NADPH-d+ myenteric neuron staining. The results showed that the myenteric plexus is located between longitudinal layer fibers and in the transition region between the longitudinal and circular layers of the muscular tunic, with the myenteric population organized into ganglia and [...].

A coturnicultura tem apresentado características promissoras, deixando de ser uma atividade de subsistência e ocupando patamares tecnificados devido a sua precocidade produtiva, baixo investimento de criação e rápido retorno econômico. A partir da restrição da utilização de antimicrobianos como promotores de crescimento, estudos foram direcionados com o objetivo de se avaliar produtos alternativos que viabilizassem a criação de aves saudáveis, sem comprometer seu desempenho, sendo o extrato comercial da Macleaya cordata um destes substitutos. As funções do trato gastrintestinal são coordenadas principalmente pelo sistema nervoso entérico, sendo o plexo mioentérico responsável pelo controle reflexo das atividades contráteis da musculatura externa. Desta forma, o presente trabalho teve como objetivo localizar e demonstrar a distribuição do plexo mioentérico, quantificar a população total de neurônios mioentéricos (Giemsa+), e a subpopulação de neurônios mioentéricos nitrérgicos (NADPH-d+), além de avaliar os efeitos do extrato comercial da Macleaya cordata sobre estas populações de neurônios do jejuno de codornas. Foram alojadas 240 codornas de postura, fêmeas, com um dia de idade, distribuídas aleatoriamente em quatro tratamentos, com quatro repetições de 15 aves cada. Os grupos testes (T1, T2 e T3) foram tratados com extrato comercial de Macleaya cordata durante todo o período experimental conforme as doses indicadas, sendo: T1 - grupo teste, com dieta basal adicionada de 150 ppm do extrato na ração; T2 - grupo teste, com dieta basal adicionada de 100 ppm do extrato na ração; T3 - grupo teste, com dieta basal adicionada de 50 ppm do extrato na ração, e T4 - grupo controle, com dieta basal isenta do extrato. Foram realizadas análise histológica e a marcação dos neurônios mioentéricos Giemsa+ e NADPH-d+. Os resultados demonstraram que o plexo mioentérico está localizado entre as fibras do [...].

Performance and biometry of the gastrointestinal tract in growing Japanese quails fed bee pollen / Desempenho e biometria do trato gastrointestinal de codornas japonesas em crescimento alimentadas com pólen apícola

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of different levels of bee pollen in the diet of growing Japanese quails on productive performance, relative weight of the gastrointestinal organs and length of small and large intestines. A total of 650 one-day-old female Japanese quails were distributed in a completely randomized design with five treatments according to the dietary levels of bee pollen (0.0, 0.4, 0.8, 1.2, and 1.6%), five replicates, and 26 birds per experimental unit. At the end of the experimental period (35 days of age), the performance and relative weight of the gastrointestinal organs and length of small and large intestines were evaluated. The dietary inclusion of bee pollen did not influence (P > 0.05) performance, relative weight of proventriculus, gizzard, pancreas, liver, and large intestine, as well as the length of small and large intestines. However, a linear reduction (P < 0.05) was observed in the relative weight of small intestine as dietary bee pollen levels increased. The inclusion of bee pollen from 0.4 to 1.6% in the diet of growing Japanese quails did neither improve productive performance nor alter the biometry of digestive organs.(AU)

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar os efeitos de diferentes níveis de pólen apícola nas dietas de codornas japonesas em crescimento sobre o desempenho produtivo, peso relativo dos órgãos do trato gastrointestinal e comprimento do intestino delgado e grosso. Um total de 650 codornas japonesas, fêmeas, de um dia de idade, foram distribuídas em um delineamento inteiramente casualizado com cinco tratamentos de acordo com os níveis dietéticos do pólen apícola (0,0; 0,4; 0,8; 1,2 e 1,6%), cinco repetições e 26 aves por unidade experimental. Ao final do período experimental (35 dias de idade), o desempenho e o peso relativo dos órgãos do trato gastrointestinal e o comprimento do intestino delgado e grosso foram avaliados. A inclusão dietética de pólen de abelha não influenciou (P > 0,05) o desempenho, peso relativo do proventrículo, moela, pâncreas, fígado e intestino grosso, bem como o comprimento do intestino delgado e intestino grosso. Entretanto, uma redução linear (P < 0,05) foi observada no peso relativo do intestino delgado de acordo com o aumento dos níveis de pólen apícola. A inclusão dietética de 0,4 a 1,6% de pólen apícola para codornas japonesas em crescimento não melhorou o desempenho produtivo e não alterou a biometria dos órgãos digestivos.(AU)

Location, distribution, and quantification of myenteric plexus neurons of the jejunum of quails fed with different levels of commercial Macleaya cordata extract / Localização, distribuição e quantificação dos neurônios do plexo mioentérico do jejuno de codornas de postura alimentadas com diferentes inclusões do extrato comercial de Macleaya cordata

Coturniculture has been promising, progressing from a subsistence to a technical activity due to its quick production, low breeding investment, and rapid economic return. After the restriction of antimicrobials as growth promoters, some studies aimed to evaluate alternative products that would make the farming of healthy birds viable without impacting their performance, with commercial Macleaya cordata extract being one of these substitutes. The functions of the gastrointestinal tract are coordinated mainly by the enteric nervous system, and the myenteric plexus is responsible for the reflex control of contractile activities of the external muscles. Thus, this study located and demonstrated the distribution of the myenteric plexus, quantifing the total population of myenteric neurons (Giemsa+) and the subpopulation of myenteric nitrergic neurons (NADPH-d+), and evaluated the effects of commercial Macleaya cordata extract on these populations of quail jejunum neurons. A total of 240 one-day-old female laying quails were distributed into four treatments, with four repetitions of 15 birds each. The test groups (T1, T2, and T3) were treated with commercial Macleaya cordata extract throughout the experimental period using the following doses: T1 - test group, basal diet added with 150 ppm of the extract in the feed; T2- test group, basal diet added with100 ppm of the extract in the feed; T3 - test group, basal diet added with 50 ppm of the extract in the feed; and T4 - control group, basal diet with no added extract. The study included histological analysis, Giemsa+, and NADPH-d+ myenteric neuron staining. The results showed that the myenteric plexus is located between longitudinal layer fibers and in the transition region between the longitudinal and circular layers of the muscular tunic, with the myenteric population organized into ganglia and [...].(AU)

A coturnicultura tem apresentado características promissoras, deixando de ser uma atividade de subsistência e ocupando patamares tecnificados devido a sua precocidade produtiva, baixo investimento de criação e rápido retorno econômico. A partir da restrição da utilização de antimicrobianos como promotores de crescimento, estudos foram direcionados com o objetivo de se avaliar produtos alternativos que viabilizassem a criação de aves saudáveis, sem comprometer seu desempenho, sendo o extrato comercial da Macleaya cordata um destes substitutos. As funções do trato gastrintestinal são coordenadas principalmente pelo sistema nervoso entérico, sendo o plexo mioentérico responsável pelo controle reflexo das atividades contráteis da musculatura externa. Desta forma, o presente trabalho teve como objetivo localizar e demonstrar a distribuição do plexo mioentérico, quantificar a população total de neurônios mioentéricos (Giemsa+), e a subpopulação de neurônios mioentéricos nitrérgicos (NADPH-d+), além de avaliar os efeitos do extrato comercial da Macleaya cordata sobre estas populações de neurônios do jejuno de codornas. Foram alojadas 240 codornas de postura, fêmeas, com um dia de idade, distribuídas aleatoriamente em quatro tratamentos, com quatro repetições de 15 aves cada. Os grupos testes (T1, T2 e T3) foram tratados com extrato comercial de Macleaya cordata durante todo o período experimental conforme as doses indicadas, sendo: T1 - grupo teste, com dieta basal adicionada de 150 ppm do extrato na ração; T2 - grupo teste, com dieta basal adicionada de 100 ppm do extrato na ração; T3 - grupo teste, com dieta basal adicionada de 50 ppm do extrato na ração, e T4 - grupo controle, com dieta basal isenta do extrato. Foram realizadas análise histológica e a marcação dos neurônios mioentéricos Giemsa+ e NADPH-d+. Os resultados demonstraram que o plexo mioentérico está localizado entre as fibras do [...].(AU)

Location, distribution, and quantification of myenteric plexus neurons of the jejunum of quails fed with different levels of commercial Macleaya cordata extract / Localização, distribuição e quantificação dos neurônios do plexo mioentérico do jejuno de codornas de postura alimentadas com diferentes inclusões do extrato comercial de Macleaya cordata

ABSTRACT: Coturniculture has been promising, progressing from a subsistence to a technical activity due to its quick production, low breeding investment, and rapid economic return. After the restriction of antimicrobials as growth promoters, some studies aimed to evaluate alternative products that would make the farming of healthy birds viable without impacting their performance, with commercial Macleaya cordata extract being one of these substitutes. The functions of the gastrointestinal tract are coordinated mainly by the enteric nervous system, and the myenteric plexus is responsible for the reflex control of contractile activities of the external muscles. Thus, this study located and demonstrated the distribution of the myenteric plexus, quantifing the total population of myenteric neurons (Giemsa+) and the subpopulation of myenteric nitrergic neurons (NADPH-d+), and evaluated the effects of commercial Macleaya cordata extract on these populations of quail jejunum neurons. A total of 240 one-day-old female laying quails were distributed into four treatments, with four repetitions of 15 birds each. The test groups (T1, T2, and T3) were treated with commercial Macleaya cordata extract throughout the experimental period using the following doses: T1 - test group, basal diet added with 150 ppm of the extract in the feed; T2- test group, basal diet added with100 ppm of the extract in the feed; T3 - test group, basal diet added with 50 ppm of the extract in the feed; and T4 - control group, basal diet with no added extract. The study included histological analysis, Giemsa+, and NADPH-d+ myenteric neuron staining. The results showed that the myenteric plexus is located between longitudinal layer fibers and in the transition region between the longitudinal and circular layers of the muscular tunic, with the myenteric population organized into ganglia and isolated in the region of neuronal fiber bundles. The commercial Macleaya cordata extract showed no quantitative changes in the myenteric Giemsa+ population and myenteric NADPH-d+ subpopulation, however, the groups that consumed the extract showed greater NADPH-d+ neuron activity compared to the control group, implying that the food remained longer in the intestinal lumen, therefore, enabling greater nutrient use and resulting in increased productive performance.

RESUMO: A coturnicultura tem apresentado características promissoras, deixando de ser uma atividade de subsistência e ocupando patamares tecnificados devido a sua precocidade produtiva, baixo investimento de criação e rápido retorno econômico. A partir da restrição da utilização de antimicrobianos como promotores de crescimento, estudos foram direcionados com o objetivo de se avaliar produtos alternativos que viabilizassem a criação de aves saudáveis, sem comprometer seu desempenho, sendo o extrato comercial da Macleaya cordata um destes substitutos. As funções do trato gastrintestinal são coordenadas principalmente pelo sistema nervoso entérico, sendo o plexo mioentérico responsável pelo controle reflexo das atividades contráteis da musculatura externa. Desta forma, o presente trabalho teve como objetivo localizar e demonstrar a distribuição do plexo mioentérico, quantificar a população total de neurônios mioentéricos (Giemsa+), e a subpopulação de neurônios mioentéricos nitrérgicos (NADPH-d+), além de avaliar os efeitos do extrato comercial da Macleaya cordata sobre estas populações de neurônios do jejuno de codornas. Foram alojadas 240 codornas de postura, fêmeas, com um dia de idade, distribuídas aleatoriamente em quatro tratamentos, com quatro repetições de 15 aves cada. Os grupos testes (T1, T2 e T3) foram tratados com extrato comercial de Macleaya cordata durante todo o período experimental conforme as doses indicadas, sendo: T1 - grupo teste, com dieta basal adicionada de 150 ppm do extrato na ração; T2 - grupo teste, com dieta basal adicionada de 100 ppm do extrato na ração; T3 - grupo teste, com dieta basal adicionada de 50 ppm do extrato na ração, e T4 - grupo controle, com dieta basal isenta do extrato. Foram realizadas análise histológica e a marcação dos neurônios mioentéricos Giemsa+ e NADPH-d+. Os resultados demonstraram que o plexo mioentérico está localizado entre as fibras do estrato longitudinal, e na região de transição entre os estratos longitudinal e circular da túnica muscular, estando a população mioentérica organizada em gânglios, e também isoladamente na região dos feixes das fibras neuronais. O extrato comercial da Macleaya cordata não alterou quantitativamente os neurônios da população mioentérica Giemsa+ e da subpopulação mioentérica NADPH-d+, mas os grupos que consumiram o extrato apresentaram maior atividade dos neurônios NADPH-d+ em relação ao grupo controle, permitindo inferir que o alimento permaneceu maior tempo no lúmen intestinal e, portanto, possibilitou um maior aproveitamento dos nutrientes, podendo refletir em melhor desempenho produtivo.

How the diurnal hours affects maintenance behavior in Japanese quail concerning rearing modification systems

This study was carried out to investigate the impact of times of day on the behavior of Japanese quail concerning managerial modifications systems. A total of 120 one-day-old quail chicks were used in this study. 60 chicks were housed in cage systems; distributed into 3 subgroups (20 birds on each), a normal cage group, a cage with cover as wire floor with plastic cover from the top and third cage group "Edinburgmodification cage", as a normal cage except that the front portion has dust bather filled with washed builder sand or fine sawdust. The other floor managerial modifications included 60 birds distributed into three subgroups. The first-floor group was considered "normal", as 20 birds were housed using an 80×50 floor system with 5cm or 10 cm dry, clean soft sawdust sprinkling with slaked lime, the second-floor group was named "A grill group". The feed was offered to the quail in a plastic feeder covered with the grill to reduce feed wastageand the third-floor group offered feed to the quail in a longitudinal constructed feeder with six holes separated by wire. Data were analyzed using two-way ANOVA, where two factors affect the behavior of quails and from our study, we suggested that there were non-significant differences in the ingestive behavior of quail regarding the daylight effect. Most standing frequencies were conducted midday at most managerial modifications. Crouching time also increased in the early morning with the normal floor group and constructed feeder. We conclude that various times of the day and managerial modifications greatly alter maintenance behavior in most quail chicks. Abnormal behavior was comparatively higher in the morning.

How the diurnal hours affects maintenance behavior in Japanese quail concerning rearing modification systems

This study was carried out to investigate the impact of times of day on the behavior of Japanese quail concerning managerial modifications systems. A total of 120 one-day-old quail chicks were used in this study. 60 chicks were housed in cage systems; distributed into 3 subgroups (20 birds on each), a normal cage group, a cage with cover as wire floor with plastic cover from the top and third cage group "Edinburgmodification cage", as a normal cage except that the front portion has dust bather filled with washed builder sand or fine sawdust. The other floor managerial modifications included 60 birds distributed into three subgroups. The first-floor group was considered "normal", as 20 birds were housed using an 80×50 floor system with 5cm or 10 cm dry, clean soft sawdust sprinkling with slaked lime, the second-floor group was named "A grill group". The feed was offered to the quail in a plastic feeder covered with the grill to reduce feed wastageand the third-floor group offered feed to the quail in a longitudinal constructed feeder with six holes separated by wire. Data were analyzed using two-way ANOVA, where two factors affect the behavior of quails and from our study, we suggested that there were non-significant differences in the ingestive behavior of quail regarding the daylight effect. Most standing frequencies were conducted midday at most managerial modifications. Crouching time also increased in the early morning with the normal floor group and constructed feeder. We conclude that various times of the day and managerial modifications greatly alter maintenance behavior in most quail chicks. Abnormal behavior was comparatively higher in the morning.(AU)