Dissertations / Theses on the topic 'Nutrition of horses'

Little is known about amino acid (AA) requirements in horses despite muscle mass accretion being of importance to an athletic species. Isotope methods for determining AA requirements and whole-body protein synthesis (WBPS) had not been previously used in growing horses. The first study herein was the first to apply isotope methods to determine WBPS in growing horses. In the study, weanling colts received two different levels of crude protein. Whole-body protein kinetics indicated that WBPS was greater when the weanlings were fed the diet with a greater crude protein content (P<0.05). The second study sought to determine a lysine requirement for yearling horses using the indicator AA oxidation (IAAO) method. Despite using six dietary levels of lysine; three above and three below the current recommendation, no breakpoint could be determined. Phenylalanine kinetics were not affected by lysine level (P>0.05), but plasma lysine increased linearly with lysine intake (P<0.0001). After comparing dietary AA intakes with current AA requirement recommendations, threonine was a candidate for the limiting AA in the diets used in the first two studies. The objective of the next two studies was to determine if threonine supplementation would increase WBPS. Weanling colts fed a grass forage and commercial concentrate were supplemented with threonine in one study, while adult mares fed a high fiber diet and low threonine concentrate were supplemented with threonine in the other study. In neither case were whole-body protein kinetics affected by threonine supplementation (P>0.05). However, multiple plasma AA concentrations were affected by supplementation (P<0.05) in both studies, suggesting that supplementation of a single AA can affect the metabolism of other AAs. The final study conducted was aimed at improving the IAAO method for use in horses. Intravenous isotope infusion was compared to a less invasive oral infusion. Both infusion methods produced stable plateaus and by calculation, the splanchnic extraction of phenylalanine was found to be 27%. Additional research is needed to determine AA requirements for horses. These studies add insight into equine AA requirements and metabolism and the confirmation of the oral isotope infusion method will allow future experiments to be less invasive.

Nearly 50% of the equine population is overweight due to feeding and management practices. Obesity is related to development of diseases that are detrimental to performance and potentially fatal in horses, including insulin resistance, laminitis, and equine metabolic syndrome (EMS). Objectives of this research included first, characterization of nutrition-related management practices of hunter/jumper show industry via a voluntary survey; second, evaluating the Body Condition Index (BCI) in comparison to the Body Condition Scoring system (BCS) in sporthorses; and lastly, determining the effects of a hindgut buffer in overconditioned horses following an abruptly introduced moderate nonstructural carbohydrate (NSC) meal. There were no differences in nutritional management between hunter and jumper disciplines and most representatives (n=89) had no nutritional concerns. Many used trainers (38%) and veterinarians (36%) as sources of nutritional advice rather than professional equine nutritionists (7%). BCI had consistently higher scores than BCS (P<0.01), with the largest differences in horses with BCS < 5. Horses were offered a concentrate meal containing 1.2g NSC/kg BW with and without DigestaWell® Buffer (DB). Horses receiving DB had decreased plasma L-lactate (P=0.05), and a tendency for increased fecal pH (P=0.08) and decreased fecal D-lactate (P=0.07). These studies demonstrate a need to improve horse owner education and the relationship between representatives and trained nutritionists to reduce disease incidence, that different equations may need to be developed for a more consistently accurate BCI across various breed and body types, and that DB may have a positive impact on the equine digestive response to NSC.
Master of Science

Two groups of three horses each were fed either a control diet of ground hay and concentrates or a similar diet with 10.5% added fat. The horses were trotted at 2.9 m/sec to a heart rate (HR) of 160 beats per minute (BPM) 5 d/wk on an equine treadmill set at go for a training period of 12 wk. A standard exercise test (SET) was performed at wk 0, 6, and 12. Blood samples were taken before, during, and after exercise and analyzed for lactate, glucose, cholesterol, total serum protein, and free fatty acids (FFA). Muscle biopsies were taken before and after exercise during the SETs on wk 1 and wk 12. Differences between wk 0, 6, and 12 in blood levels were found: lactate (P < .01) and glucose (P < .001) decreased, while cholesterol (P < .01) and FFA (P < .05) for both groups, indicating a conditioning response. However, no differences were found in any of the blood factors between groups. In the final SET, pre-exercise muscle glycogen levels in the fat-fed horses were lower (13.61 vs 25.44 mg/g wet tissue). Post-exercise glycogen levels, however, were higher in the fat- fed horses (10.95 vs 8.27 mg/g wet tissue), indicating that there may have been a glycogen-sparing effect. The fat-fed horses avg .3 kg/d less in daily consumption, and avg .03 kg/d more in ADG (.36 kg/d for control vs .33 kg/d for fatfed). Differences in trotting times (time to HR 160 BPM) between groups were seen at the end of four (P < .05) and eight (P < .05) Wki control horses improved 39% while fatfed horses only 25% from wk 1 to wk 8. No differences were seen between groups from wk 9 to 12. Improvement over the 12 wk period was similar for both groups (control 61%, fatfed 67%). These results seem to suggest that although fat appears to be a reasonable source of energy for the horse, there may be a long adaptation period for horses fed higher levels of fat.

Master of Science

Studies in other species indicate high protein diets increase urinary calcium (Ca) excretion and may lead to negative calcium balance and reduced bone density. As overfeeding of protein is commonplace in the horse industry, this study was undertaken to determine the effects of excess dietary protein on growth, physiologic response, mineral balance, bone density, and bone geometry in immature horses. Sixteen 10-month-old American Quarter Horses were blocked by age and sex into two dietary treatments. The control diet was formulated to provide the NRC (1989) recommended concentration of crude protein, while the high protein diet provided 130% of NRC (1989) recommendations. All other nutrients were formulated at or slightly above NRC (1989) recommendations. Blood samples, feces, and urine were collected during the 116-day study to determine any diet effect on pH and mineral balance. Radiographs were made of the left third metacarpal (MCIII) to determine bone density via radiographic bone aluminum equivalence (RBAE), and bone geometry was determined metrically from the radiographs. Urine pH decreased over time (p < 0.001), but there were no diet effects on blood pH or urine pH. Conversely, when normalized to day 0 values, fecal pH was reduced by feeding the high protein treatment (p < 0.02). Density of dorsal and palmar cortices increased over time (p < 0.001), but no differences were observed between diets. But, normalized total medial-lateral (ML) width of the MCIII was higher in the control diet (p < 0.05). Fecal Ca loss was greater in horses fed the high protein diet (p < 0.005), while Ca absorption and retention were lower for horses on the high protein treatment (p < 0.02). Phosphorus (P) balance was not different between diets, although feeding the high protein diet resulted in higher P intake overall (p < 0.001). While excess dietary protein may decrease fecal pH, increase fecal Ca excretion, and decrease Ca absorption and retention, there was no consistent effect of the high protein diet on bone density over the course of this study. Further research is necessary to determine if feeding high-protein diets is detrimental to bone quality in the growing horse.

Insulin plays a vital role in whole-body metabolism and provides a major anabolic stimulus for cellular signaling pathways, including those involved in the metabolism of glucose and protein. Consequently, insulin dysregulation (ID) is known to alter molecular signal transduction in insulin-sensitive tissues such as skeletal muscle, thereby disrupting glucose metabolism and compromising protein synthetic capacity. Our first objective was to induce ID in healthy horses by administering dexamethasone (DEX), a potent glucocorticoid, for 21 days. We evaluated the effects on insulin-stimulated muscle protein signaling components involved in the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway. DEX-induced ID reduced insulin-stimulated activation of downstream (rpS6, 4EBP-1) mTOR signaling and increased atrogin-1 abundance, a marker for protein breakdown (P < 0.05). Additionally, 21 days of DEX elevated plasma amino acids levels in insulin-stimulated conditions, indicative of reduced uptake or increase release into circulation (P < 0.05). The second objective was to evaluate the short-term effects of DEX treatment in healthy horses. Plasma insulin, glucose and amino acid dynamics and activation of mTOR signaling pathways following an oral sugar test (OST) or intake of a high protein meal were evaluated before and after 7 days of DEX treatment, and after 7 days of no treatment. Seven days of DEX treatment increased basal levels of glucose, insulin and several amino acids (P < 0.05). Additionally horses treated with DEX had an exacerbated insulin response to the OST and consumption of the high protein meal in comparison to control horses (P < 0.05). The majority of blood metabolites returned to basal levels after 7 days of recovery from DEX treatment, indicating these effects were transient. Short-term DEX treatment decreased overall activation of mTOR and FoxO3 but increased total FoxO3 and IRS-1 abundance (P < 0.05). Postprandial activation of rpS6 was greater in horses treated with DEX for 7 days but was lower in those horses after 7 days of recovery from treatment (P < 0.05). Postprandial activation of ULK and AMPK tended to be greater in DEX treated horses (P < 0.1). Akt phosphorylation and mysotatin abundance were lower after the OST in DEX treated horses (P < 0.05). The final objective was to evaluate whether similar changes in postprandial metabolic responses would be seen in horses with naturally occurring ID. Plasma insulin, glucose and amino acid responses following ingestion of a high protein meal were determined in mature horses with equine metabolic syndrome (EMS). Horses with EMS had higher basal plasma insulin concentrations but lower levels of aspartate, glutamate, asparagine and plasma urea nitrogen in comparison to healthy controls (P < 0.05). Consumption of a high protein meal resulted in a 9-fold greater insulin response and higher postprandial levels of various amino acids (P < 0.05). Together this research indicates that ID affects whole body protein metabolism by altering cellular signaling pathways in healthy and diseased horses.

The purpose of this study was: - To investigate jumping sport horses health conditions influence on sport skills; - To investigate blood parameters in Lithuanian jumping sport horses before and after an active training period. Eight healthy horses ranging in age from 6 to 8 with a mean body weight o 607 +/- 86,9 kg were used in experiment. Blood samples were collected from well trained Lithuanian sport horses and tested before and after an intensive period of competition of 2006. Biochemical and morphological blood results were performed to determinate the glucose, triglycerides, cholesterol, red blood cells, haemoglobin, white blood cells, total protein, albumin value, total oxygen consumption and specific oxygen consumption before and after active summer training season. Furthermore, was analyzed mineral substances content of: calcium, potassium, phosphorous, sodium, magnesium and iron in blood serum of jumping sport horses. Physical readiness of horses according changes of haematological parameters before and after active summer competition season were in range of physiological norm. Conclusion: 1. AB ŽŽ/VšĮ “Suvalkijos žirgai” stud farm horses (weight average 544 kg) reached best sport skills in 2006 jumping contest. 2. Fodder supplements during contest season increased sport skills 37, 5%. 3. Red blood cells, haemoglobin, blood oxygen content ware considerable higher in jumping horse’s blood after intensive sport contest season in comparison with pre-contest season. 4... [to full text]

O objetivo dessa pesquisa foi avaliar os efeitos de um produto completo, peletizado ou extrusado, composto por diferentes fontes de fibra (rolão de milho, capim-elefante desidratado e feno de Tifton 85) no manejo alimentar de equinos bem como a sua viabilidade econômica. Foram utilizados oito pôneis, machos, castrados da raça Mini-Horse. As dietas foram divididas em Dieta Controle (50% de feno de Tifton 85 e 50% de concentrado peletizado, fornecidos separadamente) e Dieta Completa (50% de volumoso mais concentrado) fornecidas como produto único. O delineamento experimental foi dois Quadrados Latinos balanceados em esquema fatorial 2x4, com aplicação de contrastes a fim de comparar os efeitos do processamento em relação à dieta controle. Para comparar os efeitos dentro das dietas processadas, procedeu-se com a exclusão do grupo controle aplicando-se esquema fatorial 2x3. Para os resultados significativos, foi utilizado o teste de Tukey com p<0,05. Foram realizados quatro períodos com 20 dias cada intercalados por 21 dias de intervalo. As variáveis avaliadas foram: parâmetros sanguíneos e fecais, os Coeficientes de Digestibilidade Aparente dos nutrientes (CDA) e a viabilidade econômica da produção. Os resultados dos contrastes apontaram diferenças (p<0,05) para as frequências (%) do tempo em pé, de alimentação e de deslocamento e no tempo de ingestão da dieta (minutos); para a Área Abaixo da Curva (AAC) de glicose (G) e insulina (In); para a concentração de colesterol; nos CDA da matéria seca (MS), fibra em detergente neutro (FDN) e ácido (FDA). A comparação feita entre as dietas processadas mostrou que a fonte de fibra interferiu (p<0,05) nos valores de AAC-In: a dieta com rolão de milho apresentou maior AAC-In. O CDA da MS e da Matéria Orgânica foi menor para a dieta contendo capim-elefante desidratado. Para os CDA da FDN e FDA, a dieta com capim-tifton 85 apresentou melhores resultados. O processamento interferiu (p<0,05) na AAC-G e AAC-In: a peletização resultou em maior AAC em relação ao produto extrusado; na concentração de ácido láctico nas fezes: a peletização apresentou maiores concentrações em relação à extrusão; no CDA da FDA: a extrusão melhorou a digestibilidade aparente para essa variável. Houve efeito interativo (p<0,05) para as concentrações de triglicérides e lipoproteína de muito baixa densidade: a dieta com feno de Tifton 85 extrusado apresentou maiores concentrações em relação à dieta contendo rolão de milho; e para o CDA do extrato etéreo (EE): a dieta contendo rolão de milho peletizado apresentou maior CDA em relação à extrusada. A análise econômica considerou os itens que compõem os custos de produção, desde a produção agrícola do volumoso até a comercialização da Dieta Completa e mostrou-se viável economicamente nos três cenários propostos. Pode-se concluir que as fontes de fibra interferem na AAC-In e na digestibilidade aparente dos nutrientes; o processamento interfere nas AAC de glicose e Insulina, bem como nas concentrações de ácido láctico e na digestibilidade aparente dos nutrientes. Além disso, a interação entre esses fatores influenciam no metabolismo lipídico e no CDA do EE. Porém, esses resultados não trazem prejuízos comportamentais e metabólicos aos equinos.
The aim of this research was to evaluate the effects of a complete product, pelleted or extruded, composed of different sources of fiber (dehydrated whole corn plant, dehydrated elephant-grass and Tifton 85 hay) in equine feeding management as well as its economic feasibility. For this research, we used eight male, geldings, ponies of the Mini-Horse breed. Diets were divided into Control Diet (50% Tifton 85 hay and 50% pelleted concentrate, supplied separately) and Complete Diet (50% roughage more 50% concentrated) provided as a single product. The experimental design was two Latin Squares balanced in a 2x4 factorial scheme, with contrasts applied in order to compare the effects of processing in relation to the control diet. In order to compare the effects within the processed diets, we proceeded to the exclusion of the control group applying a 2x3 factorial scheme. For the significant results, Tukey\'s test was used with p<0.05. We used four periods with 20 days each, intercalated for 21 days of washout. We evaluated the following variables: blood and fecal parameters, the Apparent Digestibility Coefficients of the nutrients (ADC) and the economic feasibility of the production. The results of the contrasts indicated differences (p<0.05) in the frequencies (%) of standing time, feeding and locomotion, and time of diet intake (minutes); for the Area Under the Curve (AUC) of glucose (G) and insulin (In); for cholesterol concentration; in ADC of dry matter (DM), neutral detergent fiber (NDF) and acid (ADF). The comparison made between the processed diets showed that the fiber source interfered (p<0.05) in the AUC-In values: the dehydrated whole corn plant diet presented higher AUC-In. The ADC of DM and Organic Matter was lower for the diet containing dehydrated elephant-grass. For the ADC of NDF and ADF, the tifton 85 grass diet presented better results. Processing interfered (p<0.05) in AUC-G and AUC-In: pelleting resulted in higher AUC in relation to the extrusion; in the concentration of lactic acid in feces: the pelleting presented higher concentrations in relation to the extrusion; in the ADC of ADF: the extrusion improved the apparent digestibility for this variable. There was an interactive effect (p<0.05) for the concentrations of triglycerides and very low density lipoprotein: the diet with extruded Tifton 85 hay presented higher concentrations in relation to the diet containing dehydrated whole corn plant; for the ADC of the ethereal extract (EE): the diet containing pelletized dehydrated whole corn plant, presented higher ADC than the extruded one. The economic analysis considered the items that make up the costs of production, from the agricultural production of the hay to the commercialization of the Complete Diet, and was economically feasible in the three proposed scenarios. It can be concluded that fiber sources interfere in AUC-In and apparent digestibility of nutrients; the processing interferes in AUC of glucose and Insulin, as well as in fecal lactic acid concentrations and in the apparent digestibility of the nutrients. In addition, the interaction between these factors influences the lipid metabolism and the ADC of the EE. However, these results do not bring behavioral and metabolic damages to horses.

A hiperlipemia causa sérias complicações aos equinos hospitalizados, principalmente quando associada ao estresse, doenças e traumas. Tratamentos convencionais com soluções de heparina, glicose a 5%, insulina, entre outras, têm sido utilizados em equídeos predispostos, mas são questionados quanto ao seu real efeito. O interesse e as pesquisas em relação à utilização da nutrição clínica no equino, em especial a nutrição parenteral, vêm crescendo. Sua ação visa evitar a doença e o catabolismo através da regulação do balanço energético negativo, inclusive servindo de adjuvante às terapias já implementadas no tratamento da doença primária, fornecendo o requerimento básico nutricional para a manutenção e recuperação do organismo. Para avaliar a eficácia das soluções de nutrição parenteral em equinos que desenvolveram hiperlipidemia durante a internação, foram avaliados 14 equinos atendidos com afecções diversas e que apresentaram triglicérides séricos (TG) acima de 150mg/dl. Os mesmo foram divididos em dois grupos: grupo controle (G1), sem interferência do manejo e grupo tratamento (G2), que recebeu nutrição parenteral parcial sem lipídeos. Tais soluções eram compostas de glicose a 50%, aminoácido a 10%, oligoelementos, complexo vitamínico e eletrólitos e foram infundidas até a resolução da hiperlipidemia. Os animais dos dois grupos foram monitorados diariamente em relação aos valores de glicemia, triglicérides e colesterol. A média do tempo de redução dos TG no G1 foi de 209,2 ± 131,9 horas e no G2 foi de 34,9 ± 41,8 horas, com diferença estatística entre eles. Os valores de colesterol não acompanharam a elevação dos TG. Em relação à perda de peso e escore corporal, os dois grupos apresentaram redução durante a internação, sem diferença estatística entre eles. Nenhum animal do G2 desenvolveu hiperlipemia, ao contrário do G1, em que cinco equinos apresentaram, em algum momento da internação, triglicérides acima de 500mg/dl. Embora outros critérios devam ser utilizados na escolha dos pacientes que necessitam deste tipo de tratamento devido principalmente aos custos e necessidade de constante monitorização, conclui-se que a nutrição parenteral é um método rápido e seguro para a prevenção da hiperlipemia em equinos com hiperlipidemia durante a internação por outras enfermidades.
The hyperlipemia cause serious complications for hospitalized horses, especially when associated with stress, diseases and traumas. Conventional treatments with solutions of heparin, 5% glucose, insulin, among others, have been used in susceptible equine, but they are asked about their real purpose. The interest and research on the use of clinical nutrition in the horse, especially parenteral nutrition, growing. Its action is to avoid disease and catabolism by regulating the negative energy balance, including serving as adjuvant therapies have been implemented in the treatment of primary disease, providing the basic nutritional requirement for the maintenance and recovery of the body. To evaluate the effectiveness of parenteral nutrition solutions in horses that developed hyperlipidemia during hospitalization were evaluated 14 horses treated for various diseases and who had serum triglycerides (TG) above 150mg/dl. The same were divided into two groups: control group (G1), without interference from management and treatment group (G2), which received partial parenteral nutrition without lipids. Such solutions were composed of 50% glucose, 10% amino acid, trace elements, electrolytes and vitamin and were infused until resolution of hyperlipidemia. The animals of both groups were monitored daily in relation to blood glucose, triglycerides and cholesterol. The median reduction in TG G1 was 209.2 ± 131.9 hours and G2 was 34.9 ± 41.8 hours, with no statistical difference between them. Cholesterol values did not follow the elevation of TG. In relation to weight loss and body score, both groups decreased during hospitalization, with no statistical difference between them. No animals developed hyperlipidemia G2, unlike the G1, in which five horses had, at some time in hospital, triglycerides greater than 500mg/dl. Although other criteria should be used to select patients in need of such treatment primarily due to cost and the need for constant monitoring, it is concluded that parenteral nutrition is a rapid and reliable method for the prevention of hyperlipemia with hyperlipidemia in horses during the hospitalization for other diseases.

O presente estudo objetivou avaliar o comportamento ingestivo de equinos em pastagem natural. O experimento foi realizado no município de Sant’Ana do Livramento/RS, na região fisiográfica do Bioma Pampa, realizado durante o período de março a abril de 2013 na CabanhaYvituhatã.Oexperimento foi realizado em três potreiros de campo nativo, com medições das variáveis do pasto no início, no meio e no fim do experimento, emárea habitada por ovinos, bovinos e equinos. Foi utilizado três potreiros, ondeobservou-se os animais agrupados por manadas, fora da temporada reprodutiva, durante 12 horas diárias, com duas repetições por animal por potreiro, sendo estes animais compostos portrês garanhões, três éguas com potro de um mês e outras três éguas com potro de três meses. Dois observadores fizeram as coletas de simulações de bocados dos animais por potreiro observado, com medições das medidas do pasto com stick realizandoregistros comportamentais a cada cinco minutos das suas respectivas atividades, analisou-seo tempo diário dos animais pastejando nos estratos baixo, médio e alto do pasto. Também se registrou o deslocamento dos animais,seu tempo em ócio, tempo no cocho de sal e noconsumo de água. Não houve diferenças significativas entre as distintas categorias no tempo dedicado ao pastejo. Os animais tiveram preferência por pasto de melhor qualidade nutricional. Os potros, de um mês e de três meses, mamavam com a mesma intensidade. Não foram observadas diferenças entre as categorias animais, com relação a taxa de bocados por minuto.
The present study aimed to evaluate the ingestive behavior of horses under native grassland. The experiment was conducted in Santana do Livramento/RS, in the physiography region of biome Pampa, conducted during the period of March-April 2013 in the Cabanha Yvituhatã. The experiment was conducted in three paddocks of native grassland, with measurement of the variables of the pasture at the beginning, middle and end of the experiment in area inhabited by sheep, cattle and horses. Three paddocks were utilized, where the animals were observed in herd, out of reproduction time, during 12 hours daily, with two replicates for each animal and each paddock, being these animals composed of three stallions, three mares with foal of a month and three other mares with foal of three months. Two observers did the collect that simulates the animals bite in each paddock observed, measuring the pasture with stick and making registers of the animal behavior every 5 minutes. The daily time of animal grazing in low, médium and high extract was analyzed. It was also observed the animals steps, idling time, time in the trough of salt and the water consumption. There were no significant differences in the grazing time between the distinct categories of animals. The animals had preference for pasture of better nutritional quality. The foals, of 1 month and 3 months, suckled with the same intensity. No differences between animal categories were observed when the rate of bites per minute was compared.

O presente estudo teve como objetivo investigar o efeito da odontoplastia sobre a digestibilidade aparente de dieta de equinos, o tempo de consumo e tamanho de partícula das fezes. Para isso, foram utilizados nove animais, machos e fêmeas, com idade média de 14,5±3,3 anos e peso médio de 531±38,7 Kg e desprovidos de odontoplastia previa. A dieta consistiu do oferecimento de 1,5% do peso vivo (PV) em volumoso (Feno de Tifton) e 0,75% do PV em concentrado multipartículas (Pro-Equi® Lâminada) para ambos os ensaios. A dieta foi formulada para atender à exigência de animais em mantença. O experimento consistiu em dois ensaios de digestibilidade aparente, sendo o primeiro realizado antes da odontoplastia e o segundo após, onde paralelamente também foram avaliados o tempo de consumo do feno e do concentrado e análise do tamanho de partícula das fezes e dos alimentos. Para a realização da odontoplastia os animais foram alocados em tronco de contenção, e administrado 0,02 mg/Kg de cloridrato de detomidina. Para a determinação da digestibilidade aparente de fezes utilizou-se o método de colheita total por quatro dias consecutivos e dez dias de adaptação à dieta, totalizando 10 dias de período experimental. O tempo de consumo foi baseado na observação do tempo gasto para consumo de um quilograma de feno e de concentrado. Para a determinação do tamanho das partículas das fezes, foram utilizadas amostras de 250 g de fezes secas, colocadas em um agitador automático e foram utilizadas peneiras com malhas de 4,75; 4; 2,8; 1,4; 1 e fundo das peneiras, acopladas, com tempo de agitação de 10 minutos. Foi observado efeito (p<0,05) da odontoplastia sobre os coeficientes de digestibilidade aparentes da matéria seca (62,2%), matéria orgânica (64,3%), proteína bruta (75,4%), fibra em detergente neutro (53,4%), fibra em detergente ácido (43,7%) e hemicelulose (60,9%). Observou-se efeito do tempo de consumo para o concentrando, obtendo-se menor tempo de consumo após (17,33±1,49 minutos), porém não foi observado efeito (p>0,05) para o tempo de consumo do volumoso (1,11±0,13 horas). Houve maior retenção (p<0,05) das partículas das fezes nas peneiras de 4,75; 4,0 e 2,8, indicando maior tamanho das partículas após a odontoplastia. Não houve efeito (p>0,05) sobre a cor e a consistência das fezes. A odontoplastia aumenta a digestibilidade dos nutrientes da dieta e o tamanho de partículas nas fezes, sem alterar as características de cor e consistência. Animais após o procedimento, apresentam menor tempo de consumo de concentrado.
The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of the odontoplasty on apparent digestibility of equine diet, consumption time and faeces particle size. For this, nine animals were used, males and females, with aged of 14.5 ± 3.3 years and weighting 531 ± 38.7 kg, without previous odontoplasty. The diet consisted of 1.5% of live weight (LV) in forage (Tifton hay) and 0.75% of PV in multiparticulate concentrate (Pro-Equi® Lámina) for both tests. The diet was formulated to meet the requirement of keeping animals. The experiment consisted of two apparent digestibility essays, the first one performed before the odontoplasty and the second after the procedure, where the comsumption time of hay and concentrate and faeces particle size were also evaluated. For the odontoplasty, the animals were allocated in a horse stock, and administered 0,02 mg/kg of detomidina. For the determination of the apparent digestibility of faeces, the total collection method was used for four consecutive days and ten days of adaptation to the diet, totaling 10 days of experimental period. The consumption time was based on the observation of the time spent to consume one kilogram of hay and concentrate. To determine the particle size of the faeces, samples of 250 g of dried faeces were placed on an automatic shaker and sieves with 4.75, 4, 2.8, 1.4, 1 mesh and bottom of the sieves were used coupled, with stirring time of 10 minutes. It was observed effect of odontoplasty on the apparent digestibility coefficients of dry matter (62.2%), organic matter (64.3%), crude protein (75.4%), neutral detergent fiber (53.4%), acid detergent fiber (43.7%) and hemicellulose (60.9%). There was an effect of the consumption time for the concentrate, obtaining a shorter consumption time after the odontoplasty (17.33 ± 1.49 minutes), but no effect (p> 0.05) was observed for the consumption time of the forage (1.11 ± 0.13 hours). There was more retention (p<0.05) of the faeces particles in the sieves of 4.75; 4.0 and 2.8, indicating a larger particle size after odontoplasty. There was no effect (p>0.05) on color and faeces consistency. Odontoplasty increases dietary nutrient digestibility and particle size in feces without altering color and consistency characteristics. Animals after the procedure have a shorter concentrate consumption time.

Dissertação de Mestrado em Engenharia Zootécnica / Produção Animal
Uma alimentação equilibrada e completa de acordo com as necessidades é fundamental para a manutenção da saúde, bem-estar e para a obtenção de bons desempenhos nos cavalos de desporto. O presente estudo teve como objetivo recolher informação sobre a utilização de alimentos compostos complementares (ACC) na suplementação das dietas de cavalos em treino ou em níveis de competição avançados, nas disciplinas de saltos de obstáculos, dressage e resistência equestre. Para o efeito foi realizado um inquérito sobre os regimes alimentares de 158 cavalos, tendo sido avaliados 357 ACC. De um modo geral, as dietas avaliadas apresentaram-se excedentárias relativamente a determinados constituintes não sendo, no entanto, ultrapassados os limites de segurança estabelecidos. Dos ACC avaliados, apenas 10% são alimentos dietéticos, sendo “a compensação de perda de eletrólitos” o objetivo nutricional específico mais utilizado. As quantidades fornecidas de cobre, zinco, selénio, vitamina A e vitamina D na disciplina de saltos de obstáculos foram superiores comparativamente às outras duas disciplinas. Quanto à vitamina E, verificou-se um fornecimento superior ao dobro da quantidade recomendada, não havendo diferenças entre as três disciplinas. Para além de uma maior investigação sobre os efeitos de algumas substâncias, torna-se necessária uma maior formação dos utilizadores e técnicos que permita fundamentar a inclusão dessas substâncias nas dietas.
ABSTRACT - Diets in the sport horse: supplementation practices with complementary compound feeds - A balanced diet that copes the nutritional requirements is fundamental for the maintenance of the health, well-being and performance of the sport horse. This study aims at collecting detailed information regarding the use of complementary compound feeds (CCF) on diet supplementation of training or competing horses at an advanced level, within jumping, dressage or endurance disciplines. For this purpose, a survey regarding the feeding practices of 158 horses was carried out and the composition of 357 CCF was evaluated. The evaluated diets were generally in surplus of certain nutrients. However, the proposed upper safe limits were never reached. Only 10% of the evaluated CCF were dietetic feeds and the main particular nutritional purpose used was “compensation of electrolyte loss”. The supply of copper, zinc, selenium, vitamin A and vitamin D was higher in show-jumping, when compared to both dressage and endurance. Vitamin E supply exceeded the double recommended allowances for exercising horses in all disciplines. In addition to further research on the effects of some substances, a better formation of riders and technicians is fundamental in order to support the inclusion of those substances in sport horses diets.

Three experiments were conducted to evaluate the effects of a fat-supplemented diet on the horse. Experiment one examined the effect of a diet which contained 20% digestible energy as corn oil fed to four horses in comparison with a control group. Plasma lipoproteins, muscle lipoprotein lipase, total serum lipids, and ultrasound-estimated body fat were monitored for 10 weeks. The plasma lipoproteins fractionated into VLDL, LDL, HDL and albumin, and each was assayed for protein, cholesterol and triglyceride content. Results indicated that the fat-fed horses increased in LDL and HDL protein, VLDL triglyceride, and LDL and HDL cholesterol content. There was a slight increase in total serum lipids while body fat was unchanged. In experiment two, two horses were fed the same fat diet and two horses served as controls. Total serum lipids and plasma lipoproteins were analyzed from samples obtained during a post-prandial sampling period at 2, 4, and 6 weeks of the trial. Results indicated an adaptation by the fat-fed horses to the added dietary fat through an increase in lipoprotein protein content, suggesting larger quantities of the lipoprotein fractions. LDL and HDL cholesterol levels also increased. Finally, VLDL triglyceride levels increased in the fat-supplemented horses reflecting the increased absorption and availability for utilization of the added dietary fat. Experiment three examined the effect of a fat-supplemented diet on exercising horses. All seven horses were fed the high fat diet, and four of them were exercised. A standard exercise test was administered at the start and end of the trial to assess the conditioning program. Total serum lipids, plasma lipoproteins and percent body fat were monitored at weeks 3 and 6 of the trial. Blood samples were collected as in experiment two. The exercised horses exhibited lower VLDL and LDL triglyceride levels as well as lower LDL cholesterol levels. These data suggest that exercise increased the utilization of dietary fat for exercise in the horse, and could subsequently be used as a high-energy feed source in these animals.

Muscle fiber architecture, innervation, and differences in fiber-type composition were examined in the gluteus medius of four horses. In the anatomical part of this study, the gluteus medius of four adult horses were extracted, soaked in a 10% formalin solution, and examined for fiber architecture and innervation patterns. Based on architectural and innervation differences, two distinct anatomical compartments were defined: the dorsal region and the ventral region. The histochemical portion of this study examined the fiber composition of each region by classifying the fiber types on the basis of myosin-ATPase. The dorsal region had a significantly higher percentage of Type I fibers than the ventral region; whereas the ventral region had a significantly higher percentage of Type IIB fibers than the dorsal region. These findings suggest that this subdivided structure may be designed to allow functional independence within the muscle.

22 pp.
Private horse ownership is not for everyone; owning a horse comes with many responsibilities. You must properly house and care for the horse. This care includes the horse's feeding, health care, and hoof care, but these are only part of the equation. You must also provide housing facilities, transportation, and riding equipment. This booklet is an introductory guide to the proper care and cost of owning and maintaining a pleasure horse in Arizona. We discuss how to feed and care for a horse as well as all of the associated costs to expect whether you board your horse or house and care for it privately. The publication has two major sections: (1)maintaining and caring for a horse, and (2) budgeting for the costs of ownership and care. There is also an introduction to getting started and a list of additional resources at the end.

Estimating nutrient and energy requirements of exotic animals is a necessary component of nutrition management in zoos and other wildlife facilities. In the absence of species-specific data, domestic animal models are often referenced. Herbivorous hindgut fermenters, such as horses, zebra, and rhinoceros, rely on microbial fermentation in the cecum and colon to utilize dietary structural carbohydrates. The study objective was to measure the digestible energy of two (LOW, HIGH) complete pelleted diets by the horse as a model for nondomestic hindgut fermenters. Seven, individually housed, adult Quarter Horse (Equus caballus) geldings were assigned to one of two diets as 100% of intake in a randomized crossover design. Experimental diets both contained similar ingredients including soybean oil as an added source of supplemental fat (LOW 1.7%, HIGH 6.9%). Diets differed in predicted digestible energy (LOW 2.29 Mcal/kg, HIGH 2.85 Mcal/kg, DE), ether extract (LOW 4.00%, HIGH 7.41%, EE), and acid detergent fiber (LOW 33.7%, HIGH 26.2%, ADF). Daily feed quantities were offered at 33.3 kcal DE BWkg-1 equally distributed over three meals to maintain target BW. Daily feed intake was quantified. Horses had ab libitum access to water. Horses were transitioned from all forage to 100% test diet over 14 d, acclimated to the test feed for 19 d prior to 4 d acclimation and 6 d total fecal collection using hygiene collection harnesses (Equi-San Marketing Pty Ltd). Diet transition between periods occurred over 8 d. Total fecal output was quantified every 8 h, thoroughly mixed and 10% of measured mass output was subsampled for further analysis. Body weights (BW) recorded weekly did not change significantly throughout the trial (P = 0.420). Apparent digestibility of diet within horse and day was evaluated by a nested ANOVA (Minitab 16). The apparent digestibility of EE (P < 0.000), neutral detergent fiber (P = 0.008), and ADF (P = 0.002) differed between the two diets. Apparent digestibility of DM (P = 0.137), OM (P = 0.140), and GE (P = 0.418) were not different. Excess fat not digested and absorbed in the small intestine (by-pass fat) will enter the hindgut and may cause disruption of normal microbial activity. Additionally soybean oil, when consumed in quantities that allow by-pass to occur, has been shown to have a negative effect on fiber digestibility in hindgut fermenters. A negative effect on fiber digestibility in the higher fat diet could result in diets closer in DM, OM, and GE digestibility than initially predicted. The NRC (2007) recommends that no more than 0.7 g/kg BW/d of soybean oil be fed to the horse. The HIGH diet provided 0.91 g/kg BW/d soybean oil. Feeds that contain concentrations higher than recommended may not be appropriate as the sole dietary ingredient of hindgut fermenters. Further studies are needed to evaluate the use of soybean oil and to determine the threshold at which soybean oil will begin to suppress hindgut fiber digestion. In vivo measurements of digestibility in model species may provide useful benchmarks from which diets for nondomestic hindgut fermenters, as well as horses, may be formulated.

ABSTRACT: The study aimed to assess the nutritive value in vitro of 4 feeds (grains and forages) commonly used in horses nutrition in Mexico, in the absence or presence of Saccharomyces cerevisiae at 4 mg/g DM. Fecal inoculum was obtained from 4 adult English Thoroughbred horses fed on restricted amount of concentrate and oat hay ad libitum. The incubated substrates included were corn gluten meal, soybean meal, oat grain and alfalfa hay. Gas production was recorded at 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 24, 48 and 70 h using the Pressure Transducer Technique. Some ingredient × yeast interactions were observed (P < .020) for the asymptotic gas production (GP) and GP at 48 and 70 h of incubation. Yeast addition increased (P < .001) the asymptotic GP of concentrates compared to forages. Concentrate feeds had higher (P < .05) GP and lower (P < .001) rate of GP compared to forages without yeast. From 24 to 70 h of incubation, forages with or without yeast had lower (P < .05) GP compared to concentrates with yeast addition. Forages had higher fermentation pH compared to concentrates, but lower (P < .05) metabolizable energy (ME), in vitro organic matter digestibility (IVOMD) and microbial protein production (MBP) compared to concentrates. Yeast addition increased (P < .05) the asymptotic GP of oat grain and soybean meal, without affecting the rate of GP or lag time of both. Yeast treatment improved fermentation of feeds with higher effects on concentrates compared to forage. It was concluded that concentrate feeds had higher nutritive value than forages commonly fed to horses

Methods for assessing vitamin A status in the horse and rabbit were developed and evaluated using a modified Relative Dose Response Test (%RDR = A₄-A₀/A₄ X 100, where A₄ and A₀ represent four hours post-feeding and fasting serum total vitamin A levels, respectively) for horses and a Vitamin A Fractionation (VAF) Test monitoring serum levels of vitamin A palmitate, vitamin A acetate and retinol for horses and rabbits. In Experiment 1 (RDR test), 5 horses per treatment group were fed 0 (deficient), 10,000 (control) or 80,000 (excess) I.U. vitamin A palmitate daily, for 30 days. RDR Test was positive (>20%) for all horses receiving diets deficient in vitamin A and negative «20%) for all horses receiving control or excess diets. In Experiment 2 (VAF test), rabbits were fed varying dietary levels of vitamin A palmitate (ranging from 0 to 58000 I.U./kg feed) for up to 87 days. Percentages of retinol and vitamin A palmitate were reflective of vitamin A status. An approaching vita'min A deficiency or toxicity is indicated when percentages of vitamin A palmitate and retinol are more than 1 SD from the means observed for control rabbits (6.2±1.8 and 92.9±3.5, respectively). If a deficiency is approaching then percentage of vitamin A palmitate will be between 21% and 73% and percentage retinol between 8% and 21%. If toxicity is approaching then percentage vitamin A palmitate and retinol will be greater than 21% and less than 73%. Rabbit is normal if percentages are maintained within the ± SD of the mean. Experiment 3 (VAF test) was conducted using the same horses and conditions as in Experiment 1. After 30 days on treatment, percentages of retinol and vitamin A palmitate were significantly lower and higher (P<.05) than controls, for deficient and excess horses, respectively. The percentages of vitamin A palmitate and retinol in deficient horses were intermediate between values observed in horses from the other two treatment groups. If percentage retinol is between 45% and 65% and percentage vitamin A palmitate is between 31% and 45% the horse is approaching deficiency. If the percentage retinol is less than 45% and and vitamin A palmitate is greater than 45%, then the horse is probably approaching toxicity. Results suggests that both RDR and VAF tests can be used to determine vitamin A status before appearance of overt signs of deficiency occur, however only the VAF test is suitable for detecting toxicity.

A domesticação dos equinos e a sua utilização para esportes fez com que a nutrição destes animais passasse por mudanças significativas. O alto requerimento energético pode ser suprido com forragem conservada e grandes quantidades de amido. Este manejo, porém, predispõe os equinos a problemas digestivos e metabólicos, podendo levar a cólica, endotoxemia e laminite. Outra forma de atingir o requerimento energético é a adição de gordura na dieta, já que óleos vegetais e animais podem conter até três vezes mais energia que grãos em igual volume. Sabe-se que óleos de diferentes fontes diferem quanto a propriedades relacionadas aos seus componentes ativos; óleos podem conter componentes como ω-3, ω-6, γ-orizanol em diferentes quantidades e estes compostos podem influenciar o metabolismo. O presente estudo teve por objetivo avaliar o efeito de óleos de diferentes origens e composição sobre o metabolismo bioquímico, oxidativo e função de células polimorfonucleares de equinos. Durante 15 semanas foram utilizados cinco equinos machos, mestiços, que receberam ou óleo mineral, ou óleo de soja, ou óleo de arroz, ou óleo de linhaça, ou óleo de peixe, em delineamento experimental quadrado latino 5x5. Cada período experimental foi composto por três semanas. Foram avaliados perfil bioquímico, metabolismo oxidativo e \"burst\"-respiratório de granulócitos. Houve efeito do tratamento sobre os teores de triglicérides, fração HDL de colesterol e hemoglobina, contagem de eritrócitos, hematócrito e na intensidade de produção de EROs por granulócitos estimulados com Sa-PI. Das variáveis do perfil bioquímico, pode-se observar que a adição dos óleos de soja, arroz, linhaça e peixe na dieta reduziu os triglicérides plasmáticos, a inclusão de óleos em até 5% da MS nas dietas não representou grande desafio oxidativo, apenas as concentrações de hemoglobina foram menores no tratamento com óleo de soja. O óleo de linhaça aumentou o teor de ácido linolênico plasmático e teve efeito sobre a produção de EROs in vitro por granulócitos dos equinos.
Sports use made significant changes in horses nutrition necessary. The high energy requirement is supplied with conserved forage, and large amounts of starch. This management, however, predisposes horses to digestive and metabolic disorders, leading to colic endotoxemia and laminitis. Another way to achieve the energy requirement is adding fat to the diet, as vegetable and animal oils may contain up to three times more energy than grains in equal volume. It is known that oils from different sources differ in their active components related properties, thay may contain ω-3, ω-6, γ-oryzanol, in different quantities and these compounds can influence metabolism. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of different oils from different origins and composition on the maintenance of the horses biochemical and oxidative metabolism and on polymorphonuclear cells function. A Latin square design was made with five crossbreed horses fed during three weeks with the five treatments: mineral (control), soy, rice, linseed and fish oil. Biochemical profiles, oxidative metabolism respiratory-burst of granulocytes were evaluated. Treatment effect was found on the triglycerides, HDL cholesterol and hemoglobin levels, erythrocyte count, hematocrit and intensity of ROS production by granulocytes stimulated with Sa-PI. Conclusions: The addition of oil to the diet reduced plasma triglycerides, fat diets didnt offer major oxidative challenge and hemoglobin showed to be a more sensitive oxidative marker. Linseed oil increases the plasma levels of linolenic acid and had effects on the production of in vitro ROS by granulocytes of horses.

Most forage quality models were developed for ruminant nutrition, and may not apply to the horse. This two-part study evaluated the relationship between forage chemical composition and dry matter digestibility (DMD) using an in vitro method with equine feces as the inoculums. The first experiment determined that compared to 48 h of incubation, 72 h of incubation resulted in higher DMD for some forages. As a result of experiment 1, incubations in experiment 2 were conducted using 48 and 72 h incubation periods at 38 degrees C. The second experiment evaluated the effect of chemical composition on DMD. Thirty-one hay samples were used that ranged from 33% to 71% for NDF, 21% to 44% for ADF and 6.7 to 25.6% for CP (all on DMB). There were inverse relationships between ADF and DMD ( r = -0.826 at 48 h; -0.841 at 72 h) and NDF and DMD (r = -0.779 at 48 h; 0.812 at 72 h). There was a positive relationship between CP and DMD (r =0.572 at 48 h; 0.615 at 72 h). Forage chemical composition, particularly ADF and NDF, has potential to predict digestibility of forages by horses.

O presente estudo teve como objetivo avaliar o efeito dos níveis de inclusão de polpa cítrica sobre parâmetros sanguíneos de equinos, vinculados ao metabolismo energético dos cavalos. Foram utilizados cinco animais, com idade média de 3,5 anos e peso vivo de 460,6±76,86kg, sem raça definida, arraçoados duas vezes ao dia, às 7:00 e às 16:00. As dietas foram formuladas para atender a demanda de animais em mantença, sendo 60% da energia proveniente do volumoso e 40% do concentrado, contendo níveis crescentes de inclusão de polpa cítrica (0, 7, 14, 21 e 28%). A coleta de sangue ocorreu nos tempos: antes da alimentação, uma, três, seis, nove horas após a alimentação. As amostras de sangue foram coletadas através de venopunção da jugular utilizando tubos coletores a vácuo para determinação de albumina, triglicérides, colesterol, glicose, insulina e ácidos graxos de cadeia curta. Foram calculadas a área abaixo da curva e o pico da glicose e insulina, para as quais não foram observados efeitos (P>0,05). Não houve efeito (P>0,05) da dieta sobre as concentrações sanguíneas dos parâmetros. Não houve efeito (P>0,05) do tempo de coleta sobre as variáveis: ácidos graxos de cadeia curta, colesterol, triglicérides e albumina, porém foi observado efeito (p<0,05) para as concentrações de glicose (y = -0,521x2 + 4,133x + 84,647) e insulina (y = -0,097x2 + 0,795x + 1,616). A polpa citrica é um ingrediente promissor na alimentação de equinos, sem causar alteração nas concentrações sanguineas de glicose, insulina, colesterol, triglicerides e ácidos graxos de cadeia curta. Dietas com alta inclusão de fibra e participação de ingredientes com fibras de fácil fermentação são benéficas a dietas de equinos pois mantem as curvas glicêmicas e insulinêmicas próximas aos valores basais além de postergar a queda glicêmica pós prandial.
The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of levels of citrus pulp on blood parameters of horses tied to energy metabolism of horses. Five animals were used, with an average age of 3,5 years and body weight of 460,6 ± 76,86 kg mongrel, hand fed twice daily at 7:00 and 16:00. Diets were formulated to meet the demand of animals in maintenance, 60% of energy from the forage and 40% concentrate, containing increasing levels of citrus pulp (0, 7, 14, 21 and 28%). Blood collection occurred at times: before eating, one, three, six, nine hours after feeding. Blood samples were collected via jugular venipuncture using vacuum collectors for the determination of albumin, triglycerides, cholesterol, glucose, insulin and short-chain fatty acids tubes. The area under the curve and the peak glucose and insulin, for which no effect (P>0,05) were observed, were calculated. There was no effect (P>0,05) of diet on blood concentrations of parameters. There was no effect (P>0.05 ) and time of collection on the variables: short-chain fatty, cholesterol, triglycerides and albumin acids, but effect ( p<0.05 ) was observed for glucose concentrations (y = - 0.521x2 + 4.133 x 84.647) and insulin (y = -0.097x2 + 0.795 + 1.616 x). The citrus pulp is a promising ingredient in feed for horses without causing changes in blood concentrations of glucose, insulin, cholesterol, triglycerides and short-chain fatty acids. Diets with high fiber inclusion and participation of ingredients with easily fermentable fibers are beneficial because the diets of horses keeps the glucose and insulin curves near the baseline plus delay the postprandial glycemic fall.

: L’économie de la filière équine repose aujourd’hui sur la production de chevaux athlètes performants sur le long terme. Le métabolisme de la jument gestante peut programmer le développement du poulain, sa santé à long terme et donc ses performances sportives à l’âge adulte. De nombreuses pratiques d’élevage peuvent modifier le métabolisme maternel, telles que la nutrition durant la gestation, la surnutrition durant la vie de la jument (surpoids et obésité) et le nombre de poulains produits par la jument (parité). L’objectif de ce travail était d’étudier les effets du métabolisme maternel durant la gestation sur la fonction et la structure placentaire à terme, la croissance osseuse, le métabolisme énergétique, l’inflammation systémique et le statut ostéoarticulaire des poulains en croissance. Un premier modèle de perturbation nutritionnelle en fin de gestation a été développé en comparant des juments ayant ingéré uniquement des fourrages au cours de la gestation ou bien des fourrages et des concentrés à partir de la mi-gestation. Ce modèle a permis de montrer que la supplémentation en concentrés altérait le métabolisme glucidique maternel, la fonction placentaire ainsi que le statut ostéoarticulaire et la réponse métabolique à un challenge de surnutrition chez le poulain. D’autre part, une perte d’état trop importante associée à une qualité/quantité de foin insuffisante entrainait un retard de maturité des fonctions de métabolisme énergétique et de reproduction mâle chez les poulains. Un deuxième modèle a ensuite été développé pour étudier l’effet de la primiparité. Cette étude a confirmé que la croissance fœtale des poulains issus des juments primipares était réduite et que ces poulains demeuraient plus petits avec un métabolisme glucidique et une maturation testiculaire retardés par rapport aux poulains issus de juments multipares. Le troisième modèle développé s’est intéressé à l’effet de l’obésité maternelle dès la conception. En effet, la prévalence de surpoids et d’obésité est de plus en plus importante au sein de la filière équine. Ce dernier modèle a permis de montrer que l’obésité maternelle associée à une résistance à l’insuline et une inflammation systémique augmentées entrainait une augmentation de la résistance à l’insuline, de l’inflammation systémique et du développement de lésions d’ostéochondrose chez les poulains. L'ensemble de ces résultats met en avant la relation entre la résistance à l’insuline maternelle, l’inflammation maternelle et le développement de lésions d’ostéochondrose chez les poulains durant la croissance, mais également entre sous-nutrition utérine et retard de maturité. Ces observations vont permettre de développer de nouvelles recommandations nutritionnelles pour les poulinières
The economy of the equine industry is based on the production of high performance athlete horses. The metabolism of the pregnant mare can program the development of the foal, its long-term health and therefore its athletic performance at adulthood. Many breeding practices can modify maternal metabolism, such as nutrition during pregnancy, overnutrition during the mare's productive life (overweight and obesity) and the number of foals produced by the mare (parity). The aim of this work was to study the effects of maternal metabolism during pregnancy on placental function and structure, as well as bone growth, energy metabolism, systemic inflammation and osteoarticular status in growing foals. In a first approach, mares fed with forage only during gestation were compared to mares fed forage and concentrates from mid-gestation. Supplementation with concentrates altered maternal carbohydrate metabolism and placental function. In weaned foals, the osteoarticular status and the metabolic response to an overnutrition were also affected by the use of concentrates in maternal nutrition. Conversely, mares fed forage only lost body condition, which led to a delay in the post-natal maturation in terms of energy metabolism and testicular function in foals. In a second approach, the effect of primiparity was studied. Foals born to primiparous mares were growth restricted at birth and had a long-term maturational delay in bone growth, carbohydrate metabolism and testicular function. Finally, given the current high prevalence of overweight and obesity in the equine species, the effects of maternal obesity were studied. Maternal obesity associated with increased maternal insulin resistance and systemic inflammation resulted in increased insulin resistance, systemic inflammation, and increased incidence of osteochondrosis in foals. Altogether, these results highlight the relationship between maternal insulin resistance, maternal inflammation and the development of osteochondrosis lesions in foals during growth, but also between in utero undernutrition and maturation delay. These observations will contribute to adjust nutritional recommendations to broodmares

Les adaptations du fœtus aux stimuli intra-utérins ont des conséquences immédiates puis à long terme sur sa santé après la naissance. Chez l’équin, ce concept connu sous le nom de DOHaD (Developmental Origins of Health and Disease) a été validé à l’aide de croisements inter-races : la taille de la jument, qui conditionne l’environnement maternel pendant la gestation puis la lactation, a un impact crucial sur la croissance postnatale du poulain, mais aussi sur la sensibilité à l’insuline du nouveau-né. L’ostéochondrose, pathologie du cheval en croissance, est responsable de pertes financières majeures pour la filière équine. Elle a été reliée à des anomalies de l’homéostasie glucidique et son origine anténatale est fortement suspectée. Dans cette thèse, nous avons mesuré l’impact de perturbations expérimentales au cours du développement fœtal sur la croissance, l’homéostasie glucidique et la prédisposition à l’ostéochondrose du poulain jusqu’à l’âge de 1 an ½. Un premier modèle de croissance fœtale augmentée versus restreinte a été obtenu par transferts d’embryons inter-races (« poneys dans traits » versus « selles dans poneys », respectivement). L’environnement maternel « enrichi » de la jument de trait versus restreint de la ponette s’est révélé déterminant dans la régulation de la croissance des différents segments osseux, de l’axe thyréotrope, de la fonction des cellules β pancréatiques, de la sensibilité à l’insuline de l’organisme et de la santé ostéoarticulaire du poulain dès la naissance et jusqu’à 1 an ½. Tout en validant le concept de DOHaD chez l’équin, ce modèle souligne le soin qui doit être apporté à la sélection des juments receveuses dans la pratique du transfert d’embryons. En démontrant l’ampleur des effets post-nataux programmés in utero et pendant la lactation, ce modèle alerte aussi l’éleveur sur la gestion des poulinières et ses impacts à long terme. En ce sens, le second modèle est en adéquation avec les préoccupations d’élevage puisqu’une perturbation de l’environnement nutritionnel du fœtus a été induite en apportant un concentré (orge) dans la ration hivernale de la jument gravide versus des fourrages uniquement. A ce jour, l’impact de cette modification anténatale sur l’homéostasie glucidique du poulain avant sevrage semble limité à la période néonatale, tandis que sa croissance n’est pas du tout affectée. En revanche, sa prédisposition à l’ostéochondrose à l'âge de 6 mois semble être accrue, ce qui ne permet pas de présager de la suite car le statut ostéoarticulaire du poulain âgé de 6 mois reste susceptible d’évoluer jusqu’à 1 an ½. Ces travaux devraient permettre d’ajuster les recommandations nutritionnelles chez les poulinières
Fetal adaptations to intra-uterine stimuli have immediate and long term effects on the offspring’s health after birth. In equids, this concept known as the DOHaD (Developmental Origins of Health and Disease) was validated using cross-breeding: the mare’s size which affects the fetal environment throughout gestation and then lactation, has a critical impact on the foal’s post-natal growth, as well as on the neonate’s sensitivity to insulin. Osteochondrosis, a pathology of the growing horse, induces heavy financial losses in the equine industry. It has been associated to abnormalities in glucose homeostasis and its antenatal origin is highly suspected. The present research aimed to evaluate the impact of experimental disturbances during fetal development on growth, glucose homeostasis and predisposition to osteochondrosis in the foal until age 1½ year. Increased versus restricted fetal growth was obtained using between-breed embryo transfers (“ponies in draft horses” versus “saddlebreds in ponies”, respectively). The lush environment of the draft mare versus the restricted environment of the pony mare turned out to be critical in the regulation of bone growth, thyroid hormones secretion, β-cells function, insulin sensitivity and the osteoarticular status of the foal from birth to 1½ year of age. This validates the concept of the DOHaD in equids and shows that recipient mares should be carefully selected in embryo transfer practice. By demonstrating the scope of post-natal effects which were programmed in utero and throughout the lactating period, it also alerts the breeder about the importance of broodmare management and its long term impacts. Thus, the second model was developed to address breeders' practices. A disturbance of the nutritional environment of the fetus was induced by supplementing mares in late pregnancy with concentrated feed (barley). So far, only the neonatal foal's glucose homeostasis was affected, whereas all other studied parameters, including growth, were not affected. The foal’s predisposition to osteochondrosis, however, was increased at 6 months of age, which does not preclude that it will affect the animals afterwards since the osteoarticular status of the 6-month-old foal will evolve beyond weaning time. This research could help adjust nutritional recommendations to broodmares

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Plantas de eucalipto são sensíveis a estresses abióticos em seu desenvolvimento inicial, sendo as deficiências hídrica e nutricional dois dos mais recorrentes dentre eles. O maturador etil-trinexapac pode afetar positivamente o eucalipto, resposta caracterizada como hormese, conferindo às plantas maior tolerância aos estresses. Diante disto, objetivou-se avaliar o efeito do etil-trinexapac no crescimento inicial do eucalipto em condições de estresse hídrico e nutricional. Quatro experimentos foram conduzidos em casa de vegetação, em vasos de 15 L, sendo dois sob deficiência hídrica e dois sob deficiência nutricional (NPK). Nas duas condições, foram utilizadas duas épocas de aplicação de etil-trinexapac (antes do plantio - AP; e depois do plantio - DP) em mudas de Eucalyptus urophylla (clone I-144). Avaliou-se: trocas gasosas, teor de clorofila total, altura, diâmetro do caule, área foliar, matéria seca e relação raiz/parte aérea. Para a deficiência hídrica, conduziu-se dois experimentos simultaneamente, durante 74 dias após o plantio (DAP) do eucalipto. Os tratamentos consistiram da combinação de três doses de etil-trinexapac (0,0; 30 e 60 g i.a. ha-1) e duas condições hídricas (sem estresse e com deficiência hídrica – conduzido a 20% da capacidade de campo). Adotou-se o delineamento de blocos casualizados, em esquema fatorial 3x2, com cinco repetições. Na época de aplicação AP, a pulverização de etil-trinexapac ocorreu aos 0 DAP e na época de aplicação DP, aos 24 DAP. Houve efeito positivo para a taxa de assimilação líquida de CO2 aos 27 e 40 DAP, para o DP e AP, respectivamente. As plantas de eucalipto na ausência de deficiência hídrica apresentaram maior crescimento, independentemente da época de aplicação. Conclui-se que o etil-trinexapac não ocasionou efeito hormético no eucalipto, independentemente da condição hídrica, e as épocas de aplicação influenciaram de formas distintas as características avaliadas, não havendo efeito prejudicial em nenhuma delas. Para a deficiência nutricional, conduziu-se dois experimentos simultaneamente, durante 81 DAP. Os tratamentos consistiram da combinação de três doses de etil-trinexapac (0,0; 30 e 60 g i.a. ha-1) e quatro variações da solução nutritiva de Hoagland e Arnon (solução completa, -N, -P e -K). Utilizou-se delineamento de blocos casualizados, em esquema fatorial 3x4, com cinco repetições. Na época de aplicação AP a pulverização do maturador ocorreu aos 0 DAP, enquanto no DP, aos 33 DAP. As plantas em solução –K não diferiram das cultivadas em solução completa. O tratamento –N proporcionou maior relação raiz/parte aérea, mas resultou em menor crescimento, seguido pelo –P. Quando em –P, o etil-trinexapac teve efeito positivo para a matéria seca total (AP) e área foliar (DP). O maturador afetou positivamente algumas características fotossintéticas do eucalipto.
Eucalyptus plants are sensitive to abiotic stresses in their initial development, and water and nutritional deficiencies are two of the most recurrent among them. Trinexapac-ethyl can positively affect eucalyptus, a response known as hormesis, possible providing plants greater tolerance to stress. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of trinexapac-ethyl on the initial growth of eucalyptus under conditions of water and nutritional stress. Four experiments were conducted in greenhouse, in 15 L pots. Two in the water deficiency condition and two in nutritional deficiency (NPK). In both deficiency conditions, two trinexapac-ethyl application times (before planting - BP and after planting - AP) in Eucalyptus urophylla (clone I-144) were used. The following variables were evaluated: gas exchange, total chlorophyll content, height, stem diameter, leaf area, dry matter and root/shoot ratio. For water deficiency, two experiments were conducted simultaneously, during 74 days after planting (DAP) of eucalyptus. The treatments consisted of three doses of trinexapac-ethyl (0.0, 30 and 60 g i.a. ha-1) and two water conditions (no stress and water deficiency - conducted at 20% field capacity). A randomized complete block design was used in a 3x2 factorial scheme with five replications. In the BP application time, trinexapac-ethyl was sprayed at 0 DAP and in AP mode at 24 DAP. We found a positive effect for net assimilation rate at 27 and 40 DAP, for AP and BP, respectively. Eucalyptus plants in the absence of water deficiency showed higher growth, regardless application time. We concluded that trinexapac-ethyl did not cause hormesis on eucalyptus, regardless water status, and the application time influenced the characteristics evaluated in different ways, with no harmful effect in any of them. For nutritional deficiency, two experiments were conducted simultaneously, for 81 DAP. The treatments consisted of three doses of trinexapac-ethyl (0.0, 30 and 60 g i.a. ha-1) and four variations of the nutrient solution of Hoagland and Arnon: complete solution, -N, -P and -K. A randomized complete block design was used in a 3x4 factorial scheme with five replications. In the BP application time, trinexapac-ethyl was sprayed at 0 DAP, while in AP, at 33 DAP. Plants in -K solution did not differ from those grown in complete solution. The treatment -N provided a higher root/shoot ratio, but resulted in lower growth, followed by -P. In -P solution, trinexapac-ethyl had a positive effect on total dry matter (BP) and leaf area (AP). Trinexapac-ethyl positively affected some photosynthetic characteristics of eucalyptus.

Un des enjeux relatifs à la durabilité des élevages équins est d’accroître la part de l’herbe dans l’alimentation sans compromettre les performances animales. Les chevaux à forts besoins, comme la jument en lactation, sont en effet couramment complémentés au pâturage alors même que l’impact de la complémentation sur leur ingestion et leurs performances n’est pas connu. Un second enjeu est d’identifier des solutions alternatives aux anthelminthiques pour gérer leurs parasites gastro-intestinaux en évitant le développement de résistances et le rejet de molécules toxiques dans l’environnement. Notre première expérimentation a montré qu’en conditions de pâturage non limitantes, la complémentation énergétique n’était pas indispensable. Les juments en lactation non complémentées ont accru leurs quantités ingérées journalières jusqu’à 28 g MS.kg PV -1 .j -1 , un niveau d’ingestion permettant de satisfaire leurs besoins énergétiques. La croissance des poulains et leur conformation n’ont donc pas été affectées par l’absence de complémentation énergétique, celle-ci n’ayant par ailleurs pas permis aux juments de mieux réguler leur charge parasitaire. La deuxième expérimentation, a permis de préciser le seuil en deçà duquel la complémentation énergétique devient nécessaire pour couvrir les besoins de la jument en lactation. Pour un pâturage au fil de repousses végétatives celui-ci a été estimé à 66 g MS.kg PV-1.j -1 , ce qui correspond à une hauteur de sortie de parcelle à 5,4 cm au stick, soit 4,5 cm à l’herbomètre à plateau. Enfin, la troisième expérimentation en box a permis de mettre en évidence l’efficacité d’une distribution de courte durée de sainfoin, une légumineuse riche en tanins condensés, pour réduire le développement des œufs de nématodes en larves infestantes ; une complémentation azotée « simple » s’est en revanche révélée inefficace. L’ensemble de ces résultats ouvre des perspectives pour optimiser la conduite alimentaire de la jument en lactation au pâturage
Sustainable horse breeding requires increasing the proportion of herbage in horse diet without affecting animal performance. Horses with high requirements such as lactating mares are commonly supplemented at pasture, while the consequences of energy supplementation on intake and performance remain unknown. Another priority is to identify alternatives to chemical anthelmintic for gastro-intestinal parasite management in order to limit the spread of antibiotic resistance and the dumping of pharmaceutical residues into the environment. A first experiment showed that supplementing lactating mares at pasture should not be systematic because, under non-limiting conditions, their adaptive capacities enabled them to increase herbage intake up to 28 g DM.kg LW -1 .d -1 and ensure foal growth. In addition, energy supplementation did not allow mares to better regulate their parasite burden. A second experiment allowed us to precise the herbage allowance threshold below which energy supplementation is required. Under strip-grazing conditions it was estimated at 66 g DM.kg LW -1 .d -1 , which corresponds to a post-grazing height of 5.4 cm using sward stick. A third experiment has revealed the potential of secondary metabolites of sainfoin to reduce the nematode larval development, while no effect was observed with a short-term protein supplementation. These original results have practical implications for a better management of lactating saddle mares at pasture

Introdução: A avaliação do consumo alimentar de crianças e adolescentes representa um desafio na pesquisa epidemiológica. O Recordatório de 24 horas (R24h) é considerado um ótimo método para coletar dados dietéticos e é muito utilizado no acompanhamento alimentar da população. Porém requer entrevistadores altamente treinados, o que dificulta o uso em pesquisas de grandes amostras. Objetivo. Desenvolver um Recordatório de 24 horas estruturado e computadorizado (R24ec) para a avaliação do consumo alimentar de escolares e testar a usabilidade deste sistema. Métodos. Os alimentos escolhidos para o R24ec foram pré-definidos a partir de um banco de dados secundário. O R24ec inclui seis refeições prédefinidas, embutidas em questões que contextualizam as rotinas e locais do dia anterior. Contém ainda uma lista de alimentos dividida em grupos alimentares e subgrupos. Durante a entrevista, itens não listados podem ser adicionados em espaço previsto para este uso. A base de dados de composição de alimentos é composta pela tabela TACO. O R24ec ainda inclui um atlas fotográfico, contendo diferentes tipos de alimentos que serve como auxílio visual para que os entrevistados possam selecionar os tamanhos de porções. Realizou-se um teste com o R24ec em uma escola pública de Guarulhos com 73 escolares. A usabilidade foi testada por 17 profissionais da área da tecnologia da informação através de um questionário que avalia a usabilidade de sistemas utilizando a lógica Fuzzy baseado na ISO. Resultados. Foi desenvolvido um instrumento computadorizado contendo uma lista de aproximadamente 120 alimentos com média de três tamanhos de porções. Dos escolares pesquisados, cerca de 45 por cento fizeram alguma observação referente ao sistema durante o preenchimento do R24ec. 8,2 por cento tiveram problemas em relação à manipulação do sistema e 30 por cento tiveram problemas no preenchimento devido à incompreensão das perguntas, devido à idade ou maturidade. 67 por cento não cometeram erros ao preencher o R24ec. O teste de usabilidade apresentou para as métricas Controle de Erros, Eficiência e Satisfação amplitude Média (2), representando maior grau de confiança no resultado obtido. As métricas Facilidade de Aprender, Facilidade de Relembrar e Eficácia apresentaram amplitude Alta (3), o que representa um grau de confiança baixo. Conclusão. O Recordatório de 24 horas estruturado foi desenvolvido com sucesso e será hospedado no sitio da Universidade de São Paulo. O teste na escola com estudantes de 5ª a 8ª série apontou uma boa interação entre usuários e o sistema. O estudo de usabilidade com profissionais teve boas avaliações, porém deveria ser refeito com uma população maior para obterse maior confiança nos resultados
Introduction: The assessment of children and teenagers food intake brings a new challenge in epidemiological research. The 24-hour Dietary Recall (R24h) is considered an efficient method to collect diet data and is also very much used in population food monitoring. However, it requires highly qualified interviewers and this fact therefore generates great difficulty to the use of great sample research. Objectives: It aims at developing a structured and automated 24-hour Dietary Recall (R24ec) to evaluate school children food intake and test the usability of this system. Methods: The foods chosen to R24ec were pre-defined from a secondary database. The R24ec includes six pre-defined meals, incorporated in questions that contextualize the routines and places of the day before. It also contains a list of food divided in food groups and subgroups. During the interview, non-listed items can be included in proper blanks for this purpose. The database of food combination is composed of the TACO chart. The R24ec also includes a food photographic atlas, containing different types of food, used as visual help so that the interviewees can select the portion sizes. A test with school children was carried out with R24ec in a public school of Guarulhos. The usability was tested by 17 Information Technology professionals through a questionnaire that assesses the usability of systems using the Fuzzy logic, based on ISO. Results: An automated tool was developed, containing a list of approximately 120 types of food with an average of three portion sizes. Among the school children evaluated, around 45 per cent made some observation referring to the system during the R24ec filling process. 8,2 per cent had problems to manipulate the system and 30 per cent had problems to fill out the R24ec due to question misunderstandings, fact that can be related to the low level of maturity of the candidates. 67 per cent did not make any mistakes filling out the R24ec. The usability test presented to the metric Error Control, Efficiency and Satisfaction an average amplitude (2), representing a higher level of reliability in the obtained results. The metrics Facility to Learn, Facility to Remember and Efficiency presented high amplitude (3), which represents a low level of reliability. Conclusion: The structured 24-hour Dietary Recall was successfully developed and it will be posted in the Universidade de São Paulo website. The test with students from the Elementary School revealed good interaction between users and system. The usability study with professionals obtained good reviews, but it should be reapplied to a bigger audience in order to obtain a higher level of reliability towards the results

This dissertation is the product of two behaviour studies and an in vitro fermentation trial. Both behaviour studies were conducted at the Ashburton Racehorse-Training Centre in Ashburton, near Pietermaritzburg in KwaZulu- Natal. The first behaviour study evaluated differences in behaviours obtained through feeding either twice or four times daily. This trial showed (PThesis (M.Sc.)-University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, 2007.

Protein has been identified as a major reason that people purchase a horse feed, with anecdotal explanations offered for the poor prediction of response of horses to their rations, particularly in the sport horse market. The current research identifies through hierarchical cluster analysis that the myriad of riding feeds offered on the South African market fall into only four simple categories on the basis of wet chemistry. Feeds were subjected to the in vitro gas production technique (IVGPT) described by Pell and Schofield (1993), using equine faecal inoculum. Gas profiles, corrected for control fermentation profiles in the absence of substrate, were fitted to the model described by Campos et al. (2004) to derive GP kinetics. Gas production kinetics, and information in respect of pH, degradation efficiency, lag time and apparent and true digestibilities were obtained. The feeds were tested for glycaemic response in miniature horses using the hexokinase method with deproteinization using an auto analyser (Roche Diagnostics). Blood glucose parameters of feeds (mean, peak, slope and time to peak and area under the curve) in each group were compared by analysis of variance and regression with covariates. In vivo analysis of rates of passage and digestibility using using post-prandial percentages of acid insoluble marker collection was used to study the gastrointestinal process, to indicate foregut and hindgut compartmental flow. The need to balance nitrogen levels with a proportional supply of fermentable carbohydrate contradicts widely used protein intakes in the horse. In vitro fermentation was used in an analysis of nutrient synchrony, to identify optimal fermentative capacity for utilization of horse feeds. The characteristics of horse feeds were related to requirement and were composited in an analysis of the representation of horse feeds that would best reflect optimal utilization in the horse, to produce a method of feed characterisation that would lead to the optimal prediction of response of horses to feeds offered to South African horses.
Thesis (Ph.D.Agric.)-University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, 2011.

Throughout the performance horse industry, the occurance of various muscle disorders is common and can be detrimental to the performance and longevity of equine athletes. Research has revealed effects of diet manipulation, exercise, and electrolyte supplementation on the symptoms and occurrence of disorders like exertional rhabdomyolysis (ER). However, there has been no investigation on effects of Mg on muscle function in horses during exercise. Six Quarter Horse mares were used to study the effects of varying levels of Mg on indices of muscular dysfunction during a standardized exercise test (SET) on a highspeed treadmill. Three rations were used over three 28 d periods: control (Trt 1), low Mg (Trt 2), and high Mg (Trt 3). A baseline SET was conducted prior to day 0 (Trt 0). Blood samples were taken during the SET at rest, immediately post, 1 h, 6 h, and 24 h post exercise for analyses of serum muscle enzymes and Mg concentrations. Heart rates (HR), respiration rates (RR), and rectal temperatures (RT) also were documented. No effect of Trt was observed on HR or RR at any point throughout the SET. Resting RT?s were lowest in Trt 0 (P<0.05). There was no Trt effect on blood lactate (LA) during the SET; however, blood glucose (GLU) at rest in Trt 2 was lower than Trt 0 (P<0.05). Treatment had an effect on both resting serum creatine phosphokinase (CK), as Trt 3 was higher than Trt 0, and the change in CK from rest to 24 h post SET, where Trt 1 exhibited the greatest increase in CK concentration (P<0.05). Serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) were not affected by Trt (P>0.05). Serum alkaline phosphatase (AP) at rest and 6 h post exercise was lower in Trt 2 than in Trt 3 (P<0.05). Additionally, serum P was lowest at rest in Trt 0 and highest 6 h post exercise in Trt 3, also varying within each Trt. Average daily intake (ADI) of Mg was higher in Trt 1 and 3 than in Trt 2 (P<0.05). Finally, at rest, immediately post and 24 h post exercise, serum Mg was highest in Trt 3 (P<0.05). Results suggest there is an effect of dietary Mg on serum muscle enzyme and Mg concentrations and potentially, overall performance in the equine athlete.

This thesis assesses a systems of the feeding and nutrition of sporting horses which are specialized for the eventing. It deals with a requirement of the energy, individual nutrients, minerals and vitamins. Also it deals with a technology of the feeding horses at each period of the training. The own work is interested in classification of the intake of the energy and amount of the nutrients in the feeding rations at the season of the training, season of the races and at time of the rest in the winter. The feeding rations are assessed in a group of nine horses of the various breeds, age, weight and performance. The discovered values has been compared with the standard nutrient requirements for horses. The monitored values have been: energy, digestible crude protein, various macro and micronutrients, vitamin A and vitamin E. It has followed from the results that the feeding of the horses is individual thing. Intake of the energy and nutrients was tolerated in all cases

Thirty-two Quarter horse mares (468 to 668 kg BW; 3 to 19 yr) were utilized in a randomized complete block design. Animals were blocked by expected foaling date and randomly assigned to treatments within block. Treatments began 110 d prior to expected foaling date and were arranged as a 2 x 2 factorial consisting of two planes of nutrition, moderate (Mod; 0.5% BW as fed grain/d) or high (High; 1% BW as fed grain/d) and two levels of L-arginine supplementation, 0.21 g/kg BW/d (Arg) or no supplemental Arg (Con; L-alanine to maintain isonitrogenous diets). Mares were housed by block, allowed ad libitum access to water and coastal bermudagrass (Cynodon dactylon) hay, and fed commercial grain twice daily in individual stalls. A modified frequent sampling i.v. glucose tolerance test (FSIGT) was performed on mares during the 11th month gestation and on foals at 5 and 30 d of age. Jugular catheters were placed 1 h before FSIGT, and horses were allowed ad libitum access to bermudagrass hay and water throughout. After a baseline plasma sample was collected, a glucose bolus of 0.3 g/kg BW was administered. Blood samples were collected at 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, and 19 min. At minute 20, an insulin bolus of 30 mU/kg BW was administered. Blood samples continued to be collected at 22, 23, 24, 25, 27, 30, 35, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, 120, 150, and 180 min. Samples were placed into tubes containing sodium heparin, immediately placed on ice, and centrifuged within 20 min. Plasma was then collected, placed in microtubes and frozen at -20 degrees C for later analysis. Glucose concentrations were analyzed using a colorimetric assay and insulin concentrations determined using a commercial RIA kit. There was no influence of dietary treatment on mare glucose area under the curve (AUCg) or peak glucose (PG) and insulin (PI) concentrations (P >= 0.55). Mare insulin area under the curve (AUCi) tended to be influenced by the interaction between nutritional plane and ARG supplementation (P <= 0.06) with HighCon mares having greater AUCi than ModCon (P <= 0.05), and HighCon mares having greater AUCi than mares fed HighArg (P <= 0.05). Foal AUCg, AUCi, and PI were not influenced by maternal diet. However, PG concentration in foals tended to be influenced by mare AA supplementation with foals from Con mares having higher concentrations compared to Arg (P <= 0.09) An influence of age was observed on foal AUCg and AUCi. Foal AUCg was greater at 5 d compared to 30 d (P <= 0.003). Foal AUCi tended to be greater at 30 d compared to 5 d (P <= 0.08). Data suggest maternal plane of nutrition and arginine supplementation can alter mare and foal glucose and insulin dynamics.

In horses, a painful and often debilitating disease known as laminitis can result in impaired function and, in severe cases, euthanasia. Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS) is a syndrome in horses that results in development of laminitis and is characterized by the presence of general and/or regional adiposity (“cresty neck”), aberrations in blood lipid concentrations, insulin resistance (IR) and/ or hyperinsulinemia. Therapies have focused on improving the state of obesity and insulin resistance with the goal of diminishing the likelihood of laminitis development. A definitive cause for laminitis has not been established, but hyperinsulinemia and IR are likely candidates as experimental states of hyperinsulinemia have been shown to induce laminitis and improvements in insulin sensitivity and obesity have been associated with a decreased risk of laminitis development. This dissertation discusses associations between obesity and IR, as well as potential therapies for alleviating insulin resistance with the ultimate goal of decreasing the risk of developing laminitis. Therapies evaluated included chromium and magnesium, levothyroxine sodium, and metformin hydrochloride. Horses were treated with each supplement for 10 to 36 weeks, depending on the supplement tested, and physical measurements such as body weight, neck circumference, and body condition score were obtained. Throughout each study, blood concentrations of glucose, insulin, and plasma lipids were analyzed. Chromium and magnesium currently do not appear to have any effect on insulin sensitivity, whereas results of levothyroxine administration indicate therapeutic responses, as does metformin, though results indicate further work are required. Research contained in this dissertation focuses on the potential of identifying animals at risk of developing IR and laminitis through measurement of blood biomarkers such as adiponectin and glucagon-like peptide 1. Assays to measure markers included enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays, western blots, and radioimmunoassays. Glucagon-like peptide 1 currently does not appear to differ between healthy and IR animals, but protein band density of high-molecular weight adiponectin does appear to be lower in horses with IR when compared to healthy animals. There is still much to learn about IR in horses, and therapy appears to be dependent on a case by case basis.

This thesis deals with sport horse feeding. Suitable horse nutrition is essential for healthy and correct development of the whole horse organism. Every horse is different regarding its characteristics, work load, age, and health condition and therefore it is necessary to approach individually to its feeding. To set an optimal feeding batch so that it meets all requirements on energy, nutrients, and the right ratio of minerals and vitamins is not easy. The aim of this thesis is to analyse feeding practice in a stud farm focusing on feeding batches of sport horses. The work is divided into a theoretical part including basic descriptions of the horse digestive system, nutrients, and horse forage, and a practical part including the methodology used for the analysis, the description of the analysis when the forage used in the stud farm was compared with recommended optimal nutritious values for horses using appropriate software. The special attention is paid to the content of selenium in the feeding batches and its supplementation to horses with a deficit of this element. The thesis conclusion summarises findings of the conducted analysis together with a recommendation of optimal feeding of the horses in question.

Feeding behaviour is controlled by the integration of both perceived cues from the plant and postingestive signals received by the animal. In general practice, dairy cattle are presented with a variety of feedstuffs throughout each day, in addition to changing feedstuffs over time. In the Australian context, the feeds generally include fodder (usually hay) and pasture whilst grazing, as well as various concentrates. For horses that are stabled for prolonged periods, their diet consists of fodder (again usually hay or chaff) and concentrates, in addition to the pasture consumed whilst allowed access to graze. In such situations, where animals are presented with a range of feedstuffs, some of them novel and for discrete periods of time, it is important that they readily accept the feeds when they are first presented to them. For both lactating dairy cows and performance horses, for example, it is important to avoid periods of low intake, as this can have immediate and sometimes longer-term consequences to animal performance. The daily rate of food intake is the single most important factor affecting animal performance and productivity (Illius et al. 2000) and an animal‟s responses to a feedstuff can be considered the ultimate measure of its quality. The animal‟s first response to the presentation of a new feed, which in this particular study was oaten or lucerne hay, is its level of voluntary intake, which depends in part on palatability. Palatability is an integrative term (Provenza 1995); to provide a quantitative measure of the acceptability of a feedstuff, a „preference value’ can be obtained by describing the preference of one hay relative to an alternate hay also on offer. The Australian fodder industry is increasingly adopting more objective measures of hay quality to improve marketing opportunities, especially in the export industry, and to meet the demands and expectations of local and overseas purchasers of hay. Being able to efficiently and reliably predict the preference value of any particular hay would be beneficial to processors, exporters, users (purchasers) of hay, and possibly plant breeders, to make more informed decisions. This thesis describes a comprehensive analysis of the chemical and physical characteristics of a selected number of oaten and lucerne hays and their relationship to the acceptability or „preference value‟ of the hays for lactating Holstein Friesian cows and Thoroughbred horses. The project aimed to (i) quantify preference values for a large number of oaten hays with dairy cows and horses and a similarly large number of lucerne hays with horses only, and (ii) develop predictive equations for animal preferences based on the chemical and physical properties of the hays and the animal‟s short-term rate of consuming the hays. A total of approximately 8,500 preference tests were conducted with 85 oaten hays offered to lactating Holstein Friesian cows and Thoroughbred horses, and 70 lucerne hays offered to Thoroughbred horses. The hays were selected to cover a range of nutritive values. The intake rate and preferences for all the hays were quantified in a series of tests replicated over time and with different animals. Each „trial‟ hay was offered with four „standard‟ hays (in separate tests). A suite of chemical (nutritive value) traits and physical traits were quantified for the hays. An assessment of the „odour profile‟ was also included in the characterisation of the hays. The nutritive, physical and volatile traits were then related to hay preference values in multiple and simple linear regression models and equations generated to predict hay preference values. A prediction of hay preference made directly from the spectra obtained by near infrared reflectance spectroscopy (NIRS) was also developed. Overall, the average preference value of an oaten hay (i.e., that obtained using the comparisons with all four standard hays) could be predicted from a range of nutritive value traits, typically the contents of acid detergent fibre (ADF), hemicellulose, crude protein (CP) and water soluble carbohydrates (WSC) - with a correlation co-efficient of about 79% with cows and 61% for horses. Acid detergent fibre and CP contents tended to have the biggest influence on preference value for both cows and horses, followed by WSC and hemicellulose content. Examination of lucerne hays offered to horses increased the correlation co-efficient to 74%, with ADF, hemicellulose and CP each having a similar magnitude of effect. This means that these traits, with an appropriate weighting for each, could account for up to about three-quarters of the variation in hay preference values for cows and horses. The in vitro digestibility of dry matter (IVD) of oaten and lucerne hay was nearly as accurate in predicting preference values as using the four nutritive value traits of ADF, hemicellulose, CP and WSC, which was anticipated as digestibility is a function of these chemical traits. Hay physical traits could also be used to predict preference values, although not as accurately as the nutritive value traits or IVD. Of the physical traits, shear energy had the largest effect (co-efficient approximately -1.15 compared to an average of -0.35 for the other traits in the equation). The use of NIRS to directly predict preference values was also encouraging, with the best calibration model yielding a correlation co-efficient of 61 to 81%, depending on the hay (oaten or lucerne) and the animal (cows or horses). Of the total 120 volatile compounds isolated from the oaten hays, six had some relationship with cow preferences and there were also six oaten hay volatiles related to horse preferences. Of the oaten hay volatiles significantly related to preference, four were positively related to cow preference whilst two were negatively related to cow preference. Similarly there were four volatiles positively related to horse preference and two consistently negatively related. Of the six oaten hay volatiles found to influence the preferences of dairy cows and horses, four were common to both species. Of the total of 147 volatile compounds isolated from the lucerne hays, 15 had some relationship with horse preference, with nine positively related to horse preference and six negatively related. The data reported here suggest that a predicted preference value for a hay can be generated using commonly measured quality traits, which would improve a buyer‟s confidence of animals responding favourably when first offered the hay. More specifically, for an average preference value, the most reliable prediction equation was based on nutritive value traits: ADF, hemicellulose, crude protein and water soluble carbohydrates solely. Alternatively a combination of nutritive and physical traits can be used to predict preference: in vitro digestibility, crude protein, water soluble carbohydrates and shear energy. The visible and near infrared spectra obtained by NIRS was also a promising method of prediction, and given the speed and affordability of NIRS, this technology could be further refined and used for routine measurement of predicted hay preference values. The volatile compounds shown to influence preference value of the hay should be identified and further research undertaken to investigate novel approaches to manipulate the preference of hays. Caution should be taken when attempting to use these prediction equations on a single specific hay in a single specific situation. The predictions and relationships investigated in this thesis are based on populations of hays and preferences of a group of animals and therefore some care should be taken when applying them to a particular situation with difference circumstances. Other factors that can influence feed preferences include an animal‟s feeding experiences, basal diet and diet history and various environmental factors unaccounted for here.
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Thesis (Ph.D.) - University of Adelaide, School of Agriculture, Food and Wine, 2008

Text in English with abstracts in English, Tsonga and Sepedi and keywords in English
This study was carried out to investigate the performance and quality of Cucumis metuliferus E. Mey. Ex Naudin (African horned cucumber) under protected and open environment with the aim of comparing yield and quality for the purpose of commercialisation of the crop. Therefore, the overall objective was to determine a suitable growing environment for C. metuliferus between greenhouse, shade net and open field, so that a comparative yield and quality analysis could be done for the purpose of commercialisation of the crop. Cucumis metuliferus seeds are difficult to germinate under the normal suitable environmental conditions in which most farmers operate. Germination was evaluated with respect to growth medium, scarification and seed certification. These factors ultimately control yield and fruit quality. The main aim of the study was to investigate the effect or impact of seed certification, growth medium (sand and vermiculite, peat TS1 and seedling mix) and scarification on germination success of C. metuliferus seeds. The seeds were classified under four different categories viz. treated certified, non-treated certified, treated uncertified, and non-treated uncertified. Of the 540 certified and uncertified seeds sown in the three-growth media, 80% germinated, significantly more that those that failed. The treatment combination of treated certified seeds (TC) and peat demonstrated high germination success rate of 93.6%, followed by the treatment combination of treated certified seeds (TC) and sand+ vermiculite with germination success rate of 91.3%. The treatment combination of uncertified untreated (UTU) seeds and potting mix illustrated low germination success rate at 37.2%. In general, the study results revealed that certified seeds scarified with warm water combined had a higher germination rate that unscarified seeds, irrespective of the growth media. Since the seedling root-ball integrity is essential for transplant survival, this study suggests peat and certified seeds as the best combination for propagation and good quality plants. Water scarcity, population growth and climate change are the major factors affecting agricultural productivity in the 20th century. Cucumis metuliferus grows naturally in the wild; however, its yield response to water stress, different cultivation environment and soil types, has not been assessed. A study was carried out to determine water use efficiency of the C. metuliferus grown the greenhouse, shade net and open field under varying soil types and irrigation water levels, so that a comparative analysis could be done on productivity levels. The research was conducted at the University of South Africa (Unisa) Science Campus, in Florida, Gauteng (-26.157831 S, 27.903364 E) during the 2017/2018 and 2018/2019 growing seasons. A factorial experiment with two factors – soil (loamy soil and sandy loam soil) and water stress levels (no water stress, moderate water stress and severe water stress). The pot experiments were a completely randomised design with nine (9) replicates per treatment. Data collected included total biomass, aboveground biomass, harvest index and water use efficiency. Results illustrated that treatment of moderate water stress combined with loamy soil and shade net decreased WUE from 6.2 to 1.4 kg m-3, whereas treatment combination of no water stress combined with sandy loam and open field environment demonstrated increase in WUE from 1.4 to 6.2 kg m-3. Nutritional concentration of most crops depends on factors such as amount of water, growing environment, light intensity and soil types. However, factors influencing nutritional concentration of C. metuliferus fruits is not yet known. Another objective of the study was to determine the effect of different water stress levels, soil types and growing environment (greenhouse, shade net and open field) on the concentration of nutrients in C. metuliferus fruit. Freeze-dried fruit samples were used in the quantification of ꞵ-carotene, vitamin C, vitamin E, total soluble sugars, crude proteins, total flavonoids, total phenols, macro-nutrients (Ca, Mg, P, K, Na and S), and micro-nutrients (Cu, Fe, Mn and Zn). Results demonstrated that plants grown under shade net, combined with severe water stress level and loamy soil, had increased total soluble sugars (15.8 ˚Brix) compared to other treatments. Plants under shade net environment, combined with moderate water level and loamy soil, resulted in increased crude protein content (6.31 ˚Brix). The severe water stress treatment combined with loamy soil under greenhouse conditions resulted in increased ꞵ-carotene content (1.65 mg 100 g-1 DW) when compared to other treatments. Regarding vitamin C, the treatment of no water stress combined with loamy soil under shade net environment showed higher content of (33.1 mg 100 g-1 DW). The severe water stress treatment combined with sandy loam soil under greenhouse environment, increased vitamin E content (35.1 mg 100 g-1 DW) when compared to other treatments. The treatment of open field under severe water stress level and loamy soil increased total flavonoids content (0.85 mg CE/g-1 DW) in the fruit when compared to other treatments. The results thus imply that this plant bears better-quality fruit in terms of concentration of nutrients and biochemical constituents when grown under no to moderate water stress treatment on the loamy or sandy loam substrate in the shade net and open field environment. Primary metabolites are biological compounds that are essential to the growth and development of a plant during its life cycle. They have a direct impact on the yield and biochemical constituents in plants. Quantities of the primary metabolites were determined using the LC-MS-8040 triple quadrupole mass spectrometer (Shimadzu) from fruits harvested from treatments mentioned above. The results showed that the no water stress treatment combined with sandy loam under shade net environment significantly (P≤0.05) increased asparagine content from 10×106 to 80x106 peak intensity when compared to other treatments. The severe water stress treatment combined with sandy loam soil under open field environment during the 2017/2018 season, significantly increased dopa content from 12,030 to 324,240 peak intensity, while during the 2018/2019 season, 4-hydroxyproline from 10×106 to 90x106 peak intensity the was significantly increased. The study suggests that the treatment combination of water stress levels (no water stress and severe water stress) and soil substrates (loamy soil and sandy loam) under greenhouse and shade net significantly affected the shift of primary metabolites profile of C. metuliferus fruit as opposed to individual factors, respectively. There is therefore great potential to commercialise this crop; however, there is still a great deal that is not well understood of its growth habits and biological/biochemical constituents as a future alternative crop.
Ndzavisiso lowu wu endliwe ku lavisisa hi matirhelo na khwaliti ya Cucumis metuliferus E. Mey. Ex Naudin (African horned cucumber) eka mimbangu na mavala lama sirheleriweke na hi xikongomelo xa ku kotlanisa ntshovelo na vuxopaxopi bya khwaliti hi xikongomelo xa ku endla minxaviso ya ximila. Xikongomelonkulu xa ku vona ku faneleka ku kula ka C. metuliferus exikarhi ka ti-greenhouse, nete ya ndzhuti na mimbangu ya le rivaleni ku endlela ku pfuneta nxopaxopo. Timbewu ta C. metuliferus ta nonon'hwa ku tihlukisa ehansi ka swiyimo swa mbangu leswi faneleke laha varimi va tirhaku eka tona. Ku hlukisa swi kamberiwe hi ku langutana na midiyamu ya ku kula, skarifikhexini na switifiketi swa timbewu. Swilo leswi swi lawula ntshovelo na khwaliti ya muhandzu. Xikongomelonkulu xa ndzavisiso lowu a ku ri ku lavisa hi vuyelo bya ku nyikiwa ka switifiketi, midiyamu ya ku kula (sand + vermiculite, peat TS1 and seedling mix) na skarifikhexini eka ku humelela ku hlukisa timbewu ta C. metuliferus E. Mey. ex naudin. Timbewu ti klasifayiwile ehansi ka tikhathegori ta mune to hambana, ku nga, treated certified, non-treated certified, treated uncertified, na non-treated uncertified.Hi vunharhu ka timediya leti ti ve na nhlukiso wa xiyenge hi 80%. Vuyelo byi kombise leswo treated certified na non-treated certified ti ve na ku humelela ka le henhla ka nhlukiso hi 93.6% na 91.3% hi ku landzelelana. Vuhumeleri bya nhlukiso wa le hansi ku ve timbewu ta treated uncertified hi vuyelo bya 37%. Vulehi bya 12 cm byi voniwe eka certified seedlings tanihi bya le henhla swinene. Swimilani swa unscarified na swa uncertified swi ve na timbewu ta le hansi, ta vulehi bya 3.44 cm eka vhiki ra vumune. Hikokwalaho, seed certification swi ve na vuyelo ngopfu ku tlula scarification hi majini ya le henhla swinene. Ku khomaniseka ka ximila eka bolo ya misava i swa nkoka eka ku pona no ya emahlweni ka ximila loko xi transplantiwa, kasi ndzavisiso lowu wu tlakusa leswo ku va na peat na timbewu leti nga na switifiketi tanihi ndlela yo antswa swinene ya ku kurisa swimila na ku va na swimila swa khwaliti. Ku pfumaleka ka mati, nkulo wa swilo hinkwaswo na ku cinca ka tlayimete i swa nkoka leswi khumbaka ku tirheka ka vurimi eka malembexidzana ya 20. Cucumis metuliferus yi kula hi ntumbuluko enhoveni; kambe ntshovelo wa yona wu angula eka ku kala ka mati, tindhawu to hambana ta ku rimiwa na mixaka ya misava, a swi si kamberiwa. Ku endliwe ndzavisiso ku vona ku faneleka ka mafambiselo ya ku kurisa ximila eka greenhouse, nete ya ndzhuti eka swiyimo swa mavala lama pfulekeke, leswo nxopaxopo wu ta kotlanisiwa eka tilevhele ta vuyelo bya ntshovelo loku nga endliwaka. Ndzavisiso wu endliwe eka greenhouse, nete ya ndzhuti na swiyimo swa mavala lama pfulekeke eKhempasi ya Sayense eUniversity of South Africa (Unisa) eFlorida, eGauteng (26.157831 S, 27.903364 E) hi nkarhi wa 2017/2018 na 2018/2019 hi tisizini ta ku byala. Ekspirimente leyi nga na swilo swimbirhi – ku nga misava ya loamy na misava ya misava ya sava ya loam) na levhele ya ncheleto wa mati (laha ku nga ri ku na mati kahle, laha ku nga na matinyana na laha ku kalaka mati). Xipirimente xa le mapotweni xi endliwe hi ndlela yo ka yi nga kunguhatiwangi hi ku tirhisa ku phindaphinda ka nkaye (9), na dizayini ya kona leyi nga kombisiwa laha henhla. Tipharamita ta ku pimiwa ti katsa chlorophyll content, stomatal conductance na xiyenge xa ntshovelo, xo fana na ku tirhisa mati, vuheleri bya biomass, biomass ehenhla ka bayomasi ya misava, indeksi ya ntshovelo, vulehi bya muhandzu, nhlayo ya mihandzu, na ku tirhisiwa ka mati hi ndlela yo hlayisa. Vuyelo byi kombise leswo tirhelo ra mavala lama pfulekeke swi pfanganisiwa na ndhawu yo kala mati na misava ya sava ya loam, swi ngetela nhlayo ya mihandzu. Ku tirhiwa ka swiyimo swa mavala lama nga pfuleka, swi hlanganisiwa na ndhawu yo kalanyana mati na misava ya sava ya loam, swi kombise ku tirhisiwa kahle ka mati ka le henhla hi (6. 2 kg m-3) loko swi kotlanisiwa na ku tirhiwa ku n'wana. I swa nkoka ku lemuka leswaku a ku va ngi na ku hambana ku kulu exikarhi ka misava ya sava ya loam na misava ya loam eka ntirhiso wa mati lowu ku nga water use efficiency (WUE). Kambe, misava ya sava ya loam yi kombise xiyenge xa le henhla xa WUE loko swi kotlangisiwa na misava ya loam. Hikokwalaho ku nga fikeleriwa eka mhaka ya leswo ku pfanganisa ku tirhana na mavala yo pfuleka, tilevhele ta ncheleto wa mati (kahle na le xikarhi) na misava ya sava ya loam swa bumabumeriwa eka varimi leswo ku ta fikelekeleriwa xiyenge xa le henhla xa WUE na ku humelela ka ntshovelo wa C. metuliferus. Ku hlengeletana ka tinutriyente eka ndhawu yin'we (nutritional concentration) ka swimila swi titshege hi swilo swo fana na leswi kumekaka eka mati, mbangu wa ku kula, masana ya dyambu na mixaka ya misava. Kambe, swilo swo fana na ku hlengeletana ka tinutriyente ta mihandu ya C. metuliferus a swi si tiveka. Xikongomelo xa ndzhavisiso a ku ri ku vona vuyelo bya tilevhele to hambana ta ku kala ka mati (ku pfumaleka ka mati, ku pfumalekanyana, na ku pfumaleka swinene ka mati), mixaka ya misava (misava ya loam na misava ya sava) mbangu wa ku kula (greenhouse, nete ya ndzhuti na mavala yo pfuleka) hi ku pfangana na tinutriyente eka mihandzu ya C. metuliferus E. Mey. ex naudin. Tisampuli ta mihandzu leyi nga omisiwa yi friziwa ti tirhisiwe eka ku endla vunyingi bya ꞵ-carotene, Vhitamini C, Vhitamini E, na total soluble sugars, ti-crude protein na ti-total flavonoids, total phenols, na micro-nutrients (Cu, Fe, Mn na Zn). Vuyelo bya ndzavisiso byi kombise leswo swimila leswi nga kurisiwa eka nete ya ndzhuti, swi pfanganisiwa na levhele ya nkalo wa mati swinene na misava ya loam, swi ngetele ti-soluble sugars hi (15.8 ˚Brix) loko ku kotlanisiwa na ku tirhiwa kun'wana. Swimila leswi nga hansi ka mbangu wa nete ya ndzhuti, swi pfanganisiwa na nkayivelonyana wa mati hi vuxikarhi na misava ya loam, swi ve na vuyelo bya ku ngetela crude protein content hi (6.31˚Brix). Ku tirhiwa ka nkayivelo wa mati swinene swi pfanganisiwa na misava ya loam ehansi ka swiyimo swa greenhouse swi ngetelele ꞵ-carotene content (1.65 mg/100 g-1 DW) loko swi kotlanisiwa na ku tirhiwa kun'wana. Ku tirhiwa ka ku kayivela ka mati swi pfanganisiwa na misava ya loam ehansi ka mbangu wa nete ya ndzhuti swi kombise ku ngeteleleka ka vhitamini C hi (33.1 mg 100 g-1 DW). Ku tirhiwa ka nkayivelo wa mati swinene swi pfanganisiwa na misava ya loam ehansi ka swiyimo swa mbangu wa greenhouse swi ngetelele vhitamin E hi (35.1 mg 100 g-1 DW) loko swi kotlanisiwa na ku tirhiwa kun'wana. Ku tirhiwa ka mavala lama nga rivaleni eha CE g-1 DW) loko swi kotlanisiwa na ku tirhiwa kun'wana. Ku tirhana na nkayivela mati ka levhela ya le xikarhi na misava ya sava ya loam ehansi ka mbangu wa nete ya ndzhuti swi kombise ku ngeteleleka ka Zn content (12.7 μg g-1 DW) loko swi kotlanisiwa na ku tirhiwa kun'wana. Vuyelo byi kombisa leswaku ximila lexi xi na mihandzu ya khwaliti yo antswa hi ku landza ku hlengeletana ka tinutriyeente na tikhonstituwenti ta bayokhemikali, loko xi kurisiwa ehansi na ku ka ku nga ri na nkayivela mati kumbe ku kayivelanyana ka mati, hi ku tirhisa misava ya loam kumbe misava ya sava eka nete ya ndzhuti na le ka mavala ya le rivaleni.Ti-primary betabolites ti tlhela titiviwa tanihi biological compounds leti ti faneleke eka ku kula na ku hluvuka ka ximila hi nkarhi wa vutomi bya xona. Ti na vuyelo byo kongoma eka ntshovelo na tikhonsticuwenti ta bayokhemikala eka swimila. Vunyingi bya primary metabolites swi vekiwe hi ku tirhisa LC-MS-8040 triple quadrupole mass spectrometer (Shimadzu) eka mihandzu leyi nga ntshovelo wa ku tirhiwa kun'wana loku ku nga vuriwa laha henhla. Vuyelo byi kombe leswo ku tirhana na nkala nkayivelo wa mati, swi pfanganisiwa na misava ya loam ehansi ka mbangu wa nete ya ndzhuti, swi ngetelele swinene asparagine content from 10×106 to 80x106 nsi ka nkayivelo swinene wa mati na misava ya loam, swi ngetelele ti-total mz loko swi kotlangisiwa na ku tirhiwa kun'wana. Ku tirhana na nkayivelo wa mati swinene, swi pfanganisiwa na misava ya sava ya loam ehansi ka mbangu wa mavala lama pfulekeke hi nkarhi wa sizini ya 2017/2018, swi ngetelele swinene dopa content ku suka eka 12,030 to 324,240 peak intensity, kasi hi nkarhi wa sizini ya 2018/2019 season, 4-hydroxyproline ku 10×106 to 90x106 peak intensity swi ngeteleleke swinene. Ku tirhana ko fanana ehansi ka mbangu wa greenhouse, swi ngetelele swinene acetylcarnitine content ku suka eka 3,761 to 82,841 area under the curve hi nkarhi wa sizini ya 2018/2019. Ku tirhiwa ka ku nga ri na ku kayivela ka mati ka le xikarhi swi pfanganisiwa na misava ya loam ehansi ka mbangu wa mavala lama nga rivaleni swi ngetelele swinene norepinephrine content from 71,577 to 256,1045 peak intensity. Ndzavisiso wu pimanyete leswo mpfanganyiso wa ku tirhana na tilevhele ta ncheleteo wa mati (laha ku nga ri ku na ku kayivela ka mati na le ku nga na nkayivelo wa mati) na misava ya loam na misava ya sava ya loam) ehansi ka greenhouse na nete ya ndzhuti swi khumbe swinene ku xifta ka mihandzu ya primary metabolites profile of C. metuliferus E. Mey. ex naudin loko ku langutaniwa na tifekthara ha yin'we yin'we hi ku landzelelana.flavonoids content (0.85 mg CE g-1 DW) loko swi kotlanisiwa na ku tirhiwa kun'wana. Ku tirhana na nkayivela mati ka levhela ya le xikarhi na misava ya sava ya loam ehansi ka mbangu wa nete ya ndzhuti swi kombise ku ngeteleleka ka Zn content (12.7 μg g-1 DW) loko swi kotlanisiwa na ku tirhiwa kun'wana. Vuyelo byi kombisa leswaku ximila lexi xi na mihandzu ya khwaliti yo antswa hi ku landza ku hlengeletana ka tinutriyeente na tikhonstituwenti ta bayokhemikali, loko xi kurisiwa ehansi na ku ka ku nga ri na nkayivela mati kumbe ku kayivelanyana ka mati, hi ku tirhisa misava ya loam kumbe misava ya sava eka nete ya ndzhuti na le ka mavala ya le rivaleni.Ti-primary betabolites ti tlhela titiviwa tanihi biological compounds leti ti faneleke eka ku kula na ku hluvuka ka ximila hi nkarhi wa vutomi bya xona. Ti na vuyelo byo kongoma eka ntshovelo na tikhonsticuwenti ta bayokhemikala eka swimila. Vunyingi bya primary metabolites swi vekiwe hi ku tirhisa LC-MS-8040 triple quadrupole mass spectrometer (Shimadzu) eka mihandzu leyi nga ntshovelo wa ku tirhiwa kun'wana loku ku nga vuriwa laha henhla. Vuyelo byi kombe leswo ku tirhana na nkala nkayivelo wa mati, swi pfanganisiwa na misava ya loam ehansi ka mbangu wa nete ya ndzhuti, swi ngetelele swinene asparagine content from 10×106 to 80x106 mz loko swi kotlangisiwa na ku tirhiwa kun'wana. Ku tirhana na nkayivelo wa mati swinene, swi pfanganisiwa na misava ya sava ya loam ehansi ka mbangu wa mavala lama pfulekeke hi nkarhi wa sizini ya 2017/2018, swi ngetelele swinene dopa content ku suka eka 12,030 to 324,240 peak intensity, kasi hi nkarhi wa sizini ya 2018/2019 season, 4-hydroxyproline ku 10×106 to 90x106 peak intensity swi ngeteleleke swinene. Ku tirhana ko fanana ehansi ka mbangu wa greenhouse, swi ngetelele swinene acetylcarnitine content ku suka eka 3,761 to 82,841 area under the curve hi nkarhi wa sizini ya 2018/2019. Ku tirhiwa ka ku nga ri na ku kayivela ka mati ka le xikarhi swi pfanganisiwa na misava ya loam ehansi ka mbangu wa mavala lama nga rivaleni swi ngetelele swinene norepinephrine content from 71,577 to 256,1045 peak intensity. Ndzavisiso wu pimanyete leswo mpfanganyiso wa ku tirhana na tilevhele ta ncheleteo wa mati (laha ku nga ri ku na ku kayivela ka mati na le ku nga na nkayivelo wa mati) na misava ya loam na misava ya sava ya loam) ehansi ka greenhouse na nete ya ndzhuti swi khumbe swinene ku xifta ka mihandzu ya primary metabolites profile of C. metuliferus E. Mey. ex naudin loko ku langutaniwa na tifekthara ha yin'we yin'we hi ku landzelelana.
Thuto ye e dirilwe ka maikemišetšo a go nyakišiša tiragatšo le boleng bja Cucumis metuliferus E. Mey. Ex Naudin (phara ya seAfrika) mo tikologong yeo e šireleditšwego le ya mo lebaleng e le nepo ya go bapetša tshekatsheko ya kotollu le boleng go hola thekišo ya mabele. Maikemišetšo kakaretšo e le go humana tsela ya maleba ya go mediša C. Metuliferus dipakeng tša mokhukhutšhireletšo, nnete ya moriti le mo ditikologong tša mabala ao a bulegilego gore go nolofatšwe tshekatsheko. Go boima go mediša dipeu tša C. Metuliferus ka tlase ga maemo a tikologo ya maleba ya go tlwaelega yeo e šomišwago ke bontši bja balemi. Medišo ya dipeu e lekanyeditšwe go ya le ka sedirišwa sa go mediša dimela, go fala dipeu le go hlahlobo ya boleng bja dipeu. Dikokwana tše ke tšona di laolago kotollu le boleng bja dienywa. Nepokgolo ya thuto ye e be e le go nyakišiša khuetšo ya tlhahlobo ya polokego ya dipeu tše, sedirišwa sa go mediša dimela (mohlaba+vermiculite, peat TS1 le motswako wa dipeu) le phalo ya dipeu go kgonthišiša katlego ya go mela ga dipeu tša C. Metuliferus. Dipeu di ile tša arolwa go ya le ka magoro a mane, bjalo ka peu ya go okobatšwa ka dikhemikhale yeo e hlahlobilwego, peu yeo e sa okobatšwago gomme e hlahlobilwe, peu ya go okobatšwa e sa hlahlobjwago le peu yeo e sa okobatšwago gomme e se ya hlahlobjwa. Boraro bja didirišwa tše di laeditše katlego ya go mediša yeo e ka balelwago go 80%. Dipoelo di šupa gore dipeu tšeo di okobaditšwego di se a hlahlobjwa le tšeo di sa okobatšwago di hlahlobilwe di bile le katlego ya tlhogo yeo e ka balelwago go 93.6% le 91.3%. Tlhogo ya fase e bile go dipeu tšeo di okobaditšwego di sa hlahlobjwago ka poelo ya 37%. Dipeu tše di hlahlobilwego di laeditše botelele bja 12cm gomme e le bjona bja go di feta ka moka. Dipeu tšeo di sa falwago le go hlahlobjwa di bile le botelele bja fase bja go balelwa go 3.44 cm ka dibeke tše nne. Bjalo, tlhahlobo ya dipeu e tlišitše katlego go fetiša phalo. Ka ge mudu wa dipeu o le bohlokwa go tšhutišetšo ya maphelo a dimela, thuto ye e thekga mmutedi le tlhahlobo ya dipeu bjalo ka tlhakanyo ya go mediša dimela tša boleng bja maleba. Tlhokego ya meetse, go oketšega ga baagi, le diphetogo tša klaemete ke tšona dikokwana tše di amago tšwelelo go tša temo nakong ya bjale. C. Metuliferus E. Mey. ex naudin e mela ka lešokeng tlhagong ya yona; efela, kotullo ya yona go tlhokego ya meetse, go mehuta ya mašemo le mehuta ya mabu ga se e ahlaahlwe. Thuto e ile ya dirwa go humana mokgwa wa go bjala/mediša dimela dipakeng tša mokhukhutšhireletšo, nnete ya moriti le boemo bja lebala le le bulegilego, gore go tle go tšweletšwe tshekatsheko yeo e laetšago diphapano tša mabato a puno. Nyakišišo ye e diritšwe ka fase ga maemo a mokhukhutšhireletšo, nnete ya moriti le lebaleng le le bulegilego Yunibesithing ya Afrika Borwa (UNISA) Khamphasing ya tša Saense, go la Florida, Gauteng (-26.157831 S, 27.903364 E) ka nako ya sehla sa 2017/2018 le 2018/2019 ka dinako tša go mela. Teko ye e ithekgile godimo ga dikokwana tše pedi – mabu (monola le mohlaba) le mabato a taolo ya go nošetša (tlhokego ya meetse ya lebato la fase, tlhokego ya meetse ye e lekanetšego le tlhokego ya meetse ya lebato la godimo). Diteko di be di beilwe ka mokgwa wo o sa rulaganywago gomme teko ye nngwe le ye nngwe e boeleditšwe ga senyane (9) bjalo ka ge e laeditšwe godimo. Dipharametha tšeo di lekantšwego di akaretša dikagare tša chlorophyll, stomatal conductance le bjalo ka tšhomišo ya meetse, palomoka ya dimela, dimela tše di bonagalago ka godimo, lenaneo la puno, botelele bja enywa, palo ya enywa le tšhomišo ya meetse ke dimela. Dipoelo di tšweletša gore teko ya mo lebaleng le le bulegilego le meetse a a lekanetšego gammogo le monola di oketša palo ya dienywa. Teko ya mo lebaleng le le bulegilego go kopantšhwa le meetse ao a lekanetšego le monola, di laeditše tšhomišo ya meetse yeo e balelwago go (6.2 kg m-3) ge go bapetšwa le diteko tše di ngwe. Go bohlokwa go lemoga gore ga ga go na diphapano magareng ga mohlaba le monola tšhomišong ya meetse (WUE). Efela, mohlaba o laeditše (WUE) ya godimo ge go bapetšwa le monola. Se se bolela gore, go ka tšewa sephetho sa gore teko ya dipeu lebaleng le le bulegilego, taolo ya go nošetša dimela (ye gabotse le ye e lekanetšego) le mohlaba ke didirišwa tšeo go eletšwago balemi gore ba di šomiše go humana (WUE) ya godimo le tšweletšo ye e atlegilego ya C. metuliferus. Bontši bja phepo mo mabeleng bo hlohleletšwa ke dikokwana tša go swana le meetse, tikologo ya mo a melago gona, dihlase tša letšatši le mehuta ya mabu. Efela, dikokwana tše di huetšago bontši bja diphepo go dienywa tša C. metuliferus ga dišo di tsebjwa. Nepo ya thuto ye e be e le go nyakolla khuetšo yeo dikokwana tše di latelago; di nago le yona go bontši bja diphepo go enywa ya C. Metuliferus: mabato a meetse (tlhokego ya meetse ya lebato la fase, tlhokego ya meetse ye e lekanetšego le tlhokego ya godimo ya meetse), mehuta ya mabu (monola le mohlaba) le tikologo ya go mediša (mokhukhutšhireletšo, nnete ya moriti le lebala le le bulegilego). Diteko tša enywa yeo e omišitšwego ka setšidifatšing e ile ya šomišwa go tšweletša boleng bja ꞵ-carotene, vitamin C, vitamin E, total soluble sugars, crude proteins, total flavonoids, total phenols, le micro-nutrients (Cu, Fe, Mn le Zn). Dipoelo di šupa gore dimela tše di godišitšwego ka fase ga nnete ya moriti, go akaretša le tlhokego ya meetse ya godimo le monola di nyološitše diswikiri tše di humanegago mo dimeleng (15.8 ˚Brix) ge go bapetšwa le diteko tše dingwe. Dimela tikologong ya nnete ya moriti go akaretša le tlhokego ya meetse ye e lekanetšego le monola di ile tša nyološa phroteine (6.31 ˚Brix). Teko go tlhokego ya meetse ya godimo go akaretša le monola ka tlase ga boemo bja mokhukhutšhireletšo go nyološitše diteng tša ꞵ-carotene (1.65 mg 100 g-1 DW) ge e bapetšwa le diteko tše dingwe. Teko go tlhokego ya meetse go akaretša monola ka fase ga nnete ya moriti go nyološitše Vitamin C (33.1 mg100 g-1 DW). Teko go hlokego ya meetse ya godimo go akaretša mohlaba tikologong ya mokhukhutšhireletši go nyološitše diteng tša vitamin E (35.1 mg/100 g-1 DW) ge e bapetšwa le diteko tše dingwe. Teko ya go se hlokege ga meetse, go akaretša le monola tikologong ya lebala le le bulegilego e nyološitše palomoka ya diteng tša phenolic (6.4 mg GAE/g-1 DW) ge e bapetšwa le diteko tše dingwe. Teko lebala le le bulegilego ka fase ga hlokego ya meetse ye godimo go akaretša monola go okeditše diteng tša flavonoids (0.85 mg CE g-1 DW) mo dienyweng tša gona ge e bapetšwa le diteko tše dingwe. Teko go hlokego ya meetse ye e lekanetšego le mohlaba ka fase ga nnete ya moriti di laeditše go oketšega ga diteng tša Zn (12.7 μg g-1 DW) ge e bapetšwa le diteko tše dingwe. Dipoelo di laetša gore semela se se thunya boleng bjo bo kgodišago bja dienywa ge go lebeletšwe bontši bja diphepo le dikokwana tša dikhemikhale ge di medišwa mo go sa hlokegago meetse go yela go mo go hlokegago meetse ka go lekanela, go šomišitšwe monola goba mohlaba mo nneteng ya moriti le mo lebaleng le le bulegilego. Dimetabolite tša motheo di tsebjwa bjalo ka motswako wa tlhago wo o lego bohlokwa go kgolo le tlhabollo ya dimela maphelong a tšona. Di na le khuetšothwii go dikokwana tša puno le khemikhale ya hlago ya dimela. Bontši bja dimetabolites tša motheo di humanwe ka go šomiša LC-MS-8040 triple quadrupole mass spectrometer (Shimadzu) ya go tšwa dienyweng tšeo di bunnwego ditekong tše di šetšego di boletšwe. Dipoelo di laeditše gore teko ya hlokego ya meetse ya lebato la fase go akaretša le mohlaba tikologong ya nnete ya moriti; e nyološitše asparagine content go tloga go 10×106 go ya go 80x106 peak intensity ge e bapetšwa le diteko tše dingwe. Tlhokego ya meetse ya lebato la fase e akaretša le monola tikologong ya lebala le le bulegilego ka nako ya sehla sa 2017/2018, 4-hydroxyproline go tšwa go 10×106 go ya go 90x106 area under curve e ile ya nyušwa. Teko ya go swana le ye tikologong ya mokhukhutšhireletšo e ile ya oketša dikagare tša acetylcarnitine go tšwa go 3,761 go ya go 82, 841 peak intensity ka nako ya sehla sa 2018/2019. Teko go tlhokego ya meetse ye e lekanetšego go akaretšwa le monola tikologong ya lebala le le bulegilego e nyološitše dikagare tša norepinephrine go tloga go 71,577 go ya go 256,1045 peak intensity. Diteko di šupa gore ge go kopantšwe taolo ya mabato a go nušetša (tlhokego ya meetse ya lebato la fase le tlhokego ya meetse ya lebato la godimo) le (monola le mohlaba) ka fase ga boemo bja mokhukhutšhireletšo le nnete ya moriti go ile gwa ama katološo ya dimetabolites tša motheo tša enywa ya C. metuliferus ge di bapetšwa le kokwana ye nngwe le nngwe.
College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences
Ph. D. (Agriculture)

Nutrition of both professional and occasional climbers in high altitude is often discussed topic in sports nutrition. Specially with latest studies showing connection between poor nutrition and high altitude sickness development. Dehydration in particular has a huge effect on the body at these altitudes and can be responsible for many of the symptoms previously attributed to hypoxia. The research was focused on the theoretical part, in which basic issue of nutrition and hydration are shown, as well as the acute issues that climbers may have experience on their journey to high altitude. The practical part was evaluated by a quantitative approach with the help of a questionnaire survey and its evaluation. The questionnaire was anonymous, nonstandardized with open and closed questions. A total of 68 respondents participated in the research. The results of the investigation are evaluated and discussed in the final parts of the thesis. The main objective of the thesis was focused on the dietary habits of respondents during their stay in high altitude, their awareness of the risks resulting from poor nutrition and dehydration and assess how much care respondents take about nutrition and hydration during their travels. Four hypotheses were set for the thesis. Key words: Nutrition; hydratation; acute...

Objectif. Décrire les attitudes et habitudes de Canadiens relativement à la préparation des aliments à la maison et au repas familial, afin de saisir les motivations à exploiter lors de la promotion de ces habitudes. Méthodes. Un sondage électronique de 39 questions à choix multiples a été placé sur le site des Diététistes du Canada du 16 novembre au 22 décembre 2006. Les énoncés analysés abordent la perception des bénéfices associés à la cuisine maison, à la planification des soupers et au repas familial, les obstacles à cuisiner, le temps de préparation et la planification des soupers, l’apprentissage de la cuisine, les sources d’idées recettes et la consommation des repas familiaux. Résultats. Au total, 4080 individus ont complété le questionnaire. Bien qu’ils croient que la cuisine maison puisse améliorer la qualité de l’alimentation et les comportements alimentaires, les répondants rencontrent plusieurs obstacles à la préparation des aliments au quotidien, parmi lesquels le manque de temps, d’énergie, d’idées et de planification. Bien qu’une majorité de Canadiens soupent en famille, il existe des écarts selon les groupes d’âge et les régions canadiennes. Conclusion. Cette étude souligne la pertinence d’élaborer des stratégies de communication pour informer les consommateurs sur les bénéfices de la cuisine maison et du repas en famille, afin de les aider à surmonter les défis associés à ces habitudes. Si les nutritionnistes sont des intervenants de choix, des collaborations interdisciplinaires sont proposées pour promouvoir une cuisine maison saine, bien planifiée, simplifiée et savourée en famille.
Objective. To describe Canadians' attitudes and habits with regard to home food preparation for family meals in order to seize the motivations to be exploited during the promotion of these habits. Methods. An electronic poll of 39 multiple-choice questions was posted on the Dieticians of Canada's website from November 16th till December 22nd, 2006. The analyzed statements cover the perception of the benefits associated with home cooking, supper planning and family meals, the barriers to cooking, the preparation time and supper planning, the development of cooking skills, sources of recipes ideas and consumption of family meals. Results. A total of 4080 individuals completed the questionnaire. Although they believe that home cooking can improve the food quality and eating habits, the participants meet several barriers to food preparation in everyday life, among which the lack of time, energy, ideas and planning. Although a majority of Canadians have family suppers, there are gaps according to age groups and Canadian regions. Conclusion. This study highlights the relevance of elaborating communications strategies to inform consumers of the benefits of home cooking and family meals in order to help them to deal with the challenges associated with these habits. If nutritionists are the best interveners, interdisciplinary collaborations are proposed to promote a healthy, well planned home cooking enjoyed with the family.