EAJ - TCC - Zootecnia

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  • Bachelor Thesis
    Análise sensorial e econômica de bebida láctea caprina saborizada com frutas regionais com adição de óleo essencial de cravo-da-índia
    (Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte, 2026-06-08) Lima, Isis Karoline da Silva; Lima Júnior, Valdi de; http://lattes.cnpq.br/1848264490717773; Lima Júnior, Valdi de; http://lattes.cnpq.br/1848264490717773; Santoro, Giovanna Almeida; http://lattes.cnpq.br/1921953377145496; Borba, Luis Henrique Fernandes; http://lattes.cnpq.br/9170284877246032
    Dairy goat farming has great economic importance for Northeastern Brazil, standing out due to the animals’ adaptation to semiarid regions and the production of milk with high nutritional value. In this context, the use of whey from cheese production represents a sustainable alternative for the development of dairy beverages. This study aimed to evaluate the sensory characteristics and economic viability of dairy beverages produced from goat milk whey, with the addition of clove essential oil and flavored with regional fruits. The experiment was conducted at the Specialized Academic Unit in Agricultural Sciences of the Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, using formulations flavored with mangaba, umbu, and jambo. The beverages were subjected to sensory analysis through affective tests and purchase intention tests using a nine-point hedonic scale. The attributes evaluated were appearance, color, aroma, flavor, consistency, and overall impression. The results showed that the addition of clove essential oil did not present a significant difference in the sensory perception of the evaluators, possibly due to the low concentration used in the formulations. Among the analyzed formulations, the mangaba-flavored beverage presented the best sensory acceptance and purchase intention indexes, especially regarding aroma, flavor, and overall impression. In the economic analysis, the beverage produced with jambo pulp showed the lowest production cost, while the mangaba and umbu formulations presented higher costs due to the higher commercial value of the pulps used. However, the mangaba-flavored beverage demonstrated greater commercialization potential because of its high consumer acceptance. It is concluded that the use of goat milk whey associated with regional fruit flavoring and the addition of clove essential oil presents technological, economic, and sensory potential for the development of dairy beverages intended for the consumer market.
  • Bachelor Thesis
    Indicadores de qualidade do leite e estimativa de perdas econômicas associadas à CCS em tanques de expansão em propriedades no Rio Grande do Norte
    (Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte, 2025-11-14) Silva, Gabriele Cordeiro da; Rangel, Adriano Henrique do Nascimento; http://lattes.cnpq.br/9757343999118047; Araújo, Emmanuella de Oliveira; http://lattes.cnpq.br/8520333645309630; Lucena, Luis Medeiros de; http://lattes.cnpq.br/9783216947758976
  • Bachelor Thesis
    Análise da comercialização e do consumo de ovos no município de Bom Jesus/ RN
    (Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte, 2026-06-08) Santos, Jaynne Ferreira dos; Souza, Janete Gouveia de; http://lattes.cnpq.br/5438055535443147; Mattos, Karen Maria da Costa; http://lattes.cnpq.br/1472485197753395; Andrade, Mayara Pereira de; http://lattes.cnpq.br/6275227459569191
    Egg production has shown continuous growth in Brazil, driven by technological advances in poultry farming, especially in the areas of feed, health, and genetic improvement of birds, as well as the growing demand for nutritious and affordable food. Besides its high nutritional value, the egg stands out as an important source of low-cost protein, contributing to its wide acceptance among consumers. This study aimed to characterize the marketing and consumption of eggs in the city of Bom Jesus/RN. The research was conducted between September and October 2025, characterized as a field study with a descriptive nature and a quantitative approach. To assess marketing, semi-structured questionnaires were applied in 18 commercial establishments in the municipality, including supermarkets, small grocery stores, bakeries, and their own farms. Additionally, 64 questionnaires were applied to consumers in order to identify aspects related to consumption frequency, place of purchase, preferences, and perceptions about the product. The results showed a predominance of conventional egg marketing, especially white eggs, with supermarkets having the largest share of sales volume. A high frequency of consumption among respondents was observed, showing that eggs are a food widely present in the local population’s diet, mainly due to their nutritional value and eating habits. It was also found that consumers show concern about the origin of the product, although there are still some misconceptions about the use of hormones and antibiotics in poultry production.
  • Bachelor Thesis
    Comparação entre a termografia infravermelha digital e a temperatura retal na avaliação da temperatura corporal de suínos
    (Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte, 2026-06-08) Santos Filho, Genilson Costa dos; Moreira, José Aparecido; http://lattes.cnpq.br/4985246420488435; Cavalcanti, Jorge dos Santos; http://lattes.cnpq.br/2399507418758066; Lopes, Marcely Barros; http://lattes.cnpq.br/3021060021187689
    Modern swine production has increasingly adopted technologies focused on physiological monitoring and animal welfare, particularly within intensive farming systems. In this context, assessing body temperature serves as a crucial physiological indicator, enabling the identification of changes linked to heat stress, health status, and production performance. Traditionally, rectal temperature is regarded as the gold standard for measuring core body temperature. However, the need for physical restraint and the invasive nature of this technique have spurred research into digital infrared thermography—a technology that captures thermal radiation emitted from the body's surface. Consequently, this study aimed to compare digital infrared thermography with rectal temperature for assessing swine body temperature, based on existing scientific literature. This integrative literature review involved searches across PubMed, Scopus, ScienceDirect, Web of Science, SciELO, and Google Scholar, covering studies published between 2022 and 2026 in Portuguese, English, and Spanish. Following the application of inclusion and exclusion criteria, the final sample consisted of 10 scientific studies. The results demonstrated that digital infrared thermography holds potential as a complementary tool for thermal monitoring in pigs, offering a less invasive assessment method compatible with modern animal production systems. Anatomical regions such as the ear surface, ear base, periocular area, and snout emerged as key thermal windows for physiological monitoring. However, environmental and methodological factors— including ambient temperature, relative humidity, ventilation, and camera distance and angle—influence the reliability of thermal images, highlighting the need for standardized assessment protocols. Furthermore, recent studies indicate the potential of integrating infrared thermography, artificial intelligence, and automated monitoring systems within precision swine farming. It is concluded that digital infrared thermography is a promising tool complementary to rectal temperature for the thermal assessment of pigs, although its application under commercial conditions depends on methodological standardization and advancements in automated monitoring technologies.
  • Bachelor Thesis
    Desenvolvimento de revestimentos naturais à base de ceras e óleos essenciais para conservação pós-colheita de ovos
    (Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte, 2026-06-03) Melo, Érica Rayane Feliciano de; Souza, Janete Gouveia de; Lima, Adiel Vieira de; http://lattes.cnpq.br/3278533468345906; http://lattes.cnpq.br/5438055535443147; Souza, Janete Gouveia de; http://lattes.cnpq.br/5438055535443147; Lima, Adiel Vieira de; http://lattes.cnpq.br/3278533468345906; Barros Junior, Romilton Ferreira de; http://lattes.cnpq.br/4322570815106008
    This study aimed to develop and evaluate the efficiency of different bioactive coating formulations applied to the shells of commercial eggs, aiming to increase shelf life and preserve internal quality during storage at room temperature. The research was conducted at the Poultry Research Center (NUPAVI/UFRN/Macaíba), using 175 Nick Chick eggs distributed in a completely randomized design, in a 7x3 factorial scheme. The seven treatments evaluated were: no coating (SR), base with added rosemary oil (BOA), base with added coconut oil (BOC), nanostructured pyroligneous extract (NANO), pyroligneous extract (PIRO), base with added nanostructured pyroligneous extract (BNANO), and base with added pyroligneous extract (BPIRO). The BOA, BOC, BNANO, and BPIRO treatments were formulated from a base composed of a corn starch, glycerin, and surfactant emulsion, obtained through thermal gelatinization under constant heating and agitation. It is noteworthy that the NANO and PIRO groups were not incorporated into the aforementioned starch emulsion, being applied directly to the eggshells. With the exception of the control group (SR), which received no coating, all other treatments were applied manually using individual brushes. The eggs were stored for 28 days and evaluated at 0, 14, and 28 days for weight, density, shell thickness and percentage, Haugh Unit (HU), yolk index and percentage, albumen percentage, and pH. The results indicated that time was a determining factor in the loss of physical quality of the eggs. Regarding efficiency, the treatments based on added coconut oil (BOC) and rosemary oil (BOA) stood out in the preservation of internal quality and maintenance of freshness during the storage period. Additionally, the formulations with pyroligneous extract and nanostructured pyroligneous extract demonstrated differentiated protective potential among the quality parameters evaluated, and further research is recommended to improve the concentrations of these active ingredients incorporated into the polymeric matrix for egg preservation. Although the treatments showed varied responses according to the parameter evaluated, all coatings assisted in the post-harvest conservation of eggs stored for 28 days at room temperature.
  • Bachelor Thesis
    Efeito de diferentes palatabilizantes sobre desempenho produtivo de cordeiros Santa Inês submetidos ao creep feeding
    (Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte, 2026-06-29) Rodrigues, Fernanda Larissa Ferreira; Profa. Dra. Stela Antas Urbano; http://lattes.cnpq.br/4735195863891753; Santos, Natanahel Victor Fernandes dos; http://lattes.cnpq.br/8350042885490741; Silva, Yasmin dos Santos
    Creep feeding is a nutritional strategy used in sheep farming to stimulate early solid feed intake and promote lamb development during the suckling phase. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of using sugarcane molasses and wheat bran as palatability enhancers on the productive performance of Santa Inês lambs. Eighty-six lambs were randomly assigned to a completely randomized design in a 2x2 factorial arrangement (two palatability enhancers and two sexes). Concentrate intake, body weight, average daily gain, and total weight gain were evaluated during the pre-weaning phase. A progressive increase in concentrate intake was observed in both treatments, demonstrating the animals' gradual adaptation to solid feed consumption. Lambs fed the diet containing sugarcane molasses showed higher concentrate intake during the initial and middle thirds of the experimental period, indicating greater acceptance of the concentrate during the early stages of life. In the final third, intake was similar between treatments, with a slight advantage for wheat bran. However, no significant differences were found between treatments regarding body weight, total weight gain, or overall average daily gain; a difference was observed only during the 70-to-84-day age interval, with higher average daily gain for lambs fed wheat bran. It is concluded that both palatability enhancers are viable alternatives for use in creep feeding diets, facilitating adaptation to solid feed consumption without compromising lamb productive performance.
  • Bachelor Thesis
    Divulgação científica em zootecnia: análise da primeira edição da Revista Zootecnia Plural e desenvolvimento de nova edição
    (Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte, 2026-06-08) COSTA, Nathalia Pricila Machado de Sousa; Santos, Viviany Lúcia Fernandes dos; http://lattes.cnpq.br/6012727206730629; http://lattes.cnpq.br/4087465860700380; Santos, Viviany Lúcia Fernandes dos; http://lattes.cnpq.br/6012727206730629; Lima Júnior, Valdi de; http://lattes.cnpq.br/1848264490717773; Pimentel, Eliade; http://lattes.cnpq.br/8570736204523020
    Scientific production plays a fundamental role in social and technological development, yet it still faces challenges regarding its accessibility to non-specialized audiences. In this context, science popularization becomes an essential strategy to bring academic knowledge closer to society, especially in the field of Agricultural Sciences. The present study aims to evaluate the first edition of the magazine Revista Zootecnia Plural and develop its second edition as an instrument for science popularization and university extension. This is a descriptive study with a qualitative approach, developed in two stages: a documentary analysis of the first edition of the magazine and the production of the second edition. The analysis considered the structural, communicational, and editorial aspects of the publication. The results indicate the coexistence of different scientific communication and popularization strategies in the first edition, with a predominance of elements using technical-scientific language, despite the presence of sections aimed at contextualization and university extension. The second edition presented improvements in editorial strategies, featuring greater contextualization of the content and the valorization of narratives. It was concluded that the first edition of the Revista Zootecnia Plural constitutes a science popularization product of a hybrid nature, with a predominance of technical-scientific communication, contributing to the mediation and circulation of scientific knowledge.
  • Bachelor Thesis
    Elaboração e composição físico-química de bebidas lácteas com leite caprino saborizadas com frutas regionais e adição de óleo essencial de cravo-da-índia
    (Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte, 2026-06-03) Nascimento, João Macêdo do; Lima Júnior, Valdi de; https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6488-6141; http://lattes.cnpq.br/1848264490717773; Santos, Viviany Lúcia Fernandes dos; https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9133-8378; Gonçalves, Juliete de Lima; http://lattes.cnpq.br/5749606169407857
    This study aimed to evaluate the production and physicochemical composition of dairy beverages made with goat's milk and whey, flavored with regional fruits (umbu, red jambu, and mangaba) and with added clove essential oil. Initially, goat's rennet cheese was produced to obtain whey, which was used at a concentration of 30% in the beverage formulations. The beverages were made from goat's milk, whey, sugar, stabilizer, and lactic cultures (Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus and Streptococcus thermophilus), with the fruit pulps and clove essential oil subsequently added. After processing and fermentation, the formulations were subjected to physicochemical analyses of moisture, ash, acidity, pH, lactose, protein, lipids, syneresis, total carbohydrates, and reducing carbohydrates. The experimental design was completely randomized, with six treatments and three replications, and the results were analyzed by analysis of variance and Tukey's test at 5% probability. The results demonstrated that the physicochemical characteristics of the goat milk beverages were influenced by the type of fruit and the addition of clove essential oil. The formulation made with umbu stood out for its lower pH and lactose values, higher acidity, and high physical stability, evidenced by low syneresis indices. Beverages with jambu showed higher levels of carbohydrates and reduced sugars, while those with mangaba stood out for their higher fat content. It is concluded that the umbu-based beverage with added essential oil presented the most balanced set of physicochemical characteristics and technological potential for industrial application.
  • Bachelor Thesis
    Bioeconomicidade da atividade reprodutiva de novilhas de corte submetidas à IATF aos 14 meses de idade
    (Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte, 2026-06-05) Rocha, Pedro Tainã Justiniano; Urbano, Stela Antas; 0000-0002-0033-3601; http://lattes.cnpq.br/4735195863891753; http://lattes.cnpq.br/9860432342298062; Araújo, Yuri Carlos Medeiros de; http://lattes.cnpq.br/2715394079191455; Silva, Yasmin dos Santos; https://lattes.cnpq.br/0582859610424848
    The objective of this study was to evaluate early-maturing heifers subjected to Fixed-Time Artificial Insemination (FTAI). The study was conducted on a farm located in the municipality of Taipu, Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil, using 73 Nellore heifers with an average initial age of 14 months and an average initial body weight of 313 kg. The heifers were subjected to up to three FTAI attempts, referred to as synchronization, resynchronization, and trisynchronization. The hormonal protocol was employed to increase conception rates and accelerate the entry of the females into their reproductive life. Based on the data obtained, a cost analysis was performed considering expenses related to hormonal protocols, reproductive vaccination, and specialized labor, thereby enabling the evaluation of the bioeconomic feasibility of using early-maturing heifers in beef cattle production systems.
  • Bachelor Thesis
    Indicadores de qualidade do leite e estimativa de perdas econômicas associadas à CCS em tanques de expansão em propriedades no Rio Grande do Norte
    (Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte, 2025-11-14) Silva, Gabriele Cordeiro da; Rangel, Adriano Henrique do Nascimento; Araújo, Emmanuella de Oliveira; Lucena, Luis Medeiros de
    Milk is a food of high nutritional and economic importance, whose quality depends on microbiological and physicochemical factors. This study aimed to evaluate the composition parameters, somatic cell count (SCC), and total bacterial count (TBC) in raw refrigerated milk samples collected from bulk tanks in dairy farms located in the Agreste Potiguar region, Rio Grande do Norte, as well as to estimate productive losses associated with SCC. The analyses were carried out at the Milk Quality Laboratory (LABOLEITE/UFRN) using data provided by Comercial de Laticínios LTDA (CLAN). Twelve farms were evaluated between July 2024 and May 2025, following the criteria established by Normative Instruction No. 76/2018. Most samples presented composition within legal standards; however, six tanks showed SCC values above the limit of 500,000 cells/mL, and five presented TBC values exceeding 300,000 CFU/mL. Productive losses were estimated using a linear model adapted from Seegers et al. (1998), resulting in reductions of up to 32% on farms with higher SCC values. The study concluded that elevated SCC levels are a key factor in decreasing milk productivity and quality, underscoring the importance of continuous monitoring and the adoption of good hygiene and management practices in dairy farming in the Agreste Potiguar region.
  • Bachelor Thesis
    Influência de índices climáticos na prevalência de nematódeos gastrintestinais de ovinos
    (Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte, 2025-11-18) Andrade, Mayara Pereira de; Marques, Carlo Aldrovandi Torreão; Borba, Luis Henrique Fernandes; Torreão, Jacira Neves da Costa
    Gastrointestinal parasitoses represent significant losses in sheep production, especially in northeastern Brazil, a region characterized by a hot and humid climate, causing economic losses due to reduced productive and reproductive performance of the animals. As the northeastern climate is favorable for the development of third-stage larvae (L3), this study aimed to evaluate the influence of climatic indices such as rainfall, air temperature, soil temperature, and relative humidity on the prevalence of gastrointestinal nematodes in sheep raised in the municipality of Macaíba, RN. The study was conducted using data obtained through quantitative and semiological coprological diagnostic methods from the Animal Parasitology Laboratory (LAPAN) of the Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte (UFRN), referring to the herd of the Small Ruminant Teaching and Research Sector (SEPER), during the period from January to June 2024. The FAMACHA© and modified McMaster methods were used to assess the parasitic load of the animals. Climatic parameters showed average temperatures around 25 °C and humidity above 70%, conditions favorable for the survival and development of infective larvae, as described in the literature. The results showed that the EPG values remained stable in the first months, increasing in March, coinciding with the beginning of the rainy season and higher humidity. In April, a significant reduction was observd related to the decrease in precipitacion and animal deworming. The FAMACHA© score varied slightly between 2 and 3, indicating mild anemia. It is concluded that climatic factors directly influence the parasitic dynamics in sheep in the studied region, highlighting the importance of climatic monitoring for the strategic control of gastrointestinal helminth.
  • Bachelor Thesis
    Parâmetros fisiológicos e comportamentais de marrãs suínas submetidas a diferentes estímulos reprodutivos e seu impacto no período do intervalo entre cios
    (Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte, 2025-11-19) Morais, Rayane Fernandes Sousa de; Moreira, José Aparecido; Lopes, Gabriela Mafra Dantas; Lopes, Marcely Barros
    Reproductive efficiency is a key factor for performance and sustainability in modern swine production. Traditionally, reproductive stimulation in females is performed through boar exposure, a practice that requires intensive management and presents sanitary risks. Considering the need for safe and operational alternatives, this study evaluated the feasibility of replacing the natural stimulus with mechanical clitoral stimulation in female pigs, analyzing its effects on the estrus interval (EI) and on physiological and behavioral responses. Eight F1 females (Landrace × Large White) were used, distributed into two groups (n=4): Natural (boar exposure) and Mechanical (clitoral vibrator). Body temperatures (measured by infrared thermography and digital thermometer), heart rate (HR), respiratory rate (RR), and behaviors indicative of sexual receptivity were evaluated. Both stimuli promoted increases in physiological parameters within normal limits, without signs of aversion to the applied methods. Mechanical stimulation significantly reduced the EI by approximately three days (18 vs. 21; P<0.05) and resulted in a higher frequency of sexual receptivity behaviors (rhythmic lordosis and intense perianal contraction), indicating good acceptance and preservation of animal welfare. Mechanical clitoral stimulation is therefore an effective, safe, and operationally feasible alternative to replace the boar in the reproductive management of female pigs, contributing to greater reproductive and productive efficiency.
  • Bachelor Thesis
    Potencial fitoterápico do mastruz (Chenopodium ambrosioides) no tratamento de helmintoses gastrointestinais em pequenos ruminantes.
    (Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte, 2025-11-17) Oliveira, Sara dos Santos de; Costa, Marcone Geraldo; Santos, Viviany Lúcia Fernandes dos; Silva, Maria Santana da
    Gastrointestinal helminthiasis is one of the main health challenges in small ruminant production, with Haemonchus contortus being the most prevalent nematode and responsible for signicant productive losses. The continuous use of synthetic anthelmintics has promoted parasite resistance, encouraging the search for natural and sustainable alternatives, such as medicinal plants with antiparasitic potential. Among these, Dysphania ambrosioides, popularly known as mastruz or wormseed, contains bioactive compounds such as ascaridole, recognized for its anthelmintic action. This study aimed to evaluate the pharmacological and anthelmintic activity of the hydroethanolic extract of D. ambrosioides. The research was conducted in two experimental stages: (1) evaluation of the extract’s effect on isolated mouse jejunum contractions using the isolated organ bath technique; and (2) egg hatch test to investigate ovicidal activity against H. contortus eggs. In the pharmacological tests, the extract did not produce significant changes in intestinal contractions induced by carbachol, indicating no antispasmodic effect under the tested conditions. In contrast, the anthelmintic assays demonstrated a significant reduction in egg hatching, particularly at the concentration of 0.5 mg/mL, with an effect comparable to ivermectin. These results suggest that D. ambrosioides contains compounds capable of interfering with nematode development, representing a promising alternative for controlling helminthiasis in small ruminants. However, further studies are needed to isolate the active principles and confirm the in vivo efficacy and safety of mastruz as a natural vermifuge.
  • Bachelor Thesis
    Avaliação in vitro de extrato de própolis verde na inibição da taxa de eclodibilidade de ovos de parasitas gastrointestinais em ovinos
    (Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte, 2025-11-14) Lima, Lilia Pinheiro de; Costa, Marcone Geraldo; Santos, Viviany Lúcia dos; Silva, Maria Santana da
    Sheep farming is of great economic importance in Brazil, especially in the Northeast, where it stands out for the hardiness and adaptation of the flocks to local conditions. However, gastrointestinal endoparasitosis compromises the productive performance and health of the animals, and is aggravated by the indiscriminate use of synthetic anthelmintics and increased parasite resistance. In this context, green propolis, produced by bees (Apis mellifera L.) from Baccharis dracunculifolia, emerges as a natural alternative with antimicrobial and antiparasitic properties. This study evaluated the effect of the hydroalcoholic extract of green propolis on the hatchability of Haemanchus contortus eggs in sheep. The experiment was conducted at the Jundiaí Agricultural School (EAJ) and the Drug Mode of Action Laboratory (LABMAD). The extract was obtained and tested in vitro using isolated organ bath assays to evaluate possible effects on small intestine contraction, and by the egg hatching test (EHT) to determine its ovicidal activity. The results demonstrated that the extract did not alter intestinal contraction, indicating an absence of adverse effects on the tissue. In the hatching test, a significant reduction in the hatching rate of H. contortus eggs was observed at concentrations of 0.01 and 0.025 mg/mL. It is concluded that green propolis presents promising antiparasitic potential and may represent a natural alternative in the control of endoparasitosis in sheep farming.
  • Bachelor Thesis
    Biodigestor sertanejo como tecnologia de extensão rural sustentável: perfil socioeconômico e perspectiva das famílias beneficiadas
    (Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte, 2025-11-17) Soares, Paulo Gabriel Moreira; Torreão, Carlo Aldrovandi; Chianca, Cibele Gouveia Costa; https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5630-2268; Mattos, Karen Maria da Costa
    Rural extension and technical assistance represent fundamental strategies for promoting sustainable development, integrating technical, social, and environmental aspects within the university triad (teaching, research, and extension), enabling the transposition of theoretical knowledge into practice. This study evaluated the socioeconomic profile and the degree of satisfaction with adapted biodigesters in rural communities of the semi-arid region of Rio Grande do Norte, through the monitoring of 48 families over 24 months. The results demonstrated high social acceptance: 63% approval for biogas (40% completely satisfied + 23% satisfied) and 56% for biofertilizer (27% completely satisfied + 29% satisfied). Regarding financial impacts, 58% of users approved of biogas (31% completely satisfied + 27% satisfied) and 44% approved of biofertilizer (21% completely satisfied + 23% satisfied). The overall evaluation of the technology was positive in 69% of cases. It is concluded that the rural biodigester constitutes a suitable rural technology for the reality of the families involved, reinforcing the role of university extension as a mediator between scientific knowledge and local knowledge. The data obtained demonstrate the potential of these systems to combat desertification and improve quality of life, highlighting socio-technical adaptation and continuous monitoring as determining factors for the success of sustainable interventions.
  • Bachelor Thesis
    Desempenho reprodutivo e econômico de novilhas superprecoces, precoces e tradicionais submetidas à IATF na bovinocultura de corte
    (Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte, 0013-11-25) Peixoto, Maria Cecilia Morais; Urbano, Stela Antas; Karvatte Junior, Nivaldo; 7222341736252165; http://lattes.cnpq.br/7222341736252165; Lima, José Sidnei Bezerra; 7210098445340397; http://lattes.cnpq.br/7210098445340397; 4735195863891753; http://lattes.cnpq.br/4735195863891753; 3456573351815464; http://lattes.cnpq.br/3456573351815464; 4735195863891753; 7222341736252165; 7210098445340397
    The objective of this study was to evaluate the reproductive performance and economic viability of super-early, early, and traditional beef heifers subjected to fixed-time artificial insemination (FTAI). The study was conducted on two farms, one located in the municipality of Cajazeiras/RN and the other in Serrinha/RN, using 207 females distributed into three productive categories: super-early (n = 60), early (n = 28), and traditional (n = 119). The categories were defined according to age at the beginning of the breeding season, with super-early heifers being approximately 12 to 14 months old, early heifers between 15 and 18 months, and traditional heifers older than 24 months. All females underwent three consecutive FTAI rounds, following a standard hormonal protocol consisting of an intravaginal progesterone device and estradiol benzoate on day 0; prostaglandin F2α, eCG, and estradiol cypionate on day 8 at device removal; and GnRH in resynchronization cases on day 10. For each protocol, the number of inseminated animals, pregnancy rate at diagnosis, and total and average cost per conceived calf were recorded. The results showed that traditional heifers presented an average pregnancy rate of 88% and an average cost of R$ 198.56 per conceived calf, while early heifers achieved a 67.9% pregnancy rate and an average cost of R$ 303.45. Super-early heifers showed a 55% pregnancy rate and an average cost of R$ 365.48. Therefore, under the evaluated conditions, the use of super-early and early heifers did not prove economically viable when compared to traditional heifers.
  • Bachelor Thesis
    Avaliação do farelo de trigo ou melaço de cana como palatabilizantes do concentrado creeper para borregos Santa Inês: aspectos bioeconômicos
    (Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte, 2025-11-13) Conceição, Luiz Paulo Silva da; Urbano, Stela Antas; 0000-0002-0033-3601; http://lattes.cnpq.br/4735195863891753; 0009-0002-0891-2103; 0000-0003-3060-9696; Emerenciano Neto, João Virgínio; 0000-0002-4324-3657; Medeiros, Henrique Rocha de
    The objective was to evaluate the bioeconomics of using wheat bran and sugarcane molasses as palatability enhancers in the creeper diet of Santa Inês lambs managed on Panicum-Maximun cv. Massai, from birth to weaning. Eighty-nine Santa Inês lambs from the experimental herd of the Forage and Ruminant Production Study Group (GEFORP), located at the Specialized Academic Unit in Agricultural Sciences (UAECA/EAJ/UFRN) in the city of Macaíba/RN, were used. The animals were randomly distributed in a completely randomized design and fed in individual troughs from the first day of life, where they received ad libitum concentrated feed specific to the category. The treatments consisted of two different palatability enhancers: sugarcane molasses and wheat bran. Throughout the evaluation period, the amount of feed offered, leftovers, and the number of animals per treatment were quantified daily to estimate the average daily concentrate consumption. The animals were weighed every seven days. The data were tabulated in spreadsheets and statistically evaluated to determine the effect of different palatability enhancers on animal performance and bioeconomics. The bioeconomics of the system was calculated by the ratio between the total concentrate costs per animal and the average total weight gain (ATWG). Although the total concentrate consumption was slightly higher with molasses (18.73 kg) compared to wheat bran (18.19 kg), the bran provided superior productive performance, resulting in a higher final live weight (18.88 kg for bran versus 18.45 kg for molasses) and ATWG (15.31 kg versus 15.01 kg, respectively). Economically, wheat bran proved to be 12.68% more efficient, registering a cost per kg of gain of R$ 2.48 compared to R$ 2.84 for molasses. This greater efficiency resulted in a 5% higher gross margin per animal for wheat bran, reaching R$ 226.30. It is concluded that wheat bran is the most profitable and efficient alternative for Santa Inês lambs during the rearing phase.
  • Bachelor Thesis
    Comportamento ingestivo de ovinos em pastos de gramíneas tropicais sob monocultivo e consorciado
    (Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte, 2025-10-28) Nascimento, Joalisson Candido do; Emerenciano Neto, João Virgínio; http://lattes.cnpq.br/1984496234545545; http://lattes.cnpq.br/5152939450177062; Santana, Juliana Caroline Santos; http://lattes.cnpq.br/5221860856219645; Urbano, Stela Antas; http://lattes.cnpq.br/4735195863891753
    The objective was to evaluate the ingestive behavior of sheep in intercropping or monoculture systems of marandu grass and massai grass. The experiment was conducted at the Specialized Unit in Agricultural Sciences of the Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Macaíba – RN, Brazil. The experimental period was from March 2023 to March 2024, divided into two periods, rainy and dry. The experiment included three treatments: an intercropping system between Panicum maximum cv. Massai and Brachiaria brizantha cv. Marandu, and a monoculture system of massai grass and marandu grass, under intermittent grazing of entire sheep. Ingestive behavior was evaluated in two uninterrupted 48-hour periods, one during the dry season and the other during the rainy season. Twenty-four male Santa Inês lambs, not emasculated and weaned on the 84th day of life, were used. Eight animals were evaluated in each treatment, and grazing, rumination, and resting activities were recorded. Rumination time was longer during the dry season, and grazing time was longer during the rainy season. Regarding the cropping system, animals in the intercropping system showed a longer rumination time (7.60 h/day), while animals in monoculture of Massai grass and Marandu grass did not differ from each other, with an average of 6.95 h/day. The intercropping system had results equivalent to monoculture, considering the two cultivars in monoculture. Animals in intercropping spend more time ruminating and less time resting than animals in monoculture.
  • Bachelor Thesis
    Desenvolvimento e aceitação de alimento à base de pescado para a alimentação escolar
    (Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte, 2025-10-28) Gonçalves, Anne Vitória de Oliveira; Ribeiro, Karina; Santana, Fábio Magno da Silva
    This study aimed to develop and validate a fish-based food product using mechanically separated tilapia meat (MSM), with a view to its potential inclusion in the school meals of high school students. The research was conducted at the Fish Processing Laboratory of the Jundiaí Agricultural School (UFRN), where product samples were prepared and subjected to sensory analysis. The evaluation involved 38 untrained tasters, who assessed attributes such as appearance, color, aroma, texture, flavor, and purchase intent, using a 5-point hedonic scale. The results indicated acceptability rates above 70% for most attributes, with aroma and flavor standing out. Among the two tested formulations, treatment 2, prepared in an oil-free electric fryer, showed better sensory performance and greater purchase intent. It was also preferably named “Fish Snack” by the evaluators. It is concluded that the use of MSM from tilapia is a sustainable alternative for the development of new food products, adding value to fish, reducing waste in the production chain, and representing a promising strategy for diversifying and improving the nutritional quality of school meals.
  • Bachelor Thesis
    Perfil consumidor e avaliação sensorial de ovos de galinhas submetidas a dietas com diferentes extratos vegetais
    (Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte, 2025-06-13) OLIVEIRA, Ariadne Beatriz de; Cláudia da Costa Lopes; 0000-0002-2888-9839; http://lattes.cnpq.br/4090154859587999; http://lattes.cnpq.br/7363437081272920
    Considered a complete food, eggs stand out for their high nutritional quality, low cost and wide acceptance among consumers. The growing demand for safe foods free from synthetic additives has driven the adoption of natural alternatives in animal feed. In this context, the use of plant extracts, rich in bioactive compounds, has been gaining prominence due to their antioxidant, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory potential, becoming a promising strategy for improving egg quality and promoting bird welfare. In view of this, the aim of this research was to evaluate the consumer profile and sensory effects of including plant extracts of moringa (Moringa oleifera), mastruz (Dysphania ambrosioides L.) and melão-de-são-caetano (Momordica charantia L.) in the diet of laying hens, with a focus on the organoleptic characteristics of the eggs produced. Initially, a structured questionnaire containing 9 questions was used to characterize the consumption profile of the interviewees, and was applied in person to 50 people of different age groups, recruited at random, at the Macaíba Campus of the Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte. The same people then carried out the sensory analysis of the eggs, and were distributed in a completely randomized design, with four treatments (control, moringa, mastruz and melão-de-são-caetano) and 50 repetitions. For each repetition, ¼ of an egg from each treatment was used. The sensory attributes of appearance, aroma, texture, taste and overall evaluation were assessed using a five-point hedonic scale and purchase preference using a paired comparison test. The results of the hedonic scale were submitted to analysis of variance and Tukey's test (P<0.05), and the paired comparison using the Minimum Number of Coincident Responses Table, at 5% probability. Consumers (60%) indicated daily consumption, knowledge of the nutritional value of eggs (76%) and low perception of sensory changes with the length of time eggs are stored (54%). In addition, 58% of consumers did not store their eggs properly and 18% reported washing them before storage. In the sensory analysis, no significant differences were observed between the treatments for any of the attributes evaluated, nor in the preference between the samples (P>0.05). It can be concluded that although the extracts have aromatic compounds with expressive odors to the human sense of smell, these were not transmitted to the eggs in a way that could be perceived by the evaluators, so these extracts can be used as natural additives in the feed of laying birds without causing damage to the organoleptic characteristics of the eggs.