This study was conducted using the first-lactation records of 1092 Vrindavani crossbred cattle to compare the relative efficiency of an artificial neural network (ANN) versus multiple linear regression for predicting the first-lactation 305-day milk yield (FL305DMY). The two input sets used for predicting FL305DMY in the study were input set-1 : first four monthly test-day milk yields, age at first calving, and peak milk yield; and input set-2: first four monthly milk yields, age at first calving, and peak milk yield. The ANN was trained using a backpropagation algorithm based on Bayesian regularisation, and the algorithm was tested using four sets of training and test data at ratios of 66.67:33.33, 75:25, 80:20, and 90:10. The results revealed that the coefficient of determination showed no regular trend with decreasing the test dataset. Nevertheless, the observed values were highest for the 90:10 ratio of training-test data for both input sets, with the lowest root mean square error. The ANN model outperformed the multiple linear regression model when predicting FL305DMY, with an accuracy of 79.09% for input set-1 and 83.67% for input set-2, with the lowest root mean square error values for both input sets. Therefore, the ANN model can be used as an alternative technique to predict FL305DMY in Vrindavani cows.

Abstract The objective of the study was to evaluate the effect of different levels of maize silage on feed utilization efficiency and nitrogen (N) balance in dual-purpose cows during the dry season. Nine crossbred cows with live weight of 423±12 kg were used. The treatments were: T1= 2 kg DM of maize silage + 3.9 kg DM of sorghum stubble; T2= 4 kg DM of maize silage + 1.8 kg DM of sorghum stubble; T3= 6 kg DM of maize silage. Additionally, all cows consumed Panicum maximum cv. Mombasa grass, supplemented with poultry manure and commercial concentrate in doses of 2.0, 2.9 and 2.3 kg DM, respectively. Data comparison was performed by ANOVA, and the experiment was conducted using a completely randomised mathematical model with three replicates. No significant differences (p >0.05) were observed for any of the variables evaluated. N intake reached 279.8 g day-1 of which 8.5% was excreted in milk, 42.1% in faeces and 41.2% in urine. Milk production was 4.4 kg cow-1 day-1, with 33.1 g kg-1 fat and 34.4 g kg-1 crude protein (CP). N balance was 27.5 g cow-1 day-1, while utilization efficiency reached 8.6%. A higher inclusion of maize silage increased CP and N contents of the diet supplied to the cows, but it did not result in higher milk production. Feed utilization efficiency was limited even in the treatment with the lowest N content in the ration (T1). Further research is required to evaluate the economic and productive viability of the dietary inclusion of different silages, as a feeding strategy to cope with the low availability of forages during dry periods in low-scale milk production systems.

Resumen El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar el efecto del sexo sobre el peso vivo final, las características de la canal, los rasgos de calidad de la carne y las propiedades sensoriales de una línea específica de cerdos mestizos (Landrace 75% x Yorkshire 25% “Degesa”). En el presente estudio se utilizaron ocho machos castrados (MC) y ocho nulíparas (H) seleccionados al azar. No se observaron diferencias (P˃0.05) entre sexos en cuanto a las características de la canal, el valor de la fuerza de cizallamiento o la longitud del sarcómero. Sin embargo, el grosor de la grasa dorsal, el pH@45, el pH@24, la capacidad de retención de agua, el puntaje de marmoleado y el contenido de grasa intramuscular fueron mayores (P˃0.05) en MC que en H. La carne de MC tuvo menor (P=0.04) luminosidad que la de H, pero similar (P≥0.34) rojez y amarillez. La proporción total de ácidos grasos saturados (AGS), así como los AGS individuales (C16:0 y C18:0) fueron mayores en MC que en H, pero la relación n-6:n-3 fue menor en los machos que en las hembras. En general, la carne de los machos fue mejor calificada que la carne de hembras por el panel entrenado en atributos de sabor, pero el resultado fue opuesto cuando se evaluaron las propiedades de textura. Además, una mayor puntuación general de color, así como los atributos de sabor, se asociaron positivamente con el contenido de grasa intramuscular y la tasa de AG monoinsaturados, pero se asociaron negativamente con la proporción de AG poliinsaturados. En conclusión, los resultados sugieren que la calidad de la carne de cerdos mestizos Degesa mostró marcadas diferencias relacionadas con el sexo y, por lo tanto, podría ser comercializado diferencialmente por sexo en el mercado de carne.

Abstract The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of sex on final live weight, carcass characteristics meat quality traits and sensory properties of a specific cross breed pig line (Landrace 75% x Yorkshire 25% “Degesa”). Eight randomly selected barrows (CM) and eight gilts (F) were used in the present study. No differences (P˃0.05) between sexes for carcass characteristics, shear-force value or sarcomere length were observed. However, back fat thickness, pH@45, pH@24, water-holding capacity, marbling score and intramuscular fat content were higher (P˃0.05) in CM than in F. Meat from CM had lower (P=0.04) lightness than F but similar (P≥0.34) redness and yellowness. Total saturated fatty acids (SFA) proportion as well as individual SFAs (C16:0 and C18:0) were greater in CM than in F, but n-6:n-3 ratio was lower in males than females. In general, meat from males were better scored than meat from females by the trained panel in flavor attributes but the result was opposed when textural properties were evaluated. In addition, greater overall color score as well as flavor attributes were positively associated with intramuscular fat content and rate of monounsaturated FA but negatively associated with rate polyunsaturated FA proportion. In conclusion, results suggest that pork quality from Degesa crossbred pigs showed marked sex-related differences and therefore, it could be deferentially commercially by sex in the meat market.

SUMMARY: The cattle in the Pantanal region show a notable influence from Bos indicus breeds and their crossbreeds. However, a comprehensive biometric assessment of the reproductive system in these animals is currently lacking. This study evaluated the effects of breed, age, carcass weight, and estrous cycle phase on female reproductive system morphometry. A total of 124 healthy, non-pregnant reproductive tracts (83 Nelore and 41 Crossbred) were collected at a slaughterhouse. Neither the volume and weight of the ovaries nor the majority of uterine dimensions were affected by breed. Compared to heifers, cows showed longer uterine horns, a larger external caudal diameter of the uterine horns and body, and a greater external cranial diameter and internal caudal diameter of the cervix. The carcass weight (below vs. within commercial weight) affected the length of the uterine horns, uterine body, and cervix. Ovaries with a corpus luteum presented higher volume and weight than those with only follicles. Although the uterine measurements in the luteal phase were increased, the cycle stage did not affect the uterine morphometry. The average number of cervical rings was 5.0, independent of weight or breed. Crossbred animals presented a higher first cervical ring. Age didn´t influence the number, height, or distance between cervical rings. Deviation from the normal alignment of the cervix was recorded in 14.29 % of the animals, with a higher occurrence among Nelore cattle; deviation from the median axis was the most common (30%). This study emphasizes various parameters influencing the morphometry of the female reproductive system in Nelore cattle and their crosses, which could be crucial for implementing reproductive biotechnology techniques better suited to the morphological characteristics of zebu breeds.

RESUMEN: El ganado de la región del Pantanal muestra una notable influencia de las razas Bos indicus y sus cruces. Sin embargo, actualmente falta una evaluación biométrica exhaustiva del sistema reproductivo de estos animales. Este estudio evaluó los efectos de la raza, la edad, el peso de la canal y la fase del ciclo estral sobre la morfometría del sistema reproductivo de la hembra. En un matadero se recogieron un total de 124 tractos reproductivos sanos y no preñados (83 Nelore y 41 cruzados). Ni el volumen ni el peso de los ovarios ni la mayoría de las dimensiones del útero se vieron afectados por la raza. En comparación con las novillas, las vacas mostraron cuernos uterinos más largos, un diámetro caudal externo más grande de los cuernos y del cuerpo uterino, y un diámetro craneal externo y un diámetro caudal interno más grandes del cuello uterino. El peso de la canal (por debajo versus dentro del peso comercial) afectó la longitud de los cuernos uterinos, el cuerpo uterino y el cuello uterino. Los ovarios con cuerpo lúteo presentaron mayor volumen y peso que aquellos con solo folículos. Aunque las medidas uterinas en la fase lútea aumentaron, la etapa del ciclo no afectó la morfometría uterina. El número promedio de anillos cervicales fue de 5,0, independientemente del peso o la raza. Los animales mestizos presentaron un primer anillo cervical más alto. La edad no influyó en el número, altura o distancia entre anillos cervicales. La desviación de la alineación normal del cuello uterino se registró en el 14,29 % de los animales, con mayor ocurrencia en el ganado Nelore; la desviación del eje de la mediana fue la más común (30%). Este estudio enfatiza varios parámetros que influyen en la morfometría del sistema reproductor de las hembras en el ganado Nelore y sus cruces, lo que podría ser crucial para implementar técnicas de biotecnología reproductiva más adecuadas a las características morfológicas de las razas cebú.

Resumen La criptosporidiosis en una enfermedad que se caracteriza por generar episodios de diarrea en bovinos alrededor del mundo causada por un parásito protozoario del género Cryptosporidium spp. del phylum Apicomplexa y Familia Cryptosporiidae. Es responsable de importantes pérdidas económicas, y sumado a esto, genera un impacto en la salud humana, al poseer la capacidad de parasitar a humanos. El objetivo fue determinar la prevalencia y factores de riesgo asociados a Cryptosporidium spp. en bovinos de Chiquinquirá (Colombia). Se desarrolló un estudio descriptivo de corte transversal con muestreo aleatorio simple, en donde se tuvo en cuenta un tamaño muestral de 1,044 bovinos, entre machos y hembras, de diferentes razas, y grupos etarios con el programa estadístico WinEpi. Las muestras de materia fecal se tomaron directamente del recto y procesadas mediante la técnica de Ziehl-Neelsen modificada (ZN) para la identificación de ooquistes del parásito en el objetivo de 100X. Los datos se procesaron con el programa estadístico Epi Info®. Se encontró una prevalencia general del 7.3 % (73/1000), las hembras, los bovinos de 2 a 4 años y los cruces raciales fueron los más prevalentes. No se encontró asociación estadística significativa entre la raza, edad y sexo de los individuos evaluados, y la positividad al protozoario (P≥0,05). La compra de animales y las producciones de mayor tamaño se consideraron como factores de riesgo para la parasitosis. Se deben diseñar e implementar planes de prevención y control del protozoario basados en prácticas sanitarias que impidan la diseminación de los ooquistes que se encuentran en materia fecal.

Abstract Cryptosporidiosis is a disease characterized by episodes of diarrhea in cattle worldwide, caused by a protozoan parasite of the genus Cryptosporidium spp. of the phylum Apicomplexa and Family Cryptosporiidae. It is responsible for important economic losses, and, in addition to this, it generates an impact on human health, as it can parasitize humans. The objective of the study was to determine the prevalence of and risk factors associated with Cryptosporidium spp. in cattle in Chiquinquirá (Colombia). A descriptive cross-sectional study with simple random sampling was carried out, with a sample size of 1,044 head of cattle, including males and females of different breeds and age groups, using the WinEpi statistical software. Fecal samples were taken directly from the rectum and processed with the modified Ziehl-Neelsen (ZN) technique for the identification of parasite oocysts using a 100X objective. The data were processed with the Epi Info® statistical software. An overall prevalence of 7.3 % (73/1000) was found; females, 2 to 4-yr-old bovines, and crossbred cattle were the most prevalent. No significant statistical association was found between breed, age, and sex of the individuals evaluated, and protozoan positivity (P≥0.05). The purchase of animals and larger productions were considered risk factors for parasitosis. Protozoan prevention and control plans should be designed and implemented based on sanitary practices to prevent the dissemination of oocysts found in fecal matter.

RESUMEN Se evaluó el efecto de cuatro edades de cosecha (90, 120, 150 y 180 días) sobre el rendimiento de biomasa aérea y composición química de la colza, así como su uso como suplemento henificado para vacas lecheras en pastoreo a 3279 msnm. El rendimiento forrajero y la composición química se evalúo en 16 parcelas, 4 por tratamiento, de acuerdo con un diseño de bloques completos al azar. La biomasa de colza cosechada fue henificada y picada a 1 cm de longitud, suministrada diariamente a razón de 3 kg por vaca. Dieciséis vacas Holstein cruzadas y multíparas se distribuyeron en cuatro tratamientos que consistieron en henos elaborados de acuerdo con la edad de cosecha. La producción de leche por vaca se registró durante seis semanas. Los sólidos totales, grasa, proteína y lactosa se determinaron en la última semana del estudio. A medida que la edad de la colza fue mayor se incrementó la biomasa forrajera y la fibra detergente neutra (FDN), y disminuyó la concentración de proteína cruda; sin embargo, la producción de leche y sus componentes lácteos no se vieron afectados por la suplementación de los cuatro tipos de heno, con excepción del heno de colza cosechada a 90 días de edad, que incrementó el contenido de proteína láctea.

ABSTRACT The effect of four harvest ages (90, 120, 150 and 180 days) on the aerial biomass yield and chemical composition of rapeseed was evaluated, as well as its use as a hay supplement for dairy cows grazing at an altitude of 3279 m. Forage yield and its chemical composition were evaluated in 16 plots, 4 per treatment, according to a randomized complete block design. The harvested rapeseed biomass was hayed and chopped to 1 cm in length, supplied daily at a rate of 3 kg per cow. Sixteen crossbred and multiparous Holstein cows were distributed in four treatments that consisted of hays made according to harvest age. Milk production per cow was recorded for six weeks. Total solids, fat, protein, and lactose were determined in the last week of the study. As rapeseed age increased, forage biomass and neutral detergent fiber (NDF) increased, and crude protein concentration decreased; however, milk production and its milk components were not affected by the supplementation of the four types of hay, except for rapeseed hay harvested at 90 days of age, which increased the milk protein content.

A trial was conducted to determine the total rumen degradable protein intake (RDPI) required to maximise the digestible organic matter intake (DOMI) of beef cows consuming low quality grass hay from the northern variation of Cymbopogon-Themeda pasture type. Thirty-five pregnant (last trimester) Afrikaner x Simmentaler crossbred cows (517.08 ± 53.06 kg) were stratified according to fasted body weight and allocated to five treatments. A rumen degradable protein (RDP) source, calcium caseinate (90% crude protein on dry matter basis and 100% rumen degradable) was used and mixed with a molasses based concentrate. Treatments provided the following supplemental RDP levels/cow/day from casein: (1) control, 0 g, (2) 180 g, (3) 360 g, (4) 540 g, and (5) 720 g. The cows had ad libitum access to low quality grass hay (2.26% CP; 73.94% neutral detergent fibre, NDF). The trial period consisted of 14 d of adaptation, 21 d of the intake study, and 7 d of the digestibility study. No statistically significant influence of RDP on the apparent digestibility of DM, organic matter, or NDF was detected. The grass DM intake, DOMI, and metabolizable energy intake increased in a quadratic manner with increasing supplementary RDP. The single broken-line model predicted DOMI /kg metabolic weight (BW075) with higher accuracy than the quadratic regression procedure. According to this model, 4.03 g daily RDPI/kg BW075 or 8.07% RDP of digestible organic matter was required to maximise DOMI of pregnant beef cows consuming winter grassveld hay.

A solar power-assisted system was developed and installed to create optimum, healthy environmental conditions inside the animal house. An improved animal house of 48 m² including a manger and urine collection system was selected. The developed system consists of two solar panels of 37 watts each with a DC motor coupled with a pump, four-way foggers, battery (12 V, 22 Ah), charge controller, digital timer, pressure gauge, and water tank (200 L). The assessment of the developed cooling system was carried out by measuring AT (air temperature), RH (relative humidity), THI (temperature-humidity index), and RT (rectal temperature) using 6, 12, and 18 foggers at three different heights of 2.25, 2.5, and 2.75 m with 2, 4, and 6 min operational time intervals. The AT, RH and THI were strongly influenced by the fogger cooling system, wherein AT was lowered by 9.2-2.6 °C and RH was increased from 13-47% inside the animal house. The minimum rectal temperature of 38.11 °C and THI 81.71% was recorded at 18 foggers installed at a height of 2.75 m with a 4 min operational time interval. Therefore, the installed solar power-assisted cooling system for fogging water created an optimum cooling effect inside the animal house.

ABSTRACT The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of liquid VIUSID VET® (CATALYSIS) on average daily weight gain (ADG), frequency and severity of pneumonia in pre-fattening pigs. Crossbred pigs at weaning (26 days) were housed in cubicles with grooved plastic floors, in groups of 10 individuals at a rate of 4,76 m2/pig, inside a closed facility with forced ventilation by means of extractors. Two treatments consisting of 0.2% liquid VIUSID VET® in the drinking water or control were randomly assigned. In ADG evaluation, 80 pre-fattening pig equally divided between the VIUSID VET®-treated group and the control were used. To compare the proportions of pneumonic lungs, 314 individuals were included (161 treated with VIUSID VET® and 153 controls), while the severity of pneumonia included 63 pre-fattening pigs (29 treated and 34 controls). VIUSID VET® promoted a positive asymmetry in ADG with more animals above the group mean, while the control showed a negative asymmetry. Treatment with VIUSID VET promoted a significantly lower prevalence of pneumonia (41.61 % vs. 62.74 %), as well as a trend towards lower severity of this disorder with mean values equivalent to those of half of the control group. The significant reduction in the prevalence of pneumonia promoted by VIUSID VET®, leads to expect that its use in swine herds will be accompanied by improvements in the productive performance with benefits in the producer's economy, as well as environmental benefits as an alternative to antibiotics.

RESUMEN El objetivo del presente estudio fue evaluar el efecto de VIUSID VET® líquido (CATALYSIS) en la ganancia media diaria de peso (GMD), la frecuencia y la gravedad de la neumonía en precebas porcinas. Se utilizaron cerdos mestizos al destete (26 días) alojados en grupos de 10 individuos a razón 4,76 m2/cerdo, sobre piso plástico ranurado, dentro de una instalación cerrada con ventilación mecánica mediante extractores. Dos tratamientos consistentes en VIUSID VET® líquido al 0,2 % en el agua de bebida o control se asignaron aleatoriamente. En la evaluación de la GMD se utilizaron 80 precebas porcinas divididas en igual cantidad entre el grupo tratado con VIUSID VET® y el control. Para comparar las de proporciones de pulmones neumónicos se incluyeron 314 individuos (161 tratados con VIUSID VET® y 153 controles), mientras la gravedad de la neumonía incluyó 63 precebas (29 tratadas y 34 controles). VIUSID VET® propició asimetría positiva en la GMD con mayor número de animales por encima de la media del grupo mientras el control mostró asimetría negativa. El tratamiento con VIUSID VET® promovió una prevalencia de neumonía significativamente menor (41,61 % vs 62,74 %), así como tendencia a menor gravedad de este trastorno con valores medios equivalentes a los de la mitad del grupo control. La reducción significativa de la prevalencia de neumonía promovida por VIUSID VET®, permite esperar que su uso en precebas porcinas se acompañe de mejoras del desempeño productivo con beneficios en la economía del productor, así como ambientales como alternativa a los antibióticos.

Resumo O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar o consumo, a digestibilidade dos nutrientes e o ganho de peso de cabritas lactentes alimentadas com leite de cabra e de vaca com diferentes níveis de gordura. Trinta e duas cabras mestiças lactentes foram distribuídas em arranjo fatorial 2×2, em delineamento inteiramente casualizado. Foram avaliadas duas fontes de gordura (leite de cabra e vaca) e dois níveis de adição de gordura no leite (3,5 e 7,0%) durante 97 dias, em oito repetições. O consumo de matéria seca foi influenciado pela fonte e pelo teor de gordura do leite. A maior ingestão de nutrientes foi observada com leite de cabra com 7,0% de gordura. O consumo de proteína bruta foi afetado apenas pela fonte de gordura devido à maior presença de proteína no leite de cabra, enquanto o consumo de gordura bruta foi afetado apenas pelos níveis de gordura. O ganho de peso médio diário foi maior para as cabritas que ingeriram leite com 7,0% de gordura. A fonte de gordura não afetou a digestibilidade dos nutrientes, mas os níveis de gordura influenciaram a digestibilidade da matéria seca. A inclusão do nível de 7,0% de gordura no leite aumenta o ganho de peso das cabritas sem afetar a digestibilidade da gordura. A gordura de leite de cabra aumenta o peso ao desmame possivelmente devido à maior ingestão de calorias. 22 2 2×2 casualizado 3,5 35 3 5 (3, 70 7 0 9 dias repetições 7,0 calorias 2× 3, (3 7, (

Abstract The objective of this work was to evaluate the food intake, nutrient digestibility, and weight gain of female suckling goat kids fed with goat and cow milk with different levels of fat. Thirty-two crossbred goats in the suckling phase were distributed in a 2×2 factorial arrangement, in a completely randomized design. Two sources of fat (goat and cow milk) and two levels of fat addition to milk (3.5 and 7.0%) were evaluated for 97 days in eight replicates. Dry matter intake was affected by milk source and fat levels. The highest nutrient intake was observed with goat milk with 7.0% fat. Crude protein intake was affected only by fat source due to the greater presence of protein in goat milk, whereas crude fat intake was affected only by fat levels. The average daily gain was higher for goat kids that ingested milk with 7.0% fat. The source of fat did not affect nutrient digestibility, but the levels of fat influenced dry matter digestibility. The inclusion of 7.0% fat in milk increases the weight gain of suckling goat kids without affecting fat digestibility. Fat from goat milk increases weight at weaning possibly due to a higher energy intake. digestibility Thirtytwo Thirty 22 2 2× arrangement design 3.5 35 3 5 (3. 70 7 0 9 replicates 7.0 3. (3 7. (

Resumo Este artigo apresenta os resultados de pesquisas científicas sobre a ovinocultura nas condições da região de Aqmola. O experimento foi conduzido em ovinos cazaques raça pura de cauda curta e lã grossa, em comparação com ovinos mestiços obtidos a partir do cruzamento industrial de fêmeas cazaques de cauda curta e lã grossa com ovinos da raça Hampshire. Ademais, o presente artigo apresenta os resultados da alimentação e engorda, bem como a composição morfológica da carcaça de ovelhas cazaques da raça de lã grossa de diferentes idades. O objeto deste estudo relativo à alimentação e engorda se resumiu a três grupos experimentais de ovinos da raça supramencionada, onde alimentos compostos foram incluídos na dieta do Grupo Experimental I sob a forma de cobertura, enquanto no Grupo Experimental II foram também utilizados resíduos de cereais para a forragem e o Grupo de Controle foi mantido em um regime de alimentação sem cobertura. Com base no estudo da alimentação de ovinos experimentais, verificou-se que o crescimento absoluto durante o período de alimentação em ovinos experimentais que receberam fertilização sob a forma de alimentos compostos é superior aos seus pares em 0,2 e 1,49 kg, respectivamente. Em termos de composição morfológica e varietal, particularmente quanto ao número de cortes superiores, observou-se também uma vantagem de ovinos experimentais que receberam fertilização sob a forma de alimentos compostos em comparação com seus pares em 2,3-8,3%, respectivamente. Em geral, os resultados do estudo sobre as características de crescimento, desenvolvimento e abate de ovinos experimentais, ou seja, tanto da raça pura cazaque de cauda curta e lã grossa quanto da raça mestiça obtida a partir do cruzamento com produtores de ovinos precoces da raça Hampshire, obtiveram estes resultados desde o momento do nascimento até o segundo e quarto mês de vida. Por exemplo, os resultados dos ovinos mestiços foram ligeiramente superiores quando comparados aos seus pares de raça pura em relação aos indicadores aqui estudados. Específicamente a respeito dos resultados da alimentação de ovelhas cazaques de lã grossa e cauda larga de 4 a 6 meses, de acordo com a cobertura utilizada. Aqmola Hampshire Ademais idades supramencionada verificouse verificou 02 0 2 0, 149 1 49 1,4 kg respectivamente varietal observouse observou 2,38,3%, 2383 2,3 8,3%, 3 8 2,3-8,3% geral seja vida exemplo estudados meses utilizada 14 1, 38 2,38,3% 238 23 2, 83 8,3% 2,3-8,3 2,38,3 8,3 2,3-8, 2,38, 8, 2,3-8 2,38 2,3-

Abstract The article presents the results of scientific research on the production of lamb in the conditions of the Akmola region. The experiment was conducted on purebred Kazakh short-tailed rough-haired and cross-bred sheep obtained from industrial crossing of Kazakh short-tailed rough-haired queens with sheep- producers of the hampshire breed. Further, the article presents the results of feeding and fattening, as well as the morphological composition of the carcass of sheep of the Kazakh coarse-haired sheep breed of different ages. The object of the study for feeding and fattening were three groups of experimental sheep of the above-mentioned breed, where compound feed was included in the diet of the I experimental group in the form of top dressing, in the II experimental group, grain waste was also used for top dressing, and the control group was kept in the feed without top dressing. Based on the study of the feeding of experimental sheep, it was found that the absolute increase during the feeding period in experimental sheep who received fertilization in the form of compound feed is higher than in their peers, respectively, by 0.2 and 1.49 kg. In terms of morphological and varietal composition, in particular, the number of cuts of grade 1, there was also an advantage of experimental sheep that received fertilization in the form of compound feed compared to their peers, respectively, by 2.3-8.3%. In general, the results of a study on the growth, development and slaughter qualities of experimental sheep, i.e. purebred Kazakh short-tailed rough-haired and crossbred, obtained from crossing with sheep producers of the precocious breed "hampshire" showed that from the moment of birth to 2 and 4 months. For example, crossbred sheep were slightly superior to purebred peers in terms of the studied indicators. In particular, the results of feeding sheep of the Kazakh coarse-haired broad-tailed breed from 4 to 6 months, depending on the top dressing. region shorttailed short tailed roughhaired rough haired cross bred Further coarsehaired coarse ages abovementioned above mentioned dressing respectively 02 0 0. 149 1 49 1.4 kg particular 2.38.3%. 2383 2.3 8.3%. 3 8 2.3-8.3% general growth ie i e i.e "hampshire months example indicators broadtailed broad 14 1. 38 2.38.3% 238 23 2. 83 8.3% 2.3-8.3 2.38.3 8.3 2.3-8. 2.38. 8. 2.3-8 2.38 2.3-

ABSTRACT. Supplementation strategies have been studied to increase animal performance and the quality of meat. Thus, this study was carried out to evaluate the influence of different supplementation strategies on the performance, feed intake, digestibility and ingestive behaviour of crossbred steers on Brachiaria brizantha pasture, during the dry season. The experiment was performed in Bahia, Brazil, from August 2015 to January 2016, with a dry season of 203 days. Thirty-three crossbred steers with an average weight of 269.5 ± 41.8 kg were distributed in a completely randomised design with three treatments and 11 replicates per treatment. The results were analysed using an ANOVA and a Tukey test, with a 5% probability of error. The treatments were mineral salt with urea and the supplementation of protein based on the animals’ body weight (BW), as follows: 0.1 and 0.2% BW. There was no effect of supplementation strategy on the initial and final body weights. Supplementation strategies did not influence (p > 0.05) the variables related to the intake of total dry matter. There was an effect (p < 0.05) on the dry matter and crude protein digestibility coefficients. For ingestive behaviour, feed intake, grazing time and idle time tended to be altered by the supply strategies (p < 0.05), but rumination was not affected (p > 0.05) by the evaluated strategies. In conclusion, the supplementation strategies used during the dry season resulted in a similar performance; therefore, the adopted strategy can be chosen according to the economic and regional conditions of the production system. Thus, the strategy adopted could be chosen according to the economic and regional conditions of the production. ABSTRACT meat Thus pasture Bahia Brazil 201 2016 20 days Thirtythree Thirty 2695 269 5 269. 418 41 8 41. 1 treatment test error animals BW, BW , (BW) follows 01 0 0. 02 2 0.2 weights p 0.05 005 05 coefficients 0.05, conclusion therefore system 26 4 (BW 0.0 00

Resumo O objetivo do estudo foi avaliar a substituição de virginiamicina por produtos à base de levedura em dietas de alto grão contendo monensina, sobre a digestibilidade dos nutrientes e parâmetros ruminais. Cinco novilhos cruzados Nelore x Holandês (peso inicial 281 kg ± 9,2 kg) distribuídos em um delineamento Quadrado Latino 5 x 5. As dietas foram compostas por silagem de milho (355 g kg-1) e concentrado composto por: milho moído, farelo de soja, casca de soja, mistura mineral, calcário, sal e ureia (645 g kg-1). Os tratamentos foram: 1. Controle, 18 mg kg-1 MS de virginiamicina (VM); 2. Cultura de levedura enriquecida (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) 7g animal dia-1 (CLE 7); 3. Cultura de levedura enriquecida (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) 14g animal dia-1 (CLE 14); 4. Levedura autolisada (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) 7g animal dia-1 (LA 7) e Levedura autolisada (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) 14g animal dia-1 (LA 14). A monensina (18 mg kg-1 MS) estava presente na mistura mineral vitamínica fornecida em todos tratamentos. Não houve diferença significativa (P>0,05) para o consumo de matéria seca (média 8,36 kg MS); digestibilidade da matéria orgânica (média 58,39%) e média de pH ruminal (média 6,75). Além disso, não foram encontrados efeitos significativos de tratamentos para concentração de ácidos graxos de cadeia curta e nitrogênio amoniacal. Estes resultados indicam a possibilidade de substituir a virginiamicina por produtos à base de levedura nos menores níveis (7g animal dia-1 de cultura de levedura enriquecida ou 7g animal dia-1 de levedura autolisada) em dietas de alto grão com monensina. ruminais peso 28 92 9 2 9, 355 (35 kg1 1 moído soja calcário 645 (64 kg1. . Controle kg- VM (VM) Saccharomyces cerevisiae dia1 dia dia- CLE 7 3 14 14) 4 LA 14. (1 P>0,05 P005 P 0 05 (P>0,05 836 8 36 8,3 58,39% 5839 58 39 6,75. 675 6,75 6 75 6,75) disso amoniacal 35 (3 64 (6 (VM ( P>0,0 P00 (P>0,0 83 8, 58,39 583 67 6,7 P>0, P0 (P>0, 58,3 6, P>0 (P>0 58, P> (P> (P

Abstract The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of substituting virginiamycin with yeastbased products in high-energy diets containing monensin on the nutrient digestibility and ruminal parameters of cattle. Five crossbred Nellore × Holstein steers (initial body weight 281 kg ± 9.2 kg) were allotted to a 5 × 5 Latin square design. The diets were composed in dry matter basis of corn silage (355 g kg-1), and concentrate composed of ground corn, soybean meal, soybean hulls,mineral mix, limestone, salt and urea (645 g kg-1). The treatments were: 1 - control, 18 mg kg-1 dry matter (DM) virginiamycin (VM); 2 - enriched yeast culture (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) at 7 g animal day-1 (EYC 7); 3 - enriched yeast culture (S. cerevisiae) at 14 g animal day-1 (EYC 14); 4 - autolyzed yeast (S. cerevisiae) at 7 g animal day-1 (AY 7); and 5 - autolyzed yeast (S. cerevisiae) at 14 g animal day-1 (AY 14). Monensin (18 mg kg-1 DM) was added to the mineral mix in all treatments. No significant differences (P > 0.05) were found for DM intake (mean 8.36 kg DM), organic matter (OM) digestibility (average of 58.39%), or mean ruminal pH (mean 6.75) among treatments. Moreover, the treatment did not have a significant effect on the short-chain fatty acid or ammonia nitrogen concentrations. These results indicated the possibility of replacing virginiamycin with yeast-based products at the lowest level (7 g of enriched yeast culture or autolyzed yeast per animal day-1) in high-energy diets containing monensin. highenergy high energy cattle initial 28 92 9 9. design 355 (35 kg1, kg1 , kg-1) meal hullsmineral hulls limestone 645 (64 kg1. . control kg- (DM VM (VM) Saccharomyces cerevisiae day1 day day- EYC 7) S. S (S 14) AY 14. (1 P 0.05 005 0 05 836 8 36 8.3 DM, OM (OM average 58.39%, 5839 58.39% 58 39 58.39%) 6.75 675 6 75 Moreover shortchain short chain concentrations based ( 35 (3 64 (6 (VM 0.0 00 83 8. 583 58.39 6.7 67 0. 58.3 6. 58.

ABSTRACT. This study evaluated heterosis and reciprocal effects in across of White Leghorn with Fayoumi, White Leghorn with Koekoek in comparison to their pure line breeds for the productive and reproductive traits. Data were purposively collected from 357 layers based on their genetic groups and each genotype was reared in three replicates on a deep litter system from 20-72 weeks. Results showed that genotype groups were found to have no significant differences (p > 0.05) for age at first egg (AFE) and hen- housed egg production (HHEP). Purebred Koekoek and crossbred of male White Leghorn and female Koekoek were superior for body weight at first egg (BWAFE). Purebred Fayoumi has exhibited the least values for egg number. Purebred White Leghorn was the best by their feed conversion ratio. Effects of heterosis were non-significant (p > 0.05) for AFE and BWAFE, and hen-housed egg production. A negative heterosis percentage was noted for AFE in all crossbred genotypes. Crossing between male Koekoek and female White Leghorn gave the highest heterosis effect for feed intake while crossing between male White Leghorn and female Fayoumi gave the highest estimates of heterosis for total egg number per hen. The main crossbred between male White Leghorn and female Fayoumi hybrids outperformed in AFE and HHEP while the main crossbred between male White Leghorn and female Koekoek outperformed in BWAFE and HHEP. On the contrary, reciprocal crossbreds between male Fayoumi and female White Leghorn and male Koekoek and female White Leghorn had higher feed intake and better feed conversion ratio. ABSTRACT traits 35 2072 20 72 20-7 weeks p 0.05 005 0 05 (AFE hen . (HHEP) BWAFE. (BWAFE) ratio nonsignificant non henhoused genotypes contrary 3 207 2 7 20- 0.0 00 (HHEP (BWAFE 0.

ABSTRACT The objective of this study was to assess the effects of high-concentrate diets with and without the inclusion of soybean hull (SH; 0 or 500.8 g/kg) plus corn (whole or ground) on the performance, morphometric traits, and nutritional and metabolic parameters of crossbred dairy calves. We also aimed to assess the costs associated with the experimental diets employed. Thirty-six male calves with an average weight of 89±18.6 kg and age of 3.5 months were allocated to four treatments, with nine replicates of one calf/pen, in a completely randomized experimental design for 198 days. The inclusion of the SH and the physical form of corn did not influence animal performance or morphometric measurements; however, SH inclusion increased the digestibility of neutral detergent fiber and the intakes of dry matter and neutral detergent fiber, but did not affect total digestible nutrient intake. The physical form of corn did not influence nutrient intake or digestibility, which resulted in similar performance across the animals. Blood glucose levels as well as alkaline phosphatase and creatinine remained elevated regardless of the diet. The use of SH reduced the total plasma cholesterol content, and there was an interaction between the physical form of corn and SH inclusion in relation to creatinine levels, which were higher when using diets with whole corn and SH. Although the inclusion of up to 500.8 g/kg of SH in the diet reduces feed efficiency, its use decreases the cost per kilogram of weight gain. Dairy calves can exhibit satisfactory production performance when fed alternative ingredients such as whole corn or SH, which have a lower cost than ground corn, traditionally used in diet formulations. highconcentrate high concentrate (SH 5008 500 8 500. gkg g traits employed Thirtysix Thirty six 89186 89 18 6 89±18. 35 3 5 3. treatments calfpen calf pen calf/pen 19 days measurements however animals content efficiency gain formulations 50 8918 1 89±18 891 89±1 89±