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Simple Summary: Exogenous enzymes can improve domestic ruminants' productive performance by improving the amount of nutrients obtained from their rations, mainly from the fibrous portions. Dietary inclusion of exogenous enzymes can act synergistically with endogenous enzymes from the rumen during digestion and can modify the populations of ruminal communities and methane emissions. In the present study, dietary supplementation of a multi-enzyme (M-E) complex (Optimax E®) at 0, 0.2, 0.4, and 0.8% of dry matter (DM) increased nutrient digestibility, daily weight gain, and net energy, and improved feed conversion and the Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio. Results confirm that including Optimax E® can be used to improve lambs' performance. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of increasing levels of the M-E complex (xylanase, glucanase, cellulase, and invertase) Optimax E® on the performance of growing lambs, their digestibility, and their rumen microbiota, and to estimate NEm, NEg, and ruminal methane levels. Forty lambs (Katahdin x Dorset; 22.91 ± 4.16 kg) were randomly assigned to dietary concentrations of ME (0, 0.2, 0.4, and 0.8% DM) and fed individually for 77 days. Increasing M-E improved feed conversion (p < 0.05) as well as NEm and NEg (p < 0.05), which were associated with increased in vivo DM and NDF digestion (linear and quadratic p < 0.01). Few microbial families showed abundancy changes (Erysipelotrichaceae, Christensenellaceae, Lentisphaerae, and Clostridial Family XIII); however, the dominant phylum Bacteroidetes was linearly reduced, while Firmicutes increased (p < 0.01), resulting in a greater Firmicutes-to-Bacteroidetes ratio. Total Entodinium showed a quadratic response (p < 0.10), increasing its abundancy as the enzyme dose was augmented. The daily emission intensity of methane (per kg of DMI or AGD) was reduced linearly (p < 0.01). In conclusion, adding the M-E complex Optimax E® to growing lambs' diets improves their productive performance by acting synergistically with the rumen microbiota, modifying the Firmicutes-to-Bacteroidetes ratio toward more efficient fermentation, and shows the potential to reduce the intensity of greenhouse gas emissions from lambs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: BioCholine Powder can improve domestic ruminants' (sheep, goats, calves, and cows) productive performance. The objective of this study was to review published data and evaluate the effects of dietary polyherbal supplementation in lambs, ewes, dairy goats, and cows on productive performance and blood serum metabolites through a meta-analysis and by a comparison of the estimated net energy for maintenance (NEm) and gain (NEg) in lambs, which was expressed as a percentage of change in the polyherbal mixture regarding their control using a Chi-squared test. BioCholine supplementation improved small ruminants' daily gain and milk production and modified some blood metabolites. The results confirm that including BioCholine Powder in ruminant diets shows nutraceutical effects that outweigh those of phosphatidylcholine bypass and that benefits in growth, milk production, and health can therefore be expected with its dietary inclusion. BioCholine Powder is a polyherbal feed additive composed of Achyrantes aspera, Trachyspermum ammi, Azadirachta indica, and Citrullus colocynthis. The objective of this study was to analyze published results that support the hypothesis that the polyherbal product BioCholine Powder has rumen bypass choline metabolites through a meta-analysis and effect size analysis (ES). Using Scopus, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, PubMed, and university dissertation databases, a systematic search was conducted for experiments published in scientific documents that evaluated the effects of BioCholine supplementation on the variables of interest. The analyzed data were extracted from twenty-one publications (fifteen scientific articles, three abstracts, and three graduate dissertations available in institutional libraries). The studies included lamb growing–finishing, lactating ewes and goats, calves, and dairy cows. The effects of BioCholine were analyzed using random effects statistical models to compare the weighted mean difference (WMD) between BioCholine-supplemented ruminants and controls (no BioCholine). Heterogeneity was explored, and three subgroup analyses were performed for doses [(4 (or 5 g/d), 8 (10 g/d)], supplementation in gestating and lactating ewes (pre- and postpartum supplementation), and blood metabolites by species and physiological state (lactating goats, calves, lambs, ewes). Supplementation with BioCholine in sheep increased the average daily lamb gain (p < 0.05), final body weight (p < 0.01), and daily milk yield (p < 0.05) without effects on intake or feed conversion. Milk yield was improved in small ruminants with BioCholine prepartum supplementation (p < 0.10). BioCholine supplementation decreased blood urea (p < 0.01) and increased levels of the liver enzymes alanine transaminase (ALT; p < 0.10) and albumin (p < 0.001). BioCholine doses over 8 g/d increased blood glucose, albumin (p < 0.10), cholesterol, total protein, and globulin (p < 0.05). The ES values of BioCholine in retained energy over the control in growing lambs were +7.15% NEm (p < 0.10) and +9.25% NEg (p < 0.10). In conclusion, adding BioCholine Powder to domestic ruminants' diets improves productive performance, blood metabolite indicators of protein metabolism, and liver health, showing its nutraceutical properties where phosphatidylcholine prevails as an alternative that can meet the choline requirements in ruminants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: In pet foods, choline is supplied as choline chloride. This salt is hygroscopic and makes food processing difficult. This has led to its replacement, in livestock farms, by chemically stable herbal additives rich in phosphatidylcholine. The herbal composition and the contribution of secondary metabolites give the additive nutraceutical properties that could benefit the animal's health. In this sense, increased levels of a polyherbal additive were supplied in dog diets, and their effects were compared to diets with choline chloride and without extra choline. The results showed that the animal response was the same with the two sources of choline. However, the herbal additive at the gene level demonstrated properties to prevent cardiovascular and metabolic diseases, cancer prevention, inflammatory and immune response, and behavior and cognitive processes in dogs. Choline chloride is used to provide choline in dog foods; however, in other domestic species, it has been replaced with a polyherbal containing phosphatidylcholine. A polyherbal containing Achyrantes aspera, Trachyspermum ammi, Citrullus colocynthis, Andrographis paniculata, and Azadirachta indica was evaluated in adult dogs through body weight changes, subcutaneous fat thickness, blood metabolites, and gene expression. Forty dogs (4.6 ± 1.6 years old) who were individually housed in concrete kennels were randomly assigned to the following treatments: unsupplemented diet (377 mg choline/kg), choline chloride (3850 mg/kg equivalent to 2000 mg choline/kg diet), and polyherbal (200, 400, and 800 mg/kg) for 60 days. Blood samples were collected on day 59 for biochemistry, biometry, and gene expression analysis through microarray assays. Intake, final body weight, and weight changes were similar for the two choline sources. Feed intake variation among dogs (p = 0.01) and dorsal fat (p = 0.03) showed a quadratic response to herbal choline. Dogs that received the polyherbal diet had reduced blood cholesterol levels (Quadratic, p = 0.02). The gene ontology analysis indicated that 15 biological processes were modified (p ≤ 0.05) with implications for preventing cardiovascular and metabolic diseases, cancer prevention, inflammatory and immune response, and behavior and cognitive process. According to these results that were observed in a 60 day trial, the polyherbal form could replace choline chloride in dog diets at a concentration of 400 mg/kg. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study used a meta-analytic approach to evaluate the effects of dietary supplementation with seaweed on milk yield, milk composition, nutrient digestibility, ruminal fermentation, and enteric methane (CH4) emissions of dairy cows. Data used in statistical analyses were obtained from 23 peer-reviewed scientific articles. Effect size was assessed using weighted mean differences (WMD) between seaweed-supplemented and control treatments. Dietary supplementation with seaweed decreased (p < 0.05) dry matter intake, milk protein content, milk urea nitrogen, and somatic cell count. In contrast, milk fat content, milk lactose content, and milk iodine increased (p < 0.05) in response to dietary supplementation with seaweed. Dietary supplementation with seaweed did not affect (p > 0.05) nutrient digestibility, total volatile fatty acids, acetate, and propionate. Dietary supplementation with seaweeds increased (p < 0.05) ruminal pH and ruminal concentration of butyrate and valerate. In contrast, lower (p < 0.05) ruminal ammonia nitrogen concentration, acetate/propionate ratio, daily CH4 emission, CH4 yield, and CH4 intensity were observed in response to dietary supplementation with seaweeds. In conclusion, dietary supplementation with seaweed modifies milk composition, improves ruminal fermentation, and decreases enteric methane emissions without negatively affecting milk yield or feed efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objetive. An experiment was conducted to evaluate the feed intake, digestibility and growth of pigs fed with two feeds (A and K) specially formulated for this species and a commercial feed for growing rabbits with supplementation of vitamin C (RF+VC). Materials and methods. Eighteen Guinea pigs of 248±38 g initial body weight were distributed in a completely randomized design with factorial arrangement 3×2 (dietary treatments and sex). Feed and neutral detergent fiber intake, weight gain, feed/gain, and morphometric variables were measured individually for 30 days. Dry matter and neutral detergent fiber digestibility were measured during the last seven days of the experiment. Results. There were no differences on feed intake (p=0.88); however, the dry matter digestibility was higher (p<0.01) in feeds formulated for Guinea pigs (A and K) and lower in the rabbit feed plus vitamin C. The intake and digestibility of NDF were higher in the RF+VC and lower in feeds for Guinea pigs (p< 0.01). The average daily gain was similar among the treatments (p>0.05). There were no differences (p>0.01) in the morphometric variables among dietary treatments, but there were sex differences as the males were bigger than the females (p<0.01). Conclusions. The results indicate that Guinea pigs can be fed with rabbit feed supplemented with vitamin C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Para investigar las diferencias de dieta de dos depredadores competidores coexistentes, determinamos las dietas de linces (Lynx rufus) y coyotes (Canis latrans) a partir de excrementos en el Parque Nacional Izta-Popo, en el centro de México. El uso de presas por linces y coyotes mostró un índice de Pianka de traslape de 0.94, mucho más alto que en otros estudios de dieta de estas dos especies. La dieta de lince consisti ó principalmente en el conejo de Florida (Sylvilagus floridanus; 33.7%), roedores (22.7%), conejo montés (S. cunicularius; 13.1%), el conejo de los volcanes endémico y en peligro de extinci ón (Romerolagus diazi, 12.5%), la tuza (Pappogeomys merriani; 9.3%) y la gallinita de monte (Dendrortyx macroura; 1.4%). La dieta del coyote incluyó el conejo de Florida (43.8%), roedores (15.7%), el conejo montés (12.0%), la tuza (6.4%) y el conejo de los volcanes (5.5%). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Temporal and coordinated activation of pelvic- (pubococcygeous) and perineal- (bulbospongiosus and ischiocavernosus) striated muscles occurs during micturition in female rabbits. We have hypothesized that the coordinated activation of pelvic and perineal muscles is modified during the micturition of young multiparous rabbits. Young virgin and multiparous female chinchilla rabbits were used to simultaneously record cystometrograms and electromyograms of the pubococcygeous, ischocavernosus, and bulbospongiosus muscles. Bladder function was assessed using standard urodynamic variables. The temporal coordination of pelvic- and perineal-striated muscle activity was changed in multiparous rabbits. The cystometrogram recordings were different than those obtained from virgin rabbits, as seen in alterations of the threshold volume, the residual volume, the voiding duration, and the maximum pressure. In rabbits, we find that multiparity causes uncoordinated activity of pubococcygeous, ischiocavernosus, and bulbospongiosus muscles and modifies the urodynamics. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The present study was conducted to determine the population density and habitat use of the Montezuma quail (Cyrtonyx montezumae) in Hualtepec Hidalgo Mexico at three vegetation types forest, grassland and transitional zone (ecotone). The study site is located in the western section of the state of Hidalgo, with a sampling area of 5 715 ha. Fifty five units were sampled to evaluate habitat use through bird signs (droppings, soil scratches, feathers and nests), and to asses population density using standardized transects (6 km length x 50 m width), with the help of pointing dogs. At each site, the signs were recorded and observed quails were counted. Population density (quail/ha) ranged from 0.1341 to 0.2318. No differences were found in quail density among vegetation types (forest 0.1765; grassland 0.2318; ecotone, 0.1341); however the most utilized habitat was eco, tone followed by grassland and forest. The availability of scratches and Oxalis bulbs was higher (P < 0 05) at the grassland. The number of individuals, feathers, droppings (P < 0.10) and nests and scratches were also higher (P < 0.05) at grassland. This study is the first population density estimate of the Montezuma quail in the state of Hidalgo in Mexico. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

El presente estudio se realizó para determinar la densidad poblacional y el uso del hábitat de la codorniz Moctezuma (Cyrtonyx montezumae) en Hualtepec, Hidalgo, México, en tres tipos de vegetación: bosque, pastizal y zona de transición (ecotono). Dicho sitio se localiza en el extremo oeste de Hidalgo, con área de muestreo de 5 715 ha. Se realizó un muestre o en 55 unidades, para evaluar el uso del hábitat por medio de indicios (excretas, rascaderos, plumas y nidos), y densidad de población, con transectos convencionales (6 km de longitud por 50 m de ancho), con el apoyo de perros de muestra. En cada sitio se registraron los indicios y se contaron las codornices observadas. La densidad (codornices/ha) varió de 0.1341 a 0.2318. No se encontraron diferencias en la densidad de codornices en los diferentes tipos de vegetación (bosque, 0.1765; pastizal, 0.2318; ecoton0, 0.1341); sin embargo, el hábitat más usado fue el ecotono, seguido por el pastizal y el bosque. Los rascaderos y bulbos de Oxalis disponibles fueron más altos (P < 0.05) en el pastizal. El número de individuos, plumas, excretas (P < 0.10) y de nidos y rascaderos fueron mayores (P < 0.05) en el pastizal. Este estudio constituye la primera estimación de densidad poblacional de la codorniz Moctezuma en Hidalgo, México. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Se realizó un estudio para analizar la dieta invernal de la codorniz Moctezuma (Cyrtonyx montezumae) en la región noroeste del Estado de México. Se recolectaron 14 buches de codorniz durante el invierno 1999-2000. Se determinó el volumen y la materia seca (MS) de cada alimento por procedimientos convencionales. Los bulbos de Oxalis alpino constituyeron el principal alimento (61.43% de la MS), seguido de semillas de leguminosas (22.94%), grano de maíz (10.76%), semillas de trigo (4.71%) y materia inorgánica (0.15%). La concentración de nutrimentos se determinó en el Oxalis. Los bulbos tuvieron una composición media de MS, 93.7%; MO, 92.6%; grasa, 6.82%; proteína cruda, 6.92%; FDN, 49.61%; y FDA, 41.52%. Con excepción de arginina, la concentración de aminoácidos esenciales (mg/g proteína) fue baja (serina, 20.2; histidina, 10.2; glicina, 22.3; treonina, 18.2; arginina, 90.0; metionina, 15.5; valina, 6.6; fenilalanina, 10.5; isoleucina, 17.3; leucina, 20.4; y lisina, 16.9). Los resultados indican que el bulbo de Oxalis es un ingrediente energético importante con bajo contenido de proteína. Durante el invierno, las leguminosas suministran aminoácidos esenciales. La disponibilidad de Oxalis varió de 0.75 a 5.00 g MS/m2 de biomasa en las parcelas muestreadas. Este estudio confirma la importancia de los bulbos de Oxalis en la dieta invernal de la codorniz Moctezuma en el Estado de México. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A study was conducted to analyze winter diet of Montezuma quail (Cyrtonyx montezumae) in the northwestern region of the State of Mexico. Fourteen quails were collected during 1999-2000 winter season and their crops were analyzed. The volume and dry matter (DM) of each food item was determined by conventional procedures. Bulbs of Oxalis alpino were the main feed with 61.43% of DM followed by legume seeds (22.94%), corn grain (10.76%), wheat seed (4.71%), and inorganic matter (0.15%). Since Oxalis was also one of the main plant species in the Montezuma quail's habitat, nutrient concentration was analyzed. Bulbs had a mean composition of 93.7% DM, 92.6% organic matter, 6.82% fat, 6.92% crude protein, 49.61% neutral detergent fiber and 41.52% acid detergent fiber. With the exception of arginine, essential amino acid concentration (mg/g protein) was low (serine 20.2; histidine 10.2; glycine 22.3; threonine 18.2; arginine 90.0; methionine 15.5; valine 6.6; phenylalanine 10.5; isoleucine 17.3; leucine 20.4; and lysine 16.9). These results indicate that the Oxalis bulb is an important energetic source with low quality protein. During winter, legumes provide essential amino acids. Oxalis biomass varied from 0.75 to 5.00 DM/m2 in sampled plots. This study confirms the importance of Oxalis bulbs in the State of Mexico as the main feed source for Montezuma quail in winter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Jaguars are endangered in Mexico, with negative interactions with livestock producers being one of the main threats to their populations. We collared three jaguars with search Global Positioning System (GPS) clusters to document prey species eaten by them in the Sierra del Abra-Tanchipa Biosphere Reserve (RBSAT) and surrounding agrolandscape, in northeastern Mexico, to determine the relative use of natural prey and livestock. We detected, through examination of the carcasses (scavenging and predation events), 35 individual prey at feeding sites, primarily collared peccary (40% of sites), cattle (23%), and white-tailed deer (20%). Cattle comprised 64% and wild ungulates provided 34% of the estimated biomass in jaguar diets (biomass was calculated based on the estimated mass consumed and the assumption of an edible portion), with cattle consumed only during the dry season. Seasonal use apparently reflected increased encounters between jaguars and livestock during the dry season, probably due to the presence of limited permanent water sources concentrating livestock (and natural prey) along with jaguars taking advantage of the increased vulnerability of livestock during the dry season (either through predation or scavenging). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this experiment was to evaluate a glycogenic feed additive in terms of performance and response in blood metabolites in weaned horses. Twenty weaned horses of the Unidad de Policía Montada Metropolitana del Ministerio de Seguridad Pública del Gobierno de la Ciudad de México, México, were randomly assigned to two treatment groups: control or an oral dose of the glycogenic additive (10 g/d). The additive was based on propylene glycol and Na/Ca propionate and was supplied for 30 days. Data were tested for normality and initial weight was used as a covariate for analyzing the average daily gain (ADG). The ADG was negatively affected (P < 0.01) by the glycogenic compound (0.468 vs. 0.517 kg), while there were no significant differences (P > 0.10) in blood glucose, globulins, total glucose, triglycerides, cholesterol, creatinine or urea in horses from either treatment group. It was concluded that the glucogenic additive, based on propylene glycol and Na/Ca propionate, negatively affected the performance of the horses. Therefore, administration of the additive is not recommended in weaned horses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Calcium (Ca) propionate can be added to ruminant diets as a glucogenic substrate. However, due to its hypophagic effect, it is necessary to establish the optimal dose that can be used to replace grains in finishing diets for lambs. Therefore, the objective of this study was to assess the effect of four concentrations of Ca propionate in lamb diets on productive performance and rumen fermentation. Thirty two Hampshire x Suffolk lambs (23.82 ± 0.40 kg initial body weight), distributed in a completely randomized design, were given a diet with four concentrations of Ca propionate (g kg-1): 0, 10, 20 or 30 g, for 42 days. The results were tested for linear or quadratic responses. The final weight, average daily gain and feed: gain ratio showed quadratic responses (P ≤ 0.01). The optimal dose was established at 13.77 g kg-1 DM. Addition of Ca propionate did not affect variables related to rumen fermentation (pH, total volatile fatty acids, acetate, butyrate or rumen ammonia-N; P ≥ 0.05). Nonetheless, glucose and propionate concentrations showed a quadratic response (P ≤ 0.05). The highest concentrations of propionate in rumen were observed with 15.14 g kg-1 DM. Results indicate that Ca propionate can be included in a dose of up to 13.77 g kg-1 DM in feedlot rations, to attain best lamb performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of dietary supplementation with hydroxycinnamic acids (HAs) on productive performance, antioxidant status in blood serum, and meat quality of finishing lambs using meta-analytic methods. Based on the selection criteria, 14 peer-reviewed publications were included in the final database. The weighted mean difference (WMD) between the experimental treatments (diets added with HAs) and the control treatments (diets without HAs) was evaluated using the random effects meta-analysis model. HAs supplementation had positive effects on daily weight gain (WMD = 13.46 g/d; P < 0.001), dry matter intake (WMD = 19.54 g/d; P = 0.040), and feed conversion rate (WMD = −0.249 kg/kg; P = 0.001). In addition, HAs supplementation decreased serum levels of malondialdehyde (WMD = −0.64 nmol/mL; P < 0.001) and increased (P < 0.001) serum levels of glutathione peroxidase (WMD = 1.25 ng/mL), superoxide dismutase (WMD = 41.34 pg/mL), catalase (WMD = 149.71 pg/mL) and total antioxidant capacity (WMD = 0.973 U/mL). In meat, HAs supplementation decreased the MDA content (WMD = 0.427 mg/kg; P = 0.043); however, it did not affect the pH, shear force, or meat color (P > 0.05). In conclusion, HAs supplementation improves the productive performance and antioxidant status of finishing lambs without affecting meat quality. • Dietary inclusion of hydroxycinnamic acids improved average daily gain. • Supplementation with hydroxycinnamic acids improved the total antioxidant capacity in the blood. • Supplementation with hydroxycinnamic acids reduced the malondialdehyde content in meat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of the present study was to evaluate the effect of calcium propionate (CaPr) on in vitro ruminal fermentation using a factorial arrangement 2 x 2 evaluating CaPr (0 vs. 1%) and grain level (55 vs. 65%). There was a CaPr x Grain interaction in the volume of gas produced (V; p = 0.04). Addition of CaPr prolonged Lag time (1.4 vs. 1.04 h; P<0.01), and increasing the grain level also prolonged Lag time (1.56 vs. 0.89 h; p < 0.03) and gas production rate (0.046 vs. 0.041 h-1; P<0.04). However, there were no differences in CH4, CO2, acetate, propionate and butyrate concentrations. Therefore, the addition of calcium propionate in a diet with 55 or 66% of grain increased Lag phase but it is not affected fermentation pattern or methane losses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Exogenous fibrolytic enzymes are not synthesized by the ruminal microorganisms, so they are added to feed in order to increase fiber degradation. The objective of this study was to evaluate in vitro xilanase, cellulose and laccase activity, as well as xylanase and cellulose enzymatic stability of an enzymatic fibrolytic product (Fibrozyme Alltech, Inc.). The experimental design was completely randomized and treatments were: buffer pH 6.0, buffer pH 7.0 and clarified ruminal fluid pH 6.5. Data were analyzed using the SAS Mixed procedure and the Tukey test (p≤0.05). The exogenous enzyme product contained 292 IU xylanase g-1 and 36 IU cellulase g-1, without laccase activity. In buffer with pH 6 cellulases were more stable than the xylanases, and both enzymes showed activity until 46 h. The speed constants of enzymatic inactivation (k) were -0.054 h-1 in xylanases and -0.008 h-1 in cellulases, and half life time (t1/2) of 12.8 and 87.7 h. In buffer pH 7 cellulases remained more stable and the xylanases lost their activity at 32 h; values of k were -0.07 h-1 and ?0.009 h-1, and t1/2 of 9.9 and 77 h for xylanases and cellulases. In the medium with clarified ruminal fluid, cellulases maintained more stable their activity and xylanases lost it in 4 h (k=-1.815 h-1 and -0.026 h-1; t1/2=0.38 and 26.87 h for xylanases and cellulases). It is concluded that in vitro pH and enzymes contained in the clarified ruminal fluid affect the stability of the exogenous fibrolytic enzyme product. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use, as well as the productive and economic effect of herbal compounds on rabbit production has been little studied, for this reason, the objective was to evaluate the effect of a polyherbal mixture rich in choline conjugates based on Trachyspermum ammi, Achyranthes aspera, Azadirachta indica and Citrullus colocynthis, on the economic and productive response of meat rabbits. For this, 40 New Zealand X California rabbits (30-d old) were used, which were randomized into five groups (0.0, 200, 400, 600 and 800 mg kg-1 of polyherbal DM, BioCholina®), the experiment lasted 34 days. The productive response, meat quality and economic indicators were evaluated. A completely randomized design with an arrangement of orthogonal polynomials was used to determine linear and quadratic effects, with a significance level of P<0.05. The results in terms of production parameters were similar between treatments, except for feed consumption (P=0.006) and feed conversion (P=0.005) with a linear effect at higher concentration of the polyherbal. The inclusion of the polyherbal increased pH in meat (linear, P=0.004) and coordinate b* (linear, P=0.009), it was observed that the treatment with 200 mg showed the best economic indicators, improving the income-expense ratio by 9 percentage units. It is concluded that the addition of polyherbal mixtures based on natural choline conjugate did not improve the productive variables, however, a favorable economic trend is marked with the addition of 200 mg kg-1 of DM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objectives were to study the associations of concentrations of ß-hydroxybutyrate acid (BHBA), calcium (Ca2+), and non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA) in blood serum 7 d prepartum with losses in milk yield (MY) and metabolic dysfunctions at seven and 14 d of lactation. Three hundred and thirty-six (336) Holstein-Friesian (780 ± 36 kg BW; which had lactated more than twice) were sampled by coccygeal venipuncture, 7 d before, and 7 and 14 d after parturition. For each sample and metabolite serum concentrations were stratified in thresholds and related to MY. When BHBA levels were high 7 d before parturition and were related to MY at d-7 postpartum, it was observed that 11.00 % of the cows lost 0.370 kg d-1 of milk. In contrast, no relationship was observed between BHBA prepartum and MY on d-14 of lactation. It was not observed any association between high NEFA and low Ca2+ levels prepartum and MY. NEFA concentrations = 0.5 mmol L-1 on d-7 before calving were 7.6 more susceptible for lameness incidence (P= 0.01), and when BHBA = 0.8 mmol L-1 cows were 2.4 times more likely to develop ketosis (P=0.05) in the first 60 d in milk. In brief, data indicate that a high proportion of cows are above the thresholds of ß-hydroxybutyrate and non-esterified fatty acids, and are also deficient in calcium, when determined one week before parturition. The risk thresholds for each metabolite were not associated with the amount of milk lost at d-14 after calving. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to characterize the chemical composition of rumen fermentation while estimating it’s in vitro protein degradation (from ruminal ammonia concentration) and kinetics regarding two herbal feed plant additives. The tested herbal mixtures were elaborated with Phaseolus mango and Linum usitatissimum, providing lysine (Lys) and Trigonella foenum-graecum and Allium sativa, providing Methionine (Met). They were compared to alfalfa (Medicago sativa) and solvent extracted soybean meal (Glicine max), as standard sources of protein using the in vitro gas production technique modified to estimate N-NH3, recording fermentation kinetics and dry matter digestibility (72 h), in a completely randomized design followed by Tukey test. Ruminal ammonia concentration in the herbal mixtures was lower (P<0.05) than in the standard protein sources, indicating that protein from herbal mixtures could resist ruminal degradation. Herbal additives with Lys or Met showed minimum N-NH3 concentration in the first 4 h of incubation. At 8 h, the concentration was 0.27 and 0.54 mg dL-1 for the herbal products with Lys and Met, significantly lower than solvent extracted soybean meal and alfalfa (1.15 and 2.24 mg dL-1 respectively, P<0.05). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aquaculture is an industry in development around the world that allows covering the nutritional demand with a high nutritional value. Within this industry, monosex crops of some species, such as the Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus), stand out. In this study, the effect of the administration of 17α-ethinyl estradiol and 17α-methyltestosterone on the morphometry of Nile tilapia at different times was evaluated. Nile tilapia were raised under controlled conditions and divided into three groups: control: no hormone treatment; feminized: treated with 17α-ethynyl estradiol and masculinized: treated with 17α-methyltestosterone. The measurements were made at 5, 10, 15, 25, 35, 40, 50, 60 and 70 days after fertilization with the morphometric technique "truss protocol." The data were analyzed using a general linear model of repeated measurements and analysis of variance of comparison of means. The growth curve was made using the Gompertz logistic model. The results showed that the masculinized larva presented a higher growth rate and increased daily gain of weight 2.05-2 mg compared to the controls and feminized 1.67-3 mg and 7.57-4 mg, respectively. The sexual reversion of Nile tilapia with 17 α-methyltestosterone increases the growth curve of the masculinized organism and the uniformity of the final size. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ovicidal effect of hydro-alcoholic extracts from mature fruits and dried leaves of the Caesalpinia coriaria tree, against Haemonchus contortus and H. placei was evaluated by the egg hatching inhibition test (EHIT). Secondary compounds within the extracts were identified by high performance liquid chromatography. Five extract concentrations were assessed in the inhibition tests (25.0, 12.5, 6.2, 3.1 and 1.5 mg/mL), using distilled water and Thiabendazole (0.5 mg/mL) as negative and positive controls, respectively. The results were analysed under a 2 × 2 × 6 completely randomized factorial design, and mean differences were established by the Tukey's post hoc test. The 50% (EC50) and 90% (EC90) effective concentrations for each extract were determined using a Probit analysis. A concentration-dependent ovicidal effect of hydro-alcoholic extracts from both leaves and fruits was observed, reaching a 100% efficacy against both nematode species with the 25.0 mg/mL concentration (p < 0.05). The EC50 for the fruit and leaves extracts were established as 1.63 and 3.91 mg/mL, and as 3.98 and 11.68 mg/mL, against H. contortus and H. placei, respectively. The most important secondary compounds identified in extracts were free-condensed tannins, gallic acid and methyl-gallate. In conclusion, hydro-alcoholic extracts from C. coriaria mature fruits and dried leaves inhibit in vitro egg hatching of H. contortus and H. placei. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Insufficient food amount for ruminants in tropical areas is due to limited availability of pastures at critical times (excessive rains or droughts) and agricultural waste is an alternative for those alimentary shortages. The objective in this study was to determine the effect of the fungus Pleurotus ostreatus on fiber degradation from agricultural waste. Our hypothesis was that inoculated P. ostreatus increases fiber degradation. Pleurotus ostreatus was cultivated in corn (Zea mays), beans (Phaseolus vulgaris) and sugar cane (Saccharum officinarum) residues for 30, 45 and 60 d, in a completely randomized experimental design with a 3×3 factorial arrangement. The factors were substrates (corn, beans and sugar cane) and fungus growth time (30, 45 and 60 d). A non-linear fit with the Orskov and McDonald model was made to describe ruminal kinetics of effective degradation. The evaluated variables were: dry matter (DM), crude protein (CP), neutral detergent fiber (NDF), acid detergent fiber (ADF) and the effective DM, NDF and ADF degradation. The substrates generated significant differences in the growth in DM, NDF and ADF; the CP showed differences in the substrate factor and the effective degradability was significant on the substrates and growth days with DM, NDF and ADF. Pleurotus ostreatus improved the quality of the agricultural residues evaluated through ADF degradation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amphibians are globally threatened by habitat loss and fragmentation; species within the order Ambystoma are not the exception, as there are 18 species of mole salamanders in México, of which 16 are endemic and all species are under some national or international status of protection. The mole salamander, Ambystoma altamirani is a microendemic species, which is distributed in central México, within the trans-Mexican volcanic belt, and is one of the most threatened species due to habitat destruction and the introduction of exotic species. Nine microsatellite markers were used to determine the genetic structure, genetic variability, effective population size, presence of bottlenecks and inbreeding coefficient of one population of A. altamirani to generate information which might help to protect and conserve this threatened species. We found two genetic subpopulations with significant level of genetic structure (FST = 0.005) and high levels of genetic variability (Ho = 0.883; He = 0.621); we also found a small population size (Ne = 8.8), the presence of historical (M = 0.486) and recent bottlenecks under IAM and TPM models, with a low, but significant coefficient of inbreeding (FIS = -0.451). This information will help us to raise conservation strategies of this microendemic mole salamander species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The objective was to determine the relationship between the serum concentrations of Calcium (Ca2+), non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA), and insulin 10 days prepartum with losses in milk yield (MY) at 10 and 20 days of lactation. Method: Two hundred forty-three Holstein-Friesian cows (780 ± 36 kg PV, with more than two lactations) were sampled by coccygeal puncture several times before, during and after parturition. Results: When Ca2+ levels were low 10 days before parturition and were related to MY at 10 days postpartum, it was observed that 77.11% of the cows lost 2.20 kg of milk; while on day 20, 66.41% of the cows lost 1.40 kg animal-1 day-1. In contrast, when NEFA were high 10 days before calving and were related to MY, 67.40% of cows showed a risk of losing 0.80 kg, whereas at 20 days postpartum, 22.00% of cows lost approximately 0.90 kg cow-1 day-1. The determination of low prepartum insulin and MY on days 10 and 20 of lactation indicated that 6.02% of cows lost 0.80 and 0.70 kg of milk-1 animal-1 day-1 for days 10 and 20 of lactation. Conclusion: In conclusion, low blood levels of calcium, high levels of NEFA, and low insulin 10 days before parturition were associated with milk yield losses at 10 and 20 days after parturition. It was also observed that low calcium could cause greater milk losses than excesses of nonesterified fatty acids and serum low insulin concentrations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

El presente estudio se llev&x00F3; a cabo para diferenciar el sexo en iguana negra (Ctenosaura pectinata), en la etapa juvenil por medio de caracter&x00ED; sticas morfol&x00F3; gicas y al nacimiento retrospectivamente. En la etapa juvenil, se registraron las variables medidas en las cr&x00ED; as al nacimiento a intervalos de seis, 12, 18 y 21 meses de edad, se midi&x00F3; el desarrollo de la cresta dorsal, poros femorales y abultamiento de hemipenes. En las iguanas juveniles de 21 meses de edad se diferenci&x00F3; (P < 0.01) el sexo en machos y hembras por medio del desarrollo de la cresta dorsal, poros femorales, abultamiento de hemipenes, peso vivo y longitud de la cabeza. No se observaron diferencias (P > 0.05) en las cr&x00ED; as para identifi car el sexo al nacimiento por medio de las mediciones de peso (g), longitud hocico cloaca (mm), longitud total, longitud de la cabeza y longitud de la mand&x00ED; bula. sin embargo, el desarrollo de los poros femorales, cresta dorsal, hemipenes, peso y la longitud de la cabeza permiten identificar el sexo a los 21 meses de edad.

The present study was carried out to identify sex in the black iguana (Ctenosaura pectinata), by means of morphologic characteristics at the juvenile stage and retrospectively, at the new-born stage. Sixty-two juveniles of unknown sex were used in this study. The characteristics measured at birth to determine sex were: weight (g), snout-cloaca length (mm), total length (mm), head, and jaw length. In the juvenile stage, the same measurements were recorded at 6, 12, 18 and 21 months of age as well as the development of the dorsal crest, femoral pores, and swelling of the hemipenis. Results were statistically analyzed using Chi-square and Student's t tests. In the 21-month-old juvenile iguanas, sexes were distinguishable (P < 0.01) by means of the development of the dorsal crest, femoral pores, swelling of the hemipenis, weight and head length. Differences were not observed (P > 0.05) in males or females at birth in terms of weight (g), snout-cloaca length (mm), total length, head length and jaw length. It is concluded that in the newborn, the morphologic characteristics evaluated do not allow males and females to be distinguished; however the development of femoral pores, dorsal crest, hemipenis, weight and head length do allow the identification of sex at 21 months of age. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two anaerobic bacteria were isolated from the bacterial mass of the soft feces, or cecotrophs. The bacteria were identified as Clostridium sordellii and Petostreptococcus tetradius by morphology, Gram stain and the RapID ANA II Identification System. Generation rate, antibiotic sensibility, crude protein (CP) and crude fat (CF) content, and amino acid profile were determined in both bacteria. An anaerobic closed system for the production of inoculants from this bacteria, and the inoculum stability measured using bacteria concentration and viability in commercial rabbit feed after 5 and 60 d following inoculation, were evaluated. Both C. sordellii and P. tetradius have an accelerated generation rate (18.15 and 21.6 min) and a high CP content (47.6 and 63.21%). The amino acid profile indicates that methionine is the first limiting amino acid. Both bacteria were susceptible to less than 4 µg mL-1 of several antibiotics, including: ampicillin, metronidazole and tetracycline. Inoculum production was efficient with concentrations of 7.5 x 1011 and 1.5 x 1012 CFU g-1 of lyophilized bacterial mass of C. sordelli and P. tetradius, respectively. The inoculants maintained their viability and concentration after 60 d following feed inoculation. It is concluded that isolation, production and feed inoculation with cecotroph-producing bacteria may be achieved. The possibility of evaluating these inoculants in rabbit feed with the goal of assuring cecotrophy advantages is discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Se aislaron dos bacterias anaerobias de la masa bacteriana que componen los cecótrofos o heces blandas. De acuerdo con su morfología, tinción de Gram y el sistema de identificación RapID ANA II System, se identificaron como Clostridium sordellii y Peptostreptococcus tetradius. En ambas bacterias se determinó la tasa de generación, sensibilidad a antibióticos, contenido de PC, EE y perfil de aminoácidos. También se evaluó un sistema anaerobio cerrado para producir inóculos con estas bacterias, y la estabilidad de los inóculos en cuanto a concentración y viabilidad bacteriana en alimento comercial para conejos después de 5 y 60 d de inoculado. Tanto C. sordellii como P. tetradius tienen una tasa de generación acelerada (18.15 y 21.6 min) y un contenido elevado de PC (47.6 y 63.27%). El perfil de aminoácidos indica que la metionina es el primer aminoácido limitante. Las bacterias resultaron susceptibles a dosis menores de 4 µg mL-1 de varios antibióticos como ampicilina, metronidazol y tetraciclina. La producción de los inóculos resultó eficiente, con una concentración de 7.5 x 1011 y 1.5 x 1012 UFC g-1 de masa bacteriana liofi lizada (C. sordellii y P. tetradius, respectivamente). Los inóculos mantuvieron su concentración y viabilidad hasta el día 60 después de ser inoculados en el alimento. Se concluye que es posible aislar, producir e inocular alimento con bacterias productoras de cecótrofos. Se discute la posibilidad de evaluar dichos inóculos en la alimentación de conejos, con la finalidad de reforzar las ventajas de la cecotrofia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Tannins can be used to improve productive performance, meat quality and antioxidant status of ruminants. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of dietary tannin supplementation on productive performance, carcass characteristics, meat quality and blood serum antioxidant status of sheep through a meta-analysis. Only studies with weaned or older sheep were included. The sheep included in the present study were between 2 and 6 months old, and between 12 and 31 kg of body weight. Tannin supplementation improved productive performance, carcass yield, meat oxidative stability and blood serum antioxidant capacity. This suggests that the inclusion of tannins in sheep diets could be used to improve growth and reduce oxidative stress in animals, and to improve meat quality and shelf life. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of dietary supplementation with tannins (TANs) on productive performance, carcass characteristics, meat quality, oxidative stability, and blood serum antioxidant capacity of sheep through a meta-analysis. Using Scopus, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, and PubMed databases, a systematic search was performed for studies published in scientific journals that investigated the effects of TANs supplementation on the variables of interest. Only studies with weaned or older sheep were included. The data analyzed were extracted from 53 peer-reviewed publications. The sheep included in the present study were between 2 and 6 months old, and between 12 and 31 kg of body weight. The effects of TANs were analyzed using random-effects statistical models to examine the standardized mean difference (SMD) between treatments with TANs and control (no TANs). Heterogeneity was explored by meta-regression and a subgroup analysis was performed for covariates that were significant. Supplementation with TANs did not affect dry matter intake, pH, color (L* and b*), Warner–Bratzler shear force, cooking loss and meat chemical composition (p > 0.05). Supplementation with TANs increased daily weight gain (SMD = 0.274, p < 0.05), total antioxidant capacity (SMD = 1.120, p < 0.001), glutathione peroxidase enzyme activity (SMD = 0.801, p < 0.001) and catalase (SMD = 0.848, p < 0.001), and decreased malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration in blood serum (SMD = −0.535, p < 0.05). Supplementation with TANs decreased feed conversion rate (SMD = −0.246, p < 0.05), and the concentration of MDA (SMD = −2.020, p < 0.001) and metmyoglobin (SMD = −0.482, p < 0.05) in meat. However, meat redness (SMD = 0.365), hot carcass yield (SMD = 0.234), cold carcass yield (SMD = 0.510), backfat thickness (SMD = 0.565) and the Longissimus dorsi muscle area (SMD = 0.413) increased in response to TANs supplementation (p < 0.05). In conclusion, the addition of tannins in sheep diets improves productive performance, antioxidant status in blood serum, oxidative stability of meat and some other characteristics related to meat and carcass quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Hibiscus sabdariffa (HS) calyxes are widely used as nutraceutical supplements in humans; however, stalks, leaves, and seeds are considered as agriculture by-products. Including HS by-products in animal feeding could reduce economic costs and environmental problems, and due to their bioactive compounds, could even improve the quality of meat and milk. However, although HS antioxidants have not been tested enough in ruminants, comparison with other by-products rich in polyphenols allows for hypothesizing on the potential effects of including HS by-products and calyxes in nutrition, animal performance, and meat and milk quality. Antioxidants of HS might affect ruminal fiber degradability, fermentation patterns, fatty acids biohydrogenation (BH), and reduce the methane emissions. After antioxidants cross into the bloodstream and deposit into ruminants' milk and meat, they increase the quality of fatty acids, the antioxidant activity, and the shelf-life stability of dairy products and meat, which leads to positive effects in consumers' health. In other animals, the specific anthocyanins of HS have improved blood pressure, which leads to positive clinical and chemicals effects, and those could affect some productive variables in ruminants. The HS by-products rich in polyphenols and anthocyanins can improve fatty acid quality and reduce the oxidative effects on the color, odor, and flavor of milk products and meat. The objective was to review the potential effects of adding anthocyanin delphinidin-3-O-sambubioside (DOS) and cyanidin-3-O-sambubioside (COS) of HS in animal diets. One hundred and four scientific articles published before 2021 in clinics, pharmacology, nutrition, and animal production were included. The grains/concentrate, metabolic exigency, and caloric stress contribute to increasing the reactive oxygen species (ROS). COS and DOS have antioxidant, antibacterial, antiviral, and anthelmintic activities. In the rumen, anthocyanin might obtain interactions and/or synergisms with substrates, microorganisms, and enzymes which could affect the fiber degradability and decrease potential methane (CH4) emissions; since anthocyanin interferes with ruminal fatty acids biohydrogenation (BH), they can increase the n-3 and n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), linoleic acid (LA), and conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) in milk and meat, as well as improving their quality. Anthocyanins reduce plasma oxidation and can be deposited in milk and meat, increasing antioxidant activities. Therefore, the reduction of the oxidation of fats and proteins improves shelf-life. Although studies in ruminants are required, COS and DOS act as inhibitors of the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACEi) and rennin expression, regulating the homeostatic control and possibly the milk yield and body weight. By-products of HS contain polyphenols as calyces with positive effects on the average daily gain and fat meat quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Herbal products as feed supplements show beneficial effects on the productive performance and health of non-ruminants, but there is limited information about the effects in ruminants. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of a polyherbal mixture on growth performance, carcass characteristics, meat quality, and concentration of blood metabolites in lambs during the fattening period. Polyherbal mixture supplementation improved dry matter intake and increased the live weight of lambs without affecting carcass characteristics or meat quality. Polyherbal mixture supplementation was associated with lower blood creatinine concentration suggesting beneficial effects on the renal health condition of lambs. The results suggest that the use of herbal mixtures as additives in diets of finishing lambs can improve productivity without affecting carcass characteristics and meat quality. The objective of this study was to determine the effects of the supplementation of a polyherbal mixture (HM) on the productive performance, carcass characteristics, meat quality, and the profile of blood metabolites of lambs fed a high-concentrate diet. Thirty-six male Pelibuey lambs (25.21 ± 0.96 kg BW) were housed in individual pens during a 56-day feeding period and were randomly assigned to four treatments: (1) Control (CON): Basal diet without HM; (2) HM1: CON + 1 g of HM kg−1 dry matter (DM); (3) HM2: CON + 2 g of HM kg−1 DM; and (4) HM3: CON + 3 g of HM kg−1 DM. Data were analyzed using the GLM (General Linear Model) procedure of statistical analysis system (SAS), and linear and quadratic effects were tested to evaluate the effects of the HM level. A quadratic increase was observed in the dry matter intake and in daily weight gain (p < 0.05) of lambs fed with HM2 and HM1, respectively. However, final body weight, body condition, carcass characteristics, and meat quality were similar among treatments (p > 0.05). It was observed a linear increase (p < 0.05) in the mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration. Lymphocytes in blood from lambs supplemented with the HM1 diet increased and segmented neutrophils decreased compared to lambs receiving the CON treatment (p < 0.05). The concentration of uric acid in the blood had a linear increase (p < 0.05) and the serum creatinine level decreased (p < 0.05) as the HM dietary dose increased. In conclusion, dietary inclusion of 2 and 1 g of HM kg−1 of DM improves feed consumption and daily weight gain, respectively, without affecting carcass characteristics, meat quality, and health status on finishing lambs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]