cometadata/datacite-titles-descriptions-related-identifiers huggingface dataset:
DOI: 10.6084/m9.figshare.20009449
title: Effect of soybean hulls on lactation curves and the composition of goat milk

description: ABSTRACT This study aimed to evaluate the effects of soybean hulls (SBH) as a ground corn replacement (0, 50, and 100% SBH) on the parameters of the lactation curve and on lactation curves and milk composition. Fourteen multiparous Saanen goats were used during their lactation period, from kidding until the drying of their milk on the 228th day of lactation, and were distributed in a completely randomised design. The data was analysed using Bayesian methodology to minimise the effect of the low number of animals and to allow for comparison of the curve parameters estimated by Wood's nonlinear model. The SBH had no effect on the initial milk yield; nevertheless, the SBH reduced the rate of yield until lactation peak and accelerated the declining rate of yield after lactation. The treatments did not affect dry matter intake. The inclusion of SBH increased the fat content in the milk, which was also influenced by the lactation stage of the goats. Effects were observed on polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), PUFA/total AG ratio, and the n-6:n-3 ratio of goat milk fat. The lactation stage changed the content of saturated fatty acid, monounsaturated fatty acid, and C18:2 (conjugated linoleic acid). The SBH can therefore be used as a ground corn replacement in the diets of lactating goats, as changes in the lactation curve parameters did not result in changes in total yields. Nevertheless, if the milk fat increases, then as quality rises, so could payment by quality, and thus an increase in profit margins per liter of milk sold.
DOI: 10.6084/m9.figshare.20009451.v1
title: Presence of roosters in an alternative egg production system aiming at animal welfare

description: ABSTRACT The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of the presence of roosters on welfare and egg production of laying hens reared in an alternative system. Two breeding systems were established: barn 1 - laying hens reared without roosters (4500 birds); and barn 2 - laying hens reared with roosters (4500 layers and 250 roosters). In the poultry facilities, microclimate, egg production, mortality rate, and bird behavior were evaluated. Microclimate analysis showed that the birds were subjected to periods of constant heat stress, except for the morning hours. However, even under these conditions, egg production results and mortality rate were consistent with the indices recommended in the Isa Brown management guide in the barn with roosters; the indices obtained were even better and were characterized by higher egg production and lower mortality rates. In addition to productivity benefits, the presence of roosters broadened the behavioral repertoire of the birds due to the introduction of reproductive behaviors. Moreover, there was a significant decrease in the tolerance-reflex behavior, which is associated with the impossibility of displaying reproductive behaviors. This alternative egg production system proved to promote animal welfare since it provides and stimulates the display of behaviors considered important for birds.
DOI: 10.6084/m9.figshare.20009451
title: Presence of roosters in an alternative egg production system aiming at animal welfare

description: ABSTRACT The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of the presence of roosters on welfare and egg production of laying hens reared in an alternative system. Two breeding systems were established: barn 1 - laying hens reared without roosters (4500 birds); and barn 2 - laying hens reared with roosters (4500 layers and 250 roosters). In the poultry facilities, microclimate, egg production, mortality rate, and bird behavior were evaluated. Microclimate analysis showed that the birds were subjected to periods of constant heat stress, except for the morning hours. However, even under these conditions, egg production results and mortality rate were consistent with the indices recommended in the Isa Brown management guide in the barn with roosters; the indices obtained were even better and were characterized by higher egg production and lower mortality rates. In addition to productivity benefits, the presence of roosters broadened the behavioral repertoire of the birds due to the introduction of reproductive behaviors. Moreover, there was a significant decrease in the tolerance-reflex behavior, which is associated with the impossibility of displaying reproductive behaviors. This alternative egg production system proved to promote animal welfare since it provides and stimulates the display of behaviors considered important for birds.
DOI: 10.6084/m9.figshare.20009452.v1
title: Determination of the mode of reproduction of bahiagrass hybrids using cytoembryological analysis and molecular markers

description: ABSTRACT The aim of this study was to determine the mode of reproduction of a hybrid progeny derived from intraspecific crosses of Paspalum notatum through cytoembryological analysis and use of RAPD (random amplification of polymorphic DNA) molecular markers. Cytoembryological analysis allowed identification of the mode of reproduction of 28 plants that were selected after agronomic productivity evaluations. Of these, 19 had embryo sac morphology compatible with an apomictic mode of reproduction and nine had embryo sac morphology compatible with a sexual mode of reproduction. Meanwhile, molecular marker analysis for 194 individuals showed 54 sexual and 140 apomictic plants; of the 28 plants analyzed by the two methods, ten results (35.7%) were in disagreement. In this paper, through cytoembryological analyses, a ratio of 1:2.1 of sexual to apomictic plants was found. The BCU 243 marker showed a stable pattern of amplification, but some results differed with cytoembryological analyses, demonstrating that these analyses are more reliable when determining the mode of sexual reproduction for the plants of P. notatum. Apomictic plants characterized in this work can be tested in the field to check their agronomic value and registration as plant varieties, while the sexual plants can be used as potential parents in future crosses.
DOI: 10.6084/m9.figshare.20009452
title: Determination of the mode of reproduction of bahiagrass hybrids using cytoembryological analysis and molecular markers

description: ABSTRACT The aim of this study was to determine the mode of reproduction of a hybrid progeny derived from intraspecific crosses of Paspalum notatum through cytoembryological analysis and use of RAPD (random amplification of polymorphic DNA) molecular markers. Cytoembryological analysis allowed identification of the mode of reproduction of 28 plants that were selected after agronomic productivity evaluations. Of these, 19 had embryo sac morphology compatible with an apomictic mode of reproduction and nine had embryo sac morphology compatible with a sexual mode of reproduction. Meanwhile, molecular marker analysis for 194 individuals showed 54 sexual and 140 apomictic plants; of the 28 plants analyzed by the two methods, ten results (35.7%) were in disagreement. In this paper, through cytoembryological analyses, a ratio of 1:2.1 of sexual to apomictic plants was found. The BCU 243 marker showed a stable pattern of amplification, but some results differed with cytoembryological analyses, demonstrating that these analyses are more reliable when determining the mode of sexual reproduction for the plants of P. notatum. Apomictic plants characterized in this work can be tested in the field to check their agronomic value and registration as plant varieties, while the sexual plants can be used as potential parents in future crosses.
DOI: 10.6084/m9.figshare.20009454
title: Seasonal variation in the reproductive activity of male goats raised under tropical climate conditions

description: ABSTRACT This study analyzed seasonal variations in the testes, the concentration of sex hormones, the parameters of fresh and thawed semen, and the sexual behavior of male Alpine goats from a temperate region in a tropical climate and possible interference with fertility. The maximum and minimum temperature and luminosity were recorded daily, while seminal, hormonal, and behavioral assessments were carried out every fortnight. The maximum and minimum temperature (°C) and luminosity (h) were recorded daily always at 17.00 h. The scrotal circumference (cm), testicular volume (mL), volume (mL), appearance (creamy, milky, aqueous) and coloration (white, white-yellowish, and yellowish) seminal, turbulence or mass movement (0 to 5), progressive spermatic motility (0 to 100%), spermatic force (0 to 5), concentration (spermatozoids/mL), spermatic pathologies, hypoosmotic test (%), serum levels of FSH (mUI/mL), LH (mUI/mL), testosterone (ng/mL), and sexual behaviors were carried out every fortnight. There was a difference between the scrotal circumference evaluated monthly, testicular volume, volume and concentration of fresh semen, sperm vigor of the thawed semen, serum levels of testosterone, FSH and LH, and some sexual behaviors. Thus, the changes that occur in the quantity and quality of sperm, in the hormonal profile, and in sexual behaviors should not be regarded as an impediment to the use of male Alpine goats in tropical climates throughout the year. These variations do not lead to changes in the semen that may compromise the fertility of these animals.
DOI: 10.6084/m9.figshare.20009454.v1
title: Seasonal variation in the reproductive activity of male goats raised under tropical climate conditions

description: ABSTRACT This study analyzed seasonal variations in the testes, the concentration of sex hormones, the parameters of fresh and thawed semen, and the sexual behavior of male Alpine goats from a temperate region in a tropical climate and possible interference with fertility. The maximum and minimum temperature and luminosity were recorded daily, while seminal, hormonal, and behavioral assessments were carried out every fortnight. The maximum and minimum temperature (°C) and luminosity (h) were recorded daily always at 17.00 h. The scrotal circumference (cm), testicular volume (mL), volume (mL), appearance (creamy, milky, aqueous) and coloration (white, white-yellowish, and yellowish) seminal, turbulence or mass movement (0 to 5), progressive spermatic motility (0 to 100%), spermatic force (0 to 5), concentration (spermatozoids/mL), spermatic pathologies, hypoosmotic test (%), serum levels of FSH (mUI/mL), LH (mUI/mL), testosterone (ng/mL), and sexual behaviors were carried out every fortnight. There was a difference between the scrotal circumference evaluated monthly, testicular volume, volume and concentration of fresh semen, sperm vigor of the thawed semen, serum levels of testosterone, FSH and LH, and some sexual behaviors. Thus, the changes that occur in the quantity and quality of sperm, in the hormonal profile, and in sexual behaviors should not be regarded as an impediment to the use of male Alpine goats in tropical climates throughout the year. These variations do not lead to changes in the semen that may compromise the fertility of these animals.
DOI: 10.6084/m9.figshare.20009455
title: Effect of photoperiod length and light intensity on some welfare criteria, carcass, and meat quality characteristics in broilers

description: ABSTRACT The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of photoperiod length and light intensity on leg and eye health, tonic immobility, some blood parameters, carcass, and meat quality characteristics in broilers. A total of 272 one-day-old male broiler chicks (Ross 308) were randomly assigned to four treatment groups based on the photoperiod length (23L:1D or increasing duration of light) and light intensity (20 lux vs. dim light) with four replicates. In this study, photoperiod lenght had no effect on incidence of foot pad and hock burn. On the other hand, the effect of photoperiod lenght had significant influence on the gait score. The incidences of gait score (3 + 4 + 5) in bright and dim light groups was found as 21.4 and 41.0% in broilers, respectively. In addition, the effect of light intensity had statistical significance on gait score. The tonic immobility duration in 20 lux and dim light groups were 271.53 and 226.78 s, respectively, and tonic immobility duration was unaffected by light intensity. All the blood parameters, except for triglyceride, were not affected by light intensity. The dim light had a negative effect on broiler welfare as demonstrated by increased eye weight and dimensions. Cold carcass yield and whole breast and wing yields were lower in the dim light group than in 20 lux light intensity. The broilers kept with dim light had lower breast meat ultimate pH (6.19) and L* values (54.30) than those reared with 20 lux. These findings have a lot of implications on the use of increasing photoperiod and bright light to improve leg an eye health benefits for the broiler welfare in broilers.
DOI: 10.6084/m9.figshare.20009455.v1
title: Effect of photoperiod length and light intensity on some welfare criteria, carcass, and meat quality characteristics in broilers

description: ABSTRACT The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of photoperiod length and light intensity on leg and eye health, tonic immobility, some blood parameters, carcass, and meat quality characteristics in broilers. A total of 272 one-day-old male broiler chicks (Ross 308) were randomly assigned to four treatment groups based on the photoperiod length (23L:1D or increasing duration of light) and light intensity (20 lux vs. dim light) with four replicates. In this study, photoperiod lenght had no effect on incidence of foot pad and hock burn. On the other hand, the effect of photoperiod lenght had significant influence on the gait score. The incidences of gait score (3 + 4 + 5) in bright and dim light groups was found as 21.4 and 41.0% in broilers, respectively. In addition, the effect of light intensity had statistical significance on gait score. The tonic immobility duration in 20 lux and dim light groups were 271.53 and 226.78 s, respectively, and tonic immobility duration was unaffected by light intensity. All the blood parameters, except for triglyceride, were not affected by light intensity. The dim light had a negative effect on broiler welfare as demonstrated by increased eye weight and dimensions. Cold carcass yield and whole breast and wing yields were lower in the dim light group than in 20 lux light intensity. The broilers kept with dim light had lower breast meat ultimate pH (6.19) and L* values (54.30) than those reared with 20 lux. These findings have a lot of implications on the use of increasing photoperiod and bright light to improve leg an eye health benefits for the broiler welfare in broilers.
DOI: 10.6084/m9.figshare.20009457
title: Glycerin levels while maintaining the electrolyte balance in finishing pig diets

description: ABSTRACT The objective of this study was to evaluate performance and carcass and meat characteristics of finishing pigs fed diets with different levels of glycerin, while maintaining the electrolyte balance. Forty barrows with an initial weight of 97.76±13.44 kg were distributed, in a randomized block design, into four treatments with five replicates. Treatments consisted of diets containing 0, 5, 10, and 15% glycerin. Inclusions of salt and sodium bicarbonate were adjusted to balance the sodium content and maintain the same electrolyte balance of the diets as a function of glycerin inclusions. In vivo backfat thickness, daily feed intake, daily weight gain, and feed conversion were measured. After the animals were slaughtered, pH and temperature were measured 45 min and 24 h postmortem, and backfat thickness, loin-eye area, drip loss, and colorimetry were determined. Glycerin inclusion levels did not influence the performance of barrows. Hot carcass weight, dressing percentage, and lightness had higher values when pigs were fed diets containing 2.32, 2.43, and 2.61% glycerin, respectively. The other carcass and meat characteristics were not influenced. Glycerin can be used in finishing pig diets without compromising results of performance or carcass and meat characteristics up to the inclusion level of 15%.
DOI: 10.6084/m9.figshare.20009457.v1
title: Glycerin levels while maintaining the electrolyte balance in finishing pig diets

description: ABSTRACT The objective of this study was to evaluate performance and carcass and meat characteristics of finishing pigs fed diets with different levels of glycerin, while maintaining the electrolyte balance. Forty barrows with an initial weight of 97.76±13.44 kg were distributed, in a randomized block design, into four treatments with five replicates. Treatments consisted of diets containing 0, 5, 10, and 15% glycerin. Inclusions of salt and sodium bicarbonate were adjusted to balance the sodium content and maintain the same electrolyte balance of the diets as a function of glycerin inclusions. In vivo backfat thickness, daily feed intake, daily weight gain, and feed conversion were measured. After the animals were slaughtered, pH and temperature were measured 45 min and 24 h postmortem, and backfat thickness, loin-eye area, drip loss, and colorimetry were determined. Glycerin inclusion levels did not influence the performance of barrows. Hot carcass weight, dressing percentage, and lightness had higher values when pigs were fed diets containing 2.32, 2.43, and 2.61% glycerin, respectively. The other carcass and meat characteristics were not influenced. Glycerin can be used in finishing pig diets without compromising results of performance or carcass and meat characteristics up to the inclusion level of 15%.
DOI: 10.6084/m9.figshare.20009458
title: Glutamine supplementation plans for broilers reared in high-temperature environments

description: ABSTRACT The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of glutamine supplementation plans on performance, carcass yield, and cut yield of broilers reared in a high-temperature environment. A fully randomized design was adopted for the experiment, comprising 900 male Hubbard broiler chicks assigned to five treatment groups (0% glutamine from one to 42 days of age; 0.5% glutamine from 1 to 7 days of age, followed by 0% from 8 to 42 days; 1.0% glutamine from 1 to 7 days of age, followed by 0.5% from 8 to 14 days and 0% from 15 to 42 days; 1.5% glutamine from 1 to 7 days of age, followed by 1.0% from 8 to 14 days, 0.5% from 15 to 21 days, and 0% from 22 to 42 days; 2.0% glutamine from 1 to 7 days of age, followed by 1.5% from 8 to 14 days, 1.0% from 15 to 21 days, and 0% from 22 to 42 days), consisting of six replicates of 30 animals each. The experiment was composed of four periods: pre-starter (1-7 days), starter (8-21 days), grower (22-33 days), and finisher (34-42 days). Glutamine supplementation plans up to 21 days do not improve the performance of broilers in the periods from 1 to 21 and from 1 to 42 days of age reared in a high-temperature environment. Carcass yields and cuts of broilers at 42 days of age are not changed by glutamine supplementation for up to 21 days.
DOI: 10.6084/m9.figshare.20009458.v1
title: Glutamine supplementation plans for broilers reared in high-temperature environments

description: ABSTRACT The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of glutamine supplementation plans on performance, carcass yield, and cut yield of broilers reared in a high-temperature environment. A fully randomized design was adopted for the experiment, comprising 900 male Hubbard broiler chicks assigned to five treatment groups (0% glutamine from one to 42 days of age; 0.5% glutamine from 1 to 7 days of age, followed by 0% from 8 to 42 days; 1.0% glutamine from 1 to 7 days of age, followed by 0.5% from 8 to 14 days and 0% from 15 to 42 days; 1.5% glutamine from 1 to 7 days of age, followed by 1.0% from 8 to 14 days, 0.5% from 15 to 21 days, and 0% from 22 to 42 days; 2.0% glutamine from 1 to 7 days of age, followed by 1.5% from 8 to 14 days, 1.0% from 15 to 21 days, and 0% from 22 to 42 days), consisting of six replicates of 30 animals each. The experiment was composed of four periods: pre-starter (1-7 days), starter (8-21 days), grower (22-33 days), and finisher (34-42 days). Glutamine supplementation plans up to 21 days do not improve the performance of broilers in the periods from 1 to 21 and from 1 to 42 days of age reared in a high-temperature environment. Carcass yields and cuts of broilers at 42 days of age are not changed by glutamine supplementation for up to 21 days.
DOI: 10.6084/m9.figshare.20009460
title: Methionine + cystine levels and vitamin B6 supplementation on performance and enzyme expression of methionine metabolism of gilts from 75 to 100 kg

description: ABSTRACT This study was carried out to evaluate the effect of different levels of standardized ileal digestible (SID) methionine + cystine (Met+Cys) and vitamin B6 supplementation on the performance, blood variables, and gene expression of enzymes involved in methionine metabolism in female pigs between 75 and 100 kg. Fifty six female pigs were used (Talent × Topigs 20), averaging 75.06±1.68 kg in initial weight, allotted in a completely randomized block design arranged in a 2 × 4 factorial scheme, composed of two vitamin B6 supplementation levels (1.58 and 3.58 mg/kg) and four levels of SID Met+Cys (0.370, 0.470, 0.570, and 0.670%), with seven replicates and one animal per experimental unit. No interactions between vitamin B6 supplementation and SID Met+Cys levels were observed. The levels of SID Met+Cys and vitamin B6 supplementation did not affect animal performance. Triacylglycerols showed a quadratic response to the SID Met+Cys levels, in which the lowest plasma concentration was estimated as 0.575%. Treatments did not affect the expression of the methionine synthase and cystathionine-γ-lyase enzymes or serum homocysteine levels. The SID Met+Cys requirement for female pigs from 75 to 100 kg is equal to or lower than 10.60 g/day, which corresponds to the level of 0.370% Met+Cys in the diet and a relationship 0.48% with the SID lysine.
DOI: 10.6084/m9.figshare.20009460.v1
title: Methionine + cystine levels and vitamin B6 supplementation on performance and enzyme expression of methionine metabolism of gilts from 75 to 100 kg

description: ABSTRACT This study was carried out to evaluate the effect of different levels of standardized ileal digestible (SID) methionine + cystine (Met+Cys) and vitamin B6 supplementation on the performance, blood variables, and gene expression of enzymes involved in methionine metabolism in female pigs between 75 and 100 kg. Fifty six female pigs were used (Talent × Topigs 20), averaging 75.06±1.68 kg in initial weight, allotted in a completely randomized block design arranged in a 2 × 4 factorial scheme, composed of two vitamin B6 supplementation levels (1.58 and 3.58 mg/kg) and four levels of SID Met+Cys (0.370, 0.470, 0.570, and 0.670%), with seven replicates and one animal per experimental unit. No interactions between vitamin B6 supplementation and SID Met+Cys levels were observed. The levels of SID Met+Cys and vitamin B6 supplementation did not affect animal performance. Triacylglycerols showed a quadratic response to the SID Met+Cys levels, in which the lowest plasma concentration was estimated as 0.575%. Treatments did not affect the expression of the methionine synthase and cystathionine-γ-lyase enzymes or serum homocysteine levels. The SID Met+Cys requirement for female pigs from 75 to 100 kg is equal to or lower than 10.60 g/day, which corresponds to the level of 0.370% Met+Cys in the diet and a relationship 0.48% with the SID lysine.