Effect of Different Levels of Extruded Coffee (Coffea arabica) Pulp Flour on the Productive Performance and Intestinal Morphometry of Cobb 500 Broiler Chickens.

Coffee pulp is a by-product of the coffee industry. Due to conventional management techniques, it represents a severe environmental problem due to its negative impact on the soil (anaerobic fermentation and pH changes), water sources (the infiltration of pollutants into streams, acidification of water sources, and modification of microorganisms), and biodiversity (soil microbiology, fish, crustaceans, and other vertebrates). Therefore, it is essential to develop protocols for the treatment of this waste so that it can be used again in other productive activities under the circular economy approach. This means that all the waste from a production process can be reused, can generate value for the benefit of the producer, and, in turn, mitigate the environmental impact. The objective of this study was to evaluate the replacement of 5 levels of wheat bran (WB) with extruded coffee pulp flour (ECPF) as an alternative to a conventional fiber source in broiler finisher diets. A total of 300 Cobb 500 chickens in the finishing phase were assessed in the study, grouped in 5 treatments: T1, a conventional diet or control treatment (100% WB and 0% ECPF), T2 (75% WB and 25% ECPF), T3 (50% WB and 50% ECPF), T4 (25% WB and 75% ECPF), and T5 (0% WB and 100% ECPF). Feed intake, weight gain, feed conversion ratio (FCR), and intestinal morphometry (villus length: VL, villus width: VW, crypt depth: CD, villus height/crypt depth ratio: V/C, and villus surface area: VSA) were evaluated at the level of the duodenum, jejunum, and ileum. Feed intake decreased correspondingly as the ECPF in the diet was increased, with statistical differences (p < 0.01) between their averages; the most significant weight gain (834.61 g) was evidenced with the T2 treatment, this being statistically different (p < 0.01) from T4 and T5; similarly, the best FCR (1.58) was evidenced with the T2 treatment, followed by the control treatment T1 (with 1.64); however, they were not statistically different (p > 0.05). All treatment results were similar to the VL control samples in the three intestinal portions, except for the T5 in the jejunum, which showed statistical differences from the control. In VW, the treatment results were similar to the control samples of the jejunum and ileum; however, in the duodenum, the T5 results showed the highest value (172.18 µm), being statistically different (p < 0.05) from the other treatments being evaluated. For CD, it was only in the duodenum that the T2 and T3 treatments were similar to the control. Likewise, for V/C in the duodenum, only the T2 results were similar to the control. There was no significant difference in the VSA among the different treatment groups. T2 showed better production parameters without altering the intestinal villi. In conclusion, ECPF is a potential input for use to replace up to 25% of WB in the feed of broilers in the finishing phase.

Finishing of grazing crossbred steers supplemented with detoxified castor bean meal (Ricinus communis L.) in the rainy-dry transition period.

This study evaluated levels of replacement of soybean meal by castor bean meal in the finishing crossbred steers on Brachiaria brizantha cv. Marandu pasture during the rainy-dry transition period. Forty Holstein-Zebu crossbred steers with an average initial weight of 395.93 ± 10 kg were randomly allocated to four treatment groups that were supplemented with concentrate levels of replacing (0, 290, 613, and 903 g/kg DM of the supplement; at 0.4% body weight [BW]). The experimental period was 120 days. A completely randomized experimental design was adopted; with regression analysis using the computational software package (SAS 9.2, USA). Intake and digestibility of dry matter (DM) and nutrients and animal performance were evaluated. The replacement levels did not influence (P > 0.05) the intakes of DM (kg/day), organic matter (OM, kg/day), neutral detergent fiber (NDF, kg/day and %BW), non-fibrous carbohydrates (NFC, kg/day), or total digestible nutrients (kg/day). However, the intake of crude protein (CP) and ether extract (EE, kg/day) decreased as the replacement levels were increased (P < 0.05). The digestibility of DM, OM, NDF, and EE did not change, whereas CP digestibility decreased linearly and NFC digestibility increased linearly (P < 0.05). The replacement levels did not affect (P > 0.05) final body weight, average daily gain, feed conversion, and carcass yield. Castor bean meal can replace up to 903 g/kg DM of soybean meal in the composition of the supplement without compromising the performance of steers on Marandu pasture during the rainy-dry transition period.

Nutrient intake, productive and metabolic parameters of Nellore bulls feed a forage free diet using cottonseed cake as a fiber source.

We hypothesized that cottonseed cake in confined Nellore young bulls' diet as fiber source, could maintain or improve the nutrient intake, and productive and metabolic parameters. It was evaluated the total replacement of whole plant corn silage (WPCS) by cottonseed cake (CSC) as a source of fiber in the diet. A completely randomized design with two treatments and 12 replications was used. The treatments were two experimental diets containing 300 g/kg of WPCS or CSC as roughage. All animals at 0, 15, 30, 60 and 112 days were weighed to monitor productive performance and nutrient intake. Dry matter intakes, organic matter, neutral detergent fiber, physically effective neutral detergent fiber, crude protein and non-fiber carbohydrates of the WPCS treatment cattle were higher (p < 0.05), and the ethereal extract intake of cattle fed CSC diet was higher. The BW of cattle fed WPCS was higher in the two initial periods of confinement (p < 0.05). Animals from both treatments showed linear growth during the confinement period. There was a fiber source × period interaction for total weight gain (TWG), average daily gain (ADG) and feed efficiency (FE) (p < 0.05), with the lowest in the first 15 days and the highest at 30 days, reflecting a compensatory gain in animals fed with CSC. Bulls fed with CSC showed negative TWG and ADG in the first period (p < 0.05), but recovered in the following periods, surpassing that of the SC treatment in the last two periods. There was negative EF of bulls fed with CSC in the first period (P < 0.05), but in the following periods the CSC diet did not differ from the WPCS diet. The animals fed CSC diet showed a higher concentration of cholesterol and glucose in the blood plasma (p < 0.05). The forage-free diet containing cottonseed cake as a source of fiber replacing corn silage promoted better animal performance.

Use of whole soy lecithin in diets with energy concentrate from starchy or lipid sources for steers / [Uso de lecitina integral de soja em dietas com concentrado energético de fontes amiláceas ou lipídicas para novilhos]

ABSTRACT Diets with high energy density and additives that enhance energy use are necessary for finishing feedlot cattle. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the performance, ingestive behavior, apparent digestibility of the diet and the carcass traits of feedlot steers fed concentrates from different energy sources, one derived from starchy sources and the other, from lipid sources, combined or not with whole soy lecithin, at a dose of 40 g animal day-1. The experimental design was completely randomized blocks, in a 2 x 2 factorial arrangement. The combination of whole soy lecithin with the lipid energy source concentrate increased the dry matter digestibility and the carcass yield of the animals (76.03% and 57.20%, respectively). The lipid energy source concentrate showed higher ether extract digestibility and animals fed on it had higher carcass yield (84.18% and 56.85%, respectively). Whole soy lecithin promoted a reduction in fecal pH due to a greater fermentation of carbohydrates and fatty acids in the intestinal lumen. Using whole soy lecithin combined with energy concentrate from a lipid source is recommended due to its improvements in the use of the diet and in the carcass yield.

RESUMO O uso de dietas com alta densidade energética e aditivos que potencializem o aproveitamento energético se faz necessário na terminação de bovinos em confinamento. O objetivo do presente estudo foi avaliar o desempenho, o comportamento ingestivo, a digestibilidade aparente da dieta e as características de carcaça de novilhos confinados, alimentados com concentrados de diferentes fontes energéticas, um derivado de fontes amiláceas e outro de fontes lipídicas, associados ou não com lecitina integral de soja, na dose de 40g animal dia-1. O delineamento experimental foi o de blocos inteiramente ao acaso, em esquema fatorial 2 x 2. A associação da lecitina integral de soja com o concentrado de fonte energética lipídica melhorou a digestibilidade da matéria seca e o rendimento de carcaça dos animais (76,03% e 57,20%, respectivamente). O concentrado de fonte energética lipídica teve maior digestibilidade do extrato etéreo, e os animais alimentados com este possuíram maior rendimento de carcaça (84,18% e 56,85%, respectivamente). A lecitina integral de soja isolada promoveu redução no pH fecal em virtude de uma maior fermentação de carboidratos e ácidos graxos no lúmen intestinal. Utilizar lecitina integral de soja associada com concentrado energético de fonte lipídica é recomendado devido a suas melhorias no aproveitamento da dieta e no rendimento de carcaça.

Use of near-infrared reflectance spectroscopy on feces to estimate digestibility and dry matter intake of dietary nutritional characteristics under grazing conditions in Colombian creole steers.

Digestibility and intake are parameters difficult and expensive to estimate under grazing conditions; therefore, the aim of this study was to develop near-infrared reflectance spectroscopy (NIRS) calibrations applied to feces (F-NIRS) and evaluate their accuracy to predict dry matter digestibility (DMD) and dry matter intake (DMI) of Colombian creole cattle. Five digestibility trials using creole steers were conducted; indigestible neutral detergent fiber (iNDF) was used as internal marker and Cr2O3 and TiO2 as external markers. A total of 249 forage and 396 fecal samples from individual animals were collected, dried, and grinded for conventional chemical analysis. For spectral analysis, fecal samples were pooled across collection periods (77 samples). Chemometric analysis was performed using WinISI V4.10 software applying the modified partial least squares method. Cross-validation was performed to avoid overfitting the models. The goodness-of-fit statistics considered were the coefficient of determination in cross-validation and prediction sets (R2cv and r2, respectively) and the ratio performance deviation (RPD). Fecal NIRS calibrations developed for forage and supplement DMD showed a satisfactory fit (R2cv =0.87 and RPD=2.77 and R2cv=0.92 and RPD=3.50, respectively). The accuracy of fecal output equations using chromium (Cr) and titanium (Ti) was similar in terms of R2cv (0.92) and RPD (3.63 vs. 3.57). Total DMI equations using Ti performed better compared to Cr (R2cv = 0.82 vs. 0.78; RPD=2.41 vs. 2.17, respectively). The F-NIRS models were validated using a completely independent set of fecal samples showing a moderate fit (r2>0.8 and RPD>2.0). This study showed that F-NIRS is a feasible tool to predict DMD and DMI of creole steers under grazing conditions. However, previous to socialization, this requires an improvement in accuracy of the calibrated equations related to grazing animals in different production contexts.

A Short-Term Supplementation with a Polyphenol-Rich Extract from Radiata Pine Bark Improves Fatty Acid Profiles in Finishing Lambs.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of a short-term supplementation with a polyphenol-rich extract from radiata pine bark (PBE) on animal performance, blood parameters, and fatty acid (FA) profiles in finishing lambs. Twenty-seven Suffolk lambs (4 months old) fed a finishing diet were randomly assigned to one of the following treatments: diet without PBE or diet supplemented with PBE on a 1 or 2% dry matter (DM) basis, for 35 d (14 d adaptation and 21 d of experimental period). Data were compared using Tukey's test and orthogonal and polynomial contrasts. The results indicated that the supplementation with PBE increased (p = 0.008) relative growth rate (RGR) and improved (p = 0.003) protein conversion (CPC), whereas weight gain, carcass characteristic, and blood parameters were unaffected (p ≥ 0.106). Total mono- and polyunsaturated FAs, conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), and vaccenic and oleic acids were linearly increased (p ≤ 0.016) by PBE supplementation. In contrast, total saturated FAs (ΣSFA), Σn-6/Σn-3 ratio, atherogenicity index (AI), thrombogenic index (TI), and the proportion of elaidic acid were linearly decreased (p ≤ 0.018). In conclusion, the supplementation with 1 or 2% DM of PBE improves subcutaneous FA profiles by increasing CLA and reducing ΣSFA, Σn-6/Σn-3 ratio, AI, and TI. Additionally, PBE supplementation has the potential to improve RGR and CPC, with unaffected intake, growth performance, blood parameters, or carcass characteristics.

Seasonality effect on the physiological and productive responses of crossbred dairy cows to the equatorial Amazon climate / Efeito da sazonalidade sobre as respostas fisiológicas e produtivas de vacas leiteiras mestiças ao clima amazônico equatorial

The objective of this study was to evaluate the seasonal effect of months of the year upon the physiological and productive responses of crossbred dairy cows raised in an Amazonian climate. Twenty lactating cows were evaluated, fed on Brachiaria decumbens pasture, with free access to water and mineral supplementation. Data from climate variables air temperature (AT), relative humidity (RH), rainfall (RA) and temperature and humidity index (THI) were recorded dur ing the months of January to April 2019. The physiological data collected were: respiratory rate (RR, mov/min), heart rate (HR, beats/min), rectal temperature (RT, ºC), udder surface temperature (UST, ºC), body surface temperature (BST, ºC), dorsum surface temperature (DST, ºC), front surface temperature (FST, ºC) and rear shin temperature (RST). Milk production (MP) was also measured. There was a significant difference (P<0.05) of RST and RR with values ranging from 34.8 to 35.5°C and 32.0 to 36.2 mov/min, respectively. There were no significant difference (P>0.05) for BST, and the values for MP and THI were 3.8; 3.8; 4.6; 4.1 kg and 77.7; 79.7; 80.6; 80.1, respectively. It was concluded that there was a seasonal effect of the months of the year evaluated on the respiratory rate of animals, however, it did not change the MP and the THI. The Amazon environment is conducive to causing thermal stress in lactating cows raised on pasture, requiring the use of shading to facilitate the ability of these animals to dissipate heat.(AU)

O objetivo desse estudo foi avaliar os efeitos sazonais dos meses do ano sobre as respostas fisiológicas e produtivas de vacas leiteiras mestiças criadas em clima amazônico. Foram avaliadas 20 vacas lactantes, alimentadas com pasto de Brachiaria decumbens, com acesso livre a água e suplementação mineral. Foram registrados dados das variáveis climáticas temperatura do ar (TA), umidade relativa do ar (UR), precipitação pluviométrica (PP) e índice de temperatura e Umidade (ITU) durante os meses de janeiro a abril de 2019. Os dados fisiológicos coletados foram: frequência respiratória (FR, mov/min), frequência cardíaca (FC, bat./min), temperatura retal (TR, ºC), temperatura superficial do úbere (TSU, ºC), temperatura superfície corporal (TSC, ºC), temperatura superficial do dorso (TSD, ºC), temperatura superficial da fronte (TSF, ºC) e temperatura superficial da canela (TSCA, °C). Também foi mensurada a produção de leite (PL, kg). Houve diferença significativa (P<0,05) da TSCA e FR com valores variando de 34,8 a 35,5°C e 32,0 a 36,2 mov/min, respectivamente. Não houve diferença significativa (P>0,05) para TSC e os valores observados para PL e ITU foram 3,8; 3,8; 4,6; 4,1 kg e 77,7; 79,7; 80,6; 80,1, respectivamente. Houve efeito sazonal dos meses avaliados sobre a taxa respiratória dos animais, no entanto, isso não alterou a PL nem o ITU. O ambiente amazônico é propício a causar estresse térmico em vacas lactantes mantidas a pasto, sendo necessário o uso de sombreamento para facilitar a capacidade de dissipação de calor corporal desses animais.(AU)

Ammonium dipropionate in the total mixed ration does not change the ingestive behavior but improves the productive performance of feedlot bulls / A adição do dipropionato de amônio na ração total misturada não altera o comportamento ingestivo, mas melhora o desempenho produtivo de novilhos confinados

The objective of the present study was to evaluate the productive performance, the ingestive behavior, the apparent digestibility of the diet, and the carcass characteristics of beef steers finished in confinement under the effect of ammonium dipropionate in the diet, and the fractionation or not in the supply of the diet. The experimental design was completely randomized, in a 2 x 2 factorial scheme, totaling four treatments, as follows: Diet without ammonium dipropionate provided twice a day; Diet without ammonium dipropionate given once daily; Diet with ammonium dipropionate provided twice daily; Ammonium dipropionate diet provided once daily. Thirty-two ½ Angus ½ Nellore bulls were used, with an average age of 11 months. The use of ammonium dipropionate in the overall average increased average daily gain, dry matter intake, and carcass gain. The diet provided twice a day provided, on average, greater weight gain, greater carcass gain, and better feed conversion. When evaluating the association between treatments, the use of dipropionate plus the diet supplied twice a day showed greater daily carcass gain during the experimental period and higher hot carcass weight (1.251 kg, 111.4 kg, and 308.6 kg respectively), as well as ensuring better apparent digestibility of dry matter (74.57%). With the data obtained in the present study, it is possible to state that it is advisable to use ammonium dipropionate while maintaining the fractionation of the diet for beef steers in the finishing phase.(AU)

O objetivo do presente estudo foi avaliar o desempenho produtivo, o comportamento ingestivo, a digestibilidade aparente da dieta e as características de carcaça de novilhos de corte terminados em confinamento sob efeito do dipropionato de amônio na dieta, e do fracionamento ou não no fornecimento da dieta. O delineamento experimental foi inteiramente casualizado, em um esquema fatorial 2 x 2, totalizando quatro tratamentos, sendo: Dieta sem dipropionato de amônio fornecida duas vezes ao dia; Dieta sem dipropionato de amônio fornecida uma vez ao dia; Dieta com dipropionato de amônio fornecida duas vezes ao dia; Dieta com dipropionato de amônio fornecida uma vez ao dia. Utilizou-se 32 novilhos ½ sangue Angus ½ sangue Nelore, com idade média de 11 meses. O uso do dipropionato de amônio na média geral aumentou o ganho médio diário, a ingestão de matéria seca, e o ganho de carcaça. A dieta fornecida duas vezes ao dia proporcionou na média geral, maior ganho de peso, maior ganho de carcaça e melhor conversão alimentar. Ao avaliar a associação entre os tratamentos, o uso de dipropionato mais a dieta fornecida duas vezes ao dia mostrou maior ganho de carcaça diário, durante o período experimental e maior peso de carcaça quente (1,251 kg, 111,4 kg e 308,6 kg respectivamente), assim como garantiu melhor digestibilidade aparente da matéria seca (74,57%). Com os dados obtidos no presente estudo é possível afirmar que é recomendável utilizar o dipropionato de amônio mantendo o fracionamento da dieta para novilhos de corte em fase de terminação.(AU)

Technologies used in ruminant grazing management: an integrative review.

The objective of this study was to identify the main technologies used in the management of ruminant grazing. We developed a review protocol in which the search terms were previously tested and based on the PVO strategy to determine the guiding question (population [P]: domestic ruminants; variables [V] of interest: grazing management technologies; and outcomes [O]: intake, performance, and productivity of animals raised exclusively on pasture). The guiding question was the following: What technologies are used in the grazing management of domestic ruminants on pasture? The databases used were SCOPUS (Elsevier), SciELO Citation Index, Science Direct, and Wiley Online Library, and the search was carried out until October 15, 2021. The search identified 2683 research articles; however, only 43 were considered eligible and included due to their methodological robustness for data extraction. The most commonly used species were Lolium multiflorum and Lolium perenne (20%), Panicum maximum (18%), and Brachiaria brizantha (14%). The most widely used grazing methods were continuous grazing (53.4%) and intermittent grazing (39.5%). Among the technologies, the most widely adopted were pasture height (55.8%) and herbage allowance (11.6%). The most frequent sampling methods were the use of a ruler (37.2%) and measuring stick (13.9%) to measure the height, and clipping with a frame (18.6%) to measure herbage allowance. The animals used in the included studies were cattle (n = 1335), sheep (n = 839), and goats (n = 41). Pasture height and herbage allowance were the most widely used grazing management technologies, with the data concentrated mainly in Brazil, in studies with continuous grazing by cattle.

The influence of protected fat in supplements on the performance and carcass characteristics of Nellore beef bulls in tropical pasture.

The finishing stages for uncastrated Nellore beef cattle on tropical pasture often produce high yielding carcasses with minimal fat cover. This study aimed to evaluate the performance and carcass characteristics of uncastrated Nellore beef bulls fed a diet containing rumen-protected fat during the rainy period for 210 days. Eighty Nellore beef bulls with 28 months of age, and an initial live weight of 416 kg ± 16 kg, were allocated into eight paddocks (7.0 ha), totaling 56 ha, at 10 animals/paddock, in a continuous-grazing system. The pasture characteristics, performance production, loin-eye area (cm2), subcutaneous fat thickness (mm), and rump fat thickness were evaluated. There was no effect (P > 0.05) on the average total weight gain (203.00 kg) and average daily gain (0.98 kg/day). On the other hand, the subcutaneous fat thickness and rump fat thickness were 42.8% and 49.5% greater, respectively, when the animals were fed a diet containing rumen-protected fat inclusion (P < 0.05). Supplementation with rumen-protected fat provided a thicker fat layer in the carcass of Nellore beef bulls grazing on tropical pasture during the rainy period.

Effect of replacement of forage sorghum silage with biomass sorghum silage in diets for dairy heifers / Efeito da substituição da silagem de sorgo forrageiro por silagem de sorgo biomassa em dietas para novilhas leiteiras

This trial aimed to analyze the replacement of forage sorghum silage (FS silage) with biomass sorghum silage (BRS 716 silage) in diets for heifers ¾ Holstein x » Zebu on their nutrient intake and digestibility, nitrogen balance, microbial production, feeding behavior, and animal performance. Eight heifers with average age 18±4 months (mo) and average body weight (BW) 271 ± 57 kg were used. The experimental design was double-Latin square, 4×4, being four diets, four experimental periods and four animals. Four experimental diets with 0, 33, 67 and 100% substitution of forage sorghum silage with biomass sorghum silage were used. The roughage:concentrate ratio in the total dry matter (DM) of the diets was 75:25. The fraction "b" of DM was higher in the BRS 716 silage. There was no difference (p> 0.05) for dry matter intake (DMI; p = 0.45) and total digestible nutrients intake (p = 0.76). The dry matter digestibility (DMD), crude protein, ether extract and neutral detergent fiber increased linearly with the inclusion of BRS 716 silage. The feeding times, ruminating and idle have not been changed (p > 0.05). The replacement of FS silage with BRS 716 silage did not modify the average daily weight gain (ADG; p > 0.05; mean 1.30 ± 0.025 kg). Biomass sorghum silage can replace up to 100% forage sorghum silage in the diets of ¾ Holstein x » Zebu heifers.(AU)

Objetivou-se analisar a substituição da silagem de sorgo forrageiro (silagem FS) pela silagem de sorgo biomassa (silagem BRS 716) em dietas para novilhas ¾ Holandês x » Zebu sobre o consumo e digestibilidade de nutrientes, balanço de nitrogênio, produção microbiana, comportamento alimentar e desempenho animal. Foram utilizadas oito novilhas com idade média de 18 ± 4 meses e peso corporal (PC) médio de 271 ± 57 kg. O delineamento experimental foi o quadrado latino duplo, 4 × 4, sendo quatro dietas, quatro períodos experimentais e quatro animais. Foram utilizadas quatro dietas experimentais com 0, 33, 67 e 100% de substituição da silagem de sorgo forrageiro pela silagem de sorgo biomassa. A relação volumoso: concentrado na matéria seca total (MS) das dietas foi de 75:25. A fração "b" da MS foi maior na silagem BRS 716. Não houve diferença (p > 0,05) para consumo de matéria seca (CMS; p = 0,45) e consumo de nutrientes digestíveis totais (p = 0,76). A digestibilidade da matéria seca (DMS), proteína bruta, extrato etéreo e fibra em detergente neutro aumentaram linearmente com a inclusão da silagem BRS 716. Os tempos de alimentação, ruminação e ócio não foram alterados (p > 0,05). A substituição da silagem FS pela silagem de BRS 716 não alterou o ganho em peso médio diário (GMD; p > 0,05; média 1,30 ± 0,025 kg). A silagem de sorgo biomassa pode substituir até 100% a silagem de sorgo forrageiro na dieta de novilhas ¾ Holandês x » Zebu.(AU)

On the efficacy, innocuity and residual depletion of flavomycin in confined steers / Avaliação da eficácia, inocuidade e depleção residual da flavomicina em novilhos confinados

Flavomycin is a non-ionophore additive little studied in finishing confined cattle. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of flavomycin on productive performance, ingestive behavior, carcass traits and biochemical parameters of steers finished in confinement. 32 whole steers, ½ Angus e ½ Nellore blood, from the same herd, with a mean age of 11 ± 1.5 months and initial body weight of 337 ± 6 kg were evaluated. The experiment was a randomized block design, consisting of two treatments and eight replications, as follows: Diet without flavomycin (control) and Diet with flavomycin (0.5 g FLAVIMPEX®80 animal day-1). There was no difference between treatments, the average dry matter intake of the animals was 10.03 kg day-1, feed efficiency was 0.158 kg, average daily gain was 1.593 kg day-1, apparent diet digestibility was 61.69%. The use of flavomycin was not effective in animal performance, and caused no changes in ingestive behavior and carcass traits of the animals. Total Plasma Protein, Aspartate amino-transferase and creatinine were lower for animals supplemented with flavomycin compared to the control group. In relation to the experimental period, there was a reduction in the levels of Total Plasma Protein, an increase in albumin, Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase and urea in cattle, but all remained within the reference range for the species.(AU)

A flavomicina é um aditivo que pertence à classe dos não ionóforos, contudo, com poucos estudos realizados com bovinos confinados em fase de terminação. Diante disso, o objetivo do presente estudo foi avaliar a eficácia da flavomicina sobre o desempenho produtivo, comportamento ingestivo, características de carcaça e os parâmetros bioquímicos de novilhos terminados em confinamento. Foram avaliados 32 novilhos inteiros, ½ sangue Angus ½ sangue Nelore, provenientes do mesmo rebanho, com idade média de 11 meses ± 1,5 meses e peso corporal inicial de 337 kg ± 6 kg. O delineamento experimental foi o de blocos casualizados, composto por dois tratamentos e oito repetições, sendo: Dieta sem flavomicina (controle) e Dieta com flavomicina (0,5 g animal dia-1 do produto FLAVIMPEX®80). Não ocorrendo diferença entre os tratamentos, o consumo de matéria seca médio dos animais foi de 10,03 kg dia-1, eficiência alimentar de 0,158 kg, ganho médio diário de 1,593 kg dia-1, digestibilidade aparente da dieta de 61,69%. O uso da flavomicina não foi eficaz no desempenho animal, assim como não trouxe alterações no comportamento ingestivo e melhorias nas características de carcaça dos animais. A Proteína Plasmática Total, Aspartato amino-transferase e creatinina foram inferiores para os animais suplementados com flavomicina em relação ao grupo controle. Em relação ao período experimental houve redução nos índices de Proteína Plasmática Total, aumento na albumina, Gama-Glutamil Transferase e ureia dos bovinos, mas todos se mantiveram dentro dos valores de referência para a espécie.(AU)

Effect of Fresh Citrus Pulp Supplementation on Animal Performance and Meat Quality of Feedlot Steers.

The use of fruit by-products such as citrus pulp represents a feeding ingredient that deserves to be evaluated as an energy source in animal rations. Thirty-six British breed steers were allotted to one of the three feeding treatments (12 steers/treatment): 0%, 15% and 30% of fresh citrus pulp inclusion in the ration in a randomized complete block design to evaluate animal performance and carcass and meat quality traits. In the present study, the inclusion of fresh citrus pulp up to 30% of the diet did not affect the animal average daily gain (p > 0.05) but steers that were fed the pulp consumed less feed (p < 0.05) and presented a lower feed conversion ratio (p < 0.05) than their counterparts without citrus pulp in their diet. No effect of fresh citrus pulp was observed on carcass and meat quality (p > 0.05). A greater lipophilic antioxidant capacity (p < 0.05) in meat was observed when fresh citrus pulp was offered at 15% of the diet. Fresh citrus pulp used up to 30% as a feed ingredient in feedlot rations does not negatively affect animal performance or meat quality but, rather, has a positive effect on dry matter intake and a better feed conversion ratio.

Forage characteristics and beef cattle production in perennial pastures of BRS Paiaguás and BRS Piatã in integrated crop livestock system / Características da forragem e produção de bovinos de corte em pastos perenes de BRS Paiaguás e BRS Piatã em sistema de integração lavoura pecuária

The integrated crop-livestock system is highlighted in Brazilian agriculture, in which the synergism between the components can increase productivity and animal performance. Forage is one of the most important components because it is the basis of animal feed. Thus, the objective of the study was to evaluate the beef cattle production and pastures characteristics of Urochloa brizantha 'BRS Piatã' and 'BRS Paiaguás', under continuous grazing in an integrated crop livestock system. The experiment was conducted in west of Sao Paulo State, in a randomized complete block design with two treatments and three replicates, from October 2018 to June 2019. The treatments were 3-year-old pastures of BRS Piatã and Paiaguás, in an integrated crop livestock system with perennial pasture and soybean. Nellore steers (14 ± 2 months old and 244 ± 13kg initial weight) were used. The grazing method adopted was a continuous stocking with a variable rate to maintain a pasture height of 30 cm. Herbage mass was 5716 and 5480 kg dry matter ha-¹ for Piatã and Paiaguás, respectively. The crude protein, neutral detergent fiber, and acid detergent fiber were similar between the two cultivars. The leaf blade mass of BRS Piatã was greater than that of BRS Paiaguás insummer. Animal performance was similar between treatments, with average daily gain of 0.901 and 0.822kg day-¹ and weight gain per area of 888 and 865 kg ha-¹ in Piatã and Paiaguás, respectively. The BRS Piatã and BRS Paiaguás grasses are indicated for use in perennial pastures in integrated crop livestock systems.

A integração lavoura pecuária tem ganhado destaque no cenário da agropecuária brasileira, em que o sinergismo entre os componentes pode melhorar o desempenho e a produtividade animal. Nesse contexto, a forragem é um dos componentes mais importantes. Assim, o objetivo do estudo foi avaliar a produção de bovinos de corte e características de pastagens de Urochloa brizantha 'BRS Piatã' e 'BRS Paiaguás' sob pastejo contínuo em sistema de integração lavoura pecuária. O experimento foi realizado no oeste do estado de São Paulo, com delineamento experimental em blocos ao acaso com três repetições, de outubro de 2018 a junho de 2019. Os tratamentos foram pastagens perenes de três anos de BRS Piatã e Paiaguás, em uma modalidade de integração lavoura pecuária com pastagem perene e soja. Foram utilizados novilhos da raça Nelore, com 14 ± 2 meses de idade e peso médio inicial de 244 ± 13,3 kg. O método de pastejo foi o contínuo com lotação variável, mantendo-se a altura da pastagem em 30 cm. Amassa de forragem foi de 5716 e 5480 kg MS ha-1 para Piatã e Paiaguás, respectivamente. Os teores de proteína bruta, fibra em detergente neutro e fibra em detergente ácido foram semelhantes entre as duas cultivares. A massa de folhas da BRS Piatã foi maior em relação à BRS Paiaguás no verão. O desempenho animal foi similar entre as cultivares estudadas, sendo o ganho de peso diário 0,901 e 0,822 kg dia-1 e o ganho por área 888 e 865 kg ha-1 para Piatã e Paiaguás, respectivamente. O elevado ganho de peso individual e por área obtidos demonstram o grande potencial de uso das duas cultivares na formação de pastagens perenes em sistemas de integração lavoura-pecuária.

Forage characteristics and beef cattle production in perennial pastures of BRS Paiaguás and BRS Piatã in integrated crop livestock system / Características da forragem e produção de bovinos de corte em pastos perenes de BRS Paiaguás e BRS Piatã em sistema de integração lavoura pecuária

The integrated crop-livestock system is highlighted in Brazilian agriculture, in which the synergism between the components can increase productivity and animal performance. Forage is one of the most important components because it is the basis of animal feed. Thus, the objective of the study was to evaluate the beef cattle production and pastures characteristics of Urochloa brizantha 'BRS Piatã' and 'BRS Paiaguás', under continuous grazing in an integrated crop livestock system. The experiment was conducted in west of Sao Paulo State, in a randomized complete block design with two treatments and three replicates, from October 2018 to June 2019. The treatments were 3-year-old pastures of BRS Piatã and Paiaguás, in an integrated crop livestock system with perennial pasture and soybean. Nellore steers (14 ± 2 months old and 244 ± 13kg initial weight) were used. The grazing method adopted was a continuous stocking with a variable rate to maintain a pasture height of 30 cm. Herbage mass was 5716 and 5480 kg dry matter ha-¹ for Piatã and Paiaguás, respectively. The crude protein, neutral detergent fiber, and acid detergent fiber were similar between the two cultivars. The leaf blade mass of BRS Piatã was greater than that of BRS Paiaguás insummer. Animal performance was similar between treatments, with average daily gain of 0.901 and 0.822kg day-¹ and weight gain per area of 888 and 865 kg ha-¹ in Piatã and Paiaguás, respectively. The BRS Piatã and BRS Paiaguás grasses are indicated for use in perennial pastures in integrated crop livestock systems.(AU)

A integração lavoura pecuária tem ganhado destaque no cenário da agropecuária brasileira, em que o sinergismo entre os componentes pode melhorar o desempenho e a produtividade animal. Nesse contexto, a forragem é um dos componentes mais importantes. Assim, o objetivo do estudo foi avaliar a produção de bovinos de corte e características de pastagens de Urochloa brizantha 'BRS Piatã' e 'BRS Paiaguás' sob pastejo contínuo em sistema de integração lavoura pecuária. O experimento foi realizado no oeste do estado de São Paulo, com delineamento experimental em blocos ao acaso com três repetições, de outubro de 2018 a junho de 2019. Os tratamentos foram pastagens perenes de três anos de BRS Piatã e Paiaguás, em uma modalidade de integração lavoura pecuária com pastagem perene e soja. Foram utilizados novilhos da raça Nelore, com 14 ± 2 meses de idade e peso médio inicial de 244 ± 13,3 kg. O método de pastejo foi o contínuo com lotação variável, mantendo-se a altura da pastagem em 30 cm. Amassa de forragem foi de 5716 e 5480 kg MS ha-1 para Piatã e Paiaguás, respectivamente. Os teores de proteína bruta, fibra em detergente neutro e fibra em detergente ácido foram semelhantes entre as duas cultivares. A massa de folhas da BRS Piatã foi maior em relação à BRS Paiaguás no verão. O desempenho animal foi similar entre as cultivares estudadas, sendo o ganho de peso diário 0,901 e 0,822 kg dia-1 e o ganho por área 888 e 865 kg ha-1 para Piatã e Paiaguás, respectivamente. O elevado ganho de peso individual e por área obtidos demonstram o grande potencial de uso das duas cultivares na formação de pastagens perenes em sistemas de integração lavoura-pecuária.(AU)

Pequi (Caryocar brasiliense Camb.) by-product for lambs: Performance, feed intake, and nutrient digestibility / Subproducto de pequi (Caryocar brasiliense Camb.) para corderos: Desempeño, consumo y digestibilidad de nutrientes / Subproduto de pequi (Caryocar brasiliense Camb.) em cordeiros: Desempenho, consumo e digestibilidade dos nutrientes

Abstract Background: The use of pequi by-product as animal feed is an appealing alternative to reduce overall production costs. However, little is known regarding its effects on animal performance as well as the ideal inclusion level in the diet. Objective: To evaluate performance, intake, and digestibility of confined lambs receiving diets containing different levels of pequi by- product as a partial substitute for corn silage. Methods: The experiment was conducted in Curvelo, Brazil, using twenty-five crossbred Santa Inês male lambs (17.83 ± 1.73 kg) aged six months for 92 days. Increasing levels of pequi by-product (0, 6, 12, 18, and 24%) replacing corn silage were evaluated in a completely randomized design. Analysis of variance and regression were performed, with 5% significance level. Results: Inclusion of pequi by-product did not influence (p>0.05) average daily gain, total weight gain, or feed conversion ratio. No effect (p>0.05) was also observed on intake of dry matter, organic matter, ether extract, crude protein, neutral detergent fiber, total carbohydrates, and total digestible nutrients. However, a linear decrease was observed (p<0.05) in the apparent digestibility of dry matter, organic matter, ether extract, crude protein, neutral detergent fiber, total carbohydrates, and total digestible nutrients with increasing inclusion of pequi by-product. Conclusion: Pequi by-product is a potential substitute for corn silage in lamb diets because it does not influence animal performance and feed intake. However, digestibility decreases with increasing dietary inclusion levels of pequi by-product.

Resumen Antecedentes: la inclusion de subproductos de pequi en alimentación animal es una estrategia atractiva para reducir los costos de producción. Sin embargo, todavía se sabe poco sobre el efecto de este subproducto en el rendimiento de los animales, así como su nivel ideal de inclusión en la dieta. Objetivo: evaluar el rendimiento, consumo y digestibilidad en corderos confinados recibiendo dietas con subproducto de pequi en reemplazo parcial del ensilado de maíz. Métodos: el experimento se realizó en Curvelo, Brasil, utilizando 25 corderos machos cruzados de raza Santa Inês (17,83 ± 1,73 kg) y 6 meses de edad, durante 92 días. Se evaluaron niveles crecientes del subproducto de pequi (0, 6, 12, 18 y 24%) para sustituir el ensilado de maíz siguiendo un diseño completamente aleatorio. Los análisis de varianza y regresión se llevaron a cabo usando un nivel de significancia del 5%. Resultados: la inclusión del subproducto de pequi no influyó (p>0,05) en la ganancia de peso diaria, ganancia de peso total, ni conversión alimenticia. No se observó efecto (p>0,05) en la ingesta de materia seca, materia orgánica, extracto etéreo, proteína bruta, fibra detergente neutra, carbohidratos totales y nutrientes digestibles totales. Sin embargo, se observó una reducción lineal (p<0,05) en la digestibilidad aparente de materia seca, materia orgánica, extracto etéreo, proteína bruta, fibra detergente neutra, carbohidratos totales y nutrientes digestibles totales con el aumento del nivel de inclusión del subproducto. Conclusión: el subproducto de pequi puede utilizarse como sustituto parcial del ensilado de maíz, ya que no afecta la ganancia de peso ni la ingesta de nutrientes. Sin embargo, la digestibilidad disminuye al aumentar el nivel de inclusión del subproducto en la dieta.

Resumo Antecedentes: o uso de subprodutos do pequi na alimentação animal é uma estratégia atraente que busca a redução dos custos de produção. Entretanto, pouco ainda se sabe sobre o efeito desse subproduto no desempenho animal assim como qual seria o nível ideal da sua inclusão na dieta. Objetivo: avaliar o desempenho, consumo e digestibilidade em cordeiros confinados recebendo dietas contendo subproduto de pequi em substituição à silagem de milho. Métodos: o experimento foi conduzido em Curvelo, Brasil, utilizando 25 cordeiros machos cruzados da raça Santa Inês (17,83 ± 1,73 kg) com 6 meses de idade durante 92 dias. Níveis crescentes do subproduto de pequi (0, 6, 12, 18 e 24%) foram avaliados em substituição à silagem de milho em um delineamento inteiramente casualizado. A análise de variância e regressão foram conduzidas adotando 5% como nível de significância. Resultados: a inclusão do subproduto de pequi não influenciou (p>0,05) o ganho de peso médio diário, o ganho de peso total e a conversão alimentar. Também não foi observado efeito (p>0,05) no consumo de matéria seca, matéria orgânica, extrato etéreo, proteína bruta, fibra em detergente neutro, carboidratos totais e nutrientes digestíveis totais. Entretanto, foi observada redução linear (p<0,05) na digestibilidade aparente da matéria seca, matéria orgânica, extrato etéreo, proteína bruta, fibra em detergente neutro, carboidratos totais e nutrientes digestíveis totais com o aumento da inclusão do subproduto. Conclusão: o subproduto de pequi pode ser utilizado como substituto parcial à silagem de milho uma vez que não influenciou o desempenho animal ou o consumo de nutrientes. No entanto, a digestibilidade diminuiu com o aumento do nível de inclusão do subproduto na dieta.

Modulating the lipid profile of beef using cottonseed and crude glycerin.

The search for healthy food leads to demand for functional foods that do not harm the health of the consumers. The objective was to evaluate the impact of the supply of cottonseed and crude glycerin as modulators of the lipid profile of the beef produced on pasture. The concentrated supplement was formulated with two levels of cottonseed (0 and 25%) and/or two levels of crude glycerin (0 and 15%), totaling four experimental groups. Two experiments were conducted; the first experiment was outlined in a 5 × 5 Latin square design, contrasting the protein-energy supplementation with the mineral supplementation. The concentrate supplementation allowed the increase in intake and digestibility of the dry matter (P = 0.03), ether extract, crude protein, and non-fibrous carbohydrate (P < 0.01). However, the results showed no effect of crude glycerin or cottonseed inclusion on intake or nutrients digestibility. The second experiment evaluated the protein-energy supplementation and its impact on the lipid profile of meat produced, carcass characteristics, and animal performance. There was no influence of cottonseed or crude glycerin in performance or carcass characteristics. However, the use of the cottonseed reduced the content of short-chain fatty acids, omega 3 linolenic acid, conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) C18: 2 cis 9 trans 11 (P < 0.01), and the inclusion of crude glycerin led to increased conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) C18: 2 cis 9 trans 11 (P = 0.04). An important result is given by illustrating the impact of these fatty acids in the nutritional quality of the meat. Thus, it is possible to manipulate the lipid profile of meat produced by cottonseed or crude glycerin supplementation, without affecting the animal performance.

Advances in nanotechnology and the benefits of using cellulose nanofibers in animal nutrition.

The production of cellulose nanofibers promotes the utilization of plant residues that are generated in agro-industries during food processing. The utilization of these plant by-products reduces environmental contamination. Cellulose nanofibers are used in several sectors, including the drug, food, and animal nutrition industries. Many sources of nanofibers used in animal diets can be used as potential fiber substitutes after being processed to improve efficiency. For instance, including nanometric particles of plant fibers (<100 nm) in animal feed may provide excellent physical properties such as high reactivity, a large surface area, and improved nutrient absorption from the diet. Nanotechnology improves the characteristics of fibers that are important for gastrointestinal transit and their utilization as energy sources and substrates for microbial fermentation in the digestive tract of animals. Nanofibers can improve the synthesis of volatile fatty acids and the blood lipid profile, with positive effects on the intestinal health of animals. Moreover, in vitro and in vivo studies have demonstrated promising effects in reducing blood glucose levels without toxic effects on the body. Supplying nanofibers in the diet improve animal performance, increase productivity, and work toward a more sustainable economic development of agribusinesses. The quality of animal products such as meat, milk, and eggs is also reported to be improved with the inclusion of nanominerals in the feed. Overall, the application of nanotechnology to harness the by-products of agro-industries can increase economic viability and sustainability in animal production systems. Therefore, this review presents a current survey on the main research and advances in the utilization of nanotechnology, focusing on cellulose nanofibers in animal feed to improve animal performance.

Effects of supplementation on production of beef cattle grazing tropical pastures in Brazil during the wet and dry seasons: a meta-analysis

A meta-analysis was undertaken to examine the effects of different supplementation strategies on production of beef cattle grazing tropical pastures during the wet and dry seasons in Brazil. The database was built with 132 studies published from 1999 to 2010, which accounted for 6,275 individual animals. The supplements assessed were classified into three groups: energy supplement containing 1.0% BW of energetic supplement in the wet season had the greatest gain per hectare (GPH; 8.16 kg/ha per day) and daily stocking rate (DSR; 2045 kg BW/ha/day). In the dry season, protein supplementation at rates >0.5% BW provided higher GPH (on average 2.33 kg/ha per day). Neither level nor type of supplement altered the DSR in the dry season (on average 883 kg/ha per day). Estimated regression showed that the ADG of beef cattle increased by 0.308 kg for each 1% of supplement intake. Increased supplementation intake by beef cattle grazing tropical pastures resulted in greater ADG in the warm season, whereas offering energy supplementation at rates >1.0% BW during the wet season as well as protein supplementation at rates >0.5% BW during the dry season increased gain per area.

Use of Saccharomyces cerevisiae-based products and effects on rumen environment and performance of sheep subjected to dietary changes / Utilização de produtos à base de Saccharomyces cerevisiae e seus efeitos sobre o ambiente ruminal e desempenho de ovinos submetidos a mudanças de dieta

Natural additives in ruminant diet optimizes animal performance by controlling or modifying the rumen fermentation pattern. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of using Saccharomyces cerevisiae products during abrupt changes in dietary starch concentration on ruminal pH maintenance, performance and metabolism of confined sheep. Twenty adult ewes, crossbred Texel x Corriedale(44.7±6.97 Kg BW) were divided into three groups: Control (n=6), Cultron X (yeast culture; n=7) and Cultron Pro (hydrolyzed yeast; n=7), administered at a dose of 5 g/sheep/day (10x1010CFU/g DM). The experiment lasted 20 days divided into four periods, alternating between 40 and 60% concentrate. Blood and ruminal fluid were collected at the end of each period, and daily dry matter intake was measured to determine the average daily gain (ADG). Blood tests included blood count and biochemical parameters such as glucose, urea, total plasma proteins (TPP), liver enzymes, acute phase proteins and minerals. There was an upward trend in ADG in group Cultron X compared to control in period 3. Although, ruminal pH did not differ between groups, protozoan motility was higher in animals supplemented with hydrolyzed yeast. The Cultron Pro group showed an increase in TPP in periods 3 and 4, and AST in periods 2 and 3 compared to the control group. There was no difference in other metabolites. Yeast supplementation is a potential tool in times of feeding challenge, in which yeast culture is the most effective for improving performance of confined sheep being in improving performance of confined sheep.(AU)

A utilização de aditivos naturais na dieta de ruminantes é uma prática que otimiza o desempenho, controlando ou modificando o padrão de fermentação ruminal. O objetivo do estudo buscou avaliar os efeitos da utilização de produtos à base de Saccharomyces cerevisiae durante mudanças na concentração de amido da dieta sobre a manutenção do pH ruminal, desempenho e metabolismo de ovinos confinados. Dessa forma, 20 fêmeas ovinas adultas mestiças das raças Texel e Corriedale (44,7±6,97 PV) foram divididas em três grupos: Controle (n=6), Cultron X (cultura de levedura; n=7) e Cultron Pro (levedura hidrolisada; n=7), administrados na dose de 5 g/ovelha/dia (10x1010ufc/g de MS). O experimento teve duração de 20 dias divididos em quatro períodos, alternando entre 40 e 60% de concentrado. Foram realizadas coletas de sangue e líquido ruminal ao final de cada período e mensuração da ingestão de matéria seca diariamente, a fim de determinar o ganho médio diário (GMD). As análises sanguíneas incluíram hemograma e parâmetros bioquímicos como glicose, ureia, proteínas plasmáticas totais (PPT), enzimas hepáticas, proteínas de fase aguda e minerais. Houve tendência de aumento no GMD no grupo Cultron X em relação ao controle no período 3. Apesar do pH ruminal não diferir entre grupos, a motilidade de protozoários foi melhor nos animais suplementados com levedura hidrolisada. O grupo Cultron Pro apresentou aumento de PPT nos períodos 3 e 4 e aumento nos níveis da enzima hepática AST nos períodos 2 e 3 em comparação ao grupo controle. Não houve diferença nos demais metabólitos. A suplementação com levedura apresentou-se como potencial ferramenta em momentos de desafio alimentar, sendo a cultura de levedura mais eficaz na melhora da performance de ovinos confinados.(AU)